Gambling, Poker, and Scams: A Watchdog’s Guide
If you like to gamble, you may have a tough time of it. Where should you go? The Texas Lottery came oh-so-close to shutting down this year because non-Texans manipulated winning the $95 million jackpot. How did they do it? They bought almost every possible number.
Should you play poker? After the NBA players/coach poker scandal, I’m afraid to touch a deck of cards. Did you get a look at the stunning tools used to cheat at poker? They include:
- A rigged card-shuffling machine, the DeckMate 2, that contains cameras transmitting information about the cards to an off-site computer
- X-ray poker tables, which allegedly allow cards to be read from a face-down position
- Special contact lenses or glasses that can read pre-marked cards from behind — and predict hands
- Trays of poker chips that can read cards through a tiny hidden camera
In the Wild West, a man could get killed for cheating at poker. Modern poker cheating has entered the digital age.
Watchdog Alert
New Driver’s License
Both the Texas driver’s license and the ID card have a new look. The new versions, DPS announced, are made of “tamper-resistant polycarbonate material that is difficult to reproduce.”
One new element might make it harder for criminals to reproduce and commit ID theft. If you hold the new one up to a light, the shape of Texas is a see-through window.
No need to get one now. Your current license is good until its expiration date. After that, you get upgraded to the new version. However, if you want the new version now, you may be qualified to get one online and mailed to you for $11.
PUC’s Birthday
For all you Texas electricity nerds out there like me, let’s wish the Public Utility Commission of Texas a happy 50th birthday.
To celebrate, the agency has created its own online historical museum.
One way to find it is to do a web search for these words — PUCT and “highlights milestones and memories in new online exhibit.”
You’ll learn that the first rate case wasn’t even about electricity. The applicant was Southwestern Bell Telephone.
Of course, the exhibit leaves out how several years ago I symbolically stripped the P out of its title and try to always refer to it as the Utility Commission.
Show that you care about the public and you can have your “P” back.
Scam Alert!
The Federal Communications Commission is warning about scam callers and texters who claim to offer a 50% discount on companies including Spectrum cable services.
The script goes like this:
“Hello. This is Spectrum. We’re reviewing your account, and it appears that your 50% discount on your monthly bill is set to expire today. To confirm and secure your savings, call the number displayed on your Caller ID immediately. This offer cannot be extended. Thank you.”
If you call, you learn from the scammer that the only way to secure the discount is to pay for multiple months of service using a gift card.
Red flags include: 1) making you rush, 2) the involvement of gift cards, 3) is any utility going to call you and let you have more money?
If you get a call like this, you can ignore it or call the actual company (contact info on your monthly bill) and check your account status.
Homestead Exemption Reminder
With the expected passage of constitutional amendments increasing property tax discounts for primary homeowners, it’s more important than ever to make sure you get credit for your homestead exemption.
As I’ve previously reported, if you get a letter from your appraisal district asking you to verify your exemption, don’t ignore it.
Those who don’t respond could end up losing their exemption and paying more in taxes.
This is part of a new homestead exemption audit. The new law is meant to make sure you are still the primary homeowner and deserving of a huge property tax cut.
You should get a verification letter every five years.
If you’re not sure of your homestead exemption status, check your account on your appraisal district website or call the district.
And remember that persons who are over 65, disabled or a surviving spouse of a deceased veteran are all eligible for even greater discounts, according to new amendments expected to be approved by voters in the Nov. 4 election.
Weather Radio Help
I’m looking to buy an inexpensive, battery-powered weather radio for my family, but I can’t decide on one. We don’t want one that goes off every time there’s a weather alert 100 miles away.
Any recommendations?
Financial Literacy
Now that Texas high school students will be required to take a “financial literacy” test, why don’t you take one? I invite you to take a sample test offered in my previous Watchdog column.
Go to my webpage at dallasnews.com/watchdog to find it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and scams associated with gambling, poker, and other financial activities. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to these scams.
Additionally, it’s crucial to take advantage of the resources available to you, such as the new driver’s license and ID card, the PUC’s online historical museum, and the homestead exemption audit. By doing so, you can ensure that you are taking the necessary steps to protect your identity, your finances, and your property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the new driver’s license made of?
A: The new driver’s license is made of “tamper-resistant polycarbonate material that is difficult to reproduce.”
Q: How can I verify my homestead exemption status?
A: You can check your account on your appraisal district website or call the district to verify your homestead exemption status.
Q: What are the red flags of a scam call?
A: Red flags include: 1) making you rush, 2) the involvement of gift cards, 3) is any utility going to call you and let you have more money?
Q: Where can I find the sample financial literacy test?
A: You can find the sample financial literacy test on my webpage at dallasnews.com/watchdog.
