Consumer Handbook

Is your New Year’s Resolution to get out of debt? Improving your finances and increasing your savings is a common goal on Jan. 1, but it’s not always easy, especially this year. 

If your goal is to lose weight, get in better shape, or improve your overall health, deciding to join a gym may be the first step. However, don't just sign up at the first gym you see or visit. Before signing on the dotted line, research all of your options first. 

Get the most from a gym membership by determining your fitness goals in advance. This will help you select a facility that is most appropriate for you. Consult with your physician before embarking on a new fitness regiment, especially if there are medical conditions that might be a concern. 

Planning to stay in a hotel soon? Be aware. Scammers are always trying to get a hold of your credit card information. Tourists and business travelers are often considered the easiest targets. 

Hotels provide scammers an easy path towards their goal of trying to separate a traveler from their cash. 

Here are 5 very common hotel scams to be aware of: 

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically increased demand for pets as people seek adding a pet to the family to ease the loneliness and tension of prolonged time at home. Many feel that they now have more time to train a puppy. With this rising demand has come a spike in pet scams, in which an online search ends with a would-be pet owner paying hundreds of dollars or more to adopt a pet that ultimately doesn’t exist.