#consumer-safety

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Family home destroyed by e-bike battery fire days before Christmas

Charging second-hand e-bikes poses significant fire risks if not done safely, as demonstrated by a recent house fire in London.
#retail-security

'Tis the season for porch pirates. Here are some tips to help protect your items

The significant increase in package thefts during the holiday season necessitates consumer vigilance.

Survey: Parking lot safety influences holiday shopping habits

Retailers must prioritize safety, especially in parking lots, as it heavily influences consumer shopping decisions. Security technology is essential for boosting shopper confidence.

'Tis the season for porch pirates. Here are some tips to help protect your items

The significant increase in package thefts during the holiday season necessitates consumer vigilance.

Survey: Parking lot safety influences holiday shopping habits

Retailers must prioritize safety, especially in parking lots, as it heavily influences consumer shopping decisions. Security technology is essential for boosting shopper confidence.
moreretail-security

Search your stash: 538 cannabis pesticide tests show what's in your weed

California's cannabis testing lacks thoroughness, risking consumer exposure to dangerous substances.

Cannabis conundrum: Legal doesn't mean clean; illicit isn't always dirty

Legal cannabis products may not be significantly safer than illegal ones, as both markets show similar pesticide contamination rates.
#health-risks

Dirt-cheap toys imported into U.S. can be dangerous, group says. Here's what to know

Cheap kids' toys may not meet U.S. safety standards, posing risks that consumers must seriously consider before making a purchase.

How do I know if my personal care products contain forever chemicals? Experts weigh in.

PFAS, or 'forever chemicals,' are present in many personal care products, often without proper labeling, endangering consumer health.

Apple users shocked device has chemicals tied to birth defects, cancer

Apple's Belkin charging device contains BPA, a harmful chemical linked to health risks, revealing concerns over consumer product safety.

Bacteria Found in Tom's of Maine Toothpaste, Inspectors Say

Significant bacteria violations found at Tom's of Maine manufacturing facility could pose health risks, especially for immunocompromised individuals, prompting consumer concerns.

Your black plastic kitchen utensils aren't so toxic after all. But you should still toss them, group says

A recent study on toxic chemicals in black plastic contained a significant math error but still calls for caution in using these products.

What to Know about Lead Contamination in Cinnamon

Spices evoke comfort but may carry health risks, notably lead contamination in cinnamon.

Dirt-cheap toys imported into U.S. can be dangerous, group says. Here's what to know

Cheap kids' toys may not meet U.S. safety standards, posing risks that consumers must seriously consider before making a purchase.

How do I know if my personal care products contain forever chemicals? Experts weigh in.

PFAS, or 'forever chemicals,' are present in many personal care products, often without proper labeling, endangering consumer health.

Apple users shocked device has chemicals tied to birth defects, cancer

Apple's Belkin charging device contains BPA, a harmful chemical linked to health risks, revealing concerns over consumer product safety.

Bacteria Found in Tom's of Maine Toothpaste, Inspectors Say

Significant bacteria violations found at Tom's of Maine manufacturing facility could pose health risks, especially for immunocompromised individuals, prompting consumer concerns.

Your black plastic kitchen utensils aren't so toxic after all. But you should still toss them, group says

A recent study on toxic chemicals in black plastic contained a significant math error but still calls for caution in using these products.

What to Know about Lead Contamination in Cinnamon

Spices evoke comfort but may carry health risks, notably lead contamination in cinnamon.
morehealth-risks
#dark-web

Who needs the dark web? Drug sales flourish on social media

Drug sales on social media platforms are rising while dark web sales are declining, making drug procurement more convenient for consumers.

The Rising Threat of the Black Market in the UK Gambling Scene

The UK black gambling market is a growing threat, fueled by illegal operations and anonymity offered by cryptocurrencies.

Who needs the dark web? Drug sales flourish on social media

Drug sales on social media platforms are rising while dark web sales are declining, making drug procurement more convenient for consumers.

The Rising Threat of the Black Market in the UK Gambling Scene

The UK black gambling market is a growing threat, fueled by illegal operations and anonymity offered by cryptocurrencies.
moredark-web
#scams

Cyber Monday tips for avoiding scams, pressure tactics and porch pirates

More than 72.3 million people are shopping online this Cyber Monday, with expected spending of $13.2 billion.

That text from the post office could be a scam. How to avoid 'smishing' fraud

Beware of 'smishing' scams posing as USPS notifications during peak holiday shipping times.

Cyber Monday tips for avoiding scams, pressure tactics and porch pirates

More than 72.3 million people are shopping online this Cyber Monday, with expected spending of $13.2 billion.

That text from the post office could be a scam. How to avoid 'smishing' fraud

Beware of 'smishing' scams posing as USPS notifications during peak holiday shipping times.
morescams
#toxicity

Toxic metals found in tampons have set off alarm bells-the kind I responded to 35 years ago when starting my company

Toxic metals found in big-brand tampons highlight ongoing safety and environmental concerns regarding menstrual products.

Multiplication mistake leads to exaggerated plastic cautions

The research on black plastic spatulas overestimated danger due to a simple calculation error, misguiding public perception about their safety.

Toxic metals found in tampons have set off alarm bells-the kind I responded to 35 years ago when starting my company

Toxic metals found in big-brand tampons highlight ongoing safety and environmental concerns regarding menstrual products.

Multiplication mistake leads to exaggerated plastic cautions

The research on black plastic spatulas overestimated danger due to a simple calculation error, misguiding public perception about their safety.
moretoxicity
#product-recall

Stanley recalls lids of 2.6 million mugs after dozens of burn injuries

Stanley is recalling 2.6 million travel mugs due to faulty lids causing burn injuries. Immediate action is required from consumers.

Feds warn against bed rails, citing 18 deaths since 2021

Portable adult bed rails are linked to 18 suffocation deaths since 2021, prompting an urgent CPSC warning and recall.
Medical King is recalling 220,000 bed rails due to serious suffocation risks.
The CPSC has issued nine recalls in three years related to this safety issue.

Electric space heaters sold on Amazon, TikTok recalled after 7 fires

Nearly 600,000 GoveeLife and Govee space heaters recalled due to fire hazards from overheating incidents.

Stanley recalls about 2.6 million travel mugs

Stanley recalls 2.6 million mugs due to hazardous lid issues.

China-based toymaker ignores warnings over potentially deadly game pieces

Magnetic Chess Games sold by JOMO pose serious ingestion risks to children due to hazardous magnets.

About 2.6 million Stanley cups recalled after malfunctions caused burns. Is your mug included?

Stanley recalled 2.6 million travel mugs due to a burn hazard from defective lids that can detach during use.

Stanley recalls lids of 2.6 million mugs after dozens of burn injuries

Stanley is recalling 2.6 million travel mugs due to faulty lids causing burn injuries. Immediate action is required from consumers.

Feds warn against bed rails, citing 18 deaths since 2021

Portable adult bed rails are linked to 18 suffocation deaths since 2021, prompting an urgent CPSC warning and recall.
Medical King is recalling 220,000 bed rails due to serious suffocation risks.
The CPSC has issued nine recalls in three years related to this safety issue.

Electric space heaters sold on Amazon, TikTok recalled after 7 fires

Nearly 600,000 GoveeLife and Govee space heaters recalled due to fire hazards from overheating incidents.

Stanley recalls about 2.6 million travel mugs

Stanley recalls 2.6 million mugs due to hazardous lid issues.

China-based toymaker ignores warnings over potentially deadly game pieces

Magnetic Chess Games sold by JOMO pose serious ingestion risks to children due to hazardous magnets.

About 2.6 million Stanley cups recalled after malfunctions caused burns. Is your mug included?

Stanley recalled 2.6 million travel mugs due to a burn hazard from defective lids that can detach during use.
moreproduct-recall
#stanley

Stanley recalls millions of drink lids after customers report burn injuries

Stanley recalls 2.6 million insulated mugs due to burns from defective lids.

Millions of Stanley mugs recalled after reports of burn injuries

Stanley recalled over 2.6 million travel mugs due to burn hazards from lid detachment, urging customers to stop using them immediately.

Stanley recalls millions of drink lids after customers report burn injuries

Stanley recalls 2.6 million insulated mugs due to burns from defective lids.

Millions of Stanley mugs recalled after reports of burn injuries

Stanley recalled over 2.6 million travel mugs due to burn hazards from lid detachment, urging customers to stop using them immediately.
morestanley
#cybersecurity

One Down, Many to Go with Pre-Installed Malware on Android

Low-budget tablets like Dragon Touch's KidzPad Y88X 10 may contain serious security vulnerabilities, as confirmed by malware associations.

EU Cyber Resilience Act: What You Need to Know

The E.U. Cyber Resilience Act establishes mandatory cybersecurity standards for digital devices in the bloc to enhance consumer protection and security compliance.

Applications are open for IoT device cyber certifiers

The FCC's new cybersecurity labeling program aims to help consumers identify less vulnerable products.
The program will include a U.S. Cyber Trust Mark, similar to ENERGY STAR labels.

Phishing attacks rose by more than 600% in the buildup to Black Friday

There was a 692% increase in phishing attacks in the week before Black Friday, highlighting a surge in cybersecurity threats during the holiday season.

One Down, Many to Go with Pre-Installed Malware on Android

Low-budget tablets like Dragon Touch's KidzPad Y88X 10 may contain serious security vulnerabilities, as confirmed by malware associations.

EU Cyber Resilience Act: What You Need to Know

The E.U. Cyber Resilience Act establishes mandatory cybersecurity standards for digital devices in the bloc to enhance consumer protection and security compliance.

Applications are open for IoT device cyber certifiers

The FCC's new cybersecurity labeling program aims to help consumers identify less vulnerable products.
The program will include a U.S. Cyber Trust Mark, similar to ENERGY STAR labels.

Phishing attacks rose by more than 600% in the buildup to Black Friday

There was a 692% increase in phishing attacks in the week before Black Friday, highlighting a surge in cybersecurity threats during the holiday season.
morecybersecurity
#raw-milk

Letters: New Gilded Age

The article critiques the glorification of wealth and challenges current societal values regarding affluence and safety in the dairy industry.

California raw milk recalled after positive test for bird flu virus

Bird flu detected in raw milk from Fresno dairy prompts health warnings and product recall.

Bird Flu Found in Raw Milk Sold in Santa Clara County Sparks Public Health Concern | KQED

Bird flu has been detected in California's dairy herds, but no cases of transmission to humans through milk have been confirmed.

Letters: New Gilded Age

The article critiques the glorification of wealth and challenges current societal values regarding affluence and safety in the dairy industry.

California raw milk recalled after positive test for bird flu virus

Bird flu detected in raw milk from Fresno dairy prompts health warnings and product recall.

Bird Flu Found in Raw Milk Sold in Santa Clara County Sparks Public Health Concern | KQED

Bird flu has been detected in California's dairy herds, but no cases of transmission to humans through milk have been confirmed.
moreraw-milk

David Beckham's Christmas ad reported to authorities after fans spot 'dangerous' detail

The Ninja commercial featuring David Beckham misled viewers about the safety of using the outdoor oven indoors.

Law Enforcement Intercepts Counterfeit Gibson Guitar Shipment

Gibson is confronting legal challenges against counterfeit guitars and has recently issued a cease and desist to a company over design similarities.

Urgent recall for official Apple accessory that could EXPLODE

Belkin's BoostCharge Pro charger has been recalled due to unsafe overheating risks, prompting immediate disconnection and safe placement for users.

Unsafe toys which posed 'potential choking hazard' seized from shop

Waltham Forest council has seized a significant amount of illicit tobacco and unsafe goods, ensuring community protection and safety.
#firearms

America's Worst Gun Brands

Many lesser-known gun brands are often criticized for poor design and reliability issues, affecting their reputation.
Several gun brands, though popular, should be avoided due to their history of low-quality manufacturing.

America's Worst Gun Brands

The article identifies several gun manufacturers with a poor reputation, highlighting the subjective nature of quality in the firearms industry.

America's Worst Gun Brands

Many lesser-known gun brands are often criticized for poor design and reliability issues, affecting their reputation.
Several gun brands, though popular, should be avoided due to their history of low-quality manufacturing.

America's Worst Gun Brands

The article identifies several gun manufacturers with a poor reputation, highlighting the subjective nature of quality in the firearms industry.
morefirearms
#health

FDA Targets Decongestants That Don't Actually Work

The FDA is proposing to revoke the effectiveness status for certain phenylephrine ingredients in OTC medications, citing a lack of efficacy.

We've Got Big News About Our Cookware and Bakeware

Food52 is phasing out nonstick cookware containing harmful PFAS chemicals to promote consumer safety and transparency.

FDA Targets Decongestants That Don't Actually Work

The FDA is proposing to revoke the effectiveness status for certain phenylephrine ingredients in OTC medications, citing a lack of efficacy.

We've Got Big News About Our Cookware and Bakeware

Food52 is phasing out nonstick cookware containing harmful PFAS chemicals to promote consumer safety and transparency.
morehealth
#toms-of-maine

The FDA says it found bacteria and a 'mold-like' substance at a Tom's of Maine plant

Tom's of Maine is facing scrutiny from the FDA due to contamination with dangerous bacteria and mold in its products. They are working to resolve these issues.

Tom's of Maine toothpaste made with bacteria-tainted water, FDA warns. Here are details.

Tom's of Maine toothpaste contained harmful bacteria, prompting an FDA warning and highlighting potential risks to consumer health.

The FDA says it found bacteria and a 'mold-like' substance at a Tom's of Maine plant

Tom's of Maine is facing scrutiny from the FDA due to contamination with dangerous bacteria and mold in its products. They are working to resolve these issues.

Tom's of Maine toothpaste made with bacteria-tainted water, FDA warns. Here are details.

Tom's of Maine toothpaste contained harmful bacteria, prompting an FDA warning and highlighting potential risks to consumer health.
moretoms-of-maine

Earth911 Podcast: Making IT Product Chemical Impacts Transparent With TCO Development's Stephen Fuller

Consumers face challenges understanding product safety amid an influx of new chemicals.
TCO Development promotes safer alternatives to harmful chemicals in technology.

New report puts Trader Joe's, McDonald's in 'toxic hall of shame'

Many major retailers are failing to protect customers from toxic chemicals and plastics, according to Toxic-Free Future's 2024 Retailer Report Card.

O2 unleashes AI grandma on scammers

A significant number of Britons desire revenge on scammers, yet many are unwilling to invest time in retaliatory actions.
O2's AI, Daisy, is designed to thwart scams by engaging in realistic conversations with callers.

We Need to Ensure Legal Cannabis Is Safe

Today's cannabis market offers a wide range of products far beyond traditional forms, raising significant health and regulatory concerns.

Home Office minister vows end to shameful neglect' of shoplifting

Rise in retail crime leading to increased costs for consumers.
Organized crime posing serious risks to retail workers and businesses.
#costco

Here is why Costco recalled almost 80,000 pounds of butter

Costco recalled butter products due to missing milk allergen information on labels, potentially jeopardizing consumer health.

Costco recalled almost 80,000 pounds of butter because the labels failed to say it contained milk

Costco's butter recall highlights the importance of allergen labeling for consumer safety.
The FDA's Class II classification indicates serious but typically reversible health risks for consumers with milk allergies.

Here is why Costco recalled almost 80,000 pounds of butter

Costco recalled butter products due to missing milk allergen information on labels, potentially jeopardizing consumer health.

Costco recalled almost 80,000 pounds of butter because the labels failed to say it contained milk

Costco's butter recall highlights the importance of allergen labeling for consumer safety.
The FDA's Class II classification indicates serious but typically reversible health risks for consumers with milk allergies.
morecostco
#mattel

A 'Wicked' mistake: Mattel apologizes for printing a porn site on its doll packaging

Mattel apologizes for misprinted doll packaging that accidentally directed consumers to a pornographic website instead of the official Wicked movie site.

Mattel Mistakenly Lists Porn Site on Packaging for Wicked' Dolls

Mattel mistakenly listed a porn website on the packaging for its Wicked dolls instead of a film promotion URL, causing public outrage.

'Wicked' toy boxes: Mattel apologizes for porn website link DW 11/11/2024

Mattel apologized for a misprint on doll packaging that inadvertently linked to a pornographic website instead of the official movie site.

Mattel apologises after Wicked movie dolls mistakenly link to porn website on packaging

Mattel is taking immediate corrective action after printing a pornographic website on packaging for Wicked dolls.

A 'Wicked' mistake: Mattel apologizes for printing a porn site on its doll packaging

Mattel apologizes for misprinted doll packaging that accidentally directed consumers to a pornographic website instead of the official Wicked movie site.

Mattel Mistakenly Lists Porn Site on Packaging for Wicked' Dolls

Mattel mistakenly listed a porn website on the packaging for its Wicked dolls instead of a film promotion URL, causing public outrage.

'Wicked' toy boxes: Mattel apologizes for porn website link DW 11/11/2024

Mattel apologized for a misprint on doll packaging that inadvertently linked to a pornographic website instead of the official movie site.

Mattel apologises after Wicked movie dolls mistakenly link to porn website on packaging

Mattel is taking immediate corrective action after printing a pornographic website on packaging for Wicked dolls.
moremattel

Credit card skimmer found on Newtonville convenience store register, police say

A credit card skimmer was found at a Newtonville 7-Eleven, prompting police warnings for customers to check their financial accounts for fraud.
#food-safety

The Major Grocery Chain That's Recalling Its Cheeses Over Listeria Risks - Tasting Table

Soft cheeses recalled due to potential Listeria contamination; no affected cheese found to contain the bacteria.

Lactaid dairy-free milk recalled in 27 states from Florida to New York over serious allergy risk

Lactaid milk recalled for potential almond contamination poses health risks to allergy sufferers.

The Major Grocery Chain That's Recalling Its Cheeses Over Listeria Risks - Tasting Table

Soft cheeses recalled due to potential Listeria contamination; no affected cheese found to contain the bacteria.

Lactaid dairy-free milk recalled in 27 states from Florida to New York over serious allergy risk

Lactaid milk recalled for potential almond contamination poses health risks to allergy sufferers.
morefood-safety

Toxic PFAS in menstrual pads harms reproductive health, advocates says

Carefree menstrual pads contain harmful PFAS chemicals, raising significant health risks for women, which has led to a lawsuit demanding label warnings or product removal.
#temu

U.S. launches investigation into Shein and Temu over 'deadly' baby items

CPSC is investigating safety issues related to Shein and Temu, particularly concerning dangerous baby products sold on their platforms.

The EU Is Investigating Temu for Illegal Products and Addictive Design

The EU is investigating Temu for selling illegal products and concerns about its addictive design.

U.S. launches investigation into Shein and Temu over 'deadly' baby items

CPSC is investigating safety issues related to Shein and Temu, particularly concerning dangerous baby products sold on their platforms.

The EU Is Investigating Temu for Illegal Products and Addictive Design

The EU is investigating Temu for selling illegal products and concerns about its addictive design.
moretemu

48% of people have been scammed while holiday shopping online - what to watch for

Holiday shopping online exposes consumers to increased risks of scams.
Nearly half of U.S. shoppers report being targeted by scams.
53% of consumers are particularly worried about Black Friday and Cyber Monday scams.
#online-shopping

Don't get duped into buying fake products online. Look out for these 4 red flags

7 in 10 consumers may have unknowingly purchased counterfeit products online in the past year, highlighting the need for careful shopping.

Online Shopping Can't Be Trusted | The Walrus

Counterfeit products pose serious health risks, as seen in the case of a user suffering burns from fake sunscreen purchased online.

Don't get duped into buying fake products online. Look out for these 4 red flags

7 in 10 consumers may have unknowingly purchased counterfeit products online in the past year, highlighting the need for careful shopping.

Online Shopping Can't Be Trusted | The Walrus

Counterfeit products pose serious health risks, as seen in the case of a user suffering burns from fake sunscreen purchased online.
moreonline-shopping

Poppy seed brew triggers morphine overdose, drawing attention of lawmakers

Contaminated poppy seeds can lead to serious health risks, including death and wrongful separation from newborns following false positive drug tests.
#food-recall

Perdue recall 2024: Chicken nuggets and tenders feared contaminated after metal wire was found embedded in products

Perdue Foods is recalling chicken products due to potential metal contamination, impacting over 167,171 pounds of various products.

Domino's dip and curry powders urgently recalled in allergy fear

A significant recall of over 20 food products due to undeclared peanut allergens highlights concerns for consumer safety.

Perdue recall 2024: Chicken nuggets and tenders feared contaminated after metal wire was found embedded in products

Perdue Foods is recalling chicken products due to potential metal contamination, impacting over 167,171 pounds of various products.

Domino's dip and curry powders urgently recalled in allergy fear

A significant recall of over 20 food products due to undeclared peanut allergens highlights concerns for consumer safety.
morefood-recall

Why you shouldn't store your money in payment apps

Payment apps provide convenience but pose risks due to lack of traditional banking protections and loss of potential interest from high yield savings.

Consumer Reports calls for federal ban on baby walkers. Here are the risks.

Consumer Reports calls for a federal ban on infant walkers due to persistent injuries and lack of benefits.
Infant walkers pose substantial risks to babies, leading to serious injuries despite safety standards.

EBay set to restrict the sale of e-bikes amid a 'serious risk of fire' in peoples homes - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

eBay is restricting the sale of e-bikes and e-bike batteries in the UK to enhance consumer safety.
from time.com
2 months ago

Yet Another Study Links Acne Creams to Cancer

Many acne treatments, including popular brands, contain high levels of benzene, raising serious health concerns and urging FDA to take action.

John Deere issues largest tractor recall in 20 years

Deere & Co. is recalling nearly 165,000 compact utility tractors due to a serious braking issue, marking the largest recall since 2000.
from Fast Company
3 months ago

Baby powder recall hits Amazon and distributors in 12 states over fears of asbestos contamination

Dynarex recalls Dynacare Baby Powder over potential asbestos contamination, highlighting ongoing health risks associated with asbestos exposure.

US takes aim at Shein and Temu with new import rule proposal

The Biden administration is proposing new rules to address the abuse of the de minimis exemptions by Chinese e-commerce companies.

Are At-Home Chemical Peels Safe?

At-home chemical peels can cause severe skin irritation and should ideally be performed under professional supervision.

Ted Cruz Is Holding Up Bipartisan Action To Make E-Bike Batteries Safe

A federal bill to regulate lithium-ion battery safety is stalled in the Senate due to political maneuvering.
Senator Cruz is blocking the bill over unrelated concerns about gas stove regulations.
from Engadget
3 months ago

The US government may be preparing to investigate internet retail giants like Shein and Temu

CPSC is investigating foreign e-commerce platforms like Shein and Temu due to concerns over unsafe children's products.

US safety regulators say it's time to investigate Shein and Temu

CPSC is urged to investigate Shein and Temu for selling dangerous products.
Concerns include banned items easily available for children on these platforms.
The rise of third-party sellers on e-commerce platforms poses safety challenges.

FDA recalls tattoo ink because it may cause deadly infection

Contaminated tattoo inks pose serious health risks after FDA recalls specific products from Sierra Stain LLC.
from Harlem, NY Patch
3 months ago

Locked Cabinets, Reduced Hours And Store Closures: Retail Theft In NYC

Target's East Harlem store closure highlights the impact of theft on retail operations and customer accessibility.
Retailers may increasingly close stores in response to ongoing theft issues, exacerbating accessibility challenges.

With These Recalled Products, The Impacts Were Catastrophic

Product recalls can greatly influence a company's financial and legal standing, sometimes leading to bankruptcy or severe fines.

Mr. Softee playing hardball with rogue NYC operators accused of ripping off iconic music, brand

Mister Softee is defending its trademarks against copycat ice cream trucks to protect brand integrity and consumer trust.

Allergy training must be better, campaigners say

The tragic death of Hannah Jacobs highlights urgent communication failures in food allergy safety and calls for better practices within the food industry.

Magic mushroom chocolates are having a moment. But do they even contain mushrooms?

Mushroom products in Southern California may contain misleading ingredients or dangerous compounds, risking consumer safety and well-being.

South Korea's EV Market Responds to Safety Concerns with Price Reductions

EV phobia in South Korea has surged following a fire incident, leading to significant price reductions by automakers to boost sales.
Government officials are responding to safety concerns with potential regulations requiring disclosure of battery brands by EV manufacturers.

Medline recalls 1.5M adult bed rails following 2 reports of entrapment deaths

Medline Industries is recalling 1.5 million portable adult bed rails due to entrapment risks, following two reported deaths.
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