    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 6 (Monday, February 13, 2006)]
    [Pages 191-192]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Proclamation 7979--National Consumer Protection Week, 2006

    February 3, 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

    [[Page 192]]

    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.
                                                    George W. Bush

    [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., February 7,
    2006]

    Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on
    February 8. This item was not received in time for publication in the
    appropriate issue.