Current Events in July 2023

Browse Current Events by year

2023

Browse Current Events by month

Get trending consumer news and recalls

    By entering your email, you agree to sign up for consumer news, tips and giveaways from ConsumerAffairs. Unsubscribe at any time.

    Thanks for subscribing.

    You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter! Enjoy reading our tips and recommendations.

    Does that snack contain THC? Feds are cracking down on companies that are allegedly deceiving consumers.

    It may look like an ordinary snack, but it actually contains a surprising ingredient

    The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) are after six companies that are allegedly deceiving consumers with their packaging.

    The agencies found that these entities are producing snacks in packaging that looks like other popular snack items, except there’s a surprising ingredient – delta-8 THC, a cannabinoid that comes from the cannabis sativa plant. 

    The biggest concern is that children get their hands on these snacks that are packaged to look like any other snack in the cabinet or on the shelves. However, even for adults seeking out these treats, without proper labeling, it can be difficult to know how much of the drug you’re actually taking. 

    “Children are more vulnerable than adults to the effects of THC, with many who have been sickened and even hospitalized after eating ‘edibles’ containing it,” said Dr. Janet Woodcock, FDA principal deputy commissioner. “That’s why we’re issuing warnings to several companies selling copycat food products containing delta-8 THC, which can be easily mistaken for popular foods that are appealing to children and can make it easy for a young child to ingest in very high doses without realizing it.

    “The products we are warning against intentionally mimic well-known snack food brands by using similar brand names, logos, or pictures on packaging, that consumers, especially children, may confuse with traditional snack foods. We’re also concerned that adults could unintentionally take them or take a higher dose than expected and suffer serious consequences. The risk is especially dangerous for those who are driving, working, or have other responsibilities.”

    Being mindful about packaging

    The FDA and FTC have sent cease and desist letters to six companies who are selling these snacks: Delta Munchies LLC, Exclusive Hemp Farms, North Carolina Hemp Exchange, Dr. Smoke, Nikte’s Wholesale, and the Haunted Vapor Room. 

    While some of the names of products from these companies give away what they are – Medicated DopeRope Bites, Double Stuff Stoneos, or Stoney Patch – many of their products look like any number of snacks we’re used to finding at the grocery store.

    The FTC shared examples of lookalike Doritos, Nerds, and gummy bears, all with packaging that looks like regular versions of these snacks, but that actually contain delta-8 THC

    The only mention of THC is written in very fine print on the bottom or on the back of the packaging. When depicting gummy candy or cheesy potato chips, these images are likely to appeal to young kids, which is the biggest concern for parents. 

    The agencies have given these distribution companies 15 days to pull the plug on the marketing efforts for these products, with warnings to also review all of their marketing and packaging for similar items. 

    “Marketing edible THC products that can be easily mistaken by children for regular foods is reckless and illegal,” said Samuel Levine, director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Companies must ensure that their products are marketed safely and responsibly, especially when it comes to protecting the well-being of children.”  

    The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) are after six companies that are allegedly deceiving consumers with their pac...

    FTC proposes to outlaw fake online reviews

    One estimate suggests as many as 31% of reviews aren’t real

    If a proposed rule by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) becomes final it will be against the law to post a fake review online.

    The FTC is trying to stop marketers from using phony review and endorsement practices such as using fake reviews, suppressing honest negative reviews, and paying for positive reviews, which deceive consumers looking for real feedback on a product or service and undercut honest businesses.

    “Our proposed rule on fake reviews shows that we’re using all available means to attack deceptive advertising in the digital age,” said Samuel Levine, director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.  “The rule would trigger civil penalties for violators and should help level the playing field for honest companies.”

    The FTC initiated the rule-making activity after reports that a growing number of online reviews are made up. CNBC cites a 2021 analysis that suggests as many as 31% of reviews found on e-commerce sites like Amazon, Walmart and Best Buy are suspected fakes.

    The FTC’s proposed rule would prohibit:

    • Selling or obtaining fake consumer reviews and testimonials: Both buyer and seller could be held liable. 

    • Review hijacking: Businesses couldn’t use a review for one product to promote something different.  

    • Buying positive or negative reviews: Businesses couldn’t post negative reviews of a competitor.

    • Insider reviews and consumer testimonials: The proposed rule would prohibit a company’s officers and managers from writing reviews or testimonials of its products or services, without clearly disclosing their relationships.

    Companies would also be barred from creating a website that claims to provide independent opinions about its products or services. They would also be prevented from unjustified legal threats to suppress unfavorable reviews.

    ConsumerAffairs provides a place for consumers to post reviews of products and services and hundreds of thousands have done so since 1998. The company has strict protocols in place to insure review legitimacy.

    “Our Moderation Team carefully evaluates reviews and images to ensure they meet our guidelines before publication,” the company said in a statement. “Only the most helpful and informative reviews and comments, regardless of their tone, are considered, provided they are factually accurate and include firsthand details and photos. ConsumerAffairs also uses intelligent software to help filter fake or spam reviews, ensuring a trustworthy platform for our users.”

    If a proposed rule by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) becomes final it will be against the law to post a fake review online.The FTC is trying to sto...

    Get trending consumer news and recalls

      By entering your email, you agree to sign up for consumer news, tips and giveaways from ConsumerAffairs. Unsubscribe at any time.

      Thanks for subscribing.

      You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter! Enjoy reading our tips and recommendations.

      Staying in a hotel anytime soon? A cybersecurity nightmare might check in with you.

      The TV in your room could be a hacker’s pipeline to your privacy

      The next time you check into a hotel, you might find a cybercriminal hiding under your bed.

      Figuratively, of course, but cybersecurity experts say hotels are becoming one of the riskiest places for travelers, and many threats await them right in their rooms. 

      "It's crucial to understand that the willingness of cybercriminals to intrude on your privacy or steal your data does not depend on your presence in the office or your holiday plans,”  says NordVPN's cybersecurity expert Adrianus Warmenhoven.

      “Hackers can use a hotel's cybersecurity vulnerabilities in several ways to reach you even in your room. So while you’re on vacation and using the internet connection of where you’re staying, you should be cautious and manage cybersecurity risks.”

      Wi-Fi’nagling

      Warmenhoven says those vulnerabilities start with the hotel’s free Wi-Fi. There are two ways in which hackers can steal travelers' passwords and personal information through a hotel's Wi-Fi.

      One is where a guest connects to the hotel's Wi-Fi and malicious malware is downloaded to their device. The second is where hackers create sort of an "evil twin" – a fake, unsecured Wi-Fi hotspot with an unsuspicious name like "Guest Wi-Fi" or "Free Hotel Wi-Fi" – and steal private information that way.

      "To avoid being hacked through hotel Wi-Fi, travelers must take a few steps. First, ask the person at the reception desk to give the exact name and password for the provided Wi-Fi to avoid connecting to an ‘evil twin’ network.

      "Second, use a VPN service to encrypt your data and prevent third parties from intercepting it. Finally, it is always a good idea to enable a firewall while using public Wi-Fi," Warmenhoven said.

      Another Wi-Fi-related issue could come from a guest using their device’s automatic connection function because hotels are frequently surrounded by public and insecure internet connections.

      Disabling that option helps to mitigate cybersecurity risks on a trip, but Warmenhoven warns that if a traveler leaves their smartphone in their hotel room with the phone disconnected from Wi-Fi, the connection can automatically be turned on if, by chance, the hotel staff moves it while cleaning a room. 

      USB chargers can be trouble, too

      Some hotels provide USB charging ports in their rooms for the convenience of their guests, an easy way to charge a device, especially if the traveler is coming from a location with a different kind of plug.

      However, cybercriminals may have already beaten the guest to that charging port, installing malware on phones to perform an attack called juice jacking. When this type of attack happens, hackers can steal users' passwords, credit card information, address, name, and all sorts of data. 

      "Safe device charging on your way to your vacation spot might be challenging because you must carry a power bank or USB data blocker, but hotel rooms always have a socket. Usually, it's the safest way to charge your devices," says Warmenhoven.

      Cyberstalking via smart TVs

      The most unique hack these days comes from smart TVs. Depending on a hacker’s aim, they could cyberstalk travelers with built-in microphones or cameras, steal personal credentials used to log in to apps on smart TV and sell them on the dark web.

      Experts recommend unplugging the smart TV when not in use. By covering the webcam and avoiding logging in with personal credentials, you can also mitigate cyber risks.

      The next time you check into a hotel, you might find a cybercriminal hiding under your bed.Figuratively, of course, but cybersecurity experts say hotel...

      Walgreens is the latest retailer to join the summer sale frenzy

      The pharmacy is planning a week-long sales event for rewards members starting July 23

      With consumers currently balancing several days of huge sales from three of the biggest retailers – Target, Walmart, and Amazon – the summer sale frenzy is still heating up. 

      Walgreens is the latest competitor to enter the race. The pharmacy announced that it will host a week full of sales and discounts, myW Days, starting on July 23 and running through July 29, exclusively for myWalgreens rewards members. 

      “We’re launching myW Days to thank myWalgreens members and show how much we appreciate them,” said Linh Peters, chief marketing officer at Walgreens. “We know health and wellness is personal and needs change and vary, so our loyalty program is designed to provide valuable and flexible rewards across any Walgreens purchase."

      Up to $100 in myWalgreens Cash is available

      While Walgreens plans to unveil its full list of sales and specials for myW Days on July 13, the retailer explained that myWalgreens rewards members should expect to see discounts and benefits that are tailored to their specific purchases.

      With the primary goal of the sale being to reward shoppers, consumers will be able to earn rewards and score their favorites at lower prices, the company said. 

      In addition, rewards members should look forward to earning myWalgreens Cash rewards. According to the retailer, each member can earn up to $100 in myWalgreens Cash rewards over the course of the week of savings. 

      During the sales events, shoppers will have the chance to earn extra rewards to double up on their rewards balance. This will translate to Walgreens Cash rewards – which ultimately save consumers money on every visit. 

      To get the most out of the sales event, and earn the most possible Walgreens Cash, rewards members are encouraged to take advantage of the deals going on every day of the week. 

      Consumers must be myWalgreens rewards members to participate in the savings, and they can join in any Walgreens store or online at walgreens.com/mywalgreens

      With consumers currently balancing several days of huge sales from three of the biggest retailers – Target, Walmart, and Amazon – the summer sale frenzy is...

      If you got illegal robocalls from DirecTV you could receive hundreds of dollars

      The minimum payment from the class-action settlement is $324

      Did you get some pesky telemarketing calls from DirecTV a few years ago? If you did, you’re in luck.

      The TV provider has settled a class-action lawsuit filed in federal court in West Virginia, claiming DirecTV made illegal telemarketing calls to people whose numbers are registered on the National Do Not Call list. The company agreed to pay $16.85 million.

      You are included in the settlement if your telephone number is one of 113,997 known numbers that received calls. 

      And unlike many settlements in which wronged consumers get very little compensation, the law firm handling the settlement says eligible class members will receive at least $324, with an average payout of $461.

      The plaintiffs in the suit said DirecTV violated the Telephone Consumer Protection Act, which bars robocalls that use pre-recorded messages. The original plaintiff, who lives in West Virginia, initiated the action in 2017 after she said she was called several times, even though her number is on the National Do Not Call list.

      How to find out if you’re eligible

      You can easily find out if you are eligible for compensation. The settlement website has an automated phone number check here. You simply enter your phone number or numbers and the system will instantly tell you whether you have some money coming to you.

      If you are eligible you can submit a claim here. Eligible class members may receive a postcard with a Notice ID that can be used to sign into the system. 

      If your number is eligible under the settlement, you have until Aug. 7 to make a claim. The last hurdle will be a court hearing on Aug. 24, at which time the court will decide whether to finalize the settlement.

      Did you get some pesky telemarketing calls from DirecTV a few years ago? If you did, you’re in luck.The TV provider has settled a class-action lawsuit...

      New study shows that being overweight may not be linked with a higher risk of death

      Looking at BMI may not be the best predictor of overall health

      A recent study published in PLOS One is calling into question what many people have long believed to be true about body mass index (BMI). 

      After analyzing information from nearly 555,000 adults, the researchers found that having a higher BMI isn’t necessarily going to increase the risk of death. 

      According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Body mass index is a person’s weight in kilograms divided by the square height in meters.” Based on that number, there are four categories: underweight (under 18.5), healthy weight (18.5 - 24.9), overweight (25.0 - 29.9), and obese (30.0 and above). 

      An easier way to calculate your BMI is by using the National Institutes of Health (NIH) BMI calculator

      Based on the findings from this most recent study, study participants in the overweight group had a similar risk of death as those in the underweight group. 

      “Our findings suggest that BMI in the overweight range is generally not associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality,” the researchers wrote. “Our study suggests that BMI may not necessarily increase mortality independently of other risk factors in those with BMI of 25.0 - 29.9 and in older adults with BMI of 25.0 - 34.9.” 

      BMI and mortality risk

      For the study, the researchers analyzed data from nearly 555,000 adults, with a mean age of 46, who were enrolled in the National Health Interview Study (NHIS) between 1999 and 2018.

      The NHIS was linked with the National Death Index, which allowed the researchers to monitor any participant deaths over the course of the study. The participants self-reported their height and weight, and the researchers calculated their BMIs. 

      Ultimately, BMI proved to not be a major risk factor when it came to death of any cause among the participants. The risk of death was just about the same for those whose BMI was between 25.0 and 27.4, and for those who fell between 27.5 and 29.9. 

      The researchers did learn that age came into play a bit. For younger adults with BMI between 22.5 and 27.4, there was no significant increase in the risk of death. However, for adults over 65, that window of BMI without an increase in death was between 22.5 and 34.9. 

      Overall, participants whose BMI was 30 or above were anywhere between 21% and 108% more likely to die from any cause. Participants in this group were also more than twice as likely to have diabetes or high blood pressure. 

      Looking to the future, the research team hopes that more factors are taken into consideration when considering consumers’ all-around health status. 

      “Further studies incorporating weight history, body composition, and morbidity outcomes are needed to fully characterize BMI-mortality associations,” the researchers wrote. 

      A recent study published in PLOS One is calling into question what many people have long believed to be true about body mass index (BMI). After analyzi...

      PRIME energy drinks may come under FDA scrutiny

      A U.S. Senator has asked the agency to investigate the caffeine-packed beverage

      Energy drinks, as the name implies, are brewed to give you energy. But how much energy is too much?

      Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) is no doctor but believes the caffeine levels in PRIME energy beverages are over the line and he’s calling for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate.

      Schumer says the beverage is the new “summer status symbol” among young people, mainly due to the promotional efforts of social media influencers Logan Paul and KSI.

      "But buyer and parents beware because it’s a serious health concern for the kids it so feverishly targets," Schumer told the FDA.

      The company that makes PRIME says it has taken steps to keep its product out of the hands of children. It says the label contains a warning that the beverage should not be consumed by people under the age of 18.

      What is it about PRIME that has raised concern? Schumer says the company makes a hydration sports beverage with no caffeine but its marketing is very similar to PRIME, which contains about 200 milligrams of caffeine – about six times as much as in a 12-ounce can of Coke.

      That sounds like a lot but according to the Mayo Clinic, most energy drinks contain 100 to 300 milligrams of caffeine per serving, although amounts can vary. Mayo researchers say up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day is considered safe for most adults. But that’s adults.

      Not for kids

      Doctors are pretty much in agreement that energy drinks are not good for children, not just because of the heavy dose of caffeine but also the added sugar. In 2011 the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) expressed concern that these products were being marketed to children.

      “Sports drinks and energy drinks are significantly different products, and the terms should not be used interchangeably,” AAP wrote in a report. 

      The authors said healthcare providers should encourage screening during annual physical examinations for sports and energy drink use, to understand the reasons why youth consumption is widespread, and to improve education aimed at decreasing or eliminating the inappropriate use of these beverages by children and adolescents.

      The report concludes that children and adolescents can best boost their energy levels by maintaining a nutritious diet and getting plenty of sleep.

      Energy drinks, as the name implies, are brewed to give you energy. But how much energy is too much?Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) is no...

      Thinking about signing up for Threads? Here are some things to consider.

      Do you know why Meta needs your credit score and where you go to church? Neither do we.

      The race is on!

      Inside of a few days time, Meta’s new “Threads” app has done to Twitter what no other social media company has done – signed up 100 million text-post loving users, close to a fourth of Twitter’s audience base.

      But, despite the spectacle of the punk-out between Meta’s Zuckerberg and Twitter’s Musk and the temptation to join the crowd, experts are saying that there are too many people jumping into Threads without thinking about what they’re giving Meta in the way of personal data and tracking.

      Threads' key differentiator is its integration with Instagram, which provides a ready user base and a seamless transition. But Ani Chaudhuri, CEO at Dasera, says that could also be its Achilles heel when we look at it from a data privacy and security perspective.

      “Merging data across platforms creates a rich, integrated dataset that may be more attractive to potential threat actors. If not managed correctly, this could result in unintended data sharing and privacy breaches,” he told ConsumerAffairs, reminding our readers that this is the exact same company that brought us that infamous Cambridge Analytica scandal. 

      Specific issues people need to be aware of

      If you haven’t leaped into Threads yet, or you just signed up, there are things you should consider before you go too far. 

      You can’t delete Threads without deleting Instagram. “Most people are eager to jump on board new social media platforms, especially if they believe all of their peers are doing it, too. There are some immediate pitfalls people need to be aware of, one of which is that if you sign up for Threads by linking your Instagram account, you cannot delete Threads later without having to delete your Instagram,” Sharad Varshney, CEO of OvalEdge, a data governance consultancy, told ConsumerAffairs. 

      “The two are ultimately married, sealing your data within its system indefinitely unless Meta changes this policy. You can only deactivate a Threads profile if you want to hang onto your Instagram, so you’ll be stuck with a dormant Threads account. So consider manually setting up an independent Threads profile with an email if you want to give yourself that ‘Threads deletion escape hatch.’”

      More advertising junk to deal with. Don’t forget – Threads is owned by Meta and you know what that means. “This comes with the usual caveats that your data will be sold in Meta's advertising platform,” Art Shaikh, Founder & CEO, DigitalWill.com, said.

      “Granted, the fact that it is built on the Instagram platform means that much of the data users have shared with IG is already in Meta's database, but new interaction and engagement data will also be added. As the saying goes, if the product is free, then your data is the cost. Users should take the usual precautions.”

      You’re giving away your entire life. Well, darn near. Chris Hauk, Consumer Privacy Champion at Pixel Privacy, says he, for one, can’t trust Meta when it comes to user information and how it is used.

      “Meta exists for one reason, to collect as much information as it can about its users and then sell that information to anyone able to pay the asking price,” Hauk said.

      How much information? According to Threads disclosure on the Google Play store, 14 pieces, including: 

      • Approximate and precise location

      • Name, email address, user IDs, home address, phone number, political and religious beliefs, sexual orientation

      • Financial info including user payment info, purchase history, credit score, and other financial info

      • Health info and fitness info

      • Emails, text messages

      • Photos and videos, voice or sound recordings, music files, and other audio files

      • Files and docs

      • Calendar events

      • Contacts

      Additional concerns

      "Potential users should take time to review this list and ensure they are comfortable with sharing their information before signing up for an account, which as a pre-requisite will be tied to their Instagram account," David Abramowitz, chief technologist at Trend Micro, told ConsumerAffairs.

      Parents beware! Here's something pretty telling: Did you know that when Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg posted a Fourth of July picture of his family on Instagram, he blurred the faces of his children? If he's worried about the privacy of his children, then, shouldn't other parents be?

      Erfan Shadabi, cybersecurity expert with data security specialists comforte AG says that before a child or young adult joins Threads, parents should familiarize themselves with the app's privacy policy and not only consider that laundry list of personal information Threads collects, but how it is stored and how it is used. 

      “Assess whether the app aligns with your family's privacy expectations and values. And take note of any potential risks associated with the app's content, including user-generated content, public posts, or interactions with strangers,” he told ConsumerAffairs.

      “No matter which app is in question, parents should also actively explore the app's settings and privacy controls. Teach them how to set their profile to private, limit who can view their posts or content, and how to manage friend or follower requests.”

      Shadabi suggests that parents educate their children about the importance of strong passwords, avoiding suspicious links or downloads, and being cautious about sharing personal information or engaging with strangers online. 

      “Teach them to identify potential risks and to report any suspicious or malicious activities on the platform. Above all, maintain an open line of communication and offer ongoing guidance and support," Shadabi said.

      The race is on!Inside of a few days time, Meta’s new “Threads” app has done to Twitter what no other social media company has done – signed up 100 mill...