Consumer Tips

Fraudsters and scammers attempt to take advantage of Arizonans through false advertising, deceptive sales practices, predatory lending, incessant robocalls, hidden fees and much more.

Use the tips and resources below to help protect yourself from scammers and identity thieves. Click on the topic to learn more.

Auto Purchases	When buying a car, there are many “deals” or “prizes” buyers are offered. It’s important to read the fine print and understand fully the terms. Remember: Arizona does NOT have a “cooling off” period or three-day right to cancel a car sale.
Charity Scams	Following times of hardship like fires or accidents, fraudsters may leap upon the opportunity to masquerade as a charity. Do your research before you donate to an organization to ensure your gracious funds go to the right place.
Collections and Debt Settlement	Debt collectors are individuals tasked with collecting money owed on personal loans, car leases or mortgages. Many collection agencies operate ethically and within the law, but others engage in illegal behavior in attempts to collect debts.
Credit Reporting & Credit Repair	Credit bureaus keep and report credit information about consumers. These credit reports are often used by businesses, in deciding whether to lend money or to give some other benefit to the consumer, such as employment. Know your rights to protect your credit.
Door-To-Door Sales	Door-to-door sales can be a convenient method for many people to shop. However, you may be opening your home to a stranger who may use fraudulent or high-pressure tactics to sell you something you don’t want or need. Equip yourself for when a solicitor knocks on your door.
Gasoline	Gasoline prices are not regulated in Arizona. It is not illegal to sell gas at high prices, unless the prices are a result of illegal activity and price fixing or unlawful monopolization. Report instances of price fixing fraud to this office.
Gift Card Scams	The most common gift card scams involve government or business imposters. Know that these entities will never demand payment through gift cards. Get informed to keep your money safe.
Home Improvement Schemes – Solicitations	Whether you are planning an addition to your home or simply getting new windows, finding a competent and reliable contractor is the first step to a successful and satisfying home improvement project. Take steps to avoid home repair or contractors scams.
Internet Auctions	Internet auction websites offer consumers the ability to purchase goods from around the world in an auction format. Every internet auction site is different, and you will want to read the terms and conditions of the exchange before buying or selling anything through the online marketplace.
Lending	Common loan and financing issues consist of excessive and disguised fees, inflated rates, undisclosed terms, and other terms that may result in consumers being unable to make their loan payments on time. Follow these guidelines to be diligent when working with a lender.
Moving Fraud - Hostage Moving Loads	Some scammers create “hostage load” situations, in which the moving company provides a low estimate to move but then substantially increases the price once items are loaded on the mover's truck.
Pyramid Schemes and Multi-Level Marketing	In Arizona, a program is considered a Pyramid Scheme when participants earn more money from bringing others into the program than from the sale of goods, services or intangible property. Be extremely wary of any type of investment opportunity that sounds like a Pyramid Scheme.
Robocalls and Telemarketing	Countless Arizona consumers are harassed and annoyed by a relentless barrage of unwanted robocalls. There are many ways to avoid and report these calls including a Do Not Call list.
Sweepstakes And Lotteries	Capitalizing on the popularity of legitimate sweepstakes and prize offers, con artists disguise their schemes to look legitimate. Many consumers received telephone calls or postcards telling them they'd won a big prize - only to find out that it’s not quite that easy. Remember these tips when someone says, “it’s your lucky day.”
Work from Home Opportunities	Ready to work from home, be your own boss, and make a great income? That’s what some scammers promise people when selling work-from-home businesses, also known as “business opportunities.”