Project Consumer Awareness. The purpose of this consumer assistance
list is to provide quick information for readers of A Better Cook. The URL's have been left open so readers may copy the links
and pass them on them on to friends and loved ones, particularly those who are not Internet savvy, quickly with ease and without
mistake. Their safety and ours depend on it.
National Do-Not-Call-Regstry and FCC’s telemarketing rules Register your phone number for free. It will remain on the national
do-not-call list for five years. You may re-enter your number onto the list when the five years have passed. Also, you may
remove your name from the list at any time. However, there are certain telephone calls this does not affect. www.fcc.gov/cgb/donotcall
Internet Fraud Complaint Center
The IFCC is a partnership between the Federal Bureau of
Investigation (FBI) and the National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C).IFCC's mission is to address fraud committed over the
Internet. For victims of Internet fraud, IFCC provides a convenient and easy-to-use reporting mechanism that alerts authorities
of a suspected criminal or civil violation. http://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx
Federal Trade Commission The Federal
Trade Commission enforces a variety of federal antitrust and consumer protection laws. The Commission seeks to ensure that
the nation's markets function competitively, and are vigorous, efficient, and free of undue restrictions. The Commission also
works to enhance the smooth operation of the marketplace by eliminating acts or practices that are unfair or deceptive.
http://www.ftc.gov/
Food and Drug Administration The FDA is responsible for protecting the public health
by assuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, medical devices, our nation’s
food supply, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation. See food alerts/recalls.
Is it true? Or is it a hoax? Urban legends are everywhere.
Don't pass on information just because you have received it by e-mail, even if it is from a friend. Most often these e-mail's
start with "This is not a hoax", be careful and don't become a victim. Some of the hoaxes presently floating in cyberspace
can be found at Snopes. http://www.snopes.com
U.S. Postal Inspection Service Get the 411 on Identity
Theft, Mail Theft, Mail Fraud from U.S. Postal Inspection Service
The Council of Better Business Bureaus The mission of
the Better Business Bureau is "to promote and foster the highest ethical relationship between businesses and the public ...".
The Better Business Bureau provides instant access to business and consumer alerts as well as helpful resources. Plus, you
can file a complaint online and more.
Is there a new State Bill? Check for yourself If you get
an e-mail regarding a congressional change you dqn check out real congressional bills with the Bill number. Bills being considered
by your state are listed on your state's web page.
The Identity Theftweb site offers numerous resources for victims of identity theft as well as
those who are working to prevent the crime. www.idtheftcenter.org
The Privacy Rights Clearinghouse
The Privacy Rights Clearinghouse offers consumers the opportunity
to learn how to protect their personal privacy. http://www.privacyrights.org/
Disclaimer: "The statements and opinions expressed on this site are of the Independent Watkins Associate
who owns the site. They are not to be construed as the statements or opinions of Watkins Incorporated."
