Archive for 'Ripoffs'
21 Reasons Why Corner Lots Are for Suckers
Sep 01, 2011 - Don't put yourself in a corner when it comes to buying a house. I did it, and I regret it.
Ask Stacy: Where Can I Get a Government Grant?
Aug 23, 2011 - Free money in the form of government grants is a rumor that just won't die. But I'm dead certain you're not going to get a federal grant to prop up your business or fix up your home.
Extended Warranties: Don’t Let the Exceptions Rule
Aug 17, 2011 - Depending on who you talk to, extended warranties are a great way to protect big investments – or a great way for businesses to pad their profits. Here's the best advice on a range of products.
Cramming: How Your Phone Company Helps Steal Billions
Aug 09, 2011 - Cramming is the voluntarily regulated process by which unauthorized charges are "crammed" onto your phone bill, costing Americans billions of dollars a year.
Rent-to-Own: The Most Expensive Way to Buy?
Aug 03, 2011 - Think paying 30 percent interest on a credit card is hard to swallow? It's chickenfeed compared to buying the rent-to-own way.
How to Read Beauty Product Labels
Jul 28, 2011 - If you've ever bought a personal care product because you thought it was natural, hypoallergenic, or wouldn't cause your toddler to cry in the bath, you've probably wasted your money.
Ask Stacy: Ordering Flowers Online Can Cost You Hundreds
Jul 26, 2011 - Even when you're paying attention, it's hard to avoid getting squeezed by a scam. But when you're not paying attention, you become a duck in a barrel. Here's what can happen when you mix online flowers with unexamined credit card statements.
6 Tips to Avoid Moving Scams
Jul 15, 2011 - Moving is a logistical nightmare, but some things can make it much worse: like when the movers demand more money, hold your stuff for ransom, don't show up on time – or at all.
8 Stupid Fees Consumers Hate to Pay (But Often Do Anyway)
Jul 14, 2011 - Fees for this, fees for that - even a fee for paying a fee. Where does it end? I'm afraid I know the answer...
6 Tips to Save on Beauty Products
Jul 07, 2011 - Tired of tossing out barely-used cosmetics because they weren't right, or just want a better deal on your favorite brands? Here's how to save at the drugstore, department store, and online.
Mobile Payments: Convenience at a Cost?
Jun 27, 2011 - Smartphones are getting even smarter, and may soon replace your wallet. But be careful: Paying with your phone comes with some risks.
6 Steps to Prevent Identity Theft of the Dead
Jun 06, 2011 - Dealing with the loss of a loved one is tough enough without being forced to untangle a complicated web of fraudulent charges. Here's what to do if you're in charge of an estate.
Do Gas Saving Devices Work?
May 16, 2011 - Gas-saving devices have been around as long as cars, and they become especially popular when prices edge up. But do any of them really work?
Extended Warranties: Worth the Cost?
Apr 07, 2011 - Are you considering buying a new car? What about an LCD TV, mp3 player, or laptop? If so, be sure to read this before you let the cashier talk you into buying that extended warranty too.
Tips to Avoid the Top 10 Consumer Problems
Mar 18, 2011 - More than 1.3 million Americans complained to the Federal Trade Commission last year. Here's the list of top problems, with advice on avoiding each.
