Each year, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission recognizes the first full week of March as National Consumer Protection Week, an initiative to make people aware of their consumer rights and educate folks on how to protect and safeguard their financial well-being. These efforts have enhanced over time as the digital age has put many people at risk of cyber fraud and online scams.
Fortunately, consumer protection shields buyers and the general public against non-performance of the terms and conditions of the purchase. It also protects against any unfair practices in the marketplace. Since 1914, the Federal Trade Commission has protected consumers in the United States and allows consumers to seek legal actions against businesses for unjust practices.
Consumer Protection Claims
Consumer protection claims can be filed in various industries from bank and automotive to beauty and real estate. A few examples of consumer protection claims include: cars (faulty parts), beauty products (false advertising, overcharging, etc.), illegal debt collection, improper billing practices (failure to meet promises and assurances) and retail (defective products).
When reporting a claim on a manufactured product, you’ll need to prove:
• There was a defect in the product design that posed a threat
• You used the product in a reasonable manner
• The product caused an injury
Consumer Protection Tips
• Don’t send money or give out personal information in response to an unexpected request; whether it comes as a text, a phone call, or an email.
• Someone might ask you to pay in advance for things like debt relief, credit and loan offers, mortgage assistance or a job. They might even say you’ve won a prize, but first you have to pay taxes or fees. If you do, they will probably take the money and disappear.
• Some companies use free trial offers to sign you up for products and bill you every month until you cancel. Before you agree to a free trial, research the company and read the cancellation policy. Always review your monthly credit card statements for charges you do not recognize.
More tips on how to protect yourself as a consumer can be found here.
Consumer Protection Attorneys
If you or someone you know has been deceived by a business or harmed by irresponsible, reckless, or negligent business practices, you need to seek legal assistance as soon as possible.
At Tiano O’Dell, PLLC, our consumer protection attorneys in Charleston, WV are ready to help you get through this. Our knowledgeable and experienced team will investigate every aspect of your case so we can secure the compensation you deserve in accordance with the law.
When you need a West Virginia consumer protection attorney, you can contact us for a free consultation online or by calling (304) 915-0823.