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Consumer Handbook

Every week, join Sydney Waters as she helps you navigate life as a smart consumer. You'll cover everything in avoiding the latest scams, including phishing emails, medical equipment fraud, understanding layaway, hiring a reputable tax preparer, and even digital spring cleaning. 

Add to your toolbox and flip through your Consumer Handbook Thursdays during NPR’s Morning Edition at 6:42 a.m. and 8:42 a.m., only on KRCU.

Latest Episodes
  • Thank a business this month.
    Consumer Handbook: November is 'Thank a Business' Month
    This November, help a business near you and let them know if they've done a great job.
  • Lazy winter day in front of fire in fireplace.
    Consumer Handbook: Winterizing Your Home and Car
    It can take some effort to prepare your home and car for colder weather. However, taking the time to winterize during the fall months will save you from headaches later.
  • Aerial view of workers installing solar panels on a roof
    Consumer Handbook: Solar Sales Scams
    Home solar panels can help some households save money on energy – but be careful if a solar panel salesperson knocks on your door or calls without warning.
  • Use extra caution when publicly posting on social media to resolve an issue with a business.
    Consumer Handbook: Fake Customer Services Accounts on Social Media
    BBB reminds consumers to use extra caution when publicly posting on social media to resolve an issue with a business.
  • It might seem like there are no downsides to a free package, but it could be a sign that someone is using your personal information for their own gain.
    Consumer Handbook: Brushing Scams
    Have you ever gotten a package you didn’t order? It might seem like a fun surprise, but it might be the setup for a scam known as brushing.
  • While these letters look real, scammers are very adept at faking official-looking documents.
    Consumer Handbook: Inheritance Scams
    The letter comes unexpectedly and features an enticing opportunity for the recipient: a long-lost relative has passed away and left an inheritance that could be yours.
  • Cybersecurity is no longer an option – it's a necessity.
    Consumer Handbook: Cybersecurity Awareness
    Cybercrime poses a big threat to businesses. According to Netwrix's 2025 Cybersecurity Trends Report, 51% of responding businesses surveyed experienced a security incident in the past 12 months, with 75% reporting financial damage due to attacks.
  • Notify your customers and business partners as quickly as possible that someone is impersonating you.
    Consumer Handbook: Local Imposter Scams
    Impersonation is a common tactic used in all sorts of scams, but recently, BBB has received reports of a few different cases where scammers impersonated a reputable local business to trick customers or fellow businesses into handing over their money.
  • When planning to enjoy attend a festival or event, do your research to make sure it is being held by a reputable company with a good track record.
    Consumer Handbook: Festivals and Events
    As the weather cools down and we start to enjoy fall festivals, markets, and other events, keep an eye out for events that don’t deliver on their promises.
  • Computer and hands close up. The concept of artificial intelligence and computer technology.
    Consumer Handbook: Utilizing AI for Customer Service
    Any business that considers itself ethical knows that good customer service can’t be compromised upon. That said, exceptional customer service takes time and money. That’s where artificial intelligence can help. AI tools can give your team additional resources and support to help them focus on creating a great experience for all customers.