Latest Scams

Call 800-368-8808 to reports a scam or email scams@wvago.gov

The West Virginia Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division is committed to keeping West Virginians informed about the latest scams targeting our communities. Criminals constantly develop new tactics to steal your money and personal information, making it essential to stay alert and informed.

 

Current Top Scams Targeting West Virginians:

Based on 151 reports to the West Virginia Attorney General's Office in September 2025, these are the three most common scams affecting our state:

  1. Loan Scams - Scammers claiming to be from a lending or loan team, telling consumers they've been approved for loans.
  2. Medicare Scams - Calls and emails claiming to be from Medicare
  3. Sweepstakes - Scammers claiming consumers have won prizes

 

 

LEARN ABOUT THE LATEST ON-LINE, SOCIAL MEDIA AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SCAMS HERE

 

 

Other Common Scams

Utility Scams

 

Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams

 

Grandparent Scams

 

Health Insurance Scam

 

Contractor Scam

 

 

ways to protect yourself

  • Be aware that criminals can "spoof" phone numbers - Your caller ID may show familiar numbers that aren't actually calling
  • Hang up and call back - using numbers you have on file if calls seem suspicious, don't engage with callers
  • Be wary of any contest winnings - Especially if you didn't enter
  • Research before you trust - Verify identities, companies, and claims independently
  • Keep detailed records - Document all interactions with service providers and financial transaction

what not to do

  • Never provide personal or financial information over the phone - to unsolicited callers
  • Never pay anyone with gift cards - Legitimate companies don't accept gift cards as payment
  • Never pay money to claim prizes - Real contests don't require payment
  • Never send money to people you haven't met in person - This includes online romantic interests
  • Don't handle money transfers for strangers - You could unknowingly participate in money laundering
  • Never accept or forward packages for online acquaintances - This may involve illegal activity

 

 

The West Virginia Attorney General's Office is here to help

If you've been targeted by scammers or have questions about suspicious contacts, contact our office immediately.

Consumer Protection Hotline: 1-800-368-8808

West Virginia Attorney General's Office
Consumer Protection and Anti-Trust Division
1900 Kanawha Boulevard, East
Building 1, Room E-26
Charleston, WV 25305

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 1789
Charleston, WV 25326

Phone: 304-558-8986

E-mail: Scams@wvago.gov