I do not disagree that the whole house needs to be grounded. However, if surge protectors are nothing but a scam, there are thousands of websites that explain how a surge protector works that all must be lying. I just don't think that is happening. I do not believe that there is some major conspiracy theory. I know they don't protect from everything, and I know the house must be grounded as well, but I am certain that spending $40 for the two surge protectors I need for my computer and my sewing machine provides me with some protection, even if westom disagrees with me.