Consumerpedia

An increasing number of important decisions about yourlife are now made by computer algorithms and artificial intelligence. They do more than suggest movies or music you might like—they're making lending decisions for banks and screening job applicants for employers.Consumer advocates acknowledge the benefits of AI, but they're also concerned about the potential harm. They want lawmakers and regulators to put guardrails in place to protect consumers.In this episode, the many ways companies are now using algorithms and AI, how these powerful computer programs make the marketplace less transparent—and, in some cases, less fair—and how the massive amount of data being collected and used to make decisions about lending, employment, housing, and insurance coverage can infringe on privacy rights.Not a Checkbook member? ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up for a free 30-day trial to access all of our unbiased ratings⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Americans are piling on credit card debt at an alarming pace, and the unprecedented interest rates on these unpaid balances can be as much as 30% to 35%. No wonder it seems impossible to get out from under it.But with hard work and proper guidance, you can do it. In this episode: Meet two people who were drowning in credit card debt and got their finances back in order. Also, a certified nonprofit credit counselor explains how debt consolidation works and the dangers of using a for-profit debt settlement company.Not a Checkbook member? ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up for a free 30-day trial to access all of our unbiased ratings⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Whether it’s a few long-stem roses or a beautiful bouquet, it’s hard to go wrong with flowers. Sometimes you can find what you want at the supermarket. For special occasions, you might want to visit a florist. In this episode: Where to find the lowest prices on flowers, how to choose a good florist, and the best way to send flowers out of town. Plus, tips on how to keep those flowers looking fresher for longer. Read Checkbook's full report on how to find a florist. Not a Checkbook member? ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up for a free 30-day trial to access all of our unbiased ratings⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Clothing rental has always been a way to dress for less when attending weddings, proms, or other formal events. But the rental market has zoomed beyond tuxes and gowns and turned into an easy way to keep your wardrobe fresh without spending much money. In this episode, we'll share tips on navigating the clothing rental world, including when and how to use fashion-for-hire sites. Plus, what's the environmental impact of renting rather than buying? Read Checkbook's full report on how to take advantage of clothing rental sites. Additional Consumerpedia Episodes: #3: Tricks Sellers Use to Make You Buy Now and Pay Too Much #7: 65 Things You (Probably) Shouldn’t Pay For #26: Sale Prices Are Rarely Real Deals #49: Shop Like a Pro: Checkbook's Top Shopping Tips #57: What Ever Happened to Customer Service? Additional Resources: Alden Wicker’s website and her book: To Dye For: How Toxic Fashion Is Making Us Sick—and How We Fight Back. Not a Checkbook member? ⁠⁠⁠Sign up for a free 30-day trial to access all of our unbiased ratings⁠⁠⁠. 

Kevin Brassler, Checkbook's executive editor and researcher, dives into the world of Amazon's advertising practices. He reveals that many products shown to shoppers are actually paid promotions, confusing the shopping experience. The discussion raises questions about trusting Amazon's 'Overall Pick' feature amid rampant ads that obscure genuine recommendations. Brassler also explores the implications of this advertising landscape for consumers and highlights personal strategies to navigate the clutter of ads while shopping.

Teresa Murray, a consumer watchdog from U.S. PIRG, dives into the murky waters of fake online reviews that plague shoppers today. She reveals how companies manipulate ratings and discusses the new FTC rules aimed at cleaning up the marketplace. Listeners learn practical tips on spotting bogus reviews and the importance of transparency for making informed purchases. With insights on the ethical implications of paid testimonials, Murray empowers consumers to navigate the review landscape more effectively.

We've come up with a fun way to celebrate our 75th episode: An old-fashioned radio quiz show, featuring the morning anchors at KIRO Newsradio in Seattle. Dave Ross and Colleen O'Brien are old friends, who have Herb as a regular guest each week, so we had a lot of fun doing this. Play along with Dave and Colleen as they try to come up with the right answers. You might also want to play the online version of Checkbook's College of Knowledge. Not a Checkbook member? ⁠Sign up for a free 30-day trial to access all of our unbiased ratings⁠.

This podcast features Alex Weinert, Vice President for Identity Security at Microsoft, an authority in safeguarding online identities. He delves into the drawbacks of traditional passwords, emphasizing their vulnerability to cybercrime. Alex discusses how passkeys work, highlighting their ease of use and superior security features. He also explains the seamless synchronization of passkeys across devices and the critical role of multi-factor authentication. The conversation underscores the urgent need to transition from passwords to this innovative solution for enhanced online protection.

The hectic holiday shopping season is underway, and for many, that will put a strain on the family budget. Checkbook wants to make this stressful time a little easier. Our annual holiday helper is packed with timely advice: Super shoppers share tips about how they find the best prices and avoid fake sales. Plus, how to avoid gift card scams, stop porch pirates, and spot bogus online shipping notices. Also, the pros and cons of buy now, pay later loans. Additional Consumerpedia Episodes & Resources: Checkbook's Top Holiday Shopping Tips Don't Overspend This Holiday Shopping Season #59: Saving Money at the Supermarket #58: Misleading Marketing Gets You to Buy Now and Pay More #57: Whatever Happened to Customer Service? #52: Shop Safely Online This Holiday Season #26: Sale Prices Are Rarely Real Deals Not a Checkbook member? ⁠Sign up for a free 30-day trial to access all of our unbiased ratings⁠.

The process has changed for anyone looking to hire a real estate agent; new rules took effect in August that are designed to bring transparency and competition to the marketplace. Consumer advocates hope agents will be more willing to negotiate their commissions, but the new process and unfamiliar paperwork could create confusion for a while. In this episode: A look at the new rules and what they will mean to both buyers and sellers. Also, things everyone should know when they’re hiring a real estate agent. More from Consumer Federation of America: Consumer Alert: How Home Buyers and Sellers Can Cope with New Real Estate Broker Rules and Practices CFA Releases Criteria for Evaluating Home Seller Contract Forms CFA Releases Criteria for Evaluating Home Buyer Contract Forms More from Ilyce Glink: 100 Questions Every First-Time Home Buyer Should Ask Love, Money + Real Estate Newsletter Not a Checkbook member? ⁠Sign up for a free 30-day trial to access all of our unbiased ratings⁠.