AG to release daily video tips for consumers
Every year, the Rhode Island Office of Attorney General's Consumer Protection Unit receives thousands of calls and emails from Rhode Islanders concerned about issues ranging from debt collectors to possible scams. For this year's National Consumer Protection Week, March 1-7, 2015, Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin is helping Rhode Islanders become savvier consumers and avoid being defrauded.
During the week, Attorney General Kilmartin will share a daily "video tip" as well as additional information and resources through Twitter and his website (www.riag.ri.gov) to remind consumers of how to protect their privacy, avoid identity theft and protect against frauds and scams.
"One of my top priorities as Attorney General is protecting consumers. Every day, our Consumer Protection Unit helps the public with a myriad of consumer issues and holds workshops throughout the state, warning the public about scams and helping people protect themselves against fraud and identity theft," said Attorney general Peter F. Kilmartin. "National Consumer Protection Week is a great opportunity to reach out to share information and resources to help Rhode Islanders make informed financial decisions, avoid falling victim to fraud and safeguard their identities."
National Consumer Protection Week is a coordinated campaign to encourage consumers nationwide to take full advantage of their consumer rights and to make better-informed decisions.
In previous years, Attorney General Kilmartin has hosted "shred-a-thon" events during National Consumer Protection Week. However, this year due to weather concerns, the shred-a-thons will be held the week of May 11-16, 2015. By pushing the date back until after tax season is over, consumers will be able to safely dispose of sensitive financial information they no longer need.
About the Office of the Attorney General Consumer Protection Unit The Office of the Attorney General Consumer Protection Unit investigates and mediates consumer complaints concerning unfair and unlawful business practices and misleading advertising arising out of alleged violations of the Deceptive Trade Practices Act. If groups of people are victimized by a deceptive trade practice, this office may file in the Superior Court a civil investigative demand, which is a formal investigation. In appropriate cases, a lawsuit to stop the illegal business practice may be initiated.
Apart from carrying out its statutory responsibilities, the Unit also provides information and referral services to the general public. Consumers are directed to the appropriate governmental or private agencies for help in answering specialized questions or resolving disputes that are not within the Unit's jurisdiction.
The Consumer Protection Unit is available to speak to community groups on how to prevent being a victim of identity theft and other scams. If you believe you are a victim of consumer fraud, please contact the Consumer Protection Unit by calling (401) 274-4400 or email at consumers@riag.ri.gov.