Identity theft occurs when someone obtains, without your knowledge or agreement, personally identifiable information about you, such as your date of birth, address or credit card numbers, with the intent to conduct fraud or other unlawful acts. Unfortunately, many...
How can you dispute errors on your credit report
The information included on your credit report may be inaccurate, Perhaps you got married and have changed your name, or the information of someone with a similar name as yours may be mixed with yours. Identity theft may also lead to a credit report error. So, what...
What should you know about vehicle repossessions?
Many people need a vehicle to get around, especially when public transport is lacking in their area. Unfortunately, buying one is expensive and usually requires taking out a vehicle loan. Most people enter a vehicle loan with the ability to make require payments;...
National Consumer Protection Week details common investment scams
The annual National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) has just ended. However, it’s critical to remember the information provided during that week throughout the year. No matter how savvy you may feel as a consumer, scammers are getting more and more creative. Now they...
Common errors people may find on their credit reports
A credit report affects many aspects of someone's life. Obviously, someone's credit score and history of recent credit use can affect their finances. An accurate and positive credit report can help someone qualify for a lower-cost mortgage or better terms when...
It’s easy to become a victim of zombie debt collectors
If you’re being inundated by debt collectors calling, texting, emailing and otherwise contacting you, you may not even realize that one or more of them is attempting to get payment on something called a “zombie debt.” Zombie debts include debts that have already been...
Efforts to ban AI-generated robocalls are evolving
Robocalls can be intensely annoying. They can also be highly effective at convincing people to part with their money. If they were not, the companies that use them simply would not bother initiating them. AI has exacerbated the problem, and – for better and for worse...
Time-barred debt in Minnesota: What consumers need to know
As you know, debt is a stressful burden, and dealing with collectors can be overwhelming. But what if the debt an agency is trying to collect is actually time-barred? In Minnesota, like many other states, there are laws in place to protect you from being sued for...
A new year means new scams abound
The new year is upon us, and with the new year come new scams. Fraudsters often use new technologies and upcoming events to trick and scare people. However, their goal is always the same: to get your personal information or money. Catching fraudsters is challenging...
What’s considered an abusive debt collection tactic?
Debt collection is a legitimate process, but it sometimes escalates into abusive practices. Understanding what constitutes abusive debt collection is essential for consumers to protect their rights and mental well-being. It's crucial to differentiate between...