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Don’t Get Heated by High-Pressure Door-to-Door Salespeople

5/21/2012

Posted on 5/21/2012 by

After receiving hundreds of complaints against companies using aggressive door-to-door sales tactics to pressure consumers into buying bogus or misleading products, Better Business Bureau is issuing an alert about such companies. The issues range from magazine subscriptions that were paid for but never delivered, to food products that were not of the high quality originally promised.

“During the summer months, BBB routinely receives complaints from consumers against businesses that employ aggressive door-to-door selling techniques. Some examples of high pressure sales tactics include hostile and persuasive rebuttals to consumer concerns, deep discounts offered upon immediate payment and refusal to take “no” for an answer,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO

While many businesses utilize door-to-door marketing tactics, BBB reports the following industries consistently garner a high number of complaints during the summer months:

Magazine subscriptions: BBB has already received more than 600 complaints in 2012 against companies selling magazines door-to-door. The most common complaint BBB receives involves consumers paying for magazines they never receive. Furthermore, several consumers allege the sales representative misled them by claiming to work for a local school or charity on a fundraiser.

Food products: Sales representatives knock on doors selling produce or meat products, claiming their prices are much lower than grocery stores. So far in 2012, BBB has received 25 complaints against companies selling meat products door-to-door. Consumer complaints to BBB allege that their orders never arrive, or are not of the high quality originally promised.

Other industries employing door-to-door sales tactics that BBB receives complaints about are cosmetics, photography and cleaning supply companies.

If visited by a door-to-door sales representative, BBB recommends consumers do the following:

· Be safe. Ask for identification before you open the door.

· Be wary of high pressure sales tactics. A trustworthy company should let you take time to think about the purchase and compare prices before buying or putting down a deposit.

· Research the company with BBB. Visit bbb.org to view the company’s Business Review to find out more about the company’s marketplace performance. If you have a smart phone, you can download and use the BBB app to access the company’s report while the person is standing at your door, or visit m.bbb.org.

· Get transaction details in writing. Be sure you receive a contract or receipt explaining the details of your purchase and all the terms and conditions that apply.

· Remember the “Three-Day Cooling-Off Rule.” The Federal Trade Commission’s Three-Day Cooling-Off Rule gives consumers three days to cancel purchases of more than $25 that are made in their home or at a location that is not the seller’s permanent place of business. Along with a receipt, the salesperson should always provide a cancellation form that can be sent to the company to cancel the purchase within three days. By law, the company must give consumers a refund within 10 days of receiving the cancellation notice.

To check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visit bbb.org or call toll-free to 800-649-6814.

Watch Out for Unauthorized Charges for Credit Reports

5/16/2012

Posted on 5/16/2012 by

Check your credit and/or debit card statements closely this month. Consumers nationwide are finding charges for $19.95 or more for credit reports they never ordered.

The charges appear to be from Experian, Consumerinfo.com or Creditreport.com. Creditreport.com is part of a family of credit reporting sites belonging to Consumerinfo.com, Inc. an Experian company.

What should I know about the scam?

Falsely charged consumers contacted Experian at the phone number listed on their debit/credit card statement and learned that their card number was used to purchase a credit report for another person. The false charges likely stemmed from a security breach.

What should I do if I spot a charge on my statement?

For charges from Experian, Consumerinfo.com or Creditreport.com, you should call the number listed next to the merchant's name on your credit or debit card statements.

The representative will ask for your name and debit or credit card number. If your name and the name on the purchased credit report are not the same, a refund will be issued within 7-14 days. The representative may also ask for your social security number for further verification.

· Immediately contact your debit or credit card issuer to report the misuse and request a new card.

Report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through their ID Theft Clearinghouse at www.ftc.gov/idtheft. This will allow the FTC to identify patterns associated with the unauthorized transactions and investigate the source of the data breach.

Memorial Day Scams Target Military, Families, Supporters

5/16/2012

Posted on 5/16/2012 by

Memorial Day is a time to honor those who serve and remember those who have died in war. But sadly, it has also become a key opportunity for scammers to target those who are serving or have served their nation, especially elderly veterans. BBB is urging consumers and donors to be on the lookout for deals that seem too good to be true, and for disreputable charities.

“The unique lifestyle of our service members makes them prime targets for scammers,” notes Brenda Linnington, Director of BBB Military Line. “It’s imperative that we educate our service members and ensure that the support we give to them equals the effort they make every day on behalf of us.” Linnington said scams can include those that target service personnel and their families directly, but also those that appear to be helping military members via charities.

“Donors need to watch out for questionable charities that raise funds on behalf of military organizations,” adds Art Taylor, President and CEO of the BBB Wise Giving Alliance. “When you make a donation, always check www.give.org to see that the group meets BBB charity standards, especially around Memorial Day. Too many solicitors that fail to meet BBB standards call and say they help veterans, service members or their families, and little of the money donated will serve that purpose.”

Among the scams to watch out for:

· Posing as the Veterans Administration and contacting veterans to say they need to update their credit card, bank or other financial records with the VA;

· Charging service members for services they could get for free or less expensively elsewhere, such as military records;

· Fraudulent investment schemes that convince veterans to transfer their assets into an irrevocable trust;

· Offering “instant approval” military loans (“no credit check,” “all ranks approved”) that can have high interest rates and hidden fees;

· Advertising housing online with military discounts and incentives, and then bilking service personnel out of the security deposit;

· Trying to sell things like security systems to spouses of deployed military personnel by saying the service member ordered it to protect his or her family;

· Selling stolen vehicles at low prices by claiming to be soldiers who need to sell fast because they’ve been deployed;

· Posing as government contractors recruiting veterans and then asking for a copy of the job applicants’ passport (which contains a lot of personal information);

· Posing on online dating services as a lonely service member in a remote part of Iraq or Afghanistan, and then asking for money to be wired to a third party for some emergency.

For more information, visit www.bbb.org/us/military-line.

BBB Warns of Online Dating Scams- Local Woman Is Heartbroken and $7,600 Poorer

5/4/2012

Posted on 5/4/2012 by

Millions of people looking for love use dating and social networking sites to meet people. The Association of Psychological Science reports online dating is the second most common way for couples to meet– keeping the good old fashioned “friends and family introductions” at the number one spot but surpassing church, gym and bars.

While many wish to start a successful relationship, the anonymity of the Internet makes it possible for con artists to meet potential victims. “Online, it’s easy to pretend to be someone you are not. The scammers create fake profiles to build online relationships, and eventually convince people to send money in the name of love. Some even make wedding plans before disappearing with the money,” stated BBB President Jim Hegarty

A Lincoln woman recently reported to the BBB that she was a victim of a dating scam on Match.com. She developed a 16-month online relationship with a man named “Mark Ronald” who told her that he was in Nigeria working on a construction job. He sent the woman pictures of himself with his son and told her he was building an orphanage and would be receiving a payment of $16 million for the project in the near future. At one point he indicated that he intended to share one million dollars with her.

After months of communication and successfully winning the woman’s trust, the scammer told his victim that he was planning to head back to the states but he needed cash because he had just been “taken for $75,000,” and in order for him to receive payments owed to him on the orphanage, money was needed to clear the payment owed him. Of course “Mark” promised to pay her back.

Over the last year she wired money by Western Union as instructed to “Mark’s” friend, “James Winland”, in Ikeja Nigeria. The money transfers ranged from $150 - $1,800. The consumer wired a total of $7,600. She was told that he was sending money as repayment to her by Western Union. But when she went to a local grocery store to retrieve the wire, the transfer had been cancelled.

Recently, “Mark” referred her to his financial advisor, “Audrey Martinez” who told her that she had authorized money to be released to pay the woman back but that she needed to send an additional $450 to cover her services. When the woman refused to make this payment, she received an email stating, “If you even think about taking me down, I will destroy your life.” Feeling threatened, the woman called the BBB and also plans to notify legal authorities. Additionally, when she notified Match.com that she had been scammed, they removed “Mark’s” profile immediately.

“As the online dating industry continues to grow, consumers should be especially aware of the potential dangers that accompany dating sites,” said Hegarty. “Scam artists are constantly coming up with new ways to trick victims, and are even going as far as creating phony dating Web sites.”

When using the Internet to find love, BBB warns consumers to beware of the following red flags:

They are unable to physically meet you. Scam artists are unwilling to meet their victims in person, and will only communicate online or by phone. They often claim that they are unable to meet due to career or life circumstances that take them overseas.

They share similar interests. Typically, the scammers are charming and sensitive towards their victims, and pretend to share the same values in order to gain their trust. They are also quick to develop a relationship and talk of love. Many scam artists send flowers and gifts that were purchased using stolen credit cards.

There is a sudden emergency. Once the relationship has been developed, scam artists will claim that there has been an emergency and they need your assistance. The emergency often involves a family member’s health, and they ask you to wire money to them because they are unable to access their account.

Don’t give anyone you are interacting with on a dating site sensitive information that could be used to steal your identity or gain access to financial accounts. BBB also recommends doing research beforehand to make sure the dating service you are using is legitimate and has a favorable business review with the BBB.

Scammers Replicate Verizon's Email Bill Alerts

5/1/2012

Posted on 5/1/2012 by

Verizon customers are receiving fake emails that are almost identical to the real alerts many customers get to remind them of their monthly payments.

About the scam:

This phishing scam is notable for its painstaking replication of Verizon emails. Only the large bill amounts (many are upwards of $500) and links to third party websites are tip offs to the real nature of these emails.

You can spot a fake email by hovering over the links and checking whether the URL leads to Verizon's website or, in a scam email, to a third party site. Here is a screen shot of a sample email that shows how hovering over a link reveals its real destination.

If you receive a suspicious Verizon email, delete it and do not click on the links. Clicking through to a scam website can infect your computer with a virus.

More information

If you have any questions about whether your email bill is fake, please contact Verizon directly. For more information, you can also see the security alerts section on Verizon's website.

See BBB.org's complete scam directory for more information about breaking scams in your area.

Top Tips to Get Your Finances in Order

4/25/2012

Posted on 4/25/2012 by

Tips for Dealing with Home Insurance Adjuster after Disaster Strikes

4/25/2012

Posted on 4/25/2012 by

Every year hurricanes, tornados, violent thunderstorms, flooding and fires wreak havoc across the country. In 2006 alone, there were 33 major catastrophes affecting hundreds of communities across the U.S., which resulted in 2.3 million claims for losses totaling $9.2 billion, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

Even if you don’t live in tornado alley or in a flood plain, BBB recommends you take some basic preparedness steps to help you immediately following a catastrophe and offers advice for working with your insurance adjuster to ease the stress and anguish after disaster strikes.

Preparing for a Disaster

Create and maintain an inventory of your personal possessions. This includes taking pictures or creating a video, as well as keeping receipts for major items. The inventory should be saved in a safe place outside the home, such as in a safe deposit box at your bank.
Make sure you carry your policy numbers and contact information for your insurance company with you at all times.
Read your homeowners policy carefully, including all the fine print, so you’ll know what is and isn’t covered, especially what you’re entitled to following a disaster and what type of reimbursement or replacement you rate. And make sure you know when the deadline is on filing claims.

After a Disaster

Contact your insurance adjuster immediately. Not only does this get the ball rolling on the claims process, but you might be eligible for loss-of-use benefits, which means you could be reimbursed for hotel costs, food, and other living expenses while your house is unlivable.
Document the damage to your property and possessions thoroughly; take pictures or video if possible. Go from room to room and create a detailed account of your belongings.
Make any minor repairs to limit further damage to the home. You may be liable for damage that occurs after a storm has passed, so make temporary repairs, such as boarding up broken windows or throwing a tarp over a leaky roof.
Keep all your receipts spent on supplies and living expenses for future reimbursement.
Do not make any permanent repairs until you get approval from your insurance company. Your insurer might not fully reimburse you for repairs made without their authorization.
If your house was destroyed by a major disaster, you may qualify for additional assistance when insurance doesn’t cover all of your losses. Check with the Federal Emergency Management Agency at www.fema.gov for more information.

For more advice you can trust on protecting your home and loved ones before and after natural disasters and other catastrophes, go to bbb.org or call toll-free 800-649-6814.

BBB Alert: Grandma Scammed!

4/10/2012

Posted on 4/10/2012 by

“A new wave of calls to seniors is catching a few off guard. Well-meaning senior citizens who think they are helping a grandchild in distress are again becoming victims of the so-called ‘Grandparent Scam’,” stated BBB President Jim Hegarty.

On Friday, April 6^th, a senior citizen in Lincoln NE, received a phone call from a young man that said, “Grandma, I’m in Peru and I’m in trouble. I couldn’t remember where my hotel was and some guy told me he would take me there. I got in the car with him and he had marijuana in the car. We were stopped and I was taken to the “American Consulate.” Then, a person using the name “George Green” from the “American Consulate” told the woman that $2500 was needed to keep her grandson out of jail. “Mr. Green” directed her to go to a specific grocery store in Lincoln to wire the money to him in Peru. She was informed that she would need to hurry because her grandson’s court time was coming up, and if the money arrived late her grandson would go to jail. The person posing as her “grandson” told her not to tell anyone.

The grandmother quickly went to the store but she only had a debit card. She was told that she needed cash to use Western Union and that $1,999.99 was the maximum amount she could wire. She called “George” back at 877-620-5116 to explain that Western Union has a $2,000 limit. “George” checked with his “supervisor” and told the victim that $2,000 would be accepted. Then the grandma went to the bank located in the grocery store, borrowed $2,000.00 and wired the money to Peru. In addition, she paid a $121 service fee for the transaction.

Besides informing the BBB about the scam because she had recently read an article in a magazine for seniors written by Mr. Hegarty called “Knowledge is Power: Avoiding Senior Scams”, the senior has also spoken to the Lincoln Police Dept. and NE AG’s office. She has been told that her money is not retrievable and that the wire was picked up 15 minutes after sending it.

The victim reported that the call she initially received on Friday was from 760-705-8888 which is an Area Code in California. On the Web, this phone number is attached to a variety of suspicious entities and it shows no connection with any city in Peru.

BBB advises that if you receive a call from someone claiming to be your grandchild in distress, don't disclose any information before you have confirmed it really is your grandchild by calling them back directly or verifying the story with other family members before taking any further action. If a caller says "It's me, grandma!" don't respond with a name but instead let the caller explain who they are. One easy way to confirm their identity is to ask a simple question that your grandchild would know such as what school they go to or their middle name.

BBB also encourages people to limit the amount of personal information shared on social media sites and to only “friend” people they personally know themselves. In addition, seniors, their family, friends and caregivers are encouraged to call BBB’s toll-free Senior Line at 877-637-3334 to check on any request or offer that requires you to send funds in advance.

Is Financial Literacy Low?

4/6/2012

Posted on 4/6/2012 by

During Financial Literacy Month in April, Better Business Bureau (BBB) reminds consumers to keep track of their credit, debt and sensitive financial documents.

The National Foundation for Credit Counseling says that most Americans are not up-to-date on their credit standing. According to the NFCC’s 2011 Consumer Financial Literacy Survey Final Report:

65 percent have not obtained yearly credit reports within the last 12 months;
63 percent have not requested credit scores.

Of those that have not checked credit histories:

43 percent say they do not think it is useful or do not plan to apply for new credit;
22 percent do not believe they have any credit history to review.

The same study finds that millions of Americans carry credit card debt month-to-month and 28 percent admit to not paying bills on time; seven percent currently have debts in collection.

BBB urges consumers to also take advantage of free events:

BBB’s Secure Your ID Day – Free Shredding:

Saturday, April 21^st

8:00 am- 12:00 Noon

Methodist Health System

8511 West Dodge Road

Bring up to three boxes or bags of sensitive documents and we’ll shred them for you – on the spot.

Find more credit tips at bbb.org or call toll-free at 800-649-6814.

New Round of Malicious Complaint Emails Claims They Are from BBB

4/4/2012

Posted on 4/4/2012 by

Your BBB is issuing an urgent scam alert cautioning about an email that is purporting to be from the BBB about a complaint concerning an "unauthorized transaction." This is a new twist to the ongoing BBB Phishing Scam that began in November, 2011.

Some consumers and businesses report receiving upwards of 50 of these emails in the past 24 hours. The email contains a dangerous link and bogus sign-in information. This is a scam - BBB does not accept or send complaints concerning private financial transactions with a bank.

"Our BBB as well as other BBBs across the country have been inundated with calls about this email," stated BBB President Jim Hegarty. "They are written to look like they are from the Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB), but the CBBB doesn't send out complaints to businesses," he said. Bank of America, the IRS, Intuit (maker of Quicken and Turbo Tax), the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at the White House, and many others have also been used as a decoy for this phishing scam. The FBI believes it originates with a Russian crime syndicate and has been going on for five years.

One business reported that their computer was infected with a virus after clicking the link in the email they received. As a result, the business lost nearly $100,000 when fraudsters successfully wired money from the company's bank account after the virus enabled them to capture passwords and other important banking information.

This email contains the following text:

"Dear business owner, we have obtained several complaints via the Better Business Bureau online complaint center concerning several unauthorized transaction from a number of private bank accounts to your corporate account. You can view the complaints in our online complaint center using the following link: (link deleted by BBB)."

If you receive such an email, please disregard its message, and forward any information received to phishing@council.bbb.org and then delete it. If you have clicked on the link, immediately do a virus scan.

BBB recommends these tips to anyone who receives this type of email from the BBB:

Don't open any attachments
Don't click on any links
Delete the email from your inbox, and then delete it again in your trash folder
Forward fake BBB emails to phishing@council.bbb.org
Run a full system virus scan on all computers.

BBB encourages that all domain owners set up a sender policy framework (SPF) and set their spam filter to use it. Using the SPF standard helps fight spam and phishing attacks by allowing your email servers to verify whether an email is legitimate or not.

For any questions or concerns please call the BBB toll-free at 800-649-6814 or visit bbb.org.

Ignore that Text! You Didn't Win a Walmart Gift Card

3/21/2012

Posted on 3/21/2012 by

Cell phone users across the country are receiving suspicious text messages that claim to be from Walmart. The text message tells consumers they won a free gift card... and all they have to do is click a link and enter their information to receive the prize. Unfortunately, there is no gift card. It's a scam to steal your credit card number and other personal information.

This scam has several versions. In one, the text reads "You just won a free $1000 Walmart Gift Card, enter "1000" at LINK." In another, it says: "Walmart $1000 Gift Card for the first 1000 users to go to LINK and enter code 2938." The texts also use different URLs, including:

promocenterdaily.com/walmart_gift
promocenter.ws/walmart
walmartgift.mobi

Here is what the text message will look like on your phone:

“The text message is a twist on the classic email phishing scam, where scammers pose as a legitimate organization and send out emails containing links to scam sites. Phishing scams using SMS technology are known as ‘smishing’," Jim Hegarty said, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau.

When you receive a spam text message on your phone, forward the text to the shortcode 7726 (which spells "SPAM"). You'll then receive an automated message from your wireless carrier, asking you then to enter the phone number from which the spam text was sent.

For more information about breaking scams in your area, visit BBB.org’s Complete Scam Directory or call toll-free to 800-649-6814.

Need a BBB Senior Line Magnet or File of Life?

3/15/2012

Posted on 3/15/2012 by

BBB Senior Line Magnets

BBB Senior Line, a program established by the Foundation of the Better Business Bureau, is a dedicated, toll-free phone line which is a safe place for seniors, their care givers, family members or concerned adults to receive reliable information on businesses, scams and frauds. Through BBB Senior Line, callers may also get pre-purchase information or file a complaint. Individuals living in Nebraska, South Dakota and southwest Iowa can take advantage of this free service.

BBB Files of Life

The BBB Foundation has developed a File of Life Program in partnership with the Omaha and Sioux Falls Fire & Rescue Departments. Using a File of Life is voluntary and designed to help local first responders quickly obtain necessary medical history, support needs, and emergency contact information about the seniors they are aiding.

CALL BBB SENIOR LINE TOLL FREE to get your free Senior Line magnet and/or File of Life!

877-637-3334

March Madness Scams Range From Fake Ticket Offers To Hotel Deals To Counterfeit Merchandise

3/13/2012

Posted on 3/13/2012 by

With both Creighton’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, and the Nebraska’s woman’s basketball team making it to the NCAA Tournament and with regional games in Omaha and St. Louis, basketball fever is pushing up ticket prices in the secondary market. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns that publicity about the games is likely to breed scams as well.

“Major sporting events like the NCAA tournament almost always inspire scammers to capitalize on the scarcity of tickets and fans’ desire to snap up souvenirs or team jerseys,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB President and CEO. “The BBB advises fans to check out offers with the BBB before plunking down money or giving credit card numbers.”

While counterfeit items may seem like a good deal, they are actually stolen goods. If you love your team, don’t buy a hat or jersey from someone who has stolen the team’s name and logo for their own profit. Many counterfeit items are more cheaply made than genuine merchandise, which means they may not last as long as the real thing.

Buying counterfeit memorabilia online poses even more potential problems. Some websites don’t even have merchandise to sell. They just want your credit card number and personal information so they can steal your identity or drain your bank account. The best way to ensure you are getting official sports gear is to buy directly from the team or league websites, from official vendors at the stadium or from other trusted stores.

Craigslist has thousands of sports tickets listed, but the site offers no guarantees and sellers don’t have to provide identification to list tickets. If you decide to try buying a ticket outside the event, remember that there are no refunds or guarantees there, either.
Official NCAA ticket information is available at http://www.ncaa.com/tickets.

The BBB’s website lists reputable, secondary market ticket firms that provide buyer protections, including money-back guarantees if tickets are fake. On some sites, sellers also must provide credit card numbers so the site can charge a seller’s card for the cost of replacement tickets if they sell fake tickets. Before you buy, check out a seller’s BBB Business Review, where you can find out whether complaints have been filed against the business and how the company handled any complaints.

Lodging scams also can be a problem for events like the NCAA Tournament. Scammers may lure people by advertising low prices – or they may charge a premium by claiming that the hotel is close to the arena when it isn’t. Others may offer tickets with the hotel room, but you have little or no way of verifying whether the tickets are real.

The BBB advises fans to ask lots of questions and be wary of any offer that requires wiring money. When you send money by wire, it is almost impossible to get it back or to trace the recipient, who may be overseas.

The following are some BBB tips for avoiding scams connected to special events:

Read ads carefully to understand what is being offered and what the price will be.
Ask the seller where he or she is located and how he or she may be contacted after the sale. If the seller is evasive, don’t pursue the offer.
When booking hotels, ask for the name, address and phone number of the hotel where the room is located, and call the hotel to verify that the room actually exists. Check the hotel’s website or a reputable travel site to be sure that the location is convenient for getting to and from the arena.
Be wary of ads that pile on incentives to make the package look better. Often the items – such as lanyards, T-shirts or other trinkets – have limited value.
Use a credit card. A credit card company can assist you with obtaining a refund if the offer turns out to be fraudulent.
Do your research. A variety of travel guidebooks and online reviews address services and amenities at hotels and motels.
Make sure you get a confirmation number when reserving a room. Also, make sure you know check-in and check-out times. Understand what type of room you are reserving (smoking/nonsmoking, queen or double beds, regular room or suite, etc.)
If you have any concern about the quality of a motel or hotel, ask to inspect your room before moving in. You have a better chance to get satisfaction from staff or management if you have not already accepted your room.

Before you do business with a charity or company, check its BBB Business Review at bbb.org or by calling 800-649-6814.

Hang up the Phone. Microsoft Doesn't Need to Fix Your Computer

3/9/2012

Posted on 3/9/2012 by

Have you received a call from Microsoftclaiming that errors or warnings have been found on your account? If so, it's ascam.

Whatdoes the scam look like?

A scammercalls and claims to be a representative of Microsoft_® or"Windows Service" Center who is alerting users to"warnings" or "errors" discovered on theircomputer.

Thescammer then instructs the victim to fix the problem by following commandsover the phone. The scammer will try to gain remote access to thecomputer and install malicious software. He may also ask for credit cardinformation to bill the victim for "repair services."

Microsoft'sSafety and Security Center website says that "Microsoft does not makeunsolicited phone calls to help you fix your computer."

Steps to take if this happened toyou:

If you have received this call and allowed remote access to your computer, immediately run anti-malware and anti-virus programs.
Contact your financial institution immediately if you provided credit card or bank account information.

Staying safe in the future:

Install a firewall and anti-virus program to protect your computer and personal information. Update these programs frequently.
Update your operating system and web browser software regularly.
Protect your passwords by keeping them in a safe place. Your passwords should have at least eight characters and should contain numbers, symbols and letters. Create different passwords for each online account that you have.
Never give personal or financial information to unsolicited callers.

See BBB.org'scomplete scam directory formore information about breaking scams in your area.

Better Business Bureau Warns of Storm Chasers

3/5/2012

Posted on 3/5/2012 by

The recent damage done by the tornadoes in the Midwest and South brings out the best in people, as strangers reach out to help others in need. Unfortunately, the aftermath of a crisis also brings out contractors who take advantage of those who have already been victimized.

As a follow up, Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning local residents affected by the recent storms to beware of storm chasers and out-of-town contractors soliciting business.

“It is not uncommon for out-of-town storm chasers to solicit business after storms like the ones we had last week,” said Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of the BBB. “Storm chasers may not have proper licensure for your area and may offer quick fixes or make big promises to which they won’t deliver.”

BBB offers the following tips for storm victims:

Know your rights and responsibilities provided by your state.
Check to see that your contractor is properly licensed and is registered by your state or local agency
Many municipalities require a solicitation permit if sales people go do-to-door. Verify that they have to have a permit by contacting your local Township or Municipality. BBB suggests consumers be pro-active in selecting a contractor and not re-active to sales calls on the phone or door-to-door pitches
While most roofing contractors abide by the law, be careful allowing someone you do not know inspect your roof. An unethical contractor may actually create damage to get work
Try to get at least 3-4 quotes from contractors, and insist that payments be made to the company, not an individual
Do not pay for the job in advance. Be wary of any contractor who demands full or half payment upfront
Resist high-pressure sales tactics such as the “good deal” you’ll get only if you hire the contractor on the spot
Get a written contract that specifies the price, the work to be done, the amount of liability insurance coverage maintained by the contractor, and a time frame. Require a copy of their current certificate of insurance
Pay by credit card, if possible; you may have additional protection if there’s a problem
Check that the contractor’s vehicle has signs or markings on it with the business name, phone number and has your state’s license plates

BBB is seeing out of state contractors setting up shop in the area trying to capture construction work caused by the tornadoes. BBB is warning the area contractors to beware of storm chasers who are willing to pay local construction companies substantial amounts of money to use a local company’s established name, reputation and phone so they can masquerade as a local business.

We have seen this happen in other areas of the country. After doing repairs paid by insurance companies the out of state contractors left the area. Many contractors who agreed to let these storm chasers use their name regret their decision once they were left holding the bag of unsatisfied customers due to bad workmanship and/or unfulfilled warranties.

Disaster victims should never feel forced to make a hasty decision or to choose an unknown contractor. Start With Trust. For reliable information, lists of BBB Accredited Businesses by industry and business reviews you can trust on local companies, visit www.bbb.org or call toll free at 800-649-6814.

National Consumer Protection Week BBB Offers 7 Tips to being a Smarter Consumer

3/5/2012

Posted on 3/5/2012 by

National Consumer Protection Week

BBB Offers 7 Tips to Being a Smarter Consumer

National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) is March 4-10, and government organizations and nonprofits across the country are offering consumers a wealth of tips and information from federal and state governments and non-profit partner organizations. Better Business Bureau (BBB) goes the extra mile in encouraging every consumer to take full advantage of their consumer rights and make better-informed purchase decisions. BBB is offering savvy consumers seven important tips to celebrate the 14th Annual NCPW.

1. Top Ten Scams of 2011

Whether it's a knock on the door or an email in your in-box, when a stranger wants to offer you something that sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Likewise, when you hear from a friend or family member in trouble and in desperate need of money, it may be too bad to be true.

These are two of the most common tactics use to scam people. Now you can fight back with BBB Scam Source:

Learn more about the biggest scams of 2011 - Did Facebook try to give you $1 million? Did you see the video of Osama bin Laden's death? Did you get a middle-of-the-night call from the hotel front desk? These all made our Top Ten Scams of 2011.

Know Your Scam: Your Guide to Outsmarting the Top Scams - Here are the top categories of scams we hear about, and what you can do to protect yourself.

Sign up to get our Scam Alerts by email - Be a scam-savvy consumer. You'll hear about the latest scams as soon as we do.

Be a scam detector and report what you know - Maybe you've heard about a scam even before us. Let us know! By filing a scam report with BBB, you are helping everyone stay on top of the newest twists.

2. Managing Credit - Made Simpler

In today's society, credit management is as important as money management. You need to read agreements you sign with lenders, understand your credit score, and manage your credit effectively. It's complicated, but BBB has made it simpler with three clear and easy-to-understand guides based on your level of experience with credit and the amount of your debt.

New to Credit - Secure your first credit card, manage a personal credit line, apply for a loan. Having a good credit record may help you qualify for lower interest rates, and your credit record may also affect your ability to get a job, an apartment or affordable car insurance, among other things.

Balancing Act - Have you tried to manage your money well, but are facing changes in you financial situation? Are mounting bills and limited resources making you aware that you need to develop a new plan before your financial situation gets worse?

Overwhelming Obligations - If your bills are piling up, you are barely making minimum payments, or creditors are calling, this version is for you. Get solid advice that can help you pay down high balances and get back to financial health.

3. Giving Wisely to Accountable Charities

The BBB Wise Giving Alliance helps donors make informed giving decisions, and advances high standards of conduct among charitable organizations. Our "Standards for Charitable Accountability" are the most rigorous of any charity review organization, and ours is the only review program that requires charities to respond in order to be evaluated.

Give to accountable charities - You decide on the causes and issues you want to support, but a BBB charity report will show whether your charity of choice meets our high standards for accountability, transparency, governance and more. Here is a list of national charities that meet BBB Wise Giving Alliance standards (many local BBBs also review regional and local charities).

Give to charities that make an impact - BBB Wise Giving Alliance is one of the founders of Charting Impact, a new organization that is helping charities and nonprofits create a common framework for reporting effectiveness. Supporters, donors, academic researchers, volunteers and the media are coming to recognize the Charting Impact Report as a valuable tool for assessing a charity's impact on society.

Give through texting and social media - Social media makes information about societal needs easier than ever to find, and "text-to-give" makes donating a breeze. Learn more about how charities are using social media and mobile giving to support their causes.

4. Financial Field Manual for Military Families

Since 2004, BBB Military Line has supported our military communities with free services such as financial readiness classes, outreach activities, information, data collection and dispute resolution. Local BBBs across the U.S. work with military installations to provide information on financial literacy and consumer protection.

Financial Readiness = Mission Readiness: We are particularly proud of our brand new Kiplinger-BBB Financial Field Manual: The Personal Finance Guide for Military Families. Free copies are available at many military installations and USO kiosks around the country, or you can download it for free from our website.

Get news you can use through Facebook: BBB Military Lines page on Facebook is a great resource for service members, families and veterans. It's chock full of news and links to resources from DOD, the media, and private sector organizations that support our troops.

Become part of the mission: BBB Military Line is a proud supporter of the White House's Joining Forces national initiative. First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden are leading the charge in advocating for support for military families on everything from jobs for spouses and veterans to educational opportunities for military kids to recruiting community volunteers to support our troops.

5. Keeping Kids Safe Online

For more than 35 years, the BBB Childrens Advertising Review Unit (CARU) has been helping parents control what their kids see and hear on television, radio and, more recently, the Internet by evaluating child-directed advertising and promotional material. Working closely with major advertising trade associations, CARU developed Self-Regulatory Guidelines for Children's Advertising and a process for enforcing them.

Keeping kids safe online - The average kid spends 2-7½ hours online every day. From homework to games to chatting with friends via social media, the Internet has become the primary channel of communications for children and teens. Safety on Screen: Keeping Your Children Safe on the Internet is a free online guide that explains issues such as privacy, security, cyber-bulling, stalking, setting parental controls and more.

Problems with what your kids watch? - If you've seen an ad on children's television (programming aimed at children under age 12) or on a child-oriented website (aimed at children under 13) that you think is inappropriate, report it to CARU and we'll look into it. Many advertisers clear their ads with us before they air to be sure they are offering a responsible message, and we watch carefully the ones who don't.

6. BBB AUTO LINE is Fast, Fair and Saves You Money

For more than 30 years, BBB AUTO LINE has helped consumers resolve lemon law complaints simply, and without the cost of hiring a lawyer. Our dispute resolution program covers car warranty issues against participating manufacturers, and we have helped more than 2 million consumers in that time. Last year alone, BBB AUTO LINE consumers received re-purchase, replacement and reimbursement awards totally more than $41 million, while saving automakers millions in legal fees - a "win-win" situation.

Know your lemon law - Every state has a lemon law, which makes automakers responsible for vehicles that fail to meet performance and safety standards, regardless of the warranty. You can get details on state laws here, but make sure you keep all documentation on your vehicle, its history, repair orders, etc., take notes when you talk to your dealer or repair shop, and keep track of how many days your vehicle is out of commission.

Is my car included? - Most automakers agree to participate in BBB AUTO LINE to resolve their consumer complaints quickly and efficiently. And we've made it easy for you to check and see if your car, truck, van or SUV is included. If you are looking for a new vehicle, check this list and see if your top choices are covered. These manufacturers stand behind their vehicles and are committed to working with consumers fairly. They deserve your business.

File your complaint - At BBB AUTO LINE, we strive to make resolving your lemon law complaint as simple as possible. Our role is to open communication between you and your manufacturer and to assist in the speedy resolution of your auto warranty or lemon law dispute. We will guide you each step of the way: through collecting documentation, negotiating a possible settlement and navigating the arbitration process.

7. Consumer Choice: Control Your Data Online

Online behavioral advertising uses your web surfing history to display online ads that are most likely to interest you. Advertising pays for a lot of great online content we've come to depend on, but advertisers want to make sure that they are reaching the right people with their messages. Information is collected as you search the web and move across various websites but, thanks to a new industry-created program, you have some a lot more control over who gets your information.

FTC Releases Top Complaint Categories for 2011

3/2/2012

Posted on 3/2/2012 by

The Federal Trade Commission today released its list of top consumer complaints received by the agency in 2011. For the 12th year in a row, identity theft complaints topped the list. Of more than 1.8 million complaints filed in 2011, 279,156 or 15 percent, were identity theft complaints. Nearly 25 percent of the identity theft complaints related to tax- or wage-related fraud.

The report breaks out complaint data on a state-by-state basis and also contains data about the 50 metropolitan areas reporting the highest per capita incidence of fraud and other complaints. In addition, the 50 metropolitan areas reporting the highest incidence of identity theft are noted.

The next nine complaint categories are:

· Debt Collection Complaints-180, 928

· Prizes, Sweepstakes, and Lotteries-100,00

· Shop-at-Home and Catalogue Sales-98,306

· Banks and Lenders-89,341

· Internet Services-81,805

· Auto Related Complaints-77,435

· Imposter Scams- 73,281

· Telephone and Mobile Services-70,024

· Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair-47,414

The FTC enters complaints into Consumer Sentinel, a secure, online database available to more than 2,000 civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the United States and abroad. Enforcers search the database to research cases, track targets, and identify victims.

"The FTC's Consumer Sentinel Network is an incredibly powerful tool for law enforcers who are working to protect consumers and go after the bad guys," said David Vladeck, Director of the agency's Bureau of Consumer Protection. "It's used by agencies across the country and around the world to enhance their enforcement efforts."

Other federal and state law enforcement agencies contribute complaints to the Consumer Sentinel Network, including the U. S. Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Justice's Internet Crime Complaint Center, and the Offices of the Idaho, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, and Washington Attorneys General. Private-sector organizations that contribute complaints include all U.S. and Canadian members of the Better Business Bureau, Western Union and Moneygram, and the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law

"The Consumer Sentinel Network is a treasure trove of information for law enforcers," said Richard Cordray, Director of the newly created Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. "We plan to contribute consumer complaints we receive at the CFPB to the Network and urge other state and local law enforcers to join the Network, too."

New Scam Uses BBB.org Email Address

2/21/2012

Posted on 2/21/2012 by

Consumersnationwide are reporting a new round of phishing email scams using the BBB nameand email address, this time targeted at accountants.

This latestscam uses a BBB.org email address in conjunction with the American Institute ofCPAs logo and name. The message informs recipients that their CPA license isbeing terminated due to tax fraud allegations and encourages them to click on alink and reply to the charges. The link leads to a third party website thatdownloads a virus on to the recipient’s computer.

This emailscam primarily targets accountants, but BBB has gotten reports of otherprofessionals receiving the emails. The image below is a sample email

For moreinformation or further inquiries, please contact the BBB toll-free at800-649-6814.

BBB Alert - Scammers See Senior Couple as Easy Target

2/16/2012

Posted on 2/16/2012 by

“It’s sad but true. Unfortunately, an Omaha couple in their eighties lost over $140,000, their entire savings, in an attempt to collect their ‘winnings’ in a lottery scam operating out of Canada that has been bilking them for over three years,” stated Jim Hegarty president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) serving Nebraska, South Dakota and southwest Iowa.

In July 2008, the couple received a phone call telling them they had won a sweepstakes prize of $821,000. When questioned, the caller explained that they had been entered in this lottery because they had shopped at a local sporting goods store. The couple was elated and willing to do whatever they were told to collect their winnings.

Their money kept flowing to the scammers in a total of 161 separate wire transfers that were made at several different local wire transfer locations over the three year period. One wire transfer location was visited 90 times by the couple. Some agents refused to wire their money and others told them it was probably a scam, but the couple wanted to win and persisted.

The first money transfer was for $1,793. The couple was told that they had to pay for the fees and taxes in advance of receiving their prize. They were also told that after their money had been received, the prize would be delivered to them by courier. Of course, it was not.

Over the three year period, the scammers posed as US Custom Agents, Foreign Custom Agents and US Postal Service Representatives, each giving them new reasons why their prize was delayed and why they had topay additional fees. Even phony “IRS Agents”called on the victims’ behalf, claiming that they were trying to help. Of course, no prize money materialized.

At one point, the couple was told that a courier had actually landed in Grand Island, NE with their prize, but had been detained until landing fees and take-off fees were paid before the plane could come to Omaha. On another occasion, the victims were told that their courier was in Fairbury, NE but was being held up because “appropriate custom fees had not been paid.”

After exhausting their savings, they continued fulfilling the ongoing requests of the scammers by selling personal belongings including their vehicles and a coin collection, all in hope that the promise of winning would materialize. “When they had no more money and began relying on the food bank for the first time in their lives, they reached out to the BBB for help,” said Hegarty.

The victims told him that perhaps the most painful realization in this entire nightmare was that they could do very little for their children and grandchildren this past Christmas due to the financial stress they are now living with. “The most difficult part for the BBB is the ongoing reality that there are people in this world that stop at nothing for their own personal gain and prey on one of the most vulnerable groups in our society, our senior citizens. This kind of crime is unconscionable and heart-breaking, and there is little law enforcement can do to stop these thieves because they are operating outside of the US.”

BBB offers the following advice if you receive a notice that you have won a lottery or sweepstakes prize:

Did you enter the lottery? If not, it is probably not a legitimate draw. Lottery tickets must be purchased in advance and sweepstakes require applications.
Where is the lottery located? It is illegal for U.S. citizens to participate in foreign lotteries. Legitimate lotteries will be state or national in scope only.
Was the win notification delivered via standard international mail? Legitimate lotteries typically deliver win notices through certified mail.
Are there fees involved? In legitimate cases, applicable taxes are taken out before money is sent and any additional taxes are handled with federal tax returns. Never wire money or share financial data to secure winnings.

“Because seniors are especially targeted by scammers, the BBB encourages seniors, their care givers, family members or concerned adults to use BBB Senior Line. This toll-free phone number, 877-637-3334, provides a safe place to get reliable information on offers before spending any money,” explained Hegarty. “Through BBB Senior Line, callers may also get pre-purchase information on businesses or file a complaint.” Seniors or their loved ones can call to request a free refrigerator magnet that contains the Senior Line Number.

For resources on how to avoid lottery scams, rely on the BBB, Federal TradeCommission,Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, United States Secret Service and United States Postal Inspection Service.

Consumers Contact BBB with Questions about Mailing from HomeServe USA

2/16/2012

Posted on 2/16/2012 by

Consumers have contacted the Better Business Bureau serving Nebraska, South Dakota and southwest Iowa (BBB) regarding a mailing they’ve received from HomeServe USA. The mailings inform recipients that they are responsible for the maintenance and repair of their exterior water lines, leaving them liable for repairs which could potentially cost thousands of dollars. It provides an 800 number and a deadline to enroll in their Water Service Line Coverage. Some consumers have stated the mailings appear to be from a local government agency or utility. The BBB is advising consumers to review these notices carefully, particularly the portion that says HomeServe USA is an independent company separate from your local utility or community.

The BBB also notes that while the company is correct when they say homeowners are responsible for the maintenance and repair of their water lines “utility service connection to your home,” the warranty coverage they offer is optional.

“Similar to any warranty, service plan or insurance policy, it is up to the consumer to determine its value and whether or not it’s worth purchasing," said Jim Hegarty president and CEO of the BBB. “They should also be clear about what is covered under the policy offered, as well as what is not covered.”

The BBB says that while some homeowners may not be covered for the line repairs offered by HomeServe USA, anyone who is uncertain should call their water department to avoid paying for duplicate coverage. You should also review your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if coverage is already provided, as well as contact your insurance company to ask how this coverage would work in conjunction with your current policy.

Although HomeServe USA is headquartered in Stamford, CT, the company does claim a Post Office Box in Lincoln, NE. The Connecticut BBB’s Business Review rated the company a “D,” and noted that HomeServe USA has entered into consent agreements with the states of Kentucky, Ohio and Massachusetts. Both Kentucky and Ohio alleged that the mailing solicitations “generated confusion” and were “deceptive” in their appearance. According to the Business Review, the settlements should not be considered as an admission of guilt or a legal violation.

The BBB recommends the following tips to consumers who receive a call or letter from HomeServe USA or similar companies:

Read the service contract very carefully and make sure you have a clear understanding of it, especially each of the exclusions, before agreeing to buy coverage. Do not purchase any coverage over the phone without seeing a contract with all details that were discussed verbally set down in writing.
Make sure you’re familiar with the company’s cancellation policy in case you change your mind after signing up.

Check the company’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org to see if there are any unanswered, unresolved or unusual pattern of complaints that other consumers have noticed.

Consumers Contact BBB with Questions about Mailing from HomeServe USA

2/16/2012

Posted on 2/16/2012 by

Consumers have contacted the Better Business Bureau serving Nebraska,South Dakota and southwest Iowa (BBB) regarding a mailing they’ve received fromHomeServe USA. The mailings inform recipients that they are responsible for themaintenance and repair of their exterior water lines, leaving them liable forrepairs which could potentially cost thousands of dollars. It provides an 800number and a deadline to enroll in their Water Service Line Coverage. Someconsumers have stated the mailings appear to be from a local government agencyor utility. The BBB is advising consumers to review these notices carefully,particularly the portion that says HomeServe USA is an independent company separate fromyour local utility or community.

The BBB also notes that while the company is correct when they sayhomeowners are responsible for the maintenance and repair of their water lines “utilityservice connection to your home,” the warranty coverage they offer is optional.

“Similar to any warranty, service plan or insurance policy, it is up tothe consumer to determine its value and whether or not it’s worth purchasing,”said Jim Hegarty president and CEO of the BBB. “They should also be clear aboutwhat is covered under the policy offered, as well as what is not covered.”

The BBB says that while some homeowners may not be covered for the linerepairs offered by HomeServe USA, anyone who is uncertain should call theirwater department to avoid paying for duplicate coverage. You should also reviewyour homeowner’s insurance policy to see if coverage is already provided, aswell as contact your insurance company to ask how this coverage would work inconjunction with your current policy.

Although HomeServe USA is headquartered in Stamford, CT, the company doesclaim a Post Office Box in Lincoln, NE. The Connecticut BBB’s Business Reviewrated the company a “D,” and noted that HomeServe USA has entered into consentagreements with the states of Kentucky, Ohio and Massachusetts. Both Kentuckyand Ohio alleged that the mailing solicitations “generated confusion” and were“deceptive” in their appearance. According to the Business Review, thesettlements should not be considered as an admission of guilt or a legalviolation.

The BBB recommends the following tips to consumers who receive a call orletter from Home Serve USA or similar companies:

Read the service contract very carefully and make sure you have a clear understanding of it, especially each of the exclusions, before agreeing to buy coverage. Do not purchase any coverage over the phone without seeing a contract with all details that were discussed verbally set down in writing.
Make sure you’re familiar with the company’s cancellation policy in case you change your mind after signing up.
Check the company’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org to see if there are any unanswered, unresolved or unusual pattern of complaints that other consumers have noticed.

'Sweetheart Swindles' Prey On Singles Looking For Valentines, 'One True Love'

2/7/2012

Posted on 2/7/2012 by
More people are turning to the Internet to find Mr. or Ms. Right through online dating services, pop-up ads or email. The Consumer Fraud Task Force has a warning for those who use the Internet to find love: While online dating has resulted in some successful relationships, criminals also troll the sites for victims who will send them money.

Task Force partners get thousands of complaints every year from people who have lost money to someone they met on dating sites. Some criminals say they’re in the military and stationed overseas. Others may claim to have a sudden emergency, such as medical bills for a sick relative, or they claim they’re in need of cash because they’re stranded or behind on their bills. Often the ‘emergency’ occurs after weeks or months of online chit-chat, often filled with flattery that makes the victim feel as if he or she has found true love.

The Task Force urges anyone who uses an online dating service or answers an unsolicited romantic email to be extremely cautious before committing to meet the person or send them money, tickets or anything else of value. Some tips and red flags to watch for include:

•Find out whether the dating service do any background checks or fraud scans before a person’s profile is posted.

•Be cautious if the person claims to be recently widowed or says they’re an American stationed overseas, possibly in the military.

•Be cautious if the person immediately asks you to communicate on an email or messaging system outside the dating site. Some dating sites monitor exchanges for signs of fraud, and a fraudster may be anxious to lure you away from the site.

•Do a Google search on the person. You can even paste the text of the email, profile description, or pictures into Google and search to see if similar text, pictures or descriptions are used by others. Some criminals create multiple profiles and use the same information over and over.

•Be suspicious if the person hints that they are in financial trouble or have another sudden need for money. If the person asks you to wire money—such as by Western Union, MoneyGram or Green Dot MoneyPak—it more than likely is a scam.

•Check the person’s name in online databases of sex offenders, which are available in many states.

•If you decide to meet the person, go to a place where there are large numbers of people and where you feel safe. Consider taking someone along with you.

For any questions or concerns please call the BBB toll-free at 800-649-6814 or visit bbb.org.

BBB Offers Advice for Safe and Successful Valentine's Day Shopping

2/7/2012

Posted on 2/7/2012 by
In 2011, BBB found complaints against florists rose compared to 2010 on Cupid's day.

If you're going to go through the task of sending flowers, candy or gifts for Valentine's Day, do a little homework and due diligence to make sure you or your loved one has a happy day and not a broken heart."

"When buying flowers consumers should be especially careful when making the purchase online or over the phone," said Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of the BBB. "Consumers need to review the description of the floral arrangement or any other gift purchased online or in conversation with the florist or sales person."

The BBB offers the following advice for safe and successful shopping for Valentine’s Day:

• Do your homework. Before ordering flowers, chocolates or any other gifts for Valentine’s Day check out the BBB's Business Review at bbb.org.

• Allow time for shipping. Check with the retailer or check the web site to make sure that you have allowed enough time for delivery by your specified date. Make sure that this date is specified clearly and guaranteed when you order.

• Be wary of any email received from an unknown sender. Do not open any unsolicited email and do not click on any links provided. Fake e-cards coming from scammers/hackers may send you an infected card or send you to a link where you are could compromise your computer’s safety.

For more information on shopping with companies you can trust, visit bbb.org.

Scammers Pick Up the Phone in New Twist on BBB Phishing Scam

1/30/2012

Posted on 1/30/2012 by
Better Business Bureau is warning consumers about a new twist in the ongoing BBB phishing scam. Consumers now are reporting receiving phone calls – in addition to emails – from scammers claiming to be from BBB. In the scam, callers offer help removing a virus from the recipient’s computer. They claim the computer was infected when the owner downloaded a virus from an email scam using the BBB name. Consumers reported scammers calling from 858-102-3252. BBB is cautioning consumers not to give out any personal information to callers or to install or download any software they recommend. Since late November, many consumers and business owners nationwide have received phishing emails appearing to be from a BBB.org email address. These emails inform the recipient of a non-existent BBB complaint against their business and encourage them to respond. In a newer take on the scam, emails urge the recipient to update their information with BBB by completing an online form. All emails either contain an attachment or a link to a third-party website, both of which download a virus on to the recipient’s computer. Should you receive a suspicious email, don't click on any links. You can test the links by using your mouse to hover over them. The destination of the links will appear in a small pop-up box next to the link or at the bottom of the screen. See the screenshot below for an example. If the email is a scam, the website shown will not be a BBB.org URL.

BBB Foundation Invites High School Juniors and Seniors to Apply for its 2012 “Student of Integrity Award” Scholarships

1/27/2012

Posted on 1/27/2012 by

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Foundation invites high school juniors and seniors to apply for its annual BBB Scott Mecham Student of Integrity Awards. In 2012, six students will each be granted $2,000 college scholarships: two from metro Omaha and southwest Iowa, two from metro Lincoln and greater Nebraska, and two from South Dakota

The Student of Integrity Award Scholarships were created in 2007 to recognize and nurture future ethical business leaders and to honor the memory of Mr. Mecham, who served as BBB president from 1991 until January, 2006. The Winners are selected by three panels of independent judges representing the academic and business communities in Omaha, Lincoln and Sioux Falls. They consider each student’s leadership qualities, academic performance and character. The students who win the awards, best demonstrate their commitment high ethics through leadership, community service, and personal integrity both inside and outside the classroom.

The award Winners will be announced in April 2012 and recognized at the BBB’s Integrity Awards Luncheons in October. “It is always a very difficult task for the judges to choose the Winners because of the fine quality of the applications. But now, more than ever, it is important to reward our young leaders for their integrity. It gives us great hope to know that high moral character and the understanding of ethics are alive and well in students throughout our BBB’s service area!” stated Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO.

The application guide with full details and required forms can be downloaded HERE or at www.bbb.org. For more information, please contact BBB Communications Director Margo Riekes at 402-898-8526, 800-649-6814 #8526 or mriekes@bbbnebraska.org. The BBB and its Foundation look forward to rewarding six well-deserving students for upholding high ethical standards. Application deadline is Friday March 9, 2012.

The 2011 Student of Integrity Award Scholarship Winners were:

-Ellen Klitgaard- Harlan Community High School, Harlan, IA

-Matthew Goracke – Red Oak Community High School, Red Oak, IA

-Gabriel Connealy – Mullen High School, Whitman, NE

-Stephanie Parks - Norfolk High School, Norfolk, NE

-Nicholas Kantack – Brookings High School, Brookings, SD

-Tatianna Podhradsky – Wagner Community High School, Wagner, SD

BBB Tips on Finding a Tax Preparer

1/24/2012

Posted on 1/24/2012 by
Most Americans will get assistance from a professional tax preparer or tax software when filing their taxes this year. Better Business Bureau encourages taxpayers to use caution when selecting tax preparation help. Using the wrong preparer could cause the taxpayer a lot of headaches, fines, and fees. According to the IRS, 80 percent of Americans enlist the help of a tax preparer or tax software when filing their taxes. Unfortunately, every year BBB receives thousands of complaints from consumers against tax preparers. Complainants often state that the tax preparer made errors in their return, which resulted in fines and fees. BBB wants to remind you, that you are responsible for the accuracy of information on your tax return, whether you prepare the return or hire someone else to do so. Consider these factors: •Avoid tax preparers who claim they can get you bigger refunds than others, or larger ones than what you've gotten in previous years. •Be very careful when choosing a tax preparer. Try to use preparers that others have already used and can vouch for. Remember if someone else prepares your return, you are ultimately responsible for all the information on the tax return. •Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of the amount of the refund. •Consider whether the individual or firm will be around to answer questions about the preparation of your tax return, months, even years, after the return has been filed. •IRS criminal investigation department reminds you to never sign blank tax forms. •Before you accept the offer, consider the cost of “instant refunds” or “refund anticipation loans” that may be offered by tax preparers or the sellers of tax preparation software. The IRS will usually direct deposit your tax refund to your bank account within a few days after your return is filed. This can turn your “instant refund” into a very high cost short-term loan. For more advice on finding professionals you can trust, visit www.bbb.org or call 1-800-649-6814.

Better Business Bureau Warns: Look Out for Super Bowl Scams

1/24/2012

Posted on 1/24/2012 by

With the Super Bowl just around the corner, Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning consumers to be on the alert for knock-off-team jerseys, counterfeit memorabilia and phony game tickets.

"There are three good reasons not to buy counterfeit goods: theft, quality and security," notes Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of the BBB. "Counterfeit items are stolen goods. If you love your team, don't buy a hat or jersey from someone who has stolen the team's name and logo for their own profit. And counterfeit items are almost always more cheaply made, which means they won't last as long as the real thing."

But you may have an even bigger problem if you try to buy counterfeit memorabilia online. Several BBB's around the country have reported websites that don't even have any merchandise to sell you...they just want your credit card number and personal information in order to steal your identity or drain your bank account. The best way to ensure you are getting official sports gear is to buy directly from the team or league websites, or from official vendors at the stadium.

So where can you turn? Sites such as Stub Hub (www.stubhub.com) guarantee your tickets' authenticity. There were 2,800 tickets available as of January 23, starting at $2,450 a piece. Ticketmaster (www.ticketexchangebyticketmaster.com) handles ticket exchanges for the NFL, and had over 800 tickets available as of January 23, starting at $2,864.

In general, avoid scams by being skeptical of:

Offers that sound "too good to be true"
Pushy sales tactics
Poor quality of merchandise
Offers that require wire transfer of funds

And always check out a business first at www.bbb.org.

For more consumer tips you can trust, visit www.bbb.org/news. To sign up to receive our scam alerts, visit BBB Scam Source at www.bbb.org/scam.

BBB Advice: Steps to Take to Avoid Receiving Unwanted Calls

1/11/2012

Posted on 1/11/2012 by

While more than 150 million numbers have been added to the National Do Not Call Registry, the Better Business Bureau continues to get calls from people who aren't aware of this resource.

The registry began in 2003 to give consumers a choice on telemarketing calls. It's managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). If you decide to register your number, telemarketers covered by the registry have 31 days to comply and stop calling you. If they continue to call you, they can be fined up to thousands of dollars.

At first, numbers were to be re-registered every five years. That was changed in 2008. A number will only be removed if it's disconnected or reassigned, or the consumer opts to remove it.

Calls from some organizations are exempt, including:

Political organizations.

Charities, although you can ask a third-party telemarketer to stop calling you on a charity's behalf.

Telephone surveyors, if the call is really for the sole purpose of conducting a survey. Unfortunately, this is a common area of abuse. If callers shift from taking a survey to selling, they're violating the registry's rules.

Companies with whom you have an established business relationship, which is defined in several ways. They include companies with whom you've had an actual relationship within the past 18 months; or companies you've requested information from, or applied to, in the past three months. You can, however, ask them to stop calling you.

Here are other important provisions of the registry:

The FTC does not allow private companies or other such third parties to register numbers. Offers to do so -- particularly for a fee -- are almost certainly a scam.

The registry is only for personal phone numbers. Business-to-business calls and faxes are not covered.

If you want to receive some telemarketing calls, you can give the companies written permission to call you even though your number is on the registry.

Even if you don't add your number to the registry, you can prohibit individual telemarketers from calling by asking them to put you on their do-not-call list.

To register a number, call 1-888-382-1222 or visit donotcall.gov. The website also has information on registering multiple numbers, deleting a number, and filing complaints.

You can register cell phone numbers on the same Do Not Call Registry. Telemarketers, however, generally use automated dialers to place their calls, and other laws prohibit using them to make calls to cell phones anyway.

If your number is on the registry and you get an unwanted call from a non-exempt organization, that's a red flag of a possible scam.

For any questions or concerns please call the BBB toll-free at 800-649-6814 or visit bbb.org.

New Year’s Resolution: Don’t Cruise Your Way into a Vacation Scam

1/10/2012

Posted on 1/10/2012 by

As the winter sets in, nothing sounds better than relaxing under a tropical sun. Winter and spring are prime cruising months, but Better Business Bureau is advising consumers to read all of the fine print before signing up for a special cruise deal.

In 2011, BBB received more than 1,300 complaints against cruises. While many cruise deals are legitimate, there are those sneaky few that end up sucking thousands of dollars from victims. BBB is urging consumers to be cautious of unsolicited mail with offers of free or discounted cruises.

“Many times, scammers will send numerous emails, postcards, and other mailings trying to get you to call them in order to claim your ‘free cruise,’” said Jim Hegarty, CEO and president of the Better Business Bureau. “Don’t be fooled by professional looking websites either. Gather as much information as you can about the business, and ask a lot of questions before signing on the dotted line.”

BBB and CruiseCitic.com recommend the following tips to consumers who are looking to book a cruise getaway:

Don’t be a victim- Oftentimes, vacation scammers will use high-pressure sales tactics and make you feel coerced to buy the limited-time deal on the spot. A reputable business or travel agent will provide any information that you request, and give you time to decide before booking a vacation

Always check the business first- If an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Before giving a business any personal information, check out their BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org/search. Consumers can also contact the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) for information on finding a reputable travel agent

Pay with a credit card- For your best protection against a dishonest seller of travel, always pay for your cruise fare -- both the initial deposit and the final payment -- with a major credit card such as Mastercard, Visa or American Express. If problems arise, you may be able to dispute the charges with your credit card company. Important note: This protection may not apply to those using debit or check cards; it's important to confirm policies with your issuing bank before you charge

Ensure your money is in the right hands- After you've made a payment, review your credit card or bank statement and make sure that any applicable charges originate directly with the cruise line, not with the travel agency. That way, you'll know that the cruise line has definitely received your money. If you must pay by check or money order, it should be made payable to the cruise line -- not to the agency or to an individual

Get proper confirmation of your booking- Insist on getting the actual cruise line's confirmation numbers, not just a confirmation number from your agency. Not only will you then know that your information and money is in the right hands, but you'll also be able to pre-reserve shore excursions, restaurant reservations and spa appointments (where available) on the cruise line's website

Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions- Before signing on the dotted line make sure all of the details have been clearly outlined and the pricing has been thoroughly explained. Double check whether there are hidden cancellation fees, port charges, or insurance processing fees that haven’t been covered

Consider investing in travel insurance- Travel insurance can provide protection in the event of an accident, an illness, lost luggage, or a canceled or interrupted trip, among other things. Follow the same steps outlined here when buying travel insurance

For more consumer tips you can trust, visit www.bbb.org/us/bbb-news.

BBB Warns of NETFLIX Phishing Scam

1/3/2012

Posted on 1/3/2012 by

The Better Business Bureau is issuing a warning that NETFLIX is the latest in a long line of companies to be plagued with a Phishing Scam using their name.

A spokesperson from NETFLIX confirmed the phishing attempt and stated that NETFLIX has identified the website used and has executed a shutdown of that site. The scam is not just limited to NETFLIX customers. It uses the company's name and logo and most of the emails contain the subject line “Netflix Account Closed”. The bogus email contains links that contain phishing malware that can steal information from your computer.

The NETFLIX spokesperson also stated, “We always tell people don’t click any links, go directly to the website, sign into their account. If there is a problem with the account we (Netflix) will typically have a banner at the top of the website that there is a problem with their account.” Consumers can also call their customer service number at 866-716-6812 to speak with a NETFLIX representative about their account.

Phishing is a way of attempting to acquire personal information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details by posing as a trusted entity in an electronic communication (email). Communications claiming to be from popular social web sites, auction sites, online payment processors or IT administrators are commonly used to lure the unsuspecting public. Phishing is usually carried out by email spoofing,and it often directs users to enter details at a fake website that looks identical to the legitimate one.

Recent similar bogus emails have prompted the BBB to update its advice and recommend the following to anyone who receives these emails:

• Do not to open any attachments
• Do not click on any links
• Delete the email from your inbox, and then delete it again from your trash or recycling folder
• Run a full system scan using reputable virus software

BBB also recommends that all domain owners set up a sender policy framework (SPF) and set their spam filter to use it. Using the SPF standard helps fight spam and phishing attacks by allowing your email servers to verify whether an email is legitimate…or not.

BBB Study: Debt Collection Industry Thrives, Complaints Soar

12/30/2011

Posted on 12/30/2011 by

“They threatened to try and take my disability away,” one complainant said of a debt collector, and another said they “threatened to file criminal charges of check fraud” and contacted my friends saying “I would soon be arrested.”

These comments are typical of the thousands of complaints filed by consumers against debt collectors. A surging increase in complaints in the past few years about the behavior of debt collectors has caused concern on the part of federal and state agencies and consumer advocacy groups.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) in St. Louis, MO has released a study titled “They Deal in Billions: A BBB Study of the Debt Collection Industry, Its Soaring Growth and Problems for Consumers.” The study points to problems in the industry and their causes, and outlines the weaknesses in laws and their enforcement.

“The BBB believes consumers are obligated to pay their rightful debts and that businesses have the right to collect those debts,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “But we also feel that debt collectors must obey the law. We hope that the State Legislatures, Congress and the courts will take notice of this rapidly increasing problem and take action to bring it under control.”

Among the study’s findings:

Complaints to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have increased 17% over the past year
Debt buyer-collectors pay pennies on the dollar for billions of dollars in delinquent debts that have been charged off and then try to collect the face amount of the debts
Income increased an average of 58% in one year for two large debt buyer-collectors
After unsuccessful oral or written attempts to collect a debt, collectors have filed suits in courts, often obtaining default judgments, and then garnishing the wages or attaching bank accounts of the debtor
The suits are often filed with scanty or false information regarding the debt, and sometimes are backed by affidavits which are robo-signed at the rate of hundreds daily per worker by employees who have no knowledge of the debt
The FTC, General Accountability Office (GAO) and consumer advocacy groups have called for numerous reforms, including amending the 33-year-old FDCPA
In the past three years, three large debt buyer-collectors have filed as a creditor in 221,757 Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases nationally. They presumably seek the face value of the debt for which they paid pennies

The study notes that in 1995, debt buyers purchased debts with a face value of $12 billion and by 2008, that figure vaulted to an estimated $215 billion.

The study concludes: “The meteoric growth of the debt buying and selling industry shares a portion of the blame for the soaring increase in complaints and the plethora of calls for reform by government agencies and consumer advocacy groups. Other reasons for skyrocketing complaint numbers may be the downturn in the economy, an extension of unsustainable credit and the ever increasing indebtedness of the American public.”

The study recommends:

That consumers work with their creditors if facing the inability to make payments on a debt
That consumers check with reputable non-profit organizations for counseling regarding any indebtedness beyond their means
That consumers respond to a court summons regarding a debt, even if it’s a debt not owed. Doing so will eliminate problems that would arise later
That consumers file complaints with the BBB and FTC regarding improper or illegal activity on the part of a debt collector

That Congress consider the many changes urged by the FTC, GAO and consumer advocacy groups to amend the 33-year-old FDCPA
That businesses closely monitor the activities of agencies they hire to collect on delinquent accounts
That debt collector trade associations monitor the activities of their members more closely, including imposing penalties for proven violations of laws

Got An Unwanted Gift? BBB Advises Shoppers To Check Return Policies Carefully

12/27/2011

Posted on 12/27/2011 by

No matter how hard you shop for the perfect gift, occasionally the item is the wrong size, color, or it simply doesn’t meet the recipient’s desires or needs.

To minimize the hassle of post-holiday returns, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises shoppers to ask about retailers’ return policies before making a purchase. Also, retain your receipts until you’re certain the gift is right.

Some stores provide refunds, others only issue store credit, and a few consider all sales to be final. Seasonal stores may have limited hours after the holidays. Remember that stores aren’t legally required to accept items for refund, exchange, or credit unless goods were defective or misrepresented.

The BBB reminds shoppers to know their return rights before making a purchase. It’s always better to ask than to assume. The following tips can help shoppers avoid post-holiday frustration:

Ask the store about its return policy. Can a customer obtain a refund, a store credit, or exchange unwanted merchandise? How long is the period when returns are allowed? Some stores have extended return periods for gifts, while others limit returns to a week or less after the item is purchased.

Ask for a gift receipt and enclose it with the gift. Don’t remove electronics or similar products from their boxes before wrapping. The original packaging may be required for a return.

Do not assume that regular return policies apply to sale or clearance items. Some merchants consider the sale of such items to be final, so ask before buying. If you are the gift recipient, do not assume you have the right to return or exchange an unwanted present. Like the shopper, you are bound by the merchant’s return policy. Health regulations, which can prohibit the return of hats and intimate apparel, also may apply.

Ask about restocking fees. Some merchants charge a restocking or "open box" fee for returns of electronic products or large-ticket items. A restocking fee can be as high as 25 percent of the purchase.

Look for a posted return policy when shopping online. If returns are permitted, ask what procedures and time frames need to be followed. Find out whether shipping fees are charged for returning items and whether shipping costs or restocking fees are deducted from the price of returned items.

Save your receipt. Keep items in their original packaging and leave tags on clothing. If you remove the price or black it out on the tag, try to leave the item number or bar code visible as it will make it easier for a store to process the return.

Time your returns to avoid hassles. Return lines can be lengthy the day after Christmas, but don’t wait too long to return items. Pick a time when the store is unlikely to be crowded, and be polite when talking to customer service clerks. If you are a regular customer or have a store credit account, mention that as you discuss return options. Merchants are usually willing to accommodate loyal customers.

Following these tips can help you to keep the holiday spirit a little longer. For any questions please contact the BBB toll-free at 800-649-6814 or visit bbb.org.

BBB Updates Advice for Recipients of Phishing Email Claiming to Be a Complaint

12/22/2011

Posted on 12/22/2011 by

The email scam using the Better Business Bureau’s name continues to proliferate across North America, and even to some overseas addresses. Most of the emails carry the famous BBB torch logo and come with the subject line “Complaint from your customers.” The emails have a link or an attachment containing malicious phishing malware that steals information, with potentially harmful results.

Larry Andrus is a member of the board of directors of BBB Western Michigan and also the CEO of Trivalent Group, Inc., a BBB Accredited Business that helps its clients manage, access, protect, and store their data. One of his firm’s clients opened the affected attachment, which launched malware that quickly found the accounting office’s computers, accessed bank numbers and passwords, and nearly completed a fund transfer from the company’s account.

Because of experiences such as this one, BBB has updated its advice and recommends the following to anyone who receives the email:

Do not open any attachments
Do not click on any links
Check to see who it says it is from - complaints go out from the local BBBs, not from the headquarters office and are sent by US mail, not by email
If you still are not sure, call the BBB at 402-391-7612 or 800-649-6814
Delete the email from your inbox, and then delete it again from your trash or recycling folder
Run a full system scan using reputable virus software

Previously, BBB had recommended running a full system scan only if the recipient had clicked on the link or opened the attachment. But due to the virulent nature of the virus, the new recommendation is for everyone who receives it to do the scan. In offices or homes that are networked, all computers should be scanned.

Chris Garver, Chief Information Officer at BBB’s national organization, the Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB), recommends that all domain owners set up a sender policy framework (SPF) and set their spam filter to use it. “Using the SPF standard helps fight spam and phishing attacks by allowing your email servers to verify whether an email is legitimate…or not,” he says.

Microsoft offers a simple, four-step process for setting up an SPF: www.microsoft.com/mscorp/safety/content/technologies/senderid/wizard/

“CBBB has been working with federal law enforcement agencies to identify the perpetrators of this phishing attack. They now know these scams are being executed by organized criminal rings which are international and mainly outside the jurisdiction of the Secret Service and FBI, so the chance of catching them is apparently a rarity. These criminals engage in underground trading of data collected through these scams,” stated BBB President Jim Hegarty.

The BBB System has engaged a respected web-based technology firm that has a sophisticated phishing deactivation process. “By taking a major, high-tech stance which is being implemented today, we believe that the criminals will stop targeting us,” said Hegarty.

If you happen to receive one of these scam emails, please forward it to phishing@council.bbb.org and then delete it immediately from your “Inbox,” your “Sent” box and your “Delete” box.

BBB Alert: Don't Click on Suspicious Email From Amazon.com

12/14/2011

Posted on 12/14/2011 by

Consumers across the country are complaining about an email they received from what appeared to be Amazon.com. The email claims the recipient ordered a "Fat Loss Monitor" for the bargain price of $159.95 (prices vary). The email gives a shipping confirmation number and contains hyperlinks to a website not associated with Amazon.com. View a sample version of this email.

How to handle a suspicious email:

If you see the email has an attachment, don't open it.

Don't click any links or reply to the email. If you have, change your account information immediately.

If you believe you went to a fake website via a suspicious email, and you entered your credit card number, you should take steps to protect your information. You may wish to contact your credit card company to let them know what happened.

Beware of emails that have a lot of grammatical errors or misspellings.

For more information visit bbb.org, or call the BBB toll-free at 800-649-6814.

URGENT SCAM ALERT: Fake BBB Complaint Email is Circulating Again

12/7/2011

Posted on 12/7/2011 by

Better Business Bureau (BBB) is issuing an urgent SCAM alert cautioning businesses and consumers about another email that is spreading across the country that looks like it is from BBB, with the subject line “Complaint from your customers.” This email is fraudulent; ignore its contents and delete it immediately. If you have already clicked on a link in the email, run a full virus scan of your computer.

The return email address is riskmanager@bbb.org (an address BBB does not use) and it is signed with the address of the Council of Better Business Bureaus, the national office of the BBB system. The email contains a link to a non-BBB website. Do NOT click on the link.

To see an example of the email click here

BBB is working with law enforcement to determine its source and stop the fraudulent campaign.

BBB Holiday Hints for Smarter Spending

11/30/2011

Posted on 11/30/2011 by

Shop or donate online only on sites that use technology that encrypts your personal and financial information before sending it for payment processing. Encrypting sensitive information makes it inaccessible to anyone outside the system.

Always look for the “s.” Any page on a site that asks for personal or financial information should have a URL or Web address beginning with https:// as opposed to the usual http://.

Shopping only on the sites of merchants you know and trust is another critical means of ensuring your online safety. However, if you decide to order from a Web site you have never patronized before, it's a good idea to spend a few minutes investigating the site. For starters, reliable Internet retailers always include a business address and contact telephone number on their sites, as well as information about site security, their return and refund policies, shipping practices and privacy policy. This information should be easily located on the Web site, often along the bottom of the company's home page. If you can't find this information or suspect that the business might not be legitimate, contact the Better Business Bureau or the Michigan Attorney General's office to determine if there are outstanding complaints against the company.

Another critical step in securing your personal and financial data is to provide only the information necessary to complete the transaction — and no more. Social Security numbers are not required to complete an online purchase and consumers should never provide this information. Being asked to reveal sensitive information, such as a Social Security number, on a retail Web site is an automatic red flag indicating that something is not right. Your best bet? Close your browser window and search for another, reputable source for the item you want.

Finally, whenever you shop online, it's best to pay directly with credit cards, or through a pay service that accepts credit cards, which are protected by the federal Fair Credit Billing Act — a law that entitles cardholders to dispute charges made to their accounts. Unfortunately, there is no other form of payment that provides this type or level of protection.

Crooks Typically Step Up Job Scams Over Holiday Season

11/30/2011

Posted on 11/30/2011 by

Always look for the “s.” Any page on a site that asks for personal or financial information should have a URL or Web address beginning with https:// as opposed to the usual http://.

BBB Alert:Thousands of Businesses and Consumers are Being Affected by Phishing Email Sent by Scammers Posing as the BBB

11/23/2011

Posted on 11/23/2011 by

The Better Business Bureau is warning businesses to beware of a malicious email that pretends to be from the BBB, and concerns a complaint filed against the company.

The phishing email is sent from multiple email addresses with the subject line “Complaint #” followed by a nine-digit number. BBB Accredited and Non-Accredited Businesses have been targeted and some consumers have received the email.

The body of the email claims that the company has received a complaint and asks them to respond to the complaint by directing them to a link shown as our national website at http://www.bbb.org which actually is a disguised link to a third party website. The link given actually goes to the site caxehid.getfreehosting.co.uk/.

Since the message is fraudulent, the BBB advises any business that receives this email to take the following steps:

Do not click on any links or reply to the message. Completely delete the message from your inbox, and run a full virus scan on your computer if you did click on any links

If you receive an email from the BBB about a complaint filed against your business and need assistance in determining whether or not it is legitimate, contact the BBB Serving Nebraska, South Dakota, and southwest Iowa at 800-649-6814. Complaints handled by the BBB Serving Nebraska, South Dakota and Southwest Iowa always begin with "3000," and never include an attachment unless requested by the company

For more advice on how to protect your business from malicious online attacks and data breaches visit www.bbb.org.

How You Give is Just as Important as What You Give – Give Wisely this Holiday Season

11/17/2011

Posted on 11/17/2011 by

Because of technology and the creativity of charities, there are many different ways that donors can give to a worthy cause. Whether you’re giving money, canned goods, used items or your time, BBB Wise Giving Alliance reminds donors that how you give is just as important as what you give.

According to the Giving USA Foundation, total estimated charitable giving in the United States rose 3.8 percent in 2010 (2.1 percent adjusted for inflation). The increase reflects the continued determination of every American to support charitable organizations even during challenging economic times.

“With a tight budget this holiday season, it will be important for donors to be creative when giving back and supporting those who are less fortunate,” said Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of the BBB. “When looking to make a contribution, it’s important to take the time to do your research. How you give is just as important as what you give.”

BBB Wise Giving Alliance offers the following five common ways that people donate to charities over the holidays and a few things to consider:

Give items. Many organizations solicit for donations over the holidays including coats, toys, and canned goods. Whatever you’re donating, make sure the items are of good condition and that the recipient charity is accepting such items to help further its cause.

Give when you shop. Many charities have had great success partnering with businesses that agree to donate some amount of the purchase price from sales of items to a worthy cause. This type of cause-related marketing means that you can help while you shop. Check if the promotion identifies the actual or anticipated amount of the purchase price the charity will receive. Also some businesses, like grocery stores, ask if you want to donate to a charity and have that amount added to your receipt (also called embedded giving). See if the embedded promotion states which specific charity will receive the collected funds.

Give online. Giving online with a credit or debit card is among the most efficient ways to support a charity. Before you enter in your numbers, give the website a thorough review, look for the organization’s privacy policy, and verify if the organization has appropriate security measures in place to protect such transactions.

Give through text messaging. The option to give via text message took off in the wake of the disastrous earthquake in Haiti. After texting a message to a number, the donation is tacked on to your cell phone bill. While donating via text is fast and easy for the donor, the actual money can take 60 – 90 days to reach the charity since the funds are forwarded after you pay the donation charge on your next monthly cell phone bill. During disaster giving periods like Haiti, however, cell phone carriers work to forward funds faster. Of course, charities welcome donations at any time during the year.

Give your time. In today’s tight economy, you may not have money, but you can always give a little bit of your time to help support a worthy cause. In addition to volunteering around the holidays, you can also be a vocal supporter of a charity and help raise awareness among friends and family and on your Facebook page or blog.

The BBB Wise Giving Alliance reports on more than 1,200 national charitable organizations at www.bbb.org/charity and determines if they meet 20 accountability standards addressing governance, finances and fund raising practices.

To review charity evaluations and get more advice on how to give when times are tight, visit www.bbb.org/charity.

BBB Black Friday Tips

11/15/2011

Posted on 11/15/2011 by

It’s time to start planning your Black Friday, that special day after Thanksgiving when retailers gear up to offer their best. Better Business Bureau’s past experience tells us that all deals are not created equal and the fine print is often the most important thing. Before you head out the door for a block buster and get caught up in the frenzy, the BBB offers the following tips to help you save time and money.

Tip 1 – Know before You Go.
In the coming weeks many retailers will release their Black Friday deals online, in social media and other publications. Research where the sales are and make a list of your gift priorities to compare prices and plan your day of deals. Since many advertisements will begin before the actual sale, build up a coupon collection as soon as possible. Remember to bring ads with you on Black Friday just in case the price is not what you expected.

Tip 2 – Don’t Fall for False Advertising.
Despite BBBs effort to advance trust in the marketplace, some companies will resort to advertisements that are untrue, misleading, deceptive, or plain fraudulent. Black Friday advertising will be abundant and BBB urges consumers to watch for red flags.

Many consumers have experienced frustration and lost money they can’t afford to lose after being lured by prices too good to be true, bait and switch ads designed to bring you in but push you toward more expensive items, fine print return policies, final sales, and deals that end before the day is done. To protect you on Black Friday, BBB advises consumers not to believe all they see or hear without doing their own research to confirm the claims being made. For details and help to decipher truth in adverting, consumers can review BBB's code of advertising.

If you find advertising you’d like the BBB to investigate tell us more by emailing info@bbbnebraka.org.

Tip 3 – Maximize Advance Alerts.
Do you have favorite retailers? Now is a good time to sign up for their email alerts and “like” their Facebook page. BBB Accredited Businesses and other stores are working to reward your loyalty and you may get a jump on special offers.

Tip 4 – Set up Your Reward Cards.
Have you ever stood in line with out your store rewards card? You either missed out or the clerk may have handed one over. Black Friday deals may have strict restrictions with no sharing allowed. Make sure you have reward cards with your favorite stores and keep them with you. Check your credit card rewards program as well for special points that could add up on Black Friday.

Tip 5 – Shop with Trust.
If you find a deal – don’t just jump at the first chance to get it. The BBB recommends doing your research on the business – know how long they’ve been in business, look into their customer service track record, check them out at bbb.org. If you have concerns about the type of gift or the right fit – make sure you ask about their return policy too.

Tip 6 – Comparative Shop Online.
There are dozens of Black Friday websites that claim to capture the best deals around and they can really help you do your comparative shopping online. Before you pick your favorite site, the BBB recommends that consumers find a reputable site that’s not a fly-by-night operation by checking them out at bbb.org and see what others say about the site through an online search.

If you decide to buy online there are a host of security measures to abide by, among them to Start with Trust and know you are dealing with an experienced, reputable retailer; confirm that the site is secure and be certain you have a phone number and physical address should problems arise with your order.

Tip 7 – Look for QR Codes.
They’re square, black-and-white and funny looking – but they can take you straight to a deal. QR stands for Quick Response codes and they’re popping up in many ads and print materials. Several BBB Accredited Businesses use them to help you Start with Trust and they can bring you directly to a special offer or a BBB Business Review. Before you can scan one and view the offer - you’ll have to install a QR app reader. Most newer smart phones are equipped to scan QR codes and if you’re a mobile shopper you could really have some fun.

Tip 8 - Shop Small
Save your gas money and your time when you stay close to home. The Better Business Bureau is encouraging consumers to support small businesses in their community on Small Business Saturday, the day after Black Friday. Check your neighborhood retailers for their weekend deals and gain some goodwill by knowing you’ve done your part to help them thrive during the holidays. Although a price match may not be applicable for some items - your neighborhood store may be able to guarantee a price for you – even if you decide to buy later.

Tip 9 - Check Return and Exchange Policies.
All bets can change for Black Friday deals which means the store policies can change too. Make sure you know what the return and exchange policy is for your Black Friday special and that a return is even possible – especially if you’re buying online. Final sales, a very short return window (like before December 25^th) or in-store or online only credit could leave you with deal gone wrong.

Tip 10 – Shop Safely.
While getting a deal is important, there are ways to shop safely without putting yourself or your wallet in jeopardy. The Better Business Bureau advises consumers to take their time and plan ahead for the best rewards.

Make a list and prioritize where you should go and when.

Bring friends into the mix to help sort through your options, two cars can go in two directions making it easier to get limited quantities and some pals will even wait in line as you trade off shopping in the stores.

Remember to get gift receipts and keep them organized for those moments when the thought wasn’t quite enough.

BBB Issues Warning About Veterans’ Day Scams

11/10/2011

Posted on 11/10/2011 by

Some of the most cynical scams target service members, their families and veterans, warns the Better Business Bureau. Veterans’ Day is a key opportunity for scammers who would target those who are serving or have served their nation, especially elderly vets.

“It is unconscionable that one of the most dedicated and selfless segments of our population would be targeted by unscrupulous businesses, but they are,” said Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of the BBB. “At BBB, we believe our military consumers deserve the level of respect and support commensurate with the effort they make every day on behalf of the rest of us – and we’ll do our utmost on their behalf by promoting a safe and ethical marketplace for all military consumers.” BBB Military Line provides free financial literacy and consumer protection services to the military community, as well as information on the latest scams, schemes, and ID theft tactics that threaten them.

Among the scams to watch out for:

· Posing as the Veterans Administration and contacting vets to say they need to update their credit card, bank or other financial records with the VA

· Charging veterans for services they could get for free or less expensively elsewhere, such as military records

· Fraudulent investment schemes that convince veterans to transfer their assets into an irrevocable trust

· Offering “instant approval” military loans (“no credit check,” “all ranks approved”) that can have high interest rates and hidden fees

· Advertising housing online with military discounts and incentives, and then bilking service personnel out of the security deposit

· Trying to sell things like security systems to spouses of deployed military personnel by saying the service member ordered it to protect his or her family

· Selling stolen vehicles at low prices by claiming to be soldiers who need to sell fast because they’ve been deployed

· Posing as government contractors recruiting veterans and then asking for a copy of the job applicants’ passport (which contains a lot of personal information)

· Posing on online dating services as a lonely service member in a remote part of Iraq or Afghanistan, and then asking for money to be wired to a third party for some emergency

Another caution is to watch out for questionable charity appeals that raise funds on behalf of military organizations. “Telephone solicitors will call and say they are with a group that is helping veterans, service members or their families,” Hegarty said. “As with all charity appeals, before you donate, check out the organization with the BBB to verify that the charity meets BBB charity standards.”

BBB advises service members, veterans and all consumers never to give personal identification information (Social Security, bank account, military identification or credit card numbers, etc.) to anyone who contacts you by phone or e-mail, and to be wary of any solicitations that involve purchasing something or transferring money. Consumers can check out businesses and charities for free at www.bbb.org. Military personnel and veterans who need assistance should contact the United Service Organizations (www.uso.org), their state office of veterans’ affairs, or the Veterans’ Administration.

E-Book Scams Grow along with E-Book Sales

11/3/2011

Posted on 11/3/2011 by
E-book sales are growing exponentially, according to the American Association of Publishers. For the first eight months of 2011, e-book sales increased 144.4 percent, to $649.2 million. In February sales of e-books eclipsed those of traditional paperbacks. And e-readers are expected to be a hot gift item for the holidays.

But as the popularity of e-readers and e-books grows, so does the likelihood of related scams, including the following:

• E-books filled with useless and often badly written information sold for a couple of dollars. Malware is sometimes attached in order to obtain your credit card information.

• A single book is given different editorial spins and then sold under different titles or authors’ names.

• Material that is plagiarized from websites and blogs then packaged into an e-book and sold.

• Writing competitions with the winner having his or her work published digitally. Although the contests include entry fees, the cost to publish digitally is minimal.

• E-readers spammed with ad-laden works and hotlinks to both commercial and malware sites that load viruses onto your machine.
• E-book purchases and sales used to build up credentials for bogus sellers and buyers on auction sites

To avoid e-book scams, the BBB advises:

• Stick with authors you already know or those who have an established reputation.

• If you decide to buy from an unfamiliar author, see if you can download a free sample (Amazon lets you do this) first to test the quality.

• Don't be taken in by great reviews that accompany cheap e-books. They may be genuine or the writers may have been paid to produce them.

• Do a search on the book name or author to see what other people say or how many other books they supposedly have written.

• Don't click on links inside an e-book unless it's by an established, reputable author. Even then, it’s advisable to visit their websites via your Internet browser rather than using the link.

• If you believe you've been scammed, seek a refund. You should also register your complaint with the seller's customer service department. And, if all else fails, do other readers a favor by writing an honest review of the book.

Start With Trust. For trustworthy consumer tips and information, visit bbb.org or call toll-free 800-649-6814.

BBB and Consumers Targeted by Email Scam

10/28/2011

Posted on 10/28/2011 by

A new email phishing scam hit Better Business Bureau and consumers across the country this week. The fake emails appear to be from StubHub — a website that allows users to buy and sell tickets to sporting and entertainment events — and use the site’s name to trick victims into providing personal information.

“Scammers seem to be getting progressively more difficult to track,” said Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of BBB. “Fortunately, in this case, they sent the scam directly to BBB. We are hoping to get the word out in order to minimize the number of victims.”

The fake email claims a large purchase is pending on the victim’s StubHub account, usually involving boxing tickets in Nevada. It goes on to tell the victim that he or she needs to log on to the site using an attached link to cancel the order.

The link takes the victim to a duped site designed to steal username and password information. Once the victim tries to log on, the scammer has access to all of his or her account information.

Stub Hub said on its website and Facebook page that the emails were not sent by the company or its affiliates and users’ credit cards were not charged.

“Please DO NOT click on any link in the email,” the company’s official statement reads. “If you have clicked on these links, you may need to check your computer for a virus or malware and should log into your StubHub ‘My Account’ to change your StubHub password. (https://www.stubhub.com/account/).”

A company representative asked affected consumers to send a copy of the email to safety@stubhub.com so they can investigate, and to email any questions or concerns to yourfeedbackmatters@stubhub.com.

To check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visit bbb.org.

Don't Let Online Spooks Play Tricks on You

10/24/2011

Posted on 10/24/2011 by

October is the season for ghosts, goblins and ghouls. Unfortunately, they’re not all friendly like Casper nor are they like neighborhood kids ringing your doorbell in search of treats. Instead, you need to be on the alert for those who will play tricks on you while you’re playing, doing business or shopping online.

Because October is National Cybersecurity Month, this is a good time to bone up on cyber precautions, whether you’re new to the online community or you’ve been surfing and working online for years.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, for example, suggests approaching computers and the Internet in the same way we urge children to approach the real world.

For example:

Don’t trust candy from strangers. Finding something on the Internet does not always make it true or good for you. Anyone can publish information online. So before accepting the statement or advertisement as fact, verify that the source is reliable and if it’s a business, check it out first with the BBB at wynco.bbb.org. Because many scam artists “spoof” email addresses to appear that they’re coming from your financial institution or an online payment service, you should be wary of any email requesting that you verify account information. And never ever open attachments or respond to requests for personal or financial information from someone you don’t know.

Don’t be tricked into falling for an offer that is too good to be true. Many emails promise outlandish rewards or monetary gifts in the millions of dollars. They might state you’ve won a sweepstakes or that a rich businessman in a war-torn country left millions in a foreign bank with no heirs. Here’s the trick: You can’t win a sweepstakes you didn’t enter and there are not wealthy strangers desperate to send you their money. These emails are phishing for your bank account number. Simple as that. Also, beware of pop-ups advertising free downloadable software – they may be disguising spyware or malware.

Don’t advertise that you’re away from home. Some email accounts, especially within an organization, offer a feature called an autoresponder that allows you to create an “away” message if you’re going to be away for an extended period of time. While this is a helpful feature for letting contacts know you are unable to respond right away, the Department of Homeland Security advises that you do not provide details about your location and itinerary. Instead, use phrases such as “I will not have access to email between [date] and [date].” If possible, restrict recipients of this message to people within your organization or in your address book. If the away message replies to spam, it may increase the amount you already receive.

Don’t leave “treats” out in the open. Take steps to protect your personal and financial data by locking your computer when you step away; using firewalls, anti-virus software and strong passwords; installing appropriate software updates; and taking precautions when browsing or using email. Attackers and viruses are constantly scanning the Internet for available computers to target. To play it safe, whenever you’re not online, the DHS recommends disabling your Wi-Fi connection, turning off your computer or modem, even going so far as to disconnect cables.

Don’t throw caution to the wind. Information on your computer is vulnerable – but if you make regular backups, all is not lost in the event of an equipment malfunction, an error or a cyber attack.

BBB Offers Free On-Site Document Shredding and Identity Theft Prevention Tips In Omaha and Lincoln

10/14/2011

Posted on 10/14/2011 by

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) invites the entire metro Omaha and Lincoln communities to free shredding events on Saturday, October 22^nd. Consumers and small businesses are encouraged to attend and take a key step in identity protection by shredding and properly disposing of their sensitive paper documents. Shredding will occur on site and BBB staff will be there to provide expert advice and tips for identity theft protection.

Identity theft affected the lives of more than 8.1 million adult victims in 2010. According to a report from Javelin Strategy and Research, the theft resulted in the loss of $37 billion dollars. On top of that, children may be 51 times more likely than adults to have their identity stolen, according to a study conducted by AllClear ID.

“We are all at risk for identity theft, but our children are particularly vulnerable,” said BBB president Jim Hegarty. Child identity theft is a growing crime that is causing damage to the pristine credit reports of children. Hundreds of online businesses are finding inactive Social Security numbers online – most of which are assigned to children under the age of 18 who have not started using them yet. These scammers are then selling the numbers under different names to help people establish fake credit. Protecting your child’s innocent, clean record is something that every parent needs to do.

Recognizing the need for a nationwide grassroots consumer education outreach, the Better Business Bureau is joining government agencies and national advocacy organizations in launching the 4th annual National Protect Your Identity Week (PYIW) October 16 – 22, 2011. This event coincides with BBB’s “Secure Your ID Day” to be held on October 22, 2011.

Metro Omaha’s BBB “Secure Your ID Day” Information

Who: Better Business Bureau Serving Nebraska, South Dakota and southwest Iowa

What: Free on-the-spot document shredding and tips and resources for protecting your identity.

When: Saturday, October 22, 2011 from 8:00am – 12:00pm

Where: Methodist Health System at 85^th & West Dodge Rd

Sponsors: KETV, Shred-It, Methodist Health Systems, NP Dodge,Two Men and A Truck and Certified Transmission

Bring up to three boxes or bags of sensitive paper documents to be shredded. Documents should be removed from binders, but staples and paper clips, are okay.

Metro Lincoln’s BBB “Secure Your ID Day” Information

Who: Better Business Bureau Serving Nebraska, South Dakota and southwest Iowa

What: Free on-the-spot document shredding and tips and resources for protecting your identity.

When: Saturday, October 22, 2011 from 9:00am – 12:00pm

Where: West Gate Bank at 6003 Old Cheney Rd (Old Cheney Rd and Hwy 2)

Sponsors: KLKN TV, TRIAD, Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP), West Gate Bank, Paper Tiger Shredding, Lincoln Food Bank, Trafcon and RecycleLink

Bring up to three boxes or bags of documents (50 lbs) to be shredded. Documents should be removed from binders, but staples, paper clips, are okay. Please do not bring plastic – credit cards, CDs or other discs.

BBB will also be taking donations to the Lincoln Food Bank

Watch Out for False Promises from OnlineBuinessScams.com

10/7/2011

Posted on 10/7/2011 by

BBB cautions consumers to watch out for a website that is falsely charging for BBB complaint resolution services. OnlineBusinessScams.com charges consumers an upfront fee of $1500 to $2000 for assistance in collecting money owed from businesses only to forward the complaints to BBB.

OnlineBusinessScams.com told one consumer that in order to help him collect money from a business he needed to pay 30% of the amount owed. The site then said they needed half of the 30% upfront. The gentleman agreed and paid the upfront amount.

After receiving the fee, OnlineBusinessScams.com asked the consumer to provide the details of the dispute so the site could determine whether to handle the “case.” OnlineBusinessScams.com told the consumer that they would recover his money within 90 days. After the 90 days had come and gone the consumer tried to contact OnlineBusinessScams.com to see if the dispute had been resolved, but he wasn’t able to get in contact with them. Afterwards, the consumer received an information packet that included an envelope addressed to BBB.

“Consumer services are always free through the BBB. We always deal with consumers on a one-on-one basis and never through a third party. Consumers can contact us through our website or calling the BBB’s toll-free number,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO.

To file a complaint against a business, please visit bbb.org or call the BBB toll-free at 800-649-6814

BBB Advises Debit Card Users to be on the Lookout for New Fees

10/7/2011

Posted on 10/7/2011 by

Better Business Bureau is alerting consumers that they may be seeing new fees on their bank statement for using their debit card.

Recent changes in banking laws capped the “swipe fee” that banks can charge retailers for debit transactions. The average fee was 44 cents per transaction, but the new law caps the fee at 21 cents. Banks estimate they will lose hundreds of millions of dollars a year in debit card transaction fees and are looking to recoup that money from customers by modifying various checking account fees.

Some of the nation’s largest financial institutions already have announced a flat monthly fee of $3-$5 for debit card use, although some may go to a per-transaction fee, particularly for infrequent users.

BBB is advising consumers and business owners to be on the alert for notices from their financial institutions about changes in the terms of their accounts. “If you don’t understand a notice you receive or see a new fee on your account statement that you weren’t expecting, contact your financial institution and ask for an explanation,” said Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau.

Account holders may want to ask their bank if there are programs to waive the fee for accounts with a minimum balance. It also pays to shop around; some financial institutions may keep no-fee debit cards.

For questions or more information visit bbb.org or call the BBB toll-free at 800-649-6814.

Choose Your Satellite Provider Very Carefully

9/21/2011

Posted on 9/21/2011 by

In 2009 and 2010, satellite TV providers ranked fourth amongst all industries generating complaints to the Better Business Bureau. So far in 2011, they've moved up to third.

Two companies dominate the satellite TV industry and account for the majority of complaints - over 50,000 in the past three years. The number of complaints is of some concern, but has to be weighed against a combined customer base of more than 30 million people. Of greater concern is the nature of the complaints, including that the companies fail to adequately disclose all limitations, conditions and penalties that may apply to offers. One of the companies has a D+ grade with the BBB in the city where it's headquartered and the other has a C+.

Common consumer complaints include:

Early termination fees that can run into the hundreds of dollars.
Higher pricing than expected after introductory offers expire.
Promotional rebates and gift cards that are never received or were difficult to redeem.
Being charged for a service the customer thought was free or didn't order, such as a pay-per-view movie.
Reception, service and repair problems.
Being billed for receivers after they were returned to the company.
Contracts being extended without the consumers' knowledge when services were upgraded.

Regulators have also landed on the companies for alleged deceptive marketing practices. One company settled with 49 state Attorneys General over allegations that it "...engaged in practices that misled customers about how much they would be required to pay and what kind of programming they could expect. The investigation established that the company extended contracts without customers' knowledge when its representatives asked customers to sign what appeared to be service documents. Customers later learned that their signatures had extended their contacts for another two years. The investigation also determined that the company failed to deliver promised channels."

The companies respond to many complaints by citing provisions in their contracts. Consumers should read satellite provider contracts carefully to avoid unexpected charges and other problems.

The BBB offers this advice to avoid problems with satellite TV service:

Get everything in writing. Don't rely on oral representations from a salesman, installer or customer service representative. You may be speaking to a third party retailer and its verbal promises may not show up in the final customer agreement with the satellite provider itself.
Read the terms and conditions carefully. Pay close attention to the terms on introductory offers, equipment costs and the cancellation policy.
Check every bill closely. The sooner you spot inaccuracies in billing, the better. Even if you have your account set up to automatically charge your credit card or debit your checking account, always review your monthly bill closely for any new or unusual charges.
Mark your calendar with important dates such as when you need to cancel introductory promotions for premium channels or when you need to notify the provider that you don't want to renew your contract.

BBB Advice for Making “Golden” Gold Transactions

9/21/2011

Posted on 9/21/2011 by

As global markets are currently seeing rapid declines, worried investors are seeking safe havens for their funds. Many are looking to new investment plans to help their money grow. With the price of gold at an all time high of more than $1,700 per ounce, Better Business Bureau is advising consumers to do their homework before making tempting gold transactions.

Whether through an online venue, an at home “gold party,” or your local jeweler, many consumers are looking to sell their gold jewelry for some quick cash. However, not just any dealer can be trusted. In just this year alone, BBB has already received more than 500 complaints against gold, silver and platinum dealers, a number that is well on its way to reaching 2010’s 581 total complaints.

“Consumers need to be on the lookout for not so reputable sellers,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “Many of the complaints we receive stem from false advertising and delivery issues where the consumer ends up being appraised far less than what they thought their gold was worth.”

BBB recommends following these tips to ensure a “golden” gold transaction:

Find a trustworthy appraiser. For an appraisal, if possible, go to someone locally whom you know and trust. Always check with BBB first at www.bbb.org. BBB suggests obtaining two or three appraisals to compare prices, prior to any sale.

The true price of gold may not be what you receive. If gold is worth $1,700 per ounce, you aren’t going to be paid $1,700 for every ounce of gold you have. Ask what you will be paid (if an online company, make sure you ask for specifics and give details on items you’ll be sending). Understand that the ounce quote is for pure gold only. For instance, 14-karat gold is composed of just 58.5 per cent gold. Ask how much the company’s going rate is for each ounce of each karat you are sending. The lower the karat, the less the gold content.

Don’t let jewelry of different karat value be weighed together. Some dealers will weigh all jewelry together and pay you for the lowest karat value. Separate your jewelry by karat value before attending a gold party.

Don’t let anyone steal your diamonds from gold pieces. Single gold stud earrings might be worth $5 or $10, yet diamonds in the earrings can be saved. Some are too small, and the labor to remove them might exceed their value, but engagement ring diamonds, for example, should be given a value separate from the gold.

Know the terms and conditions when sending items by post. Make sure your items are insured when being shipped, so if they are lost you can recover the value. Obtain appraisals prior to mailing items, so if they are lost you have proof of their value. Check the company’s policy as to what they will reimburse if they lose your product. Many limit their liability. Make a list of the items included in the package, keep a copy for yourself, and put a copy in the envelope. Take a picture of the items you are sending, including any identifying marks.

Ask about the company’s guarantee if you are not satisfied with the price offered. Can you get your product back, if you return the check? Many companies melt down the items in 10–14 days. If you send the check back, send it “return receipt requested,” so you have proof when it arrived at the company.

Better Business Bureau Honors Lincoln's 2011 Integrity Award Winners Featuring Dean Emeritus Cynthia Milligan

8/12/2011

Posted on 8/12/2011 by

Five Lincoln Companies Will be Recognized for Business Ethics

Better Business Bureau, Inc. and the BBB Foundationwill honor Lincoln’s 2011 BBB Integrity Award Winners at its annual awardsluncheon at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel on September 8^th. The keynote speaker at the event is DeanEmeritus Cynthia Hardin Milligan of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Business Administration.

Ms. Milligan served as Dean ofthe College of Business at UNL from June 1998 to May 2009, when she was namedDean Emeritus. She also was a director of Calvert Funds and Raven Industries,Inc., both public companies, and served as the Director of Banking and Financefor the State of Nebraska from 1987 until 1991. In this role, she wasresponsible for supervising several hundred banks and other financialinstitutions. Ms. Milligan’s extensive experience in the financial servicesindustry as a bank regulator and as a lawyer has provided her with valuableinsight to regulatory and risk management issues.

In addition, Ms. Milligan waspresident and CEO of her own consulting firm to the banking industry forapproximately seven years. In this role,as a bank regulator and as UNL’s Dean of the College of Business, she acquiredsignificant banking and related financial management expertise. “The BBB isfortunate to have Ms. Mulligan share her substantial knowledge and experienceregarding business and hear her address the importance of ethical corporateleadership,” stated BBB President and CEO Jim Hegarty.

Also, the five local Winners of the 2011 BBBIntegrity Awards will be introduced by videos produced by the event’s MediaSponsor KLKN-TV. Theorganizations range in size from less than 5 employees to 150employees. The Winners are: NebraskaCommunity Blood bank, Quick Connect Computer Services, Leadership Resources,Davis Design and Lincoln Federal Saving Bank of Nebraska.

BBBLincoln Advisory Board Chair Scott Vyskocil said, “In today’s challengingeconomic climate, honesty and integrity are more important than ever. These award recipients, selected byindependent panels of judges, represent what is best about business in metroLincoln. These organizations have solid business practices, based on acommitment to serve their customers with the highest standard of ethics. They have built successful companies becauseof the trust that has been established, and the BBB Integrity Awards recognizetheir leadership in our community.”

Inaddition, the 2011 BBB Scott Mecham Student of Integrity Scholarship AwardWinners will be recognized by Scott Mecham’s wife, Marilyn Mecham. These awards, funded by the BBB Foundation,were created to promote and recognize character, school and community serviceand to honor the memory of Mr. Mecham who was the BBB president in Lincolnuntil 2007.

Theevent is open to the public. For reservations or more information call402-898-8526, 800-649-6814 #8526 or go to bbb.org.

2011 BBB Omaha Integrity Awards Featuring Harry Markopolos

8/12/2011

Posted on 8/12/2011 by

Meet the Man Who Uncovered Madoff's

$65 Billion Ponzi Scheme

Harry M. Markopolos, acertified fraud examiner who investigates large corporate fraud schemesperpetrated by money center banks, custody banks, insurance companies, andother financial institutions will be the keynote speaker at the BBB Integrity Awards Luncheon on September 15th at the Embassy Suites Omaha - La Vista.

Markopolos hasreceived public acclaim for uncovering evidence over a period of nine yearsthat Bernard Madoff's wealth management business was actually the biggestPonzi scheme in history. His book, "No One Would Listen: A TrueFinancial Thriller,”uncovering the Madofffraud, was published in March, 2010.

“The BBBFoundation and its event sponsors are providing this unique opportunity tohear, first-hand, from ‘The Man Who Knew’ and to learn about how he ‘gift-wrapped and delivered on a silver palate the largest Ponzi scheme in SEChistory.’ But when he tried to expose it, no one would listen,” stated BBBPresident Jim Hegarty. Mr. Markopolos will be addressingthe importance of ethical corporate leadership by sharing his story.

Also, the five local Winnersof the prestigious BBB Integrity Awards will be announced by videos produced bythe event’s Media Sponsor KETV. The organizations range in size from less than 5 employees to over 150employees. Hegartystated, “In today’s challenging economic climate, honesty and integrity aremore important than ever. This year’saward recipients, selected by independent panels of judges, represent what isbest about business in metro Omaha. These organizations have solid businesspractices, based on a commitment to serve their customers with the higheststandard of ethics. They have builtsuccessful companies because of the trust that has been established, and theBBB Integrity Awards recognize their leadership in our community.”

In addition, the BBB Scott Mecham Student of IntegrityScholarship Award Winners and the BBB Student Service Excellence Award Winnerswill be recognized. These awards, funded by the BBB Foundation were created topromote and recognize character, school and community service.

The event is open to the public and attendees will havethe opportunity to stay after the luncheon to participate in an interactivequestion and answer session with Mr. Markopolos at no additional charge. Forreservations or more information call 402-898-8526 or go to bbb.org.

2011 BBB Integrity Awards Invitation

BBB Integrity Awards Response Form

Score a Job – Not a Scam: BBB Advises Job Hunters to be on the Lookout for the Growing Number of Phony Job Postings

8/8/2011

Posted on 8/8/2011 by

Looking for a job? You’re not alone. With unemployment at a soaring rate of 9.2%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many job hunters are turning to online job boards to post their resume and search for jobs. Better Business Bureau is warning job seekers to proceed with caution before sharing their personal qualifications and inquiring about jobs found online.

As much as the Internet has made searching for jobs easier, it also provides an opportunity for ID thieves and scammers to take advantage of eager—and unsuspecting—job seekers. It’s becoming more and more common for scammers to lure in potential candidates with phrases like, “Get rich quick – without even leaving your home!” all in the hopes of getting their personal information. Craigslist, Monster.com, Careerbuilder.com and now even Facebook are all breeding grounds for scammers and the like.

“Job seekers need to be on the look out for potential scams. Before posting your resume to a career site or inquiring about a job, make sure you know with whom you are dealing,” said Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau. “Many job scammers are having candidates set up direct deposit accounts as part of the application process and making it seem as though it’s naturally part of the process to get an interview—when it’s absolutely not.”

BBB advises job hunters to be on the look out for these red flags when conducting their job search:

Employer emails are rife with grammatical and spelling errors. Most online fraud is perpetrated by scammers located outside the U.S. Their first language usually isn’t English and this is often evident in their poor grasp of the language which can include poor grammar and the misspelling of common words.

Emails purporting to be from job posting websites claiming there’s a problem with a job hunter’s account. After creating a user account on sites like Monster.com, Careerbuilder.com or Craigslist.com, a job hunter might receive an email saying there has been a problem with their account or they need to follow a hyperlink to install new software. Phishing emails like this are designed to convince readers to click a link within the message to fix the issue, but actually take them to a website that will install malware or viruses on their computer.

An employer asks for extensive personal information such as social security or bank account numbers. Some job seekers have been surprised to learn they’ve gotten a job without having to do a single interview. However, when the employer then asked for personal information in order to fill out the necessary paperwork suspicions were raised – and rightly so. Regardless of the reason or excuse given by the employer, a job applicant should never give out his or her Social Security or bank account numbers over the phone or email.

An employer offers the opportunity to become rich without leaving home. While there are legitimate businesses that allow employees to work from home, there are also a lot of scammers trying to take advantage of senior citizens, stay-at-home moms, students and injured or handicapped people looking to make money at home. Job hunters should use extreme caution when considering a work-at-home offer and always research the company with their BBB first at www.bbb.org.

An employer asks for money upfront. Aside from paying for a uniform, it is rarely advisable for an applicant to pay upfront fees or make a required purchase to get a job. Most recently, the BBB of Metropolitan Dallas uncovered a scam where job hunters were told they had to pay $64.50 for a background check before they could be considered for a cleaning job. Predictably, after paying for the background check, the job seeker never heard from the company again.

The salary and benefits offered seem too-good-to-be-true. The adage holds true for job offers: if the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Phony employers might brag about exceptionally high salary potential and excellent benefits for little experience in order to lure unsuspecting job hunters into their scam.

The job requires the employee to wire money through Western Union or MoneyGram. Many phony jobs require the prospective employee to cash a check sent by the company through the mail and then wire a portion of the money on to another entity. Reasons given for this requirement vary from scam to scam. Whatever the reason though, the check might clear the employee’s bank account but will eventually turn out to be a fake and the employee is out the money he or she wired back to the scammers.

How to Stretch Your Gas Dollars this Summer

8/8/2011

Posted on 8/8/2011 by

Gasoline prices have risen well above $4.00 a gallon in most every state across the country. The average U.S. family with two drivers is now paying nearly $1,000 more annually for gas than they were just two years ago according to a recent study by research gurus, Sperling's BestPlaces. Although there are practical steps you can take to increase gas mileage, Better Business Bureau warns consumers to be wary of gas-saving claims that empty your wallet, instead of saving you fuel.

Many websites make unbelievable claims for various after market automotive devices (fuel-line magnets, air bleed devices and retrofit gadgets) and oil and gasoline additives that supposedly increase gas mileage for automobiles. The Federal Trade Commission found many of these claims to be either false or overly exaggerated.

“Summer travelers should shop around. Today, many smartphones have apps specifically for finding the cheapest gas prices in your area,” said Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau. “You may even want to consider getting a credit card that gives you cash back bonuses on gas purchases.”

Before adding any fuel savings device to your vehicle, check with your mechanic. You may end up with a voided manufacturers warranty and serious engine problems by adding after market devices to your engine.

What you spend at the pump is influenced by how you drive and what type of gasoline you use to fill your tank. As we reach the peak of summer travel, here are some tips on what you can do to save fuel consumption:

Choose the right octane for your car. Check your owner’s manual to find out what octane your car requires. Keep in mind that the higher the octane, the higher the price.

Keep your engine tuned. Studies have shown that a poorly tuned engine can increase fuel consumption by as much as 10 to 20 percent depending on a car’s condition. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual; you will save fuel and your car will run better and last longer.

Don’t let your engine run at idle any longer than necessary. An engine actually warms up faster while driving. With most gasoline engines, it is more efficient to turn off the engine than to idle for any period longer than 30 seconds.

Drive more efficiently. Stay within the posted speed limits. The faster you drive the more fuel you use. Set your cruise control on highway trips. This can help maintain a constant speed and, in most cases, reduce your fuel consumption.

Keep your tires properly inflated and aligned. Automobile manufacturers must place a label in the car stating the correct tire pressure. If the label lists a psi (pounds per square inch) range, use the higher number to maximize your fuel efficiency.

Anticipate the driving condition. Driving smoothly and steadily makes the best use of your fuel. If you can, avoid sudden acceleration or braking.

Change your oil and replace air filters regularly. Clean oil reduces wear caused by friction between moving parts and removes harmful substances from the engine. Your air filter keeps impurities in the air from damaging internal engine components.

For more consumer tips you can trust, visit www.bbb.org/us/bbb-news.

BBB Bulletin - 2nd Quarter

7/28/2011

Posted on 7/28/2011 by
Click here to download the bulletin.

BBB Vacation Tips

6/30/2011

Posted on 6/30/2011 by

After waiting all year, it is finally time to pack up the bags and head out for a nice relaxing vacation. However, consumers need to be aware that whether they are going to the beach, the city or the mountains, it is important not to let their guard down.

Here are some things to consider before you start packing:

· Plan ahead, just not too far ahead. Avoid travel deals that require full payment more than 60 days in advance. Credit card companies may allow consumers to dispute a charge within 60 days of purchase. Some vacation destinations will only refund a percentage of your costs if you pay far in advance.

· Nothing is free. It is important not to get your hopes up when looking at professional looking websites and emails which promise free products or services. With technology is it pretty simple to make a professional looking website or company email. Very few legitimate companies can afford to just give away products and services of real value. Check for the company’s report at bbb.org.

· Always ask questions and get everything in writing. Know the names of airlines, car rental companies and travel providers. It never hurts to call ahead to make sure everything is in order. Get a confirmation of your travel arrangements and copies of cancellation and refund policies in writing. If you make your travel plans online, always remember to save the confirmation email and print it out.

· Consider traveler’s insurance. Whether your plans suddenly change, you become ill in a location with limited medical services, or your luggage is lost or stolen there is insurance which can help to cover those costs. BBB recommends looking into an independent firm, rather than from the tour operator or cruise line as well as paying with a credit card. Baggage-loss protection is only necessary if you are carrying more than $2,500 worth of items in your bag.

Take a virtual tour. Research the property online and take a virtual tour of the surrounding area using map services that provide street views.

Vacation rentals by owner. Take extra precautions when renting from an individual, particularly for international rentals.

While on your vacation:

· Beware of “front desk” calls. Hotel goers should always be on guard when they receive a call from the “front desk” asking for credit card information. Sometimes individuals call hotel rooms asking for personal information. These people are not hotel representatives and should not be given any information. If you happen to get a call like this, inform the caller that you will come down to the desk later to discuss matters and hang up. Tell the hotel staff about the occurrence if it was indeed a scammer calling.

· Plastic, Plastic, Plastic. Travelers who use credit cards are at an advantage when they book their travel arrangements. This gives consumers the option to dispute any fraudulent charges. Some credit cards even offer point rewards for money spent on the card. eBay suggests you never pay with personal checks and even recommends services such as PayPal, which has built in security measures. Bottom-line, be careful how you spend your money.

· Contact BBB. If you think you might be a victim of travel fraud, or you are just interested in finding out more about a company visit bbb.org.

Is Rent-to-Own a Scam?

6/29/2011

Posted on 6/29/2011 by

If you’re struggling either to sell a house or to qualify for a home mortgage, a lease-option or rent-to-own deal may sound tempting, reports MSN Real Estate. In theory, both sides win. The seller gets a series of cash payments and the buyer immediately moves into his dream home, while gaining time to improve his credit score.

But before you consider a lease-option or rent-to-own agreement, make sure you understand the possible pitfalls. One misstep and your dream of homeownership could go up in smoke.

Read the full article here.

Securing Your Child’s Identity: Advice That Every Parent Needs to Know

6/14/2011

Posted on 6/14/2011 by

Hundreds of online businesses are finding inactive Social Security numbers online –most of which are assigned to children under the age of 18 who have not started using them yet. These businesses are selling them under different names to help people establish fake credit. The scheme may lead to significant debts for children that might be almost impossible to pay off. Better Business Bureau is warning parents to be on the lookout for the signs that point to their child’s identity being compromised or stolen.

For adults, last year alone, 8.1 million Americans became victims of ID theft, resulting in the loss of $37 billion, according to a 2011 report from Javelin Strategy and Research. While this number is extremely high, NBC TODAY reported “that it becomes harder to define how many children are actually affected by identity theft because of the fact that most cases go undiscovered for years.” However, an identity theft monitoring company, Debix, found an alarming 4,000 cases of tainted identities, out of only 40,000 children.

“It’s terrifying to think that your child or even unborn child’s identity could be comprised for the sole reason that they have a clean record,” said Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau. “It is extremely important that parents take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their child’s precious and helpless identity.”

BBB urges parents to follow these important steps to secure their child’s identity:

Be aware of how to obtain your child’s credit report. Getting access to your child’s records is actually a different process than obtaining your own. Your child’s report cannot be obtained using the congressionally mandated free credit report website, http://AnnualCreditReport.com, for parents with children under the age of 13 and even sometimes for children ages 14 to 18. For parents with children under the age of 13, the easiest way to obtain your child’s records is through Trans Union. According to NBC TODAY, if Trans Union says there is no report, odds are good that your child is in the clear. But if there is a report — or you have a specific reason to believe your child is a victim — you'll want to follow up with the nation's other two major credit bureaus — Experian and Equifax — and get a report from them, too.

Recognize the signs of trouble. Watch out for red flags that indicate there might be a problem, such as your son or daughter receiving pre-approved credit card offers or calls from collection agencies.

Know what to do if you suspect that your child has fallen victim. According to the FTC, every parent should check their child’s credit report on their 16th birthday. It’s not good to check it too often, but checking then leaves sufficient time to fix errors and activity before their child goes off to college and tries to obtain financial aid. If suspicious activity arises, parents must contact all three credit bureaus and request a report immediately. From there depending on your state's credit freeze rule, placing a credit freeze should be considered.

Experian- 888-397-3742

Equifax- 800-685-111

Trans Union- 800-888-4213

BBB Warns That Scammers May Be Chasing Your Wallet In Light Of Recent Floods and Storms

6/7/2011

Posted on 6/7/2011 by

Your home and wallet may take a serious beating when natural disasters like floods, storms and tornadoes hit our communities. Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to be wary of fly-by-night "storm chasers," as well as fraudulent charities promising to provide relief.

Storm chasers and other door-to-door salespeople often peddle dubious deals that may cost homeowners thousands of dollars and create serious headaches. BBB recommends doing your research to avoid getting taken advantage of.

For those who seek to aid in relief, BBB urges donors to check trustworthy charities at BBB Wise Giving Alliance before making any donations. "Not only do Americans need to be concerned about avoiding fraud, they also need to know that their home contractors and charity relief efforts are legitimate and honorable," said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. "It's imperative to find businesses and charities you can trust."

BBB recommends that homeowners and donors do the following:

Start your search with BBB.

In addition to offering Business Reviews on tens of thousands of contractors - both good and bad - across the US, you can also rely on BBB's Accredited Business Locator to find trustworthy businesses in your area. BBB Accreditation Standards require that Accredited Businesses make a good faith effort to resolve disputes.

Find trustworthy charities before giving.

BBB Wise Giving Alliance urges donors to make sure their contributions will go to legitimate and reputable charities and relief efforts that have the capability to help those in need. Be cautious when relying on third-party recommendations such as bloggers or other websites. Interested donors should visit www.bbb.org/charity to research charities and relief organizations to verify that they are accredited by the BBB and meet the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.

Recognize the red flags.

Beware of any contractor who uses high pressure sales tactics or requires full payment upfront. Also avoid contractors who require you to get the necessary permits. When looking to make a donation, be cautious about online giving, especially in response to spam messages and emails that claim to link to a relief organization. In response to the previous natural disasters, there were concerns raised about many websites and new organizations that were created overnight allegedly to help victims.

Vet the contractor carefully.

Verify the business meets all state and local requirements including being licensed, insured and bonded. Also ask the business for references from recent jobs. Confirm whether or not the contractor will be subcontracting the job or relying on their employees.

Beware of storm chasers.

In the wake of a natural disaster, fly-by-night repair businesses will solicit work, often door-to-door, in unmarked trucks. They might require advance payment and make big promises on which they won't be able to deliver.

Seek at least three bids.

Beware of low-ball estimates that may potentially balloon over time or foreshadow shoddy work to come.

Make sure everything is in writing.

Make sure that the full scope of the work is explained in the contract, including cleanup and disposal of waste. All verbal agreements need to be included in the written agreement. Pay close attention to the payment terms, estimated price of materials and labor and any warranties or guarantees.

BBB Advises College World Series Fans: Be Smart When Buying Tickets Online

6/1/2011

Posted on 6/1/2011 by

With the College World Series kicking off this month and thousands of fans searching for tickets, Better Business Bureau (BBB) is alerting consumers to look out for fraudulent sellers when shopping for expensive and hard-to-get tickets online.

BBB warns that sellers of game tickets on secondary ticket websites may be fraudulent. “The most common ways secondary-ticket sellers scam college baseball fans is by delivering counterfeit tickets or simply not sending the tickets,” said BBB President Jim Hegarty. “Even if the tickets do arrive, they are sometimes not for the seats the seller advertised – which can mean the fan is stuck with seats that aren’t next to each other, or in the sections they bargained for.”

The secondary-ticket market for sporting events, which includes tickets bought and sold by professional brokers, speculators and season-ticket holders, is a $10-billion-a-year industry, with online sales accounting for one-third of transactions, according to StubHub.com.

“College World Series tickets are extremely tough for the average fan to find and purchase at a reasonable price and that’s driving buyers to the Internet and the secondary-ticket market,” added Hegarty. “Fans must balance their passion for their team with awareness that not all online ticket sellers will deliver on their promises, and a bad transaction could leave them at home on the couch instead of at the big game.”

Fans should also be skeptical of the hundreds of online auctions, online classifieds, and bulletin boards using person-to-person sales.

The College World Series is big business for Omaha, NE, and where there is big money to be made, scams always follow. Ticket buyers have already run into some misfortune with ticket purchases. An Omaha man bought four tickets from a secondary website. The man thought his tickets were for the reserved section, but he later found out, after receiving them, that they were located in the general admission section, which may mean long waits in line and no guarantee to get in.

To avoid problems like this, the NCAA advises CWS ticket seekers to check out ticket information at ncaa.com/cws to find out the latest on available tickets, prices, and fan-to-fan ticket exchange information. The NCAA and TD Ameritrade Park have also teamed up with Ticketmaster Buildings to provide secure tickets for fans. If fans choose not to go through Ticketmaster or the TD Ameritrade Park ticket office for ticket purchases, the BBB provides advice below for purchasing tickets online for the CWS:

Only the event, the venue and the event’s authorized ticketing company can guarantee the ticket you purchase online will be valid to attend the event.
When buying from a merchant, always check with the BBB to be sure that you’re dealing with a company that has a good reputation for satisfying customers and a secure website for processing your payment.
When buying from an individual through an online exchange don’t be lured away from the website by the seller. Even if you met the seller on the exchange website, the company may not guarantee any lost money if a transaction occurs outside their domain.
If you buy tickets through an online auction, choose a seller with a long, continuous history of satisfied customers. Scammers can hijack old accounts, so make sure they have recently bought or sold other items.
Pay with a credit card or through PayPal, which offer some protection and potential reimbursement. Never pay with a cashier’s check or wire money to a seller; you’ll have no way to get your money back if the tickets do not arrive.
Many sellers will include pictures of the tickets with their posts on auction sites or bulletin boards. Scrutinize the tickets closely for any inaccuracies or alterations, and cross-check the seat assignment with the map on the venue’s Web site before you buy.

For more tips and advice you can trust for safe shopping online go to www.bbb.org, or visit BBBOnLine at: www.bbbonline.org/consumer.

Local Senior Targeted by Work-At-Home and Get Rich Quick Offers

6/1/2011

Posted on 6/1/2011 by

An 84 year old consumer from Elkhorn, NE told BBB that at the beginning of May she received several calls from Cash Flow Capital/Dynamic Merchants stating that she could work at home and earn money simply by contacting people by phone. She was also told that a company trainer would be calling her with the instructions for the job.

For about three weeks, the elderly consumer received calls daily from a Cash Flow Capital/Dynamic Merchants representative until she finally got tired of the calls and decided to provide her credit card number to receive the training materials that cost $495. The consumer told BBB, “A couple of hours after I had agreed to work at home, I realized this offer was too good to be true.”

Unfortunately, she was unable to cancel the charge with her credit card company because she had authorized it. The credit card company would not remove the amount from her bill, but did issue her a new card and number. Cash Flow Capital/Dynamic Merchants has sent her a package which she did not accept, but they still continue to call and tell her she is employed by them. BBB is currently working to secure a refund from the company.

Cash Flow Capital/Dynamic Merchants, located in Phoenix, Arizona is listed by the BBB as a Work-At-Home/Business Opportunity Company and has an “F” rating. BBB files on the company reveal that complainants either received phone calls or information on the Internet that offered a business opportunity to work at home. The sales pitch enticed them with a money back guarantee, but when the consumer tried to get their refund, company representatives referred them to their website which states “no refunds or returns.”

Some consumers report they were asked to invest in a business specializing in VISA card machines and small business loans, others state they received harassing phone calls. One consumer was told that 1,025 applications would be sold for $12,300 which they would pay using unused line of credit on their credit cards.

Since the local consumer canceled her credit card, she has received several different solicitation letters in the mail. First she got one from the 99 Day Bailout Program/Mercury Project in Phoenix saying “you’re either rich or you’re poor…remove your rose colored glasses…poverty is death, etc.” and “send $35 for copyrighted materials to earn $126,000 a month for life.”

On May 20^th, the consumer was mailed another letter from Hidden Resource Expose’, which is also located in Phoenix. It is a personal invitation to the consumer to “start making millions in 24 hours and at least $250,000 every month for life. You can be a millionaire in 60 days for a deposit of $35 payable to Hidden Resource Expose’.”

A BBB investigation found that Hidden Resource Expose’ is another name for Avant-Garde Financial Concepts that is classified by the BBB in Phoenix as a Work-At-Home Business. These companies and 99 Day Bailout Program/Mercury Project also have “F” ratings.

BBB President Jim Hegarty stated, “Unfortunately, the consumer’s name and contact information have probably been sold to other companies like these. She will probably continue to get work-at-home offers. The solicitors know her name, address and phone number and will to try to obtain more money by intentionally bothering and confusing her. Some use aggressive tactics and intimidation to instill fear, so their victims are emotionally shaken and take the bait.”

Work-at-home opportunities are one of the oldest types of consumer fraud and generate thousands of complaints to the BBB annually. While there are legitimate work-at-home opportunities, BBB recommends looking out for the following red flags before taking a job:

The employer offers the opportunity to become rich without leaving home
There are many legitimate businesses that allow employees to work from home, but there are also numerous companies trying to take advantage of senior citizens, stay-at-home moms, students and others looking to make money conveniently from home. Job hunters should use extreme caution when considering a work-at-home offer and always research the company with the BBB first at bbb.org.

The employer asks for money upfront
It is rarely advisable for an applicant to pay upfront fees or make a required purchase to get a job. BBB often hears from job hunters who paid a phony employer for background checks, training for jobs that don’t exist, or for “kits” that are required to perform the work. Always research the job thoroughly before opening up your wallet.

The salary and benefits offered seem too-good-to-be-true
Phony employers might brag about exceptionally high salary potential and excellent benefits for little work and no experience necessary in order to lure unsuspecting job hunters into their scam.

The employer requires a check of your credit report
After posting their resumes online or responding to online job listings, many job hunters received what they thought was good news: an email from an interested employer. In order to be considered for the job, the applicant has to provide private information for a credit check; this is often an attempt to get the job hunter to divulge information that can be used for identity theft.

The employer is quick to ask for personal information such as Social Security or bank account numbers
Some job seekers have been surprised to learn they’ve gotten a job without having to do a single interview. However, when the employer then asked for personal information in order to fill out the necessary paperwork, suspicions were raised. Regardless of the reason, a job applicant should never give out his or her Social Security or bank account numbers over the phone or email and only after they’ve confirmed the job is legitimate.

The job requires you to wire money through Western Union or MoneyGram
Many phony jobs require the employee to cash a check sent by the company through the mail and then wire a portion of the money on to another entity. Reasons given for this requirement vary from scam to scam. Whatever the reason though, the check might clear the employee’s bank account but will eventually turn out to be a fake and the employee is out the money he or she wired back to the scammers.

BBB Warns about Scams Targeting Veterans this Memorial Day

5/26/2011

Posted on 5/26/2011 by

Memorial Day should be a day when Americans honor veterans that protect our country. Unfortunately, it’s the veterans that may need protection from scammers trying to take advantage of them.

That’s why the Better Business Bureau (BBB) wants to warn consumers about companies that specifically target veterans and charge them for products and services that they can receive elsewhere for free.

When a former vet needed his DD214 form, the condition of discharge form issued by the Department of Defense, he turned to Lyon Research, which he found when searching on the internet. The company’s website said, “If you are looking for your military records or a DD214, click on the following link.”

He clicked on the link, entered his credit card information as instructed and soon received a $90 charge. He said he was promised his information within seven days. To date, two months later, he told the BBB “I got nothing.”

He disputed the charge with his Visa card—and did, however, get the information he was originally seeking—for free--through his local Veterans Administration office.

Lyon Research has an “F” rating with the Better Business Bureau of, the lowest grade possible. It has failed to respond to 28 complaints filed against it in the last thirty-six months.

Unfortunately, this company isn’t alone. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Workforce Development-Office of Veterans Services, there are several firms and organizations in Nebraska that are charging veterans for services, such as employment and paperwork, that can be obtained for free.

“Charging people for something that can get for free elsewhere may be perfectly legal,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president/CEO. “But, it’s certainly unethical – especially when the person they’re cheating is a veteran. We should be thanking veterans, not scamming them!”

This Memorial Day, the BBB reminds veterans, military personnel and their families to be wary of purchasing products or services that they can obtain for free. Always check out a company or offer at www.bbb.org before responding.

Other helpful websites for veterans, military personnel and their families are:

Since 2004, BBB’s Military Line has provided free resources to our military communities in the areas of financial literacy and consumer protection through the efforts of 164 BBBs across the U.S.

Nebraska Department of Veterans Affairs works on behalf of the Nebraska Veterans Community. Click on “Quick Links” or “Benefits Center” for information on grants, loans, education benefits and employment assistance to name a few.

Office of Veterans Employment Services provides information regarding the “Jobs for Veterans Act”, which gives priority to covered veterans and eligible spouses to receive employment, training and placement services.

United Service Organization of Nebraska provides information, referrals and support services to veterans, military personnel and their families. Click on “Programs” or “Events” to find information on free admission at local sporting events, festivals, outings, concerts and information on retail discounts, lodging deals and more.

BBB and AMSA Offer Advice on Avoiding Moving Scams this Summer

5/23/2011

Posted on 5/23/2011 by

Following a few simple rules when selecting a mover will go a long way toward protecting yourself from being victimized by scams this summer, according to Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA). Most important: make sure you know who you’re hiring and know your rights.

May is National Moving Month, the start of the busiest time of the year for changing residences. More than 37 million Americans—or about 13 percent—move to a different home every year, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau statistics.

Every year, however, both BBB and AMSA receive complaints from consumers who have fallen prey to dishonest and often unlicensed moving companies. Nationally, BBB received more than 8,900 complaints against movers in 2010—a five percent increase over the previous year—primarily about damaged or lost goods and final prices in excess of original estimates. In a too-frequent worst-case scenario, the moving company holds the customer's belongings “hostage” and requires potentially thousands of dollars to unload the van.

One particularly-egregious complaint last year involved a consumer who hired a moving company found on Craigslist. A-1-A Jay's Way Moving quoted a reasonable price of $80 per hour. It wasn’t until they arrived at the new apartment that A-1-A Jay’s Way Moving upped the price to $800 – a dramatic increase from their quote. Demanding the payment in cash, A-1-A Jay’s Way Moving refused to unload the belongings and threatened that the furniture would be taken to storage, leaving the consumer no choice but to pay the drastic difference in price.

BBB discovered that the company did not have its required licensing as a household mover with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). A-1-A Jay’s Way Moving did not respond to the complaint.

"Because anyone with a truck and a website can claim to be a mover, our industry is plagued by con artists who don’t adhere to standards for honesty and ethical conduct," said AMSA President and CEO Linda Bauer Darr. "When it comes to such an important decision, you can prevent a lot of headaches by checking on a company in advance to identify which put customer service and integrity first. For interstate moves, that means an AMSA-certified ProMover."

"Checking a mover's credentials is critical and easy. Last year alone, consumers relied on BBB more than one million times for finding a trustworthy mover," said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. "When making the final choice, go with a BBB Accredited Businesses or, at the very least, choose a business that has a good rating with BBB."

BBB and AMSA offer the following checklist for finding a trustworthy moving company:

Research the company thoroughly. While state regulations vary, all interstate movers must, at minimum, be licensed by the federal government and are assigned a motor carrier number you can verify on FMCSA’s website, www.protectyourmove.gov.

Also check the company's rating with your BBB, which maintains more than 17,000 Business Reviews on movers across North America. Having at least a satisfactory BBB rating is one of seven screenings AMSA relies on when authorizing its interstate mover members to display the ProMover logo, the sign of a quality, professional mover which has pledged to abide by the organization's Code of Ethics.

Get at least three written in-home estimates. No legitimate mover will offer to give you a firm price online or over the phone. Also keep in mind that the lowest estimate can sometimes be an unrealistic low-ball offer which can cost you more in the end.

Know your rights. Research your rights as a consumer with either FMCSA for interstate moves or the state in which you reside for moves within that state.

Also, enlist the help of BBB or local law enforcement if the moving company fails to live up to its promises or threatens to hold your belongings hostage. FMCSA requires interstate movers to offer arbitration to help settle disputed claims.

Consider getting full value protection. It may cost a few dollars more up front, but it can provide some peace of mind and eliminate a headache after your move. Investing in full (replacement) value protection means any lost or damaged articles will be repaired or replaced, or a cash settlement will be made to repair the item or to replace it at its current market value, regardless of age. It’s important to note that the required minimum coverage of 60 cents per pound would not cover the replacement cost, for example, of a flat panel TV if damaged in transit.

More tips and information on how to choose a mover and plan your move are available at AMSA's consumer website; and the U.S. Department of Transportation's site. To find reputable moving company's go to www.bbb.org.

Consumer Alert: Going Once, Going Twice...Don't Get Sold On Online Auction Scams

5/23/2011

Posted on 5/23/2011 by

The Internet is famous for making almost every task effortless for its users. It makes correspondence instant: You can email a pen-pal in Indonesia faster than you could dial a phone. It makes shopping a snap; you can buy a vintage dress off an online auction in less time than it would take you to get in your car to drive to a thrift store. Unfortunately, the internet has also made scamming eager (and unassuming) customers easier than ever before.

Internet auctions seem relatively simple. A seller posts an item, gives it a description, maybe adds a picture, and sells to the highest bidder. Consumers often run into problems with the payment or delivery of their purchase. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), consumer complaints are most often the result of non-receipt of goods and delivering an item different than what was advertised.

So, how do you avoid an online auction scam? The good news is you don’t have to quit shopping online. BBB suggests making your virtual world and reality meet. The number one tip is to verify the seller. If you can’t make contact with the seller of an item outside of the hosting site, you should be cautious about doing business with them.

Here are a few other tips that are helpful in your travels through the world of online auctions:

· Check the seller’s feedback. Overwhelming positive or negative feedback can be an effective measure for judging whether or not you want to do business with a seller.

· Research not just the seller and the product, but the terms of sale. You are far more likely to be pleased with your purchase if you know ahead of time what the shipping and handling will cost, who pays for it and the seller’s return policy.

· Establish a top price before you place you begin bidding. Whether you are apartment hunting, buying a vintage car or bidding on a pristine-condition Chatty Cathy, consider how much is too much before you start a bidding war.

· Leave a paper trail. Using money orders, cash or debit cards leaves buyers without many options if they are scammed. However, if you pay by credit card or through a trusted third party like PayPal, you can file a claim against a seller and possibly recover your money if an item is never delivered or if it is not what you expected and the seller refuses to take it back.

· Check the BBB Business Reviews. If you are considering trying out a new online auction site, check the BBB Business Review or give us a call.

For more tips and information about online auctions, for both buyers and sellers, visit bbb.org or call (800) 649-6814.

BBB Warns: Beware of Osama Bin Laden Scams

5/12/2011

Posted on 5/12/2011 by

Scam artists stay on top of the news and regularly seek to exploit “the top stories of the day.” Today, BBB is warning consumers to watch out for a slew of cyber scams that have popped up in the past few days after Osama Bin Laden’s death.

According to Kaspersky Labs, an Internet security firm, malicious Web sites and links have been proliferating on Google Images search, Facebook, and other social media sites.

On Facebook, a fake video purporting to show the death of Bin Laden prompts users to input a malicious URL into their browsers, which will infect their computer with a virus.

Another Facebook scam lures victims to malicious Facebook Pages with promises of free airplane tickets, and other “free” offers to “celebrate Osama’s death.”

Consumers should also be wary of links to Osama related Web sites that they find on Twitter, or any link with a URL that leads to an unfamiliar webpage. These links often lead consumers to sites with viruses, or forms that encourage consumers to enter personal information.

Consumers should also beware of phishing emails that claim to be from “insiders”, such as Pakistani citizens or U.S. military troops that request their help in smuggling Bin Laden’s fortune out of the country. These emails are simply an updated version of the old “Nigerian prince” scam letters.

One of the letters appears to be from General Lloyd J. Austin, III, who is the current commander of American Troops serving in Iraq. Needless to say, the message wasn’t sent by the “real” General Lloyd J. Austin, III. An example of one of these letters is below:

From: "Lloyd Austin" <armygeneral_lloyd.austin@rediffmail.com>

Date: 2 May 2011 23:42:16 -0000

To: (removed for privacy reasons)

Subject: Re: Please, Get Back To Me ASAP

Dear Associate,

How are you my friend? Great i guess especially on the death of Osama Bin Laden. I know this message will definitely come to you as a huge surprise, but please kindly take your time to go through it carefully as the decision you make will probably go a long way to determine my future, your future and continued relationship.

First, let me introduce myself. I am General Lloyd James Austin III am assigned to 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force, Western Anbar Province in Iraq. But i and some troops were assigned to Pakistan on a raid of Osama Bin Laden hide out. We succeeded on the mission and he is dead at the moment and buried in the sea. Right now, i have a situation at hand, i am desperately in need of assistance and i have summoned up courage to contact you.

I am seeking your assistance to evacuate the sum of $10 Million (Ten Million only) to the States or any safe country, as far as i can be assured that it will be safe in your care until i complete my investigation in Pakistan and service in Iraq. This is no stolen money and there are no dangers involved.

SOURCE OF MONEY:

Some money in various currencies was discovered and concealed in barrels with piles of weapons and ammunition at a location near Osama Bin Laden's house during a the raid and it was agreed by all party present that that particular moment that the money should be shared among us. This might appear as an illegal thing to do but i tell you what? No compensation can make up for the risks we have taken with our lives in this hellhole.

The above figure was given to me as my share and to conceal this kind of money became a problem for me, so with the help of a German contact working with the UN here (his office enjoys some immunity) I was able to get the package out of Pakistan immediately to a safe location entirely out of trouble spot. He does not know the real contents of the package as he believes that it belongs to an American who died in an air raid, before giving up trusted me to hand over the package to his close relative. i have now found a secured way of getting the package out of it's current location for you to pick up.

I do not know for how long i will remain here, as i have been lucky to survive two suicide bomb attacks by Pure Divine intervention. This and other reasons put into consideration have prompted me to reach out for help. If it might be of interest to you then Endeavor to contact me and we would work out the necessary formalities but i pray that you are discreet about this mutually benefiting relationship.

Thank you and God bless you.

With great expectation and regards,

General Lloyd James Austin III
United States Marine Corps

Here are tips from the BBB to avoid these Osama Bin Laden scams:

· Be mindful about clicking on links that purport to show information that’s not widely available from respected news sources. In the case of Bin Laden, no photos or videos related to his death have been released. Be extremely skeptical of links that say otherwise.

· Be wary of free offers “celebrating” any sort of occasion, especially if the offer comes from a company or Web site you haven’t heard of before. Often times all it takes for a scammer to infect your computer with a virus is clicking on one bad link.

· Don't fill out surveys looking for personal info that promise something free celebrating Osama bin Laden's death.

For more information on how consumers can protect themselves against scams, or to find reputable businesses they can visit www.bbb.org or call 1-800-649-6812.

BBB Advice on Giving to Storm and Flood Relief Charities

5/12/2011

Posted on 5/12/2011 by
Americans watching the mounting Mississippi flood waters and the devastation wreaked by recent tornadoes are responding with generous gifts of time and money, as they’ve traditionally responded to disasters throughout the world. But even when needs are close to home, givers should take steps to assure themselves that their donations will go to legitimate and reputable charities and relief efforts that have the capability to help victims, cautions the Better Business Bureau the BBB Wise Giving Alliance.

“Despite long experience in giving for major natural disasters, and with the desire to quickly help those in need, Americans sometimes forget to heed advice that’s relevant to all charitable giving,” says Jim Hegarty, President and CEO of the BBB. “In the present situation, we advise donors especially to learn about what individual charities are doing and the time frame of their work. Donors who know what to expect from the charities they support are less likely to question the benefit of their gifts.”

BBB Wise Giving Alliance offers the following five tips to help Americans decide where to direct donations:

Take time to check out the charity. The best way to avoid being disappointed in helping Flood Relief Charities is to find out more about the charity before making the donation. Unfortunately, most people don’t. Donors should review the charity’s website and go to third party sites such as the BBB Wise Giving Alliance (www.bbb.org/charity) to learn more about the charity and verify its accountability.

Identify what stage of relief the charity intends to provide. There are three general stages to flood relief efforts. Find out which stage the charity is intending to address. The Emergency Response stage involves immediate rescue needs and takes place within the first week of the storm or flood. Next, Disaster Relief occurs in the first month and provides clothing and temporary shelter for displaced families. Finally, the Recovery Stage can last over a year and involves clean up, repair and/or rebuilding homes, and other long-term recovery needs.

Find out if the charity is providing direct aid or raising money for other groups. Some charities may be raising money to pass along to relief organizations. If so, you may want to consider “avoiding the middleman” and giving directly to charities that have a presence in the region. Or, at a minimum, check out the ultimate recipients of these donations to ensure the organizations are equipped to effectively provide aid.

Be wary of claims that 100 percent of donations will assist relief victims. Despite what an organization might claim, charities have fund raising and administrative costs. Even a credit card donation will involve, at a minimum, a processing fee. If a charity claims that 100 percent of collected funds will be assisting flood victims, the truth is that the organization is still probably incurring fund raising and administrative expenses. They may use some of their other funds to pay this, but the expenses will still be incurred.

Verify if the charity is registered to solicit donations in your state. Most states require charities to register with a state agency (usually the Attorney General’s office or the Secretary of State’s office) in order to solicit charitable contributions. Contact your appropriate state agency to determine if the soliciting flood relief charity is properly registered. Watch out for newly created entities that do not have a track record and/or experience in providing disaster relief.

BBB Alert – Asphalt Scam Costs Local Senior $4,500

4/26/2011

Posted on 4/26/2011 by

The season for home improvement projects is underway and BBB is warning consumers to be on the lookout for less than reputable or unqualified contractors that breeze into town promising a variety of services at cut-rate prices. They may show up at your door, advertise in local papers or deliver fliers to your home.

Last week a senior citizen from the metro Omaha reported to BBB that a man, referring to himself as Bill King, from Asphalt Paving came to his farmhouse and told him that he had a load of asphalt that could be used to repave his driveway. When the owner asked how much it would cost, Mr. King replied, "$600." The consumer said they mutually agreed on $500 and discussed the area to be covered. Mr. King left and a crew showed up and dumped a small amount of blacktop, approximately enough to cover a 10' x 10' area.

When the homeowner disputed the part that had been covered, he was told, “That is all you get for $500.” The homeowner explained what Mr. King had promised, and Donald Joles, a man from the crew, said that they still had a big load of asphalt and could finish the driveway for $6,000. When the homeowner objected, the price was dropped to $4,000. The asphalt was poured, but the job had not been completed when Joles returned and asked for the payment. The homeowner wrote a check to Joles who immediately cashed it at a local bank. Although the consumer was told that they would be back the next day to finish his driveway, the company has not returned.

A BBB investigation found that the phone number 800-860-4769 on the consumer’s contract belongs to T and T Asphalt Paving and Seal Coating located at 713 Fur Ave in Wisconsin Dells, WI. Wisconsin’s BBB report on this company states that it has an F Rating.

“It’s not your lucky day when a contractor shows up at your home offering a too-good-to-be true deal on a project because he has materials left over from a recent job. This is a common ploy of fly-by-night contractors who are usually based out-of state and use pick-up trucks as their place of business,” stated BBB President Jim Hegarty.

“There are many reputable, hard-working, home improvement contractors in our area. We encourage consumers to do their homework before contracting with any business. It’s important to always get three written estimates and never be pressured to make an on the spot decision. Reputable contractors always respect a consumers instance on shopping around,” Hegarty explained.

BBB has the following tips for homeowners before hiring a home improvement contractor:

· Be suspicious if a salesperson greets you by name, approaches you while you are outside your home, or demands cash as payment for their product or service

· Don’t ever let any one you don’t know into your home

· Verify that the contractor has the appropriate licenses and they are bonded and insured

· Make certain terms and conditions of the contract are in writing before the work begins

· Always ask to see the person’s credentials and call the company they are representing to verify its legitimacy. You do not have to make any purchase immediately. You can ask the person to return after you have had time to check it out, if you wish to purchase their product or service

· Get the company’s BBB Reliability Report at 402-391-7612, 800-649-6814 or at bbb.org

BBB Alert – Asphalt Scam Costs Local Senior $4,500

4/26/2011

Posted on 4/26/2011 by

BBB has the following tips for homeowners before hiring a home improvement contractor:

· Be suspicious if a salesperson greets you by name, approaches you while you are outside your home, or demands cash as payment for their product or service

· Don’t ever let any one you don’t know into your home

· Verify that the contractor has the appropriate licenses and they are bonded and insured

· Make certain terms and conditions of the contract are in writing before the work begins

· Get the company’s BBB Reliability Report at 402-391-7612, 800-649-6814 or at bbb.org

Consumer Alert: Tips For Your Home Improvement Project

4/26/2011

Posted on 4/26/2011 by

The Better Business Bureau began because of a desire for trust in advertising and ethics in the community. For the last century, the mission of the BBB has remained the same: establishing marketplace trust.

What many don’t know is that your BBB does more than rate businesses and take consumer complaints. Your BBB is a non-profit, non-government organization for the public; we resolve disputes between consumers and businesses, provide consumer alerts and tips on the latest scams, and offer deals and discounts from BBB Accredited Businesses.

Our services are offered free to the public, and our ratings can be trusted because they are based on objective criteria, like proper licensing, length of time a company has been operating, or how a company responds to their complaints. Our fair, trusted method of rating businesses provides consumers with a stable foundation for which to base their purchasing decisions. When using bbb.org, consumers can be confident that they are finding accurate, trustworthy business information to help them with the decision on who to hire for a home improvement job, BBB Accredited or not. Consumers feel an added sense of confidence when hiring a BBB Accredited Business as the BBB has already thoroughly vetted the company.

Your BBB has an extensive list of home improvement specialists. The BBB lists 10 items to be aware of when looking for a home improvement specialist:

· Hire only licensed contractors or landscapers. A Contractors State License Board (CSLB) license ensures that the contractor you are doing business with is upstanding, and is up-to-date on all pertinent information for the industry.

· Check a contractor’s license number. Consumers can confirm a contractor’s license by visiting the CSLB website at www.cslb.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-321-CSLB(2752). Be prepared to give the contractor’s name, license number and business address.

· Confirm the contractor or landscaper has worker’s compensation insurance for all employees.

· Get multiple bids. As is smart with any business deal, you should always contact more than one company to request a quote for the service you need. Your BBB has a quick and easy way to get multiple bids called “Request a Quote.” Just visit bbb.org and click on the “For Consumers” page.

· Ask for references. Hiring a contractor should mirror the same process as hiring an employee. It is in your best interest to check them out as much as possible. Make sure their other customers have been happy with the job they’ve done.

· Read and understand the contract before you sign it. Make sure all project expectations are in writing, and NEVER sign a contract unless you have read and fully understood its terms.

· Don’t pay cash. If you pay by check or credit card you have a documented trail of what you have already paid your contractor.

· Don’t pay more than 10% down or $1000, whichever is LESS. Contractors cannot ask for more than 10% or $1000 for down payment.

· Keep records. Don’t count on the contractor to keep your records for you. Keep a file of all contracts and invoices that are in regards to your project. Staying organized will keep both you and your contractor on track.

· Don’t make the final payment until you are completely satisfied. You may also consider making progress payments, which means paying in smaller amounts as work is completed.

Visit BBB.org to learn more about a business or charity, sign up for consumer tips and alerts and much more. Start with Trust, Start with a BBB Accredited Business.

Getting to “Yes” When a Problem Arises

4/18/2011

Posted on 4/18/2011 by

Resolving Marketplace Disputes and Determining When it is Time to File a Complaint

In a perfect world, there would be no basis for disagreement between consumers and businesses. The world however, is not perfect and it is not always possible to settle a dispute without help. If all attempts fail, you may need help from your BBB.

When a dispute arises between a buyer and seller, it is best to try to resolve it with the seller if possible. Sometimes differences can be resolved simply by speaking with someone else in management at the company. A useful approach is to be specific about your complaint and what it would take to settle it to your satisfaction.

Language is everything. The wrong words can break off dialogue. The right words can put both sides at ease and create a climate that contributes to resolving a problem.

A helpful approach is to ask the seller “How can we turn this into a win/win situation?”

BBB offers some tips on preparing for the dispute resolution process:

Keep copies of all receipts and correspondence, as well as a record of any discussions.
Think in terms of solving the dispute rather than fighting the seller.
Compose a clear and concise description of the problem and how you’d like to see it settled.
Don’t rant. Though it may be difficult, especially if harsh words were exchanged, try to focus on facts rather than anger or hurt feelings.

If it isn’t possible to settle the dispute directly with the company, Better Business Bureau serving Nebraska, South Dakota, and southwest Iowa recommends consumers file a complaint by visiting www.bbb.org, or writing a letter to Better Business Bureau, 11811 P. St. Omaha, NE 68137

Ensure that BBB can help you settle your type of dispute by reading the complaint acceptance policies online. The policies can help you determine whether filing a complaint with Better Business Bureau is appropriate in your case.

Answer the complaint questionnaire truthfully and accurately.

Be patient. Better Business Bureau can receive hundreds of complaints a day. You should receive an email giving you a time frame for the complaint process. If however, you do not receive a verification of your complaint submission by one week after you file your complaint, contact your BBB directly at 203-269-2700.

Many marketplace problems can be avoided by researching goods and services providers at http://www.bbb.org/ before making a purchase or signing a contract. Consumers also may select a company from the BBB Accredited Business Directory. BBB Accredited Businesses are committed to dispute resolution as one of the conditions of accreditation.

To check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visit BBB.

The McGraw-Hill Companies and BBB Military Line Join to Bring Financial Literacy to Military Families

4/18/2011

Posted on 4/18/2011 by

ANNOUNCEMENT COMES AS FIRST LADY OBAMA AND DR. BIDEN LAUNCH "JOINING FORCES" INITIATIVE

As part of First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden’s “Joining Forces" initiative, McGraw-Hill (NYSE: MHP) and Better Business Bureau are joining together to develop and deliver expanded financial literacy and consumer protection programs to military families. The campaign builds on six years of BBB Military Line training initiatives and McGraw-Hill's decade-long commitment to ensuring financial literacy for all. The combined effort will reach more than 40,000 military families initially and will include a full complement of online and onsite financial resources including webinars, mobile applications, workshops and promotions.

According to an October 2010 FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) study entitled, "Financial Capability in the United States: Military Survey," military populations suffer disproportionately from financial strain (poor credit, high debt, foreclosures, etc.) due to service members' unique circumstances of long deployments, protracted family separation and frequent moves. The study notes, "Improving financial capability is not only important for military service members and their families, it also affects the military as a whole. When military families make poor financial decisions, the cost of those decisions can undermine military readiness."

"Lack of financial literacy can become a serious national security issue, as well as an unnecessary and burdensome distraction for our service members and their families," said Jim Hegarty, President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau. "Financial readiness is critical to mission readiness and BBB Military Line is honored to work with McGraw-Hill to make this happen."

"McGraw-Hill is proud to work with BBB Military Line to equip the armed forces and their families with the tools to make informed financial decisions," said Harold McGraw III, Chairman, President and CEO of McGraw-Hill. "We applaud First Lady Obama and Dr. Biden for launching this worthy campaign and McGraw-Hill stands ready to do our part."

About McGraw-Hill

Founded in 1888, The McGraw-Hill Companies is a leading global financial information and education company that helps professionals and students succeed in the Knowledge Economy. Leading brands include Standard & Poor’s, McGraw-Hill Education, Platts energy information services and J.D. Power and Associates. With approximately 21,000 employees in more than 280 offices in 40 countries, the Corporation's sales in 2010 totaled $6.2 billion.

Connect with McGraw-Hill on Twitter and Facebook.

McGraw-Hill's philanthropic mission is to ensure financial literacy for all. Please visit www.mcgraw-hill.com/site/cr/community/financial-literacy for additional information about its financial literacy programs. Additionally, stay up-to-date about McGraw-Hill’s Financial Literacy Now campaign on Twitter and Facebook.

About BBB Military Line

BBB Military Line is a Better Business Bureau program established in 2004 and in partnership with the DOD Financial Readiness Campaign, brings financial workshops tailored to the military for adults and teens; participates in community fairs, conferences, and military installation events; and provides consumer protection information and services --- all through the efforts of local BBBs throughout the US. Our program empowers our military communities and builds bridges between civilian and military cultures through face to face interaction and cooperation. Our online presence provides financial literacy and military consumer information, along with consumer threat alerts that specifically target the military population. Please visit www.bbb.org/military for more information.

Connect with BBB Military Line on Facebook.

McGraw-Hill Contact:

Jason Feuchtwanger

Director, Corporate Communications

212-512-3151 office

347-419-4169 mobile

Jason_feauchtwanger@mcgraw-hill.com

BBB Military Line Contact:

Janet Riessman

Director, Marketing Communications

703-247-9345 office

202-256-7280 mobile

jriessman@council.bbb.org

Data Breach Could Spell Trouble for Consumers

4/5/2011

Posted on 4/5/2011 by

Until recently, Epsilon wasn’t exactly a household name. But now, according to a press release issued by Reuters, the giant marketing firm has notified its high-profile customers that, “… it could be one of the of the largest data breaches in US history.” Web results and social media trends about the company are growing by the minute.

Many companies do business with Epsilon including Walgreens, Tivo, Inc, HSN Inc and several of the nation’s largest banks. Customers of these companies were recently contacted and notified of the breach.

If your bank, credit card lender, or favorite retailer is an Epsilon customer, you need to keep an eye on your email and a tight grip on your personal information. The same goes for parents and students signed-up with The College Board for prep tests and help with their college search.

“According to the notifications BBB received, only names and email addresses were compromised by the hack. Reports indicate that personal and financial information on file with Epsilon were not accessed,” said BBB President and CEO Jim Hegarty. “However, it is very likely that information obtained during the breach could be used in phishing attacks designed to scare customers into divulging personal and financial information. Both consumers and businesses should see this as a call-to-action to update all areas of your computer’s security. This will help prevent fraudulent emails from landing in your inbox in the first place and help prevent hackers from infiltrating your system,” Hegarty added.

While BBB has received notices from Best Buy, Chase, BJ's and The College Board, it has not been able to confirm exactly how many consumers are at risk. But the attack certainly has the potential of impacting a huge number of consumers. On its website Epsilon states, “We are the world’s largest permission-based email marketing provider, sending over 40 billion emails annually.”

If you become a victim of a phishing scam, file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center: www.ic3.gov / 800 251-3221 or call the BBB at 800-649-6814.

BBB Tips to Avoid Phishing

Beware of any email asking for personal, financial or account information. Legitimate companies you rely on for your online shopping, financial needs and college tests will not request this information – they already have it.

Do not open any attachments. Attachments may contain malicious code that will infect your computer.

Do not click on any links. If you want to communicate with the business use your favorite search engine to find their Web site and/or contact information. Do not trust the information provided in the email.

Never provide your User ID or password in an e-mail.

Watch for strange emails from family/friends. Hackers sometimes use stolen information to pose as someone in your address book.

Make sure your computer’s spyware, spam filter and virus protection are up to date

At this time, the following organizations’ customer records have been reportedly compromised by the Epsilon data breach:

BJ’s
Barclays Bank of Delaware
Best Buy
Brookstone
Capital One
Chase
Citi
Disney Destinations
Home Shopping Network
JPMorgan Chase
Kroger
LL Bean
Marriott Rewards
McKinsey & Company
New York & Company
Ritz-Carlton Rewards
The College Board
TiVo
US Bank
Walgreens

BBB Foundation Offers Free Secure Your ID Events

3/28/2011

Posted on 3/28/2011 by

Fraud targeting senior citizens is a growing concern as millions have fallen victim to scammers. According to a June 2010 survey by Investor Protection Trust, more than 7.3 million seniors - roughly 20 percent of Americans 65 or older - have "been taken advantage of financially in terms of an inappropriate investment, unreasonable high fees for financial services or outright fraud." Therefore your Better Business Bureau (BBB) and its Foundation have made it a priority to reach out to seniors and the agencies, organizations and businesses that serve them.

Must See Presentations
Helping Seniors Fight Fraud

On April 13th and 14th, BBB Foundation is hosting presentations by former FBI Special Agent Jeff Lanza in Omaha, Lincoln and Sioux Falls. Lanza was an FBI Agent for over 26 years. During his tenure, he investigated identity theft, corruption, fraud, money laundering, computer crime and organized crime. Mr. Lanza is passionate about keeping people safe from risk. Using real life examples with an added touch of humor, he has educated audiences on three continents on how to stay safe in a world of risks. He has participated in hundreds of television interviews, including appearances on the Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Larry King Live and CNN Primetime with Wolf Blitzer.

Mr. Lanza will be providing valuable information about Fighting the Crooks Scamming Seniors. His talk will focus on why the elderly are targeted for fraud, the most common scams affecting seniors and information to protect them from predators. The program is visual, and he uses a solution oriented approach based on real-life examples. The presentation is designed to be informative as well as entertaining and lasts for about one hour with time for questions. It is free and open to anyone who wishes to learn more about the specific scams that target the elderly everyday.

Omaha Event
When: Wednesday, April 13, 2011-9:30am–11:00am
Where: Rave Motion Picture Theaters, 10000 California St
(Located on the north side of Westroads Mall)
Media Sponsor: KETV
Reservations Requested: Please call BBB in Omaha at 402-898-8550 or mriekes@bbbnebraska.org

Lincoln Event
When: Wednesday, April 13, 2011-2:00pm–3:30pm
Where: Edgewood Cinema, 5220 S 56th St
(Located in the Edgewood Center at 56th & Hwy 2)
Media Sponsor: KLKN -TV
Reservations Requested: Please call BBB in Lincoln at 402-476-8822 or sbrodhagen@bbbnebraska.org

Sioux Falls Event
When: Thursday, April 14, 2011-9:30am –11:00am
Where: Active Generations, 2300 W 46th St
Reservations Requested: Please call Active Generations at 605-336-6722 or jdavid@bbbsouthdakota.org

FREE Shred-It Events

The BBB Foundation is also offering several opportunities to properly destroy documents that carry information citizens don’t want getting into the hands of crooks. Identity theft is largely a crime of access. Our goal is to make the information less accessible and empower people to be their own first line of defense.

Residents and small businesses are encouraged to come to a BBB shredding site in Omaha or in Sioux Falls and take a key step in identity protection by properly disposing of their sensitive paper documents as well as CDs and floppy discs. BBB staff will be on-hand to provide expert advice and tips for identity theft protection.

Shred It Day - Omaha
When: Saturday, April 16, 2011 - 8:00am – 12:00pm
Where: Methodist Health System at 85th & West Dodge Rd
Sponsors: KETV, Shred-It Omaha, Methodist Health System and NP Dodge
Partners: Certified Transmission, FirstStar Fiber, Red Zone BBQ and Two Men and a Truck

Bring up to three boxes or bags of documents to be shredded and take home the tips and resources you need to help protect yourself. Documents to be shredded should be removed from binders, but staples, paper clips, CDs and floppy discs will be accepted for shredding.

Shred It Day - Sioux Falls
When: Saturday, April 30, 2011 – 8:00am – 11:00am
Where: Pizza Ranch, 3809 E 10th St (former Sunshine Foods parking lot): Please call BBB at 605-271-2066 for more information.
Sponsors: Shred-It Sioux Falls, First Dakota National Bank and Pizza Ranch

Bring up to three boxes or bags of documents to be shredded and take home the tips and resources you need to help protect yourself. Documents to be shredded should be removed from binders, but staples, paper clips, CDs and floppy discs will be accepted for shredding.

At the Sioux Falls event a $5 “free-will” donation is requested to support Crime Stoppers of the Sioux Empire.

All events are FREE and open to the public!

6 Signs Of A Scholarship Scam

3/23/2011

Posted on 3/23/2011 by

Within the last few years, the landscape of colleges and universities across the nation has changed. Achieving the test scores needed to be accepted to your dream school and paying for tuition once you’re there is much more difficult than it was 20, 10 or even five years ago. Dwindling federal funds and grants left a myriad of openings for scholarship and SAT prep scams to emerge.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is warning consumers to use caution when approached by a company that is guaranteeing or promising scholarships, and using strong emotional appeal to get you to agree to share private financial information with them. Likewise, your BBB advises all consumers to use caution when buying SAT prep DVDs or courses over the phone or online.

While there are still many trustworthy and ethical companies out there with students’ best interest at heart, the BBB is warning students and parents of students alike to be wary of these tell-tale signs:

· Guarantees and promises: If you are approached by a company that assures you that you will receive a scholarship or higher test scores, but only if you sign up with them now, remember that legitimate deals are rarely one-time offers.

· Exclusivity: Be wary of companies that tout information that no one else could provide you. Most scholarship lists are public information, and while there are legitimate companies who compile lists you should know that none of that information is limited to just you.

· Requests for personal information: Whether they are offering you a list of scholarship opportunities or a series of classes to prepare for the SAT or ACT, make sure you see and understand the details of what they are proposing before you hand over your personal information. It is critical that you make sure you are giving your money to an ethical business.

· Advance fee: Don’t pay ahead of time for a company to find you a scholarship. Be wary of giving money to a representative who cannot answer all of your questions to your satisfaction, but requires upfront payment for services yet to be rendered.

· Awards for contests you never entered: The chances of you being awarded a scholarship you never applied for are very small. Don’t be fooled into giving away personal information: If you receive a phone call from a representative claiming you have been chosen for a scholarship, ask for more information in writing, and make sure that you keep a detailed list of the scholarships for which you did, in fact, apply.

· Phone calls claiming that your son/daughter requested a program: Often, SAT/ACT prep course scammers will call households claiming that the parent’s student requested the company’s program. This pressured parent will transfer hundreds of dollars and personal information over the phone only to discover later that their child has never heard of the company.

The BBB reminds you to always come prepared with questions for the company’s representative. If you do the proper amount of research on the company or service from which you are intending to buy, then you are far less likely to be the victim of a scam. Also, check with BBB.org to find business and charity reviews on companies with whom you are considering doing business.

BBB Warns: Don’t Fall for Gimmicks Involving Gas Saving Devices

3/23/2011

Posted on 3/23/2011 by

As gas prices continue to climb, some businesses are seeking opportunities to make money off of commuters by selling fuel boosting additives or offering engine modifications to help them conserve fuel. However, BBB advises consumers to stay away from these “gas saving” products and services, that sound “too-good-to-be true.”

Over the past decade, the EPA has tested more than 100 gas-saving devices and hasn’t identified any that significantly improve gas mileage and some could eventually cause engine damage.

Consumers are being inundated with ads and emails that offer better fuel efficiency. One such ad came to a Better Business Bureau employee.

BBB recommends being particularly skeptical if advertisements claim:

Federal Endorsement. While the EPA does evaluate the legitimacy of claims made by companies that produce gas savers, no federal agency actually endorses gas-saving devices or additives.
Glowing Consumer Testimonials. Marketing materials or Web sites for gas savers often contain consumer testimony on the increased fuel efficiency they experienced with the device or additive, but these are often works of fiction devised by the company.
Outstanding, Too-Good-To-Be-True Results. Consumers should be extremely wary of big promises for big savings. If a gas-saving product really could increase mileage by as much as 40 percent with little effort or money, it is highly unlikely the inventor needs to peddle the product through spam e-mails or tacky-looking Web sites.

The vast majority of gas-conserving products are not viable solutions for squeezing mileage out of vehicles, but here are some tips drivers can take to increase fuel efficiency and get the most out of their gas tank:

Stay within the speed limit. Gas mileage tends to decrease rapidly at speeds above 60 miles per hour.
Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and stops. Drivers can improve gas mileage around town if they avoid jerky starts and stops. This means accelerating slowly when starting from a dead stop and avoiding pushing the pedal down more than one-quarter of the way.
Air Conditioning or Windows? Using the air conditioner at lower speeds will decrease fuel efficiency, but, at higher speeds, open windows create significantly more drag than the AC – and can reduce gas mileage.
Remove excess weight from the trunk. An extra 100 pounds can reduce a typical car’s fuel economy by up to two percent.
Keep the car properly maintained. The engine should be tuned, tires inflated and aligned, the oil changed on schedule and the air filters should be checked and replaced regularly.

Before buying any gas-saving device or additive, BBB recommends that consumers check out the company’s reliability report free-of-charge online at www.bbb.org.

For more money-saving advice from BBB for consumers, go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-649-6814.

Measure Twice – Then Call a BBB Accredited Business

3/15/2011

Posted on 3/15/2011 by

Snow one day, 60 degrees the next is a sure sign that spring is on its way. And as we all know, spring is synonymous with yard cleanup, house painting, window washing, deck additions, new roofs, window replacement, mowing lawns. Your spring to-do list might also include the addition of water features, an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, garden shed, underground sprinklers, cobblestone paths, a swing set, an outdoor pool, potted plants.

Many homeowners enjoy tackling any or all of these jobs themselves while many others have no clue and/or desire to get started. Sure, you can watch do-it-yourself-shows on TV or pick up a how-to book at your local bookstore, but the truth is, Bob Villa makes it look a lot easier than it is.

Do-it-yourselfers always say to measure twice and cut once. I take that advice a step further and recommend measuring twice then calling a BBB Accredited Business.

Why choose to hire an Accredited Business? The simple answer is that Accredited Businesses pledge to uphold BBB Standards of Trust, which includes honesty, truthfulness, transparency and responsiveness.

Finding an Accredited Business is as easy as visiting the BBB website at bbb.org and clicking “Find an Accredited Business” on the home page. You can search by category (plumbers, roofers, landscapers, etc.) or by business name. Go the extra step and click on the business to be taken straight to its BBB Business Review, which provides information about the company, including ownership, BBB rating and complaint history.

Request a Quote is another way to become connected with a BBB Accredited Business and you’ll find this free service on our website’s home page as well. Request A Quote – which is free – is a great tool to use if you’re looking for bids from two or more companies.

Although using an Accredited Business takes away a lot of the guesswork involved in hiring a contractor or doing business with a company you don’t know, you still need to take the same extra steps you would with any business: Ask for references and call them, make sure the business has required licenses and insurance, and get everything in writing before giving the go ahead to proceed.

Does a spring to-do list get any easier than this?

Don’t go a day without your BBB. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. For more consumer information or to check out the BBB at bbb.org or call 402-391-7612or 800-649-6814.

BBB Advises Donors on Tsunami Relief Efforts

3/14/2011

Posted on 3/14/2011 by

(3-14-11)Dramatic news of the devastating earthquake and subsequent tsunami that hit Japan has prompted many Americans to consider making donations to charities that provide relief to survivors. BBB serving Nebraska, South Dakota and southwest Iowa warns consumers to be cautious, as fraudulent charities often crop up to take advantage of sympathy for earthquake victims.

“In the wake of a natural disaster, our American generosity prompts us to step up and donate our money and time to victims,” said Jim Hegarty BBB president and CEO “Unfortunately, this generosity is often exploited by scammers; that’s why it’s important that you do your research and ensure your donation is going towards trustworthy relief efforts.”

BBB offers the following tips to help people decide how and where to direct donations:

Rely on respected experts to evaluate a charity. Be cautious when relying on third-party recommendations such as bloggers, because they may not have fully researched the listed relief organizations. The BBB provides a Wise Giving Guide to charities at www.bbb.org/charity. The guide shows which charities are accredited by the BBB and whether they meet the BBB’s 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.
Be wary of claims that 100 percent of donations assist victims. All charities have fund-raising and administrative costs. Even a credit card donation will involve, at a minimum, a processing fee.
Be cautious when giving online to unfamiliar charities. Be wary of spam messages and emails that claim to link to a relief organization. After the tsunami disaster in 2004 and the earthquake in Haiti last year, many websites and organizations that were created overnight allegedly to help victims turned out to be scams.
Find out if the charity has a presence in the impacted areas. Unless the charity already has staff in the affected areas, it may be difficult to get new aid workers into the area to provide assistance. See if the charity’s website clearly describes what they can do to address immediate needs.
Find out if the charity is providing direct aid or raising money for other groups. You may want to avoid the middleman and give directly to charities that have a presence in the region. Check out the ultimate recipients of the donations to ensure that the organizations are equipped to effectively provide aid.
Gifts of clothing, food or other in-kind donations may not be appropriate. Unless the organization has the staff and infrastructure to distribute such aid, the donations may be more of a burden than a help. Ask the charity about their transportation and distribution plans. Be wary of those who are not experienced in disaster relief assistance.
Read the fine print before donating by text message. It’s a quick and easy way to donate, but be sure to read the fine print before donating by text message. Confirm the number directly with the source.. Depending on the text message service used by the charity, text donations can take anywhere from 30-90 days to be transferred to the designated charity. If you would like the donation to be received immediately by the charity, you can give online through the charity Web site, by calling the charity directly or by sending a check in the mail.

The list below identifies national charities that are seeking to provide assistance in response to the earthquake in Haiti. This list only includes those charities that meet the BBB Wise Giving Alliance’s Standards for Charity Accountability. Click on each of the names to access a BBB charity report on the organization. Further information about other charities is available at http://www.bbb.org/charity-reviews/national/

American Red Cross
AmeriCares
CARE USA
Catholic Relief Services
Church World Service
Direct Relief International
GlobalGiving
International Rescue Committee
Oxfam America
Save the Children
World Vision

If you are with a nationally soliciting charity that meets all of our standards and are providing assistance in Japan, please contact us at charities@council.bbb.org to be included on this list.

For more information about charities, check with the BBB at www.bbb.org or by calling 800-649-6814.

BBB Advises Donors on Tsunami Relief Efforts

3/14/2011

Posted on 3/14/2011 by

Dramatic news of the devastating earthquake and subsequent tsunami that hit Japan early today has prompted many Americans to consider making donations to charities that provide relief to survivors. BBB serving Nebraska, South Dakota and southwest Iowa consumers to be cautious, as fraudulent charities often crop up to take advantage of sympathy for earthquake victims.

“In the wake of a natural disaster, our American generosity prompts us to step up and donate our money and time to victims,” said Jim Hegarty BBB president/CEO “Unfortunately, this generosity is often exploited by scammers; that’s why it’s important that you do your research and ensure your donation is going towards trustworthy relief efforts.”

BBB offers the following tips to help people decide how and where to direct donations:

Rely on expert opinion when it comes to evaluating a charity.
The public can go to the Canadian Revenue Agency (www.cra.gc.ca/donors) to research charities and relief organizations to verify their accountability. Beware of other third party opinions, as they may not have done complete research.

Avoid charities that have sprung up in response to the disaster.
Donating money to established national and international organizations that have experience in delivering aid is the best way to go. Be wary of imitation charities, as some phony charities use names that sound or look like those of respected, legitimate organizations.

Read the fine print before donating by text message.
It’s a quick and easy way to donate, but be sure to read the fine print before donating by text message. In Canada, a charity must include the details of their text campaign on its website so you can see what you’re signing up for and how funds are being directed. If you want to make sure that the charity you’re donating to via text message is legitimate, check out www.mobilegiving.ca.

Be cautious when giving online.
Proceed with caution when giving online, especially in response to spam messages and emails that claim to link to a relief organization.

Be wary of claims that 100 per cent of donations will assist relief victims.
If a charity claims that 100 per cent of collected funds will be assisting flood victims, the truth is that the organization is still probably incurring fundraising and administrative expenses. Even a credit card donation will involve, at a minimum, a processing fee.

Find out if the charity has an on-the-ground presence in the impacted areas.
Unless the charity already has staff in the affected areas, it may be difficult to get new aid workers to quickly provide assistance. See if the charity’s website clearly describes what they can do to address immediate needs.

BBB Advises Donors on Tsunami Relief Efforts

3/14/2011

Posted on 3/14/2011 by

BBB offers the following tips to help people decide how and where to direct donations:

Be cautious when giving online.
Proceed with caution when giving online, especially in response to spam messages and emails that claim to link to a relief organization.

Educated Consumers are Safer Consumers

3/10/2011

Posted on 3/10/2011 by

Quick question: Have you been on the bad end of an Internet transaction? If so, you’re not alone.

According to the 2010 Internet Crime Complaint Center Report, nondelivery or nonpayment of merchandise ordered online accounted for 20.5 percent of all complaints filed last year. The median loss per victim was $990. IC3 is a partnership between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the National White Collar Crime Center.

While it would be nice if all businesses and customers operated in a trustworthy and ethical fashion, the truth of the matter is, they don’t.

The onus is on you to be a smart consumer and to become educated in all facets of scams and fraud – many of which share the same red flags.

To help, the Better Business Bureau and other consumer groups are partnering with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission for National Consumer Protection Week, March 6-12.

Get everything in writing and always read the fine print.
Contracts, customer agreements and fine print protect the business and outline the terms of the agreement with the customer. While it’s natural to want to avoid reading the legalese, it’s important that customers understand their rights. Whenever signing a contract, your BBB recommends reading the fine print carefully. Also, don’t just take a sales associates’ word for it; get all verbal promises in writing.

Protect your identity — and your pocketbook.
Fighting identity theft means staying vigilant online and off. Protect your identity by taking the following steps:
• Always shred sensitive documents that include personal financial information such as bank, credit card and Social Security numbers.
• Monitor your financial accounts closely to more quickly detect suspicious activity.
• Make sure your computer has up-to-date antivirus software and be extremely selective when opening attachments or clicking on links in e-mails.
• Shop online through secure sites only and always confirm that the business is trustworthy before entering your credit or debit card number.

Never wire money to someone you don’t know.
Many scams bilk victims by convincing them to wire money. The reasons for wiring money can vary and include mystery shopping, paying fees to win a lottery and — if the target is a small business owner—overpayment for goods or services. Scammers know it’s extremely difficult to track money sent via MoneyGram or Western Union. More troubling for victims is the fact that it’s nearly impossible to get your money back. Even if you’ve been given a check to supposedly cover the amount you’re wiring, never send money to someone you don’t know personally.

Know where to complain.
If you’ve been ripped off by a business, there are any number of organizations and government agencies that want to hear about it. You can file a complaint with:
• Your Better Business Bureau;
• Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov; and
• Nebraska Attorney General at www.ago.ne.gov.
If you’ve been ripped off by a scam online — such as a phishing e-mail or deceptive website — you can also file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center.

Always check businesses out with BBB.
Nearly 400,000 businesses bear the BBB seal of accreditation and meet our standards; you can find the seal on websites and at business locations. However, the BBB doesn’t just report on accredited businesses. You can check out BBB Business Reviews for nearly 4 million businesses across the United States and Canada.

A BBB Business Review will tell you how many, if any, complaints the company has received, whether the company responds to complaints and much more.

Wedding Nightmares Can Be Prevented If You Check Vendors Out With The BBB First

3/2/2011

Posted on 3/2/2011 by

Brides who spend months and thousands of dollars planning for a perfect wedding can avoid disappointment by reading contracts carefully and checking vendors out with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

“Nearly everyone has a story about wedding misadventures, and brides often have nightmares about their dress coming apart or being left at the church without a ride,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “But with careful planning and screening of vendors, many mishaps can be avoided.”

Unfortunately, complaints about bridal vendors are all too common. Last year, more than 300 complaints were filed with the BBB about bridal shops, wedding photographers, wedding planners and other suppliers. That doesn’t count the 108 complaints about disc jockeys, banquet facilities and transportation companies.

Beware of one-day specials, discounts for advance payment and hidden costs as you meet potential vendors. Read contracts and ask questions before you sign anything. Be wary of vendors that ask you to pay most of the fees in advance. Ask about refund policies on deposits or prepayments.

Some common problems that brides encounter include:

Extra fees. Some caterers, hotels or reception venues try to charge extra for “plate splitting,” “cake-cutting” or “corkage” fees, especially if you bring in a cake or liquor purchased from another source. Ask whether any fees apply beyond the cost per person, gratuities or room rental, if applicable. Find out whether there are extra charges for champagne toasts, special linens, chair covers, a raised head table or display stand for the cake.

Dresses that don’t measure up. Brides have complained to the BBB about bridal shops ordering the wrong sizes and colors of gowns as well as dresses that arrive too late for timely alterations. Others complain that stores cut designers’ labels out of sample gowns to make it difficult for brides to comparison shop, an unfair and deceptive practice. Make sure your order specifies new merchandise, sized to fit you and your bridesmaids. Call the shop to remind the staff of your schedule if you don’t hear by the promised time.

Wedding transportation problems. Complaints about limousine service include poor customer service and rigid cancellation policies. Don’t rely on brochures when you hire a limo company. Ask whether the company actually owns the vehicle you want. Get details in writing. Ask how the company handles problems if you aren’t satisfied and what they will charge if you need the vehicle longer on your wedding night. Don’t pay the entire amount in advance.

Musician switch. Brides shouldn’t rely on a web site, demo tape or phone conversation when hiring a band or other music service. Find out where you can hear the musicians play before you hire them. Ask who will actually perform at the reception and get a written commitment from the band or musician, including the amount of time they will play and what it will cost to extend the time the night of the event.

Photographer issues. A common complaint from brides is that the photographer they hired doesn’t show up for the wedding. Rather, he or she sends someone you’ve never met before, and the substitute doesn’t take the shots you had expected. Find out when and how pictures will be delivered, whether you will have the option of getting all the images on a DVD or CD, how much time you will have to choose the pictures and whether other members of your family or wedding party will have access to the pictures.

Many brides complain of long waits for delivery of pictures or albums. Customers of two photography companies in Missouri and Illinois had to wait a year or more for pictures. Some received no pictures at all after they paid several thousand dollars for a photography package.

Floral changes. Fresh flowers are a perishable commodity and the final bouquet or arrangements may need to change depending on what’s available on the wedding day. Make sure you spell out a minimum size or number of stems in each bouquet or arrangement. Ask how the florist will handle any last-minute substitutions and charges, especially if the value of the flowers actually used is markedly different from what you had agreed upon.

Bridal gown preservation. Some bridal shops or other businesses sell bridal gown preservation packages, including cleaning and a box, for $250 or more. Many of these packages are no more than regular dry-cleaning and a cardboard box. Check with a reputable cleaner on the cost of cleaning your gown after the wedding. The cleaner or another supplier may offer an acid-free box and tissue at a more reasonable price.

Wedding memorabilia. Monogrammed napkins, decorations, swizzle sticks, pens or other souvenirs often are marketed as a way to enhance the event or remember the wedding. Resist the temptation to buy stuff that may be overpriced, of poor quality or that adds needlessly to the total bill.

For more information or a report on an individual business, go to www.bbb.org or call 800-649-6814.

National Consumer Protection Week: BBB’s Top Five Tips to Become a Savvy Consumer

3/2/2011

Posted on 3/2/2011 by

National Consumer Protection Week, March 6-12, is an annual effort led by the US Federal Trade Commission to educate the public on how to use their money wisely. As a part of National Consumer Protection Week, BBB recommends five easy steps you can take to become a smart shopper and savvy consumer.

“In a tough economy, it’s more important than ever to protect the money you have from scammers and bad businesses,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB President and CEO. “A few simple steps will go a long way to fighting off the common cons and rip-offs that steals millions from unsuspecting consumers every year.”

As a part of National Consumer Protection Week, BBB recommends five tips to protect your wallet against scammers, become a smart shopper and savvy consumer.

Get everything in writing and always read the fine print.
Contracts, customer agreements and fine print protect the business and outline the terms of the agreement with the customer. While it’s natural to want to avoid reading the legalese, it’s important that customers understand their rights. Whenever signing a contract, BBB recommends reading the fine print carefully—even if it means taking it home and sleeping on it. Also, don’t just take a sales associates’ word for it; get all verbal promises in writing.

Protect your identity—and your pocketbook.
Fighting identity theft means staying vigilant online and off. Protect your identity by taking the following steps:

Always shred sensitive documents that include personal financial information such as bank, credit card and Social Security numbers.
Monitor your financial accounts closely to more quickly detect suspicious activity.
Make sure your computer has up-to-date anti-virus software and be extremely selective when opening attachments or clicking on links in e-mails.
Shop online through secure sites only and always confirm that the business is trustworthy before entering your credit or debit card number.

Never wire money to someone you don’t know.
Many scams bilk victims by convincing them to wire money. The reasons for wiring the money can vary and include mystery shopping, paying fees to win a lottery, and—if the target is a small business owner—overpayment for goods or services. Scammers know it’s extremely difficult to track money sent via MoneyGram or Western Union. More troubling for victims is the fact that it’s nearly impossible to get your money back. Even if you’ve been given a check to supposedly cover the amount you’re wiring, never send money to someone you don’t know personally.

Know where to complain.
If you’ve been ripped off by a business, there are any number of organizations and government agencies that want to hear about it. You can file a complaint with:

Your Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org/us/file-complaint,
Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov, and
Your state Attorney General or consumer protection bureau.

If you’ve been ripped off by a scam online—such as a phishing email or deceptive website—you can also file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.IC3.gov.

Always check businesses out with BBB.
Nearly 400,000 businesses bear the BBB seal of accreditation and meet our standards; you can find the seal on websites and at business locations. However, BBB doesn’t just report on accredited businesses. You can check out BBB Business Reviews for nearly 4 million businesses across North America for free by visiting www.bbb.org/us/Find-Business-Reviews/. A BBB Business Review will tell you how many complaints the company has received, whether the company responds to complaints and much more.

5 Tips to Avoid Hackers and Computer Viruses

2/23/2011

Posted on 2/23/2011 by

Knowing how to use the Internet in the 21^st century can only be equivocated to having a super power. You can do things that people 30 years ago thought only The Jetsons would be able to accomplish: send letters without needing postage, turn your car on from your phone, operate traffic lights and fire, police and ambulance notification systems. The world is your oyster. However, like any super power, if all of this control is placed in the wrong hands, personal and public safety is called into question.

Here are a few simple tips to follow to stay virus and hacker free.

Hacking

To understand what hacking is, think of it as virtual breaking and entering. A masked villain is infiltrating your computer to steal what is rightfully yours: your virtual property. Once hackers break in, they can alter important information, delete key files, and even crash an entire network of computers.

Most often, computer hackers break into large consumer websites. The goal: to steal bank account and credit card information. Consider these tips for your Internet security:

· Use a firewall. Even though hackers usually affect large company websites, that does not mean that home networks are completely safe. With a firewall in place, you can control your security, and filter what information from the internet is safe and what is not.

· Use caution when giving out personal information on the internet. We hear it all the time, but do we really listen? Use software to keep information safe, and only give out your information if you trust the company. Check the BBB Business Review before buying from a company of which you have no direct knowledge.

· Ignore your preconceived notions. Kids hack too. It’s hard to imagine a teenager that has the power and knowledge to bring a network of computers to their knees, but it’s been done. According to Martha Stansell-Gamm, Head of the Justice Department’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, an 18 year old “instructed 7,000 computers to attack Microsoft networks.” Teach your children safe computer practices, just as you would teach them that robbing a bank or driving drunk is wrong. Just because it’s virtual doesn’t mean the consequences are virtual too.

Viruses

Viruses are similar to hacking in that they exist to impair or destroy the infrastructure of your computer. However, much as its name would signify, a virus is like a common cold. It is easily passed from computer to computer through the Internet with nothing more that the click of a button or the opening of an email. Once it reaches as far as it can, the virus takes over the hosting computer.

Unfortunately, for its victims, viruses infect your computer often before you even know what you did wrong.

· Don’t open emails that are suspicious. It’s relatively common knowledge that you shouldn’t open an email that touts “FREE FREE FREE” or “VIAGRA CHEAP” in the subject line, but the landscape of email viruses has changed in the last few years. Now, viruses can appear as if they are coming from someone in your contacts. Make sure to monitor subject lines, even if you know the sender, and if you are the victim of an email virus, immediately warn your contacts because they are the next target. After that, change your password often over the next few weeks.

· Back up your information. Viruses can affect just your email, but, too often, they spread throughout your entire computer. While buying a new computer can be painful, losing pictures, documents and music can hurt even more. Once a month, once a week, even once a day, take the time to back up information that you can’t live without.

In conclusion, use your powers for good, but remember that the Internet houses many-a-Lex Luthor just waiting in the shadows for the opportunity to wreak havoc on your virtual life.

Clothing Prices Expected to Rise 10% in 2011

2/16/2011

Posted on 2/16/2011 by

The era of falling clothing prices is ending.

Clothing prices dropped for a decade as tame inflation and cheap overseas labor helped hold down costs. Retailers and clothing makers cut frills and experimented with fabric blends to cut prices during the recession.

But as the world economy recovers and demand for goods rises, a surge in labor and raw materials costs is squeezing retailers and manufacturers who have run out of ways to pare costs.

Cotton has more than doubled in price over the past year, hitting all-time highs. The price of other synthetic fabrics has jumped roughly 50 percent as demand for alternatives and blends has risen.

Clothing prices are expected to rise about 10 percent in coming months, with the biggest increases coming in the second half of the year, said Burt Flickinger III, president of Strategic Resource Group.

Brooks Brothers' wrinkle-free men's dress shirts now cost $88, up from $79.50. Levi Strauss & Co., Wrangler jeans maker VF Corp., J.C. Penney Co., Nike and designer shoe seller Steve Madden also plan increases.

More specifics on price hikes are expected when clothing retailers such as Penney and Abercrombie & Fitch Co. report financial results this month.

"All of our brands, every single brand, will take some price increases," said Eric Wiseman, chairman and CEO of VF Corp., whose brands include The North Face, Nautica, Wrangler and Lee. Cotton accounts for half the production cost of jeans, which make up about one-third of VF's sales, he told investors in November.

Higher costs also will affect how clothes are made. Clothing makers are blending more synthetic fabrics like rayon and designing jeans with fewer beads and other embellishments. Shoppers also will have fewer color choices.

Retailers are trying to figure out whether consumer demand that gave them strong holiday sales will last. The fear is higher prices will nip that budding demand. Stores that cater to low- and middle-income shoppers will have the hardest time passing along price increases.

"We have been so used to deflation for years and years," said David Bassuk, managing director in the retail practice of AlixPartners. "Customers are going to be surprised."

Clothing Prices Expected to Rise 10% in 2011

2/16/2011

Posted on 2/16/2011 by

The era of falling clothing prices is ending.

But as the world economy recovers and demand for goods rises, a surge in labor and raw materials costs is squeezing retailers and manufacturers who have run out of ways to pare costs.

Cotton has more than doubled in price over the past year, hitting all-time highs. The price of other synthetic fabrics has jumped roughly 50 percent as demand for alternatives and blends has risen.

More specifics on price hikes are expected when clothing retailers such as Penney and Abercrombie & Fitch Co. report financial results this month.

"We have been so used to deflation for years and years," said David Bassuk, managing director in the retail practice of AlixPartners. "Customers are going to be surprised."

Clothing Prices Expected to Rise 10% in 2011

2/16/2011

Posted on 2/16/2011 by

The era of falling clothing prices is ending.

But as the world economy recovers and demand for goods rises, a surge in labor and raw materials costs is squeezing retailers and manufacturers who have run out of ways to pare costs.

Cotton has more than doubled in price over the past year, hitting all-time highs. The price of other synthetic fabrics has jumped roughly 50 percent as demand for alternatives and blends has risen.

More specifics on price hikes are expected when clothing retailers such as Penney and Abercrombie & Fitch Co. report financial results this month.

"We have been so used to deflation for years and years," said David Bassuk, managing director in the retail practice of AlixPartners. "Customers are going to be surprised."

BBB Urges Caution with Refund Anticipation Loans

2/15/2011

Posted on 2/15/2011 by

BBB warns that two conditions in the marketplace may make getting a Refund Anticipation Loan – a short-term, high-interest advance against your tax refund – even riskier this year. The IRS is no longer providing the Debt Indicator “credit check” service to tax preparers. And the BP oil spill may complicate tax time for taxpayers along the Gulf Coast who aren’t prepared to pay taxes on checks for lost wages.

“Just like payday loans, Refund Anticipation Loans are expensive, short-term loans in which consumers pay to borrow their own money,” said Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of BBB. “But if the tax preparer makes a mistake in calculating their refund or if a refund is delayed for any reason, taxpayers could be required to pay additional fines and fees, too. And given that many taxpayers may not be expecting to receive a 1099 form from BP oil spill funds, it’s possible that some taxpayers could be in for a surprise this year.”

While they may seem like quick cash, the National Consumer Law Center found that the effective annualized rate for RALs can range from about 50 percent to nearly 500 percent. The loans usually only last 7-14 days, until the taxpayer’s IRS refund repays the loan.
The IRS recently changed its policy and no longer provides the Debt Indicator to tax preparers, which revealed whether a taxpayer’s refund might be intercepted for government debts. Without this Debt Indicator, RAL lending is expected to decline and become much riskier and thus even more expensive for taxpayers as well.

Gulf Coast taxpayers who received funds from BP for lost wages may find themselves in unfamiliar territory when they receive an IRS Form 1099 if they are accustomed to only receiving a W-2. And taxpayers accustomed to receiving a refund may be shocked to learn that taxes are not withheld on BP lost wages checks and instead of receiving a refund, they now owe taxes.

Your BBB offers the following advice for taxpayers considering a Refund Anticipation Loan:

Consider e-File and direct deposit: It’s the fastest and most secure way for consumers to receive refunds; taxpayers can have their money in as little as 8 to 15 days.
Don’t fall for the “convenient” debit card: These cards are another way for tax preparers to make money. The debit card often includes hidden fees and some have limits on how much money you can access at one time.
Finance purchases other ways: If consumers are looking to purchase specific high-priced items with their refunds, BBB encourages financing options other than RALs, such as store credit promotions and offers.
If you must, then shop around: If necessary to have a refund immediately, BBB suggests consumers shop around and look for good deals. Fees and RALs vary by tax preparer. Consumers can check out tax preparer’s record of integrity and performance free-of-charge with BBB Reliability Reports, available online at www.bbb.org.

For additional information and advice you can trust this tax season, start with bbb.org or call 402.391.7612 or 800.649.6814.

Make the Right Call When Choosing Cell Phone Plan

2/15/2011

Posted on 2/15/2011 by

Feb. 10 has come and gone. You may not have noticed that the day was any different from any other, but millions of cell phone users would beg to differ. That’s because now they’re calling, texting and messaging via brand-new iPhones on the Verizon network.

Millions more are wondering what all the hullabaloo is about. It’s just a phone, right?

Yes and no. Cell phones are morphing into minicomputers capable of almost everything your laptop does. And like computers, it seems that as soon as you bring one home, it’s obsolete.

It’s enough to make even the savviest of consumers crazy.

To help you stay in touch, the BBB offers the following tips when choosing a cell-phone carrier:

Phones

Buy what’s right for you, not what’s hot right now. If you want a phone with all the bells and whistles, go for it; if not, look for one that has only the features you want to use, such as comfortable keyboard, big screen, maybe a camera.

Plans

Most cell-phone plans are for two years and come with hefty fees if service is canceled before time is up. Two-year plans usually offer incentives on phones and packages that sweeten the deal.

Prepaid cell phones – you pay only for minutes that you need – are another option and could be an economical solution if you aren’t a heavy cell phone user. Many now also offer the popular data and Web options.

Regardless of the plan, it’s important to know how you use your phone. If you’re a heavy texter, it might make more sense to get a plan with unlimited texts. If you don’t text, then why pay for the service?

Coverage

Can you hear me now? Yes, that line makes for a humorous commercial, but it can be a deal breaker. Cell phones are all about making and receiving calls – and if you get poor or no reception, why bother? If possible, “test” a phone’s service reception before you finalize the contract. And while smaller and regional carriers may offer less-expensive plans, the trade-off is in coverage. Small carriers may supplement voice coverage with roaming fees.

Coverage maps are a good indicator of service you can expect. But don’t just take the carrier’s word about their coverage. Check out CellReception.com Type in your zip code to find cell towers registered with the FCC. The more towers your carrier has, the better the reception you’ll have.

Final Tips

Before you sign on the dotted line, read the entire contract, including the fine print. Don’t be pressured into purchasing a plan that doesn’t fit your needs or budget. Make sure you know what the actual monthly bill will be after extra fees are added in. Be sure you understand what’s included in the plan and what’s not included. And before signing on with a wireless carrier, check them out with your BBB at bbb.org

Planning on Buying Flowers for Valentine's Day? Expect to Pay More

2/8/2011

Posted on 2/8/2011 by

Thinking of buying a bouquet for your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day? Get ready to shell out the big bucks for a dozen red roses, the BBB reports.

Most of the roses are grown in California and Ecuador, and growers have to raise prices due to the demand for flowers on the holiday. In turn, wholesalers and florists mark up the prices to make a profit.

In a random sampling of florists, the price of a dozen red roses in a vase ranged from $70 to a whopping $99.50. On average, the prices of roses for Valentine’s Day rose about $20 per dozen.

Popular alternatives to red roses include stargazer lilies, tulips and orchids. Or, simply buy a few red roses and fill out the rest of the bouquet with other pretty, more affordable flowers.

Tips on Choosing a Trustworthy Tax Preparer to File your Return

2/3/2011

Posted on 2/3/2011 by

· Look for credentials. Ideally, your tax preparer should either be a certified public accountant, a tax attorney, or an enrolled agent. All three can represent you before the IRS in all matters, including an audit. Also, find out if the preparer is affiliated with a professional organization that holds its members to a code of ethics.

· Service Fees. Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of your refund

· A larger refund. Be wary of any tax preparation service that promises larger refunds than the competition.

· Never sign a blank return. Avoid preparers that ask you to sign a blank return.

· Think about accessibility. Many tax preparation services only set up shop for the months leading up to April 15. In case the IRS finds errors, or in case of an audit, you might need to be able to contact your tax preparer throughout the year.

· Read the contract carefully. Read tax preparation service contracts closely to ensure you understand issues such as how much it is going to cost for the service, how the cost will be affected if preparation is more complicated and time consuming than expected, and whether the tax preparer will represent you in case of an audit.

· Provide all records and receipts needed to prepare your return. Most reputable preparers will request to see your records and receipts and will ask multiple questions to determine your total income and qualifications for expenses, deductions, and other items.

· Ask around. Get referrals from friends and family on who they use and check the BBB Reliability Report on tax preparation services at www.bbb.org.

BBB Advice: Tax Refund Anticipation Loans Are Costly, Whether You Get A Check Or A Debit Card

2/1/2011

Posted on 2/1/2011 by

In a hurry to get your refund? Some tax preparers offer tax refund anticipation loans, often marketed as “rapid refunds” in the form of checks or “gift” debit cards.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises consumers to be wary of these costly loans. They deliver refunds only slightly faster than the IRS.

Refund anticipation loans are similar to payday loans: They’re short-term loans with high interest rates that can range from 50 to 500 percent. In some cases, they have hidden administrative fees. If the tax preparer makes a mistake in calculating your refund, borrowers could be required to pay fines and fees, too.

“Consumers may assume that the loans will be paid off quickly when their refund arrives, but if the refund is less than the loan, consumers will have to repay the difference, plus fees and fines,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO.

The IRS usually delivers refunds in as few as 10 days after a consumer files a tax return, if the consumer files the return electronically and takes the refund by direct deposit to a bank account. The speed makes most refund loans unnecessary.

This year, the IRS has another option for refunds if a consumer doesn’t have a bank account: a prepaid debit card. The cards, available only by invitation, can be used to get money from ATM machines or to buy goods and services from retailers. The cards arrive faster than checks, the IRS says, and may allow consumers to avoid check-cashing fees.

The BBB advises consumers to be wary of two common tax-time schemes:

Tax reduction schemes are promoted by companies that claim they can help consumers reduce what they owe the IRS by working on their behalf with the IRS. However, the BBB has taken complaints from consumers who paid thousands of dollars to such companies only to find out that the companies didn’t reduce the amount they owed and, in some cases, had never contacted the IRS.

BBB advice: If you have a debt with the IRS, consult an IRS enrolled agent, a certified public accountant or a tax attorney to determine whether you qualify to file for anything other than paying your taxes, fines and penalties in full.

Phishing e-mails may say that there’s an issue with taxpayers’ refunds, that they are being audited or that a problem is delaying processing of their taxes. Many include a link to a website set up by scammers, where victims are asked for Social Security numbers, bank account or credit card information. Some sites are designed to automatically install viruses or other malicious software on the victims’ computers.

BBB advice: The IRS doesn’t e-mail people about their taxes. The agency typically contacts taxpayers by mail. Tip-offs that an e-mail is fraudulent may include spelling or grammatical mistakes. The BBB advises consumers not to open any attachments or click on links in the e-mails.

If you decide to hire a tax preparer, the BBB advises that you:

Ask for referrals from friends, but check the preparer out with the BBB before you hire anyone at www.bbb.org or by calling 402-391-7612 or toll free at 800-649-7814.
Check credentials. Is the preparer a certified public accountant (CPA), a tax lawyer or an enrolled agent? Will the preparer sign your return and provide you with a copy? Does the preparer belong to a professional organization that requires members to adhere to a code of ethics?
Be wary of promises. Until the preparer knows your situation, there is no way to know whether you’ll get a refund or how big it will be.
Check accessibility. You may need to contact your preparer after tax season is over. Will he or she be available?
Read the contract. Know what the service will cost, what it covers and whether the cost changes if you have a complicated return. Will the preparer represent you in case of an audit?
Check your return. Before you sign the return, read it over to check for mistakes. Ask the preparer to explain anything you don’t understand.

For more information or to check a company’s Reliability Report, go to the BBB website, www.bbb.org, or call 402-391-7612 or toll free at 800-649-7814.

Super Sunday Biggest Day in Football; Big Opportunity for Scammers

1/27/2011

Posted on 1/27/2011 by

The Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers will compete for a piece of history in less than two weeks during Super Bowl XLV at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, TX. With tickets at a premium for the nation’s largest and most popular sporting event, BBB warns the potential for ticket scams purchased online or in person could be at an all-time high.

BBB received nearly 1,300 complaints last year from consumers who purchased event tickets from individuals, businesses and third party websites. While most complaints were over refund and exchange issues, several complaints allege paying for tickets and never receiving them. To minimize the risk of losing thousands of dollars, BBB offers the following tips for purchasing Super Bowl tickets:

· Deal with a sports-based ticket company that has a track record with game packages and ticket sales.

· Avoid buying tickets from new online auction sellers or sellers located outside the U.S.

· Be wary of any sellers who say they will have eBay or Craigslist send “verification.”

· Use a credit card or third party escrow company such as PayPal for purchases. They offer additional protection and track the purchase.

· Make sure the website is secure and reputable. Look for the “https” or “lock” symbol in the navigation bar on the Internet browser.

· Read all the fine print to verify ticket delivery dates.

· Do your research at BBB.org to be sure the company is trustworthy.

If you plan on traveling, BBB offers the following tips for purchasing Super Bowl travel packages:

· Confirm whether or not the package has a refund policy before you make any payments.

· Verify the travel package includes guaranteed tickets to the Super Bowl game.

· Get all the details in writing, including final price, cancellation penalties and all other specifics of the package, including the name of the hotel, airline, etc.

· Follow up with the travel promoter a few days before departure to confirm all reservations.

To check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visit BBB.

BBB Teams Up with Chris Hansen, Dateline this Sunday

1/25/2011

Posted on 1/25/2011 by
This Sunday, January 30th at 7pm/6pm CT, Dateline presents a compelling new franchise, "The Hansen Files."

With the help of the Better Business Bureau, Chris Hansen and "Dateline's" hidden cameras uncover secrets and scams-- taking a special look into a nationwide ring of air duct cleaning companies. This brazen scam-- one that has thrived for more than a decade-- cons thousands of consumers out of millions of dollars, and targets one of the most vulnerable segments of the population: the elderly.

"Dateline" discovers that many air duct cleaning companies across the country are using advertising tricks, such as the infamous "bait and switch," promising a low price for the service, only to raise it once in the door. Using hidden cameras, viewers watch what happens as their volunteers call one of the rogue companies. What you'll see next will surprise and offend you, as these air duct cleaners take their volunteers to the cleaners! But the technician will be in for a surprise when Chris Hansen shows up to expose them.

ID Theft Information from the Better Business Bureau

1/20/2011

Posted on 1/20/2011 by

ID Theft Information from the Better Business Bureau

Identity Theft is the largest growing crime in the US today. In 2010, Javelin Strategy and Research and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) released its 2009 statistics.

11.1 million adults were victims of identity theft in 2009
The total fraud amount was $54 billion
The average victim spent 21 hours and $363 out of pocket resolving the crime
4.8% of the population were victims of identity fraud in 2009
13% of identity fraud crimes were committed by someone the victim knew

The more time that has passed between the time of the initial identity theft and the time you first discover it, the more difficult -- and time consuming -- it may be to untangle the mess. So, the sooner you discover the theft -- and the faster you act when you do discover it -- the better.

Identity Theft – There are any number of ways a person can become a victim of identity theft. Through low-tech theft, phishing emails, vishing phone calls, smishing text messages, millions fall victim to identity theft every year, according to BBB.

Phishing: (fish´ing) (n.) The act of sending an email to a user falsely claiming to be an established legitimate enterprise in an attempt to scam the user into surrendering private information that will be used for identity theft. The email directs the user to visit a website where they are asked to update personal information, such as passwords and credit card, social security, and bank account numbers that the legitimate organization already has. The website, however, is bogus and set up only to steal the user’s information.

Vishing: (vish’ ing) (n.) The telephone equivalent of phishing. Vishing is the act of using the telephone in an attempt to scam the user into surrendering private information that will be used for identity theft. The scammer usually pretends to be a legitimate business, and fools the victim into thinking he or she will profit.

Smishing: (smish’ ing) (n.) A compound of 'phishing' and 'SMS'. Smishing (SMS phishing) is a type of phishing attack where mobile phone users receive text messages containing a Website hyperlink, which, if clicked would download a Trojan horse to the mobile phone.

Safeguards to Help Stop ID Theft Before It Happens

1. Protect Your Personal Information

Protect your social security number. Don’t provide it unless required and never write it on checks
Photocopy the front and back of all the credit cards you carry in your wallet and store the copy in a safe place
Never routinely carry your social security card, passport, or birth certificate with you

2. Protect Your Documents

Shred your confidential trash with a cross-cut or diamond cut shredder.
Don’t leave outgoing mail with personal information in your mailbox for pick-up
Retrieve mail as soon as possible after delivery and avoid leaving it in your mailbox overnight

3. Be Vigilant Against Tricks

Never provide personal information to anyone in response to an unsolicited request
Never reply to unsolicited emails from unknown senders

4. Protect Your Communications

Ensure your computer is protected against viruses and spyware and set to update often
If you have wireless internet, make sure it is password protected
Make sure your cordless phone is digital and has a frequency of at least 900MHz.

5. Check Your Credit Report

Order your credit reports at least three times per year (free)
Check financial accounts often and investigate any unusual activity

If Your Identity Is Stolen

Here are some immediate steps you should take:

IMMEDIATELY contact your local police department to report the identity theft. Give the police as much information as you can about how you think the thief obtained your personal information. Sometimes that is easy, as when your pocket is picked or your purse stolen or your house burglarized. Sometimes, you will never have a clue as to how or why this has happened -- but contact the police anyway. You are doing so for two reasons -- first, to try and help the police investigate the crime and, perhaps, spare others. Second, and of equal or greater importance, you want to obtain a copy of the police report you have filed. This will help you establish with others (those who may have granted the thief credit in your name, as well as the various credit reporting agencies) that you are a victim of a crime, not a credit abuser.
IMMEDIATELY contact any one of the three major credit reporting agencies and place a fraud alert on your account. When you receive your reports, carefully review them for any signs of possible fraudulent activity. You are looking for such things as accounts you can't recall opening, inquiries about your credit from places you don't recall applying for credit, incorrect information (Social Security numbers, addresses, etc.). You should report any inaccuracies in writing to the appropriate agency, following the instructions they provide. The agencies will also provide you with assistance in interpreting your report.

Credit Reporting Agencies

Equifax: 800-525-6285, PO Box 740241 Atlanta, GA 30374

Experian: 888-397-3742, PO Box 9530 Allen TX 75013

Trans Union: 800-680-7289, PO Box 6790 Fullerton, CA 92834

Credit Reports

You are allowed 3 free reports each year; to order go to www.annualcreditreport.com or 877-322-8228.

IMMEDIATELY notify any creditors or financial institutions if you suspect fraudulent activity on one of your existing accounts or if you suspect the account was fraudulently opened.
ONCE YOU HAVE DONE THESE THINGS, the need for additional actions and help depends on how long the ID theft has been going on before you became aware of it. If you caught the theft immediately or relatively quickly (your purse was snatched or wallet stolen, for example), you may have nipped the threat of further damage in the bud. But if the thief obtained your personal information from various third parties, with bills and statements going to some other address, you may discover (as some victims have) that the thief has more accounts open in your name than you do. Sorting things out will not be easy, it almost certainly will be time-consuming, and how you tackle the problems will depend on what the thief has done. The Federal Trade Commission has prepared an excellent summary of the various types of problems you might encounter, with suggestions on how to tackle each one.

What Help Can You Get

Fraud alerts. You may call the toll-free number of any one of the three reporting agencies above and ask the customer service representative to place a "fraud alert" on your credit file. A fraud alert is designed to let potential creditors know that some form of fraud has been associated with your credit report. This will mean that potential creditors should confirm that they're really dealing with you and not some imposter. It can help prevent the thief from opening accounts in your name. You should know, however, that this may delay your obtaining credit yourself, since the credit grantor will need to contact you.

As soon as any one of the three agencies confirms your fraud alert, that agency will send you a copy of your credit report; it will also notify the other two agencies that will also send you copies of your report. These are sent free of charge, since they are associated with a fraud (You may be changed for subsequent copies at later dates).

Victim statements. A victim statement tells creditors to contact you before granting credit or other services. As with a fraud alert, a victim statement may cause you some delays in obtaining credit yourself while the credit grantor tries to contact you. If you have a cell phone, you may want to include that number in your statement.

Monitoring services. At the very least, all three reporting agencies will provide you with a copy of your report at any time for a relatively modest fee (your report may be free if you were denied credit within the recent past or you are the victim of a suspected fraud). In addition, all three agencies offer various types of credit monitoring services. For a somewhat larger fee, you can not only receive copies of your report at any time at no additional charge, but you can receive immediate notifications when significant changes happen in your credit file at one -- or all -- of the agencies. Depending on the agency, these might include such information as who has requested your credit report, any new credit accounts that have been opened or any other questionable activity. The agencies may also offer other benefits and fraud assistance to subscribers. Contact any of the three major credit reporting agencies for further information.

File Your Tax Return from Your Smartphone

1/18/2011

Posted on 1/18/2011 by
With spring just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about filing taxes. Luckily, Intuit’s TurboTax has unveiled a handy mobile application to ease the filing process, reports USA Today.

SnapTax allows users who file a 1040EZ to prepare their state and federal income taxes on their smartphones. The app is initially free to download, but costs $14.99 to actually file the tax return.

The app is easy to employ, using optical character recognition to automatically fill out the Form 1040EZ. Users simply take a picture of their W-2 form, and SnapTax automatically transfers the information on the Form 1040EZ. Customers then answer a few simple questions, and can check the form for accuracy before filing. The entire process takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and shows the amount of the refund at the end.

SnapTax was tested in California last year, and more than 2,000 residents downloaded the program to file their state income taxes. The app provides the same security and privacy features used in TurboTax’s software program. However, it is important that customers take extra steps to protect themselves from criminals trying to hijack their information. Smartphone users should always download their apps straight from Apple or Android, and make sure their data is password protected.

To read the full article, visit: http://www.usatoday.com/money/perfi/stocks/2011-01-13-turbotax-mobile-app-smartphone_N.htm

Generation Y Sets the Tone for Auto Purchases

1/18/2011

Posted on 1/18/2011 by

The two most important factors in buying a new vehicle for Generation Y, the age group consisting of 19-31 year olds, are better technology and customer service, reports The Detroit News.

Generation Y is looking for “cockpit” technology, such as built-in Bluetooth capability, and internet connectivity. Shopping experience is three times more important in the buying decision and vehicle design for the younger age group.

The results were presented at the Detroit Auto Show, and come from a study titled, "Gaining Speed: Gen Y in the Driver's Seat" was conducted by students in the master’s of business administration programs at UCLA, Clemson, Columbia, Carnegie Mellon and Michigan State universities. The students found that by 2012, Generation Y will make up 40 percent of the car buying population, 54 percent of those surveyed citing they would be buying a new car within the next two years.

The study also found the following interesting facts about Generation Y:

More than 69 percent will buy a used vehicle in the future.
48 percent plan to drive the same brand in five years.
73 percent prefer imports, up from 48 percent in 2009.
Nearly 89 percent ask friends for advice on a brand or model before buying a car.
67 percent look for information on a brand or model on social networking sites, up from 25 percent in 2009.
More than 52 percent say a bad experience with a dealer would cause them to never consider that brand again.

The HCG Diet: A Recycled Diet in a Web-based World

1/14/2011

Posted on 1/14/2011 by
2011 is here, and it’s not surprising that Bing.com recognized that weight loss again will be one of the most popular researched resolutions for the New Year.

Consumers who hit the net to look for a fast way to shed some pounds will probably come across the “HCG diet” which originated years ago and popular once more.

However, the BBB warns consumers to be wary of advertised claims about the HCG diet.

Origins
The HCG diet dates back to the 1950s and is attributed to Dr. A.T.W Simeons. The diet requires participants to introduce the pregnancy hormone, Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (HCG), into their bodies while following a very strict, very low-calorie diet of about 500 calories a day.

The diet was popular in the 1970s and is now regaining popularity. However, this time around, marketers have the power of Internet marketing on their side, and the BBB has noticed HCG diet advertising gaining momentum.

Claimed Results
Advertisers are claiming that participants are losing up to 40 lbs. in 40 days. HCG diet advocates claim that the introduced HCG decreases appetite which makes the 500 calorie a day diet more manageable. Although advertisers provide numerous clinical studies and testimonials to support their claims, controversy remains about the link between HCG and weight loss.

Criticism
Does HCG really contribute to weight loss? Both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and American Society of Bariatric Physicians (ASBP) say proof is lacking. Both organizations attribute testimonial weight loss to the 500 calorie a day diet.

Since 1975 the FDA has required HCG labeling and advertising to disclose the following:

“HCG is a drug which has not been approved by the food and drug administration as safe and effective in the treatment of obesity or weight control. There is no substantial evidence that HCG increases weight loss beyond that resulting from caloric restriction, that it causes a more attractive or ‘normal’ distribution of fat, or that it decreases the hunger and discomfort associated with calorie-restrictive diets.”

Additionally, in 2009, the ASBP stated that the use of HCG is inappropriate for the treatment of obesity.

The BBB advises anyone who is considering a weight loss plan to check with their own doctor to make sure the plan is safe for that individual and has been shown to be effective.

If you’re aware of other questionable advertisements, feel free to contact your local BBB’s advertising review department.

More Than Ever, BBB Is The Place To Go For Guidance, Help In Resolving Disputes

1/13/2011

Posted on 1/13/2011 by
Consumers and businesses turned to the Better Business Bureau (BBB) in Nebraska, South Dakota and Southwest Iowa more than 5.8 million times last year, a 29 percent increase in activity from 2009.

“For nearly 100 years, the BBB has stood for high ethics and exceptional business standards,” said Jim Hagerty, president and CEO of the BBB. “Last year’s statistics show that the BBB remains the go-to source for information on how businesses conduct themselves with customers, suppliers and other companies, even in the Internet age.”

BBB Reliability Reports and letter grades from A+ to F reflect customers’ experience with businesses over a three-year period. Grades are based on 16 factors, including how long a company has been in business, how it handles disputes and whether complaints are addressed promptly, among other variables.

Requests for BBB reports on businesses jumped to 1,529,848, up 72 percent from 2009. Complaints declined 4 percent to 25,239. The BBB fielded 370,765 telephone calls. However, the bulk of traffic came through the local BBB website, which logged 3.96 million page views for the year, up 17 percent from 2009.

The BBB’s dispute resolution service was able to obtain responses for 84 percent of the 25,239 complaints filed with the BBB by consumers, and 78 percent were resolved, including many by mediation. Just 61 disputes went to arbitration, down 25 percent from 2009.

The cable and satellite television industry again led all other industries in the number of complaints. The cellular telephone industry generated the second largest number, followed by companies that provide Internet sales and services.

Monitoring of advertising remains an important function at the BBB, which challenged 657 ads for questionable claims or noncompliance with BBB standards, an increase of nearly 6 percent. The BBB asked the companies to modify their ads to eliminate false or misleading information.

The BBB’s Charity Information Service produced reports on 954 charities, including 147 who meet all 20 Standards for Charity Accountability. Twice a year the BBB publishes a Wise Giving Guide to nearly 600 charities in Missouri and Illinois. The guide and all charity reports are available online at nebraskabbb.org.

The Nebraska, South Dakota, and Southwest Iowa BBB is known for investigating questionable practices by businesses and charities. Last year, the BBB issued 110 warnings and press releases.

In October, Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster presented the BBB with a Justice Award, recognizing the BBB’s role in building the case for Koster’s lawsuits against 10 service contract firms, which generated the largest number of inquiries at the BBB in 2009 and the second-largest number in 2010.

In March, the BBB issued a report describing the growth of the puppy industry in Missouri that was cited in the successful campaign to further regulate the industry in November. In December, the BBB issued another report on the used car industry, with recommendations for increased vigilance by consumers, dealers and consumer advocates.

BBB services to the public are free. Consumers may obtain Reliability Reports 24 hours a day by going online to bbb.org or by calling 402-391-7612.

More Than Ever, BBB Is The Place To Go For Guidance, Help In Resolving Disputes

1/13/2011

Posted on 1/13/2011 by
St. Louis, Mo., Jan. 11, 2011 – St. Louis, Mo., Jan. 11, 2011 – Consumers and businesses turned to the Better Business Bureau (BBB) in St. Louis more than 5.8 million times last year, a 29 percent increase in activity from 2009.

“For nearly 100 years, the BBB has stood for high ethics and exceptional business standards,” said Michelle L. Corey, president and CEO of the BBB Serving Eastern Missouri and Southern Illinois. “Last year’s statistics show that the BBB remains the go-to source for information on how businesses conduct themselves with customers, suppliers and other companies, even in the Internet age.”

BBB Reliability Reports and letter grades from A+ to F reflect customers’ experience with businesses over a three-year period. Grades are based on 16 factors, including how long a company has been in business, how it handles disputes and whether complaints are addressed promptly, among other variables.

Requests for BBB reports on businesses jumped to 1,529,848, up 72 percent from 2009. Complaints declined 4 percent to 25,239. The BBB fielded 370,765 telephone calls. However, the bulk of traffic came through the local BBB website, which logged 3.96 million page views for the year, up 17 percent from 2009.

The BBB’s dispute resolution service was able to obtain responses for 84 percent of the 25,239 complaints filed with the BBB by consumers, and 78 percent were resolved, including many by mediation. Just 61 disputes went to arbitration, down 25 percent from 2009.

The cable and satellite television industry again led all other industries in the number of complaints. The cellular telephone industry generated the second largest number, followed by companies that provide Internet sales and services.

Monitoring of advertising remains an important function at the BBB, which challenged 657 ads for questionable claims or noncompliance with BBB standards, an increase of nearly 6 percent. The BBB asked the companies to modify their ads to eliminate false or misleading information.

The BBB’s Charity Information Service produced reports on 954 charities, including 147 who meet all 20 Standards for Charity Accountability. Twice a year the BBB publishes a Wise Giving Guide to nearly 600 charities in Missouri and Illinois. The guide and all charity reports are available online at stlouis.bbb.org/charity.

The St. Louis BBB is known for investigating questionable practices by businesses and charities. Last year, the BBB issued 110 warnings and press releases.

In October, Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster presented the BBB with a Justice Award, recognizing the BBB’s role in building the case for Koster’s lawsuits against 10 service contract firms, which generated the largest number of inquiries at the BBB in 2009 and the second-largest number in 2010.

In March, the BBB issued a report describing the growth of the puppy industry in Missouri that was cited in the successful campaign to further regulate the industry in November. In December, the BBB issued another report on the used car industry, with recommendations for increased vigilance by consumers, dealers and consumer advocates. The studies are available online from links in the News Center of the St. Louis BBB website.

BBB services to the public are free. Consumers may obtain Reliability Reports 24 hours a day by going online to www.bbb.org or by calling 314-645-3300. To subscribe to the BBB’s free Consumer e-newsletter, send your e-mail address to bbbstl@stlouisbbb.org.

Contacts: Michelle Corey, President & CEO, 314-645-3300, mcorey@stlouisbbb.org, or Chris Thetford, Director of Communications, 314-645-3300, communications@stlouisbbb.org

BBB: New Year's Health Resolutions Should Include A Dose Of Caution About Diet Claims, Health Clubs

1/5/2011

Posted on 1/5/2011 by
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns consumers to be skeptical of advertisements promising quick and easy ways to lose weight without cutting back on calories or increasing physical activity.

At this time of year, you’re likely to see claims such as, “Lose weight without diet or exercise,” “Block the absorption of fat, carbs or calories!” or “Lose weight with our miracle diet patch or cream.”

Consumers often are lured into buying diet pills, treatments or “cures” with the promise of better health, fitness or appearance. However, many of the products are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and may be ineffective or even harmful.

The BBB advises consumers to apply a healthy dose of skepticism to ads for weight loss products and plans. Doctors, dietitians and other experts agree that the best way to lose weight is to eat less and increase your physical activity so you burn more energy.

In the last year, consumers have filed hundreds of compalints nationally addressing health clubs, health and diet products, weight loss and physical fitness firms. Consumers said the companies either failed to deliver promised results, charged fees that were higher than advertised or, in the case of some health clubs, closed abruptly.

Before you invest money in joining a health club or buying weight loss products, the BBB advises you to beware of false claims and consider your needs and your budget:

Avoid products that claim to help you lose weight without diet or exercise. Doctors, dietitians and other experts agree that losing weight takes work. Pass up any product that promises miraculous results without any effort.
Be skeptical of claims that you don’t have to give up favorite foods or reduce the amount you consume. Try filling up on healthy vegetables and fruits so you can resist high-calorie treats. However, eliminating all your favorites could set you up to fail. It’s better to limit portion size or how frequently you indulge.
Determine your fitness goals. It’s hard work to lose weight, and you need to find a program you can stick with, and preferably one that you enjoy. Find a health club or exercise facility that is convenient and that offers times that fit with your schedule.
Visit the facility before joining. Check on cleanliness, adequacy of space, machines and qualifications of instructors and any other factors important to you. Ask if you can try the facility out before you join.
Consider your budget. Ask the health club about joining or enrollment fees and ongoing monthly costs. Does a weight loss plan require you to buy special foods? Can you cancel if you move or find that the program doesn’t meet your needs? If the facility closes, can you transfer your membership to another facility?
Read the entire contract. Does it list all services and facilities and hours of operation? Is everything the saleperson promised included in the contract? What’s included in the monthly fee and what will cost you extra. What is the total cost, including enrollment fees and finance charges.
Check with the BBB first. Anyone can check a company’s Reliability Report at www.bbb.org or by calling 800-649-6814 during business hours. Look at the firm’s complaint history and whether the complaints were resolved.

Before you begin an exercise program or diet, the BBB advises consumers to consult a doctor for an assessment of their over-all health risk. Get the doctor’s recommendations on weight-loss options and/or exercise regimens that fit your health status and ability to stick with it.

If your doctor prescribes a medication to assist in weight loss, ask about complications or side effects. Tell the doctor about other medications or over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements you may be taking.

Ten Questions to Ask Before Joining a Gym

1/3/2011

Posted on 1/3/2011 by

Before Joining a Gym

Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions after the gluttony of the holiday season. If you’re pledging to lose some pounds this year by joining a gym, the Better Business Bureau recommends asking ten questions before signing on the dotted line.

In 2009 alone, the BBB received 7,787 complaints about gyms and health clubs, putting the industry in the top 20 for most complained about businesses. Not only does the BBB receive a lot of complaints about gyms, but complaints increased by 21 percent in 2009 over the previous year.

“Regardless of how eager you are to start losing weight in the New Year, take the time to do your research before joining a gym and don’t give in to high-pressure sales pitches,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO of the BBB. “Always check the health club out with your Better Business Bureau, inspect the facilities closely and read the contract carefully, making sure that all of the promises are in print.”

The BBB recommends asking the gym and yourself the following 10 questions before signing up for a membership:

Questions to ask the gym:

1. What are the terms of any introductory offers?

Gyms often use special introductory offers to lure in new members. Just make sure you understand the terms and what the price will be once the introductory period is over.

2. Will my membership renew automatically?

Every year, the BBB receives a large number of complaints from people who joined a gym and didn’t realize that their contract would renew automatically and that they would have to take specific steps to cancel their contract.

3. How can I get out of my contract?

Getting out of a gym contract isn’t always as easy as getting into one, so make sure you understand what steps you would need to take to cancel your membership.

4. What happens if I move?

Gyms have any number of different policies when it comes to how moving will affect your membership. It might depend on how far away you’re moving and if they have other locations nearby.

5. What happens if you go out of business?

The BBB often receives complaints from people after their gym suddenly closed up shop and took their money with them. Ask the gym to explain what will happen to your money if they suddenly go out of business.

Questions to ask yourself:

1. What are my fitness goals?

Determining your fitness goals in advance will help you select a facility that is most appropriate for you. If you have a serious health condition, consult with a medical professional when setting your fitness goals.

2. Is this location convenient?

If the gym is across town, you’ll be less likely to workout. Choose a fitness club that is convenient to work or home so the location is not a deterrent to getting exercise.

3. Can I really afford this every month?

Monthly gym fees add up and, after any introductory periods are over, the price could jump higher than your budget can handle. Do the math before you join and make sure you can afford a gym membership.

4. Am I feeling pressured to join?

Do not give in to high-pressure sales tactics to join right away. A reputable gym will give you enough time to read the contract thoroughly, tour the facilities and make an informed decision.

5. Did I get everything in writing?

Read the contract carefully and make sure that all verbal promises made by the salesperson are in writing. What matters is the document you sign, so don’t just take a salesperson’s word for it.

For more advice from the BBB on how to be a savvy consumer all year long, visit bbb.org/us/Consumer-Tips/.

BBB Offers 10 Consumer-Savvy Resolutions For A Safe, Scam-Free New year

1/3/2011

Posted on 1/3/2011 by
There’s no time like a new year to resolve to be a smarter, safer consumer. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has 10 suggested resolutions to help you fight scams, prevent identity theft and save money in 2011.

“Consumers can help themselves survive the economic pinch by creating a budget, researching businesses before buying and learning to recognize red flags of common scams,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO.

“The BBB is a great resource for consumers to use, with a 24/7 website and customer service specialists available by telephone during business hours,” Hegarty said.

The suggested resolutions are:

1. Be skeptical of “job offers” that promise easy money. Unemployment in the nation is high and scammers are targeting the large pool of job hunters. Beware of any job offer, work-at-home scheme or business opportunity that promises big money for little work and no experience.
2. Always check a business out with the BBB before you buy. Nearly 400,000 businesses meet BBB standards and are qualified to use an Accredited Business seal on their websites and at business locations. Visit www.bbb.org to find BBB Reliability Reports for nearly 4 million businesses across North America.
3. Always read the fine print—especially with “free” trial offers. Thousands of consumers complained to the BBB this year after signing up for a “free” trial offer online that resulted in repeated charges to their credit or debit cards, sometimes amounting to hundreds of dollars every month. Read the terms and conditions of any “free” trial offer before handing over credit or debit card numbers.
4. Keep your computer safe. If you haven’t already done so, install anti-virus software on your computer and check regularly for software and operating system updates and patches. Don’t open attachments or click on links in e-mails unless you can confirm the e-mail came from someone you trust.
5. Never wire money to someone you don’t know. Many scams require that the victim wire money back to the scammers. Scammers know that tracking money sent via MoneyGram or Western Union is extremely difficult. Once you’ve wired the money, it’s nearly impossible to get it back.
6. Fight identity theft. Shred paper documents that include sensitive financial data and dispose of computers, cell phones and digital data safely. The BBB offers tips and checklists on what to shred, and hosts annual Secure Your ID events nationwide to help you stay safe.
7. Ask the BBB for help. File a complaint with your BBB if you have a disagreement with a business or have been ripped off by a scammer.
8. Create a budget and stick to it. Setting a budget can help you stay afloat in 2011. The BBB has advice on how to create a budget to help you get out of debt and stay out of debt at www.bbb.org.
9. Fight fake check fraud. Thanks to advances in printing technology, scammers have the ability to create professional-looking phony checks. Educate yourself on the common types of check fraud and be extremely wary of checks that come with claims that you’ve won the lottery, are eligible for a government grant or have landed a job as a secret shopper.
10. Get everything in writing. Don’t just take a company’s word for it. Get every verbal agreement in writing to limit miscommunication and misunderstandings between what you expect and what the business delivers.
Consumers can learn how to protect themselves or find reviews of businesses or charities by calling (402) 391-7612 or by going online to bbb.org.

110103a Ten Questions to ask before Joining a Gym

1/3/2011

Posted on 1/3/2011 by

BBB of WESTERN MICHIGAN, INC

CONSUMER ARTICLE

Issued: 01-03-2011
Contact: Ken Vander Meeden
616-774-8236 or Email: bbbceo@iserv.net
www.bbb.org

January 2011 Consumer Article #1

Ten Questions to Ask
Before Joining a Gym

“Regardless of how eager you are to start losing weight in the New Year, take the time to do your research before joining a gym and don’t give in to high-pressure sales pitches,” said Ken Vander Meeden, President of the BBB Serving Western Michigan. “Always check the health club out with your Better Business Bureau, inspect the facilities closely and read the contract carefully, making sure that all of the promises are in print.”

The BBB recommends asking the gym and yourself the following 10 questions before signing up for a membership:

Questions to ask the gym:

1. What are the terms of any introductory offers?

Gyms often use special introductory offers to lure in new members. Just make sure you understand the terms and what the price will be once the introductory period is over.

2. Will my membership renew automatically?

3. How can I get out of my contract?

Getting out of a gym contract isn’t always as easy as getting into one, so make sure you understand what steps you would need to take to cancel your membership.

4. What happens if I move?

Gyms have any number of different policies when it comes to how moving will affect your membership. It might depend on how far away you’re moving and if they have other locations nearby.

5. What happens if you go out of business?

Questions to ask yourself:

1. What are my fitness goals?

2. Is this location convenient?

If the gym is across town, you’ll be less likely to workout. Choose a fitness club that is convenient to work or home so the location is not a deterrent to getting exercise.

3. Can I really afford this every month?

4. Am I feeling pressured to join?

Do not give in to high-pressure sales tactics to join right away. A reputable gym will give you enough time to read the contract thoroughly, tour the facilities and make an informed decision.

5. Did I get everything in writing?

Read the contract carefully and make sure that all verbal promises made by the salesperson are in writing. What matters is the document you sign, so don’t just take a salesperson’s word for it.

For more advice from the BBB on how to be a savvy consumer all year long, visit www.bbb.org/us/Consumer-Tips/.

BBB Bulletin 4th Quarter 2010

12/28/2010

Posted on 12/28/2010 by
Click here to download the BBB Bulletin for the 4th Quarter of 2010

Check Deductibility, Charity Standards Before Making Year-End Gifts To Charity

12/22/2010

Posted on 12/22/2010 by

The end-of-year battle over taxes in Congress has many Americans wondering how much tax they’ll pay or what they will get back as a refund next year. But one thing is sure: You can only deduct charitable gifts made by the end of the year on this year’s return.

Charities know that many Americans wait until December to make their donations, so mailboxes are stuffed with charitable solicitations as well as catalogs this time of year. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has tips to make your giving more effective as well as deductible.

“Consumers who see the BBB Accredited Charity seal on a charity’s website or other literature can be assured that the charity abides by the BBB’s 20 Standards of Charity Accountability,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB President and CEO. “Of the 571 charities whose reports are available at www.bbb.org, just 143 meet all 20 standards.”

BBB tips that can help you make sure your donation will be used appropriately:

If you are unfamiliar with an organization, don't hesitate to ask the charity for written information about its programs and finances.
Don't succumb to pressure to give money on the spot. A charity that can use your money today will welcome it just as much tomorrow. Watch out for appeals that bring tears to your eyes, but tell you nothing about how your donation will be used.
Before making online donations, determine whether the charity’s website is secure and that it has a privacy policy concerning the use of your name, e-mail address or other personal facts.
When considering supporting a cause-related marketing campaign, find the answers to these questions: What portion of the purchase price will benefit the charity? What is the duration of the campaign? What is the maximum or minimum total contribution? If the information is not on the item, check the organization’s website.
Before donating used items make sure they are in good shape to reuse. Donating junk puts an undue burden on the charity and does more harm than good. You may want to consider selling the item and donating the proceeds to a charity.

The BBB urges donors to seek professional advice if they are in doubt about the deductibility of contributions. Other helpful tips for making donations and updated reports on charities are posted on the BBB website at www.bbb.org. The IRS Web site (www.irs.gov) has information on the deductibility of donations.

Check Deductibility, Charity Standards Before Making Year-End Gifts To Charity

12/22/2010

Posted on 12/22/2010 by

St. Louis, Mo., Dec. 22, 2010 – The end-of-year battle over taxes in Congress has many Americans wondering how much tax they’ll pay or what they will get back as a refund next year. But one thing is sure: You can only deduct charitable gifts made by the end of the year on this year’s return.

Charities know that many Americans wait until December to make their donations, so mailboxes are stuffed with charitable solicitations as well as catalogs this time of year. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has tips to make your giving more effective as well as deductible.

“Consumers who see the BBB Accredited Charity seal on a charity’s website or other literature can be assured that the charity abides by the BBB’s 20 Standards of Charity Accountability,” said Michelle L. Corey, BBB President and CEO. “Of the 571 charities whose reports are available at stlouis.bbb.org, just 143 meet all 20 standards.”

BBB tips that can help you make sure your donation will be used appropriately:

If you are unfamiliar with an organization, don't hesitate to ask the charity for written information about its programs and finances.
Don't succumb to pressure to give money on the spot. A charity that can use your money today will welcome it just as much tomorrow. Watch out for appeals that bring tears to your eyes, but tell you nothing about how your donation will be used.
Before making online donations, determine whether the charity’s website is secure and that it has a privacy policy concerning the use of your name, e-mail address or other personal facts.
When considering supporting a cause-related marketing campaign, find the answers to these questions: What portion of the purchase price will benefit the charity? What is the duration of the campaign? What is the maximum or minimum total contribution? If the information is not on the item, check the organization’s website.
Before donating used items make sure they are in good shape to reuse. Donating junk puts an undue burden on the charity and does more harm than good. You may want to consider selling the item and donating the proceeds to a charity.

The BBB urges donors to seek professional advice if they are in doubt about the deductibility of contributions. Other helpful tips for making donations are posted on the BBB website (www.bbb.org). The IRS Web site (www.irs.gov) has information on the deductibility of donations.

Updated BBB reports on charities are available on the BBB website, www.bbb.org or by calling 314-645-3300.

Contacts: Michelle Corey, President & CEO, 314-645-3300, mcorey@stlouisbbb.org, or Chris Thetford, Director of Communications, 314-645-3300, communications@stlouisbbb.org

Do’s and Don’ts of Giving and Receiving Gift Cards

12/21/2010

Posted on 12/21/2010 by

According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), $23.6 billion was spent on gift cards during the 2009 holiday season with an average of $40 spent per card. The two most popular categories for gift cards were restaurants and department stores. It’s no wonder why gift cards are all the rage; they are simple, fun and almost always guaranteed to please.

Unfortunately, in a down economy some consumers may try to cut corners and purchase “discounted” gift cards from auction Web sites. According to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) gift cards bought from such sites or classifieds often turn out to be fraudulent or stolen.

BBB’s do’s and don’ts for giving gift cards:

o Don’t from online auction sites – only buy gift cards from reputable retailers. Gift cards sold at online auction sites are more likely to be counterfeit or obtained by fraudulent means. It’s even possible these cards could have no value when purchased.

o Do examine gift cards closely before purchasing them at stores. Do not purchase cards that appear to have been tampered with. Criminals have been able to get info off of cards and wipe out their balances leaving you with a worthless purchase. It may be best to buy them from the customer service counter as opposed to a public rack.

o Do read the terms and conditions that are required to be clearly disclosed on the card’s packaging prior to purchasing. Understand any associated fees and expiration dates.

o Do give the recipient the original receipt to verify the card’s purchase, in case it’s lost or stolen.

BBB’s do’s and don’ts for receiving gift cards:

o Do treat your card like cash. If it’s lost or stolen, immediately report it to the issuer.

o Don’t wait to use your card. It’s not unusual to misplace gift cards or to forget you have them. Using the card early will ensure you get its full value, as some terms deplete the balance over certain time period.

Complaints against Debt Settlement Companies on the Rise

12/16/2010

Posted on 12/16/2010 by

Better Business Bureau is warning financially troubled families to beware of misleading debt settlement companies that claim they can easily reduce or eliminate credit card debt. Since the start of the recession, BBB has received more than 3,500 complaints from individuals, including many who paid hundreds of dollars in upfront fees to debt settlement companies but only fell deeper into debt.

“The debt settlement industry is flourishing and many families are being lured into believing that debt settlement is an easy fix and that their credit card debt will just disappear,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “The truth is that the process doesn’t work for many consumers, it has potentially serious negative consequences, and should primarily be used as a last ditch effort to stave off bankruptcy.”

A company called Nelson Gamble & Associates located in Irvine, CA has an “F” rating with the BBB. It advertises debt settlement services with no up front fees. Consumers using the services are required to make monthly payments into an escrow account until sufficient amounts are accrued to make settlement offers to creditors. Complainants allege inability to cancel contracts, stop monthly deductions from accounts, and obtain refunds. Customers complain if they attempt to cancel, they are unable to obtain refunds for amounts paid towards their debt settlement accounts. Most complainants request refunds.

An Omaha consumer contacted Nelson Gamble & Associates to have them help resolve her credit card debt after hearing their ad on TV. In May, 2010 she began sending the company $225 per month for a total of $1,774. She was told that this money was being put into a savings account to pay off her debts and the company would notify her creditors. Unfortunately, this week, she was summoned to court because her creditors had not been paid since May. All her attempts to contact Nelson Gamble have been gone unanswered.

“Our experience with debt negotiating companies is that they attract customers with large credit card debt by claiming to be able to settle those debts for a fraction of their face value. They often claim that their services are more effective than those provided by credit counseling services and they are a superior alternative to bankruptcy. What they are supposed to do, while they’re saving your money, is to contact your creditors and inform them that they’re working with you, negotiate a settlement and ask them stop contacting you. Unfortunately, nothing had been done by Nelson Gamble & Associates to help the Omaha consumer who contacted the BBB in desperation,” stated Hegarty.

BBB warns families that are drowning in debt to look for the following red flags when considering getting help from a debt settlement or negotiation firm:

High upfront fees – Beware of companies that require large upfront fees before any debts are settled. Often, these upfront fees may be better used to reduce a consumer’s overall debt.
Promises that are too good to be true– Some companies might promise that they can reduce debt by more than half even before looking into the customer’s financial situation.
Claims that it’s a fast, easy and painless process. - Reducing debt through debt settlement takes time—often years—and can have a significant negative impact on the customer’s credit score. It can also expose consumers to lawsuits and garnishments.

Before enlisting the help of a debt settlement company, BBB recommends that struggling consumers:

Contact their lender first. – Try to work out an agreement directly with your lenders before enlisting outside help.
Seek help from a non-profit credit counseling center – Credit counseling centers can provide guidance for little or even no cost. You can find reliable, trustworthy credit counseling organizations near you at bbb.org or by calling 800-649-6814.
Research the debt settlement firm with BBB first. Find out how many complaints it has received, how the firm responded to complaints and whether or not there are any recent government actions or lawsuits against the company.
Consider debt settlement only as a last resort before filing for bankruptcy. The debt settlement process can take years and have a severely negative impact on your credit rating and can limit your access to future credit. In the meantime, your credit card company or other creditors can decide to take you to court and garnish your wages. It is best to avoid these potential consequences if you have other workable alternatives to dealing with your debt.

Check Privacy Policy on "Dear Santa" Websites

12/15/2010

Posted on 12/15/2010 by

More than 60 domain names have been registered in the name of Santa Claus, offering children a wide range of opportunities to e-mail St. Nick. But before allowing children to share personal information with a “Letter to Santa” website, the Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU) recommends that adults carefully review the site to determine who is seeking the information, how it will be used and whether it will be shared with third parties.

“Even Santa is required to comply with CARU’s Online Privacy Protection guidelines and the federal Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act,” said Wayne J. Keeley, CARU’s director.

All Websites directed to children – or websites designed with a special children’s section – should have a privacy policy that explains the site’s information collection practices. The privacy policy should include the name of the company and the company’s complete contact information.

It should also state whether the company shares information with third parties, including advertisers, and whether the company publically discloses the information or retains the information for any future purpose.

CARU offered the following ‘Dear Santa’ site review tips:

Websites directed to children should not ask a child to disclose more information than is reasonably necessary to participate in the activity – a first name and email address, for instance.

Limit the personal information children share with Santa and omit physical addresses – Santa already knows where all the children live.

Check websites for unwelcome content. Some sites are geared toward adults and may contain language or advertising adults may not want children to see.

Since hyperlinks can allow children to move seamlessly from one site to another, investigate the hyperlinks to assure children don’t access inappropriate content.

For more information on Website safety and children, please visit CARU at www.CARU.org.

BBB Consumer Alert: Beware Twitter and eBay Phishing Scams

11/29/2010

Posted on 11/29/2010 by

Crooks continue to impersonate well-known companies to try to steal identities in phishing scams. The BBB is warning consumers about two recent email scams that claim to be from Twitter and eBay.

One email claims to be from eBay, announcing that they have launched a new safety initiative called Trusted Security Shield with Identity Confirmation. The email claims it will help protect eBay users from unauthorized listings in that seller’s name. It also states that eBay and PayPal members must install this in order to safely continue using their services. Ironically, it even includes a link to more information on how to protect yourself from scam emails

The other email says it’s from Twitter. It claims that you have two unread messages from @inordinate and instructs you to click on a link. There’s another link in the email that you are instructed to click on if you think you received the message in error.

According to BBB, the links in both emails actually redirect you to overseas websites that attempt to download and install hostile software on your computer. This software will infect your computer and attempt to capture your user names, passwords and other critical financial information. With this information, the crooks can commit identity theft and other fraudulent transactions with your online banking and credit cards. In previous instances this software has been used to transfer money overseas via your PayPal account.

BBB reminds you to never click on links or open attachments in unsolicited emails - doing so will likely download a virus or other form of malware onto your computer. If you are a member of one of the websites, always manually type in the address of the site to make sure you are on the entity’s real site.

FTC Rules Protecting Homeowners From Mortgage Relief Scams May Be Too Late For Some

11/29/2010

Posted on 11/29/2010 by

New rules from the Federal Trade Commission that ban collection of advance fees by companies that promise to rescue struggling homeowners from foreclosure may be too late to help homeowners victimized by a Maryland firm that federal authorities have shut down.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) said court action against Residential Relief Foundation of Halethorpe, Md., serves as yet another warning to homeowners looking for outside help in reducing payments and avoiding foreclosure.

“Many families have been persuaded that debt settlement or mortgage modification is an easy fix that will make their debt melt away effortlessly,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “The truth is that there is no magic formula for debt relief. In many cases, dealing with these firms is a recipe for personal financial disaster.”

The Federal Trade Commission said that Residential Relief Foundation representatives violated federal law by falsely claiming they could modify loans and significantly lower mortgage payments. The FTC also said the company improperly disposed of consumers’ information by placing them in unsecured dumpsters. In addition, the company wrongly implied it was affiliated with the federal government.

A federal court ordered Residential Relief shut down, appointed a receiver and froze the defendants’ assets, pending trial.

The BBB has processed more than 60 complaints about the company this year, including several from Nebraska and 27 other states.

The BBB has received more than 3,500 complaints about misleading debt settlement offers in the last three years. Many consumers said the firms left them deeper in debt instead of providing help in paying off creditors.

In addition to the advance fee loan ban, the new FTC rules require companies to disclose key information to protect consumers from being misled. Companies must disclose that:

They are not associated with the government, and their services have not been approved by the government or the homeowner’s lender.
The lender may not agree to change the consumer’s loan.
Borrowers could lose their home and their credit rating may be damaged if they stop making payments.

Companies cannot make false claims about the likelihood that consumers will get the results they seek or about their affiliation with a government or private firm.

The FTC also bars companies from telling consumers to stop communicating with their lenders or mortgage servicers. Companies also must be able to back up any claims they make about the benefits, performance or effectiveness of their services.

Attorneys are exempted from the rules if they are engaged in the practice of law, if they are licensed in the state where the consumer or the house is located and if they are complying with state laws and regulations. Attorneys may only collect advance fees if the money is placed in a client trust account and if they abide by state laws and rules covering those accounts.

The advance fee loan ban takes effect Jan. 31. All the other provisions of the FTC rules take effect Dec. 29.

The BBB advises consumers who are having trouble paying their mortgages to first talk to their lender. Some lenders may be willing to work out a payment plan or consider a loan modification if the borrower isn’t too far behind or still has equity in the house. Some nonprofit community groups and government agencies also may be able to provide help renegotiating a loan.

The BBB advises consumers to ask questions, consider fees and all other financial obligations before entering into a new or modified mortgage. Things to watch out for include:

Excessive Mortgage Broker Compensation. Some mortgage brokers attempt to sell the borrower on a loan with the most fees and highest interest rate possible to increase the broker’s compensation. Some charge fees of 8 to 10 points. That means that on a $100,000 loan, the borrower is paying and financing an additional $8,000 to $10,000.
Excessive Points and Fees. Most borrowers can expect to pay a 1% origination fee and possibly another 1% of the loan amount in points, as well as basic closing costs, which would include appraisal and attorney's fees. Some predatory lenders load up loans with these up-front charges and charge additional "junk fees" to pad the closing costs.
Emphasis on Monthly Payment. Many brokers advertise "bill consolidation" home equity loans, which consolidate all debts into one loan. The problem with this is that the consumer is trading short-term debt for long-term debt. Instead of paying off credit card bills in three to four years, the new consolidation loan will take 15 to 30 years to pay off.
Balloon Payments. Another way for a predatory lender to reduce the monthly payment is to have the borrower pay only the accrued interest each month. Such financing will result in a huge balloon payment at the end of the repayment term, usually after 15 years. If the borrower is elderly, it will be very difficult to refinance the loan, and foreclosure may become inevitable.
Equity Stripping. Unscrupulous lenders target consumers with a significant amount of equity in their home, offering to lend more than the borrower can afford. The borrower defaults and the lender then forecloses and sells the house, stripping the homeowner of the equity he has earned over the years.
Flipping. This occurs when predatory lenders encourage consumers to repeatedly refinance their loan. Each time the loan is refinanced the lender charges more fees, placing the borrower further in debt over a longer period of time.

Before doing business, check with the BBB for a Reliability Report on a business or charity by going to www.bbb.org or by calling 800-649-6814.

Shoppers Can Avoid Post-Holiday Blues By Shopping Smart, Keeping Receipts

11/22/2010

Posted on 11/22/2010 by

With Christmas decorations going up before Halloween, the pressure to spend money on holiday gifts starts well before Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving that traditionally is one of the biggest shopping days of the year. Smart shoppers try to snap up bargains without overspending.

Last year, shoppers planned to spend about $699 on average over the holidays, but actually spent closer to $811, or 16 percent more than planned, according to Consumer Reports.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises consumers to arm themselves with a budget and knowledge about the items they plan to buy before hitting the stores. Setting limits can help you avoid a deluge of post-holiday bills.

“The temptation to spend can be strong this time of year, especially with some retailers pushing deferred billing or zero-percent financing for gifts,” said Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of the BBB serving Nebraska, South Dakota and southwest Iowa. “Consumers need to stick to budgets so they don’t find themselves overwhelmed by debt next year.”

Shoppers should be wary of exaggerated claims of discounts, whether shopping online, in a mall or at a free-standing store. Be sure to shop around to compare prices, matching descriptions or model numbers of items you want to buy.

When buying gifts, it’s important to obtain and keep receipts for all purchases, in case the recipient needs to return an item. Many stores will provide gift receipts upon request, which allow returns but don’t show the recipient how much you paid for an item.

Be sure to check a store’s return and refund policy before you make a purchase. Although some stores relax their return policies during the holiday season, others may require that returns be made within a few days of purchase. Some only allow returns if a product is defective while others may give store credit instead of cash refunds.

While online shopping can be a way to avoid crowded stores, shoppers need to be careful of the sites they patronize. When shopping online, be sure to:

Check the site’s security settings and read the company’s policy on sharing information with other sites. If the site is secure, its address should start with https://. You also may see a picture of a small closed lock in the lower right corner of the screen.
Know the company’s refund and return policies before ordering. Are there restocking fees? Do you have to pay shipping costs on returns?
Do not rely on pictures of a product on a website. Read the description and check model numbers, if applicable.
Be cautious of free or very-low-price offers. Often, free offers are followed by an open-ended enrollment in a program that automatically bills your credit card account every month. Before ordering anything online, make sure you click on and read all terms and conditions.
Pay with a credit card whenever possible. That way, you can challenge the charge in the event of a dispute.
Obtain a tracking number for shipments. If you need the product before the holidays, find out when the seller intends to ship it and if possible, how it will be shipped.

Toy safety also has become a concern for many parents. Make sure any toys you buy are appropriate for the age of the child. If possible, inspect toys carefully to look for sharp edges that may cut, moving parts that can pinch or small, removable pieces that can be a choking hazard. Toy chests should have air holes, and fabric products should be flame-resistant. Check for a UL (Underwriters Laboratories) seal on electric toys.

Research any company carefully before doing business with it. Check out BBB Reliability Reports online at www.bbb.org or by calling 800-649-6814.

Customers of Weight Loss Product May Receive FTC Check

11/18/2010

Posted on 11/18/2010 by

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has already received calls about a check received from the Federal Trade Commission, (FTC).

“We constantly warn the public to beware of fake checks received in the mail, some of which fraudulently use familiar names of real companies and organizations to gain the trust of recipients,” said Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of the BBB. “So it’s no wonder people are verifying first before cashing the check.”

Luckily, this check is not, in fact, fake or fraudulent and has been sent to 34,130 consumers from the FTC. According to the FTC, each check is a refund in the amount of $17.89 and is being sent to customers who were deceived into buying “Ab Force” electronic stimulation devices. The FTC says that advertisements for these devices falsely claimed they could help people lose weight.

To avoid being a victim of fraud, it is important to remember that the FTC never requires that money be paid up front, additional information to be provided before consumers can cash their refund checks.

To see the FTC’s entire news release, click here: http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2010/11/telebrands.shtm.

Finding a Trustworthy Kennel to Board Your Pets

11/18/2010

Posted on 11/18/2010 by

As much as pet owners may want to take their furry or feathered friends with them where ever they go, sometimes you can’t take them with you and finding a kennel or pet care service you can trust is paramount. That’s why the Better Business Bureau has created a checklist to help pet owners choose a safe and reliable home-away-from-home for their pets.

Every year, BBB receives hundreds of complaints from pet owners about kennels. Common complaints include disputes over billing, but also over the treatment of the pet. Owners say their pets came back from poor boarding kennels severely dehydrated and malnourished or rife with fleas, ticks, and even maggots. Worst case scenarios include pets that became extremely ill from their stay at poor facilities which resulted in lengthy stays at the animal hospital.

“For many of us, our pets are like family and leaving them in the care of someone else can be nerve-wrecking and the stress can overshadow your whole trip,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “Taking a few moments to do your research and find a kennel you can trust will make your time out of town much easier for you and your pet.”

If you are looking for a reliable kennel, the BBB recommends the following checklist:

Check the kennel out with the BBB first to make sure they have a good track record for keeping customers satisfied.
Ask your friends, neighbors, veterinarian or local animal shelters for recommendations. Also, the Pet Care Services Association website has a pet service locator that may be helpful in your search.
Personally visit the facilities. Check for cleanliness and offensive odors, and note the overall safety of the kennel and cages.
If your pet is prone to running away, ask about steps the kennel has taken to make their facilities escape-proof.
Ask about how your pet may come in contact with other animals. Some kennels let animals play together while others keep them separate at all times.
If your state requires inspections look for the certificate on the wall and make sure the kennel is properly licensed.
Ask about the feeding schedule, water accessibility and frequency of – or fees related to – exercise.
Note the friendliness of staff members and how they interact with the other boarding pets. Ask about their background and experience.
Make sure the facility requires that all entering pets have proof of immunization and ask about their policies regarding flea and tick control.
Ask about the hours for drop off and pick up and make sure you understand their billing policy.
Finally, ask what happens in the case of a medical emergency or other unexpected situation.

For more advice on finding reputable businesses around the holidays, visit us online at www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-holiday/

DOD Launches Careers Website for Young People

11/4/2010

Posted on 11/4/2010 by
The Department of Defense’s Joint Advertising Market Research and Studies (JAMRS) program recently announced the launch of a new website, www.myfuture.com. The site provides information on college, trade school and military opportunities from the Departments of Defense, Education and Labor. The site is aimed at young people ages 16-24.

The website was launched after the Department of Defense discovered there were few career-oriented websites that offered information on military careers.

Myfuture.com is unbiased, however, providing details on more than 1,000 military and civilian career fields, and data on over 7,000 colleges and trade schools. The website also provides tips for interviews, taking tests, and preparing for military training, to name a few. For more information, visit www.myfuture.com.

To read the full article, click here.

More Consumers Are Checking with the Better Business Bureau Before Making a Purchase

11/4/2010

Posted on 11/4/2010 by

A recent spending poll from Harris Interactive, an internet-based market research company, states that more than 20 percent of American consumers have stopped buying non-essential items such as morning coffee and bottled water.

Consumers have also been cancelling their subscriptions to magazines and cable TV because of the current economic environment. A full two-thirds are buying more generic brands.

For your BBB, this means the information we provide is more important and relevant than ever.

“We are finding that the number of people, who are checking with us first, before they part with their hard-earned money, is sharply on the rise,” according to Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. The four million reliability reports in our national database are easy to access and give consumers valuable information to help them make an informed decision.

The first thing a consumer should do when considering buying a product or service is to start with bbb.org and look up a business’s reliability report.

Not only is this what consumers should do, in fact this is what they are doing. The number of people checking up on a business before making a handing over their hard earned money have more than doubled. Reports read in the last three months are up 108.75 percent compared to the same months in 2009. In September 2010, more than 51,000 local reliability reports where read by consumers wanting to know more about a company’s background.

Debit and Credit Card Skimming is on the Rise

10/29/2010

Posted on 10/29/2010 by

A consumer alert about debit and credit card skimming was recently issued in response to increased reports about this crime across the United States.

Card skimming is a crime that involves the, ‘skimming’ or stealing of information implanted in your card’s magnetic strip. This is accomplished when a criminal attaches a device at the mouth of a card-acceptance slot that records the data on your card as you slide it in. The criminal returns to the ATM or gas pump at a later time to collect the device containing all of the stolen account information.

According to a recent article in Shop Smart Magazine, this scam is becoming even more sophisticated. The article quotes Brian Krebs, a computer security expert who says that criminals no longer have to return in person to collect the device and that the information can be sent to them wirelessly via text message.

“Paying for gas using a card and using ATMs are such common transactions. With this crime increasing and becoming more refined, consumers need to be very cautious when making these transactions and extremely vigilant of their accounts,” says Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO.

The BBB offers the following tips when using ATMs or paying for gas by card:

· Use your credit card at the gas pump instead of your debit card. This way, if you become victimized you haven’t lost the money directly. You can contact your credit card company and they will get the fraudulent charges removed. If money is stolen directly from your bank account, this could have much worse consequences for you and getting the money replaced could take quite some time.

· Avoid using ATMs that are not located at a bank. These ATMs are often less secure so thieves have more opportunity to tamper with them.

· Look closely at the machine you are putting your card into. If it appears compromised in any way, (i.e. plastic sticking out, anything out of the ordinary attached) do not use it.

· If your card gets stuck in machine, do not leave the area. Call your bank right away and report the issue.

· Monitor your accounts daily for any fraudulent activity. The sooner you detect fraud, the better off you will be at resolving it quickly and keeping it from continuing.

The Council of Better Business Bureaus Joins the Identity Theft Council in the Fight Against Identity Theft in the U.S.

10/29/2010

Posted on 10/29/2010 by

The Council of Better Business Bureaus today announced that it has become an official supporter of the newly launched Identity Theft Council (ITC), one of the largest national community-based identity theft victim support and education initiatives. The ITC is a non-profit, grassroots movement, aiming to find more effective ways to combat identity theft at a local level and to provide better long-term support for victims. The San Francisco Better Business Bureau will participate in the first regional launch of the ITC in San Francisco today and brings the support of the nationally-trusted non-profit organization to the partnership.

”The Identity Theft Council is an unprecedented coalition of national and community-based organizations who are taking on the challenge of fighting ID theft and helping victims recover from its devastating impact,” said Stephen A. Cox, President and CEO of the Council of Better Business Bureaus. “The Better Business Bureau is proud to be supporting this important grassroots initiative to help consumers fight fraud.”

The founder and executive director of the ITC, nationally renowned security expert Neal O’Farrell, has seen first-hand the many challenges that law enforcement agencies face when it comes to handling the hundreds of identity theft cases that come across their desks each day. As a way to remove the burden from law enforcement and provide assistance to victims of identity theft, O’Farrell and founding partner Intersections Inc., established the ITC.

The ITC is creating a nationwide network of local partnerships between law enforcement, the financial industry, and community volunteers to provide hands-on support for victims of identity theft, help law enforcement provide a more coordinated response, and to improve education and awareness. The ITC’s first line of defense is its locally trained volunteer counselors; these individuals lead victims of identity theft through the response and recovery process. For more complex identity theft cases, ITAC, the Identity Theft Assistance Center, operated by Intersections Inc. on behalf of the Identity Theft Assistance Corporation, will provide additional outside support and recovery services. The ITC is also providing police departments with free, specialized training they need to assist victims.

“The mission of the Identity Theft Council is to provide identity theft victims with greater long term support and recovery assistance in their local communities while helping to reduce the incidence of identity theft by improving local awareness and education,” said Neal O’Farrell. “We are thrilled that the Council of Better Business Bureaus has decided to join us in our efforts.”

In early 2010, the pilot program was implemented in more than two dozen cities and police departments across the San Francisco Bay Area including Hayward County, Alameda County and Contra Costa County. By the end of 2010, more than 100 cities and communities across northern California are expected to be participating in the ITC, creating a model and launch pad for Councils to form across the country.

About the Identity Theft Council
Established in early 2010 in the San Francisco Bay area, the Identity Theft Council (ITC) is a non-profit, grassroots organization that provides identity theft victims with free, ongoing support and identity recovery assistance in their local communities. The Council is creating a nationwide network of local partnerships between law enforcement, the financial industry, and volunteers in local communities to provide hands-on support for victims of identity theft, help law enforcement provide a more coordinated response, and improve identity theft education and awareness community by community, across the country.

The Council was founded by security expert Neal O’Farrell with the support of local law enforcement in the San Francisco Bay area, and Intersections Inc. The Council is supported nationally by Intersections Inc, the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), the Council of Better Business Bureaus (BBB), the Online Trust Alliance (OTA), Elder Financial Protection Network (EFPN), and ITAC, the Identity Theft Assistance Center. For more information or to become involved in the Identity Theft Council, please visit our website, follow us on Twitter @IDTheftCouncil or visit our blog.

New Laws Go Into Effect to Fight Deceptive Debt Relief

10/22/2010

Posted on 10/22/2010 by

Good news for those struggling to pay their bills: all of the new Federal Trade Commission regulations to help protect financially-desperate families from deceptive offers for debt relief will go into effect on October 27. While the new rule will have a significant impact on reducing predatory debt relief, the Better Business Bureau advises consumers that they still need to use caution when enlisting the help of a third party to get out of debt.

Since the start of the recession in December of 2007, the Better Business Bureau has received more than 6,000 complaints from consumers about debt relief or debt settlement companies. Typically, complainants say they were charged large up-front fees in exchange for the empty promise that the company would significantly reduce or eliminate their debt.

“The debt relief industry has flourished in the current economy and you can bet that many unscrupulous companies are feverishly trying to figure out ways to get around the new laws, such as relying less on telephones to solicit new customers,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “While these new rules provide effective new protections, consumers still need to be on the lookout for deceptive debt relief services.”

Under the new rule, any company that solicits debt relief services over the phone—including taking incoming calls from new customers—will not be able to charge upfront fees until:

the debt relief service successfully renegotiates, settles, reduces, or otherwise changes the terms of at least one of the consumer’s debts;
there is a written settlement agreement, debt management plan, or other agreement between the consumer and the creditor, and the consumer has agreed to it; and
the consumer has made at least one payment to the creditor as a result of the agreement negotiated by the debt relief provider.

Additionally, debt relief providers cannot require that consumers set aside payments in a “dedicated account” unless:

the dedicated account is maintained at an insured financial institution;
the consumer owns the funds (including any interest accrued);
the consumer can withdraw the funds at any time without penalty;
the provider does not own or control or have any affiliation with the company administering the account; and
the provider does not exchange any referral fees with the company administering the account.

Finally, before the consumer signs up for any debt relief service, providers must disclose fundamental aspects of their services, including how long it will take for consumers to see results, how much it will cost, the negative consequences that could result from using debt relief services, and key information about dedicated accounts if they choose to require them.

Businesses can learn more about how to follow this new rule on the FTC’s web site: Debt Relief Services & The Telemarketing Sales Rule: A Guide for Business.

Buying Pink? Know Where Your Green Is Going

10/12/2010

Posted on 10/12/2010 by

Stores across the bi-state region again are asking shoppers to “buy pink” in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) urges them to buy smart, too.

“Simply because a company puts a pink ribbon on its package doesn’t always mean a good breast cancer charity is benefiting from your purchase,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO.

“Consumers hoping to support this very important cause may want to do a little detective work to determine just how much of their money is going to legitimate programs promoting breast cancer education, prevention, treatment and research.”

A BBB survey of products from several area grocery and department stores discovered that companies use a variety of methods in deciding how much to donate to breast cancer work. Plano, Tex.,-based Frito-Lay, which is selling its Sun Chips in a special pink package, says it donates a flat $1 million to its charity partner, Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Ty Inc., maker of Beanie Babies, says it donates a minimum of 25 cents of the sale of each “Hope” bear, a pink plush toy that benefits Komen and the Chicago-based Breast Cancer Network of Strength. Other companies report that they donate a flat percentage of their product sales; still others decline to disclose how much they donate or specifically where the donations go.

In some cases, detailed charity information is clearly disclosed at the point of purchase or on the product itself. In other cases, there is little, or no, information.

The BBB survey found products tied to breast cancer awareness that ranged from rubber gloves to pizza to bottled water.

Among some specifics from the BBB survey:

Fuze, which markets itself as a health drink, says on each specially marked pink bottle that it makes a 10-cent donation to the Komen for the Cure organization for each bottle sold, about 10 percent of the retail price. The Whitestone, N. Y.-based company also says on its label that it is “proud to donate $325,000” to the charity.
A 16-ounce pink plastic container manufactured by Arrow Plastic of Elk Grove, Ill., and marked with a pink ribbon notes only that “a portion of the sale of this product will be donated to breast cancer support.” But the company’s marketing manager said donations amounting to about five percent of its wholesale sales of the product go to Breast Cancer Network of Strength.
A notation on the top of a box of Betty Crocker muffin mix says that Minneapolis-based General Mills will donate $2 million this year to Komen for the Cure.
The pink wrapper for a Scotch lint roller (retail price: $2.99) notes that the St. Paul, Minn.-based 3M company will donate 10 percent of the price of each roller to Komen for the Cure, with a guaranteed minimum donation of $250,000.
A pink travel tumbler manufactured by the Trudeau Corp. of Chicago notes that a minimum of 5 percent of its sales will go to the New York-based Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
A box of “Envelopes for the Cause” distributed by AMPAD of Richardson, Tex., says that “a portion of the profits will be donated to support breast cancer research and education.” But no additional details were available and e-mails and phone calls to the company were not returned.
Pink and white women’s socks and a pink ribbon enameled pin, both manufactured by the A & E Group of St. Charles, Mo., say only that a portion of the purchase price will benefit breast cancer research, treatment and programs. A company official said that beneficiaries include a variety of research facilities and hospitals, but said the company does not publicly release the percentage of its sales that go to charity.

BBB suggests the following tips for consumers interested in learning how their pink ribbon product purchases will benefit charity.

Inspect the product itself for information. Many companies clearly report how much of their sales go to charity and specifically where the money goes.
Check the company’s website. If the information isn’t on the product itself, it often can be found via the website printed on the product packaging.
If you still can’t find the information, call the company and ask for it. Firms that use charity tie-ins to market their products should be transparent to consumers.
Contact the charity directly if you have doubts they are receiving proceeds.
Check out the charity to decide whether you believe it is worthy of your support. One way to do this is by contacting the BBB to determine whether the charity meets the BBB’s Standards for Accountability.

BBB Warns Against Online Ads for Acai Diet Pills and Work from Home Jobs

10/8/2010

Posted on 10/8/2010 by

The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to be wary of free trial offers online for diet pills, work at home jobs and teeth whiteners among other products and services. In this year alone, BBB has received thousands of complaints from consumers across the country who thought they were getting a free trial, but ended up losing often hundreds of dollars in recurring credit or debit card charges.

Ubiquitous deceptive online ads for “free trials” of various products and services can be found on popular sites like MSN.com, ESPN.com, and Weather.com. Often the ads link to websites of phony news outlets which, according to the Sydney Morning Herald, commonly feature the photo of a well-known French journalist—without her permission—under various names.

“Fighting deceptive free trial offers online continues to be a game of whack-a-mole,” said Jim Hegarty BBB president and CEO. “Just as soon as one company is put out of business it’s replaced by another with the same model of ripping consumers off under the guise of a no-risk free trial offer.”

One company behind these not-so-free trials is XM Brands which has an F rating with BBB. According to the nearly 2,000 complaints to the West Palm Beach BBB, the company sells roughly 40 teeth whiteners, acai diet pills and colon cleansers online. Complainants say they agreed to pay anywhere from $1.49 to $3.87 to cover shipping for the product trial but were charged as much as $87 a month, sometimes before they even received their trial in the mail. Complainants report getting the runaround from the company when they request refunds or ask to stop being billed; one consumer claims to have lost more than $860 as a result of recurring charges.

In just four months, Internet Cash Machines racked up more than 460 complaints from people who were interested in working from home, and has received an F grade from the Los Angeles-area BBB. Consumers say that they signed up for a free trial package of information costing $2.95 but were promptly charged as much as $149. Complainants also say they are unable to cancel by phone or email and have no way to prevent the typically $139-149 fee from being deducted from their account.

“Before signing up for any free trial offer, read the fine print carefully and always check the company out with the Better Business Bureau. You’ll save time and money by avoiding the hassle and recurring charges of some unscrupulous offers,” added Hegarty.

Additional advice on signing up for free trial offers is available at www.bbb.org/us/article/free-trial-offers--are-they-good-deals-425.

Five Ways to Fight Back Against Phone Bill Cramming

10/4/2010

Posted on 10/4/2010 by

Five Ways to Fight Back
Against Phone Bill Cramming

Sneaky little charges are making their way onto telephone bills and can go unnoticed for months. Victims of so-called “cramming” often face a tough battle to stop being billed every month and start getting their money back. In order to fight cramming, the Better Business Bureau recommends keeping a close eye on every bill and being extremely cautious when giving out personal information such as phone numbers.

“You might think that nothing bad can happen from giving out your telephone number, but you should guard those digits like you would a credit card or social security number,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “Monitor your monthly statements closely because even if you are very protective of your personal information, cramming can still strike.”

Cramming is on the rise, according to the Chief of the Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau of the Federal Communications Commission during an interview with Herb Weisbaum, consumer reporter for MSNBC.com. Cramming can come from any number of sources. Some victims may have inadvertently signed up for a subscription service - such as for “free” ringtones or a daily joke or horoscopes - not realizing they’d be billed every month. The Federal Trade Commission recently cracked down on one company that used telemarketers to convince people into signing up for “free” trial services. Calling a psychic hotline or entering a sweepstakes can also lead to cramming. Unfortunately, in some cases, the victim is just an unlucky random target.

The BBB recommends taking the following five steps to fight cramming:

• Keep a close eye on monthly statements. Anyone can become a victim of cramming so monitoring you monthly bills is extremely important. The sooner you spot the charges, the sooner you can fight them.

• Know your rights. Contact your telephone provider to see if you can completely restrict third-party billing on your account.

• Know whom you can trust online. Before handing over any personal information online, always research the business with your BBB

• Guard your personal information closely. Be wary when asked to provide personal information to sign up for a free trial or enter a sweepstakes. Always read the fine print on any offer so you understand how your personal information may be used.

• Know where to complain. If you are unable to resolve the issue either through your telephone provider or directly with the business, file a complaint with the FCC for charges related to telephone service and FTC for all other cramming charges on your phone bill. You can also file a complaint with the BBB.

BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU HONORS LINCOLN’S 2010 INTEGRITY AWARD WINNERS

9/30/2010

Posted on 9/30/2010 by

Better Business Bureau HONORS Lincoln’s

2010 Integrity Award WINNERS

Four Lincoln Companies Recognized for Business Ethics

The Better Business Bureau Foundation today honored Lincoln’s 2010 BBB Integrity Award Winners at BBB’s annual awards luncheon at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel. The event was attended by over 350 people, including keynote speaker Governor Dave Heineman and Mayor Chris Beutler and his wife, Judy Beutler.

The four local organizations that are the Winners of these prestigious awards are Remodelers Council of Lincoln, Nebraska Seamless, Inc., and Schaefer’s. In addition, Christian Record Services for the Blind was selected in the charity category. They range in size from less than five employees to 99 employees and have received this award for upholding the highest standards of business ethics.

Jim Hegarty, chief executive officer of BBB serving Nebraska, South Dakota and southwest Iowa stated, “In today’s challenging economic climate honesty and integrity are more important than ever. He added, “This year’s Winners, which were selected by an independent panel of judges from Lincoln’s business and academic communities, represent what is best about business in the Capitol City. These companies have solid business practices based on a commitment to serve their customers with the highest standard of ethics. They have built successful companies because of the trust that has been established, and the BBB Integrity Awards recognize their leadership in the community.”

BBB Lincoln Director Sharon Brodhagen said, “The Integrity Award’s committee felt that the overall quality of this year’s applicants was consistently strong. Integrity Award nominees who demonstrated, through the application process, that they placed a high priority on honesty and integrity in the work place were recognized with an Ambassador of Integrity Certificate. While a few businesses rose to the top, many of this year’s applicants serve as ambassadors for quality customer service and we are proud to make this special designation.”

The Ambassadors of Integrity recipients include: Alzheimer’s Association, Capital Overhead Door Company, Inc., Leadership Resources, Quick Nick’s Snappy Lube, Quick Connect Computer Services, Sanquist Construction, ServiceMaster of Lancaster County and SolutionOne.

In addition, Annelise Madison, a graduate of Norris High School in Firth, Nebraska was presented with the annual $2,000 Scott Mecham BBB Student of Integrity Award college scholarship which was established in 2007 in memory of Scott Mecham who served as the BBB president from 1991 until January 2006.

BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU HONORS SOUTH DAKOTA BUSINESSES FOR INTEGRITY

9/22/2010

Posted on 9/22/2010 by

Better Business Bureau and the BBB Foundation today honored South Dakota’s 2010 BBB Integrity Award Winner at BBB’s annual awards luncheon in Omaha, NE. This “Ethics Olympics” event was attended by over 750 people. The keynote speaker was Holly Petraeus, director of BBB Military Line and wife of Army General David Petraeus, commander of U.S. and NATO Forces in Afghanistan.

The business from South Dakota that is the Winner of this prestigious award is Bryant State Bank from Bryant, SD. Its President Lee Jacobson received the award on behalf of his organization for upholding the highest standards of business ethics.

Jim Hegarty, chief executive officer of BBB serving Nebraska, South Dakota and southwest Iowa stated, “In today’s challenging economic climate, honesty and integrity are more important than ever. He added, “This year’s award recipient, selected by an independent panel of judges, represents what is best about business in the great state of South Dakota. Bryant State Bank has solid business practices, based on a commitment to serve their customers with the highest standard of ethics. They are successful because of the trust that has been established, and the BBB Integrity Award recognizes their leadership in the banking industry and in their community.”

BBB Communications Director Margo Riekes added, “The judges felt that the overall quality of this year’s applicants was very strong. Therefore, another Integrity Award candidate who demonstrated, through the application process, that they placed a high priority on honesty and integrity in the marketplace place was recognized with a Silver Award of Distinction. This award was presented to an on-line auto insurance company called Esurance that is located in Sioux Falls, SD. They also serve as an ambassador for quality customer service, and the BBB is proud to make this special designation.”

Scammers target job hunters in weak economy, warns Better Business Bureau

9/22/2010

Posted on 9/22/2010 by

As the unemployment rate hovers around eight percent, the Better Business Bureau warns that scammers are taking advantage by preying on the unemployed. Identifying the common red flags of a scam is one way for job hunters to protect themselves and their wallets.

“The sluggish employment rate means that a lot of people are desperate for work, which creates a great opportunity for scammers,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “Scammers set their sights on the unemployed because these people are vulnerable and looking for any decent work opportunities.”

Not thoroughly researching a job opportunity can make a bad situation even worse, and a victim can lose hundreds or even thousands of dollars to any number of job-related scams. BBB recommends looking out for the following seven red flags when searching for a job:

Red Flag: The employer offers the opportunity to become rich without leaving home
While many legitimate businesses allow employees to work from home, there are also a lot of scammers trying to take advantage of senior citizens, stay-at-home moms, students and injured or handicapped people looking to make money conveniently at home. Job hunters should use extreme caution when considering a work-at-home offer and always research the company with their BBB first.

Red Flag: The employer asks for money upfront
Job hunters should never have to pay money up front to be considered for a job. If a potential employer asks for the job hunter to pay the company to cover the costs of testing, training or background checks, it should be considered a red flag. Always research the job thoroughly before opening up your wallet.

Red Flag: The salary and benefits offered seem too good to be true The adage holds true for job offers: if the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Phony employers might brag about exceptionally high salary potential and excellent benefits for little work and no experience necessary in order to lure unsuspecting job hunters into their scam.

Red Flag: Job placement companies that make big promises Job placement companies often do not charge the job hunters for help finding a job, but are instead paid by companies that need help filling positions. Some job placement companies, however, have been taking money from job hunters and not fulfilling their promises of quick employment. Job hunters reported one job placement firm that claimed to offer work on Craigslist, but later was found to only be a resume writing service. The company charged about $75 for the resume service, but failed to find job hunters work. Always research a job placement company first with BBB before signing any contracts or paying any money. Be extremely cautious about terms like “no experience required,” or “guaranteed work,” and ask for the contract upfront to see what the placement terms are.

Red Flag: The employer requires you to check your credit report
After posting their resumes online or responding to online job listings, many job hunters received what they thought was good news: an e-mail from an interested employer. In order to be considered for the job, the applicant has to check his or her credit report through a recommended website. The truth is, the e-mail is just an attempt to get the job hunter to divulge sensitive financial information or sign up for credit monitoring services.

Red Flag: The employer is quick to ask for personal information such as Social Security Number or bank account numbers
Identity thieves employ many different methods for getting personal financial information from job hunters. Spam e-mail might offer a great opportunity and direct the job hunter to a website that is designed to install malware on his or her computer or solicit bank account or Social Security Numbers. In other cases, the job hunter might even be asked to submit a resume, find out they’ve been hired and then immediately be asked for bank account information.

Red Flag: The job requires you to wire money through Western Union or MoneyGram or receive and forward suspicious goods
Many phony jobs require the employee to cash a check sent by the company through the mail and then wire a portion of the money on to another entity. Reasons given for this requirement vary from scam to scam. Whatever the reason though, the check might clear the employee’s bank account, but will eventually turn out to be a fake and the employee is out the money he or she wired back to the scammers.

BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU HONORS LINCOLN’S 2010 INTEGRITY AWARD WINNERS

9/20/2010

Posted on 9/20/2010 by

Better Business Bureau HONORS Lincoln’s

2010 Integrity Award WINNERS

Four Lincoln Companies Recognized for Business Ethics

Foreclosure Rescue Scams Are Going Strong

9/20/2010

Posted on 9/20/2010 by

The housing market in the United States may not be thriving, but business is booming for foreclosure rescue and loan modification scammers.

The US Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report in July 2010 entitled "Home Ownership Preservation". It says that: "The current foreclosure crisis has provided persons who may perpetrate mortgage foreclosure rescue and loan modification schemes with unprecedented opportunities to profit from homeowners desperate to save their homes. In March 2010, we reported that national default and foreclosure rates rose sharply from 2005 through 2009, to the highest level in 29 years. The most recent data from the Mortgage Bankers Association, which are for the first quarter of 2010, show that the number of home loans with payments more than 60 days past due, and therefore potentially facing foreclosure, is 2.7 million."

The GAO report says there are two main types of foreclosure rescue and loan modification scams: advance-fee loan modification schemes and sales-leaseback schemes, with advance-fee schemes being the most common. In an advance-fee scheme, someone charges you a fee in advance to negotiate a deal with your mortgage lender. They may even offer a money-back guarantee. But the usual outcome is that they take your money (the average is about $3,000), provide little or no service, and then refuse to refund the fee. In a sales-leaseback scheme, the scammer persuades you to transfer your deed to them by offering to assume your payments and let you pay rent while you get your affairs in order. They promise to sell the property back to you once your financial situation improves, but, of course, they don't. Often they take out another loan on the home or even sell it out from under you.

The Federal Trade Commission reports on a new twist on the advance-fee scam that's showing up this year, a "forensic mortgage loan audit." The scammer offers to find regulatory violations in your original mortgage that will help you avoid foreclosure or even cancel your loan. There's no evidence that anyone has ever succeeded in modifying their loan using this approach.

Here are some “red flags” that at-risk homeowners should watch out for when looking for foreclosure help, courtesy of the FTC. You should avoid any business that:

guarantees to stop the foreclosure process – no matter what your circumstances
instructs you not to contact your lender, lawyer, or credit or housing counselor
collects a fee before providing you with any services
accepts payment only by cashier’s check or wire transfer
encourages you to lease your home so you can buy it back over time
tells you to make your mortgage payments directly to it, rather than your lender
tells you to transfer your property deed or title to it
offers to buy your house for cash at a fixed price that is not set by the housing market at the time of sale
offers to fill out paperwork for you
pressures you to sign paperwork you haven’t had a chance to read thoroughly or that you don’t understand.

BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU HONORS OMAHA’S 2010 BUSINESS AND STUDENT INTEGRITY AWARD WINNERS

9/16/2010

Posted on 9/16/2010 by

Better Business Bureau HONORS Omaha’s

2010 Business and Student Integrity Award WINNERS

Better Business Bureau and the BBB Foundation today honored Omaha’s 2010 BBB Integrity Award Winners at BBB’s annual awards luncheon at the Embassy Suites Omaha – La Vista Conference Center. This “Ethics Olympics” event was attended by over 750 people. The keynote speaker, Holly Petraeus, director of BBB Military Line and wife of Army General David Petraeus, commander of U.S. and NATO Forces in Afghanistan was introduced by the Integrity Awards Speaker Sponsor Gail DeBoer, president of SAC Federal Credit Union.

The six local Winners of these prestigious awards were announced by videos produced by the event’s Media Sponsor KETV. They are Monarch Siding and Windows, Inc., Stiles Services, Total Construction Services, Inc., Early Out Services, Inc. and Certified Transmission. In addition, Make-A-Wish Foundation of Nebraska was selected in the charity category. These organizations range in size from less than 5 employees to over 100 employees and have received this award for upholding the highest standards of business ethics.

Jim Hegarty, chief executive officer of BBB serving Nebraska, South Dakota and southwest Iowa stated, “In today’s challenging economic climate, honesty and integrity are more important than ever. He added, “This year’s award recipients, selected by independent panels of judges, represent what is best about business in metro Omaha. These organizations have solid business practices, based on a commitment to serve their customers with the highest standard of ethics. They have built successful companies because of the trust that has been established, and the BBB Integrity Awards recognize their leadership in the community.”

BBB Communications Director Margo Riekes added, “The Integrity Award’s judges felt that the overall quality of this year’s applicants was very strong. Therefore, other Integrity Award candidates who demonstrated, through the application process, that they placed a high priority on honesty and integrity in the work place were recognized with Silver Awards of Distinction and Bronze Awards of Merit. They also serve as ambassadors for quality customer service, and the BBB is proud to make these special designations.”

The Award of Distinction recipients include: B Street Collision Center, Merchants Credit Adjusters, H & H Chevrolet, Nebraska Furniture Mart and the Food Bank for the Heartland. The organizations that received an Award of Merit are: The Filter Shop, Millard Sprinkler, Inc. and Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha.

In addition, the first BBB Student Service Excellence Awards were granted to five outstanding high school students. This new annual program, funded by the BBB Foundation, was created to promote and recognize character, school, and community service. For these awards, all high schools in the metro Omaha area were invited to identify 10^th graders that were selected as Rotary Honor Roll students when they were in the 8^th grade, and who exemplify the values of the Better Business Bureau and Rotary – personal integrity, ethical behavior, leadership and academic achievement. “These awards seek to keep ethics alive in the minds of Rotary Honor Roll Students during their high school years,” said Presenter Gary Bren, president elect, Downtown Rotary.

All applications were submitted to an independent panel of judges that selected the 2010 Winners who were asked to designate a charity they wished to honor-a reflection of their integrity and commitment to service. This year five students were presented with an award. In addition, a check for $200 from the BBB Foundation will be sent to each student’s designated charity in their name.

The Winners of the BBB Student Service Excellence Awards are: Grace Bartels, Brownell-Talbot and Ralph Hauke, Creighton Prep who chose Siena Francis House; Courtney Collins, Benson High School and Jake Wiepen, Skutt Catholic High School selected the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation; and Reagan Huber, Burke High School picked the Open Door Mission.

New FTC Regulations Protect Consumers from Debt Relief Companies

9/9/2010

Posted on 9/9/2010 by

New FTC Regulations Protect Consumers
from Debt Relief Companies

September and October 2010 Changes
Will Prohibit Advance Fees and Misrepresentations

The Federal Trade Commission recently announced amendments to the Telemarketing Sales Rule which will prohibit for-profit companies that sell debt relief serves over the phone from collecting any advanced fees prior to settling or reducing debt. These new regulations offer consumers additional protections when trying to reduce credit card or other unsecured debt.

This year, the BBB has processed over 2,600 complaints nationwide against debt relief companies, which include credit counseling, debt settlement and debt negotiation services. Generally, consumers allege companies in these industries may charge large advance fees, fail to reduce debts, or misrepresent their services.

On October 27, 2010, for-profit debt relief companies who make telemarketing calls, or are called by a consumer in response to debt relief advertising, are prohibited from collecting advance fees for their services. Companies can only charge their customers after:

1. There is a written agreement between the consumer and their creditor;

2. The company successfully re-negotiates, settles, reduces or otherwise changes the terms of at least one of the consumer’s debts;

3. The consumer makes at least one payment to their creditor after the successful negotiation or settlement.

In addition, on September 27, 2010, three other Telemarketing Sales Rule provisions will take effect. These provisions will:

· Require companies to disclose to consumers how long it will take to see results, how much their service costs and any negative consequences that could occur;

· Prohibit companies from misrepresenting their success rate or claiming they are non-profit;

· Extend the Telemarketing Sales Rule to cover calls consumers make to these companies in response to advertising.

The FTC also set aside guidelines for dedicated accounts, which many debt relief companies previously required their customers to pay into while they negotiated or settled their debt. Under the new regulations, these companies can only require dedicated accounts if:

1. The account is maintained at an insured financial institution;

2. The consumer owns the funds, including interest;

3. The consumer can withdraw the funds at any time without penalty;

4. The financial institution has no affiliation with the debt relief company;

5. The financial institution does not exchange referral fees to the debt relief company.

The FTC has created a guide for debt relief companies to help them comply with the new regulations. Before seeking help from a debt relief company, the BBB recommends consumers:

· Research the company with the BBB. Find out how many complaints it has received, how the firm responded to complaints and whether there are any government actions or lawsuits against the company.

· Contact lenders first. Try to work out an agreement directly with creditors before enlisting outside help. This can be done for free.

· Seek help from a non-profit credit counseling center. Credit counseling centers can provide guidance for little or no cost. Visit nfcc.org for the location of the nearest center.

To check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visit bbb.org.

BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU HONORS LINCOLN’S 2010 INTEGRITY AWARD WINNERS

9/9/2010

Posted on 9/9/2010 by

Better Business Bureau HONORS Lincoln’s

2010 Integrity Award WINNERS

Four Lincoln Companies Recognized for Business Ethics

Beware of Fake Soldiers on Social and Dating Websites

8/18/2010

Posted on 8/18/2010 by

Scammers pretending to be members of the military are wooing women on internet dating and social networking sites…but they aren’t looking for love – they are looking for money.

According to the U.S. Army Criminal Investigative Command, these scammers are using real military photos to create fake profiles and they have received hundreds of complaints in the last year about the scam. Some scammers have even used photos of military members that have passed away.

The Command reports that con artists build relationships with women and then start asking for money for things like internet use, phones, leave papers, money to enable them to come visit the victim, etc. Once the woman sends the money, they never hear from the man again.

“To systemize a scam based on someone’s pure emotion and admiration for our troops is extremely appalling,” said Jim Hegarty BBB president and CEO. “While the environment of online dating has become very popular, it has simultaneously become much too trusting.”

Many of these emails have been traced back to foreign cyber-cafes in Africa but the individuals operating these scams are difficult, if not, impossible to track down.

At least one local dating service has seen this scam on their radar so be careful when on such a website and never, ever send money to someone you’ve never met.

If you feel you may have been a victim of such a scam, report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center: ic3.gov / 800-251-3221 and the Federal Trade Commission: ftc.gov / 1-877-438-4338.

Scam Alert -- Websites Sell SSNs as Credit Score Fixers

8/18/2010

Posted on 8/18/2010 by
With the economic downturn many people have seen their finances and credit scores go south. A poor credit score can make it hard to rent an apartment or do any number of things essential to daily living. So an online ad offering a credit protection number (CPN) to clean up your credit score may sound like the perfect solution. The problem is that the CPN is really a stolen Social Security Number (SSN), often belonging to child.

According to an August 2nd, 2010 AP article, scammers use computers to find random SSNs, and then check to see if anyone is using those SSNs to obtain credit. If the numbers are dormant, the scammers offer them to customers looking to improve their credit scores, charging from several hundred to several thousand dollars. The customer isn’t told he is buying someone else’s SSN; rather he is told that he is paying for a CPN – a credit-profile, credit-protection or credit-privacy number that will help him raise his credit score to over 700 in 6 months.

The AP article states: “because the numbers often come from young children who have no money of their own, they carry no spending history and offer a chance to open a new, unblemished line of credit. People who buy the numbers can then quickly build their credit rating in a process called ‘piggybacking,’ which involves linking to someone else's credit file.”

Customers are told to use their real name and date of birth with the CPN, but to avoid listing any address or phone number that could connect them to their own current bad credit report. Because it’s unlikely that a child’s credit report will be checked before age 18, the customer using the CPN likely has a number of years before the fraud will be discovered. If you see one of these offers, don’t respond! You may be participating in a fraud.

If you have children, it’s a good idea to go to annualcreditreport.com now, no matter what their ages, and see if their credit reports are blank, as they should be. And check back annually. You don’t want your children to find out at age 18 that they have terrible credit reports thanks to someone else buying a CPN and wrecking their credit.

CARU Public Service Announcement Asks Parents: "Do You Really Know Where Your Children Are on the Internet?"

8/11/2010

Posted on 8/11/2010 by

The Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU) of the Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc., recently launched its first public service announcements, cautioning parents to be alert to their children’s activities on the Internet. The PSAs can be viewed at: http://www.youtube.com/user/CARUSelfRegulation.

The spots feature Catherine Hicks, star of the family drama “Seventh Heaven,” and they recast the time-honored broadcast message “It’s 10 p.m. Do you know where your children are?” to reflect contemporary concerns about the privacy and safety of children on the Internet.

“As a learning tool, the Internet provides an amazing depth and breadth of information about the world. As an entertainment vehicle, it can offer experiences that are creative, engaging and fun,” said CARU Director Wayne J. Keeley. “But beyond the boundaries of age-appropriate web content is territory that is far less benign. It is critical that parents know where their children go on the Internet.”

The PSAs feature three scenarios:

The first spot features young girls viewing an Internet fan-club site. One child calls out to her nearby parent, “Hey, Dad, what’s your credit card number?” “Credit card number?” asks the father, alarmed.
The second depicts young boys viewing a gaming site that requires registration. “Hey, Dad, what’s my Social Security Number?” says one child. “Social Security Number?” asks the worried father.
The third spot features girls viewing a social-networking site where one has just posted a questionable picture. As one girl says “I am glad my mother doesn't have an account,” her mother walks in, sees the picture and states, “We have to talk.”

In all three spots, Ms. Hicks asks the question: “Do you know where your children are on the Internet?” The PSAs then direct parents to CARU’s Website, www.caru.org, where there is a wide range of information available to parents on Internet safety at CARU’s “Parents’ Corner.”

The PSAs are currently running:

On WABC-TV, which serves the largest market in the country – New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. The PSAs have been broadcast during Good Morning America, Rachel Ray and Live with Regis and Kelly and will continue to air.

“"WABC-TV is committed to the safety of the children in our community and airing this psa allows us to reinforce the importance of children's safety on the internet,” said Saundra Thomas Vice-President of Community Affairs.

On Discovery Kids’ “family-prime” evening programming which includes the shows “Timeblazers,” “Mystery Hunters” and “The Saddle Club.”

“The folks at the Hub and Discovery Kids are delighted to help CARU get this critical message out to parents; know where your children are... in the real world and the virtual world of the Internet,” said Margaret Loesch, President and CEO, The Hub.

CARU is the self-regulatory forum for the childrens advertising industry. CARU’s self-regulatory program sets high standards for the industry to assure that advertising directed to children is not deceptive, unfair or inappropriate for its intended audience.

CARU’s standards are embodied in principles and guidelines first adopted by CARU in 1975 and periodically updated to address changes in the marketing and media landscape. In addition to monitoring ads in all media for compliance with its guidelines, CARU staff also review websites directed to children to assure compliance with CARU’s guidelines and the federal Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).

In the past three years, CARU has issued nearly 70 decisions on website safety and online privacy; Internet-related cases account for one-third of CARU’s caseload. CARU’s decisions are available at www.narcpartners.org.

Better Business Bureau Warns Businesses about Fake BBB “Complaints”

8/11/2010

Posted on 8/11/2010 by

Better Business Bureau Warns Businesses about Fake BBB “Complaints”

Emails Contain Suspicious Link to Suspected Malware Site!

An emailed “complaint” supposedly originating from Better Business Bureau is being sent to BBB accredited and non-accredited companies in states across the country, including Nebraska. Businesses of all sizes have received the bogus email complaint, ranging from banks and construction companies to major manufacturers and professionals. There is no indication how the email addresses were collected.

The email sender’s address is seatac@bbb.org with the subject line “BBB Complaint Case #” followed by a nine-digit number. The body of the email claims that the recipient did not respond to a complaint filed by “Jason Harlow” (however, other names may be used) under the category “Contract Issues.” The goal of the email was to get the recipient to click on a hyperlink with the following text: “Please click here to access the complaint.”

A BBB Accredited Business in Omaha was recently targeted by this email and tried to click on the link provided. Because he could not open the link to see the complaint, he called BBB and found out that there was no complaint filed about this company from “Jason Harlow!”

A link in identical emails sent out earlier this year downloaded malware to the recipients’ computers. Malware consists of programs designed to damage or initiate unwanted actions without the knowledge of the user email’s author.

BBB advises businesses that receive this email to take the following precautions:

Look at the number that a complaint begins with - all complaints from this BBB start with a “3”. The fake complaints seem to start with an “8”

The fake complaints seem to be using the same consumer’s name, “Jason Harlow”

Do not click on any links or reply to the message

Run a full virus scan on your computer if you did click the link

Forward the message to phishing@council.bbb.org

Delete the message from your inbox and recycle bin

If you receive any email from Better Business Bureau about a complaint filed against your company and need assistance in determining whether or not it is legitimate, contact the BBB directly at www.bbb.org or at 800-649-6814.

For more advice on how to protect your business from malicious online attacks and data breaches visit http://www.bbb.org/data-security/.

BBB Bulletin - 2nd Quarter 2010

8/4/2010

Posted on 8/4/2010 by
Please click here to view our 2nd Quarter 2010 Bulletin issue.

Complaints to BBB about Satellite TV Reveal Common Customer Grievances over Terms of the Agreement

8/3/2010

Posted on 8/3/2010 by
In the past three years, more than 53,000 customers have complained to the Better Business Bureau about satellite TV providers, with 39,000 of those complaints filed against DirecTV and 13,000 filed against Dish Network. Many complaints stem from fees and terms outlined in the customer agreement. BBB recommends that TV viewers planning to make the switch to satellite should read the fine print closely before signing up with a satellite provider, to avoid unexpected charges.

According to company reports, DirecTV has more than 18 million customers in the US and Dish Network has more than 14 million. The complex policies and fees that are sometimes unique to satellite service has led many customers to complain to BBB about the contractual obligations outlined—but often overlooked—in the fine print of their agreement.

“Many complaints to BBB about satellite providers stem from steep cancellation fees,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “If customers aren’t satisfied with their service or they can’t afford the cost after the introductory period, it isn’t that easy to cancel because the early termination fees can run into the hundreds of dollars.”

Bellow are examples of common complaints BBB receives about satellite TV providers:

Early Termination Fees – Complainants report paying cancellation fees amounting to more than $600. Commonly the customer felt that the company didn’t provide the services promised and they shouldn’t have to pay to cancel service they weren’t happy with or didn’t receive. In some cases the customer claims they were not aware of the policy or that a sales rep misrepresented the terms.
Introductory Offers – Many promotions will offer a lower price or premium channels for an introductory period, after which the customer will be charged the full price. Some complainants state their monthly bill increased substantially more than they anticipated. Others state they were promised gift cards for signing up that never materialized or rebates that couldn’t be redeemed immediately.
Billing issues – Some complainants state that they were charged for services they didn’t order—such as pay per view movies—or were charged for services which they thought would be free. Complainants also cite issues with returning the receivers to the company and still being charged. In some cases the unexpected charges were the result of expiring introductory rates or offers.
Service issues – Complainants have also contacted BBB over reception quality issues, channel offerings or difficulties in getting equipment repaired.
Upgrades Resulting in Contract Extension - Some complainants were upset to learn that when they upgraded their service or equipment, it resulted in a contract extension and they were later charged fees for early cancellation.

When signing up for satellite TV, BBB recommends that customers:

Get it all in writing – Don’t just take a salesman, installer or customer service representative’s word for it. You might also be speaking with a third-party retailer and the verbal promises may not show up in the final customer agreement with the satellite provider.
Read the terms and conditions carefully – Pay close attention to the terms on introductory offers, equipment costs and the cancellation policy.
Check every bill closely – The sooner you spot inaccuracies in billing, the better. Even if you have your account set up to automatically charge your credit card or debit your checking account, always review your monthly bill closely for any new or unusual charges.
Mark your calendar – Put important dates down on your calendar such as when you need to cancel introductory promotions for premium channels and the end of your contract.
File a complaint with BBB – Consult the terms that you agreed to and if you’re unable to reach an agreement with your satellite provider, file a complaint with your BBB. Both Dish Network and DirecTV consistently respond to complaints and BBB has been able to help consumers receive refunds in many cases.

Seven Ways for College Students to Fight Identity Theft

7/30/2010

Posted on 7/30/2010 by

College students have enough to juggle when it comes to school, work and their social life. Fighting fraud often doesn’t make the list of priorities. Since college students are so susceptible to identity theft, the Better Business Bureau recommends that they take seven simple steps to protect themselves on campus.

According to the 2010 Identity Fraud Survey Report released by Javelin Strategy and Research, more than 11 million people became victims of identity theft in 2009. Young adults aged 18-24 took the longest to detect identify theft—132 days on average—when compared to other age groups. Subsequently the average cost ($1,156) was roughly five times more than amount lost by other age groups.

“Identity thieves don’t care if you’re a struggling student and don’t have a penny to your name; sometimes all they want is to exploit your clean credit record,” said Jim Hegarty BBB president and CEO. “Young adults that establish good habits for monitoring and detecting fraud are laying a path that will help create a healthy financial road for the rest of their lives.”

BBB recommends that college-bound students take the following seven steps to fight identity theft on campus:

School mailboxes are not always secure and can often be easily accessed in a dorm or apartment. To combat sticky fingers in the mailroom, have sensitive mail sent to a permanent address such as the parents’ home or a PO box.

Important documents should be stored under lock and key—such as in a filing cabinet. This includes social security card, passport and bank and credit card statements. Shred any paper documents that have sensitive financial information rather than just tossing them out. Also shred any credit card offers that come in the mail.

Never loan your credit or debit card to anyone, even if they are a friend. Also just say no if your friend wants you to cosign for a loan or financing for items like a TV.

Make sure your computer has up-to-date antivirus and spyware software. Always install any updates and patches to your computer’s operating system or browser software which help keep your computer safe from any new advances by identity thieves online.

Always check your credit or debit card statements closely for any suspicious activity. The sooner you identify any potential fraud, the less you’ll suffer in the long run.

When shopping on unfamiliar websites, always check the company out first with BBB online. Also look for the BBB Accredited Business seal along with other trust seals; click on the seals to confirm that they are legitimate.

Check your credit report at least once a year with all three reporting bureaus for any suspicious activity or inaccuracies. You can do this for free by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com.

For more advice on fighting fraud and managing personal finances visit us online at http://www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-finance.

BBB Urges Trade Show Exhibitors To Beware Of Mexico-Based Expo Guide

7/27/2010

Posted on 7/27/2010 by
An agricultural equipment manufacturer from South-Central Illinois appears to be among the most recent victims of an international trade show scheme operating out of Mexico.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) urges businesses, associations and other groups throughout the U.S. to be extremely cautious when dealing with Expo Guide, Expo-Guide.com, or Commercial Online Manuals. Consumers say they believed they were filling out paperwork for free ads in trade show guides, only to learn later that they were committing to pay $1,500 a year for Internet listings with little, if any, value.

The BBB in Columbus, Ohio, has received 19 complaints about the business in the past 36 months. Sixteen of those complaints were not answered, the BBB said. The company has an “F” grade, the lowest grade possible. The complaints are from across the U.S. and Canada, including New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia and California.

Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO, said similar trade show ad schemes have been operating for years. Consumers involved in trade shows or exhibitions, in both the U. S. and abroad, should be on the lookout for companies asking to include their business information in a free show publication, she said.

“In some cases, the offer includes fine print that hooks them into expensive, long-term deals in exchange for listing their information on Expo Guide’s and similar websites,” Corey said.

An attorney from Belleville, Ill., who represents the Illinois manufacturing company, told BBB that his client was stunned to receive a bill from Expo Guide. He said the company’s officials have no memory of signing any contract in which they agreed to purchase a listing in an online directory, and have tried repeatedly to obtain a copy of the alleged agreement.

Even if such an agreement had been signed, the attorney said, “it appears that it would have been done under the same circumstances under which other companies participating in trade shows were victimized by Expo Guide’s scams.”

He said Expo Guide misleads trade show participants into believing they are filling out forms to get their listings included free in the trade show’s official guide, when “basically illegible print” on the form commits them to the $1,500 a year Internet ad.

Numerous trade show operators have posted warnings on their websites about the Mexican scheme and similar operations. The Belleville attorney has said the scheme has victimized businesses ranging from medical device manufacturers to greeting card companies.

The BBB offers the following advice for consumers solicited on behalf of trade show publications:

Be suspicious of any business that solicits information about your company in connection with an upcoming trade show or exhibition. Be certain that the solicitation is being done on behalf of the trade show and not by an unrelated party.
Read everything closely before submitting any information to a company claiming ties to a trade show. In many cases, small print or print in light, difficult-to-read type, may commit a business or association to a costly, long-term agreement.
Check a company’s Reliability Report with the BBB by going to www.bbb.org or by calling 800-649-6814

Your Cell Number is not Going Public

7/23/2010

Posted on 7/23/2010 by

Have you gotten an email forwarded to you by one of your friends lately saying that one day very soon the list of all cell phone numbers is going to go public and you will be spammed by unwanted sales calls? Actually, it’s not going to happen.

There are some rumors that just will not die, and this is one of them. Since at least 2004 there’s been an email making the rounds that says that all cell phone numbers are about to go public and be released to telemarketers. According to the email, you will be spammed by sales calls (and they will go on your cell phone bill) unless you call a special number at the national Do Not Call (DNC) Registry to get your cell phone number blocked for the next 5 years.

So, what’s the real deal? Well, there is a national DNC Registry, and there’s no harm in registering your cell phone number on it, but there is NO national release of cell phone numbers scheduled or planned. According to the Web site snopes.com, this rumor started several years ago when some of the major wireless companies planned to create a 411 national directory. In the end, the directory never happened – but the rumor that it’s out there and telemarketers will soon have access to it just won’t go away.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a special Web page http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2007/02/dnccellphones.shtm about this story-that-will-not-die. On it they say that:

Cell phone numbers are NOT being released to telemarketers, and you will NOT soon be getting telemarketing calls on your cell phone.
There is NO deadline to register your cell phone number with the DNC Registry.
Telemarketers are not allowed to use automated dialers to call cell phone numbers. Since that’s what most of them use, they wouldn’t be calling your cell phone number even if they had it.
There is only one DNC Registry. There is no separate one for cell phones. The DNC Registry registers both cell phones and land lines. You must call from the phone number that you want to register. If you register online, you must respond to a confirmation e-mail.
And, by the way, in 2007 the FTC got rid of the 5-year expiration date on DNC registries. So once your number’s registered, you won’t have to renew it.

To put your phone number in the DNC Registry, go to www.donotcall.gov or call toll-free, 1-888-382-1222. But there’s no need to panic if you don’t get around to it today.

Medicare Rebate Scam

7/18/2010

Posted on 7/18/2010 by

BBB Warns Seniors about Medicare Rebate Scam

Recent calls to BBB from senior citizens point to individuals or companies using the Medicare rebate as a tool to gain appointments and get information from senior citizens.

Companies or con artists may contact senior citizens and lead them to believe that in order to receive the tax free rebate they must provide additional information. These companies may be attempting to sell you their drug policy or they are con artists planning to use your information to take money and steal your identity.

President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act in 2010 which provides a $250 tax free rebate to seniors on Medicare who have prescription drug coverage. This coverage may be through Medicare Extra Help or provided through another Medicare approved provider. The gap or sometimes referred to as a “donut.” This happens when the individual has reached a point in the plan where coverage stops and they pay out of pocket until the expenses reach a point that the plan will again pay. At that point a rebate check will be mailed to the participants.

Medicare announced in May 2010 an urgent warning not to give out any information due to the fact that no action is necessary to receive the money. If a Medicare recipient is in the plan, the pharmacy records automatically “trigger” the rebate and a check made out in the participant's name will be sent within 45 days.

“Any company or individual that is telling you that you must first fill out paperwork, meet with them, or buy their policy is using the rebate as a deceptive way to solicit business or steal your identity” said, Jim Hegarty, BBB preisdent and CEO.

Callers are telling BBB they are asked to meet with someone for the purpose of getting the rebate. Already many states Attorneys General have issued similar warnings. If you are approached by phone for an appointment, it is not necessary to give out any information or purchase a policy to receive the check, and you may report information about the caller such as name, name of company, phone number and address to BBB (toll free) at 800-649-6814, to BBB Senior Line (toll free) at 877-637-3334, Medicare at 800-633-4227 or your local police.

Red Flags to Watch for When Using E-bay

7/18/2010

Posted on 7/18/2010 by

With the current economic condition, consumers are flocking to online auctions like eBay to bid and sell new and used items. Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous people that take advantage of the auction. If you, your employees, or family members frequent eBay and other online auction sites, watch out for the following schemes:

“Shill Bidding” – This occurs when a seller has multiple accounts or a group of friends who deceitfully raise bids to up the profit margin on a purchase.

“Bid Shielding” – In this scenario, the buyer with the multiple accounts or group of friend bidders will keep upping their bids but then retract them. This process is used to scare off other bidders from making a bid. Then, the bidder with the lowest bid gets the item for bottom-dollar price.

“Switch and Return” – A buyer will purchase an item from you and return it, only the item they return is not what you sold them but an imposter.

“Fakes and Reproductions” – Sellers may provide a fake certificate of authenticity on collector items. This may be done on rare items purported to be in “mint condition.” Also watch out for wording in the ad that states “to my knowledge” or “I think.” Be especially aware of counterfeit trading cards.

Sadly, those are just a few of the terms and practices of unscrupulous eBay participants. There are other precautions eBay users need to arm themselves with to be able to predict and prevent internet crime that can be found at www.bbb.org.

1. Know who you are dealing with! Find out the seller’s information. Do this by placing a low bid on an item and go to http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQtZvbQQsofindtypeZ9. Enter in “the seller’s name and item number”. EBay will send you the contact information. Then, call this person. Look up the phone number online at www.free411.com and verify their address if provided. “If the phone number does not work, that is a red flag.”

2. As far as payment methods, C.O.D. is ideal as is escrow.com, although somewhat expensive. PayPal is also acceptable, although unless stated in the ad, does not provide you with $2000 coverage protection. If using PayPal it is recommended that you use a credit card. Credit card companies will refund your money if the seller fails to provide the merchandise. Keep away from money transfers, i.e. Western Union and MoneyGram. Typically, a scammer uses money transfers to hide their identity, so law enforcement cannot track them down, especially if they reside in a foreign country where American laws will not protect you. Do not send a check as a method of payment. A tactic that overseas scammers will use is sending an overpayment via foreign cashier’s check. Then, they want left over monies sent to them via Western Union.

3. Be wary of fake eBay and PayPal sites. If a hot link is listed, place your cursor over it and look at the URL on the bottom. If the two do not match up, there is a problem. Also if there is no “s” in the “https:” web address, the link is not a secure site. DO NOT add your personal information here. This is how scammers access your eBay ID and password, credit card, and other personal information.

4. Another red flag to watch for is if the buyer or seller only wants to work with you through email. It is likely the account is stolen, especially if they are asking for payment via money transfer. Money transfers have to be requested via email because eBay will not publish these types of requests on their site.

5. Other red flags eBay tells you to watch out for are: auctions that hide the bidders, sloppy English, products located in a different location than the seller, ads missing the eBay “buy-it-now” button, products listed in the wrong category, (which scammers will do, since certain categories are flagged as “SCAM AUCTIONS”.)

6. Keep your password and account secure. Ignore pop-ups that may request personal information. Make sure your computer is protected by updated anti-virus and firewall software. Set your security options in your web browser to alert you when a website is unsafe. Always type out URL addresses provided by eBay and PayPal to ensure that you do not click on malware. Never send your personal information via email. Be careful about opening attachments, which may also contain malware.

7. Be familiar with the product you are buying to ensure you don’t purchase imitations.

8. Be leery of quick-sell auctions, as opportunists will always pressure you into buying but won’t always deliver.

9. Consider paying the extra money to the post office to get a tracking number so the post office can help locate your item if lost or stolen.

Welcome!

7/13/2010

Posted on 7/13/2010 by Margo Riekes
I just wanted to welcome everyone to our new Consumer News and Opinion Blog!

Here you'll be able to get consumer news, tips and alerts. I hope you enjoy!

BBB Warns Car Shoppers About Online Dealer Scam

7/13/2010

Posted on 7/13/2010 by
Better Business Bureau is warning car shoppers to beware of websites offering too-good-to-be-true deals on repossessed cars. BBB has heard from people across the country who thought they were buying from a reputable dealer online but were actually sending money to scammers posing as legitimate, already-established community dealerships.

“Because scammers essentially steal the identity and good name of real auto dealers, car shoppers will think that they’re buying a car from a reputable business,” said BBB President Jim Hegarty. “The truth is, they’re being sold a bill of goods by a coordinated, agile and in all likelihood overseas outfit of scammers.”

Most recently, one Memphis auto dealer, America Auto Sales (www.memphisautoworld.com), received more than 1,000 calls from consumers across the country who had shopped for a new car on www.americautosales.com thinking that it was the website of the Memphis dealership. The phony website used the name, address and contact information of the real dealer.

The fraudulent website claimed to sell repossessed cars at prices well below market. Buyers were instructed to wire a deposit—as much as $5,000—to an individual rather than the company, which, according to the phony website, “helps us avoid taxes legally.” The balance was to be paid upon delivery at the consumer’s address within five days.

After paying the deposit, victims called the real dealership to arrange delivery of their car. Some customers even showed up at the lot to pick up the cars they had “bought” on the bogus site.

Similar websites have posed as many different dealers in Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, New Mexico and Texas. The websites are often taken down after a few days only to crop up shortly thereafter under a different URL address and under the auspices of another legitimate dealer.

BBB recommends that car shoppers look for the following red flags when shopping for a car online:

The prices are too good to be true.
The dealer only communicates through chat or e-mail—never by phone.
The dealer only accepts payment by money wire transfer.

If you have been the victim of a fraudulent auto dealer online, notify your BBB at www.bbb.org and the Internet Crime Center at www.ic3.gov to file a complaint.

Mail-In Rebates: Now Available in Paper or Plastic

7/13/2010

Posted on 7/13/2010 by

Once the excitement of the holidays wears off, it’s time to start reaping the promised rewards of mail-in rebates. Retailers and manufacturers are changing the way they issue rebates and Better Business Bureau advises that it’s more important than ever to read the fine print when filing for a rebate.

According to CreditCards.com, retailers and manufacturers are increasingly opting to provide rebates in the form of pre-loaded cards as opposed to paper checks. Unlike checks, which can be deposited in a bank and used to pay bills, to get the benefit, consumers must spend. These cards can often only be used where credit cards are accepted. In most cases, the cards can be used at any merchant—much like a debit card—but some retailers are also handing out rebate cards that can only be used at their stores. The cards may also have expiration dates and added fees that could whittle down their value.

“Rebates are a great way to get a deal, but they can also be a great source of frustration for consumers,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB President and CEO. “By acting quickly to redeem the rebate and reading the mail-in instructions carefully, consumers can significantly reduce the stress associated with redeeming rebates.”

In the previous 12 months, 70 percent of consumers have taken advantage of manufacturer rebates on products, according to a recent survey by Consumer Reports. The national telephone survey also found that, of those who applied for a rebate, 21 percent of people were unsuccessful. Typically, consumers simply didn’t receive anything or were turned down because of a technicality.

BBB offers the following advice to holiday shoppers on how to make the process of redeeming rebates as painless as possible:

• Don’t wait. Some rebates have a time window in which they can be redeemed or must be redeemed within a certain amount of time following purchase. Waiting also increases your chances of misplacing necessary receipts or packaging.

• Read the instructions carefully. The guidelines for redeeming a rebate can be extensive and missing steps may delay the process or result in loss of the rebate. Be sure to indicate how you want to receive the rebate—such as if a gift card is the default option—and include all the necessary paperwork and proof of purchase. Also make a point to thoroughly read the fine print details that are included when you receive your rebate card or check in the mail.

• Keep the packaging. Rebates often require UPC bar codes or other parts of the packaging to be included with the paperwork for processing, so don’t throw boxes away until you’re sure you don’t need them.

• Make copies of everything. Keep a copy of all the paperwork you mailed back to the retailer or manufacturer for the rebate. It’s the only record you’ll have of the transaction if anything goes missing.

• Contact the business if the rebate doesn’t arrive. Some retailers and manufacturers use third-party fulfillment companies for processing rebates so keep in mind that you might be dealing with a different business when it comes to tracking down your rebate.

• Help is available if you need it. If the rebate never arrives or is significantly late, file a complaint with BBB, the Federal Trade Commission or your state Attorney General.

For more advice on being a savvy consumer this holiday season, visit bbb.org.

Don’t Get Sucked in By Deceptive Air Duct Cleaners

6/30/2010

Posted on 6/30/2010 by

Local ads offering a low price on air duct cleaning can seem like a great deal with minimal risk. While most companies are on the straight and narrow, the Better Business Bureau warns consumers to beware of air duct cleaning businesses that employ bait and switch tactics or try to scare the homeowner into thinking they have a serious health-threatening mold problem.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, a careless or inadequately trained service provider can damage your ducts or heating and cooling system, possibly increasing your heating and air conditioning costs or forcing you to undertake difficult and costly repairs or replacements. Complaints to BBB also show that putting your trust in the wrong company can mean spending thousands of dollars on unnecessary mold remediation services.

“Most of us aren’t experts when it comes to maintaining the mechanical components of our house and we have to rely on the opinion of the technician,” said BBB President and CEO Jim Hegarty. "Unfortunately, some companies are taking advantage of that trust by misleading customers and even lying about having a serious mold problem.”

BBB has received many complaints about one outfit operating most recently under names like Pure Kleen, Priority One Air Solutions and United Restoration which has been active for more than a dozen years. The network of individuals have set up different duct and carpet cleaning companies from Washington State to Florida and been the subject of at least three cease and desist orders issued by various State Attorney Generals.

Customers are baited with low advertised prices, generally through mass mail or local newspapers, for air conditioning duct cleaning services. These ads often include a depiction of a giant dust mite and alarming descriptions of mold, mildew and unhealthy air quality. Once sales agents are in the customer’s homes they run reportedly bogus mold detection tests and tell the owner they must pay thousands of dollars to have the mold removed.

When looking for a professional to clean out air ducts, BBB recommends that consumers:

Check the Company Out With BBB. Before setting up a visit, check the company out with your Better Business Bureau first. Ideally, the business will be Accredited by BBB or at least have a good rating. Pay close attention to the name of the business you’re researching because unscrupulous outfits often choose a name that is similar to an existing business that has a solid reputation. To check out a business’s Reliability Report or locate a BBB Accredited duct cleaner visit bbb.org.

Look for the Fine Print. Ads and contracts may contain fine print which the business might think will absolve them from honoring their advertised price. Always ask plenty of questions and get to the bottom line of what it’s going to cost you, before you sign on the dotted line.

Get a Second Opinion. If the duct cleaner discovers that you have a mold problem, get a second opinion. Mold remediation can cost thousands of dollars so you’ll want expert advice on how to take care of it.

File a Complaint with BBB. If you believe you’ve been misled by a business, file a complaint with the BBB online at bbb.org. Even if BBB isn’t able to resolve the issue for you, the complaint can serve as a warning to other consumers about the business.

Fore more advice on home improvement and maintenance, visit:

http://nebraska.bbb.org/Consumer-Resources/.

FBI Releases Information on the Latest Telephone Scam

6/24/2010

Posted on 6/24/2010 by

FBI Releases Information on the Latest Telephone Scam

Telephone scams have been around for decades but scammers are still finding new twists to trick consumers. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) released the following information to BBB on the latest phone scheme targeting consumers and businesses.

The “telephone denial-of-service” scam ends with the consumer receiving an exorbitant amount of phone calls ranging from recorded messages to dead air. What consumers don’t know is that while they are receiving the phone calls, scammers are hard at work.

Scammers find out the victim’s personal information months before they set up these phone calls. They find out account numbers and passwords and then use the phone calls to divert the victim’s attention and prevent any other phone calls from coming in. While the phone lines are busy, the scammer either drains the victim’s bank account through fraudulent transactions or they pretend to actually be the victim using the account information they previously collected. One of two things will happen. The first outcome is the bank will try to contact the victim, but will receive a busy signal and continue with the transaction. The second outcome is the bank will not make the transaction, but the scammer will either try again later or add an additional phone line to the victim’s account so the bank will call them.

Your BBB advises consumers to never give out personal information through unsolicited e-mails, phone calls, or social networking websites. Also be sure to check bank accounts and statements regularly.

If you feel you have been a victim of a “telephone denial-of-service” scam, immediately contact your telephone provider and financial institution, and file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

For more information on the latest scams and schemes visit fbi.gov.

BBB on differences between Debt Consolidation, Debt Negotiation and Debt Elimination Plans

6/24/2010

Posted on 6/24/2010 by
Consumers are being battered on all fronts and offers from companies to help get them out of debt are extremely tempting in troubling times. Offers of debt negotiation, debt settlement, and debt elimination are three different options available to consumers. Better Business Bureau advises consumers to ensure they understand these critical differences before enlisting the help of a company to manage their debt or they could end up making their current financial situation worse.

“Consumers are bombarded every day with ads and emails offering services to manage or reduce debt and it’s hard to know which offer will work for them, let alone if the company can be trusted,” said BBB President Jim Hegarty. “Families in debt may think their situation can’t get any worse, but trusting the services of some debt negotiation, consolidation or elimination firms can actually lead to increased debt and bigger headaches.”

To help consumers understand various options for dealing with debt, BBB offers a brief explanation of debt negotiation, consolidation and elimination services and tips on finding help to deal with debt:

Debt Negotiation/Settlement
Debt negotiation companies claim that they will negotiate with a consumer’s lenders to lower the total amount of debt owed for an upfront fee. Unfortunately, some consumers who paid for debt negotiation services found out that the company never contacted their lenders, but instead, took their money and ran. Because the debt negotiation company made it sound like they had everything under control, the consumer stopped talking directly with their lenders and ended up slipping deeper into debt. Relying on debt negotiation firms could also put a dent in a consumer’s credit report.

Debt Consolidation
Debt consolidation companies offer to roll up various debts allowing the debtor to make one lower payment to the company, rather than many payments to the different lenders. While debt consolidation can make paying monthly bills more manageable, some companies tack on high fees and charge exorbitant interest rates, which means the consumer is paying much more in the long run.

Debt Elimination
Companies that offer debt elimination rely on many different schemes but they all hinge on the notion that credit lines are illegal. Debt elimination companies typically provide, for an upfront fee, a document for the lender that supposedly absolves the consumer of the debt. Unfortunately, the document has no bearing whatsoever on the debt owed and consumers paying for such services have found that they’ve wasted money on a debt elimination scheme that would have been better spent on actually paying back their debts.

Before enlisting the help of a business to manage debt, BBB offers the following advice for consumers.

• Stay in contact with lenders and try to work out a plan with them first before enlisting outside help

• Always check the company out first with BBB. BBB Reliability Reports on debt negotiation, consolidation, and elimination companies are available online for free at bbb.org

• Start with a credit counseling service. Credit counseling services are often nonprofits that offer financial guidance for a small fee, or even for free. Go to http://www.bbb.org/us/article/6104 for more advice on choosing a credit counseling agency

• Beware of offers that sound too good to be true. There is no easy fix for reducing debt and any company that makes huge claims and guarantees, probably can’t deliver

BBB on Differences between Debt Consolidation, Debt Negotiation and Debt Elimination Plans

6/24/2010

Posted on 6/24/2010 by

BBB Advises Businesses and Homeowners to Beware of Itinerant Storm Chasers

6/15/2010

Posted on 6/15/2010 by

BBB Advises Businesses and Homeowners to Beware of Itinerant Storm Chasers

This has been a good year for storm chasers – not people interested in unusual weather patterns, but instead, traveling contractors who hope to benefit from the wrath brought on by Mother Nature.

BBB warns consumers and businesses to be vigilant in doing their homework prior to buying goods or hiring services in any situation. Particularly when there has been a storm causing property damage, there is a sense of urgency to rush out, clean-up and put things back as they were. Stop! Treat this situation as you would any other one in which you are about to purchase goods or services in association with your home or business.

Be cautious of contractors or companies who enter town just to offer their services during a time of need. These individuals may be participating in fraudulent business practices and are only out to get your money. They can show up at your door or entice you with a fax or email offer.

An Omaha company recently hired a roofing company after receiving a fax offering roof repairs. They received the fax at the time that their roof was leaking. Unfortunately, the owner hired the scammers who were using a phony address in Omaha. They applied their “magic” liquid rubber to fix the leak for $2,500. It looked like a good deal until the next rain and the “magic” rubber turned to black soup and the roof still leaked! “When we tried to confirm the roofing company’s information they hung up on the BBB investigator,” stated Jim Hegarty BBB president and CEO. “Now, the phone number on the flyer no longer works and the company and the victim’s $2,500 are gone!”

Your BBB recommends that before you hire a home repair contractor, you first understand your rights and responsibilities. It is your responsibility to check with your insurer to verify coverage and deductibles and allow the insurer to inspect damages. You should also obtain several estimates from local, well-established contractors and be sure to check their record with the BBB.

Most insurance companies require that you get estimates and a “go ahead” before work begins. For example, the insurer may determine only part of the roof needs repair; however, if a contract between the homeowner and contractor is for replacement of the roof, the homeowner may be “stuck” with the balance of the bill.

BBB offers the following advice to avoid becoming a victim of high-pressure sales tactics:

Never pay a company in full before work begins
Get three bids before choosing a contractor
Do not let a contractor "handle" your insurance claim. Complete your claim and collect payment from the insurance company before working with your chosen roofer to avoid insurance fraud and/or price gouging.
Get background information on the company, including how long it has been in business and how long it’s operated in your area. If the company has a local phone number but not a local address, consider that a red flag
Beware of warranties offered from companies based out-of-state (even if they have a temporary location in your area); question how services will be honored
Does the company use its own workers or do they hire individual sub-contractors? It’s important to know who works on your roof and who is responsible if something goes wrong
Are they licensed (if applicable by city and county)

Start With Trust. For reliable information, lists of BBB Accredited Businesses by industry and reports you can trust on local companies, visit bbb.org or call 402-391-7612 or 800-649-6814.

Gulf Oil Spill Recovery: Tips for Donors and Volunteers

6/11/2010

Posted on 6/11/2010 by

Gulf Oil Spill Recovery: Tips for Donors and Volunteers

Consumers horrified by pictures of oil-covered birds, brown gunk on beaches and plumes of oil spewing from the crippled BP oil well at the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico may want to volunteer to help or donate money for the cleanup.

“Businesses, communities and wildlife across several states have been seriously affected by the spill, and the need for assistance is great,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “However, constraints in the cleanup effort limit what charities can do with your money or how you can volunteer.”

BBB cautions that the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is unlike previous disasters and advises donors to take a careful look at organizations seeking donations to address the crisis before they write a check or volunteer time. It can be difficult to distinguish between organizations asking for donations to help push their political agendas and those that will use the money to rescue wildlife or clean up contaminated beaches and marshes.

BBB suggests that donors and volunteers consider the following:

Beware of well-intentioned but inexperienced organizations – New non-profits and relief organizations spring up following any major disaster. While these groups might have the best of intentions, new charities responding to a crisis may lack the resources, experience and management needed to be effective. Ideally, look for established organizations with environmental expertise or experience aiding Gulf communities.

Understand where your money is going - Find out how the organization plans to spend funds for Gulf relief, ecosystem recovery and related activities. Among the activities that charities are promoting, in addition to shoreline rescue and protection, are needs assessment, litigation, economic relief, advocacy for new governmental energy policies and research into long-term solutions to minimize effects of future disasters. Ask whether the organization offers to restrict your donation for use in its Gulf-related activities or intends to use it for general support for all of its programs.

Rely on expert opinion when it comes to evaluating a charity - Be cautious when relying on third-party recommendations posted on blogs or websites, as the authors might not have fully researched the organizations they list. The public can go to bbb.org/charity to research charities to verify that they are accredited by the BBB and meet the BBB’s 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.

Find out if the charity is doing Gulf-related work or raising funds for other Gulf relief organizations - If a charity is raising money for other groups, you may want to consider “avoiding the middleman” and giving directly to those performing the work. Research ultimate recipients of the “middleman’s” donations to ensure that these organizations are equipped to do the job you want to support and are aware of the individual or organization soliciting on its behalf.

Volunteering for Gulf clean-up may require special skills or training - Learn what qualifications are necessary before setting off for the site. If you’re looking to get your hands dirty, you’re out of luck unless you’re certified to handle hazardous materials or have received training to care for injured wildlife. In fact, Gulf residents are being told not to handle any tar balls that wash up on the beach or animals that might be affected by the spill. Other volunteer opportunities may include shoreline monitoring, fund raising, office work, help in food programs for families in need and providing transportation. Numerous charities with volunteer programs ask that you register with them so that they can assess your skills and place you appropriately when openings arise.

There will be many opportunities to give, so keep checking – The Gulf region will be suffering from the effects of the oil spill for years to come and, as the situation unfolds, there will be more opportunities for donors to step in and help in the future. If you can’t find a cause you can get behind right now, plan to revisit the possibility of making a donation or volunteering in the months to come.

BBB Wise Giving Alliance has compiled a list of nationally soliciting charities which meet BBB standards that are asking for donations and volunteers for the Gulf effort. These can be found at http://www.bbb.org/us/article/charities-assisting-gulf-coast-oil-spill-clean-up-20061.

Beware of Loan Scams Warns the Better Business Bureau

6/2/2010

Posted on 6/2/2010 by

No Credit? Bad Credit?
Beware of Loan Scams
Warns Better Business Bureau

Struggling families and small business owners
loose thousands to phony lenders.

According to complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau, victims across the country have lost a total estimated quarter million dollars to advance fee loan scams this spring. Advance fee loan scams target individuals and small business owners who are desperate to get a loan and often take the victim for thousands of dollars.

Despite recent improvements, the economy continues to provide a great opportunity for scammers to take advantage of struggling individuals and small business owners. Lending standards remain stringent at most banks and many cash-strapped individuals are turning to fraudulent lenders that promise loans regardless of your credit history.

“Schemes preying on people looking for loans are not new, and they are flourishing in an economy when so many are struggling to get by,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “The complaints received by the BBB are only the vocal few and we know from experience that many more people across the country are falling for this scam every day - just when they can least afford it.”

The BBB, nationally, has recently received complaints about advance fee loan scammers operating under more than 75 different names including Capital Alliance Financial Group, Harford Financial Services, Howard and Clark Financial, Lending Hand Financial, among others.

Most people stumble upon the scam online or learn about the bogus loan offer from ads in local Thrifty Nickel publications and online through classified sites like Craigslist. Often, an advance fee loan scam website will be created and taken down within a couple weeks only to be replaced by another operating under a different name and fake business address.

The websites look professional and might even put the victim through the rigors of filling out loan application forms - often requiring the victim’s bank account and Social Security numbers. Eventually victims are told they are approved for the loan and just need to pay as much as thousands of dollars upfront via money order or wire transfer to pay for insurance or collateral. Those that pay, never get the promised loan and are even sometimes tricked into giving the scammers even more money.

The BBB advises cash-strapped individuals and small business owners to recognize the red flags of an advance fee loan scam:

• The lender has a bad reputation or none at all. Research the lender thoroughly online and with your BBB. Most trustworthy lenders have an established track record; be wary if you can’t find much information about the lender online.

• The lender is not registered in your state to do business. Check with your state financial or banking regulators.

• The lender asks you to wire money or send a money order - such as for insurance or collateral - before you can receive the loan. You might be told to wire money to another country, consider this yet another red flag.

If you’ve become a victim of an advance fee loan scam, contact your BBB at 800-649-6814 and report the incident to your police department. If you were asked to wire money to Canada, file a complaint with Canadian law enforcement by calling toll free: 1-888-495-8501 or e-mail: info@phonebusters.com.

How to Spot the Red Flags of an Investment Seminar Scam

6/2/2010

Posted on 6/2/2010 by

Falling victim to a fraudulent investment scheme can mean losing anywhere from a few hundred dollars to your life savings. While most people might not see the harm in sitting through an investment seminar, Better Business Bureau recommends researching the investment company first, rather than run the risk of falling for a financial siren song over a free lunch.

Investment scams and schemes can come in many forms and a common technique to lure people in is the offer of a free financial seminar over lunch. In one recent example, the Securities and Exchange Commission shut down a Ponzi scheme which stole $20 million from retirees in California and Illinois. The scammers invited senior citizens to estate planning seminars and later coaxed their victims into buying promissory notes for purported Turkish investments.

“Free lunch seminars can seem like an easy way to get a meal, but attendees run the risk of getting drawn in by the slick presentations and promises of big returns,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “Unscrupulous seminars often use the promise of a free lunch to lure in leisurely senior citizens who have time and exploitable retirement accounts and real estate.”

When listening to an investment pitch, BBB recommends looking for the following red flags:

Requires a large up-front investment. Untrustworthy schemers might try to convince investors to pay a lot of money upfront so they can get out of town with a large haul, rather than wait for the funds to trickle in.

Promises high returns for low risk. Every investment comes with a level of risk. Typically the amount of risk increases in line with the potential return on the investment. If the seminar is trying to sell an investment scheme that claims a high return with little or no risk, beware, even if it comes with the promise of a money-back guarantee.

Employs high pressure sales tactics. Seminar leaders often use high pressure sales tactics to get people to sign up without thinking it through. They might claim that there are only a few spots left or that you need to get in on the ground floor today to see the largest earnings. Any reputable investment company will let you take your time and do your research and will not pressure you into signing a check.

Relies on off-shore investments. Many hucksters try to give their scheme an air of sophistication by relying on overseas investments such as foreign currency, property, stocks and bonds. They also might claim—incorrectly—that you can avoid taxes by investing overseas.

Sounds too good to be true. At the end of the day, if the offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always listen to your instincts because the potential payoff is rarely worth the risk.

For more advice from your BBB on financial planning and investment visit http://www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-finance/.

Contacted unexpectedly by a debt collector? Know your rights!

5/26/2010

Posted on 5/26/2010 by

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has noticed an uptick recently in complaints filed by consumers who are reporting they’re being contacted by collection agencies after opting out of trial offers which were supposed to be free. Generally, these complaints have involved health products, such as acai berry supplements or teeth whitening products, which complainants have signed up for online. Some of these complainants have paid disputed bills simply to avoid the possibility of having their credit rating hurt.

“Our fear is that unscrupulous individuals know that due to the economy, now more than ever, consumers are concerned about their credit scores,” said Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of BBB. “In that situation, they will be more likely to simply pay up if they receive a letter threatening them with collections, even if they disagree with the bill.”

The BBB advises consumers in these situations to know their rights. Just because you receive a bill from a collection agency, doesn’t mean the bill or even the company itself is legitimate. If you receive a bill you disagree with from a collection agency, the BBB recommends the following:

• Check the company’s Reliability Report with the Better Business Bureau and also check to make sure the company has proper state licensure.

• Keep in mind that within five days after you are first contacted, the collector must send you a written notice telling you the amount of money you owe, the name of the creditor to whom you owe the money and what action to take if you believe you do not owe the money.

• Be aware that if you send a letter within 30 days disputing that you owe the money, the debt collector cannot make further collection efforts until you receive proof of the debt. If you cannot obtain an address by which to contact the collection agency in writing, you may be the target of a scam.

• File a complaint with the BBB at bbb.org or with your state’s Attorney General’s Office.

For more information on collection agencies and your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, go to: http://www.bbb.org/us/article/4732

In mid-April of this year, the Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota began receiving consumer complaints against Sans Financial, a company claiming to be a collections agency operating out of Bloomington, Minnesota. Consumers were contacted by the company through the mail and told that they owed money because they failed to opt out of a trial offer of health products they had signed up for online. Complainants alleged, however, that they either had never received the products offered or they had canceled their agreements prior to the expiration of the free trial period.

The Better Business Bureau forwarded all complaints to the address Sans Financial provided on their correspondence to consumers. However, in late April the BBB determined the company was operating out of a P.O. Box in a UPS store at that address. Subsequently, the United States Postal Inspection Service has informed the BBB that the company has voluntarily closed their P.O. Box. Consumers who received notices from the company are advised to file complaints with either the Federal Trade Commission (ftc.gov) or their state’s Attorney General’s Office.

Illinois Man Lost $10,000 In eBay-Related Scam; BBB Urges Caution

5/26/2010

Posted on 5/26/2010 by
Three months ago a man from Glen Carbon, Ill. lost nearly $10,000 in an Internet scam. Now he is warning others to be extremely cautious when buying on eBay, a popular auction site.

“I couldn’t sleep for a month,” said the 57-year-old mechanic, who has been fighting to recoup his money after losing it to an Internet thief in late February.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) says consumers should be especially skeptical of any seller who asks for payment via Western Union, MoneyGram, or other types of non-refundable money transfers. Consumers also should be wary of eBay sellers who ask that they bypass the auction site and deal directly with them.

Jim Hegarty, president and CEO of the BBB serving Nebraska, South Dakota, and southwest Iowa, said the Glen Carbon case is a classic example of what can happen when criminals use legitimate sites like eBay to defraud the public. “These people are looking for any way of separating unsuspecting consumers from their cash. They are sophisticated, and they will do whatever they have to do to keep the money rolling in.”

The BBB in San Jose, Calif., which handles inquiries involving eBay, said it is seeing a huge increase of fraud claims from consumers who think they are buying a vehicle from eBay, but are actually dealing with a third party pretending to be eBay. EBay specifically prohibits its sellers from requesting payment through instant cash transfer services, the San Jose BBB said. EBay also says it does not offer purchase protection for payments made by check, money orders, cash on delivery or instant cash transfer services.

The Glen Carbon man said he was shopping for a piece of construction equipment when he found one on eBay. He said he should have been suspicious because the $9,900 price tag was less than half the value of the machine. When he clicked on the photo of the machine, a notice entitled “Important!!!!” instructed him not to use the “ask seller a question” option on eBay, but rather communicate with the seller directly. The notice gave an e-mail address and, from that point until the sale was completed, he said he used the e-mail address to arrange for the purchase.

He said the seller identified herself as a recent divorcee from Bangor, Maine, who had received the construction equipment in a divorce settlement and wanted to sell it quickly.

The buyer said he felt reassured when the woman insisted that he use an eBay escrow program to complete the transaction and sent him a link to the supposed eBay site. He learned later that the site was a fake. He said he paid for the machine via a wire transfer from his credit union to a Wells Fargo bank in Los Angeles.

The seller said the bank would hold the money in escrow for seven days to give him time to decide whether he was happy with the purchase.

When the man did not receive the machine on the day it was promised, he tried to contact the woman using the same e-mail address he had used earlier. She did not respond. That's when he knew he had been scammed.

Several Internet sites have dealt with similar scams, in which thieves have offered everything from expensive communications equipment to farm tractors to boats. In many cases, sellers have asked to communicate outside the eBay communications system, have used fake sites that appear to be associated with eBay and requested various forms of wire transfer payments.

BBB offers the following tips for buyers making purchases on eBay or similar sites:

Pay by PayPal or use a credit card or debit card. Never pay a stranger with cash or via any type of wire transfer.
Be very cautious when purchasing any item through a “Buy It Now” offer when the price is significantly lower than the prices of similar sale items. Beware of sellers who say they are offering items at unusually low prices because they want to sell quickly.
If you think you’ve been directed to a fraudulent web page, ask a representative of the original site directly. Any seller who goes to the trouble of setting up a phony web page is doing it for a reason.
It pays to be skeptical. If something doesn’t seem right about a transaction, it is usually best to walk away from it.
If you have questions, contact the BBB at bbb.org

Fraudsters out to score some new victims with soccer scam

5/19/2010

Posted on 5/19/2010 by

Fraudsters out to score some new victims with soccer scam

The 2010 FIFA World Cup is less than a month away and scammers are trying their best to take advantage of consumers.

“Soccer is an extremely popular sport and with the World Cup around the corner, we are seeing the foreign lottery scam making a comeback,” says BBB President and CEO Jim Hegarty. “Stick with the BBB’s advice. If is sounds too good to be true, it normally is.”

The scam lottery appears to be from FIFA and a partnership between the South African and Canadian governments. The solicitation attempts to persuade recipients to submit personal information or forward money to receive the prize.

A new variation of the FIFA lottery scam is appearing as a mass email, which has a PDF attachment outlining the prize details. Opening an attachment from an unknown party could expose your computer to malware viruses and lead to identity theft.

In February, FIFA sent out a warning about lottery prize scams associated with their name - there is no World Cup 2010 Lottery affiliated in any way to FIFA.

BBB recommends the following when you receive a foreign lottery letter or email:

· If you're thinking about responding to a foreign lottery, don't do it. This is a scam.

· By responding to just one foreign lottery offer, you've opened the door to many more bogus offers for lottery or investment "opportunities". Your name will be added to "sucker lists" that fraudulent telemarketers buy and sell.

· In both the U.S. and Canada, it's illegal to play a foreign lottery - through the mail or on the telephone or Internet. Don't add insult to injury by inviting federal charges. Remember to always check with the BBB for information regarding scams.

BBB Advises Public on checks Received from the FTC

5/10/2010

Posted on 5/10/2010 by

BBB Advises Public on Checks Received from
the Federal Trade Commission

Late last month, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) began mailing more than 34,000 checks to consumers who lost money in cross-border fraud schemes involving payments made via wire through MoneyGram International, Inc.

The BBB has been receiving inquiries from the public as to the validity of these checks. They are legitimate checks and the FTC urges consumers who receive them to cash them within 60 days. As a reminder, the FTC never requires a payment of money up-front or the provision of additional information from consumers before the checks can be cashed as issued.

The checks are part of an $18 million dollar settlement agreement reached between MoneyGram and the FTC. In October 2009, the FTC charged that MoneyGram allowed its money transfer system to be used by fraudulent telemarketers to bilk U.S. consumers out of tens of millions of dollars – after these consumers were falsely told by con artists they had won a lottery, were hired for a secret shopper program or would receive loans for an advance fee.

A press release describing the FTC complaint and the settlement agreement with MoneyGram can be found at: http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2009/10/moneygram.shtm

The redress checks being issued to consumers average $520. The checks are being sent to U.S. consumers who complained directly to MoneyGram about their fraud-induced money transfers within the United States to Canada. However, consumers who were tricked into wiring funds by fraudulent telemarketers and didn’t file complaints might still be eligible for proceeds from the settlement. The redress program covers consumers whose transfers were made between the years 2004 through 2008. Consumers who have questions about the settlement can call the claims administrator at 1-877-740-6993.

Avoid Petal Pushers this Mother's Day

5/7/2010

Posted on 5/7/2010 by

Loved ones who plan to send flowers for Mother’s Day should beware of “petal pushers.” These unscrupulous florists place bogus listings in local phone directories. When you call the local number listed, or given to you by the operator, you’re unknowingly forwarded to an out-of-town telemarketing company. The telemarketer takes your order and credit card information, and then forwards your order to an area florist. The telemarketer pockets a processing fee and usually a percentage of the total order. You don't know you've been scammed until you learn you've been charged more than you planned, then the flowers aren't delivered as ordered or worse -- not delivered at all.

Here are some tips from the BBB so you don’t get duped by petal pushers:

Ask family and friends for referrals to a florist they have used.
Check to see if a florist is a BBB Accredited Businesses at bbb.org.
If you find a florist from the phone book, look for a listing that includes a local address. When you call, ask for the directions to the store – if they hesitate or refuse, hang up.
Visiting the shop is another way to determine if the florist is reputable. Check the quality of the flowers and the overall quality of the business.
You can also ask for a guarantee. Most professional florists should have one.

For more tips, go to bbb.org

Avoid Petal Pushers this Mother's Day

5/7/2010

Posted on 5/7/2010 by

Here are some tips from the BBB so you don’t get duped by petal pushers:

Ask family and friends for referrals to a florist they have used.
Check to see if a florist is a BBB Accredited Businesses at bbb.org.
If you find a florist from the phone book, look for a listing that includes a local address. When you call, ask for the directions to the store – if they hesitate or refuse, hang up.
Visiting the shop is another way to determine if the florist is reputable. Check the quality of the flowers and the overall quality of the business.
You can also ask for a guarantee. Most professional florists should have one.

For more tips, go to bbb.org

Avoid Petal Pushers this Mother's Day

5/7/2010

Posted on 5/7/2010 by

Here are some tips from the BBB so you don’t get duped by petal pushers:

Ask family and friends for referrals to a florist they have used.
Check to see if a florist is a BBB Accredited Businesses at www.bbb.org.
If you find a florist from the phone book, look for a listing that includes a local address. When you call, ask for the directions to the store – if they hesitate or refuse, hang up.
Visiting the shop is another way to determine if the florist is reputable. Check the quality of the flowers and the overall quality of the business.
You can also ask for a guarantee. Most professional florists should have one.

For more tips, go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Small Business Advice: How Badly Does Your Business Need a Website?

5/7/2010

Posted on 5/7/2010 by

BBB Small Business Advice:
How Badly Does Your Business
Need a Website?

Even though consumers are more likely to use a small business that has a website, most small businesses still haven’t taken the time or money to create one. The Better Business Bureau recommends that small business owners ask themselves four questions to help decide whether building a website should become a top priority.

According to Discover Small Business Watch, 47 percent of consumers surveyed say they are more likely to use a small business that has a website. Despite the fact that so many customers put stock in a website, most small businesses don’t have one. Discover Small Business Watch also found from a survey of small business owners that only 45 percent had a company website.

“A website is practically a necessity for attracting new customers in today’s marketplace, but many small business owners haven’t made the time or found the resources to create one,” said BBB President and CEO Jim Hegarty. “Depending on your business and current online presence, a website might just be the key to surviving and even thriving in this tough economy.”

Small business owners should ask themselves the following questions when considering whether or not website development should become a priority:

Can customers find you online already? When local customers search the Internet using keywords such as your industry or even your business’s name, you need your company’s contact information, at the very least, to be listed in the top results. The results might be your business’s BBB Reliability Report, a review of your business on Yelp, or a listing on Yahoo Local, City Search or Google Local. If you can’t find your business among the top results, neither can potential customers.

Does your competition have a website? If your competition is online, your business needs to be right there next to them. Many potential customers start and end their search online and may go with the first business they find that has an established web presence. If that business is your competition, then you’re already losing the battle over new customers.

How is your online reputation faring? More often disgruntled customers are taking their anger out on businesses online. They might post an angry review on Yelp, create a video on YouTube, or even build a website dedicated solely to complaining about a business. If a chronically disgruntled customer is making a lot of noise about your business online, you can mitigate the damage to your business’s reputation by countering with your own website.

Could you expand your sales online? Some small businesses can get along fine with a basic website that explains their services, location, and hours of operation. If your business provides products through mail order, a website with the capability of receiving orders can provide an easy way to expand sales geographically to potential customers that are actively searching online.

For more advice on managing a small business on a tight budget, visit http://www.bbb.org/us/Business-Tips-Index/.

BBB Warns: Your Facebook Friends Could Actually be Hackers, Scam Artists and ID Thieves

4/29/2010

Posted on 4/29/2010 by

Social networking Web sites are a great way to find old classmates, stay connected with friends, or make new friends. Unfortunately, hackers are using Web sites such as Facebook to infect computers and steal identities.

Your Better Business Bureau is urging you to protect yourself against hackers, scammers and ID thieves on social networking websites by becoming familiar with popular scams.

Some common social networking schemes include the following:

Friend in Distress Scam
One scam that has made the transition from phone and email into Facebook is the “friend in distress” scam. Facebook users may receive a message in their inbox from a friend saying that they are in a dire situation – such as stranded in a foreign country – and need money wired to them. The recipient of the message doesn’t realize that their friend’s account has been hacked and that the message was actually sent by scammers. If the Facebook user does wire money to the scammers, they have no way of recovering the money after they learn that their friend is actually safe and sound.

Phishing Friends
One particularly destructive computer virus, called Koobface, has made the social networking site rounds via MySpace and most recently on Facebook in December. In Facebook, the victim receives a message from their friend saying “You look awesome in this video” or “You look funny in this video” and includes a link to an outside Web site to view the video. Clicking on the link will open a window that claims the victim needs to download an updated version of Flash. Agreeing to the update actually installs the virus onto the victim’s computer. The virus is designed to monitor the user’s Internet activity and potentially steal personal information. Victims of Koobface have had a particularly difficult time removing the virus and in some cases just decided to scrap their computers completely.

Viral Wall Post
Another recent Facebook scam takes advantage of a social networker’s fears that the pictures and information they post on Facebook could be made very public. The user receives a post on his or her wall from a friend saying something like, “hey do u realize your face book picture is all over <link to Web site>”. The wall posts vary, but all invariably link to an outside Web site that supposedly has the user’s photos. Facebook warns that clicking on the link will allow hackers to gain access to the user’s personal account and post the same message – seemingly coming from the victim – on their friend’s walls.

Your BBB offers the following advice for staying safe on social networking sites:

Be extremely wary of messages from friends or strangers that direct the user to another website via a hyperlink.
Before wiring money to a friend in a jam, users should attempt to contact their friend outside of the social networking site, such as over the phone or via e-mail to confirm the situation. If that’s not possible, BBB recommends asking them a question to which only they would know the answer.
Users should always make sure their computer’s operating system’s antivirus and firewall software are up to date.
Social networking sites are about sharing information, but BBB recommends that users take steps to keep important information private. While some social networking Web sites do allow for the user to share phone numbers and addresses, it’s best to keep such information private.
Be selective when choosing friends. While a user might not want to be rude, BBB recommends that it’s best to decline a request for friendship if the user doesn’t actually know the person.

For more advice on staying safe online start with www.bbb.org.

BBB Warns: Your Facebook Friends Could Actually be Hackers, Scam Artists, and ID Thieves

4/29/2010

Posted on 4/29/2010 by

Social networking websites are a great way to find old classmates, stay connected with friends and even make new friends. Unfortunately, hackers have learned how to use websites like Facebook in order to disseminate viruses or steal identities. Your Better Business Bureau is offering advice on how consumers can protect themselves against hackers, scammers and ID thieves on social networking websites.

The popularity of social networking websites has grown immensely in the past few years. According to the blog Inside Facebook, Facebook has been growing at a rate of 500,000 new users a day and is approaching 150 million active users. Facebook estimates that, in total, users spend more than 2.6 billion minutes on the website every day worldwide. As a result of the increase in popularity, scammers are seeing an opportunity to step in and ply their trade.

“Social networking is extremely popular because it allows us to connect and reconnect with people we know and trust,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president/CEO. “Scammers know that they can take advantage of that trust by masquerading as friends, families, and coworkers in order to easily disseminate viruses or steal personal information such as bank or credit card numbers.”

Some common social networking schemes include the following:

Friend in Distress Scam
A scam has made the transition from phone and e-mail into Facebook is the “friend in distress” scam. Facebook users may receive a message in their inbox from a friend saying that they are in a dire situation – such as stranded in a foreign country – and need money wired to them. The recipient of the message doesn’t realize that their friend’s account has been hacked and that the message was actually sent by scammers. If the Facebook user does wire money to the scammers, they have no way of recovering the money after they learn that their friend is actually safe and sound.

Phishing Friends
One particularly virulent computer virus, called Koobface, has made the social networking site rounds via MySpace and most recently on Facebook in December. In Faceback, the victim receives a message from their friend saying “You look awesome in this video” or “You look funny in this video” and includes a link to an outside website to view the video. Clicking on the link will open a window that claims the victim needs to download an updated version of Flash. Agreeing to the update actually installs the virus onto the victim’s computer. The virus is designed to monitor the user’s Internet activity and potentially steal personal information. Victims of Koobface have had a particularly difficult time removing the virus and in some cases just decided to scrap their computers completely.

Viral Wall Post
Another recent Facebook scam takes advantage of a social networker’s fears that the pictures and information they post on Facebook could be made very public. The user receives a post on his or her wall from a friend saying something like, “hey do u realize your face book picture is all over <link to we site>”. The wall posts vary, but all invariably link to an outside website that supposedly has the user’s photos. Facebook warns that clicking on the link will allow hackers to gain access to the user’s personal account and post the same message – seemingly coming from the victim – on their friend’s walls.

BBB offers the following advice for staying safe on social networking sites:

• Be extremely wary of messages from friends or strangers that direct the user to another website via a hyperlink.

• Before wiring money to a friend in a jam, users should attempt to contact their friend outside of the social networking site, such as over the phone or via e-mail to confirm the situation. If that’s not possible, BBB recommends asking them a question that only they would know the answer to.

• Users should always make sure their computer’s operating system and antivirus and firewall software are up to date.

• Social networking sites are about sharing information, but BBB recommends that users take steps to keep important information private. While some social networking websites do allow for the user to share phone numbers and addresses, it’s best to keep such information private.

• Be selective when choosing friends. While a user might not want to be rude, BBB recommends that it’s best to decline a request for friendship if the user doesn’t actually know the person.

Complaints to BBB Against Debt Settlement Companies On the Rise

4/29/2010

Posted on 4/29/2010 by

“The debt settlement industry is flourishing and many families are being lured into believing that debt settlement is an easy fix and that their credit card debt will just disappear,” said Stephen A. Cox, President and CEO of the Council of Better Business Bureaus. “The truth is that the process doesn’t work for many consumers, it has potentially serious negative consequences, and should primarily be used as a last ditch effort to stave off bankruptcy.”

Some practices by debt settlement companies are also coming under fire on Capitol Hill. Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY) recently introduced the The Debt Settlement Consumer Protection Act which seeks to “protect consumers from deceptive, abusive and financially injurious practices rampant in the debt settlement industry.”

Typically with debt settlement (also referred to as debt negotiation), the consumer pays an upfront fee to the debt settlement firm with the understanding that the company will try to negotiate a settlement with creditors for less than what is owed. The debt settlement business works with the consumer to establish a plan for the consumer to put money into an account administered by the debt settlement company or a third party, and that money is used to pay any negotiated settlements. It will usually take at least six months to a year before there is enough money to start settling accounts, and during that time the consumer will typically not be making payments to creditors. Not only does this put the consumer at risk of having creditors file garnishments or other legal actions, his or her credit rating will likely suffer as a result of not making required monthly payments.

Complainants to BBB allege that instead of having their debt settled as promised, they were driven deeper into debt and sometimes sued by their creditors—which led to mounting legal fees—and had their wages garnished. Some complainants decided after making several months worth of payments that they did not want to proceed with the debt settlement process, but the debt settlement company did not give them their money back which they had set aside—in one case as much as $15,000.

BBB warns families that are drowning in debt to look for the following red flags when considering getting help from a debt settlement or negotiation firm:

High upfront fees – Beware of companies that require large upfront fees before any debts are settled. Often, these upfront fees may be better used to reduce a consumer’s overall debt.
Promises that are too good to be true– Some companies might promise that they can reduce debt by more than half even before looking into the customer’s financial situation.
Claims that it’s a fast, easy and painless process. - Reducing debt through debt settlement takes time—often years—and can have a significant negative impact on the customer’s credit score. It can also expose consumers to lawsuits and garnishments.

Before enlisting the help of a debt settlement company, BBB recommends that struggling consumers:

Contact their lender first. – Try to work out an agreement directly with your lenders before enlisting outside help.
Seek help from a non-profit credit counseling center – Credit counseling centers can provide guidance for little or even no cost. You can find a credit counseling center near you at the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, www.nfcc.org.
Consider debt settlement only as a last resort before filing for bankruptcy. The debt settlement process can take years and have a severely negative impact on your credit rating and can limit your access to future credit. In the meantime, your credit card company or other creditors can decide to take you to court and garnish your wages. It is best to avoid these potential consequences if you have other workable alternatives to dealing with your debt.
Research the debt settlement firm with BBB first. Find out how many complaints it has received, how the firm responded to complaints and whether or not there are any recent government actions or lawsuits against the company.

More advice on managing credit and paying down high balances is available through BBB’s Managing Credit – Made Simpler at www.bbb.org/credit-management/.

Scammers Hawk Phony Health Plans In Wake Of New Law, BBB Warns

4/16/2010

Posted on 4/16/2010 by

The ink is barely dry on the new federal health insurance law, but scam artists already are using it to peddle phony health policies, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius recently notified state attorneys general and insurance commissioners that scammers were knocking on doors to sell phony policies, claiming there is a limited enrollment period and urging consumers to buy quickly. However, it will be four years before expanded coverage is available, and it’s very unlikely that it then would be sold door-to-door.

“These types of scams often crop up when there is news of a big change in government policy, whether it’s health insurance or tax credits,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO. “It is despicable to prey on the fears of people by threatening them with a fictitious deadline or implying that they may be required to sign up for something.”

“Scams based on current events are nothing new,” Hegarty said. He advises consumers to verify that insurance agents are licensed to do business in their state through the insurance department websites at www.insurance.ne.gov, www.insurance.sd.gov or www.insurance.ia.gov.

BBB has tips for consumers who are approached by door-to-door salespeople:

High-pressure tactics are often a part of fraudulent door-to-door sales and solicitations. Don’t let yourself be hurried, intimidated or coerced.
If you are interested in buying from a door-to-door seller, get everything in writing, including price, warranty and all conditions. Tell the salesperson you will check over the information and get back to him or her.
Always ask for proper identification before listening to the pitch.
Never let a stranger inside your home.
If you feel threatened, call the police.

If you have concerns about salespeople who are knocking on your door, calling you on the phone, or sending you e-mail, contact the BBB at 800-649-6814 or www.bbb.org for a Reliability Report on the company.

Tax Refund Scams May Be Out to Steal Your Identity

4/12/2010

Posted on 4/12/2010 by

Tax Refund Scams May Be Out to Steal Your Identity

It’s tax time, and not only does Uncle Sam want you… so do scammers!

BBB and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are reminding businesses and consumers to avoid identity theft scams that use the IRS name, logo or website in an attempt to convince taxpayers that the scam is a genuine communication from the IRS. Scammers may use other federal agency names, such as the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

In an IRS Identity Theft Scam, a fraudster, often posing as a trusted government official through email, phone or fax tries to trick a victim into revealing personal and financial information, such as credit card numbers and passwords, bank account numbers, passwords, Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers.

One common variation of this scam is the Refund Scam where a consumer receives a bogus email, which includes a stolen IRS logo, and informs recipients that they are eligible to receive a tax refund for a specific amount. The victim then is asked to click on a link contained in the email to access and complete a form for the tax refund. This online form resembles the actual IRS Web site, and requires the entry of personal and financial information. Several recent variations on this scam have claimed to come from the Exempt Organizations area of the IRS. Some others have included the name and purported signature of a genuine or a made-up IRS executive.

Generally, identity thieves use someone’s personal data to steal from their financial accounts, run up charges on the victim’s existing credit cards, apply for new loans, credit cards, services or benefits in the victim’s name and even file fraudulent tax returns.

According to the IRS, they never discuss tax account matters with taxpayers by email or require a special form to obtain a refund. Refunds are based on the tax return they submit to the IRS.

How to Spot a Scam

Many email scams are fairly sophisticated and hard to detect. However, there are signs to watch for, such as an email that:

Requests detailed or an unusual amount of personal and/or financial information, such as name, SSN, bank or credit card account numbers or security-related information, such as mother’s maiden name, either in the email itself or on another site to which a link in the e-mail sends the recipient
Dangles bait to get the recipient to respond to the email, such as mentioning a tax refund or offering to pay the recipient to participate in a survey
Threatens a consequence for not responding to the email, such as additional taxes or blocking access to the recipient’s funds
Uses incorrect spelling, grammar or odd phrasing (many of the email scams originate overseas and are written by non-native English speakers)
Uses a really long address in any link contained in the email message or one that does not start with the actual IRS Website address (www.irs.gov). To see the actual link address, or url, move the mouse over the link included in the text of the email

What to Do

The IRS does not initiate taxpayer contact via unsolicited email or ask for personal identifying or financial information via email. If you receive a suspicious email claiming to come from the IRS, take the following steps:

Do not open any attachments to the email, in case they contain malicious code that will infect your computer.
Do not click on any links, for the same reason. Also, be aware that the links often connect to a phony IRS Web site that appears authentic and then prompts the victim for personal identifiers, bank or credit card account numbers or PINs. The phony Web sites appear legitimate because the appearance and much of the content are directly copied from an actual page on the IRS Web site and then modified by the scammers for their own purposes.
Contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to determine whether the IRS is trying to contact you.
Forward the suspicious email or url address to the IRS mailbox phishing@irs.gov, then delete the email from your inbox. The only genuine IRS Website is IRS.gov. All IRS.gov Web page addresses begin with http://www.irs.gov/. Anyone wishing to access the IRS Website should initiate contact by typing the IRS.gov address into their Internet address window, rather than clicking on a link in an email.