not buy: Smart guides on what NOT to buy

Ever felt that sudden itch to buy something after seeing a flashy ad or a viral post? That feeling costs more than money — it wastes time and peace of mind. The "not buy" tag on RealTime TV News collects short, practical pieces to help you pause, check, and decide before you spend or share.

Quick checklist before you buy anything

Use this simple list every time you’re about to hit buy:

• Does the deal look too good to be true? Pause and check reviews.
• Are reviews real and recent, or just a sea of five-star blurbs?
• Is the return policy clear and easy to use?
• Compare total cost — taxes, shipping, subscriptions add up fast.
• If pressure tactics appear (limited time, low stock), step back and wait 24 hours.

These points work for physical products, subscriptions, event tickets, and even buying into hot takes online.

Don't buy into viral claims or hype

Not every loud headline is true. A dramatic legal twist, a politician’s rumor, or a viral health claim can spread before facts show up. Ask: who reported this first? Are there official documents or multiple trusted outlets confirming it? Our posts under "not buy" break down how to spot shaky claims so you don’t act on bad info.

Want a practical test? If a story changes your emotional state — angry, scared, overexcited — treat it as suspect. Real news usually has sources, quotes, and context. If those are missing, don’t buy it. That applies to celebrity gossip, legal rumors, and politics alike.

Media and entertainment purchases need a second look too. Shows can get costlier each season and many streaming services lock you into recurring fees. Check how much you’ll pay over six months, whether the content matches your taste, and how easy it is to cancel. A free trial should be a test drive, not a trap.

For technical or legal topics, don’t rely on a single blog or social post. Articles on court procedures or high-profile cases often leave out details. Look for primary sources — court orders, official statements, or direct quotes from experts — before you form a strong opinion or share a headline.

Secondhand buys and collector items? Inspect photos carefully, ask for proof of authenticity, and get a written receipt. For tickets, use verified sellers and avoid buying from strangers in public forums.

Use this tag as your quick stop before a purchase or a share. Every post aims to give clear, useful pointers so you lose less and learn more. If you’re unsure about a headline, product, or subscription, check the "not buy" pieces — they’re built to help you spot what’s worth avoiding.