Released: March 24, 2020

Help Desk FAQ

What is price gouging?

Price gouging refers to sellers trying to take unfair advantage of consumers during an emergency or disaster by greatly increasing prices for essential consumer goods and services. In most states, price gouging during a time of emergency is considered a violation of unfair or deceptive trade practices law. Consumers can report price gouging to their state attorney general (AG) or local district attorney consumer protection unit. (Find local agencies using our free online Consumer Services Guide.) You also can search for your state AG at the National Association of Attorneys General (www.naag.org).