| Volume 68 Number 7 |
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The People’s Lawyer’s Tip of the Day
Should you buy an extended warranty with your next purchase? Most studies show they are not worth it. Also, check out your credit card agreement. Some, like American Express offer free extended warranty protection. Click here for more.
Digital Evidence in Criminal Cases
Do you know if your car has an "event data recorder (EDR)?" An EDR is very similar to the "black box" found in commercial aircraft. The EDR keeps track of driving behavior, speed, steering, brake application, and usage of seat belts. Although the information is primarily meant to help improve safety standards, it has also been used in court cases involving serious car accidents or crimes. EDRs are already in 85% of vehicles on the road. With the help of an expert, it is possible to know exactly what you did and how you did it. What can your car tell the authorities? Click here for more.
Best Credit Cards for the Holidays
The holiday season is here. Many consumers will be going out to their favorite stores to make one or more big purchases. If you have a choice, you'll probably be better off paying with a credit card. Not only do credit cards offer greater protections than cash or debit transactions, but many credit card companies have incentives, including one-time cash back bonuses and discounts from retail partners. There is no "one-size-fits-all" credit card. Credit cards can be dangerous. Always monitor your usage and never spend more than you can afford. If you're in the market for a new credit card and want to take advantage of rewards programs, Click here for more.
Google Offers Wi-Fi Tracking Opt Out
Over a year ago, Google admitted to "inadvertently" recording and storing Wi-Fi network location. Although the networks are typically discovered and recorded by Google Android phones, Google vehicles also roam the streets with antennas that discover local Wi-Fi networks. In Spring of 2010, European regulators found that Google vehicles had been downloading sensitive personal data, including e-mails, instant messages, usernames and passwords. Google has now introduced a way to opt-out of tracking. Find out how! Click here for more.
Your Money
What is the value of a college education? Click here for more.
For the Lawyers
Debt collector may be liable for damages under both state and federal law. The Ninth Circuit held that a debt collector that sent collection letters concerning obsolete debts to 40,000 individuals could be liable in a class action for statutory damages under both federal and California law. Click here for more.