CONSUMER FRAUD

May 5, 2011

How To Tighten Your Financial Belt

There’s no way you’re going to be able to stick to a budget unfailingly. The real world has too many twists and turns and, besides, we humans don’t live our lives as predictably as spreadsheets. And even if you were able to somehow muster the willpower never to deviate from your budget, really, what kind of […]
April 29, 2011

Do Your Homework Before Buying And Selling Timeshares, Vacation Plans, FTC Advises

WASHINGTON — The thought of owning a vacation home may sound appealing, but the year-round responsibility — and expense — that come with it may not. Purchasing a timeshare or vacation plan may be an alternative. If you consider a timeshare or vacation plan, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, says it’s […]
April 22, 2011

FBI: Be Alert To 'Letter of Credit' Fraud

Legitimate letters of credit are NEVER sold or offered as investments Letters of credit are issued by banks to ensure payment for goods shipped in connection with international trade. Payment on a letter of credit generally requires that the paying bank receive documentation certifying that the goods ordered have been shipped and are en route to […]
April 21, 2011

FTC Files Contempt Charges Against Marketer of Credit Repair

WASHINGTON — The Federal Trade Commission earlier this week filed contempt charges against a promoter of credit repair and debt relief services and three of his companies, alleging that they continued their deceptive marketing practices in violation of a federal court order. The FTC charged that the defendants tried to take advantage of financially strapped consumers by falsely […]
April 20, 2011

NYC Department Of Consumer Affairs: Debt Settlement is Top Fraud

Commissioner Mintz Warns New Yorkers to Beware of Fee-Based Debt Settlement Companies NEW YORK — Debt settlement companies lure people struggling with debt by claiming that they will convince creditors to settle debts for less than what’s owed.  However, it rarely works. Companies charge high fees and counsel consumers to ignore their debts, which can cause lasting […]