WASHINGTON — The American Financial Services Association Education Foundation (AFSAEF) introduced two new resources to help borrowers take  steps to protect their finances.

AFSAEF’s new publication, Protecting Your Credit, lists warning signs to watch out for — such as offers for quick fixes that cost a lot of money upfront — and provides tips to help people avoid negative situations. Examples of the foundation’s tips include conducting thorough research of borrowing options, setting a budget and checking one’s credit report regularly.

“As the consumer protection debate continues in Congress, people can be proactive and take steps now that will help them avoid many fraudulent and abusive practices,” said Susie Irvine, AFSAEF’s president and chief executive officer. “Putting together a budget, conducting research, asking questions, and keeping financial documents in a safe place are simple things that any consumer can — and should — do.”

In addition to its free, downloadable brochure, the foundation has a new consumer protection Web page at www.afsaef.org/consumer_protection.cfm. The page features a consumer credit “scam alert” and links to government agencies and other organizations that can offer assistance when problems arise.