HOME TITLE MONITORING SERVICES MISLEAD ABOUT A RARE CRIME - Home title protection is marketed as a way for homeowners to protect themselves from a real but rare crime called "home title theft" – where an identity thief forges the paperwork and takes legal possession of the victim’s home. Is title protection worth $100 or $200 a year?
Consumerpedia, Episode 65: HOW TO FIND RELIABLE MOVERS - In this episode: Tips on choosing a moving company that provides fair and reliable pricing, gets the job done on time, and takes good care of your belongings. Plus: Why to avoid moving brokers and how to spot moving scams.
CFPB WANTS TO BAN MEDICAL DEBT FROM CREDIT REPORTS - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau wants to reduce the financial fallout from unpaid medical debt for millions of Americans. If enacted, its proposed rule would remove medical debt from most credit reports.
Consumerpedia, Episode 64: EV UPDATE 2024 - In this episode: How to decide which non-conventional vehicle might be right for you? Do EVs live up to their range promises? And why are they less reliable than conventional vehicles?
Consumerpedia, Episode 63: THE CAR SHOW 2024 - In this episode we talk to Consumer Reports about their latest new-vehicle reliability ratings, the right way to take a test drive, and how to get the best deal on that new car. Plus, should you use a buying service, like Costco, to simplify the process?
NEW DOT RULE WILL SPEED UP AND SIMPLIFY AIRLINE REFUNDS - To simplify and speed up the process of getting refunds when flights are canceled or significantly delayed, the U.S. Department of Transportation issued a new rule that will require airlines to promptly provide passengers with refunds when owed.
SUMMER VACATION SURPRISE: PRICES FOR DOMESTIC TRAVEL - It’s not summer yet, but the season for booking vacations is already in full swing. What can you expect to pay for your summer getaway? So far, prices are holding fairly steady for many U.S. destinations, but they’re on the rise for getaways to Europe.
Consumerpedia, Episode 62: THE TRAVEL SHOW 2024 - It’s going to be a busy summer for travel, especially for those headed abroad. In this episode: What you can expect to pay for airfare, hotel rooms, and rental cars. Plus tips on dealing with the crowds and other peak-season hassles.
MEDICAL DATA BREACHES HIT RECORD HIGH: HERE'S HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF - The medical records of 133 million Americans—about 1 in 3—were compromised last year, according to the federal government. Find out how hackers are getting their hands on this highly sensitive personal information, what they’re able to do with it, and what you can do to protect yourself.
STUDY: FINANCIAL ANXIETY IMPACTS ATTITUDES ABOUT DEBT - Despite the strong U.S. economy, many Americans feel left behind; they’re stressed about trying to make ends meet, according to a new Harris Poll. This anxiety is making more people feel comfortable with taking on too much debt.
WHY ARE GROCERY PRICES STILL SO HIGH? - Prices at the grocery store have been running well above the overall inflation rate. And once food prices go up, they tend to stay there. A variety of factors, including corporate profit-taking, are pushing prices higher.
Consumerpedia, Episode 58: MARKETING TRICKS THAT GET YOU TO BUY NOW - Comparison shopping saves money, but sometimes you’re in a rush and don’t have time to search for the best deal. Some buyers don’t compare prices because they’ve been duped into thinking they already found a great deal. In this episode, some of the common manipulative marketing tricks retailers use that get you to pay too much.
Consumerpedia, Episode 57: WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO CUSTOMER SERVICE? - Frustrated with the way companies treat you? If so, you’re not alone. Many consumers are fed up with long waits on the phone, customer service agents who can’t solve their problems, unintelligible billing statements, poorly designed websites, and inexperienced or indifferent sales staff.
FTC FORCED TO HIT THE BRAKES ON NEW RULE TO PROTECT CAR BUYERS - The FTC has postponed the effective date for its Combating Auto Retail Scams (CARS) Rule due to a court challenge from car dealers. The Rule targets bait-and-switch sales tactics that lure buyers to dealerships. It would also ban hidden junk fees that are often buried in lengthy contracts.
HOW TO START YOUR EMERGENCY SAVINGS FUND - Life happens. Maybe it’s an unexpected medical bill, car repair, or home appliance on the fritz. We all need to build a rainy-day fund, because sooner or later it’s going to rain - but many people don’t have this crucial safety net. Here’s how to get started.
CONSUMER ADVOCATES WANT FTC RULE: THE RIGHT TO REPAIR PRODUCTS WE BUY - When you buy a product and it breaks, your ability to fix it yourself - or send it to an independent repair shop - is often limited or prevented by the manufacturer. Consumer advocates want the Federal Trade Commission to create a rule that would protect your right to repair the products you buy.
PROPOSED FEDERAL RULE WOULD LIMIT BANK OVERDRAFT FEES - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) wants to limit how much financial institutions can charge customers for overdraft protection plans. The CFPB’s proposed rule would drive down overdraft fees, capping them at just $3, in some cases.
WHAT TO EXPECT AS YOU PREPARE YOUR TAX RETURN THIS YEAR - Most taxpayers won’t notice any major changes this filing season. However, the IRS did make larger-than-usual adjustments to account for inflation, including changes to the tax brackets and higher amounts for the standard deduction.
MANY RETAILERS HAVE TWEAKED THEIR HOLIDAY RETURN POLICIES - Some big-name retailers have changed their return policies this year by adding or raising return-by-mail fees or shortening the return window for holiday purchases, according to the 2023 Return Policy Survey by Consumer World.
ARE THOSE HI-TECH SMART TOYS SPYING ON YOUR KIDS? - Smart toys can do some amazing things, but they often collect personal information about your child and share it. So, parents who buy smart toys need understand the risks and how to mitigate them.
ZELLE IMPROVES ITS FRAUD PROTECTION POLICY, BUT IS IT ENOUGH? - Earlier this year, Zelle quietly expanded its fraud protection policy to include some victims of imposter fraud. Consumer advocates want the company to do more, and federal regulators to require better fraud protection for all peer-to-peer payment apps.
WATER BEADS POSE DEADLY DANGER TO CHILDREN IF SWALLOWED - These colorful balls, which resemble candy, are sold in sizes as small as ice cream sprinkles. When they absorb water, they can grow to the size of a golf ball – causing a choking hazard or blocking the intestines. Thousands of children have already been injured, and one has died.
HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT CREDIT CARD - The market is flooded with credit card offers; some have sizeable sign-up bonuses. The trick is to ignore the marketing hype, compare the offers, and find a card that works for you.
Consumerpedia, Episode 47: GUIDE TO BUYING NEW WINDOWS - Window companies generate numerous complaints about high-pressure sales tactics and substandard installation. In this episode, how to cut through the marketing hype, decide which type of windows to buy, and find a reliable contractor.
NEW LAW TARGETS ONLINE SALE OF STOLEN AND COUNTERFEIT MERCHANDISE - The bipartisan INFORM Consumers Act (Integrity, Notification and Fairness in Online Retail Marketplaces), which took effect in June, should make it harder for crooks to sell stolen or counterfeit items—and make it more difficult for online marketplaces to ignore the growing problem.
FEDERAL STUDENT LOAN PAYMENT PAUSE ENDS AUG. 31 - After more than three years, the pause on federal student loan payments ends on August 31. Here’s how to prepare for the restart. Plus, the options available for those who can’t afford to make payments.
FRAUD ALERT: IRS REFUND LETTER IS BOGUS - While the IRS does contact taxpayers by mail, it never sends letters about refunds. Criminals impersonating the IRS are trying to steal sensitive personal information.
STAY SAFE IN THE SUN: TOP-RATED SUNSCREENS - A good sunscreen, when used properly, can dramatically reduce your skin cancer risk, and lower your chances of getting melanoma by 50%. Here are CR’s top-rated products for 2023.
Consumerpedia, Episode 43: HOW THE CFPB PROTECTS YOU - Learn about the agency’s initiatives and proposed rules in the pipeline. Also, how the CFPB is working to eliminate junk fees, and how it might be able to help if you feel cheated or deceived by a company it regulates.
EV UPDATE: MORE CHOICES, BETTER BATTERIES, BUT STILL PRICEY - The U.S. finally has a robust market for electric vehicles, with more manufacturers offering models that are stylish, roomy, and fun to drive. Unfortunately, high sticker prices remain a deal-breaker for many drivers who want to make the switch.
FRAUD ALERT: TICKET SCAMS ARE SKYROCKETING - If you’re determined to get tickets to a sold-out concert or sporting event – no matter what – you might jump at any offer that comes along. Scammers are counting on that desperation to steal your money.
Consumerpedia, Episode 39: GOT A GRIPE? - Companies always say their top priority is customer service, but all too often they fall short of that goal. What bugs you as a consumer? Here are a few to consider.
DON'T LET PASSPORT PROBLEMS WRECK YOUR FOREIGN TRIP - If you’re planning a trip outside the U.S. this summer and don’t already have a valid passport - or have one that will expire soon—you may have a problem. The current passport processing time is 10 to 13 weeks.
SOME AIRLINES FINALLY OFFER FREE 'KID-FRIENDLY' SEATING - One of the biggest challenges when flying with children is trying to book adjacent seats. Some major U.S. airlines now guarantee family seating—if possible—at no additional cost. Consumer advocates say more needs to be done..
Consumerpedia, Episode 35: AGING IN PLACE - Most Americans want to stay in their house as they grow older. Learn what’s important when remodeling/retrofitting your house, as well as other options available in some communities.
FTC WARNS DOCTORS: PROVIDE FREE PRESCRIPTIONS, AS REQUIRED BY LAW - In late February, the FTC sent cease and desist letters to 24 eye care prescribers warning them that, based on customer complaints, they appear to have violated the Contact Lens Rule, and in some cases, the Eyeglass Rule. Prescribers found to be violating these rules steep financial penalties.
PROPOSED RULE WOULD CURB EXCESSIVE CREDIT CARD LATE FEES - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has proposed a rule that would cap ever-increasing credit card late fees at $8 each and require financial institutions to justify any future price hikes. The move would save American consumers $9 billion a year.
FEDERAL REGULATORS CRACK DOWN ON UNLAWFUL HIDDEN 'JUNK' FEES - Many companies use hidden fees to make more money without having to increase their advertised prices. These junk fees cost consumers tens of billions of dollars each year, make comparison shopping difficult, and leave consumers feeling powerless and cheated.
AVOID GETTING STUCK WITH A FLOOD-DAMAGED USED CAR - Buy a used vehicle that’s been inundated by flood waters, and you’re going to have problems down the road—no matter how nice it looks. Here’s how to protect yourself from getting stuck with a waterlogged lemon.
FRAUD ALERT: CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPOSTER SCAMS - To gain your confidence, con artists lie about who they are. They impersonate debt collectors, bankers, and IRS agents. These days, they’re also finding it lucrative to pose as customer service agents. Here’s how to protect yourself.
Consumerpedia, Episode 30: FINDING GOOD HVAC CONTRACTORS & EQUIPMENT - Keeping your house comfortable requires a properly installed and maintained HVAC system. When it breaks, you want a repair company you can trust to do quality work at a fair price. In this episode, things you should do before having your HVAC system serviced or new equipment installed. We’ll also answer the question: Is it time to consider getting a heat pump?
HOW BUY NOW, PAY LATER CAN QUICKLY BECOME A DEBT TRAP - These point-of-sale loans may seem like a responsible way to pay, but they can result in costly fees and damaged credit. Complaints about late fees, unexpected withdrawals from bank accounts, and problems returning merchandise are on the rise.
CAN YOU TRUST ONLINE REVIEWS FOR WARRANTY COMPANIES? - ConsumerWorld.org found something curious when it looked into online reviews for one of the largest home warranty companies. Ratings were significantly higher on websites that were paid a commission for sales generated from their site.
Consumerpedia, Episode 25: DEALING WITH DEBT - Many Americans are making ends meet by piling up record amounts of credit card debt. A trained credit counselor can help you pay down that debt, even if it seems insurmountable, and learn how to have a successful financial future.
Consumerpedia, Episode 24: HOW TO FIND A GOOD AUTO BODY SHOP - Learn about the collision repair process from the estimate to the guarantee, and the differences between the three types of parts that might be used. Also, how to deal with the insurance company—especially if the shop wants to do one thing and they want to do something else.
PROPOSED RULE WOULD REQUIRE AIRLINES TO DISCLOSE THE 'TRUE COST' OF TICKETS - The U.S. Department of Transportation is considering a rule that would make it easier for consumers to see the true cost of flying—airfare, plus any fees—when booking trips. The rule would help provide customers with the information they need to choose the best deals upfront, the first time airfares are displayed.
Consumerpedia, Episode 21: AUTO GLASS CLASS - No matter how big or small the job, you if you have a damaged cad windshield, you want the work done quickly and for a fair price. Here’s how to choose a good shop, and how to deal with the insurance company.
FRAUD ALERT: SCAMMERS USING HACKED FACEBOOK ACCOUNTS - Con artists are now using social media to breathe new life into the old government grant scam. Many victims, who think they’ve been contacted by a friend or family member, report losing thousands of dollars.
NEW LAW CHANGES EV TAX CREDITS: FEW MODELS WILL QUALIFY AT FIRST - The new Inflation Reduction Act provides billions of dollars in tax incentives for “clean-car” buyers, new and used. But the law includes restrictions that could make it difficult or impossible those who buy an EV to take advantage of the tax break anytime soon.
CHILD IDENTITY THEFT: ARE YOU PROTECTING YOUR KIDS? - Identity thieves don’t just victimize adults; they also target children. About 1.4 million children in the U.S. become ID fraud victims each year. Parents need to be aware of this very real threat, and take steps to protect their kids.
Consumerpedia, Episode 20: WHATEVER HAPPENED TO TRUTH IN ADVERTISING? - False or deceptive advertising costs American consumer billions of dollars a year. In this episode, we’ll explore some of the tricks advertisers use to fool us, explain why some big-name celebrities are on the group’s Wall of Shame, and provide tips on how to spot misleading ads.
GOOD NEWS: CREDIT BUREAUS CHANGE HOW THEY REPORT MEDICAL DEBT - Tens of millions of Americans have seen their creditworthiness plummet in recent years due to unpaid medical bills. That could change, now that the three major credit bureaus voluntarily decided to significantly change how they treat medical debt.
Consumerpedia, Episode 19: ESTATE PLANNING TASKS AND TIPS - Most Americans don’t even have simple wills, and even fewer have living wills or designated healthcare surrogates. In this episode, some basic do’s and don’ts when it comes to planning what happens after you leave this world. We hope these tips will save you hassles and money – and enable you to avoid some common mistakes.
BUYING YOUR LEASED CAR COULD BE A SMART MOVE RIGHT NOW - At the end of their lease, many people turn in that old vehicle and lease another one. They like driving something new – and it doesn’t make economic sense to buy that old ride. A shortage of new and used cars has changed that economic equation, at least for now.
ZELLE SCAMS SPIKE, BANKS OFTEN REFUSE TO HELP - Use a payment platform provided by your bank or credit union, and you probably assume your financial institution will be there to help if there’s a problem. Don’t count on it. Customers tricked into sending money to scammers via Zelle are learning that lesson the hard way.
DRIVERS BEWARE: MOST STATES STILL ALLOW PREDATORY TOWING SCHEMES - “Predatory towing,” where towing companies pay kickbacks to private businesses or law enforcement, is banned in only 17 states, and is creating needless problems for drivers, according to a new report from the consumer advocates at the U.S. PIRG Education Fund.
IS IT TIME TO BUY AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE? - Electric vehicle sales are still a tiny part of the U.S. auto market. But surging gas prices are driving up demand, and automakers are racing to get new plug-in hybrids and all-electric models to market.
FRAUD ALERT: CRIMINALS PITCH BOGUS CRYPTOCURRENCY INVESTMENTS - A gold-rush mentality created by the cryptocurrency craze has people sending money to companies that promise huge returns in days or weeks without first checking them out. Often, they’re scams – cyber criminals are increasingly luring victims who hope to get rich quick.
DO I OWE THE IRS TAXES ON MY CRYPTOCURRENCY INVESTMENTS? - If you sold or exchanged any virtual currency last year – including using it to buy goods or services – and the value of that crypto was higher than when you acquired it, you likely made a taxable capital gain, subject to federal taxation.
SOCIAL MEDIA SCAMS SKYROCKET - HERE'S HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF - FRAUD ALERT: Cyber crooks are increasing their use of social media to troll for victims. About 1/4 of all fraud losses reported to the Federal Trade Commission last year resulted from scams that started with social media ads, posts, or messages.
DON'T GET LEFT BEHIND WHEN YOUR AIRLINE TRAVEL CREDITS EXPIRE - Millions of Americans who had flights canceled during the pandemic are sitting on billions of dollars in unused airline credits. The clock is ticking: Many vouchers expire soon. Unfortunately, airlines often make it complicated, if not impossible, to use them.
COURT APPROVES $425 MILLION EQUIFAX BREACH SETTLEMENT - Equifax will pay up to $425 million in restitution to those directly impacted by the massive data breach of the credit bureau in 2017. Settlement notices are now being sent to those who previously filed claims for monetary compensation or free credit monitoring.
Consumerpedia, Episode 8: SAVING ENERGY AT HOME - With energy prices soaring, making your home energy efficient can really save a bundle – and reduce the amount of greenhouse gasses you create. Here are some simple repairs and improvements that should yield big energy savings.
THE PUSH TO END OVERDRAFT FEES - Of all the fees financial institutions charge their customers, the overdraft fee is among the most hated and expensive. Now, some banks are finally adopting fairer policies.
AUTOMAKERS REV UP COSTLY SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES - When you buy or lease your next car, you might be required to pay a monthly or yearly subscription fee to activate some of its features, even if they are pre-installed in the vehicle.
UPDATE: PREMIUM COLLECTION FOR WA CARES FUND PUT ON HOLD - Washington state will not require employers to start deducting premiums for the new WA Cares long-term insurance program this week, as planned. The delay is designed to give state lawmakers time to decide whether modifications are needed.
HOW TO HANDLE HOLIDAY GIFT RETURNS - Most major retailers still have very liberal return policies with extended holiday deadlines, so you don’t have to run back to the store the day after Christmas.
NEW FEDERAL RULES: WHAT DEBT COLLECTORS CAN & CANNOT DO - The new rules focus on communications and disclosures from debt collectors, including what a collector can say, how often they can contact the consumer, what information must be provided, and what qualifies as harassment.
FTC SAYS CUSTOMERS HAVE RIGHT TO REPAIR BROKEN PRODUCTS -
When you buy a product and it breaks, your ability to repair it is often limited or prevented by the manufacturer or seller. The FTC says it is going to fix this broken system by cracking down on illegal repair restrictions.
THE PITFALLS OF GETTING A REALLY LONG CAR LOAN -
When selecting vehicles and loan terms, most consumers focus on the monthly payments. It seems like a simple way to make sure the car and financing fits their budget. But it can be a pricey mistake.
AIRLINE 'CHANGE FEE' RULES ARE ABOUT TO CHANGE AGAIN -
Last year, the major U.S. airlines dropped their dreaded “change fees” for all classes of service, even the cheap seats. As of April 1, passengers with basic economy tickets cannot change their travel dates.
ID THIEVES WHO STOLE UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS MUCK-UP TAX SEASON FOR MILLIONS -
Millions of people who did not apply for state unemployment compensation last year—and did not get any money—are now dealing with the consequences of being identity theft victims. Cybercriminals used stolen credentials to file fake unemployment claims, got the money, and left their victims stuck with the tax liability.
90 TOP-RATED VEHICLES FOR SAFETY-CONSCIOUS CAR BUYERS -
Whether it’s an SUV for you, or a compact car for the teenage driver in the house, you want any new vehicle you buy to be as safe as possible. The latest IIHS safety awards can point you in the right direction.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM ID THEFT & CYBER FRAUD -
Cyberthieves work nonstop to hijack your identity and steal your money. They’re really good at what they do, so you need to take the threat seriously and act accordingly. Here are the things you can do to protect yourself and stop the cyberthieves from ruining your life.
BLACK DOLLAR INDEX RATES CORPORATE COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY -
Corporate America raced to publicly embrace the social justice movement during this summer’s Black Lives Matter protests. But are they? Is anyone keeping score? The new Black Dollar Index (BDI) aims to hold these companies accountable for their promises.
EVERYONE NEEDS A RAINY-DAY FUND. HERE'S HOW TO START YOURS -
Ready to file your tax return? The IRS isn’t ready for it and has delayed the start of the tax filing season. The agency says it needs more time to reprogram and test its computers based on the COVID Relief Act, which wasn’t signed into law until December 27.
IRS DELAYS START OF TAX FILING SEASON UNTIL FEB. 12 -
Ready to file your tax return? The IRS isn’t ready for it and has delayed the start of the tax filing season. The agency says it needs more time to reprogram and test its computers based on the COVID Relief Act, which wasn’t signed into law until December 27.
WHAT YOU CAN DO WHEN AN ONLINE PURCHASE DOESN'T ARRIVE -
Millions of Americans are still waiting for their federal stimulus payments. Some will be surprised to learn they won’t get it unless they claim a rebate on their 2020 tax return! What’s going on here and how can you find out about your payment status?
WHERE IS MY STIMULUS MONEY? -
Millions of Americans are still waiting for their federal stimulus payments. Some will be surprised to learn they won’t get it unless they claim a rebate on their 2020 tax return! What’s going on here and how can you find out about your payment status?
FRAUD ALERT: ONLINE PET SCAMS SOAR DURING THE PANDEMIC -
Pet adoptions have skyrocketed during the pandemic, as people stuck at home decided it was a good time to add a furry family member. Scammers are trolling the internet looking for people who will pay hundreds of dollars to buy a pet that doesn’t exist.
WHY CREDIT CARDS ARE SAFER THAN DEBIT CARDS -
Some people find using debit cards, rather than credit cards, help them stick to their budgets and avoid going into debt. But credit cards offer stronger consumer protections, especially important when you shop online.
HOW TO SHOP SAFELY ONLINE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON -
Because of the pandemic more people will do their holiday shopping shop online this year. This increases the chances of falling victim to cybercriminals. Here’s how to protect yourself whenever you shop online.
DATA BREACH IMPACTS MILLIONS OF DONORS AT HUNDREDS OF NONPROFITS -
Donors and members of more than 240 organizations recently had their personal information compromised during a breach at Blackbaud, a company hired by many nonprofits to manage their data. Unfortunately, Blackbaud hasn’t shared much info about who was affected.
DROWNING IN DEBT? YOUR OPTIONS: GOOD & BAD -
The number of people saddled with excessive debt is growing. Help is available in the form of debt management, debt settlement, consolidation loans, and bankruptcy attorneys. Some are good choices; others could make your financial situation worse.
FINANCIAL TOOLKIT: HOW TO SURVIVE THE COVID-19 RECESSION -
Stimulus payments, expanded unemployment benefits, government loans, and payment accommodations from lenders have helped keep many families and businesses afloat so far. But as these programs end, millions will find their budgets stretched to the breaking point.
HOW TO AVOID A MOVING HORROR STORY -
Hire a mover and you’re trusting them to get your possessions from here to there on time, without damage, and at the agreed upon price. All too often that doesn’t happen, especially for long-distance interstate movers.
THE TOP 10 CONSUMER BRANDS CRIMINALS SPOOF IN PHISHING ATTACKS -
Phishing is one of the most popular techniques used by cyber criminals because it’s simple and effective. The typical phishing attack involves creating an email that appears to be from a reputable company or organization and encourages potential victims to click on a link.
GETTING HOME REPAIRS DONE DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK -
For months now, you’ve been limiting the number of people coming into your house. But life happens, and at some point, you’ll need a pro to come to the house to fix something. Having someone breach your safe space is not without risk, so it needs to be done carefully.
A NEW RELIGIOUS TWIST TO THE OLD GIFT CARD SCAM -
Warning: Con artists are sending out email and text messages that look as if they originated from someone at your church, synagogue, or mosque asking you to buy some gift cards to give to needy congregants or others in the community.
THE BEST (AND WORST) CELL PHONE COMPANIES -
Every wireless company claims to be the best, but consumer surveys tell a different story – some carriers are clearly doing a better job of delivering network quality, customer service, and value.
MY GYM IS CLOSED & STILL BILLING ME. CAN IT DO THAT? -
What happens when your gym is forced to close because of a pandemic? Should you get a refund for the time you were locked out? And what can you do if the company wants to keep your money and credit your membership account, instead of processing a refund?
SCAMMERS CASH-IN ON COVID-19: HERE'S HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF -
The coronavirus pandemic is a dream come true for con artists across the globe: Millions of people are afraid of getting sick and struggling to make ends meet, just as trillions of dollars in stimulus funds make their way into the economy.
NOW YOU CAN CHECK YOUR CREDIT FILES WEEKLY FOR FREE -
During the coronavirus crisis, the three major credit-reporting agencies are making it easy for you to track what’s happening to your credit history in real time. Here’s what to look for when you check your credit reports.
HOW TO CREATE & EASILY STORE SECURE PASSWORDS -
Password management software helps you create strong and unique passwords for all your online accounts. Consumer Reports tests some of the most popular password managers and recommends a few of them.
AIRLINES ORDERED TO PROVIDE REFUNDS FOR CANCELLED FLIGHTS -
The federal government told the airlines they must provide refunds for all flights that are canceled because of the coronavirus outbreak, or when a “significant schedule change” is made and the passenger chooses not to accept the alternative.
THE BEST TAX PREPARATION SOFTWARE OF 2020 -
Filing your 2019 taxes yourself? NerdWallet evaluated the most popular tax preparation software packages so you don’t have to. You might even be able to do it for free!
ARE THE SMART DEVICES IN YOUR HOME SPYING ON YOU? -
Smart devices are cool and convenient, but they also erode your privacy. These devices collect a lot of data for the manufacturer. And they’re an inviting target for hackers. Here’s how to reduce the spying and limit the data sharing.
THESE SITES LET YOU GET PAID TO SHOP -
Cash back portals let you make money on the things you buy. Rebates average 7 percent, but many online retailers are boosting their cash back offers for holiday shoppers.
FAKE NEWS ABOUT CELEBRITIES USED TO SELL DIET PILLS & WRINKLE CREAMS -
Scammers hijack the look of the TODAY, CNBC, CNN, ESPN and other legitimate news websites to trick you into buying bogus diet pills and beauty products. If you know what to look for, there are various ways to tell these fabricated news stories are really ads in disguise.
'CAN YOU DO ME A FAVOR?' SPOTTING BUSINESS EMAIL SCAMS -
Crooks send an email designed to look like it’s from the CEO, who is out of the office, telling an employee to handle an “urgent matter” by making an immediate wire payment or buying gift cards needed for presents. These spoofed email scams result in more losses than any other type of fraud, the BBB says.
WHAT'S A ROTH 401(K) AND SHOULD YOU HAVE ONE? -
A Roth 401(k) is the other employer-based retirement plan that lets your savings grow tax free. Most companies now offer it, but few employees have one. Maybe you should have one of each?
NEW FROM SALLIE MAE: CREDIT CARDS FOR MILLENNIALS & GEN Z -
Sallie Mae launches three new credit cards aimed at college students, recent graduates and young adults already in the workplace. These are rewards cards that have no annual fee. And you don’t have to be a Sallie Mae customer to apply.
THE NEW PETAL CREDIT CARD: NO CREDIT SCORE NEEDED TO APPLY
The Petal card is designed for those who don’t have a credit score, but pay their bills on time. Applicants give the company access to their bank account transactions. Credit limits go as high as $10,000. Cash-back goes up for on-time monthly bill payments.
SHOP ONLINE? WATCH OUT FOR COUNTERFEIT EVERYTHING
Just like you, counterfeiters are online, trying to sell you their inferior copycat products: electronics, cosmetics, clothing and more. A new Better Business Bureau report calls it an ‘epidemic’ problem.
HOW TO RECYCLE, RESELL AND BUY USED ELECTRONICS
Throwing old cellphones in the trash can lead to harmful chemicals and toxins ending up in landfills. Refurbished electronics are good for the earth and your wallet. You can save hundreds of dollars on a smartphone or laptop.
HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON YOUR PRESCRIPTION DRUGS
You have insurance, so you assume you're getting the best price for your prescription drugs. Not necessarily. Sometimes, because of high deductibles or high co-pays, it's cheaper to skip the insurance and pay the 'retail' price. Coupons and other discounts can also help you save more.
TRIP INSURANCE: SHOULD YOU BUY BEFORE YOU FLY?
Trip cancellation and interruption policies sold by airlines and travel websites typically provide ‘pretty thin coverage,’ a recent analysis concludes. It may also duplicate coverage you already have from your credit card.
HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR PET'S TEETH
Good oral health is just as important for your dogs and cats as it is for the other members of your family. Typically, they should have a yearly oral checkup and cleaning. And you should be brushing at home, too.
SOME EQUIFAX CREDIT FILE LOCKS HAVE EXPIRED. DID YOURS?
If you were a victim of the massive Equifax breach in 2017 and signed up for their free TrustedID Premier credit lock, your subscription expired on Jan. 31. Here’s what happened and how to make sure your file is secure.
NEW PROGRAM OFFERS A WAY TO INSTANTLY BOOST YOUR CREDIT SCORE
The new credit assessment program could help millions of Americans instantly improve their credit scores by adding data from their checking account. For people with limited credit history, Experian Boost will provide a second chance to prove themselves trustworthy borrowers.
ONE MORE PROBLEM FOR FURLOUGHED GOVERNMENT WORKERS - SCAMMERS
The government shutdown has created a golden opportunity for scammers, who are targeting desperate federal workers struggling to pay their bills — and the people who want to help. Watch out for fake job listings, bogus loan offers and charity scams.
HOW TO CREATE STRONG PASSWORDS YOU CAN REMEMBER
Here are the worst passwords of the year. Are yours on the list? While cyber criminals are good at what they do, poor password hygiene –having a few simple passwords that open all your online accounts – makes their job even easier.
THE PROS & CONS OF GETTING A STORE CREDIT CARD
Expect to get pitched to open a store credit card every time you’re at the checkout counter this holiday shopping season. You’ll get rewarded for the loyalty, but watch out for the sky-high interest rates.
THE BEST WAY TO FINANCE YOUR NEW IPHONE XS OR XS MAX
Shelling out $1,000 or more for a smartphone isn’t something everyone can afford, but you don’t have to pay full price. The major wireless carriers are aggressively promoting these new iPhones. Here’s are some of the deals currently available.
PET INSURANCE: HOW TO GET THE BEST PRICE AND COVERAGE
More people are buying pet insurance. Be advised: Policies and premium vary greatly from company to company. Checkbook.org analyzed the the offerings from 9 major insurance companies and found two that were the picks of the litter. (Picture is my dog, Sam)
THE HIGH COST OF MISSING YOUR CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS
Some people don’t have the money to pay their credit cards bills on time, but more than a third simply forget to pay, according to a new survey. Besides getting hit with a sizable late payment fee and interest, your credit score could take a big hit.
SATISFACTION WITH SOCIAL MEDIA DROPS
Intrusive ads and privacy concerns are driving down satisfaction with social media. Facebook slips, Instagram drops and Twitter tumbles in a recent nationwide customer satisfaction survey. Pinterest bucked the downward trend.
MORE THAN 1 MILLION CHILDREN WERE VICTIMS OF ID THEFT LAST YEAR
We think of identity theft as an “adult” problem, but no one is immune from this crime. According to a report by Javelin Strategy & Research, two-thirds of the 1 million ID theft victims in the U.S. last year were under the age of eight. How do parents protect their kids?
MAJOR CREDIT CARD COMPANIES ARE CUTTING SOME OF THEIR PERKS
After years of offering an ever-expanding menu of perks to their cardholders, several major credit card companies are going in the opposite direction. They're eliminating or reducing the value of some of these extras. Is your card one of them?
GOOD NEWS: CREDIT FREEZES WILL SOON BE FREE FOR EVERYONE
Starting this fall, the big three credit reporting agencies will be required to let you freeze your credit file for free. A freeze can help prevent identity thieves from applying for credit cards, opening bank accounts or taking out loans in your name.