When you’re planning to make a purchase, two of the most crucial factors you will inevitably compare are the prices and the various companies that offer the product or service you need. Did you know that BBB can give you a list of companies and their prices at the same time? BBB’s online directory, Member Pages, is completely free and it is an extremely simple way to find businesses you can trust and prices you can afford.

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Between April 17th and April 19th, consumers on the PlayStation Network were unfortunately victims of a data breach and now have their personal information potentially compromised. This includes their PlayStation Network login, password and security answers as well as name, address, purchase history, billing address and credit card information. While Sony has turned off their PlayStation Network and enlisted an outside security firm to conduct an investigation, any person with an active PlayStation Network account should do the following:

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Many people use both credit and debit cards interchangeably out of habit. The main difference between a debit and a credit card purchase is that a debit card creates a DIRECT link to your bank account and money can be taken out quickly. Generally, a debit card is fine for most things, but the following 4 purchases should be made with a credit card whenever possible:

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Are you hoping to buy your first home this year? If so, check out the special event that we have coming up during National Consumer Protection Week on Tuesday, March 8, 2011 – you won’t want to miss it!

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Today, the last of several changes to the FTC's Telemarketing Sales Rule go into effect. These regulations will protect consumers from for-profit companies that sell debt relief services over the phone. Whether the company calls you, or you respond to advertising from a for-profit credit counseling, debt settlement or debt negotiation service, the company CANNOT collect an advance fee for their service until:

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We normally think of phishing attempts as those that come through your email or from malicious websites, but they can also come from phone solicitations as well. Case in point, today we received an alert that several consumers have received automated phone calls telling them their credit or debit cards have been locked or temporarily suspended. Conveniently enough, the message also invites them to enter information over the phone to solve the problem. BBB warns this not to be done.

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The summer season has officially arrived and that means vacations are right around the corner. With credit cards replacing traveler’s checks in popularity while away from home, it’s important to make sure your personal information stays safe. According to a 2009 Javelin Strategy and Research study, 43% of all fraud cases were due to lost or stolen checkbooks, debit cards and credit cards. BBB advises consumers on the go to keep these tips in mind…

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Most consumers and business owners receive unsolicted offers via e-mail, phone or mail. However, faxes can be used to push questionable offers as well, and we came across such an example today. The fax offered businesses a credit card or line of credit loan for what seemed like little work on the part of the business.

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