Here’s where we feature news-you-can-use and other timely information to help you become a more informed consumer. Check back often to read what’s happening.
Summer Surprise: U.S. Travel Costs Mostly Holding Steady
It’s not summer yet, but vacation season is already in full swing for both domestic and overseas trips. What can you expect to pay for your summer getaway? It depends on where you’re headed. Prices are so far holding steady for many destinations but are on the rise for popular vacation spots.
Stay Alert for Medical Billing Fraud
Medical data breaches are becoming increasingly prevalent, posing significant threats to patient privacy.
Per New FCC Rule, Internet Service Providers Must Display Broadband ‘Nutrition Labels’ for Clearer Pricing
A new FCC rule requires internet service providers to use standardized “Broadband Facts” labels that display complete and accurate information on costs and typical speeds.
Study: Financial Anxiety Impacts Attitudes About the Consequences of Debt
A new survey conducted for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling found that many Americans feel left behind and are stressed about trying to make ends meet. This anxiety is making more Americans comfortable with taking on too much debt.
Why Are Grocery Prices Still So High?
Overall inflation in the last four years was 19 percent, but grocery prices jumped 25 percent, according to the USDA. And once food prices go up, they tend to stay there. A variety of factors are pushing prices higher.
Product Safety Recalls on the Rise; Refunds Often Difficult to Get
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced 323 product recalls in 2023—the most in seven years—involving tens of millions of products, including toys, clothing, and home appliances.
Bankers Sue to Block New Rule That Curbs Credit Card Late Fees
A new rule from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will limit how much most credit card companies can charge customers who make late payments, capping most late-payment fees at $8.
Comcast Says It Will Stop Using Misleading ‘Xfinity 10G Network’ Branding
In response to recommendations from an industry watchdog group, Comcast has reluctantly agreed to change the way it describes its high-speed-internet service.
New Report: Credit Unions and Small Banks Often Offer the Best Credit Card Rates
Looking for a credit card? Be sure to check offers from credit unions and small banks. According to a new report from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, large banks tend to offer “worse credit card terms” and “substantially higher interest rates” than credit unions and small banks.
Why You Really Need an Emergency Savings Fund and How to Start One
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.
Consumer Advocates Push for FTC Rule That Would Guarantee Consumers the ‘Right to Repair’ Products They 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 thwarted by the manufacturer. Consumer advocates want the FTC to protect customers’ right to repair their own belongings.
Consumer Reports Built an App that Helps You Tell Companies to Respect Your Digital Privacy
In October, Consumer Reports launched Permission Slip, a free app that provides a one-stop spot you can use to control which companies can collect, store, and sell your personal data. We urge everyone to use it.
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 and many taxpayers in some states can use a new government pilot program to file for free.
Looking to Save Money? Audit Your Digital Subscriptions
Subscription-based digital services are the ultimate in convenience, but their fees can add up to hundreds of dollars in wasted money if you don't cancel unused or unwanted ones.
3 Ways to Tune-Up Your Finances for the New Year
The start of the new year is a good time to review your finances and make needed adjustments. Here are three things to do to find out where you are and what you might need to do.
Many Retailers Have Tweaked Their Holiday Return Policies
As retailers brace for a record number of post-Christmas returns, many have modified their return policies to help cut costs.
Don’t Let Porch Pirates Plunder Your Package Deliveries
The growth in online shopping has spawned a surge in package thefts that impact millions of Americans each year.
Are Your Kids’ Smart Toys Spying on Them?
Toys equipped with microphones, cameras, or sensors create privacy and security issues.
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, but consumer advocates urge that it do more to protect users.
Shop Safely Online This Holiday Season (and All Year Long)
U.S. consumers reported losing $358 million to online scams last year, according to the Federal Trade Commission. The holiday shopping season is especially lucrative for scammers.