Consumer Referrals

Internet Fraud Complaint Center

If you purchased a product on the Internet, by auction or on a seller's website, and you never receive it or it's not what was advertised, contact the Internet Fraud Complaint Center (IFCC). IFCC is a partnership between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the National White Collar Crime Center.

IFCC's mission is to address fraud committed over the Internet. For victims of Internet fraud, IFCC provides a convenient and easy-to-use reporting mechanism that alerts authorities of a suspected criminal or civil violation.

Bureau of Automotive Repair

The California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) registers and regulates approximately 34,000 California automotive repair facilities, and licenses smog check, lamp and brake inspection stations. During the 2000/2001 Fiscal Year, BAR negotiated $4.9 million worth of refunds, rework, or adjustments from auto repair shops on behalf of consumers. If you have been unable to resolve a dispute with an auto repair dealer or smog check station, BAR may be able to mediate your complaint.

Bureau of Electronic and Appliance Repair

The California Bureau of Electronic and Appliance Repair (BEAR) is the agency to contact if you have a complaint regarding the repair, service, or maintenance of the following electronic equipment and appliances normally used or sold for personal, family, household, or home office use:

Also for the installation of:

• Home antennas, including satellite antennas
• Auto radios, stereos, and antennas in private vehicles

Contractors State License Board

The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) licenses and regulates contractors for the protection of the public. The term "contractor" includes those individuals or firms that offer services to improve real property, including home building, remodeling, room additions, swimming pools, painting, roofing, landscaping, plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning.

CSLB's complaint investigation procedures are designed to resolve problems between contractors and consumers, subcontractors, and material suppliers. Where appropriate, CSLB will take legal actions for violations of the Business and Professions Code.

Better Business Bureau

San Diego County businesses
Businesses outside San Diego

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) can handle the following complaints involving marketplace activities:

• Misleading Advertising
• Improper Selling Practices
• Non-delivery of Goods or Services
• Misrepresentation
• Unhonored Guarantees or Warranty
• Unsatisfactory Service
• Credit/billing Problems
• Unfulfilled Contracts

The BBB works to facilitate communication between the company and the consumer, to help both sides satisfactorily resolve the complaint. In many cases, dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration, may be available to help resolve the dispute.

Other Consumer Resource Sites

Department of Consumer Affairs

The Department of Consumer Affairs' mission is to promote and protect the interests of California consumers. They have information to help you make smart choices and solve problems. They will educate you regarding your rights and responsibilities. To protect consumers, they license and regulate 2.3 million professionals, including doctors, dentists, contractors, and auto-repair technicians.

Privacy Rights Clearing House

The Privacy Rights Clearinghouse is a nonprofit consumer education, research, and advocacy program. Their online publications empower you to take action to control your personal information by providing practical tips on privacy protection.

Federal Trade Commission

The Federal Trade Commission enforces a variety of federal antitrust and consumer protection laws. The Commission works to enhance the smooth operation of the marketplace by eliminating acts or practices that are unfair or deceptive. Their website has many articles to help you understand your rights as a consumer.