In response to a recent surge in deceptive advertising practices targeting Kentucky consumers, the Department of Consumer Protection issued a warning urging residents to be vigilant when making purchasing decisions. These deceptive practices have been increasingly prevalent in various industries, including retail, telecommunications, and online services.One common tactic that scammers have been using is false advertising, where products or services are promoted with misleading or exaggerated claims. This can range from false promises of guaranteed results to deceptive pricing tactics designed to lure unsuspecting customers into making a purchase. In some cases, consumers have reported receiving products that do not match the description provided in the advertisement.Another concern highlighted by the Department of Consumer Protection is the rise of online scams, where fraudulent websites and social media profiles are used to deceive consumers into providing personal information or making payments for goods and services that do not exist. These scams often use sophisticated techniques to appear legitimate, making it difficult for consumers to discern between a trustworthy source and a fraudulent one.To combat these deceptive practices, the Department of Consumer Protection is advising consumers to exercise caution when making online purchases, especially from unfamiliar websites. They recommend researching the company or seller, reading reviews from other customers, and verifying the legitimacy of the website before providing any personal or financial information.In addition, the department encourages consumers to report any suspicious advertisements or scams to their office so that they can investigate and take appropriate action to protect consumers from falling victim to fraud.Overall, the Department of Consumer Protection is committed to safeguarding the interests of Kentucky residents and ensuring that they are able to make informed purchasing decisions without being misled by deceptive advertising practices. By staying informed and vigilant, consumers can protect themselves from falling victim to scams and fraudulent schemes.