BankruptcyYou want to get your money back for a product or service you were not satisfied with, but the company has gone bankrupt. What can you do?
Basement WaterproofingWater problems can be difficult and costly for homeowners to correct, but expensive waterproofing is not always the answer.
Bedding Labeling
Wisconsin law requires labeling to distinguish between bedding products made of secondhand material and new material.
Brushing Scams Have you received a package containing merchandise you didn't order? These deliveries may be part of a "brushing" scam.
Want to “be your own boss,” “work from home,” or "escape your 9 to 5?” Before you pay anything, do your research.
Buying Clubs Buying clubs attract consumers by advertising that members can buy goods at wholesale prices or at reduced rates.
Car Rentals & Collision Damage Renting a car for your vacation or business trip? Rental car liability insurance coverage has confused consumers for many years.
Cell Phones Cellular telephones are evolving into versatile, powerful devices that can make life easier, but not without costs and potential risks.
Charity RequestsDo some research before you give to a charitable organization to avoid fraudsters who want to take advantage of your generosity.
Chain Letters Chain letters promise a big return on a small investment. Do not waste your money! Chain letters are illegal and they do not work.
Check Scams If you cash a fake check and transfer a portion to another party, you will be on the hook when the bank discovers the forgery.
Child Care SafetyCribs, high chairs, locks, gates, and more. To create a safe environment for young children, review the safety tips included on this list.
Child Identity Protection Minors make ideal targets for identity thieves because they have a clean credit history and the crime could go undetected for years.
Child Online PrivacyAs a parent, you have control of the personal information companies collect online from your children under the age of 13.
College Financial AidWith tuition skyrocketing, many students and their families fall prey to scholarship and financial aid scams in their efforts to pay the bills.
Computer DisposalBefore donating, selling or discarding your old computer, remove all personal/private info from the hard drive to prevent ID theft.
Computer Protection TipsWe use computers for everything. So what do you do when your computer is hacked? There are a few simple but very important steps.
Contracts A contract is a legally-binding promise or agreement that is made between two or more people. Read it entirely before signing.
Cramming and SlammingCramming is the act of placing unauthorized charges on your phone bill. Slamming is switching your phone provider without permission.
Creating Strong PasswordsPasswords are your first line of defense against cyber criminals while conducting online transactions or simply browsing the internet.
Credit Report Security FreezeWisconsin consumers have the right to place a security freeze on their credit reports. A security freeze can help protect from identity theft.
Data Breaches: What To DoYou just found out from the news or a notification letter that your personal information was part of a data breach. What should you do?
Dating ServicesLooking for companionship? You may decide to seek the assistance of a dating service. Check them carefully before signing or paying.
Debit ScamsConsumers across the country are complaining about unauthorized debits from their checking accounts. Fraudsters are often to blame.
Deceptive AdvertisingAdvertising has a great influence on our purchasing decisions. It is important for consumers to understand exactly what ads are saying.
Direct Marketing Wisconsin's direct marketing law protects consumers in sales made anywhere away from the seller's place of business.
Door-to-Door Food PlansSolicitors may appear at your front door and offer to sell you discounted meat or other food products. These food service plans can sometimes be misleading.
Elderly/Disabled Law People who take advantage of the elderly or disabled can face consequences in Wisconsin including forfeitures up to $10,000 for violating consumer laws.
Emergency Home RepairIn an emergency, consumers who need home repairs can be vulnerable to scams. You can prevent problems before they occur.
Environmental AdvertisingMany products are advertised as environmentally friendly, green, recycled or recyclable, etc. Unfortunately, it is not always clear what these claims mean.
Fair and Trade Show ExhibitorsMost consumers assume that all businesses at trade shows, fairs, or seminars are reputable. This can be a very expensive assumption.
Fitness CentersThere are many fitness center options out there, from expensive clubs to specialized gyms or bare-bones workout facilities.
Foreign Money ScamsPeople in Wisconsin are being targeted to invest in complicated bank fraud schemes. These scams originate from all over the world.
Fraud Against BusinessEach year, small businesses are targets of fraudulent and deceptive sales practices. Learn how to protect your business from fraud.
Fraudulent Account Info Request You have a right to receive copies of documents relating to fraudulent transactions made or accounts opened using your information.
Fraudulent Tax ReturnsThe Wisconsin Department of Revenue assists victims of fraudulent tax returns, but there are a few steps any victim should take.
Free Credit ReportsFederal law requires nationwide consumer reporting companies to give you one free copy of your credit report per year upon request.
GeneratorsA generator may be able to power your refrigerator, home office, or other essentials during an outage. But they can be hazardous.
Gift CardsScammers commonly try to fool consumers into sending them money in the form of gift cards. Learn how to use them safely.
Government Grant ScamsGrant opportunities offering "money for nothing" are usually scams. You may lose money or your identity but will never see the promised grant.
GPS Safety Tips Most people unknowingly share a great deal of information about their exact location by simply posting 'geotagged' photos online.
Home Improvement Tips
Most contractors who do home improvements are honest, reliable and skilled. Your due diligence can prevent common issues.
Home Improvement TransientsThese traveling crews blacktop driveways, paint, do roofing and siding, and more. They do shoddy work and are likely to steal from you.
Identity Theft Consumer Tips Are you looking to limit your identity theft risks? This is an excellent one-stop resource for beginning your research.
Identity Theft Protection Services There are many businesses that now offer credit report monitoring services, identity theft protection, and identity theft insurance.
Identity Theft Safeguards There are many ways to protect your personal information. Learn the best methods for keeping your data and devices secure.
Immigration ConsultingImmigration consultants specialize in assisting consumers with immigration law matters. They are not attorneys.
Imposter Scams Scammers impersonate trusted individuals and organizations to convince you to hand over your money or personal information.
In-Home Sales PartiesIn-home sales parties can be a great opportunity, but there are several things you should know if you plan on attending or hosting.
International Phone ScamsBe cautious when calling an unfamiliar telephone number – it could be a costly international telephone call.
Internet Business OpportunitiesInternet businesses sound like the perfect job. The truth is, like any business opportunity, there is no safe way to get rich quick.
Interstate MovingA moving company should provide you with a written estimate, order for service, bill of lading, and an inventory list. Read your contract!
Invention Marketing Inventors and entrepreneurs introduce new ideas to the public each year. Knowing how to get started is the first step to success.
Investment Fraud You may be looking for ways to “put your money to work” and earn more. But your money could be lost if you get caught in an investment scam.
Junk Mail/Unwanted CallsAmericans receive millions of tons of junk mail every year, and telemarketing calls can be time-consuming and irritating. How can consumers reduce them?
Law Enforcement FundraisersSolicitations, calls, and mailings from groups claiming to have an affiliation with police or firefighters should be examined carefully. They may be deceptive.
Leasing a VehicleLeasing lets you use a motor vehicle without purchasing it. Lease agreements are complex, so be sure you understand it before signing.
LiensLiens are remedies created by statute to ensure payment to those who have improved the property of others.
LodgingComplaints in the lodging industry are often the result of miscommunication. Ask questions when making reservations.
Magazine SalesThousands of consumers buy magazine subscriptions every year. Unfortunately, problems like unfair sales and billing errors can occur.
Mail Order/Unordered MerchandiseThe Wisconsin Mail Order Law helps deal with a major mail order problem: failure to promptly deliver prepaid merchandise.
Manufactured Home Communities Many people have found that living in a manufactured home community suits their way of life. Residents have rights and responsibilities.
Medical BillingMany consumers face confusion about the medical bills they receive from hospitals, clinics, and other professionals.
Medical Discount PlansMedical discount plans can help to save money on health care costs, but they are not health insurance or a substitute for it.
Medical Identity Theft When someone uses your private information to make fraudulent claims for medical goods or services, identity theft has occurred.
Medical QuackeryToday's snake oil sellers claim they have discovered new solutions to age-old problems involving health, beauty, vitality, and happiness.
Money ScamsWiring money is like sending cash: once it is sent, you cannot get it back. Never agree to deposit a check and then wire money back.
Mortgage Assistance Scams The possibility of losing your home to foreclosure can be terrifying. Scam artists prey on the fears of desperate homeowners.
Motor Vehicle Care TipsKeeping up with your car maintenance goes a long way in saving money and avoiding unexpected travel delays.
Motor Vehicle Repair TipsAvoid repair rip-offs by being prepared. Know how your vehicle works, how to select a technician, and your consumer rights.
Mystery Shopper ScamsDo you love to shop? If so, you may be tempted by emails or ads that claim you can earn a living as a secret or mystery shopper.
Negative Option Plans A negative option is a marketing plan that makes it the responsibility of the consumer, not the seller, to cancel a contract or order.
Online Private Party Sale To make sure the product, good, or service you are buying online is legitimate and priced appropriately, do some research.
Phishing, Vishing, Smishing When scammers 'bait' you into giving up your personal information, they're "phishing" you. There are numerous forms of phishing.
Phone Scams Targeting Seniors Scam artists often target older people, knowing they tend to be trusting and polite toward strangers, and likely to be home to take calls.
Prescription Drug Assistance Emails, ads, and websites for companies that guarantee free or low-cost prescription drugs for a hefty fee upfront are scams.
Price Comparison AdvertisingAlmost every seller makes use of price comparisons, in which current sales prices are compared to previous or future prices to show savings.
Price GougingFor the price gouging law to be enforced, the Governor must certify there is an emergency disrupting normal business transactions.
Privacy Notices Privacy notices explain what personal information a company collects; what will be done with it; and how you can limit it.
Prize OffersSome prize offers and sweepstakes are scams that use attention-getting gimmicks to appear legitimate. These offers may cost you.
Product Safety Laws Information to help consumers and businesses avoid safety hazards in household goods, toys, equipment, and other products.
Propane Consumer Tips Wisconsin law does not regulate propane prices. Research your options, ask questions, and get everything in writing.
Public Record ScamsWisconsin’s law protects consumers from solicitations for public records by requiring disclosures and limiting fees being charged.
Pyramid Schemes Multi-level or “network” marketing plans are a way of selling goods or services through distributors. Some are illegal pyramid schemes.
RebatesRebates are offered for everyday purchases like toothpaste and shampoo as well as large ticket items like furnaces or a new car.
Rent to Own Are you thinking of buying a new TV, refrigerator, couch or other “big-ticket” item? You may be considering the rent-to-own option.
Ever had a problem fixing an item? Many consumer complaints deal with unsatisfactory work or misdiagnosis of the problem.
Return/Refund PolicyMisunderstandings about refund policies are common. Many problems can be prevented by a clear understanding of policy.
Robocalls If you answer the phone and hear a recorded message instead of a live person, it is a robocall. Robocalls come at all hours of the day or night.
Safe Online Shopping TipsThe internet has fake ads, fraudulent websites, and scammers. But consumers can still have a safe online shopping experience.
Self-Service Storage Do you need a place to store your things? A self-service storage facility may be the answer. Read a contract carefully before signing.
Shopping Tips Sales, refunds/returns, credit cards, loan offers, layaway, e-commerce and more — DATCP has one fact sheet to address all things shopping.
Seminar Pitch Hucksters claim they will teach you valuable information about how to invest successfully or operate a profitable business.
Small Claims CourtDoes someone owe you money? You may not need a lawyer and the rules are simpler than in most court proceedings.
Social NetworkingSocial networking websites are a place for internet users to come together. As these sites grow in popularity, so do their risks.
Solar Power Buying Tips Home solar photovoltaic (PV) system installations are becoming common. But as solar power use increases, so do scams.
SpamSpam is commercial e-mails and text messages sent, often in bulk, to consumers without their prior request or consent.
Stop Telemarketers The telephone rings, interrupting your dinner, favorite TV program, or nap. You rush to answer – and it is a telemarketer!
Student Loan Debt ReliefPaying back student loans can be overwhelming. Scammers know this and take advantage of borrowers by offering to reduce or eliminate debt.
Student Tips Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the country. What you do now to protect your identity may affect your life for many years.
Student Tips to Prevent Identity TheftThe internet is a part of our everyday lives. While it makes communication easier, it also increases the risk of identity theft.
Surplus Goods and Government Sales
Most items in a surplus auction do not sell for unbelievably low prices. Government auction services usually sell goods at or below cost.
Tax Refund Loans Unfortunately, promises of "instant refunds" and "quick money" by tax preparer services are actually refund anticipation loans (RALs).
Tax Time Tips Tax-related identity theft means your Social Security number was compromised. How can you notice it, and how can you prevent it?
Telecommunications Laws DATCP regulates phone, cable, satellite, and internet service for personal use, not business. State law prohibits unfair practices.
Telemarketing Telemarketers may call or text only between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. They must tell you they are selling something and who the seller is.
Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Learn about considerations to make before you rent, while renting, and before terminating a tenancy, as well as eviction and unsafe conditions.
Text Spam, AKA "Smishing" Phishers use clever SMS text messages to trick you into giving them your personal information. This is known as "smishing."
Ticket Refunds In Wisconsin, consumers are protected from losing most prepaid admissions fees when an event is canceled or rescheduled.
Timeshares & ResellersPlanning your next vacation? Perhaps timesharing is on your list of options, but keep in mind that problems can occur.
Top Telemarketing TipsUnwanted telemarketer calls have been a consumer issue for years. Learn how to keep your personal information safe.
Toy Safety Play is essential to a child’s development, but toys can cause injury. Parents can ensure playtime is fun, educational, and safe.
Travel TipsWhether you are off to see the sights, ski the slopes, or sunbathe on the sand, it pays to be informed when traveling.
Vacation Protection Tips Vacations are a prime opportunity for identity thieves, and your risk of fraud and identity theft may increase when you travel.
Vanity, or subsidy, publishers catch authors off guard with ads in newspapers and magazines that promise huge profits.
Warehouse Storage When storing property like boats, pontoons, RVs, or motorcycles, protection from theft or damage should be your primary concern.
Warranties There can be big differences between the warranties of two similar products manufactured by different firms.
Weight Reduction Centers There are many weight loss programs from which to choose. Review them carefully before you sign a contract or pay any money.
What to Do if it Happens to You There are a number of useful steps that identity theft victims can take to help clear their records and reclaim their identities.
What's in Your Wallet? Most wallets contain personal information that would allow a thief to easily steal your identity, but you can minimize your risk.
Wi-Fi Usage TipsWi-Fi is a radio wave-based technology that allows devices to wirelessly connect to the internet, but not all networks are secure.
Wisconsin Do Not Call FAQThe Wisconsin Do Not Call Registry lets you limit the telemarketing calls and texts you receive. Register your phone number for free.
Wisconsin's Data Breach Notification Law State law requires most businesses to notify individuals if an unauthorized person has their info.
Work-at-Home Work-at-home opportunities can sound like a way to make ends meet. But the reality is many of these jobs are scams.
Your Social Security Number Social Security numbers were not originally meant to be used as a general identifier. Thieves steal them to set up fraudulent accounts.