CONTENTS (Simple click on title of choice)

Check The Source Of Online Health Information

Scammers Taking Advantage Of New Federal Economic Stimulus Package

IRS warns of e-mail, telephone scams

Identity Thieves Impersonate Texas Banks

Don't Pay Up-Front To Borrow Holiday Cash

Spoof Credit Union E-Mails

IRS Warns New Scam Emails Offering Refunds

Give Wisely To Organizations Claiming To Benefit Public Safety Officers

Reverse Mortgage Offers

Jury Duty

Salmonella Outbreak

Botulism

Toy Recall

Tires

Contaminated Toothpaste

Drugs Purchased by Internet

Credit Card Scam

Gift Cards

Charity Giving

Social Security EMail Scam

Computer Purchase EMail Scam

FBI EMail Scam

Vishing

EMT Alert Card

Check The Source Of Online Health Information (3-20-08)

When it comes to something as important as health and wellness, Texans seeking more information should always consult their doctor or licensed health care professional. According to a recent Pew Internet and American Life Project study, every day an estimated eight million Americans search the Internet for health care information. But Texans should never solely rely on a Web site to diagnose or treat a serious illness. Equally important, Internet users should always pay close attention to their information source.

Although many Web sites offer informative, helpful information about a variety of health and lifestyle issues, not every site can be trusted for accurate, factual material. Texans who consult the Internet for health care information should always pay close attention to whom or what operates their favored Web sites.

In some cases, what appears to be medically-oriented Web site may actually be an advertising tool for a third party with a financial incentive to exaggerate or downplay a product's benefits or dangers. For example, Web-based law firm advertising is particularly common among Web sites that are dedicated to certain specific illnesses or prescription medications. In fact, a recent study by the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest noted that Internet searches for medical information produced results that were "dominated by Web sites paid for and sponsored by either class action law firms or legal marketing sites searching for plaintiff referrals."

In contrast, an unbiased online information source might include a broader spectrum of data about a given subject matter. For example, Web sites created by reputable organizations like the American Cancer Society and the American Heart Association often feature peer-reviewed medical journals and other impartial research sources. In addition, many government agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration, impose similarly rigorous standards upon any research included on their Web sites.

But even trusted, verifiable online information cannot be relied upon to treat serious ailments or answer critical medical questions. Texans should always contact a licensed medical professional whenever their health is at risk. An in-person visit to a doctorÕs office or local clinic is the best way to ensure patients are getting accurate information that is tailored to their unique health needs.

Texans who have encountered misleading or deceptive medically-oriented Web sites may file a complaint with the Office of the Attorney General by calling (800) 252-8011 or visiting our Web site at www.texasattorneygeneral.gov.

Scammers Taking Advantage Of New Federal Economic Stimulus Package (2-18-08)

Texans should be aware of a scam that has emerged in connection with the proposed federal economic stimulus package. Under recently passed legislation, the IRS will mail tax rebate checks to eligible Texans over the next few months. President Bush has indicated he will sign the package into law on Wednesday.

Several Texans recently filed complaints with the Office of the Attorney General after receiving unsolicited e-mails and telephone calls from purported IRS agents claiming that the taxpayers are eligible for "Bush refunds." The scammers demand taxpayers' Social Security and bank account numbers, claiming the IRS will use the information to directly deposit "rebate checks" into the taxpayers' accounts.

This is outright identity theft fraud. The IRS does not call or e-mail taxpayers unexpectedly to demand personal information for direct deposits. Taxpayers solicited in this manner should just hang up or delete the e-mail.

Texans who have received these bogus solicitations can file a complaint with the IRS at www.irs.gov or by calling (800) 829-1040. Consumers also can report such calls to our office. (800) 252-8011 or (512) 475-4413 (in Austin)

IRS warns of e-mail, telephone scams (2-18-08)

WASHINGTON (AFRNS) -- The Internal Revenue Service is warning taxpayers about several current e-mail and telephone scams using the IRS name as a lure. IRS officials expect such scams will continue through the tax-return filing season and beyond.

Officials caution taxpayers to be aware of scams involving proposed advance payment checks. Although the government has not yet enacted an economic stimulus package in which the IRS provides advance payments, known informally as rebates to many Americans, a scam using the proposed rebates as bait has started.

The goal of the scams is to trick people into revealing personal and financial information, such as Social Security, bank account or credit card numbers, which the scammers can use to commit identity theft.

Typically, identity thieves use a victim's personal and financial data to empty financial accounts; use existing credit cards; apply for new loans, credit cards, services or benefits in the victim's name; or file fraudulent tax returns. Most of these fraudulent activities can be committed electronically from a remote location, including overseas. Committing these activities in cyberspace allows "scamsters" to act quickly and cover their tracks before the victim becomes aware of the theft.

People whose identities have been stolen can spend months or years -- and money -- cleaning up the mess thieves have made of their reputations and credit records. In the meantime, victims may lose job opportunities, may be refused loans, education, housing or cars, or even get arrested for crimes they did not commit.

Some examples of scams are listed below.

Rebate Phone Call
Scam: Consumers receive a phone call from someone identifying himself as an IRS employee. The caller tells the targeted victim that he or she is eligible for a sizable rebate for filing his or her taxes early.

Fact: The IRS does not gather the information by telephone.

Refund e-Mail
Scam: The IRS has seen several variations of a refund-related bogus e-mail, which falsely claims to come from the IRS, telling the recipient that he or she is eligible for a tax refund for a specific amount. The e-mail instructs the recipient to click on a link in the e-mail to access a refund claim form.

Fact: The IRS does not send unsolicited e-mail about tax account matters to individuals or businesses.

Audit e-Mail
Scam: An e-mail notifies a recipient that his or her tax return will be audited. It may contain a salutation in the body addressed to the specific recipient by name.

Fact: The IRS does not send unsolicited, tax-account related e-mails to taxpayers.

Paper Check Phone Call
Scam: In a current telephone scam, a caller claims to be an IRS employee who is calling because the IRS sent a check to the individual being called. The caller states that because the check has not been cashed, the IRS wants to verify the individual's bank account number.

Fact: The IRS does not contact taxpayers to verify bank information.

The only official IRS Web site is located at www.irs.gov/ . Anyone wishing to access the IRS Web site should initiate contact by typing the IRS.gov address into their Internet address window, rather than clicking on a link in an e-mail or opening an attachment.

People who have received a questionable e-mail claiming to come from the IRS may forward it to a mailbox the IRS has established to receive such e-mails, phishing@irs.gov, using instructions contained in an article titled "How to Protect Yourself from Suspicious E-Mails or Phishing Schemes" found at www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0,,id=155344,00.html. Following the instructions will help the IRS track the suspicious e-mail to its origins and shut down the scam.

Those who have received a questionable telephone call that claims to come from the IRS may also use the phishing@irs.gov mailbox to notify the IRS of the scam. (Courtesy of the IRS)

Identity Thieves Impersonate Texas Banks (12-14-07)

A new identity theft scheme is targeting Texans, particularly those who bank at Amarillo National Bank, a legitimate Texas financial institution. Spoof e-mails are directing Amarillo National Bank customers to call a telephone number and confirm their personal information. Customers who make the call do not actually reach their hometown banker, but instead end up on the telephone with a scam artist who wants to steal their identity.

This type of scam, also known as "phishing," typically involves e-mails that falsely appear to have been sent by trusted and well-known institutions, such as large banks or popular Internet-based merchants, like eBay and PayPal. In the latest twist, however, identity thieves are clearly targeting Texans by posing as trusted local institutions.

The Office of the Attorney General first learned of the Amarillo National Bank scam when its own employees received a series of e-mails with the subject line: "New Message From Amarillo National Bank." The e-mails read, in part:

We recently reviewed your account, and we suspect an unauthorized ATM based transaction. Therefore as a preventive measure we will temporary limit your access to sensitive features. To ensure that your account is not compromised please call our security center ... and verify your identity to prevent deactivation.

If this is not completed by Dec 15, 2007, we will be forced to suspend your account indefinitely, as it may have been used for fraudulent purposes.

The message provides a toll-free number for consumers to call and furnish their personal information. However, neither the e-mail nor the telephone number is affiliated with Amarillo National Bank.

As always, Texans should NEVER provide personal information in response to unexpected e-mails or telephone calls, even if they appear to be from a respected local institution.

The Office of the Attorney General is working with Amarillo National Bank and Texas banking groups to remind consumers that no legitimate institution sends e-mails or places calls to their clients threatening to suspend their accounts unless they immediately provide personal information. Texans who receive these types of e-mails or telephone calls should simply delete the message or hang up on the caller.

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Don't Pay Up-Front To Borrow Holiday Cash (12-07-07)

With the holiday season in full swing, many Texans might encounter advertisements promising instant cash loans. Consumers should avoid loan offers that require up-front payments for "taxes" or "processing fees." Legitimate lenders never ask borrowers to pay money up-front in order to obtain a loan.

Posing as legitimate loan offers, these slick loan promotions often appear online, in newspaper classified ads or on flyers. Some scammers provide a toll-free number for borrowers to call and supposedly speak with someone who claims to be a reputable bank representative. Other con artists send official-looking correspondence guaranteeing a loan for hundreds or even thousands of dollars at a reasonable interest rate.

In both schemes, borrowers are instructed to wire several hundred dollars in advance to cover the loans' taxes or processing charges. Once consumers send the money, they never hear from the scam artist again.

Many of these schemes give the impression that they are based in the United States. Often, they provide "confirmation" correspondence with a return address in this country. The unfortunate reality is that most scammers are based abroad and use stolen or disposable cell phones that cannot be traced. The correspondence addresses are either nonexistent or anonymous drop boxes. Once money is wired to the scammers, they are able to pick it up from any of thousands of locations around the world, with little chance of being caught.

Consumers who need extra cash over the holidays should consider approaching local lenders to discuss their options in person. Borrowers should also carefully protect their personal information, especially Social Security and bank account numbers. While reputable lenders typically require Social Security numbers and other information to conduct credit checks on a borrower, scam artists often obtain victims' personal information to perpetrate identity theft.

Texans can verify they are dealing with a legitimate, properly licensed organization by contacting the Texas Department of Banking toll-free at (877) 276-5554 or online at www.banking.state.tx.us.

To report an advance fee scam or to obtain additional information, call the Office of the Attorney General at (800) 252-8011 or visit us online at www.oag.state.tx.us.

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Spoof Credit Union E-Mails Could Ruin Consumers' Holidays (11-27-07)

A new, dangerous identity theft scheme is targeting credit union customers across the country. According to consumer and credit union groups, spoof e-mails are directing credit union customers to call a telephone number and confirm their personal information. Consumers who make the call do not reach their credit union, but instead end up on the telephone with a scam artist who wants to steal their identity.

Savvy consumers have increasingly learned to identify and delete spoof e-mails that falsely appear to originate from legitimate banks or credit card companies. Known as "phishing," these e-mails direct consumers to a decoy Web site that allows the scammers to collect all the information they need to empty the customers' bank accounts and ruin their credit.

"Phishing" scams have been around for years, but increasingly sophisticated criminals now send e-mails instructing consumers to call a telephone number instead of clicking on a link. This tactic, known as "vishing," can be especially effective because consumers who encounter a live person are much more likely to let down their guard.

The latest "vishing" scam immediately disarms consumers by specifically warning about similar schemes. One recently circulated e-mail reads:

Dear Credit Union Customer,

We regret to inform you that we have received numerous fraudulent emails which ask for personal account information. The emails contained links to fraudulent pages that looked legit. Please remember that we will never ask for personal account information via email or web pages.

Because of this we are launching a new security system to make Credit Union accounts more secure and safe. To take advatage [sic] of our new consumer Identity Theft Protection Program we had to deactivate access to your card account.

To activate it please call us immediately.

The e-mail provides a telephone number with a U.S. area code, adding to its air of legitimacy. In an especially brazen move, the e-mail offers identity theft tips and links to the Federal Trade Commission's identity theft prevention Web site. Consumers who think the e-mail is legitimate call the number and furnish sensitive information to a person they believe is a trusted credit union employee. Only when their identity is stolen do they realize it was all a scam.

These "vishing" scams combine the "phishing" ploy with a Web-based telephone scheme. The telephone numbers that appear in these e-mails are set up through VoIP, which is an Internet-based telecommunications service. Even though the phone number appears to be based in a familiar U.S. area code, the scammers are most likely in other countries and impossible to track down.

Consumers who receive this or any other unexpected e-mail or phone call seeking personal information should not respond. Consumers who have concerns about their account should contact their credit union by calling the telephone number that appears in the local directory or on their periodic statements. Never click on a link or call a telephone number that appears in an unexpected e-mail.

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IRS Warns New Scam Emails Offering Refunds (11-19-07)

Updated Nov. 2007 - In a variation, an e-mail scam claims to come from the IRS and the Taxpayer Advocate Service (a genuine and independent organization within the IRS whose employees assist taxpayers with unresolved tax problems). The e-mail says that the recipient is eligible for a tax refund and directs the recipient to click on a link that leads to a fake IRS Web site. The IRS recommends that recipients do not click on links in, or open any attachments to e-mails they receive that are unsolicited or that come from unknown sources.

Suspicious e-Mail/Phishing

Phishing (as in "fishing for information" and "hooking" victims) is a scam where Internet fraudsters send e-mail messages to trick unsuspecting victims into revealing personal and financial information that can be used to steal the victims? identity.

Current scams include phony e-mails which claim to come from the IRS and which lure the victims into the scam by telling them that they are due a tax refund.

You Can Help Shut Down This Type of Phishing Schemes

Follow instructions in the link below for sending the bogus e-mail to ensure that it retains critical elements found in the original e-mail. The IRS can use the information, URLs and links in the suspicious e-mails you send to trace the hosting Web site and alert authorities to help shut down the fraudulent sites. Unfortunately, due to the expected volume, the IRS will not be able to acknowledge receipt or respond to you.

The good news is that you can help shut down these schemes and prevent others from being victimized. If you receive a suspicious e-mail that claims to come from the IRS, you can forward that e-mail to a new IRS mailbox, phishing@irs.gov.

Actual Phishing Email
(appears to be from Internal Revenue Service)

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Give Wisely To Organizations Claiming To Benefit Public Safety Officers (11-7-07)

Before donating to an organization that claims to represent law enforcement, Texans should ask questions and check the facts. Donations to groups with the words "police," "law enforcement," or "trooper" in their names may not actually benefit real peace officers or their families. As with most things, the devil is in the details.

Two common types of organizations can serve law enforcement. The first are legitimate charities, such as police benevolent societies. These charitable organizations might honor outstanding officers with an annual gala or raise money to provide scholarships for the children of wounded or fallen officers. However, when an unknown caller solicits donations for a peace officers' charity, Texans need to ask questions before they open their wallets.

In 2003, the Office of the Attorney General and the Harris County Attorney's Office filed an enforcement action against the Texas Police Officers Alliance (TPOA), which collected nearly $300,000 that it claimed would benefit peace officers. Before the state intervened, TPOA had given a paltry $500 to benefit the families of three sheriff's deputies. Texans who want to donate funds to law enforcement charities should know how the organization will spend their money Ð and whether it will actually benefit any peace officers.

A second type of law enforcement organization is a non-profit professional association or labor union. Their membership is usually comprised of dues-paying peace officers who rely on the association for professional insurance, legal counsel, and representation before city, county, or state officials. These associations typically are governed by an elected board of directors that includes actual licensed peace officers. Non-executive board members ordinarily receive no compensation, so many organizations rely on a professional staff to administer day-to-day operations at the association.

Though many of these organizations legitimately represent actual peace officers and their interests, they are not charities. Because they do not serve a charitable purpose, donations to these organizations are not deductible for federal income tax purpose. For the same reason, it is entirely lawful for a law enforcement association to use donations to pay for administrative expenses, provided they do not mislead prospective donors about how contributions will be spent.

To separate organizations that actually serve or represent peace officers from those that may not, it helps to examine the size of an organization's membership, the composition of its governing board, its history, its affiliations, and the organization's willingness to disclose how it spends its resources.

The state's largest peace officers' organization is the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas (CLEAT), a labor union with more than 15,000 members and 100 local associations. Founded in 1974, CLEAT is governed by a 17-member elected board of directors that are all licensed peace officers. It is affiliated with the National Coalition of Public Safety Officers.

Another prominent law enforcement association, the Texas Municipal Police Association, represents more than 13,000 Texas peace officers. Its 14-member board of directors, which is elected by its membership, receives no compensation and is composed almost entirely of licensed peace officers. Other examples of well-known, established organizations that represent peace officers include the Fraternal Order of Police, the Houston Police Officers Union, and the Dallas Police Association, among others.

While some organizations rely largely on membership dues to fund their operations, others solicit contributions by telephone and mail. Unfortunately, a few organizations that claim to represent law enforcement may not actually spend donors' contributions on items that directly help Texas peace officers.

Consider, for example, the Texas State Troopers Association (TSTA), which hires professional telemarketers to call potential donors for contributions. While the paid solicitor might have a good sales pitch urging potential donors to support the state police, much of the money raised by TSTA doesn't actually go to officers or their families. According to a recent IRS filing by the TSTA, its telemarketing efforts yielded $3.59 million through telephone solicitations. Of that amount, more than 75% - or $2.78 million - was spent on "professional fundraising fees." The IRS documents also indicate the organization spent just $10,800 on trooper death benefits; $22,000 on a "trooper event;" and $72,000 on contract lobbyists.

Texans who are solicited for donations by a purported law enforcement association need to ask tough questions before contributing to any non-profit organization. If the solicitation is made by telephone, prospective donors should take their time and ask for more information. Consumers should ask whether solicitors are volunteers or paid telemarketers. If a solicitor claims that a state or local police department has authorized the solicitation or will somehow benefit from a contribution, citizens should contact the local police department to determine whether the caller's claim is accurate.

To understand how their contribution will be used, prospective donors should ask the organization to provide a written comparison of how much donated revenue goes to telemarketing or lobbying expenses and how much directly benefits peace officers or their families.

Prospective donors should be wary of high-pressure sales tactics or unsolicited "pledge" letters. The Office of the Attorney General has received complaints by citizens who received unsolicited "pledge letters" from certain organizations. These letters claim that the recipients "generously agreed to donate" a certain amount when, in fact, no such promise was ever made. Texans should also question solicitors who imply their organization's donors receive special treatment by law enforcement authorities. And, of course, no legitimate public safety organization would intimidate or harass consumers who decline to give.

Consumers who receive bogus pledge cards or harassing telephone calls from organizations claiming to benefit law enforcement may file a complaint with the Office of the Attorney General by calling (800) 252-8011 or visiting our Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us

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Reverse Mortgage Offers (10-26-07)

Senior citizens over the age of 62 whose homes carry little or no mortgage debt may receive offers for a specialized loan called a reverse mortgage. Under these arrangements, eligible homeowners are promised an upfront cash payout with no obligation to repay the loan. Even better, the sales pitch goes, seniors can live out the rest of their lives in their own homes - with no monthly mortgage - and have extra money to spend enjoying their retirement years.

So what's the catch? Although seniors are generally not required to repay these loans, once they pass away or permanently leave their homes, that property essentially belongs to the lender. Under a typical arrangement, the lender places a lien on the property in exchange for the cash it provides to the borrower. This allows the lender to recoup the loan, fees and interest, by selling the home after it is vacated.

Reverse mortgages are attractive to many seniors, particularly those who are not concerned with leaving behind property for their relatives or friends to inherit. But homeowners who are considering a reverse mortgage need to know that these agreements significantly reduce or eliminate the inheritance that would have otherwise gone to their surviving loved ones. As with all matters involving their homes, seniors should carefully consider the fine print before accepting the terms of a reverse mortgage.

Seniors who are interested in a reverse mortgage should contact the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) at (800) 569-4287 for a list of local lenders that are approved by the Federal Housing Administration. HUD can also supply the name of a government-approved debt counseling agency, which can provide useful information to homeowners considering a reverse mortgage.

Senior citizens may consider hiring an attorney to help them review reverse mortgage documents. Seniors can contact the Office of the Attorney General at (800) 252-8011 or visit our Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us to find out about legal clinics and other free legal help.

Even when dealing with legitimate lenders, seniors should carefully consider more than one reverse mortgage offer, because terms of varying offers can differ significantly. Homeowners should NEVER sign any paperwork that affects their home unless they clearly understand the impact of what they are signing. Seniors should walk away from any lender who tries to pressure them into making a quick, spur-of-the-moment decision.

Finally, seniors interested in a reverse mortgage should be very skeptical of "mortgage consultants." Some unscrupulous operators will insist that a home needs costly renovations in order for the homeowner to qualify for a loan. Seniors should be particularly wary of consultants who insist on using a specific contractor. If the consultant is unable to help the homeowner obtain a loan, then the homeowner could be left with a sizeable remodeling bill. Refusal to pay the bill could cost the homeowner his or her home. If repairs or renovations are necessary, consumers should deal directly with lenders and registered builders or contractors to compare their offers and recommendations. Consumers who believe they have encountered a reverse mortgage scam should immediately contact the Office of the Attorney General.

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Jury Duty Scam Just Another ID Theft Trick (10-23-07)

The FBI and other law enforcement agencies around the country have reported the resurgence of an old trick known as the jury duty scam.

In this scam, potential victims receive calls from people posing as court officers. The caller informs the victim that he or she failed to appear for jury duty and that a warrant has been issued for his or her arrest. After alarming the victim, the caller then seeks to "confirm" the victim's Social Security number and other personal information. After divulging this information, the victim is often told that the entire matter can be instantly dismissed by paying a fine. All the victim needs to do is provide a credit card or checking account routing number.

By the time the call ends, the scammer has all the information necessary to open lines of credit under the unsuspecting victim's name. Identity thieves can quickly empty the victim's bank accounts or run up staggering credit card bills.

As with many ploys to obtain consumers' personal information, it is likely that many of these identity thieves are actually thousands of miles away, often in other countries and out of reach of U.S. law enforcement. Under this scheme, criminals simply go through the phone book hoping that sooner or later someone will provide the sensitive information they need to steal an identity.

This ploy is particularly effective because it causes victims to react immediately out of fear, rather than taking the time to reflect about the information being requested. While citizens could face legal consequences for failing to respond to a valid jury summons, legitimate court officers would never leave threatening messages on someone's voicemail to demand personal information and immediate payment of a fine.

Consumers who receive such a call can verify whether they must appear for jury duty by calling their local courthouse or district court. Consumers should NEVER hand over personal information in response to an unsolicited telephone call or e-mail, no matter how legitimate it might appear.

For more information, contact the Office of the Attorney General at (800) 252-8011 or visit the Attorney General's Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us

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New Health Alert: Salmonella Outbreak Impacts 30 States CLICK HERE

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Health Alert: U. S. Issues NEW Botulism Warning. Canned green beans sold nationwide. CLICK HERE

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Toys Recalled Due To Lead Poisoning Hazard (8-8-07)

The Office of the Attorney General is urging Texas consumers to stop using certain toys after Fisher-Price and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a recall due to potential lead poisoning hazards. Texans are urged to remove these toys from their homes and contact Fisher-Price to learn more about replacing the recalled products.

According to CPSC, toys and figures bearing the likeness of characters from Sesame Street, Dora the Explorer and other popular children's programs contain surface paints with excessive levels of lead, which could be toxic if ingested. More than 950,000 of the recalled toys were sold nationwide from May 2007 to August 2007. The products were sold both alone and as parts of sets. The toys are all marked with "Fisher-Price" and may have a date code between 109-7LF and 187-7LF marked on the product or packaging.

List of Recalled Fisher-Price Toys

A detailed list of the recalled toys can be found on the Attorney General's Web site at http://www.oag.state.tx.us/alerts/alerts_view.php?id=164&type=1

Consumers who own these recalled toys or figures should immediately remove the products from children and contact Fisher-Price at (800) 916-4498. Consumers who wish to return the recalled product will receive a voucher for a replacement toy of the consumer's choice (up to the value of the returned product).

CPSC tests consumer products on an ongoing basis to ensure they are safe. As it did with the Fisher-Price toys, the CPSC issues warnings whenever products do not meet certain safety standards.

While the majority of consumer products are safe when used properly, consumers are encouraged to regularly check the CPSC Web site (www.cpsc.gov) to make sure they do not have items that could pose a danger. Many of the alerts posted by CPSC involve toys, car seats, cribs and other items for children. Parents and friends might be particularly interested in the "Toys" and "Child Products" section of the CPSC Web site, which provides information on recent recalls. The Web site also allows consumers to submit information on a product they believe is hazardous.

Texans are understandably concerned about their safety, particularly that of their children. Consumers can contact the Office of the Attorney General at (800) 252-8011 or online at www.oag.state.tx.us. Our staff will gladly help consumers find federal, state and local resources that will assist them in gathering critical information about a product's safety record or reporting their concerns.

Below is a list of resources from several federal agencies that test and regulate the safety of consumer goods:

Consumer Product and Safety Commission (CPSC)
Information about dangerous and recalled consumer goods and household items, including toys, children's cribs, car seats, smoke detectors, electronics, sporting goods, lawnmowers, gas grills, and many others
www.cpsc.gov
Consumer hotline: (800) 638-2772 (TTY 800-638-8270).

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Information about dangerous and recalled foods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and other health-related items
www.fda.gov
General information: (888) 463-6332

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Information about auto safety technology and alerts/recalls on dangerous vehicles and components such as defective tires, etc.
www.nhtsa.gov
General information: (888) 327-4236

U.S. Department of Agriculture
Information on food contents and nutritional value, including an online search tool for the profiles of 13,000 common foods
www.usda.gov

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Information about toxic products, such as asbestos, pesticides, and pollution
www.epa.gov
General information for Texans: (214) 665-6444

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Texans Urged to Check for Potentially Dangerous Tires (8-8-07)

The Office of the Attorney General is urging Texas drivers to check their vehicles for potentially dangerous tires. The tires were sold from 2002 to 2006 for light trucks, sports utility vehicles, and vans, and could be in danger of tread separation. The tires were made by Hangzhou Zhongce Rubber Co. Ltd. ("HZ") in China and distributed in the United States under several names, including Westlake, YKS and Compass.

According to Foreign Tire Sales, Inc. (FTS), - 1 - the U.S. distributor, at least 270,000 tires may have insufficient or missing "gum strips," an important safety feature on certain tires that helps prevent tread separation. More than 50,000 of the potentially unsafe tires are believed to have been sold in Texas.

If you have any of these tires, immediately contact the dealer where you bought them. If the dealer is more than 50 miles away, ask the closest tire shop or mechanic to inspect your tires. In the interest of public safety, the Office of the Attorney General is asking tire dealers not to charge for such an inspection. Consumers who purchased these tires should not drive for long distances on hot roads and should avoid overloading their vehicles.

If an inspection indicates that the tires may be unsafe, consumers should immediately file an online complaint with the Office of the Attorney General at www.oag.state.tx.us or call (800) 252-8011 to receive a form by mail. Consumers can also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at (800) 327-4236 and FTS at www.foreigntire.com.

Consumers should check the sidewalls of their tires for the brand name, size, model, and U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number. If the DOT number contains "FTS" as part of the number, the tire may be subject to a recall in the future.

Media links

How to Read Your Tires (Image provided by the NHTSA)

Specific tire sizes and models affected:

• LT235/75R-15 CR861 CR857
• LT245/75R-16 CR860 CR861 CR857
• LT225/75R-16 CR 861
• LT265/75R-16 CR860 CR861 CR857
• LT235/85R-16 CR 860 CR861 CR857
• LT31X10.5R-15 CR861 CR857

At this time, NHTSA has not ordered a recall of any of these tires and no replacement program has been instituted. However, consumers should regularly check the NHTSA, FTS and Attorney General's Web sites for updates.

As part of general tire safety, consumers should keep the following tips in mind:

• Inspect tires at least once a month and before every long trip for patterns of uneven wear. Check tire inflation pressure in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.
• Do not overload your vehicle. Excess weight can place extra stress on your tires. Check your tire placard or vehicle owner's manual for the maximum amount of weight your vehicle can safely carry.
• Develop safe driving habits. Observe speed limits and avoid fast stops, starts, and turns. Avoid contact with potholes, debris, and curbs when driving or parking your vehicle.
• Keep your vehicle properly maintained. Rotate tires regularly, get wheels balanced, and get a front-end alignment if necessary.
• Use the proper tires for your vehicle. Check the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations before replacing a tire with a different size and/or construction.
• Be aware of how the outside temperature affects your tires. Hot weather can be especially hard on tires.
• Have any tire problems checked out by professionals. If you find that one of your tires is losing pressure, take it to a tire expert for a complete internal inspection.
• Avoid buying used tires. You might be getting previously recalled or otherwise dangerous tires.

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UPDATE: FDA warning expands list of contaminated toothpaste from China (6-21-07)

Late Friday the U. S. Food and Drug administration released information expanding the DEG toothpaste warning...
FDA has found a poisonous chemical, diethylene glycol (DEG), in certain toothpastesÊimported from China.ÊThe agency increased its scrutiny and testing of imported toothpaste and dental products after receiving reports in late May 2007 of contaminatedÊChinese dental products found in several countries, including Panama.

DEG is used in antifreeze and as a solvent.

Consumers should examine toothpaste products for labeling that says the product is made in China. Out of an abundance of caution, FDA suggests that consumers throw away toothpaste with that labeling. FDA is concerned that these products may contain "diethylene glycol," also known as "diglycol" or "diglycol stearate."

The agency is warning consumers to avoid using tubes of toothpaste labeled as made in China and, through an import alert, is stopping all suspect toothpaste from entering the United States.

FDA is not aware of any U.S. reports of poisonings from toothpaste containing DEG. However, the agency is concerned about potential risks from chronic exposure to DEG and exposure to DEG in certain populations, such as children and individuals with kidney or liver disease. DEG in toothpaste has a low but meaningful risk of toxicity and injury to these populations. Toothpaste is not intended to be swallowed, but FDA is concerned about unintentional swallowing or ingestion of toothpaste containing DEG.

List of Toothpaste Products FDA has identified the following brands of toothpaste from China that have been found to contain a poisonous chemical called diethylene glycol (DEG). The products typically are sold at low-cost, "bargain" retail outlets.

Manufacturer: Goldcredit International Enterprises LTD Products: (MainStar America, Selective Imports, Donnamax)

• Dr. Cool Coolmint
• Superdent Coolmint
• Cooldent Coolmint
• Cooldent Spearmint
• Cooldent Fluoride
• Everfresh Assortment
• BrightMax
• DentaPro
• Dentakleen
• Dentakleen Junior Brand - Strawberry
• Dentakleen Junior Brand - Blueberry

• Bright Max Peppermint Flavor
• Clean Rite Toothpaste
• Clean Rite Toothpaste Kit
• Oralmax Extreme Action Kit
• Oral Bright Fresh Spearmint Flavor
• DentaKleen
• DentaKleen Junior
• DentaPro

• ShiR Fresh Mint Fluoride Paste
• ShiRFresh Toothpaste
• ShiRFresh Mint
• ShiRFresh Ice Mint

• counterfeit toothpaste falsely packaged as "Colgate," manufactured in South Africa
• counterfeit tooth gel falsely packaged as "Colgate," manufactured in South Africa (may not contain DEG)

FDA inspectors identified and detained one shipment of toothpaste at the U.S. border, containing about 3 percent DEG by weight. In addition, FDA inspectors found and tested toothpaste products from China located at a distribution center and a retail store. The highest level found was between 3-4 percent by weight. The product at the retail store was not labeled as containing DEG but was found to contain the substance.

DEG poisoning is an important public safety issue. The agency is aware of reports of patient deaths and injuries in other countries over the past several years from ingesting DEG-contaminated pharmaceutical preparations, such as cough syrups and acetaminophen syrup. FDA recently issued a guidance document to urge U.S. pharmaceutical manufacturers to be vigilant in assuring that glycerin, a sweetener commonly used worldwide in liquid over-the-counter and prescription drug products, is not contaminated with DEG.

FDA continues to investigate this problem. If FDA identifies other brands of toothpaste products containing DEG, FDA will take appropriate actions, including adding products and their manufacturers to the import alert to prevent them from entering the United States.

Consumers can report adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of these products to FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm

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FDA Alerts Consumers to Unsafe, Misrepresented Drugs Purchased Over the Internet... CLICK HERE

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NEW CREDIT CARD SCAM (4/17/2007)

This one is pretty slick since they provide YOU with all the information, except the one piece they want.

Note, the callers do not ask for your card number; they already have it. This information is worth reading. By understanding how the VISA & MasterCard Telephone Credit Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself.

One of our employees was called on Wednesday from "VISA", and I was called on Thursday from "Master Card".

The scam works like this: Person calling says, "This is (name), and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My Badge number is 12460. Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm calling to verify. This would be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank). Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a Marketing company based in Arizona?" When you say "No", the caller continues with, "Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern that flags most cards. Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address), is that correct?"

You say "yes". The caller continues - "I will be starting a Fraud investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 1-800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800-VISA) and ask for Security.

You will need to refer to this Control Number. The caller then gives you a 6 digit number. "Do you need me to read it again?"

Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works. The caller then says, "I need to verify you are in possession of your card". He'll ask you to "turn your card over and look for some numbers". ; There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the next 3 are the security Numbers' that verify you are the possessor of the card. These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card. The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to him. After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, he'll say, "That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?" After you say No, the caller then thanks you and states, "Don't hesitate to call back if you do", and hangs up

You actually say very little, and they never ask for or tell you the Card number. But after we were called on Wednesday, we called back within 20 minutes to ask a question. Are we glad we did! The REAL VISA Security Department told us it was a scam and in the last 15 minutes a new purchase of $497.99 was charged to our card.

Long story - short - we made a real fraud report and closed the VISA account. VISA is reissuing us a new number. What the scammers want is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card. Don't give it to them. Instead, tell them you'll call VISA or Master card directly for verification of their conversation. The real VISA told us that they will never ask for anything on the card as they already know the information since they issued the card! If you give the scammers your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're receiving a credit. However, by the time you get your statement you'll see charges for purchases you didn't make, and by then it's almost too late and/or more difficult to actually file a fraud report.

What makes this more remarkable is that on Thursday, I got a call from a "Jason Richardson of Master Card" with a word-for-word repeat of the VISA scam. This time I didn't let him finish. I hung up! We filed a police report, as instructed by VISA. The police said they are taking several of these reports daily! They also urged us to tell everybody we know that this scam is happening.

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BE A SMART SHOPPER WHEN BUYING GIFT CARDS (12/20/2006)

With the holidays fast approaching, millions of consumers will buy prepaid gift cards from merchants all across the State of Texas. These cards have become extremely popular; they can easily be mailed to far-away loved ones and undoubtedly simplify gift shopping at a very busy time of year.

Unfortunately, recent reports indicate that the crooks might also have their eye on the convenience of gift cards. According to law enforcement and consumer protection sources from around the country, scam artists are strolling around busy shopping centers, eyeing racks full of not-yet-activated gift cards (generally, these cards are only valid after a consumer pays for them). The con artists write down or memorize the serial numbers on the face of the card, then sit back and wait for an unsuspecting consumer to purchase and activate the card.

Once a card has been purchased, all the scammer has to do is call the card's customer service number, confirm that it has been activated, and check its available balance. By then, the scammer can use the card to make online purchases. Sadly, it could be days or even weeks before consumers find out that the balance on their cards has been drained by a thief.

Protect yourself by making sure that your purchase of a gift card is a safe one: Ask a store clerk to provide you with a gift card from behind a counter or that has not otherwise been accessible to the general public. Also note that some gift cards already have security measures, such as an additional scratch off code. If so, make sure that the no one has tampered with either the card or its packaging.

Remember to be a vigilant consumer throughout the season. If you buy or receive a gift card where any part of the balance mysteriously disappears, you should immediately notify the merchant who issued the card.

Happy holidays.

Greg Abbott

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IT IS THE SEASON OF GOOD WILL, GIVE WISELY, from Attorney General Greg Abbott (11/16/2006)

For most people, the holidays are a time for generosity and sharing. Unfortunately, to the scam artists, these kind feelings are just another opportunity to try and skim more than their share off the top. GIVE, BUT GIVE WISELY.

Do not provide your credit card information to anyone who solicits you by phone, no matter how convincing or heart-wrenching the appeal is. Also beware of scams that use spam: an email solicitation may direct you to what appears to be a legitimate web site for a charity, when in fact it is a very good imitation. Do your own research to ensure that you are giving to a real charity.

Some companies promote causes by contributing a percentage of product sales to a specific charity. Be careful about buying a product just because some of your dollars are going to a charity. The product may be overpriced and/or the contribution may be very small. You can always just contact the charity independently to make a direct contribution.

Ask questions. If you are not familiar with a charity, get its full name, address, and telephone number. Many organizations have names that are very similar to well-known charities.

Find out how your donation will be distributed. How much will go to the program you want to support and how much will cover the charity's administrative and telemarketing costs?

Most worthwhile charities do not try to entice you to give by telling you that you have won a prize when you haven't even entered a contest.

Some dishonest individuals may avoid doing any business through the mail to avoid federal prosecution under postal statutes. Instead, they will insist on using a private courier service or picking up your check themselves.

Get information in writing from the charity before giving, including an annual report or other financial information.

Do not give cash. Write a check in the name of the charity, or if you are giving other property, ask for a receipt.

Consult an attorney before making a significant gift, whether making such a gift outright, by will, or by trust.

REMEMBER, NO LEGITIMATE BUSINESS WILL ASK FOR YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER, BANK INFORMATION OR OTHER PERSONAL INFORMATION VIA WEB SITE OR EMAIL. Make your generous gifts count: give wisely and with care.

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