The Watchdog

On this episode of “The Watchdog,” we’ll help you use open enrollment to cut your health insurance costs without losing important coverage—and explain why so many people are leaving free money on the table by not fully using rewards programs. We’ll also dig into new Airbnb rule changes that have some hosts upset, and how more families are turning to thrifting to stretch their budgets, even during the holidays.

On this episode of “The Watchdog,” we look at how AI may be helping scammers target small businesses with phony receipts, and what one retailer wants other owners to know. We’ll also break down an important Toyota recall, how a major grocery chain is using AI to cut jobs and move them overseas, and the surveillance-style pricing tactics one consumer watchdog group says companies are using drive up prices.  

On this episode of “The Watchdog,” we’ll tell you how everyday moments—like a candy bar meltdown in the checkout line—can teach kids the difference between wants and needs. We’ll also share simple ways to enjoy football season without sacking your budget, and the steps you can take now to stay one click ahead of hackers and scammers.

On this episode of “The Watchdog,” we’ll explain why so many families feel “car poor” and the steps that can help you tame that payment and free up your budget. We’ll also look at what’s driving the surge in scam texts and calls, and the quick settings that can help slow them down. Plus, one family’s creative playbook for affording organized sports without blowing their budget.

On this episode of “The Watchdog,” we’ll show you how to stay safe using QR codes after scammers started tampering with them, and the red flags that can help you spot fake utility shutoff calls before you pay a bogus bill. We’ll also share six smart moves to stretch your savings in retirement and explain why beef prices are pushing some of your favorite burgers higher.