Consumer Rights & Privacy

Identity theft, credit disputes, lemon law, and data privacy

Legal Guides

Consumer Rights & Privacy

Identity Theft Guide: Protecting Yourself and Recovering from Stolen Identity

Identity thieves steal personal information to open accounts, file fraudulent tax returns, and commit crimes in your name. Recovery takes months and requires organized action. Learn how identity theft happens, immediate steps to take, long-term monitoring, and legal remedies available to victims.

January 19, 2026
Consumer Rights & Privacy

What to Do If Your Identity Is Stolen: Step-by-Step Recovery Checklist

Acting quickly after identity theft limits damage and starts your recovery. You need to contact credit bureaus, file police reports, and dispute fraudulent accounts systematically. Follow this comprehensive checklist covering the first 24 hours through complete recovery.

January 19, 2026
Consumer Rights & Privacy

Credit Report Error Guide: Finding and Fixing Mistakes That Damage Your Score

Credit report errors affect 1 in 4 consumers and can cost you loan approvals, higher interest rates, and job opportunities. Credit bureaus must investigate disputes within 30 days. Learn how to get free credit reports, identify common errors, and exercise your FCRA dispute rights.

January 19, 2026
Consumer Rights & Privacy

Disputing Credit Report Errors: How to Write Effective Dispute Letters

Effective dispute letters force credit bureaus to investigate and correct errors—or face legal liability. Generic online disputes often fail where detailed written disputes succeed. Learn what to include in disputes, documentation requirements, and follow-up procedures when disputes are rejected.

January 19, 2026
Consumer Rights & Privacy

Debt Collection Harassment Guide: Your Rights When Collectors Cross the Line

Debt collectors cannot call constantly, threaten you, use profanity, or contact you at work after being told to stop. The FDCPA prohibits these and other abusive practices. Learn what constitutes illegal harassment, how to document violations, and options for making collectors pay for misconduct.

January 19, 2026
Consumer Rights & Privacy

FDCPA Rights Against Debt Collectors: Federal Protections Every Consumer Has

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act gives you specific rights collectors must respect—validation notices, cease communication demands, and protection from false statements. Collectors who violate the FDCPA owe you $1,000 plus actual damages. Learn your complete FDCPA rights.

January 19, 2026
Consumer Rights & Privacy

Deceptive Advertising Claims: Consumer Rights Against False Marketing

Companies that use misleading advertising, fake reviews, bait-and-switch tactics, or hidden fees may face consumer lawsuits and FTC enforcement. Consumers can recover damages and void fraudulent contracts. Learn what makes advertising deceptive, how to file complaints, and pursuing legal claims.

January 19, 2026
Consumer Rights & Privacy

False Advertising Lawsuits: Holding Companies Accountable for Misleading Claims

False advertising claims can be pursued individually or through class actions, with damages including full refunds, additional compensation, and attorney fees. Some states offer treble damages for willful violations. Learn elements of false advertising claims, evidence needed, and realistic outcomes.

January 19, 2026
Consumer Rights & Privacy

Lemon Law Guide: Getting a Refund or Replacement for Your Defective Vehicle

Lemon laws require manufacturers to repurchase or replace vehicles with substantial defects that cannot be fixed after reasonable repair attempts. Every state has different rules. Learn whether your car qualifies as a lemon, required documentation, and the process for enforcing your rights.

January 19, 2026
Consumer Rights & Privacy

Lemon Law Requirements: How Many Repair Attempts Before Your Car Qualifies

Most lemon laws require 3-4 repair attempts for the same problem or 30+ days out of service—but specific requirements vary by state and defect type. Safety defects often require fewer attempts. Learn your state specific requirements and when your vehicle meets lemon law thresholds.

January 19, 2026
Consumer Rights & Privacy

Data Breach Victim Guide: Protecting Yourself When Your Information Is Exposed

Companies that suffer data breaches often expose your Social Security number, passwords, and financial data to criminals. Acting quickly limits potential damage. Learn immediate steps after breach notification, free credit monitoring rights, and when you may have legal claims against breached companies.

January 19, 2026
Consumer Rights & Privacy

Data Breach Notification Rights: What Companies Must Tell You After a Breach

State and federal laws require companies to notify you promptly when your personal data is compromised. Many breach notices bury important details about what was actually exposed. Learn your notification rights, what information companies must provide, and red flags in breach notices.

January 19, 2026
Consumer Rights & Privacy

Data Breach Notification Rights: What Companies Must Tell You

Understanding your right to be notified when your personal data is compromised in a data breach, and what to do when you receive notice.

January 22, 2026
Consumer Rights & Privacy

How to Opt Out of Data Sales and Targeted Advertising

Step-by-step guide to opting out of the sale of your personal data and targeted advertising under state privacy laws.

January 22, 2026