KCBY - News - Consumer

Getting a big tax refund? You're throwing money away

A big refund check means just one thing -- you overpaid your taxes during the year. Simply changing your withholding will net you a bigger paycheck and cut down on your interest-free loan to the government.

Infant deaths prompt gov't warning on slings

The government warned Friday that those chic baby slings that hip moms and dads are sporting these days can be dangerous, even deadly for their little ones.

Feds recall more children jewelry in cadmium probe

Federal safety regulators recalled a line of Christmas-themed bracelets Thursday, expanding their effort to purge children's jewelry boxes and store shelves of items containing high levels of the toxic metal cadmium.

Census: $57 million for 'reminder' letters well worth it

Letters are arriving in mailboxes saying census forms are coming. While that might seem like a waste of postage, the census says it's very effective and can save taxpayers at least 10 times the postage.

How to spot a financial fraudster

Con artists promise you the impossible, but they make you believe it. But if you're careful and do your homework, you can spot a con man before you hand over your money.

Manufacturer expands pet food recall

Nature's Variety has expanded its recall of chicken-flavored pet food due to concerns over salmonella.

Lifelock to pay millions to settle false advertising claims

A company that promised to protect consumers from identity theft has agreed to pay $12 million to settle false advertising claims brought by the Federal Trade Commission and 35 states, including Oregon and Washington.

Scammers profile their targets

Many victims who lose thousands of dollars to scams are senior citizens. But investigators say scammers profile their targets in every age group and some people who least expect it, may have the most to lose.

Beware of skimmers when using debit cards at the pump

Paying at the pump with a debit card is fast and convenient, but these days it's also risky. Thieves have a variety of devices that let them secretly snag your account number and pin code when you pay at the pump.

Victim helps turn the table on con artists

Geoffrey Groff-Smith was sickened to learn thieves were draining his family's accounts by tricking his wife. As you learn his story, keep in mind the same thing is likely happening right now to a friend, a neighbor, or even a member of your family.