Topic: Consumer Federation of America

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Consumer finance watchdog: a birthday, but no one comes

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau celebrated its first anniversary without fanfare. Despite some achievements, the CFPB has yet to tackle big and sensitive issues.
The Monitor's View: The odds and ends of Mega Millions jackpot lottery

The long odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot lottery is just a start into understanding why gambling is the wrong way to live up to one's abilities to get ahead in life.
Americans' trend line on gasoline: Use less, spend more

US oil consumption is down, and fuel economy for new vehicles is at an all-time high. Despite these leaner ways, Americans are spending 65 percent more on gasoline since 2005. Why?
Facebook tracking now under federal investigation

Facebook tracking triggers another round of criticism for the social network. This time, the FTC is offering the company a settlement over a legal complaint, while a Senate committee starts to ask: is Facebook tracking both users and non-users?
Did Irene damage your home? How to file an insurance claim.

If you're weighing whether to file a home insurance claim related to Hurricane Irene, consumer groups are offering advice on how to go about it. Here are some of the key steps to take.
Why GOP vows to block Obama nominee for consumer-watchdog agency

The sweeping financial reform legislation passed by Congress a year ago created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. President Obama nominated its first director Sunday, but Republicans are against the structure of the entire agency.
American anger at gas prices fueled by rising household energy costs

Americans are spending 12 percent of their disposable income on energy costs – up from 7.7 percent in 2002, a new study says. Gas prices are the biggest part of the equation.
Poll: With gas prices high, Americans want 60 m.p.g. fuel efficiency

A new poll suggests that a majority of Americans – both Democrats and Republicans – support a plan to almost double federal fuel-efficiency standards for automakers by 2025. High gas prices are seen as being behind the trend.
Less mobile Internet. Cheaper price. But a fair deal?

New federal rules allow Metro PCS to offer a low-cost plan that blocks access to popular websites on the mobile Internet. Critics say it's a breach of net neutrality.
Net neutrality: Will the FCC's new Internet policy help consumers?

A divided FCC approved regulation aimed at protecting 'Internet freedom and openness.' But critics of Net neutrality say the policy is unnecessary and will squelch innovation.
Elizabeth Warren: Obama picks aggressive consumer adviser

Elizabeth Warren understands 'every American has to get a fair shake in their financial dealings,' Obama says.
Home appliances get tough new efficiency standards

Industry and environmentalist groups agreed Tuesday on tougher efficiency standards for home appliances that, over the next 30 years, could save enough energy to power 40 percent of American homes for a year.
Obama's home energy-efficiency pitch: insulation is 'sexy'

President Obama called for more incentives for home energy-efficiency upgrades Tuesday, as a way to boost job-creation and cut energy costs. Green retrofitting of homes is on the rise in the US.
US House passes sweeping financial overhaul

The House financial overhaul bill covers everything from financial giants to individual consumers. But lobbyists are lined up to fight it, and deals will have to be made with some lawmakers as the Senate considers its own bill.
How to avoid soaring bank fees

Charges on overdrafts, ATM withdrawals rise. How to avoid excessive charges.
Troubled economy hits women hard

Income inequality, a real estate slump, and exposure to subprime loans play a role.
Opening a new account? Read the fine print.

Here's seven common clauses consumers might watch out for when they sign up for a credit card or checking account.