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LITTLE ROCK– The federal government recently announced plans to cancel up to $20,000 in federal student loans per borrower and to extend the pause on federal student loan repayments through the end of the year. In addition, the federal government announced important changes to public service loan forgiveness (PSLF) and income-driven repayment plans. With these major changes, Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is warning consumers that these new policies will likely lead to an increase in con artists perpetrating student loan relief scams.

“Scammers and con artists will take advantage of the latest news as a means to invade the wallets of hard-working Arkansans,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Be careful of those claiming they can assist you with your loans, especially when they are asking for money or your personal information to do so.”

If an unknown individual asks for your personal information, including your Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID), do not respond. Neither your loan servicer, nor the Department of Education (DOE) will ask for your personal information over the phone or in an email.

1. Never pay upfront for assistance with your student loan debt.
2. Be patient. The DOE will need time to implement the new programs and get relief to borrowers. No company can help you speed up the process. You can subscribe for updates from the DOE here.
3. Contact your loan servicer directly with any questions. Your loan servicer can help you get access to qualifying programs, like debt relief or repayment options. Make sure you ask if you qualify for PSLF or income-driven repayment.
4. Remember: Anyone promising instant debt relief or pressuring you to work with them is a scammer.

For more information about the Arkansas Attorney General’s office, call (800) 482-8982, email consumer@ArkansasAG.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

To request a presentation for your group on common scams and how to prevent them, complete a speaker request form here.

August 25, 2022

LITTLE ROCK – As mild temperatures arrive, so do fall sports. When Arkansans decide to take in a live football game at any of our great institutions, it is important they don’t get tackled into buying fake tickets. Oftentimes scammers will try to take advantage of fans by selling tickets that are fake, duplicates or don’t exist at all. They may use high-pressure-sales tactics to scam Arkansans in to buying tickets using deals that seem unbelievable and many times are.

“Enjoying sports is a cherished fall tradition in Arkansas,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Everyone deserves to cheer on a favorite team without worrying about trick plays from scammers trying to steal cash.”

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge issued the following tips to help Arkansans protect themselves when looking to buy game tickets during the upcoming football season.

1. Research the seller or broker with the Better Business Bureau and ensure it is a member of the National Association of Ticket Brokers.
2. A legitimate ticket broker will offer a refund policy. Only buy tickets from a reseller that provides clear details about the terms of the transaction.
3. Always use a credit card to make a ticket purchase because credit card laws provide buyers with some recourse if the tickets are fraudulent.
4. Check the seats before purchasing. Ask for section, row and seat numbers to avoid obstructed views and purchasing tickets that do not exist.
5. Stick with well-known ticket sellers who offer guarantees and policies that protect buyers and have the ability to investigate and restrict accounts of merchants who violate the policies.
6. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Refuse to be rushed. Scam artists often try to hurry prospective buyers into making a decision.

According to AARP, nearly 5 million consumers receive fraudulent concert, sporting event and theme park tickets each year.  We can all do our part by ensuring our neighbors, friends, and families are educated on the deceptive practices of scammers and ways to avoid them.

Consumers who think they may have purchased a counterfeit ticket can contact the National Association of Ticket Brokers at 630-510-4594 or the Arkansas Attorney General’s Public Protection Department.

For more information on other tips to avoid being scammed and other consumer-related issues, visit ArkansasAG.gov or call the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at 800-482-8982.

August 11, 2022

LITTLE ROCK — Increasing temperatures lead to increasing utility bills for Arkansas business owners, something scam artists are using to their advantage when targeting individuals and local businesses. While utility companies accept multiple payment methods for the convenience of businesses and consumers, gift cards and crypto-currency, like Bitcoin, are not on the list. Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is warning Arkansans that scammers are finding ways to prey on Arkansans and directly impacting their budget and hard-earned money.

“Arkansans are suffering from a struggling economy, high prices and even higher temperatures, they do not need the worry about additional costs that come from these scams,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “I urge Arkansans to be vigilant against potential scams so they don’t lose their cool or their money.”

How to spot a utility payment scam:

1. The scammer will call and tell you that you have an unpaid balance even if you are current on all utility payments.
2. The scammer will pressure you to pay through a gift card, bitcoin, prepaid debit card, or wire transfer and not through the official methods offered by the utility.

How to ensure your payment gets to the utility company safely and securely:

1. Track your utility payment due date on a calendar when you receive the bill.
2. Drop off the payment at the utility office or an authorized payment location.
3. Pay online on the utility company’s website with a credit card or call the company directly.
4. Consider participating in an automated draft system if it is offered.
5. Mail the payment to the company directly.

If you fall victim to one of these phone calls, file a complaint with the Attorney General’s office. The Attorney General’s office also makes presentations on scams to organizations and groups. To call and schedule a scam prevention presentation, call 501-682-2007 or email speaker@arkansasag.gov.

June 28, 2022

LITTLE ROCK— With harvest fast approaching, Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge wants to ensure Arkansas’s farmers and ranchers are aware of their consumer rights regarding certain farm equipment. In 2019, with the guidance of Attorney General Rutledge, Arkansas enacted the Farm Machinery Lemon Law. The law applies only to new farm machinery purchased or leased on or after January 1, 2020, that exhibits at least one defect during the first 12 months or 600 hours of operation. If the manufacturer, distributor or authorized dealer is unable to repair the issue, the consumer is entitled to choose comparable replacement equipment or receive a refund of the full purchase or lease price less the fair value of the equipment at the time of refund.

“As the wife of a row crop farmer, I know properly working farm equipment is vital to a farmer’s operation, especially in the heat of harvest,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “The costs to purchase farm equipment is a tremendous investment for a farmer, and the Farm Machinery Lemon Law was enacted to provide relief for Arkansans in case they purchased a lemon.”

The Farm Lemon Law covers farm equipment or machinery that is over 25 horsepower, typically used for agricultural purposes, and purchased or leased for the first time from a manufacturer, distributor or an authorized dealer. All-terrain vehicles (ATVs), lawnmowers, off-road vehicles, and machinery under 25 horsepower are not covered by the Farm Machinery Lemon Law. Additionally, the law defines the types of defects available for relief and outlines the process and time frames that consumers must follow in order to make a lemon law claim.

Rutledge publishes a guidebook to help equipment owners understand the law and dispute claims of nonconformity.

For more information or to file a consumer complaint related to the Farm Machinery Lemon Law, contact the Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 via email at Consumer@ArkansasAG.gov or online at ArkansasAG.gov.

June 9, 2022

LITTLE ROCK – Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is sending an important warning for parents to take time to monitor their child’s internet usage and social media accounts. Social media sites are a valuable resource for learning and connecting with others, but these platforms also enable bullying, anonymous messaging and exploitation of children by criminals.

“While technology can be an invaluable resource for learning, it can also expose your child to criminal or inappropriate activity,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “It is important we all take the necessary steps to protect our most precious Arkansans from those who want to do them harm.”

Attorney General Leslie Rutledge urges parents to familiarize themselves with these phone apps that may make children vulnerable to dangers online:

• Bumble – Bumble is a popular dating app that requires women to make the first contact. It is common for minors to use this app and falsify their age.
• Chatous – Chatous is a messaging app that allows users to chat and share images. This app makes it easy for predators to engage in age-inappropriate conversations with potential victims.
• Discord – Discord is a voice and text chat tool that allows gamers to communicate in real time. Users can chat, add friends one-on-one or in larger groups. This app discusses content geared towards adults, but allows users as young as 13.
• Grindr – Grindr is a dating app for LGBTQ adults, not children. The app gives users options to chat, share photos and meet with people based on a smartphone’s GPS location.
• Houseparty – Houseparty is a group video chat app that allows users to communicate via live video chats and texts. There is no screening, and the video is live. Users can also communicate with people they do not know.
• Live.Me – Live.Me allows users to livestream videos using geo-location to share the videos so other users can find the broadcaster’s exact location. Users can earn “coins” to “pay” minors for photos.
• Monkey – Monkey is an app that allows users as young as 12 to chat with people all over the world during a brief introductory call, then users are given the chance to add each other on Snapchat.
• Phony Calculator App– Most phones have a calculator. However there are many third party calculator apps that actually serve as a “vault” where the user can hide photos, videos, files and even browser history data.
• Snapchat – Snapchat is a photo & video sharing app that promises users their photo or video will disappear even though it does not. Snapchat stories allow users to view content for up to 24 hours and share their location.
• TikTok – TikTok is a popular app among kids that is used to create and share short videos with limited privacy controls. Users are vulnerable to explicit content and cyberbullying.
• Tinder – Tinder is a dating app that allows users to “swipe right” to like someone and “swipe left” to pass. Users can falsify their age, share photos, message, and meet.
• Tumblr – Tumblr is a blogging app and website that allows users as young as 13 to create an account. There are very few privacy settings and pornography is easy to find. Most posts are public and cannot be made private.
• WhatsApp – WhatsApp is a popular messaging app allowing users to text, send photos, make calls and leave voicemails worldwide.
• Whisper – Whisper is a social network that allows users to share secrets anonymously and it reveals the users’ location so strangers can meet.
• Yik Yak – Yik Yak is a social media app that allows an individual to anonymously chat with other app users within a 5-mile radius. Due to its anonymous nature, bullying, sexually explicit or other graphic content is often encountered on the platform.
• YouTube – YouTube is a video sharing app that may not be age appropriate for kids. Inappropriate content can be found using innocent search terms, but with parental controls this can be avoided.
• Yubo – Yubo is a social media app that allows users as young as 13 to create a profile, share their location, view other users’ profiles in their area and view livestreams. Substance abuse, profanity, racial slurs and scantily clad people are common.

Parents should follow the following tips to monitor their child’s online activity:

• Talk to children about sexual victimization and the potential of online danger.
• Keep the computer or laptop in a common room of the house, not in a child’s bedroom.
• Utilize parental controls available from internet service providers or use blocking software.
• Always maintain access to a child’s online account and monitor text, email and other message inboxes.
• Teach children the responsible use of online resources.
• Familiarize yourself with computer safeguards being utilized at school, the library and at friends’ homes.
• Never automatically assume that what a child is told online is true.

Control which apps your child downloads by following these steps

Arkansans can report child exploitation by calling the National CyberTipline at (800) 843-5678, or visit CyberTipline.com. In the event of an emergency, dial 911, or call local law enforcement.

April 28, 2022

LITTLE ROCK –The bi-annual National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is scheduled for April 30, 2022. This is an important opportunity for Arkansans to join the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, local law enforcement and public health officials in the fight against prescription drug abuse by ridding their medicine cabinets of old and unused prescription medication. Last year, Arkansans disposed of 24,680 pounds of medications, bringing the total weight of disposed drugs to 221 tons since 2010.

“Properly disposing of prescription medications is just one small action Arkansans can take to help bring an end to the opioid and prescription drug abuse epidemic in this state,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Join me in cleaning out your medicine cabinets of unused and expired prescriptions this Saturday.”

Rutledge released the following list of medications that will be accepted at these events across the State:

• Opioids, such as OxyContin, Hydrocodone, Vicodin, etc.
• Stimulants, such as Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta, Dexedrine, etc.
• Depressants, such as Ativan, Xanax, Valium, etc.
• Other prescription medications
• Over-the-counter medicines
• Pet medicines
• Medicated ointments and lotions
• Liquid medicines in glass or leak-proof containers (up to 12 ounces)
• Medicine samples

Medications may be returned in the original bottle or in any other container for increased privacy.

Prescription Drug Take Back locations will be available 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 30^th. Although National Prescription Drug Take Back Days are held twice a year, year-round drop-off locations and other helpful information is available by visiting ARTakeBack.org.

Properly destroying these medications at appropriate disposal locations protects the environment, as flushing or pouring them down the drain can pollute water, resulting in contaminated food and water supplies. Wastewater treatment plants or septic systems may not remove many medicine compounds. Turning over these medications at Take Back Day events also reduces the risk of accidental poisonings by children, seniors or pets, as well as reduces the risk of drug abuse.

April 8, 2022

LITTLE ROCK – Every spring, Arkansas and other southern states are hit by heavy rains and severe weather. While many Arkansans want to help their neighbors clean up after a storm, con artists will seize the opportunity to take advantage during a vulnerable moment. Arkansans must keep their home and family safe from a fraudster trying to make a quick buck.

“Spring storms and recovery efforts often bring an increase in door-to-door scam artists,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Make sure you follow steps to avoid falling prey to con artists who use recovery efforts to scam Arkansans.”

Attorney General Rutledge encourages you to follow these tips to find legitimate individuals to perform your home repairs:

• Beware of door-to-door solicitors selling home-repair work. To find someone reputable, ask friends or family who have recently used a home-repair contractor or professional. Consider contacting the Arkansas Contractor’s Licensing Board to verify that the contractor is licensed and has not had any complaints filed against it.
• Avoid any home-repair solicitor who asks for an upfront payment or who will not provide you with a written contract.
• Get at least three written estimates. A reputable contractor or professional will never try to pressure you to obtain your business.
• Obtain and check at least three references from your contractor or professional.
• Check with the Attorney General’s office or the Better Business Bureau to find out if the company has a complaint history.
• Obtain a written and detailed contract that includes the grade, quality, name brand and quantity of any materials to be used. The name and address of the contractor must be on the contract.
• Avoid paying for the entire job up front. One-third paid in advance, one-third paid halfway through the job and one-third paid upon completion is a better plan, helping assure that your project will be completed. Never make the final payment until you have had an opportunity to inspect the work.
• Remember that all contracts resulting from a home-solicitation sale generally must include a buyer’s right to cancel within three business days after the contract is signed.
• Make sure all warranties and guarantees are in writing.
• A contractor cannot promise that your insurance company will cover the work done.  Verify your insurance coverage and authorized contractors before you agree to pay for repairs.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at consumer@arkansasag.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

March 25, 2022

Attorney General Alert: Rutledge Joins Arkansas Banks in Warning of Latest Scam

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge joined First Community Bank and banks around the nation warning Arkansans about the latest scam sweeping the State. The newest scam involves con artists spoofing a phone number to cause the bank’s fraud department name and number to display on the phone’s caller I.D. The scammer will use official-sounding conversation to gain the trust and then ask for the consumer to provide a verification code via text message. The code will give the scammer access to the consumer’s account, and even change the online banking password. The scammer will then transfer the funds in the account via a third party app, such as Zelle.

“Con artists will use any means necessary to trick hardworking individuals out of their money,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “It is vital that consumers are aware of these types of scams and are cautious before giving out personal or financial information.  I will continue to sound the alarm to prevent consumers from losing their lifesavings and to hold these crooks accountable.”

“This type of fraud is a growing problem in our state and we want everyone to know that First Community Bank or any bank in Arkansas will never call a customer asking for their account number or a password,” said Dale Cole, First Community Bank Chairman and CEO. “The criminals are calling, sending texts, emails and sometimes mailing letters. Please be careful and never give any personal information to the criminals when they contact you!”

You should follow these steps to ensure that your personal information and banking information remains secure:

• Never provide information such as date of birth, social security number or account information over the phone to an unknown caller
• When in doubt, hang up the phone and call the number on the back of your debit card or visit your local bank branch for assistance
• Don’t click on suspicious links sent via text message asking for verification
• Always shred important documents that may contain personal or account information

For more information related to scams, call the Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

March 21, 2022

LITTLE ROCK – As spring break approaches, Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is warning of the all too popular “family emergency” scam. The scam starts with an Arkansan receiving a panicked phone call from an unknown number claiming to be a family member, like a favorite grandchild, or a friend desperately needing money to get out of trouble. The Arkansan’s initial reaction is to immediately lend a hand to the loved one in need by offering to send money via wire transfer or purchase a gift card, where the money cannot be retrieved or traced. The reality is that the friend or relative on the phone is actually a con artist looking to profit from rushed emotional decisions.

“Con artists are ruthless and will quickly take advantage of the innocent with a simple phone call,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “If an Arkansan gets a call like this, he or she should hang up immediately and directly contact the person the caller claimed to be, and then report the scam to my office.”

Attorney General Rutledge recommends the following strategies to avoid falling victim to the “family emergency” scheme:

• Resist pressure to act quickly.
• Ask the caller for his or her name, and if it’s not provided, hang up immediately.
• Never give or wire money based on any unsolicited phone call.
• Verify the friend or family member’s location by calling the family member directly, or confirm with another family member or friend.
• Do not send money to an unknown account or entity.
• Have a plan in place when a family member is traveling to easily identify whether or not a need is genuine.

For more information related to scams, call the Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

February 11, 2022

LITTLE ROCK – As Valentine’s Day approaches, Attorney General Rutledge is warning Arkansans to remain cautious of online dating romance scams. Would-be suiters take advantage of people looking for romantic partners on dating websites and social media. The fraudsters pretend to be romantically interested in their victims, only to build trust to then lure and access an individual’s personal and financial information. This is commonly referred to as a sweetheart scam or romance scam.

“Romance scammers often target and exploit elderly seniors and widowed Arkansans looking for companionship and love – only to steal their life savings,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “I see this scenario all too frequently, and I urge consumers to avoid a heart-breaking tragedy by not sharing financial or personal information with anyone they do not know personally.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for social media users:

• Share your hopes and dreams, not your salary and bank information.
• Be honest about your expectations, not your pin number.
• Reveal your hobbies, not your passwords.
• Open your heart to love, not your wallet to a sob story.
• Plan to meet in public, not in a private, secluded or an unknown place.
• Talk about your favorite vacations, not when you’re leaving town.
• Hope for the best in others, but don’t ignore red flags.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Attorney General’s Office at consumer@arkansasag.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

February 4, 2022

LITTLE ROCK – As Winter Weather moves through the Natural State, Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is urging Arkansans to be watchful of potential scam artists trying to take advantage of them. Ice, sleet and snow can cause damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, trees and other property, and clean-up efforts may require some Arkansans to seek assistance from contractors or repairmen.

“Con artists will use any opportunity to defraud hard working Arkansans out of their money, such as recovering from severe winter weather,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “I urge everyone to be aware and use caution as the clean-up process begins. If you suspect any type of fraud, call my office immediately.”

The Attorney General offered the following tips to consumers who need home-repair or tree-trimming services following the winter weather:

• Select a reputable contractor. Always ask family, friends and neighbors for recommendations, and never be afraid to ask the contractor for references.
• Always get multiple estimates. Consumers want to act quickly to repair damages or have a tree removed, but getting at least three estimates to compare prices will save money in the long run.
• Get it in writing. A contract should contain details about the price of the project and any agreement on financing. It should indicate the exact work that is to be done, the type and quality of materials to be used, and the expected completion date.
• Never pay in advance. One option that should be satisfactory for both parties is an arrangement where one-third of the expected cost is paid in advance, a third is paid during the work and the final installment is paid at the time of completion. Consumers should always inspect the completed project before making final payment to make sure the completed work meets their expectations.
• Always handle insurance payments directly. If insurance payments are involved, consumers should deal with the insurance company directly rather than authorizing a contractor to negotiate with the company.

Governor Asa Hutchinson signed an Executive Order issuing a state of emergency following the freezing rain, sleet, snow and power outages in Arkansas. Act 376 of 1997, which prohibits businesses from price gouging during a state of emergency, is now in effect. The law prohibits businesses from charging more than 10 percent above the pre-disaster price of goods or services, such as food, fuel, water, flashlights, batteries, blankets, medicine, bandages and construction materials. The price gouging law is triggered whenever a state of emergency is declared by federal, State or local governments. The ban on price gouging remains in effect for at least 30 days and can be extended another 30 days by the local governing body if necessary to protect the lives, property or welfare of the citizens. For home repairs, the law remains in effect for 180 days. A violation of Act 376 is a violation of the Deceptive Trade Practices Act.

For more information about this or other consumer issues, visit www.ArkansasAG.gov or call the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division hotline at (800) 482-8982.

January 14, 2022

LITTLE ROCK — Throughout the pandemic, testing for the coronavirus (COVID-19) has been a vital tool for controlling the spread of the disease and ensuring that Arkansans can safely continue with their daily lives. The State of Arkansas has recently obtained 1.5 million rapid at-home COVID-19 tests that are available to Arkansans free of charge. For a list of locations where the at-home tests are available, visit the Health Department’s website.

For those not wanting to test at home, there are still COVID-19 testing sites located all across the state. All of the county health units in Arkansas, as well as several Arkansas hospitals and local independent pharmacies, offer testing for COVID-19 to Arkansans at no cost. However, at other testing locations, there may be an out-of-pocket charge. Before seeking a test, Arkansans should call the testing site of their choice and educate themselves on the costs associated with different types of COVID-19 tests, as well as the time needed to obtain a result and the tests’ reliability.

“Arkansans should know their financial obligation before they receive a COVID-19 test,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “If you choose to get tested, ask a few questions to ensure that you are not left with unexpected medical bills.”

Before seeking a COVID-19 test, consumers should know the answers to these questions:

• Are appointments required?
• What fees are associated with testing at this site?
• Does this testing site accept insurance?
• How long will it take for results to be returned?
• How are test results provided?
• What number should be called if test results are not received in the time expected?

If you wish to file a complaint against a business, contact the Attorney General’s office by calling (800) 482-8982, emailing consumer@arkansasag.gov, or visiting ArkansasAG.gov

January 10, 2022

LITTLE ROCK – Many Arkansans enjoy saving money after the holidays by shopping after-Christmas sales online, including social media marketplaces, internet classifieds and internet auction websites. While these platforms allow for ease of commerce and often feel like shopping from a friend instead of a retailer, they are also a hotbed for scammers who exploit that sense of community. Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is urging Arkansans to use caution on auction-style sites, classifieds and in marketplaces because they may present opportunities for scam artists.

“Arkansans should be vigilant when making online purchases,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “There are many bad actors around the world seeking to steal and defraud hardworking individuals who do not research the site or item being purchased.”

Consumers looking to make online purchases from social media, online auction platforms or online classifieds can follow these tips to ensure that they are safe when online shopping:

• Know the website that you are using. Know the terms and conditions.
• Know what you are bidding on or purchasing before you make your offer. Beware of counterfeit goods.
• Ask for additional photos of the item to make sure the seller has the item.
• Purchase the item through a website that offers protections to buyers and sellers.
• Use the most secure payment option for the transaction. Debit cards and credit cards offer more security than cash, check, wire transfers, or other online payment methods. Many payment methods offer buyer protections or allow users to dispute charges.
• Keep all copies of your transaction information, including correspondence with the buyer or seller.
• Do not give out your social security number, driver’s license number, or your date of birth.
• Beware of cashier’s checks. Often fraudulent cashier’s checks are used in scams.
• If buying a product locally, meet at a designated public location. Often times, police departments and Sheriff’s offices serve as well-lit and safer public exchanges.
• Beware of work-from-home opportunities and “business opportunities” listed in online classified ads. If you are told that you will make a lot of money without much effort, it is likely a scam.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, visit ArkansasAG.gov, email Consumer@ArkansasAG.gov, or call the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline at (800) 482-8982.

November 24, 2021

LITTLE ROCK – The holidays bring out the best in Arkansans, but there are some who try to take advantage of kind hearts by posing as charitable organizations to help Arkansans in need during the holiday season. Unfortunately, con artists will recycle tried-and-true scams and target unsuspecting consumers. Scam artists often solicit donations using charity names that are slightly different from the names of legitimate charities to trick consumers. Additionally, the scammers use a sense of urgency to push consumers into quickly donating without allowing consumers time to ask questions about the cause.

“Whether it’s veterans in need, or a local food bank, Arkansans are known for being some of the most generous people on earth, especially during the holidays,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “While the holiday season traditionally lends itself to an increase in charitable giving, it is important for Arkansans to do their research before giving to organizations that claim to do good will.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to help consumers give to only legitimate charities:

• Do not fall prey to high-pressure sales tactics as they are often the first sign of an unscrupulous and fraudulent charity.
• Make attempts to determine the validity of an organization by conducting research before getting out a checkbook or credit card in response to a phone solicitation. Personal information could fall into the wrong hands, or the scammers could use it to steal money or identity.
• Get the organization’s name, address, website and phone number, or give directly to a known nonprofit of choice. Make sure the nonprofit organization is registered with the Arkansas Secretary of State.
• Use GuideStar.org to compare nonprofit organizations and to get more information.
• Ask the organization how it will spend donations.
• Watch out for similar but different organization names as some con artists will use names similar to those of existing, reputable nonprofits in order to trick consumers.
• Never send cash. Make check or credit card payments for increased security and tax purposes.
• If donating via text message, verify the organization’s number prior to sending information.

For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

November 10, 2021

LITTLE ROCK– Arkansans searching for a new home online should be on the lookout for rental scams. As the rental market demand continues to increase throughout Arkansas, rental scams are growing in popularity as a way for bad actors to easily collect money and personal information from consumers. Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is urging Arkansans to be vigilant and do their research when seeking housing.

“I encourage everyone to be wary of a rental transaction that seems too good to be true because scammers and con-artists will stop at nothing to rip off hard-working Arkansans,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “I will always fight back against scammers and con-artists who try to take advantage of Arkansans.”

Often, these scammers utilize existing online real estate listings and repost the photos on sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace with promises of a dream home available for rent at an unbelievable price. Most of the communication between the scammer and would-be renter takes place via text message or email. The scammer asks consumers to complete rental applications and provide personal information including date of birth and social security number. Typically, the scammer gives the renter a quick approval and immediately asks for the security deposit to be paid via a money transfer app before the renter has even seen the property.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge recommends that consumers report rental scam listings to local law enforcement, the website on which the advertisement was posted, and the Attorney General’s office.

• Do an online search of the rental company to identify any reviews or complaints.
• Rental home listings are often on several online listing services like Zillow, Trulia or Craigslist. If you see a rental company’s listing on one of those online listing services, do a search of the home’s address to make sure it appears on the rental company’s website. If it does not, it may be a scam.
• It could be a red flag if the advertised rent is considerably less than comparable rentals in the area.
• Rental agents should have photo ID badges issued by the company that owns or manages the property.
• Apply through the rental company, licensed real estate professional or listing website.
• Before you sign a lease, look for signs at the property with the name of the property owner or manager.
• Ask to tour the property in person.
• Never pay with cash, wire transfers, gift cards or other cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin. If anyone tells you to pay this way, it is a sure sign of a scam.

If you think you have been a victim of a rental scam, please call (800) 482-8982. For more information on consumer-related topics and tips on how to avoid scams, visit ArkansasAG.gov.

The Elder Abuse Webcast is free and open to the public and will cover elder financial abuse, an overview of Medicaid fraud investigative authority expansion and other relevant topics to Elder Abuse. The Arkansas Securities Department, Arkansas State Nursing Board and Attorney General’s Office will be presenting. This webcast does NOT offer any continuing education credits.

DATE:       Thursday, September 30

WHEN:      9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

REGISTER:  https://arkansasag.webex.com/arkansasag/onstage/g.php?MTID=e630a436b7825f85a59d61845817adf54  

About Attorney General Leslie Rutledge

Leslie Carol Rutledge is the 56th Attorney General of Arkansas. Elected on November 4, 2014, and sworn in on January 13, 2015, she is the first woman and first Republican in Arkansas history to be elected as Attorney General. She was resoundingly re-elected on November 6, 2018. Since taking office, she has significantly increased the number of arrests and convictions against online predators who exploit children and con artists who steal taxpayer money through Social Security Disability and Medicaid fraud. Further, she has held Rutledge Roundtable meetings and Mobile Office hours in every county of the State each year, and launched a Military and Veterans Initiative. She has led efforts to roll back government regulations that hurt job creators, fight the opioid epidemic, teach internet safety, combat domestic violence and make the office the top law firm for Arkansans. Rutledge serves as co-chairs of the National Association of Attorneys General Veterans Affairs Committee, re-established and co-chairs the National Association of Attorneys General Committee on Agriculture and was the former Chairwoman of the National Association of Attorneys General Southern Region. As the former Chairwoman of the Republican Attorneys General Association, she remains active on the Executive Board.

A native of Batesville, she is a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law. Rutledge clerked for the Arkansas Court of Appeals, was Deputy Counsel for former Governor Mike Huckabee, served as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Lonoke County and was an Attorney at the Department of Human Services before serving as Counsel at the Republican National Committee. Rutledge and her husband, Boyce, have one daughter. The family has a home in Pulaski County and a farm in Crittenden County.

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is encouraging Arkansans to clean out their medicine cabinets and bring any unused or expired medications to one of the state’s more than 250 Prescription Drug Take Back Day drop-off locations from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 24.

“Cleaning out medicine cabinets and turning the expired, unused medications over to law enforcement during a Drug Take Back event will save lives,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “It is important now more than ever that we continue to properly dispose of these prescription drugs.”

The Arkansas Attorney General’s Office hosts Prescription Drug Take Back Day twice a year in partnership with Arkansas Department of Health, Arkansas Department of Human Services, Arkansas National Guard, Arkansas Rotary Clubs, Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy, DEA, FBI, Office of the State Drug Director and over 100 additional law enforcement and government agencies, community organizations and public health providers.

Event sites are held at various locations across the State but year-round locations are also available and can be found at ARTakeBack.org. The Attorney General’s office also hosts take back events at mobile offices around the State. Since the program began, more than 206 tons of medication have been collected in Arkansas, which is over 412,600 thousand pounds of individual pills.

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February 24, 2021

LITTLE ROCK – After Arkansas’s historic snowfall has melted away and the temperatures return to more consistent weather, Arkansans are left to deal with pesky scam callers pretending to be utility providers. Scam artists will pose as utility companies and prey on unsuspecting Arkansans then ask for immediate payment over the phone. This scam causes far too many Arkansans to lose their hard-earned money.

“Arkansans should be skeptical of unsolicited calls where the person is demanding immediate payment by phone and claiming that a water, electric or gas bill is late,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “I urge Arkansans to hang up and reach out to the utility company directly, using the number on their last bill or the company’s website to determine the status of their bill.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to ensure payment is sent to the utility company safely, securely and timely:

• Contact the utility company directly by calling the listed number and verifying the amount owed.
• Drop off the payment at the utility office or an authorized payment location.
• Pay online on the utility company’s website with a credit card or call the company directly.
• Consider participating in an automated bank account draft system, if it is offered.
• Mail the payment to the company directly.

The scammer may also request that the recipient purchase gift cards or prepaid debit cards to pay off the amount owed. The scammer will ask for the code on the purchased card, which gives them complete access to money on the card. In most cases, once the prepaid card money is depleted, it cannot be recovered. Remember, utilities will never require you to pay by gift card or prepaid debit card – only scammers do that.

Arkansans should notify the company if they have been contacted by one of these scammers. If Arkansans have paid money to the scammer, file a complaint with the Attorney General.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at consumer@arkansasag.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

February 17, 2021

Attorney General Rutledge Warns Arkansans of Winter Weather Scams, Price Gouging

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge today is urging Arkansans to be on guard against scam artists and price gouging following the recent severe winter weather that has impacted the entire State. The snow and ice can cause damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, trees and other property, and clean-up efforts may require some Arkansans to seek assistance from contractors or repairmen.

“Arkansans have already been through a lot having to deal with the effects of bitter cold and several inches of snow dropping on the Natural State,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “I urge all of you to use caution as the clean-up process begins and if you suspect any type of fraud or price gouging, call my office immediately.”

Governor Asa Hutchinson signed an Executive Order issuing a state of emergency following the freezing rain, sleet, snow and power outages in Arkansas.

Act 376 of 1997, which prohibits businesses from price gouging during a state of emergency, is now in effect. The law prohibits businesses from charging more than 10 percent above the pre-disaster price of goods or services, such as food, fuel, water, flashlights, batteries, blankets, medicine, bandages and construction materials. The price gouging law is triggered whenever a state of emergency is declared by federal, State or local governments. The ban on price gouging remains in effect for at least 30 days and can be extended another 30 days by the local governing body if necessary to protect the lives, property or welfare of the citizens. For home repairs, the law remains in effect for 180 days.

A violation of Act 376 is a violation of the Deceptive Trade Practices Act.

Arkansans who believe they have encountered a disaster scam or price gouging should contact the Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or file a consumer complaint at ArkansasAG.gov.

The Rutledge Report

January 2021

Attorney General Rutledge Announces Redistricting Team Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge announced her new redistricting team. Former state senator, Doyle Webb, joins Rutledge’s senior staff as the Redistricting Director for the Attorney General. Webb will lead the redistricting team made up of former state representatives Andy Davis and Col. Douglas House, U.S. Army, Retired, who have been contracted as consultants. “I am ecstatic to welcome Doyle Webb, Doug House and Andy Davis to my team to help with this important task of redrawing state legislative districts,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “They will bring with them more than 50 years of experience in government, engineering and law. I cannot think of a better trio of dedicated public servants to work on behalf of Arkansans and assist with the redistricting efforts.” Read more here.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge filed her brief in Arkansas’s U.S. Supreme Court case concerning Arkansas Works and a companion case concerning New Hampshire’s similar program. The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments later in 2021. In this case, Rutledge seeks to defend Arkansas Works’ commonsense community-engagement requirements. “I look forward to the U.S. Supreme Court hearing our case on why Arkansas’s community-engagement requirements will help build a better future for Arkansans,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Arkansas Works reaffirms Arkansas’s commitment to improving the health of Arkansans and ensuring the Medicaid program is sustainable.” Read more here.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge hosted the 2020 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Luncheon at the Benton Event Center, where she announced Fayetteville Police Department’s Sergeant James Jennings, Corporal Seay-Peter Floyd, and Officer Natalie Eucce as the Law Enforcement Officers of the Year. Following Arkansas Health Department guidelines, law enforcement from across the State attended the 18th annual awards ceremony honoring an outstanding law enforcement official from each of Arkansas’s 75 counties. “Every day law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect their communities,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “In Arkansas, we will always back the blue.” Read more here.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge joined a six-state coalition writing a letter to President Biden acknowledging state attorneys general will be vigilant in watching for and opposing federal overreach, especially when such action puts jobs and civil liberties at risk. The letter encourages the newly sworn President to be mindful of the U.S. Constitution’s separation of powers and the authority of sovereign states relative to that of the federal government. Should the new administration govern in a manner inconsistent with those tenets, the attorneys general contend it will be their responsibility and duty to challenge the administration’s actions in court. “As chief legal officers of our states, we must ensure states’ rights are protected and we are prepared to do so,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “We are ready to utilize all available means to combat any potential federal overreach that we see.”Read more here.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge announced the judgment against a Texarkana-based asphalt service company for deceptive trade practices and targeting seniors. In January 2020, Rutledge filed a lawsuit against Robert Stevens, owner of Pro-Pave Asphalt, Robert Stevens Construction and RS Asphalt, for multiple violations of the Arkansas Deceptive Trade Practices Act (ADTPA) and Home Solicitation Sales Act (HSSA). “Targeting vulnerable Arkansans with aggressive, deceptive business practices will not be tolerated and we will continue to act to protect Arkansas’s seniors and all consumers from bad actors,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “This Judgment holds Stevens financially accountable for his wrongdoings and sends a warning message to other fraudsters in Arkansas.” Read more here.

Tax season is upon us. This year, unfortunately, many Arkansans have the added stress of dealing with fraudulent unemployment compensation claims when filing their taxes. Victims of unemployment fraud may have income wrongfully reported in their name that could add to their tax burden. Many consumers have been rightfully concerned about the safety of their personal and financial information due to this type of fraud. “Con artists who try to steal from taxpaying Arkansans will be caught,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “I will always hold these criminals accountable to the fullest extent of the law.” Read more here.

Arkansans can report scams and find out more information by visiting
ArkansasAG.gov or call (800) 482-8982.

January 13, 2021

LITTLE ROCK – The Internal Revenue Service and U.S. Treasury Department have begun delivering a second round of Economic Impact Payments (EIP), or stimulus payments, as a part of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Appropriations Act of 2021 to millions of Americans who received the first round of payments in 2020.  The IRS began sending the initial round of payments in late December 2020 by direct deposit and by mailing checks or debits cards. Arkansans who received a paper check or debit card in the first round of stimulus payments in 2020 could expect to receive a check or debit card this time also.

“Many Arkansans are in dire need of this stimulus payment,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “This is not a scam and please do not throw away a white envelope with the U.S. Department of Treasury seal without opening it.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to ensure Arkansans receive their Economic Impact Payments:

• The card will be sent in a white envelope that prominently displays the U.S. Department of the Treasury seal.
• Most individuals will receive $600 and $1,200 for married couples filing a joint return and $600 for each qualifying child.
• Couples filing jointly with just one member of the couple with a work-eligible Social Security Number will now be eligible for payments for the taxpayers and their qualifying children.
• People do not need to take any action right now to receive their stimulus payment. Eligible individuals who do not receive their payment or who did not receive their first stimulus payment can claim it (under the Recovery Rebate Credit) when they file their 2020 tax return this year. People who do not normally file tax returns should also file a 2020 tax return if they do not receive their stimulus payment.
• Stimulus payments that are received in December 2020 or January 2021 by direct deposit will be automatically protected from garnishment by debt collectors. That is not true of payments that are claimed on the 2020 tax return and paid later in the year as part of the regular tax refund.
• Payments are being issued based on information the IRS already has on file, people will not be able to add new bank account information or request to receive their payment by EIP Card.

For more information about the distribution of stimulus payments, Arkansans can visit the IRS press release or contact Attorney General Leslie Rutledge at ArkansasAG.gov.

The Rutledge Report

December 2020

Rutledge Has Unanimous U.S. Supreme Court Victory That Defends Local Pharmacies Against Predatory PBMs Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge issued a statement following the U.S. Supreme Court’s unanimous opinion upholding Arkansas’s pharmacy benefit manager regulations inRutledge v. Pharmaceutical Care Management Association. The Supreme Court’s decision reverses a lower court ruling blocking enforcement of Arkansas’s law. “This is an important unanimous win for not only locally owned pharmacies that have experienced financial hardships at the hands of pharmacy benefit managers, but more importantly, this is a win for all Arkansans and Americans to have access to affordable health care,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “I will always protect Arkansans and small businesses from unfair practices and fight to lower the costs of prescription drugs.”

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is leading a coalition of 16 States that have filed an amicus brief supporting the National Rifle Association’s (NRA) lawsuit against New York Attorney General Letitia James. The NRA’s lawsuit seeks to block James’s politically motivated attempt in a separate lawsuit to dissolve the NRA, which is the country’s oldest civil rights organization and leading Second Amendment advocacy organization. New York hopes its lawsuit to dissolve the NRA will undermine Americans’ constitutional right to keep and bear arms. “New York’s lawsuit is a political stunt by a liberal attorney general who promised in her campaign to go after the NRA. It is designed to undermine our Second Amendment right,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Even if it makes me unpopular in places like New York, I stand committed to protecting the Constitution—particularly Arkansans’ right to bear arms. That is why I oppose the New York Attorney General’s political stunt and am proud to lead these 16 States in supporting the NRA’s lawsuit against New York. I repeat my invitation to the NRA: The Natural State would happily welcome an organization that fights for the Second Amendment rights of Arkansans and all Americans.” Read morehere.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge issued a statement following the announcement Arkansas is ranked the most pro-life state in America by Americans United for Life. The pro-life organization ranks each state based on state laws protecting the unborn, the elderly, the disabled, and the terminally ill. “It is an incredible day in the State of Arkansas to be named the most pro-life state in America by Americans United for Life. This has not been an easy road, but it is the most important fight we could take on and win. My office has successfully defended and won a number of pro-life cases, and as long as I am Attorney General, I will ensure we continue to fight for the lives and the rights of the unborn. Even with this remarkable announcement our work continues and I promise I will keep fighting wholeheartedly to defend our pro-life laws.”

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge joined a bipartisan coalition of attorneys general in filing a lawsuit against Facebook, Inc., alleging that the company illegally stifles competition to protect its monopoly power. The lawsuit alleges that, over the last decade, the social networking giant illegally acquired competitors and cut services to smaller threats, depriving users of the benefits of competition, and reducing privacy protections and services while gaining billions through increased advertising revenue. “Many Americans rely on Facebook to connect with family and friends we may not see on a regular basis and the social media giant must be held accountable when it keeps other competitors from entering into the marketplace which keeps Arkansans from having the best option when they chose to share information online,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “I am bringing this lawsuit to ensure that Arkansans have a choice in the marketplace and to remedy Facebook’s anti-competitive practices.” Read more here.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge issued a statement following the motion put forward by Texas before the U.S. Supreme Court. “Arkansans and Americans across the country have real concerns about the lack of integrity in our federal elections this year,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “After reviewing the motion filed by Texas in the U.S. Supreme Court, I have determined that I will support the motion by the State of Texas in all legally appropriate manners. The integrity of our elections is a critical part of our nation and it must be upheld.”

Attorney General Leslie Rutledge announced she joined a multi-state coalition of 10 states in a lawsuit against Google for multiple violations of Federal and State antitrust laws, including anti-competitive conduct, exclusionary practices, and deceptive misrepresentations in connection with its role in the multibillion-dollar online display advertising industry. Google’s monopolization of online display advertising includes an anti-competitive agreement with Facebook, misrepresenting customers, suppressing competition and harming consumers in violation of antitrust and consumer protection laws. “Google’s dominance and control over the digital advertising marketplace can no longer go unchecked,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Arkansans should not be targeted by ad companies that pay the highest amount to pop up in a user’s search. Arkansans deserve to have the most helpful and reliable information at their fingertips.” Read more here.

Arkansans can report scams and find out more information by visiting
ArkansasAG.gov or call (800) 482-8982.

November 2020

Rutledge, Coalition of Attorneys General, File Amicus Brief in Pennsylvania Supreme Court Voting Case Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge joined a coalition of 10 state attorneys general, led by Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt, in filing an amicus brief in Republican Party of Pennsylvania v. Boockvar. The brief urges the Supreme Court of the United States to grant certiorari and reverse a decision by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court allowing mail-in ballots to be received three days after Election Day, even without postmarks. “It is imperative that every legal vote be counted and every illegal vote not be counted,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “The integrity of each election is paramount to the future of our great country. Americans must not be kept in the dark and we must shed light on the discrepancies littering this election.” Read more here.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge filed a reply brief in support of the State’s petition for a writ of certiorari asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review and uphold Arkansas Works’ community-engagement demonstration project. “Arkansas Works is a pilot expansion program designed to encourage able-bodied Arkansans without dependents to transition into the workforce, building a stronger, more resilient connection with their communities,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “We urge the U.S. Supreme Court to review those requirements and reaffirm Arkansas’s commitment to making the Medicaid program more sustainable and helping Arkansans obtain employment.” Read more here.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge issued a statement following oral argument before the U.S. Supreme Court, during which it considered the claim of an 18-state coalition including Arkansas that the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate is unconstitutional. “The Obamacare arguments are finally behind us, and we are one step closer to righting the constitutional wrong of the individual mandate and also providing Americans much-needed clarity when it comes to their healthcare,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Arkansans have long demanded better, and they deserve it. I continue to call on Congress to work together to create a comprehensive healthcare law that will work with states and provide coverage for those with pre-existing conditions.” Read more here.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge  announced the first step in a law enforcement sweep against illegal pyramid schemes organized and operated in Arkansas. The State has filed lawsuits in Faulkner and Saline Counties alleging Defendants represented to consumers that they could earn a 700% return on investment and “bless” their communities by joining a “Blessing Loom” board and recruiting others to do the same. No products or services were offered in exchange for the payment, only the opportunity to earn money. But, when new participants stopped joining and the pyramids’ organizers started using consumers’ money as their own, consumers lost every dollar contributed and unwittingly participated in illegal pyramid schemes. Read more here.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge  announced the 9th Annual Never Forgotten – Arkansas Takes Action event will be hosted virtually for 2020. On December 1st, Rutledge will host a law enforcement training as well as an evening family session. To accommodate more families, Rutledge will host another family session on Saturday, December 5th. Arkansas State Representative Rebecca Petty will keynote both events discussing her personal experience when her daughter, Andi, was kidnapped and murdered by a family member in 1999. The event was established to raise awareness of the challenges associated with missing persons cases for families and law enforcement officials while also recognizing Arkansas’s missing children and adults. Registration is open for families and law enforcement. Read more here.

The loss of a loved one is difficult enough for family as they make funeral arrangements, but scam artists have been targeting funeral homes to trick the businesses into giving the recently passed family member’s social security number and other personal information. Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge’s Office has identified scam artists posing as family members calling funeral homes seeking the social security number of “their beloved family member” to complete end-of-life arrangements. “Scam artists have taken their skills to a new low by targeting families and businesses dealing with the heart-wrenching loss of our loved ones and causing long-term problems for the family and finances,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “I urge any funeral homes receiving calls demanding social security or personal information to hang up the phone and call my office immediately.” Learn more here.

Arkansans can report scams and find out more information by visiting
ArkansasAG.gov or call (800) 482-8982.

November 24, 2020

LITTLE ROCK – The most popular shopping days are upon Arkansans and whether shopping online or in-store, scammers can get pretty creative when trying to steal money from consumers. Con artists will take any opportunity to steal money, personal information, or even your identity this holiday season.

“It’s important for Arkansans to always be careful whether they are shopping online or in-store this Christmas season,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Far too often, I’ve seen the lengths that scam artists will go to in an attempt to steal money from hard-working Arkansans.”

Attorney General Rutledge provides the following tips to help keep consumers safe while shopping online:

• Look for the “lock” icon on the browser’s status bar, and the abbreviation “https” in the web address to be sure information is secure and to help guard the security of your information as it is transmitted to a website. Be sure your browser has the most up-to-date encryption capabilities by using the latest version available from the manufacturer.
• Check the online merchant’s privacy policy before providing any personal financial information and determine how the information will be used or shared with others. Some websites’ disclosures are easier to find than others — look at the bottom of the home page, on order forms or in the “About” or “FAQs” sections of a site.
• Read and understand return, refund and shipping policies before you make your purchase.
• Pay by credit card, which is the most secure payment method. Under federal law, charges can be disputed and consumer liability for theft is limited so long as consumers promptly notify the bank or credit card issuer. Additionally, many credit card issuers have “zero liability” policies under which the purchaser pays nothing if his or her credit card is stolen and used to make unauthorized purchases.
• Keep personal information private. Do not disclose personal information – address, telephone number, Social Security number, bank account number or email address – unless you know who is collecting the information, why they are collecting it and how they will use it.
• Be cautious when buying gifts from an online auction. Understand how the auction works and check out the seller’s reputation before bidding. Always ask about terms of delivery and return options. Never wire money for the purchase; use some other form of payment.
• Keep records of online transactions and check for emails from merchants while doing business. Merchants may email important information about purchases.
• Promptly and thoroughly review monthly credit card and bank statements for any errors or unauthorized purchases. Notify the credit or debit card issuer immediately if a card or checkbook is lost or stolen or if you suspect someone is using your accounts without your permission.

For more information about consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@ArkansasAG.gov or visitArkansasAG.gov.

August 21, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Shut Down Scammers Threatening to Shut off Utilities

LITTLE ROCK – As the hustle and bustle of school returns and families begin in their own unique routines, scam artists are using an old playbooks to identify ways to trick Arkansans by claiming they have not paid their utility bill. The scam involves Caller ID spoofing to make the name or phone number of the utility company display on the phone’s screen. The scam artists will then claim the consumer must pay immediately over the phone because a representative is on their way to disconnect their services. Be cautious of unsolicited calls and consider hanging up and finding the company’s phone number from an independent source and calling them to confirm any outstanding balance.

“Remember, you should never be forced to make an immediate payment for utilities over the phone and or give away your personal information,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge.

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to ensure payment is sent to the utility company safely, securely and timely:

• Add the utility payment due date on a calendar when the bill is received.
• Drop off the payment at the utility office or an authorized payment location.
• Pay online on the utility company’s website with a credit card or call the company directly.
• Consider participating in an automated bank account draft system, if it is offered.
• Mail the payment to the company directly.

The scammer may also request that the recipient purchase gift cards or prepaid debit cards to pay off the amount owed. The scammer will ask for the code on the purchased card, which gives them complete access to money on the card. In most cases, once the prepaid card money is depleted, it cannot be recovered. Remember, utilities will not require you to pay by gift card or prepaid debit card – scammers will.

Arkansans should notify the company if they have been contacted by one of these scammers. If Arkansans have turned over money to the scammer, file a complaint with the Attorney General.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

August 5, 2020

Protect Your Credit and Identity from Unemployment Fraud

LITTLE ROCK – Unemployment fraud has become a prevalent problem in Arkansas and around the nation. The Arkansas Division of Workforce Services recently announced over 37,000 suspected fraudulent unemployment claims have been identified and are being investigated in Arkansas. Depending upon the extent of the fraud, consumers may choose to request a fraud alert or security freeze with the credit reporting agencies or to seek an ID Theft Passport from Attorney General Leslie Rutledge’s Office if unauthorized lines of credit have been opened.

“Con artists are filing unemployment claims using stolen information and potentially ruining the good names of nearly 40,000 Arkansans,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “No one is safe from these criminals who have brazenly attempted to file a claim pretending to be Governor Asa Hutchinson.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for those who believe they have been a victim of identity theft:

• File a fraud alert with one of the three national credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian or TransUnion.
• File a police report with your local law enforcement and get a copy of the report as soon as it is available.
• For unemployment fraud, contact the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services’ fraud hotline at (501) 682-1058 or complete the secure fraud reporting form online at dws.arkansas.gov.
• Get a copy of an identity theft booklet, which provides step-by-step instructions for dealing with identity thieves, including affidavits and forms for your financial institutions.
• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.
• Cancel any accounts you believe have been compromised or have been opened fraudulently.
• Consider placing a security freeze on your credit report to restrict access and help prevent additional instances of identity theft.
• If fraudulent lines of credit have been opened in your name, then consider applying for an ID Theft Passport from the Attorney General’s office.

Many consumers are rightfully concerned about the safety of their personal and financial information and want to prevent fraud and identity theft. Attorney General Rutledge encourages Arkansans to never give their personal information over the phone or via email, to use strong passwords on all online accounts and to be diligent in reviewing all types of financial statements.

Committing identity theft in Arkansas is a felony and comes with a sentence that could include incarceration, fines up to $25,000 and restitution. Consumers are advised that if you receive funds that you did not apply for and that you were not expecting, do not accept them. Instead, report the matter to the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services at (501) 682-1058 and to local law enforcement. Even if you did not request the funds, accepting such funds as part of an unemployment scam is unlawful.

For more information on identity theft and other consumer related issues, or to apply for an ID Theft Passport, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

July 31, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Unsolicited Packages of Seeds Hitting Arkansans’ Mailboxes

LITTLE ROCK – The U.S. Department of Agriculture is warning Americans to watch out for unsolicited packages of seeds that appear to be shipped from China. According to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, the identities of the seeds are unknown and may be an invasive plant species. Arkansans who have received a package of seeds should immediately contact the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Plant Industries Division at (501) 225-1598.

“Anyone who receives an unsolicited package of seeds should not open it and immediately contact the Arkansas Department of Agriculture who is working to determine the identity of the seeds,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “I urge people to not open or plant these seeds because as a farm family, I understand the devastating impact invasive plants can have on crops and the ripple effect those financial losses can have on harming our state’s economy. ”

Attorney General Rutledge and the U.S. Department of Agriculture recommend the following tips if Arkansans receive an unsolicited package of seeds:

• Immediately contact the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Plant Industries Division at (501) 225-1598.
• Place the unopened seeds in a sealed package and turn over the label and packaging to the appropriate authorities.
• Do not plant the seeds.

The USDA and the Arkansas Department of Agriculture are collecting seeds received from across the nation to identify the seeds and determine if they pose a threat to agriculture or the environment of the United States.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

July 22, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Scam Artists Targeting Arkansans’ Social Security Numbers

LITTLE ROCK – As Arkansans adjust to the new normal during the pandemic, the lull from robocalls has ended and bad actors are again seeking the social security numbers of our most vulnerable. The Attorney General’s Office has seen an increase in complaints where scammers are pretending to be from the Social Security Administration (SSA) and threaten consumers into providing personal information or asking for money.

“It’s time to reinforce an important fact: the government will never call consumers requesting financial information,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “If you receive a call claiming to be from the government, requesting personal or financial information, immediately hang up the phone. Let my office do the fighting for you by reporting these illegal calls.”

Attorney General Rutledge and the Federal Trade Commission released the following tips for Arkansans who may be dealing with a government imposter:

• Never give out or confirm sensitive information, such as bank account, credit card or social security numbers, to an unsolicited caller.
• Be cautious of callers using organization names similar to existing agencies. Scammers use internet technology to spoof area codes, so although it may seem the call is from Washington, D.C., it could originate from anywhere in the world.
• The Social Security Administration and other government agencies have warned about these scams and suggest contacting the agency directly.
• The Social Security Administration can be contacted at (800) 772-1213 to verify the reason for the contact and the person’s identity prior to providing any information to the caller.

To report this scam to the Social Security Administration, contact its Fraud Hotline at (800) 269-0271, or file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. If you have provided your social security number to a scammer, visit www.identitytheft.gov/SSA to find out what steps you can take to protect your identity.

For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please visit ArkansasAG.gov or call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982.

July 10, 2020

Attorney General Alert: Tax Deadline is Upon Us

Says, ‘I want Arkansans to know their options’

LITTLE ROCK – Due to COVID-19, the delayed deadline to file state and federal taxes is quickly approaching. Arkansans who have not filed to pay their taxes still have until July 15.

“This year, the date might have changed, but the responsibility remains – tax time has arrived,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Our communities have dealt with many difficult situations for a majority of the year when it comes to making ends meet and I want Arkansans to know their options and filing your taxes shouldn’t be a burden.”

Taxpayers have the ability to file and pay their taxes safely online through IRS.gov in order to avoid the backlog of mail that may have developed due to previous closures in response to the pandemic. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers taxpayers their Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA) system as a resource to learn more and answer frequently asked questions while filing taxes online.

Attorney General Rutledge has provided these tips for Arkansans still working on filing their federal and state taxes this year:

• Taxpayers who need additional time to file beyond the July 15 deadline can request a filing extension to October 15, but this must be done by July 15. Then they must file Form 4868 through their tax professional, tax software, or using the Free File link on IRS.gov.
• Arkansas taxpayers who still owe 2019 income tax, as well as estimated tax for 2020, must make two separate payments on or before July 15, 2020; One for their 2019 income tax owed and one for their 2020 estimated tax payments.
• Members of the military qualify for an additional extension of at least 180 days to file and pay taxes if either of the following situations apply: they serve in a combat zone, have qualifying service outside a combat zone, or they serve on deployment outside the United States away from their permanent duty station while participating in a contingency operation.
• AARP Foundation Tax Aide program offers free assistance to Arkansas seniors filing their taxes online or by calling 888-OUR-AARP (888-687-2277).
• Tax help is available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week on IRS.gov.
• Information for filing state taxes can be found online ondfa.arkansas.gov/income-tax or by calling (501) 682-1100

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 or OAG@ArkansasAG.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov or Facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

July 2, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Impostors are Working Hard to Avoid Work by Stealing Arkansans’ Unemployment Benefits

LITTLE ROCK – States have had to adapt quickly to the keep their residents safe from COVID-19 and worked hard to ensure economic resources are easily available. In recent weeks, the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office has received complaints from Arkansans receiving notices that they had applied for unemployment benefits when they had not in fact applied for benefits. In other cases, consumers have received the unemployment funds and are then contacted by the scam artist claiming that a mistake has occurred and asking the consumer to forward the proceeds to them.

“My office has received over 100 complaints from Arkansans who have had their personal information used to fraudulently apply for unemployment by scam artists,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “We have been working with the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services and financial institutions in order to assist consumers in stopping unlawful payments and preventing additional identity theft.”

The unemployment application process is typically an in-person application process, but the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for social distancing has created a new online procedure that requires only a name, date of birth, social security number, and employer verification. This abbreviated procedure, while safer and more simple for applicants, has also meant that scam artists who have fraudulently obtained this personal information on consumers from prior data breaches and identity theft can apply for unemployment benefits on unwary consumers’ behalves.

Attorney General Rutledge advises consumers who suspect that their identity has been used to apply for unemployment benefits should immediately:

• File a police report and then contact the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services’ fraud hotline at 501-682-1058.
• Report the fraud to your employer.
• Obtain new copies of their credit reports from the three major credit reporting agencies (i.e., Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian) to confirm that no additional lines of credit have been opened in his or her name and consider requesting a fraud alert or a security freeze in order to prevent additional fraudulent activity.
• If a victim of financial identity theft, apply for an identity theft passport with the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office by submitting a copy of a police report and other relevant information.  Identity theft passports are designed to assist consumers in proving their true identities.

Consumers are advised that if you receive funds that you did not apply for and that you were not expecting, do not accept them.  Instead, report the matter to the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services at 501-682-1058 and to local law enforcement.  Even if you did not request the funds, accepting such funds as part of an unemployment scam is unlawful.

If you believe you have experienced identity theft or have been scammed, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or oag@ArkansasAG.gov or visitArkansasAG.gov.

May 29, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Federal Government Sending Prepaid Debit Cards

LITTLE ROCK – The U.S. Department of Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that they have begun to release Economic Impact Payments in the form of prepaid debit cards, instead of the paper checks many were anticipating. In accordance with the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the assigned amount of funds will be placed on prepaid debit cards and sent out to eligible taxpayers.

“My Office has received numerous calls from concerned Arkansans who have recently received the Economic Impact Payments in the form of a prepaid card,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Arkansans should know these prepaid cards in a plain envelope from Money Network Cardholder Services are actually from the federal government.”

If you receive an Economic Impact Payment Card, it will arrive in a plain envelope from “Money Network Cardholder Services.”  The free prepaid cards are issued with detailed instructions on how to easily activate the card. Recipients can transfer the funds from card to an existing bank account without any transaction fees. Funds can also be withdrawn at the ATM, but a transaction fee may apply. The prepaid card can be used anywhere Visa is accepted and provides fraud protections for consumers. Each card gives cardholders the ability to check their balance online, on the mobile app or over the phone without incurring fees.

Rutledge provides the following tips when activating the prepaid card:

• Follow the directions provided with the prepaid card and visit EIPCard.com to activate the card.
• When activating the card, make sure to have a secure PIN number and do not share the number with anyone.
• Watch out for sites requesting your card number and PIN.
• Use the EIPCard.com site to search for surcharge-free ATMs, view the fee schedule and cardholder agreement information.

For more information about Economic Impact Payments, visit the IRS website atwww.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payment-information-center. If you suspect online phishing scams related to the Economic Impact Payments, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or oag@ArkansasAG.gov or visitArkansasAG.gov.

May 27, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Hang up on Paycheck Protection Loan Scammers

LITTLE ROCK – Scam artists are contacting local business owners by email and phone, pretending to be affiliated with the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), a loan program administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) under the CARES Act. While these loans have been the lifeline for many businesses and their employees, the scams can result in even greater losses and financial peril.

“These paycheck protection loans are a key part to our economic recovery to assist hard working Arkansas businesses and their employees,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “But, it is shameful and illegal to pose as a government entity to provide false and deceptive services to businesses that are trying to use the paycheck protection loan to survive.”

Scam artists look for ways to turn a business’s or consumer’s cash into their own. Often, government-assistance programs like the PPP provide an obvious and easy target. Scammers use these governmental initiatives by pretending to be an SBA-authorized lender or similar loan program by telephone or email. In email, scammers will impersonate legitimate websites and use email addresses by changing one or two letters in the name. By telephone, scammers sometimes utilize illegal robocalls as a way to reach business owners and consumers. In both situations, scam businesses are seeking upfront payment of fees.

Attorney General Rutledge has identified tips for Arkansans to use when contacted by email or phone regarding a paycheck protection loan:

• If you get an email that looks like it is from the SBA or your bank, do not click on any links. Instead, go directly to the organization’s website for information;
• The government will never ask you to pay up front and it will not call to ask for your Social Security, bank account or credit card number;
• Be cautious about companies that offer to expedite or facilitate your ability to get PPP loans. If you are considering using an online provider or lender, stick with those you already know and trust;
• Be wary of companies you’ve never heard of or that call or send you emails out of the blue; and
• Check the spelling of email and website addresses, as scammers frequently utilize addresses that appear similar to legitimate ones in order to deceive.

For more information, or if you suspect a PPP government-assistance scam, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or oag@ArkansasAG.gov or visitArkansasAG.gov.

May 15, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Antibody Testing Marketed to Have Exaggerated Capabilities

Says, ‘take advantage of Arkansans during the pandemic by making unsubstantiated claims about COVID-19 related tests will be identified and prosecuted’ 

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas is gradually opening the door and life is slowly going back to normal, but Arkansans are looking for ways to protect their families as well as neighbors and friends while reconnecting. Antibody tests, or serology tests, are thought to be a useful resource to identify asymptomatic individuals, who have recovered from COVID-19 or who may have had COVID-19 and recovered, but were never tested. However, any antibody tests on the market claiming to accurately determine antibodies may be exaggerating the tests’ capabilities to diagnose COVID-19.

“Arkansans are being thoughtful as they reconnect with their loved ones, but are also considering the risks to those in the most vulnerable populations,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Those who are trying to take advantage of Arkansans during the pandemic by making unsubstantiated claims about COVID-19 related tests will be identified and prosecuted.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “serologic test results have limitations that make them less than ideal tools for diagnosing people who are sick. Depending on when someone was infected and the timing of the test, the test may not find antibodies in someone with a current COVID-19 infection.”

Attorney General Rutledge has identified tips for Arkansans to use when considering antibody testing:

• Antibody tests should not be used to diagnose someone as currently sick with COVID-19; you should contact your health care provider if you suspect active COVID-19
• Most health insurance pays for COVID-19 testing if a person has symptoms or has been exposed
• Do not believe advertisements for vaccinations or medications to prevent or treat COVID-19 that are not recommended by the CDC or your health care provider
• Tests should be administered by a health care professional – there are no approved or reliable take-at-home antibody tests
• Do not disclose personal or financial information to an unknown person or on an unfamiliar website or social media because it could result in identity theft or fraud
• Paying a lot of money does not make a test more accurate or keep you safe from COVID-19

For more information, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or oag@ArkansasAG.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

May 1, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Scammers Attempt to Extort Arkansans into Payout

Says, ‘Criminals are using old or similar passwords to illegally extort Arkansans’

LITTLE ROCK – While social distancing, Arkansans have been taking precautions and staying at home, which means more time spent online. As a result, scam artists are using tactics to extort money from Arkansans by threatening to release compromising photos. To dupe the recipient of an extortion email, the scammer may print the consumer’s email password or use high-pressure tactics to get them to pay right away. These actions are not only a scam, but also a criminal offense.

“Criminals are using old or similar passwords to illegally extort Arkansans into sending large sums of money to scam artists,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Anyone threatening or using high-pressure tactics to force payment is perpetrating a scam, and any Arkansan receiving such communications should cease contact immediately with the scammer and call my office.”

Attorney General Rutledge along with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has provided these tips for Arkansans using the internet while social distancing.

• Do not open emails or attachments from unknown individuals.
• Monitor your bank account statements regularly, and your credit report at least once a year for any unusual activity.
• Do not respond to unsolicited email senders or click on phishing links, outdated information or give personal information through email.
• Do not store sensitive information online or on your mobile devices.
• Use strong passwords containing numbers and symbols, and do not use the same password for multiple websites.
• Never provide personal information of any sort via email. Be aware that many emails requesting your personal information appear to be legitimate.
• Ensure security settings for social media accounts are activated and set at the highest level of protection.
• Verify the web address of legitimate websites and manually type the address into your browser for greater protection.

For more information, or if you believe you have been a victim of criminal extortion file a complaint with the FBI at www.ic3.gov or contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or oag@ArkansasAG.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

April 24, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Illegal Ponzi Schemes will only Steal Arkansan’s Hard-earned Money

Rutledge says, ‘If it seems too good to be true, then it probably is’

 LITTLE ROCK – The COVID pandemic has sparked concern about more than just your personal health. It has created economic hardships for many Arkansans. As many seek to ensure they can pay their bills, illegal Ponzi schemes disguised as goodwill gestures such as so-called “Blessing Looms” are freely shared on social media that will ultimately steal money from those who fall prey.

“If it seems too good to be true, then it probably is,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Blessing looms scams and other Ponzi schemes will ask for you to pay a small amount of money in order to receive a large payout as more people participate. I want every Arkansan to be aware of these schemes so they can keep their hard-earned savings in their wallets.”

Scammers use the “Blessing Looms” scam by posting it on social media and ask unwary readers to pay an entry fee (e.g., $100) with the promise that, as more people pay to build the pot of money by paying the entry fee, the participant will also get a payout (as much as $800) of that money. The surest way to identify these scams is if they promise large payouts in return for small investments, if they tell factually unsupported “success stories” of happy customers, or if they explain that future results rely on bringing in new participants to the scheme.

Attorney General Rutledge has identified several tips for Arkansans to use in protecting themselves against Ponzi schemes:

• If something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Know that large sums of money generally do not result from small investments.
• Consult the terms of use for Facebook and other social media platforms and report such scams as these platforms may prohibit schemes like this one.
• Safeguard banking and financial information in order to prevent theft due to scams.
• When using the internet, ensure that you are using a verified, secure, and encrypted website when sharing any personal or financial information online. Instead of clicking embedded links, consider typing the company’s actual URL website address in the search bar.
• Do not disclose personal information to an unknown person online because it could result in identity theft or the opening of other accounts in their name.

For more information, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 oroag@ArkansasAG.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

April 8, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Virtual Meetings Can Put Arkansans at Risk

Rutledge says, ‘ensure these necessary online meeting platforms take every action to protect users’

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansans have adapted to a new environment where social distancing has become our new normal, and working from home brings a new set of challenges. Virtual meetings provide an essential mode of communication for work and school, but bad actors have also found opportunities to exploit vulnerabilities in the virtual environment to steal or extort money from individuals and businesses.

“Having fought online predators, I know that they seek to exploit any weakness in our security, whether targeting children or businesses,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “As Attorney General, I’ve been working to ensure these necessary online meeting platforms take every action to protect users as we all do our best to get through this current crisis.”

Attorney General Rutledge has provided these tips for Arkansans using virtual platforms to connect with each other while social distancing.

• Utilize tools provided by the online meeting platform to restrict access to virtual meetings, classrooms and conference calls, including the use of passwords if possible;
• Be wary of suspicious emails inviting you to click links or join meetings or to download shared documents;
• Be cautious of advertisements or emails purporting to be from telework software vendors;
• Join online meetings only if prearranged with a person with whom a preexisting business or personal relationship exists;
• Select trusted and reputable network software vendors;
• Don’t give personally-identifiable information in online meeting venues.

For more information, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or oag@ArkansasAG.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

April 3, 2020

Attorney General Leslie Rutledge’s Response to COVID-19

The Attorney General’s Office has received almost 600 complaints in the last three weeks related only to price gouging and currently has between 30 to 35 active investigations pending. To file a complaint against businesses or individuals that you believe are price gouging, report it here.

Rutledge Report PSA on Price Gouging

Governor Hutchinson declared a state of emergency on Wednesday, March 11, 2020. The following Monday, Attorney General Leslie Rutledge released a statewide public service announcement informing Arkansans that price gouging laws had gone into effect.

Understanding Arkansas’s Price Gouging Law

Price gouging is when the price of goods or services is increased more than the maximum lawful price during a public emergency. During a public emergency, the maximum lawful price is 10% above the pre-emergency price of the product. Violators can face criminal charges and fines as well as civil penalties of up to $10,000 per incident. Learn more here.

Rutledge Allocated $3 Million to Small Business Community – 80 Small Businesses Already Assisted

On March 20, Attorney General Leslie Rutledge announced she would be allocating $3 million to the Arkansas Economic Development Commission’s (AEDC) Quick Action Loan Program for small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. These funds were in addition to the $4 million the Governor directed to the same program. The announcement was made during Governor Asa Hutchinson’s daily briefing on COVID-19. Eighty companies in thirty-six counties have been awarded almost $1.7 million in quick action loans as a piece of Attorney General Rutledge’s $3 million allocation to ADEC.The money will be sourced from the Attorney General’s Consumer Education and Enforcement Fund, which consists of monies from lawsuit settlements and not taxpayer dollars. Read more here.

Rutledge Allocates $1 Million for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

On March 27, Attorney General Leslie Rutledge allocated $1 million for the State of Arkansas to acquire lifesaving personal protective equipment (PPE) to be used by doctors, nurses and medical providers in the State to combat COVID-19. The money will be sourced from the Attorney General’s Consumer Education and Enforcement Fund, which consists of monies from lawsuit settlements and not taxpayer dollars. “This shortage of personal protective equipment is putting our front-line healthcare providers at risk of contracting COVID-19,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “If our healthcare providers are unable to care for patients, then exponentially more Arkansans could suffer.” Read more here.

April 3, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Social Security Scam Demands Arkansans’ Information for Continued Payments

Says, ‘The Social Security Administration will not suspend or discontinue your payments due to COVID-19’

LITTLE ROCK – Scam artists thrive on fear, and the COVID-19 pandemic has not slowed their illegal schemes. They are now using today’s financial uncertainty to trick Social Security beneficiaries into thinking their payments will be suspended unless they provide personal information to the scammer by phone, email or text. The Social Security Office of the Inspector General has confirmed, however, that beneficiaries will continue to receive scheduled payments during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Any letters, texts, emails or phone calls stating otherwise are a scam.

“The Social Security Administration will not suspend or discontinue your payments due to COVID-19,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “I urge anyone who receives a scam request for your personal bank account information to hang up the phone immediately.”

Scam artists have sent letters to Social Security beneficiaries by U.S. Mail and stated that benefit payments will be canceled unless he or she contacts the phone number identified in the letter.  Some of these letters may even include a reference number in order to suggest that the letter is legitimate. Upon calling the phone number provided, beneficiaries are asked to give personal information or to make a payment with gift cards, wire transfers, internet currency or by mailing cash to ensure social security payments.

Attorney General Rutledge has provided the following tips to protect Arkansans from con artists:

• Government benefits do not require up-front payment of money, and requests for payment by gift card, wire transfer, internet currency, cash, or debit or credit cards are scams.
• Rely on information from well-known or government sources and websites that end in .gov. Examples include the Social Security Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Arkansas Department of Health;
• Beware of requests that ask for your personal information, credit card information, Social Security number or banking information;
• Check the URL link for a “lock” icon before you proceed to make sure that the website is a secure site.
• Look for non-personalized email greetings like “Dear Sir or Madam,” and delete emails that insist you act urgently or immediately.
• Consider contacting a friend, loved one, or financial professional before providing information or agreeing to any proposal from a possible governmental entity.

To report this scam to the Social Security Administration, contact its Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271, or file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

The Attorney General’s Office created a page that links to state and federal government resource pages for COVID-19 at ArkansasAG.gov/COVID19. Contact the office with any concerns about scams at (800) 482-8982.

March 25, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Scammers Create Frenzy with Fake Government Checks

LITTLE ROCK – As Congress works to complete the COVID-19 economic stimulus package, con artists have also been working non-stop to identify new ways to take advantage of Arkansans concerned about the economy. These scammers impersonate government officials and reach out to Arkansans by phone, email or social media demanding the victims’ personal and banking information to verify their eligibility for the government’s stimulus check.

“Bad actors come out in bad situations and will do anything to make a quick buck on the backs of concerned Arkansans,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “The federal government will never reach out asking for personal and banking information in order to confirm your eligibility for payment.”

Attorney General Rutledge has provided the following tips to keep you and your pocketbook safe.

• Only rely on official government websites (.gov) for economic relief information.
• Never give out your personal information over the telephone or email.
• When information becomes available, the Attorney General’s website will direct you to reliable sources.

Arkansas residents encountering someone demanding personal information to receive federal funds or other assistance should immediately contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office by visiting ArkansasAG.gov or call (800) 482-8982.

March 20, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: CDC and Other Health Officials are not Going Door-to-Door Performing Tests

LITTLE ROCK – While Arkansans are staying home in an attempt to prevent infection and spread of the COVID-19 virus, con artists are out and about going door-to-door targeting frightened senior citizens. Posing as employees of the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these scammers knock on your door and offer to scan you for the COVID-19 virus at a cost of $50. These con artists, who are not licensed medical professionals, swab your nasal cavity and pretend to perform a medical test while you watch. To obtain your “test results,” the scammers ask for your banking information, including credit and debit card numbers, and social security number.

“It is unbelievable that con artists use the fear surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic to target Arkansans, especially senior citizens,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “The CDC and other health officials are not going door-to-door and performing tests. Arkansans should consult their trusted health care provider or the Arkansas Department of Health regarding COVID-19 testing.”

The Attorney General’s Office confirmed that the CDC is not going door-to-door for testing. Arkansas residents encountering someone at their door stating that they are there to test them for the COVID-19 virus should immediately call local law enforcement and file a consumer complaint with the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office.

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Thousands of Fake COVID-19 Websites Created to Take Advantage of Arkansans

Says, ‘must weed out these fake websites, only relying and sharing verified information’

LITTLE ROCK – While taking extra precautions to prevent infection and the spread of the COVID-19 virus, don’t forget to be safe online. Con artists have been creating thousands of websites daily, knowing that Americans are turning to the internet for news and information about this pandemic; making it a ripe place to infect your device, steal your information and spread malware.

“Arkansans must weed out these fake websites, only relying and sharing verified information from reliable sources,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Cyber criminals are spending time creating fake websites, emails and ads that look like they are from legitimate sources to take your money.”

Attorney General Rutledge has provided the following tips to protect Arkansans from con artists:

• Get information from well-known or government sources and websites that end in .gov. Resources include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Arkansas Department of Health.
• Beware of requests that ask for your personal information, credit card information, social security number or banking information.
• Check the URL link for a “lock” icon before you proceed.
• Look for generic email greetings like “Dear Sir or Madam” and delete emails that insist you act now.

The Attorney General’s Office has created a page that links to state and federal government resource pages for COVID-19 at ArkansasAG.gov/COVID19. Contact the office with any questions or concerns at (800) 482-8982.

March 16, 2020

Rutledge Urges Arkansans to Participate in Free Price Gouging Webcast

Says, ‘state of emergency triggering our price gouging laws’

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge announced an additional free webcast training hosted by the office on Thursday, March 19. The webcasts will be an opportunity for Arkansans to learn from consumer protection experts about the recent price gouging concerns sweeping the state, all from the comfort and safety of their own homes.

“The Governor has declared a state of emergency triggering our price gouging laws,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “This free webcast will allow Arkansans to stay informed from the safety of their own homes.”

Rutledge will be hosting the following webcasts for free to any interested viewers:

• Consumer Protection: Price Gouging – Thursday, March 19 at 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
• Missing Persons Webcast – Wednesday, April 8, 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
• Freedom of Information Act Webcast – Thursday, April 16 at 10:00 a.m. to noon.

Interested Arkansans can sign up for the free webcasts at ArkansasAG.gov or call (800) 482-8982.

February 27, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Be Wary of Tax Refund Anticipation Loans

LITTLE ROCK – As April 15 approaches, advertisements for tax refund anticipation loans (RALs) are ramping up. RALs are high-interest loans that must be repaid by the actual tax return proceeds, essentially borrowing your own money. Car dealerships and other businesses selling high priced items often offer to use RALs as down payments. While offers of immediate cash are often attractive, the products could ultimately reduce the total amount of your refund and may even cost you extra money.

“Reading the fine print is critical to not fall victim to a scam or be deceived by a promotion for a refund anticipation loan,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “If you estimate your tax refund incorrectly when using the RAL as a down money for a large purchase, you are still responsible to pay the difference that your tax refund does not cover.”

These loans are regulated by the Arkansas Refund Anticipation Loan Act of 2009.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge released the following options for Arkansans to consider before agreeing to have your taxes prepared as part of a RAL.

• Consider the free or low-cost options such as the online Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Free File program or the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance.
• Remember that electronically-filed returns can be deposited in bank accounts in as few as eight days.
• The IRS can also provide refunds by check or prepaid debit card.
• Always get a written list of fees before entering into an agreement or having any tax preparation services performed.
• Many tax preparers like to offer these loans because it attracts new business, but if the tax refund isn’t enough to cover the loan, it can create a headache for consumers.
• Insist on getting any RAL in writing before buying any products or services.

RALs may seem attractive because tax preparations fees can also be covered. But many Arkansans can get free tax preparation services and can therefore save money and keep their entire refund.

The IRS provides a Free File program online that is a federal tax preparation and electronic filing program for approximately 70 percent of taxpayers who earn less than $62,000 in annual adjusted gross income. Eligible consumers can go to IRS.gov and choose from multiple private companies that will file federal returns at no charge.

Some Arkansans may also be eligible to receive free help through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. Meanwhile, seniors can contact AARP to learn more about the tax preparation services they provide.

For more information about refund anticipation loans and checks, tax preparation and other consumer-related issues, call the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov or Facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

February 14, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: 2020 Census Scams

LITTLE ROCK – Every 10 years, the U.S. Census Bureau has the important job of counting every living person in our country. Beginning in mid-March, an invitation to participate will either be mailed or hand delivered to each home. If no response is received by May either by mail, online or over the phone, census takers will begin visiting homes and can return up to six times until the questionnaire is completed.

“This is one time every person will be contacted by a government entity,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “It’s important for Arkansans to know which questions will and will not be asked by the Census Bureau and not fall prey to scammers pretending to be the Census Bureau.”

According to the Federal Trade Commission, the questionnaire asks:

• How many people are in the home?
• What is their sex, age, race and ethnicity?
• What is their relationship to one another?
• What is the best phone number to reach you?
• Do you own or rent the home?

For a full list of questions, go to 2020census.gov. According to the U.S Census Bureau, every answer is confidential and answers will only be used for statistical purposes.

The following information will NEVER be asked by the Census Bureau:

• Social Security number.
• Money or donations.
• Bank or credit card account information.
• Anything on behalf of or about a political party.

If you are asked these questions by a person claiming to be the with Census Bureau, it is a scam and you should not cooperate with them. Instead, hang up and report the call to the Census Bureau by calling 800-923-8282.

Some households will receive follow-up phone calls from the Census Bureau to ensure quality control. To help distinguish between legitimate Census Bureau calls and scammers, check out “Are You in a Survey? Help for Survey Participants” on the Census Bureau’s website.

If you suspect fraud, call 800-923-8282 to speak with a local Census Bureau representative or call the Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 orconsumer@arkansasag.gov. For more scam alerts, visit ArkansasAG.gov or Facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

January 8, 2020

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Prevent Your Home Security Systems from Being Hacked

LITTLE ROCK – Home surveillance systems are designed to increase safety, but recent reports prove they may only be as secure as your passwords. Consumers often use the same passwords for multiple accounts, including these most popular and overused passwords you should never use. In recent years, credentials for more than 8 billion online accounts have been compromised, adding to the necessity of changing login information more frequently.

“Nothing is more important than your family’s safety,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Hackers attacking your home security system could easily have eyes on our families, so just like changing the battery in a smoke alarm, we need to make changing our sensitive passwords a priority.”

Once a device such as a router or camera in your home is compromised, hackers can often connect to other systems. Since the security breach is through your own home system and not the security camera company, every camera or device connected to the internet is at risk.

Attorney General Rutledge offers these recommendations to help better secure your home from hackers:

• Create complex passwords for all accounts, including your cameras, WiFi and router
• Add two-factor authentication if available
• Upgrade to a cloud-based system
• Update devices regularly
• Choose a surveillance system from a reliable source with excellent customer service

If you receive a call, text or email with an unsolicited confirmation code request, consider changing your password immediately.

If your account is breached, contact your surveillance system provider and local law enforcement.

For more information about consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@ArkansasAG.gov or visitArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

ALERT: REAL ID Enhances National Security Safety Measures

LITTLE ROCK – If it is time to renew your driver’s license, consider making the transition to the “REAL ID” now. Beginning October 1, 2020, the REAL ID driver’s license or identification card will be required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building or facility, including military bases.

“When you make sure your family members have a REAL ID, you are taking the next step in protecting their personal identity from criminals,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “From everyday travel to national security, the REAL ID will enhance our safety from threats both foreign and domestic.”

According to the Department of Homeland Security, the REAL ID improves the security of state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards as well as help fight terrorism and reduce identity fraud.

To receive the enhanced ID you must present qualifying forms of identification that confirm your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security Number, proof of address and lawful status. Visit the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website, here, to find out which qualifying documents you need, or click here for a full list of qualified documents.

Arkansans can get a REAL ID by bringing with them the qualifying forms of identification tothese specific regional offices around the State. The cost of the enhanced license remains $40, the same amount as the standard non-enhanced state license. If your license is current, you can convert your license to a REAL ID for a $10 duplicate card charge. REAL IDs have a yellow circle with a white star in the middle on the upper right side of the license.

Though a REAL ID does not expire for 8 years, the renewal process is simpler than when the original enhanced license is obtained. You will only need to bring qualifying forms of identification if your name, gender or Social Security Number have changed or if your date of birth was amended.

The standard driver’s license will remain valid for state-related purposes such as driving, banking and voting. A valid passport will be accepted to board airlines.

For more information or to report fraud, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@ArkansasAG.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

December 30, 2019

Rutledge Announces January Mobile Office Schedule

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge today announced mobile office locations for January.

Attorney General Rutledge created this initiative during her first year in office to increase office accessibility for all Arkansans, particularly to those who live outside the capital city. Office hours were held in all 75 counties each year during her first term, assisting 3,300 Arkansans. In 2019, Attorney General Mobile Offices served over 2,200 Arkansans.

Rutledge believes face-to-face conversations are the best way to truly hear from Arkansans. The Attorney General Mobile Offices assist Arkansans with consumer related issues by filing consumer complaints against scam artists as well as answering questions about the office and the other services it offers to constituents.

Rutledge continues her partnerships with local law enforcement across Arkansas. Law enforcement officials will be on hand to collect unused and expired prescription medications to ensure they are secured and properly disposed. Arkansans are encouraged to bring their old, unused or expired prescription medications to an upcoming mobile office. During Rutledge’s five years in office, over 800 pounds of medications were collected at mobile offices.

For more information about services provided by the Attorney General’s office, visit ArkansasAG.gov or call (501) 682-2007. Rutledge can also be found on Facebook at facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge and on Twitter at twitter.com/AGRutledge.

The upcoming mobile office schedule is below:

Grant County
Tuesday, January 7, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Sheridan Senior Center, Grant County Park , 1525 US-270, Sheridan, AR 72150

Perry County
Thursday, January 9, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Diane Wilson Senior Activity Center, 107 North Magnolia Street, Perryville, AR 72126

Conway County
Wednesday, January 15, 10:30 a.m. to noon
T.C. Vaughan Senior Activity Center, 706 North Division Street,Morrilton, AR 72110

White County
Thursday, January 16, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., John E. Lightle Senior Center, 2200 East Moore Street, Searcy, AR 72143

Ashley County
Thursday, January 23, 10:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., Hamburg Senior Citizens Center, 1406 North Main Street, Hamburg, AR 71646

Prairie County
Tuesday, January 28, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Hazen Senior Health & Wellness Center, 607 McDonald Drive, Hazen, AR 72064

Clark County
Thursday, January 30, 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., CADC Arkadelphia Senior Activity Center, 1305 North 10th Street, Arkadelphia, AR 71923

December 11, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Popular Secret Santa Scam is Back on Social Media

LITTLE ROCK – The Secret Santa/Secret Sister scams are making the rounds again on social media. Save your money, postage and heartache, and keep on scrolling when you spot an offer that seems too good to be true. The scam works by requesting online “friends” to send relatively inexpensive gifts or gift cards to those on an email or social media chain, with the promise that they, too, will receive gifts in the exchange. At the very least, participants will spend money and send gifts without getting anything in return. At worst, scammers use personal information posted on social media to participate, often leading to identity theft.

“The shared post may seem harmless about ‘Secret Santa’ when it comes from your great aunt or a college buddy on social media, but these innocent re-posts are a scam,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “It is important for Arkansans to know there are hidden dangers on social media and no one is safe when it comes to their wallet and personal information.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for consumers to avoid the Secret Santa scam:

• Consumers should never disclose their personal information to an unknown person online because it could result in identity theft or the opening of other accounts in their name.
• Unfortunately it is unlikely that a consumer will actually receive gifts in response to such a scheme; because if something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.
• Consult the terms of use for Facebook and other social media platforms as they may prohibit schemes like this one.
• Review guidance available from the U.S. Postal Service because it may be illegal to send the requested gift cards.
• Consumers should safeguard their banking and financial information in order to prevent theft due to scams.
• When using the internet, consumers should ensure that they are using a verified, secure, and encrypted website when sharing any personal or financial information online.

For more information about consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@ArkansasAG.gov or visitArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

November 1, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Don’t Test Your Luck over a Trophy Buck

Says, ‘hunt safely, responsibly and legally’

LITTLE ROCK – From deer to ducks, Arkansas is every outdoorsman’s paradise. According to Arkansas law, all hunters are required to carry a hunting license with them while they are hunting and must tag all harvested deer within 24 hours.

“I want every Arkansas hunter to enjoy themselves,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “But I also want them to hunt safely, responsibly, and legally.  I am deeply grateful for the many Wildlife Officers who are committed to preserving the resources of The Natural State for future generations.”

Attorney General Rutledge urges hunters to follow all rules and regulations and to utilize the guidebooks and other resources provided by Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

• Arkansas hunters and anglers 16 years or older are required to purchase a hunting or fishing license. A license can be purchased online through the Arkansas Game and Fish app, AGFC.com, over the phone at 501-223-6300, at participating sporting goods stores, nature centers or at Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Offices.
• Arkansas hunters and anglers can carry a digital copy of their hunting and fishing licenses using the Arkansas Game and Fish app. The digital copy may be carried on their phone as a screenshot of the license image or as an image saved in their phone’s files. They may also carry their license as a paper copy or even a reloadable plastic card to show proof of purchase.
• Arkansas hunters are required to check harvested deer within 24 hours, either by AG&FC’s app, AGFC.com, or by phone at 877-731-5627.
• Anyone born after 1968 must complete a hunter education course to hunt in Arkansas, which can be completed via instructor or online. Children under the age of 16 may hunt without hunter education as long as they are under the direct supervision of someone who is 21 years or older.

For more information on hunting safely and legally visit the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission at www.agfc.com.

October 25, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Don’t Get Tricked During This Giving Season

Says, ‘be cautious and ask questions of those soliciting donations’

LITTLE ROCK –The giving season is right around the corner, and in preparation for the holidays, October 21 through October 25 is recognized as Charity Fraud Awareness Week. Unfortunately, con artists are constantly inventing new ways or recycling old scams to trick unsuspecting, generous Arkansans into giving their hard earned money to fake charities. Every Arkansan should be armed with tips to protect himself from scammers and know that his donations are going to organizations truly making a difference.

“Con artists and criminals will take advantage of every opportunity to use Arkansans’ generosity to funnel money into their sham charities,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “I urge all Arkansans to be cautious and ask questions of those soliciting donations to ensure donations go to those in need.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to help consumers verify an organization’s legitimacy before giving money:

• Ask questions before giving. Legitimate charities will be happy to answer questions and will not rush a donation.
• Ask for written information or research the organization online. A legitimate charity will send information that provides the organization’s mission and how the donation will be used, along with proof that the contribution is tax deductible.
• Call the charity directly. To avoid falling victim to sham solicitors, personally contact the charity before giving a donation online, to the person knocking at the front door or to a telephone solicitor to ensure it is not a scam.
• Never send cash. For security and tax records, make donations by check or credit card.
• Search the Arkansas Charities Database for more information on charities in Arkansas and Charity Navigator for more information on charities across the United States.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

October 17, 2019

Rutledge Announces $116.9 Million Multistate Settlement with Johnson & Johnson

Arkansas to receive $1.86 million

LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge today announced a multistate settlement requiring Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiary Ethicon, Inc. to pay nearly $117 million for their deceptive marketing of the transvaginal surgical mesh device. An investigation of the company found violations of state consumer protection laws by misrepresenting the safety and effectiveness of the device and failing to sufficiently disclose risks associated with its use. Arkansas will receive $1,855,302.53 under the settlement.

“Arkansas moms, sisters and daughters have been deceived by false claims of Johnson & Johnson, and now they must endure irrevocable damage to their bodies,” Arkansas Attorney General Rutledge said. “This settlement confirms these victims have been heard, and I will remain diligent to protect Arkansans from companies not following the law.”

The multistate investigation found the companies misrepresented or failed to adequately disclose the product’s possible side effects, including the risk of chronic pain and inflammation, mesh erosion, incontinence developing after surgery and other complications related to the implantation of the device.  Evidence shows the companies were aware of the possibility for serious medical complications but did not provide sufficient warnings to consumers or surgeons who implanted the device.

Under the settlement, Johnson & Johnson has agreed to pay $116.86 million to the 41 participating states and District of Columbia. The settlement also provides injunctive relief, requiring full disclosure of the device’s risks and accurate information on promotional material, in addition to the product’s “information for use” package inserts.

Among the specific requirements, the companies must:

• Refrain from referring to the mesh as “FDA approved” when that is not the case
• Refrain from representing in promotions that risks associated with mesh can be eliminated with surgical experience or technique alone
• Ensure that product training provided to medical professionals covers the risks associated with the mesh
• Omit claims that surgical mesh stretches after implantation, that it remains soft after implantation, that foreign body reactions are transient and that foreign body reactions “may” occur (when in fact they will occur)
• Disclose that mesh risks include: fistula formation, inflammation, as well as mesh extrusion, exposure and erosion into the vagina and other organs
• Disclose risks of tissue contraction, pain with intercourse, loss of sexual function, urge incontinence, de novo incontinence, infection following transvaginal implantation and vaginal scarring
• Disclose that risks include that revision surgeries may be necessary to treat complications, that revision surgeries may not resolve complications and that revision surgeries are also associated with a risk of adverse reactions

Joining Arkansas in this multistate settlement are Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

For Arkansans who have a consumer complaint or questions please contact the office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

October 16, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Take Back Vapes and Prescription Drugs at Statewide Event

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas’s 18th Prescription Drug Take Back Day is scheduled for October 26 at various locations throughout the State. Arkansans are prescribed opioids at a rate of 62 pills per every man, woman and child in the State. With such an influx of pills, half of Arkansas teens report it is easy to obtain prescription drugs from their parents’ or grandparents’ medicine cabinets. New this year, e-cigarette devices and vape pens will be accepted. This statewide event has a goal to collect 30,000 pounds to emphasize the importance for Arkansans to safely dispose of old and unused prescription medications and e-cigarette devices while ensuring these drugs stay out of the hands of addicted Arkansans.

“We lose too many Arkansans to opioid addiction and too many teens are addicted to vaping,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Working with law enforcement officials, Arkansans can safely clear out old medications and trash dangerous vape products their kids are using.”

Rutledge released the following list of medications that will be accepted at these events across Arkansas:

• Opioids, such as OxyContin, Hydrocodone, Vicodin, etc.
• E-cigarette and vaping devices
• Stimulants, such as Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta, Dexedrine, etc.
• Depressants, such as Ativan, Xanax, Valium, etc.
• Other prescription medications
• Over-the-counter medicines
• Vitamins
• Pet medicines
• Medicated ointments and lotions
• Inhalers
• Liquid medicines in glass or leak-proof containers (up to 12 ounces)
• Medicine samples

Medications may be returned in the original bottle or in any other container for increased privacy.

Prescription Drug Take Back locations will be available 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 26. The National Prescription Drug Take Back Days are held twice a year, but to find event sites and year-round drop-off locations near you, visit ARTakeBack.org.

Properly destroying these medications also protects the environment. Medicines that are flushed or poured down the drain can end up polluting waters, which could contaminate food and water supplies. Wastewater treatment plants or septic systems may not remove many medicine compounds. Turning over these medications at Take Back Day events also reduces the risk of accidental poisonings by children, seniors or pets, as well as the danger of drug abuse.

For more information and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982, email consumer@arkansasag.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

October 4, 2019

Rutledge’s Youth Vaping Summit Agenda Announced

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge today announced the agenda for Youth Vaping Summit in partnership with Arkansas Children’s and University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) to be held on Monday, October 7 at Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Children’s Hall. The event is a free educational opportunity for medical experts, educators, parents and law enforcement.

“As I travel the State, I’ve heard from school administrators, medical experts and parents about the dangerous and rapidly growing trend of vaping by our children,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Thanks to the partnership with Arkansas Children’s and UAMS this event will be the first of its kind in the State where experts will bring a broad and insightful perspective to how this crisis is impacting Arkansas’s youth.”

Those attending the Youth Vaping Summit will hear from Arkansas Children’s President and Chief Executive Officer Marcy Doderer, as well as physicians from Arkansas Children’s and UAMS who have experience with the impacts of vaping on youth. The first panel, Doctors on Dangers of Vaping, will be moderated by Arkansas Surgeon General Dr. Greg Bledsoe, and panelists will include Dr. Tamara Perry, Arkansas Children’s/UAMS; Dr. Robert Pesek, Arkansas Children’s/UAMS; Chancellor Cam Patterson, M.D., UAMS; Dr. Matthew Steliga, UAMS and Dr. Margaret Kulik, UAMS.

Arkansas State Drug Director Kirk Lane will present on the Toxic THC in Vape Pods. Rutledge will moderate a panel on Vaping Solutions from the Schoolhouse to the Statehouse to discuss education, enforcement and solutions. The panel will include State Representative Dr. Lee Johnson, Cabot Assistant Superintendent Michael Byrd, and Saline County Sheriff’s Deputy and Bauxite School Resource Officer Deputy Jennifer Tarvin.

A full agenda is included at the bottom of the email. For those interested in registering for the Youth Vaping Summit in Little Rock or Bentonville, please register at ArkansasAG.gov/vape.

Youth Vaping Summit – Little Rock
Monday, October 7, 2019
9:00 AM-12:00 PM
Arkansas Children’s
Children’s Hall

8:30             Doors Open

9:00             Welcome

• Arkansas Children’s President & CEO Marcy Doderer, FACHE
• Attorney General Leslie Rutledge

9:15             GenZ Nic Free Video

9:20             Doctors on Dangers of Vaping

• Moderator: Arkansas Surgeon General Dr. Greg Bledsoe
• Tamara Perry, M.D., Arkansas Children’s/UAMS
• Robert Pesek, M.D., Arkansas Children’s/UAMS
• Chancellor Cam Patterson, M.D., MBA, UAMS
• Matthew Steliga, M.D., UAMS
• Margaret Kulik, M.D., UAMS

10:25           Toxic THC in Vape Pods and Devices

• Arkansas State Drug Director Kirk Lane

10:40           Break 

10:55           Vaping Solutions from Schoolhouse to Statehouse

• Moderator: Attorney General Leslie Rutledge
• State Representative Dr. Lee Johnson
• Chuck Harder, Deputy Attorney General, Public Protection Department
• Michael Byrd, Assistant Superintendent, Cabot School District
• Deputy Jennifer Tarvin, SRO, Bauxite School District, Saline County Sheriff’s Office

12:00           Closing  

October 3, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Get the Facts Straight Before You Vape

Says, ‘Just because the vaping industry says vapes are safer than cigarettes does not mean they are safe’

LITTLE ROCK – There is a lot of misinformation about e-cigarettes and vapes, but you should get the facts straight before you vape. Vaping is the act of inhaling a vapor, which is produced by an e-cigarette or similar device. The term “vaping” is used because e-cigarettes do not produce smoke as traditional cigarettes do, but rather an aerosol that consists of fine particles potentially containing varying amounts of toxic chemicals, which have been linked to cancer, as well as seizures, respiratory and heart diseases.

“In recent months, the rampant use of e-cigarettes among teens and preteens has hit a fever pitch with too many young people identified by medical experts as being harmed by inhaling these powerful chemicals,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Just because the vaping industry says vapes are safer than cigarettes does not mean they are safe. Through education, enforcement and consumer protection, we can help protect an entire generation from becoming addicted to nicotine.”

E-cigarettes are marketed as a safe alternative to cigarettes, but in reality they are not. Attorney General Rutledge has released the following facts about vaping to help parents protect their children.

• Many e-liquids used in vapes are as strong or stronger than cigarettes and can contain as much nicotine as an entire pack of cigarettes.
• Vapes can be easily disguised in clothing pockets, backpacks and purses; they can look like a USB drive or pen and some are even covered with cartoon character designs.
• Arkansas teenagers and children are twice as likely to start using e-cigarettes and vapes as compared to adults.
• Vape pods and e-liquids are sold in many different flavors including fruit, cinnamon, candy and crème.
• The average age of first time Arkansas users is 14 years old.
• In Arkansas, it is illegal to buy nicotine products, including vapes, online or through the mail.

Attorney General Rutledge will be hosting Youth Vaping Summits at Arkansas Children’s, Children’s Hall on October 7th starting at 9 a.m. and at Bentonville High School on October 9th starting at 2 p.m. The Summit will include discussions and panels from health care professionals, educators, law enforcement, concerned parents and representatives from the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office.

For more information or to attend one of the Youth Vaping Summits, call the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at 800-482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

September 20, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Make Sure Your Personal Information Stays Personal

Says, ‘scam artists are skilled at adapting quickly to using new practices to steal your personal identity’

LITTLE ROCK – Identity thieves continue to adapt their scam techniques to fill their pockets with the money of hardworking Arkansans. These criminals know that any personal information they are able to gather, the better, and they will resort to any means necessary to steal your information. They often do this by calling consumers while pretending to be a legitimate business.

“Unfortunately, scam artists are skilled at adapting quickly to using new practices to steal your personal identity,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “If you have any doubt, hang up the phone and find the company’s official phone number from a trusted source to verify the phone call.”

Attorney General Rutledge has compiled a list of precautionary tips to protect yourself:

• NEVER give away your personal information over the phone. Legitimate companies will have processes in place to protect personal information and will not request it by telephone.
• DO NOT trust the source even if it has some of your personal information. Scammers often use partial pieces of personal information in order to verify current personal information or gain personal information.
• NEVER verify your personal or banking If you verify your personal information to a scam artist, it can lead to identity theft.
• BE MINDFUL of scammers who spoof the caller I.D. The caller may appear to be from a trusted source and in reality, is a scam artist.

If you have been a victim of identity theft, close accounts that have been tampered with or fraudulently opened, and file a complaint with the FTC. For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 or ArkansasAG.gov.

September 12, 2019

16 Apps Parents Should Know About

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas parents across the State want what is best for their children. So many Arkansans benefit from technology, but at the Attorney General’s Office, we routinely hear about preteens and teenagers who are bullied or have started relationships with strangers online.

“Keeping Arkansas kids safe is a top priority,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Being informed, opening every app on your child’s phone and knowing who they are talking to are some of the best ways we can protect our kids from predators and online bullying.”

Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is alerting parents to 16 smartphone apps that may make children vulnerable to dangers online:

• Bumble – Bumble is a popular dating app that requires women to make the first contact. It is common for minors to use this app and falsify their age.
• Calculator% – Calculator% is one of several “vault” style apps that appears to be a harmless app, but is used to hide photos, videos, files and even browser history.
• Chatous – Chatous is a messaging app that allows users to chat and share images. This app makes it easy for predators to engage in age-inappropriate conversations with potential victims.
• Discord – Discord is a voice and text chat tool that allows gamers to communicate in real time. Users can chat, add friends one-on-one or in larger groups. This app discusses content geared towards adults, but allows users as young as 13.
• Grindr – Grindr is a dating app for LGBT adults, not children. The app gives users options to chat, share photos and meet with people based on a smartphone’s GPS location.
• House Party – House Party is a group video chat app that allows users to communicate via live video chats and texts. There is no screening and the video is live. Users can also communicate with people they don’t know.
• Live.Me – Live.Me allows users to livestream videos using geo-location to share the videos so other users can find the broadcaster’s exact location. Users can earn “coins” to “pay” minors for photos.
• Monkey – Monkey is an app that allows users as young as 12 to chat with people all over the world during a brief introductory call, then users are given the chance to add each other on Snapchat.
• TikTok – TikTok is a popular app among kids that is used to create and share short videos with limited privacy controls. Users are vulnerable to explicit content and cyberbullying.
• Tinder – Tinder is a dating app that allows users to “swipe right” to like someone and “swipe left” to pass. Users can falsify their age, share photos, messages, and meet.
• Tumblr – Tumblr is a blogging app and website that allows users as young as 13 to create an account. There are very few privacy settings and pornography is easy to find. Most posts are public and can’t be made private. This app was removed from the Apple App Store in ’18.
• Snapchat – Snapchat is a photo & video sharing app that promises users their photo or video will disappear even though it doesn’t. Snapchat stories allow users to view content for up to 24 hours and share their location.
• WhatsApp – WhatsApp is a popular messaging app allowing users to text, send photos, make calls and leave voicemails worldwide.
• Whisper – Whisper is a social network that allows users to share secrets anonymously and it reveals the users’ location so strangers can meet.
• Yubo – Yubo is a social media app that allows users as young as 13 to create a profile, share their location, view other users’ profiles in their area and view livestreams. Substance use, profanity, racial slurs and scantily clad people are common.
• YouTube – YouTube is a video sharing app that may not be age appropriate for kids. Inappropriate content can be found using innocent search terms, but with parental controls this can be avoided.

For more information on smartphone, apps and internet safety, call the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at 800-482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

September 5, 2019

Don’t Fumble When Buying Tickets

LITTLE ROCK – When Arkansans decide to take in a live football game at any of our great in-state institutions this fall, it is important they don’t fumble when buying tickets. Oftentimes scam artists will try to take advantage of fans by selling them tickets that are fake, duplicates or don’t actually exist at all. They may use high-pressure-sales tactics to rush innocent Arkansans into buying tickets using deals that seem unbelievable and many times are. The stadium should be a safe haven for diehard fans rather than for scammers.

“Football in Arkansas is a cherished tradition and it is worth protecting,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Whether you support the Razorbacks, Red Wolves, Bears or Boll Weevils, everyone deserves to cheer for their favorite team without worry of scammers trying to take advantage of their wallets.”

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge issued the following tips to help Arkansans protect themselves when looking to buy game tickets during the upcoming football season.

• Research the seller or broker with the Better Business Bureau and ensure it is a member of the National Association of Ticket Brokers.
• A legitimate ticket broker will offer a refund policy. Only buy tickets from a reseller that provides clear details about the terms of the transaction.
• Always use a credit card to make a ticket purchase because credit card laws provide buyers with some recourse if the tickets are fraudulent.
• Check the seats ahead of time. Ask for section, row and seat numbers to avoid obstructed views and purchasing tickets that do not exist.
• Stick with well-known ticket sellers who offer guarantees and policies that protect buyers and have the ability to investigate and restrict accounts of merchants who violate the policies.
• If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Refuse to be rushed. Scam artists often try to hurry prospective buyers into making a decision.

According to AARP, nearly 5 million consumers receive fraudulent concert, sporting event and theme park tickets each year.  We can all do our part by ensuring our neighbors, friends, and families are educated on the deceptive practices of scammers and ways to avoid them.

Consumers who think they may have purchased a counterfeit ticket can contact the National Association of Ticket Brokers at 630-510-4594 or the Arkansas Attorney General’s Public Protection Department.

For more information on other tips to avoid being scammed and other consumer-related issues, call the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at 800-482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

About Attorney General Leslie Rutledge

August 28, 2019

Attorney General Alert: Scammers Luring Seniors into Sharing Medicare Numbers

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansans eligible for Medicare and Medicaid should beware of scam artists attempting to steal their new individual Medicare card number. Thieves are actively targeting older Arkansans by spoofing their caller ID numbers—making the calls appear to be from a government agency—and luring seniors into sharing their Medicare card numbers.

“Medicare will never call asking for your Medicare card number because they already have it,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “If you receive a call claiming to be with Medicare, hang up and call the phone number listed on your account statement.”

In 2018, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid started issuing beneficiary cards with unique identifying numbers in place of the cardholders’ Social Security Number. The transition period to Medicare Beneficiary Identifier numbers for all participants is set to conclude by December 2019.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge issued the following tips to help Arkansans protect themselves.

• Never give out or confirm sensitive information, such as a bank account, credit card or social security numbers unless the caller is trusted and his or her identity has been confirmed.
• Be cautious of callers using organizational or familiar-sounding names similar to existing agencies. Scammers use internet technology to spoof area codes, so although it may seem that a call is from Washington, D.C., it could instead originate from anywhere in the world—even from scammers.
• The Center for Medicare and Medicaid and other government agencies have warned about these scams. If contacted, hang up and call the government agency directly at a trusted number.

If someone asks you for your information, for money, or threatens to cancel your health benefits if you don’t share your personal details, then hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or visit www.medicare.gov/fraud.

For more information on other tips to avoid being scammed and other consumer-related issues, call the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at 800-482-8982 or visitArkansasAG.gov.

August 15, 2019

Attorney General Alert: Student Loans have Potential for Long-Term Financial Issues

 LITTLE ROCK – Starting school at a new college or university can be intimidating, especially when factoring in the immense expense and the potential need to take out student loans. There are some key items that every student should know before agreeing to a loan that often takes decades to repay.

“A student loan should be a short-time obligation to give students an opportunity to be successful,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Unfortunately, these loans are too often carried over for decades and hold our best and brightest back from making investments or taking risks as entrepreneurs.”

Attorney General Rutledge has provided the following tips for students considering taking out a student loan:

•  Make sure you understand your loan. Before taking out a loan, make sure you understand the repayment terms and other obligations of the loan, interest rates and how they will be applied to the loan, and where to find your balance and payment schedule after you graduate. For federal loans, visit the National Student Loan Data System (nslds.ed.gov).
• Take advantage of the grace period. Oftentimes, there is a grace period after you graduate or stop attending a college or university. It is important to know how long the grace period is and whether interest will be charged during the grace period. Grace periods allow you to get your “feet on the ground” while making a plan to repay the loan.
• Know your re-payment options. Every loan is different and some offer the chance to change payment options based on your income rather than a set monthly amount. In some cases, if you are going through a financial hardship, there is the ability to temporarily defer payments.
• Be wary of loan consolidation and refinance offers. Many companies offer loan refinance options, but may not provide the promised service or might provide services that consumers can access for no cost. Consumers should learn all details about any loan refinance offer before enrolling in one.
• Check your credit report to see all of your education debts, including federal and private student loans.

For more information, the Arkansas Student Loan Authority can be contacted here or at 800-443-6030 or call the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

July 3, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT:

Protecting the Financial Interests of Service Members

LITTLE ROCK – While active duty service members protect us from Arkansas to the far corners of the world, the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) of 2003 protects their interests back home. Every day, our military members wake up thousands of miles away from their homes and work hard fighting for our liberty. The SCRA ensures that our American heroes will be protected from eviction from those very homes during their absence, in addition to providing protection on issues ranging from civil court postponements to interest rate caps.

“By nature, a service member’s duty to country prevents them from being involved in many interests they hold back home,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “The SCRA protects our heroes from issues related to and during a deployment or training. Sometimes it is not possible for them to appear for a civil court case, for instance, and the SCRA provides protections in that scenario. The Act is a way to recognize and thank military members for their constant sacrifice at home for the greater good.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips as part of Military Consumer Protection Month to help service members who need to take advantage of the many protections provided under the SCRA:

• First, seek the counsel of a military legal assistance attorney to determine if your SCRA rights have been violated.
• If the military attorney determines that a violation of the SCRA has occurred, the service member must retain a private civilian attorney with SCRA expertise in order to pursue a lawsuit. The Arkansas Bar Associationprovides a database of Arkansas attorneys.
• Possible remedies for these types of issues include the recovery of monetary damages, legal costs and attorney fees.

The SCRA limits mortgage interest rates to 6 percent during military service and up to one year after service ends. Unless a court intervenes, it prevents a mortgage creditor from selling, foreclosing or seizing an active-duty service member’s mortgaged property during service and up to one year after military service terminates. The SCRA also provides protection requiring a judge to stay mortgage proceedings if a service member shows that military service has affected his or her ability to comply with mortgage obligations.

Many service members would benefit from mortgage relief measures, and the SCRA underscores this by prohibiting a mortgage servicer from requiring a service member to be delinquent on payments in order to qualify for loss mitigation relief if he or she would otherwise qualify.

The first-of-its-kind “Military and Veterans Initiative” launched by Attorney General Rutledge in 2015 focuses on protecting service members. It remains a key part of protecting service members from any consumer-related issues and works in collaboration with other programs to protect those who protect us.

For more information and tips on how to avoid a scam, call the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

June 26, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Buyers Beware of Flood-Damaged Vehicles

LITTLE ROCK – Flood waters across Arkansas and surrounding states have receded with damaged homes, businesses, and vehicles remaining, but the potential for further consumer harm still exist. Consumers should use caution if they are considering purchasing a vehicle in the coming months as bad actors may be interested in lining their own pockets by selling water-damaged vehicles without disclosing the hidden damage.

“Arkansas law has safeguards in place to protect consumers from unscrupulous individuals and car dealerships,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “However, many of these transactions happen as part of private sales.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for Arkansans to consider before purchasing a new or used vehicle that could have been involved in flooding.

• Always ask for the vehicle’s history report, such as CARFAX, before buying it
• Ask the seller if the car has been damaged by hail or flood waters, and always check the car’s title history.
• Inspect the vehicle for water stains and mildew in the vents and behind the dashboard. Also look under the hood for signs of oxidation.
• Flood damaged cars may look fine because of cosmetic repairs, but they may have defective electrical systems, steering problems, faulty computers, faulty air bag systems and persistent mold problems.
• Have the car inspected by an independent mechanic before deciding to buy.
• If the car has experienced significant damage and is considered a salvage vehicle, a buyer’s notification should be posted, and the price should be much lower than the price of a similar car with a clean title. Consider that it may be more difficult later selling a salvage vehicle and its value will be compromised.

Consumers should review a vehicle’s title for any flood damage reports, especially if it was last titled outside the state. Arkansas law requires dealerships to place a separate disclosure in the window of cars for sale that have previously been submerged, but consumers should be careful if purchasing a vehicle through a private sale. Although the private seller is required by Arkansas law to notify the buyer of any flood damage, a posted disclosure is not mandatory for this type of transaction.

Consumers who believe they have been sold a flood-damaged item that was not advertised as such should file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

June 19, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Bad Actors Target Flood Victims

LITTLE ROCK – Following the historic floods of the past few weeks, there is a lot of work to be done as Arkansans return home, but scam artists may be posing as contractors to steal quick cash from victims.

“Unscrupulous contractors may try to take advantage of hard-working Arkansans, especially during or after a disaster when people may seem vulnerable and in need,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Arkansans facing home repairs should research contractors and do their homework before making a payment and scheduling work to be done.”

Attorney General Rutledge issued the following tips for flood victims who are ready to begin repairs to their property:

• Beware of door to door solicitors selling home-repair work. To find someone reputable, ask friends or family who have recently used a home-repair contractor or professional.
• Avoid any home-repair solicitor who asks for an upfront payment or who will not provide you with a detailed written contract with name and address of the contractor as well as the grade, quality, name brand and quantity of any materials to be used.
• Get at least three written estimates. A reputable contractor or professional will never try to pressure potential customers.
• Check with the Attorney General’s Office, the Better Business Bureau or the Arkansas contractors’ Licensing Board to find out if the company has a complaint history.
• Never make the final payment until you have had an opportunity to inspect and approve the work.
• Remember that all contracts resulting from a home-solicitation sale generally must include a buyer’s right to cancel within three (3) business days after the contract is signed.
• Make sure all warranties and guarantees are in writing.

The Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) administers the National Flood Insurance Program, and provides answers to specific questions regarding that program at FloodSmart.gov/faqs.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

June 13, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Be on the Lookout for Price Gouging

Says, ‘will hold any business accountable that takes advantage of flood victims’

LITTLE ROCK – As Arkansans continue to recover from the recent historic flooding, some businesses may try to take advantage of consumers by raising prices beyond legal limits. Arkansas’s price-gouging law prohibits businesses from charging more than 10 percent above the pre-disaster price of goods or services.

“I will hold any business accountable that takes advantage of flood victims by illegally overcharging for needed supplies,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Businesses must follow the law and find a balance between supply and demand when pricing goods and services following a declared state of emergency.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to avoid price gouging:

• Shop around before purchasing goods or services, especially for post-disaster home repairs.
• Avoid “drive-by” quotes from door-to-door solicitors.
• When possible, deal with established, reputable businesses in the community.
• Always get estimates and price quotes in writing.

The price-gouging law is triggered whenever a state of emergency is declared by federal, State or local governments. The ban on price gouging remains in effect for at least 30 days on goods or services related to the emergency (e.g., medical supplies, storage services, motor fuel, etc.) and can be extended another 30 days by the local governing body, if needed. For home repair and cleanup services, the law remains in effect for 180 days. The scope of the law is broad and is intended to cover anything that may be needed in the event of a state of emergency.

While the law sets a general 10 percent cap on price increases during an emergency, businesses may lawfully charge a higher price if they can establish that the higher price is directly attributable to additional costs incurred by the retailer, by its supplier, or as the result of additional costs for labor or materials used to provide the goods or service. In such a limited situation, the business may charge no more than 10 percent above the total of the cost to the business, in addition to the markup which would customarily be applied by the business for the goods or service.
For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

June 6, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Use Caution When Giving to Those Affected By the Flood

LITTLE ROCK – The record-setting and devastating flooding in Arkansas means many people are looking for charities and organizations to assist those who are directly impacted by the widespread disaster. While there are many organizations collecting money and resources to help fellow Arkansans, there are also some bad actors who are lining their own pockets by posing as legitimate organizations or setting up crowdfunding sites claiming to be giving to those in need.

“It is despicable that some are preying on Arkansans in need and taking advantage of our kind-hearted,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “My office will investigate and go after those who choose to lie, cheat and steal.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tip for those considering helping their fellow Arkansans:

• Do not fall prey to high-pressure sales tactics as they are often the first sign of an unscrupulous and fraudulent charity.
• Before getting out a checkbook or credit card in response to a phone solicitation, make attempts to determine the validity of the organization by conducting research.
• Watch out for similar but different organization names as some con artists will use names like those of existing, reputable nonprofits in order to trick consumers.
• On crowdfunding sites, determine any relation the organizer has to the recipient and who is in control of the withdrawals.
• Never send cash. Make check or credit card payments for increased security and for tax purposes.
• If donating via text message, verify the organization’s number prior to sending information.

Also be wary of charities that pop up quickly in response to the recent flooding and other emergencies. Even if they are legitimate, they oftentimes do not have a system in place to get donations to those in need. Consider giving to an established organization which helps disaster victims in the area.
For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

May 29, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Beware of Flood Insurance Scams

LITTLE ROCK – As Arkansas experiences historic flooding and damage, Attorney General Leslie Rutledge warns Arkansans to beware of flood insurance scam artists who will look to steal your money in the midst of the chaos. As the most common natural disaster, flooding can strike at any time, and flood insurance is available to defray the costs of repair and property loss. Flood insurance, however, requires advance preparation and despite what scam artists may say, it cannot be purchased as a quick fix to ongoing flood disasters.

“My heart aches for the many who have and will suffer losses as the Arkansas River continues to rise to record levels this week,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Scam artists see disaster as an opportunity to steal from those in need. Remember, there are insurance options to help Arkansans navigate future threats of flooding disasters, but consumers should be mindful of the limitations and requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program.”

Rutledge released the following tips to help consumers considering flood insurance as an option to protect their property:

• • Flood insurance policies are not instantly effective and generally require 30 days before they become effective;
  • Consult with an insurance agent to purchase a flood insurance policy, and beware of insurance agents that accept the filing of a claim before purchasing a policy;
  • Most homeowners and renters insurance policies do not include flood insurance, and flood insurance must be purchased as a separate policy;
  • Properties that have been flooded in the past may obtain flood insurance policies;

• The price of flood insurance may vary based upon the risk of flooding at the property location.

Consumers who have additional questions about flood insurance should contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or (501) 682-2007 or the Arkansas Insurance Department at (800) 282-9134 or (501) 371-2600.

The Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) administers the National Flood Insurance Program, and provides answers to specific questions athttps://www.floodsmart.gov/faqs.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

May 22, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: The Vicious Trend of Vaping

LITTLE ROCK – The use of e-cigarettes, or vaping, has become a dangerous trend in which too many Arkansas teens are participating. Eight years ago, just two percent of Arkansas teens vaped. Today, more than 20 percent of Arkansas teens vape. Vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling a vapor, which is produced by an e-cigarette or similar device. The term “vaping” is used because e-cigarettes do not produce tobacco smoke, but rather an aerosol that actually consists of fine particles containing varying amounts of toxic chemicals, which have been linked to cancer, as well as seizures, respiratory and heart diseases.

“As adults, we need to be watchful of the young people around us and educate them about the dangers of vaping,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Manufacturers make these products to look flashy and appealing to teens. This is an extremely dangerous trend that is hitting Arkansas’s middle and high school students at alarming numbers.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to warn parents, teachers and children of the dangers of vaping e-cigarettes:

• Review the ingredients carefully because many of them contain substances known to be carcinogenic, such as nicotine, vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol.
• Consult your physician about the risks associated with vaping. One pod used in an e-cigarette can have the same amount of nicotine as an entire pack of traditional cigarettes. Exposure to nicotine can alter the structure and function of developing children’s brains.
• Remember that studies have shown that nicotine products are highly addictive and are associated with later onset of cigarette smoking habits.
• Investigate the incidence of product failure as some e-cigarette device batteries have exploded or caught on fire, causing burns or even death.
• Remember to keep e-cigarette supplies out of the reach of small children as some have become sick or died from swallowing the pleasant-smelling e-juice.
• Be mindful that e-cigarette pods can be used for illegal purposes such as for odorless marijuana oils based upon online tutorials.

There are many different types of e-cigarettes and other vaping devices, most of which contain pods of nicotine-filled e-liquid, sweet-smelling flavorings, and other potentially harmful chemicals. With sweet-smelling aromas and catchy flavor names like Strawberry Watermelon POP, Sunrise Pressed eJuice, Pink Lemonade Risky and Ice Cream, teens are experimenting with, and ultimately becoming addicted, to e-cigarettes. Once they get hooked, teens are often able to hide their addictions from parents, teachers and other adults by purchasing widely available vaping devices disguised as everyday items like pens or USB flash drives.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

May 15, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: In the Market for an RV, Consider Options Before Buying

LITTLE ROCK – High pressure tactics from unscrupulous salespeople will result in many Arkansans paying for more than they bargain for when they purchase an RV this summer. Although most RV dealers in the state are straightforward and work with customers to find something within their price that suits their needs, the Attorney General’s office has received complaints about some unscrupulous salespersons who convince buyers to sign contracts with terms that unexpectedly raised costs on the final sale price. Consumers should use caution, ask questions and talk to other owners when considering a large purchase such as an RV.

“Unscrupulous salespeople will often try to pressure consumers into making an immediate purchase in the heat of the moment,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Arkansans should proceed with extreme caution, take their time and consider if this is the right financial decision for them.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for Arkansans who are considering purchasing an RV, fifth wheel or camping trailer:

• Before committing to purchase a travel trailer, take one on a test run or try out a rental.
• Ensure the towing capacity of current vehicles and determine if any modifications will need to be made to the towing vehicle to ensure safe operation on the open road.
• Ask if the dealer offers driving tips or training for new owners.
• Consider where an RV or trailer will be stored when not in use.
• Find out how to use and where dump stations are located.

Consumers should be mindful of the challenges and costs of repair. In the past, Rutledge has pursued legal action against a Conway County man who was deceiving consumers nationwide about the status of repaired refrigeration units in RVs.  In that case, the Attorney General obtained a $1.5 million judgment against NuCold and its owner Jerry Collins.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

May 8, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Vacationers Scammed By Online Hotel Bookers

LITTLE ROCK – Third-party travel websites are popular but some may charge Arkansans unnecessary, hidden fees. As Arkansans begin to make summer vacation plans, they should use caution when going online for services including booking travel through an online third-party vendor.

“Some unscrupulous online travel vendors use deceptive and misleading marketing tactics to convince consumers they are talking directly to a hotel,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “In these situations, the consumer is actually talking to a third party that may charge additional fees and may cause the reservation and any special reservation requests to be lost or incorrectly recorded.”

Attorney General Rutledge urges all Arkansans to observe the recommendations of the Better Business Bureau and the American Hotel and Lodging Association to ensure safe travel booking:

• • Whenever possible, book directly with the hotel or resort.
  • If using a third-party booking site, make sure the site is legitimate. Do not trust a website just because it appears to be legitimate or comes up near the top of online search results.
  • The best hotel deals are often available far in advance. Planning ahead will give the opportunity  to research different sites, compare options and amenities, and lock in a good rate.

• • Avoid broad internet searches like “best deals” or “cheapest rates.” Broad search terms can sometimes lead to websites that look official, but are not. Deceptive travel sites often pose as the actual hotel’s website, even using the hotel’s name in the URL and its logo and copyrighted images throughout the site. Double check the website address before providing your credit card information. 

• Call the hotel a few weeks before the travel date to confirm the reservation.

In 2017, the Federal Trade Commission settled a federal lawsuit with a third-party hotel-booking website accused of misleading consumers into believing they were booking directly with a hotel.

May 1, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Don’t Get Hung Up by Phone Scammers

LITTLE ROCK – Scammers are continuing to find ways to steal Arkansans’ Social Security numbers. Many of these attempts begin with a robocall requesting a call back and stating that the consumer’s Social Security number has been found, often at the scene of a crime. The person on the other end of the phone threatens the consumer by stating if they do not return the call they will be sent to jail.

“Never give out or confirm personal information, such as your Social Security number, to someone you don’t know,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Con artists are very good at convincing consumers to turn over personal information, sometimes even turning forceful or threatening. We must all remain vigilant and not turn over any information, especially through an unsolicited phone call.”

Attorney General Rutledge and the Federal Trade Commission released the following tips to use if someone calls claiming to be from a government agency or have your personal information:

• Use due diligence to confirm the identity and legitimacy of the person on the other end of the phone by hanging up and finding the phone number from an old bill or the organization’s website before giving or confirming any information.
• Be cautious of callers using organization names similar to existing agencies. Scammers use internet technology to spoof area codes, so although it may seem the call is from Washington, D.C., for example, it could originate from anywhere in the world.
• The Social Security Administration and other government agencies have warned about these scams and suggest contacting that agency directly.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

April 24, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Flooding Brings Headaches for Arkansans

 LITTLE ROCK – After the recent heavy rains and severe storms swept across Arkansas, which caused a section of I-30 to be temporarily shut down and storm damage throughout the State, Arkansans are left picking up the pieces and preparing for storm season. While nature’s fury can be devastating, there are many things that Arkansans can do to protect themselves and their property in the aftermath of a storm.

“Severe storms and flood waters can cause terrible damage to property,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Arkansans need to know the steps to take if their property has been impacted by the recent severe weather. We also need to know how to protect our pocketbook from those who want to take advantage of us during this difficult time.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for consumers who are cleaning up water damage on their property:

• Call your insurance agent. If insurance covers the damage, the agent should have an adjuster contact you.
• Make a list of the damage and take photographs or video as you clean. This documentation will be needed for insurance claims, applications for disaster assistance, and income tax deductions.
• Clear away any mud, and clean and disinfect every surface.
• Check with the Attorney General’s office and the Better Business Bureau before hiring anyone to clean up or make repairs.
• Get multiple estimates and compare prices.
• Turn off all electrical and heating and cooling systems to be inspected and repaired or cleaned by a qualified or licensed contractor.
• Appliances and electronics should be professionally cleaned and serviced to prevent electrocution.
• Never pay in advance for any repair service, and inspect the completed project before making the final payment.
• Communicate with the insurance company directly rather than authorizing a contractor to negotiate with the company.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 orconsumer@arkansasag.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

April 16, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Prescription Drug Take Back Scheduled for April 27

LITTLE ROCK – The bi-annual National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is scheduled for April 27. It is an important opportunity for Arkansans to clean out old and unused prescription medications because more than half of Arkansas teens report it is easy to obtain prescription drugs from their parents’ or grandparents’ medicine cabinets. Prescription Drug Take Back is one way to ensure these lethal drugs stay out of the hands of addicted Arkansans.

“The prescription drug epidemic continues to wreak havoc on our state and country,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Misuse and abuse of prescription drugs impacts a staggering number of families across Arkansas. It will take all of us working together to make a difference, including properly disposing of medications.”

Rutledge released the following list of medications that will be accepted at these events across the State:

• • Opioids, such as OxyContin, Hydrocodone, Vicodin, etc.
  • Stimulants, such as Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta, Dexedrine, etc.
  • Depressants, such as Ativan, Xanax, Valium, etc.
  • Other prescription medications
  • Over-the-counter medicines
  • Vitamins
  • Pet medicines
  • Medicated ointments and lotions

• • Inhalers

• • Liquid medicines in glass or leak-proof containers (up to 12 ounces)

• Medicine samples

Medications may be returned in the original bottle or in any other container for increased privacy.

Prescription drug Take Back locations will be available 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 27. The National Prescription Drug Take Back Days are held twice a year, but to find event sites and year-round drop-off locations near you, visitARTakeBack.org.

Properly destroying these medications also protects the environment. Medicines that are flushed or poured down the drain can end up polluting waters, which could contaminate food and water supplies. Wastewater treatment plants or septic systems may not remove many medicine compounds. Turning over these medications at Take Back Day events also reduces the risk of accidental poisonings by children, seniors or pets, as well as reduces the risk of drug abuse.

Attorney General Rutledge has been a leader in the State and nation combating the opioid epidemic by using a multifaceted approach through education, prevention and litigation. Her first-in-the-nation Prescription for Life program is free for high schools and over the last year has reached almost 14,000 students. In November, the Attorney General hosted the annual Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention Summit with record attendance, which provided training and educational opportunities for law enforcement, medical professionals, pharmacists and educators. Rutledge has taken an aggressive approach to protect Arkansans and combat the epidemic by suing Johnson & Johnson, Purdue Pharma and Endo, opioid manufacturers who created the crisis in Arkansas for violations of the Arkansas Deceptive Trade Practices Act and the Arkansas Medicaid Fraud False Claims Act.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 orconsumer@arkansasag.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

April 10, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Scammers Selling Fake ‘Fido’ Pets to Families

 LITTLE ROCK – Scam artists are hiding online pretending to sell domestic pets, but instead are taking the consumer’s money without turning over a new fluffy friend. Often, these ads are found on free buy-and-sell websites and use especially endearing photos of the animal they have no intention of sending, or may not even own.

“Con artists are scouring the internet looking for new ways to get into our wallets,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Families considering adding a new pet have a lot to think about, especially whether having this new pet is the right decision for them. They should not have to also worry if the seller is trying to scam them.”

Attorney General Rutledge and the Federal Trade Commission released the following tips to avoid falling victim to a scammer selling a pet that does not exist.

• Visit in person the breeder or rescue group offering the pet. Responsible individuals and organizations will allow potential customers to tour their facility.
• Search the user’s profile for warning signs that it may be a scam. Fake breeder websites can often look real because they steal content from legitimate rescue sites. Look for duplicate sites by copying a line from the website into a search engine and looking for identical wording elsewhere on the Internet.
• Arrange to pick up the animal from a kennel instead of meeting the breeder at a potentially unsafe location. Do not rely on the breeder to ship the animal, and never pay for shipping.
• Check the organization’s references. Talk to others who have purchased pets from this breeder and the breeder’s veterinarian.
• Pay for the puppy with a check or credit card. If a breeder pressures for a wire transfer or prepaid debit card payment, it is probably a scam.

Attorney General Rutledge encourages Arkansans to do their research regarding adopting and purchasing pets. If you have questions about a potential pet shipper, the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association provides a list of trusted shippers across the world.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

April 4, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Scammers Posing as Trusted Companies to Steal Financial Information 

LITTLE ROCK – Scammers are posing as employees of legitimate and trusted businesses such as pest control, lawn care or alarm companies in an attempt to steal personal information from Arkansans. The caller tries to set up an in-home appointment or confirm personal information in hopes of gaining access to credit card numbers, social security numbers or bank account information. This is a scam, and Arkansans should hang up immediately.

“Arkansans should be cautious of unsolicited callers trying to confirm personal information and set up appointments,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “If you have any doubt, hang up and find the company’s phone number from an independent source and call them to confirm the information you have been told. Do not use the number on your caller ID from the original call.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for recognizing and responding to these types of scam calls:

• • These callers may request to be contacted only at the number provided instead of the company’s general number.
  • These scammers know your name but try to gather other personal information.
  • Be mindful that scammers can spoof the caller ID to suggest they are calling from the trusted company when they are not.
  • Do not trust the caller simply because they have personal information.

• Do not verify information or give out personal banking or similar information because it could lead to identity theft.

If you have been a victim of identity theft, close accounts that have been tampered with or fraudulently opened, and file a complaint with the FTC. The Attorney General’s office also offers an ID Theft Passport to help victims reestablish their good name, which requires that consumers first file a police report for financial identity theft.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

March 20, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Tax Scammers Send Fake Letters

Says, “The Bureau of Tax Enforcement for Pulaski County is a fake, unlawful organization”

LITTLE ROCK – With tax season deadline looming, scammers continue to adapt when seeking ways to instill fear and intimidate Arkansans. The Arkansas Attorney General’s office has received reports of a scam being sent through the mail which appears to be a letter from the so-called “Bureau of Tax Enforcement for Pulaski County”—an entity that does NOT exist—claiming the recipient owes money to another state.

“Scammers are determined to steal your hard-earned money and will go to great lengths to intimidate Arkansans,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “The Bureau of Tax Enforcement for Pulaski County is a fake, unlawful organization and these letters often do not provide a return address, only a phone number.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to use if Arkansans have received a similar letter:

• Contact the local tax office to make sure you have no outstanding bills.
• Do not verify sensitive information such as social security number and banking information; verifying that information could lead to identity theft.
• File a police report with your local law enforcement.
• If consumers have questions, then contact the Attorney General’s office.

The scam letter may also request that the recipient purchase gift cards or prepaid debit cards to pay off the “debt.” The scammer will ask for the code on the purchased card, which gives them complete access to money on the card. In most cases, once the prepaid card money is depleted, it cannot be recovered.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

March 13, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Favorite Grandchild Scam Fools Arkansans

LITTLE ROCK – Elderly Arkansans are often a target of con artists, and one of the most convincing ones is called the favorite grandchild scam. This scam involves a scammer calling an elderly individual, saying they are his/her favorite grandchild and are in trouble and need money wired immediately. Grandparents are often willing to do whatever it takes to help their grandchild, and so they more commonly fall for the scam.

“Under no circumstances should you wire money or give a credit/debit card number to a caller claiming to be a grandchild in jail unless you have verified that information with another close family member,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “The caller tricks Arkansans into saying the names of family and then pretends to be that family member in dire need of money.”

Attorney General Rutledge recommends the following strategies to avoid falling victim to the “favorite grandchild” scheme:

• • Resist pressure to act quickly.
  • Never give or wire money based on any unsolicited phone call.
  • Verify the family member’s location by directly calling another family member or the grandchild.
  • Do not send money to an unknown account or entity.

• Ask the caller for his or her name, and if they cannot provide it, hang up immediately.
• Have a plan in place when family members are traveling to easily identify whether or not a need is genuine.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

March 6, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Top 10 Complaints of 2018

LITTLE ROCK – In conjunction with National Consumer Protection Week, March 3-9, Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge today announced the top 10 most common complaints the Attorney General’s office received in 2018.

National Consumer Protection Week is a partnership with attorneys general from across the country, along with many national organizations, including the Better Business Bureau, Federal Trade Commission and AARP, to encourage consumers to understand their rights and make educated consumer decisions.

“At the Attorney General’s Office, we take every complaint seriously and will work diligently to protect Arkansans and hold bad actors accountable,” said Attorney General Rutledge.

The 10 most common complaint categories from 2018 were:

• Automobile sales, service financing and repair
• Sales of goods and services
• Health care
• Home repair, construction and maintenance
• Landlord/tenant and real estate
• Satellite, cable and internet service providers
• Wireless and landline telephone services
• Scams and opportunities
• Credit repairs and other financial services
• Utilities

After falling to the number two most received complaint in 2017, automobile-related transactions returned to the most common type of complaint reports to the Attorney General’s office in 2018. Last year, automobile sales, service financing and repairs brought in 1,200 complaints. These types of complaints often involve consumers reporting financing errors; high-pressure tactics to buy add-on services at the time of purchase, such as gap insurance, extended warranties; and sales misrepresentations.

Attorney General Rutledge’s office resolved 5,595 formal complaints in 2018. File a complaint online at ArkansasAG.gov.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.
 

February 27, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Don’t Get Taken for a Ride by Imposter Car Renewal Websites

 LITTLE ROCK – Arkansans are required to annually renew license plate registrations, which can be accomplished online at mydmv.arkansas.gov. Some online companies, however, have created services that may mislead consumers into purchasing material they do not need. This problem occurs when a consumer conducts an internet search and clicks on results for a website that appears to be the Arkansas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) but is instead an unrelated site that directs consumers to purchase a registration renewal how-to pamphlet and not a registration renewal. If consumers fall victim to this problem, then consumers run the risk of failing to renew their tags by the deadline and spending money unnecessarily.

“Using any site except the legitimate government one ending in dot G-O-V will result in lost time and money,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “At the time of renewal, the DMV mails a reminder letter which includes the correct web address to complete the registration purchase online.”

Attorney General Rutledge released to following tips to ensure safety while making purchases online.

• • Avoid using an internet search to find the DMV’s site, and instead typemydmv.arkansas.gov directly on the URL at the top of the page.
  • When submitting purchase information, look for the “lock” icon on the browser’s status bar, and the phrase “https” in the URL address for a website to be sure information is secure during transmission.
  • Use a secure browser—software that encrypts or scrambles the purchase information you send over the Internet—to help guard the security of your information as it is transmitted to a website. Be sure your browser has the most up-to-date encryption capabilities by using the latest version available from the manufacturer.
  • Check the site’s privacy policy before providing any personal financial information and determine how the information will be used or shared with others. Also check the site’s statements about the security provided for your information. Some websites’ disclosures are easier to find than others—look at the bottom of the home page, on order forms or in the “About” or “FAQs” section of a site.
  • Review monthly credit card and bank statements for any errors or unauthorized purchases promptly and thoroughly. Notify your credit or debit card issuer immediately if your credit or debit card or checkbook is lost or stolen, or if you suspect someone is using your accounts without your permission.
  • Search for the words “official website” and try to avoid clicking on “ads”

• The misleading websites will often have an attention pop-up on the front page stating that they are not affiliated with any government agency.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

February 13, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Tax Season IRS Imposters

LITTLE ROCK – Tax season is in full swing and scammers are posing as Internal Revenue Service (IRS) agents and sending emails with fake tax bills and transcripts to Arkansans. These malicious emails often include an attachment that is not a document from the IRS but rather something harmful that will infect the user’s computer with vicious malware once it is opened. The email may even threaten Arkansans with arrest if payment is not received immediately using a gift card, prepaid debit card or wire transfer.

“The IRS will never send unsolicited emails or accept payment from a prepaid gift card or wire transfer,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “This scam to dupe Arkansans out of their hard-earned money, or steal their personal information, is just one more shameful attempt by criminals to line their own pockets.”

Attorney General Rutledge issued the following tips for anyone who receives an email from someone claiming to be from the IRS:

• Do not reply to the email.
• Do not open any attachments which can contain malicious code that may infect computers or mobile phones.
• Do not click on any links.
• Delete the original email.

Consumers who receive this scam via email should forward it to the IRS atphishing@irs.gov and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

February 6, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Scammers Seek Money Not Love On Dating Apps

LITTLE ROCK – Valentine’s Day is another opportunity for scam artists to take advantage of Arkansans putting their heart and money on the line to find love. Con artists are using dating apps, often pretending to be someone they aren’t, with false pictures and information, to get the attention of others with the intent of stealing money from the kind-hearted people they meet on these sites.

“Arkansans should have the opportunity to meet new people without the fear of someone taking advantage of them and their wallets,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “On dating sites, Arkansans must be cautious and keep personal information private. Con artists know how to play on emotions to convince people they need help when they are only wanting to steal money and identities to open credit accounts.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for social media users:

• It’s called personal information for a reason—keep it to yourself!
• Do not give out personal information such as addresses and telephone numbers.
• Consider speaking by telephone before meeting in person, and when meeting in person, make plans to meet new people in a public venue, or bring a friend.
• Don’t post any information that would let someone know you are away on vacation or your house is empty. Posting about being out of town for a few days could make someone a likely target for thieves.
• Don’t post any information that can lead hackers to passwords for online banking or other accounts. For example, common questions for those who have forgotten their passwords for financial or other sites include: “What’s your mother’s maiden name?” or “What’s your favorite pet?” Criminals may be able to find those answers easily on social networking sites.

The Attorney General’s office provides a tip card for consumers, information for parents to spot cyberbullying and offers a Parent’s Guide to Internet Safety. Community educators are also available to present an internet safety program to parents and educators across the state.

For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

January 2, 2019

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Be a Smart Consumer in 2019

 LITTLE ROCK – Many Arkansans are setting their new year’s resolutions for 2019, but scam artists also see the new year as an opportunity to take advantage of unsuspecting Arkansans. In the new year, scammers will continue to pose as someone they are not and try to steal personal and financial information, convince Arkansans they won a prize in exchange for a fee, trick consumers into believing they have debt that must be paid by gift cards, and many more variations on common scams.

“Arkansans must remain vigilant to keep their private information out of the hands of thieves,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Bad actors will continue to do bad deeds, but there are steps Arkansans can take to protect themselves and spot a potential scam before being victimized.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to spot a scam:

• • Don’t answer a call from an unknown number.
  • Wiring money is like giving cash away. There is no protection for consumers if the recipient is not who he or she claimed to be.
  • Never give out personal or banking information in response to a phone, email or mail inquiry. Contact the entity requesting the information directly through a different method to verify that it is a reputable company and to confirm the request.
  • When purchasing items or services online, make sure to research the seller and know his or her physical location.

• • If making a charitable contribution, give to an organization that has a strong history in providing relief. Instead of paying in cash, make a check or money order payable to the organization, not an individual.

• Most importantly, if the offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Investigate the offer before accepting or paying any money.

For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

December 26, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Gift Return Problems Can Put a Chill on the Holidays

LITTLE ROCK – Returning or exchanging gifts received during the holidays can be stressful and difficult if consumers do not educate themselves on company return policies before making purchases.

“An unknown and complicated return policy can spoil some of the holiday fun and hurt your pocketbook,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Arkansans should learn return policies prior to attempting returns. Some retailers generously allow shoppers to make returns for any reason, which can lead consumers to wrongly believe they are entitled, by law, to a full refund or credit, but that is not always the case.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for gift recipients needing to make a return or exchange this holiday season:

• Ask the merchant about the store’s return or exchange policy.
• Keep all gift and purchase receipts.
• If considering returning, do not open the box or remove the tags.
• Some online retailers allow purchases to be returned in-store, while others require the item to be shipped back. Check with the merchant ahead of time.

As a gesture of goodwill, most companies offer in-store exchanges if the customer has the receipt and the item is promptly returned. However, others have an “all sales are final” policy for deeply discounted or clearance items and do not allow returns or exchanges. Return policies not only differ from store to store but can also differ for items purchased in-store and items bought online or by mail order.

Some retailers that allow returns may charge restocking fees for certain products. Consumers can sometimes pay a fee of 10 to 25 percent of the price of the item if the package is not in the condition in which it was purchased. Meanwhile, items like computer software, CDs, DVDs and Blu-Ray discs are not generally returnable after the seal has been broken.

Retailers are not required to accept at-will returns, and even in the case of a defective product, consumers may be required to contact the manufacturer. Sometimes retailers will require consumers to deal with the product manufacturer directly, rather than simply returning the item to the place of purchase.

The National Retail Federation estimates holiday spending to increase at least 4.3 percent to $720.89 billion this year.
For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

December 12, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Mystery Shopper Scam Can Steal Money

LITTLE ROCK – During the holiday season, scammers are targeting Arkansans who may be looking to make some extra money. These con artists often use the so-called mystery shopper scam to take Arkansans’ hard-earned money, with the promise of getting more in return.

“Mystery shopping is a legitimate opportunity that retailers use to evaluate their services,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Although this scam has different variations, becoming a mystery shopper does not cost anything upfront, and retailers will not contact potential mystery shoppers on an unsolicited basis. Arkansans should be wary of any organization asking for money prior to making mystery shopper work assignments and should ignore mystery shopper checks and instructions asking the consumer to deposit the money, purchase gift cards, and then send all or a portion to a third party.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following list from the Federal Trade Commissionof red flags that a mystery shopping opportunity may not be legitimate:

• • The opportunity is advertised in a newspaper’s ‘help wanted’ section or by email.
  • The business requires “certification” to be purchased ahead of time.
  • A mystery shopper job is guaranteed.
  • A website charges a fee to access mystery shopping opportunities.

• A directory of companies that hire mystery shoppers is available for purchase.
• The seller asks to deposit a check and wire some or all of the money to a third party.

The Mystery Shopping Providers Association offers a database search of mystery shopper assignments and how to apply for them. The organization offers certification programs for a fee, but the certification is not needed to look or apply for assignments in the database.

Arkansans should avoid wiring money to strangers or anyone outside the country and should never send prepaid gift cards or give the serial number of a loaded gift card based on any unsolicited phone call.

For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

December 5, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Data Breaches Put Arkansans at Risk

 LITTLE ROCK – Marriott and the United States Postal Service are just two of the recent companies that have announced data breaches, putting private consumer information at risk. The Attorney General’s Office has received a number of calls from concerned Arkansans, and Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge encourages Arkansans who feel their information may have been compromised to contact the office atArkansasAG.gov.

“Arkansans’ identities have been put at risk due to these data breaches,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “I urge anyone with questions, or anyone who has been notified that your information was compromised, to please contact my office because I am here to do the fighting for you.”

Identity theft becomes a major concern following data breaches whether consumers utilize computers directly or not. Identity theft occurs when an unauthorized individual uses another person’s information to commit fraud or other crimes, most commonly to obtain access to credit in the victim’s name. If successful, scammers can severely damage the victim’s credit and steal his or her hard-earned money.

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to help Arkansans recognize when they might be a victim of identity theft:

• • Receiving unexpected bills or collection calls. Getting an account statement for an unauthorized account is an indication that an individual may be the victim of identity theft. Likewise, getting collection calls from a creditor or debt collector regarding an unauthorized account is an indication of potential identity theft.
  • Not receiving expected bills or account statements. If a monthly credit card statement stops, this could be an indication that someone has stolen mail or changed an account statement mailing address. Promptly report this to the account provider.

• Having a credit application denied when there is no reason to believe there is a problem with the credit history. Be sure to periodically review the credit report, and always review it again before making an application for credit on a big purchase.

If you have been a victim of identity theft, close accounts that have been tampered with or fraudulently opened, and file a complaint with the FTC. The Attorney General’s office also offers an ID Theft Passport to help victims reestablish their good name, which requires that consumers first file a police report for financial identity theft.
For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

November 21, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Avoid At-Home Dangers During the Holiday Season

LITTLE ROCK – Decking the halls for the upcoming holiday season can quickly become dangerous. If Arkansans do not use extreme caution, injuries can easily occur. Caution and planning can help avoid unnecessary accidents and injuries, which can interrupt holiday fun.

“It is important that we make personal safety a priority, even during the happy holiday planning,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Accidents happen, but many are preventable. Small mistakes that we may consider insignificant, can lead to dangerous problems through carelessness. Most accidents are avoidable by taking extra time during preparations.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for Arkansans planning to hang lights this holiday season:

• • Select lights with labels indicating they have been safety tested by independent laboratories.
  • Check each set of lights. Look for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires or loose connections. Discard or repair them, if necessary, before use.
  • When using lights outdoors, make sure they are certified for outdoor use and are securely fastened to protect against damaging winds.
  • Only use insulated staples or hoods to affix lights. Never use nails or tacks.
  • Do not use more than three standard-sized sets of lights per extension cord, and ensure that each extension cord is rated for the intended use.
  • Always turn off or unplug lights when you go to bed or leave your home.
  • Never use electric lights on a metallic tree.

• Never leave a candle unattended and keep them on a stable surface and away from items that can burn easily, like trees, decorations, curtains and furniture. 

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates more than 14,500 emergency room visits for falls, lacerations and back strains while decorating for the holidays. Meanwhile, fires are also a concern with burning candles and fresh Christmas trees that are not properly watered.

Use caution when climbing ladders and make sure all locks are properly engaged, keep your body near the middle of the step and face the ladder while climbing. Avoid using the top step of the ladder unless it was designed of that purpose.

For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

November 14, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Beware of Holiday Season Scam Artists Using Legitimate-Sounding Charity Names

 LITTLE ROCK – The holidays bring out the best in Arkansans, but there are some who try to take advantage of our kind hearts by posing as a charitable organization helping Arkansans during the holiday season. Scam artists can use similar-sounding names to legitimate charities and may often be pushy, but provide little information.

“Arkansans are known for generosity during the holiday season,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “While Giving Tuesday is a big day for donations, we know Americans often give more than on just one allotted day. Leading up to the season of giving, it is important for each of us to thoroughly research where we send our money to ensure that it is helping the most people possible.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to help consumers give to only legitimate charities:

• • Do not fall prey to high-pressure sales tactics as they are often the first sign of an unscrupulous and fraudulent charity.
  • Before getting out a checkbook or credit card in response to a phone solicitation, make attempts to determine the validity of the organization by conducting research.

• • Get the organization’s name, address, website and phone number, or give directly to a known nonprofit of your choice. Make sure the nonprofit organization is registered with the Arkansas Secretary of State.
  • Use GuideStar.org to compare nonprofit organizations and to get more information.
  • Ask the organization how it will spend your donation.

• • Watch out for similar but different organization names as some con artists will use names similar to those of existing, reputable nonprofits in order to trick consumers.

• • Do not give out financial or personal information over the phone or through email to an unknown entity. This information could fall into the wrong hands, or the scammers could use it to steal your money or identity.

• • Never send cash. Make check or credit card payments for increased security and tax purposes.

• If donating via text message, verify the organization’s number prior to sending information.

For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

October 31, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Low Temperatures Can Mean Higher Savings

 LITTLE ROCK – As fall season kicks into high gear, temperatures drop which means home heating costs begin impacting families’ budgets across Arkansas. But there are steps consumers can take to stay warm and save money.

“By taking a few practical steps we can find the balance of keeping warm and saving money,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “It is unknown what winter will bring this year, but as temperatures drop, keeping energy costs down is important to every family.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to save energy costs through the colder months:

• • Keep curtains open during the day for natural heat, and close them at night to retain the heat.

• • Use a programmable thermostat to automatically lower the temperature when no one is home.

• • Seal cracks or holes around the home by weather-stripping doors and windows and adding insulation to walls, the attic and crawlspace to prevent it from losing heat.

• • Set ceiling fans to spin clockwise to recirculate rising warm air.

• • Make sure baseboard heaters, air vents and radiators are not obstructed.

• • Service the heating system at least once a year to ensure it is operating properly.

• Consult with a licensed plumber regarding potential options to insulate the water heater to spend less to heat the water.
• Close the vents and doors to rooms that are not being used.
• Keep air filters clean and replace regularly.

Use caution while using space heaters. Always keep them away from flammable materials and consider the impact it could have on the energy bill. The Department of Energyreports that space heaters account for about 45 percent of energy bills in average U.S. homes.

Also, be cautious of products claiming to drastically lower heating costs and avoid unsolicited high-pressure sales calls for visits from contractors offering furnaces, windows, roofing and other home-improvement projects. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.

Arkansans having trouble paying heating or electricity bills this winter should learn more about the Weatherization Assistance Program.

 For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

October 17, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Statewide Prescription Drug Take Back is October 27

 LITTLE ROCK – The prescription drug epidemic is wreaking havoc across our state and country. More than half of Arkansas teens report it is easy to obtain prescription drugs from their parents’ or grandparents’ medicine cabinets. The bi-annual Prescription Drug Take Back Day is the ideal opportunity to turn in unused and expired medication, to ensure it stays out of the hands of addicted Arkansans.

“Parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles have unknowingly become drug dealers to family members,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Properly disposing of medication is imperative and can save the lives of family members, friends and fellow Arkansans. This epidemic impacts a staggering number of families across Arkansas and it takes action by all of us to make a difference.”

Attorney General Rutledge is reminding Arkansans about the national Prescription Drug Take Back Event and the various drop-off locations available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27. The National Prescription Drug Take Back Days are held twice a year, but to find event sites and year-round drop-off locations near you, visit ARTakeBack.org.

Rutledge released the following list of medications that will be accepted at these events across the State:

·       Opioids, such as OxyContin, Hydrocodone, Vicodin, etc.
·       Stimulants, such as Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta, Dexedrine, etc.
·       Depressants, such as Ativan, Xanax, Valium, etc.
·       Other prescription medications
·       Over-the-counter medicines
·       Vitamins
·       Pet medicines
·       Medicated ointments and lotions
·       Inhalers
·       Liquid medicines in glass or leak-proof containers (up to 12 ounces)
·       Medicine samples

Medications may be returned in the original bottle or in any other container for increased privacy.

Properly destroying these medications also protects the environment. Medicines that are flushed or poured down the drain can end up polluting waters, which could contaminate food and water supplies. Wastewater treatment plants or septic systems may not remove many medicine compounds. Turning over these medications at Take Back Day events also reduces the risk of accidental poisonings by children, seniors or pets, as well as reduces the risk of drug abuse.

The Attorney General’s Office also partners with local law enforcement to host take back events at mobile offices around the State. Since 2016, 611.2 pounds of prescription drugs have been collected and safely disposed of by Attorney General’s office mobile offices – keeping them out of the hands of children and those with addictions.

Rutledge is partnering on the Prescription Drug Take Back with the Arkansas Department of Health, Arkansas Department of Human Services, Arkansas National Guard, Arkansas Rotary Clubs, Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy, FBI, Office of the State Drug Director, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and over 130 additional law enforcement and government agencies, community organizations and public health providers.

Prescription Drug Take Back days are just one step in Rutledge’s multi-faceted approach of education, prevention and litigation to end the opioid crisis. Last fall, Rutledge launched Prescription for Life, a first-in-the-nation educational tool offered at no cost to all high school students in the State to help them understand the dangers of prescription drug misuse and how to prevent abuse. To date, it has been launched in 80 schools, across 60 counties and reached over 8,600 students. Rutledge has a new initiative, called #Rx4LifeStories, inviting Arkansans to submit videos discussing how the nation’s opioid epidemic has impacted their lives and the lives of their families.

Rutledge is also suing the opioid manufacturers that created the crisis in Arkansas for violations of the Arkansas Deceptive Trade Practices Act and the Arkansas Medicaid Fraud False Claims Act.

Each year, Rutledge partners with a number of agencies in hosting the Arkansas Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention Summit. The summit is a free training and educational opportunity for law enforcement officers, medical professionals, pharmacists and educators. The seventh annual Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention Summit is scheduled for Nov. 1 in Hot Springs, with more than 800 taking advantage of registration.

 For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

October 10, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Online Services May Not Be All That They Appear

 LITTLE ROCK – From food delivery to job applications, many services are available online rather than requiring Arkansans to visit a storefront, but the quality of services may diminish if completed online rather than in person. Some companies are offering medical services online, including eye and hearing exams, potentially decreasing the accuracy of the services.

“Arkansans should take advantage of advances in technology often to make our busy lives easier,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “But we should all do our due diligence to research companies and apps to ensure that the services are accurate, effective and legitimate.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for consumers who decide to pay for services online:

• • Check the site’s privacy policy before providing any personal financial information and determine how the information will be used or shared with others. Also check the site’s statements about the security provided for your information. Some websites’ disclosures are easier to find than others — look at the bottom of the home page, on order forms or in the “About” or “FAQs” section of a site.
  • Pay by credit card, the most secure way. Under federal law, you can dispute the charges if you do not get what you were promised. You may also dispute unauthorized charges on your credit card. Many credit card issuers have “zero liability” policies under which you pay nothing if someone steals and uses your credit card.
  • Keep personal information private. Do not disclose personal information – address, telephone number, Social Security number, bank account number or email address – unless you know who is collecting the information, why they are collecting it and how they will use it.

• Review monthly credit card and bank statements for any errors or unauthorized purchases promptly and thoroughly. Notify your credit or debit card issuer immediately if your credit or debit card or checkbook is lost or stolen, or if you suspect someone is using your accounts without your permission.

Rutledge encourages Arkansans to check a business’s status with the Attorney General’s Office or the Better Business Bureau to ensure its legitimacy.

For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

October 3, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Military Service Members Can Vote Absentee

 LITTLE ROCK – Voting at the ballot box is an important right for all Americans, including our active duty military men and women, and their families. But voting absentee may be confusing and often an option some may not be aware of. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act ensures voting eligibility in the military member’s state of legal residence.

 “The deadline is quickly approaching to register to vote to be able to cast a vote in November’s general election,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “It is important that all Arkansans have their voices heard in November, including our military service members who are currently stationed outside of their home State or country. Absentee ballots can be requested by contacting the county clerk where the service member is registered to vote.”

 Attorney General Rutledge shares Arkansas Secretary of State Mark Martin’s list of qualifications for voting absentee:

·       The voter will be unavoidably absent from the polling site on election day.

·       The voter will be unable to attending the polling site on election day due to illness or physical disability.

·       The member of the Uniformed Services, merchant marines, spouse or a dependent family member are away from the polling location due to the member’s active duty status.

·       A U.S. citizen whose residence is in Arkansas but is temporarily living outside the territorial limits of the United States is eligible to vote absentee.

 According to the Arkansas Secretary of State’s Elections Division, absentee ballots can be delivered through either the U.S. Postal Service or Ballot Safe, a secure online website. If the military service member decides to download the ballot instead of receiving a hard copy, the ballot will need to be printed, filled out and mailed to the county clerk, postmarked by Election Day, Nov. 6.

 Military and family members are eligible to vote in their state of legal residence. This could be an original address, or the families can change their legal residence at each permanent duty station change. The American Bar Association encourages military families to keep voter registration, vehicle registration and State of legal residence the same for tax purposes.

 For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

September 26, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Flood-Damaged Vehicles Make Their Way to Arkansas

LITTLE ROCK – While the damage from Hurricane Florence was mostly concentrated to the Carolinas, the effects may be felt across the country as bad actors line their own pockets by selling water-damaged items and vehicles.

“Unfortunately Arkansas has some unscrupulous car dealers who may not follow Arkansas law by providing the proper documentation when selling water-damaged vehicles,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “It is common for these sellers to try to take advantage of consumers by selling damaged out-of-state vehicles without proper disclosure.”

Consumers should review a vehicle’s title for any flood damage reports. Arkansas law requires dealerships to place a separate disclosure in the window of cars for sale that have previously been submerged, but consumers should be careful if purchasing a vehicle through a private sale. Although the private seller is required by Arkansas law to notify the buyer of any flood damage, a posted disclosure is not mandatory for this type of transaction.

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for Arkansans to consider before purchasing a new or used vehicle that could have been involved in the recent flooding.

• Ask the seller if the car has been damaged by hail or flood waters, and always check the car’s title history.
• Inspect the vehicle for water stains and mildew in the vents and behind the dashboard. Also look under the hood for signs of oxidation.
• Flood damaged cars may look fine because of cosmetic repairs, but they may have defective electrical systems, steering problems, faulty computers, faulty air bag systems and persistent mold problems.
• Have the car inspected by your own mechanic before you decide to buy.
• If the car has experienced significant damage and is considered a salvagevehicle, a buyer’s notification should be posted, and the price should be much lower than the price of a similar car with a clean title. Consider that you may have difficulty later selling a salvage vehicle and its value will be compromised.

Consumers who believe they have been sold a flood-damaged item that was not advertised as such should file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office.

For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

September 19, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Research Charities When Giving to Hurricane Florence Victims

 LITTLE ROCK – Scenes of destruction left by Hurricane Florence in North Carolina and South Carolina have left many Arkansans wanting to find a way to help. But Arkansans should use caution and take time to research, ensuring their donations are actually used toward helping our fellow Americans. Following natural disasters, the Attorney General’s Office often receives reports of unscrupulous “charities” targeting the kind and generous spirit of Arkansans wanting to assist those in need.

“Scammers often create fake organizations by selecting a name and logo similar to an existing, legitimate organization that actually helps those in need,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “These scammers provide limited information, while still trying to tug at the heartstrings of potential donors to convince them the ‘charity’ is legitimate. Arkansans must remain vigilant and do research to know how their money will be used.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to help consumer give to only legitimate charities:

• Do not fall prey to high-pressure sales tactics as they are often the first sign of an unscrupulous and fraudulent charity.
• Before getting out a checkbook or credit card in response to a phone solicitation, make attempts to determine the validity of the organization by conducting research.
• Get the organization’s name, address, website and phone number, or give directly to a known nonprofit of your choice. Make sure the nonprofit organization is registered with the Arkansas Secretary of State.
• Use GuideStar.org to compare nonprofit organizations and to get more information.
• Ask the organization how it will spend your donation.
• Watch out for similar but different organization names as some con artists will use names like those of existing, reputable nonprofits in order to trick consumers.
• Do not give out financial or personal information over the phone or through email to an unknown entity. This information could fall into the wrong hands, or the scammers could use it to steal your money or identity.
• Never send cash. Make check or credit card payments for increased security and tax purposes.
• If donating via text message, verify the organization’s number prior to sending information.

Also be wary of charities that pop up quickly in response to Hurricane Florence and other emergencies. Even if they are legitimate, they oftentimes do not have a system in place to get donations to those in need. Consider giving to an established organization which helps disaster victims in the area.

For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

September 12, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Scammers Stealing Arkansans’ Social Security Numbers

 LITTLE ROCK – Consumers should be on alert for persons calling and claiming to be government officials. The Attorney General’s Office has received complaints of callers claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service and even the Attorney General’s Office. And now Arkansans are reporting receiving calls from someone claiming to be with the Social Security Administration and requesting social security numbers and bank account information.

“The government will never call consumers requesting financial information,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “If the caller is requesting personal or financial information and claiming to be a government agency, hang up, find the phone number from an official source and call the agency directly. It is important for Arkansans to know who they are talking to at the other end of the phone line.”

Attorney General Rutledge and the Federal Trade Commission released the following tips for Arkansans who may be dealing with a government imposter:

• Never give out or confirm sensitive information, such as bank account, credit card or Social Security numbers, unless the caller is trusted and his/her identity has been confirmed.
• Be cautious of callers using organization names similar to existing agencies. Scammers use internet technology to spoof area codes, so although it may seem the call is from Washington, D.C., it could originate from anywhere in the world.
• The Social Security Administration and other government agencies have warned about these scams and suggest contacting the agency directly.

The Social Security Administration can be contacted at 1-800-772-1213 to verify the reason for the contact and the person’s identity prior to providing any information to the caller.

To report this scam to the Social Security Administration, contact its Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271, or file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

For more information about other common scams and consumer-related issues, please call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

September 6, 2018

Alarm System Scams

LITTLE ROCK – Consumers should be on the alert for door-to-door sales people using scare tactics to sell home alarm systems. The Attorney General’s Office receives complaints against home alarm systems and monitoring services for violations of the Home Solicitations Sales Act, including high pressure sales, misrepresentations of products, failure to provide a copy of the contract and others.

“Arkansas law provides specific protections for consumers purchasing items from a door-to-door salesperson,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “My office is here to protect consumers with education and awareness. At times, this requires legal action to respond to bad actors trying to take advantage of Arkansans.”

Attorney General Rutledge provided the below tips for consumers to help spot an unscrupulous door-to-door salesperson:

• Consumers have a right to review the contract outside the presence of the sales agent, and cancel the contract without obligation within three days of the home solicitation sale. The sales agent must provide the consumer written notice of this right to cancel along with the proposed contract.
• High-pressure tactics are rarely employed by companies whose business depends on providing quality customer service.  A legitimate company will allow consumers to weigh options and will review the system details and notification procedures.
• The solicitor may suggest the existing security system needs an “upgrade,” when the salesperson actually represents a different company.  This may lead a homeowner to believe the system must be “upgraded” just to remain reliable.
• The salesperson offers “free installation.” The homeowner may think it is a bargain, but many “free installation” offers are coupled with long-term, high-cost monitoring contracts. In the long run, the “free” offer may be the most expensive of all.

Arkansans who may have been victimized by these practices are encouraged to contact the Public Protection Department of the Attorney General’s Office.

Last week, Rutledge filed a lawsuit against Alert America LLC for violating the Arkansas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. Alert America sold third-party alarm monitoring services, and many of its contracts included prepaid service contracts. When Alert America closed its business, it failed to remit payments to the third party, leaving Arkansans with discontinued services they had prepaid. The Attorney General’s Office has discovered at least 67 affected Arkansans. Some consumers reported losing more than $1,000.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

August 29, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: The IRS Scam Picks Up Speed Again

LITTLE ROCK – Scammers are dusting off the IRS scam and intimidating Arkansans once again by trying to convince innocent consumers that they owe back taxes that must be paid immediately. Consumers have recently been contacting the Attorney General’s office reporting that the scammers are spoofing phone numbers and posing as the IRS.

“Scammers continually use new strategies to frighten Arkansans,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “There are various versions of this scam. Consumers should know that the IRS may send multiple letters, but will never make threatening phone calls.”

The IRS continues to remind consumers that these scam calls are recognizable and that the agency will not do the following:

• Call demanding immediate payment. The IRS will not call if taxes are owed without first sending a bill in the mail.
• Demand that taxes are paid without providing the individual the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
• Require a specific form of tax payment. For example, the IRS will not demand payment by prepaid debit card.
• Ask consumers for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.
• Threaten to bring in police or other agencies to make an arrest for not paying taxes.

The IRS encourages Arkansans to not to give out personal information during any unsolicited phone call from the IRS and to hang up immediately, contact the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at (800) 366-4484 to report the call and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. The agency also requests that any scam emails be forwarded to phishing@irs.gov.

The IRS encourages Arkansans with any questions about owed taxes to contact their office directly at (800) 829-1040.

August 22, 2018

Student Loan Forgiveness Scams

LITTLE ROCK – Many college students take out loans to help pay for higher education, but scammers prey on those in debt with student loan forgiveness “programs.” Scammers will pose as government agencies offering to help with complicated federal student loan debt or claim to be independent organizations that are aware of new changes in repayment programs. But offers that do not come from an assigned federal loan servicer are a scam.

“Student loan debt can be intimidating,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Con artists often make unrealistic promises, such as drastically reducing or doing away with monthly payments altogether. While this may seem attractive at first, it can be detrimental in the long run, accumulating interest and potentially sliding into default. Some of these scammers will even charge for their assistance.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following red flags of a student loan forgiveness scam:

• Borrowers are instructed to stop paying on the loans
• Borrowers are offered a promise of guaranteed reduced payments and/or loan forgiveness
• The scammer requests Federal Student Aid username or passwords (FSA ID)
• Borrowers are instructed to ignore letters or emails from a federal loan servicer
• The scammer stressed the difficulty for the average person to navigate the Federal Student Aid system

If Arkansans believe they have been a victim of one of these companies, they should contact the federal loan service and update account information by changing all passwords and cancel any automatic withdrawal payments.

Financial aid basics and student loan repayment questions can be answered atStudentLoans.gov. The National Student Loan Data System is the Department of Education’s central database and has information for the specific federal loan servicer assigned to collect student loan payments.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

August 15, 2018

Google Tracking Locations

LITTLE ROCK – Simply turning off the Location History for Google accounts does not stop the tech company from tracking a user’s location. According to an investigation published this week by the Associated Press, Google can track time-stamped location data from devices when the maps feature, browser or even the weather app is opened. But there is a way to stop the company from tracking locations.

“Google is a popular web browser and email provider across the country,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “While we often expect privacy from these companies, in reality we must take extra steps to turn off location functions to prevent the company from peering into our daily schedules.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following information about Google’s location tracking:

• Location tracking is necessary to use some phone apps such as Google Maps.
• Location tracking can be helpful when searching for information like the weather, shopping, restaurants and lodging.
• For most apps, location setting options such as “always,” “while using the app” or “never” are available.  An explanation of these terms can be found in the app settings.
• Changes need to be made to the Google account to turn off location tracking.
• To turn off location tracking, Google users can open the account, access account information from the drop down menu at the top right corner. iPhone users may click on Personal Info & Privacy, go to My Activity, openActivity Controls and turn off the toggle at Web & App Activity. (Android users can find this under Data & Personalization.)

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

August 8, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Don’t Get Schooled by Credit Card Debt

LITTLE ROCK – Many young adults entering college or the workforce feel the pressure of looming bills and turn to credit cards to cover the initial costs but end up paying exorbitant rates long-term. Understanding that credit cards are not free and will only alleviate temporary financial burdens is an important concept for newly independent students. Accumulating credit card debt is avoidable; unfortunately, new users often fall victim to debt that hurts their ability to invest in personal pursuits like obtaining home loans and other financing in later years.

“Credit cards can be helpful but new users may not be fully aware of the costly terms and conditions,” says Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Forgetting to make a payment or exceeding a card’s limit can be devastating to a consumer’s credit score, having a detrimental impact on long-term plans to buy a house or car.”

As preventative strategies to young adults interested in applying for a credit card, Rutledge offers this advice when using a card:

• • Submit payments on time. Making regular payments is the best way to improve a credit score and qualify for less expensive credit.

• • Pay the whole balance owed if possible. Although it may seem easier to pay the minimum, doing so costs more in the long run, and it will take much longer to pay off the debt.

• Do not “max out” a credit card. Charging the full credit limit is risky, and it will affect a consumer’s credit score.
• Do not respond to every tempting credit card offer. Using too much credit could lead to having uncontrollable debt.
• Read the fine print as some credit cards include expensive annual fees and higher interest rates in exchange for incentives like airline miles and bonus points. Some credit cards offer other services such as lower annual percentage rates, insurance and other items at no cost.

To protect college students from coercive credit card companies and debt, the Arkansas General Assembly enacted legislation in 1999 that restricts the practice of marketing credit cards on college campuses.

College students are further protected by the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act, which restricts the marketing of credit cards on campuses nationwide. The advertisement of credit card within 1,000 feet of a college campus or university event is prohibited. In addition, consumers under the age of 21 are required to include a parent’s signature, further binding the parent or guardian to repay debt incurred by the account. Credit card companies are also forbidden from using gifts as a form of persuasion to bribe younger consumers into applying for a card.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

August 1, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Preparation can Lower the Cost of Expensive Back-to-School Shopping

LITTLE ROCK – Parents across Arkansas have been gearing up and saving money for back-to-school shopping, but supplies and clothes can be expensive, especially if parents do not take the time to price shop. From school supplies, to new gadgets and clothes, money quickly adds up.

“Back-to-school shopping can be stressful and financially straining for Arkansans,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “But taking the time to compare prices, taking advantage of the best deals and only buying the necessities can save a lot of money.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for parents who are back-to-school shopping:

• Stick to the teacher-approved school supply list. Do not waste time and money on unlisted, impulse items that may never be used.
• Research prices ahead of time. Use price comparison apps or websites to check best available prices in real time. Or shop end-of-summer sales. Also consider that many stores will price-match better deals from other retailers.
• Check school supply deals at supermarkets and scope out the office supply items before going to the back-to-school section. More items could be in stock for a better price.
• For larger, more expensive items like sports equipment, electronics or musical instruments, consider buying used or refurbished.
• Ask about and understand a store’s return policy, and recognize sometimes a box cannot be returned once it is opened.
• If shopping online, only purchase items on a secure website. Determine whether a website is secure by looking for a “lock” icon in a browser’s status bar and the letters “https” at the start of the website’s URL.
• Consider paying for online purchases with a credit card. Consumers are allowed under federal law to dispute those charges and cardholders may have no liability if a card is stolen fraudulently and used.

Some providers and companies offer student discounts on wireless service, cell phones, tablets and other electronics. Check with the provider to determine available discounts.

Arkansas’s sales tax holiday, which suspends state and local tax on certain school supplies and clothing, is Aug. 4 and 5.

According to the National Retail Federation, families spent nearly $84 billion in back-to-school and back-to-college spending last year. Meanwhile, they estimate $685 in spending per child in grades K-12.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

July 26, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: Fake Military Charities Steal from Arkansans

LITTLE ROCK – Scammers have been stealing money from Arkansans by posing as veteran charities and requesting charitable donations. These scams result in money paid to the pockets of scammers rather than the veterans charities that rely on them. Last week, Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge announced a new donor education campaign partnership with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and all 50 states.Operation Donate with Honor was launched to help consumers recognize charitable solicitation fraud and identify legitimate charities. In addition to the new campaign, the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office also offers advice to distinguish between fake and real charities.

“Con artists are savvy and may use names similar to already existing, trustworthy charities,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “If Arkansans know the correct questions to ask, a scam can usually be spotted. This new partnership is one more way to get the word out and ensure that Arkansans’ hard-earned money is actually helping veterans and our brave service men and women.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to help consumers ensure an organization’s legitimacy before giving money:

• Ask questions before giving. Only give when comfortable that the donation will support a trustworthy organization or activity. Refuse high-pressure appeals. Legitimate charities will not rush a donation.
• Ask for written information or research the organization online. A legitimate charity will send information that provides the organization’s mission and how the donation will be used, along with proof that the contribution is tax deductible.
• Call the charity directly. To avoid falling victim to sham solicitors, personally contact the charity before giving a donation by email, to the person knocking at the front door or to a telephone solicitor to ensure it is not a scam.
• Do not send cash. For security and tax records, make donations by check or credit card.
• Search the Arkansas Charities Database for more information on charities in Arkansas, including those benefiting service members and their families.

Rutledge and the FTC have released a video to highlight tips on how to research charities on giving wisely to veterans organizations.

In 2015, Rutledge launched the first-ever Military and Veterans Initiative at the Attorney General’s office to assist active duty military service members, reservists, veterans and their families with consumer-related issues and many other collaborative efforts.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

July 19, 2018

GI Bill Available for Military Members Receiving Higher Education

LITTLE ROCK – Current or former military service members should not fall prey to unnecessary high-interest education loan offers. Instead, America’s brave men and women can take advantage of the Forever GI Bill.

“The Forever GI Bill helps veterans and active duty service members continue their education and learn new skills for job opportunities,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Many of these men and women put their education on hold to serve our country, and this GI Bill ensures that educational opportunities are available when the time is right.”

Attorney General Rutledge has announced that there are many types of programs available under the GI Bill, such as:

• • Undergraduate and graduate degree programs
  • Vocational/technical training
  • On-the-job/apprenticeship
  • Licensing and certification reimbursement
  • National testing reimbursement

• • Entrepreneurship training

• Flight training
• Correspondence training
• Work-study programs
• Tuition assistance
• Tutorial assistance

Active duty service members can additionally receive tiered amounts of benefit payments. Those who have served a minimum of 36 months after Sept. 10, 2001 are eligible for 100 percent tuition coverage or up to $21,970.46 per year at a private or foreign school. In addition, the Yellow Ribbon Program is available to service members to make up any difference in cost.

Members must have served at least 30 days of continuous active duty and be discharged due to a service connected disability or served an aggregate of 90 days of active duty and received honorable discharge to be eligible for the GI Bill. Service members who meet the criteria for this benefit have 15 years to use the aid. Reservists and Guard member are also eligible for the GI Bill and its recent amendments.

Benefits are also transferable to family members, including a spouse or child. If the service member has died in the line of duty on or after Sept. 10, 2001, his or her children may be eligible for additional benefits under the Marine Gunnery John David Fry Scholarship Program.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.govor visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

July 11, 2018

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: SCRA Protects Military Service Members

LITTLE ROCK – Even some well-meaning Arkansans may not be aware of the protections granted to our brave military servicemen and women under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) of 2003. Federal laws protect active-duty servicemen and women and their families from potentially harmful civil legal matters. These protections cover insurance, mortgage payments, interest rates, leases, contractual arrangements and civil judicial proceedings.

“Our military men and women put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Due to their unique needs and service obligations, Congress has implemented safeguards to ensure they have fewer worries at home while they are deployed. But it is important for all Americans to be aware of these protections.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips as part of Military Consumer Month to help service members who need to take advantage of the many protections provided under the SCRA:

• Inform the mortgage company that you are seeking protection under SCRA.
• Provide the lender with written notice of military service.
• Send the lender a copy of the orders calling the service member to active duty.
• Research time constraints that could impact eligibility for some protections.
• Consult the nearest Armed Forces Legal Assistance Office with questions regarding qualifications for SCRA.

The SCRA limits mortgage interest to 6 percent during military service and up to one year after service ends. Unless a court intervenes, it prevents a mortgage creditor from selling, foreclosing or seizing an active-duty service member’s mortgaged property during service and up to one year after military service terminates. The SCRA also provides protection requiring a judge to stay mortgage proceedings if a service member shows that military service has affected his or her ability to comply with mortgage obligations. Many service members would benefit from mortgage relief measures, and SCRA underscores this by prohibiting a mortgage servicer from requiring a service member to be delinquent on payments in order to qualify for loss mitigation relief if he or she would otherwise qualify.

Meanwhile, the 2012 National Mortgage Settlement placed requirements on five major mortgage servicers: Ally, Bank of America, Citi, J.P. Morgan Chase and Wells Fargo. In addition to benefitting all homeowners, these mortgage servicers must notify service members who are 45 days delinquent on mortgage payments that they are entitled to SCRA protections and are eligible for financial counseling from Military OneSource and Armed Forces Legal Assistance. Arkansas was one of 49 states that settled with the mortgages servicers on allegations of illegal actions in servicing loans.

In 2015, Rutledge launched the first-ever Military and Veterans Initiative at the Attorney General’s office to assist active duty military service members, reservists, veterans and their families with consumer related issues and many other collaborative efforts.

For more information and tips on how to avoid a scam, call the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov orfacebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.