This is the final time you'll be hearing from us about registration for a significant class action settlement against Merchant Services, covering overcharge fees from 2004 to 2012.

This settlement represents an opportunity for many affected by hidden fees during this time to recoup losses, with billions of dollars available for distribution. Depending on the number of transactions you do, you could be looking at non-taxable payouts in the tens of thousands!

The deadline for registration has now been extended to February 4th, 2025. If you haven't registered yet, now is the perfect time—especially since fewer participants mean your share could be bigger than expected.

Don't miss your chance to claim what you might be owed!! Even if you're unsure if you're eligible, it only takes a few minutes to check and potentially secure your share of this historic settlement.

[ Register for the Settlement Now! ]

The U.S. government has finalized regulations banning the use of Chinese and Russian technology in connected vehicles, citing serious national security concerns. Starting with 2027 model year vehicles, software from these countries will be prohibited, and by 2030, hardware components will also be banned. These measures aim to prevent potential surveillance, data breaches, and cyberattacks that could exploit connected vehicle systems like cameras, sensors, and internet connectivity.

This ban has significant implications for the automotive diagnostic scan tool industry. Diagnostic tools rely on communication with vehicle systems to perform maintenance and repairs. With these new restrictions, tool manufacturers must ensure compatibility with secure, compliant vehicle systems, which could mean updates to software protocols or redesigned interfaces. Automakers tied to Chinese or Russian technology, such as Polestar and some Volkswagen models, will also need to adjust their supply chains.

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo highlighted the critical need to protect infrastructure from foreign vulnerabilities. For the diagnostic industry, this underscores the growing importance of cybersecurity in maintaining connected vehicles. As automakers adapt to these changes, tool manufacturers must stay ahead by ensuring their products meet compliance standards and remain effective in diagnosing and maintaining vehicles under the new regulations.

This shift represents a key challenge for the industry, but also an opportunity to align with evolving security standards while continuing to support the safe and efficient maintenance of connected vehicles. Read More Below:

FACT SHEET: Safeguarding America from National Security Risks of Connected Vehicle Technology from China and Russia | The White House

US finalizes rule to effectively ban Chinese vehicles, which could include Polestar - The

Verge

We’re proud to announce our latest advertisement in NACAT News, the go-to publication for automotive educators and professionals. As an industry leader in diagnostic tools and solutions, we recognize the importance of supporting the educators who shape the next generation of technicians. That’s why we’ve chosen NACAT as the perfect platform to share our mission.

Our advertisement highlights the tools and technology we offer to make diagnostics faster, smarter, and more accurate features that resonate with both educators and professionals in the field. It’s not just an ad; it’s an invitation to explore how our products can empower instructors and their students to stay ahead in an evolving industry.

By advertising in this magazine, we aim to bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring future technicians are equipped with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed.

If you’re flipping through the issue of NACAT News when it releases, keep an eye out for our feature! We’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback as we continue to connect with the community that drives automotive excellence.