It might feel like no one is watching out for US consumers right now, but a wide array of federal, state and local regulators still target company fraud and deception.
Consumer advocates say it is always worth filing a complaint to every relevant government office, despite budget cuts, layoffs and the rollback of federal regulatory oversight.
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Complaints are logged and shared with Congress, state legislators and the public. They help determine budgets, structure federal investigations and organize lawsuits.
The US regulatory system is broken when it comes to consumer rights, but it will not improve without evidence from angry residents.
When preparing a complaint, document correspondence, order numbers, dates and dollar amounts. Keep transcripts of phone conversations and screenshots of chatbot chats.
Where to file complaints
The Federal Trade Commission takes complaints on general product and service fraud and scams. It often refers cases to other agencies and collaborates with states on investigations.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau handles complaints within the financial services industry, including credit scorers and non-bank lenders.
It still appears to be actively contacting companies to resolve issues despite cuts.
Search the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s database of product recalls and file a complaint about unsafe products.
Report airline travel delays, baggage problems and discrimination at the Federal Aviation Administration’s consumer protection office.
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The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center takes complaints about online criminal activity, including fraud.
