Consumer Protections

Most consumers expect businesses to deal honestly and fairly. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. Misleading advertisements, false promises, and deceptive sales tactics can leave consumers with financial losses and little idea of what to do next. The Maryland Consumer Protection Act (MCPA) is designed to help protect consumers from unfair and deceptive business practices. Understanding…

Financial threats are hiding everywhere. They’re embedded in misleading contracts, predatory loans, unfair and deceptive business practices, and identity theft schemes that can cost victims tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. Scams have evolved far beyond the stereotypical “Nigerian prince” email. Today’s fraudsters are smarter, faster, and harder to spot. Many operate under…

In Maryland, landlord-tenant relationships are shaped by consumer protection laws. The laws safeguard renters’ rights to safe and livable housing. Here’s a recap of what protections tenants can expect as of the new legislation passed in July of 2025: The Maryland Tenant Mold Protection Act On July 1, 2025, the Maryland Tenant Mold Protection Act…

You work hard for your money. So when someone offers you an “exclusive opportunity” to make it grow quickly, it’s tempting to say yes. But not every offer is what it seems. In fact, investment scams are some of the most financially devastating forms of fraud in the U.S., with Americans losing over $5.7 billion…

In 2024, the Maryland Attorney General’s Office issued a stark warning about a rise in door-to-door scams, particularly involving fraudulent water filtration system sales. These scams target unsuspecting homeowners by leveraging fear tactics, claiming that the safety of their household’s water supply is at risk.  Scammers can pressure homeowners into costly and unnecessary purchases by…

With consumer law, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a beacon of hope/protection for individuals facing debt collection harassment. Enforced at both federal and state levels, this act delineates stringent regulations to shield consumers from unlawful actions by debt collectors.  Fortunately, these laws extend to Maryland, where state statutes overlap with federal provisions,…

In this article, we’ll explore how some scams unfold, particularly door-to-door energy and door-to-door solar scams, and how scammers trick people into providing personal and account information. We’ll also highlight Marylanders’ special protections, such as Project S.A.F.E. (Stop Adult Financial Exploitation), and the challenges in keeping up with these evolving tactics. How Fake Utility Representatives…

The “Stop the Spam Calls Act of 2023″ took effect on January 1, 2024, with the primary goal of curbing the proliferation of unwanted robocalls and ensuring consumer protection. This significant legislation represents a proactive stance by the Maryland General Assembly to safeguard consumers from intrusive, obnoxious, and often fraudulent telephone solicitations. Telemarketing Laws: Stop…

“Consumer law” covers a multitude of federal and state laws. These laws range from quite general, like the Maryland Consumer Protection Act, to very specific, like the Maryland Land Installment Contracts Act. These laws work together to shield consumers against unfair and deceptive trade practices. For consumers in any state, it’s advantageous to understand various…