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ATVs, shot glasses, and baby furniture are part of this week's recall roundup

By News Desk of ConsumerAffairs
May 22, 2026

Recall Roundup

This roundup covers newly announced recalls and safety alerts from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Food and Drug Administration. The notices span childrens products, home goods, fitness gear, supplements and food sold nationwide.

Youth ATVs pose crash and burn risks

Lil Pick Up is recalling about 700 Sierra 125U youth ATVs because multiple safety failures can increase the risk of a crash, collision or severe burns.

  • The ATVs can fail suspension, reverse-light, parking-brake and heat-surface safety requirements, creating serious crash and burn hazards.
  • About 700 units were sold online and in stores from October 2025 through April 2026 for between $800 and $1,300.
  • Consumers should stop using the youth ATVs immediately and contact Lil Pick Up for a full refund and free pickup.

Product

Lil Pick Up Inc., of Rowland Heights, California, is recalling its Sierra 125U youth ATVs sold under various brand names, including Rider 9. The recalled vehicles have Sierra 125U on the VIN plate on the front frame column and a separate plate stating the ATV is subject to Lil Pick Ups CPSC-approved action plan. The youth ATVs were sold in red, blue, black, pink, gray, spider red and spider blue.

The hazard

The CPSC said the recalled youth ATVs violate the federal mandatory ATV safety standard and pose a risk of serious injury or death. According to the agency, the vehicles fail mechanical suspension requirements, the reverse indicator light does not illuminate, the parking brakes fail to hold, and surfaces near the footwell can become hot enough to cause severe burns. No incidents or injuries had been reported at the time of the recall.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled youth ATVs immediately and contact Lil Pick Up for a full refund. The company said buyers will be asked to register for the recall at www.lilpickup.us and will then receive instructions on returning the ATV, including free pickup and transportation.

Company contact

Lil Pick Up can be reached collect at 951-245-5663 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, by email at contact@lilpickup.us, or online at www.lilpickup.us/recall-detail.html or www.lilpickup.us by clicking Recall at the top of the page.

Source


Light-up shot glasses expose button batteries

ABC Trading is recalling nearly 2,900 WSDZ-branded LED shot glasses because children can access the button cell batteries inside.

  • The battery compartment can be opened too easily, creating a potentially deadly ingestion hazard for children.
  • About 2,900 glasses were sold at gift stores nationwide from March 2024 through October 2025 for between $6 and $10.
  • Consumers should stop using the glasses, keep them away from children, dispose of the batteries and request a full refund.

Product

ABC Trading Inc., of Vernon, California, is recalling WSDZ-branded LED shot glasses sold individually and in packs of 24. The clear plastic glasses contain three button cell batteries that power LED lights when a push button on the underside is pressed. ITEM NO: LP-024 (122) and Importer: ABC Trading, Inc are printed on a label on the underside.

The hazard

The CPSC said the glasses violate the mandatory standard for consumer products with button cell and coin batteries because children can easily access the batteries. The packaging and product also lack the warnings required under Reeses Law. If swallowed, button cell or coin batteries can cause internal chemical burns, serious injuries and death. No incidents or injuries had been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled glasses immediately, place them where children cannot reach them and properly dispose of the batteries. ABC Trading said consumers can obtain a full refund by disposing of the glass, taking a photo of the product in the trash and emailing the image to recallabc@gmail.com.

Company contact

ABC Trading can be reached toll-free at 323-581-3688 from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, by email at recallabc@gmail.com, or online at https://www.abctradinginc.com/recall-2 or www.abctradinginc.com by clicking Recall Information at the top of the page.

Source


Hook-on chairs create deadly fall hazard

PandaEar is recalling about 9,700 portable hook-on chairs because a removable crotch restraint can allow infants to fall through an opening.

  • The crotch restraint can be removed without a tool, creating a deadly fall hazard for infants and toddlers.
  • About 9,700 chairs were sold on Amazon.com from February 2022 through November 2025 for about $25.
  • Consumers should stop using the chairs immediately, destroy the seating components as directed and request a full refund.

Product

PandaEar, of Lake Dallas, Texas, and Rockville, Maryland, is recalling two models of portable hook-on chairs used to seat young children at a dining table. The chairs have a black or gray metal frame, fabric seats in black, gray or blue dinosaur print, and two metal arms with plastic covers that anchor the seat to the table. Panda Ear appears on a label stitched to the side of the seat, while model C2102 is listed on a label on the bottom of the fabric seat; model BTC-51 has no product markings.

The hazard

The recalled chairs violate the mandatory federal standard for portable hook-on chairs, according to the CPSC. The agency said the crotch restraints can be removed without the use of a tool, allowing infants to fall through an opening in the seat and suffer serious or fatal injuries. No incidents or injuries had been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled hook-on chairs immediately and contact PandaEar to receive a full refund. The company said consumers will be asked to disassemble the chair, cut the restraint straps and fabric seat, and email photographs showing the destroyed product and model label to pandaear_recall@outlook.com.

Company contact

PandaEar is handling the recall by email only at pandaear_recall@outlook.com.

Source


Resistance bands can snap off handles

HomeProGym is recalling certain resistance bands after reports that the bands can forcefully separate from the handle during workouts.

  • The purple 60-pound and gray 70-pound bands can detach from the handle and strike users.
  • About 700 recalled bands were sold as part of bundled sets on Homeprogym.com and Amazon.com from December 2025 through April 2026.
  • Consumers should stop using the affected bands immediately and contact HomeProGym for a refund or store credit.

Product

Supa Products Pte Ltd., doing business as HomeProGym in Singapore, is recalling HomeProGym-branded resistance bands sold in multiple stackable fitness sets and bundles. Only the purple 60-pound resistance band and the gray 70-pound resistance band are included in the recall. The latex bands have a silver metal D-ring at each end attached to a black strap, with HOME PRO GYM and either ULTRA or ULTRA PLUS printed on the strap.

The hazard

The CPSC said the recalled resistance bands can forcefully separate from the handle during use, posing a serious impact hazard. HomeProGym said it had received five reports of bands separating from the handle. No injuries had been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled purple 60-pound and gray 70-pound bands immediately and contact HomeProGym for either a full refund or a $50 HomeProGym.com store credit. The company said consumers should cut the recalled bands in half, send a photo of the destroyed bands to support@homeprogym.com and complete the registration form at https://homeprogym.com/pages/recall. The other bands in the sets can continue to be used.

Company contact

HomeProGym can be reached by email at support@homeprogym.com or online at https://homeprogym.com/pages/recall or https://homeprogym.com/ by clicking on Safety Recalls at the bottom of the page.

Source


Childrens toys expose deadly button batteries

ABC Trading is recalling more than 84,000 childrens toys because battery compartments can be opened by children, creating a deadly ingestion risk.

  • The recalled toy headbands and electronic pet cages contain accessible button cell batteries that can cause fatal internal burns if swallowed.
  • About 84,700 toys were sold at TOYZ and Joissu Product stores nationwide from November 2022 through October 2025 for between $5 and $9.
  • Consumers should stop using the toys immediately, dispose of them and contact ABC Trading for a full refund.

Product

ABC Trading Inc., of Vernon, California, is recalling several battery-powered childrens toys, including a pink bow toy headband, model 6300RP, and electronic pet cage toys, models 8266 (ZH998-22) and ZH998-23. The headband has a push button that lights up the bow, while the pet cage toys include a silver cage with a red dinosaur and yellow egg or a pink cage containing a blue bird. Regulators said children can access the batteries too easily.

The hazard

The CPSC said the toys violate the mandatory federal standard for toys because the button cell battery compartments can be opened by children. If swallowed, button cell and coin batteries can cause internal chemical burns, serious injury and death. No incidents or injuries had been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled toys immediately and contact ABC Trading for a refund. The company said consumers will be asked to dispose of the products, take a photo showing them in the trash and email the image to recallabc@gmail.com to receive a full refund of the retail price.

Company contact

ABC Trading can be reached toll-free at 323-581-3688 from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, by email at recallabc@gmail.com, or online at https://www.abctradinginc.com/recall-2 or www.abctradinginc.com by clicking Recall Information at the top of the page.

Source


Illuminated ribbon spheres may overheat

Bethlehem Lights is recalling 10-inch Illuminated Ribbon Spheres sold by QVC after reports of sparking and overheating.

  • The LED lights inside the decorative sphere can overheat and create a fire hazard.
  • About 2,000 units were sold on QVC.com from July 2024 through April 2026 for about $43.
  • Consumers should unplug the product immediately, cut the power cord and contact Bethlehem Lights for a refund.

Product

Bethlehem Lights LLC, of Naperville, Illinois, is recalling its 10-inch Illuminated Ribbon Sphere, a silver-toned spherical ornament with a spiral faceted design and warm-white LED lights inside. The product was sold online by QVC. The company said the decorative sphere can overheat during use.

The hazard

The recalled LED lights can overheat, posing a risk of serious injury or death from fire, according to the CPSC. Bethlehem Lights said it had received nine reports of the product sparking or overheating. No injuries had been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled illuminated spheres immediately, unplug them from the wall and cut the power cord. To receive a full refund, Bethlehem Lights said consumers should email a photo of the product showing the cut cord to ribbonsphere@bethlehemlights.com before disposing of it in the garbage.

Company contact

Bethlehem Lights LLC can be reached toll-free at 877-661-8324 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, by email at ribbonsphere@bethlehemlights.com, or through https://www.qvc.com/ by clicking Product Recall Info at the bottom of the page.

Source


Squeeze toys may contain asbestos

The Orb Factory is recalling more than 121,000 Orb Funkee squeeze toys because the sand filling may contain tremolite asbestos.

  • The sand inside the toys may contain fibrous tremolite, and inhaling asbestos can cause serious health problems.
  • About 121,340 toys were sold at Walmart and Ollies Bargain Outlet stores nationwide from February 2025 through April 2026.
  • Consumers should take the toys away from children, stop using them and contact The Orb Factory for a refund.

Product

The Orb Factory Limited, doing business as ORB Toys in Canada, is recalling two models of Orb Funkee squeeze toys with date code 3102491A. The products are soft, stretchable toys filled with sand and include model 17451, a large golden monkey, and model 41929, assorted smaller monkees in colors such as orange, purple and green. The date code is printed on the hand of the large toy or on the back of the smaller toys.

The hazard

The CPSC said the recalled squeeze toys may contain fibrous tremolite, a form of asbestos, in the sand filling. Exposure to asbestos fibers can cause adverse health effects if the fibers are inhaled. No incidents or injuries had been reported at the time of the recall.

What to do

Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children, stop using them and contact The Orb Factory for a refund. The company said consumers should verify the code and lot number, place the toy in a heavy-duty plastic bag, seal it securely with tape and email a photo of the bagged toy to customerservice@orbtoys.com. If a toy has ruptured or leaked sand, the company directed consumers to wear a mask and gloves, use damp cloths to collect the material, double-bag the toy and cleanup materials, and dispose of the sealed bags according to local or state regulations.

Company contact

The Orb Factory can be reached at 800-741-0089 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, by email at customerservice@orbtoys.com, or online at www.orbtoys.com by clicking RECALL INFORMATION at the bottom of the page.

Source


Pancake mix may contain undeclared egg

Hometown Food Company has issued an allergy alert for Birch Benders 12 oz Sweet Potato Pancake and Waffle Mix because some packages may contain undeclared egg.

  • The mix may contain egg that is not listed on the label, creating a serious allergy risk for sensitive consumers.
  • The product was distributed nationwide through grocery stores, natural food retailers and online channels.
  • Consumers should discard the affected mix immediately or return it to the store where it was purchased for a refund.

Product

Hometown Food Company is recalling Birch Benders 12 oz Sweet Potato Pancake and Waffle Mix after discovering that some product may contain undeclared egg. The affected item carries case item code 8 1000156076 5, UPC item code 8 1000156076 8, lot code 5 265 and a best-if-used-by date of March 24, 2027. The product was distributed nationwide.

The hazard

For people with an allergy or severe sensitivity to egg, eating the recalled pancake and waffle mix could trigger a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction. The FDA notice did not list any illnesses.

What to do

Consumers who purchased the affected Birch Benders mix should not eat it. Hometown Food Company said the product should be discarded immediately or returned to the retail location where it was purchased for a refund.

Company contact

Consumers with questions can call 1-855-206-9517.

Source


Minestrone soup may contain undeclared shrimp

Kettle Cuisine has issued an allergy alert for Whole Foods Market Kitchen Minestrone Soup because some containers may contain undeclared shrimp.

  • The soup may contain shrimp not disclosed on the label, creating a potentially life-threatening shellfish allergy risk.
  • The affected soup was sold in Whole Foods stores in 18 states and online through Whole Foods and Amazon.
  • Consumers should return the affected product to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Product

Kettle Cuisine is recalling Whole Foods Market Kitchen Minestrone Soup because the product may contain undeclared shrimp. The affected containers have lot code 1762181, a use-by date of 05/27/26 printed on the top rim of the cup, and UPC 099482502065 on the back label. Distribution included Whole Foods retail stores in AL, CT, DC, FL, GA, MA, MD, ME, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, SC, TN and VA, along with nationwide online sales through Whole Foods and Amazon.

The hazard

People who are allergic to crustacean shellfish, including shrimp, could face a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the recalled soup. The FDA alert did not list any illnesses.

What to do

Consumers who purchased the affected soup should not eat it. Kettle Cuisine said buyers should return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Company contact

Consumers with questions can call 617-409-1100 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.

Source


Sex enhancement capsules contain hidden drugs

Best Supplements Best Prices is recalling WAP Sensual Enhancement Capsules because the capsules contain undeclared prescription drug ingredients.

  • The capsules contain undeclared sildenafil, tadalafil and flibanserin, which can dangerously interact with other medications and alcohol.
  • All lots with UPC 80174 00462 were distributed nationwide in the U.S. through eBay.
  • Consumers should stop using the capsules immediately, dispose of them and contact the firm for a refund.

Product

Best Supplements Best Prices has issued a voluntary nationwide recall of WAP Sensual Enhancement Capsules sold online through www.ebay.com. The recall covers all lots of the product with UPC 80174 00462. The company said customers are being notified by email and offered full refunds.

The hazard

The FDA said the capsules contain undeclared sildenafil, tadalafil and flibanserin. Sildenafil and tadalafil can interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs, such as nitroglycerin, and may cause blood pressure to drop to dangerous levels. Flibanserin can cause drowsiness, sedation, fainting and dangerously low blood pressure, especially when combined with alcohol. Consumers with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or heart disease may face elevated risk because they are more likely to take nitrates.

What to do

Consumers who have WAP Sensual Enhancement Capsules should stop using the product immediately and dispose of it. Best Supplements Best Prices said it is arranging full refunds for recalled products and is notifying customers by email.

Company contact

Consumers can contact the company by email at eroticenhancers@gmail.com or by calling 818-856-2141.

Source


Tahina recalled over Salmonella contamination

Nassar Investments is recalling Malazi Tahina after the product was found to be contaminated with Salmonella.

  • The recalled tahina may contain Salmonella, which can cause severe illness and can be especially dangerous for vulnerable people.
  • The product was sold in plastic bottles in Michigan and North Carolina between March 1, 2025, and June 9, 2025.
  • Consumers should not eat the tahina and should discard the product immediately.

Product

Nassar Investments is recalling Malazi Tahina due to Salmonella contamination. The recalled product has UPC 6 224011 088244 and expiration date 30/12/2026. According to the FDA notice, the tahina was distributed in retail stores in Michigan and North Carolina.

The hazard

Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy people may experience fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, while pregnant women can face risks including miscarriage and stillbirth. The FDA notice did not mention any illnesses.

What to do

Consumers who purchased the recalled tahina should not consume it and should discard the product. Anyone who believes they may have become ill should contact a health care provider.

Company contact

Consumers can contact Mr. Akram Nassar at 919-949-3534.

Source


Kroger croutons face Salmonella risk

Sugar Foods LLC is recalling specific lots of Kroger Homestyle Cheese Garlic Croutons because of potential Salmonella contamination.

  • The recalled croutons may be contaminated with Salmonella, which can cause serious illness in children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
  • The affected lots were sold at Kroger stores in 17 states and carry UPC 0 11110 81353 4 with select best-if-used-by dates.
  • Consumers should check the UPC and best-if-used-by dates and contact Sugar Foods LLC directly for questions or more information.

Product

Sugar Foods LLC has issued a supplier-initiated recall of specific lots of Kroger Homestyle Cheese Garlic Croutons. The affected product bears UPC 0 11110 81353 4 and best-if-used-by dates from Feb. 17, 2027, through April 7, 2027, including multiple dates listed in the recall notice. The croutons were sold at Kroger stores in AL, AR, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MI, MO, MS, OH, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI and WV.

The hazard

Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy people can experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, and in rare cases the infection can spread to the bloodstream and cause more serious conditions such as arterial infections, endocarditis and arthritis. The FDA notice did not list any illnesses.

What to do

Consumers should check whether their package matches the recalled UPC and one of the listed best-if-used-by dates. Sugar Foods LLC said consumers who purchased one of the recalled lots may contact the company directly at 332-240-6676 for questions or more information.

Company contact

Consumers can call Sugar Foods LLC at 332-240-6676. Media inquiries can be directed to Ms. Krista Locke at 805-396-5000.

Source


Organic ice cream may contain metal

Straus Family Creamery is recalling select flavors of its Organic Super Premium Ice Cream because the products may contain metal fragments.

  • The recalled ice cream may contain metal foreign material, creating a potential choking or injury hazard.
  • The affected products were distributed in 17 states and carry listed best-by dates in late December 2026.
  • Consumers should not eat the ice cream and should discard it, then visit the companys recall page for a replacement voucher.

Product

Straus Family Creamery is voluntarily recalling select flavors of Organic Super Premium Ice Cream due to the potential presence of metal fragments. The recall covers products with best-by dates of Dec. 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 and 30, 2026. The affected ice cream was distributed in Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin.

The hazard

The recall was issued because the ice cream may contain metal foreign material. The FDA notice did not provide injury reports, but metal fragments in food can present a risk of injury if consumed.

What to do

Consumers who purchased the recalled ice cream should not eat it and should discard it. Straus Family Creamery said consumers should not return the product to the store. Those seeking a voucher for a replacement product can visit https://www.strausfamilycreamery.com/recall/.

Company contact

Straus Family Creamery can be reached at support@strausmilk.com or 1-707-776-2887 Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT.

Source


Seasoning recalled over possible Salmonella risk

Blackstone Products is recalling Parmesan Ranch seasoning sold at Walmart and on its website because of possible Salmonella contamination.

  • The seasoning may be contaminated with Salmonella, which can lead to severe illness and bloodstream infections in rare cases.
  • The recall covers lot codes 2025-43282, 2025-46172 and 2026-54751 sold nationwide through Walmart and Blackstone Products.
  • Consumers should not consume the seasoning, should dispose of it immediately and may contact the company for a replacement.

Product

Blackstone Products is voluntarily recalling Parmesan Ranch seasoning because of a potential foodborne illness risk tied to Salmonella. The affected lots are 2025-43282, 2025-46172 and 2026-54751. The seasoning was sold nationwide exclusively through Walmart stores and through the Blackstone Products website.

The hazard

Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy people commonly experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, and in rare cases the infection can enter the bloodstream and cause more severe illnesses such as infected aneurysms, endocarditis and arthritis. The FDA notice did not mention any illnesses.

What to do

Consumers who have the affected seasoning should not consume it and should dispose of it immediately. Blackstone Products said customers who purchased one of the affected products may contact the company directly to obtain a replacement product.

Company contact

Consumers can call 1-888-879-4610. Media inquiries can be directed to Tracy Baldwin at 435-252-3030 or tbaldwin@weberblackstone.com.

Source





Posted: 2026-05-22 18:40:05

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Consumer News: Sleep experts want this to be the last time Americans change their clocks
Thu, 08 Oct 2026 22:07:08 +0000

Experts are urging lawmakers to make standard time permanent for better sleep and safety

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs
October 8, 2026
  • Americans will turn their clocks back one hour on Nov. 1 for the annual fall back time change.

  • Sleep experts are pushing Congress to make standard time permanent instead of continuing seasonal clock changes.

  • For now, consumers can make the transition easier by prioritizing sleep, morning sunlight, and a consistent schedule.


The annual fall back time change is almost here. On Sunday, Nov. 1, Americans will turn their clocks back one hour, beginning another stretch of standard time.

But sleep experts say they would like this to be the last time Americans have to make the switch.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Coalition for Permanent Standard Time are urging lawmakers to eliminate seasonal clock changes and keep the country on standard time year-round. Their position is that permanent standard time better matches the body's natural sleep-wake cycle and could support sleep, safety, and overall well-being.

Changing the clocks can have consequences for sleep, health, and safety, yet we require millions of Americans to do it twice a year, said Dr. Karin Johnson, sleep medicine physician and co-chair of the coalitions steering committee. This should be the last time we ever have to change our clocks. Lawmakers have an opportunity to end this cycle for good by choosing permanent standard time for brighter mornings, better sleep, and safer streets.

Why sleep experts favor standard time

There are currently two different approaches being considered in Congress. The Sunshine Protection Act, H.R. 139, would make daylight saving time permanent. The Sunshine for Our Kids Act, H.R. 9638, would establish permanent standard time nationwide.

The sleep experts support the latter option because sunlight plays an important role in regulating the body's internal clock. Brighter mornings can help people wake up, stay alert, and maintain healthier sleep patterns.

Permanent daylight saving time, on the other hand, would mean darker winter mornings. According to the experts, losing that morning light could interfere with sleep, mood, and daytime functioning. The group also points to the country's previous experience with year-round daylight saving time, which was reversed after concerns about dark mornings and public safety.

What consumers can do this fall

Whatever lawmakers ultimately decide, consumers still have to deal with the Nov. 1 time change.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends getting at least seven hours of sleep in the days before and after the change. It also suggests gradually shifting bedtime later in the days leading up to the transition, along with other routines such as meals and exercise.

Once the clocks change, sticking to a consistent wake-up time can help. Getting outside for morning sunlight may also help reset the body's internal clock. Consumers should also be mindful of afternoon caffeine while adjusting, particularly if it could interfere with nighttime sleep.

Parents may want to give children and teenagers some extra time to adjust, while keeping their bedtime routines consistent.

"Americans are tired of changing their clocks, Dr. Johnson added. As policymakers consider ways to end this practice, we encourage them to follow the science. Permanent standard time offers the best alignment with the bodys internal clock, making it the healthiest choice for sleep, safety, and well-being. The benefits are especially important for our adolescents and teens, who are particularly sensitive to the loss of morning light, helping to reduce depression and improve school performance."

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Consumer News: Job scammers have a type this year: Here’s who’s on the list
Thu, 08 Oct 2026 22:07:08 +0000

Veterans, caregivers, and even cybersecurity professionals are finding themselves in scammers crosshairs

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs
October 8, 2026
  • Job scammers are increasingly targeting specific groups: This includes veterans, parents and caregivers returning to work, and cybersecurity professionals.

  • Watch for red flags: Things like unsolicited job offers, personal email addresses, requests for sensitive information, and demands for money during the hiring process.

  • Know what to do if you suspect a scam: Job seekers should stop communicating, preserve evidence, protect their finances, and report the incident to the appropriate agencies and websites.


Job hunting can be stressful enough without having to wonder whether the job posting in front of you is even real. But scammers are increasingly taking advantage of people who may be especially eager to find work, tailoring fake job opportunities to specific groups and their circumstances.

Veterans leaving the military, parents and caregivers returning to the workforce, and even cybersecurity professionals are among those being targeted. With cyber-enabled crime continuing to rise, cybersecurity experts say job seekers should be especially careful about who they trust during the hiring process.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Serena Sullivan, Cybersecurity Professor at National University, to learn more about how these groups are being targeted and what they can do to protect themselves.

How scammers are targeting job seekers

Sullivan explained that these can be presented in many different forms, and oftentimes, the job ads are written to appeal to certain types of candidates, taking advantage of generalizations about certain types of candidates.

A candidate may encounter fake job postings on all the job-seeking platforms, Sullivan said. No job-related website is immune from these types of postings. Attackers who are trying to scam people through job ads are typically going to use language and job descriptions that will appeal to different types of workers.

For example, a veteran with a clearance would likely be searching for a contracting position that requires clearance, whereas returning parents might be looking for a position that allows them to work around their childs school schedule.

Know the red flags to look for

Sullivan shared some of the top red flags that all job seekers should be aware of:

  • A company reaching out through an unsolicited phone call, text message or email with a too-good-to-refuse offer.

  • Emails that do not originate with professional domains, instead relying on Gmail, Yahoo, and other freely available email services.

  • A company asking the candidate to share hiring information, such as home address, social security number, banking information for direct deposit, or other personal details prior to an interview, or directly after a job interview.

In nearly all types of , including this one, attackers often rely on a sense of urgency, guiding the candidate through a fast process from initial contact to hiring, Sullivan explained. A massive red flag is if a company solicits money from a candidate. The scammers could request the candidate pay for training, buy equipment, or pay a fee to have an application processed.

Most legitimate companies will not ask for personal information via email, so if the company asks the candidate to fill out a Word document and send it via email, which would be an indicator of nefarious activity. Most larger companies use a hiring portal, such as Workday to manage recruits, so if they attacker is claiming to be from a large company, then sends the candidate a Word document, or even a link to fill out a JotForm or Google form, for example, then it would be a warning sign to the candidate that something unusual is happening.

Protecting your personal information in the job search

If youre on the job hunt, its important not to share all of your personal details right off the bat especially if youre uncertain about the legitimacy of a job posting.

A best practice for candidates is to visit the companys website by searching for it in a web browser, not using a website address that the scammer provided, Sullivan said. The job description should be listed on the companys official careers website. If the job is not listed, it could indicate the job is a scam.

What to do if youve fallen victim to a job scam

Job candidates who think they may have been targeted with a fake job opportunity can follow some steps to protect themselves.

Here are Sullivans best tips:

  • If you immediately recognize the contact as fake, stop communicating with the scammer.

  • Save the emails, text messages, or other documentation.

  • Take screenshots of fake websites, write down the timeline of how the situation progressed, and preserve the evidence in a safe place.

  • If the attacker obtained banking or other financial information, take immediate steps to notify your bank or credit card companies to report the fraud.

  • If the attacker was able to obtain your SSN, contact the three credit reporting agencies and put a hold on your social security number. The IRS will mail you a PIN, effectively stopping attackers from using the SSN.

  • Contact the Federal Trade Commission, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and report the fake ad to the job-seeking website where the candidate encountered the ad.

  • If the attacker was impersonating a legitimate company, you can contact the company to provide the details of the attack to their security team.

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Consumer News: How to score the best deals on Thanksgiving travel
Thu, 08 Oct 2026 22:07:08 +0000

A little flexibility and knowing when to book can help travelers keep more money in their wallets this holiday season

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs
October 8, 2026
  • Stay flexible: Shifting your travel dates or destination by even a day or two could help you find lower prices.

  • Time your trip carefully: Avoiding peak travel days around Thanksgiving, such as the Wednesday before and Sunday after, may help you save.

  • Consider alternatives to hotels: Splitting a vacation home with family or friends and cooking some meals yourself could lower your overall costs.


Thanksgiving travel can get expensive quickly, especially for people trying to squeeze in a trip during one of the busiest times of the year.

But travelers dont necessarily have to pay top dollar to get where theyre going. A few smart moves, such as being flexible with travel dates, comparing different options, and watching for last-minute deals, could help bring the cost down.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Alex Alioto, co-founder and head of growth at Whimstay, who shared some tips for travelers looking to save on their Thanksgiving getaways. From when to start looking to where travelers may find the biggest opportunities for savings, a little planning can go a long way when holiday travel costs start adding up.

Stay flexible on dates and destination

This is Aliotos top piece of advice when it comes to finding deals on Thanksgiving travel.

Flexibility is your biggest lever, he said. Travelers who can shift their dates by a day or two, or consider a destination that isn't the obvious choice, almost always come out ahead.

He explained that November is still considered somewhat of the shoulder travel season that in-between peak travel season for a lot of ski and mountain destinations. If this is what youre looking for this Thanksgiving season, Alioto says youre likely to find solid deals in places like Lake Tahoe, where cabins and lodges are quieter and more relaxed than they'll be by Christmas.

Know when to book and when to travel

If youre traveling by plane over the holidays, its best to give yourself a bit more of a cushion in terms of when to book. But if youre taking a roadtrip, you have a bit more flexibility.

For flights, the sweet spot is generally a couple of months out, so if you haven't booked yet, now is the time to start watching fares, Alioto recommended. For accommodations, there's more room to wait. Many properties still have open dates as the holiday approaches, and owners often get more flexible on price once they see a Thanksgiving week that hasn't filled.

If you're driving to a drive-to destination, you have even more flexibility to book closer in.

If your plans arent set in stone yet, Alioto says there are some days to avoid around Thanksgiving week.

The peak days are the Wednesday before and the Sunday after, so avoiding those is the easiest way to save, he said. Flying on Thanksgiving Day itself, or on the Tuesday before, is typically cheaper, and returning on the Saturday after or the following Monday or Tuesday can help too. Even shifting by a single day can make a noticeable difference.

Get creative

One of the best ways to save on Thanksgiving travel is to think about how to maximize space for your money.

Instead of paying for two hotel rooms, a family can split a single home with multiple bedrooms, which usually works out cheaper per person, Alioto said.

A full kitchen is the other big one. Cooking a few meals yourselves, or even a Thanksgiving dinner, saves a lot compared with eating out for every meal on a holiday week, when restaurants are also more crowded and pricier. And a home gives everyone room to spread out, which matters when you're traveling with kids or extended family.

Final tips

Some of the last things to consider for Thanksgiving travel: shoulder days and last-minute booking.

Shoulder days are an easy win, Alioto said. Arriving a day or two before the holiday crush, or staying through the weekend after, can lower your nightly rate and make the trip feel less rushed.

Last-minute booking is worth a look too, since owners would often rather fill an open night at a discount than leave it empty. Tools built for that window, like Whimstay, can be a helpful place to check as your dates get closer, especially for bookings within about 30 days of check-in.

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Consumer News: Why does Costco check your receipt at the door? It's not just about shoplifting
Thu, 08 Oct 2026 22:07:07 +0000

That quick stop at the exit can catch checkout mistakes including ones that cost you money

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs
October 8, 2026
  • It's not just theft prevention: Costco says the primary reason for checking receipts is to make sure purchases were processed correctly.

  • It can catch an overcharge: The employee at the door isn't only looking for merchandise you didn't pay for.

  • And yes, there's a reason for that Sharpie: Marking the receipt shows that it's already been checked.


You paid for your Costco haul. The cashier handed you a receipt. You're 20 feet from freedom and then you inevitably hit another line.

A Costco employee wants to see your receipt. It might seem redundant because after all, didn't a Costco employee, or Costco's self-checkout machine, just ring everything up?

But Costco says there's a practical reason for that final check, and it isn't simply to catch shoplifters: They're checking Costco's work, too.

According to Costco, receipt checks are standard practice at its warehouses because the company wants to make sure purchases were correctly processed by its cashiers. Costco calls the process an effective way of maintaining accurate inventory while also ensuring members were charged correctly.

In other words, the employee isn't just looking for a $50 package of steaks hidden under the toilet paper. They're also looking for checkout mistakes.

For example, perhaps the cashier accidentally scanned a case of drinks twice. Or maybe you bought two of an item but were charged for three. Or maybe you bought gift cards or an expensive item that needed retrieval. The check before you leave verifies that you actually received what you paid for.

The receipt check gives Costco one last chance to catch an error before you reach the parking lot.

Pro tip: Don't automatically treat the receipt checker as an obstacle between you and the Costco food court. If you've got an expensive or unusually large order, pay attention while they're checking. They could potentially spot a mistake you missed.

So what's with the Sharpie?

After looking at your cart and receipt, the Costco employee typically marks the receipt before handing it back. That black mark shows that the receipt has already gone through the exit-check process.

And that's where one of the more interesting Costco urban legends comes in.

The story goes that without the mark, a dishonest shopper could buy a cart full of merchandise, take it to the car, then walk back into Costco with the original receipt.

They could theoretically load another cart with the same merchandise, walk toward the exit, and present the original receipt as proof they'd paid for everything. Essentially getting two carts of merchandise for the price of one.

It's a clever explanation for the Sharpie, and variations of the story have circulated among Costco shoppers for years.

And those smiley faces employees sometimes draw for kids? That's more Costco tradition than sophisticated loss-prevention technology.

Can you just refuse the receipt check?

Costco isn't quite the same as walking out of a typical supermarket. It's a membership club, and its current membership conditions explicitly say that receipts and merchandise will be inspected as members leave the warehouse.

So when you become a Costco member, you're agreeing to the policy as part of the membership rules. That's an important distinction in the perennial debate over whether shoppers have to stop for receipt checkers.

At Costco, the simpler consumer answer is that you agreed to the receipt inspection when you signed up.

Trying to save 30 seconds by blowing past the employee at the door probably isn't worth turning it into a membership issue.

The receipt checker may actually save you money

It's easy to look at Costco's receipt check as loss prevention. And obviously, making sure merchandise leaving the warehouse has been paid for helps Costco control its inventory.

But Costco's own explanation emphasizes something shoppers sometimes overlook: The check also helps make sure you paid the correct amount.

So next time you're standing there wondering why someone needs to inspect a receipt that was printed 45 seconds ago, remember they're not necessarily checking whether you did something wrong they're checking if Costco did, too.

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Consumer News: As prices rise, buying second-hand has become a mainstream shopping habit
Thu, 08 Oct 2026 19:07:08 +0000

A new report finds secondhand purchases extend beyond thrift-store clothing

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs
October 8, 2026
  • A new survey found that 76% of Americans bought something secondhand in the past year, while nearly nine in 10 have purchased used goods at some point.

  • Younger consumers lead the trend, and nearly half of Americans already buy luxury items secondhand or would consider doing so.

  • Rising prices could encourage more resale shopping, as 53% said they would likely buy used more often if new products become more expensive.


Browsing through thrift and second-hand stores has long been an enjoyable shopping experience for a niche group of consumers. With inflation, its gone mainstream.

Buying secondhand has become a routine part of shopping for many Americans, according to a new report from The Consumer Collective.

The consumer insights and advisory firms report, Second Nature: The State of Secondhand Shopping in America, found that 76% of Americans purchased used goods during the past year. Nearly nine in 10 have bought something secondhand at some point, according to the companys announcement.

The findings suggest resale is becoming an increasingly important competitor for retailers selling new merchandise.

Younger shoppers lead

Millennials had the highest rate of secondhand purchasing in the past year, at 89%, followed by Generation Z at 85%. Among Americans age 62 and older, 59% reported buying used.

The survey also found that 44% of respondents were buying more secondhand merchandise than two years earlier. That figure reached 66% among Gen Z consumers.

Luxury goods are part of the shift. Nearly half of respondents 49% already purchase luxury items used or would consider it. That figure measures both existing buyers and potential customers, rather than current purchases alone.

Prices could push more purchases toward resale

Higher prices for new products could strengthen demand for secondhand alternatives. Some 53% of respondents said they would likely shop secondhand more often if prices for new merchandise continued rising.

For some consumers, used goods already account for a substantial share of purchases: One in three said more than a quarter of what they buy is secondhand.

Jessica Ramrez, co-founder of The Consumer Collective, said the implications extend across product categories.

Over time, we expect to see consumers gravitation towards secondhand pull spend from other retailers, Ramrez said in the announcement.

That is the firms forecast, rather than a measured decline in traditional retail sales. But the survey points to a consumer audience increasingly willing to consider previously owned merchandise when deciding where to spend.

The findings come from an online survey of 400 U.S. adults conducted in August 2026. The firm says the figures were stratified to U.S. Census demographics unless otherwise noted. The results describe respondents reported shopping habits and intentions, rather than tracked retail transactions.


As prices rise, buying second-hand has become a mainstream shopping habit

Photo By CNET

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