Consumer Scams FAQ

What to do if you've been burned.

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I think I was the victim of a scam. Can I get my money back?

Federal and state laws prohibit unfair or deceptive trade acts or practices. If you think you've been cheated, immediately let the appropriate government offices know. Although any government investigation will take some time, these agencies often have the resources to go after unscrupulous merchants. Law enforcement in the consumer fraud area is poor in some parts of the country, but many hardworking investigators do their jobs superbly. The more agencies you notify, the more likely someone will take notice of your complaint and act on it.

Unfortunately, government agencies are rarely able to get you your money back. If the business is a reputable one, however, it may refund your money when a consumer fraud law enforcement investigator shows up. It certainly can't hurt you to complain.

Another way to get relief is to bring a lawsuit against the seller. If you plan to sue, first send a demand letter explaining the problem and asking for your money back. Many states require such a letter before you sue.

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How can I file a complaint for fraud?

The National Fraud Information Center can help you if you've been defrauded. NFIC provides:

  • assistance in filing a complaint with appropriate federal agencies
  • recorded information on current fraud schemes
  • tips on how to avoid becoming a fraud victim, and
  • direct ordering of consumer publications in English or Spanish.
You can contact NFIC at 800-876-7060 or visit its website at www.fraud.org.

Contact your local prosecutor to find out if it investigates consumer fraud complaints. Your state consumer protection agency can also provide advice. Finally, contact any local newspaper, radio station or television station action line. Especially in metropolitan areas, these folks often have an army of volunteers ready to pursue consumer complaints.

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I received something in the mail that I never ordered. Do I have to pay for it?

You don't owe any money if you receive an item you never ordered -- it's considered a gift. If you get bills or collection letters from a seller who sent you something you never ordered, write to the the seller stating your intention to treat the item as a gift. If the bills continue, insist that the seller send you proof of your order. If this doesn't stop the bills, notify the state consumer protection agency in the state where the merchant is located. You can also complain about mail fraud to your local U.S. Attorney's office.

If you sent for something in response to an advertisement claiming a free gift or trial period, but are now being billed, be sure to read the fine print of the ad. It may say something about charging shipping and handling, or worse, you may have inadvertently joined a club or subscribed to a magazine. Write the seller to:

  • offer to return the merchandise
  • cancel any club membership or magazine subscription you don't want
  • ask the seller to take your name off any mailing list, and
  • state that you believe the ad was misleading.

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