Consumer Tips and Resources
Pinellas County offers tips and resources that allow consumers to make the best decisions.
Featured Government Office
Office of Consumer Protection
Anyone could fall victim to a scam. If you are unable to resolve a problem such as defective products, erroneous bills or non-delivery of goods or services, the dedicated employees of Pinellas County Consumer Protection can help. Consumer Protection is a division of the Human Services Department.
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Consumer Stories
- Pinellas County Consumer Protection investigation leads to criminal charges
- Pinellas County Consumer Protection helps unlicensed contractor victims file charges, receive restitution
- Consumer Protection investigation leads to arrest, $203,941 in restitution for 30 victims
- Disgruntled Contractor Takes Advantage No More
- Drug Paraphernalia Dilemma
- Scam Artist No More
Drug Paraphernalia Dilemma
Human Services Spotlight Series #21 Protecting Our Children In February 2021, an Oldsmar resident watched a vehicle pull up to his home......
Vacation Rentals vs COVID-19
Pinellas County Human Services | Spotlight Series Issue #15 Sometime during January of 2020, the Complainant booked a vacation rental (condo) in......
Consumer Protection Frequently Asked Questions
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services...
Consumer Tips: Foreclosure Scams
Don’t Get Scammed! The possibility of losing your home to foreclosure can be terrifying! Con artists can and will prey upon your......
Sandbags and Other Flood Barriers
Prepare for hurricane season by getting your sandbags early. Keep a lookout for County or municipal self-serve sandbag events or purchase them from......
Tips for avoiding COVID-19 robocall scams
As many of us are practicing social distancing by staying home, we may be more likely to answer unsolicited phone calls. That’s......
Protect Your Senior Family and Friends from COVID-19 scams
During these times of social distancing and quarantine, older adults may be more isolated and therefore more vulnerable to scams. Perpetrators may......
Consumer Tips: Mortgage Terms You Should Know
CLOSING COSTS: Costs the buyer must pay at the time of closing in addition to the down payment. Closing costs average 3-4%......
Consumer Tips: Buying Your First Car
When you buy a car with an “AS IS” warranty, it means there is no warranty. Have the car checked out by......
Towing Ordinance
The Office of Consumer Protection is tasked with the enforcement of towing companies. Click here for more information on your rights and......