| Volume 62 Number 9 |
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The People’s Lawyer’s Tip of the Day
Federal law allows you to withhold payment from your credit card company if the goods you purchase never arrive. But you must act quickly. Under the law, you must dispute your bill within 60 days of when it is sent. Wait too long and you lose you rights! Click here for more.
Beware of Unregulated Credit Cards
Last year's credit card regulations eliminated the high fees, penalties, and interest hikes that plagued consumers for years. Be careful! One type of credit card has evaded the new law. Cards designated for "business" are not subject to the same law that restricts the way banks change rates or charge fees. Read the fine print carefully! If you go with the business card, you won't benefit from the new credit card laws. Click here for more.
NOAA Predicting Active Hurricane Season
Hurricane season is almost here and experts are predicting an active one! The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting twelve to eighteen named storms, including six to ten hurricanes (six of which could be "major"). What can you expect this hurricane season? Click here for more.
One in Fourteen Downloads Malicious
Do you use a PC? If so, you'll need to be very careful next time you download anything from the internet. According to a statement from Microsoft this week, one out of every 14 programs downloaded by Windows users is malicious. By getting users to download "trojans," hackers can use social-engineering to gather your personal information without you knowing. Since most hackers don't write malicious software for Macs, Apple users are generally safe. Do you use a Windows-based personal computer? Find out how to protect yourself! Click here for more.
Your Money
Should you consolidate your debts? Click here for more.
For the Lawyers
Bona fide error defense may apply to error of law. The District Court for the Southern District of Texas held that Jerman v. Carlisle, 130 S. Ct. 1605 (2010) does not hold that all errors of law are automatically violations of the FDCPA, and allowed a collector to rely on the defense although the state court filing was time-barred. Click here for more.