News

Don’t Fall for the “Unpaid Toll” Text Scam!

The Utah Division of Consumer Protection (Division) is alerting Utahns to a widespread phishing text scam. Scammers are impersonating legitimate toll authorities, including the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT), by sending fraudulent text messages. These texts falsely claim you have an unpaid toll balance and threaten legal action if immediate payment isn’t made....
July 7, 2025
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Consumer Protection
Spot the Scam

Advisory for Business Registrants: Important Mail Alert

The Utah Department of Commerce’s Division of Corporations and Commercial Code (Division) wants to inform Utah business owners about a potentially misleading mailer currently in circulation. Recently, there have been reports of letters being sent that include QR codes directing recipients to a website that closely resembles our official business registration page. This third-party site attempts to charge users $175 for business renewal services....
July 1, 2025
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Consumer Protection
Department of Commerce

Utah Sues Snapchat For Unleashing Experimental AI Technology On Young Users While Misrepresenting the Safety of the Platform 

SALT LAKE CITY, UT— Today, Utah Governor Spencer J. Cox, Utah Attorney General Derek Brown, and the Utah Department of Commerce’s Margaret Busse announced a lawsuit against Snap, Inc. (Snap). Utah alleges that Snap profits from unconscionable design features created to addict children to the app, and facilitates illegal drug sales and sextortion. The lawsuit also includes claims related to its AI chatbot, My AI, and comes as states confront the harsh realities of AI technology’s impact on children. The joint filing from Commerce’s Division of Consumer Protection and the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) was filed in State Court on June 30, 2025. ...
June 30, 2025
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Consumer Protection
News and Announcements

Consumer Advisory for Utahns: Protect Your Genetic Data Amid 23andMe Bankruptcy

Utah consumers have the right to request companies delete their genetic data  The Utah Department of Commerce’s Division of Consumer Protection (DCP) and Office of the Utah Attorney General (OAG) are issuing a consumer alert regarding the recent bankruptcy filing by 23andMe, a direct-to-consumer genetic testing company.  Utah residents should be aware of their rights and the protections afforded to...
March 25, 2025
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Consumer Protection
News and Announcements

National Consumer Protection Week: How to be a W.I.S.E. Consumer

This National Consumer Protection Week (and every week), the Utah Division of Consumer Protection (DCP) is committed to safeguarding consumers from fraudulent activities. We offer resources and outreach programs designed to empower individuals to identify scams and make informed decisions. Our dedicated team is here to empower YOU with the tools to recognize scams and make informed decisions.  As part...
March 3, 2025
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Consumer Protection
Department of Commerce

Scam Reporting: How to Report Suspicious Activity in Your Community

Scams and fraud are becoming more sophisticated in our interconnected world. Reporting them protects not just yourself but your community as well. This post will cover the steps to take if you encounter a scam, how to report it to authorities, and local law enforcement’s role in combatting fraud. Recognizing the Signs of a Scam Before we delve into the...
February 26, 2025
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Consumer Protection

How to Avoid Romance Scams: Protecting Your Heart and Your Wallet

In our increasingly digital world, more relationships start online than in person (Stanford Study). Online dating offers the chance to meet new people, build relationships, and potentially find love. However, it also comes with risks. One of the most insidious threats is romance scams, often leading to heartbreak and significant financial loss. Understanding how to recognize and avoid romance scams...
February 5, 2025
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Consumer Protection

New Year, New You: A Guide to Avoiding Scams in 2025

As we step into 2025, many of us set resolutions focused on self-improvement, health, and even financial growth. However, nothing can dampen New Year positivity and motivation faster than falling victim to a scam. Here are some practical tips to help you stay vigilant and informed to avoid scams in the New Year. 1. Watch out for Common Scams Every...
January 14, 2025
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Consumer Protection

Stay Alert: How to Protect Yourself from Impersonation Scams

Impersonation scams are on the rise. These deceptive schemes often involve individuals posing as trusted figures—whether government officials, law enforcement, trusted businesses, or even close friends and family—aiming to manipulate others into revealing personal information or transferring money. While people may be aware of these scams, some still fall victim to these scenarios because scammers are pros at leveraging fear...
December 19, 2024
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Consumer Protection
Department of Commerce
Uncategorized

Avoiding Holiday Shopping Scams: Your Fun & Festive Guide to Safe Holiday Shopping! ✨

The holiday season is full of cheer, but it’s also prime time for scammers! Stay safe while you shop with these tips: 1. Check the List Twice 📜 Before purchasing, verify the retailer’s website or app. Look for secure payment options and “https:” in the URL. 2. Spot the Scam Before You Click 🔍       Be wary of ads offering...
December 9, 2024
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Consumer Protection
Department of Commerce
Uncategorized