Reader Karen writes in:

I bought a small but overpriced postal scale at Staples ($22). When I took it home and opened the box, there was a broken, not-for-sale scale in it. I took it back and exchanged it for another one without any problem. But it’s a crappy scale even when it’s functional: it’s not set at 0 and I don’t see a way to resetit.

Seriously, Staples? Do you also send cardboard cutouts of computers to people? How could it possibly be any clearer that this should never have left the store? Commenters, any suggestions?
(Thanks to Karen!)

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.