National Consumer Protection Week 2026: Protect Yourself from Fraud

National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) 2026, running from March 1st to 7th, marks the 28th year of a collaborative effort by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and partner organizations to raise awareness about consumer rights and protection against fraud . This year’s focus is on equipping individuals with the knowledge to avoid, report, and recover from scams.

Understanding the Focus of NCPW 2026

The FTC is concentrating its efforts on three key areas during NCPW 2026: avoiding scams, reporting fraudulent activity, and recovering from financial losses incurred due to scams . The campaign encourages individuals to proactively learn about common scam tactics and share that knowledge with their communities.

How to Avoid Scams

Scammers continually refine their methods, so staying informed is crucial. NCPW emphasizes learning the warning signs of scams to protect your finances and personal information. Resources are available to help individuals create a personal action plan to avoid falling victim to fraud . Share your plan with friends, family, and neighbors to amplify awareness.

Reporting Fraudulent Activity

If you suspect you’ve encountered a scam, reporting it to the FTC is vital. You can report scams at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. These reports are used to investigate fraud, pursue legal action against perpetrators, and alert the public to emerging threats .

Recovering from Scams

Even with vigilance, scams can be successful. If you believe you’ve been a victim of fraud and have sent money, immediately contact the company used for the transaction to explore options for cancellation or reversal. Prompt action can sometimes mitigate financial losses .

NCPW 2026 Events and Resources

Throughout NCPW 2026, the FTC and its partners are hosting a variety of events, including webinars and in-person workshops. On Tuesday, March 3rd, an in-person event will be held at the Plano Coit Station Post Office in Plano, Texas, from 10 am to 2 pm CT, offering free resources from the FTC and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service . A webinar on identifying and reporting top scams will be hosted by the FTC, Consumer Action, and the Better Business Bureau at 1 pm ET/12 pm CT/10 am PT . A comprehensive list of events and resources can be found at ftc.gov/ncpw .

Staying Connected

Stay informed throughout the week by following the FTC on social media platforms: Facebook, X, and Instagram (@FTC) . Leverage the hashtag #NCPW2026 to join the online conversation and share your experiences and advice.