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Privacy and Security on the Web: Is a VPN Right for You?

One option for consumers concerned about their privacy and security on public networks is to subscribe to a virtual private network or VPN service.

6/15/2018

Ohio BMV Changing Driver’s License and ID Card Distribution Process

Effective July 2, 2018, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is changing how Ohioans will receive their driver’s license or identification card. Instead of receiving a card while you wait at the office, the driver’s license or ID card will be mailed to you from a centralized, secure facility.

6/15/2018

Five Ways to Avoid Scams When Traveling

Whether you’re going on a long vacation or just taking a short trip, we’ve outlined ways to avoid scams and protect your identity when you travel.

6/15/2018

How to File a Consumer Complaint

The Ohio Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Section helps resolve consumer complaints. Learn about how and when to file a consumer complaint. 

4/12/2018

Four Tips When Buying and Selling Online

With today’s online marketplaces, some people may want to sell items to declutter their homes and make some money. Others may want to buy a product at a reduced price. Whether buying or selling through an online platform, be sure to stay clear of scams by applying four tips. 

4/12/2018

Fighting Illegal Robocalls with Technology

Did you know that technology can make the fight against illegal robocalls a little easier? Some products and services – including mobile phone apps – can help stop the calls from reaching you.

4/12/2018

Attorney General DeWine Announces Winners of High School Consumer Video Contest

Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine has announced the winners of the 2017 Take Action Video Contest in which Ohio high school students were asked to create 60-second videos about cybersecurity topics. 

4/12/2018

Trial Offers: When Free May Not Always Be Free

Some advertisements promote free, no-risk trials for the latest and greatest product. But watch out! Asking for free items may subject you to additional purchases and payments. 

2/14/2018

Know More About Credit Repair and Debt Settlement Companies

Some services advertise that bad credit can be erased or your debts can be settled, but it takes a watchful eye to tell the legitimate services from the scam artists. 

2/14/2018

Five Ways to Avoid Online Romance Scams

It’s that time of year when you or someone you know might be seeking out that special someone, and con artists know it. Fake online romance is prevalent, so we’ve outlined ways to avoid sweetheart scams and protect your hard-earned money.

2/14/2018

Beyond Passwords: Four Cyber Tips For 2018

Do you go online but wonder if you are taking all the right cybersecurity steps? Here are four tips you can apply right now.

2/14/2018

Three Things to Know About Credit Alerts and Freezes

In light of recent large-scale data breaches, it is more important than ever to know the steps to take to protect your identity. That includes understanding the different alerts and freezes you can request from the major credit reporting agencies. 

12/4/2017

Ohioans Report Grant Scam Phone Calls

Consumers across Ohio are reporting scam phone calls about phony grants, especially by con artists pretending to work for government agencies. 

12/4/2017

Medicare Recipients to Receive New ID Cards

Older adults across the nation are expected to receive new Medicare cards by April 2019. It’s important to know what to expect and to be on the lookout for con artists trying to steal money or personal information. 

12/4/2017

Fraud Victims Can File Claims for $586 Million Western Union Fund

Consumers who sent money to scammers using Western Union’s wire service between 2004 and early 2017 may now apply for compensation from a $586 million fund. The fund is related to a settlement that Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine announced in January.

12/4/2017

When Caller ID Fails: Learn About “Spoofing”

Do you receive unwanted telemarketing or scam phone calls and wonder why your caller ID says many of them are right in your area code? It’s called Caller ID “spoofing;” a cheap and widely available technology that masks where the calls are originating.

10/16/2017

Some Scams Targeting Apple Products and Users

October is National Cyber Security Awareness month, and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office is warning users of Apple products that scammers are targeting them for personal information and money.

10/16/2017

Scholarship Contest Accepting Entries

The Ohio Attorney General’s ninth-annual Take Action Video Contest gives Ohio high school students the opportunity to learn about cybersecurity and a chance to win up to $2,500 in college scholarships. 

10/16/2017

Protect Your Identity in the Wake of the Equifax Breach

There’s no way around the headlines. Equifax, one of the country's three main credit reporting bureaus, suffered a data breach affecting some 143 million U.S. consumers.  Despite this scary news, there are ways you can protect yourself.   

10/16/2017

Three Things to Know about Ohio’s Sales Tax Holiday

This year, Ohio has a sales tax holiday from Friday, August 4 through Sunday, August 6. Learn which purchases are exempt from sales tax during the holiday and find other back-to-school smart shopping tips. 

7/28/2017

Protecting Consumers from Do Not Call Violations

With all the telemarketing calls you probably receive, you may wonder if there are penalties for making illegal calls. Read about a federal court ordering Dish Network to pay a record-breaking penalty for more than 82 million violations of the Do Not Call laws.

7/28/2017

How the AG’s CyberOhio Initiative Helps Small Businesses Stay Safe

Many small businesses want to do the right thing by safeguarding their systems from viruses and other malicious software. But, as a small business, where do you start, and where can you find information about keeping your business secure? The answer is the Ohio Attorney General’s CyberOhio initiative.

7/28/2017

Beware of Rental Scams When Apartment Hunting

Looking for a great place to rent? Before sending any money, make sure your new landlord isn’t a con artist. Learn how to detect a phony rental posting designed only to steal your money.

7/28/2017

Taking the Mystery Out of Mystery Shopping

Mystery shopping jobs may appear to be flourishing, but make sure your secret shopper job doesn’t become a surprise you never wanted. Learn to recognize the signs of mystery shopping scams and how to avoid falling for them.

6/13/2017

Know Your Rights: Robocalls

Federal laws generally prohibit companies from making robocalls to you without your written consent, so read on to learn more about the law and for tips to help limit future calls.

6/13/2017

Five Free (or Low-Cost) Ways to Stop Identity Theft

Many identity theft protection services charge monthly or annual fees, but there are other free and low-cost methods to protect your identity.

6/13/2017

Crowdfunding: What to Know Before Donating

If you’re asked to make a donation online to cover someone’s medical costs, to help victims of a tragedy, or to fund another cause, learn the basics of crowdfunding and how to spot a potential scam.

6/13/2017

Resolving Disputes Through the Attorney General’s Office

If you have a problem with a product or service you bought, you may be able to participate in an informal dispute resolution process offered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Section. The process is free and has helped thousands of consumers resolve complaints.

4/17/2017
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