Terri Dickerson
December 12, 2019
Stories this photo appears in:
In digital universe, these were 2021's most-read Press articles
This year was not like the others.
Watch your bank statements carefully
A Hayden reader called to suggest that we look at our bank statements carefully to make sure all the listed transactions are legitimate.
CONSUMER GAL: Navigating free trials on the internet
When something we want is dangled in front of us with a free sign it can be quite enticing.
CONSUMER GAL: Supply chain issues and new cars
Those in the market for a new car may have noticed there is a shortage of new cars on the market.
Limit the info you share with retailers
A Post Falls reader recently visited his local Walgreens and was surprised when the clerk asked for and then scanned his driver’s license.
A weak password can cripple you
One problem most of us have with setting up passwords is we want to create a quick and easy to remember password but this may not be our best strategy if the password ends up being weak and easily hackable.
Avoid spam with disposable emails
Our email addresses need to be treated like part of our personal information.
Fake Netflix apps spread malware
Consumers love a good bargain, but when receiving online or text message coupons and discount codes be careful.
CONSUMER GAL: Homographic hacking makes clicking on links dangerous
In our fast paced lives, hackers count on us not paying close attention when clicking on links.
Before you scan that QR code ...
First, what is a QR code?
GAP Insurance for used cars
If you are unfamiliar with GAP insurance now is the time to become familiar with it if you are buying a new or used car soon and financing the purchase.
You might be overpaying for apps
If you download apps to your Android of iPhone device, you should be aware that both Google and Apple have been known to overcharge users who pay to download apps as well of those who make in-app purchases in the Google Play store or in Apple’s App store.
Veterans Affairs vendor LHI is legitimate
If you are a veteran who has recently filed a disability claim, you may be contacted by LHI to schedule your Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exam.
Using your checkbook can backfire
Imagine logging into your bank account and discovering that your checking account has been drained of almost all the money you had in the account.
Where the Trojan Horse roams
Let’s face it, when we invite a digital voice assistant like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple Siri, into our homes, we are essentially inviting a device into our homes that records and stores everything we say
Census Bureau texts might be legit
I received a message from a Coeur d’Alene reader inquiring about the legitimacy of a text message she received from the U.S. Census Bureau asking her to click on a link to fill out a survey about the COVID-19 situation.
Debit cards offer scant fraud protection
An Athol reader asked if selecting the credit option when using her debit card offers more protections.
CONSUMER GAL: How to fight 'shrinkflation'
Have you noticed package sizes or weights at the grocery store are getting smaller while prices remain the same?
CONSUMER GAL: Here's how COVID affects mammogram timing
According to the CDC, if you are female and recently received a COVID-19 vaccine you may want to consider delaying a mammogram.
Bezos could be watching you from Sidewalk
If you own an Amazon device like the Echo or Ring Doorbell, chances are you are linked to your neighbor’s devices.
Cleverly disguised games on Facebook
When poking around on Facebook be careful of innocent looking games which appear to be posted by friends claiming to want to get to know you better.
Which is better? Fraud alert vs. credit freeze
A fraud alert on your credit report requires a creditor to verify your identity before processing credit applications, whereas a credit freeze actually blocks access to your credit report altogether.
The psychology behind all those scams
Don’t kid yourself, scammers use psychological tactics to rip off their victims.
IRS letters from White House not a scam
Several local readers reported that they have received an envelope from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) but the letter inside is actually from the White House and signed by Joe Biden. I received one of these letters too.
Consumer Gal: Amazon not living up to customer expectations
A recent customer service experience with Amazon left a Post Falls reader wondering if Amazon is getting too big.