Wisconsin's top consumer warnings for January 2025
MILWAUKEE - Protecting your money and identity takes work. It takes knowing your rights and staying informed.
Winter, Spring Getaway Scams
What we know:
Planning a getaway? Know your rights, starting with your baggage.
Michelle Reinen, Administrator of the Wisconsin Division of Trade and Consumer Protection said the airline must refund any reasonable expenses caused by the lost luggage. Keep your receipts as documentation.
Reinen says the airline must refund any reasonable expenses caused by the lost luggage. Keep your receipts as documentation.
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If your flight is canceled or significantly delayed, you're entitled to your money back.
What they're saying:
"If your luggage is lost, the airline is responsible for locating it and refunding you for any damages," Reinen said. "You need to assert your rights as a consumer and, if not, file a complaint (with the state)," said Reinen.
Law Enforcement Impersonation Scams
What we know:
Scammers impersonating police departments and sheriff's offices are on the rise in the Badger State. The caller will say you've missed jury duty, have a warrant out for your arrest or have unpaid fines. The call often comes from a spoofed phone number.
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Reinen says real law enforcement never demands money in exchange for avoiding arrest.
What they're saying:
"It makes it look like it's coming from the local law enforcement office," said Reinen. "If you're concerned that it's real, reach out to local law enforcement using the non-emergency number."
Fake Lottery Winnings Scam
What we know:
Many people dream of winning the lottery. Remember: you have to buy a ticket to win. That's something the people behind one scam letter want you to forget.
The letter says you've won more than $1,000,000. However, first you have to cover the taxes and fees, which come to about $10,000. Reinen says that's not how the lottery works.
What they're saying:
"(It says) you were entered into this lottery because you used your credit card at a local gas station or grocery store," said Reinen. "Whenever there are taxes or fees that go along with winnings, they come out of your earnings, your prize…They don't have to come out of your savings account."
What you can do:
If you have a consumer complaint and want to see if Contact 6 can help, you are invited to file a complaint.
The Source: The information in this post was produced by the Contact 6 team.