National Consumer Protection Week: Informed Consumers, Stronger Community

Consumer Connection

Consumer Connection
National Consumer Protection Week: Informed Consumers, Stronger Community
Mar 03, 2026 Season 1 Episode 13
Michelle Escobar

National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) is a reminder that being an informed consumer is your best defense. 

In this special episode, Michelle takes the guest chair to share simple, practical habits that help protect your wallet and your confidence. From pausing before you purchase, reading reviews, and verifying sellers, to understanding common scam tactics and why timing matters, this conversation is all about staying one step ahead. 

We also talk about choosing empowerment over embarrassment. Reporting scams and filing complaints doesn't just help you, it can help protect the entire community. Complaints can reveal patterns and trends, allowing OCP to identify potential issues across the county and take action when needed.

You'll also learn how OCP helps resolve disputes, enforces consumer laws, and connects with residents through community forums, outreach events, and educational presentations. 

NCPW shines a spotlight on these issues, but consumer awareness is a year-round effort. Stay connected for timely alerts, practical tools, and ways to help keep our community informed and protected. 

Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to consumerconnection@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Episode Artwork National Consumer Protection Week: Informed Consumers, Stronger Community 30:02 Episode Artwork Love, Lies & Red Flags: Avoiding Online Romance Scams 40:19 Episode Artwork Outsmarting Scammers in 2026 33:19 Episode Artwork Behind the Scam: Insights from OCP Investigators 35:52 Episode Artwork Connecting Consumers with Council President Kate Stewart 35:43 Episode Artwork Exposing Gold Bar Scams 40:00 Episode Artwork Inside Cryptocurrency Scams with the FBI 36:49 Episode Artwork Out of Work, Not Out of Options: Your Financial Game Plan 43:28 Episode Artwork Guarding Against Imposters with the Federal Trade Commission 28:22 Episode Artwork Unmasking AI’s Role in Scams 30:53 Episode Artwork Safe and Smart Holiday Shopping 34:52 Episode Artwork Home Sweet Home 23:34 Episode Artwork Welcome to Consumer Connection 22:52 Episode Artwork Introducing Consumer Connection 0:56