Amazon sues more than 1,000 sellers of ‘fake’ review products

Posted on October 19, 2015 by msimon

Amazon is expanding its campaign against fake product reviews posted on their website. The online reseller is suing more than 1,000 people who are “misleading Amazon’s customers” by selling “fake reviews of products,” according to a complaint the company filed in a Seattle court on Friday.

The lawsuit targets account holders on a website called “Fiverr”, a marketplace for weird jobs where “gigs” are sold for five dollars and up. Amazon has been trying to figure out who is behind the accounts, so they’ve listed them  as “John Doe” in the suit.

Amazon sued several websites in April for selling false reviews. Most of those sites have been shut down, and it described the new suit against individual reviewers as the next step.

“Most of the defendants offer positive or 5-star reviews for Amazon sellers’ products. Indeed, many encourage the Amazon seller to create the text for their own reviews,” the complaint reads.

Amazon’s terms of use ban fake reviews, and it’s suing for breach of contract and violating Washington’s consumer protection laws. Who knew this would be so serious?

Court documents say Amazon conducted an “extensive investigation” into the Fiverr users. It claims some tried to dodge Amazon.com’s review controls by posting from different accounts and IP addresses.

“In at least one instance, the seller of a ‘Verified Review’ was willing to receive an empty envelop, not the product itself, simply to create a shipping record,” the court filing says.

Fiverr declined to say whether it will cooperate in the case but said “we actively remove services that violate our terms of use”

“The challenge of merchants soliciting illegitimate reviews is one that faces all marketplaces and online platforms,” Fiverr said in a statement. “In fact, in our own marketplace we restrict reviews to only those who we can verify have actually purchased a service.”

Amazon has not said if they are going to go the extra mile and have the vendor pulled from the site, but we will keep you guys updated.

Posted in Business | Comments Off on Amazon sues more than 1,000 sellers of ‘fake’ review products

Nintendo’s Recently Announced ‘Pokemon GO’ App Could be a Worldwide Phenomenon.

Posted on October 19, 2015 by emilylupfer

Pokemon is one of Nintendo’s most popular and lucrative franchises. Pokemon’s mascot Pikachu is a global icon that garners a level of recognition reserved for Mickey Mouse, The Golden Arches, and company brother Mario. The logical conclusion is that Nintendo would want to make Pokemon as accessible as possible in order to maximize profits, and that seems to be exactly the goal with the recently announced Pokemon GO app. The app is a mobile phone game where you can capture and battle Pokemon in augmented reality. It seems to be a bare bones iteration of the mega popular Pokemon video game series that is traditionally only on Nintendo consoles. However, regardless of speculation on the app’s streamlined nature, it has been received with astronomical levels of hype from Pokemon fans who can’t wait to have Pikachu and friends with them wherever they go.

With trading cards, video games, toys, television shows, and even a theme park, Pokemon has done it all. Nintendo has let this franchise flourish, and it pays dividends again and again. It is worth noting though that while Pokemon has all these branches Nintendo has always been very careful with its intellectual property. For decades Nintendo IP has been exclusive to Nintendo consoles, and the Pokemon GO app is a move that further signifies a recent change in Nintendo’s business mentality. Just a few months ago Nintendo announced that the company DeNA would be developing a slew of Nintendo available for mobile phones. Pokemon GO is not one of those games, but like the DeNa deal it shows a company that is willing to play nice with others, and reach a larger audience even if it means using someone else’s hardware.

The idea of a Pokemon game on mobile phones brings forth the question, ‘why hasn’t this happened before?’ It’s a match made in heaven, and Nintendo very well be looking at another crowd pleaser that prints money.

Posted in Entertainment, General | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Nintendo’s Recently Announced ‘Pokemon GO’ App Could be a Worldwide Phenomenon.

Ahmed Mohamed is Swimming in Cash After Clock Incident

Posted on October 18, 2015 by andrewray

Ahmed Mohamed is receiving tons of support, not only through encouraging messages on social media but also, in money.

Last Monday, Mohamed, a muslim teenager, was arrested in Texas for fabricating a home made clock that his teachers mistaken for a bomb.  Consequently, the crowdfunding platform, LaunchGood started a campaign to raise 100K for the 14-year-old boy. In just one day, the site had raised over 10,000 dollars from over 200 sponsors. They expect to reach their goal of 100,000, by October 13th.

“The support has been incredible”, said Chris Abdur-Rahman Blauvelt, CEO of LaunchGood, a site that supports projects launched by muslims or projects related to the history of Islam and its studies. “It happened so fast after after the news spread about Mohamed’s arrest”, added Blauvelt, who created LaunchGood in 2013.

“I built the watch to impress my teacher, but when I showed it to her she thought it was a threat. It was very sad for me that she got the wrong idea about my watch”, added Mohamed during  a press conference. His arrest provoked riots in the web-stream and attracted the nation-wide support towards the teenage boy. Including president Obama, and Facebook CEO, Mark Zuckerberg.

Blauvelt claims that his campaign has the approval from the Mohamed Family. He addressed that half of the money donated will go directly into an Educational Fund for Mohamed and the rest will go to the initiatives that raise creativity and inventiveness in little kids. On top of LaunchGood, Gofundme also launched a campaign in support of Mohamed’s cause. They’ve raised more than 4,000 dollars out of a goal of 60,000. The money will go towards Mohamed college tuition bill.

Posted in General | Comments Off on Ahmed Mohamed is Swimming in Cash After Clock Incident

Jeb Bush Is Worried That Donald Trump Isn’t Taking the Possibility of Being President Seriously

Posted on October 18, 2015 by kevinluering

The first thing that most people would associate Donald Trump with before his run for presidency was his role in the TV show the apprentice. He is not one that is typically looked at for his political views, but lately left and right people are wanting to know his opinions on different political matter because he has decided to run for president. Right now it looks like he is taking a pretty serious lead in the run for presidential candidate for his party in the upcoming election. There has been scrutiny from the beginning of his candidacy and it might be well placed.

Recently Jeb Bush has said that he doesn’t believe that Trump understands the role that he is running for and all that it entails. Bush states that he doesn’t believe that Trump is able to keep secrets of the nation and to make proper decisions abroad in regards to the military forces. Further he claims that he isn’t taking the time to learn about what issues that he will be facing.

Knowledge of the climate that you are about to enter into is important, so if a presidential candidate is unaware then they won’t be able to properly  guide people  to a solution that is beneficial he will be making calls blindly and that helps no one.

At this point it seems that Trump is always stepping in it, one way or another. I truly wonder the likelihood that he will end up the next leader of America.

Posted in Politics | Comments Off on Jeb Bush Is Worried That Donald Trump Isn’t Taking the Possibility of Being President Seriously

Tips on how to survive Halloween Horror Nights

Posted on October 18, 2015 by stephanie wooster

I just recently went to Halloween Horror Nights Orlando located at Universal Studios. This year was HHN’s 25th anniversary and I have to say it may have been their best one yet!!!

Tip #1 go between Monday- Thursday. The reason for this is because usually you wait in lines for a good 2 hours and if you go between those days the lines will be much shorter AND cheaper! Here’s the breakdown straight from HHN’s website:

Oct 28, 29, & Nov 1= $50

Oct 21, 22, & 25= $54

Oct 30= $60

Oct 23= $65

Oct 31= $77

 

Tip #2 make sure you purchase your tickets ONLINE and with the Burger King promo code. The code is found on the cups at Burger King and the purpose is to prove your a Florida Resident which makes your ticket cheaper (prices above)

Tip #3 print your ticket just to be safe! Universal has a feature where you’re able to scan your ticket straight from your phone and it’s awesome, however, printing your ticket to be on the safe side is recommended! Because if your phone dies, the image doesn’t appear properly, or any other malfunction you have to get out of line and go to the Customer Service which will take a while.

Tip #4 timing is very very VERY important. You’ll soon realize that the majority of your time at HHN will be waiting in lines. That being said you want to make sure you come prepared!

Tip #5 wear good comfortable walking shoes. It’s a theme park, so you will be walking and standing a lot. They do sell refreshments everywhere so make sure to stay hydrated too.

Tip #6 know where you want to go so you don’t waste time. The park depending on the day closes at 1am or 2am. Thankfully, I’m going to let you know the BEST houses to go to and where they’re located. Also, there’s people that sell souvenirs and they are the BEST people to ask where everything is, their recommendations, and how to get to certain areas. They’re the people that stand smack in the middle with some type of glow in the dark thing.

So the first house (my favorite) was the Jack House and it’s located right by Despicable Me which is going to be at the entrance of the park to your right. This one was the longest inside and the most scariest. The second best house was Insidious and it’s located by Men in Black. This house was really creepy and great because you get scared even when you walk out of the house and this house was the longest wait! So try to make this house the top of your list. SPOILER… BEWARE! The third house was Body Collectors which is right by Twister (in front of Despicable Me). Remember, the later it gets the more people= longer the lines. So try to hit the best ones first!!

Tip #7 have a buddy! There are scare zones with clowns running around coming up behind you with chainsaws. So having a buddy next to you in the house and out of them is great.

Tip #8 as I mentioned above… You are not safe when you get out of the house because there are still people outside of the house trying to get the last scare! So just keep in mind it’s not over yet…. lol. Stay a hold of your buddy… I’m serious.

Tip #9 pictures are not allowed in the houses, however, outside it’s all free game! So you’re definitely able to snap some picks with the scarers. So first thing to keep in mind, is if you’re holding out a video camera or phone trying to get a pick it’s like you’re holding a big flashing arrow above you saying SCARE ME!! lol So everyone will come up to you, however, if you make eye contact with someone scaring you, you can try to get a picture with them and you’ll tell if they let you if they stay for the photo or walk away. DO NOT chase any of them trying to get their picture. They are literally everywhere so don’t worry you’ll be able to get a good one. Selfie’s are the way to go! Remember they can’t talk to you so you just have to stick your phone out when they’re behind or next to you and they’ll most probably stick in the picture and remember… say Thank You (:

Tip #10 have fun!!!!!! This adventure is way funner with more people so the more the merrier. It’s fun to see other people and your friends get scared and even laugh at yourself when you know they got you good.

I really recommend going, it’s a lot of fun!! The houses and the production of the entire event is very well put together. It only happens 1 month of the year so try to make it and if not, don’t worry it’ll always be back every October!

Happy Halloween!!!!!!

Posted in Entertainment, General | Tagged | Comments Off on Tips on how to survive Halloween Horror Nights

Cubs vs Mets: The series for the ages that’s the beginning of this rivalry

Posted on October 18, 2015 by ivan9080

Each team journey to this National League Championship series has been different from each other. As the Chicago Cubs finished the regular season with 97-65, they had to play in a wild card game against the Pittsburgh Pirates to advance to the playoffs which they won 1-0. Unlike New York Mets they advance by winning their division; they played The Los Angeles Dodgers that had the most expense payroll in MLB. Mets ended up winning the series 3-2.

Now, these teams are facing each other to see who will advance to the world series. Many theatrical moments of these teams facing each other have been made, from back to the future prediction to Rookie of the year (1993).

The first game was decided by an error from the Chicago Cubs that gave the New York Mets a late score and with the great performance by Matt Harvey, Mets is leading the series 1-0. As this series continues, it will show how each teams/ pitchers will produce throughout this series. Next game will reflect two of the most dominant pitchers in MLB, Jarrieta (Cubs) vs Noah Syndergaard. These pitchers will put everything on the line to be closer to advance to  the world series. “We win games because we hit the ball out of the ballpark, and they’re very similar,” Manager Terry Collins said. The advance of this series seems to be for New York Mets due to the pitching rotation and home field advantage for the game 1 & 2  but if the Cubs can win at CityField Stadium they’ll be able to suprise some critics.

Personally I prefer the Chicago Cubs to win this series so they can advance but the this match up is too close to predict; regardless who advances these teams have young, talented and driven players that will in contended for a World Series for years to come.

Posted in Business, General, Sports | Tagged , , , | Comments Off on Cubs vs Mets: The series for the ages that’s the beginning of this rivalry

Disney Plans a ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ Opening Night Event

Posted on October 18, 2015 by ashleyyy52

‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ is just two months away and the official theatrical poster showcase was reveled this weekend. It displayed an awakening of the dark side and the light. Of course, us true Star Wars enjoy the fun from the dark side as well as the joy from the light side. Getting the best of world of both worlds.

Besides being thrilled for the release of the new poster, fans actually more excited for the actually movie coming out. Some of us may even be counting down the days to the opening day, December 18th. To add additional delighting news, Disney Parks announced to throw an opening night event for the release. It is a special ticketed event that’s planned for Thursday, December 17 at the Walt Disney World Resort for those who want to be among the first to see the new film and celebrate with fellow fans. The film will be starting at AMC Disney Springs 24 between 7 and 8 p.m., guests of the Opening Night Event will have a confirmed seat at the first few public showings.

After the film, guests will be able to enjoy a private after-hours party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios until 2 a.m. The party will include access to the new Star Wars Launch Bay exhibit, the Star Tours, and a DJ dance party. The night will be highlighted with the preview of a new fireworks spectacular set to the iconic “Star Wars” score. Event attendees will also get a memorial souvenir event ticket. Guests of the Event are encouraged to come dressed in costume showing loyalty to the light side or dark side of the Force. So try and get your tickets before they’re all gone!

 

 

Posted in Entertainment, Odd News | Comments Off on Disney Plans a ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ Opening Night Event

Airstrike in Syria Kills Al Qaeda Cell Leader

Posted on October 18, 2015 by christophertart

On Sunday evening, October 18, 2015, the Pentagon announced that the leader of a Qaeda cell had been killed in a military airstrike in northwestern Syria. The cell had allegedly been plotting attacks against both the US and Europe.

The operative in charge of the cell was called the “Khorasan Group” and its leader was Saudi citizen Sanafi al-Nasr. The cell was one of about two dozen in the group, and al-Nasr was the highest-ranking leader of the operative. The American airstrike operation took place on Thursday, and the Pentagon announced his death this Sunday as a part of the statement describing Thursday’s events. The Pentagon’s press secretary, Peter Cook, explained that al-Nasr was “a longtime militant experienced in funneling money and fighters for Al Qaeda.“ Cook also said that al-Nasr “had organized and maintained routes for new recruits to travel from Pakistan to Syria through Turkey, in addition to helping Al Qaeda’s external operations in the West.”

Another blow to the Khorasan Group occurred last week when its founding leader was killed while traveling by vehicle in northwestern Syria. The man was a senior Al Qaeda operative who was known for his close relationship with Osama bin Laden.

Officials say that the weakening of the Khorasan Group is in the best interest of the US, and is becoming a priority for the military and its drone strikes. The recent deaths are said to have helped this cause, and will keep Al Qaeda from taking advantage of the civil war in Syria.

Posted in War and Conflicts, World News | Comments Off on Airstrike in Syria Kills Al Qaeda Cell Leader

Miami Dolphins Find New Inspiration Under Dan Campbell

Posted on October 18, 2015 by phyzorz

The reborn Miami Dolphins bludgeoned the Tennessee Titans on Sunday 38-10.  It was the first win for the Dolphins since week 1 of the season and first win for new interim head coach Dan Campbell.  Campbell took over the reigns after former head coach Joe Philbin was let go after their last loss to the Jets in London.  The former tight ends coach, Campbell promised to bring a new level of toughness and drive to the team.  That forecast of energy was prevalent against the Titans on Sunday and at times it even looked as if Miami may have been running up the score.  The team played with a sense of frustration and was extremely aggressive.  The anger resulting from the last three losses seemed to be unleashed in a furious fit of rage.

The defensive pass rush finally sprang to life.  Star defensive end Cameron Wake racked up four sacks and finally made his presence felt on the field this season.  He had been virtually invisible the first four games and was in dire need of a big game.  In total the Miami defense tallied 6 sacks on opposing rookie quarterback Marcus Mariota.  Mariota was under fire all day and took some big hits.  He briefly went down halfway through the game with some kind of leg injury but managed to finish the game until the last few minutes.  Turnovers played a huge role as well with Miami forcing two interceptions and two forced fumbles.  One of the interceptions even went all the way back for a touchdown.

The Dolphins’ offense also delivered with a new found running game influenced by Coach Campbell’s fresh attitude and commitment to the run game.  Running back Lamar Miller rushed 19 times for 113 yards.  By far his best game of the season.  Miller, like Wake, had also been nearly invisible on the stat sheets this year.  Efficiency in the run game allowed quarterback Ryan Tannehill to have a solid game with just a few blunders.  He went 22/29 passing with two passing touchdowns.  Overall, the offense was much more explosive and consistent.

Miami will look to continue their new sense of energy into next week’s game against the Houston Texans.  It will be an opportunity for the Dolphins to get to 3-3 and have a glimmer of hope for making the post season.

Posted in Sports | Comments Off on Miami Dolphins Find New Inspiration Under Dan Campbell

Airstrike Kills Al-Qaeda Leader

Posted on October 18, 2015 by williamharrelson

The leader of a group that allegedly actively pursues attacking the West has been killed, by an airstrike in Syria. A U.S. led coalition was behind the airstrike. Sanafi al-Nasr was the highest ranking member of this group, known as the Khorasan Group.

According to the Pentagon, this group is made up of veteran al Qaeda jihadis that ended up moving to Syria. Nasr, who was once al Qaeda’s chief financial officer, is the fifth senior Khorasan Group leader killed in the the last four months. He played a pretty big role in managing traveling routes for new Turkish recruits, from Pakistan to Syria.

Naturally, news of Nasr’s death spread like wildfire on jihadist social media sites, that revered and mourned him, and said his death was martyrdom. Which shouldn’t come as a shock as we mourn those who also fight for our ideologies.

Secretary of Defense Ash Carter said in a statement, “those who seek to do us harm are not beyond our reach,” to justify and praise our killing capabilities. These  killings will continue non-stop, because we are not fighting just people, we are fighting an ideology.

Even though officials and journalists say this is a “significant blow,” to the terror organization, some other ideological extremist, will come and take his place. It might not be tomorrow or next month, but the hate they have for the West and Western society, is as deep-rooted and instilled in them, as an American patriot’s beliefs are instilled in him.

We have completely different ideologies, things that we just don’t see eye to eye with, but at the same time, is this difference in beliefs worth all this blood shed? There will never be an end to the jihadist warrior or the “infidels.” A lack of education and understanding, as well as taking advantage of a grim situation, with a sprinkle of brainwashing, all contribute to the hate filled jihadist.

In order for all these killings to stop, there needs to be something done, that unfortunately will probably never be accomplished, and that is people just need to be more accepting of others and just respect what people believe. Even if that doesn’t fall into ones belief system. So even though they claim this as a “victory,” true victory cant be accomplished till everyone wakes up and learns to be tolerant. Then we wouldn’t have one side pitted against another, we would just have two sides of peace.

Posted in Education, Entertainment, General, Politics, War and Conflicts, World News | Comments Off on Airstrike Kills Al-Qaeda Leader