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Consumer Alert

Free trials and tribulations

Lisa Lake
As you browse online, you probably see offers to try out cool products or services for free. This can be tempting and, many times, it’s okay to check them out. But some dishonest companies will bury
Consumer Alert

Claims in weight loss ads might be false

Rosario Méndez
Some ads for weight loss products promise miracles. They might say that the product works for everyone or will let you lose weight permanently. Those claims are lies. Dishonest advertisers will tell
Consumer Alert

Refunds for Global Access Technical Support customers

Nicole Christ
If you paid for technical support services from Global Access Technical Support (GATS), you’ll be getting a letter or an email from the Federal Trade Commission about a refund. You might have known
Consumer Alert

The Capital One data breach: Time to check your credit report

Seena Gressin
If you needed yet another nudge to start keeping an eye on your credit report to protect against identity theft, Capital One has delivered it with its announcement that a data breach has exposed the
Consumer Alert

Worshipers targeted by gift card scam

Colleen Tressler
We’re seeing a new spin on gift card scams. This time, scammers are pretending to be a pastor, rabbi, priest, imam, or bishop. They’re asking worshipers for gift card contributions for a worthy cause
Consumer Alert

Summer Film Series: Family emergency scams

Megan Gordon
Welcome to the Summer Film Series! Each week, we’ll highlight one of the FTC’s many videos on topics such as avoiding scams, recovering from fraud, and managing your money. Grab a blanket and some
Consumer Alert

FTC shuts down student loan debt relief scheme

Colleen Tressler
It’s a staggering number. More than 42 million Americans owe a total of nearly $1.5 trillion in student loan debt. It’s no wonder people look for help. But not all help is legit. Scammers are
Consumer Alert

Outlet shopping: The deal is in the details

Colleen Tressler
For many of us, it just wouldn’t be a summer beach vacation without shopping at the local outlet mall. Over the years, we’ve picked up a few tips for outlet shopping. Make a list of the stores you
Consumer Alert

Who’s pretending to be the government now?

Paul Witt
You’ve gotten the calls: from Social Security. Or the IRS. Or Medicare. Or any number of other agencies. Except: as soon as the caller threatens you or demands that you pay them with a gift card or by
Consumer Alert

Military Consumer Month

Andrew Smith
July is Military Consumer Month and a good time to focus on scams affecting military consumers. Last year, imposter scams once again topped the list of frauds that military consumers reported to the
Consumer Alert

There are no “quick fixes” to clean up your credit

Lisa Lake
If you’re trying to clean up your credit, you’ll come across plenty of companies offering an easy fix. But any company promising instant results for a price is likely a scam. The FTC says Grand Teton
Consumer Alert

Put the brakes on phony online car sales

Colleen Tressler
You can buy practically anything online, including used cars. But before you shell out any hard-earned cash, here’s a warning about scammers trying to sell cars they don’t have or own. Here’s how the
Consumer Alert

Your right to post honest reviews

Bridget Small
Whether your summer plans include replacing your air conditioning, installing new flooring, or riding the range, you will probably read customer reviews to learn what people say about their
Consumer Alert

Avoid crowdfunding scams

Lisa Lake
Crowdfunding is one way to support a project you believe in and get rewards for that support. But the project you’re backing is only as good as the people behind it. Some dishonest people can take
Consumer Alert

Online lending company broke the law. FTC counts the ways.

Colleen Tressler
If you need to borrow money to consolidate credit card debt, make home or auto repairs, or pay other unexpected bills, a personal installment loan may be an option. Most personal loans are unsecured
Consumer Alert

SSA imposters top IRS in consumer loss reports

Seena Gressin
Have you gotten calls about supposed problems with your Social Security number from callers pretending they’re with the Social Security Administration (SSA)? If so, you’re not alone. Our latest Data
Consumer Alert

Financial tips for 2019 graduates

Colleen Tressler
Congratulations students and parents! It won’t be long before young people across the country will put on their caps and gowns to celebrate their graduations. Many graduation speakers offer advice
Consumer Alert

Ask a health professional before popping that pill

Bridget Small
When I was young, I wanted the shoes that would make me run faster and jump higher. Now, I wish my brain would run a little faster when I can't remember my account passwords. Unfortunately, some shady
Consumer Alert

Snack subscription service leaves bad taste

Colleen Tressler
Food delivery services can be a convenience for people with busy lives. Free trial offers and online reviews can help people decide which service they want to use. But when reviews are deliberately
Consumer Alert

Ads for diamond jewelry should be crystal clear

Bridget Small
If friends know you’re shopping for diamond jewelry , they may say, “Remember the 4Cs: color, cut, clarity and carat.” Here are three more important letters for jewelry shoppers: F-T-C. The FTC