Consumers well informed

Consumoteca Blog

Practical guides on refunds, chargebacks, scams, privacy and consumer protection — in plain English.

Data Broker Complaints: Opt-Outs and California DROP Guide

Data Broker Complaints: Opt-Outs and California DROP Guide

Learn how to request deletion, use California's DROP platform, document ignored opt-outs, and escalate a data broker complaint.

How to Opt Out of Data Brokers and People-Search Sites

How to Opt Out of Data Brokers and People-Search Sites

Learn how U.S. consumers can opt out of data brokers, use California’s DROP system, limit re-sharing, and protect their privacy.

Data Breach Notice: What to Do and How to Dispute Charges

Data Breach Notice: What to Do and How to Dispute Charges

Learn what to do after a data breach notice: secure accounts, freeze credit, dispute unauthorized charges, and keep evidence.

What to Do After a Data Breach: Consumer Action Guide

What to Do After a Data Breach: Consumer Action Guide

Learn what to do after a data breach, including credit freezes, scam checks, company notices, evidence, and U.S. complaint options.

How to Dispute U.S. Customs Fees and Request a Refund

How to Dispute U.S. Customs Fees and Request a Refund

Learn how to challenge a U.S. customs duty or carrier fee, gather proof, meet the CBP protest deadline, and request a refund.

Customs Fees on Online Orders: What U.S. Shoppers Pay

Customs Fees on Online Orders: What U.S. Shoppers Pay

Learn who pays customs fees on U.S. online orders, how de minimis works now, and what to do about unexpected carrier bills.

How to Dispute Credit Report Errors: A Practical Guide

How to Dispute Credit Report Errors: A Practical Guide

Learn how to find and dispute inaccurate credit report information, document your case, track deadlines, and escalate a denial.

How to Dispute Credit Report Errors and Get Them Fixed

How to Dispute Credit Report Errors and Get Them Fixed

Find a credit report error? Learn how to dispute it with the bureaus and furnisher, track the deadline, and escalate if it remains.

Credit Card Charge Disputes: Deadlines, Evidence, and Steps

Credit Card Charge Disputes: Deadlines, Evidence, and Steps

Learn how to dispute a credit card charge, meet the FCBA deadline, organize evidence, protect your account, and appeal a denial.

Credit Card Charge Disputes: Steps for Consumers and Merchants

Credit Card Charge Disputes: Steps for Consumers and Merchants

Learn how U.S. consumers can dispute credit card billing errors and how merchants can answer chargebacks with clear, relevant records.