Consumer Connection: Protect Yourself from Fraud During National Consumer Protection Week 2026

Consumer Connection: Protect Yourself from Fraud During National Consumer Protection Week 2026

Topeka, Kan. - During National Consumer Protection Week (March 1-7, 2026), Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt encourages Kansans to learn how to spot scams, protect yourself with trusted resources, and take action against fraud. As Kansas's insurance and securities regulator, the Kansas Department of Insurance (KDOI) plays a frontline role in consumer and investor protection.

"There are so many scams out there actively looking for ways to get at your pocketbook," said Commissioner Vicki Schmidt. "You can best protect yourself by making sure you know what to look out for."

Consumer resources and tips to protect yourself:

• Be cautious of unsolicited investment offers, particularly those involving cryptocurrency or other digital assets.
• Use Broker Check to help research the professional backgrounds of brokers and brokerage firms, as well as investment adviser firms and advisers.
• Check the Scam Meter tool to tell if an investment you're considering might be a scam.
• Grow your knowledge with investing courses to help those just starting out or even the most seasoned investors.
• Review insurance shoppers' guides for auto, home and renters, health and life insurance, and Medicare.
• Report fraud or file a consumer complaint to the KDOI by phone at 785-296-3071, by email at [email protected], or visit https://www.insurance.kansas.gov/about/file-a-complaint.

In 2025, the KDOI helped stop $4.97 million of fraud through the Protect Vulnerable Adults from Financial Exploitation Act. In addition to fighting fraud, the Department helps consumers recover the full value of their insurance. In 2025, KDOI recovered $60.6 million for Kansans in need of support during their insurance claims process and over $206.6 million for Kansas consumers since 2019.

For additional resources, visit us at https://www.insurance.kansas.gov/ and https://www.smartinvestks.gov/home-smartinvest.