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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
  • 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.
  • Stressed upset woman holding bank card and being surprised
    Consumer Handbook: How to Recover from a Scam
    Figuring out what to do in the aftermath of a scam can be incredibly stressful. Better Business Bureau®'s new Scam Survival Toolkit can help guide survivors of scams through the recovery process.
  • BBB offers tips for hassle-free returns.
    Consumer Handbook: Hassle-Free Returns
    Better Business Bureau® (BBB®) advises shoppers returning or exchanging gifts to check return policies before heading back to the stores this year.
  • Young adult woman working and playing with dogs in animal shelter
    Consumer Handbook: Animal Shelter Volunteering Tips
    Several rescue animals could use a little time out from the shelter and a new home, and maybe you have a little extra time or space.
  • Beware delivery scams this holiday season.
    Consumer Handbook: Delivery Scams
    It’s the busiest delivery season of the year, and unfortunately, that means scammers will be busy, too.
  • Think before responding to texts from strangers.
    Consumer Handbook: Wrong Number Scams
    Have you ever gotten a text message saying something like “Hi, who is this?” or "Hey Amanda, this is John?”
  • Is buy now, pay later the right choice for your holiday shopping?
    Consumer Handbook: Buy Now, Pay Later
    Buy now, pay later is a service that many stores offer to allow shoppers to space out smaller payments on an item over time, rather than paying the full cost up front.
  • 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.