Consumer: I was recently told that I had exceeded my credit limit, although I was sure my actual purchases were lower. That’s when I learned about credit holds. Can you please explain this practice?
Consumer: I know that store return policies vary, but don’t retailers have to refund money in some situations? What’s the best way to ensure an easy refund?
Consumer: Are extended warranties worth the additional cost?
Consumer: I love the convenience of gift cards but wonder why some cards have expiration dates and others do not. What are the rules?
Consumer: I’ve seen advertisements for some amazing cash rebates that offer as much as 100% back on pricey items. Is this another one of those cases of “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is”?
Consumer: How is my credit score determined and how does it affect me? How do I obtain mine?
Consumer: I signed up for an Internet dating service but was unsatisfied with the service. I asked for a refund after only a few days but the company refused and insisted on billing me for the entire three-month membership. Shouldn’t I at least be reimbursed for the remaining months on my membership?
Consumer: I’ve had trouble paying my bills on time in the past and now my credit record isn’t the best. I’ve seen advertisements for credit repair services. Do they work?
Consumer: I want to buy a car. What do I need to know to get a fair deal?
Consumer: I’ve seen reports about a new scam called “vishing.” What does that mean and how can I protect myself?
Consumer: I frequently receive solicitations from charities. I’d like to support their causes, but how do I know if my money will be put to good use?
Consumer: Many employees at my work place use laptops that we take home on weekends or during business trips. The recent rash of data breaches from laptop thefts has me worried. What can managers and employees do to help protect personal data and keep ourselves out of the headlines?
Consumer: I found a charge on my phone bill for a service I never signed up for. What should I do?
Consumer: I added my phone number to the Do Not Call list, but I’m still receiving telemarketing calls. What should I do?
Consumer: I bought a used car a few weeks ago. The brakes failed and I was told the car isn’t legal to drive. The salesman said the car didn’t include a warranty and was sold “as is.” Is there a state law that requires cars to be inspected before they’re sold? Shouldn’t the dealer be responsible for the repairs?
Consumer: I often receive offers in the mail for pre-approved credit cards that promise to save me money. I need a card that allows me to pay my purchases off over time. Is the best offer the one with the lowest interest rate?
Consumer: I took my car to a repair shop for routine maintenance. The mechanic said I needed a bunch of other stuff done, which ended up costing a lot more than I had expected. I feel cheated. What can I do?
Consumer: I’m behind on my house payments. I’ve seen advertisements around my neighborhood for businesses that will help you avoid foreclosure. Can I trust these companies?
Consumer: I applied for a job as a secret shopper. My first assignment was to evaluate a wire transfer service. I was given a check and told to cash it. I was to keep some of the money and wire the rest. But after I wired the cash to Canada, the check I cashed bounced and the bank withdrew the funds from my account. I’m out thousands of dollars. Is this a common scam?
Consumer: I’m exploring estate planning options. I’ve heard that a living trust can save me money. But I’ve also read warnings about living trust scams. Can you shed some light on this?
Consumer: Nearly every day, I hear of some new Internet threat. What can I do to protect myself from spyware and other online hazards?
Consumer: I’ve decided to join a health club. What do I need to know to know about choosing a club and signing a membership?