California and the Federal Trade Commission announced refunds totaling nearly $3 million for over 1,800 consumers defrauded in a mortgage assistance scam. - The refunds result from a 2024 court order secured by the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) and the FTC.
- About half of the victims are from California; the scheme falsely promised to reduce mortgage payments and prevent foreclosure during the COVID-19 pandemic. - The enforcement action demonstrates effective state-federal collaboration to combat fraud and deliver justice.
The refunds will be distributed to victims, marking a significant step in holding bad actors accountable.