Consumer fraud can happen at any time, which is why it requires constant vigilance from consumers and entities in charge of curbing it. Although there are several well-known types of consumer fraud, including identity theft and credit and debit card fraud, there are other practices that may be less familiar, such as deceptive sales tactics when purchasing or leasing a car. Knowing every type of consumer fraud is impossible, New York Attorney General Letitia James has made it a bit easier for New Yorkers — as well as for consumers everywhere — with a list of the top 10 consumer fraud complaints received by her office in 2019. Also, she provides a few tips on how New Yorkers can avoid future scams. "This top 10 list not only reflects the numerous ways in which consumers were unfortunately defrauded, cheated, and conned in 2019 but should serve as a warning sign for all consumers as we forge into 2020," Attorney General James said in a statement. "Consumers who have helped identify and report issues to our office have been invaluable partners in our efforts to stop deceptive scams and will be vital in our efforts to stop fraudsters dead in their tracks going forward. My office will continue to use every tool at its disposal to protect New York consumers and enforce our laws." While this list is specific to New York, these types of consumer frauds are likely applicable to consumers everywhere. Explore the slideshow above to find out the top 10 consumer frauds of 2019. Related: |

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