Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs, have grown in popularity as a way to guard your privacy when you are online. But a new report from Corvus Insurance, a subsidiary of The Travelers, highlights a concerning trend: nearly 30% of ransomware attacks in the third quarter were facilitated by vulnerabilities in VPNs and weak passwords.
In a ransomware attack, a hacker gains entry into a computer or network and encrypts all of the files. They demand payment from the victim, usually in Bitcoin, before un-encrypting the files. While individuals were early targets, ransomware attackers lately have targeted businesses and large institutions, such as hospitals.
The Corvus report shows that many of these cyber incidents were linked to outdated software and inadequately protected VPN accounts. Common usernames like "admin" or "user," combined with the absence of multi-factor authentication (MFA), left systems vulnerable to brute-force attacks.
These attacks involve cybercriminals testing various combinations of weak credentials to gain unauthorized access to networks with minimal effort.
"Attackers are focused on finding the path of least resistance into a business to launch an attack, and in Q3 that entry point was the VPN," said Jason Rebholz, chief information security officer at Corvus.
Rebholz urged businesses to adopt multi-layered security strategies that go beyond MFA, which he described as "mere table stakes."
The attacks have steadily increased
The report also provides a detailed analysis of the ransomware landscape. Data from ransomware leak sites indicated 1,248 victims in the second quarter of 2024, with a slight increase to 1,257 in the third quarter.
Five groupsRansomHub, PLAY, LockBit 3.0, MEOW, and Hunters Internationalwere responsible for 40% of these attacks, the report found. Notably, RansomHub emerged as the most active group, with 195 victims in the third quarter, marking a 160% increase from the second quarter. In contrast, LockBit 3.0's activity decreased significantly.
The number of ransomware attackers is growing, with 59 groups identified by the end of the third quarter. This growth is significant, the report warned, as new entrants can quickly disrupt the landscape.
After law enforcement dismantled LockBit in Q1, RansomHub, which appeared in February 2024, rapidly became a prominent and dangerous player, claiming over 290 victims across various sectors this year.
Photo Credit: Consumer Affairs News Department Images
H-E-B recall: thousands of glow bracelets can cause skin irritation
H-E-B customers who bought 12-pack Destination Holiday Glow Light Stick Bracelets should stop using them and request a refund.
Green glow stick in bracelet pack can leak and irritate skin
About 6,600 12-pack sets affected, sold in Texas stores
Stop using bracelets and contact H-E-B for a refund
H-E-B is recalling about 6,600 12-pack Destination Holiday Glow Light Stick Bracelets after reports that the green bracelet can leak and cause skin irritation. The recall covers bracelets sold at H-E-B stores in Texas in September and October 2025.
The hazard
The green glow stick bracelet in the pack may leak, posing a skin irritation hazard. One report of a leaking bracelet has been received, but no injuries were reported.
What to do
Consumers should immediately stop using the bracelets and return them to H-E-B for a refund.
Company contact
H-E-B toll-free at 855-432-4438 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or online at H-E-B recalls page by clicking Product Recalls at the bottom or visit H-E-B newsroom recalls for more information.
Avenco and Novilla recall: thousands of mattresses fail fire safety
Owners of Avenco and Novilla mattresses should stop use and request a free safety cover due to fire hazards.
Mattresses violate flammability standards, risk serious fire injury or death
About 5,340 mattresses sold online are affected
Consumers must stop use and request a free fitted cover
About 5,340 Avenco and Novilla brand mattresses are being recalled because they do not meet mandatory flammability standards, posing a risk of serious injury or death from fire. The mattresses were sold online between January and April 2025.
The hazard
The recalled mattresses do not comply with required flammability standards, increasing the risk of fire-related injury or death. No incidents or injuries have been reported.
What to do
Consumers should stop using the recalled mattresses immediately and contact PT Champion for a free fitted cover to bring the product into compliance.
Company contact
PT Champion by email at recall@champmattress.com, or online at Novilla recall page or Avenco recall page, or visit their main websites and click Recall at the bottom of the page.
DINBooonLUX recall: full size mattresses fail fire standards
Consumers using DINBooonLUX 12-inch full size mattresses from Amazon should stop use and request a refund due to fire danger.
12-inch full size DINBooonLUX mattresses do not meet flammability standards
About 200 mattresses affected, sold on Amazon
Stop use immediately and contact DINBooonLUX for a refund
DINBooonLUX 12-inch full size hybrid mattresses sold on Amazon are recalled because they do not meet fire safety standards. About 200 mattresses are affected.
The hazard
The mattresses fail the mandatory flammability standard, posing a risk of serious injury or death from fire. No incidents or injuries have been reported.
What to do
Consumers should stop using the mattresses immediately and email DINBooonLUX for a full refund.
Company contact
DINBooonLUX by email at Dingbangrecall2025@outlook.com.
Kroger recall: thousands of Halloween candles pose fire hazard
Shoppers who bought Halloween-themed skeleton wax candles at Kroger stores should return them for a refund due to fire risks.
Flammable ornaments on candle pose fire and burn hazards
About 3,680 skeleton wax candles affected, sold nationwide
Consumers should stop use and contact Kroger for a refund
Kroger is recalling about 3,680 Halloween-themed skeleton wax candles due to a fire risk from flammable ornaments on the candle. The candles were sold at Kroger stores and affiliated retailers nationwide.
The hazard
The candle contains flammable ornaments, posing fire and burn hazards. No incidents or injuries have been reported.
What to do
Customers should stop using the candle and return it to Kroger for a refund.
Company contact
The Kroger Co. toll-free at 800-576-4377 from 7 a.m. to Midnight ET Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. ET Saturday and Sunday, leave a message at Kroger contact form or visit Kroger recall alerts for more information.
Harppa recall: thousands of high chairs pose fall and entrapment danger
Consumers with Harppa 5-in-1 convertible high chairs should stop use and request a replacement due to missing safety restraints and entrapment risks.
High chairs lack required restraint system, risk falls and entrapment
About 4,300 Harppa Model BHC001 high chairs sold on Walmart.com affected
Stop use immediately and contact Harppa for a replacement
Harppa 5-in-1 convertible high chairs sold on Walmart.com have been recalled due to missing safety restraints and potential entrapment risks for children.
The hazard
The high chairs violate mandatory safety standards because they lack the required attached restraint system, increasing the risk of falls. There is also a risk that a child's head could become trapped between the seat and tray, posing a deadly hazard. No incidents or injuries have been reported.
What to do
Consumers should stop using the high chair immediately and contact Harppa for a free replacement.
Company contact
Harppa toll-free at 844-796-8168 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, email at recall@harppababy.com, or online at Harppa recall page and click Recall at the top of the page.
YaFiti recall: thousands of 12-drawer dressers at tip-over risk
Consumers with YaFiti fabric 12-drawer dressers bought from Amazon should stop use and request a refund due to serious tip-over hazard.
Dressers can tip over and entrap children, risking serious injury or death
About 6,880 YaFiti 12-drawer dressers affected
Consumers should stop use and contact YaFiti for a refund
About 6,880 YaFiti fabric 12-drawer dressers sold on Amazon are recalled because they can tip over if not anchored, posing serious injury or death risks to children. The dressers violate safety standards required by the STURDY Act.
The hazard
The recalled dressers are unstable if not anchored to the wall, creating tip-over and entrapment hazards that can result in severe injuries or fatalities to children. No injuries have been reported.
What to do
Consumers should stop using the dresser and contact YaFiti for a refund.
Company contact
YaFiti toll free at 877-452-4067 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, email at Yafitiservice@outlook.com, or online at YaFiti recall page and click Recall at the top of the page.
Grundens recall: thousands of youth jackets pose strangulation risk
Parents should stop using Grundens youth jackets with hood drawstrings and contact the company for a refund.
Hood drawstrings can catch and pose strangulation hazard to children
About 8,850 Grundens youth Clipper 282 and Zenith 282 jackets affected
Stop use and contact Grundens for a refund
Grundens is recalling approximately 8,850 youth Clipper 282 and Zenith 282 jackets due to a strangulation risk from drawstrings in the hood. The jackets were sold in youth sizes and various colors.
The hazard
Jackets have hood drawstrings that can become entangled with objects, risking serious injury or death by strangulation. No injuries have been reported.
What to do
Consumers should stop using the jackets immediately and contact Grundens for a refund.
Company contact
Grundens toll-free at 800-323-7327 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Friday, email at recall@Grundens.com or online at Grundens recall page or Grundens main site and click Recall at the bottom of the page.
Polaris recall: thousands of off-road vehicles risk fire
Owners of 2025-2026 Polaris Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar vehicles should stop use and arrange for a free repair due to fire hazard.
Improper alternator cable routing can cause electrical short and fire
About 5,130 off-road vehicles affected in the US, 460 in Canada
Consumers should contact Polaris for a repair
Polaris Industries is recalling about 5,130 model year 2025-2026 Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar and Ranger Crew XP 1000 NorthStar off-road vehicles due to a risk of fire and serious injury.
The hazard
An improperly routed alternator cable can become damaged and contact the negative battery post, causing an electrical short and fire hazard. Polaris has received five reports of sparking, smoking or melting and one report of fire, but no injuries or property damage.
What to do
Owners should stop using the affected vehicles and contact Polaris for a free repair. Check if your vehicle identification number (VIN) is affected using the companys online resources.
Modera recall: tens of thousands of crib mattresses pose entrapment danger
Parents should stop using Modera Pack N Play mattresses and request a refund due to deadly entrapment hazard.
Mattresses may not fit play yards properly, risking infant suffocation
About 15,000 Modera Organic Cotton Pack N Play mattresses affected
Stop use, destroy mattress and contact Modera for a refund
Modera Organic Cotton Pack N Play mattresses are being recalled due to a risk of entrapment and suffocation if the mattress does not fit certain play yards securely. The recall affects about 15,000 mattresses sold on Amazon.
The hazard
The mattresses may not adequately fit certain play yards, violating safety standards and creating dangerous gaps that can trap and suffocate infants. No injuries have been reported.
What to do
Consumers should stop using the recalled mattresses immediately, cut them in half, and send a photo of the destroyed product to Modera for a full refund.
Company contact
Modera toll-free at 877-450-0320 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, by email at recall@moderababy.com, or online at Modera recall page and click Recall at the top of the page.
Warning: ILIKER childrens pajamas fail fire safety standard
Parents should immediately stop use and dispose of ILIKER pink pajama sets from SHEIN due to burn risk.
Pajama sets violate flammability standards, pose burn and death risk to children
Sold on SHEIN.com from April to September 2025
CPSC urges consumers to stop use and dispose of sets
CPSC warns consumers to immediately stop using ILIKER pink pajama sets sold on SHEIN.com, as they fail to meet mandatory flammability standards for childrens sleepwear and pose a serious burn risk.
The hazard
The pajamas do not comply with flammability requirements, exposing children to potential burn injury or death.
What to do
Consumers should stop using and dispose of the pajamas immediately. Do not sell or give away these products.
Company contact
Report any incidents involving injury or product defect to CPSC at SaferProducts.gov.
One in five UTI cases may stem from E. coli found in retail meats
Chicken and turkey show the highest contamination rates
Researchers call it a food safety issue, not just a personal hygiene problem
For decades, urinary tract infections (UTIs) have been seen as a matter of personal hygiene. But new research suggests that many cases may actually begin with what Americans bring home from the grocery store.
A new study published in the American Society for Microbiology journal reports that roughly one in five UTIs could be linked to E. coli bacteria found in contaminated meat products sold in U.S. supermarkets reframing what has long been considered a private health issue as a food safety concern.
Study connects infections to bacteria in store-bought meat
Between 2017 and 2021, scientists from George Washington University and Kaiser Permanente Southern California analyzed more than 5,700 urine samples from patients with E. coli UTIs. They also collected meat samples chicken, turkey, beef, and pork from grocery stores in the same communities.
By comparing genetic sequences from both sources, researchers found that about 20% of UTI infections could be traced to E. coli strains originating in meat.
Urinary tract infections have long been considered a personal health issue, but our findings suggest that they are also a food safety problem, said Lance Price, senior author of the study and professor of environmental and occupational health at George Washington University.
Chicken and turkey show the highest contamination rates
Among the meats tested, E. coli contamination was found in:
38% of chicken samples
36% of turkey samples
14% of beef samples
12% of pork samples
Researchers said poor storage, handling, and packaging practices likely contributed to the spread of bacteria. Some chicken packages were bloated with saline, which could leak and contaminate grocery belts or other foods.
Low-income areas disproportionately affected
The study also revealed that food-borne UTIs more often affect women and people in lower-income neighborhoods.
Womens anatomy makes them more prone to infection because bacteria have a shorter path to the bladder. However, researchers also found E. coli contamination more frequently in value packs larger, lower-cost meat packages often sold in lower-income areas.
My own experience of actually going to grocery stores in more affluent communities versus low-income neighborhoods is that the quality of the products are lower in the latter, Price said.
Food-handling practices can lower your risk
Researchers urged changes in meat processing and packaging to reduce contamination but said consumers can take steps to protect themselves at home:
Buy meat and poultry sealed securely to prevent leakage.
Cook meat to safe internal temperatures.
Keep raw and cooked foods separate to avoid cross-contamination.
Wash hands, utensils, and cutting boards thoroughly after handling raw meat.
CDC guidance may need an update
While the CDC acknowledges that E. coli causes UTIs, its guidance mainly focuses on diarrheal strains. Experts say this study highlights the need to recognize food-borne E. coli as a widespread source of urinary tract infections especially among women and communities with limited access to higher-quality food.
The food supply chain can and should do more to keep this dangerous bacterium out of our kitchens and out of peoples bodies, Price said.
What to do if you get a UTI
Know the symptoms
Common signs include a burning sensation while urinating, frequent urges to urinate, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and pelvic discomfort.
When to see a doctor
If symptoms persist for more than a day or two, or if you experience fever, back pain, or blood in your urine, seek medical care. Untreated UTIs can spread to the kidneys and cause serious illness.
Treatment
Most UTIs are treated effectively with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol while recovering.
Prevent recurrence
Urinate shortly after sexual activity.
Wipe front to back after using the bathroom.
Stay hydrated to flush bacteria from the urinary tract.
Avoid tight clothing that traps moisture.
Follow food safety practices to prevent E. coli exposure.
Findings from a recent survey found that most Americans want to ditch daylight saving time: 71% say its outdated and should be abolished altogether.
The time change takes a toll: Nearly 40% report worsened moods, disrupted sleep, and lower productivity after falling back.
Experts recommend easing into it: Gradual sleep adjustments and more morning sunlight can help make the transition smoother.
As daylight saving time winds down for another year, many Americans are bracing for darker evenings and for the exhaustion that comes with the biannual clock change.
Despite years of debate (and 19 states already passing legislation to make daylight saving time permanent), most of the country will fall back yet again this November.
The impact on consumers
According to new research from Payless Power, consumers arent just over the hassle theyre feeling the effects.
The companys most recent survey found that nearly 40% of Americans say the time change worsens their mood, more than a third say it disrupts their sleep and mental health, and over a third say it throws off their productivity.
The fatigue runs so deep that 71% of Americans now support abolishing daylight saving time entirely, calling it an outdated ritual that no longer serves a purpose.
Even with all that, 53% still believe DST will be around 10 years from now, Payless Powers CEO Brandon Young told ConsumerAffairs.
Can you prepare?
Though most Americans arent looking forward to turning their clocks back in just a few days, Young says there are ways to prepare for the change to make it a bit easier.
The key here is to gradually make this transition, he explained. Begin making changes to your sleep patterns a few days prior to making shifts in your bedtime routine by sleeping for 15 minutes earlier each night. Catch your morning sun to brighten your mood. Then wind down in the evenings without many electronic gadgets and bright lights.
Some more ideas for smoothing the transition include:
Stick to your usual routine and get as much natural light in the morning as possible.
Take mini-breaks to remain alert.
To help you with your work routine, consider setting reminders to move and/or stretch. Try not to task heavily right after a time change.
Use your time at home to find activities that ground you. Examples include meals with others and just taking a quick walk.
With 71% of Americans supporting the end of DST and two in three calling it irrelevant, its clear this system is ready for a change, Young said. Treat the time change like you would jet lag, and build in small habits that help your body and mind adjust more smoothly.
Findings from a recent study found that GLP-1 medications are reshaping retail habits, as nearly 70% of users still buy their old clothing sizes, while over half keep old clothes out of fear of regaining weight.
Confidence is rising but emotions linger 46% of GLP-1 users are experimenting with new styles, though many still feel imposter syndrome when shopping.
Fashion and finances are adjusting too from shifting away from major retailers to exploring thrifting, tailoring, and renting, consumers are finding creative ways to rebuild their wardrobes affordably.
The GLP-1 boom isnt just transforming waistlines its changing wardrobes, too.
A new study from Levity found that as more Americans use medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, their retail habits are shifting in surprising ways. Many are holding on to old clothes just in case, second-guessing their new sizes, and even turning to social media for post-weight-loss style inspiration.
ConsumerAffairs spoke with Dr. Zoe Lees, PhD, Medical Writer at Levity, to learn more about the ways GLP-1s are influencing not only health, but also confidence, identity, and the everyday act of getting dressed.
The retail shift
How exactly are weight loss drugs affecting how consumers shop?
GLP-1s are reshaping the way consumers shop, plus how they feel about it, Dr. Lees told ConsumerAffairs. Nearly 70% of consumers are still buying their old clothing sizes because theyre unsure if smaller sizes will fit.
However, confidence is growing with almost half (46%) of users experimenting with new styles they wouldnt have tried before. Nevertheless, emotional barriers linger, with 54% holding onto old clothes just in case, while 29% feel imposter syndrome when shopping for their new bodies.
Dr. Lees said that this effect is hitting retailers too, as those taking GLP-1s are changing where they shop. The findings from the survey found that 20% now shop less at Target, 18% shop less at Amazon, and 17% shop less at Old Navy.
Style changes come with weight loss
Another important aspect to consider is that with weight loss also comes the urge to try new styles. Dr. Lees explained that many consumers feel more confident after taking GLP-1s, which is also changing the retail landscape.
There's been a noticeable shift in style preferences, she said. Activewear and jeans are now favored over looser, more conservative clothing.
Dressing up, crop tops, and form-fitting apparel once avoided are catching the attention of GLP-1 users. Social media is also playing a role, with one in four following influencers who share their new sizes for fashion inspiration. The shift reflects both growing confidence and the pressure to look a certain way after weight loss.
Maintaining affordability through weight loss
With weight loss comes the need for new clothes in new sizes. How can consumers make sure that their clothes fit, while sticking to their budgets?
A large portion of consumers who take GLP-1s spend $100-$249 per year on new apparel (32%), but it is absolutely possible to be resourceful with budgeting, Dr. Lees said.
Some of her strategies include:
Tailor the clothes you already own.
Renting apparel is also an option, with nearly one in four people open to it.
Buy clothes secondhand. Thrift and resale stores offer affordable choices.
These approaches let people adapt to size changes without constantly replacing their wardrobe or breaking the bank, she said.
How to claim: Wear a simple costume, join each chains app/rewards, know the time window, and confirm participation in-app
Max value plan: 7-Eleven BOGO pizza for the family; or Chipotle Krispy Kreme Shake Shack crawl, then Baskin-Robbins for dessert
If you dont feel like cooking dinner before taking the kids trick or treating, or just want a cheap treat, Halloween is a sneaky good day for food deals. I found all the national chains offering a deal this week, and included instructions on how to claim them without getting tripped up by the fine print.
The headliners (national chains):
Chipotle Boorito: $6 entres, in costume, 3pmclose (Oct 31) -Chipotle is once again offering Boorito on Halloween, which is your chance to score a burrito or burrito bowl for just $6.
Must be a Chipotle Rewards member, sport any kind of costumer, and order in-person. They limit the offer to one discounted entre per person.
Krispy Kreme: Free doughnut in costume (Oct 31)-No purchase needed at participating Krispy Kreme locations. Everyone in your group, wearing a costume, will get a free original glazed or classic ring.
Shake Shack: BOGO Double ShackBurger through Oct 31 (code: SPOOKY)-Score a free Double ShakeBurger ($9.49) when you order one. Just enter the code SPOOKY in the app, online, or in-person at the ordering kiosk.
7-Eleven/Speedway: BOGO whole pizza (Oct 31)-Available on October 31st only, 7Rewards members can buy an entire pizza and get another completely free with their choice of toppings. Available both in-store and via 7NOW delivery at participating locations.
Baskin-Robbins: 31% off scoops on the 31st (rewards members)-On October 31st, youll score 31% off all scoops when you download the BR app and join their Rewards program.
They call it Celebrate 31, and yes, every month that ends in 31st is eligible for the same discount. Unfortunately, they exclude waffle cones, toppings, and sundaes from the promotion.
Wendys: Boo! Booksfive Jr. Frosty coupons for $1 (use by 12/31)-Not a day-of freebie, but Wendys $1 Boo Books is the best cheap treat book of the season.
For only $1, you buy a Boo! Book that comes with five free Jr. Frosty coupons and one coupon for a $1.99 kids meal. Proceeds benefit the Dave Tomas Foundation. This promo works in-restaurant only.
Why this matters
Two things are going on: (1) restaurants are pulling demand forward with app-only deals (so they get you into the rewards ecosystem), and (2) the costume-triggered promos turn drive-thru trips into mini events, which is why the biggest discounts are on Halloween weekend.
Translation, use the apps and wear something vaguely costume-ish and youll unlock most of the value without spending much.
Quick how-to (so you dont miss it)
Bring a costume piece. A hat, face paint, or jersey usually qualifies for Chipotle/Krispy Kreme. Dont overthink it.
Install the app + join rewards first. Chipotle Rewards, 7Rewards, and the Shake Shack app. Most deals wont appear until youre logged in.
Know the time window. Chipotle is 3pmclose only; other promos are all-day but may be participating locations.
Check participation before you go. Tap the offer inside the app or the chains newsroom page to confirm your store is in.
Smart stacking (if youre up for the challenge)
If youre feeling adventuresome and want to maximize these offers, youll want to hit Chipotle after 3pm for the $6 entre, then swing by Krispy Kreme for the free doughnut (costume still on), and if dinner is burgers, queue a Shake Shack BOGO in the app.
For families, your best bet will be scoring the 7-Eleven BOGO pizza deal for the group and then making a Baskin-Robbins run for dessert (31% off) if your store is open late on the 31st.
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