The Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) alerts federal employees and their families on ways to avoid financial scams during the current government shutdown. 

During a government shutdown, most federal employees are placed on furlough, while other essential staff are required to work without pay. These disruptions can create financial hardships for employees and their families and may affect services that residents rely on. 

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“Montgomery County stands with our federal employees and their families during this challenging time,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “We encourage residents to rely on trusted resources, stay alert to scams, and seek help when needed. Our County agencies, including the Office of Consumer Protection, remain committed to safeguarding workers and connecting families with the support they need.” 

OCP is reminding residents of important consumer protections and offering tips to help individuals and families during the federal government shutdown.  

• Avoid predatory lenders. Be cautious of payday loans and high-interest offers, which often include hidden fees and can create long-term financial difficulties. 
• Talk to your service providers. Many utility, phone, and internet companies may offer programs or payment options to assist customers experiencing financial hardship. 
• Be wary of scams. Scammers may impersonate government agencies or service providers to steal money or personal information. Always verify the source before sharing information. Remember–if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. 
• Understand your housing protections. Residents with concerns about rent or utilities should contact MC311 by calling 311 in the County or 240-777-0311 outside the County to learn about available housing and support services. 

“Our office stands ready to protect our residents from scams, fraud, and predatory practices, especially during times of uncertainty like a government shutdown,” said OCP Director Eric Friedman. Residents who believe they have been targeted by scams or unfair practices can and should file a complaint with OCP.” 

The Office of Consumer Protection is located at 100 Maryland Ave., Suite 3600, in Rockville. Walk-in hours are 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday. For more information, call 240-777-3636 or visit the OCP website. Stay connected with OCP on X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. 

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