Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection

In honor of Charity Fraud Awareness Week, here are some ways to protect yourself from charity fraud: ? Do your research. Use sites like "Charity Navigator" or "BBB's Wise Giving Alliance." ? Do not give to a third party that might pop up on social media or in your email. Give directly on the charity's official website. ? Do not fall for high pressure tactics. Legitimate charities will not pressure you and will allow you to research before giving.

Have you ever received a text like this? ?? Smishing is an online scam when cybercriminals send fake texts to trick you into sharing personal information. Last year, Americans reported a loss of $373 million due to text message scams, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). What should you do if you get a message like this? ? Don't click the link ?Click "Report Junk or Spam" ?Block the number ?Report smishing to FTC If you are expecting a package, go to USPS directly. Search USPS in a new browser or call the customer service number. #reportscam

Today we joined Yale New Haven Health and Bridgeport Hospital to discuss the importance of buying safe and age-appropriate toys amid the holiday shopping season?? Nationwide last year, there were 10 toy-related fatalities and more than 230,000 toy-related injuries in children 14 years and younger. If you are buying toys this year, keep your family safe: 1?? Make sure the toy is age appropriate – look for the label recommendation and consider if it’s appropriate for your child 2?? Make sure fabrics are labeled flame resistant or flame retardant 3?? Verify all painted toys have lead-free paint 4?? Watch for choking hazards for young children, especially under the age of three 5?? Watch for strangulation hazards on toys that have straps and strings 6?? Avoid toys with button batteries and magnets that can be easily removed with out an adult.

Food Safety Tip: A Perfectly Cooked Turkey Starts with the Right Temperature! ????? As you prepare for the holidays, don’t forget to check your turkey’s internal temperature several times before consuming. For a safe and juicy bird, insert a thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh—it should read 165°F for 15 seconds or longer. ? FACT: Using a thermometer is the most reliable way to avoid undercooking or overcooking. It’s quick, simple, and ensures both safety and flavor. ? MYTH: Using your intuition and vision are the most effective ways to check if your turkey is cooked and safe to eat. Happy Holidays, Connecticut! ?? #FoodSafety #Thanksgiving #HolidayCooking #TurkeyTips

?? It's deep-fried turkey season, meaning Thanksgiving is right around the corner! ?? Deep-frying your turkey has become a popular staple for Thanksgiving celebrations around the country. While they certainly are delicious when prepared right, they can be extremely dangerous when done wrong. ? According to the National Fire Protection Association, deep-fryer fires cause an average of 5 deaths, 60 injuries, and over $15 million in property damage annually. And with drought conditions continuing in Connecticut, it might be best to avoid the fire hazard and stick with cooking your turkey in the oven this year. If you plan on deep-frying your turkey this year with your family, check out these critical tips that could save you, your family, and your savings. Don't forget: safety is always the number one priority!

?? Attention Veterans! Ever heard of pension poaching? It's a scam technique where dishonest people call and pressure you to pay upfront for VA benefits. Receiving calls like this? Hang up and report it to the #FTC. Click below to learn more! ?? https://bit.ly/48XT4M9

Did you know that Veterans made 74,000 fraud reports last year? Protect yourself and your family with these prevention tips. To read more about Veteran Scam Prevention, visit https://lnkd.in/ePCFcHRr Share this post with a Veteran??

In honor of Veterans Day, here are some ways to protect Veterans and their families from financial scams. Share this post with a Veteran?? For more information on Veteran Scams: https://lnkd.in/ePCFcHRr

Happy Veterans Day, Connecticut! ??? Today and every day, we honor our veterans' courage and service to our nation. This month, we're sharing tips to protect veterans from fraud and scams targeting our military community. Your service protected us—now let us help protect you. ??

Happy Election Day, Connecticut! ??? Didn't have time to take advantage of CT's early voting program? Make sure you go to your local polling station and vote before the polls close tonight at 8pm. Call the Election Day Hotline 1-866-733-2463 if you experience any issues.