Consumer Alerts

What a Consumer Survey Reveals About Your Bank’s Fraud Protection A recent national survey conducted by Morning Consult for the American Bankers Association offers a revealing snapshot of consumer sentiment on banking safety. The core finding is clear: a strong majority of U.S. consumers report being satisfied with their bank and, notably, applaud their bank’s fraud protection efforts. This high level of reported trust is encouraging, but it also presents a critical moment for reflection. Trust in your bank’s systems is a good foundation, but it should be the starting point for your security, not the finish line. Understanding what this widespread satisfaction means—and where the potential gaps lie—is key to building a truly resilient personal defense against financial fraud. ...

What the FTC Wants You to Know About Today’s Top Scams Last week, as part of National Consumer Protection Week, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) hosted a public webinar aimed at arming people with knowledge. The goal was straightforward: to shed light on the scam tactics that are working right now and show how you can avoid them. With fraudsters constantly refining their methods, this kind of timely insight is crucial for anyone who uses a phone, email, or the internet. ...

Your 2026 Guide to Smart Consumer Protection Every March, a nationwide initiative called National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) focuses on empowering people with knowledge. Led by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), this week spotlights the tools and information you need to navigate an increasingly complex marketplace, particularly online. For 2026, the core message remains vital: a well-informed consumer is the best defense against fraud, scams, and privacy intrusions. ...

How to Spot and Stop an Account Takeover Before It Happens You get a text about a login from an unfamiliar device. An email receipt arrives for something you didn’t buy. Your usual password suddenly doesn’t work. These are the unsettling signs of an account takeover—a form of fraud that’s becoming alarmingly common. Recently, the New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection issued an alert about a significant rise in these incidents, urging consumers to take immediate steps to protect their digital lives. ...

A Practical Guide to Staying Safe for National Consumer Protection Week 2026 As we move into 2026, protecting your personal information and money from scams is more crucial than ever. National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), led by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), is an annual campaign dedicated to arming the public with the knowledge to fight back against fraud. This year’s focus is on proactive defense. With scammers constantly evolving their tactics, understanding the current landscape and having a concrete plan is your best shield. ...

A Timely Warning: How to Spot and Stop Gift Card Scams If someone calls, texts, or emails you demanding payment via gift card, it’s a scam. Full stop. That’s the unequivocal message from District of Columbia Attorney General Brian Schwalb, who recently issued a consumer alert to warn residents about the persistent threat of gift card fraud. These scams drain millions from consumers annually by exploiting trust and urgency. Understanding how they work is your first and most powerful line of defense. ...

What the FTC Wants You to Know About Today’s Scams Every year, National Consumer Protection Week serves as a crucial reminder to review our digital defenses. Recently, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) held a webinar to spotlight the scam trends that are currently trapping people and draining bank accounts. The takeaway was clear: while the classic cons haven’t disappeared, the tactics have evolved, becoming more personalized and persuasive. ...

Your Guide to National Consumer Protection Week 2026 National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) is here again. For 2026, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and its partners are highlighting a simple, powerful message: your awareness and action are the best defenses against fraud. This week isn’t just about warnings; it’s a coordinated push to equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to protect your money and personal information in an increasingly digital world. ...

Your Practical Guide to Scam Prevention: Insights from Consumer Protection Week Every year, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) designates a National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) to sharpen the public’s focus on fraud, scams, and digital safety. With the recent announcement of NCPW 2026, the agency is once again marshaling resources to help consumers navigate an increasingly complex landscape of financial threats. This week isn’t just about awareness; it’s a central hub for actionable defense strategies. ...

What the FTC Wants You to Know About Scams Right Now During this year’s National Consumer Protection Week, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) held a public webinar to shed light on the most pressing scam tactics currently targeting consumers. The session served as a timely alert, emphasizing that while the digital landscape evolves, the core goal of fraudsters remains the same: to trick you out of your money and personal information. By understanding their latest methods, you can build a stronger defense. ...