Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Protecting Your Personal Information Online

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM), a nationwide initiative led by the National Cybersecurity Alliance and CISA to promote safer online practices. In this episode of Consumer Connection, host and OCP investigator Michelle Escobar is joined by Montgomery County’s Chief Information Security Officer, Keith Young, to discuss how residents can safeguard their personal information, recognize emerging cyber threats, and stay safe online.Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected]

¡Celebramos el Mes de la Herencia Hispana con un episodio especial de Consumer Connection en español!Acompañe a Michelle Escobar, investigadora de la Oficina de Protección al Consumidor del Condado de Montgomery (OCP), para conocer cómo nuestra oficina ayuda a los residentes, cuáles son las estafas más comunes, cómo proteger sus derechos y qué recursos están disponibles para reconocer, evitar y denunciar posibles fraudes, incluyendo las estafas relacionadas con la inmigración. _____We’re celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with a special Spanish-language episode of Consumer Connection!Join host and OCP investigator Michelle Escobar as she shares how the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection helps residents, discusses common scams and consumer rights, and highlights OCP resources to help consumers recognize, avoid, and report scams, including immigration-related fraud. This episode is presented in Spanish.Contact the Office of Consumer Protection:Visit our website: www.montgomerycountymd.gov/OCPFor immediate assistance, call our office directly at 240-777-3636Email us: [email protected] us in person: 100 Maryland Avenue, Suite 3600, Rockville, MD 20850Walk-in hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PMHave a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected]

This episode focuses on helping Maryland students and parents understand the student loan landscape after the major federal changes that took effect on July 1. Toni White, Director of Outreach and Education from the Maryland Department of Labor’s Office of Financial Regulation, guides listeners through common points of confusion, the new repayment rules, Maryland borrower protections, current scam trends, and practical tips for navigating student loans safely. Office of Financial Regulation - Maryland Department of LaborStudent Loan Ombudsman - Consumers - Office of Financial RegulationHave a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected]

In this episode, OCP Investigator Lee Glass shares what he sees on the front lines of OCP’s complaint process. He walks us through the types of issues he commonly handles, why documentation is essential, and how consumers can build stronger complaints. Lee also discusses the scam patterns he encounters, the red flags he wants residents to recognize, and guidance on when to contact OCP for help.  Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected]

In Part Two of this special series focused on elder abuse awareness, we’re joined by Mario Wawrzusin from the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for a conversation about recognizing abuse and knowing when to take action. Mario provides an overview of DHHS Adult Protective Services (APS). He explains who they serve, the services they offer, and common misconceptions that can lead to confusion or hesitation. He walks listeners through the kinds of situations that may prompt a referral, how APS evaluates concerns, and what families can expect after making a report—including reassurance about anonymity and supportive, person‑centered outcomes. Building on the insights shared by Judith, Dolores, and Jane in Part One, Mario highlights the behavioral, physical, emotional, and financial red flags that often signal something isn’t right. He also discusses how APS works in partnership with the Office of Consumer Protection and the County’s annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) Older Adult Safety Forum event to enhance awareness and prevention efforts throughout Montgomery County. Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected]

In Part One of our special two‑part series focused on elder abuse awareness, we sit down with three remarkable volunteers from the Montgomery County Police Department's Keeping Seniors Safe program: Judith Boivin, Dolores Miller, and Jane Dean. Each of these community advocates has personally survived a scam—and those experiences are what fueled their passion for educating and empowering older adults. In this conversation, they share how their paths crossed, what made this issue deeply personal, and why they stepped forward to become peer educators within their communities. They reflect on the moments that changed their outlook, the common questions they hear during their presentations, and the red flags they want every older adult and family to recognize. Their stories are both eye‑opening and deeply uplifting, offering a unique perspective on resilience and the power of speaking out. A transcript for this episode can be found here:https://www.buzzsprout.com/2385106/19335213-community-voices-county-partners-spotlight-on-elder-abuse-awareness-part-1/transcriptHave a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected]

In this episode of Consumer Connection, host Michelle Escobar sits down with OCP Investigator and licensed home inspector Matthew Kaufman to discuss how homeowners can avoid common home improvement pitfalls and make informed decisions before starting a project. From choosing a trustworthy contractor to understanding major upgrades like HVAC systems, insulation, and solar installations, Matthew shares practical tips to help consumers protect their homes, finances, and peace of mind throughout the home improvement process. Remember to message us the word "contractor" on social media or by email, and we'll send you our Hiring a Home Contractor cheat sheet to help you get started. Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected]

In honor of Earth Month, we’re joined by Larissa Johnson, Residential Energy Program Manager at Montgomery County’s Department of Environmental Protection. She shares how simple, sustainable choices—like reducing home energy use, preparing for warmer weather, cutting food waste, and spotting greenwashing—can help residents save money. With practical tips, easy habits, and helpful County resources, this episode shows how greener living can also be more affordable. If you're looking to make smart, sustainable choices without stretching your budget, this conversation offers clear, actionable ways to get started. Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected]

National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) is a reminder that being an informed consumer is your best defense. In this special episode, Michelle takes the guest chair to share simple, practical habits that help protect your wallet and your confidence. From pausing before you purchase, reading reviews, and verifying sellers, to understanding common scam tactics and why timing matters, this conversation is all about staying one step ahead. We also talk about choosing empowerment over embarrassment. Reporting scams and filing complaints doesn't just help you, it can help protect the entire community. Complaints can reveal patterns and trends, allowing OCP to identify potential issues across the county and take action when needed.You'll also learn how OCP helps resolve disputes, enforces consumer laws, and connects with residents through community forums, outreach events, and educational presentations. NCPW shines a spotlight on these issues, but consumer awareness is a year-round effort. Stay connected for timely alerts, practical tools, and ways to help keep our community informed and protected. Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected]

Online dating and social media have opened new ways to build meaningful connections. But they can also create opportunities for scams. In this episode of Consumer Connection, host Michelle Escobar sits down with Karen Morgan, Executive Council Member at AARP Maryland, to talk about the rise of online romance scams and how to protect yourself without losing trust in the possibility of a real connection. Together, they explore:The most common red flags in online relationships.How scammers use emotional manipulation to gain trust.Why anyone, at any age, can be targeted. Practical steps to protect both your heart and your finances. Karen also shares guidance for friends and family members who may be concerned about a loved one. Learn how to start supportive, judgment-free conversations that empower rather than shame. This episode is about building awareness and confidence so you can stay connected, stay protected, and recognize the difference between genuine relationships and costly deception. Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to [email protected]