The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) took effect January 1st, 2020. Jamie Court of Consumer Watchdog stresses the importance of the act and its value as a deterrent for companies who profit from the sale of consumer data.

Consumer Watchdog Executive Director Carmen Balber explains why drivers should be outraged by the California DMV selling their private data to insurance companies.

Consumers are finding it increasingly more difficult to find somewhere to get their CRV deposit refund as recycling centers close and stores shirk their in-store redemption responsibilities. Consumer Watchdog President Jamie Court says CalRecycle's lack of enforcement with in-store redemption is a huge part of the problem.

Senator Markey urges NHTSA to protect consumers from the cybersecurity risks posed by internet-connected cars referencing Consumer Watchdog's Kill Switch report. 

"Automakers have acknowledged the dangers of interconnected cars to their investors and shareholders but they have not disclosed those same cyber risks to the public at large," said Senator Markey citing the Kill Switch report. 

The Kill Switch report from Consumer Watchdog says cars with internet connectivity are vulnerable to hacking and outside interference with crucial systems including brakes and steering. A 50 cent kill switch could address the problem and sever the car's essential safety systems from the internet. "The security in these cars is no better than a smart phone," says Consumer Watchdog President Jamie Court, "and that's not good enough. The danger is these connections can be hacked and when the connection can be hacked, the car can be hacked and someone can take control of the car." 

Consumer Watchdog president Jamie Court criticizes PG&E for its failure to update its equipment, which he says is a reason so many wildfires have sparked in California.

Some mobile phone carriers have been limiting or slowing consumers cell phone data despite them having unlimited data plans. Consumer Watchdog President Jamie Court says consumers have to make an informed decision before signing off on a plan and to know where the throttling limit is or go to another carrier.