Arkansas AG Warns: How to Spot and Avoid Price Gouging & Scams During Emergencies

Griffin Urges Vigilance as Scammers Target Vulnerable Residents

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin is sounding the alarm on potential price gouging and scams following recent severe weather events across the state. With communities still recovering, Griffin emphasized that unscrupulous actors often exploit emergencies to take advantage of desperate residents.

Red Flags of Price Gouging

Under Arkansas law, price gouging—dramatically increasing prices of essential goods during declared emergencies—is illegal. Griffin outlined key warning signs:

• Sudden price spikes on necessities like water, gas, or generators
• Limited-time offers pressuring immediate purchases
• Unusual markups compared to pre-disaster prices
• Cash-only demands with no receipts provided

Common Post-Disaster Scams

Griffin's office also warned about prevalent fraud schemes:

1. Phony contractors demanding upfront payments for repair work
2. Fake charities claiming to help victims
3. Identity theft through fraudulent relief applications
4. Bogus insurance adjusters seeking personal information

Protection Tips from the AG's Office

To help residents stay safe, Griffin recommended:

• Research businesses through the AG's Consumer Protection Division
• Get written estimates from multiple contractors
• Verify charities at Give.org
• Never share personal information with unsolicited callers
• Report suspicious activity immediately

"Arkansans should be able to focus on recovery without worrying about being cheated," Griffin stated. His office has already received several complaints since recent storms and stands ready to investigate violations.

What Do You Think?

• Should price gouging laws apply to all goods during emergencies, or just essentials?
• Are current penalties strong enough to deter scammers after disasters?
• How can communities better protect elderly residents from fraud post-disaster?
• Would a public registry of vetted contractors help prevent scams?
• Is some price increase justified when demand surges suddenly?