October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM), a nationwide initiative led by the National Cybersecurity Alliance and CISA to promote safer online practices. In this episode of Consumer Connection, host and OCP investigator Michelle Escobar is joined by Montgomery County’s Chief Information Security Officer, Keith Young, to discuss how residents can safeguard their personal information, recognize emerging cyber threats, and stay safe online.

Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to ConsumerProtection@montgomerycountymd.gov

¡Celebramos el Mes de la Herencia Hispana con un episodio especial de Consumer Connection en español!

Acompañe a Michelle Escobar, investigadora de la Oficina de Protección al Consumidor del Condado de Montgomery (OCP), para conocer cómo nuestra oficina ayuda a los residentes, cuáles son las estafas más comunes, cómo proteger sus derechos y qué recursos están disponibles para reconocer, evitar y denunciar posibles fraudes, incluyendo las estafas relacionadas con la inmigración.

_____

We’re celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with a special Spanish-language episode of Consumer Connection!

Join host and OCP investigator Michelle Escobar as she shares how the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection helps residents, discusses common scams and consumer rights, and highlights OCP resources to help consumers recognize, avoid, and report scams, including immigration-related fraud.

This episode is presented in Spanish.

Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to ConsumerProtection@montgomerycountymd.gov

This episode focuses on helping Maryland students and parents understand the student loan landscape after the major federal changes that took effect on July 1. Toni White, Director of Outreach and Education from the Maryland Department of Labor’s Office of Financial Regulation, guides listeners through common points of confusion, the new repayment rules, Maryland borrower protections, current scam trends, and practical tips for navigating student loans safely.

Office of Financial Regulation - Maryland Department of Labor

Student Loan Ombudsman - Consumers - Office of Financial Regulation

Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to ConsumerProtection@montgomerycountymd.gov

In this episode, OCP Investigator Lee Glass shares what he sees on the front lines of OCP’s complaint process. He walks us through the types of issues he commonly handles, why documentation is essential, and how consumers can build stronger complaints. Lee also discusses the scam patterns he encounters, the red flags he wants residents to recognize, and guidance on when to contact OCP for help.

Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to ConsumerProtection@montgomerycountymd.gov

In Part Two of this special series focused on elder abuse awareness, we’re joined by Mario Wawrzusin from the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for a conversation about recognizing abuse and knowing when to take action.

Mario provides an overview of DHHS Adult Protective Services (APS). He explains who they serve, the services they offer, and common misconceptions that can lead to confusion or hesitation. He walks listeners through the kinds of situations that may prompt a referral, how APS evaluates concerns, and what families can expect after making a report—including reassurance about anonymity and supportive, person‑centered outcomes.

Building on the insights shared by Judith, Dolores, and Jane in Part One, Mario highlights the behavioral, physical, emotional, and financial red flags that often signal something isn’t right. He also discusses how APS works in partnership with the Office of Consumer Protection and the County’s annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) Older Adult Safety Forum event to enhance awareness and prevention efforts throughout Montgomery County.

Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to ConsumerProtection@montgomerycountymd.gov

In Part One of our special two‑part series focused on elder abuse awareness, we sit down with three remarkable volunteers from the Montgomery County Police Department's Keeping Seniors Safe program: Judith Boivin, Dolores Miller, and Jane Dean.

Each of these community advocates has personally survived a scam—and those experiences are what fueled their passion for educating and empowering older adults. In this conversation, they share how their paths crossed, what made this issue deeply personal, and why they stepped forward to become peer educators within their communities.

They reflect on the moments that changed their outlook, the common questions they hear during their presentations, and the red flags they want every older adult and family to recognize. Their stories are both eye‑opening and deeply uplifting, offering a unique perspective on resilience and the power of speaking out.

A transcript for this episode can be found here:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2385106/19335213-community-voices-county-partners-spotlight-on-elder-abuse-awareness-part-1/transcript

Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to consumerconnection@montgomerycountymd.gov.

In this episode of Consumer Connection, host Michelle Escobar sits down with OCP Investigator and licensed home inspector Matthew Kaufman to discuss how homeowners can avoid common home improvement pitfalls and make informed decisions before starting a project. From choosing a trustworthy contractor to understanding major upgrades like HVAC systems, insulation, and solar installations, Matthew shares practical tips to help consumers protect their homes, finances, and peace of mind throughout the home improvement process.

Remember to message us the word "contractor" on social media or by email, and we'll send you our Hiring a Home Contractor cheat sheet to help you get started.

Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to ConsumerProtection@montgomerycountymd.gov

In honor of Earth Month, we’re joined by Larissa Johnson, Residential Energy Program Manager at Montgomery County’s Department of Environmental Protection. She shares how simple, sustainable choices—like reducing home energy use, preparing for warmer weather, cutting food waste, and spotting greenwashing—can help residents save money.

With practical tips, easy habits, and helpful County resources, this episode shows how greener living can also be more affordable. If you're looking to make smart, sustainable choices without stretching your budget, this conversation offers clear, actionable ways to get started.

Have a question or suggestion for a future episode? Send an email to ConsumerProtection@montgomerycountymd.gov