Consumer Complaint System Adjustments

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced a significant policy change regarding its consumer complaint database. The agency will cease the discretionary publication of consumer complaint narratives and visualizations. This decision follows an earlier announcement in June 2026, where the CFPB stated it was working to correct flaws and restore integrity and utility to its consumer complaint system, which it described as having been "plagued by issues that severely limit its effectiveness" [CFPB Newsroom]. The immediate impact on consumers filing complaints remains to be fully detailed beyond the publication aspect.

Escalating Scam Warnings from the FTC

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued several new consumer alerts, highlighting various scam tactics. In September 2026, the FTC warned consumers about the risks associated with scanning QR codes, noting that scammers are increasingly using them to defraud individuals. Another alert in September detailed how scammers are spoofing car dealership websites, posing a risk to those looking to purchase vehicles online. Additionally, the FTC's National Preparedness Month initiative includes advice on planning ahead to avoid scams, particularly in the context of natural disasters [FTC Consumer Alerts]. Consumers are advised to report scams to the FTC to aid in prevention efforts.

Mortgage Data and Other CFPB Actions

Beyond complaint system changes, the CFPB also made the 2025 Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) data on mortgage lending available in March 2026. This data, found on the FFIEC's HMDA Platform, provides insights into fair lending and homebuying trends [CFPB Newsroom]. Earlier in June, the CFPB intervened to ensure consumers affected by Bilt's transition to a new bank partner were made whole. Furthermore, the CFPB and the Department of Justice jointly withdrew a statement on fair lending and credit opportunities for noncitizen borrowers in January 2026.

Federal Reserve Enforcement Activity

The Federal Reserve has recently undertaken several enforcement actions. In September 2026, the Board announced the termination of enforcement actions with United Texas Bank, Quontic Bank Acquisition Corp., and Quontic Bank Holdings Corp. Throughout August 2026, the Federal Reserve also issued enforcement actions involving former employees of Banco Popular de Puerto Rico, Regions Bank, and United Community Bank, among others. These actions typically involve oversight to ensure compliance within the banking sector [Federal Reserve Press Releases].