Consumer News: Antitrust showdown begins today: FTC vs. Meta

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Consumer Daily Reports

Details: Written by Consumer Affairs News; Category: Consumer Daily Reports; Published: 14 April 2025; Created: 14 April 2025; Last Updated: 14 April 2025

This could be the trial that reshapes social media forever

April 14, 2025

Key takeaways:

Landmark case begins as FTC seeks to break up Meta over Instagram, WhatsApp deals
Tech executives, including Zuckerberg, expected to testify in trial extending into summer
Trumps possible intervention adds political tension to high-stakes court battle

After nearly six years of legal wrangling, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on Monday began its antitrust trial against Meta, in a historic case that could lead to the breakup of the $1.4 trillion tech giant behind Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.

If the FTC persuades U.S. District Judge James Boasberg that Meta illegally built a monopoly through its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp, it could force the company to divest its core platforms a move not seen since the breakup of AT&T four decades ago.

The case launched under Trumps first term, expanded during Bidens presidency, and now proceeding under Trump-appointed FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson has already endured years of setbacks. Judge Boasberg initially dismissed the FTCs original 2021 filing, questioning the agencys evidence of market dominance. A revised version was allowed to proceed in 2022, and the case is now finally going to trial.

Despite the FTCs persistence, Boasberg has continued to express skepticism, saying in court filings the governments argument strains this countrys creaking antitrust precedents. Whether the FTC can prove Metas purchases were anticompetitive in a now more diverse social media landscape with TikTok, YouTube, X, and others remains a key hurdle.

Star witnesses and public scrutiny

A parade of tech leaders are expected to testify during the trial, including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, former COO Sheryl Sandberg, and top executives from WhatsApp and Instagram. Rivals like Snap, Pinterest, and TikTok may also take the stand.

These high-profile testimonies could reveal internal strategies and competitive concerns that influenced Metas biggest acquisitions. The case will also test how companies like Meta define competition in a digital age where platforms often blend features and audiences.

Trumps role could shift the outcome

President Trump, who has recently reconnected with Zuckerberg, could intervene at any point. Though the FTC traditionally operates independently, Trump has asserted unprecedented influence over the agency firing Democratic commissioners and signaling that Ferguson would follow his lead.

Zuckerbergs recent efforts to align Meta with Republican values and elevate GOP voices in leadership roles have fueled speculation that Trump might move to settle or soften the case particularly if Meta appears likely to lose.

Whats at stake:

The trial, which could run into July, will determine not only the future of Metas empire, but also the power of antitrust regulators to rein in Big Tech. With global implications for corporate consolidation, political power, and digital competition, the verdict may reshape the internet as we know it.

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Posted: 2025-04-14 02:32:52

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Consumer News: Auto Safety Recall Derby - Week of March 23
Mon, 23 Mar 2026 22:07:06 +0000

Volkswagen, Mack, and Chrysler are part of this week's recalls

By News Desk of ConsumerAffairs

March 23, 2026

Here are the latest vehicle and equipment recalls announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. NHTSA Recall ID 26V138

Issue: Loose transmission ground wire may cause fire

Make	Model	Model Years
VOLKSWAGEN	JETTA	20252026

Mack Trucks, Inc. NHTSA Recall ID 26V139

Issue: ECU software error may cause unexpected vehicle movement (FMVSS 102)

Make	Model	Model Years
MACK	TERRAPRO (TE)	20222027

Aluminum Trailer Company (ATC) NHTSA Recall ID 26V140

Issue: Carbon monoxide may enter the passenger cabin

Make	Model	Model Years
ATC	PL700	20232025
ATC	PL750	20242026

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) NHTSA Recall ID 26V141

Issue: Liftgate hinge cover may detach

Make	Model	Model Years
JEEP	WAGONEER S	20242026

Gillig, LLC NHTSA Recall ID 26V142

Issue: Intake pipe may contact the fuel line

Make	Model	Model Years
GILLIG	LOW FLOOR	20212026

BMW of North America, LLC NHTSA Recall ID 26V143

Issue: Loose bolts may damage seat belt webbing

Make	Model	Model Years
ROLLS-ROYCE	CULLINAN	20202026

Gillig, LLC NHTSA Recall ID 26V144

Issue: High voltage cable may overheat

Make	Model	Model Years
GILLIG	LOW FLOOR	20232026

Nissan North America, Inc. NHTSA Recall ID 26V145

Issue: Insufficiently welded front seat frames (FMVSS 207, 210)

Make	Model	Model Years
NISSAN	KICKS	2026
NISSAN	SENTRA	2026

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) NHTSA Recall ID 26V146

Issue: Loose handlebar lock screw may detach and interfere with steering

Make	Model	Model Years
HONDA	CL500	20232025
HONDA	CMX300	20232025
HONDA	CMX500	20232025

Corp. Micro Bird, Inc. NHTSA Recall ID 26V147

Issue: Wheelchair tie-down may not lock

Make	Model	Model Years
MICRO BIRD	G5 TRANSIT BUS	20082026
MICRO BIRD	MB II TRANSIT BUS	20022015
MICRO BIRD	T-SERIES TRANSIT BUS	20152026

Micro Bird USA LLC NHTSA Recall ID 26V148

Issue: Wheelchair tie-down may not lock

Make	Model	Model Years
MICRO BIRD	G5 TRANSIT BUS	2026

Corp. Micro Bird, Inc. NHTSA Recall ID 26V149

Issue: Wheelchair tie-down may not lock

Make	Model	Model Years
MICRO BIRD	G5 SCHOOL BUS	20062026
MICRO BIRD	MB II SCHOOL BUS	20032026
MICRO BIRD	T-SERIES SCHOOL BUS	20152026

Altec Industries, Inc. NHTSA Recall ID 26V150

Issue: Incorrect low tire pressure on certification label

Make	Model	Model Years
ALTEC	AERIAL DEVICE	20232026
ALTEC	DIGGER DERRICK	20232026
ALTEC	PRESSURE DIGGER	20232026
ALTEC	SERVICE BODY	20232026
ALTEC	SPRAY TRUCK	20232026

New Flyer of America, Inc. NHTSA Recall ID 26V151

Issue: Software error may cause unintended acceleration or deceleration

Make	Model	Model Years
NEW FLYER	XE35	20212025
NEW FLYER	XE40	20212026
NEW FLYER	XE60	20232025
NEW FLYER	XHE40	20232026
NEW FLYER	XHE60	20242026

Ferrari North America, Inc. NHTSA Recall ID 26V152

Issue: Reduced visibility from black tint on windows (FMVSS 205)

Make	Model	Model Years
FERRARI	12Cilindri	20252026

Orange EV NHTSA Recall ID 26V153

Issue: Training seat may fail (FMVSS 207, 210)

Make	Model	Model Years
ORANGE EV	E-TRIEVER	20232025
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Forest River, Inc. NHTSA Recall ID 26V154

Issue: Incorrect number of belted seats on label (FMVSS 120)

Make	Model	Model Years
FOREST RIVER	ENTOURAGE	20252026

Ford Motor Company NHTSA Recall ID 26V155

Issue: Unintended brake light illumination (FMVSS 108)

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FORD	F-53	20252026
FORD	F-59	20252026

Tiffin Motorhomes, Inc. NHTSA Recall ID 26V156

Issue: Incorrect seating capacity on label (FMVSS 110)

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TIFFIN	GH1	20252026
TIFFIN	GH2	2026
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Ford Motor Company NHTSA Recall ID 26V157

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Check your vehicle for recalls

To find out whether your specific vehicle is included in a recall, you can check by VIN or license plate on NHTSAs recall lookup page: NHTSA.gov/recalls.

If your vehicle has an unrepaired recall, contact your local dealership to schedule a repair recall remedies are provided at no cost.

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recall notices.

Consumer News: ER or urgent care? How to make the right call when it matters most
Mon, 23 Mar 2026 22:07:06 +0000

Know where to get the care you need when you need it

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

March 23, 2026

Emergency rooms are for life-threatening or severe conditionswhen every second counts
Urgent care is best for non-life-threatening issues that still need prompt attention
When in doubt, err on the side of cautionserious symptoms should always go to the ER

When something goes wrong, or you need fast, reliable medical care, knowing where to go can save time, money, and even your life.

The choice between urgent care and the emergency room (ER) often comes down to one key question: How serious is this?

Both options are designed to provide care quickly, but they serve very different purposes. Emergency rooms are equipped for severe, life-threatening situations, with access to advanced imaging, specialists, and around-the-clock care.

On the other hand, urgent care centers are built for convenience handling less serious issues when your primary doctor isnt available.

Theres a lot of overlap between what urgent care centers and emergency departments can handle, Christopher F. Freer, DO, FACEP, Executive Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer, Acute Care Providers at RWJBarnabas Health, said in a news release.

But the key difference is the level of resources available.

ER vs. urgent care: What goes where

A good rule of thumb: if a condition could threaten your life, limb, or long-term health, head to the ER no hesitation.

Dr. Freer shared his guidelines for when patients should head to the ER:

Signs of a heart attack (shortness of breath, chest pains)
Severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis
Severe traumatic injuries (car accidents, head trauma, sports collisions)
Stroke symptoms (facial drooping, sudden weakness, difficulty speaking)
Difficulty breathing, especially in young children

An ED is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is always prepared for critical cases, said Dr. Freer. [The teams are] trained to act quickly in emergencies ensuring that patients receive immediate, life-saving care when every second counts.

Urgent care is ideal when you need same-day treatment but arent in immediate danger. Its often faster and more affordable, too.

For many pediatric concerns like mild fevers, common colds, or minor sprains urgent care can be a great option, Dr. Freer said. But when symptoms are severe, such as high fevers that dont respond to medication, difficulty breathing, or dehydration from persistent vomiting, the emergency department is the safest choice.

What consumers should keep in mind

If youre on the fence, heres the simplest way to think about it: urgent care is for this cant wait, while the ER is for this cant wait and could be serious.

Some other things to consider timing. If its late at night and urgent care is closed, the ER may be your only option.

Also, dont forget your primary doctor. For less urgent concerns, a quick call could save you a trip altogether.

Urgent care centers are great for non-emergencies that require rapid attention, but the emergency department (ED) is always going to be your go-to for serious or potentially life-threatening conditions, Dr. Freer said. The ED has the full capabilities and staffing of a hospital system behind it meaning it can offer comprehensive care and has the equipment necessary for more complicated diagnostics.

Consumer News: A new California bill targets ‘forever chemicals’ in food
Mon, 23 Mar 2026 22:07:06 +0000

Proposed 2035 ban on PFAS pesticides aims to reduce toxic exposure and reshape how produce is grown nationwide

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

March 23, 2026

California is considering a bill that would ban PFAS (forever chemical) pesticides by 2035.
These chemicals are widespread in agriculture and have been found on a significant portion of produce.
The move could impact food safety, farming practices, and what consumers buy at the grocery store.

California is once again stepping into the spotlight on chemical safety this time with a proposed bill that would phase out so-called forever chemicals in pesticides by 2035.

Known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), these chemicals are used in a wide range of products, including agriculture, because they resist heat, water, and breakdown. But that durability is exactly what worries scientists and public health advocates: PFAS can linger in the environment and the human body for years.

The urgency behind the bill comes as new data highlights just how common these chemicals are in the food supply. A recent analysis found that nearly 40% of non-organic fruits and vegetables grown in California contain traces of PFAS pesticides. With California producing more than half of the nations produce, that has implications far beyond the state.

The country depends on California for its fruits and vegetables, but right now theyre being seasoned with chemicals that never break down, Bernadette Del Chiaro, the Environmental Working Groups (EWGs) senior vice president for California, said in a news release.

We cannot claim to lead the world in public health while allowing millions of pounds of toxic PFAS to be deliberately sprayed on our most iconic crops, she said.

What the bill would do

The proposed legislation would ban the use, sale, and manufacture of PFAS in pesticides by 2035, giving farmers time to transition to safer alternatives. It targets a lesser-known but significant source of exposure: agricultural chemicals applied directly to crops.

PFAS pesticides have been widely used in California for years. Between 2018 and 2023 alone, nearly 15 million pounds were applied to farmland across the state. These chemicals dont easily break down and can accumulate in soil, water, and food raising concerns about long-term health risks, including links to cancer, reproductive issues, and immune system effects.

While some states like Maine have already moved to ban PFAS in pesticides, Californias size and influence make this proposal especially significant. If passed, it could set a new national standard and push federal regulators to follow suit.

As a father, I don't want my kids eating strawberries contaminated with chemicals that will stay in their bodies for decades, Assemblymember Nick Schultz (D-Burbank), who introduced the bill, said in a news release.

AB 1603 is a vital step toward ensuring Californias agricultural legacy is defined by health and innovation, not by the accumulation of toxic PFAS in our soil and water. We are providing a clear, responsible road map for our farmers to transition away from these persistent chemicals, while re-establishing California as a global leader in food safety.

What consumers should know

For shoppers, this bill is ultimately about reducing everyday exposure to chemicals that are hard to avoid. While the proposed ban is still years away, there are a few simple steps you can take now if this issue hits close to home.

Washing produce thoroughly can help remove some surface residues, and choosing organic options when possible may reduce exposure, since PFAS pesticides arent allowed in organic farming.

But experts stress that the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables still far outweigh the risks so this isnt a reason to cut them out.

The bigger picture? This bill reflects a growing shift toward tighter regulation of chemicals in food production. If it passes, it could mean cleaner farming practices and, eventually, a safer food supply for everyone.

Consumer News: Lowe’s launches $99 home maintenance subscription with in-home help
Mon, 23 Mar 2026 19:07:07 +0000

Is Lowes HomeCare+ actually worth $99 a year?

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs

March 23, 2026

Lowes new HomeCare+ plan costs $99 a year and includes two in-home maintenance visits.
Services include basics like dryer vent cleaning, water heater flushing, and filter replacement.
It could be worth it for homeowners who put off upkeep, but check availability and compare it to DIY costs first.

Lowes is rolling out a new home maintenance subscription service called HomeCare+, offering homeowners two in-home service visits per year for $99 annually.

The plan, available to MyLowes Rewards members in areas covering more than 75% of U.S. homes, includes up to seven basic maintenance services per visit, performed by Lowes red vest associates.

The maintenance services they offer include the following seven items:

Dryer vent cleaning
HVAC filter replacement
Refrigerator water filter replacement
Water heater flushing
Garage door lubrication
Smoke detector battery replacement
Light bulb replacement.

You can actually select all seven maintenance items for one visit if needed.

Subscribers also get Gold Status in MyLowes Rewards and 5% off select supplies tied to those services.

For homeowners, the program could make sense if you regularly put off basic maintenance or simply do not want to climb ladders, crawl behind appliances, or perhaps youre a senior and cant handle routine upkeep yourself.

It comes out to about $8.25 per month, which may be cheaper than hiring a handyman for even one visit.

Actionable tips for shoppers:

Be selective. Use the service for the maintenance chores you actually dread and avoid the most. Things like dryer vent cleaning or water heater flushing jump to mind, as they can both be time consuming, yet can improve safety and appliance efficiency.
Check your area first. Be sure to check your zip code before subscribing. Lowes initially claims to only have this service reach 75% of U.S. homes, so make sure your address is included.
Compare the value to your own DIY habits. If you already replace filters and batteries yourself, the subscription may not be worth it. But for older adults, busy families, or first-time homeowners, who want the peace of mind that routine maintenance will get done, it could definitely be worth the $99 annually.
Beprepared for a sales pitch. It stands that the repair person could try to upsell you on more expensive filters, bulbs, batteries, or replacement parts. Know what's a good price before you agree to buy anything.

The bottom line: Lowes is clearly trying to turn routine home maintenance into a subscription business; one theyre hoping you set and forget.

But for the right homeowner, the subscription could be a smart way to stay on top of small tasks before they become expensive repairs.

Consumer News: Here’s why the price of gold is falling
Mon, 23 Mar 2026 19:07:07 +0000

The move defies expectations during a geopolitical crisis

By Mark Huffman

of ConsumerAffairs

March 23, 2026

Gold is falling despite geopolitical turmoil as investors flock to the U.S. dollar instead.
Higher interest rates and inflation expectations are undercutting golds appeal.
Analysts say macroeconomic forces are overwhelming golds traditional safe-haven role.

Theres war in the Middle East. Oil prices are surging. Gold prices should also be surging, but theyre not. Theyre going down.

Gold, long regarded as a reliable refuge during times of geopolitical upheaval, is defying expectations. Even as tensions escalate in the Middle East, prices for the precious metal have moved sharply lower, leaving some investors puzzled.

Market analysts say the explanation lies not in a breakdown of golds traditional role, but in the unusual economic dynamics surrounding the current crisis.

Dollar strength is one reason gold is going lower

Instead of flowing into gold, capital is pouring into the U.S. dollar, which has surged as global investors seek liquidity and safety. Because gold is priced in dollars, a stronger greenback makes the metal more expensive for buyers using other currencies, dampening demand.

This shift points to a key reality: gold is not the only safe haven. In periods of financial stress, especially those tied to energy markets and global trade, cash and particularly dollar-denominated assets can take precedence.

Another major factor weighing on gold is the outlook for interest rates.

The conflict has driven oil prices higher, raising concerns about renewed inflation. In turn, investors increasingly believe central banks especially the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates elevated for longer than previously expected.

Higher rates are negative for gold

That dynamic is typically negative for gold. Unlike bonds or savings instruments, gold does not generate income. When yields on safer assets rise, the opportunity cost of holding gold increases.

While gold is often viewed as a hedge against inflation, the current environment is more complex, analysts say.

Mark Haefele, chief investment officer at UBS Global Wealth Management, says weve seen this pattern before.

For instance, gold jumped 15% after the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022, but then declined by 15-18% as the Federal Reserve raised rates, he told Morningstar. The same happened during the Gulf War and Iraq War; prices rose 17% and 19%, respectively, at the start but decreased as tensions eased.

Higher energy prices are feeding inflation fears, but they are also reinforcing expectations of tighter monetary policy. In the short term, that combination tends to pressure gold rather than support it.

In other words, inflation is working against gold indirectly by keeping interest rates high.

Profit-taking and liquidity pressures add to the decline

Golds recent drop also reflects investor behavior following a strong run-up earlier this year. Prices had climbed significantly before the latest escalation, prompting some traders to lock in gains.

At the same time, periods of market volatility often trigger broader selling. Investors may liquidate gold positions simply because they are profitable and easy to sell, using the proceeds to cover losses elsewhere or raise cash.

The current downturn reinforces a broader shift in how markets are reacting to geopolitical events. While gold still responds to uncertainty, its price is increasingly influenced by interest rates, currency movements, and central bank policy. For now, those forces are pointing downward.

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