The Dispatch Briefing
CFPB Adjusts Complaint System, FTC Warns of Scams, Fed Quiet on New Releases
The CFPB is modifying its consumer complaint system, discontinuing the discretionary publication of certain complaint data. Meanwhile, the FTC issued new warnings about scams targeting farmers and online consumers, while the Federal Reserve's press release section shows no recent activity.
CFPB Revises Consumer Complaint System
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced a significant change to its consumer complaint handling process. Effective August 14, 2026, the agency will cease the discretionary publication of complaint narratives and visualizations [CFPB Newsroom]. This move follows a June 24, 2026, press release where the CFPB stated it was "Correcting Flaws to Restore Integrity and Utility to the Consumer Complaint System," citing issues that limited the system's effectiveness and practical utility [CFPB Newsroom]. The bureau has also been working to ensure consumers affected by issues with Bilt's transition to a new bank partner were made whole [CFPB Newsroom].
FTC Issues New Scam Alerts
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has released several new consumer alerts to help individuals identify and avoid scams. On September 15, 2026, the FTC warned about scammers impersonating farm equipment businesses, selling fake equipment to farmers [FTC Consumer Alerts]. Another alert on September 3, 2026, advised caution when scanning QR codes for payments, noting that scammers are using them to defraud consumers [FTC Consumer Alerts]. Additionally, the FTC highlighted a scam targeting veterans, where postcards promise extra monthly benefits through a non-existent "Veterans Savings Program" [FTC Consumer Alerts]. Consumers are also reminded to be vigilant about online bill pay impersonators and investment training scams on social media [FTC Consumer Alerts].
Financial Literacy and Data Updates
Deputy Director Mark Paoletta delivered remarks to the Financial Literacy and Education Commission on July 27, 2026, underscoring the ongoing focus on consumer financial education [CFPB Newsroom]. Separately, the 2025 Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) loan application register data was made available on March 31, 2026, providing insights into mortgage lending trends [CFPB Newsroom]. This data is accessible via the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) HMDA Platform.
Federal Reserve Press Releases Dormant
The Federal Reserve's press release section currently indicates no new activity. The most recent updates listed are from prior years, with no new press releases available for 2026 that would be relevant to this briefing [Federal Reserve Press Releases].
Keep Reading
CFPB Adjusts Complaint System, FTC Warns of Varied Scams
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau announced changes to its consumer complaint system, including ceasing discretionary publication of narratives. Meanwhile, the Federal Trade Commission issued alerts on a range of scams, from fake farm equipment sales to QR code phishing and brushing scams.
CFPB Revises Consumer Complaint System, FTC Warns of QR Code and Impersonation Scams
The CFPB is implementing changes to its consumer complaint system, discontinuing the discretionary publication of complaint narratives and visualizations. Meanwhile, the FTC advises consumers on new scam tactics, including fraudulent QR codes and impersonations.
Regulators Recalibrate Oversight Amidst Shifting Landscape of Debt and Deception
Federal agencies are refining their approaches to consumer protection, with the CFPB overhauling its complaint system for improved internal integrity, while the FTC battles an onslaught of increasingly sophisticated scams. Meanwhile, for individuals navigating financial distress, essential tools for debt management and relief remain crucial.
How to Read Debt Relief Company Complaints
Consumer complaint databases serve as an early-warning tool to identify patterns of misleading savings claims and undisclosed fees. Effective research requires searching a provider's full legal name rather than just its brand. Readers should evaluate how companies respond to disputes to determine if they transparently disclose the risks of credit damage and potential lawsuits.
Debt Payoff Calculator: Find Your True Payoff Date
A debt payoff calculator provides borrowers with a definitive calendar date for becoming debt-free based on specific interest rates and monthly payments. By comparing different scenarios, users can see how modest payment increases significantly reduce total interest costs. These tools help determine if a self-directed plan is sustainable or if professional debt relief is necessary.
How Long Does Bankruptcy Stay on Your Credit Report?
Chapter 7 bankruptcies typically remain on credit reports for 10 years, while Chapter 13 cases are generally removed after seven. Although these entries originate from the initial filing date, their negative impact on credit scores often diminishes over time as consumers establish new histories of on-time payments.
Sponsored — Debt Relief Offers
Sources & Further Reading
Revision History
- updateSeptember 16, 2026 — Initial publication. Assembled by the newsroom from 3 curated sources.
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