Ohio’s Consumer Protection Law: What to Do About Unauthorized Charges

Ohio’s Consumer Protection Law is designed to shield residents from unfair and deceptive practices in the marketplace. One of the most common issues consumers face is unauthorized charges on their credit cards or bank statements. These unapproved transactions can lead to financial strain and frustration. Understanding what steps to take when encountering unauthorized charges is crucial for every consumer in Ohio.

The first step in addressing unauthorized charges is to review your account statements regularly. By keeping a close eye on your transactions, you can quickly identify any unauthorized activity. If you spot a charge that you do not recognize or did not authorize, it’s essential to act fast.

Next, contact your bank or credit card issuer immediately. Most financial institutions have dedicated departments for dealing with unauthorized charges. When you reach out, be prepared to provide details such as the date, amount, and description of the disputed transaction. This information will help them initiate an investigation into the charge.

If your bank or credit card company fails to resolve the issue satisfactorily, you can escalate your complaint by filing a report with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The Consumer Protection Section of the Attorney General’s Office can assist consumers in resolving disputes and protecting their rights. You can submit a complaint online or by mail, providing all necessary documentation and details of your situation.

In addition, it is wise to monitor your credit reports. You are entitled to one free credit report per year from each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. By checking your credit report, you can ensure that no fraudulent accounts have been opened in your name.

Ohio law also requires that you report any unauthorized charges within a specific time frame to maintain your consumer protections. For credit cards, generally, you have 60 days from when the statement containing the unauthorized charge is sent to notify your issuer. For debit cards, the timeline is tighter, typically requiring notification within two days. Reporting promptly not only helps to resolve the charge but also limits your liability for fraudulent transactions.

Consumers should also be aware of the possibility of identity theft. If you find unauthorized charges, consider taking steps to secure your identity by changing passwords, placing a fraud alert on your accounts, or even freezing your credit report if necessary.

Education is essential to prevent unauthorized charges. Stay informed about scams and phishing attempts that could lead to unauthorized access to your financial information. Use strong, unique passwords for banking and shopping accounts, and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.

In conclusion, Ohio’s Consumer Protection Law provides a framework to help residents deal with unauthorized charges. By staying vigilant with regular account monitoring, responding quickly to unauthorized charges, and utilizing available resources for reporting and resolving issues, consumers can protect themselves from financial harm and assert their rights.