Consumer Connection

• Out of Work, Not Out of Options: Your Financial Game Plan

  This episode of the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection’s podcast, Consumer Connection, explores how consumers can navigate financial transitions such as job loss, relocation, or retirement through smart budgeting, saving, and planning. Host and OCP Investigator Michelle Escobar is joined by Ira Rheingold, Executive Director of the National Association of Consumer Advocates (NACA), to discuss strategies for managing debt, cutting unnecessary expenses, building financial literacy, and creating a financial roadmap. The episode also highlights common scams that target people during vulnerable times, including fake job offers, moving scams, and retirement fraud, with tips on how to stay protected. For additional information and resources, visit OCP’s website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ocp. Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected].

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• Guarding Against Imposters with the Federal Trade Commission

  In honor of National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), we’re joined by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for a special episode of Consumer Connection! In this episode, host Michelle Escobar is joined by Diana Shiller, a Senior Investigator at the FTC. They discuss the FTC’s role in protecting consumers nationwide and how the FTC works with local consumer protection groups. They also highlight key tactics and tips for avoiding imposter scams and deceptive business practices that listeners should know. For additional information and resources, visit OCP’s website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ocp. Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected].   Learn more about the Federal Trade Commission: https://www.ftc.gov/ 

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• Unmasking AI’s Role in Scams

  In this episode of Consumer Connection, we explore the use of artificial intelligence in scams and how it’s making them more convincing than ever. From AI-generated profiles in romance scams to deepfake technology in phishing and grandparent scams, we discuss what AI is and the latest tools scammers are using to deceive consumers. Host Michelle Escobar is joined by Keith Young, Chief Information Security Officer at Montgomery County’s Office of Enterprise Information Security, who shares how scammers leverage AI and the warning signs to watch for. Tune in for practical advice and resources to stay ahead of scammers.  For additional information and resources, visit OCP’s website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ocp. Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected]. 

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• Safe and Smart Holiday Shopping

  In this episode of Consumer Connection, host Michelle Escobar is joined by special guest Tracy Rezvani, Administrator at the Howard County Office of Consumer Protection, to share essential strategies for holiday shopping. Together, they discuss how to compare prices, handle returns, and avoid common pitfalls like scams that target shoppers during the holiday season. Tune in for expert tips on smart shopping and staying safe this holiday season!  Helpful Links: • Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection:https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/OCP/  • Howard County Office of Consumer Protection: https://www.howardcountymd.gov/consumer-protection

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• Home Sweet Home

  In this episode of Consumer Connection, host Michelle Escobar delves into the intricacies of hiring home builders and home improvement contractors. Joined by the Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) Investigations Administrator Patty Vitale and Business Education and Registration Unit Manager Shaun Carew, the team discusses key differences between new home builders and home improvement contractors, tips for consumers to protect themselves, and what to look for in a contract.From understanding licensing requirements to handling disputes with unlicensed contractors, this episode is packed with practical advice to help consumers make informed decisions about home construction and improvements. Whether you're building a new home or considering a renovation, this episode is a must-listen for homeowners and prospective home buyers.For additional information and resources, visit OCP’s website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ocp. Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected] links: · Is a home improvement contractor licensed? https://www.dllr.state.md.us/cgi-bin/ElectronicLicensing/OP_search/OP_search.cgi?calling_app=HIC::HIC_qselect· Is an HVAC technician licensed? https://www.dllr.state.md.us/cgi-bin/ElectronicLicensing/OP_search/OP_search.cgi?calling_app=HVAC::HVAC_qselect· Have lawsuits been filed against a business? https://casesearch.courts.state.md.us/casesearch/processDisclaimer.jis· Has the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection had previous complaints against a merchant? https://montgomerycountymd.gov/ocp/lookup/disclosure_records.html

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