Videos

Our office has an important reminder for consumers. Fraudsters don't take holiday breaks, but by being vigilant, you can protect your money, your purchases, and your identity from being stolen during this gift-giving season. Watch out for deceptive ads on social media platforms when buying gifts. Be careful when donating money to avoid a charity scam. And be aware of vacation rental scams when you are traveling. 

For more information on scams, how to avoid them, and what to do if you become a victim of a scam, visit our website at erie.gov/ConsumerProtection or call our office at 716-858-1987.

The holiday season is upon us! The Erie County Division of Consumer Protection wants to make sure consumers shop safely this holiday season. Make a list and check it twice. Confirm that a seller is legitimate. Do your research to compare products, and read online reviews before buying gifts. Protect yourself online by only shopping on secure websites with an 'https' address. The 's' stands for 'secure.' If you don't see the 's' or the lock symbol, don't enter your information. And avoid holiday offers that ask you to give personal or financial information, no matter how tempting. They might be trying to steal your identity. Visit our website for more information, and if you have questions, please call our office at 716-858-1987.

Jennifer Andres, Director of Consumer Protection at the Erie County Department of Public Advocacy, has a Halloween reminder: scams can be scary, but don’t let scammers spook you into giving them your money.

If you encounter what you think may be a scam, don’t be scared—be prepared! And if you have any questions, please contact the Erie County Division of Consumer Protection at 716-858-1987.

Learn more at: https://erie.gov/ConsumerProtection

Ever wonder about the quality of the gasoline at the pump? The Erie County Bureau of Weights & Measures regularly checks motor fuel quality, so you don't have to!

Watch for more information or visit the Erie County Office of Consumer Protection website at: www3.erie.gov/consumerprotection/weights-and-measures

Gift card scams are on the rise, so it's more important than ever to be informed. In Erie County, we want to educate consumers and prevent them from falling victim to such scams. 

Remember: gift cards should only be used for gifts, not to make payments of any kind. 

If you receive any communication asking for payment in the form of a gift card, don’t respond—it's a scam! And please contact the Erie County Office of Consumer Protection at 716-858-1987. Learn more about the Erie County Office of Consumer Protection at: https://erie.gov/ConsumerProtection

Ever wonder if the gas pump you're using is accurate? If it has an up-to-date Erie County Bureau of Weights & Measures sticker on it, it is! Watch for more information or visit the Erie County Office of Consumer Protection website at: www3.erie.gov/consumerprotection/weights-and-measures

Ever wonder if the scale at the grocery store or deli is accurate? If it has an up-to-date Erie County, NY Bureau of Weights & Measures sticker on it, it is! Watch for more or visit the Erie County Office of Consumer Protection website at: www3.erie.gov/consumerprotection/weights-and-measures

Erie County's Bureau of Weights and Measures is looking out for consumers. Watch to learn how "Scanner Accuracy Examiners" work to make sure consumers are charged the price as advertised, and not a cent more. Erie County Bureau of Weights & Measures: https://www3.erie.gov/consumerprotection/consumer-information

The Erie County Division of Consumer Protection was created to ensure that Erie County's residents have access to education, information, and resources regarding consumer protection. The office will investigate and mediate consumer complaints through voluntary mediation and educate Erie County consumers on the policies, best practices and their rights and responsibilities as consumers.

Watch to learn more about Erie County's Bureau of Weights and Measures from Director Charles LaMarca!

This agency is tasked with assuring that all devices used commercially within the county are accurate and are constructed in a manner to prevent fraud.  It is also responsible for compliance with the local item pricing/scanner accuracy law. This law requires that consumers know and pay the lowest of any advertised price.

For more information, visit our website; https://www3.erie.gov/consumerprotection/weights-and-measures