An online data broker that charged consumers $10 based on the promise that it could “lock their records,” so others couldn’t see or buy them, has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that its claims were deceptive and violated federal law. The settlement requires that US Search refund the... Read more →
Siemens Industry is recalling about 2.2 million Siemens and Murray circuit breakers, load centers, and meter combos. The recalled circuit breakers have a spring clip that can break during normal use, leading to a loss of force to maintain a proper electrical connection in the panelboard. This can lead to... Read more →
Which consumer happenings cheered you this week and which ones made you want to scream or weep? Here are my best and worst consumer experiences this week: My best: Getting a good price on florescent tubes The florescent lights have been out in my garage for several months. It’s a... Read more →
The companies that make high fructose-corn syrup want rename it “corn sugar,” because it’s developing a negative image with consumers. I liked The New York Times article “Help Rename High-Fructose Corn Syrup.” The Times asked nutrition advocates what they think the new name should be: Corn Glucose and Fructose Syrup:... Read more →
Take-Back drug events to help consumers safely dispose of expired or unused medications are being offered throughout the country Saturday, Sept. 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Consumers with unused or expired medications can check the DEA’s website to find collection sites in their communities. Drugs can be disposed... Read more →
The first phase of new federal rules protecting consumers from unscrupulous debt settlement companies takes effect Sept. 27, part of the government's effort to crack down on the scam artists who dominate the industry. Debt settlement companies often promise desperate consumers they can reduce their credit card debt, but... Read more →
Despite the negativity by some, there’s no doubt about it. Tomorrow, six months after the passage of the landmark health-care overhaul law in America, health care coverage will improve. Provisions that go into effect include a cap on lifetime limits on the insured and requirements that insurers fully cover children... Read more →
If someone from a modeling agency tells you or one of your children that you’ve got “the look,” be careful. It may be a scam that will empty your bank account. In the last three years, more than 2,000 complaints have been filed with the U.S Better Business Bureau from... Read more →
To mark the 100th anniversary of women being granted the right to vote in Washington state, about 50 people marched in Olympia’s Lakefair Parade on July 17 dressed as suffragettes and enlightened men of the Golden West. Some rode in antique cars provided by the Olympia Region of the Horseless... Read more →
The Coleman Company is recalling about 50,000 WaterBeam 4D water-activated floating spotlights. The lens assembly can come apart from the main housing of the spotlight with force and pose a risk of impact injuries to consumers. Coleman has received 33 reports of the lens assembly coming apart, 18 of which... Read more →