Consumer Protection Project

Pennsylvania has laws that seek to protect consumers from unscrupulous or illegal businesses or scammers.
There are efforts to protect your privacy and to eliminate unwanted telephone calls. Each year, the state receives
more than 30,000 complaints from consumers. Several agencies or officials can be of assistance to a person who
believes they have been cheated or scammed. Consumer Jungle - promoting financial literacy with engaging interactive lessons.

List some common scams or tricks used to cheat or take advantage of people.

What groups of consumers are frequently targeted by unscrupulous businesses or cheats?

Select one of the situations outlined in these Bureau of Consumer Protection booklets or How to Avoid Scams and Fraud.

Prepare a presentation about the situation.

Highlight the warning signs that a consumer is being cheated.

What are the consumer's rights?

What should a person do if they believe they are a victim?

Identify the agencies, government officials or individuals that can assist consumers.

What are your responsibilities as a consumer?

Which groups of people are not bound by contracts?

 

Internet Scams information - Separating a scam from a legitimate offer can be a difficult task.

Bonus: What parts of the U. S. Constitution and Pennsylvania Constitution govern consumer protection issues?

Government Integrity - The Power of Facts from the Web |

How to track Federal Legislation using THOMAS

US Priorities on Hunger | US Priorities - Bridges | US priorities - Health Care | US Priorities - Health insurance

Oil Production Examining History - Finding the truth | Oil and Gas Royalties debate | Bridges or Earmarks | Government Spending - Earmarks

"It is often difficult to distinguish between a bargain and a rip-off.
That's why it's important for you to understand your rights and responsibilities as a consumer so you can make the right decisions."
Tom Corbett, Pennsylvania Attorney General

Rubric template - teacher resource / Problem Based Learning Projects