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Consumers are more trusting of AI than previously believed

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• 69% of Americans are open to letting AI make purchases on their behalf without approving each transaction, according to a Croud survey.

• Three-quarters would use AI-powered instant checkout in at least one product category, with routine purchases attracting the most trust.

• Amazon, Target and Walmart are already integrating conversational or agentic AI into product discovery, cart building and checkout.

Artificial intelligence is moving beyond recommending products and toward completing purchases, with a majority of Americans expressing a willingness to give the technology at least some buying authority.

Nearly seven in 10 Americans69%would allow AI to purchase something for them without seeking approval for the individual transaction, according to the latest Croud Consumer Index. Three in four respondents said they would use an AI-powered instant-checkout service in at least one category.

The findings come from a nationally representative survey of more than 2,000 U.S. consumers conducted for Croud, a global media, data and creative agency. They suggest shoppers may be more receptive to automated commerce than many brands assume, although the results were announced by the company that commissioned the research and should be viewed in that context. Crouds press release did not disclose detailed field dates or a margin of error.

Consumers appear most comfortable delegating low-risk, repetitive purchases such as groceries and household essentials. Half said they would be comfortable allowing AI to buy products across at least three categories.

Not yet on autopilot

Yet shoppers are not necessarily surrendering judgment to machines. Among people who use AI, 73% consult large language models while researching products before selecting a particular brand. But 39% check an AI recommendation against four or more additional sources before purchasing, and more than one-third turn to YouTube for further validation.

That combinationmachine-generated discovery followed by human reviews, creators and other independent signalsis what Croud calls the validation economy.

Ironically, AI is making the consumer journey more human, not less, Croud U.S. CEO Val Davis said in the release. As AI introduces shoppers to more choices, she said, recommendations from creators and communities, customer reviews and brand storytelling become increasingly important in converting interest into a sale.

Retailers are already preparing for that shift.

What retailers are already doing

Amazons shopping assistant, originally introduced as Rufus and renamed Alexa for Shopping in May 2026, can recommend and compare products, add multiple items to a cart and reorder previous purchases. It can also automatically buy an item when its price falls to a customer-defined level.

Amazon says the system uses the shoppers default payment and shipping information and provides a 24-hour cancellation window after an automated order is placed. The company also offers Buy for Me, through which its AI can purchase some products from other merchants. Amazon says more than 250 million customers used the assistant during 2026.

Target has embedded its assortment in several conversational platforms. Shoppers can browse and buy Target products through Google Search and Gemini, make purchases inside Microsoft Copilot, and use Targets app in ChatGPT to receive recommendations, assemble multi-item baskets and select shipping, pickup or Drive Up.

Target says shoppers retain control and confirm their purchases, distinguishing these services from fully autonomous buying. The retailer reported that traffic arriving from AI platforms rose 2,000% year over year during the first quarter. Target detailed the integrations in June.

Walmart-Google partnership

Walmart is pursuing a similar model. Its partnership with Google is designed to surface Walmart and Sams Club products during Gemini conversations and connect product discovery with customers carts, purchase histories and membership benefits.

Walmart has also announced a shopping integration with ChatGPT. Its planned Gemini experience can recommend complementary products and support delivery from local stores, including some orders arriving in as little as 30 minutes. Walmart has described agent-led commerce as the next major evolution in retail.

The Croud research also points to a potentially lucrative opportunity in fashion. Consumers who use AI while shopping for clothing spend 56% more than non-users, according to the survey, and are 23% more likely to search by style or aesthetic instead of relying on conventional brand or product keywords.

Think youve found a buyer? Watch for these Craigslist red flags

• Beware of vehicle history report requests: Never pay for a report from a site a buyer insists you use, especially if you've never heard of the site before.

• Watch for scripted behavior. This includes refusing to talk on the phone, ignoring your listing, and creating fake cash now urgency.

• Set ground rules before selling. Avoid clicking unfamiliar links, protect your personal information, and always verify payment before handing over the title.

Within minutes of posting my dad's 2008 Ford F-150 for sale on Craigslist, my phone filled with texts from "buyers." Some were legitimate, while others were trying to scam me. The problem is that it can be hard to tell the difference, especially for seniors or those who arent tech savvy.

If you're planning to sell a vehicle privately, here's what I learned, and more importantly, how you can protect yourself. Screenshots of my actual text conversations are included so youll know exactly what wording to look for.

Scam #1: The fake vehicle history report request

This was by far the most convincing scam and the conversation started exactly how you'd expect.

"I'm interested."

"I'd like to come see it."

Then came the catch.

"Can you show me the VinData360 inspection report?"

Later the buyer followed up with:

"Before I come, I want to see the Vin Data 360 report."

At first, that might sound perfectly reasonable, as most buyers want to review a vehicle history report before making a purchase.

But scammers take advantage of that expectation by steering sellers to obscure websites you've probably never heard of.

Their goal isn't to buy your truck. It's to convince you to purchase a report from a site they control. Some sites charge $30 to $70 for a worthless report. Others go a step further and collect your credit card information or personal details.

Pro tip: If a buyer insists on one specific vehicle history website, that's a major red flag. A legitimate buyer can purchase any report they want using the VIN you provide. If you've already purchased a CARFAX or AutoCheck report, simply offer that. If they don't trust it, they can buy another report themselves, but don't pay for one just because a stranger asks.

Scam #2: Buyers who refuse to talk on the phone

One buyer, in particular, seemed very eager via text messages.

They wanted to meet, but they had zero questions for me about the truck. They introduced themselves by name, and then asked my name. Everything sounded fairly normal.

So, I replied with one simple request.

"You'll need to call me to set something up."

Immediately the excuses began.

"I'm at work. That's why I'm texting."

Later they promised: "I'll call you in the evening."

Not surprisingly, the call never came. By asking them to call you directly, this becomes one of the simplest ways to filter out scammers.

Most real buyers have no problem spending two minutes on the phone before driving across town.

Scammers often avoid live conversations because it exposes fake identities, scripted responses, overseas call centers, or simply because they're trying to contact hundreds of sellers at once.

Pro tip: Require a short phone conversation before giving out your address or scheduling a meeting. By doing so, you'll eliminate a surprising number of scammers in less than a minute.

Scam #3: They never actually read your listing

Another clue appeared almost immediately.

One buyer asked:

"How long have you owned it? Are you the first owner?"

The answers were clearly stated in the Craigslist ad, with the words original owner in the actual ad title.

That doesn't automatically make someone a scammer, as many buyers only skim the listings. But the fact remains that scammers often send identical messages to hundreds of sellers without ever reading anything. They're simply following a script.

Real buyers usually ask thoughtful follow-up questions about maintenance records, tires, recent repairs, or why you're selling.

The key here is knowing that scammers rarely move beyond their template.

Pro tip: A well-written listing saves time. Include maintenance history, ownership, title status, mileage, known issues, and plenty of photos. Serious buyers will appreciate the detail and scammers often expose themselves immediately by asking questions you've already answered.

Scam #4: Fake urgency

Notice how quickly many scammers try to build your excitement.

"I have cash on hand."

"I'll come today."

"I'll buy it now."

The goal is to get you emotionally invested before slipping in the real request usually paying for a VIN report or clicking an unfamiliar website.

Professional scammers understand psychology and once sellers believe they've found the perfect buyer, they're more willing to overlook warning signs.

Very few legit buyers are going to make you a cash offer without ever laying eyes on the vehicle.

The screenshot above was from Facebook Marketplace when I decided to also list the truck on that selling platform. So, while the scammers were less prevalent on Facebook, they still did exist, so be cautious.

Pro tip: Cash means nothing until someone is standing in front of you with it. Treat every inquiry the same until you've verified the buyer is legitimate.

Other Craigslist vehicle to watch for

Here are several other you should be aware of.

• The overpayment scam. The buyer "accidentally" sends too much money and asks you to refund the difference. Eventually the original payment bounces, leaving you responsible for the money you refunded.

• Fake cashier's checks. A cashier's check can look authentic while still being counterfeit. Banks sometimes make funds available before the check fully clears which is a process that can take several days.

• Six-digit verification code . Someone claims they need to verify you're real and asks you to text back a verification code. That code is often being used to hijack one of your online accounts or create a Google Voice number tied to your phone.

• Shipping company . The buyer claims they're out of state and will send movers after you receive payment. The payment eventually disappears.

How to protect yourself

Selling privately doesn't have to be risky.

Following a few basic rules dramatically reduces your chances of becoming a victim.

• Meet somewhere safe. Many police departments now offer Safe Exchange Zones with surveillance cameras specifically for online transactions.

• Never purchase reports for buyers. If they want another vehicle history report, they can buy it themselves.

• Keep personal information private. Don't send photos of your driver's license, registration, or title before meeting.

• Accept secure payment. Cash remains the simplest option. If using a cashier's check, meet at the issuing bank and verify that its legit before signing over the title.

• Trust your gut instinct. If the conversation feels scripted, rushed, or overly complicated, move on. Remember, another buyer will always come along.

Before listing your vehicle on any only sales platform, purchase a reputable vehicle history report, gather your maintenance records, and write a detailed description of the vehicle and decide in advance.

Also, make a pact with yourself that you won't click on unfamiliar links or buy anything at a stranger's request. While it sounds obvious, having clear ground rules in place before the first text arrives makes it much easier to recognize (and avoid) .

The too-good-to-be-true deal led somewhere I never expected

• The viral $119 Target MacBook deal isnt real following it leads to a third-party rewards site, not Target.

• The promised $750 gift card comes with major strings attached, including completing multiple partner offers, trials, and sign-ups.

• Verify viral deals directly with the retailer and beware of fake comments, unfamiliar URLs, and phrases like up to or required offers.

I was recently scrolling through TikTok when an offer stopped me in my tracks: a MacBook Neo for just $119.99 at Target.

And at first glance, it looked absolutely legit. Maybe you saw the same TikTok and it brought you to this page when you researched its legitimacy.

The video appeared to be filmed inside a Target store, with red shopping carts, the electronics department, and a large promotional sign displaying Target's bullseye. The sign showed the MacBook's original $699 price slashed to $119.99 with a "Student Discount Applied." The TikTok added urgency, telling viewers to take advantage of the offer before August 28.

It was convincing enough that I decided to investigate.

That's when things got weird.

When I started to try and find the promotion, it didn't take me to Target.com or to a page where I could buy a $119 MacBook. Instead, I ended up at PerkDream.com, a third-party website prominently displaying Target's bullseye and advertising a "$750 TARGET GIFT CARD FOR YOUR FEEDBACK!"

And once I started reading the details, the offer looked very different.

The $750 isn't just for answering questions

The PerkDream page says, "Target is rewarding customers with a $750 gift card for sharing their shopping experience."

That certainly makes it sound like a consumer survey with a very generous reward.

But farther down the page, PerkDream explains that visitors need to enter their name and email and complete three to five "partner deals" to unlock the full reward.

The site says each deal must be completed "from start to completion," and its FAQ says some deals may require a sign-up or trial.

There's another phrase worth noticing. The final step doesn't simply say you'll receive $750. It says you can "claim up to $750" in a Target gift card.

That's a significant distinction.

After going down the rabbit hole and trying to claim enough offers to qualify for the $750 reward, I finally gave up. It quickly turned into a long chain of tasks, app sign-ups, and questions that never led to anything. In reality, all it seemed to accomplish was generating commissions for the site each time I signed up for one of its partner offers.

Also, at no point was there any confirmation that this site had anything to do with Target.

What happened to the $119 MacBook?

This may be the biggest red flag of all.

The TikTok got my attention with what appeared to be an incredible Target MacBook discount. But once I followed the promotion, the $119 MacBook essentially disappeared.

Instead, I was presented with an entirely different offer involving personal information, partner deals, and the possibility of receiving a gift card. I had fallen for the classic bait and switch, an age-old tactic dressed up for the TikTok era.

That's why consumers shouldn't use a social media link itself to verify an incredible deal.

If a TikTok says Target has a MacBook for $119, go directly to Target's website or app and search for the deal yourself. Don't assume a Target logo or footage filmed inside a store means the promotion is actually from Target.

Pro tip: Ignore the comments. The comments section on the TikTok video included many fake glowing comments on how they easily found the $119 MacBook and how their local Target was running low, so you should hurry.

How to protect yourself

• Check the URL first. If you think you're responding to a Target promotion but you're sent somewhere other than Target.com, find out who operates the website before entering information. The same goes for any retailer not just Target.

• Watch for little words with big consequences. "Up to," "required offers," "partner deals," and "trial" can dramatically change what you have to do to qualify.

• Don't enter a credit card without reading the terms. A free trial may eventually become a paid subscription. Know the price, billing date, and cancellation requirements before signing up.

• Take screenshots. If you decide to participate in any rewards program, save the original advertisement, terms, eligibility requirements, and proof that you completed each required step.

• Already signed up for a trial? Put the cancellation deadline on your calendar and watch your bank or credit card statements for unexpected charges.

After premiums fell nationwide in 2025, drivers in more than half of U.S. states could see their rates climb by the end of this year

• Car insurance costs are ticking back up: The average full-coverage premium rose 1% in the first half of 2026, and rates are projected to increase in 32 states by years end.

• Rates vary widely by state: Connecticut is projected to see the biggest increase, while premiums have fallen in expensive markets including New York, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C.

• Shopping around can help: Experts recommend comparing at least three quotes, reviewing coverage every six months, and looking for discounts or bundling opportunities.

For drivers who got a little relief from falling car insurance premiums in 2025, that trend may be coming to an end.

According to Insurifys mid-year report, the average cost of full-coverage auto insurance rose 1% during the first half of 2026, reaching $2,237 annually, and Insurify projects rates will increase in 32 states by the end of the year.

The increases aren't happening evenly across the country. Connecticut is on track for the biggest year-over-year jump, with premiums projected to rise nearly 15% by the end of 2026. Meanwhile, some of the country's most expensive markets including New York, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C. have actually seen rates fall so far this year.

So what's behind the renewed upward pressure on car insurance costs, and what can drivers do about it? ConsumerAffairs spoke with Matt Brannon, senior economic analyst and licensed insurance agent at Insurify, who explained what the latest numbers mean for consumers.

How the report was conducted

Insurifys data scientists analyzed more than 250 million auto insurance quotes from the companys proprietary database, with quotes originating from all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Alaska was excluded because of its lower quoting volume.

The analysis focuses on drivers ages 20 to 70 with clean driving records and average or better credit, unless otherwise noted. The report uses two-year rolling median premiums to help smooth out unusually large swings in the market.

Key findings

Heres a look at some of the key findings from the study:

• The average annual cost of full-coverage car insurance reached $2,237 in the first half of 2026, up 1% from the end of 2025.

• Twenty-seven states saw premiums increase during the first six months of the year, and Insurify projects that rates will rise in 32 states by the end of 2026. Nationally, the average annual premium is projected to reach $2,242 by December.

• Connecticut has seen the biggest increase so far, with premiums jumping 10% in the first half of the year and projected to finish 2026 about 15% higher than they were at the end of 2025.

• Kentucky, West Virginia, Illinois ,and Nevada are also among the states expected to see some of the largest increases.

• Washington, D.C., New Jersey and New York all saw premiums fall by at least 5% during the first half of 2026.

• D.C. remains the most expensive market overall, with an average annual full-coverage premium of $3,880 in June.

Whats driving the increases?

Insurifys report found that more than half of U.S. states are projected to finish 2026 with higher premiums than in 2025. Brannon broke it all down.

The bad news is more states will see increases, he said. The good news is that, in most cases, they arent big increases.

2025 was unusual in that the average cost of car insurance declined significantly. Insurers generally were willing to cut rates to compete for new customers and retain the ones they had. Now, the premium prices were seeing indicate that the period of falling rates has largely passed. And rates are normalizing.

Brannon explained that In addition to market dynamics influencing rates, insurers are spending more on certain types of claims payouts now. When claim costs go up, insurers often mitigate those expenses by raising premiums.

Expensive markets are seeing rate cuts

Some states with typically high car insurance rates New York, New Jersey, and Washington D.C. are seeing price cuts this year.

Insurers are constantly trying to find the right balance between charging enough to comfortably cover potential losses and not overcharging so much that they lose customers, Brannon said.

When we see rates falling in expensive states, or rates rising in cheaper states, it could signal that insurers are still trying to find that right balance. Many of these states had seen sharp increases in recent years, so the fact that theyre falling now is consistent with what we expect from insurers, making price adjustments here and there to find what they consider a sustainable medium.

Brannon also noted that New York, New Jersey, and D.C. all saw sharp declines in stolen cars in 2025. This means insurers dont have to spend as much money on expensive, total loss claims, which can affect insurance rates.

Do your homework

To help mitigate the rising costs of car insurance, Brannon recommends that consumers do as much research as possible before committing to a plan.

Comparing rates is one of the best ways to save money on your insurance, he said. I recommend you compare at least three quotes to make sure youve got the best deal for both home and auto insurance.

Revisit your coverage needs and compare rates every six months. Be sure to compare the same coverage limits and deductibles. Otherwise, you might get excited about a lower rate, only to find out it reflects lower liability limits or a higher deductible.

Another option: consider bundling your policies. Bundling saves insurers money on administrative costs, and insurers often reward those drivers with a significant premium discount, Brannon said. Additionally, make sure youre not missing out on any lesser-known discounts, like using autopay or paperless communications.