ConsumerAffairs

Streaming platforms haven't completely replaced traditional television when it comes to watching series. Weekly episode releases received slightly higher viewer ratings than shows released all at once. TV networks and streaming services are increasingly collaborating to produce and distribute shows. With streaming services making it easier than ever to watch entire seasons of shows in one sitting, it might seem like traditional television is becoming a thing of the past.

A new survey found that 67% of Americans want Congress to end the twice-yearly clock changes. Permanent daylight saving time was the most popular option, although some people have concerns about darker winter mornings. More than half of Americans say the fall time change negatively affects their sleep, mood, or productivity. It's almost time to turn the clocks back again (Sunday, November 1, 2026!), but many Americans are wondering whether this twice-yearly tradition needs to continue.

Recall roundup: New CPSC and FDA safety alerts This roundup covers newly announced recalls and consumer warnings from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Food and Drug Administration. More than 25,000 children’s sensory swings are being recalled because a ceiling hook can detach and cause dangerous falls. The recalled Harkla swings have a ceiling hook that can separate from its mounting plate, creating a serious fall hazard.

Set a realistic holiday budget by prioritizing the gifts that matter most instead of trying to buy everything on your wish list. Be cautious about opening store credit cards for discounts, especially if you can't pay off the balance right away. Talk with loved ones about gift-giving expectations ahead of time and remember that meaningful gifts don't have to be expensive. The holidays are a time for celebrating, giving, and spending time with loved ones.

License plate readers are getting smarter: New technology can detect wireless signals from phones, smartwatches, and other electronic devices inside vehicles. Your devices can create a digital fingerprint: The technology could help police recognize a vehicle even when its license plate isn't visible. Privacy concerns are growing: The system doesn't read your messages, but it could help authorities track your movements over time.

Mortgage rates fell for a second straight week, with the average 30-year fixed rate declining to 7.24%. The pullback offers modest savings, but borrowing costs remain more than a percentage point above a year ago. Mortgage applications increased, although homebuying and refinancing activity continued to trail last year. Mortgage rates moved lower again this week, giving prospective homebuyers a small break as October comes to an end.

Federal authorities charged five people in Operation Ghostbusters, a nationwide investigation into alleged fraud involving fake college students. Prosecutors say scammers used stolen identities to obtain student aid, then routed the money through U.S. bank accounts to overseas accomplices. Investigators seized more than $750,000 in cryptocurrency, and the investigation now spans more than 40 cases.

Scam victims surveyed reported serious emotional and financial consequences, including substantial unrecovered losses. Many victims said organizations ignored requests for help, while recovery scammers targeted them again. Traditional identity theft often involved lengthy recovery efforts, with cases remaining unresolved after considerable work.

Family caregivers spend an average of $11,508 a year out of pocket, up 59% from 2021, according to AARP. Caregiving expenses consume an average of 31% of household income, with lower-income families facing substantially greater pressure. The financial burden extends to careers and retirement, as caregivers adjust work schedules and draw on savings to support loved ones.

The SAFE Platforms Act would require online platforms to verify advertisers, strengthen privacy settings and make suspected scams easier to report. The bill would let consumers sue over violations and give federal and state officials enforcement authority. Introduced by Democrat Valerie Foushee and Republican James Moylan, the proposal remains in a House committee and has not received a floor vote. The number of scams on social media grows day by day, costing Americans billions of dollars.