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
Federal Regulators Highlight Travel Fees, Imposter Scams, and Banking Oversight
The FTC targets deceptive travel fees and imposter campaigns, while the Federal Reserve terminates a bank enforcement action.
Federal Regulators Target Hidden Fees, Scams, and Oversight Gaps
Consumer agencies highlight hidden travel fees, online imposter ads, and ongoing banking enforcement actions as households prepare for year-end spending.
FTC Warns on Hidden Holiday Fees as CFPB Refocuses Bank Oversight
Federal regulators urge vigilance against hidden travel charges and imposter ads, while the CFPB continues structural adjustments to banking oversight and public complaint data.
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.
Federal Regulators Target Elder Scams, Hidden Fees, and Debanking
The FTC reports to Congress on elder fraud protections and warns against hidden fees, while the CFPB advances actions on bank account access.
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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