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Alerts and Scams
This section provides consumers with a description of current alerts, known scams, and consumer safety issues. Alerts include the dangers of exposure to lead and mercury and the importance of carbon monoxide detectors. Learn how you can prevent identity theft in today’s information age and know your rights as a consumer before you sign a contract or make a purchase. Don't see what you're looking for? Go to our A-Z listing and news releases.
Dangerous levels of lead are still being found in many items marketed towards children. The department is continuing to visit stores which may be selling jewelry containing lead. Many of the pieces sold have been found to have lead levels far above any acceptable amount.
With all the different choices of credit cards out there, learn how to find the right one. Learn about hidden credit card fees and late charges. 
By using unfair and illegal practices some lenders pressure homeowners into signing up for high-cost and often unaffordable mortgage loans. Often the targets are the elderly or members of minority communities. Find out how to recognize Predatory Lending, so you are not a victim.
You may not be able to stop it entirely, but there are things to do to minimize the amount of junk mail you get.  
Increasing numbers of homeowners are falling behind on their mortgage payments and face the prospect of foreclosure. There are con artists who promise to “rescue” the homeowner, but who actually run scams designed to strip the property’s built-up equity or to steal the title outright. There is some help from a new 2007 law — but be aware. 
How to make a good decision when you join a health club or gym. The bottom line: do your homework.
Having trouble paying bills? Be wary of quick fix gimmicks. These sites can help get you out of credit trouble and help keep your credit in good standing.
 
How to get on the Do Not Call Lists to cut down on telemarketers.
The latest food recalls and warnings from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The latest recall and product safety news from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
 Many people don’t realize how dangerous baby walkers can be. For years pediatricians and child safety experts have been warning parents not to use them, yet they remain extremely popular. As a result, deaths and injuries continue to occur.
Unscrupulous people can try to steal your money by getting your ATM PIN (personal identification number). Learn how to protect yourself.
Moving from one place to another in today’s fast-paced world can be stressful enough without having to worry about your possessions. Learn how to make intelligent decisions when choosing a moving company.
Tips to protect your privacy while shopping on-line. Shopping on-line has become the fastest growing way to shop. Protect yourself from on-line thieves.   
The Westchester County WiFi law, the first of its kind in the United States, would require commercial businesses to better protect the databases that contain personal information of their customers. It also reminds people who use Internet cafes of the risks associated with wireless networks or “Wi-Fi.”


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