Basic Consumer Rights
Right to safety, information, choice, redress, consumer education, and a healthy environment.
Consumer Bill of Rights
Framework by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, stressing safety, information, choice, and the right to be heard.
Read Also:
- https://legalnexishub.com/25-consumer-protection-laws-everyone-should-know/
- https://legalnexishub.com/30-legal-tips-to-address-consumer-complaints/
- https://legalnexishub.com/40-faqs-about-consumer-protection-law-explained/
Laws protecting consumers in the U.S.
Key laws are the Consumer Protection Act, Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Protects against deceitful advertising, swindling and other unfair competition practices.
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Consumer contract
A consumer contract is legally binding between two parties, being the buyer or seller, wherein terms for purchased goods or service are stated in the contract.
Purchases
Can I exchange a product, if I so change my mind?
Return or refund policies generally depend on seller; no universal federal law does require a company to accept any return unless this product is proved defective.
What happens if I buy a defective product?
You have the right to repair, replacement, or refund under implied warranty laws.
What are my rights for online purchases?
Consumers have the right to accurate product descriptions, secure payment methods, and in some cases, a refund for items not as described.
What is a warranty?
A promise by the seller or manufacturer to repair or replace a product if it is defective within a specified period.
What are “lemon laws”?
Laws that protect buyers of defective vehicles, mandating manufacturers to either repair or replace the vehicle.
Fraud and Misrepresentation
What can I do if I am scammed?
Report fraud to the FTC, your state attorney general, or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
What is deceptive advertising?
A misleading or false claim about a product or service, which is prohibited by law.
How do I recognize a phishing scam?
Search for generic greetings, urgent language, misspellings, and unsolicited requests for personal information.
What is identity theft and how can I prevent it?
Identity theft refers to the unauthorized use of your personal information. Keep your sensitive information safe and watch your accounts for suspicious activities.
Can I sue for false advertising?
You can file a lawsuit for damages when you experience financial loss from the misleading claim.
Credit and Debt
What is the FCRA?
Legislation that preserves the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of information in your credit report.
I have the following rights if I am contacted by a debt collector:
The FDCPA strictly prohibits debt collectors from harassing, threatening, or deceiving you. In fact, the collector must verify your debt if you ask.
I have the following rights if an error appears on my credit report:
Dispute the error with the credit reporting agency and provide supporting documentation.
Can a business obtain my credit report without my consent?
No, businesses must get your permission unless it is one of the permitted purposes (court order, etc.).
Chargeback: What is it, and when can I request one?
A chargeback is a reversal of a credit card transaction initiated by your bank when a product or service is not delivered as promised.
These FAQs provide a foundation for understanding and exercising consumer rights.
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