BBB Hot Topics
October 2008
1. Rothwell Financial Group claims to do business out of Louisville, KY. The company is not located at the address given. BBB has received inquiries on this business from people who have been offered a loan but asked to pay a significant amount of money up front as "collateral." It is against the law to require payment in advance for a loan. Don’t send any money or give personal information to someone who requires payment in advance of loaning money.
2. Bailout Scam - Scammers, claiming to be from Citibank, are sending out emails asking consumers to transfer assets to a safe overseas location in case the U.S. financial system collapses. The email addresses the $700 billion bailout package. The email asks the consumer to click on a link for instructions on how to move and protect their assets during the credit crunch. This is an identity theft attempt. Citibank confirms it’s a fake, saying they’ll never ask for customer’s personal information through email.
3. Presidential Campaign Malware - Computer hackers are taking advantage of unsuspecting users during the U.S. Presidential election season by utilizing the Gnutella file sharing network and seeding it with malware disguised as material relevant to the campaigns. This file sharing network is commonly accessed by clients such as LimeWire and FrostWire. Peer-to-peer networks pose some of the greatest security risks on the Internet due to lack of security.
4. Text Messaging Scam - Several consumers have reported receiving text messages that say, "Your credit union account is closed." The message advises consumers to call the phone number 631-350-1611. It is now disconnected. This text was a trick. Messages like this are sent out to consumers via texts, email, or voice mail messages. This is an attempt at identity theft. Never give personal information to unknown solicitors.
5. Foreclosure Assistance is contacting local consumers, claiming the company can keep them out of foreclosure. Consumers have complained about service issues and not receiving requested refunds. The Ohio Attorney General’s Office filed suit against this company in 2007. 265 complaints have been filed against this Florida company, and they have the BBB’s lowest rating.
6. 1st International Credit has an unsatisfactory record with BBB. The company charges $99 and sends out a packet of information on how to get a credit card. 1st Int’l Credit provides a list of company’s consumers can apply to in the hopes of getting a credit card. They do not actually provide a credit card. Consumers are confused by this and say the company will not give refunds.
7. Medical Discount Card "Junk Faxes" - Some health discount plans are deceptively advertised to make it seem like they’re selling real insurance. Many companies are selling the cards to consumers seeking affordable healthcare. Usually for a monthly fee, the cards claim to save subscribers money by offering discounts on physician visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, etc. The cards are NOT insurance. You still have to pay the medical bills yourself. Also, the cards aren’t accepted by all physicians or pharmacies.
8. Publisher’s Clearing House Scam - An organization posing as Publishers Clearing House is sending fraudulent certificates congratulating consumers on winning the $1 million sweepstakes. "Winners" find a check enclosed for $5,472 and are instructed to contact a representative before depositing the check. These certificates are not sent from the real Publishers Clearing House, and the check is counterfeit. The legitimate Publishers Clearing House asks its winners to sign an Affidavit of Eligibility before giving any prizes.