Consumer

From the Same Vine of Justice: César Chávez and DCBA 1000 587 Consumer & Business

From the Same Vine of Justice: César Chávez and DCBA

When you think of the Montgomery Bus Boycott, you probably think of Rosa Parks. When you think of the Delano grape strike and boycott one name usually comes to mind. On Monday, March 31, 2025, communities across the country will commemorate the life, legacy, and enduring contributions of César Chávez to the worker protection movement.…

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The Link Between Human Trafficking and Natural Disasters 1000 587 Consumer & Business

The Link Between Human Trafficking and Natural Disasters

Natural disasters, like the recent LA wildfires, create chaos and displacement, leaving many people vulnerable to exploitation, including human trafficking. In times of crisis, traffickers prey on those who have lost their homes, jobs, or support systems. Often, emergency responses can focus on property damage and price gouging, and they can overlook the increased risk…

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Shirley Goldinger: The Trailblazer Who Built Consumer Protections in LA County 1000 587 Consumer & Business

Shirley Goldinger: The Trailblazer Who Built Consumer Protections in LA County

In 1976, Shirley Goldinger made history as the first director of the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer Affairs – now known today as the Los Angeles County of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA). Her visionary efforts laid the foundation for protecting consumer rights and fostering a fair marketplace in LA County. During the department’s…

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Government Imposter Scams in Wake of Eaton and Palisade Fires 800 450 Consumer & Business

Government Imposter Scams in Wake of Eaton and Palisade Fires

As Los Angeles County recovers from the Eaton and Palisade Fires, the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) is warning residents to be on the lookout for government imposter scams. Scammers often take advantage of disasters to scam people into giving them money or personal information by creating a false sense of urgency. Types…

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Understanding and Preventing Identity Theft: What You Need to Know 1000 587 Consumer & Business

Understanding and Preventing Identity Theft: What You Need to Know

Identity theft is a growing problem, impacting millions every year. If someone uses your name, Social Security number, or other personal information to apply for credit cards, secure loans, or claim tax refunds, you’re a victim. Knowing how this happens and how you can prevent it is key to protecting yourself. How Does Identity Theft…

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After the Disaster: Avoid Contractor and Home Repair Scams 1000 587 Consumer & Business

After the Disaster: Avoid Contractor and Home Repair Scams

Don’t get Scammed!   In the aftermath of the LA County wildfires, many homeowners are facing the daunting task of rebuilding and repairing their properties. Unfortunately, times like these can also attract unlicensed contractors and home repair scammers looking to take advantage of people in need. Before you hire a contractor, learn how California’s laws protect…

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Price Gouging Explained with the DCBA logo and an arrow going up indicating higher prices
Consumers Impacted by Palisades, Eaton Fires Should Report Suspected Price Gouging 1024 576 Consumer & Business

Consumers Impacted by Palisades, Eaton Fires Should Report Suspected Price Gouging

On Jan. 7, 2025, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors declared local emergencies because of the Palisades Fire, which is burning in the areas of Pacific Palisades and other communities in the western portion of Los Angeles County, and the Eaton Fire, which is burning in Altadena, Pasadena, and neighboring communities. The Los Angeles…

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Happy Thanksgiving
Happy Thanksgiving from DCBA to Our Partners! 1024 576 Consumer & Business

Happy Thanksgiving from DCBA to Our Partners!

As we reflect on 2024, I want to express my sincere gratitude for the vital connections and partnerships that have been essential to DCBA’s work. None of what we do would be possible without your unwavering support. This Thanksgiving, I celebrate the abundance we share—an abundance of friends, partners, and collaborators who drive our efforts…

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a woman with a worried face rests her head in her hand while another woman looks at her
Families Get Justice After DCBA Investigation Leads to Sentences in Immigration Services Fraud Case 1000 587 Consumer & Business

Families Get Justice After DCBA Investigation Leads to Sentences in Immigration Services Fraud Case

After a prolonged journey, immigrant families have begun to find justice following an extensive Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) investigation that led to multiple criminal convictions in a far-reaching immigration services fraud case. This case, which saw 73 immigrants scammed by a single fraudulent service provider, underscores the importance of…

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Scales of justice statue in front of law books
LA County Sues Hawx Services Pest Control Alleging Illegal High-Pressure Sales Tactics and Charging for Services Not Provided 1000 586 Consumer & Business

LA County Sues Hawx Services Pest Control Alleging Illegal High-Pressure Sales Tactics and Charging for Services Not Provided

Los Angeles County filed a lawsuit today against a Utah-based pest control company, Hawx Services, LLC, which does business in the County and across California as Hawx Pest Control, alleging illegal, fraudulent and unfair business practices that financially harm consumers. The lawsuit alleges that Hawx engages in the following unfair and deceptive business practices and…

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