National Consumer Protection Week, 2006

Proclamation 7979 of February 3, 2006

National Consumer Protection Week, 2006

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

During National Consumer Protection Week, we highlight
the importance of consumer education in the ongoing
fight against fraud and encourage consumers to make
wise decisions.

Each year, nearly 25 million adults are victims of
consumer fraud. These crimes damage lives and shake
consumer confidence. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
and other organizations recommend several steps that
Americans can take to help protect themselves against
fraud. First, consumers should be cautious about giving
out personal information such as Social Security and
account numbers. Second, they should be aware of the
credentials of an organization before making a
transaction, especially through the mail, over the
phone, or on the Internet. Third, before finalizing a
purchase or agreement, the FTC suggests considering
offers with care, avoiding immediate decisions, and
requesting to have information in writing. In addition,
when using the Internet, the FTC recommends that
consumers exercise caution in responding to
solicitations and that consumers use and regularly
update their anti-virus software and firewall.

My Administration is committed to vigorous enforcement
of the consumer protection statutes, and the Department
of Justice's Office of Consumer Litigation and other
Federal agencies are working diligently to that end.
The FTC is working to fight unsolicited e-mail under
the Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited
Pornography and Marketing Act and is establishing new
rules under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions
Act to further protect against identity theft. We are
protecting American consumers through the National Do-
Not-Call Registry. Millions of Americans have
registered already, and individuals may call 1-888-382-
1222 or visit the Do-Not-Call website at
www.donotcall.gov to have their number added to the
list. Citizens can learn more about ways to fight fraud
from the National Consumer Protection Week website at
www.consumer.gov/ncpw. By actively guarding against
fraud, consumers can protect themselves and enhance the
strength and integrity of our Nation's economy.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim February 5 through February
11, 2006, as National Consumer Protection Week. I call
upon Government officials, industry leaders, and
consumer advocates to provide citizens with information
about how they can be responsible consumers, and I
encourage all citizens to take an active role in
protecting their personal information.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
third day of February, in the year of our Lord two
thousand six, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.

(Presidential Sig.)B