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It's a growing form of fraud in higher education: criminals creating fake student enrollments using stolen or made-up identities to illegally claim financial aid. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman spoke with the U.S. Department of Education to learn how this scheme works and how you can help stop it.
Feeling overwhelmed by money worries? You’re far from alone. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out ways you can reduce that stress and reframe your mindset around money.
Fraud in America’s schools is more common — and costly — than you might think.
Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman speaks with investigators about recent cases of fraud and the critical warning signs.
Burnout doesn’t just drain your energy, it can drain your bank account too. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Black Mammoth about how to protect your health while growing your net worth.
Your personal data could already be out there, exposing you to fraud and identity theft. But one free step can stop thieves cold. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to CW Advisors about one of the best ways to protect your information.
A new report from the AARP shows Americans’ online habits are putting them at greater risk of fraud. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman breaks down the common digital mistakes people make that leave them vulnerable.
When debt collectors call, your next move could cost you or protect you. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Tayne Law Group about critical questions to ask before paying a penny.
College costs have surged over the last 20 years, but there are strategies that could help ease the burden. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman speaks with an educator about practical steps to make college costs more affordable.
Is motherhood costing women more than sleepless nights? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Bankrate about the so-called motherhood penalty.
About one in 10 Americans now get financial advice from TikTok, according to a new survey. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa found out in it's not a bad idea, you just need to be careful.
When investing in crypto, it helps to look at the top performers to get a sense of what’s going on in the market.
More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease—a diagnosis that not only impacts memory but also families of those living with the disease.
Your home may have weathered the storm, but your insurance bill might not.
Flight complaints are soaring as delays stack up and patience runs out. Find out what’s behind the turbulence and what you can do before you board.
Buy Now, Pay Later might feel painless at first, but the bills can pile up. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa reveals the hidden risks.
They want you to buy with just one click, but that convenience could be costing you big.
The FTC’s 2024 data book reveals a staggering $12.5 billion lost to fraud last year. Consumer investigator Caresse Jackman spoke with the SSA’s Office of Inspector General to expose how scammers are impersonating the Social Security Administration and tricking people into giving up their personal information.
Vacation season is heating up and so are travel expenses. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Bank of America about how a few strategic changes can make your summer trip more affordable and just as memorable.
According to the Social Security Administration, you can start receiving benefits as early as age 62, but how many Americans are truly financially ready to retire? Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman sits down with a well-known financial advisor who says retirement—as we know it—is due for a major shift.
Having a baby? There’s more to prep than diapers and onesies. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to CW Advisors about a simple financial step that could make a big difference 17 years from now.
Markets may be on a rollercoaster, but experts say your 401(k) shouldn’t be. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Lourd Murray who said there’s no need to panic when it comes to your 401(k), it’s all about the long game.
Thinking of buying property for your business? Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman talks to Samson Properties about the smart moves and costly mistakes every entrepreneur needs to know.
Want to raise kids who make smart money moves? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Black Mammoth about how parents can start those conversations now.
Would you know a person generated by AI if you saw one? Experts at the Evidence-Based Cybersecurity Research Group and Better Business Bureau warn bad actors are using it in the latest romance scams with unsuspecting victims being tricked out of money and personal information. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman spoke with experts who shared tips on how you can spot a fraudster.
As tariffs on imported goods are expected to rise experts say you might soon feel the impact at your local grocery store. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman spoke with the Consumer Federation of America about what you need to know to help save money.
Rent or buy? One could save you hundreds of thousands over time. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa goes over the numbers with This Old House that can help you make the smarter move.
Think that text from your bank is real? Think twice. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Virginia Credit Union about how to spot when something's just not quite right.
The FTC saw a 25% increase in losses to scams in 2024. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman speaks with the GAO about how the government is struggling to address this national crisis.
Experts say emergency funds are meant for surprises, not your everyday bills. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Bankrate about why more Americans are draining their savings just to stay afloat.
Scammers are cashing in on America’s aging population and it’s not always strangers doing the stealing. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman shares how to spot elder fraud and protect the people you love most.
Feeling the urge to click "buy" when you're bored or blue? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to NerdWallet about ways to shop smarter and dodge regret before retail therapy wrecks your budget.
Want a better credit score without the guesswork? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares two simple moves that could boost your number and your financial future.
We're almost halfway through the year, so it's time to check in on your 401(k). Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to CW Advisors who say it's always a good idea to revisit how much money you're setting aside for retirement.
There are over 1 million auto accidents involving wildlife each year and they can happen in a split second. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman talks to Environment America about ways to reduce auto collisions with wildlife.
Money woes are weighing on minds more than work or even relationships. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Bankrate about ways to manage your mental health when it comes to your finances.
2025 is off to a rocky financial start. Recent dips in consumer confidence reflect growing unease over inflation, continued market volatility, and broader economic uncertainty. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert about recession-proofing your life.
If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. And that's definitely the case with collecting too much in unemployment benefits. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Bankrate about what to do if you receive too much money and why you have to pay it back.
64% of internet users worry about data breaches—but a new survey finds most still aren’t taking the right steps to protect themselves. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks with cybersecurity experts about simple ways you can steer clear of cyber criminals.
A new survey from AARP finds nearly half of adults aged 50 and older are carrying credit card debt. For those with lower incomes, credit cards often become a necessity just to make ends meet. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman talks with them about their findings and has important tips on how to get your debt under control.
Need some time for yourself? Solo travel is growing globally. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa caught up with a travel expert who has some ways to save, and places solo travelers may want to consider.
A recent Bankrate survey revealed that just 46% of Americans plan to travel this summer, with cost cited as the biggest barrier.
According to a new NerdWallet survey 14% of Americans plan to pay less on their debt over the next year. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out why paying the minimum may not be the best plan.
Your credit card’s 15- or 16-digit number helps authenticate transactions.
Investments and interest in crypto are climbing. But for many consumers, this digital currency remains a mystery. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman sits down with Edelman Financial Engines to break down crypto investing and how you can safely get involved.
It's a question financial experts get all the time, should I save and build up my emergency fund or should I use any extra money to pay down debt? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to The Responsible Homegirl to find out.
An up and down stock market can be scary, but many experts say your 401(k) is part of a long game so you shouldn't worry. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert about ways to protect your retirement in a volatile market.
Learn six practical ways to safeguard your finances amid economic uncertainty, from strengthening banking security to finding better rates.
An extra paycheck in the month can be a game-changer for your finances.
It’s summer vacation time! One in 3 people still have credit card debt from their last vacation according to WalletHub. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to them about how to avoid going into debt on your vacation.
Our investigators spoke with consumer advocates and scam survivors about the importance of speaking out to address scams impacting Americans.