Consumer Fraud Reporting Agencies
Quick Reference List
National agency for reporting fraud, scams, deceptive business practices, and contractor fraud.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) — operated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation
For reporting internet-based fraud, wire fraud, payment scams, and cybercrime.
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Helps document complaints and facilitates dispute resolution between consumers and businesses.
Arizona Attorney General's Office — Consumer Protection Division
Investigates consumer fraud, deceptive practices, and business misconduct within Arizona.
Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC)
Regulates licensed contractors and investigates contractor complaints in Arizona.
Maricopa County Sheriff's Office (MCSO)
Accepts reports of theft, fraud, and criminal contractor misconduct, especially in unincorporated areas.
Arizona Department of Financial Institutions (DFI)
Handles complaints involving lenders, debt collectors, and certain financial services.
Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions (DIFI)
Regulates insurance providers and certain financial entities.
File a police report if fraud or theft is suspected within city limits.
Local Police Department (City-Based Residents)
Report Fraud & File Complaints
Step 1
Pause and Assess the Situation
Before filing a report, take time to determine whether the issue involves:
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Miscommunication
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Contract violation
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Poor workmanship
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Non-delivery of goods
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Potential fraud
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Contractor abandonment
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Deceptive business practices
Not every dispute is fraud—but many disputes become fraud when promises are made without intent to perform.
Key Objective:
Identify whether your situation may involve consumer rights violations or possible fraud.
Step 2
Stop Additional Payments Immediately
If concerns arise, do not continue making payments until the situation is clarified.
Recommended Actions:
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Pause future payments
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Avoid signing new agreements
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Do not approve additional work
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Notify your bank if payment concerns exist
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Document any requests for additional funds
Why This Matters:
Continuing payments after warning signs appear can increase financial loss and complicate recovery efforts.
Step 3
Gather and Preserve Documentation
Strong documentation is the single most important factor in successful reporting.
Collect:
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Signed contracts
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Payment records
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Receipts and invoices
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Emails and text messages
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Photos or videos of work or conditions
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Marketing materials or advertisements
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Written notes from phone calls
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Names and contact details of individuals involved
Best Practice:
Create a single digital folder labeled:
Case Documentation
Save everything in one place.
What Victims Should Do Before Reporting to an Agency
Process and workflow
If you believe you have been the victim of fraud, contractor misconduct, or deceptive business practices, following a structured process can improve the effectiveness of your report and protect your legal rights.
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Reporting too quickly without documentation—or waiting too long—can both create problems. The steps below help ensure your report is complete, accurate, and actionable.