I agree with much of what you say, but for those who would abuse others by overcharging, poor quality products or slippery dealing, there is one good answer..INFORMATION. If the news outlets were doing their proper job of informing the public, things would soon be sorted out.
Problem is, much of the print , audio and electronic media have been advocating, rather than informing. They advocate for bigger government, thinking that is the answer. History tells us that the bigger and more redundant the government.. the more corrupt and self-serving it grows ! Competition...with full information, is the best way to straighten things out !