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Publisher: Federal Trade Commission (FTC) After a Disaster: Repairing Your Home 
 This site offers brief "tips for consumers who may be facing major repairs after a disaster hits home" for avoiding "crooked contractors" and "recognizing a home repair rip-off." Available in Spanish. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt030.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Finance, Home & Housing, Home & Housing, Hurricane Katrina, Industries Last updated Aug 12, 2008 Internet Auctions: A Guide for Buyers and Sellers
"Among the thousands of consumer fraud complaints the FTC receives yearly, those dealing with online auction fraud consistently rank at or near the top of the list." This fact sheet provides tips for buyers and sellers of items on online auction websites, a list of types of auction fraud, an explanation of auction rules and payment options, and places to file a complaint. Also available in Spanish. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/tech/tec07.shtm Topics: Business, Consumer Research & Advocacy, Finance, Internet Last updated Jul 28, 2008 Facts for Consumers: Vehicle Repossession
This fact sheet provides an overview of the processes of seizure and selling of a repossessed car, paying the deficiency after the car is sold, and tips for prevention of repossession through negotiation with the creditor. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/autos/aut14.shtm Topics: Automobiles, Consumer Research & Advocacy Last updated Aug 29, 2007 Holiday Shopping, Circa 2008: Tips From the Federal Trade Commission
This consumer tip sheet provides holiday shopping advice for staying on budget, with suggestions such as making a shopping list and budget before shopping, comparing prices, checking sale ads and bargain offers, tracking your spending, and considering layaway programs. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt082.shtm Topics: Holidays & Observances Last updated Nov 14, 2008 FTC Consumer Complaint Form
Use this official form to submit a complaint to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Bureau of Consumer Protection about a particular company or organization, media violence, or unsolicited commercial e-mail (spam). Includes links to complaint forms for online transactions involving other countries and for the National Do Not Call Registry, and to the form for filing an identity theft report. https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Crime, Finance Last updated Jan 13, 2009 Consumer Protection
From the Bureau of Consumer Protection of the Federal Trade Commission, (FTC), this site is designed to protect consumers from unfair practices. To this end, it provides many helpful guides, tips, alerts, and warnings on a variety of issues, ranging from advertising to tobacco. It is possible to search this site for your particular topic. Some articles are in Spanish. All articles include an address to write to for more help and information. http://www.ftc.gov/ftc/consumer.htm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs & Medications by Type, Finance Last updated Aug 26, 2002 National Do Not Call Registry
Use this site to register your personal home and cell phone numbers to potentially avoid most telemarketers. Depending on the outcome of a court case, these telemarkets will no longer be able to call you if your phone number is on this list. Also verify your registration, change it, or file a complaint about failure to honor this registry. Some material available in Spanish. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.donotcall.gov/ Topics: Advertising & Marketing, Consumer Research & Advocacy, Finance Last updated Oct 14, 2005 Your Access to Free Credit Reports
Under an amendment to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), consumers can request a free copy of their credit report once every 12 months. This site has the details and the URL of the only official request website. From the Federal Trade Commission. http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre34.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Finance, Investing, Money Last updated Jun 15, 2008 FTC: E-commerce Lowers Prices, Increases Choices in Wine Market
This July 2003 report found "that e-commerce offers consumers lower prices and more choices in the wine market, and that states could expand e-commerce by permitting direct shipping of wine to consumers." The site provides a summary of findings and the full text of the report "Possible Anticompetitive Barriers to E-Commerce: Wine." From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2003/07/wine.shtm Topics: Finance, Industries, Internet, Wine Last updated Jun 6, 2007 FTC Consumer Alert: Spyware
"Installed on your computer without your consent, spyware software monitors or controls your computer use. It may be used to send you pop-up ads, redirect your computer to websites, monitor your Internet surfing, or record your keystrokes, which, in turn, could lead to identity theft." The site includes a list of clues that spyware is on a computer and tips to prevent spyware installation. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt142.shtm Topics: Constitutional Law & Civil Liberties, Consumer Research & Advocacy, Crime Last updated Nov 15, 2008 The CAN-SPAM Act: Requirements for Commercial Emailers
"The CAN-SPAM Act of 2003 (Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing Act) establishes requirements for those who send commercial email, spells out penalties for spammers and companies whose products are advertised in spam if they violate the law, and gives consumers the right to ask emailers to stop spamming them." The site features an overview of the legislation and information about penalties. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/business/ecommerce/bus61.shtm Topics: Internet, Internet Guides & Search Tools, Law, Law by Subject Last updated Dec 8, 2008 Jewelry Guides and Information
Collection of Federal Trade Commission (FTC) documents related to the jewelry industry. Includes a consumer guide to buying jewelry, consumer alerts, Federal Register notices, FTC advisory opinions, and other documents related to jewelry, gemstones, precious metals, and pewter. The "Jewelry Guides" section explains the proper use of industry terms such as "blue white" diamond and "cultured pearl," items that cannot be misrepresented (such as silver and gold content), misleading illustrations, and related items. http://www.ftc.gov/os/statutes/jewelryjump.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Fashion Last updated Jun 6, 2007 Textile, Wool, Fur and Apparel Matters
Collection of laws and government documents related to textiles, wool, fur, and apparel, focusing mostly on care labeling and identification of these products. Also includes links to related consumer information, such as on fabric care and analyzing product labels, and a clothing care symbol guide. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/os/statutes/textilejump.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Industries Last updated Jun 6, 2007 Buying Cashmere? Avoid Pulled Wool
This brief article alerts consumers to issues surrounding the labeling of cashmere ("ultra-fine wool, from the undercoat of the Cashmere ... goat") items. Also discusses the term "pashmina." "Some manufacturers use the term to describe an ultrafine cashmere fiber; others use it to describe a blend of cashmere and silk. An Indian word for cashmere, pashmina is not a legally recognized labeling term." Opens directly into a PDF file. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2000/12/cashmere.pdf Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy Last updated Aug 24, 2006 Reverse Mortgages: Get the Facts Before Cashing In On Your Home's Equity
A fact sheet about reverse mortgages. Explains eligibility, the three main types (single-purpose, federally-insured, and proprietary), what to watch out for during the loan process, and alternatives to reverse mortgages. From the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/homes/rea13.shtm Topics: Housing, Investing, Money, Seniors Last updated Oct 25, 2007 Facts for Consumers: Credit Scoring
Fact sheet on credit scoring, "a system creditors use to help determine whether to give you credit." Discusses the credit scoring model, what individuals can do to improve their credit score, the reliability of the credit scoring system, what happens if you are denied credit, and how to file a complaint. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre24.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Finance, Money Last updated Jun 6, 2007 FTC Father's Day
This animated father's day greeting contains "a few 'phish' & tips to keep you net-wise." Includes a link to the fact sheet "How Not to Get Hooked by a 'Phishing' Scam," explaining the scams involving "Internet fraudsters who send spam or pop-up messages to lure personal information (credit card numbers, bank account information, Social Security number, passwords, or other sensitive information) from unsuspecting victims." Also available in Spanish. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/dad Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Corruption & Fraud, Holidays and Observances Individually Last updated May 29, 2008 Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Oil and Gas Industry Initiatives
"This website describes the FTC's oversight of the petroleum industry, with special sections on ... activities related to merger enforcement, anticompetitive nonmerger activity, and gasoline price data. It also features reports and economic working papers, Congressional testimony, advocacy work, conference proceedings, and studies." Includes tips for consumers about saving energy and saving money on gas. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/ftc/oilgas/ Topics: Oil & Gas Last updated May 23, 2006 Facts for Consumers: Electronic Check Conversion
This fact sheet explains electronic check conversion, "which converts information from your paper check into an electronic payment from your bank account." It addresses questions such as how to find out if a business uses electronic check conversion, how payment will be shown on your bank statement, avoiding bounced checks, checking for errors and unauthorized transactions, and related topics. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre31.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Finance Last updated Jun 6, 2007 Fair Debt Collection
Questions and answers for consumers about the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, which "requires that debt collectors treat you fairly and prohibits certain methods of debt collection." Discusses what debts are covered, how and at what times a debt collector may contact you, what types of debt collection practices are prohibited (such as threats of violence), and how to report a debt collector for an alleged violation. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre18.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Finance Last updated Nov 14, 2008 Time and Time Again: Buying and Selling Timeshares and Vacation Plans
Consumer fact sheet about vacation home ownership options, which include timeshares and vacation interval plans. Discusses the basics of vacation home ownership, terminology (such as fractional ownership and lockouts), how to evaluate a plan, how exchange systems works, what to do before selling a timeshare, and related topics. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/homes/rea15.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Housing Last updated Oct 25, 2007 Pretexting: Your Personal Information Revealed
Fact sheet for consumers about pretexting, "the practice of getting your personal information under false pretenses," in which a "pretexter" might gain information by claiming he is from a survey firm, and then use that information to call the consumer's financial institution. Under the federal Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act such activity is illegal. Includes material about protecting yourself and what to do if you think you are a victim. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre10.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Corruption & Fraud Last updated Nov 4, 2008 Federal Trade Commission: Work-at-Home Schemes
Fact sheet for consumers about possible deceptions in advertisements for opportunities to work from home. Discusses classic work-at-home schemes, such as medical billing, stuffing envelopes, and assembly or craft work. Includes questions to ask a work-at-home promoter and where to complain if you believe a program may not be legitimate. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/invest/inv14.shtm Topics: Business & Consumer Law, Consumer Research & Advocacy Last updated Feb 3, 2008 Facts for Consumers: If You've Got the Look, Look Out! Avoiding Modeling Scams
This consumer alert provides tips for avoiding scams involving modeling and talent agencies. Discusses typical sales pitch lines, professional photos ("head shots" and "composite cards"), questions to ask to avoid rip-offs, the infant and toddler modeling and acting market, and related topics. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/products/pro23.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Fashion Last updated Jul 20, 2008 Latest Sweepstakes Scams Feature Con Artists Impersonating Government Officials
This consumer alert describes ways to avoid scams in which "some con artists use the lure of a sweepstakes to convince consumers to send in money to claim a 'prize they've supposedly won. They tell consumers that the only thing that separates them from their 'winnings' is a fee to cover the taxes or service charges. But as all too many consumers know, the winnings as described never materialize." From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt167.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy Last updated Jul 28, 2008 Facts for Consumers: The Credit Practices Rule
This rule, "which became effective March l, l985, prohibits many creditors from including certain provisions in consumer credit contracts. It also requires creditors to provide a written notice to consumers before they cosign obligations for others about their potential liability if the other person fails to pay. Finally, it prohibits one method of assessing late charges." The site provides an overview of these requirements for consumer loan contracts. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre12.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Money Last updated Sep 12, 2008 Protecting Personal Information: A Guide for Business
This guide to protecting personal data on customers and company employees focuses on five key principles: "take stock," "scale down," "lock it," "pitch it," and "plan ahead." Includes the guide, related articles on topics such as laptop security on the road and truncating credit and debit card numbers on receipts, a slideshow presentation, and related links. Most content also available in Spanish. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/infosecurity/ Topics: Computers, Consumer Research & Advocacy Last updated Nov 29, 2007 Facts for Consumers: Charitable Donations: Give or Take?
This site from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) suggests ways in which consumers should be cautious when making charitable donations. Topics include the use of paid fund-raisers, reducing telephone and direct mail solicitations, and a checklist of "precautions to ensure that your donation dollars benefit the people and organizations you want to help." Includes links to organizations that provide reviews of charities. http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/telemarketing/tel01.shtm Topics: Charity & Nonprofit Resources, Consumer Research & Advocacy Last updated Nov 29, 2007 Buying, Giving, and Using Gift Cards
Consumer tips for buying and using gift cards, such as asking about expiration dates and fees, giving the original purchase receipt to the recipient in case the card is lost or stolen, and checking about purchase exceptions. Includes contacts for problems and complaints about gift cards. Also available in Spanish. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt010.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Holidays & Observances Last updated Nov 20, 2009 Federal Trade Commission: Energy and Environment
This page compiles Federal Trade Commission (FTC) information regarding energy and environment topics such as labeling and advertising of fuel and automotive products, marketing claims concerning carbon offsets and renewable energy certificates, and EnergyGuide labels for home appliances, plumbing, and lighting products. Find consumer and business education materials, rulings and statutes, press releases and announcements, and other government documents. From the FTC. http://www.ftc.gov/energy/ Topics: Energy, Environment Last updated Jan 14, 2008 The Secrets of Mystery Shopping Revealed
Consumer alert about mystery shopping, the use of an anonymous shopper to evaluate the quality of service in a store, and scams associated with the solicitation of mystery shoppers. Provides facts about becoming a legitimate mystery shopper for a legitimate company (which does not cost anything), and under what circumstances consumers should be skeptical of mystery shopping promoters. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt151.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Jobs & Work Last updated Feb 17, 2009 Hide and Go Seek: Finding the Disclosures in "Free" Internet Service Offers
This 2001 consumer alert explains "that some 'free' [Internet service] offers may end up being high cost, long-term items ... because important restrictions and conditions on these offers are not always disclosed clearly or conspicuously." It provides a list of questions to ask before accepting any "free" offers. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt093.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Internet Last updated Jun 28, 2009 Charity Fraud
This site "offers useful tips for consumers, business people and nonprofit organizations" about avoiding charity scams and fraud. It provides fact sheets and consumer alerts, including a May 2008 notice "urging consumers to be cautious of potential charity scams in connection with the devastating earthquake in China and cyclone in Myanmar." Some publications also available in Spanish. Also includes links to related sites. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/charityfraud/ Topics: Charity & Nonprofit Resources, Corruption & Fraud Last updated May 13, 2008 Funerals: A Consumer Guide
This guide discusses the financial aspects of funerals in the U.S. Topics include pre-need planning, the Funeral Rule (enforced by the Federal Trade Commission) which "requires funeral directors to give you itemized prices in person and, if you ask, over the phone," different types of funerals (traditional, direct burial, and direct cremation), choosing a funeral provider, funeral costs, and services and products (such as caskets and cemetery sites). From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/products/pro19.shtm Topics: Death & Dying Last updated Jun 24, 2008 FTC Reports on Alcohol Marketing and Self-Regulation
Summary and text of a June 2008 report "on alcohol marketing and youth [that] examines industry efforts to reduce the likelihood that alcohol advertising will target those under the legal drinking age of 21. It also announces a new system for monitoring alcohol industry compliance with self-regulatory programs." Includes links to related items. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2008/06/alcoholrpt.shtm Topics: Beverages, Drugs & Medications by Type Last updated Jul 8, 2008 We Don't Serve Teens
This federal government website "provides parents and others with tools and information to reduce teen drinking and related harm." It covers state laws, dangers of underage drinking, steps to reduce teens' access to alcohol, alcohol advertising, and how to respond to people who do not think teen drinking is a serious problem. Includes suggestions for media, retailers, and law enforcement. Available in English and Spanish. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.dontserveteens.gov/ Topics: Beverages, Communities & Groups, Drugs & Medications by Type Last updated Jul 8, 2008 The Keys to Hiring a Reputable Locksmith
This consumer alert provides tips for finding a locksmith, particularly in emergency situations when you are locked out of your car or home. Some of the tips include verifying that a locksmith is local, asking for the legal name of a business, getting an estimate, asking for identification, and getting an itemized invoice. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt032.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy Last updated Aug 5, 2008 Saving Money at the Gas Pump: Tips From the Federal Trade Commission
Click on the parts of a car to learn gas saving tips. Includes tips for the driver's seat, gas tank, steering wheel, trunk, tires, and under the hood. In English and Spanish. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/energysavings/savegas/flash.html Topics: Automobiles, Oil & Gas Last updated Sep 3, 2008 New Rules Requiring an Automated Voice or Keypress Opt-Out for Recorded Message Telemarketing Calls Take Effect Today [December 1, 2008]
This December 1, 2008, press release describes how "any telemarketing call that delivers a prerecorded message [a 'robo' call] must include a quick and easy way to opt-out of receiving future calls." Release also notes that as of September 1, 2009, prerecorded telemarketing calls may only be made to those who have agreed in advance to accept such calls. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2008/12/tsramendments.shtm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy Last updated Dec 8, 2008 Before You File for Personal Bankruptcy: Information About Credit Counseling and Debtor Education
The fact sheet discusses requirements of "The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 [which] launched a new era: With limited exceptions, people who plan to file for bankruptcy protection must get credit counseling from a government-approved organization within 180 days before they file. They also must complete a debtor education course to have their debts discharged." Also includes questions to ask when choosing a credit counselor. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre41.shtm Topics: Business & Consumer Law Last updated Feb 10, 2009 Credit Card Repayment Calculator
"Based on the information you provide, [this] calculator will give you an estimate of how long it will take you to pay off your credit card balance." Enter your total credit card balance and highest annual percentage rate (APR) to determine how long it will take to pay off the card if you make only the minimum payment, and to get further options on paying off the balance sooner. From the Federal Trade Commission. http://www.ftc.gov/creditcardcalculator Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Money Last updated Mar 23, 2009 FTC Staff Revises Online Behavioral Advertising Principles
February 2009 press release about FTC activity with respect to online behavioral advertising. Includes link to the report "Self-Regulatory Principles for Online Behavioral Advertising: Tracking, Targeting, and Technology," in which the "key issue concerns how online advertisers can best protect consumers' privacy while collecting information about their online activities." Also includes FTC testimony and related statements. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2009/02/behavad.shtm Topics: Advertising & Marketing Last updated May 27, 2009 |
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