Define: Consumer

Answer: It depends on the store’s return policy. Some stores may allow returns for a refund or exchange within a certain time frame, while others may only offer store credit or no returns at all. It is important to check the store’s policy before making a purchase.

Answer: Consumers have the right to return or exchange a defective product. They should contact the seller or manufacturer and provide details about the defect. If the defect is covered under warranty, the seller or manufacturer should provide a replacement or repair the product.

Answer: Consumers may have the right to cancel certain contracts or agreements within a specific time period, known as a “cooling-off period.” However, this right may not apply to all types of contracts, such as those for essential services or custom-made products. It is advisable to review the terms and conditions of the contract or seek legal advice to determine if cancellation is possible.

Answer: Consumers have the right to accurate and truthful advertising. If a consumer feels they have been misled by false or deceptive advertising, they can file a complaint with the appropriate consumer protection agency or seek legal action against the advertiser.

Answer: Yes, consumers have the right to dispute unauthorized or incorrect charges on their credit card. They should contact their credit card issuer immediately to report the issue and request a chargeback. The credit card issuer will investigate the dispute and may issue a refund if the charge is found to be invalid.

Answer: If a consumer suspects they are a victim of identity theft, they should report the incident to the police and their financial institutions. They should also place a fraud alert on their credit reports and monitor their accounts for any unauthorized activity. Seeking legal advice can help consumers navigate the process of recovering their identity and resolving any financial losses.

Answer: Consumers have rights protected by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Debt collectors must provide accurate information about the debt, cease communication if requested in writing, and refrain from using abusive or deceptive practices. Consumers can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) if they believe a debt collector has violated their rights.

Answer: No, businesses are generally required to disclose all fees and surcharges upfront. Hidden fees or surcharges that are not clearly disclosed may be considered deceptive or unfair practices. Consumers can report such practices to the appropriate consumer protection agency and seek legal action if necessary.

Answer: Consumers can register their phone numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce unsolicited telemarketing calls. For spam emails, they can mark them as spam and unsubscribe from mailing lists. If the unsolicited calls or emails persist, consumers can file complaints with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or their local consumer protection agency.