Fighting fraud

Since we heard the news of hackers breaking into Target’s computer system to take shopper’s PIN numbers, there has been a lot of talk about fraud and the steps we can take to prevent it. In the case of the stolen PIN numbers, there was nothing the consumers did wrong. Target offered the the following statements on their Frequently Asked Questions page on the issue:

We're deeply sorry for the inconvenience and frustration this issue has caused our guests. It’s critical for all guests to know that:

·         You have zero liability for any charges that you didn’t make.

·         No action is required by you unless you see charges you didn’t make.

·         Target will offer free credit monitoring to everyone who was impacted.

·         Your social security number was not compromised.

·         Be wary of call or email scams that may appear to offer protection but are really trying to get personal information from you.

We remain focused on addressing your questions and concerns.  Read on for answers to some common questions, and check back soon as we continue to update this list with more details.

There are many additional ways consumers are targeted. Whether the lure is an internet money scam, a risky mortgage, investment scheme or bad product, it is crucial that you be on guard to fight consumer fraud.

With help from agencies and organizations like the Better Business Bureau, consumers can make their purchases with the comfort of knowing there is someone looking out for their interests. The two most important state government agencies looking out for Minnesota consumers are the Office of the Attorney General and the Department of Commerce. 

Minnesota’s Attorney General, Lori Swanson, is the chief legal officer for the state.  Along with representing the state in state and federal court and providing legal advice for our state agencies, the Attorney General is the state’s chief policy maker and law enforcer in consumer protection.  Take a moment and visit the Attorney General’s website (www.ag.state.mn.us) and learn about the various consumer protection services they provide and the variety of publications they offer.

            The mission of the Department of Commerce is to “ensure equitable commercial and financial transactions and reliable utility services by: regulating and licensing business activity in more than 20 industries; investigating and resolving consumer complaints; advocating the public's interest before the Public Utilities Commission; and, administering various state programs.”  Their website (http://mn.gov/commerce/) offers a number of services that consumers can search for by topic.

            Remember that most businesses and entrepreneurs are honest and trustworthy. Unfortunately, there are bad eggs that we need to watch out for. Take some time this week to visit the resources I mentioned and make sure you are protected.

As always, please contact me with questions or suggestions regarding any issue. I encourage you to visit me at the Capitol, or let me know if you’d like me to stop by your home or apartment.  Also, please tune in to my local cable TV show, “Your Capitol: What’s Up?,” which appears on public access channels 15 and 16. I can be reached by email at sen.chuck.wiger@senate.mn and by phone at 651-296-6820.