Consumer Protection Web Resources
Better Business Bureau
established in 1912 to promote business by solving marketplace problems
through voluntary self-regulation and consumer education.
The site allows a reader to check out an organization, file a complaint,
and access local counterparts.
(2/2008)
Consumer Law Center
a non-profit organization providing a wealth of information on consumer
law. Financial support is through private donations. They address the
financial and legal problems faced daily by low-income families - repossessions,
debt collection abuses, electronic benefits transfers, home improvement
frauds, usury, bankruptcy, utility terminations, school loans, payday
loans, sustainable home ownership, inadequate fuel assistance benefits,
and more. their goal is to help vulnerable consumers resolve financial
crises, gain control over their budgets and achieve economic independence.
They do not provide direct services.
(2/2008)
Federal Citizen
Information Center
a one-stop shop for answers to questions about consumer problems and
government services. Consumers can get the information they need through
printed publications, by calling 1-800-FED-INFO, and through information
posted on FCIC's websites.
(2/2008)
National Contact Center
a section with contact information on government programs, benefits, and services with a handy listing of topic areas.
(2/2008)Scams and Frauds
a synopsis of the latest scams and frauds with a link to more comprehensive information. Each section has contact information and information on government intervention.
(2/2008)Consumer Action Website
a wealth of consumer tips, advisories, and assistance.
(2/2008)
National Association
of Consumer Advocates
a nationwide non-profit association of more than 800 attorneys and consumer
advocates who have a wide range of experience curbing abusive and predatory
business practices and promoting justice for consumers. They provide
direct assistance to consumers by connecting a consumer with a member
attorney who has an interest in the type of law expertise needed to solve
an abusive or predatory business practice.
(2/2008)
National Consumers
League
a private, nonprofit advocacy group representing consumers on marketplace
and workplace issues.
(2/2008)
Your Privacy
provides in-depth information on identity theft and privacy issues including what to do if you become a victim.
(2/2008)Shopping Safely Online
provides in-depth information on how to keep from becoming a victim of identity theft and credit card theft while shopping online.
(2/2008)Computer Safety
six steps to keeping safe from computer viruses.
(2/2008)National Fraud Information Center
originally established in 1992 by the National Consumers League to fight telemarketing fraud. In 1996, the Internet Fraud Watch was created, enabling the NFIC to offer consumers advice about promotions in cyberspace and route reports of suspected online and Internet fraud to the appropriate government agencies. Trained counselors help consumers identify the danger signs of possible fraud and direct them to the right places for more information, if needed. Consumers can also report suspected telemarketing or Internet fraud through the NFIC hotline at 1-800-876-7060. The NFIC's counseling and consumer reporting services are available in English and Spanish, free of charge.
(2/2008)Internet Fraud Tips
hints for how to not be a victim of Internet fraud.
(2/2008)Fighting Fraud Against Older Consumers
provides information on how to handle "pushy" telemarketing calls including five steps to help seniors understand the danger of these calls.
(2/2008)
