Consumer Law in Fairbanks, AK

There may be very few feelings to compare to the anger of being scammed in a business transaction. When you enter into a transaction where money is changing hands, there is an understanding that you are getting a square deal. However, scams and fraud are on the rise in Fairbanks. If you have been the victim of fraud, you may want to reach out to an experienced attorney In Fairbanks to help you fight to get back what’s yours.

Common Types of Consumer Fraud in Fairbanks, Alaska

Consumer fraud primarily refers to deceptive practices that can cause customers in Fairbanks to suffer financial, physical, or emotional injury. Fraudulent practices may also occur at the individual level. For instance, when someone falls victim to lottery scams. Consumer law refers to the regulations that define unlawful actions and how consumers can seek justice.

Sometimes, becoming a victim of consumer fraud in Fairbanks, AK can also lead to criminal charges against you. As an example, it can be strenuous to clear your name after you donate to a charitable organization involved with money laundering.

Due to the number of scams being run in Fairbanks, and all through Alaska, the Alaska Department of Law urges Fairbanks residents of Anchorage to be on guard. Pyramid schemes and phishing scams have become quite prevalent in recent years. Additionally, fake check scams have become very popular. This happens when a scammer sends you a seemingly authentic check, usually representing some sort of sweepstakes winnings or contest. You’ll be asked to send a portion back, only to discover weeks after you deposit the check, that it is fake. You’ll be out the money you sent back, and have to pay the fees to the bank.

Many people are embarrassed about falling for a scam, so they suffer in silence. But, speaking up can help to bring the persons responsible to justice. Even when it does not, it helps to spread awareness and stop other consumers from falling victim.

What Types of Fraud are in Consumer Law?

If you suffered damages because of consumer fraud in Fairbanks you might be able to file a lawsuit against the responsible parties. Learning about the most common types of consumer fraud found under law is the best place to start.

Identity Theft

This type of consumer fraud happens when a nefarious Fairbanks, AK company or individual steals your personal information. They might steal your bank account information, Social Security number, full name, or credit card numbers. One of the most common identity theft methods is this “data mining”.

Once an individual has your personal information, they can open credit cards or make fraudulent charges on existing ones. Some thieves will even open utility accounts in your name as a way to prove residency. Once they can accomplish this task, they have even more options to apply for loans or credit cards.

Some identity thieves gain access to your bank account and drain all the funds that you have available. There are also reports of scams that access health insurance and place medical charges on the victim’s insurance. Proving that you are a victim of identity theft can be very complicated. Consequently, hiring a dedicated Fairbanks consumer law fraud lawyer is essential to proving your innocence.

Fake Organizations

Fake charities are difficult to spot. Often, they use the same techniques legitimate ones rely on to raise funds. That’s why it’s important for you to understand where your money is going, before you donate to an organization. The same is true when investing or purchasing goods and services.

You can identify if any Fairbanks, AK organization is legitimate if they have registration in the state. Or, the IRS should verify their non-profit status. But, scammers can legitimately register organizations for illegal purposes. Always take the time to research how your money gets used before investing in a business or donating to charity.

The Alaska Charitable Solicitations Act seeks to prevent residents of Fairbanks from falling victim to false and fraudulent charities that take advantage of a person’s desire to help. This law states that no charitable organization can solicit donations unless they are registered with the state. In the same fashion, any individual that is attempting to solicit donations must register with the state.

When it comes to products and services, looking up customer reviews can help. The more reviews a product or service has, the more likely it is a legitimate organization. However, people can buy these illegally. In addition to this, anyone can build a website or register an empty LLC in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Defective Products and Services

Legitimate Fairbanks, AK companies often create defective products and services. For example:

• Products that do not work as intended
• Products that have harmful design flaws
• Medications that do not mention all side effects
• Services that do not deliver on promises

Even when this is not intentional, consumers might be entitled to compensation for damages. This circumstance is why car manufacturers issue recalls and repairs when they realize something has gone wrong.

The Alaska Legislature confirms that a 90 day notice must be given when a Fairbanks resident is looking to file a claim for a defective product. Under current Alaska law, a Fairbanks manufacturer can be held liable for damages or injury caused by a defective product. However, the seller may also be liable. This can apply to manufacturers and sellers of large vehicles and machinery, such as cars, motorcycles, and farming equipment. You may want to consult with an experienced attorney in Fairbanks when you file your liability claim.

Fairbanks, Alaska Consumer Protection Laws and How Consumer Law Works

The Federal Trade Commission Act of 1914 is arguably the most important consumer protection law in the United States. It established the Federal Trade Commission to protect consumers from deceptive business practices. It does this for individual cases and to target monopolies. Some of the FTC’s work includes conducting investigations, collecting complaints, and filing lawsuits. Additionally, other federal laws protect public consumers against deceptive transactions. These include the agriculture, real estate, food, and beverage industries. Fairbanks, Alaska consumer laws also put measures in place to police false advertising and illegal debt collection practices.

Work With an Experienced Fairbanks, Alaska Consumer Law Attorney

Working with a consumer fraud attorney in Fairbanks can help you understand your rights. The appropriate professional from our network of legal experts will help you understand the FTC guidelines. You’ll discover what types of complaints you can make against the organization that has committed fraud against you. A qualified Fairbanks, AK consumer fraud attorney will also guide you through working with law enforcement. The goal is to bring the fraudulent business practices against other customers and yourself to light.

Are you looking to hire an experienced consumer law lawyer near you? Get help and file a claim against the entity that committed consumer fraud against you. We can even help you connect with an attorney across Alaska state lines.

Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an attorney in your area!