Mobile Payments, Loan Modification Scams, Government Imposters

Protecting Your Privacy and Security When Making Mobile Payments Susan Grant, Director of Consumer Protection and Privacy, Consumer Federation of America (CFA) Many people use their cell phones and other mobile devices to pay for purchases. On the street of our office here at CFA, people pay for parking with mobile devices — plus buy coffee and shop at some retail stores and websites. For most consumers, the biggest benefit of mobile payments is convenience. No need to pull out your wallet for cash or plastic  — especially if you’ve got your phone at hand anyway. No need to type in your payment information to buy online. But what if your financial and other personal information isn’t safe? Read more > Anyone Can Be Scammed - Regardless of Race, Ethnicity or Status Barbara Floyd Jones, Senior Manager, National Homeownership Programs, NeighborWorks America In 2009, NeighborWorks America launched its national campaign to educate homeowners on loan modification scams and help them avoid foreclosure. Loan Scam Alert brought a newfound hope, arming our nation’s residents with information to fight scams aimed to take advantage of those interested in lowering their monthly payments. Loan Scam Alert continues to inform consumers and encourage all homeowners to: Know the signs of a scam to avoid potential pitfalls down the road, Learn from individuals who have been targeted by scam artists, and Report scammers using the Homeowner’s HOPE Hotline and online complaint form. Read more > SEC Warns of Government Impersonators By The SEC Office of Investor Education and Advocacy U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) staff is aware of continuing fraudulent solicitations that purport to be affiliated with or sponsored by the Securities and Exchange Commission, including scams that make phony claims of endorsement by senior SEC officials. Read more > This is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission and NCPW.gov.