📅 2026 Update: Key Changes in US Fraud Law

Since the original article was published, several important changes have occurred in US fraud law. These updates affect how various types of fraud are reported and prosecuted. The earlier article continues further down the page, providing foundational knowledge on fraud types and reporting procedures.

🆕 📜 Federal Trade Commission Updates

In 2025, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) updated its guidelines on bait-and-switch advertising. This change strengthens enforcement against deceptive advertising practices. Businesses can no longer use attractive pricing to lure customers into buying more expensive items.

🔒 📈 Enhanced Penalties for Mail Fraud

The Sentencing Commission increased penalties for mail fraud in 2024. This reflects a tougher stance on mail fraud convictions. Offenders now face more severe consequences for such crimes.

💻 📝 Online Reporting for Credit Card Fraud

In 2025, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau launched an online portal for reporting credit card fraud. This makes it easier for consumers to file reports quickly and securely. This effort aims to improve the reporting process for victims of credit card fraud.

📅 🛑 New Regulations on Liquidation Sales

As of January 2026, the Department of Justice has implemented stricter regulations regarding liquidation and going-out-of-business sales. Businesses must now provide clear disclosures to prevent misleading consumers. This change seeks to protect buyers from deceptive practices during sales.

📌 Summary of Key Points

  • 🛡️ FTC guidelines now enforce stricter rules against bait-and-switch advertising.
  • 📬 Mail fraud penalties have become more severe since 2024.
  • 💳 Consumers can report credit card fraud online at no cost.
  • 📜 New regulations require transparency in liquidation sales.
  • 📅 Timely reporting is crucial to minimize liability in fraud cases.

💡 Tips for Reporting and Managing Fraud

Review your situation with an attorney to understand your rights and responsibilities regarding fraud.

📞 🚨 Report Fraud Immediately

If you experience unauthorized credit card transactions, report them to your credit card issuer right away. Quick action can limit your liability under the Fair Credit Billing Act.

🖥️ 📝 Use Online Portals

Take advantage of online reporting options for credit card fraud. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau provides a user-friendly portal for consumers.

📬 🏢 File Mail Fraud Complaints

Victims of mail fraud should file a complaint with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Completing the online complaint form helps initiate an investigation into the fraudulent activity.

📊 📈 Stay Informed About Securities Fraud

If you have information about potential securities fraud, consider submitting a tip to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Tips can be submitted anonymously, ensuring your identity remains confidential.

📚 🛡️ Utilize Free Resources

Various government agencies offer free assistance to victims of fraud. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the SEC provide resources to help consumers navigate fraud issues.

🏆 Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section highlights services related to fraud protection and reporting. The following services have been ranked based on Trustpilot data from October 2026. Ratings can change over time, and reviews may reflect more negative experiences, as unhappy customers are often more vocal.

🥇 1. Experian

Experian has been rated 4.1 on Trustpilot. This service is known for its credit monitoring and identity theft protection. Reviewers highlight its usefulness in keeping track of credit scores.

However, some customers have noted issues with customer service responsiveness.

🥈 2. Assurant

Assurant holds a Trustpilot score of 3.7. It is recognized for its insurance services and consumer protection. This service provides valuable coverage against identity theft.

However, users have reported longer claims processing times as a drawback.

🆓 Free Government and Nonprofit Help

Free resources are available for consumers affected by fraud. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offers guidance for credit card fraud, while the U.S. Postal Inspection Service supports victims of mail fraud.

The SEC also provides free assistance for investors who believe they have been defrauded.

🔎 Comparing Services

When choosing a service related to fraud protection, consider the following:

  • 📊 Trustpilot ratings and reviews.
  • 📞 Customer service responsiveness.
  • 📅 Speed of claims processing.
  • 💻 Availability of online reporting tools.
  • 🛡️ Range of fraud protection services offered.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What should I do if I suspect fraud?

If you suspect fraud, contact your financial institution immediately. Reporting fraud quickly can help protect your assets and minimize losses.

📅 How long do I have to report credit card fraud?

You should report unauthorized transactions as soon as possible. If reported within 60 days, your liability is limited to $50 under the Fair Credit Billing Act.

📬 Where can I report mail fraud?

Mail fraud complaints can be filed with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. You can complete the complaint form on their website at no charge.

📈 What are the penalties for securities fraud?

Securities fraud can lead to serious consequences, including up to 25 years in prison and fines reaching $5 million for individuals.

🔍 How can I protect myself from identity theft?

To protect yourself, regularly monitor your credit reports and sign up for identity theft protection services. Quick reporting of suspicious activity is also crucial.

🛡️ What resources are available for fraud victims?

Victims can access free resources from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and SEC for guidance and support.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Fraud

Recent court rulings have highlighted the ongoing issues surrounding various fraud types, including credit card and securities fraud. These cases reflect the legal system's response to fraudulent activities and their implications.

For more details, feel free to browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






What is a Scam?



 



 

Facts About Scams to Know


A scam is a fraudulent or dishonest attempt to trap investors into delivery their monies for an illegitimate purpose. The typical scam will entice individual investors by making false proclamations of incredible returns; a scam will deliver inaccurate and spurious information to the consumer base in hopes of obtaining their money.



 



 



Scams or fraudulent business activities are not a new phenomenon and with the ever-growing availability of communication methods, scams now have the potential to target more and more consumers. As a result of computer advancement, the majority of scams are advertised on the Internet. The basic scam will entice individuals with bold or bright lettering claiming that if the individual invests money into the ‘opportunity’ they will reap enormous profits in the future. A scam can incorporate an assortment of products or services; however, every scam will entice individuals based on a promise of substantial returns. 



 



 



Types of Scams:



 



 



A scam can cover a vast range of business transactions, including any pyramid or Ponzi scheme, any selling or multi-level marketing scam or any offers that offer an individual prizes or miracle cures. A scam can also be established as a bogus charity or illegitimate business; again, whatever the form of scam, all of these illegal and fraudulent models will incorporate something that appears legitimate, but in reality is not. 



 



 



Although the actual message, meaning the promise or product attached to the scam, may differentiate, the intention or end result always remains the same—scams attempt to obtain money from the investor or consumer either by swindling them, selling them useless goods or offering services that are not in alignment with the price charged.



 



 



The term ‘scam’ is somewhat broad; however, it must be noted that all scams attempt to defraud investors through the portrayal of a good, service or business that is defunct or simply not realistic. Other common forms of scams include credit repair scams, payday loan scams and internet offers that ask for credit card information. 



 



 



How do scams reach investors?



 



 



A scam can reach its target audience in an assortment of ways; ranging from a one-person door to door marketing operation to highly-complex telemarketing procedures, a scam can reach potential investors through a variety of mediums. Advertising, direct mail, phone calls, text messaging and emails are all widely used to attract investors to a scam.



 



 



What to do if you are a victim of a Scam?



 



 



Regardless of the forum or the underlying promise offered, be sure to investigate all opportunities that appear sketchy or fraudulent. There are a number of online sites that document scams and how to avoid them. Additionally, if you are a victim of a scam you should immediately report them to the United States credit bureau, the Department of Justice or the Better Business Bureau. All scams and attempts to defraud customers or investors are illegal in the United States; that being said, incorporating a legal professional into your particular case will streamline and facilitate your case in regards to recoupment.