July 27, 2016 - Just about anyone can recognize that our nation’s military is one of the paramount factors that has led our country into its stable, sovereign current state. In fact, the word “military” itself has become paralleled with patriotism, loyalty, sacrifice, and honor. Despite the devout actions of soldiers who put their lives on the line to keep our nation safe, many fraudsters see servicemembers’ frequent relocation and deployment as opportunities for scams. Thankfully, the Department of Justice, the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and other agencies across the federal government work in collaboration to fight the unjust fraud aimed at servicemembers and veterans. However, ordinary people are also getting involved in the initiative to protect military consumers – which is why July is the Month of the Military Consumer.

The goal for the Month of the Military Consumer is, you guessed it, to raise awareness about identity theft crimes impacting soldiers. Throughout the month, communities have offered fairs, question-and-answer sessions with financial counselors, free credit reports to military families, and other resources to promote better-informed financial decisions for both military families and the general public. After July, people can remain involved and versed by visiting Military.Consumer.gov and following the FTC’s military consumer education team on Twitter (@milconsumer). #’Murica.

By: Brittany Levy