Problem Solved
Problem Solved is a weekly consumer column that fixes reader problems. From broken laptop computers to faulty kitchen appliances, nothing is off limits for this feature. Each story brings a fresh problem and solution in an engaging and succinct Q&A format.
Wait a minute, these National Geographic CDs are obsolete!
When Sean Corcoran’s CD collection becomes obsolete, he turns to National Geographic for help. You’ll never guess what they said.
A surprise $40 charge from Comcast
When Antonia Balazs has a service problem with Comcast, it tries to sell her a pricey “service” contract. Is that a fair resolution?
Hey, those aren’t the seats I bought on Ticketmaster – are they?
Michael Seldin’s concert tickets were not what he expected. Is Ticketmaster to blame?
Before you demand a refund, check your bank statement
Where’s Dannielle Beasley-Bundy’s refund from DirecTV? Is the check really “in the mail”?
What they don’t want you to know can hurt you
For several years, I’ve operated a customer service wiki, an underground website which contains the names, emails and addresses of company executives who can help consumers like you.
Why doesn’t this Wells Fargo customer want his missing wallet?
When Peter Verstage finds a wallet on a London bus, he tries to do the right thing and return it to its owner. Easier said than done.
When will they finally install my windows?
Robert Manari orders new windows, but after weeks of waiting, his patience has run out. Can these windows be saved?
7 consumer secrets from the world’s smartest traveler
Can being a smart traveler make you a better consumer? As the author of How To Be The World’s Smartest Traveler, which is being published next month, I can confirm that it does.
Always check your order before you leave Popeyes
After a 45-minute wait, Mark Dixon gets the wrong order at a Popeyes restaurant in Buffalo. Just one problem: He doesn’t discover the mistake until he’s home.