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Being a Smart Consumer

An individual who buys products or services for personal use and not for manufacture orresale. A consumer is someone who can make the decision whether or not to purchase anitem at the store or online, and someone whocan be influenced by marketing andadvertisements.

You receive a call from someone who saysthey are with the computer supportdepartment at Microsoft Corporation.

Theyask you to go turn on your computer sothat they can help to identify a threat toyour system.

What would a “smart” consumer do?

You are shopping for groceries and see a yellow sale sign under dish detergent that says “buy one and get one free”. When

you arrive at the check out you get charged

for two bottles of dish detergent.

What would a “smart” consumer do?

A stranger knocks on your door and saysthey are collecting money for a charity however you are not familiar with thecharity they claim to represent.

What would a “smart” consumer do?

A grocery store has advertised your favourite ice cream, normally $6.99 acarton, on sale this week for $2.99. Whenyou arrive, the shelf is empty and a staffmember tells you that they have all beensold.

What would a “smart” consumer do?

You receive an envelope and inside is acard that says your household has won atrip on a luxury cruise line. You are askedto complete a form containing personalinformation “so we can learn more about you” and return in the envelop provided.

What would a “smart” consumer do?

Habits of good consumers: Comparing products/services Patience Common Sense Resist up-selling Ask questions Read the small print Understand after sale pressure Recognize there are laws to protect consumers Track expenses Stick to a budget Don’t accept responsibility for the finances of others Know when to complain and complain appropriately

Identify Theft

Is a crime

It is the fraudulent acquisition and use of a person’s private and identifying information, usually for financial gain.

What questions should you ask when getting a

new smart phone and/or smart phone plan?