Viewpoints Industry Reports on Personal Medical Info Selling

(protect personal medical information)

There has been much in the news lately about big data companies selling personal information about consumers who may have signed up for membership programs, fundraising events and other like situations online. Viewpoints Industry reports on how this can mean the selling of personal medical information.

There are hundred of medical databases for sale to marketers. Personal data brokers and data miners are the top two types of businesses which would buy the names of people on these databases for mere pennies. And unaware consumers who browse online may find their name, address and interests posted in a database for a malady which they do not have. People spend more time online now and are more apt to share health data on a simple registration form. This is where data miners can scoop up personal medical data and sell it to the marketers. Viewpoints Industry TV notes that this is a huge plus for companies that want to pitch products.

While there are federal laws under HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) to protect personal health information, it only pertains to information shared with a health provider – not third parties. The best way to protect personal health and medical information is to not share it on any website asking for it. If asked to join a product trial for a health or medical item, ask for all disclosure papers, read carefully and do not sign up if there is something that raises questions about it. It’s your personal medical information. Protect it.


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How to Buy a New Computer for Less from Viewpoints Industry

Computers do not last as long now as they did before. To find and buy a new one, Viewpoints Industry proffers some suggestions about how to buy a new one for less.

A brand-new computer is much like a brand-new car. Everyone wants the latest, greatest model with all the bells and whistles. But no one wants to spend a lot of money to get it. Thrifty people know how to shop savvy for what they want for less money.

Consider what purpose the equipment is needed. If it is just for browsing the Internet, checking and replying to email, paying bills and other lightweight tasks, consider a computer with less bells and whistles.

Consider a refurbished laptop or desktop. Much like a previously-owned vehicle, it has been examined, cleaned up and problems are corrected. It runs just as well as a new one but costs far less. Conduct an Internet search on refurbished computer from the manufacturer desired.

Consider upgrading. Many desktops can be upgraded for far less than ditching the old and getting a new one. Add more memory to it or increase the hard drive space with an external drive. Ask friends and family who are computer smart for help.

Viewpoints Industry also suggests waiting for sales on the types of equipment wanted. These are when the best deals can be found and when consumers can save money of some spiffy new digital toys. Happy computer and laptop hunting, readers.

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Viewpoints Industry – Best Things to Buy in August

August is the month when back to school deals are sweet. It is also the month when summer clothing and bathing suits and the like go on sale. Viewpoints Industry reveals the best things to buy in August and what to avoid.

Check state websites for the tax-free weekend on back to school supplies. Florida’s was last weekend. The tax-free weekend can save families a bundle on school stationary supplies, clothing, uniforms, laptops and more. The state website should have a list of what is tax-free during this time.

Summer essentials and outdoor items are on sale now. This means bathing suits, shorts, lightweight shirts, sandals, beach and pool toys, beach towels and more. Sign up for email alerts from favorite catalog companies and save even more. Stock up for the remainder of the summer and early fall when the weather is still warm.

Avoid big ticket home appliances like washing machines and dryers, holiday items, smart phones and tablets, and travel plans for the holiday season. Labor Day and Black Friday are creeping up quickly and this is usually the better time to get a good deal on large home needs. Viewpoints Industry suggests taking advantage of summer sales both in the store and online. Stash the money saved into a savings or retirement account and feel better knowing that you saved twice.

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Viewpoints Industry Offers Tips for First Time Homebuyers

Buying a home for the first time is one of the biggest financial decisions anyone can make. There are many aspects to it that can boggle the most reasonable mind. Viewpoints Industry shares some tips for first time home buyers to help ease minds.

Young people, typically around age 30, are eager to find and buy their first home. Eagerly, they go online and find homes which seem affordable and are just what the buyer wants. But let’s take a look at what one needs to do first before hitting the Internet for that first dream home.

More than three-quarters of prospective home buyers are pre-qualified for a home loan. Yet many of those are not clear on the terms of the loan. Before getting pre-qualified, spend time hammering out a monthly home budget to see what is affordable without  having to scrape by. Find ways to cut back on spending such as eating more meals at home, taking lunch to work and skipping expensive coffee purchases.

How much of a down payment can be put on the home?  Typically, if less is put down, the private mortgage insurance is higher, interest rates are higher and closing costs are higher. Save as much as possible toward the down payment to reduce these fees.

Can one afford the monthly mortgage payment? How much will that be? Mortgage payments are not the same as rent. If the payment is late, fees incur. If one is more than 30 days late, the credit rating of that person takes a huge hit.

Viewpoints Industry also suggests regularly checking credit reports and scores during the lending process. Go online and find the best free resources for this, and to find the best calculators for determining mortgages and loans.


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Viewpoints Industry and the Value of Prepaid Debit Cards

There are different reasons as to why people use a prepaid debit card. Perhaps they wish to avoid using a standard bank or want to deposit a child’s allowance on a card. For some, this is a good option. Viewpoints Industry reviews the value of prepaid debit cards.

 Prepaid debit cards are safer to carry than cash, easier to use and allow a person to use it online when they have no other option. There are no overdraft fees with a prepaid card and everyone is approved. However, some of the cards come with a lot of fees and some of the rather hefty. Take time to research everything about the card before purchasing one and depositing money on it.

The money loaded on prepaid cards tripled between 2008 and 2012 as reported by Mercator Advisory Group, and the total is expected to more than double by the end of next year. Only 32% of the people who bought and used a prepaid card last year actually spent time reviewing the fees for it, according to a 2014 Pew study.

Fortunately, CardHub.com offers a guide for the top prepaid cards and their fees so possible users can find the best option. Having used a prepaid card for several years, this writer can vouch for their usefulness. Viewpoints Industry encourages readers to do the homework on prepaid cards to determine their value for your use. Not all cards are equal. Some are better than others. Follow the CardHub link above to find the prepaid card with the best terms.

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Viewpoints Industry and Borrowing from a 401(k) Plan

There are times when it is absolutely necessary to borrow from a 401(k) retirement plan. Viewpoints Industry shares the types of loans to take that won’t hurt you in the long run.

Keep in mind that some plans and some employers have set rules on taking a loan from a retirement plan. If you need to borrow money from the plan, it is best to know that you won’t lose your job soon and can pay it back within the timeline given. Payments are taken from your paycheck. That is something else to remember before taking money from a retirement plan. Always be sure to read all of the terms and conditions before signing on the line to borrow money from the plan.

If you find yourself out of work with a lot of credit card debt, consider borrowing from the plan to pay off the debt. But be sure there are enough funds in the plan to do this. If wanting the loan to buy a new car or home, traditional loans are better and the percentage rates are usually better.

The 401(k) loan is good for a short-term loan rather than a long-term loan. Viewpoints Industry suggests holding off from borrowing from a retirement plan if possible. The funds growing in the account will be needed when it is time to retire. With the economy still struggling to get on track and the job market looking iffy at best, save those funds for the future. Instead, go to a financial website like bankrate.com and see if there are any banks willing to compete to give you a better loan deal for your needs.

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Viewpoints Industry Sheds Light on Auto Insurance Discounts

The cost of owning a car or other vehicle keeps rising every year. From gas to maintenance to safety, where can the consumer catch a break? Viewpoints Industry suggests looking for discounts that the auto insurer may not know about and are worth asking for when it is time to renew.

Instead of living with the rate the auto insurer gives, start asking for the discounts which might be available and check regularly to be sure they are being given. Many people choose the auto pay option when renewing insurance plans. But do a little research on available discounts first and then call the agent to get them.

Daytime running lights – Auto makers General Motors, Toyota , Volvo, Mercedes-Benz or Subaru already have this option on newer cars. If your car has daytime running lights, be sure to mention this to the agent before renewal to request this discount.

Alumni discount -- Almost half of the nation’s insurers offer some type of discount if you or a spouse belongs to an alumni association, fraternities, sororities, or professional organizations. If you belong to one or more, ask if a discount is offered.

Anti-theft devices, anti lock breaks, military service, safe driving record, kids of driving age with excellent grades – these are some of the other discounts one can take advantage of. Viewpoints Industry TV also knows that it pays to have a good credit score since that is the one item most likely to reduce the rate in the first place.

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Viewpoints Industry and Why Low Cost Airlines Have Fans No Matter What

Southwest Airlines is a favorite for many regional fliers as it usually offers low fares and great customer service. It seems, however, that even though those fares are rising, its fans are still buying tickets. Viewpoints Industry provides some background about why low cost airlines have fans no matter what.

Great customer service is always appreciated. From friendly reps on the phone to always positive flight attendants, Southwest can’t go wrong here. Jet Blue is another low cost airline which its customers love no matter what.  Both airlines fly specific routes and are easy to work with if a flight needs changing and bag checked. It is easy to see on their websites what the total cost of a fare will be including all ancillary fees. Other airlines offer rock bottom fares but charge for the things every passenger wants: overhead space, a bottle of water or a can of soda, a pillow and perhaps one checked bag.

Viewpoints Industry TV notes that many business travelers will take the same airline to and from their desired destination and earn rewards with frequent flier clubs. Some use the regional low cost carrier of their choice for weekly commutes. These airlines have mastered the art of customer service and have earned the loyalty of consumers. And this is why they rank at the top of best low cost airlines lists.

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Viewpoints Industry Offers Tips about Buying Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a good bet if you are traveling overseas or on a cruise. But who can determine if one needs it or not? You can. Viewpoints Industry offers some tips about buying travel insurance.

There are four basic types of travel insurance:  trip-cancellation, baggage loss or damage, emergency medical care and accidental death. Do you need all of them?

Review all of the credit card policies you have to see which ones already offer travel insurance and what they cover. This is the best place to start since many cards have some type of coverage. Once you know what you need, it’s time to do some homework.

Baggage loss or damage and trip-cancellation are the most common reasons people buy travel insurance. Cruises can be cancelled days before departure. Bags can be misrouted easily enough. Be sure before you leave your house that you have some backup reimbursement to cover both.

Check homeowner’s and renter’s insurance to see if those types of insurance will cover any valuables (jewelry or electronics) on the trip.

Viewpoints Industry also recommends checking any health policies to see if and what they cover when traveling – especially overseas.

Go online and read as many reviews for the travel insurance company as possible then pick the one you think is best.

Once this information is known and you know what you might need while away, buy a policy that covers what you need and has an easy to access phone number to call when needed. Enjoy your trip knowing that you’re covered for a just in case possibility.

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Viewpoints Industry on ID Theft Vigilance

According to the Identity Resource Center, there have been 368 identity theft breaches so far this year. That number is up almost 19% from the same time last year. Viewpoints Industry reminds readers how they can be more vigilant to protecting their identity.

More than 10 million personal records have been exposed in 2014. The Bureau of Justice Statistics found that 16.6 million American adults experiences ID theft in 2012. The same agency reports that there were 6.8 million total non-fatal violent crimes during the same time.  These are astounding statistics to ponder. How can the average consumer better protect themselves from identity theft?

Change user name and passwords to financial and credit card companies every month or two. Use a strong password combo which is longer than 8 characters, contains numbers, small and capital letters and a variety of symbols for each account.

Create an email address from one of the free sites like Hotmail to collect junk email and sale notices.

Never give your Social Security Number to anyone who has no need for it such as on an employment application before being hired, in a doctor’s office or in a store.

Review financial and credit accounts every week to be sure every cent is one you spent and one someone else did not. If you find a discrepancy, contact the institution immediately.

Viewpoints Industry TV learns that is takes about 9 hours to clear up ID theft issues, and some people who’ve been affected spent more than a day doing so.  In order to prevent the aggravating hassle of ID theft, remain vigilant when checking accounts online and in person.

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Viewpoints Industry – Save Money on Air Conditioning Costs This Summer

Weather forecasters predict this summer to be one of the hottest on record across much of the country. This means electric bills will be sky high as we try to keep cool. Viewpoints Industry TV offers some tips on how to save money on air conditioning costs.

Programmable thermostats are inexpensive to buy and easy to set up. They regulate cooling costs by giving the consumer the ability to set a day and time to turn on and off the air conditioning. There are a good many options to choose from in local home stores. Another way to control A/C costs is to find an app which allows the user to turn the A/C on or off when home, at work or on vacation. Many cable providers now offer this kind of service. It can save the average home about $250 this summer.  Check with the local electric company to see if they offer a discount or rebate on either oft these two energy savers. For every degree we turn the temperature down to cool off, our bill goes up about $24.  If none of the above are in the family budget, close the blinds on the side of the home where the sun shines in during the day. This should cool it off fairly well. Viewpoints Industry also suggests to check on window and door caulking. Be sure it is sealing cool air in and hot air out. Save money on air conditioning costs this summer so there is more to spend on vacation.

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