How to File a Complaint Against Phone Fraud in New York

Criminals frequently use phone scams to prey on consumers

The unscrupulous are known for using the phone to perpetuate crimes. With promises of trips, cash, and other rewards, these culprits scam the innocent out of money and personal information. If you live in the state of New York and have been a victim of phone fraud, there are local and federal agencies ready to receive your complaint and help resolve the situation.

Instructions

1. Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC investigates phone fraud and will work with New York law enforcement to obtain arrests. Go to the FTC's website to access the online complaint form. You will be required to submit your name, address, and contact information, along with detailed information about the alleged phone fraud. You will be guided step by step as you complete the online complaint form.

2. Contact the New York Attorney General's Office's Consumer Fraud Bureau to investigate complaints against businesses. A complaint form is accessible online, and must be printed and completed, then mailed to the Consumer Fraud Bureau. Send your completed complaint form to Office of the Attorney General, Bureau of Consumer Frauds and Protection, 120 Broadway, Third Floor, New York, New York 10271-0332.

3. Contact the Better Business Bureau (BBB). There are several BBB offices located throughout New York. Go to www.BBB.org to locate the branch nearest to you. You can submit a complaint online and see if others have had the same issue with the company you are reporting.

4. Contact local law enforcement. Let your local New York police department or sheriff's office know about the phone fraud you have experienced and the agencies you have contacted to report the matter. The local authorities can work together with these agencies to locate the culprit. Local law enforcement can also post warnings to other residents who might be contacted by the same company.