FTC Warns of a Package Scam

The Federal Trade Commission issued a new bulletin warning consumers about brushing scams, which involve receiving packages that were not ordered. The packages can be a sign that personal information has been compromised. The agency also warned about a newer tactic involving packages that include QR codes with messages such as “scan to return” or “scan to find out who sent the package.” The FTC said the QR codes could direct people to phishing websites designed to steal information, including credit card numbers, usernames and passwords. If you receive a package you did not order, the FTC recommends changing online shopping passwords, reviewing credit card statements, and making sure you are not charged for or required to return the item. The law also does not require recipients of a package to return it.

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Owl Stranded in Open Water 70 Miles from Shore Finds Nothing Short of a Miracle

Barn owls prefer landscapes like grasslands, deserts, and farmlands, so when one was spotted struggling and alone 70 miles from shore in ocean water near the UK, it came as a shock to British Army members who were there competing in a race. Before the bird collapsed on the boat, the soldiers spotted it falling into the sea several times. They looked after the owl for a day while they raced to circumnavigate Ireland and Great Britain as part of the 50the Anniversary RORC Round Britain and Ireland Race. “It’s been a tough 24 hours for him; it’s not the most comfortable boat to be on, but he’s doing well and hopefully he gets the help he needs now,” said Mark Petherbridge, a member of the Army Offshore Racing Team. Before handing off the barn owl, the men on the boat named the bird “Little Reg” and celebrated him for his will and tenacity to survive. Little Reg’s trip back to land was made possible in part by James Stannard, a conservation officer for the Barn Owl Trust, who put together the resources to help the bird after receiving a call about the stranded bird. With little to eat aboard the racing boat, it's likely Little Reg would have perished without the trip on the lifeboat. Stannard said he believes the owl unknowingly roosted on a docked fishing vessel that later went out to sea, leaving the bird stuck in the open ocean. “It’s nothing short of a miracle that the bird managed to find a ship to help it.” Once Little Reg reached land, he was transferred to the RSPCA East Winch Wildlife Center in King’s Lynn, England, for care.

 

 

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There's Only One Washing Machine Cycle You Need

Washing machines aren’t what they used to be. Some new appliances have over a dozen cycles, and then there are a slew of other things to consider, including water temperature, spin speed, cycle duration, and agitation. Why are there so many washing cycles? Washer and dryer technology has become more advanced than ever, mainly because people are investing more in quality items and want to keep them looking good for years to come. While newer washers have options like quick wash, hand wash, heavy wash, bulky wash, and activewear, experts say all you really need is “normal.” The normal cycle serves as the core setting on a washing machine, designed to handle everyday mixed loads effectively. It uses medium-to-high agitation and a high-spin speed to remove dirt and extract water from sturdy fabrics like cotton and linen. Water temperature is key to maximizing the wash cycle. For most machines, selecting the “normal” setting means washing in warm water by default, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with warm water. You can select a different temperature if your load calls for it. There may come a time when you need to use the heavy duty cycle or maybe even delicates cycle. Just know that you can usually get the job done by sticking with the “normal” cycle.

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What Really Happens to the Tennis Balls Used at the U.S. Open?

If you’ve ever watched the U.S. Open, you’ve probably marveled at the sheer number of balls that get used. Players swap them out constantly, hundreds of matches are played, and by the end of the tournament, there are enough fuzzy yellow balls to make your dog’s dreams come true. So what happens to those U.S. Open tennis balls after a tournament? They embark on a meaningful second act that’s good for communities, the environment, and even a few unexpected recipients. It might surprise you to learn that about 70,000 tennis balls are used over the course of the tournament, but each ball is replaced after the first seven games of a match. After that, they’re swapped out every nine games for brand-new ones. That means the same ball is usually in play for just 30 to 45 minutes. Thankfully, they don’t all end up in a giant landfall. Some match-used balls are sold as official U.S. Open souvenirs, while others are sent to organizations like RecycleBalls, where they’re transformed into materials used for athletic court surfaces. Some tennis balls are set aside for player appearances, autograph sessions and special fan experiences. Are U.S. Open tennis balls worth any money? While most sell for a modest $10 to $20, the tennis ball Carlos Alcaraz served on the championship point to defeat Jannik Sinner in the U.S. Open men’s final sold at Sotheby’s for a record $88,900. So, the next time you see a fuzzy yellow tennis ball, remember: It might end up being worth a lot more than the $3 you would pay for one at a sporting goods store.

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