MilConsumer Blog Feed

Veterans Day is almost here and it’s a fitting time to honor veterans for their service. It’s also a good reminder that scammers may be targeting you as a veteran. Of course, many of the scams that impact civilians hit veterans as well. But scammers also try to get in your good graces by emphasizing — maybe even stretching the truth about — their time in service. They hope to gain your trust so you won’t stop and ask questions about their pitches...

When car shopping, you shouldn’t be charged more than the advertised price, or more than other people because of the way you look or where you’re from. That’s wrong, dishonest, and illegal. Today the FTC announced a lawsuit and settlement with a dealership and its owners for allegedly doing just that. Now they have to pay $3.3 million to refund people harmed by their actions and change their allegedly deceptive and unfair practices. The FTC says...

NOTE: As of November 11, 2022, the student loan debt relief program is blocked. Visit StudentAid.gov for the most updated information. The Department of Education (ED)’s application for federal student loan debt relief is now open and, of course, scammers are on the move — trying to get your money and personal information. Luckily, there are ways to stop them, so keep reading to find out how to protect yourself as you apply for relief. As people...

When temperatures drop, it often costs more to stay comfortable in your home — and scammers know that. This alert is the first in a series to help you get your home ready for winter, save money, and avoid fraud. Utility imposters work year-round. Here’s how to recognize and report utility scams. Scammers say you’re behind on your bill and, unless you pay right away by gift card or wiring money through companies like Western Union or MoneyGram...

With the recent announcement of the one-time federal student loan debt relief plan, we knew scammers were on their way. Well, they’re here. The application for debt relief is rolling out any day now, so focus on getting information directly from the Department of Education. But what do these student loan scams look like? You might get an offer that seems real because they say there’s an affiliation with the Department of Education or your loan...

The FTC is working to address deceptive advertising and unlawful add-on sales in the auto industry by considering changes to the law that would give the agency better tools to protect consumers and honest dealerships. Want to help? Don’t wait! Submit a comment on the rulemaking and make your voice heard. The FTC’s proposal would ban so-called junk fees and bait-and-switch tactics, and other practices affecting car buyers and honest dealerships...

You’ve probably already heard about the new government plan that will forgive some federal student loans, once it’s up and running. Also in the news: the federal student loan payment pause has been extended. Visit the U.S. Department of Education to learn more. But scammers are watching the news, too, so know this: you don’t need to do anything or pay anybody to sign up for the new program — or the pause. Nobody can get you in early, help you...

With the cost of groceries, housing, and many other things rising, you might be looking for ways to cut costs. You aren’t alone. Across the country, people are worried about high prices impacting their budgets. And scammers are taking notice. Scammers may zero in on your anxiety over money in several ways. They might say they’re from the government and giving away grant money for home repairs or unpaid bills. Or they have an investment that’s...

Sorry to burst your bubble. That unexpected text from the Postal Service (USPS), Costco, or The Home Depot telling you about an unclaimed package or a survey you can complete to claim a freebie is NOT from them. It’s a scam. The FTC has seen a spike in reports from people getting text messages that look like they’re from well-known names like USPS, Costco, or The Home Depot and others. Spoiler alert: they’re from impersonators. The details vary...

As Military Consumer Month comes to a close, the work doesn’t end here. While servicemembers, veterans, and their families do so much for our country, scammers continue to target their hard-earned salaries and benefits year-round. Find out about the latest frauds and scams this month and every month on MilitaryConsumer.gov. At this one-stop shop, you’ll find information from government agencies, consumer advocates, and military support groups...