A recent Checkbook investigation found widespread problems with vacation rentals, including fake listings and stolen deposits. Even worse, many victims get little or no help from Booking.com or Vrbo to recover their lost money.

In this episode: We share results of our investigation and provide tips on how to protect yourself when booking a vacation rental. One key: Your best move to avoid losing money to scams or bad actors is to book with a credit card.

Read our full report about vacation rental scams at Checkbook.org.

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Fraud is on the rise. Scammers stole more than $12 billion in 2024, according to the Federal Trade Commission. The number of Americans who are victimized is also skyrocketing. Investment scams, romance scams, crypto scams, and imposter scams are driving much of the increase.

Criminals around the globe have a powerful new tool to use against you: artificial intelligence. AI can make their cons more polished and personal, so you need to be on guard more than ever.

In this episode, we’ll explain how you can fight back: 10 things you can do to reduce your chances of falling prey to a fraudster. And we have two expert fraud fighters taking part in this discussion: Amy Nofziger of AARP Fraud Watch Network, and John Breyault of Fraud.org.

More Info:

Deep Fake Challenge 2025

AI PSA (Show this to Uncle Frank before he shares another fake video!)

More from Checkbook:

Fraud Prevention: Top 10 Ways to Protect Yourself

Credit Cards Have Consumer Protection Superpowers

Scam Alert: Fake Loan Approval Robocalls

Why It’s Safer to Use a Credit Card Than a Debit Card, Especially for Online Purchases

Virtual Credit Cards Help Fight Fraud

Don’t Ignore All Those Data Breach Notices Companies Send You

Related Consumerpedia episodes:

#88 - Cyberthieves Weaponize AI to Perfect Online Scams

#11 - Stop, Thief! How to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

#5 - Cyber Crime: A Former Cyber Crook Explains How to Protect Yourself

If you haven’t purchased a car in a few years, expect to find a market dominated by SUVs. And be prepared for sticker shock: The average price for a new vehicle is at an all-time high, around $50,000! Unfortunately, used cars aren’t the bargain they used to be.

In this episode, we talk with John Lincov, Keith Barry, and Stef Schrader, the editors and reporters at Consumer Reports, about their Top Picks for 2026—these cars, trucks, and SUVs are the cream of the crop. Also, how to choose a vehicle you really like, and what to consider before buying a used car or truck.

More from Consumer Reports:
Best Cars of the Year: 10 Top Picks of 2026
What Car Should You Buy? How to Find the Right Vehicle for You
Safest Car Brands Ranked by Consumer Reports' Safety Verdict
Car Accessories That Improve Safety, Comfort, and Organization

42 Used Cars to Avoid Buying

More from Checkbook:
Car Dealerships
Car Buying Strategies
Vehicle Service Contract Plans Are Big Hassles and Bad Deals for Most Drivers

Related Consumerpedia Episodes:
#56 – A Crash Course on Auto Insurance#21 – Auto Glass Class: How to Get Repairs and Replacements

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