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The CPB’s Consumer and Business Tools, Video and Audio Products, and Public Awareness Campaigns


Consumers and businesses are part of a dynamic and ever-changing marketplace. New merchandise and services, expanded marketing abilities and technology are reshaping the consumer experience. The New York State Consumer Protection Board (CPB) provides information on a wide variety of current consumer issues. The following is a sample of some of our materials.   For your convenience, many of our resources can be downloaded or viewed by clicking on the document name. Adobe Reader is required to view and print the publications. If you do not have this software, here's how to download a free copy. To receive copies of any CPB brochure, please click here to e-mail your request.

Publications

Child Safety

Toy Safety Tips: Celebrating November as Toy Safety Awareness Month! - As the holiday shopping season picks up speed, the New York State Consumer Protection Board (CPB) is reminding parents that November is Toy Safety Awareness Month. The CPB has the following hints to help keep unsafe toys out of the hands of young New Yorkers.
Halloween Safety 2009 - As the temperature drops, the leaves fall, and the pumpkins ripen, thoughts turn to trick-or-treating, carved pumpkins and costumes. The New York State Consumer Protection Board urges parents and caregivers to follow some simple rules to help keep our children safe this Halloween.
Are Your TVs, Furniture and Appliances Secured? - More than 130 children five and younger died and thousands were injured in incidents related to TV, furniture, and appliance tip-overs between 2000 and 2006. To help prevent tip-over hazards, follow these simple, low-cost safety tips
Tip Sheet: Drawstring Safety - Drawstrings at the neck and waist are a safety hazard on children’s garments. They can be caught on cribs, playground equipment, and vehicle doors, causing dragging injuries or strangulation. To address this hazard, New York State has adopted statutory protections on the use of drawstrings in children’s clothing.
Back to School 2009: Art Supplies and Drawstrings in Clothing - As the summer break begins to wind down, parents and others are gearing up for the back-to-school shopping season. The New York State Consumer Protection Board (CPB) wants parents and care givers to be vigilant when acquiring children’s school supplies and doing back-to-school clothes shopping. By being an alert and informed consumer, parents and caregivers can help keep their children safe at home and at school. Here are a few things to look for as you prepare for the upcoming school year.
Toy Safety Inventory Checklist (PDF version and MS Word Document) - Parents, families and caregivers are encouraged to sue this resource to make it easier to identify and catalog toys in their home, especially when they learn of a recall that may affect their toy collection
Keeping Your Baby Safe - A Checklist for Safe Sleeping for Your Baby
Shop Smart, Shop Safe - Keep these tips shopping and safety tips in mind when purchasing toys this holiday season
4 Keys to Holiday Toy Safety - Here are four important tips to keep in mind to keep children safe when playing with toys
Crib Safety Guide for Parents and Caregivers - Cribs that are assembled wrong, have missing, loose or broken hardware or broken slats can result in entrapment or suffocation deaths. Learn safety tips by reading the CPB's Crib Safety Guide for Parents and Caregivers
Beware! Halloween Fire Hazards - Learn about fire hazards associated with Halloween
Formula for Keeping Babies Safe - The Consumer Protection Board's New Safe Babies Program
Do Not Wake My Baby! - Learn to prevent some unwanted sales calls from interrupting your baby’s nap
Making Your Home Safe For Grandchildren - A guide to helping Grandparents provide a safe environment for all to enjoy
Childhood Choking Prevention - In furtherance of our "Safe Toys NY" campaign, the NYS Consumer Protection Board (CPB) reminds parents to stay vigilant about which toys, foods and other household items to which they allow their children access. Prevention is your best defense in preventing choking among youngsters. Please keep this list handy and share with your family, friends and any of your child's caregivers
Ride Safe NY - Parents and children can visit the Ride Safe NY website to learn tips for safer amusement parks. You can also find regulations/records regarding your favorite NY amusement park and fun kid activities teaching amusement park safety
Home Playground Safety Checklist - To help parents and caregivers in providing a safe and fun playground for their children, the NYS Consumer Protection Board (CPB) has joined with the CPSC and Safe Kids USA to provide a safety checklist to all New Yorkers
4 Tips For a Safer Playground - You are encouraged to follow these guidelines for playground safety before your children play on the equipment
Top 5 Hidden Hazards in the Home - Important tips to ensure your children are safe within your home
Swimming Safety - Important tips to ensure your children are safe in the water
Safety in the Water - Nationally, on average, 283 children younger than 5 drown in pools and spas each year (and these tragic incidents mostly involve 1-2 year olds). Additionally, children are injured and killed when they become entrapped by the force of suction at the drain because of a missing cover. The CPB offers tips to consumers to make sure their children and loved ones are safe in the water, including in pools and spas, where there is a noted increase in drownings by the CPSC
Raising Baby on a BUDGET - While you are enjoying this special time with your little one, we encourage you to take the time to make and stick to a budget to help accommodate some of the extra financial responsibilities you will incur
Childproofing Your Home - Walks parents through 12 easy steps to childproofing your home
"Keeping Baby Safe" Checklist - Provides you with this list of tips to help you keep your child safe through all stages of development by identifying possible hazards in your home
Weekly Expense Planning for Baby - By considering the costs associated with your precious new arrival, you will be able to adjust your household budget accordingly
When is Hot Water Too Hot? - Tips to consumers to make sure their children and loved ones are protected from extremely painful and possibly fatal scalding burns
Baby Sleeps Safest Alone - Provides parents information regarding child safety when sleeping, including public service announcements, posters and brochures
Be Video Wise - A parent's guide to video games for children
Car Seat Safety Tips - Important safety rules to keep your baby safe in the car
Toy Safety Tip Card - Help keep your child from harms way by following these toy safety tips
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Handbook for Public Playground Safety

Do Not Call

Business Compliance Tips for Do Not Call - An easy to follow guide for businesses to comply with the Do Not Call Law
Do Not Call Information Bookmark - A bookmark highlighting the Do Not Call Registry for consumers
Do Not Wake My Baby - Learn to prevent some unwanted sales calls from interrupting your baby’s nap

Financial

Credit Versus Debit Cards - Consumers should consider both the pros and the cons before deciding which type of card to use. Government regulations are designed to protect consumers using credit and debit cards, and consumers should be aware that these protections vary by the type of card and the issuer.
Tips to Consider When Evaluating a Credit Monitoring Service - As consumers struggle to maintain good credit ratings in the face of mounting bills, credit card debt, and identity theft, the idea of a credit monitoring service may be intriguing. Before you sign up for a service, the New York State Consumer Protection Board (CPB) urges consumers to read these tips
New Credit Card Law Better Protects Consumers - On Friday, May 22, 2009, President Obama signed into law the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure (CARD) Act of 2009, which affords consumers with sweeping protections from abusive credit card practices. Governor David A. Paterson and the CPB were among the vocal advocates for reform, and are concerned about potential actions that credit card companies may take as reforms are implemented. Click on this link for information regarding key provisions of the CARD Act of 2009
The CPB's Debt Collection Information Center - Debt collection problems continue to be a top consumer complaint received by federal and state consumer protection agencies. Click on this link to access information about consumer rights regarding debt collectors, validating a debt, debt collection procedures related to identity theft, sample initial debt collection dispute letter, sample letter to stop debt collection calls (cease and desist letter), contacts for consumer/debtor complaints, and common debt collection questions and problems
Consumer Protection 101: Pawnbrokers - When a consumer needs access to cash quickly and has collateral, utilizing a reputable pawnbroker may be a consideration. Pawnbrokers make it possible to get the cash you need immediately while still having the ability to redeem your property. The NYS Consumer Protection Board provides these tips to inform and empower consumers
Repossession of Merchandise in New York State Fact Sheet - Worried about repossession? Know your rights in New York State
Financial Planner Fact Sheet - Whether you are seeking a complete overhaul of your financial portfolio or you just want to focus on one area of your financial health during these difficult economic times, getting assistance from a financial planner may be a consideration. This brochure provides information about financial planning services
Payday Loan Fact Sheet - Tips when considering payday loans, as well as alternatives to payday borrowing
Credit Counseling and Debt Mediation Fact Sheet - Are you overwhelmed with debt? A credit counseling agency might be a good choice for you. This resource may help guide you understand what these agencies do and provide tips if you decide you want to use their services
Money Mark Bookmark for College Students: That’s SO Money - A bookmark produced by the Consumer Protection Board providing useful tips regarding credit card maintenance and preventing and mitigating identity theft
Credit Card Brochure  - Provides consumers with information on how to choose and use credit cards without falling into debt
Debt Collection Brochure - Debts you owe & debts you don't: How to spot and fight illegal debt collections tactics
Money Maps: Chapter 1 - Budget planning for young adults
Money Maps: Chapter 2 - Choosing a credit card and understanding credit
Money Maps: Chapter 3 - Learning to keep your credit card information safe and stave off identity theft
Money Maps: Chapter 4 - Choosing the best cellular service and phone for your lifestyle
Money Maps: Chapter 5 - Learn about banks, credit unions, checking, banking, debt cards, atm safety, and how to comparison shop for a financial institution
Tax Filing and Privacy Tips: - Providing state taxpayers with important tips to remember when preparing and filing tax returns
Unraveling The Mystery Behind Credit Reports - Assists consumers in accessing and understanding their credit reports

Fraud and Scams

How to Avoid Employment Scams in New York State Fact Sheet - In these challenging economic times, some people attempt to capitalize on the strong desire for employment and income in different populations or communities. Get-rich-quick schemes, work-at-home scams, pyramid schemes, and numerous other approaches promising employment and wealth are used to separate job seekers from their money. The CPB is providing the following tips and suggestions on how to avoid becoming a victim of an employment scam.
10 Ways to Avoid Scams - Find out how you can avoid scams, courtesy of the CPB
Senior Scams - Provides seniors with important tips on how to protect themselves from becoming a victim of a scam artist
Scams Targeting the Military - Identifies common scams affecting military personnel and their families and provides tips on how to avoid those scams

Health, Nutrition, Travel and Safety

Power Up With Safety: Extension Cords & Power Strips - Overloaded extension cords and power strips can present a serious fire hazard. Empower yourself with these electrical safety tips  
Electrical System Hazard Warning Signs - Each year, there are about 31,000 fires and 200 deaths involving home electrical systems. Check for these electrical system hazard warning signs
Smoke Alarms: Install Them, Test Them, Protect Your Family - You have about 3 minutes to escape during a fire . A working alarm can give you life-saving time to get the kids and get out of the house safely
Inspect, Detect and Protect Against Carbon Monoxide Poisoning - This resource provides tips for Carbon Monoxide detector maintenance
Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act - The CPSC Staff's guide to complying with the new law, provided in partnership with the New York State Consumer Protection Board
Decorate Safely This Holiday Season - Keep your home safe when decorating for the holiday's
You Are What You Eat! Food Terminology Brochure - A CPB guide to food terminology, purchasing and related consumer information
Safe Travels - Tips for packing for safety
Travel Safety Checklist - Advises consumers to follow important travel tips for safety, convenience and cost effectiveness
Travel Scams - Tips to help you avoid being the victim of travel fraud
Travel Myths - Separating facts from fiction: A Consumer Guide to Travel
Food Shopping Tips - A "Recipe" for Smart Shopping. Tips for the Savvy Food Shoppers
Health Club Tip Sheet - Looking for a Health Club? Here are a few helpful questions to ask
Helmet Safety - Play safe. Wear a helmet. There are different helmets for different activities. Each type of helmet is made to protect your head from injuries related to a specific sport

Home Improvement

Consumer Tool Kit to Home Improvement - Learn about rip-offs and common tools and lines of persuasion offered by some unethical contractors in this publications
It's Easy Being Green - Choosing nontoxic products to clean will make your household safer for your family while helping to preserve the environment. Here is a list of the most common, inexpensive homemade cleaners. Follow all safety guidelines and protect your skin and eyes while cleaning so as not to cause irritation
Tips and Tools for Home Improvements - Tips, advice and a sample building contract to help consumers find and work with a home improvement contractor

Home Ownership and Foreclosure Prevention

Make Your Home Safer for Seniors from Slips, Trips, and Falls - Falls are the number one cause for emergency room visits by adults 65 and older. This brochure provides tips for consumers to use at home to help prevent slips, trips and falls
 
Home Purchasing Roadmap: How Much? - Steps towards buying a home, buying versus renting, figuring out how much
Home Ownership Check List - This brochure provides consumers with important tips to follow before purchasing a home

Identity Theft

Privacy Basic Training for Armed Forces and Veterans: Preventing and Responding to Identity Theft - Active military personnel, veterans and their families can be particularly vulnerable to identity theft and fraud due to nonstandard work schedules, lengthy absences from home, frequent relocations and duty assignments to remote locations. To honor the unselfish service of our armed forces, the New York State Consumer Protection Board (CPB) has developed this resource. The CPB suggests these tips to help prevent our service men and women from falling victim to identity theft and to assist in mitigating the consequences of identity theft.
Protecting a Deceased Loved One’s Identity - When a loved one passes away, it is natural to delay dealing with notification and other administrative matters. However, delay increases the risk that your loved one could become a victim of identity theft as fraudulent credit card accounts are opened and purchases made in his/her name. While it is unlikely that you or the estate would be held liable for these fraudulent activities, you would be forced to invest substantial time and expense to restore your deceased loved one’s reputation. You can avoid this problem by acting promptly and following the seven (7) steps on this card.
"Are You Consumer Savvy" Identity Theft Quiz Show - This gameshow illustrates helps consumers understand how to prevent and respond to identity theft
Cell Phone Privacy Tips - Cell phones are a way of life for many consumers. People the world over use them on a regular basis, often forgetting the possible threats to their privacy and the potential for identity theft associated with mobile devices. The NYS Consumer Protection Board provides these tips to help consumers keep their cell phone privacy
Sample Letters to the Three Major Credit Reporting Agencies for a Credit Freeze - Consumers can request a security freeze be placed on their credit report by the three major credit reporting agencies in different ways: by phone, over the Internet through a form on each of the agencies’ websites, and by mail. To assist consumers, the CPB has published sample letters that can be used to make your request for a security freeze
Social Security Number and Identity Theft - This brochure helps consumers understand how to protect their Social Security number in the marketplace and at work
"Are You Consumer Savvy" Identity Theft Quiz - A question and answer quiz that helps consumers understand how to prevent and respond to identity theft. Many of these questions are asked on the CPB's Identity Theft Gameshow
What You Should Know About Child Identity Theft - Learn about child identity theft and the steps to take if your child becomes falls victim
Identity Theft Mitigation at a Glance - This brochure helps explains the difference between a fraud alert and a security freeze
New York State Laws Relating To Identity Theft - This brochure enumerates a number of State laws related to identity theft
Identity Theft Red Flag Rules Business Alert - A fact sheet for business covering promulgated rules to safeguard data and help banks and financial institutions protect customers against identity theft
Back to School - Keeping Your Child’s Identity Safe
A Consumer Guide to Preventing and Responding to Identity Theft - Identity theft is the most common consumer fraud complaint, and the fastest growing financial crime. Learn how to prevent falling victim to this crime and the steps to take if it happens to you
Back To School Basics: Keeping Your Child’s Identity Safe - Have bills, credit cards or debt collection calls started coming to your home in your child’s name? Learn how to protect your child from identity theft
Dealing with Identity Theft in the Context of Domestic Violence - Victims of domestic violence can be particularly vulnerable to identity theft. Survivors of domestic violence often need to take extra precautions to protect themselves from abusers who may use their personal information as a means of control. This resource provides information to victims of domestic violence to assist in recovery from identity theft
Identity Theft Victim Quick Response Checklist Poster – A poster highlighting quick response actions to identity theft victimization
The Identity Theft Keycard: Five “Key” Steps for Identity Theft Victims - A wallet-size card with five “key” steps to taken when consumer have fallen victim to identity theft
Identity Theft Victim's Journal - Use this resource to keep detailed records of all entities contacted to rectify the identity theft and re-claiming his/her good name
Identity Theft Victim’s Restitution Journal – A victim of identity theft can use this resource to keep detailed records and receipts of all expenses incurred and time lost in rectifying the identity theft and re-claiming his/her good name
 Personal Identification Documentation (PIDD) Card - The Consumer Protection Board has created this tool to assist consumers in tracking important personal information which should be stored in a safe please where it can be easily retrievable. (Printing Instructions: Print the attached pdf, then fold it in half on the short fold and then left to right to create the card.)
Security Freeze Law Brochure  - This brochure explains the New York State Law that provides consumers with a tool to help avoid becoming a victim of identity theft
Tipcard to Prevent Identity Theft - A Consumer Guide to Preventing and Responding to Identity Theft

Information Privacy

Exercise Your Options to Protect Your Privacy Tool Kit: Unwanted Marketing Messages - Fed up with receiving piles of junk mail every time you open your mailbox? Sick of having to delete all those unsolicited e-mails you’ve been getting from online marketers? By following some basic steps, and exercising your privacy options, you can take hold of your personal privacy. Our checklist in this resource explains how you can exercise your options to reduce unwanted marketing messages.
Make Privacy Your Policy - The NYS Consumer Protection Board urges consumers to be careful when providing personal information online while playing games, booking travel, communicating through social networking sites and other Internet-based activities to safeguard their privacy. Read the privacy policies of the sites you visit and frequent only those sites whose policies meet your expectations. As you are reading the privacy policies, ask and answer these ten questions before proceeding with your online activity.
Back to School - College-Bound Privacy 101 - Tips that can help keep your personal information private while attending college, trade school or graduate school
Back to School - Information Privacy Bulletin Board (K-12) - A reminder to parents and guardians to make safeguarding their child’s personal identifying information a priority
Creating a Document Retention and Destruction Policy for Your Business: A Check List - It is vital for your business to have a written policy for the retention and destruction of personal information to guard against identity theft and security breaches. Please use this checklist to incorporate fundamental elements into your written policy for the retention and destruction of personal information
NYS Security Breach Law - What consumers should know about the security breach law and notification
NYS Security Breach Law Fact Sheet for Business - A fact sheet for businesses covering N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law. Section 899-aa: security breach law
Record Retention - Protecting your personal information by disposing of your documents in the appropriate manner and timeframe
Sample letter from a breaching entity to notify New Yorkers of a security breach incident - This sample letter from a breaching entity to notify New York residents of a security breach incident is for informational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal advice and/or as policy of the State of New York. It is recommended that you speak with a privacy professional and/or an attorney for further advice.
Security Breach Data Check List - Steps to take and questions to ask when personal information is lost or stolen from a company's computer system
The New York Consumer Protection Board’s Business Privacy Guide - How to handle personal identifiable information and limit the prospects of identity theft
The New York Social Security Number Protection Law - A fact sheet for businesses covering the N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law Section 399-dd: social security number usage

Internet Safety

Phishing Scam Prevention Tips - Phishing (also called pharming or whaling) e-mails trick people into sending money or providing personal information such as usernames, passwords, credit card details, and Social Security numbers to unauthorized individuals who hijack their information and use it to commit identity theft. Follow these tips to help avoid getting "hooked" by a "phisherman"  
Spotlight on Phishing Scams - This resource provides information about the prevalent and troublesome Phishing scams
Security Measures for Consumers Accessing the Internet - A guide to safe computing practices
Family Internet Safety - A guide for parents and children
Internet Tips on Terms - A glossary of commonly used terms
Internet Brochure - Provides consumers with information on how to find the right connection for high-speed Internet access
Internet Safety Tips - Internet and Computer Safety Tips for on-line users

Private Career Schools

Is Your Private Career School Licensed? - Learn about what State licensed private career schools offer students

Shopping and the Stretch Your Dollar Effort (SYDE)

Returns Made Easier - Returning items can be a time consuming and stressful process, especially during the holiday season. Following the Consumer Protection Board’s (CPB) tips can make the experience a little easier and may save you money.
New NYS Refund Law - A new refund law goes into effect in New York State on December 1, 2009. The new law, signed by Governor Paterson, affords the consumer in that case a full refund within 30 days from the date of purchase, when the consumer presents unused or undamaged goods, with a receipt, for return.
Consumer Protection 101: Rent To Own - Rent-to-own is a method whereby you "rent" or "lease" merchandise for a period of time. After such time, you may "own" or continue to “rent” the merchandise. The information provided in this guide can help you make a purchase determination. The NYS Consumer Protection Board provides these tips to inform and empower consumers.
Consumer Protection 101: Savvy and Safe Online Shopping - The Internet has opened new avenues for communication, interaction and conducting business. The NYS Consumer Protection Board provides these tips to inform and empower consumers about how they can be savvy and safe when shopping
Consumer Protection 101: Refunds, Rebates, and Rainchecks - When shopping for a gift, consumers should be aware of store policies with respect to refunds, rebates and rainchecks. The NYS Consumer Protection Board provides these tips to inform and empower consumers
Consumer Protection 101: Layaway Plans - When a consumer is planning to make a purchase on a budget, a layaway option might be considered if the item is not needed immediately. Layaway plans enable you to purchase an item over time. The NYS Consumer Protection Board provides these tips to inform and empower consumers
Consumer Protection 101: Gift Card Tips - Consumers often purchase gift cards that may be subject to fees, imposed by issuers. Consumers need to be aware of the terms and conditions when purchasing and using a gift certificate or card. The NYS Consumer Protection Board provides these tips to inform and empower consumers of their rights
CPB's Guide to Shopping for Children - It is difficult enough to shop for children in today’s marketplace with the assortment of toys, games, dolls, crafts, sports and recreational equipment available. The CPB is pleased to provide this handy guide of safety tips compiled from several of the nation’s top child safety organizations to use while shopping for children of all ages.
You Really Shouldn't Have - CPB's Guide to Dealing with Unwanted Gifts
Special Holiday “Shopping for Kids” Edition
Student Textbook Affordability Considerations for Faculty
Textbook Pricing Resources
The 411 on Textbooks Bookmark - In response to the rising costs of textbooks and school supplies, Governor Paterson and the NYS Legislature passed the Textbook Access Act of 2008. Learn about the Act and how it affects students by reading this bookmark
Textbook Savings Guide - Students and their families continue to look for ways to save money on college-related expenses given the high cost of tuition at schools of higher learning. As textbooks have become a significant investment each semester, the New York State Consumer Protection Board (CPB) is offering the following tips to save on these items
On Your SYDE Champ's Cents Savvy for Kids
On Your SYDE Back To School Savings Tips
On Your SYDE General Savings and Cost Cutting Tips
On Your SYDE Grocery Shopping Tips
On Your SYDE Gas Savings Tips
On Your SYDE At Home Food Prep Tips
On Your SYDE Household Savings Tips
On Your SYDE Summer Tips
Consumer Tips for Online Shopping - Tips and advice to help ensure that transactions you make online are safe and secure
Gasoline Prices - Offering New Yorkers some suggestions on how to maximize your money and save at the gas pump
Jewelry Buyer's Guide - Whether it is Valentine's Day, Graduation, a Birthday, Wedding Anniversary or time to pop the BIG question, jewelry may be the perfect gift for your loved-one or friend. The NYS Consumer Protection Board (CPB) is pleased to provide you with these important tips to follow before making a jewelry purchase
Online Auctions - Internet auctions are becoming the most popular way to shop online - This guide is designed to show you how to get the most out of your internet auction experience
Tips for the Wise Consumer - How to be an informed and empowered consumer

Utility Services

A Consumer Guide to Telephone Services - Rapid change in the telecommunications industry provides opportunity for consumers to benefit from new telephone service.  This guide provides an overview of telephone service options
Choosing a Wireless Phone Plan - Questions to ask when choosing a wireless phone plan
Consumer tips concerning door-to-door marketing of energy services - Read this brochure if you are considering obtaining electricity and/or natural gas from a supplier other than your utility
Get the Picture: Television Technology - Each television type has benefits and limitations. Learn what they are in this CPB brochure
Home Heating with Oil and Propane - This brochure provides plain-language information to assist consumers in shopping for heating oil and propane, helps consumers reduce their home heating bills, and increases awareness of New York State programs to encourage conservation and assist low-income consumers with their heating bills

Audio

ConsumerCast

ConsumerCast is a new audio feature of the New York State Consumer Protection Board. ConsumerCast will appear the first Wednesday of each month providing helpful consumer information. Preview versions of the feature, in English and Spanish, are posted in advance of the official launch of the podcast series.

  • October 2009: " Internet Transaction Safety as part of Cyber Security Month" English  Spanish (Coming Soon)
  • September 2009: "National Baby Safety Awareness Month" English  Spanish 
  • August 2009: "Back to School Savings Tips" English  Spanish
  • July 2009: "Keeping Children Safe When Playing outdoors in the Summer" English  Spanish
  • June 2009: "Pool Safety for Parents and Children" English  Spanish
  • May 2009: "Home Improvement – Ask the Expert" English  Spanish
  • April 2009: "Taxes, the EITC and Assistance with Filing" English  Spanish
  • March 2009: "Knowing Your Rights Regarding Debt Collection" English  Spanish
  • February 2009: "New York State Works For You" English  Spanish
  • January 2009: "Returning Unwanted Holiday Gifts"  English   Spanish
  • December 2008: "Safe and Savvy Holiday Shopping Tips"  English   Spanish
  • November 2008: "Toy Safety Tips" English   Spanish
  • Special Identity Theft Awareness Week Edition English   Spanish
  • October 2008: "Halloween Safety Tips" English   Spanish
  • September 2008: "Social Security Number Safety" English   Spanish
  • July/August 2008: "Stretching Your Travel Dollar"  English   Spanish
  • May/June 2008: "Stretching Your Food Dollar"  English   Spanish
  • April 2008: "Filing, Rebates and Scams"    English   Spanish
  • March 2008: "Being Energy-Wise"   English   Spanish
  • February 2008: "Beating the Post-Holiday Checkbook Blues"  English   Spanish

ConsumerCast Text

ConsumerCast text versions are available below.

  • October 2009: "Internet Transaction Safety as part of Cyber Security Month" English  Spanish (Coming Soon)
  • September 2009: "National Baby Safety Awareness Month" English  Spanish
  • August 2009: "Back to School Savings Tips" English  Spanish
  • July 2009: "Keeping Children Safe When Playing outdoors in the Summer" English  Spanish
  • June 2009: "Pool Safety for Parents and Children" English  Spanish
  • May 2009: "Home Improvement – Ask the Expert" English  Spanish
  • April 2009: "Taxes, the EITC and Assistance with Filing" English  Spanish
  • March 2009: "Knowing Your Rights Regarding Debt Collection" English  Spanish
  • February 2009: "New York State Works For You" English  Spanish
  • January 2009: "Returning Unwanted Holiday Gifts"  English   Spanish
  • December 2008: "Safe and Savvy Holiday Shopping Tips" English   Spanish
  • November 2008: "Toy Safety Tips" English   Spanish
  • October 2008: "Halloween Safety Tips" English   Spanish
  • September 2008: "Social Security Number Safety" English   Spanish
  • July/August 2008: "Stretching Your Travel Dollar"  English   Spanish
  • May/June 2008: "Stretching Your Food Dollar"  English   Spanish
  • April 2008: "Filing, Rebates and Scams"    English   Spanish
  • March 2008: "Being Energy-Wise"   English   Spanish
  • February 2008: "Beating the Post-Holiday Checkbook Blues"  English   Spanish

Video

Foreclosure Intervention

These videos provide information to homeowners on where to reach out for help when facing the risk of foreclosure. For more assistance and possible solutions when having trouble making mortgage payments, please visit www.nw.org which can be found on our website under Consumer Links and Resources.

Stretch Your Dollar Effort (SYDE)

The New York State Consumer Protection Board offers dollar stretching tips and has started compiling lists of ideas and audio/video clip tips received from consumers.

Public Awareness Campaigns

Don't Fall for Lottery Scams

Governor David A. Paterson joined with State Consumer Protection Board (CPB) Chairperson and Executive Director Mindy A. Bockstein and New York Lottery Director Gordon Medenica in alerting New Yorkers to an increase in lottery scams. The State is warning consumers to be on the lookout for bogus lottery offers making the rounds during the current economic crisis. Lottery scammers use the telephone, faxes, e-mail, and cell phone (mobile) text messages to connect with potential victims, and include persuasive messages to lure victims into responding.

In order to protect consumers, the CPB and Lottery have teamed up to produce audio and video public service announcements (PSAs) in English and Spanish. The PSAs, featuring Lottery personality Yolanda Vega, are being issued to raise awareness among consumers of diverse backgrounds, and will be distributed to radio and television stations statewide.

English PSA Video Spanish PSA VideoEnglish PSA AudioSpanish PSA Audio

"Do Not Call" Public Service Campaign

The New York State Consumer Protection Board (CPB) is the enforcement agency for the New York State Do Not Call Law. In an effort to raise public awareness about how to prevent most unwanted sales calls and how to file a complaint, the Agency launched a Statewide radio campaign, which ran starting in January 2009.

15 second radio ad 30 second radio ad

Consumer Awareness Campaign

Consumer Awareness Campaign:  In an effort to raise public awareness about what the CPB can offer through mediation, assistance and other resources, the Agency launched a massive advertising campaign this Spring.  30 Second Radio Ad   60 Second Radio Ad   Television Ad

Identity Theft Awareness Campaign

The New York State Consumer Protection Board and the New York Giants launch a public service campaign to raise awareness about Identity Theft for New York’s consumers.

Radio Ad         Television Ad

Safeguard Your Personal Information Campaign

Check out the new public service announcement, subway and railroad ad campaigns raising awareness to safeguard your personal information.

30 Second Radio Ad           Subway Ad               Railroad Ad

To receive copies of any CPB brochure, please click here to e-mail your request. For your convenience, many of our publications can be downloaded or viewed by clicking on the document name.