Consumer Protection Concerns

​A warranty is an assurance to you, the car owner, that you will not get stuck paying thousands of dollars for repairs you are not responsible for. There are “dealer warranties” and “manufacturer warranties;” the difference is who is obligated to pay for the cost of certain repairs. When you go to by a new car there is always a warranty by the dealership, usually of at least 12 months and/or 12,000 miles. A used car sometimes also carries a “dealer limited warranty” or a remaining “manufacturer warranty.” “As-Is” cars might not have any warranty at all. Most important to remember is to read your warranty so you know exactly what you can expect to pay.​

Being contacted by a debt collector can be a stressful and unnerving experience but understanding the process and your rights can help ease the process. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) prohibits collectors from using abusive, unfair, or deceptive practices to collect debt from you. Once you have been contacted by a debt collector, the collector must send you a written statement detailing the name of the creditor, how much you owe, and what actions to take if you believe you do not owe them the money within five days.​

​Wisconsin Stat. § 100.264 provides additional punishment for those that try to take advantage of the elderly or disabled. Elders are a major target for scams; for example, some scammers will call claiming to be a relative in need of money to get out of a situation. Although difficult, asking key questions and getting more information can ensure that you are not falling victim to a “grandparent scams.” ​

The Internet is a valuable resource and communication tool that allows Wisconsin citizens to find an answer to any question instantaneously, and to communicate with friends. But the internet can also provide individuals access to our most sensitive information, especially if we don’t take the proper precautions to protect our information. DATCP provides information on safeguarding your identity, identity theft, credit reports, online protection of children’s privacy and safety, computer safety, social networking, and data breaches.​

​In any interaction, you should first verify that the person on the phone, in the mail, or by any means of communication is who they claim to be. Never give out identification information like a social security number, date of birth, or credit card number. If the person says you cannot tell anyone about the interaction, threaten you, or request payment of any kind, you are most likely the victim of a scam. ​

Hearing that you are going to jail, that a warrant is out for your arrest or that the police are coming for you are scary things to hear and government imposters prey on this. Neither the IRS nor the Department of Treasury will contact you by phone; they will send you a letter in the mail. Do not give out any personal information or send them any money in any way. 

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It is good to be cautious of all advertising so that you can spot deceptive advertising. Those guidelines extend for lottery, contest and sweepstakes scams that make outlandish claims. Keep in mind that legitimate lotteries, contests, sweepstakes have terms and conditions that include how to apply and they will notify you that you won by certified mail. Never wire money or send cash, you risk never seeing it again. Always ask for the alleged organization’s license number and licensing agency, because all legitimate lotteries, contests, and sweepstakes are registered and licensed.​

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