Consumers in Nevada should be aware of the concept of deceptive trade practices when purchasing a service or product in the state. Although there are laws in place to help protect the purchaser, the best defense is offense. Knowing common scams and avoiding them is the best way for customers to stay protected.
According to the Bureau of Consumer Protection, a deceptive trade refers to when a seller fails to disclose certain facts or lies about its services or products. However, in the state of Nevada deceptive trade practices policies only pertain to certain industries and goods. For example, there are a number of situations that are not considered to be deceptive trade. These include:
- Debt collection
- Timeshares
- Issues with credit cards or banks
- Tenant and landlord problems
Consumers who experience problems related to any of these examples may find assistance from other governmental agencies that deal with their regulation issues.
According to FindLaw, the state uses the Uniform Deceptive Trade Practices Act as a guide for its laws. Deceptive trade can refer to a variety of things such as changing the odometer of a car for selling purposes, false advertising or using a fake trademark. Remedies for consumers who are victims of these practices may include:
- Return of property or money
- Injunction
- Monetary fees of up to $1,000
- Business suspension
- Attorney’s fees, damages and other costs related to litigation
- Civil and criminal penalties
- Dissolution of corporation
Consumers who suspect fraudulent practices should report the business to a state consumer protection office, the Better Business Bureau or federal organization that deals with consumer fraud.
