Beware of Radio Shack

[news]

I have talked to several friends and clients who didnt have the original
packaging(who does after 1 month) after the products went bad/defective.
These incidents happened after 1 month or so ,and they flat out refused to
even grant a replacement or credit. These were computer components,
Notebook adaptors and stereo equipment. If you must buy from them,
Save the complete packaging in pristine condition for as long as the
warranty is in play.
If you dont, they will refuse you even an exchange. Keep this in mind
before you go there
and know that most larger retailers will promptly issue a credit at least
for defective products
not in original pristine packaging
CR

[Wes Groleau]

Post by news
I have talked to several friends and clients who didnt have the original
packaging(who does after 1 month) after the products went bad/defective.

I do. Anything high-value or fragile, I keep the original packing
long after warranty--in case I ever want to change addresses.

But I agree about Radio Shack in general. Not a great place to buy.

[Cindy Murray]

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by news
I have talked to several friends and clients who didnt have the original
packaging(who does after 1 month) after the products went bad/defective.

I do. Anything high-value or fragile, I keep the original packing
long after warranty--in case I ever want to change addresses.
But I agree about Radio Shack in general. Not a great place to buy.

I do, too. I have speakers that are 15 years old and we still have the
original packaging for them. Comes in very handy when we move, since we
usually trek long distances. Still have the boxes my computers came in,
too.

[Fuzzie Dice]

Post by Wes Groleau
But I agree about Radio Shack in general. Not a great place to buy.

They *used* to be. Back in the 80s I had a Tandy Color Computer 3 and also
bought stereo equipment from them and other computer stuff (including a PC
once). They used to make good on things, packaging or not. I have noticed
recently that they have went downhill over the years though. Such a shame.
My problems were that the staff weren't as well informed about their
products as the staff they used to have in the 80s.

[Wes Groleau]

Post by Fuzzie Dice

Post by Wes Groleau
But I agree about Radio Shack in general. Not a great place to buy.

They *used* to be. Back in the 80s I had a Tandy Color Computer 3 and also

!?! Back in the 80's, I bought TRS-80 model I
I also bought the schematics and dumped it
as soon as I discovered how incompetent the designers were.

Back in the 1980s was also the time when I asked for
a BNC connector, and the guy pointed at a wall that
I had already been looking at for a while. After
a little discussion, he finally pulled something
else off the hook, handed it to me, and said
"THIS is a CB connector!"

CoCo was later--and I have no clue whether it was
any good, because by then I was thoroughly prejudiced
against RS.

[gothika]

On Fri, 16 Jul 2004 12:39:10 -0500, Wes Groleau

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Fuzzie Dice

Post by Wes Groleau
But I agree about Radio Shack in general. Not a great place to buy.

They *used* to be. Back in the 80s I had a Tandy Color Computer 3 and also

!?! Back in the 80's, I bought TRS-80 model I
I also bought the schematics and dumped it
as soon as I discovered how incompetent the designers were.
Back in the 1980s was also the time when I asked for
a BNC connector, and the guy pointed at a wall that
I had already been looking at for a while. After
a little discussion, he finally pulled something
else off the hook, handed it to me, and said
"THIS is a CB connector!"
CoCo was later--and I have no clue whether it was
any good, because by then I was thoroughly prejudiced
against RS.

Radio Shack started going down hill back in the early 70's when they
finally dumped all of the Archer line(British) of electronic
components.
Used to be able to get just about any Cap/Transistor/SCR or any other
electronic component there.
Hasen't been that way for nearly 3 decades.

[Peter A Forbes]

Post by gothika
Radio Shack started going down hill back in the early 70's when they
finally dumped all of the Archer line(British) of electronic
components.
Used to be able to get just about any Cap/Transistor/SCR or any other
electronic component there.
Hasen't been that way for nearly 3 decades.

Seems strange that they should have depended on a UK sourced range, but we do
still have that kind of product range over here at other retailers (Maplins for
example) and the amateur constructor still lives here too.

Peter

--
Peter & Rita Forbes
***@easynet.co.uk
Engine pages for preservation info:
http://www.oldengine.org/members/diesel

[John Miles]

Post by Peter A Forbes

Post by gothika
Radio Shack started going down hill back in the early 70's when they
finally dumped all of the Archer line(British) of electronic
components.
Used to be able to get just about any Cap/Transistor/SCR or any other
electronic component there.
Hasen't been that way for nearly 3 decades.

Seems strange that they should have depended on a UK sourced range, but we do
still have that kind of product range over here at other retailers (Maplins for
example) and the amateur constructor still lives here too.
Peter

There was absolutely no correlation between Archer components and any
particular country of origin, including the UK. "Archer" was just one
of countless RS store brands, like Micronta, Realistic, Optimus, etc.

-- jm

------------------------------------------------------
http://www.qsl.net/ke5fx
Note: My E-mail address has been altered to avoid spam
------------------------------------------------------

[Watson A.Name - "Watt Sun, the Dark Remover"]

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Fuzzie Dice

Post by Wes Groleau
But I agree about Radio Shack in general. Not a great place to buy.

They *used* to be. Back in the 80s I had a Tandy Color Computer 3 and also

!?! Back in the 80's, I bought TRS-80 model I
I also bought the schematics and dumped it
as soon as I discovered how incompetent the designers were.
Back in the 1980s was also the time when I asked for
a BNC connector, and the guy pointed at a wall that
I had already been looking at for a while. After
a little discussion, he finally pulled something
else off the hook, handed it to me, and said
"THIS is a CB connector!"
CoCo was later--and I have no clue whether it was
any good, because by then I was thoroughly prejudiced
against RS.

The impression I got was that the CoCo was a toy. But I boguth a Model
100 and it was a toy, but it was a _portable_ toy. Cost me a thousand
dollars the week it came out.

Post by Wes Groleau
--
Wes Groleau
Measure with a micrometer, mark with chalk, and cut with an axe.

[Grinder]

Post by Fuzzie Dice

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Fuzzie Dice

Post by Wes Groleau
But I agree about Radio Shack in general. Not a great place to buy.

They *used* to be. Back in the 80s I had a Tandy Color Computer 3

and also

Post by Wes Groleau
!?! Back in the 80's, I bought TRS-80 model I
I also bought the schematics and dumped it
as soon as I discovered how incompetent the designers were.
Back in the 1980s was also the time when I asked for
a BNC connector, and the guy pointed at a wall that
I had already been looking at for a while. After
a little discussion, he finally pulled something
else off the hook, handed it to me, and said
"THIS is a CB connector!"
CoCo was later--and I have no clue whether it was
any good, because by then I was thoroughly prejudiced
against RS.

The impression I got was that the CoCo was a toy. But I boguth a Model
100 and it was a toy, but it was a _portable_ toy. Cost me a thousand
dollars the week it came out.

They never really got cheap. I'm glad mine lasted for the duration of
all my lab classes.

[Cindy Murray]

Post by Fuzzie Dice

Post by Wes Groleau
But I agree about Radio Shack in general. Not a great place to buy.

They *used* to be. Back in the 80s I had a Tandy Color Computer 3 and also
bought stereo equipment from them and other computer stuff (including a PC
once). They used to make good on things, packaging or not. I have noticed
recently that they have went downhill over the years though. Such a shame.
My problems were that the staff weren't as well informed about their
products as the staff they used to have in the 80s.

My biggest problem with Radio Shack is that I happen to be female, so
they automatically assume that I don't know what I'm talking about. I
happen to have a degree in Sound Technology (audio engineering), and I
know more about computers and electronics than a lot of men. Yet every
time I go in there, they act like they don't know what I'm talking about
and then they try to talk me into buying something else. Recent
example: I needed an RF converter to hook an old game system up to an
old tv that wasn't cable ready. I figured I could get a simple A/B
switch type converter for a couple of bucks at Radio Shaft. WRONG! The
guy had NO IDEA what I was talking about (I'm thinking, "this guy is a
moron!), so I explained the usage, and he tried to sell me this $60
converter that has inputs for Cable TV, Satellite dish, and video games,
etc., but STILL won't hook-up to the antenna. I suppose he was too
young (he was EARLY 20's), so maybe he doesn't remember that TVs used to
have antennas or that video games ever used anything besides an A/V
connector. At any rate, he couldn't seem to figure it out, and I
couldn't find what I was looking for in the store, so I drove 30 minutes
to the local True Value Hardware Store and found exactly what I needed
for approximately $2.

[Watson A.Name - "Watt Sun, the Dark Remover"]

Post by Fuzzie Dice

Post by Wes Groleau
But I agree about Radio Shack in general. Not a great place to buy.

They *used* to be. Back in the 80s I had a Tandy Color Computer 3 and also
bought stereo equipment from them and other computer stuff (including a PC
once). They used to make good on things, packaging or not. I have noticed
recently that they have went downhill over the years though. Such a shame.
My problems were that the staff weren't as well informed about their
products as the staff they used to have in the 80s.

My experience is that there is a constant turnover of salesdroids,
mainly because the pay isn't good. They are paid on a commission basis,
and if they don't sell a lot of high profit items like satellite dishes
and cellphones, then they don't make much money.

[John Halley]

Well, this is because they don't hire people anymore who know a thing about
the technology that they're pushing. They hire sales people who are paid to
get a sale no matter what.
It's like 7-11 and Checker Auto Parts. Fine for picking up a fuse, a
Twinkie, quart of oil.
Beyond that, you'd better find a good local electronics store.
Problem is, the good ol' parts stores are rapidly disappearing, at least
they are here in Denver.
Gateway - Gone. Krumps - Gone. Quest - Gone. Fistell's might still be
around, I'll have to check...
Theses are the places that you have to watch your step as you walk through
the aisles.
It was overwhelming. There was nothing you couldn't find!
I guess I'll just have to start an account with Digikey or Newark or Mouser.
--- Heavy sigh...---

The indignant one.
**************

"Fuzzie Dice" <***@nothere.comnot> wrote in message news:***@enews3.newsguy.com...
| Wes Groleau wrote:
| > But I agree about Radio Shack in general. Not a great place to buy.
|
| They *used* to be. Back in the 80s I had a Tandy Color Computer 3 and also
| bought stereo equipment from them and other computer stuff (including a PC
| once). They used to make good on things, packaging or not. I have noticed
| recently that they have went downhill over the years though. Such a shame.
| My problems were that the staff weren't as well informed about their
| products as the staff they used to have in the 80s.
|
|
|

[JS]

Post by John Halley
It was overwhelming. There was nothing you couldn't find!
I guess I'll just have to start an account with Digikey or Newark or
Mouser. --- Heavy sigh...---

Digikey is highly regarded round these parts.

[alpha_uma]

Post by JS

Post by John Halley
It was overwhelming. There was nothing you couldn't find!
I guess I'll just have to start an account with Digikey or Newark or
Mouser. --- Heavy sigh...---

Digikey is highly regarded round these parts.

I like DigiKey. Their "online chat" (live online tech help) is easy to use
and staffed by people who "know their stuff." If I don't feel like spending
half an hour browsing through their catalogs, I just click on "chat" and ask
them to look up something for me. They usually find something appropropriate
for me quickly. Shipping is lightning fast too. It took less than 2 days for
the package to arrive at my door (in Canada). I heard Mouser is cheaper, but
I don't buy a large enough quantity of a particular item anyway to make much
difference.

Al-U

[Rich Webb]

Post by JS

Post by John Halley
It was overwhelming. There was nothing you couldn't find!
I guess I'll just have to start an account with Digikey or Newark or
Mouser. --- Heavy sigh...---

Digikey is highly regarded round these parts.

At the risk of generating so much traffic that a favorite site gets
overwhelmed and unavailable... try www.findchips.com. They do a parallel
search, by part number, of 19 distributors -- the "usual suspects" plus
a few more I hadn't heard of before.

It's by part numbers only, not a parametric search, but if you already
have a part in mind -- need a couple hundred 8085s for that legacy
product? -- it's quite handy.

[Robert Baer]

Post by JS

Post by John Halley
It was overwhelming. There was nothing you couldn't find!
I guess I'll just have to start an account with Digikey or Newark or
Mouser. --- Heavy sigh...---

Digikey is highly regarded round these parts.

..and Mouser is better for quantity pricing; aqlmost as good as a disty.

[John Halley]

My personal experience with Digikey:
I was the official Parts Dude at a well-known company what makes door
security access thingies.
Surface-mount items mostly, but when I wanted it quick, it was Digi-Key.
I would get parts orders in at 4:30 Post Meridian Denver time and have the
merchandise by 10:30 Ante Meridian by FedEx the very next day.
Not bad, I think...

"JS" <***@huh.wha> wrote in message news:***@127.0.0.1...
| "John Halley" <***@dimensional.com> wrote in
| news:41434434$***@omega.dimensional.com:
|
| > It was overwhelming. There was nothing you couldn't find!
| > I guess I'll just have to start an account with Digikey or Newark or
| > Mouser. --- Heavy sigh...---
| >
|
| Digikey is highly regarded round these parts.

[Joe]

I've had no problems with digikey or mouser for parts. Both offer a pdf
file of their inventory.

When I was in Oklahoma, parts from mouser arrived the next day using the
normal UPS shipping. Digikey was less than a week. I'm sure it will be the
other way around now that I'm in Michigan.

Joe

Post by John Halley
Well, this is because they don't hire people anymore who know a thing about
the technology that they're pushing. They hire sales people who are paid to
get a sale no matter what.
It's like 7-11 and Checker Auto Parts. Fine for picking up a fuse, a
Twinkie, quart of oil.
Beyond that, you'd better find a good local electronics store.
Problem is, the good ol' parts stores are rapidly disappearing, at least
they are here in Denver.
Gateway - Gone. Krumps - Gone. Quest - Gone. Fistell's might still be
around, I'll have to check...
Theses are the places that you have to watch your step as you walk through
the aisles.
It was overwhelming. There was nothing you couldn't find!
I guess I'll just have to start an account with Digikey or Newark or Mouser.
--- Heavy sigh...---
The indignant one.
**************
| > But I agree about Radio Shack in general. Not a great place to buy.
|
| They *used* to be. Back in the 80s I had a Tandy Color Computer 3 and also
| bought stereo equipment from them and other computer stuff (including a PC
| once). They used to make good on things, packaging or not. I have noticed
| recently that they have went downhill over the years though. Such a shame.
| My problems were that the staff weren't as well informed about their
| products as the staff they used to have in the 80s.
|
|
|

[Watson A.Name - "Watt Sun, the Dark Remover"]

Post by Joe
I've had no problems with digikey or mouser for parts. Both offer a pdf
file of their inventory.

I got shorted by Mouser, ordered and paid for 100, got 50. They made up
for it tho. I still think Mouser is cheaper. But I've been getting a
lot of very cheap parts from Ebay.

Post by Joe
When I was in Oklahoma, parts from mouser arrived the next day using the
normal UPS shipping. Digikey was less than a week. I'm sure it will be the
other way around now that I'm in Michigan.

With Fedex, everything goes thru Memphis, so it shouldn't make any diff.
UPS I don't know. Fedex sucks IMHO. Nowadays, DHL is eating UPS' and
Fedex's lunch, and I hope they put Fedex out of business.

Post by Joe
Joe

Post by John Halley
Well, this is because they don't hire people anymore who know a

thing

Post by Joe
about

Post by John Halley
the technology that they're pushing. They hire sales people who are

paid

Post by Joe
to

Post by John Halley
get a sale no matter what.
It's like 7-11 and Checker Auto Parts. Fine for picking up a fuse, a
Twinkie, quart of oil.
Beyond that, you'd better find a good local electronics store.
Problem is, the good ol' parts stores are rapidly disappearing, at least
they are here in Denver.
Gateway - Gone. Krumps - Gone. Quest - Gone. Fistell's might still be
around, I'll have to check...
Theses are the places that you have to watch your step as you walk through
the aisles.
It was overwhelming. There was nothing you couldn't find!
I guess I'll just have to start an account with Digikey or Newark or

Mouser.

Post by John Halley
--- Heavy sigh...---
The indignant one.
**************
| > But I agree about Radio Shack in general. Not a great place to buy.
|
| They *used* to be. Back in the 80s I had a Tandy Color Computer 3

and

Post by Joe
also

Post by John Halley
| bought stereo equipment from them and other computer stuff

(including a

Post by Joe
PC

Post by John Halley
| once). They used to make good on things, packaging or not. I have

noticed

Post by John Halley
| recently that they have went downhill over the years though. Such

a

Post by Joe
shame.

Post by John Halley
| My problems were that the staff weren't as well informed about their
| products as the staff they used to have in the 80s.
|
|
|

[Bob Day]

"Watson A.Name - "Watt Sun, the Dark Remover"" <***@dslextreme.com> wrote in
message news:***@corp.supernews.com...
< snip >

Post by Watson A.Name - "Watt Sun, the Dark Remover"
With Fedex, everything goes thru Memphis, so it shouldn't make any diff.
UPS I don't know. Fedex sucks IMHO. Nowadays, DHL is eating UPS' and
Fedex's lunch, and I hope they put Fedex out of business.

I've always had very good luck with FedEx. It's UPS I try
to avoid.

-- Bob Day
http://bobday.vze.com

[kony]

On Thu, 16 Sep 2004 14:01:01 GMT, "Bob Day"

Post by Sal M. Onella
< snip >

Post by Watson A.Name - "Watt Sun, the Dark Remover"
With Fedex, everything goes thru Memphis, so it shouldn't make any diff.
UPS I don't know. Fedex sucks IMHO. Nowadays, DHL is eating UPS' and
Fedex's lunch, and I hope they put Fedex out of business.

I've always had very good luck with FedEx. It's UPS I try
to avoid.

Me too, Fedex always does best job here, a lot of the time I
ship out regular ground and it gets there next-day. They're
also cheaper than UPS if you ship pieces-at-a-time instead
of an account.

[Larc]

On Thu, 16 Sep 2004 14:01:01 GMT, "Bob Day" <***@yyyyyyy.com>
wrote:

|
| "Watson A.Name - "Watt Sun, the Dark Remover"" <***@dslextreme.com> wrote in
| message
| news:***@corp.supernews.com...
| < snip >
| > With Fedex, everything goes thru Memphis, so it shouldn't make any diff.
| > UPS I don't know. Fedex sucks IMHO. Nowadays, DHL is eating UPS' and
| > Fedex's lunch, and I hope they put Fedex out of business.
| >
|
| I've always had very good luck with FedEx. It's UPS I try
| to avoid.

Amen to that! NewEgg ships via FedEx and my stuff nearly always
arrives at least a day earlier than scheduled. :-)

Larc



§§§ - Change planet to earth to reply by email - §§§

[Watson A.Name - "Watt Sun, the Dark Remover"]

"John Halley" <***@dimensional.com> wrote in message news:41434434$***@omega.dimensional.com...
[snip]

Post by John Halley
I guess I'll just have to start an account with Digikey or Newark or Mouser.
--- Heavy sigh...---

I've found a lot of parts I need on Ebay. Lots cheaper than Digi-Key
and Mouser.

I used to go to Radio Scrap a lot more often, maybe once every two
weeks, but now I'm down to once ever few months. Last year, I got
burned so bad on some two line telephone sets (half the time the user
picked it up they couldn't hear anything) that I was very disappointed.
And with the salesdreoids always busy with some cell phone customer (it
takes them forever), I've walked out of the store after waiting ten or
15 minutes with no end in sight. Thanks, RS, you've made our day. :-(

Post by John Halley
The indignant one.

[snip]

[Mr. Uh Clem]

afraid to alter any dish to vegetarian tastes.

[snip sick recipe]

Watch out for these posts. They are part of an attack
on the news.admin.net-abuse.email newsgroup by an entity
known as "hipcrime". (google for it.)

Forged posts are made to various groups with the followup-to:
header set to news.admin.net-abuse.email. NANAE is being
bombarded directly and indirectly by the "WTF!", "I didn't
post that!", etc. responses. If you want to post a warning
to a group or groups, make sure you reset the headers
appropriately, or you will be aiding hipcrime in the DOS.

[_Vanguard_]

Post by Mr. Uh Clem

afraid to alter any dish to vegetarian tastes.

[snip sick recipe]
Watch out for these posts. They are part of an attack
on the news.admin.net-abuse.email newsgroup by an entity
known as "hipcrime". (google for it.)
header set to news.admin.net-abuse.email. NANAE is being
bombarded directly and indirectly by the "WTF!", "I didn't
post that!", etc. responses. If you want to post a warning
to a group or groups, make sure you reset the headers
appropriately, or you will be aiding hipcrime in the DOS.

While some NNTP clients will alert the user that the FollowUp-To header
has been used, many do not. Outlook Express does not. Seeing that a
poster is trying to disconnect replies to their post back into some
"home" group would be very helpful to me. If they don't want to
continue the discussion in the group in which I participate then my
group was not an appropriate or related group for their post in the
first place. In fact, I would love if OE had a rule that would check if
the FollowUp-To header were used and delete that post so I wouldn't even
be bothered to see it. But then I'd like to delete any posts with
"!mail2news" in the PATH header to eliminate seeing message from posters
using anonymous mail-to-news gateways. Of course, OE's rules suck so it
doesn't take much to get beyond its capabilities (oh, I've tried
Thunderbird and its rules suck as bad as OE's). Xnews had better rules
(defined in an external file) but have UI deficiencies and I came back
to OE.

If they post to a group where I visit and also to other groups, like to
their "home" group, then the post should have been related to every
group to which it was posted so it should have been cross-posted.
Cross-posting would eliminate the need for the FollowUp-To header since
the poster can view the replies in their home group while I can view
them in my group, and no one must necessarily subscribe to anyone else's
preferred group to continue or monitor the discussion. Anyone who uses
the FollowUp-To but does not announce that fact in their post should be
considered very rude and possibly attempting something nasty, like
redirecting replies to alt.test to avoid anyone in those groups seeing
the negative replies that the poster expects. Even if they announce it,
and because they chose to post in my group and I don't want to visit
their group or post over there (because I don't know if my reply would
really be appropriate over there), I'll use the FollowUp-To header (and
announce it) to subvert their use of the FollowUp-To header. Tit for
tat.

[Davoud]

Post by Mr. Uh Clem
Watch out for these posts.

How do I do that -- climb a tree, hide in the bushes? And what do I do
if I detect one?

Post by Mr. Uh Clem
They are part of an attack
on the news.admin.net-abuse.email newsgroup by an entity
known as "hipcrime". (google for it.)

Who gives a rat's kneecaps?

Post by Mr. Uh Clem
header set to news.admin.net-abuse.email. NANAE is being
bombarded directly and indirectly by the "WTF!", "I didn't
post that!", etc. responses. If you want to post a warning
to a group or groups, make sure you reset the headers
appropriately, or you will be aiding hipcrime in the DOS.

Aren't such posts kind of their own warning? Why would I want to call
further attention to them as you have done? Or do you love this sort of
thing because it makes you feel like a great public servant? Are you
in fact the perp, like a fireman-arsonist?

Davoud

[Mr. Uh Clem]

Post by Davoud

Post by Mr. Uh Clem
Watch out for these posts.

How do I do that -- climb a tree, hide in the bushes? And what do I do
if I detect one?

1. Ignore them.
2. Be aware of what is going on so as to post a denial/warning in your
groups as noted below.

Post by Davoud

Post by Mr. Uh Clem
They are part of an attack
on the news.admin.net-abuse.email newsgroup by an entity
known as "hipcrime". (google for it.)

Who gives a rat's kneecaps?

Good netizens. People who are interested in getting this
to stop.

Post by Davoud

Post by Mr. Uh Clem
header set to news.admin.net-abuse.email. NANAE is being
bombarded directly and indirectly by the "WTF!", "I didn't
post that!", etc. responses. If you want to post a warning
to a group or groups, make sure you reset the headers
appropriately, or you will be aiding hipcrime in the DOS.

Aren't such posts kind of their own warning?

Obviously not. The posts are a trap, they confuse people.
They annoy people. They trick people into making posts
such as "This was not sent by me.... I don't know how this
happened... I have no idea what gives" which have been
raining in on NANAE by the thousands. Tricked respondents
are then further confused when their posts disappear. The
volume and variety of responses implies that the splorgeries
have been posted all over the place, to the detriment of all.

Post by Davoud
Why would I want to call
further attention to them as you have done?

Posts on NANAE would be pointless and would stoke the ego of
the perp. Posts in other groups serve to inoculate the
groups against the attacks. People will know what is going
on and the attack will lose its power.

Post by Davoud
Or do you love this sort of
thing because it makes you feel like a great public servant?

I want to blunt the attacks. Your remark is uncalled for.

Post by Davoud
Are you in fact the perp, like a fireman-arsonist?
Davoud

No. Are you in fact an asshole?

If you need the obvious spelled out to you further,
someone else will have to do it. I'm outta this
thread.


-- This was not sent by me.... I don't know how this happened... I have
no idea
what gives
Clem
"If you push something hard enough, it will fall over."
- Fudd's first law of opposition

[p***@gmail.com]

Post by Davoud

Post by Mr. Uh Clem
Watch out for these posts.

How do I do that -- climb a tree, hide in the bushes? And what do I do
if I detect one?

Post by Mr. Uh Clem
They are part of an attack
on the news.admin.net-abuse.email newsgroup by an entity
known as "hipcrime". (google for it.)

Who gives a rat's kneecaps?

Post by Mr. Uh Clem
header set to news.admin.net-abuse.email. NANAE is being
bombarded directly and indirectly by the "WTF!", "I didn't
post that!", etc. responses. If you want to post a warning
to a group or groups, make sure you reset the headers
appropriately, or you will be aiding hipcrime in the DOS.

Aren't such posts kind of their own warning? Why would I want to call
further attention to them as you have done? Or do you love this sort of
thing because it makes you feel like a great public servant? Are you
in fact the perp, like a fireman-arsonist?

Dude, the guys at NANAE are the good guys. They're sysadmins working
against spam. NANAE is a clearinghouse for up to date information
regarding the lastest sources of spam. hipcrime is trying to lower the
signal to noise ratio and make NANAE less effective through the
mechanisms Mr. Uh Clem wrote.

Don't be an dick.

'cid 'ooh

[Noozer]

Post by Mr. Uh Clem

afraid to alter any dish to vegetarian tastes.

[snip sick recipe]
Watch out for these posts. They are part of an attack
on the news.admin.net-abuse.email newsgroup by an entity
known as "hipcrime". (google for it.)
header set to news.admin.net-abuse.email. NANAE is being
bombarded directly and indirectly by the "WTF!", "I didn't
post that!", etc. responses. If you want to post a warning
to a group or groups, make sure you reset the headers
appropriately, or you will be aiding hipcrime in the DOS.

Just another example that it is way overdue to rewrite most of the protocols
in use on the internet today. POP3, SMTP, NNTP, DHCP, DNS, etc... all need
to be more secure. All need to better identify the source and allow admins
to control what gets onto their networks.

[Martin]

Post by news
I have talked to several friends and clients who didnt have the original
packaging(who does after 1 month) after the products went bad/defective.
These incidents happened after 1 month or so ,and they flat out refused to
even grant a replacement or credit. These were computer components,
Notebook adaptors and stereo equipment. If you must buy from them,
Save the complete packaging in pristine condition for as long as the
warranty is in play.
If you dont, they will refuse you even an exchange. Keep this in mind
before you go there
and know that most larger retailers will promptly issue a credit at least
for defective products
not in original pristine packaging
CR
--
http://QLiner.com
Well, dinner would have been splendid... if the wine had been as cold as the
soup, the beef as rare as the service, the brandy as old as the fish, and
the maid as willing as the Duchess. - Winston Churchill

And maybe some day you will have a loft full of boxes with no use.

[mike]

Post by news
I have talked to several friends and clients who didnt have the original
packaging(who does after 1 month) after the products went bad/defective.
These incidents happened after 1 month or so ,and they flat out refused to
even grant a replacement or credit. These were computer components,
Notebook adaptors and stereo equipment. If you must buy from them,
Save the complete packaging in pristine condition for as long as the
warranty is in play.
If you dont, they will refuse you even an exchange. Keep this in mind
before you go there
and know that most larger retailers will promptly issue a credit at least
for defective products
not in original pristine packaging
CR

If it's an exchange, use the box from the replacement to return the old one.
mike

[Bob Day]

Post by news
I have talked to several friends and clients who didnt have the original
packaging(who does after 1 month) after the products went bad/defective.
These incidents happened after 1 month or so ,and they flat out refused to
even grant a replacement or credit.

Take it up with them in small claims court.

-- Bob Day

[Gnarlodious]

I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy
to take SS# during a checkout, even for cash. He also told me I had no right
to tell customers not to publicly announce their SS# while in line. The
argument escalated and the manager called the police.

I got out of there real quick.

I then wrote a series of emails to Radio Shack corporate management
complaining about this "Official Policy" and the treatment this manager had
given me. The Customer Relations executive apologized and promised to clean
up the mess. I went back to the store 3 months later and that manager was
gone and the policy had been changed.

The point is, if you have a gripe get active! Radio Shack was responsive in
my case and they certainly can be in your case too.

[Wes Groleau]

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."

But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

[Sal M. Onella]

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."

< snip >

It must just be some stores (or maybe big-ticket purchases). I just bought
something at RS today and nobody wanted anything but the money.

[kony]

On Thu, 15 Jul 2004 18:28:27 -0500, Wes Groleau

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

How long since your last visit?

I recall they often asked me, but heard that their official
policy had changed, that all stores specifically do _NOT_ require
any info whatsoever for cash purchases.

[MCheu]

Post by kony
On Thu, 15 Jul 2004 18:28:27 -0500, Wes Groleau

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

How long since your last visit?
I recall they often asked me, but heard that their official
policy had changed, that all stores specifically do _NOT_ require
any info whatsoever for cash purchases.

It varies by the store, but according to one store manager at a local
store a month ago, it's official policy and their point of sale system
requires the clerk to enter a customer's personal information (no
matter how payment is done, or what is bought). The excuse given to
me is that it's for warrranty purposes, though that's BS, because they
don't warranty batteries or electronic components.

However, at other stores where the staff seems to have gotten an IQ,
they've figured out that while the information needs to be entered, it
doesn't need to be accurate. RS Corporate HQ's database probably
shows that Anne Nonymous, Jean Cretien, and Paul Martin buy an
inordinate amount of RS crap from stores all over Canada.


---------------------------------------------

MCheu

[gothika]

Post by MCheu

Post by kony
On Thu, 15 Jul 2004 18:28:27 -0500, Wes Groleau

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

How long since your last visit?
I recall they often asked me, but heard that their official
policy had changed, that all stores specifically do _NOT_ require
any info whatsoever for cash purchases.

It varies by the store, but according to one store manager at a local
store a month ago, it's official policy and their point of sale system
requires the clerk to enter a customer's personal information (no
matter how payment is done, or what is bought). The excuse given to
me is that it's for warrranty purposes, though that's BS, because they
don't warranty batteries or electronic components.
However, at other stores where the staff seems to have gotten an IQ,
they've figured out that while the information needs to be entered, it
doesn't need to be accurate. RS Corporate HQ's database probably
shows that Anne Nonymous, Jean Cretien, and Paul Martin buy an
inordinate amount of RS crap from stores all over Canada.
---------------------------------------------
MCheu

The laws in the US are such that the customer Doesn't have to give any
info that could be used in an invasive manner.
Any store clerk or manager that says otherwise is full of crap.
All you have to do is stand your ground.
The clerk will then usually enter the stores address and number into
the register.

I've pretty much quit using their crap products anyhow.(Just bought
little things like connectors and jacks etc...)
In the past few months they've changed their inventory scheme where
you have to purchase 2-3 of the same item just to get one and their
unit prices have gone through the roof to boot.
It wouldn't be so bad if their products were of any measure of
quality, mostly very poor crap.(The last sub-mini stereo headphone
jack I purchased their lasted about 2 months then came apart at the
seams. A bad deal when you consider it cost me nearly 4 bucks US.)
Purchased a replacement jack at a local parts supply house for 1.49
and got a quality Switchcraft all metal crome and stainless jack
that'll probably outlast the cord it's soldered to.

[DevilsPGD]

Post by gothika
The laws in the US are such that the customer Doesn't have to give any
info that could be used in an invasive manner.

Sure, but the company isn't forced to do business with you either. You
both have a choice.

[jim]

Post by DevilsPGD

Post by gothika
The laws in the US are such that the customer Doesn't have to give any
info that could be used in an invasive manner.

Sure, but the company isn't forced to do business with you either. You
both have a choice.

Yes they both have a choice but a customer does not have to give ANY
information if the transaction is a cash transaction. RS has asked me
for the usual and I simply tell them no, nothing else other than no. If
the cashier strats to question it i simply tell him no once more a
little louder and that usually takes care of the matter. When they bring
up the warranty spiel I tell them simply thats what the receipt is and
they don;t need anyting else from me.

As for SS#, a customer never has to give out their social security
number on anything other than a government situation, banking, credit.
anyone else that asks for it you can refuse. If it is used for an
identification # like a local supermarket was doing for their frequent
shoppers club, that is simply illegal as the SS# can not be used for
identification numbers for anyone othert than the government. I simply
refuse to give it to anyone.

I know they can get it by a simple credit report but I like giving them
a hard time when they have no business asking for the information.

[DevilsPGD]

Post by jim

Post by DevilsPGD

Post by gothika
The laws in the US are such that the customer Doesn't have to give any
info that could be used in an invasive manner.

Sure, but the company isn't forced to do business with you either. You
both have a choice.

Yes they both have a choice but a customer does not have to give ANY
information if the transaction is a cash transaction.

You don't have to give any information for any type of transaction, cash
or not.

If you choose to not provide any information, the store can refuse to
sell you their product. Cash or not, you can't force them to sell you
their product.

The cash element is completely irrelevant.

[Chief Wild Eagle]

I was in Best Buy recently and they were asking all customers -- both
cash and credit card -- for their phone numbers at every sale.

Customers didn't seem to mind giving the info.





On Sun, 18 Jul 2004 06:05:11 GMT, DevilsPGD

Post by DevilsPGD

Post by jim

Post by DevilsPGD

Post by gothika
The laws in the US are such that the customer Doesn't have to give any
info that could be used in an invasive manner.

Sure, but the company isn't forced to do business with you either. You
both have a choice.

Yes they both have a choice but a customer does not have to give ANY
information if the transaction is a cash transaction.

You don't have to give any information for any type of transaction, cash
or not.
If you choose to not provide any information, the store can refuse to
sell you their product. Cash or not, you can't force them to sell you
their product.
The cash element is completely irrelevant.

[D.F. Manno]

Post by Chief Wild Eagle
I was in Best Buy recently and they were asking all customers -- both
cash and credit card -- for their phone numbers at every sale.
Customers didn't seem to mind giving the info.

Maybe because they were giving them incorrect numbers. I might do that
if the merchant insisted a phone number was required.

Most times, though, when asked for my phone number, I ask why it's
needed. The merchant usually drops the request at that point.

[Keeper of the Purple Twilight]

In article

Post by D.F. Manno

Post by Chief Wild Eagle
I was in Best Buy recently and they were asking all customers -- both
cash and credit card -- for their phone numbers at every sale.
Customers didn't seem to mind giving the info.

Maybe because they were giving them incorrect numbers. I might do that
if the merchant insisted a phone number was required.
Most times, though, when asked for my phone number, I ask why it's
needed. The merchant usually drops the request at that point.

I never give any store my phone number. I don't know if they are even
allowed to demand it, but I'm sure as trout not obligated to give it.
I just say "I don't have a phone" and leave it at that. (Which is
technically true, since I have no landline, just a cell)

I remember once I walked into Radio Shack to buy a $2 cable and they
insisted on my name and address. I told them "James T. Kirk of the
Starship Enterprise". They wrote it down!!!!!!!!! :)

[Bill B.]

One of my favorite names to give out is Nikolai Rimsky-Korsokov. "Can
you spell it please?" No. "Can I see your ID to get the information?"
F*CK NO!

Radio Shack, aka "The Shack," is one of the worst companies ON THE
PLANET to work for. I did time with them this past November and December
to make a little extra Xmas spending cash. The only thing about the
whole deal that I don't consider a waist of time is that now I know I'll
never work for them again.

They were trying to get away with paying Texas min wages in California.
Texas (where they are HQ'd) has a significantely lower m/w than CA.

Post by Keeper of the Purple Twilight
In article

Post by D.F. Manno

Post by Chief Wild Eagle
I was in Best Buy recently and they were asking all customers -- both
cash and credit card -- for their phone numbers at every sale.
Customers didn't seem to mind giving the info.

Maybe because they were giving them incorrect numbers. I might do that
if the merchant insisted a phone number was required.
Most times, though, when asked for my phone number, I ask why it's
needed. The merchant usually drops the request at that point.

I never give any store my phone number. I don't know if they are even
allowed to demand it, but I'm sure as trout not obligated to give it.
I just say "I don't have a phone" and leave it at that. (Which is
technically true, since I have no landline, just a cell)
I remember once I walked into Radio Shack to buy a $2 cable and they
insisted on my name and address. I told them "James T. Kirk of the
Starship Enterprise". They wrote it down!!!!!!!!! :)

[DevilsPGD]

Post by Bill B.
One of my favorite names to give out is Nikolai Rimsky-Korsokov. "Can
you spell it please?" No. "Can I see your ID to get the information?"

Respond with "Can I see yours?" and take it from there.

[Michael Vilain]

Post by DevilsPGD

Post by Bill B.
One of my favorite names to give out is Nikolai Rimsky-Korsokov. "Can
you spell it please?" No. "Can I see your ID to get the information?"

Respond with "Can I see yours?" and take it from there.

Or asking the rather geeky male clerk "Sure, you can have my phone
number. You're kinda cute. Can I have yours?"

[DevilsPGD]

Post by Wes Groleau
Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

They usually have business cards on the desk (the ones around here do,
anyway) -- Just read off the name, phone number and address from there.

[Jon Danniken]

Post by DevilsPGD
They usually have business cards on the desk (the ones around here do,
anyway) -- Just read off the name, phone number and address from there.

I used to get a kick out of telling them my name, "Jon", and then when they asked for the last name I
would say, "Doe". Most of the time they would write down the last name before they figured it out.

Jon

[Obfus Kataa]

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

RS or Tandy is an arm of the secret government. If you use RS parts in your
next explosive device, the parts can be traced to your address. Tandy also
used to ask some very invasive questions in their job interviews which took
place while the interviewee was attached to a polygraph.

[Watson A.Name - "Watt Sun, the Dark Remover"]

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the

clerk

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began

reciting

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his

SS# and

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

RS or Tandy is an arm of the secret government. If you use RS parts in your
next explosive device, the parts can be traced to your address. Tandy also
used to ask some very invasive questions in their job interviews which took
place while the interviewee was attached to a polygraph.

I don't know what country you'e from, but that kind of stuff is illegal
in the U.S.

Post by Obfus Kataa
--
oK+++

[kony]

On Sat, 31 Jul 2004 20:16:07 -0700, "Watson A.Name - \"Watt Sun,

Post by Gnarlodious

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the

clerk

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began

reciting

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his

SS# and

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the

clerk

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

RS or Tandy is an arm of the secret government. If you use RS parts

in your

Post by Obfus Kataa
next explosive device, the parts can be traced to your address. Tandy

also

Post by Obfus Kataa
used to ask some very invasive questions in their job interviews which

took

Post by Obfus Kataa
place while the interviewee was attached to a polygraph.

I don't know what country you'e from, but that kind of stuff is illegal
in the U.S.

Is there a law against consensual polygraphs?
I'd imagine their lawyers have kept questioning within legal
boundaries, even if offensive. Certainly the law cannot
effectively eliminate offensive behavior.

[Obfus Kataa]

Post by Gnarlodious

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the

clerk

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began

reciting

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his

SS# and

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the

clerk

Post by Obfus Kataa

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

RS or Tandy is an arm of the secret government. If you use RS parts

in your

Post by Obfus Kataa
next explosive device, the parts can be traced to your address. Tandy

also

Post by Obfus Kataa
used to ask some very invasive questions in their job interviews which

took

Post by Obfus Kataa
place while the interviewee was attached to a polygraph.

I don't know what country you'e from, but that kind of stuff is illegal
in the U.S.

I was in the US, but I am not sure to which kind of Stuff you refer.

Polygraph? It was not illegal in 1978 to use it for employment screening.
Unless you can cite a statute, I do not believe it is currently illegal
(federally) for a private company to ask invasive questions in interviews.

Explosives tracking? Now, I need a GIF. Please, also cite a US statute
that makes it illegal for a federal enforcement agency to subpoena records
of the sale of a part found in an illegal explosive device.

I do recall reading an article in the _New York Times_ about a bomb that was
tracked to Radio Shack. I also recall the article stating that the
government hoped that the RS practice of recording information about their
sales would help them track the part to its place of purchase. It wasn't
that they could say Jenny Truepwop bought this part. Rather it was these
1000 people have bought this part in these 425 locations. Now, of those 425
locations, other evidence points to these 4. Of these four, we have
interviewed a suspect in this location. In fact, it was Theodore
Kaczynski's use of difficult-to-trace supplies that partly accounted for the
difficulty in his being caught.

In the Linda Tripp case (not explosives) the following Tandy statement was
issued:
"Pursuant to a subpoena from the Maryland State Prosecutor, Radio Shack has
provided sales records of a recording device purchased by Linda Tripp... A
Radio Shack store manager and sales associate were also subpoenaed and did
testify before the Maryland grand jury. It is Radio Shack's policy to inform
customers who purchase recording devices that it is illegal to record
someone without their consent in the state of Maryland."

Post by Gnarlodious

Post by Obfus Kataa
--
oK+++

[John Miller]

Post by Obfus Kataa
Polygraph? It was not illegal in 1978 to use it for employment screening.
Unless you can cite a statute, I do not believe it is currently illegal
(federally) for a private company to ask invasive questions in interviews.

There are quite a number of types of questions which are federally illegal
to ask of potential employees. Most relate to things that could be held to
be discriminatory (for example, just one seemingly innocuous question out
of hundreds you will break the law if you ask is, "do you have children?").
General rule for interviewers who don't want to have to memorize all the
statues is, if the question doesn't relate directly to job requirements,
it's safer not to ask it.

[Watson A.Name - "Watt Sun, the Dark Remover"]

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

I just tell them "declined" and they put declined in there.

Post by Wes Groleau
--
Wes Groleau
There are some ideas so wrong that only a
very intelligent person could believe in them.
-- George Orwell

[Grinder]

Post by Gnarlodious

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the

clerk asked

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began

reciting it

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS#

and he

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the

clerk

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS

policy

Post by Wes Groleau
Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

I just tell them "declined" and they put declined in there.

There's probably someone named Dee Kline that's pissed at you.
http://www.snopes.com/autos/law/noplate.asp

[~]

give them a fake address.

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

[CJT]

Post by ~
give them a fake address.

... or their own. Or go on the offensive, and ask for the sales
drone's home address.

Post by ~

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

[Vanguard]

Post by ~
give them a fake address.

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

I've seen this exact post before. It was posted long time ago and
apparently the OP likes to repeat it, or maybe Wes Groleau decided to
reply to a really old post. It's old news. Obviously if it is store
policy where they refuse to sell without an SS number, give them a fake
one (and make it obviously a fake, like 123-456-0000) or just don't buy
from them. I've been at the grocery checkout and they wouldn't ring up
an item at the price they listed on their own shelf, I don't argue, and
I'll leave the whole mess on their counter so they have the fun of
putting it all back and I walk away. There are other stores. Let them
win the argument by losing the sale. Then go call the State Attorney's
Office to find out how to file a complaint and determine what other
action you can pursue against them.

By the way, I've never had Radio Shack ask for an SS number in the 30+
years that I've purchased from them. They have asked for a telephone
number which I refuse to divulge. They persist but I refuse and simply
put it, "Do you want the sale or not?". If I'm paying cash, they don't
ever get get any personal info. They might claim they need it for
warranty purposes but the law doesn't require you to register to
exercise the warranty (you only need to prove at claim time that you
were the purchaser).

[CBFalconer]

Vanguard wrote:
... snip ...

I've been at the grocery checkout and they wouldn't ring up an
item at the price they listed on their own shelf, I don't argue,
and I'll leave the whole mess on their counter so they have the
fun of putting it all back and I walk away. There are other
stores. Let them win the argument by losing the sale. Then go
call the State Attorney's Office to find out how to file a
complaint and determine what other action you can pursue against
them.

Many states (in the US at least) have laws that on failure to ring
up the posted or advertised price, the item becomes free. Even
where the law does not cover all of those cases, many firms have
such a policy. The irritating thing is when the checker, who goes
to see if there is such a posting, just rips down the sign and then
tries to deny everything.

[Pete]

NEVER heard them require a SS#

[John A. Weeks III]

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

That is either not true, or it was some rouge sales person. It is
not representative either of the policies of Radio Shack or the
training that sales people receive at Radio Shack. The only possible
explination for this is that the guy was filling out a credit app,
and he asked the clerk to take down the information for him. A
Dish, Direct TV, or cellular telephone application might require
a SSI number (since you are applying for credit in those cases), but
all stores would require the same information. Hardly a Radio
Shack issue.

-john-

[Melissa]

FYI:

"The following is not copyrighted and the Caucus encourages you to make
copies and give them to anyone who unlawfully requests your number. …

"PRIVACY ACT LIMITATIONS ON SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER USAGE

Since many people objected to extensive loss of privacy which accompanied
the use of computers, Washington responded by passing the "Privacy Act,"
Title 5 of the United States Code Annotated 552(a). It states quite simply
that, "It shall he unlawful… to deny any individual any right, benefit or
privilege provided by law because of such individual's refusal to disclose
his Social Security number." Due to it, courts have ruled, in part:

"Right of privacy is a personal right designed to protect persons from
unwanted disclosure of personal information..." (CNA Financial Corporation
v. Local 743, D.C., Ill., 1981, 515F, Supp. 942, III.)

The District Court in Delaware held that the Privacy Act:

"Was enacted for [ purpose of curtailing the expanding use of Social
Security numbers...and to eliminate the threat to individual privacy and
confidentiality posed by common numerical identifiers." (Doyle V. Wilson,
D.C., Del., 1982, 529G, Supp. 1343.)

In the strongly worded Guideline arid Regulations for Maintenance of
Privacy and Protection of Records on Individuals it is stated:

"(a) It shall be unlawful...to deny to any individual any right, benefit or
privilege provided by law because of such individual's refusal to disclose
his Social Security account number."

The Privacy Act calls for the following penalty for knowingly violating it:

"(A) Actual damages sustained by the individual as a result of the refusal
or failure, but in no case shall a person entitled to recovery receive less
than the sum of $1,000; and (B) the costs of the action together with
reasonable attorney fees as determined by the court."

It is suggested that you take someone with you when you assert your rights
under the Privacy Act. He or she will witness the incident and testify (if
necessary) to the facts.

Courts have ruled that there are only four (4) instances when Social
Security numbers MUST be used. These are:

1. For tax purposes
2. To receive public assistance
3. To obtain and use a driver's license
4. To register a motor vehicle

In any situation not listed above, simply present this document to any
person who seems to need one. Invite him or her to make a copy. Point out
the $l,000 penalty that is guaranteed upon judgment that your rights were
violated under this act. Point out that an individual may personally be
required to pay the $1,000 if he/she is aware of the Privacy Act and
refuses to follow it. In Doyle v. Wilson, the court states: "Assuming that
the plaintiffs refusal to disclose his Social Security number was a clearly
established right, where defendants could not as reasonable persons have
been aware or the right and could not have recognized that any effort to
compel disclosure of number or to deny plaintiff his refund violated
federal law, damages against defendant were barred." (Doyle v. Wilson,
D.C., 1982, 529F, Supp 1343.)

It is quite clear that the individuals must be able to show that they could
not have been aware of the Privacy Act and could not have possibly realized
that their actions were in violation of federal law in order to escape the
$1,000 penalty.

Courtesy of the Heritage Caucus"

-- 101 Things to Do 'Til the Revolution", by Claire Wolfe

[Geoffrey F. Green]

Post by Melissa
"The following is not copyrighted and the Caucus encourages you to make
copies and give them to anyone who unlawfully requests your number. …
"PRIVACY ACT LIMITATIONS ON SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER USAGE
Since many people objected to extensive loss of privacy which accompanied
the use of computers, Washington responded by passing the "Privacy Act,"
Title 5 of the United States Code Annotated 552(a). It states quite simply
that, "It shall he unlawful… to deny any individual any right, benefit or
privilege provided by law because of such individual's refusal to disclose

First, the portion of the Privacy Act quoted says, in whole:

"It shall be unlawful for any Federal, State or local government
agency to deny to any individual any right, benefit, or privilege
provided by law because of such individual's refusal to disclose his
social security account number."

Note the limitation -- it only restricts a Federal, State or local
government agency. It does not limit businesses or other private
concerns. Radio Shack or any other business is welcome to require you
to provide your SSN, and you're welcome to do business elsewhere if
you decline to do so.

- geoff

[Gnarlodious]

Post by John A. Weeks III
That is either not true, or it was some rouge sales person. It is
not representative either of the policies of Radio Shack or the
training that sales people receive at Radio Shack.

Excuse me, this story as originally posted by MYSELF on Nov 24 2003 and I
don't know why it's still circulating.
I wrote a letter of complaint to Radio Shack's Regional Manager and some
months later returned to the same store in Santa Fe where I was informed
that their policy had changed. Customers ordering satellite service are no
longer required to announce their Social Security Number to all customers in
the store.

So drop it.

[Jim Douglas]

Now is the guy was buying some cell phone on credit it makes sense otherwise
nope never happened!

Post by ~
give them a fake address.

Post by Wes Groleau

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy

Every time I try to buy something there, even if I pay cash,
they try to get my address and phone number. I always have
to argue with them. "You don't need my phone number to send
your stupid catalog, and I don't want the catalog anyway."
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

[Paul Nevai]

"Jim Douglas" <***@genesis-software.com> aszonygya:
:> > But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
:> > I walk out with my money and no product.

Next time just give my phone and SS#: 1-800-555-5555 and 999-99-9999. I
don't mind it. /Paul

[CBFalconer]

Post by Paul Nevai

Post by Wes Groleau
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

Next time just give my phone and SS#: 1-800-555-5555 and
999-99-9999. I don't mind it. /Paul

I prefer to use mine; there is more chance they'll put it into
their system: 1-area-555-1212 and 123-54-9876.

[Steve Lidie]

Post by CBFalconer

Post by Paul Nevai

Post by Wes Groleau
But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
I walk out with my money and no product.

Next time just give my phone and SS#: 1-800-555-5555 and
999-99-9999. I don't mind it. /Paul

I prefer to use mine; there is more chance they'll put it into
their system: 1-area-555-1212 and 123-54-9876.

I just say "that's classified". The blank stare goes awaya after a
few seconds and they ring me up ...

[D. Kirkpatrick]

Post by Paul Nevai
:> > But they still argue they need it. Eventually I win or
:> > I walk out with my money and no product.
Next time just give my phone and SS#: 1-800-555-5555 and 999-99-9999. I
don't mind it. /Paul

No commercial entity can demand your SS number by law. If they do,
walk out and report them to the SS administration and the local
state's attorney general's office of consumer protection.

If that is the number on a driver's license you may need to show that
for ID but many states are now replacing the SS number with their own
state-generated number as a matter of privacy. As long as you give
them the special private number on a driver's ID you have fulfilled
the obligations under law for ID purposes.

The number of people who *may* have access to your SS number are very
limited. Those are the SS administration, a bank when opening an
account, the state when getting a driver's license or state ID, a
police officer when seeking ID in the instance of conducting an
investigation (including a traffic stop), The IRS, and en employer
when completing forms for the IRS.

There may be more but the list is limited and I am not an attorney who
can offer more direction.

DMK

[Mantra]

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy
to take SS# during a checkout, even for cash. He also told me I had no right
to tell customers not to publicly announce their SS# while in line. The
argument escalated and the manager called the police.
I got out of there real quick.

If this is true, I wouldn't have left. Naturally the manager's claim
is utter BS. It would have been fun to call his bluff and let the
police come. There's a minor issue of 1st Amendment, and then half a
dozen criminal and civil cases if the police a dumb enough to take the
manager's side. Even with the store theoretically being "private
property" that fact that it's open to the public pretty much trumps
that argument. And them there's the PR value of calling a press
conference in front of the store to utter ridicule the manager and
corporate HQ. Don't be a wimp next time. :-)


MM

[Greg Buchner]

Post by Mantra

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy
to take SS# during a checkout, even for cash. He also told me I had no right
to tell customers not to publicly announce their SS# while in line. The
argument escalated and the manager called the police.
I got out of there real quick.

If this is true, I wouldn't have left. Naturally the manager's claim
is utter BS. It would have been fun to call his bluff and let the
police come. There's a minor issue of 1st Amendment, and then half a
dozen criminal and civil cases if the police a dumb enough to take the
manager's side. Even with the store theoretically being "private
property" that fact that it's open to the public pretty much trumps
that argument. And them there's the PR value of calling a press
conference in front of the store to utter ridicule the manager and
corporate HQ. Don't be a wimp next time. :-)

Not to mention the fact that technically, they can't legally ask you for
your social security number. But the don't have to sell the product to
you if you don't want to provide it apparently.

from the SSA website:
<http://www.ssa.gov/ssnumber/>
and click on the Questions about your Social Security number & card link.

When do I have to provide my Social Security number?


Question


Must I provide a Social Security number (SSN) to any business or
government agency that asks?


Answer


The Social Security number (SSN) was originally devised to keep an
accurate record of each individuals earnings, and to subsequently
monitor benefits paid under the Social Security program. However, use
of the SSN as a general identifier has grown to the point where it is
the most commonly used and convenient identifier for all types of
record-keeping systems in the United States.

Specific laws require a person to provide his/her SSN for certain
purposes. While we cannot give you a comprehensive list of all
situations where an SSN might be required or requested, an SSN is
required/requested by:

Internal Revenue Service for tax returns and federal loans
Employers for wage and tax reporting purposes
States for the school lunch program
Banks for monetary transactions
Veterans Administration as a hospital admission number
Department of Labor for workers compensation
Department of Education for Student Loans
States to administer any tax, general public assistance, motor vehicle
or drivers license law within its jurisdiction
States for child support enforcement
States for commercial drivers licenses
States for Food Stamps
States for Medicaid
States for Unemployment Compensation
States for Temporary Assistance to Needy Families
U.S. Treasury for U.S. Savings Bonds


The Privacy Act regulates the use of SSNs by government agencies. When a
Federal, State, or local government agency asks an individual to
disclose his or her Social Security number, the Privacy Act requires the
agency to inform the person of the following: the statutory or other
authority for requesting the information; whether disclosure is
mandatory or voluntary; what uses will be made of the information; and
the consequences, if any, of failure to provide the information.

If a business or other enterprise asks you for your SSN, you can refuse
to give it. However, that may mean doing without the purchase or
service for which your number was requested. For example, utility
companies and other services ask for a Social Security number, but do
not need it; they can do a credit check or identify the person in their
records by alternative means. Giving your number is voluntary, even when
you are asked for the number directly. If requested, you should ask why
your number is needed, how your number will be used, what law requires
you to give your number and what the consequences are if you refuse. The
answers to these questions can help you decide if you want to give your
Social Security number. The decision is yours.

For more detailed information, we recommend the publication at
http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10002.html


Greg B.

[w2rac]

Here is a little somthing I used to keep from giving out my SS# where
it is not necessary by law.

STATEMENT OF FACT

On this ____________day of____________, 20___, the following
identified corporation; or partnership; or organization; or
individual; or federal, state, county, or local government, or agency,
or subdivision thereof; hereby identified as
_________________________________________; denied a service; a right;
a benefit; or a privilege to an individual named
__________________________ based on that individual's refusal to
disclose his/her Social Security number.

The person immediately responsible, whether as an individual, or a
representative of
________________________________________, for the denial of a right;
benefit; service; or a privilege, is __________________________.

TITLE 5 of the United States Code Annotated, 552(a), is known as the
Privacy Act. The Act states that:
(A) actual damages sustained by the individual as a result of the
refusal or failure, but in no case shall a person be entitled to
recovery receive less than the sum of $1000.00, and
(B) the costs of the action together with reasonable attorney fees
as determined by the court.

In the guideline and Regulations for Maintenance of Privacy and
Protection of Records on individuals, it is stated:
(a) (1) it shall be unlawful .. to deny any individual any right,
benefit, or privilege provided by ... because of such individual's
refusal to disclose his/her
Social Security account number.

The herein undersigned complainant has specifically explained that the
denial of a right; benefit; service; or privilege to any individual
due to refusal to supply a Social security account number is a
violation of 5 USC 552(a), and makes a person denying the right;
benefit; service; or privilege liable to a minimum $ 1,000.00
judgment, plus court and attorney costs.

If the party refusing the right; benefit; service; or privilege
refuses to sign this Statement of Fact, the name and identification of
the Police Officer called to report the matter will be listed below.

Signature of person refusing service; right; benefit; or privilege:


__________________________________________
Signature of Complainant:

__________________________________________
Name of Police Officer taking report:

__________________________________________
Rank: __________ Badge Number _______________

[Watson A.Name - "Watt Sun, the Dark Remover"]

Post by Mantra

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy
to take SS# during a checkout, even for cash. He also told me I had no right
to tell customers not to publicly announce their SS# while in line. The
argument escalated and the manager called the police.
I got out of there real quick.

If this is true, I wouldn't have left. Naturally the manager's claim
is utter BS. It would have been fun to call his bluff and let the
police come. There's a minor issue of 1st Amendment, and then half a
dozen criminal and civil cases if the police a dumb enough to take the
manager's side. Even with the store theoretically being "private
property" that fact that it's open to the public pretty much trumps
that argument. And them there's the PR value of calling a press
conference in front of the store to utter ridicule the manager and
corporate HQ. Don't be a wimp next time. :-)
MM

Easy for you to say. Talk's cheap, tell us if you've ever not backed
down in such a situation.

Besides, he got his revenge in the end. The manager was gone.

[alpha_uma]

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy
to take SS# during a checkout, even for cash. He also told me I had no right
to tell customers not to publicly announce their SS# while in line. The
argument escalated and the manager called the police.
I got out of there real quick.
I then wrote a series of emails to Radio Shack corporate management
complaining about this "Official Policy" and the treatment this manager had
given me. The Customer Relations executive apologized and promised to clean
up the mess. I went back to the store 3 months later and that manager was
gone and the policy had been changed.
The point is, if you have a gripe get active! Radio Shack was responsive in
my case and they certainly can be in your case too.
--
Gnarlie's virtual Tour de Santa Fe
http://Gnarlodious.com/SantaFe/Tour.php

Next time when you pay with cash but the business still asks for your social
security number, just tell them that you are visiting from Britain or
Europe.
Al-U

[Larc]

On Fri, 16 Jul 2004 08:28:42 GMT, "alpha_uma" <***@home.com>
wrote:

| Next time when you pay with cash but the business still asks for your social
| security number, just tell them that you are visiting from Britain or
| Europe.

If I'm recalling correctly from a course in Business Law I once took,
an offer to sell by one party plus acceptance of that offer by another
party constitutes an implied contract. If the buyer offers to
purchase with valid cash, the seller would technically be in "breach
of contract" if he refused to take the money and deliver the goods.

Of course, there are other stipulations such as there being no legal
restrictions against the sale.

Larc



§§§ - Change planet to earth to reply by email - §§§

[EdC]

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy
to take SS# during a checkout, even for cash. He also told me I had no right
to tell customers not to publicly announce their SS# while in line. The
argument escalated and the manager called the police.

I have worked at a RS for over 5 years and it has NEVER been RS policy
to ask for a
SSN on a sale. If it is for a credit application, that is different.
What The database
doesn't even have a space for that info. It has a place for your phone
number and yr name.
And yr email if you want to give it. For the past 6-8 mionth it has also
been RS policy not to ask for and info unless it is for a warranty type
item. (phone, stereo, TV, scanner) This way it is easier to find the
receipt. We have had many customers come in with a unit that they claim
was under warranty, but didn't have a receipt. And they refused to give
their name when it was purchased. So did they buy it last month, or 6
months ago or 13 months ago. No way to prove anything. They are out of
luck unless the associate remembers selling it to them.

Post by Gnarlodious
I got out of there real quick.

Why did you leave 'real quick'? Nothing you had done was against the law.

Post by Gnarlodious
I then wrote a series of emails to Radio Shack corporate management
complaining about this "Official Policy" and the treatment this manager had
given me. The Customer Relations executive apologized and promised to clean
up the mess. I went back to the store 3 months later and that manager was
gone and the policy had been changed.
The point is, if you have a gripe get active! Radio Shack was responsive in
my case and they certainly can be in your case too.

Sorry but I am having a hard time believing this letter.

[gothika]

Post by EdC

Post by Gnarlodious
I bought a small item at Radio Shack several months ago, and the clerk asked
the man in front of me for his social security number. He began reciting it
in public but I interrupted him, telling him she didn't need his SS# and he
should never publicly announce it. A loud argument ensued with the clerk
bringing out the manager. The manager assured me it was official RS policy
to take SS# during a checkout, even for cash. He also told me I had no right
to tell customers not to publicly announce their SS# while in line. The
argument escalated and the manager called the police.

I have worked at a RS for over 5 years and it has NEVER been RS policy
to ask for a
SSN on a sale. If it is for a credit application, that is different.
What The database
doesn't even have a space for that info. It has a place for your phone
number and yr name.
And yr email if you want to give it. For the past 6-8 mionth it has also
been RS policy not to ask for and info unless it is for a warranty type
item. (phone, stereo, TV, scanner) This way it is easier to find the
receipt. We have had many customers come in with a unit that they claim
was under warranty, but didn't have a receipt. And they refused to give
their name when it was purchased. So did they buy it last month, or 6
months ago or 13 months ago. No way to prove anything. They are out of
luck unless the associate remembers selling it to them.

Post by Gnarlodious
I got out of there real quick.

Why did you leave 'real quick'? Nothing you had done was against the law.

Post by Gnarlodious
I then wrote a series of emails to Radio Shack corporate management
complaining about this "Official Policy" and the treatment this manager had
given me. The Customer Relations executive apologized and promised to clean
up the mess. I went back to the store 3 months later and that manager was
gone and the policy had been changed.
The point is, if you have a gripe get active! Radio Shack was responsive in
my case and they certainly can be in your case too.

Sorry but I am having a hard time believing this letter.

Please! Radio Shack is guilty as sin about collecting as much personal
info on their customers as they can get away with.
Has everyone forgotten the cuecat fiasco?
I hooked one of these invasive pieces of crap up to my computer years
back just to see what it'd do.
Had my firewall software set to it's highest settings.
The minute I connected to the net the cuecat started trying to send
all the data it could harvest off my HD to the cuecat's manufacturer's
website.
After I opened it up and applied the hardware hack to kill this
function it did work as a passable barcode reader.
Just do a google or dogpile search of "Cuecat" to read all the legal
crap that fell on the heads at Radio Shack over that one.

[Peter A Forbes]

Post by gothika
Please! Radio Shack is guilty as sin about collecting as much personal
info on their customers as they can get away with.
Has everyone forgotten the cuecat fiasco?
I hooked one of these invasive pieces of crap up to my computer years
back just to see what it'd do.
Had my firewall software set to it's highest settings.
The minute I connected to the net the cuecat started trying to send
all the data it could harvest off my HD to the cuecat's manufacturer's
website.
After I opened it up and applied the hardware hack to kill this
function it did work as a passable barcode reader.
Just do a google or dogpile search of "Cuecat" to read all the legal
crap that fell on the heads at Radio Shack over that one.

I am not a Radio Shack user so cannot comment on the ongoing discussion about
Social Security numbers etc etc., but the CueCat saga was very interesting, and
I found the following page in particular to be very revealing:

http://airsoldier.com/~cuecat/

Peter

--
Peter & Rita Forbes
***@easynet.co.uk
Engine pages for preservation info:
http://www.oldengine.org/members/diesel

[yak]

Post by news
I have talked to several friends and clients who didnt have the original
packaging(who does after 1 month) after the products went bad/defective.
These incidents happened after 1 month or so ,and they flat out refused to
even grant a replacement or credit. These were computer components,
Notebook adaptors and stereo equipment. If you must buy from them,
Save the complete packaging in pristine condition for as long as the
warranty is in play.
If you dont, they will refuse you even an exchange. Keep this in mind
before you go there
and know that most larger retailers will promptly issue a credit at least
for defective products
not in original pristine packaging
CR

Heh, the ONLY things I buy at radio shack are little electronics
components (fuses, diodes, transistors, switches, etc.). That's all the
store is good for.

[Jon Danniken]

Post by yak
Heh, the ONLY things I buy at radio shack are little electronics
components (fuses, diodes, transistors, switches, etc.). That's all the
store is good for.

Yep, same here, although the selection of discrete components has vastly diminished over the last twenty
or so odd years.

Jon

[Watson A.Name - "Watt Sun, the Dark Remover"]

Post by yak

Post by news
I have talked to several friends and clients who didnt have the original
packaging(who does after 1 month) after the products went

bad/defective.

Post by yak

Post by news
These incidents happened after 1 month or so ,and they flat out refused to
even grant a replacement or credit. These were computer

components,

Post by yak

Post by news
Notebook adaptors and stereo equipment. If you must buy from them,
Save the complete packaging in pristine condition for as long as the
warranty is in play.
If you dont, they will refuse you even an exchange. Keep this in mind
before you go there
and know that most larger retailers will promptly issue a credit at least
for defective products
not in original pristine packaging
CR

Heh, the ONLY things I buy at radio shack are little electronics
components (fuses, diodes, transistors, switches, etc.). That's all the
store is good for.

You mean WAS good for. They have cut back on their stock of same parts
to the point where the stores have a small fraction of the selection
they used to have. Now you have to order those parts thru the catalog
or online. :-(

[Rod Smith]

Post by news
If you must buy from them,
Save the complete packaging in pristine condition for as long as the
warranty is in play.

This is probably good advice, but many packaged items these days require
repeated assault with a very large, sharp machete to remove from a
plastic shield that rivals steel in strength and durability.

Just this morning I installed a new ink cartridge in my Epson printer,
and I marveled how tough the packaging was -- absolutely impenetrable
without sharp tools!

[Auric__]

Post by Rod Smith

Post by news
If you must buy from them,
Save the complete packaging in pristine condition for as long as the
warranty is in play.

This is probably good advice, but many packaged items these days require
repeated assault with a very large, sharp machete to remove from a
plastic shield that rivals steel in strength and durability.
Just this morning I installed a new ink cartridge in my Epson printer,
and I marveled how tough the packaging was -- absolutely impenetrable
without sharp tools!

They never mentioned that the packaging has to be in one piece.

[JW]

Post by Rod Smith
This is probably good advice, but many packaged items these days require
repeated assault with a very large, sharp machete to remove from a
plastic shield that rivals steel in strength and durability.
Just this morning I installed a new ink cartridge in my Epson printer,
and I marveled how tough the packaging was -- absolutely impenetrable
without sharp tools!

Ahh yes. Packaging so sturdy that you have a 50% chance of destroying the
enclosed merchandise before getting the package open.
Ya just gotta love it!

[Jeff K]

Post by news
I have talked to several friends and clients who didnt have the original
packaging(who does after 1 month) after the products went bad/defective.
These incidents happened after 1 month or so ,and they flat out refused to
even grant a replacement or credit. These were computer components,
Notebook adaptors and stereo equipment. If you must buy from them,
Save the complete packaging in pristine condition for as long as the
warranty is in play.
If you dont, they will refuse you even an exchange. Keep this in mind
before you go there
and know that most larger retailers will promptly issue a credit at least
for defective products
not in original pristine packaging
CR

I've had good luck with small doo-dads at RS. They recently stopped
asking for phone # etc...
I believe they are francises, so don't compare one with another. You may
have a good one in your town and a bad one somewhere else.

Jeff K

[Watson A.Name - "Watt Sun, the Dark Remover"]

Post by news
I have talked to several friends and clients who didnt have the original
packaging(who does after 1 month) after the products went

bad/defective.

Post by news
These incidents happened after 1 month or so ,and they flat out refused to
even grant a replacement or credit. These were computer components,
Notebook adaptors and stereo equipment. If you must buy from them,
Save the complete packaging in pristine condition for as long as the
warranty is in play.
If you dont, they will refuse you even an exchange. Keep this in mind
before you go there
and know that most larger retailers will promptly issue a credit at least
for defective products
not in original pristine packaging
CR

I get really sick and tired of every time I buy something there, I have
to wait in line for a salesdroid to finish up selling a cell phone to
someone who hasn't a clue. It takes forever... Paperwork, explanations
of what they're signing, etc. One guy ahead of me waited and waited,
and then asked the droid how long he was going to be. The droid said a
few more minutes, and he just got disgusted and tossed the goods on the
counter and left. I walked back to the shelves and put the couple
things I had back on the pins, and left.

Somehow I get the feeling more and more that they're really not in the
business of selling anything other than cell phones, satellite dishes
and xmas toys. And the 'droids admit it; they have first-hand
experience.

[Dan Fraser]

You expect the sales people at RS to know anything about the products. You
had may as well ask for the best wine to go with a Big Mac.

As for requiring a SS number, that is blatantly illegal. Or you can give a
fake one

666-66-6666

Wanna make something of it.

When paying by cash I say the name is.

C. Ash
1313 Mockingbird Lane
Hollywood CA 99666

Again, if they don't like it, they could stuff it.

However, at the local RS, here in Costa Mesa, they no longer ask for name or
address on cash purchases. I think they finally grasped that is the one
thing that really pissed people off about them.

If you need parts to build anything, forget RS.

www.mouser.com

www.digi-key.com

[ptaylor]

Post by Dan Fraser
You expect the sales people at RS to know anything about the products. You
had may as well ask for the best wine to go with a Big Mac.
As for requiring a SS number, that is blatantly illegal. Or you can give a
fake one
666-66-6666
Wanna make something of it.
When paying by cash I say the name is.
C. Ash
1313 Mockingbird Lane
Hollywood CA 99666
Again, if they don't like it, they could stuff it.
However, at the local RS, here in Costa Mesa, they no longer ask for name or
address on cash purchases. I think they finally grasped that is the one
thing that really pissed people off about them.
If you need parts to build anything, forget RS.
www.mouser.com
www.digi-key.com

I usually reply simply with "Cash"..if the sales-driod doesn't catch
on,and ask's me for my first name.. "Cash"....by then they usually get
it,and ring me up without any further questions.

RadioShack is worthless now days.. Last time I went in there looking for
a simple digital IC (a NAND gate,I think..) I was directed to a rack
with 4-5 IC"s on it,what was left over..
I went to the drawers with the LED's and stuff 2 LED's in the store,and
they didn't have any in back.. (or were too lazy to look) most all the
drawers were empty,and I was told that they are "phasing out" component
sales.. That's all they were good for,and now even that is history..
I went to *4* stores one day looking for 1 single 100K pot...none of
them had any pots whatsoever,and the parts selection in the other 3
stores was also nearly non-existant.

RadioShack is Worthless.

[L.]

FWIW.... my recent visit to the local shack just this past week - I went to
the counter with my items, he asked my zip code and told me the total, which
I then paid, bid him a fond farewell and left. End of transaction. He asked
me for nothing else than my zip code. THAT is no big deal. I could have
given any, but I did give mine.

There are other stores in this area - who to my knowledge never collected
names/addresses, BUT they do ask for zip code. Probably to acquire a "ZIP
CODE" related bulk mailing list.

L.

Post by ptaylor

Post by Dan Fraser
You expect the sales people at RS to know anything about the products. You
had may as well ask for the best wine to go with a Big Mac.
As for requiring a SS number, that is blatantly illegal. Or you can give a
fake one
666-66-6666
Wanna make something of it.
When paying by cash I say the name is.
C. Ash
1313 Mockingbird Lane
Hollywood CA 99666
Again, if they don't like it, they could stuff it.
However, at the local RS, here in Costa Mesa, they no longer ask for name or
address on cash purchases. I think they finally grasped that is the one
thing that really pissed people off about them.
If you need parts to build anything, forget RS.
www.mouser.com
www.digi-key.com

I usually reply simply with "Cash"..if the sales-driod doesn't catch
on,and ask's me for my first name.. "Cash"....by then they usually get
it,and ring me up without any further questions.
RadioShack is worthless now days.. Last time I went in there looking for
a simple digital IC (a NAND gate,I think..) I was directed to a rack
with 4-5 IC"s on it,what was left over..
I went to the drawers with the LED's and stuff 2 LED's in the store,and
they didn't have any in back.. (or were too lazy to look) most all the
drawers were empty,and I was told that they are "phasing out" component
sales.. That's all they were good for,and now even that is history..
I went to *4* stores one day looking for 1 single 100K pot...none of
them had any pots whatsoever,and the parts selection in the other 3
stores was also nearly non-existant.
RadioShack is Worthless.

[Rich.Andrews]

Post by L.
FWIW.... my recent visit to the local shack just this past week - I went
to the counter with my items, he asked my zip code and told me the
total, which I then paid, bid him a fond farewell and left. End of
transaction. He asked me for nothing else than my zip code. THAT is no
big deal. I could have given any, but I did give mine.
There are other stores in this area - who to my knowledge never
collected names/addresses, BUT they do ask for zip code. Probably to
acquire a "ZIP CODE" related bulk mailing list.
L.

Radio Shack had an announcement some time ago that stated that they were
stopping the annoying policy of asking for name and address. There has
been a change in management and the new mgmt decided that it was tired of
pissing people off every time they wanted to buy something.

http://www.radioshack.com/Legal/PrivacyPolicyIndex.asp

"We've stopped the practice of asking for your name and address on every
purchase at your local store!"

r

[jt august]

The practice of collecting names and addresses was obviously to taylor
advertising to people who actually came in. To ensure cooperation, they
stated that refunds could only be made if your receipt had your name and
address on it.

There was a series of coordinated lawsuits in several states challenging
the legality of mandating such information, and Radio Shack made their
change during this series of legal actions. To the best of my
knowledge, all suits were subsequently dropped or dismissed.

Due to changes in management and ownership, Radio Shack has migrated to
more profitable merchandise, abandoning the low cost technical
components market that once was their bread and butter. This shouldn't
really surprise anyone given the access to such components is far better
via the interNet.

Radio Shack
You got questions
We got cel phones.


jt