The Center for Consumer Protection (CCP) is the nation’s only entity dedicated to providing support to attorney general staff who are committed to protecting the public against consumer fraud and abuse.
The CCP’s mission is to:
- Assist and enable state and territory attorneys general in protecting the public in the areas of consumer protection and charitable asset and entity oversight by providing information, technical assistance, and support.
- Facilitate cooperation among attorney general staff through open dialogue and advanced communication systems.
- Plan, organize, and conduct training and seminars for the exchange of ideas and information on relevant matters.
- Promote the development of effective programs and education for the protection of the public.
Find out how the CCP provides support to attorney general offices and consumers.
Consumer Protection Tips for Wedding Season
Summer is wedding season. Planning a wedding can be both exciting and overwhelming but smart choices can help you avoid scams and unnecessary expenses. Vendors like photographers, venues, caterers, bakers, florists, and DJs are key components of your event. Unfortunately, many unhappy tears have been shed when a vendor either did not live up to their promises or just disappeared altogether!
Here are some tips to keep your wedding planning smooth and stress-free.
Avoiding Scams
Research Vendors Thoroughly
- Check Reviews: Look for verified reviews on third-party platforms like BBB.org, or Trustpilot. Request references from past clients to confirm their reliability.
- Verify Credentials: Ensure the vendor has a license, legitimate business address, and contact information.
- Meet Vendors: Visit venues and meet vendors in person or via video chat before booking.
Beware of Fake Websites and Social Media Profiles
- Too Good to Be True Deals: Be cautious of steep discounts on wedding dresses, decorations, and accessories.
- Payment Methods: Pay with a credit card to ensure fraud protection.
- Check Portfolios: Ask to see full portfolios, not just highlight reels.
Vanishing Vendors
- Payment Terms: Pay in installments rather than in full upfront.
- Signed Contracts: Ensure you have a detailed, signed contract outlining services, deadlines, and refund and cancellation policies.
Need to File a Consumer Complaint?
The National Association of Attorneys General Center for Consumer Protection provides a helpful tool to guide you to the right place. Whether you're dealing with fraud, scams, or unfair business practices, you can easily find your state or territory’s official consumer complaint portal.
Events
Attorneys General & Consumer Protection
Attorneys general are responsible for enforcing state consumer protection laws and protecting consumers from activities such as scams, deceptive and unfair trade practices, robocalling, and data breaches. They fight common consumer frauds conducted by illegitimate actors as well as consumer harms caused by legitimate businesses who have run afoul of the law. Attorneys general also have the authority to enforce many federal consumer protection laws.
Attorneys general play a crucial role in ensuring a fair marketplace through consumer education, mediation, and enforcement actions. They often collaborate with each other and with other consumer protection enforcers to increase effectiveness. Learn more about the role of attorneys general in consumer protection.
Consumer Protection Newsletter
The Center for Consumer Protection Monthly is a compendium of information that may be of interest to the attorney general community and others interested in consumer protection.
Courses and Trainings
Sign in to your NAAG account to view courses and trainings available to attorney general staff members.
Events for Attorney General Staff
Sign in to your NAAG account to view upcoming events that are only available to attorney general staff members.
Policy Letters
- Consumer Protection
- Technology
Bipartisan Coalition Urges Meta to Take Action Against Investment Scam Ads
The attorneys general called on Meta to enhance its advertiser vetting processes and increase human oversight of investment-related ads.
- Consumer Protection
Bipartisan Attorneys General Coalition Urges Passage of Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act
The legislation seeks to end the abusive use of mortgage credit trigger leads while preserving their use in narrowly defined, consumer-consented circumstances.
- Consumer Protection
- NAAG, Attorneys General
- Public Health
- Wellness
39 State and Territory Attorneys General Support Bipartisan Legislation to Prevent Youth Substance Use
The coalition emphasizes the critical role of the LSC in ensuring that the legal system works for all Americans, particularly those who face economic barriers to adequate legal counsel.
Relevant Articles
- Charities
- Consumer Protection
- Veterans and Military
