The state Department of Commerce and Consumers Affairs has launched a new campaign, with a public service announcement, encouraging people to use BusinessCheck to protect themselves from unfortunate circumstances.

By using the BusinessCheck website, consumers can check on companies, individuals or licensed professionals that they intend to hire or do business within the state of Hawaii.

“We hope this initiative will encourage consumers to take a minute to research a licensed professional or company before doing business with them,” said DCCA Director Catherine Awakuni Colón in a news release. “Doing a search on the BusinessCheck website may help with decision-making before giving your money away.”

Additionally, consumers can use Businesscheck as a one-stop-shop to look up licensee complaints, as well as licensing status, tax and business registration records and other educational materials.

In addition to airing on local broadcast networks, the PSA can be viewed on DCCA’s YouTube channel at this link.