Mastercard, don’t sell my data
Mastercard sees how much you spend, where and on what days - and it sells that information to companies you’ve never heard of.
Consumer alerts
Get the information, tools and resources it takes to protect yourself in today’s ever-changing marketplace.
These days we all need to be smart consumers. We need access to the information and resources it takes to avoid the latest scams, stop identity thieves, spot rip offs and keep unsafe food and toxic products out of our shopping carts. PIRG’s consumer watchdog team does the research, publicizes issues through the media, produces consumer guides, and sends out consumer alerts so we all have the tools to make smart, safe, informed choices.
The Latest on Consumer alerts
Did your tax prep company share your data with Facebook and Google? Here’s what to know.
First Republic Bank collapse is a reminder why we need reform
Updates
Nearly 400,000 Honda lawnmowers and pressure washers recalled
83,000 Boon Flair high chairs recalled because seats can detach
After Hurricane Idalia: Watch out for repair scams, price gouging, unsafe generator use
Featured Resources
How to take more control of your Mastercard data
How Mastercard sells its ‘gold mine’ of transaction data
Mail theft: How to protect yourself from theft of credit cards, personal information
Ringing in Our Fears 2023
Did You Know?
In times of emergency, our researchers have found price surges of up to 166% for critical supplies like bottled water.
What We're Doing
Our guide provides tips for avoiding price-gouging and a how-to for reporting bad actors.
The Latest
Type
Updated 2023 mid-hurricane season resource guide: data, resources & interview opportunities
The Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June 1 through November 30. This resource guide can help members of the media cover it more thoroughly and accurately.
American Airlines fined $4.1 million, largest penalty ever for tarmac violations
Company allowed 43 flights to stay on the tarmac for three-plus hours between 2018 and 2021.
The CFPB’s top 10 actions to protect consumers so far in 2023
In honor of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) 12th birthday, we are highlighting top 10 actions the federal agency took so far in 2023 to protect U.S. consumers.
When to expect compensation from Bank of America for its illegal fees and fake accounts
NPR: A record number of Americans may fly this summer. Here’s everything you need to know
NPR interviewed PIRG’s Chief Operating Officer for Program Andre Delattre about the troubles of modern air travel.
Team
Murray
Teresa
Murray
Consumer Watchdog, PIRG
Mierzwinski
Ed
Mierzwinski
Senior Director, Federal Consumer Program, PIRG