Provides free help for all victims of identity and cybercrimes. That includes, but is not limited to, personal information given to a scammer, victims of a data breach, or documents (tax, Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, etc.) that were lost or stolen, personal information used without permission to open new accounts or take over existing accounts such as filing taxes in someone’s name, opening credit in someone’s name, taking over a social media account, collections in someone’s name for an account they didn’t open, a criminal record for crimes a person did not commit, etc. The ITRC’s advisors will walk all victims through what steps need to be taken and are happy to serve as a resource for as long as it takes to resolve the issue.

Provides consumer information, referrals and informal complaint resolution services for consumer complaints involving unfair and deceptive business practices.   Assistance includes informal complaint resolution and help directing inquiries and contacts to the appropriate agencies for assistance. Also provides consumer education through online and written materials and speakers who are able to address a variety of consumer protection issues. Topics include: -  Identity theft a private lawsuit may be necessary -  Debt management -  Refund rights   -  Scams -  Foreclosure -  Student loans   Offers options if the business disagrees with the complaint. Cannot compel a firm to resolve a complaint. Options: - Bring a legal action, such as in Small Claims Court. - A private lawsuit may be necessary if the amount claimed is over the limit handled by Small Claims Court. The state Consumer Protection Act allows the plantiff to recover the costs of bringing suit, including attorney’s fees if the suit is successful.

Provides regulatory oversight for state-chartered commercial banks, savings and loan associations, savings banks, trust companies, foreign banks, credit unions, payday loan companies and check cashers and sellers. Issues licenses to financial companies operating in Washington. Also provides oversight of mortgage brokers, mortgage loan originators, investment advisers, franchises and securities.  Consumers may file a complaint after contacting the company directly and getting no positive results. Cannot give legal advice, nor recommend attorneys. The agency cannot pursue redress on your behalf. Contact a private attorney who can advise you of your rights.