I was also told by a an assosiate of mine that security also had rights to see the actual data on the Laptop.
Is this true?
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They may ask you to turn it on -- I know people that have been asked to do so. I don't know of anyone who's had security review their hard drive, but yes, they can.
What I hear most is the swabbing for explosive residue. That seems to happen frequently. Anytime they see a bit of dust, they're going to swab. So, a clean laptop might eliminate the swab, but there's just no guarantee.
What I hear most is the swabbing for explosive residue. That seems to happen frequently. Anytime they see a bit of dust, they're going to swab. So, a clean laptop might eliminate the swab, but there's just no guarantee.
It is about 2 or 3 seconds a wimple dry wand passed over the outer surface, I find my notebook is passed through and swabbed before I get my shoes back on anyway.
Its a simple test, not intrusive and doesn't cause delay, that I have experienced.
Its a simple test, not intrusive and doesn't cause delay, that I have experienced.
I agree -- it won't hold you up. The real problem with the swab is that it upsets people. Knowing what it's for and that it's routine and to just go with the flow might help. Just knowing what to expect can make a big difference.
Even before i really knew what they were doing, I just saw them pick up my notebook while I was being scanned and checked trhough myself. The guy had a black wand with what appeared ot be a cotton swab on it and simply brushed it ever so lightly on the outer surface of my notebook. SO WHAT? Its a customs check, it is more of a hassle to remove all your change, keys etc. from your pockets and set it in a tray.
I didn't know it was a bomb swab per se, I just figured some sort of typical security check for 'something' maybe Anthrax or something I didn't care it was not an issue.
For people to get upset over noninvasive procedures, which take no time or effort on their behalf at all and obviously as a security measure of some sort, is a bit ridiculous.
I say those people simply shouldn't travel.
I do agree that some of the border procedures are absolutely insane, they have no purpose and take heaps of time and human resources to interrogate people and really waste time and money with little benefit of identifying or capturing terrorists. Swabbing your notebook as you pass through a security check, who cares?
It's not like they take it into a secret room and make you take a number while they dismantle then submerse it in a secret solution or something.
I didn't know it was a bomb swab per se, I just figured some sort of typical security check for 'something' maybe Anthrax or something I didn't care it was not an issue.
For people to get upset over noninvasive procedures, which take no time or effort on their behalf at all and obviously as a security measure of some sort, is a bit ridiculous.
I say those people simply shouldn't travel.
I do agree that some of the border procedures are absolutely insane, they have no purpose and take heaps of time and human resources to interrogate people and really waste time and money with little benefit of identifying or capturing terrorists. Swabbing your notebook as you pass through a security check, who cares?
It's not like they take it into a secret room and make you take a number while they dismantle then submerse it in a secret solution or something.
I had recently taken a pleasure trip where I walked around an abandoned sulpher mine in a pair of sandals. The next business trip my laptop passed inspection, but the sandals were in carry-on and set off the detect-o-meter. That did cause some delay. Make sure everything you have is squeaky clean.
"The next business trip my laptop passed inspection"
Your sandals were the issue, your laptop swab was not.
Your sandals were the issue, your laptop swab was not.
Hey Guys....strangest thing happened to me. I was flying through JFK, I had cleaned my laptop monitor and keyboard with alittle windex earlier that day before packing into laptop bag. They swabbed my laptop at security, and it came back positive with traces. Security ranit through a second time, then I was cleared. Just a note, be carful what you clean your laptops with!
Since they may confiscate (and some reports of copying hard drives) its best to password protect your data and system. If you have critical files you need for a presentation keep a backup copy on a CD or DVD so that if your laptop is taken (or lost or stolen) you have the presentation.
Swabbing for residue is fine, that's mostly external. Having some untrained TSA digging through file folders doesn't inspire confidence though.
Now, the problem with password protecting everything is that they will just ask for the password. It's the government goons so you are legally obligated to hand over that password when asked. A password beyond the login prompt will also peak there interest. If you go so far as to encrypt, they will ask for the keys and may be more inclined to keep your notebook for a few months while they spend some tax dollars on confirming that your harmless. If they are in a bad mood, they can also work through all your flashdrives and disks.
Best bet is to move anything irreplaceable by internet with proper encryption. Take your notebook with you but carry it across clean assuming that you may have it inspected or impounded. Most of the time your not going to loose the machine but then you know you've backups when you do.
A few weeks ago, Kevin Mitnick had a good story about his last flight across boarders. He was flying in to give a talk at some conference or another and the TSA decided that it was a slow day and started into the whole theater piece with him. checked the notebooks, had him log in to accounts so they could dig around. Finally when he was three hours late for the talk and people started calling to ask about him, the TSA got bored and moved along to something else equally important like a coffee break. And this was an American flying into the states to give a professional talk to Americans. Further, it's an American who makes no efforts to hid his poor decisions in the past and now works as a security auditor and educator.
Now, the problem with password protecting everything is that they will just ask for the password. It's the government goons so you are legally obligated to hand over that password when asked. A password beyond the login prompt will also peak there interest. If you go so far as to encrypt, they will ask for the keys and may be more inclined to keep your notebook for a few months while they spend some tax dollars on confirming that your harmless. If they are in a bad mood, they can also work through all your flashdrives and disks.
Best bet is to move anything irreplaceable by internet with proper encryption. Take your notebook with you but carry it across clean assuming that you may have it inspected or impounded. Most of the time your not going to loose the machine but then you know you've backups when you do.
A few weeks ago, Kevin Mitnick had a good story about his last flight across boarders. He was flying in to give a talk at some conference or another and the TSA decided that it was a slow day and started into the whole theater piece with him. checked the notebooks, had him log in to accounts so they could dig around. Finally when he was three hours late for the talk and people started calling to ask about him, the TSA got bored and moved along to something else equally important like a coffee break. And this was an American flying into the states to give a professional talk to Americans. Further, it's an American who makes no efforts to hid his poor decisions in the past and now works as a security auditor and educator.
I went to the airport with a working wifi usb card and logged in to find my ticket at the counter.
I went thru the line asked for a "HAND Search" which is supposed to prevent the scanner and be more thorough and swabbed more for "Things" in all the compartments in my computer bag.
The TSA refused threw my bag into the scanner and when I got it out the other end I booted up waiting for my flight and found half of my drivers were wiped out and my wifi dongle no longer has an IOS flashed on it so it wont work.
I went to complain and file a claim against the TSA and Airport for the damage and was TERRORISTICALLY Threatened with Jail and Fines if I filed.
as it started out they told me nothing ever happens and "They" scan hundreds of billions of items and nothing is affected by the x-ray scanners. That 100% of manufactures scan 100% of there products just to make sure its airport safe.
Oh really its because you Terroristically Threaten anyone who's items are affected with Federal Prison and Fines if they DO file.
No Rights for Anyone who flies any more even if you are RIGHT! I contacted CISCO and receive a disclaimer from them on the WIFI Finder USB that said it WAS NOT X-ray safe.
When I presented it to the TSA warlord I was told I should have known that and had it "HAND Checked" or not brought it.
That was what I needed to do my job at the other end of the flight and you would not check it any other way, and you said 100% safe for electronics.
I did not check it because your signs say DO NOT check electronics.
T.S.A. needs to go A.W.AY.
instead of checking who is getting on planes check who is getting off planes.
I went thru the line asked for a "HAND Search" which is supposed to prevent the scanner and be more thorough and swabbed more for "Things" in all the compartments in my computer bag.
The TSA refused threw my bag into the scanner and when I got it out the other end I booted up waiting for my flight and found half of my drivers were wiped out and my wifi dongle no longer has an IOS flashed on it so it wont work.
I went to complain and file a claim against the TSA and Airport for the damage and was TERRORISTICALLY Threatened with Jail and Fines if I filed.
as it started out they told me nothing ever happens and "They" scan hundreds of billions of items and nothing is affected by the x-ray scanners. That 100% of manufactures scan 100% of there products just to make sure its airport safe.
Oh really its because you Terroristically Threaten anyone who's items are affected with Federal Prison and Fines if they DO file.
No Rights for Anyone who flies any more even if you are RIGHT! I contacted CISCO and receive a disclaimer from them on the WIFI Finder USB that said it WAS NOT X-ray safe.
When I presented it to the TSA warlord I was told I should have known that and had it "HAND Checked" or not brought it.
That was what I needed to do my job at the other end of the flight and you would not check it any other way, and you said 100% safe for electronics.
I did not check it because your signs say DO NOT check electronics.
T.S.A. needs to go A.W.AY.
instead of checking who is getting on planes check who is getting off planes.
if you want to hide something use freeware like truecrypt. you don't need to install it so no evidence encryption program is in use.
The encrypted files can be inside other files with other names or be files with renamed extenasions so hard to find evidence encryption is in use.
The encrypted files can be inside other files with other names or be files with renamed extenasions so hard to find evidence encryption is in use.
Your showing intent to smuggle data across the border just so TSA won't go snooping. It may work most of the time but do you really want to deal wit that time you finally get stuck with a curious TSA staffer? You still have to hand over the keys when they do catch you.
More than the hassle, it's showing intent to smuggle. Your intending to sneak something past the TSA. The moment you have intent to hide something, your the unauthorized attacker. It's the difference between drifting over the speed limit accidentally versus being caught well over the limit screaming along in a freshly tuned ricer; intent is going to make the ticket worse. "I'm sorry, I forgot that I'd double encrypted that data then named the encrypted files non-descript things like 'notillegaldata.txt'" is probably not going to cut it.
Your still better to travel with a clean laptop and just VPN or transfer your data by network after arrival. Your company data isn't passed around the TSA staff lounge and you don't loose access to the latest version of your presentation.
More than the hassle, it's showing intent to smuggle. Your intending to sneak something past the TSA. The moment you have intent to hide something, your the unauthorized attacker. It's the difference between drifting over the speed limit accidentally versus being caught well over the limit screaming along in a freshly tuned ricer; intent is going to make the ticket worse. "I'm sorry, I forgot that I'd double encrypted that data then named the encrypted files non-descript things like 'notillegaldata.txt'" is probably not going to cut it.
Your still better to travel with a clean laptop and just VPN or transfer your data by network after arrival. Your company data isn't passed around the TSA staff lounge and you don't loose access to the latest version of your presentation.
it is better not to have sensitive data.
My point was that if you do it correctly, there is NO WAY for them to even see that you are hiding files easily. And if they do there is no criminal act (presuming you are hiding corporate or personal data not criminal plans or prohibited porn)
That will prevent the 'interest in hidden stuff', showing intent to hide...
In this case, I'm suggesting you use this to encrypt any sensitive corporate data or data that has personal ID info (SSN's, CC#s, etc).
This kind of data is not criminal. If they DO find the hidden file then at least it is still encrypted. They either have to ask your company for the key (probably much later, when they have gotten around to analyze your disk image, unlikely) or break the encryption themselves. If you're not a terror suspect they likely won't bother.
My point was that if you do it correctly, there is NO WAY for them to even see that you are hiding files easily. And if they do there is no criminal act (presuming you are hiding corporate or personal data not criminal plans or prohibited porn)
That will prevent the 'interest in hidden stuff', showing intent to hide...
In this case, I'm suggesting you use this to encrypt any sensitive corporate data or data that has personal ID info (SSN's, CC#s, etc).
This kind of data is not criminal. If they DO find the hidden file then at least it is still encrypted. They either have to ask your company for the key (probably much later, when they have gotten around to analyze your disk image, unlikely) or break the encryption themselves. If you're not a terror suspect they likely won't bother.
If the data is confidential, it should not be on the laptop at all.
Also, if you have password protected or encrypted files, they can confiscate your laptop. That doesn't exactly help you out, now does it?
Just know they are going to look, have nothing of interest for them, and get on with your life.
Data? Either a flash drive or VPN to the corporate server. The VPN is the more secure of the two, although less convenient.
Also, if you have password protected or encrypted files, they can confiscate your laptop. That doesn't exactly help you out, now does it?
Just know they are going to look, have nothing of interest for them, and get on with your life.
Data? Either a flash drive or VPN to the corporate server. The VPN is the more secure of the two, although less convenient.
A couple of times, when I have had other electronics that I KNOW are not airport friendly, Gun style scanners for example, I will ship ahead by Puro or FedEx.
It avoids all unwanted hassles and gets the product there on time. Now I know that shipping is not infallible, but it is pretty good for thee most part. An overnight delivery two days before you go works well. If you don't have any one at the receiving end to hang onto it for you, such as the company you are visiting, simply have it held for pickup at the airport terminal. Most shipping companies have a terminal right at the airport.
It avoids all unwanted hassles and gets the product there on time. Now I know that shipping is not infallible, but it is pretty good for thee most part. An overnight delivery two days before you go works well. If you don't have any one at the receiving end to hang onto it for you, such as the company you are visiting, simply have it held for pickup at the airport terminal. Most shipping companies have a terminal right at the airport.
Ok, what I found out when I was flying all over the country recently for computer jobs, is to make sure make sure you can get your laptop out of the case at the check in at security.
It goes in it's own basket, as do your shoes, coat, belt,ect..
The acutual computer bag goes seperately on the conveyor....make sure the x-ray machine can see everything or they will detain you.
You can not use your laptop when you are taxi-ing down the runway or when you are landing as it WILL mess up the flight controls. The Airlines are quite strict and will let you know when you may use it.
Beware of some of the WI-FI services at the airports, some are dummies and are out to take your money and NOT let you on line ! Make sure you can sit next to an electrical outlet to plug in your computer when you are in the gate area...some of my planes never showed up and I was stuck for hours in the airport and with inclement weather.The wifi in Logan is legit, and if you can not get on for some reason with tech support, they DO re-inburse you in your bank account days later
Use a wheeled-bag, I was carrying 3 laptops and I was soooo glad I had the wheels ! You walk miles and miles in these airports and do not want to lug a ton of heavy luggage.
I had to carry a ton of tools in my main suitcase that I checked in, or they WILL confiscate your screw drivers and everything else they deem dangerous. Airlines charge 35 dollars per bag you check in these days, coming and going !
Always carry on your computers or they will get damaged. This is a no-brainer !
It goes in it's own basket, as do your shoes, coat, belt,ect..
The acutual computer bag goes seperately on the conveyor....make sure the x-ray machine can see everything or they will detain you.
You can not use your laptop when you are taxi-ing down the runway or when you are landing as it WILL mess up the flight controls. The Airlines are quite strict and will let you know when you may use it.
Beware of some of the WI-FI services at the airports, some are dummies and are out to take your money and NOT let you on line ! Make sure you can sit next to an electrical outlet to plug in your computer when you are in the gate area...some of my planes never showed up and I was stuck for hours in the airport and with inclement weather.The wifi in Logan is legit, and if you can not get on for some reason with tech support, they DO re-inburse you in your bank account days later
Use a wheeled-bag, I was carrying 3 laptops and I was soooo glad I had the wheels ! You walk miles and miles in these airports and do not want to lug a ton of heavy luggage.
I had to carry a ton of tools in my main suitcase that I checked in, or they WILL confiscate your screw drivers and everything else they deem dangerous. Airlines charge 35 dollars per bag you check in these days, coming and going !
Always carry on your computers or they will get damaged. This is a no-brainer !
Ha, this reminds me of when I had 8 flights in two weeks... I was pre-flaged for a random search, it wasnt to bad. Yes I had a laptop, pda, two cellphones... all of it was swabbed for bomb making material... lol and it took all of 5-10 minutes, aslong as you follow their directions... They asked why I was carrying so much electonic stuff, I simply old them what I was traveling for. About one minute of explaining what I was doing, they told me to go on... Need less to say I was using all Acronyms, then explaind about what each one was... lol... That didnt last to long... The crappy part is gathering up everything that they dump out... what a mess...
If security checkpoints are an issue, the gear could be shipped to the front desk of the business or hotel you are traveling to. With insurance it should be no problem.
Also it is a good idea to keep a couple USB external backups of laptop data. One in your office or home and one in your bag. Were you to lose the machine, you could get a new one and restore the data to get you going again.
Also it is a good idea to keep a couple USB external backups of laptop data. One in your office or home and one in your bag. Were you to lose the machine, you could get a new one and restore the data to get you going again.
Your corporate laptop (or personal) should be the life support system for virtualization Software (VMWare or VPC).
Keep your 'latop image' and data as a VM. Then it fits on an acternal hard drive, a backup copy is merely a file copy away. An eternal hard drive raises even fewer concerns than a vanilla laptop and if the laptop dissappears, all you need is a machine with the VM player.
Keep your 'latop image' and data as a VM. Then it fits on an acternal hard drive, a backup copy is merely a file copy away. An eternal hard drive raises even fewer concerns than a vanilla laptop and if the laptop dissappears, all you need is a machine with the VM player.
When I got to Florida the site I was to go to was canceled and I ended up going north instead of south from Miami.
Be sure to remove tools from your laptop bag and store them in checked luggage. Most of these tools are not allowed and will be confiscated... as well as earn you a trip through the "pat down" line.... 
Took a fiber kit to fly to San Antonio for an emergency repair at a WATER TREATMENT center.
The fiber that monitors the plant was cut and I was put on a plane within hours to go down and fix the issue.
I got to the airport with a 8k+ kit and got off the plane with a 500.00 box.
I HAD all the paperwork from Home Land Security with the repair request.
I had to race to a supply house at break neck speed (before 5pm) buy more supplies out of pocket. Then hope not to be the lead car of a police chase to the treatment center.
The charge for that was then Tripled due to the harassment and all the racing around I had to do.
I then was able to Fedex the case back to the shop 1 day air after everything was over.
Now if things break down HLS just has to wait until I can drive in from Dallas.
TSA is just not there to HELP anyone.
And My orders were on HLS letter head and verifiable.
TSA is a Communist entity. I do not fly any more if you want me you will wait on me to drive. If you really want me you will pay the speeding ticket or put up with an escort.
I find HLS can wait for the security fiber to be fixed.
The fiber that monitors the plant was cut and I was put on a plane within hours to go down and fix the issue.
I got to the airport with a 8k+ kit and got off the plane with a 500.00 box.
I HAD all the paperwork from Home Land Security with the repair request.
I had to race to a supply house at break neck speed (before 5pm) buy more supplies out of pocket. Then hope not to be the lead car of a police chase to the treatment center.
The charge for that was then Tripled due to the harassment and all the racing around I had to do.
I then was able to Fedex the case back to the shop 1 day air after everything was over.
Now if things break down HLS just has to wait until I can drive in from Dallas.
TSA is just not there to HELP anyone.
And My orders were on HLS letter head and verifiable.
TSA is a Communist entity. I do not fly any more if you want me you will wait on me to drive. If you really want me you will pay the speeding ticket or put up with an escort.
I find HLS can wait for the security fiber to be fixed.
All laptops look the same when going through security. I have my business card taped to the top of my laptop so I can quickly tell mine from the other guy's. Plus, if in my mad dash to the gate I forget to put it back in my bag, TSA can call me instead of making a general announcement about the laptop left at the security checkpoint. (This has not happend to me, but I have heard the announcements.)
Something else to think about is taping a business card to external USB drives. Drives are easy to leave behind at customer sites and in hotel rooms. It might increase your chances of ever seeing it again.
Something else to think about is taping a business card to external USB drives. Drives are easy to leave behind at customer sites and in hotel rooms. It might increase your chances of ever seeing it again.
Not all laptops look the same. My dell is grey with a white surround. But identifying your laptop is a good idea.
I engrave my name and phone number on the outside of the case and also on the keyboard surround. This (hopefully) deters thieves and makes it more likely that the machine can be recovered if lost. I also engrave the machine's ID number so I can quote it when asked by tech support. Since I never sell my laptops, any reduction in sale value is not an issue.
Explosive residue?? Are they mad? How many million machines will they have to dust to find some, and when they do, it probably came from a mine site. Surely they have better things to waste our tax on.
I engrave my name and phone number on the outside of the case and also on the keyboard surround. This (hopefully) deters thieves and makes it more likely that the machine can be recovered if lost. I also engrave the machine's ID number so I can quote it when asked by tech support. Since I never sell my laptops, any reduction in sale value is not an issue.
Explosive residue?? Are they mad? How many million machines will they have to dust to find some, and when they do, it probably came from a mine site. Surely they have better things to waste our tax on.
They are quick about it; drag the sample swab around the machine, drop it in a detector-O-matic and wave you on through.
Other things like the TSA holding someone for a few hours because they couldn't decide if his new Apple Air was a real notebook or not is a bit of a problem though. You'd think turning it on and looking would be a dead giveaway.
Other things like the TSA holding someone for a few hours because they couldn't decide if his new Apple Air was a real notebook or not is a bit of a problem though. You'd think turning it on and looking would be a dead giveaway.
If someone is on the Internet looking up how to make that and forgot to wash their hands before they touched the keyboard. Then brought said laptop with them in case they need to browse the Internet for some ebay items while they are at the airport.
Like that would ever really happen.
I had given more likely scenarios to the Department of Home Land Security Office and was laughed at.
I am waiting to see if my "Notridomious" predictions come to light so I can put an application in as the head of the department.
There are more serious things that are still over looked that they Could CARELESS about securing.
It is nice having family who work for the Government since it could have gone the other way.
Take a look around and think like one of those people would and it would scare you at what is left accessible.
I wont go into anything I already have done this with the Department of HLS.
Like that would ever really happen.
I had given more likely scenarios to the Department of Home Land Security Office and was laughed at.
I am waiting to see if my "Notridomious" predictions come to light so I can put an application in as the head of the department.
There are more serious things that are still over looked that they Could CARELESS about securing.
It is nice having family who work for the Government since it could have gone the other way.
Take a look around and think like one of those people would and it would scare you at what is left accessible.
I wont go into anything I already have done this with the Department of HLS.
If the machine is in the same room or contained area as explosives manufacturing, residue will show up. If your business card doesn't show "Bob's Fireworks Company" then you may have explaining to do.
You'd be surprised by how much information one can collect with a digital camera. Business cards and other information taped to the back of the notebook announces your information to anyone within eyesight. You could instead tape it under the lid of the laptop so it can still be seen when opened but is not constantly displaying your data to everyone your not paying attention too.
It's your decision after considering how that information can be exploited of course but it's worth thinking about.
(Johnny Long includes a some good points about it in his No Tech Hacking talk given at various security related conferences.)
It's your decision after considering how that information can be exploited of course but it's worth thinking about.
(Johnny Long includes a some good points about it in his No Tech Hacking talk given at various security related conferences.)
And Check TSA's web site about batteries. You can no longer carry LI batteries as spares without all sorts of rules posted on TSA's web site, the same goes for extra batteries for your camera, DVD Player etc. To avoid hassles travel with the set in the device and if needed buy another set when you get where you're going and then figure out how to get them home if they were expensive....
This is more of a practical concern that the airlines have about extra batteries:
If they're loose in your bags, could make contact with other metal objects (like other battery cases, pens, coins, etc.) and ground out, getting really hot and potentially start a fire.
Keep extra AA, AAA, and camera batteries in their original packaging. Place extra laptop and cell phone batteries in separate plastic bags to prevent them from grounding out with other objects. The plastic bags should be like the zip-lock bag you put your liquid toiletries into.
If they're loose in your bags, could make contact with other metal objects (like other battery cases, pens, coins, etc.) and ground out, getting really hot and potentially start a fire.
Keep extra AA, AAA, and camera batteries in their original packaging. Place extra laptop and cell phone batteries in separate plastic bags to prevent them from grounding out with other objects. The plastic bags should be like the zip-lock bag you put your liquid toiletries into.
If you have batteries installed, no problem, but there are strict limitations to checked baggage batteries.
From a C-Net blog:
"New rules from the Transportation and Security Administration that take effect on January 1 ban travelers from carrying loose lithium batteries in checked baggage. Passengers are allowed to pack two spare batteries in their carry-on bag, as long as they're in clear plastic baggies.
"If you do plan on bringing spare batteries in your carry-on bag, be aware of some other rules: You can only bring batteries with an equivalent of up to 8 grams of lithium content. (Most batteries for cell phones and laptops meet this requirement.) And for lithium metal batteries, whether carried as a spare or installed in a device, batteries are limited to 2 grams of lithium metal."
From a C-Net blog:
"New rules from the Transportation and Security Administration that take effect on January 1 ban travelers from carrying loose lithium batteries in checked baggage. Passengers are allowed to pack two spare batteries in their carry-on bag, as long as they're in clear plastic baggies.
"If you do plan on bringing spare batteries in your carry-on bag, be aware of some other rules: You can only bring batteries with an equivalent of up to 8 grams of lithium content. (Most batteries for cell phones and laptops meet this requirement.) And for lithium metal batteries, whether carried as a spare or installed in a device, batteries are limited to 2 grams of lithium metal."
Then you just carry extra Nicad not the LI that is banned/limited.
Gel cells?
I mean all devices are not equal so they do not use the same types of voltage or battery packs.
12v Lantern batteries maybe?
Gel cells?
I mean all devices are not equal so they do not use the same types of voltage or battery packs.
12v Lantern batteries maybe?
1. Keep the lap top in a well padded bag. Make sure that no heavy bags go on top of it. The laptop LCD screen is frail and can break easily.
2. Before going on a trip, backup all your information and take only the information that you need for your trip. Keep a backup on a disk on key or USB disk.
3. Make sure that your laptop is password protected and do not have your password written down.
3. Put your contact information in your screen saver and also offer a reward for the safe return of the laptop in case of lose/theft.
4. take QUALITY earplugs and a mike with you - this is a must for talking in public places. Besides, you can save a mint making longdistance phone calls over the hotel's wireless system.
5. If necessary, your digital camera can be used as a scanner for documents.
6. All planes and train wagons have plugs. Make sure not to leave your laptop plugged in during takeoff or landing. You can get spikes that can damage the lap top.
7. All airports have electric plugs usually for the cleaning equipement, but you have to look for them to find them.
2. Before going on a trip, backup all your information and take only the information that you need for your trip. Keep a backup on a disk on key or USB disk.
3. Make sure that your laptop is password protected and do not have your password written down.
3. Put your contact information in your screen saver and also offer a reward for the safe return of the laptop in case of lose/theft.
4. take QUALITY earplugs and a mike with you - this is a must for talking in public places. Besides, you can save a mint making longdistance phone calls over the hotel's wireless system.
5. If necessary, your digital camera can be used as a scanner for documents.
6. All planes and train wagons have plugs. Make sure not to leave your laptop plugged in during takeoff or landing. You can get spikes that can damage the lap top.
7. All airports have electric plugs usually for the cleaning equipement, but you have to look for them to find them.
I've started seeing notebook stations in the airports more often now too. It's a post with spots around it to plug in your gear and connect to the local wireless. Just be sure to use VPN and encryption if you choose to use the connection.
Not all trains and planes have electrical outlets.
Business class and above, probably. But coach? No way!
Quick question--when is the last time anyone ever saw one of those special DC outlets on a plane? I think I gave Targus $75 for nothing...
Business class and above, probably. But coach? No way!
Quick question--when is the last time anyone ever saw one of those special DC outlets on a plane? I think I gave Targus $75 for nothing...
In such a case would only be used against theft.
The TSA can still retain your laptop and instruct you to share your password with them in order for them to conduct further search of your hard drive and any protected/excrypted files, if they choose.
The TSA can still retain your laptop and instruct you to share your password with them in order for them to conduct further search of your hard drive and any protected/excrypted files, if they choose.
Don't assume that you can find adapters or
power converters overseas with ease. See if
you can get a multi-adapter kit - when I was
in central Europe, the adapter I had was
"kinda" right in that it had two pins to
insert into the outlet, but no spot for the
ground pin that sticks out from the socket,
which is recessed from the cup in which the
plug is inserted. Unfortunately, my adapter
was quite useless, and no electronics store
or even travel store had anything along these
lines. In the end, I got a charger for my
cellphone and was grateful that I was a guest
of a local who had a compatible voltage
laptop power supply, and a hair dryer.
power converters overseas with ease. See if
you can get a multi-adapter kit - when I was
in central Europe, the adapter I had was
"kinda" right in that it had two pins to
insert into the outlet, but no spot for the
ground pin that sticks out from the socket,
which is recessed from the cup in which the
plug is inserted. Unfortunately, my adapter
was quite useless, and no electronics store
or even travel store had anything along these
lines. In the end, I got a charger for my
cellphone and was grateful that I was a guest
of a local who had a compatible voltage
laptop power supply, and a hair dryer.
Oddly enough, I went from BHM to MDT recently (round-trip) with a laptop backpack (that didn't have the laptop in it) and lo and behold, the TSA made no quibbles about it at all, even though one pocket was jammed full of small electronics (a Sansa e260, earbuds, etc.) and my cellphone was in the backpack's cellphone carrier!
Can anyone give a brief rundown on the rule on a spare battery? I've an iRecharge universal laptop battery that I'll need to take, since my laptop has abysmal run-times on its battery. Whilst I will indeed be running on AC at the airport (while waiting on whatever), it would be a major inconvenience to have the thing confiscated for no sane reason. (see www.cellboost.com for more info on the iRecharge)
Can anyone give a brief rundown on the rule on a spare battery? I've an iRecharge universal laptop battery that I'll need to take, since my laptop has abysmal run-times on its battery. Whilst I will indeed be running on AC at the airport (while waiting on whatever), it would be a major inconvenience to have the thing confiscated for no sane reason. (see www.cellboost.com for more info on the iRecharge)
Read the rules. Homeland security can confiscate ANY electronic media -- flash drives, digital cameras, iPod -- ANYTHING. Encryption will only result in your stuff being taken for a longer period -- maybe forever. There is no obligation of 'reasonable cause' -- and they can search it for anything from terrorist information -- to anything copyrighted such as MP3 files or images.
The only real answer is to either:
a) Never cross the US border with anything containing information you don't want the nazis to have. Considering how adept the government is at 'losing' information, that isn't such a bad idea. CEOs should be especially wary -- their new business strategies could be quite interesting to 'people' browsing their drives.
b) Have nothing but a bare operating system on the computer and put the 'information' somewhere you can get to it reasonably safely -- such as through a VPN. (Not great for accessing more than a few hundreds megs though -- and some VPNs have issues with some gateways used by hotels/businesses.)
As for myself, I just refuse any US contracts. Plenty of good work in countries where 'freedom' and 'privacy' still exist.
The only real answer is to either:
a) Never cross the US border with anything containing information you don't want the nazis to have. Considering how adept the government is at 'losing' information, that isn't such a bad idea. CEOs should be especially wary -- their new business strategies could be quite interesting to 'people' browsing their drives.
b) Have nothing but a bare operating system on the computer and put the 'information' somewhere you can get to it reasonably safely -- such as through a VPN. (Not great for accessing more than a few hundreds megs though -- and some VPNs have issues with some gateways used by hotels/businesses.)
As for myself, I just refuse any US contracts. Plenty of good work in countries where 'freedom' and 'privacy' still exist.
Now you tell me, how much more idiots can they be? How many more laws violating privacy else will they pass by claiming them to fight against global terror? Don't you Americans see what your government is doing, all in the name of "Freedom"???
Perhaps you just look guilty? Or maybe, judging by your post, you were just disliked by the comments you made as you were passing through....
I would have expressed it a little more diplomatically and avoided the reference too poor german political decisions of the past but the points made where spot on and pretty much what is being recommended for travel.
a. Transfer your data by VPN or network rather than carry easily lost/confiscated storage media. This is not because everyone is guilty but because loosing access to the latest copy of your business presentation is not an option; leave it safe on the company server and VPN to fetch it when ready.
b. Use a clean mobile computer and remote connections to company data. Even when not traveling, this is the recommendation because the company data can be better secured through the VPN and storage server. Also, if your mobile computer is stolen or lost for any reason including by confiscation at the border; you've still only lost the thin-client terminal, not the company data.
a. Transfer your data by VPN or network rather than carry easily lost/confiscated storage media. This is not because everyone is guilty but because loosing access to the latest copy of your business presentation is not an option; leave it safe on the company server and VPN to fetch it when ready.
b. Use a clean mobile computer and remote connections to company data. Even when not traveling, this is the recommendation because the company data can be better secured through the VPN and storage server. Also, if your mobile computer is stolen or lost for any reason including by confiscation at the border; you've still only lost the thin-client terminal, not the company data.
You are American.
People in other countries are used to freedoms that they just don't see in America.
People in other countries are used to freedoms that they just don't see in America.
Deletes ALL torrents, movies, music etc. that has been downloaded.
While we Canadians can get beyond our own copyright protection, due to new laws and the old privacy rights that still exist and are applicable, the US is not quite the same. They have decided to forfeit such rights in their ongoing effort to thwart piracy, erm, I mean stop terrorism, yeah that's it, terrosists/US citizens who download and watch AlJazeera news which contradicts the pure BS that the US media spins.
While we Canadians can get beyond our own copyright protection, due to new laws and the old privacy rights that still exist and are applicable, the US is not quite the same. They have decided to forfeit such rights in their ongoing effort to thwart piracy, erm, I mean stop terrorism, yeah that's it, terrosists/US citizens who download and watch AlJazeera news which contradicts the pure BS that the US media spins.
Yesterday, I entered the UK from a direct flight from Russia.
Not only did I NOT have to have any luggage scanned, or walk through a metal detector or have any minimum wage jerk give me a pat-down -- I didn't even have to show a passport or answer any stupid questions from border control goons and CERTAINLY didn't have to submit any electronic equipment for confiscation.
All it takes is walking up to the UNMANNED retina scanner booth and in less than 10 seconds you're through.
That's the way to run a border. Bloody marvellous!
(And by the way, exiting the UK is even EASIER -- there are NO border controls - just the usual screening for any kind of flight.)
Not only did I NOT have to have any luggage scanned, or walk through a metal detector or have any minimum wage jerk give me a pat-down -- I didn't even have to show a passport or answer any stupid questions from border control goons and CERTAINLY didn't have to submit any electronic equipment for confiscation.
All it takes is walking up to the UNMANNED retina scanner booth and in less than 10 seconds you're through.
That's the way to run a border. Bloody marvellous!
(And by the way, exiting the UK is even EASIER -- there are NO border controls - just the usual screening for any kind of flight.)
If you have the time take a train or drive yourself that way you don't have to worry about these infantile posturings of a few tech brainless wonders. Also, there is nothing written into the law that says they can go fishing around inside your laptop beyond it's operating correctly. The TSA has no rights to inspect the contents of your hard drive without a warrant signed specifically with those intents. They might like to think they do but they don't. The only thing they are allowed to check is if it turns on and off properly.
I'm sorry to point this out, but in fact it IS written into law that the DHS CAN and DO have the right to inspect the contents of your hard drive WITHOUT a warrant and with NO NEED of probable cause.
There are hundreds of articles on the topic - a few I'll list here.
The Electronic Freedom Foundation has been fighting this, and other violations of the constitution, but it seems a losing battle: http://www.eff.org/issues/travel-screening
Welcome to the REAL world of Big Brother thanks to George W. Bush. http://www.eff.org/press/archives/2008/09/23
Unfortunately, it seems that the official policy document has mysteriously vanished from the DHS web site: http://www.dhs.gov/journal/leadership/2008/08/answering-questions-on-border-laptop.html tries to justify their policy and links to: http://www.cbp.gov/linkhandler/cgov/travel/admissability/search_authority.ctt/search_authority.pdf (File Not Found)
AND, you don't even have to be crossing a border to be searched, detained and have your electronic devices confiscated. Most people are unaware of the 100 mile 'constitution-free' zone enclosing the borders.
The ACLU has information about this at: http://www.aclu.org/privacy/spying/areyoulivinginaconstitutionfreezone.html
Again, I'm amazed at how few people know any of the nonsense that is being done in the name of 'security'. The terms 'theatre' and 'fishing expedition' are quite appropriate.
There are hundreds of articles on the topic - a few I'll list here.
The Electronic Freedom Foundation has been fighting this, and other violations of the constitution, but it seems a losing battle: http://www.eff.org/issues/travel-screening
Welcome to the REAL world of Big Brother thanks to George W. Bush. http://www.eff.org/press/archives/2008/09/23
Unfortunately, it seems that the official policy document has mysteriously vanished from the DHS web site: http://www.dhs.gov/journal/leadership/2008/08/answering-questions-on-border-laptop.html tries to justify their policy and links to: http://www.cbp.gov/linkhandler/cgov/travel/admissability/search_authority.ctt/search_authority.pdf (File Not Found)
AND, you don't even have to be crossing a border to be searched, detained and have your electronic devices confiscated. Most people are unaware of the 100 mile 'constitution-free' zone enclosing the borders.
The ACLU has information about this at: http://www.aclu.org/privacy/spying/areyoulivinginaconstitutionfreezone.html
Again, I'm amazed at how few people know any of the nonsense that is being done in the name of 'security'. The terms 'theatre' and 'fishing expedition' are quite appropriate.
... you have the same issue on your side of the pond. Quit bitchin'....
Go read the regulations yourself.
Nobody is bitching -- don't let the FACTS upset you.
I just flew from London to St. Petersburg Russia -- as I do every 2 or 3 weeks.
NORMAL airport security in London -- 5 minutes -- there, you keep the laptop INSIDE the bag. No taking off shoes or other BS.
Took the "Green Channel" into Russia -- NO SEARCH WHATSOEVER. This is how it is on 'this side of the pond'.
Nobody is bitching -- don't let the FACTS upset you.
I just flew from London to St. Petersburg Russia -- as I do every 2 or 3 weeks.
NORMAL airport security in London -- 5 minutes -- there, you keep the laptop INSIDE the bag. No taking off shoes or other BS.
Took the "Green Channel" into Russia -- NO SEARCH WHATSOEVER. This is how it is on 'this side of the pond'.
I just love "experts" that feel compelled to baffle us with BS. and spout about clauses in the laws which have a use and can be used IF there is a need.
NO profiling so my mother in law is searched repeatedly because of a cane and her inability to move freely due to health and age so Mr. or Mrs. X are not suffering discrimination.
If you wish to experience real security and "hidden laws" I suggest you visit Saudi Arabia, China, Israel, Russia, etc. You will feel like a Movie Star with so many "eyes" on you every minute of the day! (Yes, all 1440 of them in some locations.)
I wonder where you place blame for the worldwide economic difficulties.
Please stay in the UK where Queen, PM and Parliament are really in touch with the needs of the people and equivalents to these laws do not exist....
The bottom line is the world is not a kind and loving place where everybody exhibits the positive potential of the human spirit.
TRUE Freedom is a perception and a goal, but almost never a reality.
Regards.
NO profiling so my mother in law is searched repeatedly because of a cane and her inability to move freely due to health and age so Mr. or Mrs. X are not suffering discrimination.
If you wish to experience real security and "hidden laws" I suggest you visit Saudi Arabia, China, Israel, Russia, etc. You will feel like a Movie Star with so many "eyes" on you every minute of the day! (Yes, all 1440 of them in some locations.)
I wonder where you place blame for the worldwide economic difficulties.
Please stay in the UK where Queen, PM and Parliament are really in touch with the needs of the people and equivalents to these laws do not exist....
The bottom line is the world is not a kind and loving place where everybody exhibits the positive potential of the human spirit.
TRUE Freedom is a perception and a goal, but almost never a reality.
Regards.
I don't buy any argument that tries to minimalize serious issues or tries to divert attention or blame onto others.
These DHS laws are an affront to every honest citizen and every traveler regardless of nationality.
Everyone knows the UK has their own "Nanny Nation" tricks, but at least they don't confiscate the property of honest individuals just for crossing the border -- not yet at least.
This thread is about what happens to travelers crossing US borders -- not China or anywhere else. In fact, I can't recall a single time in hundreds of trips over the past 10 years where I've had a bag searched -- or even passed through an X-Ray when entering Russia (or any of 20 other countries for that matter).
Perhaps I'm old, but still remember when a little piece of paper called the US constitution was something Americans thought worth fighting for.
These days, it seems that too many people are willing to stick their heads in the sand, let the government pi$$ one every law on the books and get away with it with complete immunity.
Regarding this particular issue, the constitution does actually have something to say about it -- a small clause called the Fourth Amendment:
"The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized."
When crossing US borders, your property can be seized, with NO WARRANT and NO need for PROBABLE CAUSE whatsoever. They just take as much of your electronics as they want -- keep them for as long as they want -- copy (take and keep) whatever contents they want.
And there is NOTHING you can do or say about it.
That seems to me to be the very definition of "unreasonable search and seizure".
If you're good with that -- and want to live under a totalitarian regime -- great -- just don't insist that others give up THEIR rights and freedoms as well.
These DHS laws are an affront to every honest citizen and every traveler regardless of nationality.
Everyone knows the UK has their own "Nanny Nation" tricks, but at least they don't confiscate the property of honest individuals just for crossing the border -- not yet at least.
This thread is about what happens to travelers crossing US borders -- not China or anywhere else. In fact, I can't recall a single time in hundreds of trips over the past 10 years where I've had a bag searched -- or even passed through an X-Ray when entering Russia (or any of 20 other countries for that matter).
Perhaps I'm old, but still remember when a little piece of paper called the US constitution was something Americans thought worth fighting for.
These days, it seems that too many people are willing to stick their heads in the sand, let the government pi$$ one every law on the books and get away with it with complete immunity.
Regarding this particular issue, the constitution does actually have something to say about it -- a small clause called the Fourth Amendment:
"The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized."
When crossing US borders, your property can be seized, with NO WARRANT and NO need for PROBABLE CAUSE whatsoever. They just take as much of your electronics as they want -- keep them for as long as they want -- copy (take and keep) whatever contents they want.
And there is NOTHING you can do or say about it.
That seems to me to be the very definition of "unreasonable search and seizure".
If you're good with that -- and want to live under a totalitarian regime -- great -- just don't insist that others give up THEIR rights and freedoms as well.
Not to worry, most people out here don't have the foggiest clue what it is like in the UK or Europe. They see the crap that is plastered all over the tube and take it verbatim which is, as usual, warped and misunderstood.
I have heard Americans say Canada is a socialist country for years now, I just laugh it off as it shows complete ignorance towards Canada, our laws, government and funded programs.
Most people in Canada believe our medical system is the same as the UK's, not realizing that we still pay a monthly premium for our medical and we don't have near the coverage you do at home.
People who don't understand a system will always consider their own superior to it.
"If it doesn't make sense to us, it can't be good."
Big brother in the UK is sold out here as if the SS is watching you 24/7, tracking each and every good and bad citizen like the government's own Father Christmas.
Its the only way they can sell the flawed and failing systems we incorporate in North America.
In the US, citizens have been trained from birth that anything the government does to secure the nation is in spite of their freedoms and used against good citizens to remove their rights (which they cling onto with sweaty palms and a white knuckled grip as if their last breath depended on it).
In reality, as a citizen, I see FAR more freedom in Europe and Canada than in the USA, but they constantly trumpet and remind themselves they live in the land of the free.
Hey, say it enough times and you'll actually start to believe it too.
Don't mind them, they mean well, as long as it benefits them in the long run and makes them feel like they better than others.
I have heard Americans say Canada is a socialist country for years now, I just laugh it off as it shows complete ignorance towards Canada, our laws, government and funded programs.
Most people in Canada believe our medical system is the same as the UK's, not realizing that we still pay a monthly premium for our medical and we don't have near the coverage you do at home.
People who don't understand a system will always consider their own superior to it.
"If it doesn't make sense to us, it can't be good."
Big brother in the UK is sold out here as if the SS is watching you 24/7, tracking each and every good and bad citizen like the government's own Father Christmas.
Its the only way they can sell the flawed and failing systems we incorporate in North America.
In the US, citizens have been trained from birth that anything the government does to secure the nation is in spite of their freedoms and used against good citizens to remove their rights (which they cling onto with sweaty palms and a white knuckled grip as if their last breath depended on it).
In reality, as a citizen, I see FAR more freedom in Europe and Canada than in the USA, but they constantly trumpet and remind themselves they live in the land of the free.
Hey, say it enough times and you'll actually start to believe it too.
Don't mind them, they mean well, as long as it benefits them in the long run and makes them feel like they better than others.
Refusing the request of a Official is tantamount to admitting guilt.
Sure they may have no rights to make some requests which in the case sited here they most certainly do but if you refuse to comply at the very least results in a full Search because they do now have Probable Cause to launch an Investigation. At the very least refusing a request like this will result in you missing that Aircraft not being refunded for the lost airfare as it's your fault not arriving early enough to pass through Security and even if they don't catch you thins time you will be added tot eh Must Watch List to be singled out for Special Attention on the next and all subsequent trips.
9-11 was the best thing that could have happened as far as Big Brother is concerned the Public willingly accepted loss of Freedom so you can not complain when it bites you on the Butt.
Col
Sure they may have no rights to make some requests which in the case sited here they most certainly do but if you refuse to comply at the very least results in a full Search because they do now have Probable Cause to launch an Investigation. At the very least refusing a request like this will result in you missing that Aircraft not being refunded for the lost airfare as it's your fault not arriving early enough to pass through Security and even if they don't catch you thins time you will be added tot eh Must Watch List to be singled out for Special Attention on the next and all subsequent trips.
9-11 was the best thing that could have happened as far as Big Brother is concerned the Public willingly accepted loss of Freedom so you can not complain when it bites you on the Butt.
Col
HOw many laptops one can carry along. 1 official and personal ?
Whilst the approved list keeps changing there do exist constraints about the software on the laptop (e.g. at one time MS Office was banned from entering Cuba). Failure to abide by this restriction can lead to penalties.
Our borders are wide open and ports unsecured during a War on Terror. Hundreds of Mexican trucks from a country rife with corruption (run by drug cartels) cross the border daily. Despite what DHS tells the American people those trucks are not adequately inspected by Customs and Border Protection but are given a 15 second "electronic waive through" and in instances where there are long lines at border crossings are not even subject to those screenings but just sent through. Border patrol agents and other law enforcement authorities also tell us they constantly stop trucks miles north of the border loaded with illegal aliens, drugs and weapons. They estimate from 5,000 to 10,000 illegal aliens sneak cross the border every week and "on a good day", for every illegal alien they apprehend 4 or 5 evade/elude capture. They also found prayer rugs, Spanish for Dummies used by those from countries of special interest to blend in with the invading hordes and parts of IED's and other bomb making material. An undercover government security team successfully smuggled enough simulated fissile material across the joke of a border using backpacks and bags (also used by illegal aliens to smuggle drugs and weapons) to make a small bomb and transported the material right up to the steps of the Federal Building in Phoenix. The U.S. visit program designed to track those who are here on visas and ensure they leave upon expiration of those visas is a total failure allowing millions to remain here with no knowledge of their locations and intentions with many actually taking jobs from Americans. The Visa Waiver program has been expanded to include those from countries possibly supporting terrorism.
I haven't even covered the out of control drug cartel violence raging along our southern border (aided and abetted by Mexican Military units engaged in hostile actions against border patrol agents and sheriff's deputies on our side of the border) resulting in murder, rape, robbery and other crimes against innocent Americans living along the border and is quickly spreading throughout the U.S. National security....Both candidates have refused to and will not secure our borders and ports. National security.....what national security??????
I haven't even covered the out of control drug cartel violence raging along our southern border (aided and abetted by Mexican Military units engaged in hostile actions against border patrol agents and sheriff's deputies on our side of the border) resulting in murder, rape, robbery and other crimes against innocent Americans living along the border and is quickly spreading throughout the U.S. National security....Both candidates have refused to and will not secure our borders and ports. National security.....what national security??????
Dallas Schools is firing teachers due in part to an 84.??? million dollar shortage in tax money for the school year. Even with a policy that is illegal in Texas.
A plan called robin hood here takes money from doing good tax wealthy cities and transfers that to tax poor cities. Which is illegal and fights to repeal it so far have not go anywhere. Tax "poor" cities will not raise taxes being scared they can not and would loose big business that is only there because of tax breaks. Some others like Dallas just mismanage budgets ever year with internal theft.
Yeah firing teachers in one of the worst school districts (Dallas) will really "Help".
We have a constitutional requirement to school illegal children in this country.
With all those kids in school and the parents are here illegally not paying taxes, and now firing teachers so the kids are not get a proper education.
Well Dallas has a mexican running the whole district. It does not look impartial.
He took a 20% no a 10% no a 5% pay cut to help but he should be fired. He should have stayed with the original 20% pay cut, but I guess he had time to figure out he could not afford to live high on the hog and then announced the lower cuts in pay, after he figured out what it would take to live in Oak Lawn in his fancy house, and expensive car.
The problem is if he is FIRED it would COST more to pay him his "being fired bonus for messing the whole budget up" Fee then to live with his mismanagement until he leaves or retires.
These things need to be stopped!
NO bonus' for messing things up.
And no more free for non citizens no paying taxes.
Farmers Branch has the right idea.
You must have a "I am a legal to be in the US" card to live, work and commute with in the city limits. Verified by the City.
And making it illegal for someone to provide work and housing to a non documented person and steep penalties for those who break the laws.
No TAX = No budget, No budget = No school, heath care, government, or any other items that are funded by above TAXes.
Keep US money in the US, convert monetary funds exiting the border to foreign fund rates, and lets stop the res session before it becomes unrecoverable. Globally.
We are firing teachers in a School district that needs them. And kids are taking the easy way out.
A plan called robin hood here takes money from doing good tax wealthy cities and transfers that to tax poor cities. Which is illegal and fights to repeal it so far have not go anywhere. Tax "poor" cities will not raise taxes being scared they can not and would loose big business that is only there because of tax breaks. Some others like Dallas just mismanage budgets ever year with internal theft.
Yeah firing teachers in one of the worst school districts (Dallas) will really "Help".
We have a constitutional requirement to school illegal children in this country.
With all those kids in school and the parents are here illegally not paying taxes, and now firing teachers so the kids are not get a proper education.
Well Dallas has a mexican running the whole district. It does not look impartial.
He took a 20% no a 10% no a 5% pay cut to help but he should be fired. He should have stayed with the original 20% pay cut, but I guess he had time to figure out he could not afford to live high on the hog and then announced the lower cuts in pay, after he figured out what it would take to live in Oak Lawn in his fancy house, and expensive car.
The problem is if he is FIRED it would COST more to pay him his "being fired bonus for messing the whole budget up" Fee then to live with his mismanagement until he leaves or retires.
These things need to be stopped!
NO bonus' for messing things up.
And no more free for non citizens no paying taxes.
Farmers Branch has the right idea.
You must have a "I am a legal to be in the US" card to live, work and commute with in the city limits. Verified by the City.
And making it illegal for someone to provide work and housing to a non documented person and steep penalties for those who break the laws.
No TAX = No budget, No budget = No school, heath care, government, or any other items that are funded by above TAXes.
Keep US money in the US, convert monetary funds exiting the border to foreign fund rates, and lets stop the res session before it becomes unrecoverable. Globally.
We are firing teachers in a School district that needs them. And kids are taking the easy way out.
Clinton approved NAFTA taking jobs accross the border to Mexico, just to bring the goods back and sell to those who lost their jobs to those accross the border... we buy less, and they repeat the cycle in the name of profits, losing more of our jobs, and then us buying less because of it. (I should expand this to include China too, as well as other countries.)
Our politicians are making sure they get their money... giving up a token of their money to attempt to appease us. And then make sure they have something in place to pay them well when they leave or are ousted.
Unfortunately, when we do get someone new in, if they aren't already corrupted, they soon tend to become so. The Who had it right in "won't get fooled again" when they said "Meet the new boss, same as the old boss."
We don't need the NWO (Big Brother on steroids) or Politics as usual... Vote out all the old blood, and vote out the new when it shows signs of corruption. (MAYBE they might get the picture.)
Our founding fathers would be livid over what all three branches of our government are doing.
Our politicians are making sure they get their money... giving up a token of their money to attempt to appease us. And then make sure they have something in place to pay them well when they leave or are ousted.
Unfortunately, when we do get someone new in, if they aren't already corrupted, they soon tend to become so. The Who had it right in "won't get fooled again" when they said "Meet the new boss, same as the old boss."
We don't need the NWO (Big Brother on steroids) or Politics as usual... Vote out all the old blood, and vote out the new when it shows signs of corruption. (MAYBE they might get the picture.)
Our founding fathers would be livid over what all three branches of our government are doing.
The constitution gives the right to form a militia and over throw the government and re establish it as it was back in the beginning.
Who's with me?.........................
Rase your hands, I mean your arms. Umm I mean who wants to join me?
Everyone has their hands and arms in the air as prisoners to the governments policy.
I think the issue is who is comming off the planes and across borders from countries to lax on security, not who is leaving on a plane now a day.
Who's with me?.........................
Rase your hands, I mean your arms. Umm I mean who wants to join me?
Everyone has their hands and arms in the air as prisoners to the governments policy.
I think the issue is who is comming off the planes and across borders from countries to lax on security, not who is leaving on a plane now a day.
Of course, what I really want to know is how many lives have been saved by making life so hard for so many millions.
I bet banning alcohol would save more. Or restricting cars speed automatically.
I wonder how many crimes happen in Iran or N Korea?
I'd rather have more freedom and live with more potential harm that be hurt by my government.
Sorry
I bet banning alcohol would save more. Or restricting cars speed automatically.
I wonder how many crimes happen in Iran or N Korea?
I'd rather have more freedom and live with more potential harm that be hurt by my government.
Sorry
Well, the average annual traffic fatality rate in the US has been around 37,000 for the last 10 years or so (http://www-fars.nhtsa.dot.gov/Main/index.aspx). But then, traffic fatalities occur every day, and we take them as if they are a normal part of every day life. The reason 9-11 got so much attention and response was not becuase of the number that were killed, but simply because it was an unusual event, which the administration then used to consolidate power. So please don't apologize. We need more people with soap boxes....
I travel all over Europe and the Far East and agree with all the rules.
HOWEVER, don't forget to backup your data prior to flying and carry key data and presentations on a separate memory key.
Good news is that London Heathrow has recently updated its scanning software and no longer requires laptops to be removed from bags.
HOWEVER, don't forget to backup your data prior to flying and carry key data and presentations on a separate memory key.
Good news is that London Heathrow has recently updated its scanning software and no longer requires laptops to be removed from bags.
How did the update fix radiating your items with no care that it would actually wipe out data from floppies and dongles or hard drives.
I had a flash drive wiped out by the XRAY and threatened with jail if I filed a claim on it.
I posted my experience above so I wont re post it here but its stupid they can get away with the 100% XRAY safe statement.
I had a flash drive wiped out by the XRAY and threatened with jail if I filed a claim on it.
I posted my experience above so I wont re post it here but its stupid they can get away with the 100% XRAY safe statement.
I bought a camera sony that uses floppies and it still works. missing all the chassis screws and the flash just stopped working but it still works I have to carry a flash light now though.
I wanted to update a few things but the economy made that a bit hard to replace personal items.
Buying a new battery is still cheaper for now.
Ill drive where I am needed for now.
I wanted to update a few things but the economy made that a bit hard to replace personal items.
Buying a new battery is still cheaper for now.
Ill drive where I am needed for now.
Since my laptop contains propriatary information (as well as some personal information), I simply refuse to travel anywhere outside of the US.
There is no way I'm going to let some government flunky take my laptop for several weeks/months.
There is no way I'm going to let some government flunky take my laptop for several weeks/months.
I work for a global company. All our personal laptops are encrypted at the drive level. As a result, we cannot take our personal laptops into some countries that restrict the use of encryption.
The company's policy is that if you are traveling to such a country, you will be issued a "safe" laptop for just that trip, and must carry any data such as presentations in unencrypted form on a flash drive or USB hard drive.
I like the tip someone gave of taping your business card to the top. (Like corporate logos, maybe you should tape it upside down, so that when it's in use it's an advertising billboard?) I just have a simple sticker on mine, but it's saved me more than once from grabbing the next person's identical Dell.
The company's policy is that if you are traveling to such a country, you will be issued a "safe" laptop for just that trip, and must carry any data such as presentations in unencrypted form on a flash drive or USB hard drive.
I like the tip someone gave of taping your business card to the top. (Like corporate logos, maybe you should tape it upside down, so that when it's in use it's an advertising billboard?) I just have a simple sticker on mine, but it's saved me more than once from grabbing the next person's identical Dell.
That makes two of us Stan - except that I am going to do everything I can to avoid travelling to the US. I once visited what you think is part of the US (Guam) on my way to Marshall Islands. Had unpleasant officers (filled in the wrong transit form), serious search and a suitcase destroyed. And I was only in transit! Have added US to my travel blacklist, along with Somalia and Saudi Arabia. So have several hundred thousand students who find getting a visa difficult and hear stories of harassment at airports by those who do make it. What happened to your welcoming nature?
All this talk about TSA "borrowing" my laptop, possibly stealing its contents and dusting it for explosive residues reinforces my decision.
I hope that a new administration will soon make it possible for me to take your great country off my blacklist.
All this talk about TSA "borrowing" my laptop, possibly stealing its contents and dusting it for explosive residues reinforces my decision.
I hope that a new administration will soon make it possible for me to take your great country off my blacklist.
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