California issues consumer alert amid rise in scams targeting military community

CALIFORNIA – In honor of Military Consumer Month, attorney general Rob Bonta issued a consumer alert, July 31, to help protect California service members, veterans, and their families from common scams.

The military community is a frequent target for scammers.

Last year, military consumers filed over 99,400 fraud complaints – up from 93,000 in 2023, including 44,587 imposter scams costing over $199 million, according to the Federal Trade Commission.

“More and more often, service members, veterans, and their families are targets for predatory scammers promising everything from home loans to jobs, and continuing education,” said Bonta.

Scammers often target military members for access to pay and benefits

Scammers often target military members, veterans, and their families for access to pay and benefits, knowing they may pay fraudulent debts to avoid risking their careers or security clearances.

Scammers also exploit military camaraderie, posing as veterans to commit fraud or steal personal information.

Common scams targeting the military community

Scammers use various tactics to gain trust. Stay informed about common scams targeting the military and veterans. Watch out for:

Charities

Not all charities with “veteran” in the name are legitimate. Scammers often use official-sounding names to mislead donors. Avoid aggressive solicitations and research before giving. Verify charities at oag.ca.gov/charities using the Registry Verification Search to check their status and review financial reports.

Predatory Schools

Some for-profit schools target service members with false promises and high-pressure tactics. Take your time, ask about graduation rates, job placement, and salaries. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Also explore options at California’s public colleges and universities.

Home loan scams

Scammers may pose as the VA, government, or your loan servicer to push fake loan offers or modifications. Watch out for anyone who asks for upfront fees, tells you to redirect payments, or pressures you to sign unclear documents – especially anything involving signing over your property.

Identity theft and fraud

Scammers may pose as the DoD, VA or other agencies to steal your personal info. Always verify requests using official contact info found independently – not what the caller provides. Beware of misspelled emails, unprofessional messages, or links to non-government sites. Never share your Social Security number for military or veteran discounts.

Job scams

Scammers target service members with fake job listings to steal personal info and money. Use reputable job sites and government career pages, and never pay fees for applications or background checks. Beware of fake check scams where you’re asked to deposit a counterfeit check and send money back.

Pension scams

Scam advisors often target veterans 65+ with costly annuities, asset transfers, or illegal fees for help with pension applications. Their advice can risk your eligibility for VA benefits. For free, legitimate help, contact your County Veterans Service Office.

Debt collection scams

Collectors may use illegal threats to scare service members. They can’t revoke your clearance or contact your command without consent. Dispute debts in writing within 30 days to pause collection and demand proof.

Rental Scams

Scammers target service members with fake rental listings, especially during Permanent Change of Station season, often promising military discounts to get upfront payments. Never send money before seeing a property. Use your base office or trusted rental agencies.

Auto Scams

Dealers near bases may push overpriced cars or bad loans disguised as “military deals.” Don’t trust verbal promises – read the contract and compare financing options before buying.

Protect yourself from scams

Take your time and get advice before big decisions.
Check your free annual credit report at annualcreditreport.com
Use fraud alerts or credit freezes if identity theft occurs.
Don’t share info with unknown callers; report suspicious activity.
Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts.
Monitor bank and credit statements for fraud.
If you live in Los Angeles County, sign up to receive mailed copies of documents recorded against your home.

If you’ve been scammed or targeted, contact your local police or base legal office (legalassistance.law.af.mil/). California National Guard members can get help at calguard.ca.gov.

File complaints at oag.ca.gov/report and learn more at oag.ca.gov/consumers/general/military.