Department of Commerce Warns Consumers About Coronavirus and Stimulus Scams, and Unveils Fraud-Fighting Website

(For immediate release) SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – With economic relief payments, expanded unemployment benefits, loan programs, and other COVID-19-related initiatives, the Utah Department of Commerce is warning consumers to continue to be on the lookout for scams related to COVID-19, including stimulus and other government programs. To help consumers spot scams, the Department launched a new website today, targeted …

Division of Securities Urges Caution as Scammers Target Investors with COVID-19 Schemes

(For immediate release) SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Utah Department of Commerce is alerting investors to be on guard against an anticipated surge of fraudulent investment schemes. “Extraordinary measures are being taken to protect the health of the public. The public response to a difficult situation is encouraging,” said Chris Parker, Interim Executive Director …

Division of Consumer Protection Aggressively Pursuing Price Gouging Complaints

(For immediate release) SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Since receiving an influx of reports of price gouging over the weekend, investigators with the Division of Consumer Protection are aggressively pursuing reports of price gouging in the State of Utah. “We applaud the outstanding work of our retailers at this difficult time,” said Governor Gary Herbert. “They are working overtime to …

Consumers Encouraged to Report Price Gouging

(For immediate release) SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – As part of the State’s response to COVID-19, commonly known as the coronavirus, the Utah Division of Consumer Protection in the Utah Department of Commerce encourages citizens to report cases of excessive prices, commonly referred to as price gouging. “During a declared ‘State of Emergency’, Utah law forbids excessive prices on goods …

Beware of Investment Scams Using Coronavirus Fear and Uncertainty

(For immediate release) SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Chris Parker, Interim Executive Director at the Department of Commerce, is urging investors to be wary of con artists seeking to capitalize on fear and uncertainty due to the current coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. “Con artists use any means available to increase their odds of taking advantage of their marks, and coronavirus gives …