| Volume 72 Number 1 |
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The People’s Lawyer’s Tip of the Day
Homeowner's insurance covers much more than you might think. But insurance is a contract and you must read it carefully. Was your laptop stolen out of your car? Read you policy, you may be covered for this loss. Click here for more.
Sidestepping Google's New Privacy Policy
Google's new privacy policy took effect yesterday. Although Google claims the new privacy policy was created to streamline operations for consumers, the move allows Google to collect information from all Google accounts, including Gmail, Google+, and YouTube, in one place. By pulling information from your Google searches, your emails, and the videos you watch on YouTube, Google will be able to draw more money from advertisers by tailoring ads to your perceived preferences. Although somewhat inconvenient, there are some steps you can take to limit the amount of information Google can obtain about you. Find out what you can do! Click here for more.
Bank of America Considering New Fees
Do you have a checking account with Bank of America? According to the Wall Street Journal, Bank of America plans to charge consumers to use checking accounts unless they bank online, buy more products, or maintain certain balances. Bank of America has already implemented pilot programs in Arizona, Georgia and Massachusetts, testing monthly checking account fees of $6 and $9. A checking account fee would be the latest in a string of unpopular moves made by Bank of America. Last Fall, Bank of America withdrew plans to implement a $5 monthly debit card fee after a wave of criticism from consumers. Click here for more.
Password: Time for a Change
Is your password 'Password1' or some other variation of 'password'? Around 5% of all passwords include a variation of the word 'password'. As a result, hackers are easily accessing some protected systems because of weak password choices. Protect yourself! Choose a strong password. Click here for more.
Your Money
How can your maximize the returns on your CDs? Click here for more.
For the Lawyers
Fair Housing Act doesn't apply to roommates. The Ninth Circuit held that the anti-discrimination provisions of the federal Fair Housing Act do not extend to the selection of roommates. Click here for more.