Works for consumers to prevent fraud, deception, and unfair business practices in the marketplace. - Information on fraud issues. Website contains publications with advice on avoiding scams and rip-offs, as well as tips on other consumer topics. - Information for submitting a complaint to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Bureau of Consumer Protection about a particular company or organization. Also may submit a complaint to the FTC concerning media violence. - Identity theft prevention/reporting/recovery programs

Products not under jurisdication: - Cars - Tires - Boats - Car seats - Foods - Drugs - Cosmetics - Medical devices - Firearms - Business dissatisfaction - Pesticides Enforces the following acts: - Consumer product safety - Federal hazardous substances - Flammable fabrics - Poison prevention packaging - Refrigerator door safety - Information on recalls - Provides safety publications Individuals can call to report potentially hazardous products, report a product related injury, or request information about the safety aspects of products

Handles consumer complaints, mediation of disputes with businesses and/or referral to other appropriate governmental agencies. The complaint process can include a wide variety of consumer areas including utilities, student loans, automobiles, and scams of all types. Provides information on consumer laws and consumer issues through telephone contacts and consumer information brochures. Includes information on the Fair Credit Reporting Act and similar Minnesota statute involving credit checks and background checks. Provides information on Minnesota charities and the laws that govern them. Brochures available free of charge include, but not limited to: - Abusive/Predatory Lending - Cars for Charity: A Guide to Vehicle Donations - Conciliation Court - Debt Collection Fact Sheet - Disaster Information - Foreign Advance Fee Fraud - Guarding Your Privacy: Tips to Prevent Identity Theft - Home Buyer's Handbook - Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities - Managing Your Health Care - Mental Health Care - Seniors' Legal Rights - Student Loan Guide - The Car Handbook - The Credit Handbook - Tips For Charitable Giving Website contains additional information and full text of most brochures as well.

- Enforcement of food, drug, and cosmetic acts and allied acts - Provide speakers for consumer groups on regulatory requirements, health fraud, and food labeling - Provide consumer literature on products regulated (health fraud, drugs, food issues, nutrition) - Research and respond to reports of contaminated food products, drugs, or medical devices