TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Ahead of Independence Day, Attorney General Ashley Moody is providing consumer protection resources to Florida’s service members and veterans. July is Military Consumer Protection Month, and the Florida Attorney General’s Office offers several resources for service members, veterans, and their families. These include information about military-targeted scams, a consumer protection guide, and the Military and Veterans Assistance Program (MVAP).
Attorney General Ashley Moody stated, “Our active-duty military members and veterans put their lives on the line for our country. It’s only right that we are there for them when they experience scams that target the military community. In Florida, we pride ourselves on making sure those who serve our country are taken care of and protected against scammers who wish to do them harm. Ahead of Independence Day and celebrating the freedoms we enjoy thanks to these brave men and women, we are spotlighting several resources and programs available to assist our service members, veterans and their families.”
With nearly 100,000 active and reserve members of the Armed Forces and more than 1.4 million veterans residing in Florida, the Attorney General’s Office is committed to assisting service members, veterans, and their families.
The office aids through MVAP by informing military members and veterans about scams affecting their communities. The MVAP team works directly with service members and veterans to resolve consumer protection issues or find further assistance.
Over the past 18 months, MVAP secured more than $330,000 in financial relief for active-duty personnel and veteran consumers by resolving various complaints ranging from home contractors taking money without providing services to debt collectors attempting to collect non-existent debts.
One notable case involved a veteran suffering from severe PTSD episodes living in deplorable conditions due to Hurricane Ian's damage. With MVAP's assistance, the veteran received financial relief along with a replacement roof. Another case saw a veteran victimized by insurance fraud receiving a complete refund for monies paid towards securing a replacement roof.
MVAP also collaborates with the Florida Veterans Legal Helpline—a free statewide legal service offering advice on civil legal matters via attorneys accredited by Veterans’ Affairs. Veterans can access this helpline at 1(866) 486-6161.
Attorney General Moody’s "Scams at a Glance: Protect Our Patriots" provides tips on avoiding common schemes targeting Florida’s military community such as sham veterans' charities or aid benefits scams.
Additionally, Attorney General Moody published the Military Consumer Protection Resource Guide aimed at assisting military members with information on common scams including predatory lending practices, identity thefts among others.
Anyone encountering military-related scams or deceptive business practices targeting service members can call 1(866) 9NO-SCAM or visit MyFloridaLegal.com to file a complaint.
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