Time running out for AT&T customers to claim up to $7,500 from $177 million settlement
Read full article: Time running out for AT&T customers to claim up to $7,500 from $177 million settlementMillions of AT&T customers have just days left to claim their share of a $177 million data breach settlement. Some customers can get up to $7,500. The settlement covers two major data breaches that exposed personal information of more than 180 million current and former customers.
Check now: Is your Houston neighborhood a power outage hot spot?
Read full article: Check now: Is your Houston neighborhood a power outage hot spot?Flickering lights, power surges and frequent outages. 2 Investigates is tracking Houston's power problem. While CenterPoint Energy is the company charged with keeping the lights on, new numbers show they had the worst performance of any utility in the country in the month of October. Investigative reporter Amy Davis is mapping it all out to show you where the biggest trouble spots are now.
Is your neighbor paying hundreds of dollars less for electricity than you?
Read full article: Is your neighbor paying hundreds of dollars less for electricity than you?If you’re like most your electric bills eat up a significant amount of your income each month. The most important thing you can do is shop around for the lowest electric rate. 2 Investigates Amy Davis asked 4 Sugar Land customers to hand over their bills to see if we could save them some money.
Houston restaurants offer $30 meals for $10 through food-saving app
Read full article: Houston restaurants offer $30 meals for $10 through food-saving app2 News' Amy Davis is showing you how you can score treats and meals for a fraction of what you'd normally pay, helping local businesses and fighting food waste.
Oil change upsells: Warning about transmission flushes you may not need
Read full article: Oil change upsells: Warning about transmission flushes you may not needWe’ve all been there: You take your car in for a quick oil change, and the mechanic recommends another service. Those add-ons aren’t just expensive — they could actually damage your vehicle if you’re not careful. KPRC 2’s Amy Davis shares what drivers need to know to protect their cars and wallets.
Texas investigating global retailer Shein over labor, safety concerns
Read full article: Texas investigating global retailer Shein over labor, safety concernsTexas Attorney General Ken Paxton has opened an investigation into global fast-fashion giant Shein, examining whether the company violated state laws involving labor practices, product safety and consumer privacy.
Gold prices hit historic highs, more people selling jewelry for extra cash
Read full article: Gold prices hit historic highs, more people selling jewelry for extra cashIf you’re looking for ways to make extra cash, selling your gold jewelry might be worth considering. More people are cashing in on their gold as prices reach historic highs.
Fake party invites you might actually click on. What to know before you do
Read full article: Fake party invites you might actually click on. What to know before you doAs the holiday party season kicks into gear, scammers are sending fake party invitations to trick people into giving up their personal information. Even those who think they wouldn’t fall for such a scam should be on alert.
Warning: Fake stimulus check website targets Houstonians
Read full article: Warning: Fake stimulus check website targets HoustoniansA KPRC viewer wrote into ‘2 Helps You’ asking about a website promising $5,000 stimulus checks. We looked into the website and found red flags that could lead to potential identity theft and fraud schemes.
3 common electricity shopping mistakes that could raise your power bill
Read full article: 3 common electricity shopping mistakes that could raise your power billIf your electricity bill feels unusually high, your plan might be part of the problem. Some common shopping mistakes could be costing Texas consumers hundreds of dollars a year.
‘Penny rounding’ charge may add (or subtract) extra fee to your grocery bill
Read full article: ‘Penny rounding’ charge may add (or subtract) extra fee to your grocery billOne viewer discovered a “penny rounding” change on his receipt from a Kroger store on Highway 6, prompting questions about the practice as the United States begins phasing out penny production.
Old AC units still repairable despite new regulations, experts say
Read full article: Old AC units still repairable despite new regulations, experts saySome air conditioning repair companies are telling homeowners they must replace their entire HVAC systems due to new refrigerant regulations, but industry experts say that’s not the case.
Medical company ships unwanted cancer tests to homes, sparking anger and privacy concerns
Read full article: Medical company ships unwanted cancer tests to homes, sparking anger and privacy concernsExact Sciences is facing backlash for sending unsolicited Cologuard colon cancer screening kits to consumers, sparking privacy concerns and financial anxieties.
Why the wrong name on Medicare mail could spark fraud fears: 2 Helps You
Read full article: Why the wrong name on Medicare mail could spark fraud fears: 2 Helps YouSeveral viewers have written to ‘2 Helps You’ to report receiving Medicare mail addressed to other people, raising concerns about potential identity theft as the annual Medicare open enrollment period approaches.
Can CenterPoint Energy cut power to my home all day long for repairs?
Read full article: Can CenterPoint Energy cut power to my home all day long for repairs?Any power outage is disruptive. But when CenterPoint Energy plans to shut off electricity for hours for scheduled maintenance, how much notice do they have to give people who live in that area?
New rate hike: Your electric bill is going up
Read full article: New rate hike: Your electric bill is going upHouston electric customers will start seeing higher bills even if their electricity use stays the same. That’s because transmission utilities like CenterPoint Energy are raising the rates they add to monthly bills starting Sept. 1.
Blue Bell issues allergy alert after Moo-llennium Crunch Ice Cream put in Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough carton
Read full article: Blue Bell issues allergy alert after Moo-llennium Crunch Ice Cream put in Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough cartonBlue Bell Ice Cream has issued a voluntary recall after its limited quantity of Moo-llennium Crunch Ice Cream half gallon was packaged in a Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough carton, according to a release.
AAA Texas: Gas prices drops slightly in Texas statewide
Read full article: AAA Texas: Gas prices drops slightly in Texas statewideGas prices have seen some minor ups and downs during the first week of August, according to AAA Texas. Right now, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline is $3.16. That’s up two cents from last week, but still 29 cents cheaper than this time last year.
Sticker shock quote! Houstonians face rising medical fees despite insurance coverage
Read full article: Sticker shock quote! Houstonians face rising medical fees despite insurance coverageLast year, KPRC 2 Investigates reported on this issue, exposing hospital group facility fees that increase costs for patients. Despite these reports, 2 Investigates reporter Amy Davis almost fell victim to the same practice.
Airbnb helped generate nearly $7.5 billion, supporting 84k jobs in Texas: report
Read full article: Airbnb helped generate nearly $7.5 billion, supporting 84k jobs in Texas: reportNearly all of us have found use through Airbnb, whether as a guest or host, but exactly how much of that has benefitted the state? A new report from the vacation rental property breaks it all down.
Texas investigates popular cereal brand for ‘false marketing’ of health claims
Read full article: Texas investigates popular cereal brand for ‘false marketing’ of health claimsTexas has initiated an investigation into a popular cereal brand for advertising its products as healthy despite containing toxic ingredients, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced Tuesday.
Student loan panic: 5.3 million borrowers could face wage garnishment starting May 5
Read full article: Student loan panic: 5.3 million borrowers could face wage garnishment starting May 5Millions of Americans are at risk of having their wages garnished as the federal government resumes collections on defaulted student loans.
Trump-inspired burger joint just opened in Houston — Here’s what you can expect
Read full article: Trump-inspired burger joint just opened in Houston — Here’s what you can expectIf you’re craving burgers with a side of political flair, you’re in luck: Trump Burger has officially opened its doors in Houston.
‘It’s Heartbreaking’: Beloved BBQ spot targeted AGAIN days after costly brisket heist in Houston
Read full article: ‘It’s Heartbreaking’: Beloved BBQ spot targeted AGAIN days after costly brisket heist in HoustonKPRC 2 first brought you this unfortunate story on Monday about a family-owned barbecue joint targeted in a robbery that cost them thousands — only for them to be hit again.
‘Really wanted to quit’: Family-owned BBQ spot hit hard after thief steals thousands in brisket
Read full article: ‘Really wanted to quit’: Family-owned BBQ spot hit hard after thief steals thousands in brisketA family-owned barbecue restaurant is working to recover after a thief broke into the business and stole thousands of dollars’ worth of brisket.
BBB warns consumers how some Houston businesses may not be as reliable as perceived
Read full article: BBB warns consumers how some Houston businesses may not be as reliable as perceivedFinding a trustworthy business isn’t always simple. Just ask the more than 100 Harris County residents who say they paid thousands of dollars to A&L Sheds for storage buildings or tiny homes—only to r
Feeling the Grocery Store Sting? Here’s How to Save Big on Your Next Trip
Read full article: Feeling the Grocery Store Sting? Here’s How to Save Big on Your Next TripLet’s face it — grocery shopping feels more expensive than ever. You walk in for a few essentials and walk out wondering where your money went. Whether you’re shopping for one or feeding a whole family, groceries are a necessity — and prices are climbing.
We asked, you answered! As prices continue to climb, here’s how real people are stretching every dollar
Read full article: We asked, you answered! As prices continue to climb, here’s how real people are stretching every dollarThe cost of produce has been rising over the last several years, so the idea of everyday goods becoming even more expensive can be overwhelming for many families already on a budget or living paycheck to paycheck.
‘Totally confused’: Rosenberg woman listed as deceased on credit report -- but still alive
Read full article: ‘Totally confused’: Rosenberg woman listed as deceased on credit report -- but still aliveJacqueline Laforcade kept getting denied when she applied for credit. She learned it was because she was listed as deceased on her credit report.
Looking for a job? This free Harris County tech training program could earn you up to $100K a year
Read full article: Looking for a job? This free Harris County tech training program could earn you up to $100K a yearAre you ready to leap into the high-paying tech industry? Discover how NPower Houston is changing lives by offering a free, comprehensive tech training program.
Got hail damage? Here are the red flags to look for before hiring someone for repairs
Read full article: Got hail damage? Here are the red flags to look for before hiring someone for repairsRoofers and repair people who knock on your door may be up to no good. Investigator Amy Davis has what you should know about hiring contractors and filing insurance claims.
‘Feels like a victory:’ Single mom recovers money from Pasadena car lot after dispute
Read full article: ‘Feels like a victory:’ Single mom recovers money from Pasadena car lot after disputeAfter nearly three weeks, a single mother allegedly swindled out of a deposit on a used car finally has her money back.
SunFed cucumbers and Costco eggs recalled due to potential salmonella contamination
Read full article: SunFed cucumbers and Costco eggs recalled due to potential salmonella contaminationCucumbers shipped to the U.S. and Canada — and organic eggs sold in 25 Costco stores in five southern U.S. states — have been recalled because of potential salmonella contamination.
Dockworkers at ports from Maine to Texas go on strike, a standoff risking new shortages
Read full article: Dockworkers at ports from Maine to Texas go on strike, a standoff risking new shortagesDockworkers at ports from Maine to Texas have started walking picket lines in a strike over wages and automation that could reignite inflation and cause shortages of goods if it goes on more than a few weeks.
‘I’m screaming. I’m yelling. I’m upset’: Houston Cash App fraud victims lose thousands of dollars
Read full article: ‘I’m screaming. I’m yelling. I’m upset’: Houston Cash App fraud victims lose thousands of dollarsCash App customers may be able to claim $2,500 each as part of a $15 million settlement for data and security breaches.
‘I’ve been meaning to reach you about your car’s extended warranty’: Is it a scam or just misleading?
Read full article: ‘I’ve been meaning to reach you about your car’s extended warranty’: Is it a scam or just misleading?They try by phone, by email and even by mail. It seems a carrier pigeon is the only method of communication these companies looking to reach you about your vehicle’s extended warranty.
Texas health department issues recall alert for Diamond Shruumz brand products after reports of severe illness in people
Read full article: Texas health department issues recall alert for Diamond Shruumz brand products after reports of severe illness in peopleA recall alert has been issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services for Diamond Shruumz brand products after reports of severe illness in people who consumed them.
Need to stock up for the rest of Houston’s hurricane season? Here are 4 ways to save on Amazon Prime Day
Read full article: Need to stock up for the rest of Houston’s hurricane season? Here are 4 ways to save on Amazon Prime DayAmazon Prime Day is July 16 and 17th. KPRC 2's Bill Spencer has four things you can do right now to save and how you might be able to get the sale prices without being a prime member.
How to report price gouging in Texas
Read full article: How to report price gouging in TexasDuring a declared state of emergency, the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act makes it illegal for a business or individual to sell or lease fuel, food, medicine, lodging, building materials, construction tools, or other necessities at an exorbitant or excessive price.
Toys, silverware from 1800s? Great Lakes shipwreck explorer takes us back to the past
Read full article: Toys, silverware from 1800s? Great Lakes shipwreck explorer takes us back to the pastThe objects are from a shipwreck located in Lake Michigan that represent a link to life back sometime in the 1800s.
How to wipe out huge credit card debt simple and fast
Read full article: How to wipe out huge credit card debt simple and fastTed Rossman, a credit expert with bankrate.com, says credit card debt now stands at a staggering $1.18 trillion in this country, with 49% of all credit card users carrying that debt month after month.
Have colorful Easter photos? Make us ‘hoppier’ by sharing them!
Read full article: Have colorful Easter photos? Make us ‘hoppier’ by sharing them!The coming days will be filled with egg hunts, candy being handed out, pictures with the Easter bunny, and other family portraits to commemorate the most important day on the Christian calendar.
2 more porn companies being sued by Texas AG Ken Paxton for violating age verification law
Read full article: 2 more porn companies being sued by Texas AG Ken Paxton for violating age verification lawThe lawsuit alleges two major pornography companies that operate sites such as “Chaturbate” and “xHamster” violate a law that requires age verification.
Have financial stress due to eating out too much? Here are 5 tips to help
Read full article: Have financial stress due to eating out too much? Here are 5 tips to helpIt’s mentally healthy to treat yourself and eat out every so often, but what are ways you can do so without crossing that line to financial troubles?
These sobering St. Patrick’s Day facts give reason to be cautious during weekend celebrations
Read full article: These sobering St. Patrick’s Day facts give reason to be cautious during weekend celebrationsA tradition of consuming food and alcohol was born as a way to pay tribute to St. Patrick’s life and take a day break from abstaining from certain foods and alcohol during Lent.
Blowing the whistle on referee shortage: How this program aims to help nationwide issue
Read full article: Blowing the whistle on referee shortage: How this program aims to help nationwide issueThe billion-dollar youth and high school sports industry around the country has been plagued by a referee shortage, with overbearing parents and coaches and time demands being examples of why many don’t want to be officials anymore.
Rodeo Houston tickets: What’s being done to fight fraud
Read full article: Rodeo Houston tickets: What’s being done to fight fraudYou’ve probably seen the rodeo concert ticket sales all over social media. But watch out - a lot of those ads are fake and just thieves trying to trick you. The folks from Rodeo Houston are working to stop fraud and protect you from getting ripped off.
10 ways to spice up your Galentine’s Day
Read full article: 10 ways to spice up your Galentine’s DayGalentine’s Day, created and popularized by Leslie Knope from “Parks and Recreation”, is about acknowledging and celebrating the love and joy only found with female companions, allowing all the women in our lives to feel special and appreciated.
Did you Know Your Garage Needs a Yearly Service? Check Out These Great Ways to Upgrade and Care for Your Garage
Read full article: Did you Know Your Garage Needs a Yearly Service? Check Out These Great Ways to Upgrade and Care for Your GarageHouston Life's Melanie Camp chats with Garage Door Doctors owner Tommy Mello to get a few great ways to upgrade and care for your garage.
Houston-based car buying company Vroom shuts down, some customers left in limbo
Read full article: Houston-based car buying company Vroom shuts down, some customers left in limboOne of the largest online used car dealers in the country just closed and this one is in our backyard. Houston-based Vroom, that took over Texas Direct Auto in 2015, is no longer selling cars. But it’s not a clean closure. Customers still have a lot of questions. Investigator Amy Davis is getting answers.