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
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A beautiful yard takes hard work, and sometimes you need to call in the experts. When choosing a lawn care professional, BBB recommends looking for a responsive company with a strong track record of trustworthy business practices. -
Buying online is the easiest way for many people to get tickets, and it’s usually safest to buy tickets directly from a venue’s, team’s or artist’s official website. However, sometimes it makes sense to buy resale tickets. Online ticket marketplaces and resellers can help you get tickets to a sold-out event or at a discount – but buyers should beware. -
Older Americans Month is a time to recognize older adults’ contributions, learn about aging and encourage older adults and their families to advocate for themselves, manage their health, and make informed decisions that support their independence. -
May is National Moving Month and the kickoff point for the busiest moving season of the year. Half of all household moves happen in the summer. -
New graduates often face big changes like moving, starting jobs, and managing money for the first time, which can make them targets for scams and identity theft. While young adults are often seen as tech-savvy, they can still be vulnerable to fraud. -
Many companies use e-signature services to securely send digital documents to be signed. E-signature scams impersonate legitimate e-signature services. They usually come in the form of a fake email that says you have a document ready to sign. The scammer’s goal is to trick the recipient into thinking they need to sign something important right away. -
Higher prices and tight inventory are characterizing vehicle sales in 2026. Kelley Blue Book reported that in February, the average new car sold for 3.4% more than a year ago, which is higher-than-normal growth. -
If you recently purchased your first home, congrats on your accomplishment! You’ve no doubt realized that all that extra space comes with extra maintenance – and if you’re used to renting, you’ll now be faced with tasks your landlord may have previously taken care of. -
With winter in the rear-view mirror, you might be thinking about making a change of scenery. A newer, bigger space might be appealing. The BBB wants you to remember that if you are looking to rent, there may be scammers waiting to lure you into their traps. -
Your choice of a funeral home is among the most important choices you’ll make. The BBB recommends consumers keep their rights in mind as they’re working through all the decisions that come with the loss of a loved one.
