Arkansas veterans cautioned about scams

This July, Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge and the Federal Trade Commission are highlighting consumer protection issues that impact many American consumers, specifically those members of the United States Armed Forces. While no one is immune from falling prey to scams, there are certain scams that are directed to those who serve the nation in uniform.

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips and common scams military service members and veterans should be cautious of moving forward:

• Be aware of any scam artists charging money for free records. Scammers will attempt to convince veterans to pay for documents that are already free. If you want copies of VA or military records, you can contact the Department of Veterans Affairs, the National Achieves, or the appropriate service branch.
• Be skeptical of any exclusive deal only for veterans.
• Be guarded when anyone demands an up-front payment. It is a common scam for con artists to demand payment or large sums of money up front and some will even go as far as claiming to be military personnel overseas. No legitimate business will ever demand for complete payment up front and this is a red flag.
• Be suspicious of any individual or entity requiring monetary compensation to file disability claims for Veterans. The claim process is free and can be submitted by coordinating with a certified County Veteran Service Officer (CVSO) or any Veteran Administration claims representative.  The Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs can help you find your certified CVSO here.
• Be leery of email messages claiming to be from a legitimate organization that does not have its own domain name.
• Be careful with any correspondence containing poor spelling and grammar. Legitimate companies and organizations typically proofread documents and emails thoroughly before sending them. Errors can be a red flag for fraud.
• Be cautious with suspicious links and high-pressure requests. 
• Be suspicious of unsolicited investment advice.

Arkansas military service members, veterans and families can file consumer complaints with the Attorney General’s office at ArkansasAG.gov.