Yes, Schmidt did make , "If you have something that you don't want anyone to know, maybe you shouldn't be doing it in the first place." (And he should know -- a tell-all blog by Schmidt's alleged mistress was swiftly taken down from Blogger, owned by Google, Valleywag.) And it's only justice that such a statement can be used against him.

However, a consumer advocacy group should maintain its objectivity so consumers can learn to trust their information and research. The group's existence should be solely to protect consumers and their interests. Otherwise the group looks like a biased organization blatantly gunning for someone to destroy in hopes of scoring some publicity.

Business owners and consumers should be mindful of this as they peruse the latest headlines and separate advocacy groups that truly seem to be fighting for the betterment of society and those that will do anything to gain publicity or notoriety.

Reach or follow Barbara E. Hernandez on Twitter @bhern.