And some governments have tried only to change welfare systems and labour laws, which is necessary if unemployment is to be reduced but can also create insecurity and drive down consumer spending.

ECONOMIST: European economies

Some reports have found the tablet won't recharge while playing power-intensive games, but Consumer Reports' testing showed that problem also to be limited.

CNN: Surprise! Consumer Reports' No. 1 tablet is the iPad

Some of the weakness in both Germany and its neighbours may reflect the short-term impact of government and corporate reforms, which may be boosting long-term competitiveness, but are also dampening wages and thus consumer spending.

ECONOMIST: Euro economies

This could be viable for the future, but it also puts more of the cost on the consumer.

FORBES: VirtualU in the Startup Ecosystem

"This is a clear indication that while the government wants to see consumer price growth, achieving that target will not only be tough but also a long drawn process, " said Martin Schulz, of Fujistu Research Institute.

BBC: Japan's consumer prices fall for third straight month

False negatives could also be an issue, there are consumer brands that are universally bitched about but still in everyday use and generating loads of social media references, like for example, almost every major bank or credit card company.

FORBES: Monetizing the Moaning

But the conglomerate also includes a forestry arm (which may be the first unit to go), a consumer products unit that produces Nike shoes under license, a subsidiary that mines coal and a plantation that produces and exports palm oil.

CNN: The Winner Is . . .

The government is promising "protocols" to handle any privacy or consumer protection issues - but also stressing that this is a private sector initiative and it will not be hamstrung by rules and regulations.

BBC: Midata: Will the public share government's enthusiasm?

"A savvy shopper that has done their homework before hitting the shops will not only be able to pick up the best bargains but will also be able to resolve any problems with their purchase quickly, " said Michele Shambrook, operations manager for helpline Consumer Direct.

BBC: Christmas online shopping 'hits peak'