#2255
07/12/07
Tracking End Game
Here is the macro view of government surveillance and tracking. Note the end of the article relates how a facet of the program is being used for marketing by large corporations. The wording may be weird for some readers, but the vocabulary will gel before you read the whole article. Again, this is the macro view, so you may have to expand your thinking to see the whole picture clearly.
URL #1: http://cryptogon.com/?p=956
Drake, , Age: 31
Here is the macro view of government surveillance and tracking. Note the end of the article relates how a facet of the program is being used for marketing by large corporations. The wording may be weird for some readers, but the vocabulary will gel before you read the whole article. Again, this is the macro view, so you may have to expand your thinking to see the whole picture clearly.
URL #1: http://cryptogon.com/?p=956
Drake, , Age: 31
#2253
07/11/07
How To Build a Hidden Door Bookshelf
See link below.
URL #1: http://www.wikihow.com/Build-a-Hidden-Door-Bookshelf
Alan G., , Age: 43
See link below.
URL #1: http://www.wikihow.com/Build-a-Hidden-Door-Bookshelf
Alan G., , Age: 43
Note the warning" Do not attempt this project if you're a carpentry amateur.
#2250
07/11/07
New York City to get London-style
See link below.
URL #1: http://www.engadget.com/2007/07/09/new-york-city-to-get-london-style-surveillance-veil/
Randy, , Age: 40s
See link below.
URL #1: http://www.engadget.com/2007/07/09/new-york-city-to-get-london-style-surveillance-veil/
Randy, , Age: 40s
#2248
07/11/07
Data on Americans mined for terror risk
As if we needed another reason to keep yourself out of databases as much as possible...
URL #1: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070711/ap_on_go_ca_st_pe/fbi_data_mining
Everett, , Age: 55
As if we needed another reason to keep yourself out of databases as much as possible...
URL #1: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070711/ap_on_go_ca_st_pe/fbi_data_mining
Everett, , Age: 55
#2247
07/11/07
Nothing to Hide!?
The link below is to a research paper (for download in pdf), by an associate professor at George Washington University Law School, that takes on the task of refuting the ever prevalent "I have nothing to hide" argument in its various forms.
URL #1: http://ssrn.com/abstract=998565
Sean, , Age: 34
The link below is to a research paper (for download in pdf), by an associate professor at George Washington University Law School, that takes on the task of refuting the ever prevalent "I have nothing to hide" argument in its various forms.
URL #1: http://ssrn.com/abstract=998565
Sean, , Age: 34
If you wish to avoid plowing through a lot of dry academic wording, jump to page 6.
#2245
07/09/07
SSN & state requirement
Hi,
I have an addopted diabetic daughter who is receiving her care and insulin supplies through Florida KidCare. She wasn't a US citizen until recently and now the state office is asking for us to get a SSN for her.
I have read HTBI and other e-books by Mr Luna and do not want to put my daughters into the system. We have their US passports now and can offer them that as ID.
Does anyone know how to proceed and what laws etc. that might help us?
Thank you, Paul.
paul, , Age: 47
Hi,
I have an addopted diabetic daughter who is receiving her care and insulin supplies through Florida KidCare. She wasn't a US citizen until recently and now the state office is asking for us to get a SSN for her.
I have read HTBI and other e-books by Mr Luna and do not want to put my daughters into the system. We have their US passports now and can offer them that as ID.
Does anyone know how to proceed and what laws etc. that might help us?
Thank you, Paul.
paul, , Age: 47
Remember, without an SSN, it will be extremely difficult to be employed by others. There will be complications when it comes to filing a tax return, etc.
#2244
07/09/07
Tracking via Debit/Credit Cards & Postal Records
JJL, I have two questions. First I read your response to Tina in FL. I want to know how a PI can track an employer-issued VISA/MC debit card using just last four numbers on the card and the employee's name? Is that where pretexting comes in? I've given my (trusted) assistant a VISA debit card and am now concerned her violent ex can use that card to track her to her new life and location. (She doesn't have anything else in her name and SS# (social) and worries about this card, too, because her name, DOB and last four of her social are on the bank account. She couldn't get a new social and her new name is attached to that old social. ) I'd like to tell her how to be more careful. Second, I (and my assistant) use a CMRA and, because I was concerned about their selling databases our info, I asked if they did. They said they didn't but that by law, they have to submit those form 1583s they make customers fill out to rent the mailbox to USPS. Can a PI or someone else find your CMRA address through the post office? Can someone still buy your forwarding address for $1? I know HBTI covers this but it's not real clear a CMRA PS 1583 is a way to find someone through USPS. Thanks.
April, , Age: 42
JJL, I have two questions. First I read your response to Tina in FL. I want to know how a PI can track an employer-issued VISA/MC debit card using just last four numbers on the card and the employee's name? Is that where pretexting comes in? I've given my (trusted) assistant a VISA debit card and am now concerned her violent ex can use that card to track her to her new life and location. (She doesn't have anything else in her name and SS# (social) and worries about this card, too, because her name, DOB and last four of her social are on the bank account. She couldn't get a new social and her new name is attached to that old social. ) I'd like to tell her how to be more careful. Second, I (and my assistant) use a CMRA and, because I was concerned about their selling databases our info, I asked if they did. They said they didn't but that by law, they have to submit those form 1583s they make customers fill out to rent the mailbox to USPS. Can a PI or someone else find your CMRA address through the post office? Can someone still buy your forwarding address for $1? I know HBTI covers this but it's not real clear a CMRA PS 1583 is a way to find someone through USPS. Thanks.
April, , Age: 42
There are a vast variety of PIs. Some are incompetent and a few are geniuses. The latter seldom reveal their methods, which may be illegal. As for CMRAs, some (like UPS Stores), keep all customers in a national database.
#2243
07/09/07
Re: Corporate Credit Cards w/Employee Name
JJL, thanks for updating my answer with your PI friend's responses. This is very helpful and my girlfriend is going to tell her employer, who is very concerned about spying, etc., what you said so she can take steps to protect us all. My friend's already pretty careful how and where she uses the debit card. But, because she was concerned about employees having any kind of ownership on the bank accounts, her employer uses a bank that doesn't record an employee's entire social (or, like I said, run their credit or checking account history). They're certain no one can find this account by running an employee's social through some database. We both agree we're going to be much more careful with our receipts in the future, too! We can't imagine a PI grabbing something I forgot to take out of a gas pump and using it to surveil our activities. It's creepy so your response serves as a warning for everyone to be more careful.
Tina, , Age: 40s
JJL, thanks for updating my answer with your PI friend's responses. This is very helpful and my girlfriend is going to tell her employer, who is very concerned about spying, etc., what you said so she can take steps to protect us all. My friend's already pretty careful how and where she uses the debit card. But, because she was concerned about employees having any kind of ownership on the bank accounts, her employer uses a bank that doesn't record an employee's entire social (or, like I said, run their credit or checking account history). They're certain no one can find this account by running an employee's social through some database. We both agree we're going to be much more careful with our receipts in the future, too! We can't imagine a PI grabbing something I forgot to take out of a gas pump and using it to surveil our activities. It's creepy so your response serves as a warning for everyone to be more careful.
Tina, , Age: 40s
#2242
07/09/07
Doctors and the SSN
The SSN is no longer "needed" by the doctor since almost all insurance has transitioned away from using the number as an identifier (at least on their insurance cards). But the REAL reason doctors and dentists want your Social Security Number is for financial reasons. If you fail to pay your bill, they can sell the debt (as they all do) to a collection agency for X amount on the dollar -- but only if they can provide the collector with a valid SSN. Otherwise, some collectors won't purchase the debt at all; and if they do, they will only pay pennies on the dollar (too hard to collect). The doctors and dentists offices want to make sure they have your SSN so they can sell your debt if you don't pay your bills. Period. No matter what else they tell you. Just say NO.
Mike, , Age: 47
The SSN is no longer "needed" by the doctor since almost all insurance has transitioned away from using the number as an identifier (at least on their insurance cards). But the REAL reason doctors and dentists want your Social Security Number is for financial reasons. If you fail to pay your bill, they can sell the debt (as they all do) to a collection agency for X amount on the dollar -- but only if they can provide the collector with a valid SSN. Otherwise, some collectors won't purchase the debt at all; and if they do, they will only pay pennies on the dollar (too hard to collect). The doctors and dentists offices want to make sure they have your SSN so they can sell your debt if you don't pay your bills. Period. No matter what else they tell you. Just say NO.
Mike, , Age: 47
#2241
07/09/07
NM Residents Using NM LLCs
My Dad lives in NM, Jean, and I've used him as my initial RA. BUT, I'll be setting up several LLCs for him and, at that point, we will both use RA services for our LLCs. I know this is in HBTI but I think it helps to hear it from an actually reader who's followed the steps in the book: Remember the primary reasons for using a NM LLC--privacy, facility and low launching and maintenance costs. In terms of privacy, I've tried and you really CAN'T find an NMLLC on the NMPRC site by searching under the names of organizers or RAs. You have to know the NAME of the LLC and that it's in NM to find it. No one has to know about your LLC unless there's a valid business reason to tell them (like titling property). With low filing fees and no annual report or franchise fees like in other state (like DE where I have two LLCs), NMLLCs are cheaper to own but not having to file annual reports or forms also assures privacy. If you're concerned about having the LLC be "in" NM because you live there, get a ghost address in another state (or get the Canary Islands address service), don't use your own name as the organizer (get a friend, relative or sibling to sign the docs or use only your first initial and last name) and buy RA services from an RA service provider. That way, you can still achieve your purposes without going outside NM to form your LLC and feel secure in having done so.
Wendy, , Age: 43
My Dad lives in NM, Jean, and I've used him as my initial RA. BUT, I'll be setting up several LLCs for him and, at that point, we will both use RA services for our LLCs. I know this is in HBTI but I think it helps to hear it from an actually reader who's followed the steps in the book: Remember the primary reasons for using a NM LLC--privacy, facility and low launching and maintenance costs. In terms of privacy, I've tried and you really CAN'T find an NMLLC on the NMPRC site by searching under the names of organizers or RAs. You have to know the NAME of the LLC and that it's in NM to find it. No one has to know about your LLC unless there's a valid business reason to tell them (like titling property). With low filing fees and no annual report or franchise fees like in other state (like DE where I have two LLCs), NMLLCs are cheaper to own but not having to file annual reports or forms also assures privacy. If you're concerned about having the LLC be "in" NM because you live there, get a ghost address in another state (or get the Canary Islands address service), don't use your own name as the organizer (get a friend, relative or sibling to sign the docs or use only your first initial and last name) and buy RA services from an RA service provider. That way, you can still achieve your purposes without going outside NM to form your LLC and feel secure in having done so.
Wendy, , Age: 43
#2240
07/09/07
To Amy in TN
Amy-We recently saw a new eye doc as well as a dentist. When I filled out the paperwork, I left the SSN blank. Of course, they asked for it.
I simply replied with a smile, "I don't give that out any more as we've already had our information stolen." (My husbands CPA affliation had several computers, containing SSNs, stolen. Thankfully, he hadn't given them his SSN but they didn't need to know that did they?)
I, on the other hand am stuck since my dental plan hasn't transitioned away from using the SSN.
As a parent, I feel it is incumbent that we take every measure we can to protect our 3 children from this unwanted invasion of privacy.
Theresa, , Age: 43
Amy-We recently saw a new eye doc as well as a dentist. When I filled out the paperwork, I left the SSN blank. Of course, they asked for it.
I simply replied with a smile, "I don't give that out any more as we've already had our information stolen." (My husbands CPA affliation had several computers, containing SSNs, stolen. Thankfully, he hadn't given them his SSN but they didn't need to know that did they?)
I, on the other hand am stuck since my dental plan hasn't transitioned away from using the SSN.
As a parent, I feel it is incumbent that we take every measure we can to protect our 3 children from this unwanted invasion of privacy.
Theresa, , Age: 43
#2238
07/09/07
New Mexico LLC
I live in New Mexico. Does it make sense to use a New Mexico LLC or should I look for a different state?
Jean, , Age: 60
I live in New Mexico. Does it make sense to use a New Mexico LLC or should I look for a different state?
Jean, , Age: 60
Use NM. (Just don't use yourself as the resident agent.)
#2237
07/09/07
Amy - #2233 - SSN @ Dr.
Just quietly fill in the forms they give you and don't fill in the SSN block (or draw a line across it)...they seldom check these for completness. OR...if you are concerned, give them XXX-XX-(your last 4 digits) and ans. as JJ mentioned, you are concerned about ID theft if asked. You can request that they show you in writing why they need the number. Ask what happens if you don't furnish your SSN.
Charlie, , Age: 62
Just quietly fill in the forms they give you and don't fill in the SSN block (or draw a line across it)...they seldom check these for completness. OR...if you are concerned, give them XXX-XX-(your last 4 digits) and ans. as JJ mentioned, you are concerned about ID theft if asked. You can request that they show you in writing why they need the number. Ask what happens if you don't furnish your SSN.
Charlie, , Age: 62
#2236
07/09/07
Diane Holland, #2231 Home Business
Diane may find the book "Cash from Square Foot Gardening" by Mel Bartholomew helpful. Regardless of the method of growing the vegetables, his ideas for marketing are good. There are many more ways to sell the produce than a farmers market.
John, , Age: 36
Diane may find the book "Cash from Square Foot Gardening" by Mel Bartholomew helpful. Regardless of the method of growing the vegetables, his ideas for marketing are good. There are many more ways to sell the produce than a farmers market.
John, , Age: 36
I agree with John, Diane. Get that book!
#2235
07/08/07
Corporate Credit Cards w/Employee Name
After hearing about a friend whose boyfriend had stalked her across the US by buying her social [Social Security number] and finding her bank accounts, credit cards, new cell phone, etc., a girlfriend of mine and I have been discussing whether it's possible to do that kind of thing with employer bank debit cards. These bank-issued cards (from her small employer) have the employee's name on them but the employee (whose credit/checking account history wasn't checked to get the card but the last four of her social and, we think, DOB, are on the employer's bank account to validate her if she or the employer has a question) isn't technically a signer on the account. My friend regularly monitors her credit reports and knows the account isn't there nor is it on her ChexSystems/Scan report but she wonders if there's some kind of database that tracks by transactions nationwide by name since, whenever she uses the card, her name appears on the receipt even though the card has the employer's name on it, too. Anyone know? (We know the employer and, probably, law enforcement, with the help of the employer can find info through the bank but we want to know if these cards, with Visa logos on them, are tracked some other way since they're debit cards.) Thanks!
Tina, , Age: 40s
After hearing about a friend whose boyfriend had stalked her across the US by buying her social [Social Security number] and finding her bank accounts, credit cards, new cell phone, etc., a girlfriend of mine and I have been discussing whether it's possible to do that kind of thing with employer bank debit cards. These bank-issued cards (from her small employer) have the employee's name on them but the employee (whose credit/checking account history wasn't checked to get the card but the last four of her social and, we think, DOB, are on the employer's bank account to validate her if she or the employer has a question) isn't technically a signer on the account. My friend regularly monitors her credit reports and knows the account isn't there nor is it on her ChexSystems/Scan report but she wonders if there's some kind of database that tracks by transactions nationwide by name since, whenever she uses the card, her name appears on the receipt even though the card has the employer's name on it, too. Anyone know? (We know the employer and, probably, law enforcement, with the help of the employer can find info through the bank but we want to know if these cards, with Visa logos on them, are tracked some other way since they're debit cards.) Thanks!
Tina, , Age: 40s
From a PI friend:
...
Answer:
1) Visa knows who the employee is, where she shops and what she buys. They
got this information from the vendor machines when she swipes the card and
from the Bank.
2) The bank knows who she is and can find out where she shops and what she
buys. That's why they took her name/DOB/SSN from the employer, to protect
him from fraud.
3) The employer knows or can find out where she shops and what she buys by
talking to the bank.
4) The receipt shows the employee's name because the card is exclusively
for that employee.
If the employee took a coworker's card, the receipt would show the co-worker's
name. The cards have limits on them so the employees can't put the employer
in the poor-house.
Bbr>
5) The employer's business credit is the record that is affected. The Employer's
account is responsible for the purchases; that is why the employee won't
find activity on their personal ChexSystem/Scan report or credit reports.
6) The databases that track the employee's purchases are at Visa and the
Bank.
PI's can get to her through the employer/bank/and, if I can get the card
number or a discarded receipt, Visa. The easiest/safest place to get information
about the employee is the Employer.
It's amazing how many people pay for fuel with credit cards and either forget
to take the receipt or discard it at the fuel pump garbage can.
...
Answer:
1) Visa knows who the employee is, where she shops and what she buys. They
got this information from the vendor machines when she swipes the card and
from the Bank.
2) The bank knows who she is and can find out where she shops and what she
buys. That's why they took her name/DOB/SSN from the employer, to protect
him from fraud.
3) The employer knows or can find out where she shops and what she buys by
talking to the bank.
4) The receipt shows the employee's name because the card is exclusively
for that employee.
If the employee took a coworker's card, the receipt would show the co-worker's
name. The cards have limits on them so the employees can't put the employer
in the poor-house.
Bbr>
5) The employer's business credit is the record that is affected. The Employer's
account is responsible for the purchases; that is why the employee won't
find activity on their personal ChexSystem/Scan report or credit reports.
6) The databases that track the employee's purchases are at Visa and the
Bank.
PI's can get to her through the employer/bank/and, if I can get the card
number or a discarded receipt, Visa. The easiest/safest place to get information
about the employee is the Employer.
It's amazing how many people pay for fuel with credit cards and either forget
to take the receipt or discard it at the fuel pump garbage can.
#2233
07/08/07
SS# in medical circumstances
I just ordered your book, but since we have an appointment with a new doctor coming up, I was hoping to get an answer to this asap. Do you have to give doctor's offices & hospitals your social security number or that of your children? I have always been told they require it, but with so many people in those offices, and VERY LITTLE protocol for security ~ even dentists & chiropractors and emergency room admissions all say they require it. What can a family with three kids do in these types of situations?
Amy, , Age: 33
I just ordered your book, but since we have an appointment with a new doctor coming up, I was hoping to get an answer to this asap. Do you have to give doctor's offices & hospitals your social security number or that of your children? I have always been told they require it, but with so many people in those offices, and VERY LITTLE protocol for security ~ even dentists & chiropractors and emergency room admissions all say they require it. What can a family with three kids do in these types of situations?
Amy, , Age: 33
If you have insurance or are using Medicaid, you may be stuck. Otherwise, you can often get around it by tactfully but firmly telling them that due to identity theft problems, they will need to assign you some OTHER number. It certainly won't hurt to TRY! Let me know how it turns out.
#2231
07/08/07
Home Business
I have a large back yard garden and I grow rare varieties of vegetables. I would like to make it into a viable business in which I sell my produce in the summers at local farm markets and to local restaurants. JJ, I know you recommend to skip the licenses but the applications to be a vendor at the farmer's market you do have to have some sort of license (on the application is listed nursery license, sales tax, etc.) Also I would not feel right if I was not paying my tax due if required by law. If I do need a license I will have a family member put it in their name, but I'm wondering for tax reporting purposes how I am going to work this all out. Who reports the income on the tax return? Am I just making his too complicated? Any reader that has experience in this area and would like to share would be appreciated.
Diane, , Age: 33
I have a large back yard garden and I grow rare varieties of vegetables. I would like to make it into a viable business in which I sell my produce in the summers at local farm markets and to local restaurants. JJ, I know you recommend to skip the licenses but the applications to be a vendor at the farmer's market you do have to have some sort of license (on the application is listed nursery license, sales tax, etc.) Also I would not feel right if I was not paying my tax due if required by law. If I do need a license I will have a family member put it in their name, but I'm wondering for tax reporting purposes how I am going to work this all out. Who reports the income on the tax return? Am I just making his too complicated? Any reader that has experience in this area and would like to share would be appreciated.
Diane, , Age: 33
Using a family member for the license should be okay, but why not have all payments made to YOU? If you follow the instructions on page 94 of the "Skip College: Go into business for yourself" e-book by setting up a three-initial business name, I think that will solve the tax problem. However, do check with your accountant first, to make sure.
#2227
07/06/07
Interesting Article
I dont have a question, just an interesting article to what extent the FBI is going to in shutting up librarians who want to talk about the fed's attempt at checking out our library info
URL #1: http://antifeds.com/2007/07/06/librarians-describe-life-under-an-fbi-gag-order/
Jason, , Age: 29
I dont have a question, just an interesting article to what extent the FBI is going to in shutting up librarians who want to talk about the fed's attempt at checking out our library info
URL #1: http://antifeds.com/2007/07/06/librarians-describe-life-under-an-fbi-gag-order/
Jason, , Age: 29
#2226
07/06/07
Re: FAA form (April)
To answer April, #2220, when getting your medical certificate you will have to fill out an FAA form. On that form you can skip the SSN requirement, use your ghost address, and possibly a varied name. As a student your medical certificate and your log book endorsement from an instructor is your "license". The FAA can cancel it if they find reason, but it is valid as soon as the doctor signs it.
It's also important to note that you'll need to be signed off every 90 days for unrestricted solo flight. You can solo in as little as 10 hours, though I wouldn't recommend using this privilege permanently until you have sufficient skills to pass the practical.
Jonathan, , Age: 28
To answer April, #2220, when getting your medical certificate you will have to fill out an FAA form. On that form you can skip the SSN requirement, use your ghost address, and possibly a varied name. As a student your medical certificate and your log book endorsement from an instructor is your "license". The FAA can cancel it if they find reason, but it is valid as soon as the doctor signs it.
It's also important to note that you'll need to be signed off every 90 days for unrestricted solo flight. You can solo in as little as 10 hours, though I wouldn't recommend using this privilege permanently until you have sufficient skills to pass the practical.
Jonathan, , Age: 28
#2225
07/06/07
#2221 Auto maint leaving a trail
YES, having your car maintained will leave a record, if its at a stealership, or a major brand service facility, (Goodyear, Penske, etc) or for a state emission test.
Just look at a CarFax report.
The report will list the name, location and phone # of the dealer and usually the report will include the state it was titled in and also the title #.
Stan, , Age: 42
YES, having your car maintained will leave a record, if its at a stealership, or a major brand service facility, (Goodyear, Penske, etc) or for a state emission test.
Just look at a CarFax report.
The report will list the name, location and phone # of the dealer and usually the report will include the state it was titled in and also the title #.
Stan, , Age: 42
#2223
07/06/07
FlexiSPY (Re: #2215)
FlexiSPY, and other tracking software like it, can only be installed on your cell phone by a person physically holding the phone (not counting the government's ability to turn the phone into a microphone or tracking device, but I'm talking civilians here). This, along with the fear of other forms of snooping (not to mention theft), is the reason I always have my cell phone on my person when I'm not at home (and if I have visitors over, even at home). I've see far too many people in various offices leaving their cell phones (and other valuable objects like car keys and wallets) sitting out in the open on their desks while they're away from their desks, just asking to have these things stolen or snooped through.
Drew, , Age: 30
FlexiSPY, and other tracking software like it, can only be installed on your cell phone by a person physically holding the phone (not counting the government's ability to turn the phone into a microphone or tracking device, but I'm talking civilians here). This, along with the fear of other forms of snooping (not to mention theft), is the reason I always have my cell phone on my person when I'm not at home (and if I have visitors over, even at home). I've see far too many people in various offices leaving their cell phones (and other valuable objects like car keys and wallets) sitting out in the open on their desks while they're away from their desks, just asking to have these things stolen or snooped through.
Drew, , Age: 30
#2222
07/05/07
EMP/Blastproof window film
Here's a fun remodeling option - for the paranoid.
URL #1: http://www.sciam.com/print_version.cfm?articleID=6670BF9B-E7F2-99DF-3EAC1C6DC382972F
Drake, , Age: 31
Here's a fun remodeling option - for the paranoid.
URL #1: http://www.sciam.com/print_version.cfm?articleID=6670BF9B-E7F2-99DF-3EAC1C6DC382972F
Drake, , Age: 31
#2221
07/05/07
Calling the Tow Truck
Does calling the tow truck or getting scheduled maintenance create a record attached to your car's VIN that sorta provides a way to track your whereabouts? Can I assume that membership in and use of a roadside assistance service will lead to my privacy being violated vis-a-vis databases?
Tina, , Age: 40s
Does calling the tow truck or getting scheduled maintenance create a record attached to your car's VIN that sorta provides a way to track your whereabouts? Can I assume that membership in and use of a roadside assistance service will lead to my privacy being violated vis-a-vis databases?
Tina, , Age: 40s
#2220
07/05/07
Student Pilot's License
Jonathan, do I have this straight? I can fly as a student pilot without my name being in the FAA database? Can you look up student pilots by name? How long can you stay a student pilot before you have to get a full license? Thanks!
April, , Age: 42
Jonathan, do I have this straight? I can fly as a student pilot without my name being in the FAA database? Can you look up student pilots by name? How long can you stay a student pilot before you have to get a full license? Thanks!
April, , Age: 42
#2219
07/05/07
New Car Tech
[Edited for length] WOA, Drake! This is creepy! ... I read that manufacturers want to put RFID chips on everything. Does anyone know if car parts contain them yet? Also, is LoJack or some kind of antitheft tech bad?
... I like new vehicles and can do it without the financing but I want to do it, too, without somebody being able to plug my VIN into some database and find out I'm at the beach or whatever! Please chime in if there's anything else I should know.
Tina, , Age: 40s
[Edited for length] WOA, Drake! This is creepy! ... I read that manufacturers want to put RFID chips on everything. Does anyone know if car parts contain them yet? Also, is LoJack or some kind of antitheft tech bad?
... I like new vehicles and can do it without the financing but I want to do it, too, without somebody being able to plug my VIN into some database and find out I'm at the beach or whatever! Please chime in if there's anything else I should know.
Tina, , Age: 40s
Yes, LoJack has a GPS, so avoid it. You should then be fine.
#2218
07/05/07
For Tina, #2213
"I want to know what kind of tech is in new cars I might not know about but SHOULD know about."
...
Sensors to detect if the headlights are on, if the safety belts are being used, how much weight is on the seats, how often the brakes are applied and the speed you are traveling when you use them, if scheduled maintenance is being performed, in what condition your airbags stand, whether your doors are unlocked.
...
"Which cars are the worst about this?"
...
All are or should be considered the same.
...
"Can I buy a new car without the tech installed or is it not optional at all?"
...
No. The technology is mainstream now and considered safety equipment and diagnostic tools.
...
Is it just US-made cars that have this tech?
... No. Welcome to the board.
Drake, , Age: 31
"I want to know what kind of tech is in new cars I might not know about but SHOULD know about."
...
Sensors to detect if the headlights are on, if the safety belts are being used, how much weight is on the seats, how often the brakes are applied and the speed you are traveling when you use them, if scheduled maintenance is being performed, in what condition your airbags stand, whether your doors are unlocked.
...
"Which cars are the worst about this?"
...
All are or should be considered the same.
...
"Can I buy a new car without the tech installed or is it not optional at all?"
...
No. The technology is mainstream now and considered safety equipment and diagnostic tools.
...
Is it just US-made cars that have this tech?
... No. Welcome to the board.
Drake, , Age: 31
The main item to avoid, Tina, is any car equipped with an option like OnStar. (These add a GPS and a MICROPHONE!)
... You can, or course, buy an older low-mileage car. My wife has a 1995 Madza 929 (the luxury model that was discontinued that year) with all the options, and loves it. Despite its 80K miles, it runs like a Swiss watch.
... You can, or course, buy an older low-mileage car. My wife has a 1995 Madza 929 (the luxury model that was discontinued that year) with all the options, and loves it. Despite its 80K miles, it runs like a Swiss watch.
#2217
07/05/07
Buying a Laptop at Best Buy
Just a personal story of my recent new laptop purchase from Best Buy. The clerk gave me the customer information form to fill out, and after I filled in mostly inaccurate information, he realized that it was the wrong form. After tearing that one up and spending about 7 minutes searching for the correct form, he finally just said "You know what? Forget it," and actually let me pay for the computer. I couldn't help but smile the entire time and think of this website.
Nick, , Age: 24
Just a personal story of my recent new laptop purchase from Best Buy. The clerk gave me the customer information form to fill out, and after I filled in mostly inaccurate information, he realized that it was the wrong form. After tearing that one up and spending about 7 minutes searching for the correct form, he finally just said "You know what? Forget it," and actually let me pay for the computer. I couldn't help but smile the entire time and think of this website.
Nick, , Age: 24
#2216
07/05/07
Private pilot license
Question #2212 asked if you can get your private pilots license without showing identification. The short answer is no, but there is a way you can fly yourself places without one.
As a student pilot, you can fly day or night, even in class B airspace with the right type of endorsements on your pilots license. Getting your medical/student pilot certificate isn't that difficult, and it appears SSN is not required. You can't carry passengers is basically the only restriction once signed off.
While you are still required to have a government issued ID, this could be as simple as a passport.
The address below answers the SSN requirement question. While it adds convenience, it is not required. On my pilots certificate SSN is marked "don't use", which means it doesn't show up in the FAA public databases.
On the other hand, everything else does and you will get flooded with postal junk mail - use your ghost address.
URL #1: http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/avs/offices/aam/ame/guide/app_process/app_history/item4/
Jonathan, , Age: 28
Question #2212 asked if you can get your private pilots license without showing identification. The short answer is no, but there is a way you can fly yourself places without one.
As a student pilot, you can fly day or night, even in class B airspace with the right type of endorsements on your pilots license. Getting your medical/student pilot certificate isn't that difficult, and it appears SSN is not required. You can't carry passengers is basically the only restriction once signed off.
While you are still required to have a government issued ID, this could be as simple as a passport.
The address below answers the SSN requirement question. While it adds convenience, it is not required. On my pilots certificate SSN is marked "don't use", which means it doesn't show up in the FAA public databases.
On the other hand, everything else does and you will get flooded with postal junk mail - use your ghost address.
URL #1: http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/avs/offices/aam/ame/guide/app_process/app_history/item4/
Jonathan, , Age: 28
#2215
07/05/07
Software that spies on people via their smart phone
"A product called 'FlexiSPY' is being legally sold which allows anyone (with the money to buy it) to invade the privacy of someone who uses a smart phone."
URL #1: http://fraudwar.blogspot.com/2007/07/should-it-be-legal-to-sell-software.html
Randy, , Age: 40s
"A product called 'FlexiSPY' is being legally sold which allows anyone (with the money to buy it) to invade the privacy of someone who uses a smart phone."
URL #1: http://fraudwar.blogspot.com/2007/07/should-it-be-legal-to-sell-software.html
Randy, , Age: 40s
#2214
07/05/07
Data Loss Incident Archive and Database
"In what has become a regular occurance, companies, universities, and various government entities are collecting your personal information (sometimes without your knowledge or consent), and subsequently letting it fall into the hands of the bad guys."
URL #1: http://attrition.org/dataloss/
Randy, , Age: 40s
"In what has become a regular occurance, companies, universities, and various government entities are collecting your personal information (sometimes without your knowledge or consent), and subsequently letting it fall into the hands of the bad guys."
URL #1: http://attrition.org/dataloss/
Randy, , Age: 40s
#2213
07/04/07
New Car Technologies
Hey, everybody. I'm new here and I'm reading a book that talks about how new cars have technology that invades privacy. I need a new car but before I buy one (which I will do cash like HBTI says), I want to know what kind of tech is in new cars I might not know about but SHOULD know about. Which cars are the worst about this? Can I buy a new car without the tech installed or is it not optional at all? Is it just US-made cars that have this tech? Anybody know? Thanx!
Tina, , Age: 40 something
Hey, everybody. I'm new here and I'm reading a book that talks about how new cars have technology that invades privacy. I need a new car but before I buy one (which I will do cash like HBTI says), I want to know what kind of tech is in new cars I might not know about but SHOULD know about. Which cars are the worst about this? Can I buy a new car without the tech installed or is it not optional at all? Is it just US-made cars that have this tech? Anybody know? Thanx!
Tina, , Age: 40 something
See #2218.
#2212
07/04/07
Traveling Abroad Privately
Does anyone know if there's a way to travel (by plane) internationally under an assumed name without having a private plane? Speaking of planes, can somebody get a private pilot's license without using their own name and whatever else is required? Or is it like getting a driver's license where you need to provide birth certificates and what have you? Thanks.
April, , Age: 42
Does anyone know if there's a way to travel (by plane) internationally under an assumed name without having a private plane? Speaking of planes, can somebody get a private pilot's license without using their own name and whatever else is required? Or is it like getting a driver's license where you need to provide birth certificates and what have you? Thanks.
April, , Age: 42
1. No. 2. No. 3. Yes.
#2207
07/04/07
No e-mail address
If you send me your e-mail address, I will give you another e-mail address where you can check on a possible solution.
Tammy, , Age: 22
If you send me your e-mail address, I will give you another e-mail address where you can check on a possible solution.
Tammy, , Age: 22
#2206
07/03/07
Re: April, Post # 2201
You might want to visit:
http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/VanDwellers/
Many of these folks have made a realistic science out of stealth living in their vehicles. They're a great group with lots of tips and useful information you can use.
Hope this helps!
URL #1: http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/VanDwellers/
Steven, , Age: 46
You might want to visit:
http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/VanDwellers/
Many of these folks have made a realistic science out of stealth living in their vehicles. They're a great group with lots of tips and useful information you can use.
Hope this helps!
URL #1: http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/VanDwellers/
Steven, , Age: 46
Note to readers: The link below will not give you any information unless you first join the group.
#2204
07/03/07
Antiforensics
(Oxymoron alert)
This article is a little long but interesting. It has to do with ways to make forensic tools used by law enforcement tech geeks useless, by causing the search for information to be to expensive, take too long to develop, or have the results end up too ambiguous. The legal argument is interesting.
... In a paper that appeared in the Journal of Digital Forensic Practice, Liu and coauthor Eric Van Buskirk flout the U.S. courts' faith in digital forensic evidence. Liu and Van Buskirk cite a litany of cases that established, as one judge put it, computer records’ "prima facie aura of reliability." One decision even said computer records were "uniquely reliable in that they were computer-generated rather than the result of human entries." Liu and Van Buskirk take exception.
"But forensic people don’t know how good or bad their tools are, and they’re going to court based on evidence gathered with those tools. You should test the validity of the tools you’re using before you go to court. That’s what we’ve done, and guess what? These tools can be fooled. We’ve proven that.
For any case that relies on digital forensic evidence, Liu says, "It would be a cakewalk to come in and blow the case up. I can take any machine and make it look guilty, or not guilty. Whatever I want."
URL #1: http://www.whitehatsec.com/home/resources/trade/07tradenews/062607CSO.html
Drake, , Age: 31
(Oxymoron alert)
This article is a little long but interesting. It has to do with ways to make forensic tools used by law enforcement tech geeks useless, by causing the search for information to be to expensive, take too long to develop, or have the results end up too ambiguous. The legal argument is interesting.
... In a paper that appeared in the Journal of Digital Forensic Practice, Liu and coauthor Eric Van Buskirk flout the U.S. courts' faith in digital forensic evidence. Liu and Van Buskirk cite a litany of cases that established, as one judge put it, computer records’ "prima facie aura of reliability." One decision even said computer records were "uniquely reliable in that they were computer-generated rather than the result of human entries." Liu and Van Buskirk take exception.
"But forensic people don’t know how good or bad their tools are, and they’re going to court based on evidence gathered with those tools. You should test the validity of the tools you’re using before you go to court. That’s what we’ve done, and guess what? These tools can be fooled. We’ve proven that.
For any case that relies on digital forensic evidence, Liu says, "It would be a cakewalk to come in and blow the case up. I can take any machine and make it look guilty, or not guilty. Whatever I want."
URL #1: http://www.whitehatsec.com/home/resources/trade/07tradenews/062607CSO.html
Drake, , Age: 31
#2203
07/03/07
Sidney, Glendora, CA Post
I checked out the site Sidney posted. I love it! It's cute as a button. Even if you would never spend so much on a camper-van the little video presentation is great.
John, , Age: 36
I checked out the site Sidney posted. I love it! It's cute as a button. Even if you would never spend so much on a camper-van the little video presentation is great.
John, , Age: 36
#2202
07/03/07
Previous vehicle owners
Re 2194. Richard, Detroit: In my state at least, one can look up a vehicle registration by plate, VIN, or owner name. While it may be true that "running a plate" will not directly reveal any previous owner, it DOES reveal the VIN and current owner. Looking up a vehicle registration by the VIN reveals all associated (even non-current) records, INCLUDING PREVIOUS OWNERS IN THIS STATE. (This was true several years ago, at least, when I had access to our vehicle registration records system. I suspect it is still true.)
Randy, , Age: 40s
Re 2194. Richard, Detroit: In my state at least, one can look up a vehicle registration by plate, VIN, or owner name. While it may be true that "running a plate" will not directly reveal any previous owner, it DOES reveal the VIN and current owner. Looking up a vehicle registration by the VIN reveals all associated (even non-current) records, INCLUDING PREVIOUS OWNERS IN THIS STATE. (This was true several years ago, at least, when I had access to our vehicle registration records system. I suspect it is still true.)
Randy, , Age: 40s
But more important, if a PI searchs the database using your name, it will only show up vehicles CURRENTLY licensed in your name.
#2201
07/02/07
Living Off the Grid
Is this safe for women? I mean, it sounds kinda scary to me...like living in your vehicle. A truck, bus, trailer, van...that's your vehicle. Does your ebook cover safety issues for women?
April, , Age: 42
Is this safe for women? I mean, it sounds kinda scary to me...like living in your vehicle. A truck, bus, trailer, van...that's your vehicle. Does your ebook cover safety issues for women?
April, , Age: 42
I discuss this, and also recommend the "Dirty Tricks for Savvy Chicks" eBook for more information.
#2200
07/02/07
Re: Shredding Old SIM Cards, Resetting Cell Phones
[Edited for length] I think the risk is high that someone will clone your old phone and use it to learn everything about you ... I think unless you've already decided to clone your old phone or whatever, you should shred the old card.
Wendy, , Age: 43
[Edited for length] I think the risk is high that someone will clone your old phone and use it to learn everything about you ... I think unless you've already decided to clone your old phone or whatever, you should shred the old card.
Wendy, , Age: 43
#2199
07/02/07
Off grid
Not exactly on the "QT", but I thought you would enjoy this "Westy"
URL #1: http://www.verdier.ca/
Sidney, , Age: 52
Not exactly on the "QT", but I thought you would enjoy this "Westy"
URL #1: http://www.verdier.ca/
Sidney, , Age: 52
And I did!
#2198
07/02/07
Good Password Changing Software
[Edited for length] Can somebody recommend software that changes site passwords every time I log into my bank accounts, credit card account, email, etc.?
Wendy, , Age: 43
[Edited for length] Can somebody recommend software that changes site passwords every time I log into my bank accounts, credit card account, email, etc.?
Wendy, , Age: 43
#2197
07/02/07
Single Member LLC Form
[Edited for length] Here's a free [operating agreement].
URL #1: http://www.allaboutlaw.com/index.cfm?index=forms122a&filename=form5110.htm&fta=1&topic=112&form_topic=Limited%20Liability%20Company&CFID=2428039&CFTOKEN=67187902&startrow=1
Wendy, , Age: 43
[Edited for length] Here's a free [operating agreement].
URL #1: http://www.allaboutlaw.com/index.cfm?index=forms122a&filename=form5110.htm&fta=1&topic=112&form_topic=Limited%20Liability%20Company&CFID=2428039&CFTOKEN=67187902&startrow=1
Wendy, , Age: 43
Although I am not impressed by the sample O.A., I pass it on as a starting point to the few readers who may possibly need one.
#2195
07/02/07
SIM card
Wendy, keep the SIM card; with inexpensive hardware and software, it can be rewritten. Would a clone of a phone be useful?
Sebastian, , Age:
Wendy, keep the SIM card; with inexpensive hardware and software, it can be rewritten. Would a clone of a phone be useful?
Sebastian, , Age:
#2194
07/02/07
auto title transfer to LLC
I've read your book 3 times and have slowly been taking steps to becoming completely invisible. I have two remaining big steps to take. The first is to get a prepaid phone -- lots of hints and suggestions on your Q&A section. The second is to transfer title of my vehicle to an LLC. Then I'll be ready to move. My question: to what extent am I at risk being the previous owner? In other words, the car is currently listed in my real name. To transfer it to an LLC -- any problems? I've invested a lot of money in the car and would rather not sell it and purchase a different one.
Richard, , Age: 55
I've read your book 3 times and have slowly been taking steps to becoming completely invisible. I have two remaining big steps to take. The first is to get a prepaid phone -- lots of hints and suggestions on your Q&A section. The second is to transfer title of my vehicle to an LLC. Then I'll be ready to move. My question: to what extent am I at risk being the previous owner? In other words, the car is currently listed in my real name. To transfer it to an LLC -- any problems? I've invested a lot of money in the car and would rather not sell it and purchase a different one.
Richard, , Age: 55
I once posed this question to a PI. He said when he "ran a plate," there was NO reference to previous owners.
#2193
07/02/07
Shredding Old SIM Cards, Resetting Cell Phones
I forgot to suggest, when posting the way to get a GoPhone anonymously, that, if there's a SIM card in your phone from old service, you ask for it and SHRED it in the cross or diamond cut shredder we should all own as part of getting invisible. That card contains a lot of information you don't want to get into other people's hands and you can't necessarily trust the CS personnel at the cellular service store to destroy it--at least before looking at the card to see what's on it! You should do this with ANY old SIM card. Then, before installing the new SIM, delete any info that's in the phone's memory that you don't want there and remove the battery to reset the phone. Otherwise, you run the risk of transferring old info to your new SIM card.
Wendy, , Age: 43
I forgot to suggest, when posting the way to get a GoPhone anonymously, that, if there's a SIM card in your phone from old service, you ask for it and SHRED it in the cross or diamond cut shredder we should all own as part of getting invisible. That card contains a lot of information you don't want to get into other people's hands and you can't necessarily trust the CS personnel at the cellular service store to destroy it--at least before looking at the card to see what's on it! You should do this with ANY old SIM card. Then, before installing the new SIM, delete any info that's in the phone's memory that you don't want there and remove the battery to reset the phone. Otherwise, you run the risk of transferring old info to your new SIM card.
Wendy, , Age: 43
#2192
07/02/07
Avoid ID theft and other online threats
Market Watch article: Frank Abagnale and other tech industry experts outline how they avoid ID theft and other online threats.
URL #1: http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/story.aspx?guid=%7BB97BC746-EDAA-402F-82A9-C2B14C5084BD%7D&print=true&dist=printTop
John, , Age: 39
Market Watch article: Frank Abagnale and other tech industry experts outline how they avoid ID theft and other online threats.
URL #1: http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/story.aspx?guid=%7BB97BC746-EDAA-402F-82A9-C2B14C5084BD%7D&print=true&dist=printTop
John, , Age: 39
#2191
07/02/07
Operating Agreement
Hi,
I will be appying for 2 LLC's. It was suggested to me that I should have an
Operating Agreement so that the first LLC could be the sole owner of the second LLC.
I went to the Internet but found it confusing. Is there a particular LLC Operating Agreement that I need to look for?
Mary, , Age:
Hi,
I will be appying for 2 LLC's. It was suggested to me that I should have an
Operating Agreement so that the first LLC could be the sole owner of the second LLC.
I went to the Internet but found it confusing. Is there a particular LLC Operating Agreement that I need to look for?
Mary, , Age:
I have never found a satisfactory operating agreement in a book or on the internet. I once needed one, years ago, and had a lawyer write it. Perhaps you should do the same. Either that, or write it up yourself in plain English.
#2190
07/02/07
Japanese cop exposes confidential information on 6,000 people using P2P software
"We spend a lot of MONEY protecting computer systems and the information in them. Despite this, information is stolen or compromised from computers, pretty frequently.
One reason for this is it only takes one person with access to compromise a system and its security."
URL #1: http://fraudwar.blogspot.com/2007/06/not-very-bright-japanese-cop-exposes.html
Randy, , Age: 45
"We spend a lot of MONEY protecting computer systems and the information in them. Despite this, information is stolen or compromised from computers, pretty frequently.
One reason for this is it only takes one person with access to compromise a system and its security."
URL #1: http://fraudwar.blogspot.com/2007/06/not-very-bright-japanese-cop-exposes.html
Randy, , Age: 45
#2189
07/02/07
A second look
Apologies to the deserving. Last entry should have said, Answer for April, note to Mary. Both the choice of phones and the method of reporting/choosing the area code for the new phone were sent as extra suggestions. Entering alternative information into a computer database by way of the anonymous computer screen is easier and less stressful for some people than looking the clerk in the face and hoping not to appear suspicious.
Drake, , Age: 31
Apologies to the deserving. Last entry should have said, Answer for April, note to Mary. Both the choice of phones and the method of reporting/choosing the area code for the new phone were sent as extra suggestions. Entering alternative information into a computer database by way of the anonymous computer screen is easier and less stressful for some people than looking the clerk in the face and hoping not to appear suspicious.
Drake, , Age: 31
#2188
07/02/07
Unclaimed Property
The link below demonstrates why we should keep an organized schedule of assets, and communicate regularly with the institutions that hold them.
URL #1: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2007/07/02/LOSTPROPERTY.TMP
Drake, , Age: 31
The link below demonstrates why we should keep an organized schedule of assets, and communicate regularly with the institutions that hold them.
URL #1: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2007/07/02/LOSTPROPERTY.TMP
Drake, , Age: 31
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