Minnesotans who have been defrauded now have a stronger path to financial recovery, thanks to a groundbreaking bipartisan law championed by AARP Minnesota. In 2025, the state enacted the Consumer Fraud Restitution Fund, the first of its kind in the nation, with overwhelming support from both sides of the aisle.
This innovative fund is designed to help victims of fraud—especially in cases where scammers are untraceable or bankrupt—recover lost money. It marks a major step forward in consumer protection and reflects Minnesota’s commitment to safeguarding older adults and vulnerable communities from financial exploitation.
Fraud is a rapidly growing industry that robs Americans of billions of dollars each year. Older adults are often disproportionately affected, facing not only financial loss but emotional distress. Until now, Minnesota victims had few options for restitution. The creation of this fund changes that.
A Story That Shows Why This Matters
Helene, a resident of Golden Valley, paid $15,000 upfront for dental implants, unaware that her dentist’s license had been suspended. After undergoing the first portion of her surgery in January 2024, the clinic abruptly closed—leaving her treatment unfinished and without access to her medical records.
Helene’s case is a stark example of how fraud can devastate lives—not just financially, but emotionally and physically. Under previous laws, recovering her money would have been nearly impossible. But with the new Consumer Fraud Restitution Fund, victims like Helene may finally have a chance at justice.
How the Fund Works
When the Attorney General brings a public enforcement case and a court confirms that fraud occurred, the Consumer Fraud Restitution Fund can be used to return money to victims—even if the scammers cannot be located or lack assets. This new mechanism also encourages more people to report scams, knowing there is a chance they could be made whole.
Funding the Fund
Each year, the Attorney General’s Office secures civil penalty payments through consumer fraud enforcement cases. Under the new law, up to $5 million annually from these penalties will be directed into the Consumer Fraud Restitution Fund to support victims.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
While the fund is still being implemented and does not yet have money available for distribution, the most important step is to report the scam to the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office:
• (651) 296-3353 (Twin Cities Calling Area)
• (800) 657-3787 (Outside the Twin Cities)
• (800) 627-3529 (Minnesota Relay)
• Or online via the Consumer Assistance Request Form on the Attorney General’s website
AARP Fraud Watch Network: Your Partner in Prevention
Minnesotans are also encouraged to use the AARP Fraud Watch Network™, a free resource available to everyone. It offers:
• Watchdog Alerts on the latest scams
• A toll-free helpline at 877-908-3360
• Online support sessions for emotional recovery
• A Scam Tracking Map to see what’s happening locally
• Educational tools like webinars, tip sheets, and the podcast The Perfect Scam
Whether you’ve been targeted or simply want to stay informed, the Fraud Watch Network empowers Minnesotans to spot scams early and take action. Learn more at aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork.
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