Do you remember if you registered the camera? I understand that some cameras get firmware updates after specific problems have been found. Registering the camera will enable the company to find you if there is an issue. I did a quick search for that model and learned that there had been a
recall for some of them for a battery door short circuit.
I'd just keep the flash turned off all the time, crank up the sensitivity on the sensor, and take most of the pictures outside. Complain a lot, and maybe you will get a new camera for Christmas.
Basically, I don't have a solution.