In this day and age there are numerous crooks adapting new technology to fulfill their evil designs, but fortunately there are also a number of ways to avoid becoming a victim to such scams. First, be sure to download and install spam filters, anti-virus and anti-spyware software, a firewall, and pop-up blockers; once you have these items, be sure to keep them up to date. This software should prevent many malicious messages from ever reaching you, but it is still important to know how to spot phishing schemes. Continue reading
Consumer Protection
Why Should I Check BBB Ratings?
You have probably heard of the Better Business Bureau, or the BBB for short, and realize that they rate business’s performance but may have never understood just how helpful checking this information can be. Checking BBB ratings is one of the easiest ways to find unbiased information regarding the reliability and performance of businesses before you decide to give them your business. The rating scale utilized by the BBB is fairly simple and easy to understand (ratings range from A+ to F), but the comprehensive research behind these ratings is what makes them truly useful. Continue reading
Why you should avoid bad timeshare deals
Bad timeshare deals are usually initiated through nefarious methods such as unsolicited faxes or telemarketing calls. Usually an enticement is involved such as a free two-night resort stay.
As a precondition for getting a free vacation you are forced to sit through a 4 hour meeting where the sales representatives pitch their timeshare to you. These high pressure sales situations can and make you feel obligated to purchase something because you received a free vacation. Once you purchase a time share it can be nearly impossible to get out without taking a huge loss. Continue reading
What is the statute of limitations on debt?
A statute of limitations may sound like a familiar concept, because it is traditionally associated with the legal system. In legal terms, a statute of limitations is “an enactment in a common law legal system that sets forth the maximum time after an event that legal proceedings based on that event may be initiated”1. In other words, it is a time frame in which legal action may be pursued. For this article, this same concept will be applied to your fiscal matters. To be specific, this article will address how the statue of limitations applies to debt. A statue of limitations on debt, means your debt has an “expiration date” of some sorts and when this date is reached, it may no longer be necessary for you to pay off this debt2. Continue reading
A Debt Collection Lawsuit Can Protect your Rights
Sure you are tired of receiving harassing phone calls and threatening letters, but who are you to file a debt collection lawsuit? For one, you are a debtor with rights guaranteed by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Continue reading
CARD Act Rate Hike Notice
CARD Act Provisions
The Credit Card Accountability, Responsibly and Disclosure Act (CARD Act) has many provisions that are designed to protect consumers using credit cards.
There are four provisions in which a credit card issuer may still raise your interest rates: Continue reading
335,000 Amex cardholders to receive $59.5 million in restitution
With an average refund of $177, the 335,000 American Express cardholders who will be receiving restitution can celebrate the newest action of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Continue reading
What are credit report disputes?
A dispute, in the context of credit reports, is essentially an attempt to correct credit report inaccuracies. Having an accurate credit report is important, because having poor credit—regardless of whether the information is correct or not—can negatively affect your ability to get a loan, get insurance buy a house, buy a car, or even get a job.1 It is estimated that as many as 75% of credit reports contain some incorrect information.2 Continue reading
What is the Credit Repair Organizations Act?
Many credit companies are available for credit repair but not all are created equal. Some credit repair companies are legitimate and provide helpful resources. Continue reading
Data reportedly being used from Target credit card breach
Target customers who used a credit or debit card at the register from November 27 – December 15 may be the next victims of debit and credit card fraud. Continue reading
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