FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 11, 2017
Contact: James Hallinan (505) 660-2216
Santa Fe, NM – On the last day of National Consumer Protection Week, Attorney General Hector Balderas released a Consumer Protection “Go-To Guide” for New Mexicans. While this list of resources is not intended to be comprehensive, if you have questions about possible scams, making smart financial decisions or simply need help, this list is a quick reference guide for assistance. If you need help finding a specific resource, please call the Office of the Attorney General toll free at 1-844-255-9210.
“Becoming an informed consumer can help you and your family reach financial goals, invest for the future and set your children up for success,” Attorney General Balderas said.
Quick references for scams:
Check if the Office of the Attorney General has issued any scams alerts recently – http://www.nmag.gov/press-releases.aspx
The Federal Trade Commission issues regular scam alerts here – https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scam-alerts
Check with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to see if they’ve issued any alerts or warnings here – https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/blog/?filter1_topics=fraud
To fact check emails and internet posts – www.snopes.com
Cars and automobiles:
Check for recalls on your vehicle – https://www.nhtsa.gov
Protect your privacy:
Sign-up at https://donotcall.gov/ to stop unwanted telephone sales or solicitations (this does not apply to charities, political groups or debt collectors).
For legal advice or referrals:
Law Access New Mexico provides legal advice and referrals at 1-800-340-9771
New Mexico Bar Association provides help finding a lawyer – (505) 797-6000 or http://www.nmbar.org/nmstatebar/Directory/Nmstatebar/For_Public/For_Public.aspx?hkey=29b698b1-2859-4ab3-926e-419ac60cf623
The National Association of Consumer Advocates is a nationwide association of attorneys who represent consumers and can be a great resource if you need an attorney- http://www.consumeradvocates.org/for-consumers
General information on consumer issues:
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has information on making smart financial decisions here – https://www.consumerfinance.gov/
If you don’t know where to start, the Office of the Attorney General can help. Call us toll free with questions – 1-844-255-9210
# # #