Minima Lite

5 Tips To Protect Your Connected Devices And Electronic Identity

2019-09-14T14:54:00.000-07:00

Resourceful thieves and cyber criminals continue to find new ways to hack U.S. consumers’ sensitive personal information. Dumpster diving, stolen or lost wallets and mail fraud should still be concerns, but the digital age of tablets, smartphones, PCs and Wi-Fi networks leaves people even more vulnerable than ever.

Think about it: Have you ever stored credit card information on your phone for added convenience to make payments in a checkout lane? Do you ever store passwords in apps to transfer funds between accounts? And what’s to keep hackers from accessing a wireless network you check your email on while you’re grabbing a quick cup of coffee?

Said Jane Li, Mercury Insurance’s director of product management,

More than 15.4 million people a year will experience identity theft, with an average loss of more than $1,000

“When one access point closes due to added levels of security, cyber attackers find another. Insurance companies like Mercury provide services that allow homeowners and renters to enjoy the convenience of accessing their connected devices at home and on-the-go, while also helping to protect customers from the potentially devastating effects of criminal infiltration, cyber extortion and identity theft.”

Keeping aware of the latest schemes and ensuring members of your household, friends and others you care about have the right tools helps stop criminals in their tracks.

Following are five do’s and don’ts to help protect your connected devices, as well as your electronic identity, from hackers.

Do power down your devices. This disables the internet connection, cutting off access to any personal information stored on your computer, tablet or phone. Unattended machines, especially if you’re asleep or you leave them at home while on vacation, are easy targets for hackers.
Don’t connect to unsecured wireless networks. Information accessed on an open network, including email passwords and sensitive bank information, is fair game for hackers. Don’t make their jobs easier. Turn off Wi-Fi access on your devices unless it’s a password-protected network you trust.
Do monitor your children’s device usage. It’s a good idea to limit use of computers, tablets and phones to public areas within the home like the living room or kitchen. This makes it easier for parents to keep an eye on who their kids are communicating with, especially on social media or gaming sites, to help prevent the sharing of sensitive information like full names, addresses or other things that can be used for identity theft or other potentially dangerous activities.
Don’t discard important paperwork without shredding it. If it has your name and address, it presents an opportunity for thieves to take advantage and open an account using your information. Remember to shred expired insurance documents, vehicle registrations, bills, loan pre-qualifications and other paperwork that would allow someone to call in pretending to be you. Check your credit reports at least twice a year to ensure all accounts opened in your name are valid.
Do install recommended updates. Smartphone, computer, tablet and smart TV manufacturers, among other providers of connected devices, offer periodic software updates to protect against potential security breaches. Chances are, if an update is recommended, hackers have already discovered a w[ay to access your personal property and information, so keep your software up-to-date.

Li recommends homeowners and renters speak with their local insurance agent to learn more about the endorsements they may be able to add to existing policies to help safeguard their finances if their identities are compromised or connected devices are attacked.

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“It can be daunting to try to regain your financial footing if a criminal takes advantage of you,” said Li. “Insurance exists to help protect consumers from unexpected events and, in this case, it’s better to be safe than sorry.”

Money Flip or Flop? How to Avoid Falling for Online Scams

2019-09-11T17:23:00.000-07:00

Scammers are always cooking up creative new ways to separate people from their money. The sad reality is that it often works. The latest schemes involve so-called "money flipping," and it's showing up in consumers' newsfeeds on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and even via text messaging.

Keep these things in mind when you see an enticing post or are randomly approached by someone about any form of money flipping or “get rich quick” schemes:

1. Trust your gut

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. You can ignore the testimonials with photos of big piles of cash, the fancy cars and the flashy jewels they displayed with captions of their "success" — scammers may tell you that they work for a money transmitter and have "tricks" on how to double your money. However, monetary systems cannot be "manipulated" by adding a few "extra 0s" to any transaction in an attempt to turn a small investment into big money in minutes. Cons claim they will keep a percentage of the profit as commission, but as soon as a victim sends the upfront investment money, they will unfriend or block you on social media, not answer texts or calls and disappear with your dough without a trace.

2. Don’t be fooled by a text from a “friend”

Even if a text or SMS appears to be from someone you know, if someone’s asking you for money for any reason, you should think twice before taking action. If you really think it’s from a friend or a social media acquaintance, contact them directly in another way (by phone, via email or in person) to confirm the situation. Chances are that it’s really a hacker who is masquerading as someone you really know to try to convince you to take the bait.

3. Use your head

Does it seem realistic that someone could turn your $200 into $2,000 by the end of the day? If it were that easy, surely everyone would be doing it. If it doesn't make sense to you, that's because it's nonsense. While common sense should tell us that this is a scam, you should also consider how it would be legal if it did work. In this instance, there is no logical, legal way that such a scam could be effective and legitimate. Never let your emotions blind you to these facts. Even if it were possible to modify the amount of a transfer, it would be criminal to defraud a legitimate business by participating in this scheme. Never invest in something you don't totally understand.

4. Remember that you don't really know who you're talking to

Even if the person posting on social media or messaging you says that they work in the financial industry, or that they've successfully made wads of cash and are just sharing their good fortune out of the kindness of their heart, remember that you have no idea who that person really is, even if they insist they want to get you a good deal or help you get rich quick.

5. Never click any links or give out personal information

Someone trying to scam you on Instagram or any other social media site will often lure you into a continuing conversation over text or SMS, then try to get you to click a link to a compromised site — or may even try to get you to reveal personal info like your bank account or Social Security number. Anyone asking you for your money or sensitive financial details is not a giver, they're just a taker.

Flip burgers, flip pancakes — just do not try to flip your hard-earned cash! Never give money to anyone promising to make you quick and easy money. There is no such thing as free money.

Does Owning a DVR Make Sense In the Streaming Video Age?

2019-09-03T06:30:00.000-07:00

In 1999, the digital video recorder changed television forever by letting viewers pause live TV, ushering us into a new world of on-demand everything. “TiVo(R)” became a household word.

DVRs radically changed the video and consumer electronics industries, but today, the notion of on-demand programming has become something we take for granted. We expect this sort of functionality across apps like Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime. "Game of Thrones" might premiere on a Sunday, but if you miss it (and manage to avoid all the social media spoilers) you can always watch, pause, rewind and fast-forward whenever you want.

So, with on-demand video and the ability to pause TV now part of our daily lives, how can the DVR still be relevant?

Today’s DVRs give you more time, control and ability to discover better content quickly. Sure, most DVRs let you fast-forward, rewind and pause live TV, but modern DVRs also have the ability to speed up your content by 30 percent while maintaining perfect sound quality (say, if you’re watching a particularly slow sports game or awards show). And in a world where several subscription services still force you to watch some commercials, the ability to fast-forward through ads with your DVR is a very good thing. TiVo’s SkipMode(R) enables you to skip most ads at the click of a button, and even set your device to skip those ads automatically. This means if you are recording an over-the-air or network TV show, you can watch it without interruption and get a huge chunk of time back in your day.

A modern DVR lets you access all your content in one place. The best DVRs seamlessly display your favorite programs across live and on-demand TV as well as streaming video services like Hulu or Amazon Prime in a single interface. Although some TV “dongles” offer this, the search results are often incomplete or biased toward whichever content provider the dongle is associated with. With a modern DVR, you have one place (and one remote) to search, manage and discover all of your entertainment. You can set your DVR to record an episode or series of your choosing across channels and apps and have one central place to find it all.

Today’s best DVRs have smart personalization features that can also find the right shows for you. Don’t know what to watch? No problem. A high-end DVR will learn your preferences over time and make suggestions specialized for you. You can also set it to record any movie or TV show that features your favorite actor or director, or your favorite topic.

Modern DVRs now come with mobile and web apps that allow you to watch and program recordings from anywhere. How often do you hear about a show but forget about it later? Problem solved!

If you have a digital TV antenna and your DVR has “OTA” (over-the-air) capabilities, you can record dozens of high-definition shows available to you for free over the airwaves. Some DVRs like the TiVo BOLT(R) are compatible with the highest resolution available, capable of displaying 4K Ultra HD. The quality of the network TV video experience will meet or exceed that of 4K streaming services available today.

And today, many DVRs have advanced features like smart home connectivity and intelligent, natural language voice control. And of course, if you misplace your remote control between the cushions of your couch, the best modern DVRs have a “find-your-remote” button right on the set-top box.

Today’s DVRs do so much more than just pause live TV; they give you back time in your day. You can watch smarter, discover new shows and have complete control over your entertainment. With one seamless interface to search across all apps and video sources, a commercial-less experience, advanced and unbiased search and discovery features, smart home capabilities, voice control, personalized show suggestions, viewing speed functions, Ultra HD, mobile and web viewing and recording, and a single hub to operate from, having a modern DVR in your entertainment center is a clear choice that’s not only relevant today, but will enrich your TV viewing experience for years to come.

3 Ways To Elevate Your Home Decor Through Minimalism

2019-08-26T23:23:00.000-07:00

The latest trends in home decor reveal a desire for a feeling of tranquility and calmness, perhaps as a response to today’s overly busy and distracted lifestyles. From Marie Kondo’s decluttering craze to a return to natural materials in home design, everyone is looking for a way to create a peaceful, less hectic inner space. When it comes to home decor, less is definitely more.

How can you tap into this yen for a little more Zen?

1. Simplify your design strategy

When revamping your room to create a more minimalist effect, choose a limited color palette, meaning one to three colors at most. Select mostly more muted or neutral colors, though you can use one vivid color in a piece of furniture or art to grab the spotlight.

Let the textures of the materials that you use for the floors, walls, ceilings and furnishings — whether they are natural wood, stone, ceramics, glass, tile, fabrics or canvas — create the room's visual interest instead of yesterday’s too-busy colors and patterns. Choose a couple of contrasting textures, like glass and reclaimed lumber, or woven fabric and stone, to highlight in the room for the best effect.

2. Choose furnishings with clean lines

When you're selecting new furniture for your minimalist rooms, look for high-quality, standout pieces designed with clean lines, with no fussy design details or busy patterns. Don't acquire more furniture than the room really needs. Chances are you can do without all those end tables and extra chairs.

Make one exceptional, stylish piece of furniture be the focal point for each room, and don’t over-furnish or over-decorate the space around it. Then avoid the urge to smother the couch or sectional with tons of blankets and throw pillows. Let the furniture speak for itself.

3. Leave plenty of open space

Resist the urge to fill every corner and surface of the room with ornaments and knickknacks. It's the open space, unencumbered by any visual clutter, that creates the feeling of calm and tranquility you're craving.

And if you're lucky enough to have a great view out the window, install only simple, streamlined window treatments — or no window treatments at all — to highlight that view.

Minimalist decor is all about making careful choices and choosing the best quality furnishings and decor over quantity of items. You can turn any room into a beautiful showcase that you'd be happy to entertain and live in, with some thoughtful decision-making.

5G Is Here. What Does It Mean For You?

2019-08-21T02:30:00.000-07:00

By now, you’ve probably heard about the coming launch of 5G. Rolling into the marketplace for the first time this year, it’s the next (fifth) generation of cellular technology, and promises to significantly enhance the speed, coverage and responsiveness of wireless networks.

It’s a major upgrade, and has wireless carriers excitedly rushing to promote the arrivals of their 5G networks and compatible products. As a result, the average cellphone user may well be wondering: How and when will 5G really make an impact on me?

Well, before you feel compelled to rush out and upgrade your phone, consider the following.

A limited rollout

Ever since the first field tests of 5G were deployed in 2015, hype for the technology has been building. Tests have delivered responses 10 to 100 times speedier than current 4G cellular connections. The arrival of 5G is predicted to bring phenomenal advancements to the digital landscape, supercharging marvels like self-driving cars, virtual and augmented reality, and even newly emerging medical services like remote surgery.
But that magnificent future is just that: the future. Initially, 5G is only being made available in a small number of launch cities, and even there only to those who’ve already laid out upwards of $1,200 for the first generation of 5G-compatible phones.

The rest of us will still be connected to the reliable 4G service we’ve grown used to — and 4G won’t be going away anytime soon.

Check the expiration date

It’s estimated that most wireless networks won't be providing widespread 5G coverage until the end of 2020, at the very earliest. And even when they do, you can expect the technology supporting 4G to remain in place indefinitely. In fact, unless you’re actively seeking to change, you may not even notice that 5G has been turned on in your area for a long time.

How long? Let’s use history as a guide. Just this year, major network providers have begun the final phase-out of 3G technology, which launched in 2001, meaning it’s had a productive lifespan of almost 20 years. 4G launched in 2010, so it will likely still be supported for as much as another decade.

The bottom line is, if you’re comfortable with your current network speeds and performance, you won’t need to change a thing for a long time to come.

Going down a familiar road

The best approach for upgrading to 5G may very well be: Wait and see. If you trust your wireless provider, remember that they’ve been through these changes for each successive generation, and have plans in place to make sure customers stay “up to speed,” so to speak.

A good example is Consumer Cellular. Focusing largely on customers ages 50 and up, the company recognizes that its users may be less tech-savvy than other segments of the market. As a result, they’ve helped steer them through transitions all the way from 2G by proactively reaching out to alert customers as to what changes to expect, and when, with each succeeding upgrade. The result has been millions of customers making seamless transitions, whether that required simply changing a setting on a cellphone or upgrading to an entirely new device.

5G offers a bright future for wireless, and opens an almost unlimited range of technological possibilities. Yet for the average user, and for the foreseeable future, it will be a “nice to have” rather than a “need to have” upgrade, meaning there’s really no rush to decide.

The Cost Of Complacency: How Auto Pay Can Drain Your Dollars

2019-08-12T14:02:00.000-07:00

When it comes to managing your monthly bills, it doesn’t get much more convenient than auto-pay. Because this option eliminates missed payments and late fees, it’s easy to see why three-quarters of Americans have opted in, with anywhere between one and seven monthly payments, according to recent survey findings.

However, consumers are also discovering that enlisting in auto-pay isn’t without its financial downsides. The following survey findings from TheZebra.com (an insurance comparison site) show how auto-pay can make consumers complacent.

* Nearly a quarter of people (23%) admit to not paying attention to what’s coming out of their bank accounts. If the result is an overdrawn account or a billing error slipping through, that can prove to be a costly mistake.

* One-third (29%) of respondents confess to forgetting to cancel services linked to autopay after they’ve stopped using the services. A couple prime examples of this are a music streaming service subscription or a gym membership.

* Nearly half of consumers indicate that once auto-pay is set up for their car insurance payments, they never get around to re-evaluating their fees. Considering the market value of our cars depreciates every year, this suggests that many consumers are missing an opportunity to get the best coverage at the best price, as car insurance rates can change daily.

* Finally, by not taking time to evaluate costs or cancel unused services, consumers are paying the price. Some 29% of respondents estimate they’re losing $100 annually, but for high-ticket items like a gym membership, the savings could be in the thousands.

Now that you know the high price you may be paying for the convenience of auto-pay, here are some tips to help you stay in control of your finances.

1. Keep track of your statements.

Because money is withdrawn from your account each month, it’s easy to lose track of your spending. Otherwise, if a price hike takes effect or if you end up consuming more services than expected, the consequence can be a higher-than-expected bill. If your bank account lacks the funds to cover it, you’ll end up with an overdraft, which can end up costing you more than any late fee! So when auto-pay takes effect, make sure you review the monthly statements. If you see an additional charge or a price hike take effect, follow up immediately.

2. Research rates at least twice a year.

While your service provider may offer excellent service at a great rate, it’s always possible there’s a better deal for you somewhere else. Take time to research and compare the going rates for things like internet service and car insurance - you may be pleasantly surprised. To make sure you follow this step, set up six-month reminders on your phone or calendar and commit yourself to following through. If you end up using the service less often than you planned - or not at all - this reminder can give that much-needed nudge to reevaluate.

3. Take time to fully understand your options.

As you know, some service agreements, such as gym memberships and mobile phone contracts, can’t be canceled without penalty - at least, not until you’ve reached a specific end date. But don’t make the mistake of thinking this rule applies to all service agreements. For example, did you know you can switch your car insurance anytime without paying a penalty? It’s true! In fact, once you switch, your old insurer will send you a rebate for the balance, even if time remains on your six- or one-month policy. So go ahead and shop around. If you find a car insurance provider that’s more affordable and provides the coverage you need, you can reap the benefits right away. Just remember, if you do decide to switch, don’t cancel the old policy until the new one is officially in place. Otherwise you might get charged a penalty for the gap in coverage.

Simplify Your Kitchen With Smart Home Gadgets

2019-08-07T20:58:00.000-07:00

As the heart of the home, the kitchen is often the busiest room of the house — a perfect space to install the latest smart home gadgets. With “smart” sidekicks, you can solve kitchen challenges and simplify the overall cooking process.

Increase cooking efficiency

Whether cooking for one or hosting an elaborate dinner party, smart kitchen solutions can lend a helpful hand in a busy kitchen. The faucet has evolved from a standard two-handle to a single handle that can be turned on and off with a simple touch. This necessary kitchen assistant can streamline cooking tasks for seasoned chefs and novices alike.

Today, Delta VoiceIQ Technology takes this to the next level dispensing exact measurements and filling custom containers like baby bottles, dog bowls or pasta pots, all with a simple voice command. To simplify everything from a quick breakfast on the go to a healthy family dinner, consider investing in devices like a smart oven and connected coffee maker to allow users to preheat and schedule brewing from a mobile device.

Track your kitchen inventory

Intuitive devices can help you shop smarter and reduce food waste. Instead of sniffing out mold and sour scents, apps help track pantry inventory. Simply take pictures of your groceries and input expiration dates. When the next shopping trip comes around, have a list of what items need to be tossed and which foods should remain on the shelf. If looking to make a substantial kitchen update, consider investing in a refrigerator that lets you view the inside of the fridge from your phone.

Avoid cooking messes

When cooking with raw meat or messy ingredients, otherwise mindless tasks like opening the trash and turning on the faucet can become a challenge. Home cooks risk spreading the mess - and germs - in the cooking process. Consider upgrading your Touch₂O Delta faucet with VoiceIQ Technology to pair with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to turn the water on and off. Not only do you contain the mess, but you also practice cleanliness in the kitchen while keeping the faucet spotless. Voice-controlled trash cans are also handy investments, encouraging the rest of the family to join in on the cleaning process.

Next time you’re in the kitchen, consider the latest “smart” advances that can solve your kitchen hitches.

Expert Tips To Reduce Workplace Stress For Better Health

2019-07-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

Feeling stressed at work? If so, you’re not alone. A recent Gallup Poll on stress, worry and anger revealed that 55% of Americans said they experienced stress “a lot” during the day, up from 46% in 2006.

In the workplace, stress can affect your attitude, relationships with colleagues and work performance. Although a modest amount of stress is normal, high levels of stress can be dangerous to your health and may contribute to serious health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, anxiety and depression.

But there are ways to help manage stress. Ann Marie O’Brien, R.N., national director of health strategies, UnitedHealthcare, shares the following tips that may reduce your workplace stress and get you back on a healthy track performing at your usual best.

1. Talk to your boss.

Consider having an open discussion with your boss about the stressors associated with your work responsibilities. Ask if there is an opportunity for additional skills training, or possibly even restructure your job to make it more manageable and better aligned with your interests and skills. Also, check if your company has an employee assistance program (EAP), which may provide available counseling and online resources.

2. Brush up on your time-management skills.

We’ve all had days when it seems impossible to get everything done. In some cases, poor time management is the reason we feel this way, which then may trigger stress. For your next work assignment, talk with your supervisor before getting started to plan realistic goals, priorities and deadlines.

3. Take advantage of workplace well-being programs.

An increasing number of employers are offering well-being programs through their health plan and are making healthier food options available in the workplace. Some employers offer gym reimbursement programs such as UnitedHealthcare’s Gym Check-In, have onsite workout rooms, offer stand-up desks, and encourage walking meetings and well-being challenges like taking the stairs. For your physical and mental health, combine exercise with a well-balanced diet, O’Brien said.

4. Grow your support network.

If you have a close colleague at work, talk with that person and explain your work stressors and brainstorm possible solutions. If you don’t, then reach out to friends and loved ones. It’s important that you don’t isolate yourself after a stressful event.

5. Focus on yourself.

If you’re feeling stress, a simple treat such as going to a movie, enjoying your favorite meal or just getting away to take a brief walk can give you time to unwind and recharge. If you cannot get a handle on your stress, talk to your doctor. She or he may recommend a counselor who could help you find other ways to help reduce or manage the unhealthy stress in your life.

4 Tips To Prevent And Treat Health Issues On Vacation

2019-07-18T12:54:00.000-07:00

It’s the night before your long-awaited vacation. You’ve triple-checked your suitcase, checked into your flight and notified the bank of your travel plans. Everything is ready to go, but even the most experienced travelers can’t predict the unexpected health hiccups that might arise along the way.
Before heading off, keep in mind these minor, but common, health concerns and be sure to pack the right items to help protect yourself and stay comfortable once you arrive.

Motion sickness

Whether traveling by plane, train, car or boat, sometimes just the slightest bit of constant movement can trigger motion sickness, suddenly making you feel queasy, dizzy and nauseous. Typically, motion sickness occurs when your senses receive confusing signals from your environment. The first thing to do is stay calm, relax and try to focus on something else, such as counting backward from 100. Natural remedies to provide relief include raw ginger and mint, so bring along a pack of flavored teas or mint-flavored chewing gum to help soothe your symptoms.

Hemorrhoids

Extended time sitting during long travel days, sudden diet changes and destinations that may have you further away from the usual bathroom amenities can all lead to backside discomfort and the potential onset of hemorrhoids. Pack Preparation H Rapid Relief Totables Wipes with Lidocaine for portable pain relief from hemorrhoids when you’re on the go. The individually wrapped wipes provide rapid numbing relief, reduce swelling and are flushable, making them a perfect, discreet item to bring along.

Sunburn

It goes without saying that using sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s damaging rays is crucial. But let’s face it - sometimes sunscreen application can be spotty and reapplying every two hours can fall by the wayside when having fun, which can ultimately bring on a painful sunburn. In addition to the sunscreen you already had in your bag, be sure to pack a moisturizer with aloe vera to help soothe skin and ibuprofen to help reduce any swelling, redness and discomfort caused by sunburn.

Blisters

If your travel plans involve walking or hiking long distances, you may experience blisters while on the move, as it only takes a little friction and moisture for them to pop up. Whether you’re climbing a mountain solo or trekking through an amusement park with the family, make sure to pack adhesive bandages and extra socks to help prevent and treat blisters. The bandages can act as another layer of skin, preventing the formation of blisters, while extra socks can help reduce friction.

Planning for these minor health issues is as easy as tossing items in your purse or bag. Vacation is supposed to be fun, spontaneous and relaxing, but keeping these extra precautions in mind before you leave ensures minor health inconveniences don’t get in the way of enjoyment during and after your trip.

Top 5 Trend-Setting Vehicles

2019-07-05T22:55:00.000-07:00

If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, consider purchasing one you can make your own. While just about any vehicle can be transformed with a few simple products, certain makes and models are more accessory-friendly than others.

Every year the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) recognizes the most accessory-friendly vehicles during the annual trade-only SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. SEMA Show exhibitors, who make the products and accessories for today's popular models, vote to honor the vehicle platforms they believe are best for accessorizing.

SEMA Vehicles of the Year awards are presented in five categories, including car, truck, 4x4/SUV, sport compact and powersports vehicle. These vehicles are embraced by the industry due to their ability to help showcase and launch new aftermarket parts.

SEMA Car of the Year: Ford Mustang

The iconic Mustang added to its legacy as one of most popular cars of all time for vehicle enhancement by winning the award again. Whether you’re adding LED headlights or a new exhaust system, both the appearance and performance can be easily upgraded on the modern muscle car. On and off the track, this vehicle continues to be reliable, customizable and in high demand among consumers today.

SEMA Truck of the Year: Ford F-Series

The Ford F-Series is one of the most popular lines of trucks on the market, and it’s one that offers unlimited versatility. Ford F-Series trucks can be easily upgraded and transformed into a bold, new ride by adding products like protective bed covers, running boards for easy access or a new air intake system for instant power gains.

SEMA 4X4/SUV of the Year: Jeep Wrangler

Due to the many different ways you can turn it into the ultimate off-road ride or personalize it as your everyday vehicle, the Jeep Wrangler was named the most accessory-friendly vehicle in its category for the ninth consecutive year. A favorite of the off-road community, the Wrangler is known for its unique styling and accessibility to aftermarket lift kits, off-road or all-terrain tires, hood mounts and fender flares, among many other products.

SEMA Sport Compact of the Year: Ford Focus

SEMA Show exhibitors, who are at the forefront of the automotive aftermarket industry and have the unique ability to identify the hottest vehicles emerging for future trends, honored the Ford Focus for the fourth straight year. Whether it’s a body kit, wheel/tire package or suspension and steering systems, a Focus can be easily transformed into the ultimate tuner ride.

SEMA Powersports Vehicle of the Year: Polaris RZR Turbo S

The Polaris RZR Turbo S won the first-ever award presented to a vehicle in the powersports segment. The RZR is a great new vehicle for enthusiasts to discover the thrill and excitement of off-roading, and it lends itself to customization, enabling owners to easily personalize it to their desired preference.

SEMA Vehicles of the Year Awards heighten awareness for aftermarket products, and they are an example of the industry’s partnership between automakers and aftermarket manufacturers. SEMA Show exhibitors who select the award winners are manufacturers of products designed to improve performance, safety and convenience, as well as those that enhance appearance and comfort.