Consumer News: Reading, music, and museums may be linked to slower biological aging

Scammers may use fake Amazon alerts, delivery notices, and urgent requests to catch shoppers off guard

• Scammers may use fake Amazon alerts, delivery notices, and urgent offers to pressure shoppers into acting quickly.

• AI shopping tools can make it easier to shop, but consumers should think twice before sharing personal or financial information with them.

• Taking a moment to pause, question suspicious messages, and verify offers independently can help keep your information safe.

Prime Day may be a major shopping event, but consumers shouldnt wait to start watching for .

TrendLife found that 84.2% of the 3,887 Amazon-related it tracked in the U.S. in June occurred during the two weeks leading up to Prime Day. That means shoppers may already have gotten suspicious texts, emails, and other messages designed to look like they came from Amazon or a delivery company.

So what should shoppers watch for?

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Lynette Owens, vice president of consumer education and marketing at TrendLife, who shared some tips for spotting potential and protecting personal information before clicking on that next Prime Day deal.

Scammers exploit trust

Owens explained that scammers prey on one consumers trust of brands like Amazon, UPS, FedEx, etc.

are designed to trigger an emotional response and make people less likely to question the legitimacy of the source, she said. They tap into feelings of scarcity, fear, and excitement to pressure consumers into acting before they have time to think.

A message claiming a Prime membership payment has failed, a delivery is being held, or an exclusive offer is about to expire can create just enough pressure for someone to click a link or share personal information without verifying if the claim is reputable.

Owens said the key is recognizing that urgency is often a deliberate tactic. She encourages consumers to give pause when a message pressures you to act immediately and verify it independently rather than responding through the message itself.

Be careful of AI shopping tools

Many consumers utilize AI shopping tools for discounts, extra coupons, or extra assistance tracking down the best buys. However, Owens warns against sharing too much personal information with an AI chatbot.

From names and financial details to shopping habits and daily routines, these details can reveal a lot about a person, she said. When sharing sensitive details with AI tools, consumers may not fully understand where that information is being stored, how it is being utilized or who may have access to it.

This is risky because the more personal information that is exposed, the more consumers are at risk of identity theft, targeted phishing attacks or , or hijacked bank accounts.

Share as little as possible

As Prime Day leads into holiday shopping, Owens hopes that consumers stay vigilant when sharing any information with AI chatbots.

Here are some of Owens best tips for staying safe when shopping online this holiday season:

• Maintain critical thinking while using AI to shop. Before sharing any personal information, take care to consider whether or not it is necessary and if so, consider sharing as minimally as possible.

• Avoid entering sensitive details into an AI chatbot. This includes payment information or personal identifiers. Consumers should trust their instincts and be overly cautious about how revealing they are with an AI tool.

• The same principle applies to unexpected messages, deals, and recommendations generated or shared online. Scammers are increasingly good at making fraudulent offers and requests that appear legitimate, particularly during busy shopping periods. Taking a moment to pause and question the legitimacy of the offer and the source can go a long way toward protecting yourself and your family.

As AI becomes a bigger part of how families shop, search for information, and manage their digital lives, it's equally important to think about how we protect our personal information, Owens said. Technology can make everyday tasks easier, but consumers should understand the risks and take steps to protect themselves.

Holiday packages will cost a little more this season, but the increases are temporary

• USPS is temporarily increasing prices on several package shipping services for the 2026 holiday season.

• The increases vary based on the service, package weight, and shipping distance.

• The temporary rates are scheduled to remain in place through Jan. 17, 2027.

If you're planning to send holiday gifts through the U.S. Postal Service this year, you may notice that some packages cost a little more to ship.

USPS announced a temporary price adjustment for its peak 2026 holiday shipping season. The change applies to certain domestic package services, including Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage, and Parcel Select.

The Postal Service said the temporary adjustment is intended to help cover the additional handling costs that come with the holiday shipping season.

The temporary prices went into effect on Oct. 4 and remain in place until 12 a.m. Central time on Jan. 17, 2027. No other USPS products or services are affected by the change.

How much more will shipping cost?

The increase depends on what you're sending, how much it weighs, and how far it's traveling.

Heres a look at whats changing;

Retail:

Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage: Zones 1-4

• $0.50 increase for Zones 1-4, 0-3 lbs.

• $0.80 increase for Zones 1-4, 4-10 lbs.

• $1.25 increase for Zones 1-4, 11-25 lbs.

• $3.90 increase for Zones 1-4, 26-70 lbs. and Oversized.

Priority Mail: Zones 5-9

• $1.00 increase for Zones 5-9, 0-3 lbs.

• $2.10 increase for Zones 5-9, 4-10 lbs.

• $4.30 increase for Zones 5-9, 11-25 lbs.

• $9.10 increase for Zones 5-9, 26-70 lbs.

Priority Mail Flat Rate:

• $2.10 increase for Large Flat Rate Boxes.

• $1.00 increase for all other Flat Rate Products.

USPS Ground Advantage: Zones 5-9

• $0.75 increase for Zones 5-9, 0-3 lbs.

• $1.40 increase for Zones 5-9, 4-10 lbs.

• $2.75 increase for Zones 5-9, 11-25 lbs.

• $7.50 increase for Zones 5-9, 26-70 lbs. and Oversized.

Priority Mail Express: Zones 1-9

• $1.40 increase for Zones 1-4, 0-3 lbs.

• $2.35 increase for Zones 5-9, 0-3 lbs.

• $2.45 increase for Zones 1-4, 4-10 lbs.

• $6.30 increase for Zones 5-9, 4-10 lbs.

• $5.05 increase for Zones 1-4, 11-25 lbs.

• $11.70 increase for Zones 5-9, 11-25 lbs.

• $12.70 increase for Zones 1-4, 26-70 lbs.

• $20.80 increase for Zones 5-9, 26-70 lbs.

Priority Mail Express Flat Rate:

• $2.35 increase for Flat Rate Envelopes.

Commercial:

Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage: Zones 1-4

• $0.40 increase for Zones 1-4, 0-3 lbs. and Cubic Tiers 1-3.

• $0.65 increase for Zones 1-4, 4-10 lbs. and Cubic Tiers 4-5 (PM), 4-9 (GA).

• $1.05 increase for Zones 1-4, 11-25 lbs. and Cubic Tier 10 (GA).

• $3.15 increase for Zones 1-4, 26-70 lbs. and Oversized.

Priority Mail: Zones 5-9

• $0.85 increase for Zones 5-9, 0-3 lbs. and Cubic Tiers 1-3.

• $1.75 increase for Zones 5-9, 4-10 lbs. and Cubic Tiers 4-5.

• $3.85 increase for Zones 5-9, 11-25 lbs.

• $9.10 increase for Zones 5-9, 26-70 lbs.

Priority Mail Flat Rate:

• $1.75 increase for Large Flat Rate Boxes.

• $0.85 increase for all other Flat Rate Products.

USPS Ground Advantage: Zones 5-9

• $0.55 increase for Zones 5-9, 0-3 lbs. and Cubic Tiers 1-3.

• $1.05 increase for Zones 5-9, 4-10 lbs. and Cubic Tiers 4-9.

• $1.75 increase for Zones 5-9, 11-25 lbs. and Cubic Tier 10.

• $7.70 increase for Zones 5-9, 26-70 lbs. and Oversized.

Priority Mail Express: Zones 1-9

• $1.40 increase for Zones 1-4, 0-3 lbs.

• $2.35 increase for Zones 5-9, 0-3 lbs.

• $2.10 increase for Zones 1-4, 4-10 lbs.

• $5.55 increase for Zones 5-9, 4-10 lbs.

• $4.90 increase for Zones 1-4, 11-25 lbs.

• $10.50 increase for Zones 5-9, 11-25 lbs.

• $12.55 increase for Zones 1-4, 26-70 lbs.

• $18.20 increase for Zones 5-9, 26-70 lbs.

Priority Mail Express Flat Rate:

• $2.35 increase for Flat Rate Envelopes.

Parcel Select: (all entries)

• $0.40 increase for 0-3 lbs.

• $0.50 increase for 4-10 lbs.

• $0.80 increase for 11-25 lbs.

• $2.35 increase for 26-70 lbs. and Oversized

What this means for consumers

For consumers, the biggest takeaway is that this isn't a permanent change to all USPS prices. It's a seasonal adjustment focused on certain package services during the holiday shipping period.

That means anyone planning to mail gifts or other packages between October and mid-January should account for the temporary increases when budgeting for shipping. The exact amount will depend on the service, package size and weight, and destination.

USPS says the changes are intended to help cover the extra handling costs of the peak season while keeping its shipping prices in line with competitive practices. The temporary rates are scheduled to end Jan. 17, 2027.

A new analysis puts basic first-year baby essentials at more than $5,000, before adding childcare, healthcare, or housing

• The basics add up fast: A new analysis estimates 14 common baby essentials could cost U.S. parents about $5,150 during the first year.

• Formula is potentially the biggest expense: A full year of formula feeding was estimated at $2,740, while diapers, wipes, and rash cream totaled another $1,228.

• Don't automatically buy the biggest box: Comparing unit prices, avoiding overstocking, and being selective about what you buy new can potentially save hundreds.

Babies are tiny. Their expenses aren't.

A new analysis from Remitly estimates that U.S. parents could spend about $5,150 on just 14 basic baby essentials during their child's first year.

And that doesn't include some of the really expensive stuff, like childcare, healthcare, or housing.

The biggest potential budget-buster? Formula.

Remitly estimates a full year of formula feeding could cost about $2,740 in the U.S., accounting for more than half of its first-year essentials budget. Diapers, wipes, and rash cream add another $1,228 to your annual total, while baby clothes were estimated at $548.

These numbers provide a good reminder that the seemingly small purchases you make over and over again can become some of the biggest baby expenses.

Here are six smart ways to fight back.

1. Compare formula by prepared ounce

When buying formula, don't automatically assume the biggest container, or most familiar brand, is the best deal.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends comparing formula based on the cost per prepared ounce. That matters because container sizes, powder concentrations, and preparation instructions can make two similarly priced formulas very different in terms of value.

Also, its worth asking your pediatrician whether a less expensive formula is appropriate before assuming you need a premium version.

2. Check whether you qualify for WIC

This could potentially dwarf every other savings trick on the list.

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, better known as WIC, provides eligible families with specific foods and can include infant formula.

Eligibility is based on factors including income and nutritional risk, and families who assume they make too much shouldn't automatically rule themselves out. In other words, its worth applying just to see where you stand.

Check your state's WIC eligibility requirements before paying for a year's worth of formula entirely out of pocket.

3. Don't stockpile formula too early

Finding formula for 25% off doesn't save you money if your baby can't use it or you surpass the Use-By date.

Babies can have different nutritional needs, and parents sometimes need to change formulas. So resist the temptation to fill a closet with six months of formula before you know a particular type works for your child.

Once you've settled into a feeding routine, then start watching sales and comparing prices.

Pro tip: Make a dont open two rule. This works for formula, diapers, wipes, and even baby toiletries. Don't open the backup until the first one is nearly gone. An unopened product is much easier to return, donate, or pass along if your baby suddenly needs a different formula, diaper size, or skin-care product. Once you rip open the package you may be stuck with it.

4. Do the math before buying the giant diaper box

Warehouse-size packages from Costco and Sams Club feel like they should be cheaper. Sometimes they are. Sometimes they're not.

Calculate the price per diaper before buying, especially when comparing a giant box against a smaller package that's on sale or has a coupon.

How quickly babies grow is another reason not to go overboard when stocking-up. Buying 400 diapers in one size isn't much of a bargain if your baby outgrows them with 150 still sitting in the closet.

Pro tip: Create what I call a growth-size exchange bin. When you find a great diaper sale, keep the receipt and leave any boxes beyond your baby's current size unopened. Then, if/when your baby suddenly moves from size two to size three, you can return or exchange the unopened box, rather than getting stuck with a bunch of diapers you can't use.

5. Buy baby clothes used and don't buy too many

Remitly estimates parents often spend $548 on baby clothing during the first year. This is one of the easiest categories to attack.

Babies can outgrow clothing before they've had a chance to wear it more than a handful of times, which means thrift stores, consignment shops, and hand-me-downs can be loaded with barely used baby clothes.

Also, avoid buying an entire wardrobe in newborn sizes before the baby arrives.

6. Know what you shouldn't automatically buy used

Secondhand can be fantastic for clothing and plenty of other baby gear, but be very careful when buying used safety products.

Before buying things like a used crib, stroller, or other baby product, check for recalls and make sure it meets current safety standards and hasn't been damaged or had important pieces removed.

Be particularly cautious with used car seats. Their crash history can be difficult to verify, and seats also have expiration dates.

The biggest takeaway for new parents is that preparing for a baby doesn't require you to buy every little product marketed towards you.

A $10 purchase doesn't seem particularly important when you're making it. But make enough of those purchases and suddenly you're talking about thousands of dollars.

When it comes to your baby's first-year budget, sweating the small stuff can actually pay off dramatically.

Falls favorite flavor can come with a higher price tag, but shoppers can find some pumpkin products for less

• Pumpkin-flavored products cost an average of 8.4% more than comparable nonpumpkin products.

• One pumpkin spice trail mix had a price difference of more than 76% compared with its regular counterpart.

• Not every pumpkin product costs more, giving shoppers opportunities to enjoy the seasonal flavor without paying a premium.

Pumpkin spice season may be a favorite part of fall, but there can be a downside for shoppers: some pumpkin-flavored products cost more than similar products without the seasonal twist.

A LendingTree analysis found that pumpkin-flavored products cost an average of 8.4% more than their non-pumpkin counterparts. Thats higher than the 7.4% average difference found in 2024, although its considerably lower than the 14.1% difference LendingTree found in 2022.

The extra cost isnt consistent across every product, though. Some pumpkin items cost the same as their regular counterparts, while others actually cost less.

Pumpkin spice season is something millions of Americans look forward to, but that excitement can cost you, Matt Schulz, LendingTrees chief consumer finance analyst, said. The average pumpkin premium is 8.9%, and some products cost far more. That may not wreck your budget by itself, but little splurges can add up quickly.

Enjoy your fall favorites, but know what youre paying for and decide whether the pumpkin version is really worth the extra money.

Measuring the pumpkin spice tax

To calculate the average difference, LendingTree researchers collected prices and package sizes for 146 products 73 pumpkin products and 73 comparable non-pumpkin products.

The products came from Dunkin, Starbucks, Target, Trader Joes, and Whole Foods. Researchers collected the information through a combination of online and in-store shopping. Because prices can vary by location, the analysis focused on several ZIP codes in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Rather than simply comparing sticker prices, researchers looked at the cost per ounce or per item. That helped account for products being sold in different package sizes.

Some pumpkin products cost a lot more but shoppers have options

The biggest price gap in the study was for Targets Favorite Day pumpkin spice trail mix. It cost 68 cents per ounce, compared with 39 cents per ounce for the regular monster trail mix a 76.4% difference.

Trader Joes Pumpkin Os cereal had the next-largest gap at 50.3%, followed by its pumpkin spice coffee at 42.9%.

But shoppers shouldnt assume that every pumpkin product carries an extra charge. LendingTree found 33 pumpkin spice products that cost the same or less than their regular counterparts. For example, Republic of Teas pumpkin spice black tea at Whole Foods cost 30.6% less than its Earl Greyer alternative.

For consumers, the takeaway is pretty simple: If pumpkin spice is part of your fall routine, checking the price per ounce rather than automatically grabbing the seasonal version can help you see whether youre actually paying extra for that pumpkin flavor.

A viral iced-coffee debate reveals some surprisingly useful rules for making a better first impression

• A recruiter recently sparked a viral debate: A recent TikTok video warned job candidates that walking into an interview carrying an iced coffee can make the meeting appear too casual.

• Hiring experts are divided: Some say it's a needless distraction, while others say employers shouldn't judge candidates based on what's in their cup.

• The safest strategy isn't complicated: Finish your coffee before walking in, keep your hands free, and eliminate anything that could distract from the conversation.

You researched the company. Practiced your answers. Picked out what you're going to wear.

But could the iced coffee you grabbed on the way to the interview actually hurt your chances of getting the job?

While this may seem obvious for older generations, apparently, its now up for debate with Gen Z.

Recruiter Caitlin Wehniainen recently sparked an online argument after advising job seekers, particularly Gen Z applicants, not to walk into interviews carrying an iced coffee.

Her reasoning wasn't really about caffeine. She argued that arriving with a drink can make the interview look like just another stop between errands rather than an important professional meeting.

That might sound ridiculously picky to some. And plenty of hiring experts think it is.

But if you're trying to land a job, its worth asking yourself, Why give an interviewer something irrelevant to judge you on?

Here are five easy ways to avoid doing exactly that.

1. Finish the coffee before you walk in

You don't need to give up your morning caffeine. Just finish it in the car, lobby, or outside.

Megan Slabinski, a district president at staffing company Robert Half, told Fortune that an iced coffee probably won't make or break an interview, but she wouldn't recommend bringing one into the room. Drinks can be distracting, messy, and leave you juggling something when you're trying to introduce yourself.

The easy rule is to walk into the interview with no drink, your phone put away, and your hands free.

If the interviewer offers you coffee or water once you're inside, that's different. Feel free to accept the drink at that point.

2. Don't obsess over the coffee think about distractions

This is probably the more useful lesson. An interviewer may not care whatsoever about your Starbucks cup.

But a buzzing phone, jangling keys, giant tote bag, sunglasses on your head, or breakfast sandwich you're still finishing can all compete for attention.

You want the interviewer remembering what you said, not what you carried into the room.

Indeed's interview guidance similarly recommends paying attention to your behavior and body language from the moment you enter the building, not just once the formal interview begins.

3. Treat the lobby as part of the interview

Your interview doesn't necessarily start when somebody asks, Tell me about yourself. It may start when you walk through the front door.

Indeed notes that receptionists, security personnel, and other employees you encounter may be asked for feedback about you. So be polite to the receptionist. Don't complain about parking. Don't take a loud phone call in the lobby. And don't spend 10 minutes scrolling TikTok while waiting for your interviewer.

Assume you're being interviewed from the moment you arrive.

4. When you don't know the company's culture, play it safe

This is where the iced-coffee argument gets interesting.

Some workplaces couldn't care less, while at another company, the person interviewing you may consider it unprofessional.

And you usually don't know which interviewer you're getting. That's why when you're unsure how casual a workplace is, show up one notch more polished than you think is necessary.

That doesn't mean wearing a suit to interview at a surf shop. It means removing the little variables that don't help you get hired.

5. Spend your energy on what actually matters

Don't walk away from this thinking employers are secretly keeping an iced-coffee blacklist.

They're not.

Several hiring experts interviewed by Fortune pushed back on the whole debate. Trent Cotton, head of talent insights at recruiting software company iCIMS, argued that a cup of coffee says essentially nothing about whether someone can do the job.

And that's worth remembering.

Your preparation, communication, experience, and the questions you ask are far more important than what's in your cup. Indeed recommends researching the employer, reviewing the job description, practicing likely questions, and preparing thoughtful questions of your own before the interview.

But job interviews are also short, imperfect human interactions where first impressions matter. So drink the coffee, but just finish it before you walk through the door.