CFPB Modifies Consumer Complaint System

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced on August 14, 2026, its decision to cease the discretionary publication of consumer complaint narratives and visualizations [CFPB Newsroom]. This action follows a June 24, 2026, press release where the CFPB stated it is "Correcting Flaws to Restore Integrity and Utility to the Consumer Complaint System," noting that the portal had been "plagued by issues that severely limit its effectiveness" [CFPB Newsroom].

In related news, on July 27, 2026, Deputy Director Mark Paoletta delivered remarks to the Financial Literacy and Education Commission, emphasizing the importance of financial education [CFPB Newsroom]. Additionally, the CFPB worked to ensure consumers affected by Bilt’s transition to a new bank partner were appropriately remedied, meeting with Bilt officials to address the issues [CFPB Newsroom].

FTC Issues Multiple Scam Warnings

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has released several consumer alerts, cautioning the public about various scam techniques. On August 17, 2026, the FTC warned consumers about "bill pay impersonators" using paid search ads to trick individuals into paying dishonest companies instead of their intended billers [FTC Consumer Alerts].

Another significant alert on August 13, 2026, addressed "tax debt" scams, advising consumers that dishonest companies might promise to eliminate debt for "pennies on the dollar" without proper assessment [FTC Consumer Alerts]. The FTC also highlighted the risks associated with ads on social media, noting that such ads are not always vetted for scams, particularly those promoting discounted designer goods or promising wealth through investment training [FTC Consumer Alerts]. The Commission further cautioned consumers about "recovery scams" where fraudsters target individuals who have already lost money to prior scams, pretending they can help retrieve funds [FTC Consumer Alerts].

Protecting Against Scams and Financial Misinformation

Beyond specific scam types, the FTC provided broader guidance to consumers. An August 6, 2026, alert emphasized the importance of discussing credit and identity theft with teenagers, particularly during back-to-school or college preparation [FTC Consumer Alerts]. On August 3, 2026, the FTC encouraged consumers to combat fraud by discussing scam tactics with friends and family [FTC Consumer Alerts]. A July 22, 2026, alert advised vigilance regarding payment methods, noting that requests for payment via bank transfer or wire transfer are common indicators of a scam [FTC Consumer Alerts]. The FTC also warned against paying for VA benefits applications and scrolling past paid ads when searching for substance use disorder clinics, as these can lead to deceptive services [FTC Consumer Alerts].