Lawmaker Offers Advice On Safe Shopping
by John Toscano

Noting that many shoppers are using gift cards and gift certificates as holiday gifts, Assemblymember Mark Weprin issued an information advisory explaining that consumers are now protected from both hidden fees sometimes charged for these items and from undisclosed conditions that can be costly.

Weprin (D–Little Neck) said legislation he sponsored helps ensure that consumers know exactly what the terms are of purchasing a gift certificate or gift card,” and, more importantly, that they get what they pay for.”

The lawmaker explained, “The law now requires vendors and retailers to eliminate any retroactive fees and prohibits them from collecting monthly service fees until after a gift certificate or gift card goes unused for 13 months.”

Another measure requires vendors to disclose the terms and conditions of a gift certificate or gift card at the time of purchase, Weprin added.

Addressing identity theft, another growing concern to consumers, Weprin says a new law requires companies and state agencies to notify consumers if their personal financial information has been compromised.

Weprin pointed out that with the Internet playing an increasingly larger role in consumers’ banking and shopping activities, computer hackers become a major threat to the safety of private information.

As proof of this, he said there have been numerous data security failures in the news recently, such as Lexis Nexis, Bank of America, Wachovia Bank and, more recently, CitiFinancial—which lost information including names, addresses, Social Security numbers, account numbers and payment histories of loans, on nearly four million customers.

“My legislation not only requires companies to be more responsible with the information, it also gives New York residents the information they need to safeguard themselves from becoming victims of identity theft,” Weprin said.

One of the most important ways to protect yourself, he said, is by reviewing your credit report. “As of September 1 all New Yorkers are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies. You can use your credit report to make sure no one has stolen your personal information to make purchases or open fraudulent credit accounts.

“I urge everyone to take advantage of this new law by going to www.annualcreditreport.com or by calling toll free 1-877-322-8228.”

Weprin closed out his advisory by saying that whether you’re shopping at neighborhood stores or online, these laws will hopefully reduce some potential headaches and stress during this hectic season, and help you to better enjoy the true spirit of the holidays with your family and friends.

Drop Off Coats For NY Cares At Vallone’s Office

The Astoria office of City Councilmember Peter F. Vallone is an official drop-off location for the 17th annual New York Cares Coat Drive. Coats can be dropped off at Vallone’s office Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. until December 31.

Each December New York Cares collects more than 70,000 winter coats and distributes them to thousands of men, women and children. This year New York Cares will distribute its 1 millionth coat.

For more information, call Vallone’s office at 718-274-4500.