Consumer Corner Column

Summer travel season is in full swing. Unfortunately, that means scammers will also be looking to take advantage of your travel plans to make a quick buck. Whether your travel plans include an exotic excursion or a weekend getaway to one of Kansas’ many local attractions, it’s important to be on alert for potential scams.

Over the past few years, thousands of Kansans have registered their phone numbers with the Do Not Call Registry, cutting back on the number of telemarketing calls they receive. Unfortunately, this has not stopped telemarketers from finding new ways to violate the law and get your money or personal information.

National Consumer Protection Week is March 4-10, and my office will be holding several events around the state promoting this commemorative week. Consumer Protection is a priority of the attorney general’s office — not just this week but 12 months a year. This month’s Consumer Corner is a good chance to share some common-sense tips to help you be a better consumer.

As consumers, we have more power — and responsibility — than we think. Here are some ways to be better consumers

Nearly every day, our office hears stories of Kansans whose personal information has ended up in someone else’s hands. In today’s information age, it is easier than ever for identity thieves to get this information. On January 28, we recognize National Data Privacy Day. As we commemorate this day and begin a new year, it is a good time to review your precautions to guard against a tragic – and perhaps costly – privacy breach.

With Christmas just a few days away, many of us will be searching for that perfect last-minute gift. For some of those hard-to-buy-for people on our lists, gift cards can seem like the perfect solution. But know some tips and rules about gift cards to protect yourself and the gift recipient.

With the holiday season upon us, giving will be on the minds of many Kansans. While shoppers seek the perfect gifts for family and friends, many non-profit charitable organizations will also be asking for your generous support.