Know Your Consumer Rights! Why Awareness Is Your Best Protection

As an American, you have basic protections, or consumer rights, designed to protect you from unscrupulous business practices. Alongside this consumer protection, you — as a customer — have certain obligations and responsibilities as well.

Knowing your rights allows you to make informed decisions and protect yourself in the marketplace. While it would be wonderful if every company and seller acted in the best interest of the customer, this is not always the case. Your first line of defense against consumer issues is understanding your rights and considering some consumer best practices.

Your Rights as a Customer

Consumer issues happen. A quick browse through online complaints on review platforms like PissedConsumer.com tells you just how unsavory some business practices can be. Fortunately, you have consumer rights — you just need to know what they are.

Right to safety

Goods and services sold in the United States should not be harmful if they are used as intended. You have a right to your safety, and the quality of a product or service should not hurt you.

Right to choose

America does more than frown on monopolies. There are laws against monopolies and extortion. You have a right to choose between a variety of products or services at a competitive price. So, you have a right to a competitive market.

Right to an informed decision

You also have a right to an informed decision. Companies must provide information so that you can educate yourself before purchasing. This, of course, means you must take advantage of the information and maximize the consumer insights, manuals, and reports prior to purchasing.

Right to be heard

If a problem does arise, you have a right to be heard. Many online platforms exist beyond the company’s customer service option. Call the company. Write online reviews. Leave feedback through social media. Join communities. Seek legal advice. You have a right to make noise and share your experience with others.

Right to seek resolution

Finally, you have a right to seek redress or resolution. Government organizations and agencies, like the Office of the Attorney General or the Bureau of Consumer Protection, support and protect customers by going after unscrupulous businesses.

Best Practices to Protect Yourself

Ultimately, your protections rely on you. You should know your rights and understand how to protect yourself. Consider a few best practices:

• Remain vigilant. If something seems off about a company, purchase, sales tactic, or pricing, beware. Trust your instincts and refuse to be rushed.
• Find support. Join consumer communities such as the PissedConsumer Club for support. You don’t have to feel alone. Such organizations allow you to share your story, ask for assistance, and find helpful resources.
• Always research major purchases. There are so many consumer platforms, online reviews, consumer reports, and more. Listen to the voices of others. Use them wisely.
• Stay organized. When you make a purchase, hang on to the receipts, the warranties, and other documents. If you wind up needing to advocate for yourself, you’ll have the documents required.

The Importance of Consumer Rights

What is the purpose of consumer rights? When you know them, you’re in a position to move thoughtfully in the industry and protect yourself. There are various consumer platforms designed to help educate and support you, but ultimately, your knowledge is your most powerful defense.