Beware those sweepstakes calls

The Federal Trade Commission warned consumers in an Aug. 3 “Tips for Consumers” publication to be wary of individuals who call claiming to be from the FTC and telling those called they have won a sweepstakes.

CONSUMER AFFAIRS: Wiring money overseas

The Federal Trade Commission, in cooperation with the Appleseed Foundation, has issued a Consumer Alert on sending money to family and friends overseas.

Resolve to be a smarter consumer in 2012

If you are in the habit of making New Year's resolutions, consider including this year resolutions that make you a better consumer in 2012.

Research risks before you trade futures

The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission seeks to protect consumers from fraud in the commodity futures and options markets.

Beware sellers who promise cell phone protection with shields

Last month the Federal Trade Commission issued the Consumer Alert, "Listen Up: Tips to Help Avoid Cell Phone Radiation Scams," available at www.ftc.gov.

CONSUMER AFFAIRS: Timeshares and camping clubs

The Consumer Protection Division of the Indiana Attorney General's Office has tips for consumers on timeshares and camping clubs.

CONSUMER AFFAIRS: FTC helps you spend money wisely

The Federal Trade Commission offers consumers tips for spending money wisely.

CONSUMER AFFAIRS: Tips for better use of your credit cards

The Federal Reserve Board offers tips on the better use of credit cards.

CONSUMER AFFAIRS: Top 2010 consumer complaints

Last month the Federal Trade Commission published the annual report, Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book for January-December 2010.

CONSUMER AFFAIRS: Wise driving saves gas money

With gasoline prices rising again, consumers can benefit by considering suggestions for gasoline savings from the U.S. Department of Energy.

Lakeshore Chamber to examine consumer protection

HAMMOND | The Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce's next monthly luncheon will be at 11:30 a.m. March 30 at the Federal Courthouse, 5400 Federal Plaza.

CONSUMER AFFAIRS: FDIC warns of fraudulent e-mails

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. issued a consumer alert on Feb. 15, warning consumers of numerous reports of a fraudulent e-mail that has the appearance of being sent from the FDIC.

CONSUMER AFFAIRS: National focus on the consumer

Consumers are receiving a boost this week and next through a national focus on consumer savings and consumer protection.

CONSUMER AFFAIRS: Home energy savings calculators

Several energy savings calculators exist online to help consumers estimate the amount of energy and money they can save through energy-efficient improvements to their homes.

CONSUMER AFFAIRS: What to know about your auto warranty

The Federal Trade Commission wants consumers to know that a car dealer cannot void a car's warranty simply because you have someone else do routine maintenance on the vehicle.

CONSUMER AFFAIRS: IRS Free File is back

Free File, an online tax preparation program, is available once more this tax season to taxpayers through the use of one of two options -- either brand-name software or an electronic version of the Internal Revenue Service paper forms.

CONSUMER AFFAIRS: Power outages and food safety

A good source for consumer information on food safety is www.foodsafety.gov. Included at the site is information regarding food safety during and after an emergency.