PHOENIX – Attorney General Kris Mayes is kicking off Consumer Protection Week by releasing a list of the 2024 Top Consumer Fraud Complaint trends and providing tips to avoid falling victim to fraud and scams. National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) is an annual opportunity for government agencies, consumer protection groups, and the public to work together to help everyone understand their consumer rights and make good decisions.
“For those consumers who live in fear of scams, for those who believe they are powerless, and for those who have been wronged by deceptive and unfair business practices, know that I am fighting for you as your Attorney General,” said Attorney General Mayes. “Last year, my office addressed a historic number of complaints and recovered a historic $5.2 million on behalf of Arizona consumers harmed by greedy fraudsters.”
In 2024, The Attorney General’s Consumer Information and Complaints Unit (CIC) received nearly 22,000 consumer complaints; answered approximately 28,775 phone calls; and reviewed over 23,000 emails. In addition, the CIC Unit had a record recovery year in 2024 where they recovered over $5.2 million on behalf of consumers by working together with consumers and entities to resolve consumer complaints.
Here are the top five categories of consumer complaints filed with the AGO in 2024 and a few tips to avoid being harmed by fraud or scams in these areas.
2024 Top Five Consumer Fraud Complaint Trends:
1. Motor Vehicle Sales, Repairs, and Rentals
2. Computers (Web Pages)
3. Mortgage and Real Estate
4. Banking (General Services)
5. Telemarketing, Phone Scams, and Unsolicited Text Messages
Tips to Avoid Consumer Scams and Deceptive Practices:
1. Motor Vehicles: When buying a vehicle, get the salesperson or business to make all terms and any promises in writing and make sure you get complete copies of all paperwork.
2. Computer (Web Pages): Use strong passwords and keep your software up to date. Carefully review product descriptions and check seller policies regarding shipping and return policies. Never send money before seeing the product.
3. Mortgage and Real Estate: Read all documents and understand the terms before signing and do not sign contracts or agreements with blank spaces.
4. Banking (General Services): Review your monthly statements for unauthorized fees and sudden charges.
5. Telemarketing, Phone Scams and Unsolicited Text Messages: Never give money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency in response to an unsolicited phone call or text message. Remember, government agencies will not threaten you or demand that you pay a debt or fee immediately or take payment in gift cards.
If you believe you have been a victim of consumer fraud, you can file a consumer complaint by visiting the Attorney General’s website. If you need a complaint form sent to you, you can contact the Attorney General’s Office in Phoenix at (602) 542-5763, in Tucson at (520) 628-6648, or outside the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas at (800) 352-8431.
