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Skriven 2006-02-03 23:32:58 av Whitehouse Press (1:3634/12.0)
Ärende: Press Release (060203c) for Fri, 2006 Feb 3
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National Consumer Protection Week, 2006
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For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
February 3, 2006

National Consumer Protection Week, 2006
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America



During National Consumer Protection Week, we highlight the importance of
consumer education in the ongoing fight against fraud and encourage
consumers to make wise decisions.

Each year, nearly 25 million adults are victims of consumer fraud. These
crimes damage lives and shake consumer confidence. The Federal Trade
Commission (FTC) and other organizations recommend several steps that
Americans can take to help protect themselves against fraud. First,
consumers should be cautious about giving out personal information such as
Social Security and account numbers. Second, they should be aware of the
credentials of an organization before making a transaction, especially
through the mail, over the phone, or on the Internet. Third, before
finalizing a purchase or agreement, the FTC suggests considering offers
with care, avoiding immediate decisions, and requesting to have information
in writing. In addition, when using the Internet, the FTC recommends that
consumers exercise caution in responding to solicitations and that
consumers use and regularly update their anti virus software and firewall.

My Administration is committed to vigorous enforcement of the consumer
protection statutes, and the Department of Justice's Office of Consumer
Litigation and other Federal agencies are working diligently to that end.
The FTC is working to fight unsolicited e-mail under the Controlling the
Assault of Non Solicited Pornography and Marketing Act and is establishing
new rules under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act to further
protect against identity theft. We are protecting American consumers
through the National Do Not Call Registry.

Millions of Americans have registered already, and individuals may call 1
888 382 1222 or visit the Do Not Call website at www.donotcall.gov to have
their number added to the list. Citizens can learn more about ways to fight
fraud from the National Consumer Protection Week website at
www.consumer.gov/ncpw. By actively guarding against fraud, consumers can
protect themselves and enhance the strength and integrity of our Nation's
economy.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim February 5 through February
11, 2006, as National Consumer Protection Week. I call upon Government
officials, industry leaders, and consumer advocates to provide citizens

with information about how they can be responsible consumers, and I
encourage all citizens to take an active role in protecting their personal
information.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of February,
in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.

GEORGE W. BUSH

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