Washington State

Office of the Attorney General

Attorney General

Bob Ferguson

Attorney General McKenna urges consumers to guard themselves against Internet snoops

Data Privacy Day serves as a reminder to check privacy settings on social networks and wireless connections

SEATTLE – Despite warnings, many computer users unknowingly leave them themselves vulnerable to financial fraud or privacy invasions. In recognition of Data Privacy Day, Attorney General Rob McKenna today warned Washington residents to protect their personal information by checking the privacy settings on social Web sites and using secured networks.

CONSUMER ALERT: Anchor Blue gift cards to expire this weekend

SEATTLE – If you have a gift card for Anchor Blue, shop now. The clothing store chain is closing all of its stores and will honor gift cards, certificates and store credits as payment for purchases through Friday, Jan. 28.

Purchases made before Jan. 7 may be exchanged or returned for store credit (no cash refunds) until Feb. 5 or 30 days after the initial purchase — whichever is earlier. Customers must have a receipt. Purchases made after Jan. 7 are final.

CONSUMER ALERT: Washington residents ripped off by cons claiming to be relatives in need of help

Attorney General urges residents to talk to their loved ones about common scams

SEATTLE – It starts with a desperate phone call, e-mail or even an instant message from someone posing as a grandchild or a friend. He was arrested overseas. She was mugged. Please send money right away. Except it’s not who you think – it’s a con artist.

Washington residents are losing thousands of dollars to manipulative criminals claiming to be relatives in need of help.