Free fraud prevention events to be held during National Consumer Protection Week

Thousands of Nevadans each year fall prey to fraudulent and deceptive business practices resulting in financial loss or lost time and energy seeking a resolution. In 2017, Nevada Consumer Affairs (NCA), a unit of the Department of Business and Industry’s Directors Office, received 1,968 informational inquiries and complaints and obtained more than $245,000 in refunds and restitution for these consumers.  

“We know that only a small percentage of consumers that have been victimized by a scam or an unfair or fraudulent business contact our offices ,” said Cris Carmona, NCA Chief Investigator. “This problem is widespread and anyone could find themselves in this position. Our goal is to give consumers information and resources before they become a victim. But in the event that it does happen, we are here to help.”  

Education and awareness is the best line of defense against becoming a victim of fraud. NCA is hosting a free Consumer Fraud Prevention Fair in Carson City on March 7 at Reno Town Mall, 4001 S. Virginia Street and in Las Vegas on March 9 at the Las Vegas Clark County Library, 1401 E. Flamingo Road .  

The fairs will provide information and resources in the areas of consumer rights, how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud and one-on-one assistance for consumers that need help resolving complaints involving fraud or a deceptive business practice.  Resource booths will be open throughout the day with exhibitors including AARP Nevada, Better Business Bureau, Federal Trade Commission, Office of the Nevada Attorney General, Senior Medicare Patrol and more. Admission is free and open to all members of the public.  

Reno Town Mall, 4001 S. Virginia Street

Wednesday, March 7, 10:00 am- 3:00 pm  

10:00 am- 3:00 pm- Resource Fair Booths Open  

11:00 am- Fraud Prevention Panel* featuring:  

            Cris Carmona, Chief Investigator, Nevada Consumer Affairs  

            Laura Tucker, Senior Deputy Attorney General, Office of Nevada Attorney General  

            Kerry O’Brien, Assistant Regional Director, Federal Trade Commission  

            Lori Powers, Outreach Coordinator, Senior Medicare Patrol  

12:30 am- Lunch, sponsored by AARP Nevada  

* Fraud Prevention Panel will take place in the Sierra View Library Community Room  

Las Vegas Clark County Library, 1401 E. Flaming Road

Friday, March 9, 11:00 am- 3:00 pm  

11:00 am- 3:00 pm- Resource Fair Booths Open

11:30 am- Fraud Prevention Panel #1 featuring:  

            Cris Carmona, Chief Investigator, Nevada Consumer Affairs  

            Sheri Ann Forbes, Senior Deputy AG, Nevada Attorney General’s Office  

            Lori Powers, Outreach Coordinator, Senior Medicare Patrol  

12:30 pm- Lunch, sponsored by AARP Nevada  

1:30 p.m. - Fraud Prevention Panel #2 featuring:    

Christine Footit, Stakeholder Liaison, IRS  

Detective Michael Gomez, Las Vegas Metro Police Department  

Haley Box, Esq., Nevada Legal Services  

For more information about the Consumer Fraud Prevention Fairs, or Nevada Consumer Affairs, visit http://consumeraffairs.nv.gov or call 844-594-7275.  

About Nevada Consumer Affairs

NCA investigates consumer complaints pertaining to deceptive and fraudulent business practices.  Consumers that live in or visit Nevada can contact Nevada Consumer Affairs for assistance in resolving issues of fraud or deceptive trade practices involving Nevada-based businesses. Areas that NCA can investigate include, but are not limited to: pyramid promotional schemes, sales promotions, telecommunications services and door-to-door sales.  The office will also provide referrals for issues that fall within the jurisdiction of another agency or organization.  Consumers are encouraged to visit http://consumeraffairs.nv.gov or call toll free 844-594-7275.    

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