Current Events in December 2025

• Use AI to brainstorm gifts, compare products, and summarize reviews. Don’t let it log into accounts, enter card details, or auto-check out for you

• Keep prompts product-focused, not identity-focused. Skip tools/extensions that want broad access (saved payments, browsing history, “manage your web data”)

• For tech, designer items, and hot toys, ask AI to only suggest options from official sites or major retailers. Then verify the seller’s name, site quality, and pricing

A recent U.S. PIRG Education Fund article explains how “agentic commerce” is rolling out fast. In layman’s terms, this is when an AI bot acts as your personal shopper and will find, research, and even make purchases on your behalf.

But research has also shown how AI assistants can be tricked into shopping on fake websites and accidentally buying counterfeits.

Use AI for research, not for paying

According to the research, people are most comfortable using AI for simple tasks like gift ideas, review summaries, and comparing products.

Conversely, they're much more wary of AI when payments and their personal data gets involved. That’s exactly the line in the sand you should draw.

With that said, here are some smart ways to use AI when shopping:

• Brainstorm gifts: “Give me 10 gift ideas under $50 for a 12-year-old who loves art and basketball.”
• Compare similar products: “Compare these three air fryers on size, warranty and real-world complaints in reviews.”
• Summarize reviews: “Summarize the top pros and cons people mention in reviews for this TV.”
• Spot deal patterns: “Has this price been lower in the past 30 days? What do reviewers say about quality at this price?”

Scenarios where you should stop using AI:

• Don’t let AI enter your credit card number on your behalf, log into accounts, or auto-check out for you.
• Don’t paste full card details, full address, or passwords into a chat box “just to make it faster.”
• Think of AI as the friend who helps you research a product, but not the friend you hand your wallet to.

Smart tips to protect your privacy

The article warns that risk goes up as you hand over more data and as that data passes through more systems.

Follow these safer AI habits:

• Keep conversations product-focused, not identity-focused. “Size 9 running shoes for flat feet” is fine; your full address and birthday are not.
• Avoid storing your card details inside experimental tools or browser extensions that promise “one-click AI checkout.”
• If an AI tool wants broad access to your data, ask yourself if the convenience is worth the risk. Examples to avoid include “read all your browsing history” or “manage all your web data.”

Think of it this way: If you wouldn’t feel comfortable saying the information out loud in a crowded checkout line, don’t feed it to an unfamiliar AI assistant.

Don’t let AI pick potential counterfeits

The article cites brand-protection research showing that about 3 in 10 people who accidentally bought a counterfeit used AI to help them search.

That doesn’t mean AI forces you to buy fakes, it simply means that AI will happily find knockoffs if you don’t tell it otherwise.

Tips to avoid counterfeits:

• For high-risk items like tech, designer brands, and hot toys, ask AI to only show options from official or well-known retailers (think Target, Walmart, Best Buy, the official brand site, etc.).
• Double-check the following:
  • Seller name (is it the brand, or a random third-party seller with no reviews?)
  • Are the product photos and website quality up to snuff.
  • Is the price way below everyone else? If so, assume it’s a knockoff until proven otherwise.
• When in doubt, I recommend going directly to the brand’s website, or a major retailer that you trust. Search for the product with your own fingertips and you won't get burned.

• Your real deadline is each store’s “order by” date for Dec. 24 delivery, not Christmas Day

• As cutoffs pass, pivot to same-day or pickup options to dodge rush-shipping fees

• Watch for exceptions: third-party sellers, heavy freight items, and custom/engraved gifts usually cut off earlier

If you’re still adding things to online carts this week, your real deadline isn’t Christmas, it’s each store’s shipping cutoff. Most major retailers now post hard “order by” dates to get packages to your door by Dec. 24. Miss those by even an hour and you’re suddenly paying for overnight shipping or scrambling to setup store pickup.

Below is a quick guide to 10 major retailers’ “last day to order” dates for Christmas delivery, plus some smart “shipping hacks” for each store.

Amazon

Last day to order for Dec. 24 delivery

• Non-Prime / standard shipping: around Dec. 16
• Prime shipping: Dec. 22 for most Prime-eligible items
• Same-day delivery: Amazon is offering Same-Day Delivery through Christmas Eve in more than 9,000 cities and towns across the U.S.

Shipping tips at Amazon:

Use “No-Rush” for freebies. If you have plenty of time to get your gifts by Christmas, consider selecting the “No-Rush” shipping option and you’ll score a free $1 digital credit that you can use to buy music and movies.

Group orders to hit the threshold. If you’re not a Prime member, let things sit in your cart until you’re over the free-shipping minimum of $35.

Walmart

Last day to order for Dec. 24 delivery

• Standard shipping: Dec. 23 at 12:30 p.m. local time (for “arrives by Christmas” on eligible items)
• Same-day pickup & delivery: Dec. 24 by 12 p.m.
• Express delivery: Dec. 24 by 5 p.m. local time in many areas

Shipping tips at Walmart:

Watch out for 3^rd party sellers. Keep in mind that 3^rd party sellers on Walmart do not play by the same rules and will not honor Walmart’s Christmas cutoff date.

Lean into free pickup. As we near the Christmas deadline, many items will start to say “after Christmas” delivery. But items that are in-stock at your local Walmart still qualify for same-day pickup, right up until Christmas Eve.

Target

Last day to order for Dec. 24 delivery

• Standard shipping: Target recommends Dec. 18
• Premium/expedited: Dec. 22 for many ZIP codes
• Same-day via Target app (pickup or delivery): available through Dec. 23, with stores open until 8 p.m. on Dec. 24

Shipping tips at Target:

Late delivery trick. When checking out from Target.com, you’ll often see one item holding up your entire order from arriving on time. Try removing that item and your entire order should then arrive before Christmas. At that point, it's smart to opt to pick-up the slowpoke item via in-store or curbside pickup.

Use Target’s free Drive Up to avoid impulse buys. Try ordering in the app and picking up curbside if you tend to overspend on impulse purchases. You’ll stay out of the aisles completely and not be tempted.

Best Buy

Last day to order for Dec. 24 delivery

• Standard shipping on most items: Dec. 17
• Expedited shipping: Dec. 21

Shipping tip at Best Buy:

Open-box + local pickup = shipping-free upgrade. Before you buy a TV and hope it gets to you by Christmas, check out their Open Box and "Pickup at this store" options. Toggle those two options on, and you just might find an “Excellent” open-box version of the TV you want at the Best Buy near you.

Macy’s

Last day to order for Dec. 24 delivery

• Standard shipping: Dec. 21
• Express shipping: Dec. 22
• Same-Day delivery: Dec. 24 at 10am local time.

Shipping tips at Macy’s:

Consider Star Rewards. Sign-up for free and get free shipping on $39 right away. The threshold is $49 to qualify for free shipping without joining.

Let the store “special order” your size. If the size or color you want is not in-stock at your Macy’s, ask an employee to special order it and they’ll have it delivered to your house for free.

Kohl’s

Last day to order for Dec. 24 delivery

• Standard shipping: Dec. 17
• 2-day shipping: Dec. 19
• 1-day shipping: Dec. 20
• Same day/In-Store: Dec. 24 by 6 pm local time.

Shipping tips at Kohl’s:

Always log-in first. Kohl’s will sometimes show Rewards or Kohl’s card-holders better free-shipping thresholds. Always log-in first to see where you stand and if you need to pad your cart a little to qualify for free delivery.

Use buy-online-pickup-in-store. It locks in online coupon pricing and lets you return stuff in-store without paying any return shipping fees.

Home Depot

Last day to order for Dec. 24 delivery

• Most shipped gifts: Dec. 17 is the key date for Christmas arrival. While not official, this is just a good rule-of-thumb with Home Depot.

Shipping tips at Home Depot:

Why so early? The December 17th cutoff date does seem early compared to many other stores on this list. But due to the size and weight of many items at Home Depot, they need more time for delivery. Smaller items at Home Depot won’t need as much time and you can probably order up until the 21^st, just pay attention at checkout.

Lowe’s

Last day to order for Dec. 24 delivery

• Most shipped orders: Dec. 16 (expect up to 7 days for delivery)

Shipping tips at Lowe’s:

Similar to The Home Depot. Due to the size of many items, and the distance between distribution centers, I recommend wrapping up your online Christmas shopping at Lowe’s by December 16^th.

Compare “same-day pickup” items. If you’re tempted by rush shipping, see whether the same tool, heater, or light set is available for free same- or next-day pickup instead.

Apple

Last day to order for Dec. 24 delivery

• Most in-stock products: Dec. 22 (except engraving or custom builds)

Shipping tips at Apple:

Customize items later. Engraving and customizations can throw a major wrench in your delivery schedule. For this reason, opt for a standard device configuration, then take it back to an Apple Store after Christmas to get it personalized.

Consider external factors. While it’s great that Apple gives you until the 22^nd, keep in mind that factors like weather could easily trip up your delivery. Shop earlier to avoid this and try not to procrastinate too much.

Costco

Last day to order for Dec. 24 delivery

• Most standard shipping items: Around Dec. 18–20
• 2-Day delivery eligible items (CostcoGrocery / select items): Around Dec. 20–22
• Same-day delivery (Instacart-powered, groceries only): Often Dec. 24, but it depends on local time slots available and demand.

Always plug in your ZIP code and check the item’s “estimated delivery” date at checkout. That’s the date you should trust, not some generic holiday chart you might find.

Shipping tips at Costco:

Try flipping between “delivery” and “warehouse pickup.” Some electronics, laptops, and gift items at Costco are available both online and in your local warehouse. If shipping is cutting it close or says after Christmas, check whether the same item is stocked at your nearby club.

Watch out for “white-glove” and freight items. Big stuff like TVs, furniture, and appliances often use freight delivery, which can add several days to your delivery, even if the website says “2–3 business days.”

• FDA moves to allow a modern sunscreen ingredient widely used outside the U.S.

• Bemotrizinol offers stronger UVA and UVB protection with low skin absorption

• Decision could mark first new U.S. sunscreen filter approved in decades

The Food and Drug Administration is proposing to classify bemotrizinol as an active ingredient in over-the-counter sunscreens, a long-awaited step that could finally give U.S. consumers access to more advanced sun protection already used abroad for years.

The proposal is part of the agency’s broader effort to modernize the U.S. sunscreen market, which critics say has lagged far behind Europe and other regions in approving newer, more effective ultraviolet filters.

“The agency has historically moved too slowly in this area, leaving Americans with fewer options than consumers abroad,” FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H., said in a statement. “We’re continuing to modernize the regulation of sunscreen and other over-the-counter drug products. Americans deserve timely access to the best safe, effective, and consumer-friendly over-the-counter products available.”

Strong broad-spectrum protection

According to the FDA’s scientific review, bemotrizinol provides strong broad-spectrum protection against both ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays. UVA radiation penetrates the skin more deeply than UVB and is linked to premature aging and skin cancer, including melanoma.

The agency said the ingredient shows very low absorption through the skin and rarely causes irritation — factors that have made it a popular sunscreen filter internationally.

If finalized, the proposal would make bemotrizinol the first new active sunscreen ingredient approved for use in the U.S. in decades. The ingredient would be available for adults and children 6 months and older, offering a non-mineral option with stronger UVA protection.

The FDA plans to publish its proposed order in the Federal Register on December 12 and accept public comment for 45 days.

Long push for modern sunscreen options

Consumer and environmental health advocates welcomed the move as a major shift in U.S. sunscreen policy.

For more than 20 years, the Environmental Working Group has urged the FDA to approve newer sunscreen ingredients already used widely in Europe and other countries. The organization has argued that many sunscreens sold in the U.S. provide inadequate UVA protection and rely on outdated filters.

“This proposal signals real hope for public health,” said David Andrews, Ph.D., acting chief science officer at EWG. “Mineral sunscreens are a top choice for consumers, but for those who prefer non-mineral products the ingredient options have been limited.

“For years, Americans have been denied access to sunscreen ingredients that offer stronger UVA protection with fewer health concerns,” Andrews added. “Approving bemotrizinol would finally begin to close the gap between U.S. consumers and the rest of the world.”

EWG first formally petitioned the FDA in 2019 to add bemotrizinol and several other modern filters to the list of approved U.S. sunscreen ingredients, citing safety data and superior UVA performance.

Industry request and next steps

Bemotrizinol is already used in sunscreens worldwide but has never been approved in the United States. The FDA’s proposed order responds to a request from manufacturer DSM Nutritional Products to allow the ingredient at concentrations of up to 6%.

“Modernizing our sunscreen market is long overdue,” said Melanie Benesh, EWG’s vice president of government affairs. “For too long, American families have had to rely on outdated ingredients while likely safer, more effective options were available overseas.”

Benesh said the proposal also shows that companies can meet FDA standards for demonstrating both safety and effectiveness of new filters.

Why UVA protection matters

EWG research has repeatedly highlighted weaknesses in U.S. sunscreen performance. In a 2021 analysis of 51 sunscreens with SPF ratings between 15 and 110, EWG scientists found many products delivered only about a quarter of their labeled SPF protection against UVA rays.

Since 2007, the group has published its annual Guide to Sunscreens, which evaluates products for safety, UVA protection and marketing claims. Most top-rated sunscreens in the guide are mineral-based, using zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

Advocates say bemotrizinol could expand choices for consumers who prefer non-mineral sunscreens while improving overall protection against skin cancer and sun-related aging.

EWG said it will continue pushing for stronger UVA standards, improved transparency and the removal of ineffective or potentially harmful sunscreen ingredients as the FDA considers its next steps.

• Grab free or BOGO burgers, fries, drinks, and treats all December at Shake Shack, Chipotle, BK, McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Sonic, Krystal, and Starbucks

• Most deals are “free with purchase” on specific days (Fridays, certain Saturdays, or promo windows), so timing matters

• You’ll usually need the restaurant’s app, a small minimum spend, and it’s one freebie per account/order at participating locations

Do higher price tags for the stuff on your holiday shopping list this year have you feeling a little gloomy? I have some news that might cheer you up. A bunch of restaurants are offering some great freebies for December. So, when you’re out wrapping up your shopping, stop by one of these places and get a free or highly discount meal or treat.

Shake Shack – Free burger or sandwich

What’s free: One free rotating sandwich (Big Shack, SmokeShack, Chicken Shack, or ShackBurger) with a $10+ purchase.

When:

• Dec 1–7: Big Shack
• Dec 8–14: SmokeShack
• Dec 15–20: Chicken Shack
• Dec 21–31: ShackBurger

How to claim: Order in the Shake Shack app, online, or at the in-store kiosk and enter promo code SHACKCHEER at checkout.

Fine print: $10 minimum before tax. Not valid via third-party delivery apps and one freebie per order.

Chipotle – BOGO burrito or bowl

What’s free: Score a free burrito or burrito bowl when you buy one the next two Saturdays in December.

When:

• Dec 13: Buy a burrito and get a free burrito, burrito bowl, or 3 taco meal.
• Dec 20: Wear a festive sweater, buy any entrée and get one free.

How to claim: You must walk into any Chipotle location to claim either offer. Not valid with mobile or online ordering.

Fine print: The free item will be the lower-priced entrée. Limited to five free menu items per check.

Burger King – “13 Days of Deals”

What’s free: BK is offering a different daily deal from December 12–24. The deal often includes a free item with a minimum in-app purchase. Stuff they regularly give away include a free Whopper Jr., a free Frappé, and a free dessert.

When: December 12–24, 2025.

How to claim: Open the BK app each day and check the “Offers” or promo banner; tap the deal and order through the app.

Fine print: Most deals require a minimum purchase (typically around $3–$5). App and account is  also required; participating locations only.

McDonald’s – 12 days of deal

What’s free: Via the McDonald's app, you can participate in their 12 days of Christmas with new $2 deals every AM and every PM through December 23rd.

When: December 12-23, 2025.

Here are the $2 deals:

• December 12th - AM: Any Bagel Breakfast Sandwich, PM: Filet-O-Fish
• December 13th - AM: Big Breakfast, PM: 10 Pc. Chicken McNuggets
• December 14th - AM: Hot Cakes + Sausage, PM: 3 Piece McCrispy Strips
• December 15th - AM: Egg McMuffin, PM: 10 Pc. Quarter Pounder with Cheese
• December 16th - AM: Sausage Gravy Biscuit, PM: 4 Piece McNuggets Happy Meal
• December 17th - AM: Sausage McMuffin with Egg, PM: Daily Double
• December 18th - AM: Crispy Chicken Biscuit, PM: Filet-O-Fish
• December 19th - AM: Sausage Gravy Biscuit, PM: 4 Piece McNuggets Happy Meal
• December 20th - AM: Bacon, Egg, & Cheese McMuffin, PM: 3 Piece McCrispy Strips
• December 21st - AM: Big Breakfast, PM: 10 Pc. Chicken McNuggets
• December 22nd - AM: Any Bagel Breakfast Sandwich, PM: Big Mac
• December 23rd - AM: Sausage, Egg, & Cheese McGriddle, PM: McCrispy Chicken Sandwich

Bonus tip: Mickey D's is also offering a free medium fries every Friday with a $1+ purchase via their app.

Wendy’s – Free fries every Friday

What’s free: Free any-size fries with a qualifying purchase (often $5+) in the Wendy’s app.

When: Every Friday for the rest of 2025 (so yes, all December).

How to claim:

• Open the Wendy’s app, check “Offers & Coupons.”
• Look for “Free Any Size Fry w/ Purchase” or “Fryday” promo and apply it to your mobile order.

Fine print: One use per Friday; purchase minimum usually $5; app + account required.

Sonic – Free any-size Coke (with all the add-ins)

What’s free: One free Coke, Diet Coke, or Coke Zero Sugar, any size, with unlimited flavor add-ins, when you make any in-app purchase.

When: Daily through Dec 28, 2025.

How to claim:

• Order through the Sonic app, add at least one paid item.

• Apply the “Free Coca-Cola Your Way” offer before checkout.

Fine print: One free drink per day per account; app only; participating locations.

Krystal – “Krystalmas” freebies with purchase

What’s free: As part of Krystalmas 2025, select days include legit freebies with purchase, including:

Treat Yo’ Elf Tuesdays: Free 10-count Glazed Bombs with a Sackful purchase.

Festive Frydays: Free Chili Cheese Fries with a $15+ purchase.

When: Recurring daily themes all December 2025.

How to claim:

• Join Club Krystal and check the app or website for that day’s Krystalmas deal.
• Apply the offer and order through the app or in-store, depending on the promo.

Fine print: Most deals are “free with purchase”; offers may be digital-only and vary by location.

Starbucks – Daily chances at free drinks & food

What’s free: While it’s not guaranteed free food, Starbucks Rewards members can win freebies like drinks, bakery items, and even Bonus Stars.

Plus, you have the chance to win the biggest of all prices, a year of free Starbucks or “Starbucks for Life” via the Starbucks for Life game.

When: Dec 8, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026.

How to claim:

• Join Starbucks Rewards and visit the Starbucks for Life site or app.
• They allow you to play the game every day. Also, you can earn extra plays by making purchases with your linked payment method in the app.