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Fraud
Intentional deception resulting in injury to another.
Balloon Payment
A large extra payment that may be charged at the end of a loan or lease.
Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
The cost of credit expressed as a yearly rate.
Bogus Invoices
Con artists send bogus invoices for what appear to be phone directory listings or for office supplies that were never ordered or delivered, hoping that no one will check before paying them.
Better Business Bureaus BBB
Better Business Bureaus (BBBs) are nonprofit organizations supported primarily by local business members. The focus of BBB activities is to promote an ethical marketplace by encouraging honest advertising and selling practices, and by providing alternative dispute resolution.
Closed-End Lease
A lease in which you are not responsible for the difference if the actual value of the item at the scheduled end of the lease is less than the residual value, but you may be responsible for excess wear-and-use charges and for other lease requirements.
Small Claims Court
Small claims courts resolve disputes involving claims for small amounts of money. While the maximum amounts that can be claimed or awarded differ from state to state, court procedures generally are simple, inexpensive, quick and informal.
Charity Scams
If you’re approached by an unfamiliar charity, check it out. Most states require charities to register with them and file annual reports showing how they use donations. Ask your state or local consumer protection agency how to get this information.
Medwatch program
You can also report your suspicions about drugs and medications directly to the FDA by calling the Medwatch program at 1-800-332-1088.
Health Consumer Bill of Rights
Was developed by the federal government. This has been used as a foundation for many health plans, including the federal government sponsored health plans. Health care consumer's rights; Rights of the health care consumer
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