Georgia's credit freeze law takes effect August 1, 2008

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On May 13, 2008 Governor Sonny Perdue signed into law a credit freeze bill that will provide Georgia consumers with the ability to place a freeze on their credit file for only $3, or a total of $9 for each of the three major credit-reporting agencies:  Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. The freeze would be free for senior citizens 65 and older and for victims of identity theft.   Each temporary lift – commonly called a “thaw” – to allow access to the consumer’s credit file would also cost $3, and would be available electronically within 15 minutes of request, keeping on-the-spot credit an option for shoppers. The legislation will become effective August 1, 2008.

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Need Help?

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 How do I check the reputation of a business?

 I have a problem and need information about...

 What do I do if I want to file a complaint with your office?

 I want information on Georgia's Lemon Law and the protections it provides me.

 Do you have a sample complaint letter I can use to let a business know about my problem?

What's New?

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   Governor's Office of Consumer Affairs launches new educational website to help consumers with decisions about major purchases and credit. Visit www.ConsumerEd.com.

  Homeowners and builders take note:  As of July 1, 2008 general contractors are required to be licensed by the Secretary of State’s Office. Read more about the requirements and how to verify whether a builder has a valid license.

   Free foreclosure prevention counseling and information is available through the Homeownership Preservation Foundation. Call 1-888-995-HOPE or visit www.995hope.org. Consumers should also learn how to recognize and avoid foreclosure rescue scams.

   FTC announces its largest telemarketing fraud sweep ever. Read about the actions taken and learn how you can avoid telemarketing fraud.

  How will the upcoming changes to television broadcasting affect your television reception?

   Want to put an end to those unsolicited credit card and insurance offers that fill your mailbox?
Call 1–888–567–8688 or visit www.optoutprescreen.com.  

  Read OCA press releases and other consumer articles for helpful information.

 Have you received an e-mail referring to a national cell phone directory?  How true is the information contained in the e-mail?

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Hot Topics

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•	CONSUMER ALERTS (news, press releases, scams)
•	Identity Theft
•	Georgia's "Lemon Law"
•	Credit and You
•	E-Mail Spam
•	Buying a New or Used Vehicle
•	Do Not Call Law
•	Utilities
•	Telephone Complaints
•	Building Contractors
•	Contract Cancellation Rights
•	Landlord-Tenant
•	Servicemembers' Debt Relief
•	and more

Top 10 Consumer Myths

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How familiar are you with your rights as a consumer? Read on for the facts behind these myths.

 MYTH 1 - I have a three-day right to cancel any purchase (including new and used cars).

 MYTH 2 - A store has to give me a refund if I request one.

 MYTH 3 - When I receive an "award notification," I am a guaranteed winner.

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