Minnesotans Will Soon Have More Help Against Fraudsters

Sadly, we are too often hearing about a new scam coming out where those hiding behind keyboards and a big knowledge of how to manipulate people through their skills on computers are trying to steal your money or identity. 

Also too often, we hear of someone who has become a victim and had their money taken and they’re left feeling lost and not sure how they are going to provide for their family. Where do victims turn for help? 

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A Brand New Way To Help Victims

Now there’s an answer in Minnesota that is setting the tone for the rest of the country. AARP of Minnesota reports on the start Consumer Fraud Restitution Fund. This is an account that will be able to help those victims who are not able to get direct compensation from the guilty party.  

Minnesota is the first state in the country to offer a fund like this. The money in the account will be managed by the Attorney General's office will have around five million dollars per year to distribute to victims.  

The money in the fund will come from companies and individuals who are found guilty of fraud. Before this fund, the monies collected from those who were found to be guilty of misleading Minnesotans would just go into the state’s General Fund.  

The elderly are a prime target for scammers, but even those who are younger are in danger of being targeted by these thieves. AARP Minnesota says that fraud is the fastest growing industry in America and billions of dollars each year are taken from their targets. 

The report says that the Federal Trade Commission says that Minnesotans were duped out of over $144 Million in 2024 alone.  

How Does Someone Get Help?

The funds are not available currently because the fund is still under construction by the Attorney General’s office. If you have been or become a victim of fraud, the most important step is to contact the Attorney General’s office so your case can be documented by their office.