📦 One person’s return … is another’s “new” purchase. Amazon lets items that pass a quality check be resold as “new,” even if they’ve been opened. Look for the letters “LPN” on the packaging. That’s a telltale sign it’s been reprocessed. Hit up Amazon’s customer service pronto for a replacement.
6 signs your vacation rental is a scam
© Mark Winfrey | Dreamstime.com
It’s that time of year when so many of us are planning vacations and booking a rental. Sadly, scammers are very aware of that, and they’re always changing their tricks to fool people out of their money, rentals — or worse.
One of the most prolific thieves scammed people out of $7 million over just two years. He listed 100 properties across the U.S. and accepted 10,000 offers. His bait-and-switch schemes worked … till he got caught.
Being familiar with the red flags can save you from being a victim. And that’s why I’m here today — to give you the know-how.
1. Suspicious photos
Does the picture of that beachfront property look like it’s straight out of a pricey photoshoot? Images that are just a little too polished should raise your eyebrows. Try a reverse image search to see if a pic pops up elsewhere online. How? Open a pic, right-click on it, then choose Search Image or similar in your browser.
2. That doesn’t add up
Some hosts list a property at different price points on multiple platforms. The highest bidder wins, so your stay could get canceled if they find someone who’ll pay more. But wait — it could also be a “phantom rental.” In this scheme, crooks cook up a completely fake listing using a bogus address and photos and run away with your money.
3. Under pressure
When you’re rushed into making a decision, you’re more likely to overlook serious flaws in the listing. A legitimate host won’t rush you into sealing the deal.
4. ‘Can you send me a gift card?’
Always pay through the rental site. Secure payment methods include debit, credit and sometimes a direct bank transfer. Never pay using gift cards, a cash app, crypto or a certified check.
5. Too good to be true
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Life's too short for customer service
Can’t seem to get someone on the phone for help? For most companies, that is intentional. Here’s why.
🚨 Booking.com warning: Speaking of travel, scammers will email or message you claiming your reservation is at risk. They’ll say it’s urgent and you’ll lose your spot unless you click a link to “verify” or “pre-authorize” your card. Don’t fall for it. If you’re worried, contact customer service.
700
The number of customer service agents Klarna said AI could replace. Plot twist: The buy-now-pay-later company is hiring again (paywall link). Turns out cutting costs tanked service quality, and surprise, people still like talking to actual humans. They want new hires to be remote students or folks from rural areas.
📞 Talk to a human: Head to this site next time you need to find the right customer service number. They list everything from airlines to dating apps and stores. Bookmark it now and thank yourself later when you reach a real person.
📞 Press 1 to scream: This drives me nuts, and now we know it’s on purpose. The customer service endless holds. The loops. The “wrong department” reroutes. Turns out it’s not a glitch, it’s the point (paywall link). These systems are designed to wear you down until you give up and hang up. You’re not crazy. You’re just trapped in the admin-industrial complex.
One chatbot replaces 700 workers — June 21st, Hour 3
Klarna’s customer service team got replaced by one chatbot. Also, MrBeast spent $4 million on one YouTube video. If it flops, he says he’ll cry. Plus: Your receipts are covered in poison, and a ChatGPT story that goes way too far.
🤐 Mute yourself: When you call customer service and hear, “This call may be recorded,” it’s not just while you’re talking with a rep. They can hear everything, even when you’re on hold. So hit that mute button next time you want to vent your frustrations.
🚗 Rides for Grandma: This is a great idea! Lyft Silver may be rolling out in your city this week. There’s bigger text in the app for older adults to read, simpler navigation and priority rides with cars that are easy to get in and out of. The best part? Real people answering customer service calls. Open the app > tap You > turn on Lyft Silver to get going.
How to talk to a real customer service rep
Secret ways to get past the bot, fast.
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