Protect your money.
Know your rights.
Do your own research.

DFPI is committed to helping you stay
informed and make smart financial choices.

Protect your money.
Know your rights.
Do your own research.

DFPI is committed to helping you stay informed and make smart financial choices.

Fraudulent Bank Website Scam

The DFPI has received information about a fraudulent website posing as Bank of the Sierra. The correct web address for Bank of the Sierra is https://www.bankofthesierra.com. The imposter represents itself to the public as “bksierra.org”.

DFPI Takes Action Against MOHELA to Protect California Student Loan Borrowers

MOHELA will pay penalties for failing to provide timely access to borrower data so the DFPI can reach borrowers whose deadline to qualify for debt relief is April 30.

Protect Yourself from Imposter Scams

Americans lost over $10 billion to scams last year. Imposter scams were identified as the most reported scams in 2023. Learn how to recognize the red flags and protect yourself from the most common types of imposter scams.

Three Steps to Managing and Getting Out of Debt

Debt can build up quickly and compound when not managed carefully. Follow these three steps to manage and get out of debt.

Strengthening the Legacy of César Chávez

DFPI’s mission is to foster an economy that works for everyone in California. Meet some CalMoneySmart grantees that support financial education and empowerment programs for farmworker and immigrant communities across California.

“Hartman Cain & Associates” is Fraudulently Misrepresenting a Legal Settlement Involving the “California Department of Business Oversight”

The DFPI, which was formerly known as the Department of Business Oversight, reports that there is no licensed law firm in California called “Hartman Cain & Associates,” nor is the DFPI involved in a settlement with any entity using that name.

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Find information and insights on a variety of financial topics.

Student Loans

Loan options, consolidation
and the Student Loan Bill
of Rights.

Crypto Assets

FAQs, Scam Tracker, alerts and filing a complaint.

Debt Collection

Know your rights, debt collection laws and more.

Investing

Tips for online investors, checking brokers and identifying fraud.

Tools and Resources

Access our library of educational content.

Consumer Outreach

Download informational materials and brochures, and sign up for emails and alerts.

Financial Resources

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Watch & Learn

Tune in for the latest videos, webinars and workshops.

Do Your Own Research – Start With DFPI

Protect your money. Know your rights. Do your own research.

At the DFPI, we believe the more information you have, the more empowered you can be. We work hard to provide Californians with financial education, fraud and scam alerts, resources, and tools to help them make smart financial choices.

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Consumer Insights

Three Steps to Managing and Getting Out of Debt

Debt is money that is borrowed that must be repaid, usually with interest, over time. Some types of debt help you generate wealth, like buying a home with a mortgage, or future income, like student loans to pay for college education. Consumer debt, such as...

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Consumer Alerts

“Hartman Cain & Associates” is Fraudulently Misrepresenting a Legal Settlement Involving the “California Department of Business Oversight”

The DFPI, which was formerly known as the Department of Business Oversight, reports that there is no licensed law firm in California called “Hartman Cain & Associates,” nor is the DFPI involved in a settlement with any entity using that name.

Find All Consumer Alerts

Upcoming DFPI Events

Protect Yourself from Fraud Series with Asm. Jacqui Irwin (AD42)

May 1, 2024 | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Join this free webinar hosted by the Office of Asm. Irwin to learn how to protect yourself and your community from fraud and scams. The DFPI and the DOJ will be featured as a presenters.

Lompoc’s Annual Senior Health and Wellness Expo 2024

May 3, 2024 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Join the City of Lompoc’s annual gathering focused on senior health and wellness. This event is a wonderful opportunity for seniors to learn about community resources, health checks, and enjoy various activities tailored to their interests and needs.

Starting Your Own Business Webinar

May 8, 2024 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Starting, owning, and operating a business can be a pathway to building generational wealth. Having the right knowledge and guidance can make all the difference. Join this webinar to learn how you can get your business started, with topics covering market research, business plans, regulations and licensing, funding, and more!

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