Consumer Protection

Consumer Protection: State Offices and Best Consumer Protection Websites

If you're the victim of a consumer scam, get help from a federal, state, or local consumer protection agency. You can also learn about consumer rights online.

Email Privacy

If you want privacy, don't count on email. Here's why.

How to Get Removed From Mailing Lists and Email Spam Lists

Learn how you can stop getting unwanted catalogs, credit card offers, and other junk mail, as well as how to block spam emails.

Laws Protecting Consumers From Robocalls and Spoofing

Read about the laws that protect consumers from telemarketing and scammer robocalls.

The TCPA: Protection Against Robocalls and Prerecorded Calls

The federal Telephone Consumer Protection Act, also known as the TCPA, was passed by Congress in response to an increasing number of consumer complaints about telemarketer and debt collector phone

When Is an ISP Liable for the Acts of Its Subscribers?

In the United States, Internet Service Providers that follow therules are provided a powerful shield by two federal laws. Here'show they work.

How Does Spam Work?

Spam is Internet slang for unsolicited email, primarily unsolicited commercial email.

Resolving eBay Disputes

Online procedures can help resolve disputes and conflicts over eBay transactions.

Social Media and Your Privacy Rights

Facebook's Cambridge Analytica scandal highlights the need for additional privacy laws.

What You Should Know About the California Consumer Privacy Act

California is leading the way in data privacy and security law in the United States.

What You Need to Know—and Do—Before Taking Out a Mortgage

Ten things you need to know before getting a mortgage loan.

What You Need to Know About Reverse Mortgages in 2023

With a reverse mortgage, the lender makes payments to you rather than the other way around. But these loans are risky.

How Can Rapid Rescore Help Me Get a Mortgage?

A “rapid rescore” updates your credit reports quickly, potentially increasing your credit scores and helping you qualify for a better mortgage.

Do Lenders Have to Tell You Why You Are Denied Credit?

If you get turned down for a loan or credit, the creditor must give you a notice explaining why.

What Rights Do I Have for Unauthorized Use of my Photo on the Internet?

Learn what rights you have if your photo was posted to an Internet website without permission.

Is it legal for gift certificates to expire?

The federal Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure (CARD) Act of 2009, and some state laws, regulate gift certificates and cards.

Can I cancel a contract within three days of signing it?

Bailing out of a purchase you've agreed to isn't quite easy.

Are Prepaid Legal Service Plans Worth It?

Considering today's lawyers' fees, prepaid services seem like a good idea—but are they?

How to Identify and Avoid Coronavirus Scams

Learn to identify and prevent coronavirus scams. Don’t fall victim to a COVID-19 scam.

Oklahoma Restrictions on Telemarketers

Oklahoma’s telemarketing law bans automated calls without express written consent and limits telemarketers’ actions in other ways.

Florida Restrictions on Telemarketers

Florida law protects consumers from telemarketers.

Telemarketing Restrictions in Washington

Washington law protects consumers from telemarketers.

Telemarketing and Robocall Laws in Arkansas

Arkansas law protects consumers from spoofed robocalls and scammer telemarketers.