UPDATE, 9-20-15 — Volkswagen’s CEO has issued an apology over the incident. It’s vague: “I personally am deeply sorry that we have broken the trust of our customers and the public,” the statement issued by CEO Martin Winkerhorn says. “We at Volkswagen will do everything that must be done in order [Keep reading]
A nationwide firm that promised consumers legal help with debt relief has been temporarily shut down by federal authorities. The firm, which goes by the name World Law, took $67 million in illegal upfront fees from at least 21,000 people, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau alleges, while misleading consumers with [Keep reading]
American Airlines is experiencing serious technical difficulties today that impact “several airports,” according to the airline’s Twitter feed. “We’re working to resolve technical issues impacting several airports as quickly as possible,” the firm wrote. Internet users are complaining the airlines website isn’t working properly, either. “We’re working to resolve technical issues [Keep reading]
I am well aware that I’m very lucky. Every time I mention that I’m about to set out on a cross-country drive, I hear, “I wish I could do that,” over and over. I’ve been privileged to complete the trip a dozen times or so. In exchange for occasional back soreness and [Keep reading]
If you’ve recently noticed the incessant advertisements for fantasy sports websites with cash prizes and wondered, “Why isn’t this gambling?” you aren’t alone. New Jersey Congressman Frank Pallone is wondering, too, and he’s called for Congressional hearings on the matter. Online gambling is illegal. Gambling on sporting events is illegal [Keep reading]
Expedia.com has asked me to warn consumers that the firm is getting complaints about a travel scam targeting Expedia consumers. In this scam, con artists call consumers claiming to be from Expedia, then tell listeners they’ve won a prize. After a bit more trickery, targets are asked to pay a fee in [Keep reading]
There’s a very hot place in Hell for people who steal money from the elderly, but I’m hoping there’s an even hotter place for criminals who pose as desperate grandchildren when they do so. I know many of you know about Facebook friend scams and the “grandparent scam” version of [Keep reading]
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There’s a reason people live on America’s east or west coast: That’s where the opportunities are. But New York / Washington / Los Angeles / San Francisco have a lot of other natural advantages. There’s something primal about being near the ocean. There’s something historic about being near New York. [Keep reading]
Two of the nation’s largest debt collectors must refund nearly $60 million to consumers and stop trying to collect on another $128 million in debts, after an action filed by federal regulators Wednesday. San Diego-based Encore Capital Group and Virginia-based Portfolio Recovery Associates are accused of pressuring consumers with false statements [Keep reading]
Bob Sullivan