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Cable TV subscription Part II

Started by Paul Johnson · · 👁 9 views · 256 replies

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Participants Paul JohnsonAndrew Cooper82Benjamin Richardson9Michelle Alvarez8Brian Edwards6Anthony Harris2mistybear10urbantinker24rowdyhawk15Zachary Jones43Robin Fisher53Jessica Barnes952Mark Booth7vividranger8Lisa Gonzalez97ironviper9Brian Clark4Michael Morgan5Larry Howard4Jamie PriceSamuel Millerslycyclist342graniteotter6hollowmason64 …
Sarah Doyle34 Sarah Doyle34 Newcomer
1 message
joined Feb 2016
#101 ·
slycyclist342 said:Just one stupid question... why don't they use a peephole? The inspectors always duck out of the frame, so you can't see them. 😁

Where did you pick up that camera? If you're actually happy with how it works despite the low price..
You can just DM me.
thx

I actually called PBS to get an answer to my question because I was genuinely curious about the process.

And some woman basically cut me off halfway through my explanation.😕😕😕

I call at 3:02 PM and she goes, "YOU CALLED OUTSIDE OF BUSINESS HOURS... WE CLOSE AT 3:00."🤣 🤣 🤣

Anyway...

Their official line is that if you're adding family members to the account, you have to file a deregistration for the receiver.

In my opinion, he still possesses the receiver, and he cannot legally swear under penalty of perjury that he doesn't, if he actually does... but then again, this is a household already paying the subscription fee.

She argues: but he is deregistering the receiver at that specific address (which isn't even what's stated in the declaration, but whatever...).

I wanted to ask: how is he supposed to grant the inspectors access to that address if he won't be living there anymore and we don't know who will be? And all I heard was a click... no more questions allowed after 3:00.🤣 🤣

Believe it or not, they actually dodge away from the hidden cameras. I dealt with that recently.

What I really wanna know is, if anyone can tell me ASAP: if I report this guy right now, like today, for a decent amount of money on ESPN, am I gonna get all my $27 compensation or what? Because it's already been like half a month.
Thanks!
northerncyclist2 northerncyclist2 Active Member
89 messages
joined Jan 2016
#102 ·
Sarah Doyle34 said:Believe it or not, they actually dodge away from the hidden cameras. I dealt with that recently.

What I really wanna know is, if anyone can tell me ASAP: if I report this guy right now, like today, for a decent amount of money on ESPN, am I gonna get all my $27 compensation or what? Because it's already been like half a month.
Thanks!

Personally, I don't open the door for any stranger unless they check in at the apartment building's intercom first. That's pretty much the only spot where you can actually see a last name. There isn't anything on my apartment door. If someone is coming over with good intentions, I usually just wait for them by the elevator. 😁
ruggedhawk5 ruggedhawk5 Newcomer
7 messages
joined Jan 2016
#103 ·
Based on your observations, I’m inclined to think you’ve identified me as one of those seasoned, well-informed voices we’ve all been waiting to see surface in this discussion.

Quentin:
I am still waiting to see if anyone else shares my perspective on this particular situation, though I suspect most people might find my take a bit unconventional! It’s much like when you’re navigating a complex intersection in downtown Chicago—you have to weigh every variable and consider how a single movement ripples through the entire flow of traffic before you decide to proceed. I tend to look at things through that kind of lens, preferring a slow, deliberate analysis over a hasty reaction. I would love to hear what the rest of you think about this, provided you've had enough time to chew on the details! kaže:
In legal disputes of this nature, the courts generally tend to follow the path of least resistance. It’s quite similar to how a river finds the easiest route through a canyon; they aren't necessarily looking for a fight unless they absolutely have to. If you actually show up to court prepared—demonstrating that you truly understand the statutes and are fully committed to defending your legal rights—there is a very high probability that the judge will rule in your favor. However, if you choose to stay home, or if you walk into that courtroom appearing completely clueless about the law and your own standing, you are essentially handing the victory over to the creditor on a silver platter.
It’s highly probable that this isn't quite up to standard, mostly because we're looking at a scenario that pops up a hundred times a day, and ideally, the outcome should be consistent every single time. That is precisely the crux of the matter; nobody has actually gone on the record to say whether anyone ended up in court over this specific issue or what the final verdict was. Ultimately, gambling just isn't worth that kind of legal headache.

Quentin:
I find myself reflecting quite deeply on the recent discussions we've been having here, and I truly believe there is such a wealth of insight to be drawn from our collective perspectives. It often feels much like watching a complex symphony unfold; while each individual instrument plays its own distinct part, the true beauty emerges when you step back and appreciate how those individual melodies weave together to create a singular, cohesive masterpiece. I am genuinely invigorated by the level of engagement shown by everyone lately, as it reminds me that even in a digital space, the pursuit of meaningful dialogue can be an incredibly rewarding endeavor. kaže:
Honestly, if you can demonstrate that you truly understand your legal rights, you’ll often find that the inspector will simply decide it isn't worth the trouble and back off before they even file a formal report. It is much like navigating a complex negotiation; once you politely but firmly present them with all the necessary documentation and explain that you intend to counter with a criminal complaint or a formal indictment regarding specific violations, the entire dynamic shifts. When they realize you aren't an easy target and that you are prepared to hold them accountable through the proper legal channels, they frequently choose to walk away rather than face the consequences of an unnecessary confrontation.
If you consider yourself one of those more seasoned or well-educated folks in this group, my question was really aimed at getting some guidance on exactly what I should be entering under the xyz field...

Quentin:
I find myself reflecting quite a bit on the nuances of our recent discussions, much like how one might contemplate the intricate gear ratios of a high-end touring bike before embarking on a cross-country trek. There is a certain rhythm to the way we exchange ideas here, a steady cadence that reminds me of a long, sun-drenched ride through the rolling hills of Virginia. It’s truly a pleasure to engage with such a diverse group of thinkers, even when our perspectives diverge as sharply as a sudden mountain detour. I believe there is immense value in this slow, deliberate unfolding of arguments, much like the gradual buildup of momentum when you're tackling a steep incline on a heavy cruiser—it takes patience, but the view from the summit makes every pedal stroke worthwhile. kaže:
Do you think they’re actually serious about that whole "TV receiver detector" thing?
😂
Of course, I’m certainly not referring to some sort of television receiver detector.
It strikes me as a rather curious point when you consider that I’m paying Iskon—well, let's call them ConEd—for my high-speed internet, and lately, even for my cable package. We all know how much scrutiny goes into protecting the private data of citizens in this country, yet there seems to be a strange double standard at play. It feels quite contradictory that we trust massive, multi-national corporations like big Wall Street banks to handle our sensitive information, yet we harbor such skepticism toward a domestic utility provider. One would think that a homegrown American company would be held to the same, if not higher, standards of privacy than a global conglomerate.

Quentin:
I must admit, I find myself quite captivated by the sheer depth of the discourse happening here lately. It’s rather like watching a well-orchestrated symphony where every musician, despite their differing interpretations, contributes to a grand, evolving melody. There is such a wonderful texture to these discussions, much like the layers of flavor you might find in a perfectly aged Cabernet, where one note builds upon another to create something truly substantial. I am genuinely looking forward to seeing how our collective perspectives continue to weave together as we delve deeper into these topics! kaže:
It seems they operate under the assumption that they can simply get away with this kind of behavior, largely because they go to great lengths to sweep any instances of pushback under the rug. They are terrified of those moments when someone actually stands up to them and calls them out, because if word of such defiance were to get out, it would set a dangerous precedent and encourage everyone else to do the exact same thing.
To be fair, they actually have a point, and that’s really the crux of the whole matter. While it might feel like certain people have brushed them aside or played them for fools, that might just be a short-term setback rather than the full story.

Bradley Scott2 said:I’d really focus on the cost of the TV subscription itself. It’s easily three times higher than what you'd pay in other countries with a similar size and standard within the European Union. Honestly, it should probably be around $25.$10We’re paying the same amount now that Britons pay for their NPR.

Taking this advice could end up having some pretty serious consequences. $80 + $333 Fines for failing to report a recipient, plus court costs, headaches, and just being harassed through the legal system.

The point is, the courts aren't stupid; they find it much more profitable to just take PBS at their word than to listen to any one individual.


Courts tend to take the path of least resistance in these kinds of disputes. If you actually show up and demonstrate that you understand your legal rights and are willing to defend them, there's a good chance the ruling will go your way. But if you don't show up, or if you act like you have no idea what your rights even are, they'll likely just rule in favor of the collector.

Honestly, if you show them you actually know your rights, the inspector will probably just back off instead of filing a report. For instance, if you calmly ask for their credentials and explain that you'll be filing a formal complaint against them for XYZ...

From my own experience, I've spent some time giving legal advice to friends and family members during various disputes.

There are also countless ways to prove you actually own the receiver...

You think they're actually going to use that "TV receiver detector"?
😂

I’m honestly just trying to wrap my head around how PBS's official statement could be considered invalid from the get-go. I really want to understand why their whole approach is being labeled as greenwashing, extortionate, and straight-up intimidation.

They just take advantage of the situation because they can. They hide the times people actually stand up to them, mostly because they don't want word getting out and others following suit.

To me, this notice about starting a misdemeanor proceeding isn't even a legal document; it’s just public extortion. Honestly, I think it's litigious just because of the mental stress it causes.

Has anyone actually filed an official request with PBS to get the details on that inspector and the person in charge over at the subscription department? I'm wondering if anyone’s looking to file a lawsuit for false reporting based on those specific sections of the criminal code.
Really?
I mean, honestly, who's really to blame if you just let people treat you that way?

Does anyone with some actual experience or training mind weighing in to confirm or debunk my theory?

☕

To be perfectly honest, my vague mention of "filing under certain penal codes" is exactly why I decided to join this forum. I am sitting here patiently waiting for someone with actual experience or a legal background to guide me on how to phrase such a claim precisely.

It is quite fascinating, really; on the LegalZoom forums, where people seem to share advice on just about everything under the sun, nobody has offered a single helpful response to the repeated questions regarding these criminal proceeding notices. It appears that no attorney out there finds this particular issue worth their time...
vividcyclist8 vividcyclist8 Newcomer
2 messages
joined Jan 2016
#104 ·
vividcyclist8 said:What’s the best way to handle things when moving abroad? I’ve been paying my local taxes for years, but now Dad and I are relocating. How can I officially deregister everything so I don't have any lingering headaches down the road?

Anyone else dealing with this? I just got a notice in the mail today, but none of the reasons listed actually apply to me. I am moving, sure, but it's an international move, not a relocation to a nursing home, which is what they seem to think. 🙂
Michelle Alvarez8 Michelle Alvarez8 Regular
299 messages
joined Nov 2015
#105 ·
boldlynx23 said:Here’s some solid information for you:

PBS, being this state-run entity we fund through basically a stupidity tax, is working hand-in-hand with city utility collectors—who, in turn, feed them data on anyone dodging their bills. They’re running "raids" on apartment buildings in major cities now. A collector hands over a list of residents, and PBS agents go door-to-door checking names against their own subscriber database. That’s exactly how they caught up with me after I spent over 10 years dodging the bill by moving addresses. 😉

A good friend of mine who works for the city utility department let me in on it—they were ordered to start cooperating with PBS.

Basically, it isn't hard for them to hunt down people who aren't paying anymore, at least when it comes to urban apartment living.

So, the room you have to maneuver around paying your subscription is shrinking fast. Honestly, who actually wants to deal with the headache of courts, liens, appeals, lawyers, and notaries? I don't have the time or the energy to sit there proving to government bureaucrats that I'm "innocent" just because I'm technically breaking a state law. 😁

Sure, you can claim I'm making this up, calling it a conspiracy theory, or saying my buddy is lying—I don't care. I'm not defending PBS, and I'm certainly not thrilled about having to pay up after 10 years, but I really don't need any legal harassment from $333 or the mess of court dates. I just don't have the time for it.

Thanks for the advice, everyone.

I'm happy to put my money where my mouth is on this one. ☕
dustymarlin10 dustymarlin10 Active Member
238 messages
joined Nov 2015
#106 ·
Michelle Alvarez8 said:I'm happy to put my money where my mouth is on this one. ☕

Same here. 🍿
Paul Johnson Paul Johnson MemberOP
37 messages
joined Nov 2015
#107 ·
Seriously, who on earth is this "City Treasurer" anyway?? 🙂
dustymarlin10 dustymarlin10 Active Member
238 messages
joined Nov 2015
#108 ·
Paul Johnson said:Seriously, who on earth is this "City Treasurer" anyway?? 🙂

The one actually collecting taxes from the city? 😬
boldlynx23 boldlynx23 Newcomer
6 messages
joined Jan 2016
#109 ·
Some big municipal entity you pay HOA fees to.

Let’s not drag this out. Maybe I fell for it, maybe I didn't. Maybe I owe them, maybe I don't. Maybe they're lying, maybe they aren't.
The truth is—I totally tanked it. I can't afford to fight this in court. Eventually, I'll just ghost them, move on, and start over from scratch without even opening the door—end of story.

Keep pushing back, everyone. Stay stubborn against that nonsense. Don't let yourselves get played like I did 😉
slycyclist342 slycyclist342 Member
49 messages
joined Jan 2016
#110 ·
boldlynx23 said:Some big municipal entity you pay HOA fees to.

Let’s not drag this out. Maybe I fell for it, maybe I didn't. Maybe I owe them, maybe I don't. Maybe they're lying, maybe they aren't.
The truth is—I totally tanked it. I can't afford to fight this in court. Eventually, I'll just ghost them, move on, and start over from scratch without even opening the door—end of story.

Keep pushing back, everyone. Stay stubborn against that nonsense. Don't let yourselves get played like I did 😉

Actually, there are private management companies that handle HOAs too.

And those fees are calculated by square footage, regardless of whether the unit is actually occupied or not.

Regarding the laptop...

http://www.nytimes.com/US...5/Default.aspx
Elizabeth Price2 Elizabeth Price2 Active Member
66 messages
joined Feb 2006
#111 ·
ruggedhawk5 said:Based on your observations, I’m inclined to think you’ve identified me as one of those seasoned, well-informed voices we’ve all been waiting to see surface in this discussion.

Quentin:
I am still waiting to see if anyone else shares my perspective on this particular situation, though I suspect most people might find my take a bit unconventional! It’s much like when you’re navigating a complex intersection in downtown Chicago—you have to weigh every variable and consider how a single movement ripples through the entire flow of traffic before you decide to proceed. I tend to look at things through that kind of lens, preferring a slow, deliberate analysis over a hasty reaction. I would love to hear what the rest of you think about this, provided you've had enough time to chew on the details! kaže:
In legal disputes of this nature, the courts generally tend to follow the path of least resistance. It’s quite similar to how a river finds the easiest route through a canyon; they aren't necessarily looking for a fight unless they absolutely have to. If you actually show up to court prepared—demonstrating that you truly understand the statutes and are fully committed to defending your legal rights—there is a very high probability that the judge will rule in your favor. However, if you choose to stay home, or if you walk into that courtroom appearing completely clueless about the law and your own standing, you are essentially handing the victory over to the creditor on a silver platter.
It’s highly probable that this isn't quite up to standard, mostly because we're looking at a scenario that pops up a hundred times a day, and ideally, the outcome should be consistent every single time. That is precisely the crux of the matter; nobody has actually gone on the record to say whether anyone ended up in court over this specific issue or what the final verdict was. Ultimately, gambling just isn't worth that kind of legal headache.

Quentin:
I find myself reflecting quite deeply on the recent discussions we've been having here, and I truly believe there is such a wealth of insight to be drawn from our collective perspectives. It often feels much like watching a complex symphony unfold; while each individual instrument plays its own distinct part, the true beauty emerges when you step back and appreciate how those individual melodies weave together to create a singular, cohesive masterpiece. I am genuinely invigorated by the level of engagement shown by everyone lately, as it reminds me that even in a digital space, the pursuit of meaningful dialogue can be an incredibly rewarding endeavor. kaže:
Honestly, if you can demonstrate that you truly understand your legal rights, you’ll often find that the inspector will simply decide it isn't worth the trouble and back off before they even file a formal report. It is much like navigating a complex negotiation; once you politely but firmly present them with all the necessary documentation and explain that you intend to counter with a criminal complaint or a formal indictment regarding specific violations, the entire dynamic shifts. When they realize you aren't an easy target and that you are prepared to hold them accountable through the proper legal channels, they frequently choose to walk away rather than face the consequences of an unnecessary confrontation.
If you consider yourself one of those more seasoned or well-educated folks in this group, my question was really aimed at getting some guidance on exactly what I should be entering under the xyz field...

Quentin:
I find myself reflecting quite a bit on the nuances of our recent discussions, much like how one might contemplate the intricate gear ratios of a high-end touring bike before embarking on a cross-country trek. There is a certain rhythm to the way we exchange ideas here, a steady cadence that reminds me of a long, sun-drenched ride through the rolling hills of Virginia. It’s truly a pleasure to engage with such a diverse group of thinkers, even when our perspectives diverge as sharply as a sudden mountain detour. I believe there is immense value in this slow, deliberate unfolding of arguments, much like the gradual buildup of momentum when you're tackling a steep incline on a heavy cruiser—it takes patience, but the view from the summit makes every pedal stroke worthwhile. kaže:
Do you think they’re actually serious about that whole "TV receiver detector" thing?
😂
Of course, I’m certainly not referring to some sort of television receiver detector.
It strikes me as a rather curious point when you consider that I’m paying Iskon—well, let's call them ConEd—for my high-speed internet, and lately, even for my cable package. We all know how much scrutiny goes into protecting the private data of citizens in this country, yet there seems to be a strange double standard at play. It feels quite contradictory that we trust massive, multi-national corporations like big Wall Street banks to handle our sensitive information, yet we harbor such skepticism toward a domestic utility provider. One would think that a homegrown American company would be held to the same, if not higher, standards of privacy than a global conglomerate.

Quentin:
I must admit, I find myself quite captivated by the sheer depth of the discourse happening here lately. It’s rather like watching a well-orchestrated symphony where every musician, despite their differing interpretations, contributes to a grand, evolving melody. There is such a wonderful texture to these discussions, much like the layers of flavor you might find in a perfectly aged Cabernet, where one note builds upon another to create something truly substantial. I am genuinely looking forward to seeing how our collective perspectives continue to weave together as we delve deeper into these topics! kaže:
It seems they operate under the assumption that they can simply get away with this kind of behavior, largely because they go to great lengths to sweep any instances of pushback under the rug. They are terrified of those moments when someone actually stands up to them and calls them out, because if word of such defiance were to get out, it would set a dangerous precedent and encourage everyone else to do the exact same thing.
To be fair, they actually have a point, and that’s really the crux of the whole matter. While it might feel like certain people have brushed them aside or played them for fools, that might just be a short-term setback rather than the full story.

To be perfectly honest, my vague mention of "filing under certain penal codes" is exactly why I decided to join this forum. I am sitting here patiently waiting for someone with actual experience or a legal background to guide me on how to phrase such a claim precisely.

It is quite fascinating, really; on the LegalZoom forums, where people seem to share advice on just about everything under the sun, nobody has offered a single helpful response to the repeated questions regarding these criminal proceeding notices. It appears that no attorney out there finds this particular issue worth their time...

Yeah, this whole situation is totally screwing me over too. Like, if this ever actually hits a courtroom, can't they just point to my service provider records as proof that I own a PC? Since a computer is legally treated the same as a TV nowadays, wouldn't being a customer of Comcast or AT&T basically hand them the evidence on a silver platter?

On the flip side though—where are they even getting this data from? I mean, if they're grabbing it without permission, isn't that straight-up illegal? And if the info was obtained illegally, wouldn't that make it useless as evidence in court? 😵

It honestly baffles me how lawyers stay dead silent about this stuff—it's like they've all taken a vow of silence or something. Even the consumer advocacy groups and journalists! It's weird because they'll give out free advice for every other minor issue under the sun, but when it comes to this, crickets.

Personally, I think my best bet is to just pull out my phone and record the collector if/when they show up at my door. I'd give them a heads-up right away, like, "Hey, just so you know, I'm recording this." Then I'd state the date, my address, ask for their name, and find out exactly what they want. If they still won't back off and start asking if I have a receiver, I'll just say no. If they try to push their way in to check, I'll shut that down fast. Then I'll hit them with the question: "Did you actually witness the possession of a receiver?" (per the law, obviously). They'll have to say "no," because anything else would be lying straight to my face while a camera is rolling. With that "no" on tape, they've got absolutely nothing to work with in court.

Anyway, that's basically how I'm seeing this whole mess play out.
Michelle Alvarez8 Michelle Alvarez8 Regular
299 messages
joined Nov 2015
#112 ·
The Brits have their collectors out there doing this—honestly, the videos are pure comedy gold. 😁 You should see how fast these guys bolt the second they spot a camera! 😂
Michelle Alvarez8 Michelle Alvarez8 Regular
299 messages
joined Nov 2015
#113 ·
slycyclist342 said:Actually, there are private management companies that handle HOAs too.

And those fees are calculated by square footage, regardless of whether the unit is actually occupied or not.

Regarding the laptop...

http://www.nytimes.com/US...5/Default.aspx

It honestly breaks my heart seeing how many people use tech without having even the slightest clue how it actually works. A laptop isn't an "audiovisual receiver within the coverage area of RH serviced by broadcast signals." Period. ☕

There’s been this long-running debate about whether you even have to let a PBS inspector into your home—since the only time a citizen is legally obligated to open their door is when someone shows up with a court order. Darija Najev Jurač points out that nowhere in the Public Broadcasting Act does it say a consumer is required to let a collector inside...

On the flip side, PBS claims that using an unregistered TV or radio violates the Public Broadcasting Act, adding that their inspectors always carry ID cards with their photos so people know exactly who they're letting in.

A PBS ID card means about as much to me as a desert wasteland. Just because some idiots running the show are walking around with badges doesn't mean I should—or have to—let them into my house. For real. 🙏 So, some random guy working for PBS shows up with a company badge, and now I'm supposed to roll out the red carpet just because some jerk rings my doorbell? Give me a break. 🤣

However, citizens shouldn't be surprised if they receive bills for the broadcasting fee at their home address, even if they've never actually "hosted" a collector. We're learning that inspectors can determine if a household has a receiver simply through observation—whether they hear the sound of a TV or radio, see an antenna, or something similar—and then they file a report based on those observations and send it to PBS.

Ah, the legendary observation tactic—which is really just nothing more than loud nonsense and intimidation tactics on par with those fake TV detectors. You can't pull that kind of stuff on me. 😂
nimblelynx7 nimblelynx7 Regular
336 messages
joined Jul 2016
#114 ·
boldlynx23 said:Some big municipal entity you pay HOA fees to.

Let’s not drag this out. Maybe I fell for it, maybe I didn't. Maybe I owe them, maybe I don't. Maybe they're lying, maybe they aren't.
The truth is—I totally tanked it. I can't afford to fight this in court. Eventually, I'll just ghost them, move on, and start over from scratch without even opening the door—end of story.

Keep pushing back, everyone. Stay stubborn against that nonsense. Don't let yourselves get played like I did 😉

Whoever it is, they aren't legally allowed to be handing out other people's private info like candy.

Michelle Alvarez8 said:It honestly breaks my heart seeing how many people use tech without having even the slightest clue how it actually works. A laptop isn't an "audiovisual receiver within the coverage area of RH serviced by broadcast signals." Period. ☕

There’s been this long-running debate about whether you even have to let a PBS inspector into your home—since the only time a citizen is legally obligated to open their door is when someone shows up with a court order. Darija Najev Jurač points out that nowhere in the Public Broadcasting Act does it say a consumer is required to let a collector inside...

On the flip side, PBS claims that using an unregistered TV or radio violates the Public Broadcasting Act, adding that their inspectors always carry ID cards with their photos so people know exactly who they're letting in.

A PBS ID card means about as much to me as a desert wasteland. Just because some idiots running the show are walking around with badges doesn't mean I should—or have to—let them into my house. For real. 🙏 So, some random guy working for PBS shows up with a company badge, and now I'm supposed to roll out the red carpet just because some jerk rings my doorbell? Give me a break. 🤣

However, citizens shouldn't be surprised if they receive bills for the broadcasting fee at their home address, even if they've never actually "hosted" a collector. We're learning that inspectors can determine if a household has a receiver simply through observation—whether they hear the sound of a TV or radio, see an antenna, or something similar—and then they file a report based on those observations and send it to PBS.

Ah, the legendary observation tactic—which is really just nothing more than loud nonsense and intimidation tactics on par with those fake TV detectors. You can't pull that kind of stuff on me. 😂

I have a membership card for my local gym. By that logic, you should let me into your house whenever I feel like grabbing something. I'm not just some common burglar or trespasser—I have a card.😁
Paul Johnson Paul Johnson MemberOP
37 messages
joined Nov 2015
#115 ·
Regarding the municipal collector and those service fees:

The property manager handles all service fee collections through the building's dedicated account, distributing funds as required by law and owner decisions. (Maximilian.com)

So I’m asking again—who exactly is this "municipal collector" handing over resident data to Chase? Is it just the property manager, someone like Maximus?
A manager only knows who's paying the dues. And the person paying doesn't necessarily live there, right? I could be paying the fees for my poor grandmother, for instance.
neoncrane64 neoncrane64 Member
11 messages
joined Feb 2014
#116 ·
Listen up, everyone, regarding this whole CNN subscription mess: do not let the inspector inside your house, because if
you do, you better give them hell. Whatever you do, do not sign a single thing—they can't touch you, period.
Don't listen to their nonsense; it’s all lies. These people are practically getting half the fine amount paid for them, and they have absolutely no way of proving whether you actually own a TV or not. Having an antenna isn't
proof of anything, so don't fall for their empty threats.
Elizabeth Price2 Elizabeth Price2 Active Member
66 messages
joined Feb 2006
#117 ·
Hehe, why make things easy when you can make them a total mess instead...

So, okay—back to this little idea I had about filming the guy from the collection agency when he shows up at my door (honestly, the British guys were my main inspiration here, they’re such 🙏).
I’m definitely going to give him a heads-up that I'm recording—basically letting him know our chat is being filmed (though, if I’ve got the camera pointed right at his face, I’m assuming he isn't blind and will catch on, right?). But, from what I’ve gathered, just saying so might not even cut it. Does he actually have to give his explicit consent, otherwise the whole thing is just illegal evidence or what?

On the flip side, the guy is literally standing on my doorstep. Why on earth should I have to sit there and explain whether I’m filming him or not? If we follow that logic, then any security camera footage would be totally useless, because let's be real—I'm not exactly politely asking a burglar for a smile and his permission before catching him on tape...

Can anyone out there break this down for me? Like, give me some actual clarity? 🙂
Michelle Alvarez8 Michelle Alvarez8 Regular
299 messages
joined Nov 2015
#118 ·
Just slap a "Premises Under Video Surveillance" sticker right on the door—then you can honestly say nobody can claim they didn't know they were being recorded.
Elizabeth Price2 Elizabeth Price2 Active Member
66 messages
joined Feb 2006
#119 ·
So, we’re talking about an apartment building here. Honestly, my only real option seems to be slapping one of those "this door is being recorded" stickers right on my front door, which feels—I don't know—kind of silly? Like, if the footage actually catches me verbally telling someone, "Hey, just so you know, you're being recorded," isn't that basically the same thing as the sticker?

I've walked through some office buildings where people have these little cameras tucked away near their desks or medical suites, but there isn't a single "Video Surveillance in Progress" sign anywhere to be found. Is that just a psychological tactic? Like, "let's just spook any potential burglars even if we aren't technically following the legal fine print"? 🙂

Long story short: do I actually need to get someone's formal consent if I'm filming them in the hallway of the building or right outside my own door, or is it enough to just give them a quick verbal heads-up that they're being filmed?
Michelle Alvarez8 Michelle Alvarez8 Regular
299 messages
joined Nov 2015
#120 ·
Honestly, half those cameras are just for show—they're basically psychological warfare against anyone walking by.

Here’s what I found when searching up the legal side of filming:
https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/privacy_rights#
http://www.quora.com/search?q=recording+conversations+legally

I don't see any rule saying you can't film the hallway right outside your apartment—you know, that space directly in front of your door—especially if you're recording someone talking straight to you. Just point the camera at them, say, "Hey, I'm recording this conversation," and you're good to go.

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