Anyone victimized by fraudulent lenders or contractors should:

• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission's Consumer Response Center. The FTC cannot resolve individual complaints, but it can take action against a company if a pattern of violations is found.

• Contact the FTC via the Internet; by calling toll-free: (877) FTC-HELP (382-4357); TDD (for hearing impaired) (202) 326-2502; or by writing: Consumer Response Center at Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20580.