On November 25, 2025, International Rights Advocates filed a consumer protection lawsuit against Apple for its false and deceptive marketing practices as it relates to its critical mineral sourcing from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The lawsuit was filed on behalf of District of Columbia consumers, under the District of Columbia Consumer Protection Procedures Act ("CPPA"), D.C. Code §§ 28-3901–13. The critical minerals at issue in this lawsuit are cobalt and coltan (and by extension, tantalum).

Apple claims to source minerals responsibly and to be “dedicat[ed] to people and the planet.” In reality, Apple misleads consumers and obscures from the fact that its Suppliers are among the most corrupt, human rights abusers in the world. Apple’s cobalt Suppliers exploit workers; utilize child labor; pollute and contaminate surrounding environments; forcibly evict residents; and kill and torture community members through violence by security forces. Apple’s tantalum Suppliers process coltan likely sourced from the Rubaya Mines, which have helped fund violence by the M23 and other armed groups in eastern DRC.

The CPPA gives D.C. consumers the right to truthful marketing about the qualities, sourcing, and manufacturing practices of the Products they are sold. On behalf of consumers who care about the ethical and environmental impact of their purchases, International Rights Advocates seeks an order enjoining Apple from engaging in deceptive marketing and advertising. 

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