Lamont, Consumer Officials Warn Of Back-To-School Shopping Scams In Connecticut

CONNECTICUT — Gov. Ned Lamont and Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli are urging Connecticut families and students to be vigilant for scams during the back-to-school shopping season, particularly when buying online.

Lamont said shoppers should be mindful of bad actors who target busy shopping periods and take advantage of consumer protections available in the state.

Cafferelli noted that August often brings a surge in purchases ranging from backpacks to college dorm supplies, making it a prime time for scammers. He advised that shopping in person, inspecting items before buying, and keeping receipts are the safest approaches.

Recent scams include fake offers for “low cost” test prep materials that require payment and personal information but never deliver the promised products. Others involve fraudulent emails claiming to be from teachers or professors offering electronics at low prices in exchange for shipping fees or identity “verification.”

Officials offered these tips:

• Be cautious of ads with suspiciously low prices and avoid clicking unfamiliar links.
• Verify online sellers and review return and refund policies before purchasing.
• Use credit cards for added fraud protection.
• Avoid sites that accept unrelated gift cards or payment apps as the only method.
• Always keep receipts for any school supply or clothing item. For online purchases, save the order confirmation email for proof of purchase and assist with package tracking.
• Watch for phishing attempts through email, text, or phone calls claiming order issues, missed messages from schools, or undelivered packages.

Connecticut’s annual Sales Tax-Free Week runs Aug. 17–23, exempting certain clothing and footwear under $100 from sales tax.

More information on return and exchange laws is available on the Department of Consumer Protection’s website. Complaints can be filed by emailing dcp.complaints@ct.gov or visiting the DCP complaint website.