Consumer Connection

Online dating and social media have opened new ways to build meaningful connections. But they can also create opportunities for scams. 

In this episode of Consumer Connection, host Michelle Escobar sits down with Karen Morgan, Executive Council Member at AARP Maryland, to talk about the rise of online romance scams and how to protect yourself without losing trust in the possibility of a real connection. 

Together, they explore:

• Th...

Scams are getting smarter in 2026, but so are we. In this episode of Consumer Connection, host Michelle Escobar is joined by Emmy-winning NBC4 consumer reporter Susan Hogan. Together, they discuss the latest fraud trends, from AI voice cloning to fake job offers that look legitimate, and share actionable tips to protect your information and your wallet. Learn how simple strategies like freezing your credit, using family code words,...

Scams may evolve, but the tactics of urgency, building trust, and emotional manipulation remain the same. In this episode of Consumer Connection, host and OCP Investigator Michelle Escobar is joined by fellow Investigator Lorena Bailey to reflect on how consumer protection and fraud have evolved over the years, the real cases that still stick with them, and why education is the most powerful tool for prevention. Tune in to hear fir...

In this episode of Consumer Connection, we sit down with Council President Kate Stewart to learn about her journey from resident to County Council President. Together, we explore how consumer protection is shaping a stronger Montgomery County, from advancing tenant rights to enhancing support for vulnerable adults. We also highlight how early organizing, meeting people where they are, uplifting mental health, and local history are ...

In this episode of Consumer Connection, we delve into the world of gold bar scams with a special guest, Detective Sean Petty from the Montgomery County Department of Police's Financial Crimes Section. Hosted by Michelle Escobar, an OCP investigator, this episode uncovers the intricacies of these deceptive crimes.

Tune in to learn:

• What gold bar scams are
• How these scams start and what it looks like when you’re being approache...

Scammers are cashing in on the cryptocurrency craze and targeting everyday people in the process. In this episode, we’re joined by FBI Special Agent David Paniwozik for an insider look at how fraudsters are using cryptocurrency to steal money through fake investments, impersonation scams, and high-pressure tactics. Learn what to watch for, how these schemes work, and how to protect yourself in the ever-evolving world of digital sca...

This episode of the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection’s podcast, Consumer Connection, explores how consumers can navigate financial transitions such as job loss, relocation, or retirement through smart budgeting, saving, and planning. Host and OCP Investigator Michelle Escobar is joined by Ira Rheingold, Executive Director of the National Association of Consumer Advocates (NACA), to discuss strategies for managing deb...

In honor of National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), we’re joined by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for a special episode of Consumer Connection! In this episode, host Michelle Escobar is joined by Diana Shiller, a Senior Investigator at the FTC. They discuss the FTC’s role in protecting consumers nationwide and how the FTC works with local consumer protection groups. They also highlight key tactics and tips for avoiding impos...

In this episode of Consumer Connection, we explore the use of artificial intelligence in scams and how it’s making them more convincing than ever. From AI-generated profiles in romance scams to deepfake technology in phishing and grandparent scams, we discuss what AI is and the latest tools scammers are using to deceive consumers. Host Michelle Escobar is joined by Keith Young, Chief Information Security Officer at Montgomery Count...

In this episode of Consumer Connection, host Michelle Escobar is joined by special guest Tracy Rezvani, Administrator at the Howard County Office of Consumer Protection, to share essential strategies for holiday shopping. Together, they discuss how to compare prices, handle returns, and avoid common pitfalls like scams that target shoppers during the holiday season. Tune in for expert tips on smart shopping and staying safe this ho...

In this episode of Consumer Connection, host Michelle Escobar delves into the intricacies of hiring home builders and home improvement contractors. Joined by the Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) Investigations Administrator Patty Vitale and Business Education and Registration Unit Manager Shaun Carew, the team discusses key differences between new home builders and home improvement contractors, tips for consumers to protect them...

The Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) releases its first podcast, hosted by OCP Investigator Michelle Escobar! In this episode, Michelle is joined by Eric Friedman, the Director of Montgomery County’s Office of Consumer Protection. Together, they discuss a variety of topics including OCP’s history, changes in the consumer landscape, emerging issues, and much more. For additional information and resources, visit ...

Welcome to Consumer Connection, your ultimate guide to navigating the world of consumer rights and protections. Hosted by Michelle Escobar, an Investigator from the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection, this podcast is your go-to source for staying informed and empowered in today's consumer landscape. 

Join Michelle as she unpacks essential topics such as avoiding scams, mastering informed purchasing decisions, and u...