The New Hampshire Attorney General has joined a group of federal, state and local agencies and national advocacy organizations in highlighting consumer protection and education efforts around the country during this tenth annual National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), March 2-8, 2007. NCPW highlights consumer education in the fight against fraud in communities across the nation. The theme of this year's efforts is "Financial Literacy, a Sound Investment."

Attorney General Kelly Ayotte encourages New Hampshire citizens to enhance their financial know-how. "Financially savvy consumers make much better decisions about managing their money, using credit wisely, and building a solid financial foundation for the future," she said. "We encourage all consumers to take advantage of the resources that NCPW features to help them master the financial facts of life. An educated consumer is much less likely to fall victim to scams."

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), consumers conduct some type of financial transaction requiring an educated decision every day: shopping for a mortgage or auto loan; understanding and reconciling credit card statements and telephone bills; choosing savings and retirement plans; comparing health insurance policies; understanding their credit report and how it affects their ability to get credit and on what terms; or simply deciding how to pay for a purchase.

"I am proud to be a part of this year's National Consumer Protection Week campaign," said Attorney General Ayotte. "Education is the first line of defense for consumers who want to manage their money wisely and protect themselves from frauds and scams. The Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau is available for questions from 8 to 5 weekdays, and we encourage our residents to call if there are any questions about credit scams, giving out any type of personal information or other concerns," said Attorney General Ayotte. "My office will set up tables with brochures at a number of post offices across the state. We hope to arm consumers with knowledge which will limit the harm, frustration and expense that can result from fraud."

The Consumer Hotline at the Attorney General's Office can be reached by calling (603) 271-3641 or 1-888-468-4454. For more information, visit www.doj.nh.gov/consumer.

NCPW partner organizations also provide practical – and tactical – tips so consumers can learn how to make well-informed financial decisions, avoid credit scams, and protect their personal information. Consumers can boost their financial IQ by visiting www.consumer.gov/ncpw/.