Friedman is director of the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection, which handles complaints from shoppers about unfair business practices. What should consumers look out for this holiday season?
Consumer scams don’t take a holiday. No one wants to ring in the New Year having been financially victimized. While most businesses are honest, we receive thousands of complaints each year: Consumers who purchased cars that the used car dealer did not really own, homeowners who paid thousands of dollars for repairs but received nothing in return, plumbers who installed gas appliances without getting permits or inspections, consumers who thought they were paying to save their homes from foreclosure. There are even phony charities deceptively inducing consumers to make donations.
Are scams more rampant this time of year?
The potential for scams increases as consumers make more purchases and businesses make more advertising claims. With the current downturn in our economy, consumers are more apt to look for ways to save money and are more willing to take risks. At the same time unscrupulous businesses become increasingly bold and creative in deceptive marketing and business practices.
How has this job changed your shopping habits?
Be suspicious, research, and trust but verify has become my mantra. While I tend not to make many purchases, there is a great deal of comfort in knowing that all consumers who make purchases in Montgomery County are, in fact, receiving a greater level of protection because they can seek the services of our office. When I’ve been ripped off it’s a great way to keep me passionate and in touch with other consumers who have suffered financial harm.
Any other advice?
I would never contract with any business without doing a quick Google search or doing an online check of court cases. A few minutes of checking can potentially save thousands of dollars of money and emotional anguish.
Brian Hughes
