Shortchanged takes a hard look at the corporate vultures that prey on America's poor and middle classes. This 'fringe economy'' made up of pawnshops, payday lenders, cheque cashers, credit card companies and the like, entices vulnerable consumers into an economic netherworld of high interest rates and ever-increasing debt. Powerful analysis is combined with moving personal stories of the mothers, fathers, and families whose lives have been put on the line for the perpetuation of this economy. Ruthless, compelling, outrageous, and often enraging, Shortchanged puts the spotlight on the shady side of America's economic underbelly.