Scams and Frauds

Overview

Questions about scams and fraud schemes continue to be one of the more common calls to the Department. Phone scams continue to be popular and new internet scams arrive daily. The guideline of "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.." continues to be good advice but now scammers are using high pressure tactics including threats. These tactics can pressure people into giving up information they otherwise would not have.  

You can protect yourself from scams and fraud schemes by:
  • Trusting your instincts
  • Never giving out personal information over the phone or entering it on an unknown website
  • Not opening e-mails from unknown senders
  • Hanging up the phone if you believe the call is a scam
Fraudulent e-mails can be reported to your e-mail or internet service provider. Repeated scam telephone calls can be reported to your phone service provider. 

Complaints regarding scams, frauds and the do not call registry can be reported to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

If you feel you have been defrauded or have provided your information to a scammer you can file a report with the Department. You may also file a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center here: Internet Crime Complaint Center

Scam and Fraud Resources

The following websites provide information on current scams and fraud schemes as well as tips to protect yourself:

Fraud.org

FTC Scam Alert

FBI Scam & Safety Resources

FBI Common Fraud Schemes

Identity Theft

Are you concerned about identity theft or has your identity been stolen? Head over to our page regarding identity theft for a list of resources to assist you:

Identity Theft Resources