General Consumer Rights
What is consumer law?
Consumer law safeguards people from unfair, deceptive, or fraudulent practices in the marketplace and provides access to remedies for grievances.
What are the basic rights of consumers?
Rights include safety, information, choice, redress, education, and the right to be heard.
What is the role of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)?
The FTC enforces consumer protection laws, investigates deceptive practices, and ensures fair competition.
Also read:
- https://prolegalinsights.com/40-must-know-consumer-protection-law-questions-for-smart-buyers/
- https://prolegalinsights.com/20-consumer-protection-law-questions-for-everyday-shoppers/
- https://prolegalinsights.com/25-faqs-about-consumer-protection-law-rights-and-remedies/
What is considered false advertising?
It is illegal to make false statements about a product or service, including exaggerating benefits or withholding important information.
What is deceptive pricing?
Practices such as price gouging during emergencies or hidden fees that mislead consumers violate consumer protection laws.
Purchases and Contracts
What is a cooling-off period?
A legally required time period (usually 3 days) during which consumers can cancel certain contracts, such as door-to-door sales, without penalty.
Can I take something back if I get cold feet?
Generally, most states do not force sellers to accept returns when buyers have simply changed their minds. However, products that are defective or were misrepresented must be returned.
What is Lemon Law?
Consumer law protecting people who buy defective automobiles that cannot be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts.
Are retailers mandated to display signs about their return policies?
Most states require business to post return policies. If not posted, customers can be given presumptive protection.
What is an implied warranty?
A legal guarantee that goods are to perform well and not have defects, even if guaranteed
Warranties and Guarantees
What is a warranty? What is a guarantee?
A warranty is a formal promise to repair or replace a defective product, while a guarantee is a broader commitment to product quality.
Can warranties be voided?
Yes, warranties can be voided if terms are violated, such as improper use or unauthorized repairs.
What is the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?
A federal law that ensures warranties are clear and enforceable, providing remedies for defective products.
Are extended warranties worth it?
Extended warranties offer further coverage but may not be worth the extra money for low-risk or inexpensive items.
What are my rights if a company fails to honor a warranty?
Complain to the FTC, your state attorney general, or sue them for breach of warranty.
E-commerce and Internet Shopping
What are my consumer rights when I shop online?
Online sellers are required to clearly describe their merchandise, deliver products as represented, and reveal all terms and conditions.
What is a chargeback?
A procedure by which a consumer disputes an unauthorized or erroneous charge with their credit card company in order to get the transaction reversed.
What if my online purchase does not arrive?
Contact the seller to try to resolve, file a chargeback if it’s warranted, or report it to consumer protection agencies.
What are subscription service disclosures?
Businesses must clearly disclose subscription terms including pricing, renewal, and cancellation policies.
How can I identify online shopping scams?
Look for safe payment options, ensure the site is authentic, and read reviews to avoid fraudulent sellers.
Consumer Fraud and Scams
What is consumer fraud?
Fraud involves deceitful acts such as identity theft, phishing scams, counterfeits, and false advertisement.
What is bait-and-switch advertising?
Bait-and-switch advertising is where a product is advertised at a very attractive price to attract the consumer, who is then convinced to buy something else that costs more.
If I am a victim of fraud, what should I do?
Report it to the FTC, your state attorney general, and your financial institution. Dispute unauthorized charges and consider legal action.
Can I sue for deceptive practices?
Yes, you can file a lawsuit for damages under state and federal consumer protection laws.
What is price gouging, and how is it regulated?
Price gouging occurs when sellers inflate prices during emergencies. Many states have laws limiting price increases during crises.
Debt and Credit
What is the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)?
A federal law that prescribes accuracy, privacy, and fairness in the use of consumer credit reports.
What is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)?
A law that prohibits abusive or deceptive practices in debt collection, such as harassment or false claims.
Can a debt collector contact me at any time?
No, you can call collectors only during reasonable hours (8 a.m.–9 p.m.) and demand to cease if you request in writing that they communicate with you in this way.
What rights do I have to dispute a debt?
You have a right to demand verification of the debt within 30 days after receiving notice. You may exercise your right to dispute any inaccurate claims within that time frame.
Identity theft is the act of using your personal information fraudulently. To protect yourself, monitor your accounts, use secure passwords, and report suspicious activity immediately.
These FAQs address important consumer law topics.