they just want the money, they don't want to have to do anything to earn it. unfortunately, somewhere along the line it became big bucks to department stores to sell extended warranties. anytime you buy electronics, the register operator is prompted to ask you on her register screen. i usually always tell them no, since i rarely have a problem after the first year and inside of three. if you are going to find a problem with electronics, it's usually apparent inside of the first month or so. just be thankful that sony has a warranty at all. some electronics offer zero warranty.