Don’t be an extended-warranty ignoramus

Consumer electronics are a popular holiday gift, and consumers are expected to spend upwards of $1 billion in that category this season. With the season in full swing (yet we can’t seem to find Christmas wrapping paper anywhere), Consumer Reports has begun a public-awareness campaign urging consumers not to fall for warranties. Repairs within the first year would likely not be needed for a quality, name-brand item, and any that are needed after that would cost about the same or perhaps less than an extended warranty.