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</script>  </td> </tr> <tr> <td>  <script type="text/javascript"> GA_googleFillSlotWithSize("ca-pub-0200629403145096", "CA_ROSBTFLeftSky160x600", 160, 600); </script>   <script language="javascript"> var rnd = Math.round(Math.random()*10000000); document.write('<IFR' + 'AME FRAMEBORDER=0 MARGINWIDTH=0 MARGINHEIGHT=0 SCROLLING=NO WIDTH=160 HEIGHT=600 SRC=http://desk.opt.fimserve.com/adopt/?r=h&l=828a8f70-d282-4095-bb66-51f15bac20d0&sz=160x600&rnd=' + rnd + '></IFR' + 'AME>'); </script>  </td> </tr> </table>  </td> <td width="430" valign="top"> This is a term that covers a lot of ground. Some see shopping as America's national pasttime, others see it as a painful chore to be finished as quickly as possible. It's such a large topic it's tough to know just how to split it up ... but here are some of the likeliest categories: <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" border="0" width="100%"> <tr> <td width="50%"> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/homeowners/appliances.htm">Appliances</a></li> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/automotive/automotive.htm">Automotive</a></li> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/cameras/index.html">Cameras</a></li> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/cell_phones/cell_phones.htm">Cell Phones</a></li> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/toys/">Childen's Products</a></li> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/cosmetics/cosmetics.htm">Cosmetics</a></li> </td> <td width="50%"> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/computers/computers.htm">Computers</a></li> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/furniture/furniture.htm">Furniture</a></li> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/home_electronics/index.html">Home Electronics</a></li> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/homeowners/garden.html">Lawn & Garden</a></li> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/pets/pet_care_and_supplies.htm">Pets</a></li> </td> </tr> </table> Beyond specific type of merchandise, there's the question of where your do your shopping: <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" border="0" width="100%"> <tr> <td width="50%"> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/retail/national_chains.htm">Retail Stores</a></li> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/online/online_sales.htm">Online</a></li> </td> <td width="50%"> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/in_home/in_home_sales.htm">In-Home</a></li> <li><a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/dnc/index.html">Infomercials, Telemarketers</a></li> </td> </tr> </table> <h3>Shopping News</h3> <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/12/tx_price_comparison_web_sites.html">Price-Comparison Web Sites Accused of Fraud</a> Texas charges sites secretly accepted cash for high ratings. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/12/cr_hidden_fees.html">Hidden Fees Top Most-Annoying List</a> Robo-answered calls close behind in Consumer Reports survey of consumer flash points. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/11/black_friday2.html">Walmart Gets a Black Eye on Black Friday</a> Shoppers find advertised items sold out before sale begins. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/11/black_friday.html">Does It Really Pay To Go Shopping On Black Friday?</a> Many 'bargains' turn out not to be such bargains. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://www.bankrate.com/blogs/taxes/eye-on-the-irs.aspx?pid=p:caf">Black Friday Tax Holidays</a> Shoppers in two states will get some tax savings along with their early holiday shopping bargains. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/11/cr_pushy_retailers.html">Consumer Reports Takes on Pushy Retail Practices</a> New campaign unveils survey of top holiday shoppping turnoffs. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit-cards/2009-gift-card-study-results.aspx?pid=p:caf">2009 Gift Card Study Results</a> Results of Bankrate's annual Gift Card Study, covering 29 retailers and major credit cards. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/10-dollar-store-duds.aspx?pid=p:caf">10 Dollar-Store Duds</a> Comparison shopping will help you know deals from duds at a dollar store. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/07/private_label.html">Private Label Products Not Just For Penny Pinchers</a> Slow economy spurs growth of upscale private label goods. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/07/back_to_school.html">Deloitte Survey: Back To Basics For Back-To-School</a> Consumers show a glimmer of hope, but economy still a concern. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/07/babies_class_action.html">Judge OKs Price-Fixing Suit Against Babies "R" Us</a> Class action charges company squashed cost-cutting by competitors. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/walmart_stampede03.html">Wal-Mart Fined $7,000 for "Black Friday" Employee Death</a> Store worker trampled and crushed by shoppers. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/circuit_city4.html">Systemax Buys Circuit City Name, Web Site</a> No retail locations planned but name will survive online. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/plus_sizes.html">Big & Tall, Middle Eastern Style</a> Saudis a source of more than oil for some U.S. consumers. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/pf/20090511_online_bargain_hunting_a1.asp">9 Secrets to Online Bargain Hunting</a> The Internet can be a great place to find bargains. Ramp up your shopping skills to save even more. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/pf/Dec08_dollar_store_duds_video_a1.asp">Video: 10 Dollar-Store Duds</a> Comparison shopping and unit pricing will help you find deals and duds at the dollar store. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/pf/Nov08_shop_by_phone_video_a1.asp">Video: Shopping by Phone</a> New tool for bargain hunters -- software turns your phone into a price checker. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/FinancialForecast/expert_predictions_shopping_months_bargains_a1.asp">Best Times to Shop For Bargains</a> Instead of trawling stores all the time, shop at the right time to get the best deals. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/cheap/20090113-save-on-reconditioned-items-a1.asp">Save Money on Reconditioned Items</a> Big-name retailers offer great deals on reconditioned goods, many of them barely out of the box. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/pf/Dec08_dollar_store_duds_video_a1.asp">Video: 10 Dollar-Store Duds</a> Comparison shopping and unit pricing will help you find deals and duds at the dollar store. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/01/liquidation.html">What To Do When A Business Shuts Its Doors</a> Customers can be left in the lurch when a business liquidates. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/01/expo.html">Home Depot to Close Expo Chain</a> Company plans to cut 7,000 jobs as sales slump. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/cheap/20021028a.asp">Put the Brakes on Holiday Spending</a> Tips for reining in holiday expenses without losing your holiday spirit. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/pf/20081205-online-coupon-tips-a1.asp">Tips for Online Coupon Clipping</a> Coupons can help you save up to 30 percent off your shopping bill. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/12/laptop_shopping.html">Know Your Needs to Choose the Right Laptop</a> Not all laptops are alike, a veteran reviewer notes. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/pf/20081205-saving-with-online-coupons-a1.asp">Saving With Online Coupons</a> Today, you don't have to accept what's in the paper every week. There are plenty of online coupons that are a click away. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/11/walmart_stampede.html">Wal-Mart Worker Killed In Black Friday Stampede</a> Pregnant woman injured in bargain-hunters' frenzy. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/pf/20071121_black_friday_tips_a1.asp">Tips for Saving on Black Friday</a> Experts recommend tips for getting the most bang for your buck on the busiest shopping day of the year. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/11/gift_cards_spending.html">Gift Card Spending Drops</a> Sales to fall six percent from last year, retailers say. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/11/holiday_online_shopping.html">Holiday Shoppers Continue to Look Online</a> Bargain hunting, convenience keep buyers surfing the Web. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/11/hannah_montana_holidays.html">Hannah Montana Overtakes Bratz on Girls' Holiday List</a> Boys still prefer video games as No.1 gift. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/11/target_price.html">Target Misses Price Target, Backs Out of Sale</a> Britax car seats mispriced on Target site, store refuses to complete sales. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/11/holiday_budgets02.html">Budget Holiday Shopping Without Being a "Scrooge"</a> Tips for gift-buying without breaking the bank. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/11/tweeter_certificates.html">Bankrupt Tweeter Persuaded to Honor Gift Certificates</a> State Attorneys General strong-arm retailer to make good on its deals. file:///home/jhood/caweb/news_index/news_retail.inc <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/06/ca_cvs.html">California Prods CVS to Stop Selling Expired Products</a> Chain also agrees to improve customer privacy protection. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/06/sharper_image.html">Sharper Image Closing All Stores</a> Company challenged Consumer Reports and lost. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/05/gas_prices240.html">Retailers Respond to High Gas Prices with Discounts, Promotions</a> Kroger launches nationwide fuel discount program. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/05/consumer_attitudes.html">American Consumers Turn to Worrying, Not Shopping</a> Study finds new pessimism weighing down consumers. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/04/diversions.html">Retailers Gloss Over Diversions of Professional Hair Care Products</a> Target doesn't cooperate with industry crackdown efforts. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/02/sharper_image.html">Ionic Breeze Suit Drives Sharper Image into Bankruptcy</a> Ionic Breeze lawsuits foul the retailer's air. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/01/ignorance_bliss.html">Blissfully Ignorant Shoppers Happier with Choices</a> Researchers find see-no-evil effect once sale is made. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/01/dell_sales.html">Dell Closes Sales Kiosks</a> Kiosks didn't fit into new retail strategy. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/01/tuesday_morning.html">Retailers Dig Deeper into Discounts to Drive Sales</a> Tuesday Morning cuts prices to lure shoppers. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/01/debeers_class.html">De Beers Settles Class Action Suit</a> Consumers, diamond merchants to split $297 million. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/01/whole_foods_plastic.html">Whole Foods Bagging The Plastic</a> Organic grocer switching to reusable shopping bags. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/12/holiday_returns.html">Complicated Return Policies Mean More Unhappy Returns</a> Shoppers may face surprises at the returns counter. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/12/holiday_gift_cards.html">Gift Cards Should Be Used Quickly</a> Unused cards may lose value; some may even expire. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/12/nielsen_online.html">Online Shopping Gets Five Stars</a> More than 80% satisfied with holiday shopping online. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/12/tjx_banks.html">TJX Settles with Banks over Data Breach</a> Nearly 100 million consumers may have been affected. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/12/fur_flies.html">Fur Flies over 'Mislabeled' Fur</a> Humane Society calls out retailers over phony faux fur. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/11/gift_survey.html">Survey: Gifts Not Long Remembered</a> 'Experience gifts' more memorable, study claims. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/11/holiday_shopping.html">Keeping Santa Solvent</a> Tips to help you survive the holiday shopping season with finances intact. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/11/holiday_gift_cards.html">Gift Cards Include Hidden Costs</a> Report picks best & worst of this year's batch. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/11/ags_tjx.html">Attorneys General Oppose TJX Data Breach Settlement</a> Special sale said to help stores more than victims. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/11/cr_survey.html">Holiday Shoppers Off to a Slow Start</a> Pace expected to pick up on Black Friday. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/11/senior_gadgets.html">Senior-Friendly Holiday Gift Gadgets</a> Everybody likes gadgets, even your grandparents. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/11/walmart_safety.html">Black Friday Ads Target Wal-Mart</a> 70% of Wal-Mart stock comes from China, ads claim. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/11/holiday_spending.html">Rising Energy Costs Dampen Holiday Spending Plans</a> More consumers say they'll cut back this year. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/11/cr_gift_cards.html">Gift Cards Often Gather Dust</a> Survey finds 27% of last year’s gift cards still unused. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/11/bestbuy_warranties.html">Think Twice Before Buying an Extended Warranty</a> Service contracts depend on the retailer's whims. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/11/cr_holidays.html">Santa's Feeling Pinched This Year</a> Consumers say they'll shop later, many will spend less. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/10/ct_gift_cards.html">Court Upholds Gift Card Rules</a> Mall operator challenged Connecticut's ban on gift card dormancy fees. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/10/macys_card.html">Macy's Customers Get New Citicards--Like It Or Not</a> Citibank flipped store cards into true credit cards. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/10/walmart_era.html">Wal-Mart Era Is Over, Wall Street Journal Declares</a> Drab stores, politically incorrect image can't compete with Internet and hipper rivals. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/09/sale_prices.html">How Consumers Miscalculate Sale Prices</a> 'Double discount' can make savings look unrealistically large. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/07/house_interchange.html">House Studies Credit Card Fees</a> Retailers blame "interchange fees" for high prices. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/07/walmart_checks.html">Wal-Mart's Security Practices Questioned</a> California woman loses $1,400 in check-cashing scheme. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/06/scotus_price_fixing.html">Supreme Court Okays Price Fixing</a> The manufacturer's suggested retail price is no longer just a suggestion. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/06/walmart_bank.html">Wal-Mart Plans Its Own Debit Card</a> Blocked from opening its own bank, retail giant turns to prepaid cash cards. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/05/dell_walmart.html">Wal-Mart To Sell Dell Computers</a> It's Dell's latest attempt to get sales back on track. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/05/ct_bestbuy.html">Connecticut Sues Best Buy</a> State charges stores with deceiving, overcharging customers. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/05/ny_dell.html">New York Sues Dell on Consumer Fraud Charges</a> Suit accuses Dell of false advertising, bait and switch, failure to provide promised services. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/05/tjx_wireless.html">Wireless Hackers Suspected In TJ Maxx Breach</a> Investigators think "drive-by" hackers snatched customer data from stores. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/04/stores_data_breaches.html">Do Shoppers Shun Stores Hit With Data Breaches?</a> They say they do, but the data show otherwise. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/03/rfid_backlash.html">Businesses Back Off RFID</a> Consumer backlash discourages spy chip promoters. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/03/tjx_florida.html">Data From T.J. Maxx Breach Connected To Florida Fraud</a> Personal info from TJX data breach was used to make $8 million in purchases from Wal-Mart stores in Florida. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/03/walmart_bank.html">Wal-Mart Gives Up Bank Plans</a> Pressure from Congress, consumers was creating a distraction, giant retailer says. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/03/walmart_congress.html">Congressman Challenges Wal-Mart Banking Plans</a> Says retail giant is moving ahead despite freeze by FDIC and objections of consumer groups. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/03/sales_pitches.html">Sales Pitches Turn Off Consumers, Study Finds</a> Deceptive advertising also leaves a lasting negative impression. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/03/ftc_kmart.html">Kmart Settles With FTC Over Gift Card Sales Practices</a> Federal agency completes its first gift card prosecution, Kmart promises refunds. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/02/nc_furniture.html">Court Slams Online Furniture Seller</a> Company collected money, often didn't ship furniture, prosecutor charges. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/02/tjx_date.html">TJX Data Breach Bigger than Earlier Estimates</a> Company now says earliest intrusions were 10 months earlier than previously reported. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/02/stop_n_shop.html">Data Thieves Hit Stop & Shop</a> Crooks tamper with card readers, swipe PIN numbers. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/02/ri_tjx.html">Massachusetts, Rhode Island Open TJX Probes</a> States want to know how and why massive data breach occurred. Plus: <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/02/tjx_whatdo.html">What To Do</a> -- how customers can protect themselves. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/01/tjx_folo.html">TJX Sued for Loss of Consumer Data</a> Banks report wave of fraudulent transactions following data breach. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/01/club_monaco.html">Data Breach Hits Canada's Club Monaco</a> High-end retailer learned of possible data theft last year but didn't tell anyone. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/01/ebay_shilling.html">Sunday Times Reports Widespread Shill Bidding on eBay</a> Investigation finds individuals and companies use shills to drive up bids. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/01/survey_buying_attitudes.html">Survey Finds Consumers Feeling Frugal</a> Consumers putting off major purchases, researchers find. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/01/tj_maxx_data.html">Hackers Hit T.J.Maxx, Marshalls</a> Customer data stolen in major security breach. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/01/ces_interchange.html">Retailers Fret Over "Swipeless" Credit Cards</a> They fear fees on "micro" sales will wipe out profits. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/gift_cards_criminals.html">Gift Cards Becoming Currency For Criminals</a> The cards are a handy way for crooks to launder money. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/martha_canada.html">A First: Consumer Gets Restitution for Martha Stewart Table</a> Sears Canada pays up but in the U.S., Kmart and Martha keep their purse zipped shut. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/gift_card_giveaways.html">Gift Cards an $8 Billion Gift to Retailers</a> Ten percent of cards' value is never redeemed, fattening retailers' tills. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/holiday_shopping_blues.html">Retailers Having a Blue Christmas</a> Sales are running below projections. No "must-have" gift this year, retailers complain. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/holiday_debt.html">Holiday Shoppers Running Up Debt</a> Poll finds 23% of shoppers won't pay off holiday spending binge til March or later. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/bad_gift.html">Bad Gift Better Than Gift Card, Says Philosopher</a> Even the wrong gift says, "I tried." <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/savebymail.html">Consumers Grouse about Save By Mail</a> Customers say Canadian company doesn't send merchandise or process refunds promptly. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/trilegiant_chase.html">Chase Bank, Triligent, Settle Negative Option Fraud Charges</a> Companies must pay restitution, provide renewal notices to consumers. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/shipping_deadlines.html">December 19 is This Year's Drop-Dead Shipping Deadline</a> Last-minute shoppers beware! <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/toysrus_warranty.html">Toys R Us Warranty Guaranteed to Disappoint</a> Holiday shoppers would do well to look carefully at what's covered by the extended warranty ... and, more importantly, what's not. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/nwl_shooting.html">Police Kill Unarmed Teen at Detroit Discount Store</a> Victim was accused of violating National Wholesale Liquidators' ban on unaccompanied teens. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/nj_save_here.html">New Jersey Sues Online Electronics Retailer</a> Save Here Distributors accused of violating state's consumer protection laws. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/nintendo_fye.html">Nintendo Purchasers Complain of Gamesmanship</a> Long waits, forced add-ons, dishonored prepayments rile gamers. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/gift_card_scam.html">Scrooges Threaten Holidays With Gift Card Scam</a> Crooks steal numbers of gift cards, then drain the money before the recipient has a chance to use the card. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/black_friday02.html">Black Friday Draws Crowds Online and Off</a> Big crowds hit stores, flood Web sites. Amazon, Wal-Mart.com among the sites overrun by bargain hunters. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/safer_toys.html">Dangerous Toys Still on Store Shelves</a> Parents can't trust government to protect their children. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/black_friday.html">Tips for Surviving "Black Friday"</a> The early bird doesn't always get the fattest worm. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/generation_gap.html">Generation Gap Contributes To Customer Service Woes</a> Gen-Y workers not likely to be in tune with Boomer standards of behavior, researchers warn. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/holiday_online_shopping.html">Spammers and Scammers Gear Up For Holiday Assault</a> How to stay safe while shopping online. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/11/cr_warranties.html">Extended Warranties a Waste of Money</a> Retailers expect to sell $1.6 billion worth of extended warranties this holiday season, even though the warranties are largely unnecessary. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/bbb_holiday_tips.html">'Tis the Season to be Careful</a> BBB has tips for safe holiday shopping online. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/holiday_shop_early.html">Retailers Push Early Holiday Shopping</a> But surveys find little consumer demand for an extended holiday shopping season. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/wal_mart_christmas.html">Christmas Returns to Wal-Mart</a> Giant retailer won't avoid the word "Christmas" this year. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/wal_mart_holiday.html">Wal-Mart Jump-Starts the Holiday Shopping Season</a> Giant retailer cuts prices early, putting pressure on Target, Best Buy, Circuit City. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/10/nj_rite_aid.html">New Jersey Sues Rite Aid for Consumer Fraud</a> Drug store chain sold expired merchandise, priced items inaccurately, state charges. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/10/mi_walgreens.html">Walgreen's Settles Michigan Item-Pricing Suit</a> $550,000 fine is state's second-biggest. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/10/ny_cvs.html">New York Fines CVS for Sweepstakes Violations</a> Second time company has run afoul of NY sweepstakes rules. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/10/ada_target.html">Ruling Against Target May Open Other Web Sites to the Blind</a> Judge holds Web site is a "gateway" to Target's bricks-and-mortar stores. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/10/compulsive_buying.html">Men Can Be Compulsive Buyers Too</a> The problem's not limited to women, study finds. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/09/panasonic_settlement.html">Panasonic Offers Replacement Lamps for Some LCD TVs</a> Class actioin settlement provides relief for some Panasonic owners. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/09/walmart_layaway.html">Wal-Mart Ending Its Layaway Program</a> Kmart says it has no plans to follow suit. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/09/chase_tapes.html">Chase Trashes Tapes Containing Circuit City Customers' Data</a> Missing tapes contained personal data on 2.6 million consumers. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/09/ct_gift_cards.html">Connecticut Angered by Simon Mall's End Run Around Gift Card Rules</a> Retailers hide behind federal banking laws to gouge consumers. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/09/mastercard_fees.html">MasterCard Offers Concessions In Interchange Fee Battle</a> No. 2 credit card offers to publish full schedule of fees merchants pay. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/08/endless_summer.html">Back-to-School Spending Strains Family Budgets</a> Most families will spend at least $200 per child on supplies, clothing and electronics. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/08/chicago_retailers.html">Chicage May Rethink 'Living Wage' Law</a> Target, Wal-Mart put expansion plans on hold, mayor fears loss of tax revenue. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/07/fdic_walmart.html">FDIC Puts Retailers' Banking Plans on Hold</a> Six-month moratorium curbs Wal-Mart, Home Depot's banking ambitions. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/07/penny_sense.html">The Penny's End Is Near</a> Economists say scrapping the penny would have little effect on consumer prices. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/07/credit_card_fees.html">Merchants Testify Before Congress on Credit Card Price-Fixing</a> Fees are a "hidden tax on every consumer," small businesses argue. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/07/ct_walmart.html">Wal-Mart/Sam's Club Settle with Connecticut on Pricing Violations</a> Inspectors found violations of unit pricing and item pricing regulations at stores throughout the state. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/07/family_dollar_blankets.html">Family Dollar Didn't Report Hazardous Electric Blankets</a> Retailer pays $100,000 to settle allegations. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/07/congress_walmart_bank.html">Congress May End Wal-Mart's Banking Dreams</a> House bill would stop big retailers from running their own banks. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/07/az_autozone.html">Arizona Charges Wal-Mart, AutoZone with Consumer Fraud</a> Stores consistently fail to correct pricing errors, state charges. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/07/wawa.html">Brooklyn Camera Store Generates Complaints Nationwide</a> WawaDigital uses bare-knuckle "bait and hook" tactics to upsell customers seeking bargain-basement prices. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/05/shopathome.html">Shop At Home Shuttered</a> Money-losing Web site and TV network will close June 22. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/05/csi_ratings.html">Consumer Satisfaction Rises Despite Higher Prices, Sluggish Salary Growth</a> Cox tops telecom ratings, Starburcks get low marks for fast-food value. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/05/vertrue_post.html">Vertrue's "Negative Option" Sales Attract Scrutiny</a> Fast-growing company lures consumers into buying services without realizing it. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/05/cooties.html">Clothes Shoppers Fear "Cooties"</a> Study finds shoppers much less likely to buy clothing if they think someone else has touched it. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/05/ct_home_depot.html">Home Depot, Monogram Credit Card Bank To Pay Connecticut $672,000</a> "No interest, no payment" offers weren't what they seemed. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/04/mi_walmart.html">Michigan Fines Wal-Mart $1.5 Million for Item Pricing Violations</a> Largest fine in Michigan history punishes Wal-Mart for "massive" violations of state law. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/04/online_fraud.html">Online Fraud Rates Drop to Near In-Person Rates</a> Survey finds online merchants making progress in preventing fraud. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/04/martha_reax.html">Sears Not Amused by Martha Stewart's Deal with Macy's</a> Sears chairman leaves little doubt Martha's days are numbered. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/04/cr_outlet_malls.html">Outlet Malls: Good Quality, Not the Greatest Prices</a> Consumer Reports finds shoppers may over-estimate their savings at outlet malls. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/03/bluehippo_suits.html">Class Actions Target Blue Hippo</a> "Funding company" sells over-priced goods at usurious rates, suit charges. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/03/ny_federated.html">Federated Stores Agree to End Fake Sales</a> Chain settles charges filed by New York Attorney General Eliot Spitzer. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/03/mi_walmart.html">Michigan Challenges Wal-Mart on Item Pricing</a> Some stores properly display prices on only 20 percent of items, state charges. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/02/oh_vouchers.html">Ohio Sues 'Cashable Voucher' Promoters</a> Scheme defrauds both consumers and merchants, state charges. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/02/gift_cards_congress.html">Congress Studies Gift Card Abuses</a> Consumers irate over fees, restrictions and lack of fraud protection. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/02/consumer_loyalty.html">Survey: Corporations Don't Deserve Consumer Loyalty</a> Survey finds business managers don't feel they've earned customers' loyalty. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/02/ia_rebate_suit.html">Iowa Sues To Reclaim Rebate Money</a> Consumers should get their rebates no matter what, state charges. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/01/victoria_secret_holiday.html">Mean Girls Work At Victoria's Secret</a> Consumers complain of rude, snippy post-holiday behavior. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/01/mystery_shoppers.html">Taking the Mystery Out of Mystery Shopping</a> It sounds too good to be true -- getting paid to go shopping. There's a reason for that. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/01/rebates_schumer.html">Senator Warns Consumers Of Rebate Traps</a> Schumer wants FTC to standardize rebate procedures. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/rain_checks.html">Rain Checks May Extend Holiday Bargains � If You Ask</a> Only grocery stores are required to offer rain checks but others may do so if asked. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/rebate_roulette.html">Consumers Playing Rebate Roulette This Holiday Season</a> Retailers using rebates to hype sales but consumers often wind up paying full price. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/zero_percent.html">Beware of Zero Percent Financing</a> Holiday shoppers beware! No-interest deals can become very costly very quickly. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/returns_survey.html">Survey Finds Consumers Wary about Holiday Returns</a> Shoppers being careful to get gift receipts, retailers report. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/nyc_refunds.html">NYC Fines Retailers for Return & Restocking Fee Violations</a> Policies must be fully disclosed before the sale, city reminds retailers. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/video_games02.html">Retailers Urged to Curb Violent Video Games</a> Shareholders groups propose tough new guidelines. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/xmas_holidays.html">The War on Christmas - How's That Again?</a> Consumers basing their shopping decisions on the perceived theology of discount chains? <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/ca_holiday_tips.html">Smart, Careful Shopping Will Help Keep the Season Bright</a> Making a list, checking it twice: tips for smart shoppers. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/il_copycat.html">Chicago Jeweler Accused of "Typosquatting"</a> Diamonds Chicago used copycat Web addresses to redirect consumers from their intended Internet destinations. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/recalls_resales.html">Dodging Recalls with Resales</a> Auction sites like eBay shirk responsibility for keeping recalled products off their sites. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/ftc_dsw.html">DSW Settles FTC Charges</a> Hackers got shoe stores' data on 1.4 million customers. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/video_games.html">Video Game Industry Gets a D+</a> What not to buy your child this year. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/holiday_shopping_online.html">Negative Option Scams May Snag Online Holiday Shoppers</a> Tisn't the season for novices to go online. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/walmart_black_friday.html">Black Friday Gives Wal-Mart a Black Eye</a> Stores didn't have enough promotional merchandise to meet demand, consumers complain. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/holiday_shopping_tips.html">Holiday Safety, Shopping and Charitable Giving Tips</a> It's a jungle out there. Here are some tips for the wary shopper. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/black_friday.html">Shoppers Turn Out for Black Friday</a> Big crowds, discounts, promotions kick off holiday shopping season. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/return_policies.html">Retailers' Return Policies Getting Tougher</a> Stores using databases to track consumers' return records. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/toy_safety.html">Watch Out for Hidden Toy Hazards</a> Trouble in Toyland: Consumers group finds toxic chemicals, strangulation hazards, other dangers. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/ct_walmart.html">Connecticut Probes Wal-Mart Pricing</a> Studies indicate check-out price too often doesn't match posted price. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/holiday_shopping_blackfriday.html">Is Black Friday Going Green?</a> Holiday shoppers may rely less on credit and debit cards this year. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/holiday_spending_cfa.html">Americans May Be Spending Less This Holiday Season</a> Consumers Federation poll finds worries over fuel costs and rising debt have consumers feeling pinched. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/holiday_black_friday.html">Black Friday: A Survivor's Guide</a> With a little planning, the day after Thanksgiving doesn't have to be a shoppers' nightmare. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/holiday_shopping_cards.html">Holiday Shoppers Leaving Credit Cards at Home</a> More debt-wary consumers relying on cash this year. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/customer_service.html">Nordstrom, Wal-Mart Top Customer Service Rankings</a> L.L. Bean tops direct merchants rankings, Wegmans #1 in grocery sector. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/holiday_shopping_plans.html">Consumers Plan to Spend Slightly More on Holiday Gifts This Year</a> Survey finds little change in spending plans from last year. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/holiday_shopping_plans.html">Consumers Plan to Spend Slightly More on Holiday Gifts This Year</a> Survey finds little change in spending plans from last year. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/holiday_gift_cards.html">The Gift That Keeps On Taking</a> Think twice before giving gift cards for the holidays. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/cr_holiday_guide.html">Consumer Reports Unveils Annual Holiday Guide</a> Guide features shopping tips as well as e-Ratings, unbiased evaluations of online shopping sites. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/credit_card_thanksgiving.html">Thanksgiving: A Day Without Credit Cards?</a> Gadfly urges consumers to leave their cards at home on "Black Friday." <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/walmart_warranties.html">Wal-Mart Pushing Extended Warranties on Electronics</a> Discount chain craves high-profit margins of largely worthless warranties on high-end electronics gear. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/nj_circuit_city.html">Circuit City Settles Advertising Complaints with New Jersey</a> "Zero percent interest" and other claims challenged. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/walmart_bank.html">Bankers Oppose Wal-Mart's Entry into Banking</a> Havings its own bank would give Wal-Mart "anti-competitive powers," local bankers argue. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/vertrue.html">Hard to Escape from Negative Option Marketing</a> Simple Escapes morphs into Vertrue, enrolling millions in programs many claim they never heard of. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/gas_free_shipping.html">Gas Prices Not Affecting Free Shipping Promotions</a> Business fears high energy prices could dampen holiday spending. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/credit_card_fee_suits_wrap.html">Credit Card Companies Rocked By New Merchant Lawsuits</a> Chain drug and convenience stores the latest to challenge transaction fees. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/credit_card_fee_suit.html">Merchants Sue Credit Card Issuers Seeking Lower Fees</a> High fees imposed on smaller merchants are a "hidden tax" on consumers, suit charges. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/oh_officemax2.html">OfficeMax Settles with Ohio</a> Company promises to honor rebates, issue rainchecks. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/ny_sports_sites.html">Sporting Goods Web Sites Reach Antitrust Agreement</a> Modell's, Sports Authority, GI Joe's sites all run by same company. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/katrina_ports.html">Katrina Hampers Rail Movement of Retail Goods</a> Damage to rail lines through the Southeast likely to be felt on retail shelves. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/returns.html">Not Many Happy Returns</a> Consumer dissatisfaction with retailers' return/exchange policies growing. Complaints up 11 percent in one year. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/jdpower_cameras.html">Digital Camera Buyers Give Kodak, Sony High Marks</a> J.D. Power finds digital camera buyers consumers happier than in previous studies. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/gas_walmart.html">Wal-Mart Blames Gas Prices for Sales Slowdown</a> Customers have less money to spend, giant retailer says. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/surveys2.html">Surveys Often Not What They Seem</a> By mail, phone, Internet and in person, consumers victimized by phony surveys promising free gifts and cash rewards. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/loyalty_cards2.html">Alternatives to Loyalty Cards</a> Stores largely mum about their privacy policies. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/loyalty_cards.html">Loyalty Cards: Reward or Threat?</a> Retailers use loyalty cards to build huge databases. Who's minding the store? <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/store_brands.html">Store Brands Offer Competitive Quality, Study Finds</a> Buying store brands doesn't mean getting poor quality, study finds. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/zogby_target.html">Target Sweeps Zogby Poll</a> Beats Sears, Macy's, J.C. Penney. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/il_kids_recalls.html">Illinois Requires Consumer Notification of Recalled Children's Products</a> New law requires manufacturers and retailers to be proactive in notifying consumers of recalls. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/avon.html">Avon Calls on China</a> Cosmetics giant wins government approval for direct marketing test. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/safeway.html">Safeway Tries Lifestyle Theme</a> Gives up on price competition, hopes to move upscale with new emphasis on quality and "shopping experience." <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/ny_mattress.html">NY Mattress Retailer Agrees to End Fake Sales</a> Metro Mattress agrees to stop such claims as "Greatest Offer Ever." <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/simon_suit.html">Simon Mall Group Settles Gift Card Lawsuit</a> State challenged fees on gift cards. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/ny_simon.html">NY Sues Simon Malls For Gift Card Fees</a> Monthly fees violate newly-amended state law. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/macys.html">Macy's Agrees to Stop Ethnic Profiling</a> Investigation finds Latinos and Blacks most likely to be followed, stopped, handcuffed. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/friedmans_bankruptcy.html">Friedman's Files for Bankruptcy</a> Jewelry chain faces lawsuits in three states for allegedly duping consumers into buying insurance. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/oh_officemax.html">Ohio Sues OfficeMax</a> Stores failed to honor rebates and failed to provide rainchecks when sale items were not in stock, suit charges. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2005/walmart_ca_gun_laws.html">Wal-Mart to Pay $14.5 Million for California Gun Law Violations</a> Violations include selling firearms to felons and ammunition to minors. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/return_policies.html">After-Christmas Return Policies Get Stricter</a> Some retailers getting touch on "serial returners," other tightening rules, shortening time allowed. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/identity_theft.html">Tis the Season to Avoid Identity Theft</a> Holiday and post-season sale shoppers should be alert for identity theft and related rip-offs. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/friedmans_fl.html">Florida, Tennessee Sue Friedman's Jewelers</a> 19 states conducting investigations into alleged deceptive insurance sales. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/online_charity.html">Online Retail Up, Online Giving Down</a> Humanitarian Web site traffic down compared to last year, while shopping surges. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/ny_toy_guns.html">Spitzer: Drop That Gun</a> New York charges toy distributors with selling toy guns that too closely resemble the real thing. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/tx_friedmans.html">Texas Charges Friedman's Jewelry Chain Misled Consumers</a> Company deceived customers about the level of "required" insurance coverage when applying for installment credit on purchases, state charges. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/retail_survey.html">Survey Finds Customer Service Lacking</a> Online customers generally more satisfied than those who shop in person. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/fred_meyer.html">Grocery Chain Overpriced Meat, Suit Charges</a> Pacific Northwest included packaging in price of meat, class action charges. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/ma_gift_cards.html">States Challenge Mall Gift Cards</a> Massachusetts, Connecticut sue Simon Mall Group. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/staples_rebates.html">Staples Offers Electronic Rebate Redemption</a> New system is coordinated with stores' returns database. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/lcd_glut.html">LCD Glut Means Falling Prices</a> Manufacturers producing flat screens faster than consumers are buying them. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/military_furniture.html">NY Furniture Store Abused Military Customers</a> Retailer used illegal tactics, garnished pay of soldiers serving in Iraq. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/ny_mattress.html">Online Mattress Retailers Settle NY Suit</a> Affordable Mattress Direct, Quality Sleep Systems Agree to Reforms & Refunds <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/ny_jos_bank.html">Spitzer vs. Jos. A. Bank</a> Men's clothier agrees to reform its advertising practices, settling a lawsuit with New York. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/kirby_finance.html">Kirby Sweeps Up West Virginia Credit Reports</a> The company's finance arm smudged purchasers' credit ratings. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/pa_weddingstore.html">Pennsylvania Sues Weddingstore, Inc.</a> Four-state chain closed its stores without delivering merchandise, suit charges. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/best_buy_ohio.html">Ohio Sues Best Buy</a> Buckeye consumers in revolt over service, rebate and warranty problems. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/massachusetts_online.html">Massachusetts Sues Companies Selling Weapons Online</a> Bay State fighting back against Web sales of weapons, cigarettes, liquor and other state-regulated items. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/gift_cards.html">Illinois Passes Law to Clean Up Gift Card Abuses</a> Hidden fees or charges not permitted. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/tableware.html">Department Stores Tried to Restrict Competition in Tableware</a> Bloomingdale's, Macy's, Lord & Taylor tried to block Bed Bath & Beyond. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/foreman_grill.html">George Foreman Grill Settlement Helps Non-Profits</a> $8 million antitrust judgment distributed to charities nationwide. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/walgreens_itempricing.html">Walgreens to Pay $1.6 Million for Item Pricing Violations</a> Latest pricing class action in Massachusetts. <a href="/web/20091208035044/http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/walmart_class_action.html">Judge Grants Class Action Status to Wal-Mart Suit</a> Largest discrimination suit ever against a private employer. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://consumeraffairs.com/news04/walmart_class.html">Wal-Mart Settles Consumer Class Action for $7 Million</a> Massachusetts man also sued Home Depot for not compling with the state's item-pricing regulations. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://consumeraffairs.com/news03/walmart_mastercard.html">Wal-Mart Will Decline Some MasterCards</a> Consumers will have to key in PIN to use MasterCard debit cards. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://consumeraffairs.com/news03/fao.html">FAO Bankrupt Again</a> Toy retailer succumbs to price pressure from Wal-Mart, Target and other discounters. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://consumeraffairs.com/news03/girls_gone_wild_02.html">Girls Still Going Wild</a> Best Buy, other major retailers, selling DVDs that prosecutors say include underage girls. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://consumeraffairs.com/news03/walmart_image.html">Wal-Mart Tries to Buff Its Image</a> Sex discrimination suit, community resistance to new stores causing sleepless nights in Bentonville. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://consumeraffairs.com/news03/sears_credit.html">Sears Sells Its Credit-Card Business</a> Citigroup will take over 25 million Sears Card and Sears MasterCard accounts. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://consumeraffairs.com/news03/walmart_gays.html">Wal-Mart Bans Discrimination Against Gays</a> Giant retailer is one of the last Fortune 500 companies to formally ban anti-gay actions. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://consumeraffairs.com/news03/staples_lied.html">Staples Fined $850,000 for Lying to Its Web Customers About Delivery</a> "Real-time" inventory and "one-day delivery" claims false, FTC charges. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://consumeraffairs.com/news03/walmart_fine.html">Wal-Mart Fined $750,000 for Exercise Equipment Safety Defects</a> Despite customer injuries in stores, Wal-Mart did not report problems with gliders. <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20091208035044/http://consumeraffairs.com/news03/sears_benefits.html">Sears Extends Pay & Benefits for Reservists</a> Full-time employees protected for up to two years. </td> <td width="364" valign="top" bgcolor="#FFFFFF">   <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="10" border="0" width="350"> <tr> <td valign="top"> <div align="center">  <script type="text/javascript"> GA_googleFillSlotWithSize("ca-pub-0200629403145096", "CA_FamilyATFRightRect300x250", 300, 250); </script> </div> <div align="center">  <script type="text/javascript"> aster_cloud_id = '2416931'; aster_cloud_format = '300x250'; </script> <script type="text/javascript"> document.write(unescape("%3Cscript 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