BBB Eastern New England Highlights National Consumer Protection Week

National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), observed this year from March 2–8, is a nationwide effort to help people understand their consumer rights and make informed decisions in the marketplace. Better Business Bureau (BBB) serving Eastern Massachusetts, Maine, Rhode Island & Vermont is joining organizations across the country to share resources, tips, and tools that empower consumers to protect themselves from scams and unfair business practices.

Throughout the week, BBB Eastern New England is encouraging consumers to take proactive steps to safeguard their personal information, research businesses before making purchases, and stay informed about common scams targeting local communities.

“National Consumer Protection Week is an important reminder that knowledge is one of the strongest tools consumers have,” said Paula Fleming, Chief Marketing and Sales Officer at BBB Eastern Massachusetts, Maine, Rhode Island & Vermont. “By staying informed and taking a few simple precautions, people can protect themselves and their families from scams and make confident decisions when choosing businesses.”

BBB encourages consumers to:

• Check businesses before you buy. Visit BBB.org to read customer reviews, check BBB ratings, and see if complaints have been filed against a business.
• Be cautious with unsolicited messages. Scammers often pose as trusted organizations through calls, emails, or texts.
• Protect personal information. Never share sensitive details unless you are certain who you are dealing with.
• Report scams. Consumers can help others by reporting suspicious activity to BBB Scam Tracker.

BBB’s Scam Tracker is a free online tool that allows consumers to report scams and see what scams are happening in their communities. Reports help warn others and assist law enforcement in identifying trends.

During National Consumer Protection Week, BBB Eastern New England will also share educational resources and scam prevention tips across its website and social media channels to help consumers stay one step ahead of fraudsters.

Consumers can learn more about common scams and find trusted businesses by visiting bbb.org/all/national-consumer-protection-week-partnership