Stoneberry and Mason Companies Face Scrutiny Over High-Interest Rates and Predatory Practices

Consumers, particularly seniors, are raising concerns about Stoneberry, a catalog retailer, and its parent company, Mason Companies Incorporated, regarding high-interest rates on lines of credit and alleged predatory tactics. Complaints center around rapidly increasing interest rates, billing disputes, and concerns about the sharing of personal information.

Rising Interest Rates and Consumer Complaints

Barbara Bracey of Bend, Oregon, discovered her line of credit with Stoneberry had quietly increased from an initial 13% to 27% within a few years. Her son, Jon Martin, her caretaker, flagged the issue after noticing the increase. This experience highlights a growing concern among consumers who may not fully understand the terms of their financing agreements.

Between 2023 and 2026, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) has received 166 complaints against Mason Companies Incorporated, Stoneberry’s parent company. The Oregon Attorney General’s Office has also received five complaints regarding similar issues.

Concerns About Predatory Tactics

A key concern raised by consumers, like Jon Martin, is the company’s practice of offering to share personal information with other companies. Martin expressed worry that his mother would become a target for further unsolicited offers. This practice raises privacy concerns and the potential for vulnerable individuals to be exploited.

What the BBB Recommends

Cameron Nakashima of the BBB advises consumers to thoroughly research companies before making purchases, especially those offering financing. “Maybe something just feels not 100% when you’re talking with a business, always look them up. And it really doesn’t have to be a super heavy, deep dive. Take 2 to 5 minutes to look up this business and do that gut check,” Nakashima said.

Resources for Consumers

Consumers who believe they have been unfairly targeted by Stoneberry or other catalog retailers can file complaints with the Better Business Bureau (https://www.bbb.org/) and the Oregon Attorney General’s Office. Additional resources are available for older adults and caregivers to protect vulnerable loved ones.

Protecting Yourself and Others

Advocates emphasize the importance of vigilance and looking out for neighbors and family members. If an offer seems too good to be true, it likely is.

KTVZ reached out to Stoneberry for comment but did not receive a response.