Consumer News: Beware of influencers bearing tall tales: the CFPB is not handing out money

Increasing costs are changing how Americans celebrate not whether they celebrate

• Rising chocolate prices are reshaping Easter shopping habits, but most Americans are still celebrating just more strategically.

• Simple savings tactics like stacking discounts, timing purchases, and using leftover gift cards can help cut costs without sacrificing traditions.

• Beyond candy, expenses like clothing, dcor, and hosting extras can quietly drive up your total making them key areas to scale back.

Easter may be a little pricier this year, but for most Americans, its still very much on the calendar.

New data from RetailMeNot shows that while rising chocolate costs are forcing shoppers to rethink how they spend, theyre not giving up the holiday altogether. In fact, more than eight in 10 consumers still plan to celebrate theyre just getting smarter about it.

From hunting for deals to rethinking what goes into baskets, shoppers are finding ways to hold onto traditions without overspending. ConsumerAffairs spoke with RetailMeNots Retail Insights Expert Stephanie Carls, who explained that the focus isnt on cutting Easter out its on making it work within todays tighter budgets.

Easter savings strategies

Like any holiday, theres ways to make the most of your budget even as prices in nearly every category continue to increase.

Carls shared her top three savings strategies consumers can employ as they prepare for Easter weekend:

• Stack savings, but do it in the right order. Start with the sale price, stack a promo code on top, then activate any cash back offers before you check out. Most people stop at the sale price and call it a day. All three stacked together is a different final number.

• Know what youre shopping for before you decide when to shop. If selection matters, shop before the holiday. If price is the priority, the deepest discounts show up after Easter Sunday, not before it. Those are two different strategies and theyre both right, just for different things.

• Use what you already have. Gift cards, reward points, store credit collecting dust in an app since December. Leftover gift cards are still in circulation and ready to stack on top of already-discounted products. Easter is low-stakes enough to actually use them.

The priciest categories this Easter

If youre preparing for Easter, here the top three categories that Carls said are likely to run you a higher bill this year:

• Spring clothes. Outside of chocolate, spring apparel is the category most people arent thinking about but should be. Twenty-one percent of shoppers in our data plan to buy clothing or seasonal apparel for Easter. Pre-Easter is the best window for spring clothing. Department stores are discounting spring dresses, kids Easter outfits, and pastel basics in the weeks leading up to the holiday, and popular sizes move fast. If the outfit is happening either way, buy it now.

• Chocolate specifically deserves its own conversation this year. Our data shows 26% of shoppers plan to spend less on chocolate because of rising prices, and another 37% say theyll look for deals or cash back before buying it. Thats nearly two thirds of shoppers changing their behavior around one category.

• Skip anything marketed as an Easter-themed version of something that exists year-round. The bunny on the packaging is not a selling point. You are paying for the label.

Balancing Easter shopping in your budget

Carls explained that Easter baskets arent the only place where the holiday gets expensive.

RetailMeNot's data shows the average Easter spend this year is $88, and candy and chocolate top the list at 68% of shoppers planning to buy it, she said. Thats not the budget problem.

The creep happens in the categories people dont think about until theyre already in the store. Decorations and hosting supplies, floral arrangements, restaurant brunches. Those add up fast and theyre a lot easier to cut than the chocolate bunny.

Her best advice:

• Keep the traditions that matter to your family.

• Set a per-basket number before you shop, not after.

• Deciding the number upfront means you stop justifying each small purchase on its own and start making real tradeoffs.

The pressure to spend big is mostly manufactured, Carls said. Shoppers have more room here than the seasonal marketing wants them to think. Timing and a short list usually get the job done.

New data reveals how financial pressure and daily stress are shaping habits and what healthier coping can look like

• More than half of Americans say stress and rising costs are so overwhelming, theyve considered leaving the U.S. and many report turning to substances just to get through the day.

• Financial pressure, limited access to affordable care, and nonstop daily stress are driving increased substance use, with some people using before or even during work.

• Experts say small, healthier coping strategies like setting boundaries, finding support, and building daily moments of relief can help break the cycle and improve long-term well-being.

For a growing number of Americans, stress isnt just an occasional bad day its a constant backdrop to everyday life. Rising costs, demanding work schedules, and limited access to affordable health care are leaving many people feeling stretched thin.

New research from Drug Rehab USA underscores just how widespread the strain has become, with more than half of Americans saying they would consider leaving the country due to stress and cost-of-living pressures. Against that backdrop, substance use is on the rise, with many turning to it as a way to cope with mounting pressures.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Andrew McKenna, JD, expert author and editor at Drug Rehab USA, who says the trend reflects a deeper issue: people are searching for relief wherever they can find it. As the data shows, substances are often seen as more accessible than professional care but they can come with long-term consequences. Understanding whats driving this shift and what healthier coping strategies look like is key to helping people regain a sense of control.

The impact of chronic stress

McKenna explained that chronic stress is one of the biggest factors influencing Americans decision to use substances.

The stress is associated with financial and job pressures, as well as a general feeling that life is a lot right now, and its just getting harder to manage, he said.

Our research found that nearly everyone is dealing with some form of daily stress and theyre being priced out by supportive aids like therapy, and it feels so far out of reach that theyre reaching for more instant relief. So it makes sense that were seeing substance use show up earlier in the day and even during work hours, its just becoming a part of how adults function, not just how they relax.

Adopting healthier coping strategies

Over time, using substances to cope with stress can be detrimental in several ways. McKenna explained that long-term, substance use can negatively impact productivity, relationships, and overall public health.

Instead, he advises consumers to look to healthier coping strategies. Adoption can start with moving away from quick fixes and heading toward things that actually reduce stress over time, McKenna said.

While difficult, he recommends trying the following:

• Look at what brings you joy. Allow yourself even a little bit of that on a daily basis.That could be simply going outside, going on a short walk or jog, or getting a nice cup of coffee.

• Get some you time. This is a big thing, and should be something that you enjoy on a regular basis.

• Show up for yourself and set boundaries. It can be really hard for a lot of people to do this, but trust me, its worth it.

• When possible, search out some form of support. Whether its a support group, low-cost counseling, or even structured digital tools, these can really help you build healthier patterns that last long term.

Take small steps

If youre struggling with substance use, McKenna recommends taking small steps, as they will eventually lead to positive change long-term.

One thing thats really interesting we uncovered in our research is that adults arent exactly using substances to feel good, but to just feel okay and functioning, he said. Thats an important distinction to make. When theres so many adults struggling to just get by, it speaks to a larger issue around access to care, financial strain, and their overall well-being.

Another piece of advice: Try talking to someone, even casually.

Thats a big step in the right direction, McKenna said. It can also make you feel less alone and see that your struggles are often similar to others, and your situation isnt an isolated one.

The bargain treasure hunt hiding inside Staples

• Staples Bin Wins is a new rotating bin sale filled with overstock and returns (including many Amazon items), with fresh inventory added every Friday.

• Prices drop daily from about $15 on Friday down to $2 by Thursday, meaning better selection early in the week and cheaper prices later.

• To win, shop early for quality or mid-week for value, scan items on eBay before buying, and remember everything is final sale so choose carefully.

Staples is quietly rolling out something called Bin Wins inside many of their stores, and its basically a rotating clearance event where shoppers dig through bins of heavily discounted items.

Think of the bins as part thrift store and part liquidation sale.

Heres whats actually going on and how you can take advantage of it.

What 'Bin Wins'actually are

• The bins are filled with overstock and returned merchandise (including many Amazon returns).
• Inventory typically includes tech, toys, home goods, clothing, and some random finds.
• New items are restocked every Friday, then picked over all week.

How pricing works (this is the key)

Similar to more traditional bin stores, prices drop every single day on the same items:

• Friday: $15 (best selection, highest price)
• Saturday: $12
• Sunday: $10
• Monday: $8
• Tuesday: $6
• Wednesday: $4
• Thursday: $2 (cheapest, but mostly picked over)

Some locations may follow slightly different pricing tiers, but the pattern stays the same.

If you wait, youll pay less, but there will be fewer good items left.

Are these really Amazon returns?

The short answer is that yes, a lot of them are, but not everything.

Staples accepts Amazon returns in-store, and many of those items end up in the bins.

Youll also find overstock from other retailers, Staples shelf pulls, and many random liquidation items.

Keep in mind that some items are brand new, others are opened, and some may be missing parts or manuals.

How to actually score good deals

1. Go on Friday if you want quality:Thats when bins are freshly stocked. Youll find the best items, but youll pay more.
2. Go mid-week for the sweet spot:Tuesday and Wednesday tend to offer lower prices with still decent selection.
3. Go Thursday if youre hunting for flips:At $2 per item, this is where resellers show up looking for leftover value.

Smart tips for shopping the Bin Wins section

• Everything is final sale. Make sure you test out products the best you can, and youre okay with the price, as you cannot return or exchange anything.
• Bring your phone and scan everything. Look items up on eBay before buying. Some shoppers flip cheap finds for big profits.
• Dont assume it works. Test electronics if possible or stick to sealed items.
• Watch the crowd. Fridays can get competitive with early lines and fast picking.
• Set a strict budget. Cheap clutter is still clutter if you dont need it.

Drivers are finding it less profitable to work when gas costs $4 a gallon

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• Gas prices have surged past $4 a gallon in the U.S. following the Iran war, sharply increasing operating costs for rideshare drivers.

• Many drivers report shrinking earnings, longer hours, and selectively accepting rides to stay profitable.

• The combined effect could reduce driver availability in some markets, though demand shifts may partially offset shortages.

While consumers are dealing with rising costs from spiking gas prices, heres another annoyance that might not have been anticipated. It may be harder to hail a ride from Uber and Lyft.

As the average gas price surpassed $4 a gallon, rideshare drivers across the United States are feeling the impact almost immediately, and passengers may soon notice the difference.

Gas prices have climbed above $4 per gallon nationally much higher in some states a roughly 35% increase since the conflict began disrupting oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route.The spike is largely driven by higher crude oil costs tied to the war, with energy analysts warning that volatility could persist if supply disruptions continue.

Drivers profits squeezed

For rideshare drivers who shoulder fuel costs themselves the price surge is cutting deeply into already thin margins.

In cities like New Orleans and Atlanta, drivers report spending as much as half their earnings on fuel, while gas prices have risen by as much as $1 per gallon in just weeks. Some drivers say they are effectively working at or near a loss after accounting for platform fees and expenses.

A teacher, who works part-time as a Lyft driver, said that because of the surge in gasoline prices, shes not sure her second job is going to last.

Im working now for rideshare, but I dont know what thats going to look like next week. Because if gas is $4 a gallon, Im done, she told CNN.

The pressure is forcing behavioral changes. Drivers are:

• Working longer hours to maintain income.

• Avoiding shorter or less profitable trips.

• Relying more heavily on tips.

• Carefully choosing when and where to drive.

In Florida, some drivers say they are now prioritizing only the most lucrative fares or adjusting routes to conserve fuel.

Will there be fewer rides?

The key question for riders is whether these pressures will translate into fewer available rides.

There are early signs this could happen but the outcome is not straightforward.

Factors pointing to fewer drivers:

• Lower profitability may push some drivers to quit or reduce hours.

• Selective ride acceptance can increase wait times

• Rising costs may deter new drivers from joining.

Some drivers are already declining trips that dont justify fuel costs, a shift that can reduce effective supply even if the number of drivers remains unchanged.

Factors that may offset shortages:

• Higher fares or surge pricing could lure drivers back onto the road.

• Companies like Uber are offering temporary fuel discounts to retain drivers.

• Consumer demand may fall if rides become more expensive, easing pressure on supply.

A fragile balance

For now, the rideshare market appears to be entering a period of instability rather than outright collapse.

If fuel prices continue rising or remain elevated for months industry analysts say a more noticeable contraction in driver availability is likely. That could mean longer wait times, higher fares, and reduced service in less busy areas.

At the same time, the gig economys flexibility may cushion the blow. Drivers can quickly re-enter the market if earnings improve, creating a dynamic equilibrium shaped by gas prices, rider demand, and platform incentives.

What is clear is that the Iran wars ripple effects are reaching far beyond global energy markets, directly into the everyday economics of getting a ride across town.

This low-tech scheme started in Philadelphia but will likely spread

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• Philadelphia police have uncovered a growing ATM scam involving hidden trap-door devices that steal cash from unsuspecting users.

• At least nine incidents have been reported across the city since mid-March, with machines tampered with in stores and neighborhoods citywide.

• Investigators warn that the low-tech scheme could easily spread to other cities as criminals replicate the tactic.

ATMs are a favorite target of scammers. Unlike credit card skimmers, the prize here is a consumers cold, hard cash.

The scam has grabbed the attention of police in Philadelphia, where it has victimized scores of consumers since mid-March. Police say criminals are installing hidden trap-door devices inside ATM cash dispensers, allowing them to steal money from customers who believe the machine has malfunctioned.

The scam has already been discovered in multiple parts of the city. Authorities say at least nine ATMs, located in corner stores, dollar stores, and other retail locations, have been tampered with.

How the scam works

The scheme relies on confusion rather than hacking. Victims insert their card and request cash as usual, but instead of dispensing money, the ATM funnels the bills into a concealed compartment attached to the machine.

"Usually, with this type of machine, the roll door would roll down and you can take your money out," Capt. Robert McKeever with the Major Crimes Unit, told Philadelphias Fox 29. "This cash trap basically stops that. So the roll door still rolls down, but the customer hears the [machine] rolling and they can't get the roll door to go down, so they think the ATM is broken, or the machine might be out of money."

Believing the ATM is broken, customers often leave without reporting the issue, giving thieves time to return later, remove the device and collect the trapped cash.

Experts say the tactic is a variation of cash trapping, a form of fraud that targets the physical money rather than stealing card data.

Why police are concerned

Philadelphia police say the devices are typically installed over weekends, when banks are closed and victims may have difficulty immediately reporting missing funds.

The low-tech nature of the scam is what makes it especially concerning. Unlike sophisticated skimming operations, these devices can be made cheaply and installed quickly, making them easy to replicate in other cities.

Authorities note that similar schemes have surfaced in other parts of the U.S. and overseas, often carried out by organized groups targeting high-traffic ATMs.

A broader trend in ATM fraud

While ATM have long involved card skimming or PIN theft, law enforcement says criminals are increasingly turning to simpler methods that exploit human behavior, particularly the tendency to walk away when a machine appears to malfunction.

Financial crime experts say these illusion-based can be harder to detect because victims may not immediately realize a crime has occurred.

How to protect yourself

Police and consumer protection officials recommend several precautions:

• Inspect the ATM for loose parts, unusual attachments, or signs of tampering.

• Avoid using standalone machines in low-traffic areas.

• If cash doesnt dispense, report it immediately and do not leave the machine.

• Contact your bank right away if funds are deducted but no money is received.

Philadelphia officials are urging vigilance, warning that awareness is the best defense as this type of fraud continues to evolve. Theyre also warning consumers that this is not just a Philadelphia it will probably start showing up in other places.