CFPB Modifies Consumer Complaint Publication Practices

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced in mid-August that it will cease the discretionary publication of consumer complaint narratives and visualizations. This change follows an earlier June announcement regarding the agency's efforts to correct perceived flaws in the consumer complaint system, aiming to restore its integrity and utility. The CFPB noted that the complaint portal has faced issues limiting its effectiveness in addressing consumer concerns and the practical utility of its information [CFPB Newsroom].

Previously in June, the CFPB also indicated it was working to ensure consumers affected by Bilt's transition to a new bank partner were appropriately remedied. Officials met with Bilt to understand the issues and the steps taken to address customer challenges [CFPB Newsroom]. The agency's Deputy Director, Mark Paoletta, also delivered remarks to the Financial Literacy and Education Commission in July, emphasizing the importance of financial education [CFPB Newsroom].

FTC Issues Broad Warnings Against Scams and Fraud

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has released several consumer alerts over the past month, highlighting a range of fraudulent activities. A recent alert from September 10, 2026, provided guidance for individuals whose intimate images were shared online without consent, including those digitally altered or created [FTC Consumer Alerts].

Another September 9 alert coincided with National Preparedness Month, advising consumers to plan ahead to avoid scams that often arise during and after natural disasters [FTC Consumer Alerts]. The FTC also warned against scanning unsolicited QR codes, noting that scammers are increasingly using them to defraud consumers [FTC Consumer Alerts]. Other recent warnings include sophisticated tactics such as scammers spoofing car dealership websites, unexpected package 'brushing' scams, and fraudulent investment training schemes promoted on social media [FTC Consumer Alerts]. The FTC encourages individuals to report scams to aid in prevention and enforcement efforts [FTC Consumer Alerts].

Federal Reserve Activities Focus on Banking Oversight

The Federal Reserve's recent activities have primarily centered on banking and regulatory policy. On September 11, 2026, the Federal Reserve, along with other agencies, sought public comment on proposed third-party risk management guidance and issued a statement regarding community bank engagement with core service providers [Federal Reserve Press Releases]. The following day, September 10, agencies announced a reduction in regulatory burden for community banks, increasing eligibility for an 18-month exam cycle [Federal Reserve Press Releases].

Enforcement actions were also part of the Federal Reserve's recent announcements, including the termination of actions with United Texas Bank and Quontic Bank entities on September 4, 2026. Further enforcement actions were reported in August, concerning a former employee of Banco Popular de Puerto Rico and SouthPoint Bancshares, Inc., among others [Federal Reserve Press Releases]. The Federal Reserve did not release any press releases directly addressing consumer debt relief or monetary policy during the briefing period.