Mass Consumer Affairs Blog

With September just around the corner, many residents are renewing or moving into new spaces as tenants. Knowing your rights as a tenant is key to ensuring a safe, misconduct-free, and worthwhile living experience.

Fall is around the corner and that means many residents and students will be signing new leases. Just as tenants should be aware of their rights, landlords must understand their responsibilities to ensure a mutually beneficial rental experience.

The “Google Voice” scam has re-entered headlines, months after the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), initially warned the public about the scheme.

Massachusetts Consumers will soon get a two-day break from sales tax! The state’s tax holiday is Saturday August 13 and Sunday August 14th. Retail items of up to $2,500, purchased in Mass for personal use on these two day, will be exempt from sales tax.

As consumers we are always looking for products and services that are convenient or provide instant gratification. Peer-to-peer payment applications provide both of those features, so it is no surprise that the use of these programs are on the rise.

With inflation picking away at our pockets, seniors and others who rely on Social Security will see a boost in pay beginning in early 2023. The welcome increase is set to be the biggest cost-of-living increase in decades.

The Division of Banks (DOB), an agency within the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR), is the primary financial services regulator in Massachusetts and oversees mortgage lenders, mortgage loan originators, and mortgage brokers.

Today, Amazon kicked off its annual Prime Day that will run deals through tomorrow, July 13. Amidst the excitement of discounts and fun product purchases, it is important to beware of common internet shopping scams.

Cryptocurrency scams are on the rise, and the Federal Trade Commission recently issued a warning to the LGBTQIA+ community that they have become the target of this type of fraud.

The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) protects and empowers consumers through advocacy and education. OCABR compiled a list of “dos” and “don’ts” for when you plan to change apartments.