Consumer Reports News and Reporting Coverage | WRAL

Holiday baking appliances, tips to save you time and money

Every year, Consumer Reports subject hundreds of baking and cooking appliances to some rigorous tests. They reveal that you don't always have to spend the most to get a good-quality small appliance.

Consumer Reports: The best holiday shopping deals

WRAL's Ashley Rowe shares the best deals and value buys from Consumer Reports as Christmas approaches.

Black Friday FOMO, how retailer tricks push shoppers to spend more online

Discover the clever tactics retailers use to maximize spending during Black Friday, from countdown timers to exclusive online offers. Learn how these strategies exploit FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) and drive consumer purchases. Stay informed to shop smarter this holiday season.

5OYS: Holiday online shopping safety

Consumer Reports offers tips for safe online shopping this holiday season.

5OYS: Holiday online shopping safety

Consumer Reports offers tips for safe online shopping this holiday season.

Consumer Reports: Best cleaning products that really work

Cleaning the kitchen may not be your favorite job, but Consumer Reports says buying products that work can keep you from wasting money on ones that don't.

Consumer Reports ranks best cleaning products

Cleaning the kitchen may not be your favorite job, but Consumer Reports says buying products that work can keep you from wasting money on ones that don't.

Consumer Reports' best bargains for November

Discounts will come and go across all categories, so you can shop and save all month.

Consumer Reports: Best bargains in November

November is a great month for deals, as retailers compete for your holiday shopping dollars by offering lower prices. Experts from Consumer Reports test labs are here to help you find this month's best bargains.

Ready to start holiday shopping early? Try these strategies

Holiday shopping this year isn't business as usual. Prices on many items are higher, tariffs are shifting and timing is everything. A new report finds that consumers expect to drop their holiday gift spending by 11% compared to last year.

Early holiday shopping strategies

Holiday shopping this year isn't business as usual. Prices on many items are higher, tariffs are shifting and timing is everything. A new report finds that consumers expect to drop their holiday gift spending by 11% compared to last year.

Military and first responders can find discounts at these retailers

With the ongoing government shutdown leaving many military and federal workers uncertain about their paychecks, money is tight for families across the country. The good news -- many companies offer special discounts for military members, veterans and first responders.

Add digital assets to your estate planning

You might be familiar with traditional estate planning, but there's also what's called digital estate planning. 5 On Your Side's Ashley Rowe shares the five things to do right now to make things easier in a crisis.

Don't Waste Your Money: Low paying savings accounts

Federal interest rates have dropped. It might be a good time to make a big purchase, but your savings account is earning little interest.

John Matarese, Don't Waste Your Money

Don't Waste Your Money: Plunging Gas Prices

Gas prices are the lowest they have been all year, why you should fill your tank now.

John Matarese, Don't Waste Your Money

Tips to help senior drivers save money, drive comfortably on the road

Shopping for a new car can be stressful. And if you're an older driver, there are extra things to consider from comfort and visibility to safety features, to how much you'll pay for insurance.

Think your cell service is canceled? One local woman kept getting billed for nearly two years

A Wake Forest woman tried and over and over again to get Verizon to cancel her husband's phone service to no avail. She finally contacted 5 On Your Side and, within a week, the matter was resolved.

Your data privacy could be at risk if you sign up for retail loyalty programs

They promise discounts on gas, groceries, and more -- but at what cost? Retail loyalty programs offer tempting perks, yet often come with a hidden price: your privacy. A new Consumer Reports investigation reveals one retailer pushing the limits, raising questions about how much personal information consumers are giving up -- and who might follow their lead. 5 On Your Side's Ashley Rowe explains.

High levels of lead found in popular protein powders, new report finds

A new Consumer Reports investigation uncovered a hidden risk in protein powders and shakes -- some of these supplements contain concerning levels of lead.

5 On Your Side: High levels of lead found in some protein powders

A new Consumer Reports investigation uncovered a hidden risk in protein powders and shakes -- some of these supplements contain concerning levels of lead.

5 On Your Side: Some protein powders and shakes contain high levels of lead

A new Consumer Reports investigation uncovered a hidden risk in protein powders and shakes -- some of these supplements contain concerning levels of lead.

5 On Your Side: Take steps now to protect your home this winter

What you do right now could protect your home and save you some money this winter. The experts at Consumer Reports share their top tips to get your home and yard prepped for whatever winter dishes out.

5 On Your Side: Winter preps to start now for your home

What you do right now could protect your home and save you some money this winter. The experts at Consumer Reports share their top tips to get your home and yard prepped for whatever winter dishes out.

Don't Waste Your Money: Basic Economy can be a deal if you travel light

Basic economy fares can save you money on flights, provided you pack smart and travel light.

Don't Waste Your Money: Basic Economy can be a deal if you travel light

Basic economy fares can save you money on flights, provided you pack smart and travel light.