Overview
The Enforcement and Consumer Protection Division (ECPD) is under the administration of the DISB Office of the Deputy Commissioner for Market Compliance. ECPD works collaboratively with DISB Bureaus, Divisions and Offices in its efforts to protect District of Columbia residents and businesses. ECPD plans and directs well-designed anti-fraud programs to detect, investigate, and conduct enforcement activities on behalf of residents and businesses. It investigates fraud and regulatory violations of the District’s insurance, securities and banking laws committed by licensed and unlicensed companies, agents, brokers, producers, public adjusters, representatives, investment advisers, and the general public, and refers cases for criminal prosecution and/or administrative enforcement proceedings. ECPD also provides mandated anti-fraud regulatory and compliance guidance, training, and data analysis to licensed financial service entities.
Consumer Protection
Community Outreach and Education
ECPD provides timely information to District residents so that they may make wise decisions and better protect themselves against financial fraud.
Fraud Awareness
DISB publishes consumer alerts and guides on a variety of topics to inform residents about financial services and help residents avoid scams and unfair business practices. To report fraud or unfair business practices by individuals and companies related to insurance, securities and banking, contact ECPD at (202) 727 8000.
Fraud Reporting
In addition to reporting fraud to ECPD, there are several District and US Government civil and criminal law enforcement authorities to whom you can report suspected fraud:
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) (855) 411 2372—Dedicated to making sure you are treated fairly by banks, lenders, and other financial institutions. Report a Complaint here.
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center (FBI IC3) (202) 278 2000 —If you believe you have been the victim of a cyberattack, you may file a complaint with the IC3 at ic3.gov or contact the FBI Washington Field Office at File a Complaint.
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC) (202) 326 2222—Protects consumers by preventing anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices through law enforcement, advocacy, and education without unduly burdening legitimate business activity. Report Fraud to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Individual: (800) 829-1040; Business: (800) 829-4933—If you have experienced monetary losses due to an IRS-related incident, report tax scams here.
- Department of the Treasury Office of Inspector General (OIG) (202) 692-2915 for Whistleblower Protection Coordinator—OIG is required to keep the Secretary and Congress informed about the problems and deficiencies relating to the administration of department programs and operations and the necessity for corrective action. Report fraud to OIG here.
- Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) (202) 551 4500—The SEC protects investors; maintains fair, orderly, and efficient markets; and facilitates capital formation. US Securities and Exchange Commission Investor complaint form.
- US Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) 1 (877) 876-2455. USPIS is responsible for the investigation of financial fraud such as crypto-related scams. If you receive a suspicious email or text about a package delivery failure, forward it to [email protected], then delete the email. Report mail fraud here.
- DC Metropolitan Police Department, Financial and Cyber Crimes Unit, (202) 727-4159. The Financial and Cyber Crimes Unit has established a list of guidelines for reporting identity theft and fraud, which are investigated by the unit. Their email address is [email protected].
Be Informed Consumers
Hazards of Investing in Cryptocurrency
Beware of Financial Influencers
Investor.Gov Spotlights: Crypto Assets
NASAA.Org: Informed Investor Advisory—Crypto Currencies
Investor.Gov: Exercise Caution with Crypto Asset Securities—Investor Alert
DISB has Taken Actions Against Crypto Companies and Exchanges to Protect Residents
DISB Publications
DC Laws and Regulations
DC Municipal Regulations (DCMR)
Codes of the District of Columbia (DC Codes)
DC Council's Legislative Information Management System (LIMS)
DC Council.gov/Legislation
DISB Link to legislation-and-rulemakings-status