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Consumer Handbook

Every week, join Raechel Cantoni 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
  • Consumer Handbook: Tips for Winterizing
    It can take some planning to winter-proof your life and decide who you might need to hire for help. However, a few preventative measures during the fall months can help you avoid waking up to a broken furnace, frozen pipes or a deflated tire.
  • Consumer Handbook: Tips for Buying a Used Car
    While used car pricing is stabilizing after a turbulent few years, prices are still higher than consumers may be accustomed to. The search for a deal can lead shoppers to unscrupulous sellers – and they may feel pressured to decide quickly, as affordable used cars aren’t staying on the lot for long.
  • Consumer Handbook: Blueprint of a Scam
    Over half of all Americans encounter a scam every day. Better Business Bureau (BBB) data shows Scam Tracker reports increasing each year. Over $68 billion was lost to financial fraud last year, and over 98% of Americans said scams pose a threat to national security.
  • Consumer Handbook: Disaster Preparedness Month
    Each September, National Preparedness Month reminds us to stay prepared for emergencies. No one can control the weather, but you can control the steps you take to prepare – like weatherproofing your home, making proactive repairs, checking your insurance coverage and making an emergency response plan.
  • Consumer Handbook: Home Warranty Scam Tips
    Better Business Bureau advises homeowners to be cautious if they get an unexpected notice or phone call about a home warranty.
  • Consumer Handbook: Gas and Grocery Vouchers
    With the cost of groceries and fuel straining household budgets, Better Business Bureau® warns consumers to be on the lookout for scammers claiming they can give you free gas and grocery vouchers.
  • Consumer Handbook: "Staying Scam Savvy on Campus"
    If you have a college student who's starting a new school year, Better Business Bureau® recommends talking to them about taking care of their money and personal information while they're on campus.
  • Consumer Handbook: AI and Customer Service
    Artificial intelligence is inescapable. Emerging technology is ubiquitous in the workplace, at schools and computers and phones. The benefit of a personal assistant at your fingertips is exciting for many – but concerning for others, especially as AI becomes ubiquitous both as a tool for legitimate businesses and a new method for scammers.
  • Consumer Handbook: AI Scam Calls (Voice Cloning)
    Better Business Bureau® advises consumers to be on the lookout for AI-generated phone calls, voicemails or voice messages.
  • Consumer Handbook: Youth Sports Program Tips
    As the school year approaches, Better Business Bureau® has tips for families to choose the best youth sports league or travel team for their child.