AG Brnovich Kicks Off AZ Consumer Protection Week

PHOENIX - In recognition of Arizona Consumer Protection Week, Attorney General Mark Brnovich released a list of the Top AZ Consumer Fraud Complaints received in 2016.  The Attorney General’s Office received more than 15,000 consumer complaints and recovered more than $3.9 million dollars for Arizona consumers in 2016.

“Con-artists are constantly creating new schemes to steal money from hardworking Arizonans,” said Attorney General Mark Brnovich. “Education is the key to protecting yourself and your loved ones.”

Arizona Consumer Protection Week is held in conjunction with National Consumer Protection week, a nationwide campaign aimed at consumer protection and fighting fraud.
 
2016 Top AZ Consumer Fraud Complaints:

  1. Motor Vehicle Sales, Repairs, & Rentals
  2. Telemarketing Scams
  3. Mortgages and Real Estate Services
  4. Internet Service & Cell Phones
  5. Online Sales

5 Warning Signs of a Scam:

  1. The Offer Seems Too Good to be True
    If it seems too good to be true, it is. Examples include money left to you from an unknown relative or being awarded a grant you did not apply for. Be very suspicious of winning a large sweepstakes prize unless you can confirm its authenticity.
  2. They Want Private Information
    Anytime someone tries to get your bank account number, Social Security Number, or other sensitive information, you should automatically be on alert. Don't give out personal information.
  3. They Ask You to Wire Money
    STOP! It's a scam. Con-artists prefer untraceable payment methods like wire transfers.
  4. Requests for Fees
    Never pay fees or taxes in advance unless you are 100% certain it is not a scam. It is illegal for someone to require up-front payment before funding a loan or paying out a sweepstakes prize.
  5. Pressure
    Scammers will often put pressure on their victims and urge them to pay immediately or lose the opportunity.

For more consumer protection tips visit the Arizona Attorney General’s Office website at www.azag.gov.

If you believe you have been the victim of consumer fraud, please contact the Attorney General’s Office in Phoenix at (602) 542-5763, in Tucson at (520) 628-6504, or outside the metro areas at (800) 352-8431. Bilingual consumer protection staff is available to assist. Consumers can also file complaints online by visiting the Attorney General’s website.