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Consumer Assistance Hotline:
1-800-697-1220
 
 
 
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  • Be Alert of Potential Spam Emails – the Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection advises consumers to be on the lookout for spam emails from companies with which you do business. In late March, Epsilon, a large email marketing services company suffered a security data breach, potentially exposing millions of customer names and email addresses to hackers. This could make you more susceptible to identity theft and fraud. The emails can look legitimate, so don’t click on links embedded in emails and call the company directly to verify information you’ve received. For information on preventing or mitigating the consequences of identity theft, call the Department of State’s Consumer Assistance Hotline at 1-800-697-1220.

  • Beware of Tiny "Button" Batteries -- As batteries shrink and become more powerful, the number of battery-related incidents resulting in severe injury is going up. Incidents most often involve children younger than four years old and senior adults. Learn in which products these types of batteries are traditionally found, as well as the recommendations to follow to help prevent unintentional battery ingestion.

  • Credit Discrimination -- Know your rights when searching and/or applying for credit.

  • Senior Information Line -- The Division, the State Office for the Aging, and the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Center for Elder Abuse Prevention at the Hebrew Home at Riverdale host a toll-free "Senior Information Line" which allows callers Statewide to access the latest news about issues of interest to seniors.  
 
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