#1017
11/22/06
Guns, Lasers
Reference to prior shotgun laser posts. Surveying multiple gun toting law agent friends, each concurred unanimously that use of laser, over non-use, will freeze a suspect cold; they won't be running but will fully comprehend that if you fire you will hit. And that freezes them as they see the dot on their chest. Also, per suggestion a 357 mag 2" barrel with bird shot load makes about a 3' pattern at close distance; and one loud "call for help" distinct noise. A military friend of mine entered his own home late one night to hear the action on his own semiauto 9mm chamber a shell within inches of his head. It stopped him cold in pitch darkness. He is thankful his wife recognized his gasp of shock. Choice of weapon is personal, but she was fully prepared and willing.
Steve, , Age: 53
Reference to prior shotgun laser posts. Surveying multiple gun toting law agent friends, each concurred unanimously that use of laser, over non-use, will freeze a suspect cold; they won't be running but will fully comprehend that if you fire you will hit. And that freezes them as they see the dot on their chest. Also, per suggestion a 357 mag 2" barrel with bird shot load makes about a 3' pattern at close distance; and one loud "call for help" distinct noise. A military friend of mine entered his own home late one night to hear the action on his own semiauto 9mm chamber a shell within inches of his head. It stopped him cold in pitch darkness. He is thankful his wife recognized his gasp of shock. Choice of weapon is personal, but she was fully prepared and willing.
Steve, , Age: 53
#1016
11/22/06
Re: David, Galena, AK
[Edited for length] Interesting that a cop would officially say to empty your gun. I would not have guessed that to be the correct answer, even if that were the way I felt.
Personally, I prefer to save a round or two just in case there is another guy! But I have been warned NOT to reload; indicates you did more than just react to the threat ...
Roger, , Age: 43
[Edited for length] Interesting that a cop would officially say to empty your gun. I would not have guessed that to be the correct answer, even if that were the way I felt.
Personally, I prefer to save a round or two just in case there is another guy! But I have been warned NOT to reload; indicates you did more than just react to the threat ...
Roger, , Age: 43
#1015
11/22/06
E-mail insecurity?
Think someone is reading your e-mail? Check the link below:
URL #1: http://labnol.blogspot.com/2005/12/is-anyone-else-reading-your-email.html
jon, , Age: 33
Think someone is reading your e-mail? Check the link below:
URL #1: http://labnol.blogspot.com/2005/12/is-anyone-else-reading-your-email.html
jon, , Age: 33
#1014
11/22/06
zabasearch
If you look around zabasearch website enough, you will find the following link to an interesting article
URL #1: http://writ.news.findlaw.com/ramasastry/20050512.html
Larry, , Age: 51
If you look around zabasearch website enough, you will find the following link to an interesting article
URL #1: http://writ.news.findlaw.com/ramasastry/20050512.html
Larry, , Age: 51
#1013
11/22/06
ZabaSearch is getting grumpy
Our old nemesis, Zabasearch.com, is changing their game rules. Last year I could write them to have my name, unlisted phone and address removed, and they complied. This year, my info reappeared with them, but the link to contact them seems to have been removed from their website. I wrote to their old address but received zero response. Does anyone have any good ideas to solve this problem, without having to move?
URL #1: http://ZabaSearch.com
Lewis, , Age: 60
Our old nemesis, Zabasearch.com, is changing their game rules. Last year I could write them to have my name, unlisted phone and address removed, and they complied. This year, my info reappeared with them, but the link to contact them seems to have been removed from their website. I wrote to their old address but received zero response. Does anyone have any good ideas to solve this problem, without having to move?
URL #1: http://ZabaSearch.com
Lewis, , Age: 60
#1012
11/22/06
Renters in Dallas suburb must show ID
Farmers Branch, a suburb of Dallas, prohibits illegal immigrants from renting apartments and will require landlords to demand proof of citizenship starting in January. We have a large number of illegal migrant workers here in NC; how long before this becomes the standard practice everywhere?
URL #1: http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1738862/posts
Doug, , Age: 26
Farmers Branch, a suburb of Dallas, prohibits illegal immigrants from renting apartments and will require landlords to demand proof of citizenship starting in January. We have a large number of illegal migrant workers here in NC; how long before this becomes the standard practice everywhere?
URL #1: http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1738862/posts
Doug, , Age: 26
It's already here in many places because I consider the demand for a Social Security number to be worse than the mere requirement for proof of citizenshipo (e.g., a passport).
#1011
11/22/06
addresses & utilities
I loved your book and will give a copy to everyone in my family! I boil things down to security vs. convenience. I like to think I'm in the middle-getting closer to security. Moving is way too inconvenient, but I have taken steps to change addresses. How do I deal with the utility companies? I've given them a new mailing address. They still need to know the service address. They have a typo in my name, I will let them know of. Are there any other ideas?
Jim, , Age: 43
I loved your book and will give a copy to everyone in my family! I boil things down to security vs. convenience. I like to think I'm in the middle-getting closer to security. Moving is way too inconvenient, but I have taken steps to change addresses. How do I deal with the utility companies? I've given them a new mailing address. They still need to know the service address. They have a typo in my name, I will let them know of. Are there any other ideas?
Jim, , Age: 43
If you prefer not to move, then you have a tough job ahead. One option is to get a nominee--someone who will "rent" your home and go around changing everything into his or her name. In return, I suggest you pay them a bedrock minimum of $1,000. Actually, $2500 would be better and that's still cheaper than moving!
#1009
11/21/06
Shotgun for women
I am responding to the earlier comment you made about having a laser on the shotgun, and that a woman might only have to pump the gun, put the laser on the intruder, and he would run. Yes, that might be true. I recall, though, when, about twenty years ago, I applied for a carry licence in New York City. The cop who interviewed me casually asked me what I would do if I was asleep in my bed , and a teenage girl came through my window from the fireescape. She was going through my wallet on my desk, and I thought she might have a gun in her belt. He asked if, when I pulled my gun, what should I say to her to get her to leave? The answer was, by his account - you don't say anything, you empty six shots into her midchest. He said if I wasn't able to make that decision, I wasn't getting a licence. His point was, he said, that I am not trained to hold off an intruder until the police arrive, or shoot to wound her. If I pull my gun, I must kill her.
Now, I agree that their are certainly grey areas in home defense, but I never forgot his point - and I think it is a firm place to start. So, if you are asking a woman (or a man) to hold a shotgun on somebody, you are inviting injury or death on the victim. I believe the best advice is to shoot to kill. If someone gets enough training, and feels comfortable holding someone at bay - or waiting a short time to see if they'll flee - then that is fine. For beginners, though, empty your gun. I would be interested to hear what others think.
david, , Age: 48
I am responding to the earlier comment you made about having a laser on the shotgun, and that a woman might only have to pump the gun, put the laser on the intruder, and he would run. Yes, that might be true. I recall, though, when, about twenty years ago, I applied for a carry licence in New York City. The cop who interviewed me casually asked me what I would do if I was asleep in my bed , and a teenage girl came through my window from the fireescape. She was going through my wallet on my desk, and I thought she might have a gun in her belt. He asked if, when I pulled my gun, what should I say to her to get her to leave? The answer was, by his account - you don't say anything, you empty six shots into her midchest. He said if I wasn't able to make that decision, I wasn't getting a licence. His point was, he said, that I am not trained to hold off an intruder until the police arrive, or shoot to wound her. If I pull my gun, I must kill her.
Now, I agree that their are certainly grey areas in home defense, but I never forgot his point - and I think it is a firm place to start. So, if you are asking a woman (or a man) to hold a shotgun on somebody, you are inviting injury or death on the victim. I believe the best advice is to shoot to kill. If someone gets enough training, and feels comfortable holding someone at bay - or waiting a short time to see if they'll flee - then that is fine. For beginners, though, empty your gun. I would be interested to hear what others think.
david, , Age: 48
#1008
11/21/06
Implantable RFID Chips & '08 Election?
It's disturbing to think that someone who worked at the FDA, approved an RFID device for use on humans, then went to work on the board of the RFID company, is now planning on running for president in 2008.
And this quote I found humorously hypocritical, but who blame the guy: "Ironically, Thompson himself has not yet received a microchip implant despite what must be extraordinary pressure from the VeriChip Corporation."
URL #1: http://www.spychips.com/press-releases/tommy-thompson-pres-bid.html
Nick, , Age: 24
It's disturbing to think that someone who worked at the FDA, approved an RFID device for use on humans, then went to work on the board of the RFID company, is now planning on running for president in 2008.
And this quote I found humorously hypocritical, but who blame the guy: "Ironically, Thompson himself has not yet received a microchip implant despite what must be extraordinary pressure from the VeriChip Corporation."
URL #1: http://www.spychips.com/press-releases/tommy-thompson-pres-bid.html
Nick, , Age: 24
#1005
11/20/06
Re: pistol versus shotgun
For home defense, shotguns are great (except that they require use of both hands). While they certainly have greater force than a pistol, they also have much greater mass, which reduces the kick. At age 8 or so, my grandfather let me shoot his guns. The little .38 special had much more kick than his 12 gauge double barrel shotgun, as the pistol had so little mass. With force equaling mass times acceleration, if two guns have equivalent force, the heavier one will generally have less kick (acceleration). The purpose of lighter, smaller guns is for concealed carry. For accuracy and ease of use, bigger is better.
Eli, , Age: 22
For home defense, shotguns are great (except that they require use of both hands). While they certainly have greater force than a pistol, they also have much greater mass, which reduces the kick. At age 8 or so, my grandfather let me shoot his guns. The little .38 special had much more kick than his 12 gauge double barrel shotgun, as the pistol had so little mass. With force equaling mass times acceleration, if two guns have equivalent force, the heavier one will generally have less kick (acceleration). The purpose of lighter, smaller guns is for concealed carry. For accuracy and ease of use, bigger is better.
Eli, , Age: 22
#1004
11/20/06
Regarding Dirty Tricks for Chicks
JJ,
I think it is a great book. One exception I take with it is the debate over handgun for shotgun. I strongly disagree, not disrespect ladies, that the average woman can wield a shot gun. I did extensive research several years ago and while a shotgun, even a .410 gauge, has more thrust/velocity than my .357 S&W, the .357 can easily be brought to bear on an intruder by wife while a shotgun, no way.
It's true, strength aside, there is nothing more intimidating than the sound of a round being chambered in a pump shotgun. The average woman is let's say 5-5 140 lbs. That is one heavy gun to hold and then fire, especially the 12 gauge that was mentioned. Even an auto is going to knock a woman back off their feet with that kind of recoil.
Not to mention you could have a shell jam, especially with a pump whilst trying to shoot and chamber under that level of anxiety. I have jammed a shell myself just going to fast for the next clay pigeon. Of course on the pro side, you don't have to really aim a shotgun, just cover the barrel of the target and fire.
My vote is for the for the S&W model 686 7 shot, that's what I own. It can't jam because it's a revolver and you get an extra shot if you miss. It has plenty of stopping power, especially with hydroshocks.
Interested to hear others' viewpoints.
Good work JJ.
Dan
Dan, , Age: 37
JJ,
I think it is a great book. One exception I take with it is the debate over handgun for shotgun. I strongly disagree, not disrespect ladies, that the average woman can wield a shot gun. I did extensive research several years ago and while a shotgun, even a .410 gauge, has more thrust/velocity than my .357 S&W, the .357 can easily be brought to bear on an intruder by wife while a shotgun, no way.
It's true, strength aside, there is nothing more intimidating than the sound of a round being chambered in a pump shotgun. The average woman is let's say 5-5 140 lbs. That is one heavy gun to hold and then fire, especially the 12 gauge that was mentioned. Even an auto is going to knock a woman back off their feet with that kind of recoil.
Not to mention you could have a shell jam, especially with a pump whilst trying to shoot and chamber under that level of anxiety. I have jammed a shell myself just going to fast for the next clay pigeon. Of course on the pro side, you don't have to really aim a shotgun, just cover the barrel of the target and fire.
My vote is for the for the S&W model 686 7 shot, that's what I own. It can't jam because it's a revolver and you get an extra shot if you miss. It has plenty of stopping power, especially with hydroshocks.
Interested to hear others' viewpoints.
Good work JJ.
Dan
Dan, , Age: 37
I stand by a shotgun as the first choice, but I do thank you for your comments. If I ever update that report, I will mention the folks at Mossberg and their HS 410, designed for women. This .410 has a shortened stock with a thick recoil pad, and the grip has been moved closer to the trigger to accommodate smaller hands. Also, the gun comes with a laser sight and a spreader choke to give a wider field of fire at from five feet to twenty feet. There is no substitute for the sound of a pump and when the burglar is hit with a laser beam as well, he will most likely turn tail and run -- without the little lady having to pull the trigger even once.
#1003
11/20/06
LLC
If I don't plan on moving, are there still benefits and is it legal to change ownership of my home to a LLC?
Kellie, , Age: 33
If I don't plan on moving, are there still benefits and is it legal to change ownership of my home to a LLC?
Kellie, , Age: 33
Yes to both questions!
#1000
11/19/06
books
Is it possible to order books as regular books rather than e-books? Thanks
joel, , Age: 50
Is it possible to order books as regular books rather than e-books? Thanks
joel, , Age: 50
No, but you can order a printable version and thus print the book out.
#999
11/19/06
Wife want to mail order gifts
Have the stuff drop shipped! Let the seller send to the recipient and save the re-shipping costs.
Everett, , Age: 65
Have the stuff drop shipped! Let the seller send to the recipient and save the re-shipping costs.
Everett, , Age: 65
#997
11/18/06
opening an llc company
I am looking to open llc companies for my privacy and have businesses that I conduct and want to run without people suing me.
When I give my ss# TO THE BANK TELLER TO OPEN A BUSINESS ACCOUNT with a federal tax id #., won't people be able to find who I am?
john, , Age: 41
I am looking to open llc companies for my privacy and have businesses that I conduct and want to run without people suing me.
When I give my ss# TO THE BANK TELLER TO OPEN A BUSINESS ACCOUNT with a federal tax id #., won't people be able to find who I am?
john, , Age: 41
As I have said again and again, I recommend LLCs for holding title to real estate and vehicles, and other assets. Not for banking. and not for business, if privacy is what you are after.
... Asset protection is a separate field and for that, you do need some legal entities but also some expert help, as well as umbrella insurance.
... Asset protection is a separate field and for that, you do need some legal entities but also some expert help, as well as umbrella insurance.
#996
11/18/06
paying with gift cards
I can,t order any thing if paypal wont let me use an american express gift card.
Is there any other way to move forward with my request for your ebook.
josey, , Age: 36
I can,t order any thing if paypal wont let me use an american express gift card.
Is there any other way to move forward with my request for your ebook.
josey, , Age: 36
The easiest way to to have a friend order the ebook for you. Otherwise, there is an arrangement for either an ebook or an ereport to be sent to you but due to the extra work, it costs more money. If you mail a $20 bill (no checks or money orders) to Tenerife Trust, POB 466, Burlington, WA 98233, someone will e-mail you the .pdf file as an attachment. You can then read it online or print it out.
#995
11/18/06
New SSN
[Edited] I am considering requesting a new SSN.
Is it possible to obtain a legal name change in a non-discoverable manner?
URL #1: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10093.html
Elise, , Age: 53
[Edited] I am considering requesting a new SSN.
Is it possible to obtain a legal name change in a non-discoverable manner?
URL #1: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10093.html
Elise, , Age: 53
From the SS website: "Although Social Security does not routinely assign new numbers, we will do so when evidence shows you are being harassed or abused or your life is endangered."
... Unless you qualify, you cannot get a new SSN. And to qualify, you need to present police reports to prove your case.
... Unless you qualify, you cannot get a new SSN. And to qualify, you need to present police reports to prove your case.
#993
11/17/06
Mail order deliveries
Mr Luna:
I have followed HTBI guidelines very closely for the past 6 months; moved to a new state, rented discretely, have a PBM, never receive mail at home, and pay cash (etc). My problem is that my lovely wife wants to mail-order Christmas gifts, and she is insistent. My fear is that we will show-up on national databases as living in this new city and state (even if it is a PMB). The only solution I have found is what I would like your opinion about: I can pay with a discrete funding source and have the parcel deliveries arrive at our physical home address (no signature required) under a fake generic name (Joe Smith). This would seem better than using our actual name and shipping to the PBM.
Your thoughts on this are appreciated ...
Adam, , Age: 31
Mr Luna:
I have followed HTBI guidelines very closely for the past 6 months; moved to a new state, rented discretely, have a PBM, never receive mail at home, and pay cash (etc). My problem is that my lovely wife wants to mail-order Christmas gifts, and she is insistent. My fear is that we will show-up on national databases as living in this new city and state (even if it is a PMB). The only solution I have found is what I would like your opinion about: I can pay with a discrete funding source and have the parcel deliveries arrive at our physical home address (no signature required) under a fake generic name (Joe Smith). This would seem better than using our actual name and shipping to the PBM.
Your thoughts on this are appreciated ...
Adam, , Age: 31
You say that your "wife wants to mail-order Christmas gifts." I assume you mean she wants to ORDER gifts, right? The only problem is that you will then get on mail lists and will start getting catalogs etc. addressed to you at home in whatever name you gave. How about getting a P.O. box or a box at a CMRA in another town and then closing the account once the items come in?
#992
11/17/06
Email & Anonymous web surfing
To add to Iain's comments. If you are using a Mozilla-type browser (which I highly recommend) like Netscape, Firefox, etc., your ip address along with your hostname can be detected with javascript (yes... JavaScript). The latter can be very revealing if you name your computer BobSmithsComputer. Websites using Apache server can also reveal your ip address by using http environment variables such as REMOTE_ADDR even though you have java and javascript disabled. Bottom-line... if you want to stay anonymous while websurfing, use tor/privoxy, Firefox with NoScript plugin and name your computer something like; MyComputer.
URL #1: http://www.noscript.net
John, , Age: 51
To add to Iain's comments. If you are using a Mozilla-type browser (which I highly recommend) like Netscape, Firefox, etc., your ip address along with your hostname can be detected with javascript (yes... JavaScript). The latter can be very revealing if you name your computer BobSmithsComputer. Websites using Apache server can also reveal your ip address by using http environment variables such as REMOTE_ADDR even though you have java and javascript disabled. Bottom-line... if you want to stay anonymous while websurfing, use tor/privoxy, Firefox with NoScript plugin and name your computer something like; MyComputer.
URL #1: http://www.noscript.net
John, , Age: 51
#991
11/17/06
FASTMAIL
Just wanted to point out that the Fastmail service Iain from Reno, NV was refering to is http://fastmail.fm (as there are a few Fastmails out there). I've used the service in the past and, when they are not experiencing network outages as all mail providers do, they are one of the best webmail providers out there (IMHO, of course). Be sure to use their webmail site if you want your IP masked though.
... However: If you use a mail client such as Outlook to send and receive mail through them your IP will be revealed.
URL #1: http://fastmail.fm
Drew, , Age: 29
Just wanted to point out that the Fastmail service Iain from Reno, NV was refering to is http://fastmail.fm (as there are a few Fastmails out there). I've used the service in the past and, when they are not experiencing network outages as all mail providers do, they are one of the best webmail providers out there (IMHO, of course). Be sure to use their webmail site if you want your IP masked though.
... However: If you use a mail client such as Outlook to send and receive mail through them your IP will be revealed.
URL #1: http://fastmail.fm
Drew, , Age: 29
#990
11/17/06
Anonymizer
What does everyone think about using "Anonymizer" for hiding IP addresses and sending anonymous email?
Donald, , Age: 30
What does everyone think about using "Anonymizer" for hiding IP addresses and sending anonymous email?
Donald, , Age: 30
This has been discussed before. I never use it because I think it may not be as foolproof as some think. However, others assume it's OK. You decide.
#989
11/16/06
Email & Anonymous web surfing
Email: one email provider who does not reveal your IP address with the email is Fastmail. You must use their web client to do this. Of course if you abuse this you can be identified by Fastmail.
Anonymous web surfing: even using Tor your IP address can be revealed if you use Java. Browsers have options to turn off Java (note NOT Javascript).
Iain, , Age: 45
Email: one email provider who does not reveal your IP address with the email is Fastmail. You must use their web client to do this. Of course if you abuse this you can be identified by Fastmail.
Anonymous web surfing: even using Tor your IP address can be revealed if you use Java. Browsers have options to turn off Java (note NOT Javascript).
Iain, , Age: 45
#988
11/16/06
Email
Is there a safer email than Yahoo, MSN ...which doesn't send the IP info if I so choose?
George, , Age: 29
Is there a safer email than Yahoo, MSN ...which doesn't send the IP info if I so choose?
George, , Age: 29
The safest email is one which is run through a proxy server with a web
front end. Even with this, however, an IP address may still be traceable.
front end. Even with this, however, an IP address may still be traceable.
#987
11/15/06
Anonymous web surfing
Someone commented previously about using Tor/Privoxy for anonymous websurfing and I heartily endorse this recommendation. It's freeware and took me approximately 2 hours of intenet searching and fiddling to get it set up, but it works well. Tor stands for "The onion ring", indicating layers of protection.
Many websites trace your identity just by your IP address. For example, I turned on my computer and brought up amazon.com and the leading ad related to a recent purchase I made at amazon, even though I was not logged into the amazon website. Go to http://www.ioerror.us/ip/ to see what your IP address is. If you use Tor/Privoxy, this will change every time you use it.
You should use Foxfire for your web browser, not MS IE. The Vidalia bundle is available at vidalia-project.net
URL #1: http://www.eff.org
Billson, , Age: 43
Someone commented previously about using Tor/Privoxy for anonymous websurfing and I heartily endorse this recommendation. It's freeware and took me approximately 2 hours of intenet searching and fiddling to get it set up, but it works well. Tor stands for "The onion ring", indicating layers of protection.
Many websites trace your identity just by your IP address. For example, I turned on my computer and brought up amazon.com and the leading ad related to a recent purchase I made at amazon, even though I was not logged into the amazon website. Go to http://www.ioerror.us/ip/ to see what your IP address is. If you use Tor/Privoxy, this will change every time you use it.
You should use Foxfire for your web browser, not MS IE. The Vidalia bundle is available at vidalia-project.net
URL #1: http://www.eff.org
Billson, , Age: 43
(Note: I added http:// to the link you sent, so that it would work.)
... To all readers: Begin each link with "http://" please!
... To all readers: Begin each link with "http://" please!
#986
11/15/06
Name change
Is it possible to change one's name and still continue to use one's old name for a couple of years. Accessing US citizenship will permit me to change my name, however I do not wish to start using new name until I move. Can I still be licensed in old name until I move.
Kim , , Age: 38
Is it possible to change one's name and still continue to use one's old name for a couple of years. Accessing US citizenship will permit me to change my name, however I do not wish to start using new name until I move. Can I still be licensed in old name until I move.
Kim , , Age: 38
It isn't a matter of being "licensed." For passport and DL, you need to use your real name. Other than that, as long as you are not out to defraud anyone, I see no harm in using whatever name you wish ... as long as this doesn't get too confusing!
... Example: Some actors and authors use stage names, but all their friends know them by the name on their passports. (Note: Some have two names in the passport, the real one, followed by "also known as -- ")
... Example: Some actors and authors use stage names, but all their friends know them by the name on their passports. (Note: Some have two names in the passport, the real one, followed by "also known as -- ")
#984
11/15/06
Money Orders Suggestion
If you bank at a smaller bank, ask if they offer or could possibly offer FREE M.O.s to acct holders. One of our banks does so at all branches. It's fairly secure because we don't show ID or provide acct numbers to use the service. I make a point to have a checkbook (but not the actual acct number) in view, a written list of M.O.s needed & the cash to cover them when I get to the counter.
Ann, , Age: 31
If you bank at a smaller bank, ask if they offer or could possibly offer FREE M.O.s to acct holders. One of our banks does so at all branches. It's fairly secure because we don't show ID or provide acct numbers to use the service. I make a point to have a checkbook (but not the actual acct number) in view, a written list of M.O.s needed & the cash to cover them when I get to the counter.
Ann, , Age: 31
#982
11/14/06
Free land (almost!)
Hi,
I thought I would inform those readers who ask about real privacy in home ownership. There is a way to aquire abandoned real estate from the county property appraisers office for no cost except paying the property tax! I have aquired 3 houses this way by claiming them in the name of a NMLLC. Anyone can sign for it (just pay them a few bucks for the temporary sevice!) The only catch is you have to pay all current and back taxes and any govt. liens. Also you have to wait between 5 and 21 years to get full title depending on the state. You can also sell your claim to someone else and they continue the time for full title. Or just sell them the LLC!
It might take some time looking for an abandoned house that someone who died with no relatives to leave it to, just do your research.
Two of the homes I have were from people who died out of state and were not reported to the state the houses were in.
P.S. This is little known but totaly legal!
Zenon, , Age: 46
Hi,
I thought I would inform those readers who ask about real privacy in home ownership. There is a way to aquire abandoned real estate from the county property appraisers office for no cost except paying the property tax! I have aquired 3 houses this way by claiming them in the name of a NMLLC. Anyone can sign for it (just pay them a few bucks for the temporary sevice!) The only catch is you have to pay all current and back taxes and any govt. liens. Also you have to wait between 5 and 21 years to get full title depending on the state. You can also sell your claim to someone else and they continue the time for full title. Or just sell them the LLC!
It might take some time looking for an abandoned house that someone who died with no relatives to leave it to, just do your research.
Two of the homes I have were from people who died out of state and were not reported to the state the houses were in.
P.S. This is little known but totaly legal!
Zenon, , Age: 46
#981
11/14/06
WalMart money orders
Hi, The local Walmart here in Florida sells money orders for 46 cents. I usually use them to pay for utility bills at an authorized corner store that accepts Electric Co. payments. (No Charge!)
zenon, , Age: 46
Hi, The local Walmart here in Florida sells money orders for 46 cents. I usually use them to pay for utility bills at an authorized corner store that accepts Electric Co. payments. (No Charge!)
zenon, , Age: 46
#980
11/14/06
MONEY ORDERS (price)
[Shortened] Heard unconfirmed, that Walmart sells money orders for 23 cents. Is this correct?
Tommy, , Age: 49
[Shortened] Heard unconfirmed, that Walmart sells money orders for 23 cents. Is this correct?
Tommy, , Age: 49
Why not ask WalMart?
#978
11/14/06
re: need for CDL in driving large vehicles
One only needs a CDL if driving commercially. Many hobby race car drivers use Freightliner trucks to transport their cars and don't have CDLs (COMMERCIAL driving licenses). If they were using the trucks for profit (as a shipping business) they would need one though.
Eli, , Age: 22
One only needs a CDL if driving commercially. Many hobby race car drivers use Freightliner trucks to transport their cars and don't have CDLs (COMMERCIAL driving licenses). If they were using the trucks for profit (as a shipping business) they would need one though.
Eli, , Age: 22
#977
11/14/06
School bus yellow-- NOT?
I'm not absolutely positive of the current nature of this information, but my husband and I once had some friends who converted a school bus into their primary home, and I remember them telling us that they were required to paint it ANY OTHER COLOR besides "school bus yellow" in order to be legal. This may be something that only applies to Indiana, and it may be 20 years outdated, but you might want to look into the laws of your particular state before "hopping on the bus..." :-) Violating that particular law, if it exists, would absolutely draw unwanted attention!
Susan, , Age: 41
I'm not absolutely positive of the current nature of this information, but my husband and I once had some friends who converted a school bus into their primary home, and I remember them telling us that they were required to paint it ANY OTHER COLOR besides "school bus yellow" in order to be legal. This may be something that only applies to Indiana, and it may be 20 years outdated, but you might want to look into the laws of your particular state before "hopping on the bus..." :-) Violating that particular law, if it exists, would absolutely draw unwanted attention!
Susan, , Age: 41
Thanks for that excellent reminder, Susan. In some states, you can get away with just painting out the signs, but in many others, it is illegal to have "National School Bus Yellow" paint on a private bus. In any event, and especially when you are traveling in other states, you will eventually be stopped by a cop. Who needs this hassle? Use another color.
#976
11/13/06
Traveling in RVs
Here in Washington State, folks are buying used schoolbuses and using the same schoolbus yellow to blank out the former school name, repainting the wheels black, making sure that the bus looks good (no body damage, no signs of rust, and waxing it) and then tinting the windows (tinting the windows is paramount). No schoolbus ever gets pulled over by state DOT officials or local cops unless you do something stupid. Whatever you do, don't even think about "fiddling" with the flip out stop signs/header lights as these will draw the wrong kind of attention. If it's a CDL type of bus, you better have one on your person as well as a current DOT Physical and your SS card. But, under a certain GVW and you won't need these items. You can sail on past weigh stations, park in WalMarts and elsewhere. Probably not a good idea to pull into a KOA. Just be sure to not pull up to a Denny's, McDonald's or the like without calling first or they'll think your loaded down with 83 orders of french fries. I've had more than one Denny's suddenly turn out the lights when my three buddy's and I (each in our own schoolbus) pulled up at 10 PM. The inside of the vehicle can haul trash, or be converted for living (you might want to skip the chromed chimney on the roof). Keep it looking waxed and clean. Most folks will think you are working for a "drive out" service or a bus salesman. As far as a brand, stick to easy to service brands like Freightshaker or International. Most small towns have a Case IH dealer and most engine parts are interchangeable with current Internationals with the wet sleeve motors.
Charlie, , Age: 44
Here in Washington State, folks are buying used schoolbuses and using the same schoolbus yellow to blank out the former school name, repainting the wheels black, making sure that the bus looks good (no body damage, no signs of rust, and waxing it) and then tinting the windows (tinting the windows is paramount). No schoolbus ever gets pulled over by state DOT officials or local cops unless you do something stupid. Whatever you do, don't even think about "fiddling" with the flip out stop signs/header lights as these will draw the wrong kind of attention. If it's a CDL type of bus, you better have one on your person as well as a current DOT Physical and your SS card. But, under a certain GVW and you won't need these items. You can sail on past weigh stations, park in WalMarts and elsewhere. Probably not a good idea to pull into a KOA. Just be sure to not pull up to a Denny's, McDonald's or the like without calling first or they'll think your loaded down with 83 orders of french fries. I've had more than one Denny's suddenly turn out the lights when my three buddy's and I (each in our own schoolbus) pulled up at 10 PM. The inside of the vehicle can haul trash, or be converted for living (you might want to skip the chromed chimney on the roof). Keep it looking waxed and clean. Most folks will think you are working for a "drive out" service or a bus salesman. As far as a brand, stick to easy to service brands like Freightshaker or International. Most small towns have a Case IH dealer and most engine parts are interchangeable with current Internationals with the wet sleeve motors.
Charlie, , Age: 44
You may get by with this in Washington but what happens when you travel through other states? (See post from Susan, above.)
#973
11/13/06
Winston: 1-888-OPT-OUT
This 888 number is a super-annoying automated system. If you don't know what phone number they have "on file" for you, you will likely not even succeed at using it. I had absolutely no success. However, in teeny-weeny print on the back of most "preapproved" offers is an address to which you can write & accomplish the same thing. DH & I did this a while back. We stated only our complete legal names & that we no longer wished to receive offers of credit at any address in any state at any time. This has still cut out almost all the junk mail at all of the addresses we use/have used. IMPORTANT: Make sure you & your spouse (if any) both sign the letter or sign separate letters. Otherwise, the bureaus will send you a form asking for way more information than is normally needed to accomplish this. If you have a common name, however, you may end up having to furnish this information for identification's sake, anyway. Best of Luck!
Ann, , Age: 31
This 888 number is a super-annoying automated system. If you don't know what phone number they have "on file" for you, you will likely not even succeed at using it. I had absolutely no success. However, in teeny-weeny print on the back of most "preapproved" offers is an address to which you can write & accomplish the same thing. DH & I did this a while back. We stated only our complete legal names & that we no longer wished to receive offers of credit at any address in any state at any time. This has still cut out almost all the junk mail at all of the addresses we use/have used. IMPORTANT: Make sure you & your spouse (if any) both sign the letter or sign separate letters. Otherwise, the bureaus will send you a form asking for way more information than is normally needed to accomplish this. If you have a common name, however, you may end up having to furnish this information for identification's sake, anyway. Best of Luck!
Ann, , Age: 31
#972
11/13/06
In UK You Need a Fingerprint to Rent a Car
The UK is using the fear of terrorism to end privacy. The article alludes to the use of fingerprints to board and airplane, shop on the Internet and even purchase groceries.
Their passports are tied to a biometric system. Wonder how long it will take the US to implement this feature?
Don't forget to checkout the GUIDE TO BIOMETRICS link under the iris scan illustration.
URL #1: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/6129084.stm
John, , Age: 39
The UK is using the fear of terrorism to end privacy. The article alludes to the use of fingerprints to board and airplane, shop on the Internet and even purchase groceries.
Their passports are tied to a biometric system. Wonder how long it will take the US to implement this feature?
Don't forget to checkout the GUIDE TO BIOMETRICS link under the iris scan illustration.
URL #1: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/6129084.stm
John, , Age: 39
#971
11/13/06
Renter's Insurance
You say in your book that we should never have our real name paired with our real address. How do I handle getting renter's insurance since insurance companies require a real name, SS# and address?
Michelle, , Age: 27
You say in your book that we should never have our real name paired with our real address. How do I handle getting renter's insurance since insurance companies require a real name, SS# and address?
Michelle, , Age: 27
Personally, I have never carried renter's insurance. However, if you do, then consider that an exception to the rule.
#970
11/13/06
1-888-OPT-OUT
Does calling this number really work? Have your readers had success in eliminating pre-approved credit offers?
Winston, , Age: 64
Does calling this number really work? Have your readers had success in eliminating pre-approved credit offers?
Winston, , Age: 64
No reports from readers, so far.
#969
11/13/06
Canadian real estate for Americans
I've been looking at a couple of
vacation properties in Canada that I could buy with cash, and the real estate brokers
all seem to be fairly familiar with selling to US residents, but of course
they won't know the best ways to keep the transactions as private as
possible. Do you have any suggestions for resources?
Paul, , Age: 51
I've been looking at a couple of
vacation properties in Canada that I could buy with cash, and the real estate brokers
all seem to be fairly familiar with selling to US residents, but of course
they won't know the best ways to keep the transactions as private as
possible. Do you have any suggestions for resources?
Paul, , Age: 51
If a PI is searching for any property owned in your name, and if that property is in Canada, I very much doubt that it would even occur to him to search up there. Also, I think you can get by without giving your SSN. However, I'd like to hear from any U.S. readers who've purchased real estate in Canada.
#967
11/12/06
Simon Visa
A true anecdote: A friend won a Simon card and was using it at a local retail store. The "genius" clerk asked for ID when he produced the card. He complied and the clerk at first refused him because his name on the ID did not say "Simon Mall". I swear!
Jim, , Age: 56
A true anecdote: A friend won a Simon card and was using it at a local retail store. The "genius" clerk asked for ID when he produced the card. He complied and the clerk at first refused him because his name on the ID did not say "Simon Mall". I swear!
Jim, , Age: 56
#966
11/11/06
RE James Missoula, MT
In a previous post James asked about how you achieve privacy at a witness protection level. you responded with "illegaly." Is there any way to entice you to reveal it?
Michael, , Age: 22
In a previous post James asked about how you achieve privacy at a witness protection level. you responded with "illegaly." Is there any way to entice you to reveal it?
Michael, , Age: 22
No.
#965
11/11/06
Overseas banking?
Will your forthcoming e-report deal with overseas banking?
John Russell, , Age:
Will your forthcoming e-report deal with overseas banking?
John Russell, , Age:
There will be an appendix that covers banking in Europe but this will apply only to European readers. With the exception of Canada, I do not advocate foreign accounts for Americans (and by the way, the "e-report" is slowly turning into an e-book).
#964
11/11/06
Is it ok to use a ghost address with a P.O. box
When filling out the forums for a P.O. box could you use a ghost address? If you can what are the consequences risks etc.?
Scott Q, , Age: 28
When filling out the forums for a P.O. box could you use a ghost address? If you can what are the consequences risks etc.?
Scott Q, , Age: 28
If you have read my book, you know that I never advocate giving false information on an application for a P.O. box.
#962
11/09/06
Anonymous Prepaid MasterCard Gift Cards
I've seen many posts regarding people's frustration with prepaid credit cards not really being private, so I'd like to share with you what I've been using...prepaid MasterCard Gift Cards. They are truly anonymous -- I purchase them with cash at my local grocery store and then activate the card online. The only information required to activate the card is the card number, expiration date, and security code on the back of the card. No name or address is required. However, you can still be traced through your IP address or phone number (if you activate by phone). I activate my cards online, and I use the Tor/Privoxy combo when doing anything (except bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming music) on the Internet so that my real IP is not known. Unfortunately, these wonderful gift cards are only available in $25, $50, and $100 denominations and can only be purchased in certain stores (not online), but they're perfect for small purchases -- I typically use them when I shop online for books, CDs, etc.
URL #1: http://www.giftcardbalance123.com
Jodi, , Age: 29
I've seen many posts regarding people's frustration with prepaid credit cards not really being private, so I'd like to share with you what I've been using...prepaid MasterCard Gift Cards. They are truly anonymous -- I purchase them with cash at my local grocery store and then activate the card online. The only information required to activate the card is the card number, expiration date, and security code on the back of the card. No name or address is required. However, you can still be traced through your IP address or phone number (if you activate by phone). I activate my cards online, and I use the Tor/Privoxy combo when doing anything (except bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming music) on the Internet so that my real IP is not known. Unfortunately, these wonderful gift cards are only available in $25, $50, and $100 denominations and can only be purchased in certain stores (not online), but they're perfect for small purchases -- I typically use them when I shop online for books, CDs, etc.
URL #1: http://www.giftcardbalance123.com
Jodi, , Age: 29
#961
11/08/06
cheaper to rent?
Could you provide a citation for the quote from Bruce Williams about renting being cheaper than owning? I googled for it and couldn't find it, although perhaps it is not available online.
Based on my own research, I agree with you. Owning your home -- when you take into account all costs (including opportunity cost) and the historical rate of return in most areas-- is really not that great of an investment.
Nate, , Age: 29
Could you provide a citation for the quote from Bruce Williams about renting being cheaper than owning? I googled for it and couldn't find it, although perhaps it is not available online.
Based on my own research, I agree with you. Owning your home -- when you take into account all costs (including opportunity cost) and the historical rate of return in most areas-- is really not that great of an investment.
Nate, , Age: 29
Alththough I no longer remember where the quote from multi-millionaire talk show host Bruce Williams came from, I do know that he constantly preaches that renting is better than owning, at least if you have to finance the purchase rather than pay cash. I preach the same, although it is like a "voice crying in the wilderness."
#960
11/08/06
Fingerprinting Children
[Edited for length] I saw on the 700 Club a report about fingerprinting students. Their crap reason was to speed up lunch lines and to give the "convenience" of not having to keep up w/ meal and library cards. CA, IL, SC (NC?) were mentioned and receive funds from the feds. They said only about 1% of parents objected. They are doing just what Hitler did. Start w/ the children to bring about domination of the masses. It desensitizes the children to loss of privacy and later when they are asked to provide retinal data, DNA samples, or take the implanted RFID/? devices they will not hesitate ...
Tom, , Age: 27
[Edited for length] I saw on the 700 Club a report about fingerprinting students. Their crap reason was to speed up lunch lines and to give the "convenience" of not having to keep up w/ meal and library cards. CA, IL, SC (NC?) were mentioned and receive funds from the feds. They said only about 1% of parents objected. They are doing just what Hitler did. Start w/ the children to bring about domination of the masses. It desensitizes the children to loss of privacy and later when they are asked to provide retinal data, DNA samples, or take the implanted RFID/? devices they will not hesitate ...
Tom, , Age: 27
#959
11/08/06
Simon Cards
I buy the Simon cards at one of their mall locations. I have never been asked for my name or a signature, though I haven't purchased one in a couple of months. The only reason to ever register the card (& give a name & ghost address) is so online stores like Amazon can "verify" that the billing & shipping address/name match. I use a different name/e-mail every time I buy a new card & rotate between a few ghost addresses (friends, distant relations who live near & small businesses I patronize). This avoids those nosey purchase histories & suggested products. If they are making you sign for a "signature verification" now at the malls, just scribble something or sign the actual name to which you will register the card. I agree that purchasing a card with a credit card is a no-no. I included the link only so you guys can see how the cards work & see if there is a mall near you. BTW, DH is going to try using one of these while traveling internationally as an experiment for me. I will let you know how it works out. One more thing, I have used unregistered cards around town occassionally. Be prepared for uninformed clerks to stand cluelessly waiting for you to input your "PIN" (which you don't have, of course). Just tell them it works like a credit card & their computer will usually do the rest. Hope this clarifies some of the questions about using the Simon cards. The link below shows Simon Mall locations.
URL #1: http://www.simon.com/find_mall/
Ann, , Age: 31
I buy the Simon cards at one of their mall locations. I have never been asked for my name or a signature, though I haven't purchased one in a couple of months. The only reason to ever register the card (& give a name & ghost address) is so online stores like Amazon can "verify" that the billing & shipping address/name match. I use a different name/e-mail every time I buy a new card & rotate between a few ghost addresses (friends, distant relations who live near & small businesses I patronize). This avoids those nosey purchase histories & suggested products. If they are making you sign for a "signature verification" now at the malls, just scribble something or sign the actual name to which you will register the card. I agree that purchasing a card with a credit card is a no-no. I included the link only so you guys can see how the cards work & see if there is a mall near you. BTW, DH is going to try using one of these while traveling internationally as an experiment for me. I will let you know how it works out. One more thing, I have used unregistered cards around town occassionally. Be prepared for uninformed clerks to stand cluelessly waiting for you to input your "PIN" (which you don't have, of course). Just tell them it works like a credit card & their computer will usually do the rest. Hope this clarifies some of the questions about using the Simon cards. The link below shows Simon Mall locations.
URL #1: http://www.simon.com/find_mall/
Ann, , Age: 31
#957
11/08/06
Re. Simon Cards
If you want a Simon gift card without giving any personal info, go to 1 of the malls selling it(usually at the information desk) and simply buy one. They don't ask for any information although they ask you to sign your name electronically like when you use a credit card. The weird thing is I've bought at least 30 of them and I've have never been asked for my name. I just make a squiggly line for my signature.
John, , Age: 25
If you want a Simon gift card without giving any personal info, go to 1 of the malls selling it(usually at the information desk) and simply buy one. They don't ask for any information although they ask you to sign your name electronically like when you use a credit card. The weird thing is I've bought at least 30 of them and I've have never been asked for my name. I just make a squiggly line for my signature.
John, , Age: 25
#956
11/07/06
Erasing Web Tracks
I think your readers might be interested in the service mentioned in the article below.
URL #1: http://www.wired.com/news/technology/0,72063-0.html?tw=wn_index_1
Rich, , Age: 35
I think your readers might be interested in the service mentioned in the article below.
URL #1: http://www.wired.com/news/technology/0,72063-0.html?tw=wn_index_1
Rich, , Age: 35
#954
11/07/06
Private Pre-Paid Cell Phone
I recently purchased a cell phone from Alltel. I printed up a letter on letterhead I made myself, authorizing the "bearer" to open a pay-per-minute phone plan in the name of the corperation. I paid in cash for the minutes, connection fees, taxes and the cost of a phone. The staff looked at the letter, opened the account, returned the letter and I walked out with the phone.
John, , Age: 35
I recently purchased a cell phone from Alltel. I printed up a letter on letterhead I made myself, authorizing the "bearer" to open a pay-per-minute phone plan in the name of the corperation. I paid in cash for the minutes, connection fees, taxes and the cost of a phone. The staff looked at the letter, opened the account, returned the letter and I walked out with the phone.
John, , Age: 35
John, this is one of the better ideas I have run across in some time!
#953
11/07/06
Re. Simon Cards
I'd like to thank Ann for sharing the info about the Simon Card. A question for you: Besides the website, is it possible to find the card in any of the malls or stores and pay cash for it. The website gives locations of where the card is accepted but do not specify if it can be purchased there. It would be futile from a privacy stand point to pay for it on the web using our own credit card. Thanks.
Bill, , Age: 32
I'd like to thank Ann for sharing the info about the Simon Card. A question for you: Besides the website, is it possible to find the card in any of the malls or stores and pay cash for it. The website gives locations of where the card is accepted but do not specify if it can be purchased there. It would be futile from a privacy stand point to pay for it on the web using our own credit card. Thanks.
Bill, , Age: 32
#951
11/07/06
Regarding Ann
Ann, I gave up on prepaid credit cards some time ago because the Patriot Act requires you to give SSN to get prepaid cards now. The simon card is different?
Brian, , Age: 20
Ann, I gave up on prepaid credit cards some time ago because the Patriot Act requires you to give SSN to get prepaid cards now. The simon card is different?
Brian, , Age: 20
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