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That Urgent Call About Your Power Bill? It’s Probably a Scam If your phone rings with someone claiming to be from the electric company, water department, or gas utility—demanding immediate payment to avoid disconnection—be very careful. This is a classic and increasingly common scam. Recent alerts from authorities, including Public Utilities Commissions (PUCs), confirm a troubling surge in these impersonation schemes. The criminals are polished, the pressure is intense, and the potential for financial loss is real. Understanding how this fraud works is your first and best defense. ...

Your Guide to Staying Safe During National Consumer Protection Week 2026 Every year, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) leads National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) to spotlight practical ways you can defend yourself against fraud. The 2026 campaign is no different, coming at a crucial time when scammers are refining their tactics. It’s a dedicated period to pause, reassess your digital habits, and arm yourself with the latest knowledge from the nation’s top consumer watchdog. ...

When a Call About Your Utility Bill Isn’t What It Seems If your phone rings with someone claiming to be from the utilities commission, demanding immediate payment to avoid your power being shut off, you’re not talking to a government official. You’re talking to a scammer. ...

Practical Advice from the FTC’s Consumer Protection Week Every year, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) highlights a crucial truth: the best defense against fraud is an informed consumer. As we approach National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) 2026, the agency’s message is timely and clear. This annual event serves as a focused reminder to review your habits, understand the latest threats, and take simple, effective steps to safeguard your money and identity. ...

That Call from the “Government” Demanding Money? It’s a Scam You’re going about your day when the phone rings. The caller ID might even show a somewhat official-looking number. The person on the other end claims to be from a government agency—the utility commission, the IRS, or Social Security. They say you owe money immediately, and if you don’t pay right now, they’ll disconnect your service, suspend your license, or even have you arrested. Your heart races. This feels real, and the pressure is intense. ...

Getting Smart with Your Money and Your Data: Practical Takeaways from Consumer Protection Week 2026 Every March, the Federal Trade Commission and a coalition of partners spotlight the critical importance of savvy consumerism during National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW). It’s more than just an awareness campaign; it’s a yearly reset button for your personal security habits. With the theme for 2026 focusing on evolving digital threats, the FTC is doubling down on practical advice to help you recognize, resist, and report the most pervasive scams. ...

That Call About Your Overdue Utility Bill? It’s Almost Certainly a Scam. If your phone rings and the caller claims to be from your electric, gas, or water company demanding immediate payment, be very careful. It’s likely a criminal trying to steal your money. ...

Don’t Get Scammed: Your Practical Guide to National Consumer Protection Week National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) is here again. For 2026, the Federal Trade Commission and its partners are highlighting one of the most crucial aspects of modern life: how to spot, avoid, and report scams. It’s a yearly reminder that while technology brings convenience, it also opens new doors for fraudsters. This isn’t about fear; it’s about building simple, effective habits that protect your money and your personal information. ...

What the FTC Wants You to Know About Today’s Top Scams Scammers are relentless, constantly updating their tactics to catch us off guard. During a recent webinar for National Consumer Protection Week, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) shed light on the latest trends in fraud. While the full transcript isn’t public, the discussion centered on the evolving methods criminals are using right now. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know to protect yourself and your finances. ...

Don’t Be Pressured Into a Gift Card Scam: How to Protect Your Money A recent consumer alert from the District of Columbia Attorney General’s office serves as a critical reminder: gift card scams remain a pervasive and costly threat. Scammers favor gift cards because they are like handing over untraceable cash. Once the PIN number is shared, the money is almost always gone for good. This guide breaks down how these scams work and provides concrete steps you can take to protect yourself. ...