CONSUMER REPORTS

Winter is here, and with it, shorter days. Less sunlight might have you feeling a little down.

Competition over your digital wallet is heating up, yet peer-to-peer payments still have varying degrees of consumer protections.

Consumer Reports shares why it may still be a good idea to toss on the layers when it’s cold outside

Millions of people get sick each year from contaminated food, and finding the source of the contamination isn’t easy ... But that could be changing.

How much are you paying for your internet? If you grabbed your bill but are confused and still can’t find the answer – guess what, you’re not alone.

As opponents consider bans on gas stoves, here's what you need to know about how they compare with traditional electric and induction alternatives.

If you feel like some of your 2023 resolutions have already started to go by the wayside, don’t fret just yet!

Consumer Reports revealed some information about the tasty treat – some chocolate bars contain toxic heavy metals.

If you’ve shopped online, you might have noticed a new option when you get to the checkout page: buy now, pay later.

New York resident says he wouldn't have purchased candy had company disclosed it contained lead and cadmium.

Homeowners can take advantage of rebates and tax credits for making energy-efficiency upgrades

Over the years, people have looked to various tools to try to stay safer online, including anti-virus software or virtual private networks, but you can get a false sense of security from some VPNs.

With colder weather here, we’re working for you to share some safer heating alternatives.

Consumer Reports says potentially harmful levels of cadmium and lead were detected in some chocolate brands.

Dark chocolate bars tested by Consumer Reports exceeded California's daily maximum allowable dose levels for lead or cadmium. But a toxicologist says eaten in moderation, it's nothing to worry about.

Consumer Reports tested popular brands of dark chocolate and detected risky heavy metals like lead, which is linked to neurological issues over time.

It’s the holiday season and there is no shortage of feasts, filled with favorite foods and maybe some overindulgence.

Consumer Reports says potentially harmful levels of cadmium and lead were detected in some chocolate brands.

Cold and flu season is here and doctor’s offices are packed with sick kids suffering from numerous respiratory illnesses.

You don’t need to spend lots of money to make a great meal, and the same goes for prepping that meal.

Whether you want your favorite cocktail without the fuss or the right tools to make one yourself, Consumer Reports said you have lots of options.

If you're planning to buy a used car, looking for certain brands and features can help ensure that your vehicle will last for years to come.

This holiday season, you’ll probably take lots of pictures of family and friends, but what about all the old prints, slides, or even home movies on VHS or films you have tucked away somewhere?

A new study of 22,000 American broadband bills by Consumer Reports shows how ISPs get you to pay more — and how you can fight back.

USA TODAY’s money reporter Bailey Schulz breaks down Consumer Reports’ best and worst cars of 2023 rankings, with notable brands topping the lists.

Toyota and Lexus topped the latest list of most reliable car brands from Consumer Reports, which surveyed more than 300,000 owners of 2000 to 2023 model cars.

Gas-electric hybrids were the most dependable vehicles sold in the U.S. in the past year, while big pickup trucks and fully electric automobiles performed the worst in Consumer Reports’ annual reliability survey.

Gas-electric hybrids were the most dependable vehicles sold in the U.S. in the past year, while big pickup trucks and fully electric automobiles performed the worst in Consumer Reports' annual reliability survey. Hybrid technology has been around for more than two decades, and even though the vehicles switch between electric and gasoline power, they don't have a lot of the technology or complex multi-speed transmissions that have caused problems with other vehicles, said Jake Fisher, senior director of auto testing. “Hybrids are very conventionally built vehicles,” Fisher said.

Consumer Reports surveyed owners of more than 300,000 vehicles to make predictions about the reliability of 2023 model year vehicles.

If you’re shocked by price tags on nearly everything recently, you’re not alone.

Consumer Reports shares how you can prepare for the worst

Taco Bell was ranked as having the fastest drive-thru service time with an average wait time of just under four minutes, and Chick-fil-A came in dead last with a wait time of around five-and-a-half minutes.

Credit report errors account for three-quarters of all consumer complaints during the first half of 2022, Consumer Reports said.

Federal health officials increase count of those sickened; many reported eating burgers or salads from Wendy's.

Local tallies show number of those sickened in E. coli outbreaks is more than double than CDC's week-ago update.

Advocacy group's safety experts urge caution until more is known about E. coli outbreak that's sickened 37 people.

Advocacy group's safety experts urge caution until more is known about E. coli outbreak that's sickened 37 people.

The food chain is removing the lettuce from its sandwiches in some states, but CR urges greater caution until more is known about the source of the outbreak.By Lisa L. GillThirty-seven people hav...

Beating the heat is not only essential for your own comfort, but also for your health – Here’s how you can stay cool and safe all summer.

Consumer Reports recommends shopping with a plan.

USDA says it is rethinking its approach to bacteria in poultry that sickens hundreds of thousands of people every year.

The disrupter economy has set its sights on your bedroom, offering gel capsules, ice fabric, green-tea memory foam, and copper-infused toppers. Will they help you get a better night’s sleep?

Companies are getting creative in passing along rising costs to consumers —  and making it harder to comparison shop — by tacking on fees and surcharges at the last minute.

Protests in Sri Lanka turned deadly this week as the country faces imminent bankruptcy. In Colombo, the capital city, supporters of the now-resigned Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa reportedly attacked antigovernment demonstrators, which led to multiple deaths and property damage, including the burning of several homes owned by current members of the government. In the days since, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, brother of the former prime minister, has refused calls to resign and authorized the military to shoot protesters on sight should they be deemed a threat.

Fertilizing your yard too often—or at the wrong time—can do more harm than goodBy Mary H.J. FarrellA lush lawn can make your home’s landscaping shine (and make your neighbors green with envy). Bu...

Over 47,000 pickup trucks from the 2021 model year are included in the recallBy Keith BarryFord is recalling certain 2021 F-150 pickup trucks because their transmissions may unexpectedly shift in...

Restaurant brands make new commitment when study finds dangerous PFAS chemicals linked to serious health problems widespread in fast food packaging

An investigation by Consumer Reports found some level of indicators of PFAS in packaging from 24 different restaurant chains.

If the wipers stop working in bad weather, drivers may not be able to see the roadBy Keith BarryFord is recalling over 157,000 F-150 pickup trucks from the 2021 model year because their windshiel...

Some models are so hard to come by that consumers are paying well above the sticker price for themBy Jeff S. Bartlettwith Todd YoungIf you have your heart set on buying a new car this year, be pr...

Porcelain planks with simulated wood grain and texture have their benefits—and drawbacksBy Tobie StangerWood floors are high on the wish list of many a homeowner and buyer. And it’s easy to see w...

These gas sippers are easy on the walletBy Jeff S. BartlettFuel economy is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a new car, because it has an impact on your weekly operating c...

These power sources can have many uses, CR saysBy Consumer ReportsElectric cars are becoming a more viable option for many car buyers, with almost 100 pure electric models set to debut by the end...

The designation is further validation of Ford CEO Jim Farley's belief the company can not only compete with Tesla but also beat Elon Musk when it comes to EVs.

We explain how this new electric vehicle bumped the Model 3 from our annual Top PicksBy Jeff S. BartlettIn its annual Top Picks, Consumer Reports highlights the standout cars, SUVs, and trucks ac...

The mistake was discovered two days later, during a routine bandage change.

Things you will want to keep in mind as you head out to the stores for you Black Friday shopping this year.

Consumer Reports ranked most reliable vehicles and brands you can buy. Tesla came in next to last thanks to subpar scores from its SUVs.

Lexus, Mazda and Toyota topped the 2021 Consumer Reports Auto Reliability Report, while Jeep, Tesla, and Lincoln ranked in the bottom three.

November is traditionally one of the best months to find deals, but many hot products are in short supply or more expensive than usual.

More than 60 percent of adults say they prefer to sleep on their side, at least for part of the night. To make sure we have it right for the majority of sleepers, we run extensive tests on mattre...

Utility bills typically shoot up this time of year, as homeowners crank up their central air conditioning. To keep costs down, you might try to skimp on the AC—but that can create squabbles in th...

TOWN SQUARE | Your credit report — and credit score — can make the difference between a loan approval or denial and the interest you pay on your loan.

Service providers use their lock on neighborhoods — and a lack of rules — to take advantage of us. Here’s how to spot their tricks.

In May, Tesla announced it would no longer include radar sensors in Model 3 and Model Y vehicles made for customers in North America on or after April 27.

Before you try to take out a mortgage or a car loan, check your credit report. It may have a mistake that could cost you.

For many of us this past year, our backyards took on a profoundly important role. In the era of social distancing, yards were transformed into outdoor oases, and even now, there are no signs that...

Over the past months, with folks working and studying at home, homeowners began to appreciate their central air conditioning systems more than ever. In fact, 14 percent of the members we surveyed...

Advocacy group Consumer Reports has linked the products, which were not previously regulated, to at least 106 infant deaths.

Drivers naturally become concerned about reliability as a car ages, because the risk of inconvenience and unexpected expenses rises while the miles rack up. Most modern cars can make it to 200,00...

Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial kick-off to summer travel.

Consumer Reports’ tough tests continue to find that some laundry detergents clean only slightly better than water—and that some washers use lots of water yet leave clothes dirty and dingy. Some d...

Consumer Reports and IIHS are taking away top safety endorsements from Tesla, after the company's move from radar to vision-based driver assistance systems.

Two key groups that offer automobile safety ratings have yanked their top endorsements from some Tesla vehicles because the company has stopped using radar on its safety systems.

Consumer Reports says it was able to easily trick a Tesla into driving in the car's Autopilot mode without a person in the driver’s seat.

Consumer Reports explains what you need to know about the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning, and how to safeguard against that hazard. The Consumer Product Safety Commission says that from 2005 to 2017, more than 900 people died of carbon monoxide poisoning while using portable generators. To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, some new generators feature a built-in sensor that triggers an automatic shutoff if CO gas builds up to dangerous levels in an enclosed space, like a garage or carport. All of them passed CR’s new CO safety technology test, shutting down before carbon monoxide reached specified limits in this enclosed chamber. CR will now only recommend portable generators with an automatic shutoff for dangerous levels of CO.

The Better Business Bureau Serving Western Virginia warns this is a time scammers take advantage of with lottery and sweepstakes scams. Lottery and sweepstakes scams have been around for years. Wheeler said people let their guard down they hear scam artists use well-known names like Publishers Clearing House for a sweepstakes win, sometimes they even use BBB to create credibility. It should be noted the real Publishers Clearing House is BBB accredited. Bradford paid a total of $1,600 in four pre-paid visa gift cards.

DETROIT – Mazda beat traditional winners Lexus and Toyota to win top honors as the most dependable auto brand in Consumer Reports' annual reliability survey. Mazda took top honors for the first time in the survey, which this year included Consumer Reports organization members who own more than 300,000 vehicles from model years 2000 to 2020. Consumer Reports said that the Ford Explorer SUV, redesigned for the 2020 model year, is among the lowest-scoring models of any manufacturer with transmission, electronic, and engine issues. Only the company's Model 3 small car was rated as reliable and recommended by Consumer Reports. Nearly half of the new models have much worse than average reliability, Consumer Reports said.

ROANOKE, Va. – As more people are staying home and practicing social distancing, the task of getting groceries is becoming increasingly challenging. Consumer Reports senior editor Tobie Stanger blames poor supply-chain planning for some of the difficulties. While some grocery workers may be at home sick or caring for others, delivery services are also gaining more customers so all around, it’s been hard for them to keep up. You can also find groceries and toiletries at places that aren’t supermarkets, like CVS or Lowe’s. If you prefer to use grocery delivery or pickup Stanger has some special tips for that as well.

Fall is in the air, but winter is on its way, ringing flu season with it. The health team at Consumer Reports says one key to staying on your feet is by paying attention to your hands. If you can't get to a sink -- use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. And remember, the number one way to reduce your risk of catching the flu is by getting a flu shot. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Reports of lead in drinking water in several communities across the country may have you wondering what's in your tap water. Most municipal water in the U.S. appears to be safe to drink and free from harmful contaminants, according to EPA data. Consumer Reports says if you're connected to a community water system and pay your own bill, you should receive an annual water quality report called a Consumer Confidence Report, or CCR. You should also get your water tested if your home was built before 1986 when lead-free pipes were mandated. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

But Consumer Reports warns there might be a real-life scare inside your car -- bulky or puffy costumes might cause your child's car seat harness to not fit correctly, which means it might not offer optimal protection in a crash. Consumer Reports advises having your child change into their costumes after they get to the party. Children are more than twice as likely to be hit and killed by a car on Halloween than on any other day of the year. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Consumer Reports is a not-for-profit organization which accepts no advertising.

Months after the recall of millions of popular infant inclined sleep products, new data shows potential dangers with other sleep products. This time, in-bed sleepers are the issue. Consumer Reports found major safety issues with in-bed infant sleeper products, like the Baby Delight Snuggle Nest Infant Sleeper, DockATot and SwaddleMe By Your Side Sleeper. In-bed sleepers are not required to meet any federal safety standards related to infant sleep, but cribs, bassinets and play yards are. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

That's one reason why insurance claims for deer strikes spike in the fall. To avoid hitting a deer, Consumer Reports auto expert Jennifer Stockburger offers the following advice. Instead, Consumer Reports recommends you slow down as quickly and safely as you can. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Consumer Reports is a not-for-profit organization which accepts no advertising.

If you've ever had that feeling that your smartphone is listening to your conversations or tracking what you're looking at, you're not alone. "This is something that researchers have looked at a lot," said Bree Fowler, Consumer Reports tech editor. "And despite all those weird feelings, they've yet to find any evidence that phones and the apps on them are actually recording or listening to your conversations." All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Consumer Reports is a not-for-profit organization which accepts no advertising.

But it has become more than just a part of our lives -- Consumer Reports says it has unwittingly become a part of our diet, too. We call these little fragments microplastics -- they're five millimeters at their largest but they can be much smaller, they can be microscopic," says Kevin Loria, Consumer Reports health editor. To eat less plastic, Consumer Reports says start by drinking tap water. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Consumer Reports is a not-for-profit organization which accepts no advertising.

Here's how milk alternatives stack up to cow's milk when it comes to taste and nutrition. More than half of plant milk buyers in a Consumer Reports survey said they think it's healthier than cow's milk. If you're ready to replace milk from a cow with milk from a plant, consider starting with soy, which is closest to cow's milk nutritionally. Consumer Reports says almond milk is the most popular plant milk. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Consumer Reports says this milk is closest to cow's milk in protein contentCopyright 2019 by WSLS 10 - All rights reserved.

ROANOKE, Va. - Frozen foods can be a lifesaver when you don't have the time or ingredients to make a meal from scratch -- but Consumer Reports says you do have to be careful what you choose. Consumer Reports says the healthiest frozen foods are the single-ingredient ones. "Look for high-quality whole foods you can use as ingredients to make quick, healthy meals," said Amy Keating, Consumer Reports nutritionist. Since these are foods that usually take a long time to cook, using frozen can be a real time-saver -- and a money-saver. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Consumer Reports says you have to be careful about what frozen foods you chooseCopyright 2019 by WSLS 10 - All rights reserved.

ROANOKE, Va. - Most of us know to keep things like cleaning products away from kids, but many don't realize that common beauty items can be just as dangerous. "Most of these injuries were due to kids swallowing personal care products, which led to poisoning," said Consumer Reports' Lauren Friedman. "The second most common scenario were these products coming in contact with kids' skin or eyes leading to a chemical burn." To better protect your family, Consumer Reports says personal care products should be stored securely out of reach and out of site. All poison control centers can be reached by calling the same number at (800) 222-1222.

Consumer Reports says some common beauty products have been known to send kids under 5 to the ER every 2 hours.

And Consumer Reports says you don't have to spend hours in the wilderness to benefit. "One study shows that as little as 20 minutes in or near green spaces may help lower stress hormones," said Kevin Loria, Consumer Reports health editor. "And even something as simple as taking care of your potted plants could help reduce stress." To get the most out of your time outside, Consumer Reports says leave the electronics behind and simply enjoy all that nature has to offer. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

ROANOKE, Va. - It's the ultimate burger showdown meatless burgers that is. But the Impossible Burger was that much closer to a mimic of real meat, because of the taste and appearance," said Amy Keating, Consumer Reports nutritionist. Because both burgers are plant-based, you might think they are healthier than an actual burger. Unlike the Beyond and Impossible Burgers, IT doesn't try to taste exactly like meat, and it has less sodium, fat, calories and fewer highly-processed ingredients. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Whether allergens come from outside the house or in, Consumer Reports says to put your appliances to use to eliminate them. The A/C can also cut humidity, limiting the growth of mold and dust mites -- but be sure to clean the filter regularly. Wipe out dust mites from your bedding by using the sanitizing cycle on your washer which uses extra heat that can kill mites. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Consumer Reports is a not-for-profit organization which accepts no advertising.

If you've been thinking about trying a grocery delivery service, here's a look at if they're worth the money and which service works best. Consumer Reports put seven grocery delivery services to the test by ordering the same products from each company. Shipt, owned by Target, and Amazon Prime Now led the pack in Consumer Reports' overall satisfaction score. While some services like FreshDirect packed food thoroughly, Consumer Reports says others didn't take recommended safety precautions with raw meat and poultry. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Consumer Reports says the right homeowner's insurance can help protect you. "The key is to get your home and its contents protected, at the best price," said Tobie Stanger, Consumer Reports money editor. Consumer Reports recommends insuring your home for the full replacement cost. "The two at the very top of the ratings, USAA, which mainly deals with military, veterans and their families -- and Amica -- are not available on homeowners' insurance search sites," said Stanger. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

ROANOKE, Va. - If you're seeing ads that seem to be based on your browsing history, you're not alone. Those are called targeted ads, and Consumer Reports says instead of reaching a mass audience like TV commercials do, targeted ads allow advertisers to reach specific consumers. Consumer Reports says companies do this -in part- by keeping track of what you're searching for online. You can also consider using browsers like Brave and Firefox that have built-in ways to help stop targeted ads. All Consumer Reports material Copyright 2019 Consumer Reports, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.