GM Hybrid Owners Still Qualify For Tax Credits
The Internal Revenue Service has announced that purchasers of General Motors Corp. qualified vehicles may continue to claim the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit. The announcement comes after the IRS concluded its quarterly review of the number of hybrid vehicles sold.
GMC sold 1,388 qualifying vehicles to retail dealers in the quarter ending June 30, 2006. The credit amount and make and model of qualified vehicles sold are:
• GMC Silverado Hybrid 2WD, Model Years 2006 and 2007 — $250
• GMC Silverado Hybrid 4WD, Model Years 2006 and 2007 — $650
• GMC Sierra Hybrid 2WD, Model Years 2006 and 2007 — $250
• GMC Sierra Hybrid 4WD, Model Years 2006 and 2007 — $650
• Saturn Vue GreenLine, Model Year 2007 — $650
Purchasers of GMC’s qualified vehicles may continue to rely on the certifications concerning the vehicles’ qualification for the credit. Consumers seeking the credit may want to buy early because the full credit is only available for a limited time.
Taxpayers may claim the full amount of the credit up to the end of the first calendar quarter after the quarter in which the manufacturer records its sale of the 60,000th vehicle. For the second and third calendar quarters after the quarter in which the 60,000th vehicle is sold, taxpayers may claim 50 percent of the credit. For the fourth and fifth calendar quarters, taxpayers may claim 25 percent of the credit. No credit is allowed after the fifth quarter.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Weis Markets Recalls 1 Gallon Water Bottles
Weis Markets Inc. has voluntarily recalled its one gallon containers of Weis Quality Spring Water.
The Company said it decided to voluntarily recall its one gallon containers Weis Quality Spring Water after it received test results on the level of bromate in this product.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows 10 parts per billion as the maximum allowable level of bromate in bottled water. While some of the Company’s tests showed no detectable levels of bromate, other tests indicated that levels exceeded the maximum level of ten parts per billion (ppb), with results ranging from zero to 19 parts per billion.
“While only a small portion of our gallons of Weis Quality spring water is affected by this problem, we are, as a precaution, voluntarily recalling all one gallon containers of Weis Quality Spring Water. All of our stores are currently pulling this product from our shelves. We regret any inconvenience this may cause for our customers,” said Dennis Curtin, Weis Markets’ Director of Public Relations. “We will not resume production of this product until it meets FDA standards and our own internal quality control standards.”
No other bottled water product sold by Weis Markets is affected by this voluntary recall. Customers can return the recalled products to a Weis Markets’ store, including Mr. Z’s and King’s, for a full refund. Customers with concerns or questions can contact Weis Markets’ customer service at 570-988-3778.
Weis Markets Inc. has voluntarily recalled its one gallon containers of Weis Quality Spring Water.
The Company said it decided to voluntarily recall its one gallon containers Weis Quality Spring Water after it received test results on the level of bromate in this product.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows 10 parts per billion as the maximum allowable level of bromate in bottled water. While some of the Company’s tests showed no detectable levels of bromate, other tests indicated that levels exceeded the maximum level of ten parts per billion (ppb), with results ranging from zero to 19 parts per billion.
“While only a small portion of our gallons of Weis Quality spring water is affected by this problem, we are, as a precaution, voluntarily recalling all one gallon containers of Weis Quality Spring Water. All of our stores are currently pulling this product from our shelves. We regret any inconvenience this may cause for our customers,” said Dennis Curtin, Weis Markets’ Director of Public Relations. “We will not resume production of this product until it meets FDA standards and our own internal quality control standards.”
No other bottled water product sold by Weis Markets is affected by this voluntary recall. Customers can return the recalled products to a Weis Markets’ store, including Mr. Z’s and King’s, for a full refund. Customers with concerns or questions can contact Weis Markets’ customer service at 570-988-3778.
American Diabetes Association Named Nonprofit of the Year
The Direct Marketing Association announced this month that the American Diabetes Association is its 2006 Nonprofit Organization of the Year.
Each year, the association recognizes a nonprofit organization that demonstrates excellence in using direct marketing techniques to help generate support, is known for high ethical standards within the nonprofit community, and above all, is making a difference through successful programs
“The American Diabetes Association demonstrates how well-planned fundraising and outreach efforts can help meet a national health challenge,” said DMANF Executive Director Senny Boone. “We are pleased to recognize them as a model for how nonprofit organizations can successfully use direct marketing tools and techniques to reach out to donors, motivate volunteers and educate the public.”
The American Diabetes Association is committed not only to helping find a cure for diabetes, but providing broad support for the prevention, detection and treatment for people affected by diabetes. For more than 65 years, the American Diabetes Association has supported diabetes research, information and advocacy efforts that help the nearly 21 million children and adults in the US with diabetes, as well as the estimated 54 million Americans with pre-diabetes. This year marks the 22nd consecutive year that the organization has reported a net surplus income. Innovative fundraising efforts have helped the organization increase its direct response income from $12 million in FY 1996 to $31 million FY 2006. Of the money raised, 78 percent goes directly to programs and services for people with diabetes.
“The support we receive from our donors and volunteers drives our success, so connecting with them effectively is critical,” says American Diabetes Association CEO Lynn Nicholas, FACHE. “But is equally important that we make that connection efficiently, so that we can use the maximum available resources on programs that help stem the tide of this devastating disease.”
This is the 19th year that the DMA Nonprofit Federation (and its precursor, the DMA Nonprofit Council) has recognized a nonprofit organization for its outstanding work. Previous award recipients have included CARE, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, Easter Seals, Special Olympics and Catholic Relief Services.
The Direct Marketing Association announced this month that the American Diabetes Association is its 2006 Nonprofit Organization of the Year.
Each year, the association recognizes a nonprofit organization that demonstrates excellence in using direct marketing techniques to help generate support, is known for high ethical standards within the nonprofit community, and above all, is making a difference through successful programs
“The American Diabetes Association demonstrates how well-planned fundraising and outreach efforts can help meet a national health challenge,” said DMANF Executive Director Senny Boone. “We are pleased to recognize them as a model for how nonprofit organizations can successfully use direct marketing tools and techniques to reach out to donors, motivate volunteers and educate the public.”
The American Diabetes Association is committed not only to helping find a cure for diabetes, but providing broad support for the prevention, detection and treatment for people affected by diabetes. For more than 65 years, the American Diabetes Association has supported diabetes research, information and advocacy efforts that help the nearly 21 million children and adults in the US with diabetes, as well as the estimated 54 million Americans with pre-diabetes. This year marks the 22nd consecutive year that the organization has reported a net surplus income. Innovative fundraising efforts have helped the organization increase its direct response income from $12 million in FY 1996 to $31 million FY 2006. Of the money raised, 78 percent goes directly to programs and services for people with diabetes.
“The support we receive from our donors and volunteers drives our success, so connecting with them effectively is critical,” says American Diabetes Association CEO Lynn Nicholas, FACHE. “But is equally important that we make that connection efficiently, so that we can use the maximum available resources on programs that help stem the tide of this devastating disease.”
This is the 19th year that the DMA Nonprofit Federation (and its precursor, the DMA Nonprofit Council) has recognized a nonprofit organization for its outstanding work. Previous award recipients have included CARE, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, Easter Seals, Special Olympics and Catholic Relief Services.
Liquids and Gels Still Banned At Airports, Shoes Must Now Come Off
With the Labor Day weekend approaching, many people will be flying the friendly skies. But before you head off to the airport, please be aware that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has changed security screening
procedures at all U.S. airports, banning liquids and gels at security checkpoints and aboard flights.
You will not be permitted to bring any liquids or gels past the screening checkpoint or on board, with a few exceptions. In addition, the TSA is now requiring that all passengers are to remove their shoes so they may be X-rayed with their carry-on bags. This is no longer optional, as it has been for years.
Find out the latest security procedures at:
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/assistant/new-procedures.shtm
Get the full list of permitted and prohibited items at:
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm
With the Labor Day weekend approaching, many people will be flying the friendly skies. But before you head off to the airport, please be aware that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has changed security screening
procedures at all U.S. airports, banning liquids and gels at security checkpoints and aboard flights.
You will not be permitted to bring any liquids or gels past the screening checkpoint or on board, with a few exceptions. In addition, the TSA is now requiring that all passengers are to remove their shoes so they may be X-rayed with their carry-on bags. This is no longer optional, as it has been for years.
Find out the latest security procedures at:
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/assistant/new-procedures.shtm
Get the full list of permitted and prohibited items at:
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Free Credit Report Monitoring For AT&T Customers Whose Data Was Breached
AT&T Inc. today said that unauthorized persons illegally hacked into a computer system and accessed personal data, including credit card information, from several thousand customers who purchased DSL equipment through the company's online Web store.
The unauthorized electronic access took place over the weekend, was discovered within hours and the online store was shut down immediately. AT&T also quickly notified the major credit card companies whose customer accounts were involved. The company is now working with law enforcement.
Customer notifications are ongoing by email, phone and letter to fewer than 19,000 customers. In addition to notifying those customers who were affected, the company will pay for credit monitoring services to assist in protecting the customers involved.
"We recognize that there is an active market for illegally obtained personal information. We are committed to both protecting our customers' privacy and to weeding out and punishing the violators," said Priscilla Hill-Ardoin, chief privacy officer for AT&T. "We deeply regret this incident and we intend to pay for credit monitoring services for customers whose accounts have been impacted. We will work closely with law enforcement to bring these data thieves to account."
Customers who have been affected have been provided with a toll-free number to call for more information.
AT&T Inc. today said that unauthorized persons illegally hacked into a computer system and accessed personal data, including credit card information, from several thousand customers who purchased DSL equipment through the company's online Web store.
The unauthorized electronic access took place over the weekend, was discovered within hours and the online store was shut down immediately. AT&T also quickly notified the major credit card companies whose customer accounts were involved. The company is now working with law enforcement.
Customer notifications are ongoing by email, phone and letter to fewer than 19,000 customers. In addition to notifying those customers who were affected, the company will pay for credit monitoring services to assist in protecting the customers involved.
"We recognize that there is an active market for illegally obtained personal information. We are committed to both protecting our customers' privacy and to weeding out and punishing the violators," said Priscilla Hill-Ardoin, chief privacy officer for AT&T. "We deeply regret this incident and we intend to pay for credit monitoring services for customers whose accounts have been impacted. We will work closely with law enforcement to bring these data thieves to account."
Customers who have been affected have been provided with a toll-free number to call for more information.
Prudential will pay $600 Million To Various States
In one of the largest cases ever and the first to include potential criminal charges, state officials from multiple states have announced an agreement to resolve an investigation of market timing by Prudential Equity Group.
The company will pay $270 million in restitution to injured investors. Under a separate agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice, Prudential will pay a penalty of $330 million. The agreements also require the company to undertake a series of reforms.
"We are pleased that Prudential has joined the long list of institutions that have agreed to compensate customers harmed by market timing activity and implement sweeping reforms," said New York Attorney General Spitzer.
The investigation of Prudential began with a subpoena from the New York Attorney General’s Office in August 2003.
The investigation – conducted in cooperation with the Securities and Exchange Commission, New York Stock Exchange, National Association of Securities Dealers and the states of Massachusetts and New Jersey – revealed that the company’s brokers defrauded at least 50 mutual funds and their investors between September 1999 and June 2003.
Specifically, the brokers provided hedge fund operators and other favored investors with phony customer account numbers that were used to conduct repeated in and out trading of various funds. The scheme helped the favored investors evade the scrutiny of the "timing police" at the mutual fund companies.
Senior managers at Prudential were aware of the fraud. In April 2002, the manager of Prudential’s Mutual Fund Operations Division shared with other senior Prudential managers the following e-mail from another mutual fund family, which complained about Prudential’s brokers:
"What we have seen scares us. It appears certain representatives are changing account registrations, tax id numbers, and branch and rep [ID] numbers in an effort to time the [mutual fund family’s] funds. All of these accounts have been stopped, but each day "new" ones pop up."
In February 2003 the president of Prudential’s Private Client Group received a copy of an e-mail from the manager of Prudential’s branch office in Garden City expressing concern about the tactics used by Prudential’s top-producing broker to enable a customer to continue market timing at another mutual fund company:
"Fund companies have been misled as to the identity of the [brokers] of record... Recently, [a mutual fund company] was provided with information which was at best misleading to effect the removal [of] a block [from further market timing]."
Between 1999 and 2003, Prudential received more than a thousand letters and e-mails from mutual funds complaining of market timing by Prudential brokers. However, the company did not act to halt the activity, which harmed small investors who typically buy and hold their mutual fund shares.
In one of the largest cases ever and the first to include potential criminal charges, state officials from multiple states have announced an agreement to resolve an investigation of market timing by Prudential Equity Group.
The company will pay $270 million in restitution to injured investors. Under a separate agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice, Prudential will pay a penalty of $330 million. The agreements also require the company to undertake a series of reforms.
"We are pleased that Prudential has joined the long list of institutions that have agreed to compensate customers harmed by market timing activity and implement sweeping reforms," said New York Attorney General Spitzer.
The investigation of Prudential began with a subpoena from the New York Attorney General’s Office in August 2003.
The investigation – conducted in cooperation with the Securities and Exchange Commission, New York Stock Exchange, National Association of Securities Dealers and the states of Massachusetts and New Jersey – revealed that the company’s brokers defrauded at least 50 mutual funds and their investors between September 1999 and June 2003.
Specifically, the brokers provided hedge fund operators and other favored investors with phony customer account numbers that were used to conduct repeated in and out trading of various funds. The scheme helped the favored investors evade the scrutiny of the "timing police" at the mutual fund companies.
Senior managers at Prudential were aware of the fraud. In April 2002, the manager of Prudential’s Mutual Fund Operations Division shared with other senior Prudential managers the following e-mail from another mutual fund family, which complained about Prudential’s brokers:
"What we have seen scares us. It appears certain representatives are changing account registrations, tax id numbers, and branch and rep [ID] numbers in an effort to time the [mutual fund family’s] funds. All of these accounts have been stopped, but each day "new" ones pop up."
In February 2003 the president of Prudential’s Private Client Group received a copy of an e-mail from the manager of Prudential’s branch office in Garden City expressing concern about the tactics used by Prudential’s top-producing broker to enable a customer to continue market timing at another mutual fund company:
"Fund companies have been misled as to the identity of the [brokers] of record... Recently, [a mutual fund company] was provided with information which was at best misleading to effect the removal [of] a block [from further market timing]."
Between 1999 and 2003, Prudential received more than a thousand letters and e-mails from mutual funds complaining of market timing by Prudential brokers. However, the company did not act to halt the activity, which harmed small investors who typically buy and hold their mutual fund shares.
Lowe's Recalls Outdoor Fireplaces
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced today that Lowe's is volunatrily recalling more than 30,000 of its "Garden Treasures" Steel Dome Fireplaces because the unit could be a fire hazard. No injuries or property damage have been reported yet, but the agency says that there have been two cases of paint on the fireplace's exterior igniting.
The units have been sold at Lowe's for approximately $100 for the past year. The recalled fireplace consists of a round fire bowl that rests on four legs, with a chimney cap and hood. The fireplace is made of steel and is painted black. They are about 3-feet tall and 2-feet wide. The item number, 91023, is printed on the package materials.
The agency says that consumers should return the unit to any Lowe's store for a refund.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced today that Lowe's is volunatrily recalling more than 30,000 of its "Garden Treasures" Steel Dome Fireplaces because the unit could be a fire hazard. No injuries or property damage have been reported yet, but the agency says that there have been two cases of paint on the fireplace's exterior igniting.
The units have been sold at Lowe's for approximately $100 for the past year. The recalled fireplace consists of a round fire bowl that rests on four legs, with a chimney cap and hood. The fireplace is made of steel and is painted black. They are about 3-feet tall and 2-feet wide. The item number, 91023, is printed on the package materials.
The agency says that consumers should return the unit to any Lowe's store for a refund.
GSA Includes Mass Firm In Monitoring Identity Theft
The U.S. General Services Administration has issued a blanket purchase agreement to a Massachusetts firm specializing in identity theft monitoring services. According to Identity Force, a subsidiary of Bearak Reports, the company received the government's order on August 14, shortly after the well publicized data breaches of U.S. military personnel records.
The U.S. General Services Administration has issued a blanket purchase agreement to a Massachusetts firm specializing in identity theft monitoring services. According to Identity Force, a subsidiary of Bearak Reports, the company received the government's order on August 14, shortly after the well publicized data breaches of U.S. military personnel records.
Identity Force says it is the only firm on the BPA that also provides Social Security Number Monitoring, Credit Card Monitoring and Public Record Directory Monitoring & Deletion. These three additional elements provide a proactive and preemptive frontline defense that notifies consumers if anyone is attempting to steal his/her identity, and is a more effective response to data breaches than only providing credit report monitoring.
The GSA issued the Credit Monitoring Blanket Purchase Agreement on August 14, 2006, shortly after the Veteran's Administration experienced one of the largest data breaches on record.
Federal Agencies that experience a data breach can select Identity Force as a pre-approved vendor to provide credit monitoring and other identity theft prevention solutions that will protect individuals whose personal information has been compromised. Identity Force will immediately execute a planned response directly matched to the risk level of the exposure. The BPA contract will be in effect for five years.
Common Cause Identifies More "Astroturf" Groups
Judging from its name, "Hands off the Internet" sounds like a group of activists advocating for net neutrality, the idea that Internet service providers should allow users to access any web content or applications they choose, without discrimination, limitations or restrictions.
But actually, it is a telecommunications industry-backed operation with a high-profile spokesman spending $20,000 a day on television commercials aimed at eliminating long-standing net neutrality protections so that telephone and cable companies can maximize profit and minimize competition on the Internet.
Hands off the Internet is one of five "Astroturf" lobbying and other front groups exposed in a new Common Cause report that profiles these groups that try to appear as true grassroots, but are really about corporate money, not citizen power. In March, Common Cause profiled nine Astroturf and front groups seeking to influence Congress.
As these opponents of net neutrality and other consumer-friendly protections ratchet up their opposition on the television airwaves, Common Cause exposes five more:
"These kinds of campaigns are dangerous for our democracy because they confuse and mislead citizens," said Common Cause President Chellie Pingree. "The public needs to know that many of these ads on TV right now touting so-called "consumer choice" and "consumer benefits" are just big business promises. The public's voice - what real people want and need out of our media system - is being left out of the debate."
Judging from its name, "Hands off the Internet" sounds like a group of activists advocating for net neutrality, the idea that Internet service providers should allow users to access any web content or applications they choose, without discrimination, limitations or restrictions.
But actually, it is a telecommunications industry-backed operation with a high-profile spokesman spending $20,000 a day on television commercials aimed at eliminating long-standing net neutrality protections so that telephone and cable companies can maximize profit and minimize competition on the Internet.
Hands off the Internet is one of five "Astroturf" lobbying and other front groups exposed in a new Common Cause report that profiles these groups that try to appear as true grassroots, but are really about corporate money, not citizen power. In March, Common Cause profiled nine Astroturf and front groups seeking to influence Congress.
As these opponents of net neutrality and other consumer-friendly protections ratchet up their opposition on the television airwaves, Common Cause exposes five more:
- *Hands off the Internet
- NetCompetition.org,
- *TV4US,
- *The Future…Faster
- *Video Access Alliance.
"These kinds of campaigns are dangerous for our democracy because they confuse and mislead citizens," said Common Cause President Chellie Pingree. "The public needs to know that many of these ads on TV right now touting so-called "consumer choice" and "consumer benefits" are just big business promises. The public's voice - what real people want and need out of our media system - is being left out of the debate."
FDA Sends Marshals To Seize Medical Equipment
At the request of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California issued a warrant for seizure of Alaris Signature Edition Gold infusion pumps, model numbers 7130, 7131, 7230 and 7231. The pumps are manufactured by Cardinal Health Care 303, Inc. and the seizure occurred August 25. The seized infusion pumps have a design defect called "key bounce" that may cause potential over-infusion of medications. This seizure was intended to ensure that infusion pumps located at Alaris' manufacturing facility are not distributed unless the problem is corrected.
Infusion pumps are electronic devices intended for controlled delivery of intravenous solutions and medications to patients. Key bounce occurs when a number pressed on the pump registers twice although the operator only pressed the key once. If a key bounce occurs and is not detected during programming verification, it may result in an infusion rate at least 10 times the intended infusion rate. For example, if an infusion rate is intended to be entered as 4.8 milliliters per hour and the key bounce occurs when the 4 is pressed, the actual rate registered will be 44.8 milliliters per hour. If not detected during programming verification, key bounce events may result in serious patient harm or death.
FDA inspections revealed that Alaris failed to follow FDA's medical device manufacturing regulations. The infusion pumps were seized by the U.S. Marshals Service at Alaris' manufacturing facility in San Diego, California. The seized devices valued at more than an estimated 1.8 million dollars. Alaris has distributed these products nationally and internationally. No products were seized from healthcare facilities or individual users, and there are no plans to do so.
Alaris was issued warning letters by FDA in August 1998 and October 1999 outlining the violations and was given opportunities to correct the violations, but failed to take appropriate actions.
In an August 15 recall letter, Alaris informed customers that it will provide a warning label for the pumps and a permanent correction for the key bounce problem once it is available. In the letter, Alaris also provided recommendations to pump users on steps they can take to minimize key entry errors until the problem can be corrected.
Nuperk Finally Stops Responding
The web is full of stories of unsatisfied Nuperk customers, and for a while, it appeared that Consumer Help Web had a fast track with the company. After winning a much-deserved refund for a customer earlier this year, we were approached by another disgruntled Nuperk customer.
Shed reported that she used the Nuperk product without result, and returned the unused portion in accordance with the money back guarantee. She has outstanding documentation showing each contact to the organization, as well as her authorization to return the product for a refund. Although the product was received May 5, 2006 and an electronic copy of the signature exists, she has yet to receive her refund.
Nearly two months later, an employee who identified herself as "Bridgette" reportedly told her that she would notify the appropriate party to arrange the refund. Two days later, another employee named "Poonam" said approximately the same thing.
Our customer has sent three additional emails, which have also not received a response.
We sent the complaint details to Nuperk just like last time, but were stonewalled after two demand letters. We have since provided our customer with contact information for a good local consumer attorney as well as the direct contact information for her local consumer regulatory agency.
The web is full of stories of unsatisfied Nuperk customers, and for a while, it appeared that Consumer Help Web had a fast track with the company. After winning a much-deserved refund for a customer earlier this year, we were approached by another disgruntled Nuperk customer.
Shed reported that she used the Nuperk product without result, and returned the unused portion in accordance with the money back guarantee. She has outstanding documentation showing each contact to the organization, as well as her authorization to return the product for a refund. Although the product was received May 5, 2006 and an electronic copy of the signature exists, she has yet to receive her refund.
Nearly two months later, an employee who identified herself as "Bridgette" reportedly told her that she would notify the appropriate party to arrange the refund. Two days later, another employee named "Poonam" said approximately the same thing.
Our customer has sent three additional emails, which have also not received a response.
We sent the complaint details to Nuperk just like last time, but were stonewalled after two demand letters. We have since provided our customer with contact information for a good local consumer attorney as well as the direct contact information for her local consumer regulatory agency.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Bell South Cuts DSL Regulatory Fee
BellSouth announced that it is immediately eliminating a fee assessed on its DSL Internet services. The broadband fee was designed to recover a number of costs remaining from previous regulatory obligations and other network expenses. Since the FCC eliminated the continuing applicability of many of these regulations, BellSouth announced it could cut the rates.
The vast majority of BellSouth's DSL Internet service customers will see this change on their bills within a week, although it will take up to six weeks to implement this change for all of BellSouth's DSL Internet service customers. Any payments attributable to this fee will be credited back to August 16, 2006.
Tags: BellSouth , taxes , broadband , FCC
BellSouth announced that it is immediately eliminating a fee assessed on its DSL Internet services. The broadband fee was designed to recover a number of costs remaining from previous regulatory obligations and other network expenses. Since the FCC eliminated the continuing applicability of many of these regulations, BellSouth announced it could cut the rates.
The vast majority of BellSouth's DSL Internet service customers will see this change on their bills within a week, although it will take up to six weeks to implement this change for all of BellSouth's DSL Internet service customers. Any payments attributable to this fee will be credited back to August 16, 2006.
Tags: BellSouth , taxes , broadband , FCC
Friday, August 25, 2006
Judge Blocks Flight Attendant Strike
A federal judge in New York has blocked a threatened strike by Northwest Airlines flight attendants that could have resulted in some flights being delayed or even canceled. With just hours to go before the flight attendants' Friday deadline, the court prohibited them from implementing any organized work stoppages.
"As summer vacation seasons winds down, this is very welcome news," said Consumer Help Web president Joan Bounacos. "Northwest did a great job weathering their mechanic's strike in 2005, but this could have ruined many people's vacations."
Commenting on Judge Victor Marrero’s decision, Doug Steenland, Northwest's president and chief executive officer, said, “We remain committed to negotiating a consensual agreement with our flight attendants and hope to accomplish that goal in the near future.”
The Labor Day Holiday weekend starts next Friday.
A federal judge in New York has blocked a threatened strike by Northwest Airlines flight attendants that could have resulted in some flights being delayed or even canceled. With just hours to go before the flight attendants' Friday deadline, the court prohibited them from implementing any organized work stoppages.
"As summer vacation seasons winds down, this is very welcome news," said Consumer Help Web president Joan Bounacos. "Northwest did a great job weathering their mechanic's strike in 2005, but this could have ruined many people's vacations."
Commenting on Judge Victor Marrero’s decision, Doug Steenland, Northwest's president and chief executive officer, said, “We remain committed to negotiating a consensual agreement with our flight attendants and hope to accomplish that goal in the near future.”
The Labor Day Holiday weekend starts next Friday.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Apple Joins Dell In Recalling Sony Laptop Batteries
One week after Dell recalled more than 4 million laptop batteries made in China and Japan, Apple Computer has done the same.
The California manufacturer of trendy electronics recalled nearly two milion battery packs in its iBook and PowerBook computers today. Over half of the battery packs were sold in the United States in the following configurations:
The Consumer Product Safety Commission says that consumers should stop using the recalled batteries immediately and contact Apple toll-free at (800) 275-2273 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. CT to arrange for a replacement battery, free of charge. After removing the recalled battery from their iBook or PowerBook, consumers should plug in the AC adapter to power the computer until a replacement battery arrives.
Tags: Apple , Sony, laptop , battery , recall
One week after Dell recalled more than 4 million laptop batteries made in China and Japan, Apple Computer has done the same.
The California manufacturer of trendy electronics recalled nearly two milion battery packs in its iBook and PowerBook computers today. Over half of the battery packs were sold in the United States in the following configurations:
| Computer model name | Battery model number | Battery serial numbers |
|---|---|---|
| 12-inch iBook G4 | A1061 | ZZ338 through ZZ427 3K429 through 3K611 6C510 through 6C626 |
| 12-inch PowerBook G4 | A1079 | ZZ411 through ZZ427 3K428 through 3K611 |
| 15-inch PowerBook G4 | A1078 and A1148 | 3K425 through 3K601 6N530 through 6N55 |
The Consumer Product Safety Commission says that consumers should stop using the recalled batteries immediately and contact Apple toll-free at (800) 275-2273 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. CT to arrange for a replacement battery, free of charge. After removing the recalled battery from their iBook or PowerBook, consumers should plug in the AC adapter to power the computer until a replacement battery arrives.
Tags: Apple , Sony, laptop , battery , recall
IRS Warns About Private Collectors - How To Tell Legit From Scam
The Internal Revenue Service released legal guidance today outlining the protections in place for the new private debt collection program.
The guidance, contained in Announcement 2006-63, describes the limited role private collection agencies (PCAs) may play in collecting back taxes and the legal restrictions and procedures in place to safeguard taxpayer privacy and taxpayer rights.
The IRS will assign delinquent federal tax accounts to three PCAs beginning Sept. 7. An initial 12,500 taxpayers who owe back taxes will be in this group, with the number reaching approximately 40,000 by year’s end.
“We’re going to implement this program very carefully so we have a good program on sound footing,” IRS Commissioner Mark W. Everson said. “We are working hard to protect taxpayer privacy and taxpayer rights.”
In addition to describing the rules that will guide PCA conduct and protect taxpayer rights, Announcement 2006- 63 also describes the type of contacts a PCA may have with a taxpayer and the procedures in place for the IRS to assist in training and monitoring PCAs.
To assist the IRS in its collection of back taxes, the 2004 American Jobs Creation Act authorizes the IRS to hire private firms to collect federal tax debts. This provision was carefully crafted by Congress and includes several limitations to ensure the private firms will be subject to the same stringent taxpayer protection and privacy rules that IRS employees work under. In addition, private firms cannot subcontract the work.
The IRS has also developed its own guidelines for the private firms, including background checks on all private firm personnel associated with the project as well as a mandatory, IRS-directed training program for company personnel.
Private firms are not authorized to take enforcement actions such as filing liens, or making levies or property seizures. In addition, private firms are not authorized to work on technical issues such as offers in compromise, bankruptcies, hardship issues or litigation. Rather, the IRS will assign to the private firms cases in which the taxpayer has not disputed the liability. The private firms will contact taxpayers to make payment arrangements.
“Redirecting relatively simple cases to private firms will permit the IRS to continue to focus its existing collection and enforcement personnel on more complex tax issues,” Everson said.
Tags: IRS , debt , collections , scam
The Internal Revenue Service released legal guidance today outlining the protections in place for the new private debt collection program.
The guidance, contained in Announcement 2006-63, describes the limited role private collection agencies (PCAs) may play in collecting back taxes and the legal restrictions and procedures in place to safeguard taxpayer privacy and taxpayer rights.
The IRS will assign delinquent federal tax accounts to three PCAs beginning Sept. 7. An initial 12,500 taxpayers who owe back taxes will be in this group, with the number reaching approximately 40,000 by year’s end.
“We’re going to implement this program very carefully so we have a good program on sound footing,” IRS Commissioner Mark W. Everson said. “We are working hard to protect taxpayer privacy and taxpayer rights.”
In addition to describing the rules that will guide PCA conduct and protect taxpayer rights, Announcement 2006- 63 also describes the type of contacts a PCA may have with a taxpayer and the procedures in place for the IRS to assist in training and monitoring PCAs.
To assist the IRS in its collection of back taxes, the 2004 American Jobs Creation Act authorizes the IRS to hire private firms to collect federal tax debts. This provision was carefully crafted by Congress and includes several limitations to ensure the private firms will be subject to the same stringent taxpayer protection and privacy rules that IRS employees work under. In addition, private firms cannot subcontract the work.
The IRS has also developed its own guidelines for the private firms, including background checks on all private firm personnel associated with the project as well as a mandatory, IRS-directed training program for company personnel.
Private firms are not authorized to take enforcement actions such as filing liens, or making levies or property seizures. In addition, private firms are not authorized to work on technical issues such as offers in compromise, bankruptcies, hardship issues or litigation. Rather, the IRS will assign to the private firms cases in which the taxpayer has not disputed the liability. The private firms will contact taxpayers to make payment arrangements.
“Redirecting relatively simple cases to private firms will permit the IRS to continue to focus its existing collection and enforcement personnel on more complex tax issues,” Everson said.
Tags: IRS , debt , collections , scam
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Momentum Health and Nutrition Hides From Consumer Help Web
Consumer Help was retained by a customer regarding unauthorized charges to her checking account and failure to deliver products or a promised refund.
Our customer reports that she replied to a $4.95 introductory offer in February 2006 and paid by check. She then reports that Momentum improperly debited her account without authorization for five consecutive months. She tells us she spoke with "Jeanie" on June 12, 2006, who promised to check with the shipping department and arrange for a refund if nothing was sent. On June 15, 2006, Ms. Johnsson spoke with "Jessica", who told her that the refund request had been sent to the "refund manager", whom she identified as "David".
Jessica also reportedly told her that the account was closed and no more unauthorized deductions would be made from her checking account. Despite that assurance, our customer's bank account was improperly debited again. She tells us that she has made additional telephone calls and sent an email, but has not received any further responses.
The full details of this complaint were sent to the company's senior management in June 2006. They chose not to respond to multiple letters and contact attempts so we assisted in helping our customer build a case for legal or regulatory authorities.
Meanwhile, be careful -- get promises in writing, even by fax or email if necessary.
Momentum Health , refund , service , debit
Consumer Help was retained by a customer regarding unauthorized charges to her checking account and failure to deliver products or a promised refund.
Our customer reports that she replied to a $4.95 introductory offer in February 2006 and paid by check. She then reports that Momentum improperly debited her account without authorization for five consecutive months. She tells us she spoke with "Jeanie" on June 12, 2006, who promised to check with the shipping department and arrange for a refund if nothing was sent. On June 15, 2006, Ms. Johnsson spoke with "Jessica", who told her that the refund request had been sent to the "refund manager", whom she identified as "David".
Jessica also reportedly told her that the account was closed and no more unauthorized deductions would be made from her checking account. Despite that assurance, our customer's bank account was improperly debited again. She tells us that she has made additional telephone calls and sent an email, but has not received any further responses.
The full details of this complaint were sent to the company's senior management in June 2006. They chose not to respond to multiple letters and contact attempts so we assisted in helping our customer build a case for legal or regulatory authorities.
Meanwhile, be careful -- get promises in writing, even by fax or email if necessary.
Momentum Health , refund , service , debit
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
H&R Block Agrees To Meet With States
Led by representatives from Connecticut, North Carolina and crusading New York Attorney General Elliot Spitzer, a group of states continues chasing H&R Block over loans made to customers in anticipation of a refund. Spitzer was especially dogged, joining the others in a suit against Block at the height of tax season.
Spitzer's suit claimed that tens of thousands of New Yorkers and hundreds of thousands of consumers nationwide had been steered wrong by the company. The entire tax preparation industry continues to come under fire, while ratcheting up the stakes for lower-income returns that boost profit margins.
The latest wrinkle is the so-called "paycheck stub" loan. In this transaction, a company provides a refund based on a customer's last paycheck of the year, regardless of what tax liabilities or issues have occurred throughout the year. The rates, Spitzer and others claim, are too high and target an ill-informed consumer market.
Word now comes out of the Missouri company's headquarters that the tax giant, which will book nearly $5 billion in revenue in 2006, will meet with a representative group of officials from different states. Consumer advocates are wary of the meeting, not only because Block is a mult-billion organizaation, but because a compromise agreement may end up being struck that could involve one of H&R Block's other three divisions making use of data provided by the tax division to market the same loan.
"At the end of the day, all people want to see is a fast refund," said Consumer Help Web President Joan Bounacos. "We encourage those people to seek tax counseling earlier in the year so that they are not getting the smallest possible refund. A tax refund sounds like a good idea, but is really an interest-free loan to the government, and because of inflation, ends up costing consumers more than they get back. The net effect is almost always a loss."
Tags: H & R Block , tax , lawsuit
Led by representatives from Connecticut, North Carolina and crusading New York Attorney General Elliot Spitzer, a group of states continues chasing H&R Block over loans made to customers in anticipation of a refund. Spitzer was especially dogged, joining the others in a suit against Block at the height of tax season.
Spitzer's suit claimed that tens of thousands of New Yorkers and hundreds of thousands of consumers nationwide had been steered wrong by the company. The entire tax preparation industry continues to come under fire, while ratcheting up the stakes for lower-income returns that boost profit margins.
The latest wrinkle is the so-called "paycheck stub" loan. In this transaction, a company provides a refund based on a customer's last paycheck of the year, regardless of what tax liabilities or issues have occurred throughout the year. The rates, Spitzer and others claim, are too high and target an ill-informed consumer market.
Word now comes out of the Missouri company's headquarters that the tax giant, which will book nearly $5 billion in revenue in 2006, will meet with a representative group of officials from different states. Consumer advocates are wary of the meeting, not only because Block is a mult-billion organizaation, but because a compromise agreement may end up being struck that could involve one of H&R Block's other three divisions making use of data provided by the tax division to market the same loan.
"At the end of the day, all people want to see is a fast refund," said Consumer Help Web President Joan Bounacos. "We encourage those people to seek tax counseling earlier in the year so that they are not getting the smallest possible refund. A tax refund sounds like a good idea, but is really an interest-free loan to the government, and because of inflation, ends up costing consumers more than they get back. The net effect is almost always a loss."
Tags: H & R Block , tax , lawsuit
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
MS Judge Rules Against Katrina Flood Damage Insurance Coverage
In southern Mississippi, a federal judge has ruled that a homeowner's insurance policy excluded flood damage, greatly reducing the amount that can be collected because of Hurricane Katrina damage.
The judge said that the policy, purchased from Nationwide, reportedly covered damage caused by hurricanes, but he upheld a widely-used interpretation that floodwaters were not covered. Media reports indicate that the court did find that wind damage was coverage, which may provide some relief to Gulf Coast residents, but it appears that case law now exists that allows insurances companies to feel comfortable when denying claims.
Tags: Hurricane Katrina , Nationwide , insurance , flood , Mississippi
In southern Mississippi, a federal judge has ruled that a homeowner's insurance policy excluded flood damage, greatly reducing the amount that can be collected because of Hurricane Katrina damage.
The judge said that the policy, purchased from Nationwide, reportedly covered damage caused by hurricanes, but he upheld a widely-used interpretation that floodwaters were not covered. Media reports indicate that the court did find that wind damage was coverage, which may provide some relief to Gulf Coast residents, but it appears that case law now exists that allows insurances companies to feel comfortable when denying claims.
Tags: Hurricane Katrina , Nationwide , insurance , flood , Mississippi
Monday, August 14, 2006
Dell Recalls 4 Million Batteries
One of the production laptops we use at Consumer Help Web is a Dell Inspiron 9100 that has a bad overheating problem. (We had a Latitude as well, but that's another story).
Tonight, Dell has announced a voluntary recall of approximately 4.1 million Dell-branded lithium-ion batteries with cells manufactured by Sony. Under rare conditions, it is possible for these batteries to overheat, which could cause a risk of fire. The good news --- at least two of our machines qualify!
The recalled batteries were sold with the following Dell notebook computers: Dell LatitudeTM D410, D500, D505, D510, D520, D600, D610, D620, D800, D810; InspironTM 6000, 8500, 8600, 9100, 9200, 9300, 500m, 510m, 600m, 6400, E1505, 700m, 710m, 9400, E1705; and Dell PrecisionTM M20, M60, M70 and M90 mobile workstations; and XPSTM , XPS Gen2, XPS M170 and XPS M1710. The batteries were also sold separately, including in response to service calls. "Dell" and one of the following are printed on the batteries: "Made in Japan" or "Made in China" or "Battery Cell Made in Japan Assembled in China." The identification number for each battery appears on a white sticker. Customers should have this number available when they contact Dell to determine if their battery is part of the recall.
Dell sold or provided these batteries with the notebook computers, as part of a service replacement, and as individual units from April 1, 2004, through July 18, 2006. The computers with these batteries sold for between $500 and $2,850 (US) and individual batteries sold for between $60 and $180 (US).
Customers should contact Dell to determine if their notebook computer battery is part of this recall. Please visit the firm's Web site at www.dellbatteryprogram.com beginning at 1 a.m. Central Daylight Time Aug. 15 or call toll-free at 1-866-342-0011, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time. Customers may continue to use the notebook computers safely by turning the system off, ejecting the battery, and using the AC adapter and power cord to power the system until the replacement battery is received. Customers can also write to: Dell Inc., Attn: Battery Recall, 9701 Metric Blvd., Austin, Texas 78758.
Tags: Dell , recall , laptop , battery
One of the production laptops we use at Consumer Help Web is a Dell Inspiron 9100 that has a bad overheating problem. (We had a Latitude as well, but that's another story).
Tonight, Dell has announced a voluntary recall of approximately 4.1 million Dell-branded lithium-ion batteries with cells manufactured by Sony. Under rare conditions, it is possible for these batteries to overheat, which could cause a risk of fire. The good news --- at least two of our machines qualify!
The recalled batteries were sold with the following Dell notebook computers: Dell LatitudeTM D410, D500, D505, D510, D520, D600, D610, D620, D800, D810; InspironTM 6000, 8500, 8600, 9100, 9200, 9300, 500m, 510m, 600m, 6400, E1505, 700m, 710m, 9400, E1705; and Dell PrecisionTM M20, M60, M70 and M90 mobile workstations; and XPSTM , XPS Gen2, XPS M170 and XPS M1710. The batteries were also sold separately, including in response to service calls. "Dell" and one of the following are printed on the batteries: "Made in Japan" or "Made in China" or "Battery Cell Made in Japan Assembled in China." The identification number for each battery appears on a white sticker. Customers should have this number available when they contact Dell to determine if their battery is part of the recall.
Dell sold or provided these batteries with the notebook computers, as part of a service replacement, and as individual units from April 1, 2004, through July 18, 2006. The computers with these batteries sold for between $500 and $2,850 (US) and individual batteries sold for between $60 and $180 (US).
Customers should contact Dell to determine if their notebook computer battery is part of this recall. Please visit the firm's Web site at www.dellbatteryprogram.com beginning at 1 a.m. Central Daylight Time Aug. 15 or call toll-free at 1-866-342-0011, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time. Customers may continue to use the notebook computers safely by turning the system off, ejecting the battery, and using the AC adapter and power cord to power the system until the replacement battery is received. Customers can also write to: Dell Inc., Attn: Battery Recall, 9701 Metric Blvd., Austin, Texas 78758.
Tags: Dell , recall , laptop , battery
Repeat Offenders Nabbed By FTC, Were Selling "Diabetes Cure"
An operation selling Chinese herbal supplements is banned from claiming its products treat or cure diseases, to settle Federal Trade Commission charges it violated a previous court order. The FTC alleged the sellers of Dia-Cope, a pill claimed to prevent, treat, and cure diabetes, violated the order by misrepresenting the health benefits of their product and misrepresenting that clinical trials proved their claims. The defendants will give up their ill-gotten gains – all of the assets they received from the sale of Dia-Cope.
The defendants originally sold “Sagee,” a Chinese herbal supplement that they claimed could improve memory and concentration, repair damaged brain cells, slow the aging of the brain, increase the learning ability of people with mental handicaps, and treat various diseases and conditions related to brain function, including Alzheimer’s disease, senile dementia, schizophrenia, autism, cerebral hemorrhage, stroke, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease. They advertised Sagee mainly in Chinese-language media; some ads also appeared in Vietnamese and English. The supplements were sold by distributors on the Internet and in some stores.
The FTC charged that the claims about Sagee were false and unsubstantiated and an order entered in January 2005 prohibited the defendants from making unsubstantiated health benefit, performance, or efficacy claims for any dietary supplement, food, drug, device, or service. The order also barred them from misrepresenting the existence, results, validity or conclusions of any scientific study.
According to the FTC, the defendants then began advertising Dia-Cope on Web sites available in seven languages: English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Indonesian, Spanish, and Russian. The defendants claimed Dia-Cope could prevent, treat, and cure diabetes and claimed that thousands of human clinical trials proved it. Their Web sites, www.sagee.com and www.dia-cope.com, stated that the FDA had approved the product. Bottles of Dia-Cope with 90 capsules sold for $60 – enough with the suggested dosage to last one or two weeks.
According to the FTC, the defendants violated their court order by misrepresenting the health benefits of Dia-Cope, falsely claiming that the FDA had approved the product, and misrepresenting that there was clinical support for their claims. A US District Court entered a temporary restraining order against the California-based defendants, Sagee U.S.A. Group, Inc. and Xiao Hua Li, on July 5, 2006, stopping their deceptive claims.
The modified order against the defendants bans them from claiming that any foods, drugs, devices, services, or dietary supplements can prevent, mitigate, treat, or cure any disease. Under the order, the defendants will give up all of the assets derived from the sale of Dia-Cope, $10,396. The order extends the original order’s monitoring and record-keeping provisions and retains the strict provisions requiring the corporate defendant, Sagee, to monitor the activities of its distributors.
Tags: Diabetes , FTC
An operation selling Chinese herbal supplements is banned from claiming its products treat or cure diseases, to settle Federal Trade Commission charges it violated a previous court order. The FTC alleged the sellers of Dia-Cope, a pill claimed to prevent, treat, and cure diabetes, violated the order by misrepresenting the health benefits of their product and misrepresenting that clinical trials proved their claims. The defendants will give up their ill-gotten gains – all of the assets they received from the sale of Dia-Cope.
The defendants originally sold “Sagee,” a Chinese herbal supplement that they claimed could improve memory and concentration, repair damaged brain cells, slow the aging of the brain, increase the learning ability of people with mental handicaps, and treat various diseases and conditions related to brain function, including Alzheimer’s disease, senile dementia, schizophrenia, autism, cerebral hemorrhage, stroke, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease. They advertised Sagee mainly in Chinese-language media; some ads also appeared in Vietnamese and English. The supplements were sold by distributors on the Internet and in some stores.
The FTC charged that the claims about Sagee were false and unsubstantiated and an order entered in January 2005 prohibited the defendants from making unsubstantiated health benefit, performance, or efficacy claims for any dietary supplement, food, drug, device, or service. The order also barred them from misrepresenting the existence, results, validity or conclusions of any scientific study.
According to the FTC, the defendants then began advertising Dia-Cope on Web sites available in seven languages: English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Indonesian, Spanish, and Russian. The defendants claimed Dia-Cope could prevent, treat, and cure diabetes and claimed that thousands of human clinical trials proved it. Their Web sites, www.sagee.com and www.dia-cope.com, stated that the FDA had approved the product. Bottles of Dia-Cope with 90 capsules sold for $60 – enough with the suggested dosage to last one or two weeks.
According to the FTC, the defendants violated their court order by misrepresenting the health benefits of Dia-Cope, falsely claiming that the FDA had approved the product, and misrepresenting that there was clinical support for their claims. A US District Court entered a temporary restraining order against the California-based defendants, Sagee U.S.A. Group, Inc. and Xiao Hua Li, on July 5, 2006, stopping their deceptive claims.
The modified order against the defendants bans them from claiming that any foods, drugs, devices, services, or dietary supplements can prevent, mitigate, treat, or cure any disease. Under the order, the defendants will give up all of the assets derived from the sale of Dia-Cope, $10,396. The order extends the original order’s monitoring and record-keeping provisions and retains the strict provisions requiring the corporate defendant, Sagee, to monitor the activities of its distributors.
Tags: Diabetes , FTC
Friday, August 11, 2006
New Airline Carry-On Restrictions
In response to a serious terrorist threat to international aviation security, the Secretary of Homeland Security has elevated the Homeland Security Advisory System Threat Condition to Severe, or Red, for all commercial flights from the United Kingdom to the United States, and to High, or Orange, for all other international flights and all domestic commercial aviation.
There are approximately 106 flights per day between the United Kingdom and the United States. Although numerous arrests have been made in the U.K. to disrupt and neutralize this threat, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is taking a number of heightened protective measures to ensure the continued safety and security of our international and domestic air travel.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will be implementing a series of security measures – some visible and some not visible – to ensure the security of the traveling public and the Nation's transportation system. TSA is immediately implementing following changes to airport screening procedures:
NO LIQUIDS OR GELS OF ANY KIND WILL BE PERMITTED IN CARRY-ON BAGGAGE. ITEMS MUST BE IN CHECKED BAGGAGE. This includes all beverages, shampoo, suntan lotion, creams, tooth paste, hair gel, and other items of similar consistency.
Exception: Baby formula and breast milk if a baby or small child is traveling; prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger’s ticket; and insulin and essential other non-prescription medicines
* Beverages purchased in the sterile area must be consumed before boarding because they will not be permitted onboard the aircraft.
* Passengers traveling from the U.K. to the U.S. will be subject to a more extensive screening process.
Tags: airline , terrorism , carry-on , TSA
In response to a serious terrorist threat to international aviation security, the Secretary of Homeland Security has elevated the Homeland Security Advisory System Threat Condition to Severe, or Red, for all commercial flights from the United Kingdom to the United States, and to High, or Orange, for all other international flights and all domestic commercial aviation.
There are approximately 106 flights per day between the United Kingdom and the United States. Although numerous arrests have been made in the U.K. to disrupt and neutralize this threat, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is taking a number of heightened protective measures to ensure the continued safety and security of our international and domestic air travel.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will be implementing a series of security measures – some visible and some not visible – to ensure the security of the traveling public and the Nation's transportation system. TSA is immediately implementing following changes to airport screening procedures:
NO LIQUIDS OR GELS OF ANY KIND WILL BE PERMITTED IN CARRY-ON BAGGAGE. ITEMS MUST BE IN CHECKED BAGGAGE. This includes all beverages, shampoo, suntan lotion, creams, tooth paste, hair gel, and other items of similar consistency.
Exception: Baby formula and breast milk if a baby or small child is traveling; prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger’s ticket; and insulin and essential other non-prescription medicines
* Beverages purchased in the sterile area must be consumed before boarding because they will not be permitted onboard the aircraft.
* Passengers traveling from the U.K. to the U.S. will be subject to a more extensive screening process.
Tags: airline , terrorism , carry-on , TSA
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Beware of Vishing, Says Government
Many people are aware of "phishing," (pronounced: fish-ing)
in which e-mail recipients are directed to a fake website
seeking their financial details but might not know about a
new Internet scam called "vishing, " which is short for
"voice phishing. " Vishing uses Voice over Internet Protocol
(VoIP) phones instead of a bogus web link to steal
financial information.
A recent incident involved customers from Santa Barbara
Bank and Trust in California. Internet con artists sent
account holders e-mails asking them to telephone the bank.
Customers who responded heard a recorded message asking
them to enter their account details. A second incident
earlier this month involved Paypal customers.
VoIP service providers allow their customers to pick a
telephone number that appears to be based elsewhere, so it's
possible for fraudsters to pick a phone number in the
same area code and prefix of a major bank despite being
physically located somewhere hundreds of miles away in
another city or state.
Always remember that a financial institution already has
your personal information, so if you get an unsolicited
telephone call where someone is asking you to provide or
confirm any of your personal information, immediately hang
up and call your financial institution.
Learn how to protect your personal information with FCIC's
Consumer Focus at:
http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cfocus/cfpersonalinfo06/focus.htm
Tags: vishing
Many people are aware of "phishing," (pronounced: fish-ing)
in which e-mail recipients are directed to a fake website
seeking their financial details but might not know about a
new Internet scam called "vishing, " which is short for
"voice phishing. " Vishing uses Voice over Internet Protocol
(VoIP) phones instead of a bogus web link to steal
financial information.
A recent incident involved customers from Santa Barbara
Bank and Trust in California. Internet con artists sent
account holders e-mails asking them to telephone the bank.
Customers who responded heard a recorded message asking
them to enter their account details. A second incident
earlier this month involved Paypal customers.
VoIP service providers allow their customers to pick a
telephone number that appears to be based elsewhere, so it's
possible for fraudsters to pick a phone number in the
same area code and prefix of a major bank despite being
physically located somewhere hundreds of miles away in
another city or state.
Always remember that a financial institution already has
your personal information, so if you get an unsolicited
telephone call where someone is asking you to provide or
confirm any of your personal information, immediately hang
up and call your financial institution.
Learn how to protect your personal information with FCIC's
Consumer Focus at:
http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cfocus/cfpersonalinfo06/focus.htm
Tags: vishing
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Consumer Advocacy Firm Calls For Criminal Penalties Regarding Data Breaches
With yet another lapse in data security threatening the identity of thousands of Americans, Consumer Help Web President Joan Bounacos called today for stricter legislation regarding personal information. Bounacos said she will ask key Senators and other lawmakers to endorse legislation that would attach criminal penalties to the secure handling of data.
“Civil penalties are fine when they work,” said the consumer advocate. “We have criminal penalties when the data is misused for gain. Why don’t we have criminal penalties for when the data is mishandled?”
Bounacos joined media outlets in questioning why federal government contractor Unisys did not report the missing data for three days. “With law enforcement resources put to work immediately, perhaps the data breach could have been stopped in its tracks. If Unisys truly did wait 72 hours before notifying authorities, then they should bear some burden of responsibility for the misuse of any data that result from their delay.”
Consumer Help Web, Inc., headquartered just outside Washington, D.C, is one of the nation’s leading private Internet outlets for consumers who have a complaint. The company has lobbied hundreds of organizations on behalf of consumers and won settlements totaling tens of thousands of dollars while sparing consumers and business costly litigation or time consuming regulatory actions. The company has contract employee relationships in six states.
Tags: data , advocacy , Bounacos
With yet another lapse in data security threatening the identity of thousands of Americans, Consumer Help Web President Joan Bounacos called today for stricter legislation regarding personal information. Bounacos said she will ask key Senators and other lawmakers to endorse legislation that would attach criminal penalties to the secure handling of data.
“Civil penalties are fine when they work,” said the consumer advocate. “We have criminal penalties when the data is misused for gain. Why don’t we have criminal penalties for when the data is mishandled?”
Bounacos joined media outlets in questioning why federal government contractor Unisys did not report the missing data for three days. “With law enforcement resources put to work immediately, perhaps the data breach could have been stopped in its tracks. If Unisys truly did wait 72 hours before notifying authorities, then they should bear some burden of responsibility for the misuse of any data that result from their delay.”
Consumer Help Web, Inc., headquartered just outside Washington, D.C, is one of the nation’s leading private Internet outlets for consumers who have a complaint. The company has lobbied hundreds of organizations on behalf of consumers and won settlements totaling tens of thousands of dollars while sparing consumers and business costly litigation or time consuming regulatory actions. The company has contract employee relationships in six states.
Tags: data , advocacy , Bounacos
