1. Government Protection Consumers protected by both laws and agencies at different levels Look at table on page 30

2. Federal Agencies FTC Protects against dishonest advertising, credit transactions, product labeling, & privacy CPSC Protects against unreasonable risks USDA Inspection and standard of meat, poultry, and canned fruits and vegetables FDA Enforces laws on food, drugs, and cosmetics

3. FCC Regulates communication by radio, television, wire, etc. NTIA Provide more choices and better quality telecommunications products and services FCIC Free information on a variety of topics through low cost publications

4. Other Consumer Assistance Consumer Groups Consumer Testing Agencies & Publications Business & Industry Groups Consumer Affairs Dept. Consumer Action Panels News & Media

5. Safeguarding Your Privacy 1.3

6. Preventing ID Theft Your Mail Secure personal info-SS# Choose passwords wisely Caution giving personal info Secure websites Shred account info and cut up old credit cards

7. If your ID is stolen File a report Notify bank & credit card co. Call reporting agencies and request a fraud alert be put on your file Get informed

8. Data Collection & Privacy Issues Financial Services Modernization Act Requires privacy notices to be sent to consumers Children’s On-line Privacy Protection Act of 1998 Requires websites directed to children under 13 to post privacy policy on home page

9. Online Profiling Companies collect info on which sites a consumer visits, then use that to predict what they will buy Cookies-small files that are stored on your computer’s hard drive

10. Internet Safety Reveal as little info as needed E-mail Cyber-stalking

11. Review Why should you guard your SS#? How does the Financial Services Modernization Act affect privacy? List three steps you can take to prevent online harassment.