Issue Position: Consumer Protection

Issue Position

Protecting Orange County's consumers is one of the most important things that Congresswoman Sanchez does in Congress. Consumer education helps every American who makes a purchase. Consumers should know their rights and should learn about goods and services before they buy. Too often, the average citizen is unaware of frequently executed scams and potential rip-offs. By becoming informed consumers, individuals will be better equipped to protect themselves from fraud and better able to help plan for their future and effectively manage their finances.

Congresswoman Sanchez urges residents of CA-47 to learn more about the risks of fraud and take precautions to protect themselves from these crimes. Education is the first line of defense in helping consumers manage their money wisely and safeguard themselves against fraud and identity theft. Below is a list of educational tips for Californians to help protect themselves from fraud and abuse in the marketplace.

* Scammers often pretend to be financial institutions or companies and call or email asking you to confirm your account information or credit card number by withdrawing money. Never give out account or password information to a caller unless you made the call to the official bank number or went to the company's secure web site yourself.

* Be wary of individuals who inform you by phone or email that you are due a large sum of money, such as an inheritance, and ask you to provide money as processing fees or personal financial information to facilitate the transaction. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

* Don't donate to a charity if you've never heard of the organization. Scammers frequently telephone or email unsuspecting individuals to solicit for donations to fabricated philanthropies. If you're unsure whether a caller is sincere, ask for information to be mailed to you so you can research the charity before you decide to donate. Never give your credit card or bank account number unless you have verified the identity of the organization as reputable.

* If you are tired of receiving telemarketer calls, register your phone number to the National Do Not Call Registry. Telemarketers should abstain from calling your number within 31 days of your number's appearance on the registry.

An informed consumer is a powerful consumer. Congresswoman Sanchez will continue her work to increase consumer protection through legislation in Congress and casework in the district

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