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BBB Offers Advice for Safe and Successful Valentine's Shopping

2/7/2012

Posted on 2/7/2012 by

If you are going to send flowers, candy, or gifts for Valentine's Day, do your homework first!

When buying flowers, consumers should be especially careful when making the purchase online or over the phone. Consumers should review the description of the floral arrangement and be sure they know exactly what their loved one will be getting. When doing business with a florist, keep the following in mind:

· Check out the store’s refund policy if the flowers arrive late, or are in bad condition.

· Get a written receipt for the order you place. It should include the price, what was ordered, time of delivery, and the location.

· Get several recommendations from friends and family.

Here are other tips from the BBB for successful Valentine’s shopping:

· Do your homework. Before ordering flowers, chocolates or any other gifts for Valentine’s Day check out the BBB's Business Review at www.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, go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

Buyer Beware as Shoddy Knock-offs Infiltrate the Internet

2/3/2012

Posted on 2/3/2012 by

The BBB in Louisville received inquiries and complaints this week from consumers who had purchased what they believed were Coach leathergoods from two websites that claimed to be online sales sites for Coach merchandise. At the time they contacted the BBB, neither consumer had received the merchandise and began to suspect that they were not dealing with legitimate websites. These websites had been registered with Chinese and Canadian web registrars, both using "hotmail.com" free, public e-mail addresses.

These two Coach-lookalike websites were not authorized by the legitimate business, Coach, Inc. Both offered merchandise that would clearly be counterfeit, assuming the consumers involved receive any merchandise at all.

The market for counterfeit luxury items is wide and deep, selling everything from jewelry and perfume to handbags and sunglasses. For bargain-hunters looking for name-brand items at discount prices online, Better Business Bureau offers advice on avoiding web-based rip-off schemes.

Conterfeit is Big Business

According to a report by the Department of Homeland Security, the total domestic value of merchandise seized during fiscal 2011 was $78.3 million, an amount that would have had a value of $1.11 billion had it been legitimate. The category of seized consumer safety and critical technology goods rose in value by 41 percent compared to fiscal 2010, the report says.

Online classified sites like Craigslist or eBay are hot spots for counterfeit luxury item fraud online, and both offer “buyer beware” warnings. But venders are now setting up their own websites to fool frugal fashionistas.

“In a tight economy, consumers are always looking to save a buck or two,” said Katherine Hutt, spokesperson for the Council of Better Business Bureaus. “Too often, what looks to be a ‘great deal’ is really a shoddy knock-off in disguise.”

Spotting a Fake

BBB offers the following advice for shopping safely online when looking for deals on designer goods, as well as tips on how to spot a fake:

Always deal with reputable businesses. The number one way to avoid getting ripped off when buying luxury goods is to deal with reputable businesses. When in doubt, shoppers can contact the manufacturer and verify which venders are authorized sellers. Consumers should also check out the business with BBB at www.bbb.org/search before making a purchasing decision.

If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. One of the biggest red flags for knock-off merchandise is an unrealistic price. Extremely low prices are tempting but not to be believed. Paying $100 for a $1000 purse could result in the consumer receiving a poorly constructed – and worthless – fake.

Read between the lines. Some websites or online classified ads will go overboard in their description of the item in order to coax the buyer’s trust. Overuse of “genuine,” “real” or “authentic” is a bad sign. Buyers also need to keep an eye out for sneaky phrases like “inspired by.”

Check the merchandise. Considering that the name is a large part of the motivation for buying a luxury brand, many manufacturers spend considerable time and energy on crafting the physical label. Counterfeiters aren’t usually as meticulous. Shoppers should look for misspelled words and brand names, poorly sewn logos and labels, etc. Some luxury goods carry an “authenticity label” with a hologram or other security measure.

Know the brand. Different luxury brands, such as purses, have specific hardware consumers can rely on to identify a genuine piece. Zippers, screws, clasps and stitching are usually very specific for the brand and the manufacturer often has details on their website explaining what to look for and how to spot a knock-off. Craftsmanship is king for most luxury brands. If the sunglasses snap in two in the first week, or if the stitching and seams are ragged and don’t match up on a purse, the items are probably counterfeit.

Consumers who have purchased counterfeit luxury goods should contact BBB and can easily file complaints online at www.bbb.org/complain. Consumers can also contact the Consumer Product Safety Commission at www.cpsc.gov and file a complaint online there as well.

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 Hot Topics February 2012

2/3/2012

Posted on 2/3/2012 by

Check out the latest scams and bad business in BBB’s February 2012 Hot Topics!

1. There’s a new twist to the BBB Phishing Scam. Businesses are receiving calls from someone who says they are with the BBB, wanting to help them remove a virus from their computer due to a phishing scam. BBB is NOT making these calls!

2. A local consumer received an email from Frontline Focus International offering a secret shopper opportunity. The company claims to be out of Louisville, KY, but the company has no location in Louisville. This appears to be a mystery shopping scam.

3. A local woman bought a “Coach” product from www.coachoutlet-onlinestore.org, was charged $107, and didn’t receive the product. The consumer contacted BBB to find out if the company is legit. The website appears to be bogus, plus it is using the BBB Online Reliability Seal without authorization. The website is registered using a “private” domain and a Hotmail email address. No legitimate commercial website for a reputable company would be registered in this way. BBB contacted the official Coach, who is now investigating. Coach has closed down more than 500 sites purporting to be them! You can find an original Coach at www.coach.com.

4. Don’t fall for Tax Scams this tax season! Email scams, asking for personal information, may appear to be from the IRS or from a legitimate company. The latest fake email appears to come from Intuit, and states it is taking part in the IRS name and TIN Matching Program. Don’t be fooled!

5. Looking for love? Millions use Online Dating websites to meet people. While many are successful, there are scam artists using these sites to take advantage of love-struck victims. Scammers create fake profiles and build relationships, then ask for money to be wired for travel, medical emergencies, or other things. Victims find out quickly, this was NOT true love!

6. Sending flowers, candy, or gifts for Valentine’s Day? Do your homework first! Be sure it’s a company you can trust. When buying flowers, review the description of the flower arrangement; allow time for shipping; check out the company at bbb.org; and, beware of fake e-cards – they could be infected with a virus.

7. Bridal Expos are in full swing. Brides who attend shows should create a new email account for wedding vendor communication; take a notebook and pen to keep track of vendors and great ideas; find out special pricing will be available after the show; and research the vendor before signing a contract at bbb.org.

8. Scammers are calling consumers, pretending to be with the Do Not Call Registry, offering an opportunity to sign up for the do not call list. The calls are not coming from the registry! Do not provide any personal information! To register for the Do Not Call List, call 888-382-1222 or go to www.donotcall.gov.

9. A Text Scam is leading to unauthorized charges on consumer’s cell phone bills. The text, which comes from TXTALTSNOW, states “Entertainment Alts for $9.99/mo.” and tells the consumer to reply with STOP to cancel. Apparently, that doesn’t work, as consumers are still getting charged. The charge appears to come from “Silicon Investments.” If you get a text like this, contact your cell provider right away.

10. Do you use your Smartphone to Pay Bills? BBB suggests if you do, find out if your phone has security software available to keep your transactions as safe as possible – just like you would with your laptop. Also, your level of protection against financial liability will vary depending on your carrier’s policies. So, be smart, check your contract.

BBB Advice: Proceed with Caution When Dating Online

2/3/2012

Posted on 2/3/2012 by

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner! Are you looking for love? Millions use dating and social networking sites to meet people. While many are looking to start a successful relationship, there are those using these sites to take advantage of others. Unfortunately, the anonymity of the internet makes it easy for con artists to use these sites to meet potential victims.

These con artists create fake profiles to build online relationships, and eventually convince victims (often seniors) to send money in the name of love. Better Business Bureau offers these tips to help you recognize when the relationship may not be what you think – especially when your “Sweetheart”

· Wants to leave the dating site immediately and use personal email or telephone.

· Claims love within moments of meeting you online.

· Claims to be from the U.S. but is traveling overseas.

· Plans to visit, but is prevented by some sort of emergency or deal gone bad.

Here are a few things that people can do to help prevent being scammed on dating sites. Don’t wire money to cover:

· Travel

· Medical emergencies

· Hotel bills

· Hospital bills for a child or other relative

· Visas or other official documents

Don’t send money to tide someone over after a financial setback, and don’t do anyone a favor by making an online purchase or forwarding a package to another country. One request leads to another, and delays and disappointments will follow. In the end, the money will be gone along with the person you thought you knew.

You can report online relationship scams to the FBI’s IC3 at www.ic3.gov, to your State Attorney General, and to the Better Business Bureau.

For more information go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Warns of New Twist in BBB Phishing Scam

1/27/2012

Posted on 1/27/2012 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. This number has been attached to scams since late fall – before the BBB email phishing scam began.

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. If the email is a scam, the website shown will not be a BBB.org URL.

For more information, go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

Louisville:

844 South 4th Street

Louisville, KY 40203

(502) 583-6546

Bowling Green:

(270) 843-4443

lchambers@bbbkyin.org

Lincoln Trail Area:

(270) 982-1289

cwilliamson@bbbkyin.org

For more

BBB Warns: Look Out for Super Bowl Scams

1/26/2012

Posted on 1/26/2012 by

The Super Bowl is right around the corner! Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to be on the look-out for knock-off team jerseys, counterfeit memorabilia, and phony game day tickets.

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. Several BBBs 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.

Tickets for the big game can be an even bigger rip-off. Thousands of Super Bowl tickets are currently listed on Craig’s List, but the site offers no guarantees of any kind and does not require identification of its sellers. Buying in person isn’t always an improvement, as it’s gotten easier and easier for scammers to make fake tickets that look real.

So where can you turn? Sites such as Stub Hub (www.stubhub.com) guarantee your tickets’ authenticity. Ticketmaster (www.ticketexchangebyticketmaster.com) also handles ticket exchanges for the NFL. Thousands of tickets are still available, starting over $2,000 per ticket up to nearly $20,000 per ticket for the best seats.

In general, avoid scams by being skeptical of:

Offers that sound "too good to be true"

Pushy sales tactics

Poor quality merchandise

Offers that require wire transfer of funds

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

For more consumer tips you can trust, visit www.bbb.org/news or call 1-800-388-2222. To sign up to receive our Scam Alerts, visit BBB Scam Source at www.bbb.org/scam.

BBB Advice: Proceed with Caution When Dating Online

1/24/2012

Posted on 1/24/2012 by

· Wants to leave the dating site immediately and use personal email or telephone.

· Claims love within moments of meeting you online.

· Claims to be from the U.S. but is traveling overseas.

· Plans to visit, but is prevented by some sort of emergency or deal gone bad.

Here are a few things that people can do to help prevent being scammed on dating sites. Don’t wire money to cover:

· Travel

· Medical emergencies

· Hotel bills

· Hospital bills for a child or other relative

· Visas or other official documents

You can report online relationship scams to the FBI’s IC3 at www.ic3.gov, to your State Attorney General, and to the Better Business Bureau.

For more information go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

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 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Tips for Attending Bridal Expos

1/24/2012

Posted on 1/24/2012 by

BBB Tips for Attending Bridal Expos

The wedding planning season is in full swing - and bridal expos are headed to the Louisville area in the coming weeks! Your Better Business Bureau (BBB) has helpful tips for future brides and bridesmaids attending a show.

Create a new email just for the show. Whether you are pre-registering or signing up at the door, it is a good idea to create a new email for wedding vendor communication. This allows the bride to keep track of all of the special offers and electronic newsletters she will likely receive after attending the show. This can also help reduce high volumes of email in your personal inbox.

Take a notebook or pad and pen. As you walk around the show, you may see something you hadn’t thought of or you may want the name of the designer of a wedding gown during the fashion show. Bring something to write with because you may get home and have forgotten everything you wanted to remember!

Ask the right questions. Before falling in love with a vendor and their services, ask if the company is available for your wedding date. Also ask whether the special packages and pricing being offered are available after the show and remember to get a list of references.

Bring someone you trust. BBB recommends taking someone to the expo that is not as emotionally and financially connected to the wedding planning as the bride. This individual may provide a different, yet helpful, perspective when talking with vendors and visiting booths.

Research the vendor before signing a contract. The goal of a bridal expo vendor is to make connections, get exposure, and attract the right brides for their services. However, it is crucial to know the company’s track record by taking the time to do follow up research on their reputation in the industry. Start by reading the vendor’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org.

Get all sales promises in writing. Written contracts should include specific dates, products, prices, name brands, etc. and be signed by all parties involved. Cancellation policies should also be included in the contracts.

Pay with a credit card. They offer consumers added protection in the event of a problem, because you can dispute the charges. Checks and cash don’t offer this protection.

Set a budget…and stuck to it!

To find a list of BBB Accredited Businesses in the wedding industry, visit www.bbb.org and click on the Accredited Business Directory.

Watch Out for New Wave of Fake BBB Emails

1/19/2012

Posted on 1/19/2012 by

Businesses and consumers across the country have been hit by an on-going email scam that appears to be from a bbb.org address. Now, a new wave of fake BBB emails is using a different strategy to scam recipients into downloading a virus.

The New Email Scam

In this new wave, emails have a subject line reading "BBB SBQ Form," followed by a series of numbers. Recipients are asked to click on a link to update their information with Better Business Bureau. The link supposedly leads to a form on BBB.org, but it really goes to a third party website that downloads a virus on to your computer.

In addition to the new wave of emails, the original version of the email scam is still out there. In this, recipients are told that a complaint has been filed against their business, and they need to respond by clicking on a link in the email. Again, the link takes them to a third-party website that infects their computer with a virus.

What to Do

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. If the email is a scam, the website shown will not be a BBB.org URL.

After you have identified a scam, please forward the email to phishing@council.bbb.org and delete it from your inbox. Also, make sure your virus software is up to date.

BBB continues to investigate the fake emails with authorities.

For more information go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Tips on Storm Damage

1/18/2012

Posted on 1/18/2012 by

BBB Tips on Storm Damage Repair

If you are on the hunt for a reputable contractor after severe weather rolled through the area yesterday, be aware of those who may try to take advantage of your situation: The home repair rip-off artist who may overcharge, perform shoddy work, or skip town without finishing your job.

BBB urges homeowners to use extreme caution when dealing with “door-to-door” or “out of state” solicitors who offer “quality work at great prices.” The BBB offers the following tips for consumers who may be facing major repairs after a disaster hits home:

· Contact your insurance company immediately.

· Deal only with licensed and insured contractors. Verify the track record of any roofer, builder or contractor you're thinking of hiring. Ask for a list of recent customers and call them.

· Get recommendations from friends, relatives, neighbors, co-workers, insurance agents or claims adjusters. Also check with the local Better Business Bureau and Home Builders Association to see if complaints have been lodged against any contractor you're considering.

· Get 2 or 3 estimates before you decide who to hire for the job.

· Take your time signing a contract. Get a written estimate that includes any oral promises the contractor made. But remember to ask if there's a charge for an estimate before allowing anyone into your home. Ask for explanations for price variations, and don't automatically choose the lowest bidder. Get a copy of the final, signed contract before the job begins.

· Resist dealing with any contractor who asks you to pay for the entire job up-front. A deposit of one-third of the total price is standard procedure. Pay only by check or credit card - and pay the final amount only after the work is completed to your satisfaction. Don't pay cash.

· Be skeptical of contractors who encourage you to spend a lot of money on temporary repairs. Make sure there's enough money for permanent repairs.

· Ask a knowledgeable friend, relative or attorney to review a home repair contract before you sign. If you get a loan to pay for the work, be cautious about using your home as security: If you don't repay the loan as agreed, you could lose your home. Consider asking an attorney to review the loan documents, as well.

Before you hire, check out the company’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Names “Bad Boys”

1/18/2012

Posted on 1/18/2012 by

The Better Business Bureau, serving Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western Kentucky has named its top area businesses producing the most unanswered/unresolved complaints and serious complaints - to the BBB in 2011.

This is a distinction no business should want. BBB President and CEO, Charlie Mattingly says, “This list of businesses shows why it is wise to get a BBB Business Review before you do business. The BBB can help consumers locate reputable businesses…and stay away from ones that don’t necessarily do ethical business, or ones that don’t answer their complaints.”

This year’s BBB list includes the following businesses (in alphabetical order):

1. Advanced Environmental, Louisville, KY – Consumers complain to the BBB that they ordered a home water filtration/purification system from this company, put down a deposit, and never received the system. Consumers say they cannot get their money back.

2. Alpine Chimney & Roofing, Jeffersonville, IN – Owner, Michael Osborne, was arrested 1/22/10 and charged with one count of Home Improvement Fraud and one count of Attempted Home Improvement Fraud. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to one-and-a-half years on each count, suspended and consecutive, with three years of probation. Consumers complain he is back out doing work. They say he doubles charges when he finds “additional repairs” that are needed, he doesn’t always finish the work, or does a shoddy job, and he asks customers to pay in cash.

3. C & R Mechanical Services, Louisville, KY – Consumers complain that a home warranty company sent this company out to do repairs. Complaints to BBB include late arrival to appointments, excessive charges (saying extra work needs to be done), inadequate work, and the inability to get a refund. Several consumers complained of workers being unprofessional.

4. Crazy Eddy’s Furniture Warehouse, Bowling Green, KY - Consumers complain that they order furniture from the company, put down a deposit, and never receive the furniture. When they tell the company they want a refund, they are told they don’t give refunds.

5. Exterior Services, Louisville, KY – Consumers who purchased a coupon through Groupon or Living Social for services from this company complain they could never get the work done. Consumers say they tried to contact the company for weeks – to no avail. Eventually, some consumers got their money back from Groupon, when they complained.

6. Hardin County Lawn Care, Cecilia, KY – Consumers complain to BBB that they pay the company in advance to do work and the services are not performed. They try to get a refund, but the owner will not return their calls.

7. HCG Extreme, Louisville, KY – Consumers say they ordered a free trial of this product, but when they tried to cancel in the time allotment allowed, they could not get through to the company, and they were charged anyway. Some say they never even received the product.

8. KY Custom Coatings, LLC, Louisville, KY – Consumers complain they paid upfront for painting and/or vinyl work, but the work was never done. Others complain to the BBB of shoddy, unfinished work.

9. Lawson Special Pet Transportation, Pekin, IN – Consumers complain to BBB that they hired this company to transport their pets to them when they moved. After days of phone calls and emails, they never receive a return call – or their pet.

10. Paraklese Technologies –Georgetown, IN - Consumers complain to the BBB that they ordered ammunition from this company, paid for it, and never received it!

11. Ready Set Grow, Crestwood, KY – Consumers complain they hired this company to do deck or landscaping work, paid thousands of dollars in advance (for materials), and the company never showed up to do the job. The company was dropped from BBB Accreditation in November 2011, due to a climb in complaints, however continues to use the BBB logo on its website.

12. R.G. Swimming Pool Company, Simpsonville, KY – BBB is processing three recent complaints against this business that are considered serious in nature, because each complaint indicated the business may have ceased operations before completing work that had already been paid for by the customer. BBB is investigating the operating status of this company.

13. Roof Doctor, Louisville, KY – Consumers complain they paid for work that was never completed by this company. Others complain of shoddy work or that they never receive return phone calls on warranty work that needs to be done.

14. United Express, LaGrange, KY – Consumers complain the company is late to appointments, unprofessional, and rough on goods. Another complaint with the BBB states the consumer paid a deposit to have the company move them out of the state, and the company never showed up for the move. The consumer is still trying to get his deposit back! Also, in the voice over audio on the businesses’ website, the company claims BBB accreditation. The claim is FALSE! The company has never been a BBB Accredited Business.

Get a BBB Business Review online at www.bbb.org, or call 1-800-388-2222. The reviews provide key information about a business, including the business’s grade and the number and nature of complaints filed with the BBB regarding the business. Mattingly says “any business can have a complaint, and in some cases, a customer can be unreasonable or impossible to satisfy.” A company is not legally obligated to respond to complaints filed with the BBB. However, most companies respond and take proper action to satisfy customer complaints.

BBB Names Top 10 Complaints and Inquiries in 2011

1/10/2012

Posted on 1/10/2012 by

BBB Names Top 10 Complaints and Inquiries in 2011

2011 proved to be a busy year for the BBB serving Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western Kentucky. Here is a snapshot of the services BBB provided:

· Provided more than 612,000 BBB Business Reviews online in 2011;

· Provided more than 10,000 BBB Business Reviews over the phone;

· Closed more than 6,300 complaints.

From January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011, Manufacturers and Producers topped the list of the type of business (TOB) complaints within the BBB’s 52 county service area. Other complaints included:

1. Manufacturers and Producers 292

2. Auto Dealers – New Cars 284

3. Hospitalization, Medical & Surgical Plans 243

4. Auto Dealers – Used Cars 237

5. Credit Card Processing Service 144

6. Restaurants 136

7. Cable TV, Internet & Telephone Installation Svc. 132

8. Roofing Contractors 129

9. Furniture – Retail 100

10. Plumbing Fixtures, Parts, Supplies – Retail 100

Roofing contractors topped BBB’s inquiry list in 2011:

1. Roofing Contractors 28,042

2. Mortgages 16,764

3. Auto Dealers – Used Cars 13,373

4. Heating & Air Conditioning 11,545

5. Auto Dealers – New Cars 10,909

6. Contractors – General 8,357

7. Auto Repair & Service 8,227

8. Plumbing Contractors 7,878

9. Credit Card Processing Service 7,360

10. Home Builders 6,728

Remember to Start with Trust before doing business. Get a BBB Business Report at www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB January 2012 Hot Topics

1/9/2012

Posted on 1/9/2012 by

Check out the latest scams and bad business in BBB’s January 2012 Hot Topics!

1. BBB’s Top Scams of 2011 includes the BBB phishing scam. Hundreds of thousands of people received emails that looked like an official notice from BBB about a complaint. Instructions in the email told the recipient to click on a link or open an attachment. If the recipient did either, a malicious virus was launched on their computer. BBB continues to work with law enforcement to track down the source of the emails. For a complete list of Top Scams of 2011, go to www.bbb.org.

2. Be Consumer-Savvy in 2012! BBB suggests you should resolve to: Beware of job offers to make easy money; Always read the fine print – especially on free trial offers; Keep your computer safe; Never wire money to someone you don’t know; and check out businesses before you buy at www.bbb.org.

3. Lose weight – Not Money! If your New Year’s resolution is to lose weight and join a gym, consider these tips: Understand the gym’s introductory offers; Ask if the membership will renew automatically; Ask how you can get out of the contract; Find out what happens if the company goes out of business; Get everything in writing; and check out the business at www.bbb.org.

4. Seeking a new canine companion for the New Year? Puppy Scams hook people with offers of free puppies, collect money for bogus fees, like shipping or ‘ownership transfer,’ and never deliver the advertised puppies or dogs. Beware of ads in the paper or on websites that have these “too good to be true” offers!

5. Tired of unwanted calls? Sign up for the Do Not Call List in 2012! By registering, telemarketers have 31 days to comply and stop calling you. If they continue, they could be fined thousands of dollars. Calls from political organizations, charities (although you can ask a third-party telemarketer to stop calling you on a charity’s behalf), telephone surveyors, and companies you have an established business relationship with are exempt. To register, call 1-888-382-1222 or go to donotcall.gov.

6. Winterize Your Home to save money in 2012. Have your furnace and chimney inspected; Gutters and ridge vents need to be cleaned; Caulking and weather stripping around windows and doors should be checked; Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; and be sure you have a winter storm emergency kit in case the electric should go out.

7. BBB’s good name is being used in a “Job Opportunity” Scam on Craigslist! BBB has nothing to do with a job opportunity on the website. Beware of any emails you may receive about this job opportunity. The email could contain a malicious virus.

8. Threatening Online Scam – If you receive an email that says someone close to you wants you dead, delete it. The scam email states the person behind it has been hired to kill you. The email is used to intimidate the recipient into giving personal information. The sender asks for a credit card or bank account number so that you won’t be killed!

9. Don’t Cruise Your Way into a Vacation Scam! Be cautious of unsolicited mail with offers of free or discounted cruises! Be sure to read the fine print before you sign up. Don’t fall for high-pressure sales. Contact the cruise line directly. Pay with a credit card for your best protection against a dishonest seller. Always check out the business first at www.bbb.org.

10. Choose a Tax Preparer wisely! Before you hire a tax professional, find out what the service fees are before the return is prepared. Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of the amount of your refund. Only use a tax preparer that signs your tax return and provides you with a copy for your records. Avoid anyone who asks you to sign a blank tax form. You are ultimately responsible for your tax return! Find a tax preparer at www.bbb.org.

BBB Top Scams of 2011

1/6/2012

Posted on 1/6/2012 by

BBB Names Top Ten Scams of 2011
BBB investigates thousands of scams every year! Our new Scam Source (www.bbb.org/scam) is a comprehensive resource on scam investigations from BBBs around the country, with tips from BBB, law enforcement and others. You can sign up to receive our Scam Alerts by email, and you can also be a scam detective yourself by reporting scams you’ve discovered. We’ve divided scams up into nine major categories and picked the top scam in each, plus our Scam of the Year.

Top Job Scam
BBB sees lots of secret shopper schemes, work-from-home scams, and other phony job offers, but the worst job-related scam can dash your hopes and steal your identity. Emails, websites and online applications all look very professional, and the candidate is even interviewed for the job (usually over the phone) and then receives an offer. In order to start the job, however, the candidate has to fill out a “credit report” or provide bank information for direct deposit of their “paychecks.” The online forms are nothing more than a way to capture sensitive personal data - and, of course, there is no job, either.

Top Sweepstakes and Lottery Scam
You’ve won a whole lot of money, and in order to claim it you have to send us a smaller amount of money. Keep it confidential! This year’s top sweepstakes scam was undoubtedly the email claiming to be from Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg announcing that the recipient was the winner of $1 million from the popular social networking site. These kinds of scams often use celebrities or other famous names to make their offer seem more genuine. If you aren’t sure, don’t click on the link. Go directly to the homepage of the company mentioned. If they are really giving away $1 million, there will be some kind of announcement on their website.

Top Social Media/Online Dating Scam
On the Internet, it’s easy to pretend to be someone you are not. Are you really friends with all of your “Friends” on Facebook? Do you have a lot of personal information on a dating site? With so much information about us online, a scammer can sound like they know you. There are tons of ways to use social media for scams, but one this year really stands out because it appeals to our natural curiosity…and it sounds like it’s coming from a friend. Viral videos claiming to show everything from grisly footage of Osama bin Laden’s death to the latest celebrity hijinks have shown up on social media sites, often looking as if they have been shared by a friend. When you click on the link, you are prompted to “upgrade your Flash player,” but the file you end up downloading contains a worm that logs into your social media account, sends similar messages to your friends, and searches for your personal data.

Top Home Improvement Scam
Always near the top of BBB complaint data are home improvement contractors who often leave your home worse than they found it. They usually knock on your door with a story or a deal – the roofer who can spot some missing shingles on your roof, the paver with some leftover asphalt who can give you a great deal on driveway resealing. The worst are those who move in after a natural disaster, taking advantage of desperate homeowners who need immediate help and may not be as suspicious as they would be under normal circumstances. Find a contractor you can trust at www.bbb.org.

Top Check Cashing Scam
Two legitimate companies – Craig’s List and Western Union – are used for an inordinate amount of scamming these days, and especially check cashing scams. Here’s how it works: Someone contacts you via a Craig’s List posting, maybe for a legitimate reason like buying your old couch or perhaps through a scam like hiring you as a secret shopper. Either way, they send you a check for more than the amount they owe you, and they ask you to deposit it into your bank account and then wire the difference via Western Union. When the original check bounces, you are out whatever money you wired…and you’re still stuck with the old couch.

Top Phishing Scam
“Phishing” is when you receive a suspicious phone call asking for personal information or an email that puts a virus on your computer to hunt for your data. It’s almost impossible to avoid them if you have a telephone or an email account. But the most pernicious phishing scam this year disguised itself as official communication from NACHA – the National Automated Clearing House Association – which facilitates the secure transfer of billions of electronic transactions every year. The email claims one of your transactions did not go through, and it hopes you react quickly and click on the link before thinking it through. It may take you to a fake banking site “verify” your account information, or it may download malware to infiltrate your computer.

Top Identity Theft Scam
There are a million ways to steal someone’s identity. This one has gotten so prevalent that many hotels are posting warnings in their lobby. Here’s how it works: You get a call in your hotel room in the middle of the night. It’s the front desk clerk, very apologetic, saying their computer has crashed and they need to get your credit card number again, or they must have gotten the number wrong because the transaction won’t go through, and could you please read the number back so they can fix the problem? Scammers are counting on you being too sleepy to catch on that the call isn’t from the hotel at all, but from someone outside who knows the direct-dial numbers for the guest rooms.

Top Financial Scam
In challenging economic times, many people are looking for help getting out of debt or hanging on to their home, and almost as many scammers appear to take advantage of desperate situations. Because the federal government announced or expanded several mortgage relief programs this year, all kinds of sound-alike websites have popped up to try to fool consumers into parting with their money. Some sound like a government agency, or even part of BBB or other nonprofit consumer organizations. Most ask for an upfront fee to help you deal with your mortgage company or the government (services you could easily do yourself for free), and almost all leave you in more debt.

Top Sales Scam
The Internet has introduced a whole new way to rip people off. Penny auctions are very popular because it seems like you can get something useful - cameras, computers, etc. – for way below retail. But you pay a small fee for each bid (usually 50₵ to $1.00) and if you aren’t the winner, you lose that money. Winners often are not even the top bidder, just the last bidder when time runs out. Although not all penny auction sites are scams, some are being investigated as online gambling. BBB recommends you treat them the same way you would legal gambling in a casino – know exactly how the bidding works, set a limit for yourself, and be prepared to walk away before you go over that limit.

Scam of the Year
The BBB phishing scam! Hundreds of thousands, perhaps millions, of people have gotten emails that very much look like an official notice from BBB. The subject line says something like “Complaint Against Your Business,” and the instructions tell the recipient to click on a link or open an attachment to get the details. If the recipient does either, a virus is launched on their computer…a virus that can steal banking information, passwords and other critical pieces of information. BBB is working with security consultants and federal law enforcement to track down the source of these emails, and has already shut down dozens of hijacked websites. Anyone who has opened an attachment or clicked on a link should run a complete system scan using reputable anti-virus software. If your computer is networked with others, all machines on the network should be scanned, as well.

It's Still Out There! New Advice for Recipients of BBB Email Scam

12/20/2011

Posted on 12/20/2011 by

An email scam using the Better Business Bureau’s name and logo 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, often with devastating 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.

“We had to completely wipe the computers in order to contain the damage to our client,” said Dawn Simpson, Trivalent’s vice president of marketing and business development.

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;
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 the Council of Better Business Bureaus, 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/

If you receive an email saying your business has a complaint filed against it with BBB, there are several things you can do to authenticate it:

Look for typos, grammatical errors, etc. in the text that could indicate it originated overseas.
Check to see who it says it is from. Complaints go out from the local BBBs, not from the headquarters office.
Hover your mouse over the link to see if its destination is really a bbb.org address.
Copy and paste the link into Notepad (not Word). Notepad does not support html, so if the link is a fake bbb.org address, the real link will show up.
If you still are not sure, go to www.bbb.org to find your local BBB, and send them a new email to ask if you have a complaint (do not Reply to the email you received, or forward it to them). They have been swamped with requests, so you may not hear back immediately.

CBBB is working with federal law enforcement agencies to identify the perpetrator of this fraud, and is also looking into other measures it can take to help prevent future phishing scams from spreading.

BBB Warns: Beware of Amazon Shipping Scam

12/9/2011

Posted on 12/9/2011 by

Consumers across the country are complaining about an email they received from what appeared to be Amazon.com. BBB Louisville employees also received the email. 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.

Do NOT click on any hyperlinks and immediately delete this email. If you did click any links, do a virus scan immediately. See below for an example of this scam:

Hello,

Shipping Confirmation
Order # 856-3500783-0908821

Your estimated delivery date is:
Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Track your package Thank you for shopping with us. We thought you'd like to know that we shipped this portion of your order separately to give you quicker service. You won't be charged any extra shipping fees, and the remainder of your order will follow as soon as those items become available. If you need to return an item from this shipment or manage other orders, please visit Your Orders on Amazon.com.

Shipment Details

Omron LFC-432I Fat Loss Monitor, Black $159.95
Item Subtotal: $159.95
Shipping & Handling: $0.00
Total Before Tax: $159.95
Shipment Total: $159.95
Paid by Visa: $159.95

You have only been charged for the items sent in this shipment. Per our policy, you only pay for items when we ship them to you.

Returns are easy. Visit our .
If you need further assistance with your order, please visit Customer Service.

We hope to see you again soon!
Amazon.com

Genuine Amazon.com websites are hosted by the amazon.com domain. If an email contains a link, hover your mouse over the link to see if it goes to the genuine Amazon.com page. According to Amazon, Their pages begin with "http://www.amazon.com/" (or "https://www.amazon.com/"). They never use a web address such as "http://security-amazon.com/" or an IP address (string of numbers) followed by directories such as "http://123.456.789.123/amazon.com/."

How to handle a suspicious Email:

If you see the e-mail has an attachment, don't open it.
Don't click any links or reply to the e-mail. 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.

If you receive an unsolicited email, never give:

Your social security number or tax identification number.
Your credit card number, PIN number, or credit card security code.
Your mother's maiden name.
The password to your account.

If you receive an e-mail that says it's from Amazon but has an attachment, forward it to stop-spoofing@amazon.com (as an attachment if possible) without opening it.

BBB Alert: Phishing Attack Using BBB Name Strikes Again

12/7/2011

Posted on 12/7/2011 by

Louisville, KY, Dec. 7, 2011 - The Better Business Bureau is issuing an urgent scam alert cautioning businesses and consumers about an email that is purporting to be from a bbb.org email address about a recently filed complaint.

The email contains a dangerous attachment regarding a complaint and appears to direct recipients to the BBB website. This is a scam. The BBB does not send complaints as attachments via email.

The email appears to come from a fake BBB employee claiming that the recipient needs to review this matter and advise the BBB of their position. From there, the email appears to direct the recipient to the BBB website, but actually directs them to an outside link. This email is fraudulent and does not originate from BBB. The email attachment and link are malicious and we are strongly advising anyone who receives the email to not open or click them.

Should you receive such an email, please disregard its message, and report any information received to BBB’s Scam Portal. If you have clicked on the link, immediately do a virus scan. BBB lawyers are working to find out who is behind this and will take all appropriate action to protect its trademark.

Contacts: Charlie Mattingly, President & CEO, 502-583-1099, cmattingly@louisville.bbb.org or Reanna Smith-Hamblin, Vice President-Communications, 502-588-0043, rsmith-hamblin@louiville.bbb.org

BBB Tips on Holiday Travel

12/5/2011

Posted on 12/5/2011 by

The holidays are a time of cheer, but they can also be a time for battling traffic and bad weather on the road. Staying safe should be a top priority for all travelers so Better Business Bureau recommends taking a few precautions when hitting the road this holiday season.

Create a car safety kit. Holiday driving often includes the threat of dangerous winter weather. Snow and ice lead to accidents, car troubles, long delays and road closures. You can prepare for bad weather by creating your own safety kit. Basics for the kit include blankets, flashlight with extra batteries, radio, first aid kit, jumper cables, non-perishable foods like granola bars and nuts, bottled water, an ice scraper and warm gloves.

Take the car in for a checkup. Breaking down on the side of the road can definitely put a damper on the holiday spirit. If your car is due for a checkup, take it in before making that long haul. At the very least, check the car’s fluid levels, wipers and tire pressure. Check the condition of your tires and, if you plan on driving through serious winter weather, consider getting snow tires.

Take BBB with you. When you’re away from home or in the midst of an emergency, it’s hard to know which businesses—such as tow trucks and locksmiths—you can trust. The good news is you can now rely on BBB’s mobilized website or the BBB iPhone App for finding businesses you can trust when you’re away from your computer.

Start early and slow down. The best way to fight holiday traffic is to give yourself some extra time to make the trip, and don’t speed. Speeding leads to accidents, which slow traffic and cause bottlenecks. Also, if you’re caught speeding by law enforcement, that adds travel time and puts a dent in your holiday spending.

Drop the distractions. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, drivers who use hand-held devices are four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves. When you’re behind the wheel, don’t text and drive, use a hands free headset when talking on the phone, and get someone else to fumble with the GPS.

For more advice on staying safe over the holidays, visit us online at www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-holiday/.

BBB Tips on Giving this Holiday Season

12/5/2011

Posted on 12/5/2011 by

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

According to the Chronicle of Philanthropy, charitable donations to the largest charities were down 11 percent last year. Despite the tough economy and the overall decline in giving, donors are still looking for ways to help the less fortunate, particularly around the holidays. The following are five common ways 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 great success partnering with businesses that agree to donate some amount of the purchase price from sales of items to a worthy cause. 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.

Give online – Giving online is among the most efficient ways to support a charity. Before you enter in your numbers, give the website a thorough review and 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 Haiti earthquake. After texting a message to a number, the donation is tacked on to your cell phone bill. Donating via text is fast and easy for the donor, but the money can take months to reach the charity, so consider donating directly to a charity through its website if there is an urgent need.

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.

Now, there are scam artists that will take advantage of those who want to give. They will use stories that tug at your heart, will wear seasonal clothing, and carry official-looking badges to look legitimate. When you are approached by someone asking for a donation, consider the following:

1. Ask for the charity’s full name and address. Do they have a local address?

2. Don't succumb to pressure to give money on the spot or allow a "runner" to pick up a contribution; the charity that needs your money today will welcome it just as much tomorrow.

3. Don't be fooled by names that look impressive or that closely resemble the name of a well-known organization.

4. Check out the organization with state and local authorities. Registration or licensing is required by most states. Bear in mind that registration does not imply that the state or local government endorses the charity.

5. Do not give cash; always make contributions by check and make your check payable to the charity, not to the individual collecting the donation.

6. Watch out for statements such as "all proceeds will go to the charity." This can mean that the money left after expenses, such as the cost of written materials and fund raising efforts, will go to the charity. These expenses can make a big difference, so check carefully.

7. Ask if your contribution is tax deductible. Contributions to tax exempt organizations are not always tax deductible.

8. Keep records of your donations (receipts, canceled checks, and bank statements) so you can document your charitable giving at tax time.

9. When you're asked to buy candy, magazines, card, or tickets to a dinner or show to benefit a charity, be sure to ask what the charity's share will be. You cannot deduct the full amount paid for any such items, as the IRS considers only the part above the fair-market value of the item to be a charitable contribution. For example, if you pay $10 for a box of candy that normally sells for $8, only $2 can be claimed as a charitable donation.

10. Check out the charity with the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance at www.bbb.org/charity.

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.

BBB Warns Homeowners: Changes to Mortgage Rules Bring Out Scammers

12/1/2011

Posted on 12/1/2011 by

Starting today, some homeowners who are “under water” with their mortgages can refinance under the Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP), but the BBB is warning consumers that banks and mortgage companies aren’t the only ones gearing up for the rush of applications. Whenever there is a new or updated government program that may be confusing, scammers come out of the woodwork! There are already hundreds of websites claiming to be able to help homeowners through the HARP process, but many of them are scams.

BBB is warning all homeowners who are thinking of applying for a HARP refinance to:

· Deal directly with your lender first, and never make payments to anyone other than your lender.

· Don’t pay upfront fees to anyone who promises to provide counseling, takes care of the paperwork for you, or stops the foreclosure process.

· Be wary of anyone who tells you not to contact your lender, a lawyer or a credit counselor, or who asks for payment by cashier’s check or wire transfer.

· Never sign over your deed to anyone, or allow yourself to be pressured into signing something you don’t understand.

· Be especially careful of look-alike and sound-alike websites.

· Find out if you qualify by going to www.makinghomeaffordable.gov/programs/lower-rates/Pages/harp.aspx or by calling the Homeowner’s HOPE Hotline at 1-888-995-HOPE (4673) to speak to a HUD-approved housing counselor for free (assistance is available in English and Spanish, and in other languages by appointment).

· Report scams to BBB at www.bbb.org/us/scam-source.

The changes to the HARP program were announced by President Obama in October to allow homeowners to refinance at lower interest rates, even if their home is currently worth less than their mortgage. The new HARP rules apply to homeowners who are current on their payments and whose loans are backed by either FannieMae or FreddieMac. Some lenders will begin accepting applications as early as today, although many will take a few weeks or even a few months to roll out the program. More than one million borrowers are expected to apply for the program, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency, which oversees the two major mortgage lending programs.

Check out businesses and charities before you buy, donate or invest at www.bbb.org. Additional mortgage and credit-related tips are available at www.bbb.org/us/clearpoint-tips.

If you have credit problems, find a credit counseling agency in your area by calling 800-388-2227 (en Espanol 800-682-9832).

BBB December 2011 Hot Topics

11/29/2011

Posted on 11/29/2011 by

1. Delivery Scams – If you receive an email from what appears to be UPS Shipments that states “your package has arrived,” and it asks you to click on a link, delete it! This is a typical phishing scam. Other emails ask you to download a form, which ends up containing a virus. Similar emails can come from “Fed Ex.”

2. Before you buy a Gift Card, be sure that it has not been tampered with. Scam artists can scratch off the security code, write down the numbers while the card is on display, and call an 800 number to learn when the card has been activated. Also be wary of online auction sites that promise “full value guaranteed” gift cards. The card could be worth nothing. And, read the fine print before purchasing.

3. Grinch Greetings! Cyber crooks distribute phony versions of e-cards containing links to computer viruses and other malware. BBB warns consumers to only open e-cards from a trusted source to avoid spreading computer viruses instead of holiday cheer.

4. BBB recommends using caution when downloading holiday-themed screensavers, jingles and animations. Scammers can easily use these to spread viruses and other computer threats, especially in links from an e-mail or IM that appears to be from a friend.

5. BBB offers these tips for Returns/Exchanges this holiday season: Know the seller’s return policy. A business is not obligated to accept items for refund, exchange, or credit except in cases where the item is defective or misrepresented. Check for restocking fees if an item is returned. If you want to return an item, understand the difference between exchanges and credits. There may be time limits for returns. Always keep receipts and original packaging.

6. Holiday Travel Tips: Create a car safety kit before you hit the road; include a blanket, flashlight, batteries, radio, first aid kit, jumper cables, and non-perishable foods; take your car in for a check-up; and download the BBB iPhone app to find businesses you can trust when you are traveling.

7. During the holidays, many people travel and use Free Wi-Fi in hotels and airports. Thieves use this opportunity to hack into networks to steal sensitive information. BBB warns consumers to stick to well-established and trusted sites. Do not respond to offers that arrive in a spam e-mail, text or instant message. Never download or click anything from an unknown source.

8. BBB tips on finding a trustworthy kennel to board your pets: Check the kennel out with BBB to make sure they have a good track record for keeping customers satisfied; personally visit the facilities; check for cleanliness and offensive odors, safety of cages, certificates of inspection, feeding and exercise schedules, proof of immunization policies and medical emergency procedures.

9. Expecting an E-reader this holiday season? Beware that Ebook Scams are on the rise. To avoid these scams, stick with authors you know. If you decide to buy from an unfamiliar author, see if you can download a sample (Amazon lets you do this) first to test the quality. Don’t be taken by great reviews that accompany cheap books. Don’t click on links in an e-book unless it’s by a reputable author, or visit that author’s website directly. It could be a virus.

10. Before hiring a Chimney Sweep do your homework! Find out how long the company has been in business, ask for references, and be sure the company has a valid business liability insurance policy. Beware of scammers who use a low price tactic to get in your door. They often recommend additional work to be done, bullying the homeowner into a much more expensive bill.

Check Privacy Policy on Dear Santa Websites

11/29/2011

Posted on 11/29/2011 by

There are dozens of domain names registered in the name of “Old St. Nick,” offering children a wide range of opportunities to email Santa. Sadly, some of the websites aren’t always so trustworthy. Some can potentially be a dangerous way to share personal information. Better Business Bureau (BBB) is advising parents to do their homework before letting their child write to Santa this holiday season.

According to the Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU), 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.

BBB and CARU offers the following ‘Dear Santa’ site review tips:

Check to see what they want you to hand over. 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. In many cases, there really shouldn’t be a need to share this information. Especially since 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.

Check the links. 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 and for more information you can trust, visit www.bbb.org

Guide to Gift Card Giving: BBB Advice for Purchasing Valuable Gift Cards

11/29/2011

Posted on 11/29/2011 by

The holiday shopping season is in full swing! For those of you looking to give gift cards to family and friends this year, BBB is recommending that you do your research before purchasing a gift card.

So far, in 2011, BBB has already received more than 440 complaints against the gift card industry, a huge increase from the 33 complaints received in 2010. In some cases, consumers are disgruntled when they are given an expired gift card with loaded cash that isn’t usable until the expiration date is corrected. After sending the expired card in for replacement, the consumer is left empty handed when the card fails to ever return to them.

BBB warns, consumers need to be on the lookout for gift cards that appear to be ‘open’ or out of their original package, and cards that state an expiration date that is coming up or that has passed. Shoppers should also be wary of online auction sites that promise ‘full value guaranteed’ gift cards. It’s sites like these that are prone to selling old, valueless cards that leave the gift giver and receiver with nothing.

BBB recommends the following tips for both givers and receivers of gift cards:

Know the rules. New federal rules that took effect in August of 2010 were designed to protect consumers, restricting fees and expiration dates. The new rules apply to two types of cards: Retail gift cards, which can only be redeemed at the retailer’s and restaurants that sell them; and bank gift cards, which carry the logo of a payment card network like American Express, Visa, or Mastercard and can be used wherever the brand is accepted. Under the federal rules, gift cards are prohibited from expiring for five years from the date that the gift card is purchased or from the last date any money was reloaded onto the gift card. For more information on the laws, check with your State – different laws apply to different States.

Check it out. Make sure you are buying from a known and trusted source. Always check out a business at www.bbb.org. Avoid online auction sites, because the cards sold there may be counterfeit or may have been obtained fraudulently.

Read the fine print before buying. Is there a fee to buy the card? Are there shipping and handling fees for cards bought by phone or online? Will any fees be deducted from the card after it is purchased?

Inspect the card before buying it. Verify that no protective stickers have been removed, and that the codes on the back of the card haven’t been scratched off to reveal a PIN number. Report any damaged cards to the store selling the cards.

Provide the receiver with back up. Give the recipient the original receipt in case the card is later lost or stolen. Also, before you buy retail gift cards, consider the financial condition of the retailer or restaurant. A card from a business that files for bankruptcy or goes out of business may be worthless. If the business closes a store near the recipient, it may be hard to find another location where the card can be used. A business that files for bankruptcy may honor its gift cards, or a competitor may accept the card. Call the business or its competitor to find out if they are redeeming the cards, or if they will do so at a later date.

Treat the gift card like cash. For receivers, it’s important to report lost or stolen cards to the issuer immediately. Some issuers will not replace cards that are lost or stolen, while other issuers will, for a fee. Make sure to use gift cards as soon as possible, because it’s not unusual to lose or forget about them.

For more consumer tips you can trust, visit www.bbb.org.

BBB is NOT sending out this Email!

11/23/2011

Posted on 11/23/2011 by

Beware: BBB is NOT sending this Email!

If you receive this email, DELETE it! It is a scam!

From: alert@bbb.org [mailto:alert@bbb.org]
Sent: Wednesday, November 23, 2011 6:26 AM
To: Betty Graham
Subject: Complaint # 22101311
Importance: High

The Better Business Bureau has received the above-referenced complaint from one of your customers regarding their dealings with you. The details of the consumer's concern are included on the reverse. Please review this matter and advise us of your position. As a neutral third party, the Better Business Bureau can help to resolve the matter. Often complaints are a result of misunderstandings a company wants to know about and correct. We encourage you to use our ONLINE COMPLAINT system to respond this complaint.

The following URL (website address) below will take you directly to this complaint and you will be able to enter your response directly on our website:

http://www.bbb.org

Businesses across the Country and right here in Kentuckiana are receiving this email, which appears to be from the Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB). BBBs are NOT sending out this email. While the link appears to be a BBB link, when copied into the web browser, the actual address is x-msg://674/finopor.nanacity.com/. If you receive this email, DELETE it. It is a scam! Contact your local BBB at 1-800-388-2222 if you have any questions about complaints that may look fishy.

BBB Tips: Top Ten Cyber Monday Tips for Staying Safe When Shopping Online

11/23/2011

Posted on 11/23/2011 by

Cyber Monday—the Monday after Thanksgiving—has officially replaced Black Friday—the day after Thanksgiving—as the most popular day to shop for the holidays. Shopping online means avoiding the crowds, but it also opens the buyer up to attacks from scammers and hackers. In order to fight these online grinches, the Better Business Bureau recommends 10 tips for staying safe when holiday shopping online.

Every year, more people head online rather than to the mall to get their holiday shopping done. According to a preliminary shopping survey, conducted for the National Retail Federation by BIGresearch, up to 152 million people plan to shop Black Friday weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday), higher than the 138 million people who planned to do so last year. According to the survey, 74 million people say they will definitely hit the stores and another 77 million are waiting to see if the bargains are worth braving the cold and the crowds.

BBB suggests taking the necessary precautions to avoid fraudulent websites, scammers, and other Grinches who would love to ruin your holidays. BBB recommends the following top 10 tips for shopping online this holiday season to help fight unscrupulous online retailers, scammers and hackers:

1. Protect your computer – A computer should always have the most recent updates installed for spam filters, anti-virus and anti-spyware software and a secure firewall.

2. Shop on trustworthy websites – Shoppers should start with BBB to check on the seller’s reputation and record for customer satisfaction. Always look for the BBB seal and other widely-recognized “trustmarks” on retailer websites and click on the seals to confirm that they are valid.

3. Protect your personal information – BBB recommends taking the time to read the site’s privacy policy and understand what personal information is being requested and how it will be used. If there isn’t one posted, it should be taken as a red flag that personal information may be sold to others without permission.

4. Beware of deals that sound too good to be true – Offers on websites and in unsolicited e-mails can often sound too good to be true, especially extremely low prices on hard-to-get items. Consumers should always go with their instincts and not be afraid to pass up a “deal” that might cost them dearly in the end.

5. Beware of phishing – Legitimate businesses do not send e-mails claiming problems with an order or an account to lure the “buyer” into revealing financial information. If a consumer receives such an e-mail, BBB recommends picking up the phone and calling the contact number on the website where the purchase was made to confirm that there really is a problem with the transaction.

6. Confirm your online purchase is secure – Shoppers should always look in the address box for the “s” in https:// and in the lower-right corner for the “lock” symbol before paying. If there are any doubts about a site, BBB recommends right-clicking anywhere on the page and select “Properties.” This will let you see the real URL (website address) and the dialog box will reveal if the site is not encrypted.

7. Pay with a credit card – It’s best to use a credit card, because under federal law, the shopper can dispute the charges if he or she doesn’t receive the item. Shoppers also have dispute rights if there are unauthorized charges on their credit card, and many card issuers have “zero liability” policies under which the card holder pays nothing if someone steals the credit card number and uses it. Never wire money and only shop locally on sites like Craigslist.

9. Check your credit card statements often – Don’t wait for paper statements; BBB recommends consumers check their credit card statements for suspicious activity by either calling credit card companies or by checking statements online regularly.

10.Know your rights – Federal law requires that orders made by mail, phone or online be shipped by the date promised or, if no delivery time was stated, within 30 days. If the goods aren’t shipped on time, the shopper can cancel and demand a refund. There is no general three-day cancellation right, but consumers do have the right to reject merchandise if it’s defective or was misrepresented. Otherwise, it’s the company’s policies that determine if the shopper can cancel the purchase and receive a refund or credit.

For more advice on staying safe online this holiday season, and to see reports on thousands of online retailers, go to www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-holiday/ or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Tips on Top Holiday Scams

11/22/2011

Posted on 11/22/2011 by

Scammers are busy this time of the year! Whether it’s on the internet, at the stores, or even at your front door…they are ready to take your hard-earned cash! Here are some tips from the BBB on scams to look out for.

Internet Scams: Be on the lookout for fake websites offering bargain prices, especially on those hard to find gifts, or the hot gifts for 2011. These sites tout “too-good-to-be-true” prices on these items, with a professional looking website and testimonials from “happy customers.” The scam artists will take your money, won’t send you the merchandise! Don’t just trust a site – check it out at www.bbb.org. Also, when shopping online, use a credit card, not your debit card. Debit cards are directly linked to your bank account, and if you never get your merchandise or it isn’t what was promised, you can dispute the charges with your credit card company.

Phishing Scams: You are contacted by email with a very tempting offer or a warning that your account has been compromised, and then you are directed to click on a link, which takes you to a fake website. Once there, you're told to enter personal and financial information wanted by the thieves. Don’t click on links in unsolicited emails!

Gift Card Scams. Many gift cards hang on racks in stores or at checkout counters. Today, most cards are protected by scratch-off security codes and protective packaging to prevent information theft. However, if cards aren’t protected, scam artists can write down the numbers while the cards are on display, and then call an 800 number to learn when the cards have been activated.

Holiday E-card Scams: You receive an eGreeting from an unnamed “relative,” or “friend.” You have to click on the link to view it. However, clicking on the link may unleash spyware, pop-up ads, viruses, or Trojans. In some cases, nothing bad happens until you download software from the e-card website so you can “run your e-card.” If there is any question of who the card came from, don’t open it! Also, be sure you have the latest anti-virus and anti-spyware software installed on your computer.

Charity-Related Scams: Scammers will call you on the phone or knock on your front door. They’ll wear seasonal outfits, dress in familiar looking uniforms, and carry forms of identification that look real. They’ll convince you to give with stories that tug at your heart. Before you give, do your homework. Check out the charity at www.give.org. Don’t fall for high-pressure tactics. Avoid "charities" whose representatives won't answer reasonable questions, such as how the money will be spent. Never supply credit card information over the phone, and never give cash or write checks payable to an individual solicitor.

Delivery Scams: It’s reasonable to expect deliveries at this time of the year. In this case, you receive a card saying an unsuccessful attempt was made to deliver a package to your home and that you should call a particular number for more details. You call the number and get a recorded message or music that keeps you on the line for a while. Unfortunately, you are connected to an overseas number, (known as the 809 scam), and you will be charged high rates on your next phone bill. If the number is not a 1-800 or local call, it could be a scam. This scam also comes in the form of emails. You receive an email from what appears to be UPS or FEDEX, saying you have a package that needs to be picked up. The email asks you to click on a link to download a form. If you download the form, your computer becomes infected.

Job scams: Many retailers and manufacturers need to take on extra staff to handle the holiday rush. Knowing this, scam artists send out emails promising non-existent jobs for which, you'll eventually be asked to pay a fee for the job. You may see similar ads in newspaper classifieds and even flyers or signs posted around town. Never pay for a job!

For more information on holiday scams and holiday shopping tips, go to www.bbb.org.

BBB Tips on Black Friday Shopping

11/21/2011

Posted on 11/21/2011 by

It’s time to start planning your Black Friday, that special day after Thanksgiving when retailers gear up to offer their best. Remember, 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, BB offers these tips:

Tip 1 – Know before You Go. 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. Build up a coupon collection, and 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 or misleading. 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.

Tip 3 – Maximize Advance Alerts. Do you have favorite retailers? 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 special offers.

Tip 4 – Set up Your Reward Cards. 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, BBB recommends 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. When shopping, confirm the site is secure and be certain you have a phone number and physical address in case there are problems.

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.

Tip 8 - Shop Small. Save your gas money and your time when you stay close to home. BBB 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.

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 a deal gone wrong. Some stores also charge restocking fees.

Tip 10 – Shop Safely. While getting a deal is important, there are ways to shop safely without putting yourself or your wallet in jeopardy. BBB 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.

· Keep all receipts so you can compare them with what you purchased when your monthly statement comes in.

· Keep your personal information to yourself and be mindful of where you are laying your credit card, driver's license, wallet, purse, etc. Don't leave a sales counter without them!

· Confirm the security of your online purchases. Shoppers should always look in the address box for the "s" in https:// and in the lower-right corner for the "lock" symbol before paying. If there are any doubts about a site, BBB recommends right clicking anywhere on the page and select "Properties." This will let you see the real URL (website address) and the dialog box will revel if the site is not encrypted.

· Pay with a credit card. Under Federal law, you can dispute the charges if you don't receive the item. Shoppers also have dispute rights if there are unauthorized charges on their credit card, and many card issuers have "zero liability" policies under which the card holder pays nothing if someone steals the credit card number and uses it.

For more tips, go to www.bbb.org.

BBB Announces 2011 Torch Award Winners and Finalists

11/17/2011

Posted on 11/17/2011 by

The Better Business Bureau serving Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western Kentucky is proud to announce the winners and finalists of the 2011 Torch Awards for Marketplace Ethics.

BBB conducts this annual awards program to gain public recognition for businesses and non-profit organizations that maintain a solid commitment to conducting their business practices in an ethical fashion. No award could mean more to a business or organization’s reputation than a BBB Torch Award! Here is the list of winners and finalists of the 2011 Torch Awards:

Very Small Business:

Mediaura (Winner)

Sign-A-Rama Downtown (Finalist)

Small Business:

Taylor Homes (Winner)

Consumers Choice Coffee, Inc. (Finalist)

Medium Business:

Louisville Water Company (Winner)

Park Community Federal Credit Union (Finalist)

Large Business:

Sam Swope Auto Group (Winner)

Texas Roadhouse (Finalist)

Non-Profit Organization (Over $1,000,000)

Day Spring (Winner)

There is no better way to strengthen trust in business and free enterprise than by shining light on businesses and organizations that are doing well and doing right. These businesses and non-profit organization will be honored at the BBB Torch Awards luncheon on Friday, November 18, 2011 at noon at The Olmsted in Louisville, KY. Tori Murden McClure, President, Spalding University and World Adventurer will be the Keynote Speaker for the event and Rachel Platt, Anchor, WHAS11 News will emcee the event. Media is welcome to cover the event.

BBB Warns: Beware Twilight Hype Scams!

11/17/2011

Posted on 11/17/2011 by

With all of the hype surrounding the premier of Twilight: Breaking Dawn (part 1) this weekend, BBB warns to expect malicious hackers to take advantage! Hackers are already poisoning links in Twilight-related searches with malware!

Norton Security experts report that web searchers who are seeking information on the Twilight Saga will see results such as “nude pictures of Taylor Lautner,” “Robert and Kristin kissing,” and “Twilight true love.” Clicking these links can infect a user’s computer, tablet, or smartphone with viruses or keyloggers. Norton Security expects to see more Twilight-related malware, scams and spam as the excitement around the movie grows.

This isn’t the first time Twilight Saga fans have been the target of a scam. In April, 2011 a Twilight scam spread virally on Facebook. When Twilight fans tried to play Twilight: Breaking Dawn, they discovered they first had to “like” the game, then it would get posted to their Facebook wall, spreading to their friends. The victims were then asked to okay a FB app to access their account and to complete a form that asked for personal information.

BBB reminds Twilight fans, be suspicious of links like these and verify each app before giving it additional permissions on Facebook. Here are other signs of scams that could surround the Twilight hype:

Bogus online sneak previews or complete downloads of the movies, usually accompanied by fake comments from supposedly delighted users.
Page links that lead to surveys that collect personal details for spammers, or insist users first download a toolbar or special viewer, either of which, in reality, installs spyware, a virus or fake anti-virus software onto computers.
Phony digital (ebook) versions of the series, again leading to the kind of scams outlined in the point above.
Subject headings for web pages and emails with some sort of sensational claim about one of the characters, luring curious fans to visit or open attachments.

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 Brenda Linnington, director of BBB Military Line. “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,” says Art Taylor, president and CEO of the BBB Wise Giving Alliance. “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.

About BBB
As the leader in advancing marketplace trust, Better Business Bureau is an unbiased non-profit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Every year, more than 87 million consumers rely on BBB.

BBB November 2011 Hot Topics

11/3/2011

Posted on 11/3/2011 by

1. BBB Sweepstakes Scam – If you receive a call from a “BBB Employee” who says you have won a $2.5 million dollar sweepstakes and a Mercedes Benz, hang up. This is a scam! The caller directs the “winner” to a fake website, www.better-businessbureau.org. BBB does not hand out sweepstakes winnings, and the official BBB website is www.bbb.org.

2. Consumers across the country are reporting scam emails that appear to be from ticket company StubHub. The emails try to lure recipients into sharing credit card information by falsely alerting consumers they are being charged for expensive tickets. The email asks the ticket holder to login to their StubHub account to confirm the order. Thieves could then steal passwords and gain access to the account.

3. Unclaimed Property Scam – Fake emails stating “millions of dollars in unclaimed money,” are making their rounds. The email appears to come from the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators, and directs consumers to call an overseas telephone number to claim their money. Scammers are trying to get personal information. Go to http://www.unclaimed.org/ for more information.

4. Funds Direct has an “F” rating with BBB. According to a pattern of serious allegations, the company debits consumer’s accounts for $30 without their permission. Some consumers report that due to the debits they were charged overdraft fees. The company responds to BBB complaints with a letter, stating refunds have been given for the withdrawals and overdraft fees. Some consumers report never receiving the promised refunds.

5. If you are contacted by what appears to be a Debt Collector on Facebook, get their business contact information and verify that such a company exists before agreeing to provide them with any kind of personal or financial information. Chances are, it’s fraud. A consumer reported being contacted by a debt collector on FB about a bounced check. However, the consumer doesn't use checks.

6. If you want a temporary Holiday Job, start your search NOW! Retail, shipping, restaurants, and catering companies are common sources for seasonal employment. You may want to work where you shop, as discounts are often available to employees. For the interview, dress professional, be familiar with the company’s brand and products, and be flexible. Expect to work long, inconvenient hours.

7. Holiday Shopping? Be a smart shopper! Set a budget and stick to it. Compare prices on bigger ticket items, and check out the store’s return/exchange policy before you buy. Keep all receipts. If you are in a store, be mindful of your personal belongings. Theft is very active at this time of the year.

8. Cyber Monday (the Monday after Thanksgiving) is the most popular day to shop online for the holidays! When shopping online, be sure your computer is protected, only shop trustworthy sites, beware of deals that sound too-good-to-be true, confirm your purchase is on a secure site, and pay with a credit card - it is easier to dispute the charges. Always keep documentation of your order.

9. Give Wisely this holiday season. When you are approached for a contribution, ask for the charity’s full name and address, ask if the contribution is tax deductible, is the charity registered in the state, and find out how much of the donation will actually go to the charity. Also, don’t fall for high-pressure tactics. The charity that needs your money today will welcome it tomorrow. Get charity reports at www.bbb.org.

10. ”Dear Santa” Websites are all the rage. More than 60 domain names have been registered in the name of old St. Nick. Sadly, some of the websites aren’t always trustworthy. Before your child visits a site, be sure it asks for a minimal amount of information. Check websites for adult content, and check the links to be sure the child doesn’t have access to inappropriate content.

BBB Opens Business Storefront in Sam Swope JA BizTown®

10/24/2011

Posted on 10/24/2011 by

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) serving Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western Kentucky is partnering with Junior Achievement (JA) to teach children about financial literacy and work-readiness programs!

BBB will open a storefront in the Sam Swope JA BizTown, which hosts more than 12,000 students annually.

BBB and JA will host a grand opening ceremony for the new storefront on Monday, October 24, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. held at the James W. Robinson Junior Achievement Center for Freedom of Enterprise. Media is welcome to attend this event. There will be great photo opportunities, including the 5 foot BBB TRUST WHEEL!

Sam Swope JA BizTown is a simulated town made up of 16 storefronts, sponsored by local businesses. Students experience the free enterprise system by working in businesses such as Papa John’s, Walmart and City Hall. The goal at the end of the day is to pay off their business loan while taking on the part as consumer and producer within the economy. With a variety of hands-on activities, students realize the correlation between what they learn in school and their participation in a simulated economy.

“BBB is excited to become the newest storefront in BizTown,” says Charlie Mattingly, President/CEO of the BBB. “This gives us a chance to help educate the younger generation on the importance of ethics in the marketplace and the use of BBB services.”

BBB will charge each storefront a fee to be accredited by the Better Business Bureau. The business will also conduct evaluations for each business in the town to establish that they are a quality business as well as give the opportunity to the citizens to file a complaint or inquire about a business.

Special thanks to Cherrywood Custom Woodworking, H.F. Steilberg, Office Environment Company, and John McCafferty Advertising for donating their time and resources in preparation of the BBB Junior Achievement Storefront.

Also, a big thanks to the 2011 BBB Golf Scramble supporters for helping to make this storefront possible.

JA reaches more than 50,000 students with financial literacy programs each year with in-school programming, Sam Swope JA BizTown® and Chase JA Finance Park®. JA reaches each student in Kentuckiana four times with JA programs throughout their school careers.

BBB Warns: Don’t Fall for Facebook Lottery Scam Email

10/19/2011

Posted on 10/19/2011 by

If you get an email in your inbox that claims to be from Mark Zuckerberg at Facebook – delete it! BBB is warning the scam email claims the recipient is the winner of $1 million in “our 2011 Sweepstakes (Facebook Inc).” The lottery emails are not from Facebook!

The BBB warns recipients not to click on the link in the email to claim the prize because the email could lead to malware – harmful or malicious programs – being downloaded to the recipient’s computer. Or the recipient might be asked to reveal personal information – which would result in the recipient’s identity being stolen.

The phony Facebook lottery email continues, “… your details(e-mail address) falls within our European representative office in Amsterdam, Holland, as indicated in your play coupon and your prize of US$1,000000 will be released to you from this regional branch office in England.”

Recipients are asked to click on a link to claim the prize, and are told to keep the information confidential: “For security reasons, we advise all winners to keep this information confidential from the public until your claim is processed and your prize released to you … ANY BREACH OF CONFIDENTIALITY ON THE PART OF THE WINNERS WILL RESULT TO DISQUALIFICATION.”

There are several red flags that the email is a scam:

· Businesses do not email consumers out of the blue to say consumers have won a lottery prize.

· The names of well-known businesses and individuals are often used in lottery scams to give the impression of a real lottery, even though there’s no connection to the named businesses or individuals.

· Prize winners would not be asked to click on a link in an unexpected email in order to claim a prize.

· Misspellings and poor grammar are signs that the email was not professionally prepared.

· The demand for confidentiality is a ploy to keep recipients from turning to someone they trust for advice, or checking with authorities.

Anyone who receives scam email can report the email to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center, www.ic3.gov. Recipients may also want to forward bogus emails to the business that’s named in the email.

For more tips go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Free Shred Event

10/14/2011

Posted on 10/14/2011 by

Better Business Bureau is teaming up with Consumer Credit Counseling Services to help encourage consumers to fight identity theft by taking part in Protect Your Identity Week (PYIW), October 16 – 22, 2011.

Part of the week will include a FREE local shredding event, sponsored by your BBB, Consumer Credit Counseling Services, Cintas, and Kroger. The event will be held Saturday, October 22, 2011, from 6 am to Noon at 12501 Shelbyville Road, Louisville, in the Middletown Kroger parking lot. Cintas Corporation, national shredding partner for PYIW, will provide the FREE shredding. Consumers are allowed to shred up to 3 large boxes or bags of documents for free. Workers can remove the items from the vehicle. Consumers don’t even have to get out of their cars!

Consumers are encouraged to drop off any documents that contain bank account numbers, social security numbers, birth dates, or pin numbers.

Identity Theft Tips

Do not keep Social-Security card in wallet or purse
Do not put bills or checks in home mailbox for pickup
Check credit reports, bank statements and credit-card statements often for irregularities
Shred all documents with personal information
Never give personal information to someone on phone, internet or email claiming to be your bank.
Do not store credit-card number on shopping websites

More tips can be found at www.ProtectYourIDNow.org.

“Fighting identity theft is a constant battle,” says Reanna Smith-Hamblin, VP/Communications, for the BBB/Louisville. “We are all potential victims, so it’s important that we all take steps to fight identity theft, and Protect Your Identity Week is a great place to start. You can participate in a free shredding event to protect yourself now.”

The shredding event, to be held October 22, 2011 will also include cell phone recycling. Thieves have been ramping up their efforts to steal personal information through electronic devices. A drop-box will be available for consumers to dispose of old cell phones. There will be no charge for this service. All collected cell phones will be turned over to the 911 Cell Phone Bank, for processing which includes a complete data wipe to erase personal information. For more information on this event, contact Reanna Smith-Hamblin at 502-588-0043 or rsmith-hamblin@louisville.bbb.org.

BBB iPhone App Now Available

10/13/2011

Posted on 10/13/2011 by

Last year, consumers turned to the Better Business Bureau 87 million times to help them find trustworthy businesses and charities. Now they can have that information in the palm of their hand with the release of the official BBB Search app, a convenient, mobile BBB solution available for the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. The app was approved by the Apple Store and is available for download as of today.

“For 100 years, BBB has been the trusted source for unbiased information on businesses and charities,” said Stephen A. Cox, President and CEO of the Council of Better Business Bureaus. “We have data on more than 4 million businesses in the United States and Canada – an amazing wealth of information to help consumers find trustworthy businesses…and to help them avoid those that are not. We are excited to offer this information to consumers on the go.”

BBB Search features include:

Search for local businesses by name, phone, URL, or category type

Search via current location or specified city, state or ZIP code

Display search results in list or map views

Access previous searches through the history menu

View the BBB Business Review for every business listing, complete with BBB Rating, contact info, BBB Accreditation status, consumer complaint history, and more

Save a listed business's info to Favorites or iOS contacts

Share a business's BBB Business Review URL via email, Twitter, or Facebook

Find a local BBB near you

Read the latest BBB Consumer News

Today’s launch follows a successful soft launch in June, with additional enhancements and fixes:

BBB Consumer News now includes a "pull down to update" feature.

BBB Business Reviews display a mobile-optimized interface within the app.

The ZIP code keyboard now supports letters for Canadian postal codes.

If a ZIP code was set in the Search Options, that ZIP code is also used as the default location for the Find a BBB search field.

Tapping on Find a BBB automatically displays the closest BBB location based on current ZIP code setting.

When adding a selected business to iOS contacts, the business's phone number is now always included.

Improved error handling with more descriptive and user-friendly messages.

Several minor bug fixes have been implemented and a reported crash bug on iOS 3.x devices is now fixed.

BBB Search 1.1 is available as a free app download on Apple's iOS App Store for devices running iOS 3.1 or higher. An Internet connection is required.

App Store URL:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bbb-search-find-local-businesses/id440014505?mt=8

For more information, please visit: http://www.bbb.org/iphone/

BBB iPhone App Now Available

10/13/2011

Posted on 10/13/2011 by

BBB Search features include:

Search for local businesses by name, phone, URL, or category type

Search via current location or specified city, state or ZIP code

Display search results in list or map views

Access previous searches through the history menu

View the BBB Business Review for every business listing, complete with BBB Rating, contact info, BBB Accreditation status, consumer complaint history, and more

Save a listed business's info to Favorites or iOS contacts

Share a business's BBB Business Review URL via email, Twitter, or Facebook

Find a local BBB near you

Read the latest BBB Consumer News

Today’s launch follows a successful soft launch in June, with additional enhancements and fixes:

BBB Consumer News now includes a "pull down to update" feature.

BBB Business Reviews display a mobile-optimized interface within the app.

The ZIP code keyboard now supports letters for Canadian postal codes.

If a ZIP code was set in the Search Options, that ZIP code is also used as the default location for the Find a BBB search field.

Tapping on Find a BBB automatically displays the closest BBB location based on current ZIP code setting.

When adding a selected business to iOS contacts, the business's phone number is now always included.

Improved error handling with more descriptive and user-friendly messages.

Several minor bug fixes have been implemented and a reported crash bug on iOS 3.x devices is now fixed.

BBB Search 1.1 is available as a free app download on Apple's iOS App Store for devices running iOS 3.1 or higher. An Internet connection is required.

App Store URL:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bbb-search-find-local-businesses/id440014505?mt=8

For more information, please visit: http://www.bbb.org/iphone/

BBB iPhone App Now Available

10/13/2011

Posted on 10/13/2011 by

BBB Search features include:

Search for local businesses by name, phone, URL, or category type

Search via current location or specified city, state or ZIP code

Display search results in list or map views

Access previous searches through the history menu

View the BBB Business Review for every business listing, complete with BBB Rating, contact info, BBB Accreditation status, consumer complaint history, and more

Save a listed business's info to Favorites or iOS contacts

Share a business's BBB Business Review URL via email, Twitter, or Facebook

Find a local BBB near you

Read the latest BBB Consumer News

Today’s launch follows a successful soft launch in June, with additional enhancements and fixes:

BBB Consumer News now includes a "pull down to update" feature.

BBB Business Reviews display a mobile-optimized interface within the app.

The ZIP code keyboard now supports letters for Canadian postal codes.

If a ZIP code was set in the Search Options, that ZIP code is also used as the default location for the Find a BBB search field.

Tapping on Find a BBB automatically displays the closest BBB location based on current ZIP code setting.

When adding a selected business to iOS contacts, the business's phone number is now always included.

Improved error handling with more descriptive and user-friendly messages.

Several minor bug fixes have been implemented and a reported crash bug on iOS 3.x devices is now fixed.

BBB Search 1.1 is available as a free app download on Apple's iOS App Store for devices running iOS 3.1 or higher. An Internet connection is required.

App Store URL:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bbb-search-find-local-businesses/id440014505?mt=8

For more information, please visit: http://www.bbb.org/iphone/

BBB iPhone App Now Available

10/13/2011

Posted on 10/13/2011 by

BBB Search features include:

Search for local businesses by name, phone, URL, or category type

Search via current location or specified city, state or ZIP code

Display search results in list or map views

Access previous searches through the history menu

View the BBB Business Review for every business listing, complete with BBB Rating, contact info, BBB Accreditation status, consumer complaint history, and more

Save a listed business's info to Favorites or iOS contacts

Share a business's BBB Business Review URL via email, Twitter, or Facebook

Find a local BBB near you

Read the latest BBB Consumer News

Today’s launch follows a successful soft launch in June, with additional enhancements and fixes:

BBB Consumer News now includes a "pull down to update" feature.

BBB Business Reviews display a mobile-optimized interface within the app.

The ZIP code keyboard now supports letters for Canadian postal codes.

If a ZIP code was set in the Search Options, that ZIP code is also used as the default location for the Find a BBB search field.

Tapping on Find a BBB automatically displays the closest BBB location based on current ZIP code setting.

When adding a selected business to iOS contacts, the business's phone number is now always included.

Improved error handling with more descriptive and user-friendly messages.

Several minor bug fixes have been implemented and a reported crash bug on iOS 3.x devices is now fixed.

BBB Search 1.1 is available as a free app download on Apple's iOS App Store for devices running iOS 3.1 or higher. An Internet connection is required.

App Store URL:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bbb-search-find-local-businesses/id440014505?mt=8

For more information, please visit: http://www.bbb.org/iphone/

BBB Warns: Latest Twitter Scam Spurs Curiosity

10/7/2011

Posted on 10/7/2011 by

You’ve heard the saying “Curiosity killed the cat.” Don’t let your curiosity get you in trouble when you receive an email that appears to be from one of your followers on Twitter.

BBB recently received one of these emails. The email reads, “I saw a real bad blog about you, you seen this?” The message is followed by a link.

Face it. When you receive a message like this, you are inclined to click on it to see what is being said about you. However, in this case, DON’T CLICK ON THE LINK! When you click on the link, you are taken to what appears to be the Twitter login page. Then you are asked to provide your user name and password. It’s not the real Twitter login page. If you look carefully at the address bar, you’ll notice that you are not actually at Twitter.com. Chances are, the person you’re following on Twitter, that appeared to send the message, has already fallen for the scam or their Twitter account has been compromised in another way.

What to do if you have fallen victim to this scam:

1. Change your Twitter password.

2. Verify that the email address for your Twitter account was not changed.

If you’ve used the same e-mail address and password on other web sites, then immediately check them out and change their passwords.
If your Twitter account is sending out phishing messages, you should also visit the Applications tab in “Account Settings”, and Revoke Access for any third-party application that you don’t recognize.

Remember, you should always be suspicious of links that you are sent in an email or that are posted on social networking sites. If you are ever in doubt, don’t click! If you click, and the site asks for your personal information, don’t give it out!

For more consumer tips, go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Warns: Don't Fall for Scams Involving Death of Steve Jobs

10/6/2011

Posted on 10/6/2011 by

The world is mourning the death of icon, Former Apple CEO, Steve Jobs, and scammers are right there to take advantage of the bad news.

As always, the death of celebrity figures brings scammers out of the woodwork. Within hours of Jobs’ death, scammers started taking advantage of Facebook users. One scam reads: “In memory of Steve, a company is giving out 50 ipads tonight. R.I.P. Steve Jobs” and is followed by a link. There are no free iPads being given out. The link actually takes users to a page to complete online surveys. The link went through the bit.ly service and the company has since shut it down. Unfortunately, thousands of victims clicked on it before then.

This is just the beginning of scams that will try to make money off of Jobs’ death. BBB warns, stay away from anything that looks questionable or sounds too-good-to-be-true and be sure to limit your link-clicking to reputable websites that don’t claim they will give you something for free. Delete any emails that may seem too-good-to-be true.

In cases like this scam, the scammers’ goal is to drive more traffic to certain websites, which is how the scammer earns his or her money: a commission for every survey completed, every product purchased, and/or every account compromised. They also use them to spread malware and obtain personal information.

Contact Facebook Security if you see something questionable. For more consumer tips go to www.bbb.org.

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

10/5/2011

Posted on 10/5/2011 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 Council of Better Business Bureaus spokesperson Katherine Hutt.

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

BBB October 2011 Hot Topics

10/5/2011

Posted on 10/5/2011 by

Check out the latest scams and bad business in

BBB’s October 2011 Hot Topics!

1. Job seekers, beware of Reshipping Scams! In this scam, foreign criminals purchase merchandise with a stolen or fake credit card and then hire U.S. citizens to have it shipped to their country. These jobs are posted on online job sites and in newspapers.

2. Scammers that claim to be with US Cash Advance are calling KY consumers and accusing them of defaulting on a payday loan and claim they are being sued. The phony debt collector threatens that, if the victim doesn’t pay as much as $1,000 immediately via wire or by providing bank account or credit card numbers, he or she will be arrested. The scammers often have personal information. US Cash Advance does not collect payments over the phone.

3. If you get an email from the IRS stating unreported/underreported income, this is a scam! The email asks you to download your tax statement from the IRS website, and then it gives you a fake link. This is a phishing scam! Delete the email. The IRS does not contact taxpayers via email!

4. Protect Your Identity Week is October 16 – 22, 2011. BBB is teaming up with other organizations to remind you to protect your identity! BBB is having a free shred event October 22 from 6 am to NOON at the Kroger in Middletown, 12501 Shelbyville Road, Louisville. Consumers can bring up to 3 boxes or bags and can also drop off cell phones for recycling. Call BBB for more information.

5. Many businesses are marketing Pink Ribbon products and services to support a cure for breast cancer. BBB reminds you to research donation claims before making a purchase. Identify the charity receiving the donation and find out what percentage of the donation actually goes to the cause. Be cautious of any solicitations over the phone. To check out a charity go to www.bbb.org/charity.

6. Do not get spooked by Halloween Boutiques! Many of these shops and online stores are seasonal. To avoid being haunted, ask the company for its physical address and phone number. Check out the company at www.bbb.org; understand the refund and exchange policy; shipping charges; and provide credit card information on a secure site.

7. Don’t fall for this Disney World Scam if you are headed there for fall break! Guests in hotels around the theme park find pizza delivery menus slipped under their door. They place an order and give their credit card number. The pizza never arrives and identity thieves get their information! Craving a slice? Ask the front desk at the hotel!

8. Coca Cola is not sending out text messages, emails, or letters stating you have won a sweepstakes from the company! The text and email asks recipients to go to a fake website to reveal personal information and the letter looks official and contains a fake check. Don’t cash it, and never wire money to someone you don’t know!

9. Scammers are posing as Kelley Blue Book online. Scammers are soliciting funds from buyers via an escrow-based, guaranteed buyer-protection program, which Kelley Blue Book does not offer. The scammer says they have to sell the car fast because they are being deployed. The seller instructs the buyer to wire a partial payment to a third-party, such as Kelley Blue Book. By the time the buyer realizes what has happened, the money and the seller are long gone.

10. Trying to make a few bucks by Selling Your Gold? BBB suggests you find a trustworthy appraiser. Get two or three appraisals before making the sell. The true price of gold may not be what you receive. 14-karat gold is worth less than pure gold. Know the company’s terms and conditions when sending items by mail, and check out the business’ report at www.bbb.org.

Kelley Blue Book Warns of Fraudulent Online Car-Buying Scams Masquerading as kbb.com

9/21/2011

Posted on 9/21/2011 by

Attn: Car Buyers and Car Sellers

Your BBB wishes to Share this Alert from Kelley Blue Book

Beware of Fake kbb.com Web Site

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 21, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Kelley Blue Book www.kbb.com the leading provider of new car and used car information warns online car buyers of a scam using a fake Kelley Blue Book website. The scams look to solicit funds from buyers via an escrow-based, guaranteed buyer-protection program, which Kelley Blue Book does not offer.

Kelley Blue Book has received a small but increasing number of inquiries over the last few months regarding the protection program. The FBI claims that every 90 minutes a complaint is filed and an auto shopper loses $1,000 every hour due to fraudulent websites and phony vehicle listings.

Kelley Blue Book warns that any escrow-based consumer-to-consumer service or Buyer & Seller Protection Program offered under its name is a scam. Car shoppers should be aware that imitation websites have a similar look-and-feel to the actual kbb.com and they should be cognizant of the domain name (URL) and email address (view the actual address, not the display name) provided by the seller. Car shoppers that encounter this type of offer from online sellers are strongly urged to report the seller to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov

How the Scam Often Works:

Typically, a seller will list a car that they do not own on a reputable vehicle listings website. Emails from the seller often provide a story about a quick divorce or military deployment that requires fast liquidation of the vehicle at a low price and the inability to execute the sale in person.

The next phase of the scam includes the seller moving the transaction to a fraudulent website other than where the car was listed, making it easier to conduct a crime. The alternate site may include guarantees that are backed by reputable companies, promises for the return of funds should a vehicle not be delivered, and may look similar to Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com website by using logos and similar fonts and colors. The majority of these sites are often poorly written with multiple spelling errors.

The seller then instructs the potential buyer to wire a partial or full payment to a third-party, such as Kelley Blue Book and fax the seller proof of payment. By the time the buyer realizes what has happened, the money and the seller are long gone.

"Recently, criminals have added sophisticated technology to their scam by adding 800 numbers and offering live chat with potential buyers in an effort to ease their concerns about online car buying and detailed information on the fraudulent buyer protection programs," said Shayne Brown, associate general counsel, Kelley Blue Book. "Kelley Blue Book is working diligently to have these sites removed from the Internet, but in the mean time, car shoppers should know that any type of online consumer escrow service backed by our company is a scam."

For tips on how to protect yourself from phony online car-buying scams or fraudulent buyer protection programs, visit the FBI at: http://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/2011/august/car_081511/car_081511

For more information and news from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, visit www.kbb.com/media/ Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/kelleybluebook (or @kelleybluebook), or like our page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kbb

About Kelley Blue Book ( www.kbb.com )

Founded in 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource®, is the only vehicle valuation and information source trusted and relied upon by both consumers and the industry. Each week the company provides the most market-reflective values in the industry on its top-rated website www.kbb.com , including its famous Blue Book® Trade-In and Retail Values and Fair Purchase Price, which reports what others are paying for new cars this week. The company also provides vehicle pricing and values through various products and services available to car dealers, auto manufacturers, finance and insurance companies as well as governmental agencies. Kbb.com provides consumer pricing and information on minivans, pickup-trucks, cars, hybrids and SUVs. Kelley Blue Book Co. Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of AutoTrader.com.

BBB Business Reviews Add Customer Reviews and Complaint Detail

9/7/2011

Posted on 9/7/2011 by

The Better Business Bureau serving Louisville, Southern Indiana and Western Kentucky has joined ten other Better Business Bureaus in a test that allows consumers to post customer reviews of businesses.

In addition, the BBB will now publish the actual text of customer complaints and business responses as part of each business's BBB Business Review.

"Customers want more information about businesses, and that's exactly what we'll give them," says Charlie Mattingly, President/CEO of the BBB serving Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western Kentucky.

Customer reviews offer consumers a chance to post comments, positive or negative, that will aid others in the search for a business they can trust.

BBB customer reviews are part of the BBB's re-designed BBB Business Review. BBB Business Reviews are available for any business about which BBB receives inquiries from the public, whether or not the business is affiliated with the BBB or committed to BBB standards.

BBB research has shown that consumers want BBB Business Reviews to contain more information, including positive information about business and more details about customer complaints. BBB is also responding to the prevalence of customer reviews on the Internet, from Google and Yahoo pages to websites such as Angie’s List and Yelp.

“BBB is satisfied that these reviews will help good businesses build customer confidence through positive customer feedback,” says Mattingly. “But we'd be kidding ourselves to believe that all customer comments will be positive...or entirely fair. Good businesses can expect many positive reviews...and set themselves apart from the few ‘bad’ businesses that can be expected to collect more critical customer reviews.”

"The BBB is monitoring customer reviews, so the review does not post instantly," Mattingly adds. "The BBB reserves the right not to post reviews that are deemed 'over the edge' in accusations against a business, or that might appear to be seriously misleading to the public. But the overwhelming majority of reviews will be posted without editing within 24 hours of being submitted on the BBB website."

Customers who wish to post reviews may visit the company’s BBB Business Review at www.louisville.bbb.org and click on “Submit a Customer Review.” The submission form includes step-by-step instructions in creating the review. The customer review includes the written review of the business, a rating of the overall experience with the business in question, and asks the reviewer if he or she would recommend the business. Businesses are alerted by e-mail when a customer review is posted and have 24 hours to respond to negative customer reviews prior to the review being made visible in the company's BBB Business Review.

BBB Hot Topics - September 2011

9/6/2011

Posted on 9/6/2011 by

1. BBB Business Reviews now offer more information! BBB Louisville is testing Customer Reviews, which will allow consumers a chance to post comments, positive or negative, that will aid others in the search for a business they can trust. BBB will also publish the actual text of customer complaints and business responses as part of each business's Business Review.

2. OnlineBusinessScams is falsely charging for BBB complaint resolution services. The company charges consumers an upfront fee of $1500 to $2000 for assistance in collecting money owed from businesses only to forward consumers’ complaints to BBB. One consumer says after he paid fees he received an information packet that included an envelope addressed to the BBB. BBB services are FREE!

3. Beware of September 11th Scams on social networking sites as the 10-year anniversary approaches. Beware of videos that claim to have “exclusive” or “unseen” pictures. They could contain viruses.

4. September is National Preparedness Month. Is your family prepared in case disaster strikes? Be ready: Prepare a kit with enough emergency supplies for your family for three days (water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, prescriptions, a flashlight, a battery powered radio, and anything your pet might need). Designate two locations for your family to meet if there is a disaster. One near your home and one away from your home. More tips at www.ready.gov.

5. Email Hijackers take control of your email account, sending emails out to friends and family members in your address book, telling them you are in some kind of trouble and that you need money. The hijacker asks your friend/family member to wire the money. If you receive a “help letter,” call the person directly!

6. Gas Card Scam – Local consumers are receiving postcards in the mail offering $200 worth of free gasoline. The card asks you to call a number (1.866.556.9682) to claim your free prize. Of course they ask for your credit card number to pay $2.95 for shipping and handling. This is a scam!!!!

7. The Check is REAL! Consumers across the Country are receiving refund checks totaling $3.2 million. The checks are for people who were sold bogus "auto warranties" that turned out to be extended service contracts. The FTC charged that Transcontinental Warranty hired telemarketer Voice Touch, Inc., to hit people with robocalls claiming warranties were about to expire. The calls sounded like they were coming from consumers' car dealerships or manufacturers.

8. Auto Scam - Scam artists have successfully “sold” cars online for “too good to be true prices,” for years…claiming they have to sell the car because they are moving overseas or because of military deployment. Now they are also posing as sites like Ebay Motors, offering “buyer protection guarantees”, and using live chat to sell vehicles. Beware!

9. Consumers in various parts of the country are reporting to BBB that they are receiving Auto-Dial Telephone Calls on cell and land line telephones with messages telling them their debit cards have been frozen. They are told to press 1 to correct the problem. The consumer is then asked to enter their card number. Consumers are also receiving similar text messages. Do NOT reply to these! This is an attempt to steal your personal information!

10. Ever receive an email “Advocating your Candidacy for Who’s Who?” The email comes from CONTINENTAL BROADCASTING NETWORK, INC. of NY. The website states that the “offer” is really a sales pitch, and in order for you to receive any status with this organization, you need to pay a fee for an “award-winning” listing. BBB considers this type of organizational sign-up to be misleading.

BBB Introduces New iPhone App

8/29/2011

Posted on 8/29/2011 by

Consumers can now access Better Business Bureau reports on businesses and non-profit organizations through a new iPhone application. The new app is free and features the following:

· Search for local businesses by name, phone, URL, or category type.

· Search via your current location or specify a city, state or zip code.

· Display search results in list or map views.

· History menu provides convenient access to your previous searches.

· View the BBB Reliability Report for every business listing, complete with BBB Rating, contact info, BBB Accreditation status, consumer complaint history, and more!

· Save a listed company's info to your Favorites or your iPhone contacts.

· Share a company's BBB listing via Email, Twitter, or Facebook.

· Read the latest BBB Consumer News on your iPhone.

BBB is rolling out the new app across the country. It can be found in the iTunes App Store.

BBB Warning: Beware of Suspicious Emails

8/19/2011

Posted on 8/19/2011 by

BBB wants to warn consumers and business about two suspicious emails.

One is a scam involving the BBB name and the other is a questionable email that came to BBB’s attention from a BBB Accredited Business.

First, a local Accredited Business forwarded an email they received from MerchantBankingResources.com. BBB believes this message could be an attempt to steal your personal information! The subject line reads, “New message from your BBB Accredited Business website.” The message was sent by someone using the “Contact Us” button on the company’s BBB-provided website. The BBB had nothing to do with the message. We suspect this is a coincidence, and BBB Accredited Businesses are not the only ones being targeted, as messages could be sent to any small business with a website that includes a “Contact Us” button. A copy of the message is below:

From: DKramer@MerchantBankingResources.com

Subject: New message from your BBB Accredited Business website
To: xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Date: Thursday, August 18, 2011, 10:15 AM

Hello, My name is Dan Kramer and I am a Merchant Banker based out of Las Vegas. Currently, I am reaching out to small to medium sized businesses in your area offering a complimentary credit card analysis to show you where your business may be spending unnecessary money. All it takes is a copy of your merchant report and in 24 hours, I will have a report showing you the exact areas where Merchant Banking Resources can save you some serious money. To date, we have managed to save 1500 different businesses upwards of $600 a year per location. Some of our biggest clients include: Wal-Mart, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and Target. In addition to our credit card processing, we also offer a cash advance and commercial loan program to help take your business to the next level. Our company services businesses just like yours from coast to coast. With offices in New York and California, we are licensed in all 50 states as well as Canada. For more information, please visit our website at www.MerchantBankingResources.com! Call or e-mail now to schedule your complimentary credit card analysis with an experienced Merchant Banker! Thank You

After receiving the forwarded message, BBB found www.MerchantBankingResources.com is affiliated with a business named Merchant Banking Resources. While we cannot say for sure that this is a scam, the information gathered suggests it could be. Here is the information we gathered:

1. The website is relatively new, having been registered in March.

2. The name listed is “Mark McGuire” out of Pennsylvania (which could be a false name and location), supposedly with “Federated Payments Canada.” But “McGuire” lists a yahoo.com e-mail

address. In BBB’s experience, a legitimate business registering a website would not normally do so in the manner this site was registered.

3. The “name servers” listed with the website registrar suggests the URL is probably being forwarded to another website, which could be anywhere in the world.

4. The BBB system has no report on Merchant Banking Resources, which could either be because the business is new and we have not yet received inquiries or complaints about it, or it could be because this a scam operating outside the US.

BBB is encouraging any business that receives this email not to provide any information at this time.

The second suspicious email involves false emails requesting a BBB rating verification. BBB is cautioning businesses and consumers about this email that is purporting to come from BBB. The email appears to come from a fake BBB address (BBBupdate@post.com) in the Atlanta, Georgia metro area and falsely requests verification and validation of BBB Ratings.

The email message reads:

"Our data shows a pending rating or review about you or your business. Derogatory/Negative reviews or ratings can impact you business profile and become permanently visible to customers, clients, vendors, and agencies. CONTACT OUR NOTIFICATION DEPARTMENT IMMEDIATELY FOR VERIFICATION AND VALIDATION OF THIS ALERT."

BBB wishes to remind all businesses and consumers that we are not conducting a verification request nor are we issuing emails in response to a pending rating about you or your business. Should you receive such an email, please disregard its message, and report any information received to your local BBB. The Council of BBBs Legal Department is working to find out who is behind this and will take all appropriate action to protect its trademark.

For more information, contact the BBB at 1-800-388-2222 or go to www.bbb.org.

Better Business Bureau at the KY State Fair

8/18/2011

Posted on 8/18/2011 by

Stop by the Better Business Bureau booth at the 2011 KY State Fair! The BBB booth will be located in Main Street KY, in the South Wing of the KY Fair & Exposition Center. There, you can pick up the latest edition of the BBB Wise Buying Guide, hot off the press! You can also pick up information on the most common scams, scams against seniors, tips on credit, internet safety for you and your kids, and more.

As hundreds of thousands of people enjoy the fair over the next two weeks, the BBB wants to remind you to be cautious when dealing with some indoor exhibitors. New products on display meant to make life easier could be enticing to purchase, but you need to ask questions about the product, and the company selling it. BBB suggests asking the following questions:

· How long has the company been in business?

· Does the exhibitor have a telephone number and address where they can be reached should the product be defective?

· Is there a warranty or guarantee covering the product?

· How long is the product covered?

· If the product is defective, can the consumer get their money back or do they have to trade the damaged product for a new one?

· Can you get the refund or exchange policy in writing?

Guarantees may give consumers a false sense of security, as a guarantee is often only as good as the company that stands behind the guarantee.

Before consumers buy, they should check the product itself. Consumers need to make certain the materials and construction are up to the actual product's reputation. Also check the packaging. Does the item inside the packaging resemble what’s on the outside? The printing on the packaging or the actual construction for counterfeit products is often of poor quality and is a telltale sign the product contained is counterfeit. And remember, if the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Offers to win a free trip may also be on display at the fair, along with credit card companies trying to lure customers to sign up for free gifts and prizes. Ask how they are going to use your information/ While the prize may be free, by giving the promoter your name, phone number and address, consumers could receive unwanted credit cards in the mail as well as unwanted phone calls from telemarketers to their home. Consumers need to be aware when they sign up to win a prize, by giving the promoter a phone number and address, they’re establishing a business relationship with the company promoting the prize. The business may then contact you regardless of no call list registration due to that relationship.

BBB Tips: Back-to-School Basics

8/4/2011

Posted on 8/4/2011 by

Summer is winding down, and soon local students will be headed back to school! Chances are, you still have some major “back-to-school” shopping to get done. Whether your child is headed to grade school, high school or college, the Better Business Bureau has some Back-to-School basics.

When shopping for anything from new attire to electronic items, BBB has these tips to help you be a savvy back-to-school shopper:

1. Ask about returns and refunds. Shopping for new clothes, accessories and gadgets is one of the highlights of going back to school. When buying new gear, ask the store about their return policy and always keep the receipts. Stores are not legally required to exchange an item or give a refund.

2. Keep the item in its original box. Many retailers will not accept returns on opened video games, CDs, software or DVDs. And health regulations prohibit returns of hats and other intimate apparel.

3. Ask about restocking fees. Some merchants charge a restocking or "open box" fee — sometimes as high as 20 percent of the original cost — for returns of electronics products or large-ticket items. Ask if that is the policy so that you know before you buy.

4. Shop smart online. Find out the physical location and phone number of the merchant. Read the refund and return policy, have in writing any warranty or guaranty details, be familiar with delivery/shipping costs and time schedules, feel comfortable that the merchant is reliable and not the subject of consumer complaints, and be able to trust that any information you submit to complete the sale transaction (credit card number, etc.) will be treated with the proper care.

5. Carefully check out businesses and deals before signing anything, before paying any money up front, and before releasing any personal or financial information (this includes your Social Security number, mother’s maiden name, credit card, banking account number and other personal data).

If your child is in the market for a computer, BBB recommends doing your research:

· Decide what your child’s needs will be.

· What is the computer going to be used for? Word processing, graphic/web design, gaming?

· Determine what type of hardware and software that will be required;

· Find out what you have to do if the computer breaks down;

· Check out the warranty on the computer;

· Call your school or university and ask what other students in the class use;

· Compare prices, and check out the companies with the BBB at www.bbb.org;

If you are thinking about allowing your college-bound student to sign up for a credit card, do your homework.

· Shop around for the plan that best fits your student’s needs. There are often special offers for students;

· Compare terms and fees before you agree to open a credit card for your student.

· Find out the interest rate on the card, are they introductory rates, and if so, how long do they apply?

· Are there annual fees?

· Check into the transaction fees and any other charges that could be incurred.

For more consumer information, go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Hot Topics August 2011

8/1/2011

Posted on 8/1/2011 by

Check out the latest scams and bad business in BBB’s August 2011 Hot Topics!

1. Fake Sweepstakes – Local consumers have been receiving calls from legitimate-sounding sweepstakes companies that are actually scams. At times, the caller will use a real name and act as an “official” for Reader’s Digest or Publishers Clearing House. Some victims will receive a second call from someone acting as a U.S. Customs Official at an airport that has a letter regarding the sweepstakes win and will release it for a hefty fee.

2. Gold Rush Global International Lottery Company is claiming BBB affiliation in a Lottery Scam. Victims are told to get a pre-paid green dot card from Wal-Mart for $299. Once the scam artist receives the card, he promises the delivery of a “certified check,” which ends up fake. BBB does not accredit this type of company.

3. Local consumers are receiving Robocalls claiming to Lower Interest Rates on credit cards in the middle of the night. Claiming to help you get out of debt, often times, the businesses behind these calls do not operate legally. Some of the scam artists charge up to $1,600 in up-front fees, plus a slew of other charges. Before signing up, check out the company’s Business Review online at www.bbb.org.

4. Simply the Best Tax Service places ads in papers across the country offering thousands of dollars to unemployed parents. One local consumer gave the company her and her child’s social security numbers. The company has an “F” rating with BBB, and is not located where it claims to be. Even if a call sounds official, do not fall for it. Do your research on the company to make sure it is legitimate.

5. Facebook Tragedy Scams – Facebook is a haven for phishers and computer viruses. Lately, hackers have taken advantage of recent tragedies, including the death of singer Amy Winehouse and the Oslo, Norway massacre, to lure in unwitting users. If you see a post that says something like “[Video] OSLO Security Camera Captures Blast!,” or “SHOCKING - Amy Winehouse's Final Minutes,” do not click on it – this is a scam attempting to steal personal information and it may put dangerous malware on your computer.

6. Hold Mail Scams –Beware of third party companies that claim to hold your mail. www.hold-my-mail.com asks for credit card information and charges an up-front fee. USPS offers the same service for free online. Think before you click, and never give out credit card information to suspect companies. If you are victim of such a scam, contact your credit card company as soon as possible.

7. Beware of Online Rental Scams. Phony ads on Craigslist and other Internet services offer rental properties for cheap prices. The renter is asked to wire a deposit to the “landlord” in order to receive the keys to the rental home. When the renter asks to view the property prior to wiring money, the landlord claims to be out of the country. This is a scam!

8. Phony Used Car Dealers are using the Internet to advertise vehicles at deeply discounted prices. They often take detailed personal information and cash from potential customers, promising to deliver vehicles to customers' homes. The vehicles never arrive. If you are unfamiliar with the business, check its address to make sure it has offices where it says it does and check its Business Review at www.bbb.org.

9. Be on the lookout for Scams at the Ketucky State Fair. New products on display meant to make life easier could be enticing to purchase, but consumers need to ask questions about the product and the company selling it. Offers to win a free trip may also be on display at the fair, along with credit card companies trying to lure customers to sign up for free gifts and prizes. While the prize may be free, by giving the promoter your name, phone number and address, you could receive unwanted credit card offers in the mail as well as unwanted phone calls from telemarketers.

10. Nominate a business or non-profit organization you trust for the BBB Torch Awards! This award highlights ethical businesses and organizations throughout our community. Go to http://louisville.bbb.org/special-events/ to submit your nomination TODAY or call 502-588-0043. Nominations are due September 9, 2011.

BBB Warns: Don’t Fall for Scam Involving KFC’s Good Name

7/29/2011

Posted on 7/29/2011 by

BBB of Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western KY is warning consumers to not fall for a scam that involves Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC). BBB received a complaint from a consumer who stated she was contacted by the company with an e-mail stating that if she completed a survey she would get a $100 gift card from KFC. This e-mail DID NOT come from Louisville YUM! Brand’s KFC!

The consumer went on to state that she completed a lengthy survey on KFC related items, other companies, and even submitted her e-mail address, home address, and phone numbers. The KFC logo and copyright symbols were prominently displayed on the screen. The consumer states after she completed the survey, the next day four or five telemarketers started contacting her about the survey. Another consumer stated the survey e-mail came from

freechickensurvey@arlissnovemarticulate7372.info. This e-mail is NOT related to KFC or any of its vendors.

YUM! Brands (the parent company of KFC), is a BBB Accredited Business. The company states, “This is not a KFC sponsored survey or have we given them the rights to use our logos in the survey that was e-mailed out. We have received about 10 complaints that we have already responded to. Our legal team is aware of this. We’re in the process of an investigation into what and who is behind this since at best, it’s a scam.”

KFC will not be sending $100 gift cards to those who completed the survey, since this is a scam. If you receive an e-mail like this, file a report with the FBI at www.ic3.gov, rather than filing a complaint against YUM! or KFC.

July 2011 Hot Topics

7/1/2011

Posted on 7/1/2011 by

Check out the latest scams and bad business in BBB’s July 2011 Hot Topics!

1. Grandparents Scam – Local grandparents are getting calls from scammers who are pretending to be their grandchild, or an authority figure saying their grandchild is in trouble outside of the country. The scammer says the grandchild was in an accident or arrested and needs money wired for help. Grandparents are losing thousands of dollars from this scam.

2. “Relative” Phone Scams – Callers claiming to be police officers have been making calls, telling victims that their relatives have been arrested while on vacation and need money wired to them. In Bowling Green, KY one victim wired more than $6,000 to a phony police officer, and learned afterward that his relative was safe at work. Do not to give out any personal financial information on the phone and never wire money to someone you don’t know.

3. Grocery Savings Direct – Local consumers have been receiving calls from 1-866-318-5148, which is associated with “Grocery Savings Direct.” This is a scam. The company is trying to get your credit card information by offering you $1000 in groceries for only one small charge on your card. Consumers claim the company is harassing in nature when they are called. Beware of any phone or email scams offering too-good-to-be-true offers.

4. This summer, Door-to-Door Sales will be prevalent. Every year, BBBs across the country receive thousands of complaints on door-to-door magazine and alarm system sales. Anytime someone comes to your doorstep, be wary of his or her intentions and fully verify the individual and company. Be aware of high-pressure sales tactics, stand strong, and know your rights. Don’t be bullied into a quick decision.

5. Summer Jobs – When you are searching for a job this summer, make sure you don’t fall for a get-rich-quick scheme. Be wary of jobs posted on Craigslist and in classified sections before you get all of the details. These jobs include suspicious “babysitter,” “assistant,” and “driver” jobs. Never give your personal information to someone you don’t know and remember to check out a company’s Business Review with BBB.

6. Hotel Scam – Scam artists are taking advantage of hotel guests across the country. The scammer calls the hotel guest in the middle of the night, claiming to be a hotel employee, saying the hotel computer system crashed, and asks for a credit card number. The caller offers a discount for the inconvenience. If there is ever a problem with billing, hotel staff will handle it at the front desk and not over the phone.

7. MoneyPak Scams – BBBs are seeing a spike in scams that ask for people to use MoneyPak, a reloadable debit card. They are normally used to make same-day payments or add money to prepaid cards or PayPal accounts. Some Craigslist ads requiring payment by MoneyPak have been found. MoneyPak scams could be the new wire transfer scam. Remember that any website requesting payment only via MoneyPak is likely fraudulent.

8. Craigslist Scam - Users on Craigslist may receive a false email, purportedly from a staff member or Craigslist official, telling them that they won a contest for a free iPad, washer/dryer, or other valuable item. These false emails may try to collect users' personal information.

9. Gmail Scam – Be wary of emails claiming to be from Google Support. The email claims the recipient will lose his or her Gmail account if he or she does not reply with the account's username and password and other personal information within seven days of receiving the message. The message is not from Google. It is a phishing scam designed to steal the recipient's Gmail login details. If a recipient replies with the requested information, Internet scammers can then hijack his or her Gmail account and use it for further criminal activities.

10. Social Security Card Scam – Websites claiming to offer replacement Social Security cards are phony. These websites request payment upfront and then refer consumers to a nearby Social Security office where they can pick up their new card. Victims that fell for the ploy, and went to the Social Security office, were told the website was not legitimate and they do not require payment for replacement Social Security cards. Consumers are advised that it's important to be careful when doing Internet searches to find government agencies. There are many fake websites, which look official, designed solely to defraud consumers.

BBB Names New Board for 2011-2012

6/24/2011

Posted on 6/24/2011 by

BBB Names New Board for 2011-2012

The Better Business Bureau serving Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western Kentucky is pleased to announce Powell Starks, Member, Frost Brown Todd LLC, is the new chairman of the Better Business Bureau Board of Directors. Starks succeeds Darryl Metzger, Senior Vice President & Director of Branch Administration, J.J.B. Hilliard, W.L. Lyons, LLC, and was installed as Chairman during the Better Business Bureau’s Annual Meeting/Luncheon today, June 23, 2011.

“In the five years that he has served on the BBB Board of Directors, Powell Starks has shown an understanding of and commitment to the BBB’s work to promote an ethical marketplace,” according to BBB president Charlie Mattingly. “Powell also has the ability of a fine lawyer to cut to the heart of any issue facing the BBB.”

In addition to electing Powell Starks as Board Chairman, the following officers were elected:

Chair-Elect: Gary Haupt, President, Tri-County Ford-Mercury, Inc.

Vice Chairman/Business & Consumer Affairs: Patrick Sterling, Director of Risk and Administration, Texas Roadhouse

Vice Chairman/Membership & Marketing: Steve Ramser, President, Highland Roofing Company

Vice-Chairman/Budget, Finance, Audit & Personnel/Treasurer:

Mike Anderson, VP of Corporate Finance/Treasurer, Churchill Downs, Inc.

Chairman/Bowling Green Area Business Advisory Committee:

Thomas Smith, President & CEO, American Bank & Trust Company, Inc.

Chairman/Elizabethtown & Lincoln Trail Area Business Advisory Committee: Keith Johnson, President, First Federal Savings Bank Corporate Secretary: Jeff Lilly, VP/Finance & Operations, Kosair Children's Hospital

President/CEO: Charles B. Mattingly, Better Business Bureau

Immediate Past Chair: Darryl Metzger, Senior VP & Director of Branch

Administration, J.J.B. Hilliard, W.L. Lyons, LLC

The following new members were elected to the board:

Laverne Heck, President, Laverne Heck Realtor; Sharon Kerrick, PhD, Assistant Professor/Associate Director Forcht Entrepreneurship

Center, U of L College of Business; Pam Gibson Longwell, President & CEO, Feeders Supply Company, Inc.; Barry Marek, VP/Director of On-Premise National Accounts, Brown-Forman; Linda Owen, Officer & Owner, Highlands Family-Owned Funeral Home, Inc.

Returning board members include:

William Burns, Jr., President, Aristocrat Realty, LLC and Aristocrat Builders, Inc.; Randy Coe, President, Kosair Charities; Ken Cusick, Advertising Manager, Mid-South Division, Kroger Company; Nick Dorsey, President, Champion Window Company of Louisville, LLC; Vern Eswine, President, The Marketing Company; Greg C. Heitzman, President & CEO, Louisville Water Company; William Holden Vice President/Controller, Unified Food Service Purchasing Co-op; Jeff Lilly, Vice President/Finance & Operations, Kosair Children's Hospital; Michael McClain, Owner/Partner, Ballinger McClain PLLC; Carlton (Scooter) McCray, Manager & Co-Owner, La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries; Rick Miller, President, Miller’s Fancy Bath & Kitchen; David Nash, Chairman, Dup licator Sales and Service, Inc.; Maria Smith, CEO, Harbor House of Louisville; Patrick Sterling, Director of Risk & Administration, Texas Roadhouse

BBB Tips on Storm Damage Repair

6/23/2011

Posted on 6/23/2011 by

If you are on the hunt for a reputable contractor after severe weather rolled through the area last night, be aware of those who may try to take advantage of your situation: The home repair rip-off artist who may overcharge, perform shoddy work, or skip town without finishing your job.

· Contact your insurance company immediately.

· Deal only with licensed and insured contractors. Verify the track record of any roofer, builder or contractor you're thinking of hiring. Ask for a list of recent customers and call them.

· Get 2 or 3 estimates before you decide who to hire for the job.

· Be skeptical of contractors who encourage you to spend a lot of money on temporary repairs. Make sure there's enough money for permanent repairs.

Before you hire, check out the company’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Tips: Door-to-Door Sales

6/22/2011

Posted on 6/22/2011 by

Better Business Bureau has learned that Sylvan Learning Center of Elizabethtown, Ky. has received reports of two men selling “Sylvan” books door-to-door in Hardin County. The men are wearing name tags to look like official representatives of the organization, and one even told a consumer he was “an exchange student from Florida,” trying to legitimize sales.

The books are being sold for $130 with the promise of being hand-delivered in August. Sylvan is in no way affiliated with these men, and doesn’t sell books door-to-door at any time.

Salespeople are also targeting Hardin County, by going door-to-door in the Upton area, posing as representatives of the Hardin County School District. While it is unknown if these salespeople are linked to those selling “Sylvan” materials, they are selling phony book sets for $500. The salespeople claim that students will need the books for the next school year.

Diane Jacobi, executive assistant to the Superintendent, said these salespeople pop up almost every summer, and that this summer they have become craftier.

“At times, the salesmen actually know the names of the teachers that the students will have,” Jacobi said. “They personalize it.”

The salespeople have specifically targeted residents on Lucas Grove Road in Upton, which is located on the fringe of the county.

Hardin County residents should remember that the school district will never solicit sales door-to-door for a fundraiser. If ever, residents would receive only one phone call from the school district.

Similar reports of door-to-door salespeople have also come out of the Grayson County School District.

This summer, BBB recommends the following on how to handle door-to-door salespeople:

Listen carefully and be aware of high pressure sales tactics. Some unscrupulous door-to-door sellers will put pressure on you to close the deal at that moment, and even make special offers to entice you. Listen

to their tone. Are they increasing in volume as they speak to you? Are they ignoring you despite saying you are not interested? Find a way to end the conversation quickly to avoid long, drawn-out pressure sales pitches.

Stand strong. Do not invite unsolicited salespeople into your home. If you do allow a salesperson inside and decide during the presentation that you are not interested in making a purchase, simply ask him or her to leave. If the salesperson refuses to leave, threaten to call the police, and follow through if they don’t leave immediately.

Verify the individual and the company. 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 it out and get back to him or her. Ask for a business card and contact information. Look the company up yourself and check to verify this person is an employee. Also, take the time to check out the company’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org.

Know your rights. The Federal Trade Commission’s Three-Day Cooling-Off Rule gives the customer three days to cancel purchases over $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, salespeople should also include a completed cancellation form that customers can send to the company to cancel the agreement. By law, the company must give customers a refund within 10 days of receiving the cancellation notice.

Victims of fraudulent door-to-door sales can file a complaint with their Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org or 1-800-388-2222, local law enforcement, and your state Attorney General’s office.

BBB Tips on Summer Scams

6/21/2011

Posted on 6/21/2011 by

The dog days of summer are fun for kids, full of good memories for adults, and bursting with opportunities for scammers. Here are some summertime reminders from the BBB to keep you scam-sharp.

· Beware the vacation/timeshare scam. Prevalent all over the United States, scammers will ply unsuspecting consumers with beautiful pictures of resorts and sunsets, but don’t be fooled. Do all the adequate research before putting any money down on your new timeshare or summer vacation spot. For more information about summer rental/timeshare scams, refer to the BBB Blog.

· ‘Gone phishin’ for the summer. Though less common in the United States, for those planning to travel abroad: Listen up! With your smart phones out of commission in another country, many of us will search out internet cafés to send emails to family, pay bills & check out Facebook. Do you best to pay all bills before leaving home, and make sure to log off the browser and shut down the computer once you have finished. As added security, consider employing an identity protection service while out of town. They will proactively monitor accounts and send alerts if anything strange occurs.

· They’ve got mail. Your mail, to be exact. A common way for a con-artist to capture your personal information is to wait for you to go out of town, and then steal your bills and statements from your mailbox. Luckily there are a few easy fixes if you want to ward off the bad guys, either ask a friend to come by and pick up your mail while you’re away, put a temporary stop on your mail while you’re out of town or invest in a mailbox that you can lock.

· Be wary of Door-to-Door salesmen. They pop up in your neighborhood as soon as the temperatures rise. Whether they are peddling magazines, cheap home repairs or landscaping, BBB advises consumer to be cautious in hiring door-to-door salesmen who use high-pressure tactics and cannot prove they are licensed with the state. For more information about how to identify a trustworthy contractor, visit the BBB Blog.

Now that you’ve got the details on the summer’s most popular scams, you can do a cannonball right into summer. For more information about scams and BBB Accredited Businesses, visit BBB.org or call 800-388-2222.

BBB Now Accepting Nominations for the BBB Torch Awards

6/15/2011

Posted on 6/15/2011 by

The Better Business Bureau serving Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western Kentucky is now accepting nominations for the BBB Torch Awards for Marketplace Ethics.

BBB hosts its annual Torch Awards event to recognize and honor those companies and non-profit organizations whose business practices and related activities in the community exemplify the BBB’s mission of advancing marketplace trust. The program awards businesses and non-profit organizations that maintain a solid commitment to conducting their business practices in an ethical fashion. No award could mean more to a business or organization's reputation than a BBB Torch Award!

Categories businesses are awarded in are:

· Very Small Business (1-9 employees)

· Small Business (10-99 employees)

· Mid-Size Business (100-499 employees)

· Large Business (500+ employees)

Categories non-profit organizations are awarded in are:

· Revenue under $1 million

· Revenue over $1 million

Nominations for the 2011 BBB Torch Awards are open until September 9, 2011. Nominees who meet entry criteria will be invited to complete a formal application and entry process, which is due by October 14, 2011. The winners will be honored at the Torch Awards luncheon on November 18, 2011 at The Olmsted in Louisville. Tori Murden McClure, the first woman to row a boat alone and without assistance across the Atlantic Ocean will be the Keynote Speaker for the event.

For more information on the Torch Awards, or to nominate a business, visit http://louisville.bbb.org/special-events or contact Reanna Smith-Hamblin, VP/Communications for the BBB at (502) 588-0043 or rsmith-hamblin@louisville.bbb.org.

BBB Offers Tips for Elders and Those who Care for Them on Elder Abuse Awareness Day

6/15/2011

Posted on 6/15/2011 by

June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. BBB is marking the occasion by calling attention to the many ways the elderly are victimized. BBB receives hundreds of phone calls each year from senior citizens who have been targeted or victimized by scammers. Some are scammed with fake lottery checks, bogus travel deals, and financial fraud. Others are bullied by door-to-door sales people.

Seniors are targeted often, because they are trusting and are afraid or embarrassed to report fraud when it occurs. The top scams against seniors include:

· Identity theft. Identity theft is a serious crime that occurs when your personal information is stolen and used without your knowledge to commit fraud or other crimes. It can cost you time, money and can destroy your credit.

· Telemarketing scams. Telemarketing scams often involve offers of prizes, low-cost vitamins and healthcare products, and travel offers.

· Sweepstakes scams. Be careful responding to sweepstakes via mail and email. Many of them are scams.

· Work-at-home scams. The ad says you can make a lot of money working from home, but if this were true, wouldn’t we all be working from home?

· Internet fraud. Internet fraud includes non-delivery of items ordered over the Internet and credit and debit card fraud.

· Grandparent scams. Scam artists are tricking grandparents into sending money when their “grandchild” is in trouble.

· Home repair. A nice man appears at the door and offers to do repair work for a low cost. He may say he has materials left over from a job down the street. These are “fly-by-night” scam artists.

· Reverse mortgages. Reverse mortgage scams steal the equity from the property of unsuspecting seniors aged 62 or older.

· Charity fraud. You want to help people in need, but you also want to be sure that your donation isn’t going to a crook.

· Investment schemes. Senior citizens, as they plan for retirement, may fall victim to investment scams. These may include Nigerian letter schemes or advance fee schemes.

· Funeral fraud. Funeral fraud frequently occurs to uninformed customers. Pushy vendors often pressure seniors into making purchases, signing contracts, or committing funds.

· Medicare scams. Medicare fraud is purposely billing Medicare for services that were never provided or received.

· Anti-aging scams. Watch out for “secret formulas” or medical “breakthroughs.”

Also, all-too-frequent is financial elder abuse. Financial elder abuse occurs when seniors’ banking or credit accounts are exploited by scammers who take advantage of the vulnerabilities sometimes associated with age.

What makes the crime particularly frightening is in most cases the abuse is carried out by someone the senior knows, such as a family member, caregiver, or friend.

Unfortunately, financial elder abuse can be difficult to identify. It often takes a caring family member, friend, or caregiver to recognize that fraud has occurred. These are some signs to look for:

· Belongings or property is missing.

· Unusual bank account activity.

· Complaints from seniors that they can suddenly not afford normal purchases.

· Suspicious stories about people that normally wouldn’t be involved in personal affairs now being involved.

· Unnecessary purchases (often big-ticket items).

· Sudden changes to Power of Attorney or will.

· Sudden interest in an investment or business opportunity.

· Claims they have won a prize, lottery or vacation.

· Numerous unpaid bills or bounced checks.

If you or someone you know might be a victim of elder abuse contact your local law enforcement agency or the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services at 1-800-752-6200.

Remember to call BBB at 1-800-388-2222 to report the company that committed the fraud.

For more information on scams against seniors, go to www.bbb.org.

BBB June 2011 Hot Topics

6/2/2011

Posted on 6/2/2011 by

Here is a look at the latest scams and bad businesses in BBB’s June 2011 Hot Topics:

1. Disaster Donations – Those wanting to help tornado victims, beware of fake charities. BBB advises; don’t fall for urgent door-to-door pleas. Check out the charity first at bbb.org/charity. Also, be cautious when giving online, and don’t reply to email messages asking for money. These could be attempts to steal your identity. Contributors should also be cautious of claims that 100 percent of donations will assist relief victims –charities have fundraising and administrative costs.

2. Beware of Flood-Damaged Vehicles that could start appearing at auto auctions, used car dealerships, and in classified ads. Unsuspecting consumers, particularly those living in regions of the country unaffected by hurricanes or flooding, are led astray by fresh upholstery, new carpeting and bargain prices. To determine if a used car is flood-damaged, the BBB advises auto shoppers to thoroughly inspect the condition of the vehicle and check for discrepancies in the title. Those in the market for a used car can always check out the reliability of a dealer by visiting bbb.org.

3. They are sold to help consumers “save money on auto repairs.” But, consumers complain Vehicle Service Contracts/Extended Warranties are often a waste of money. Certain repairs are often excluded. BBB advises that consumers always read the contract carefully before agreeing to buy it by taking a close look at what is covered, what isn’t covered, what conditions apply, the overall cost and the names and locations of providers. If the seller won’t provide a contract, don’t buy it.

4. iPhone 5 Scams - Scams are popping up on social networking sites, claiming to expose the iPhone 5 for the first time. Apple is keeping details about the device secret. On Facebook, once an unknowing viewer clicks on the link and fills out a form, the website posts the same link on his or her wall for all of their followers to see. If a Facebook post seems fishy, don’t click on it. While many spam posts like this only link to a survey, there’s the possibility that they may be linked to malware-infested websites.

5. Veterans Scam – Lyon Research has an “F” Rating with the BBB. The company charges veterans for military records they could get for free from local Veterans Administration offices. Veterans say, when they visit the company’s website, it asks for credit card information and promises the requested information within seven days. Instead, a substantial charge is administered to the veteran’s credit card and no paperwork is sent. Always check out a company or offer at bbb.org before responding.

6. Beware of Alarm System Door-to-Door Sales. Some businesses can be pushy. Before you make a major purchase, check out the company first at bbb.org. Also, find out if the company is properly licensed in your state and if they screen employees before hiring. Get bids from at least three companies before selecting an installer. Be sure you compare similar systems on price.

7. Energy Scams are a great way for scam artists to cash in. Beware of door-to-door salespeople, unsolicited letters, or phone calls that promise to save energy and money on bills. Signing up for such offers can cause a monthly bill to skyrocket. Hidden charges could apply, due to switching service or cancellation fees.

8. Every year, consumers are victimized by Dishonest and Unlicensed Moving Companies. In 2010, BBB received more than 8,900 complaints against movers. Complaints primarily concerned damaged or lost goods and final prices in excess of original estimates. In some cases, the moving company holds the customer's belongings “hostage” and requires thousands of dollars to unload the van. BBB Tips: Get at least three written in-home estimates, be sure the company is licensed and insured, and check out the company first at bbb.org.

9. Beware of Door-to Door Magazine Sales. These conmen use high-pressure tactics on their victims. This year, BBB has received 662 complaints involving these scams. This summer, BBB recommends the following on how to handle magazine salesmen: listen carefully, be aware of high pressure sales tactics, stand strong, verify the individual and the company, and know your rights.

10. Be wary of “News” Announcements that seem legitimate, offering free trials for online diet pills, like acai berry. Consumers are being lured to websites that imitate reputable news organizations, such as CNN, NBC, or FOX News. The “reporters” claim acai berry weight loss supplements have caused major weight loss in a short period of time without diet or exercise. The websites are merely deceptive advertisements placed by third-party marketers, enticing consumers to buy the featured products. Before signing up for any free trial offer, consumers are warned to read the fine print carefully and always check the company out with BBB.

BBB Tips on Giving after Disaster Strikes

5/26/2011

Posted on 5/26/2011 by

Tornadoes have wreaked havoc across the country. Thousands have lost their homes and all of their belongings. Others have lost their loved ones.

“When disaster strikes, scam artists come out of the woodwork,” says Reanna Smith-Hamblin, VP/Communications for the BBB serving Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western Kentucky. “Scam artists show up and pose as charities, seeking donations from people who are anxious to help.”

To make sure that your donation helps tornado victims as intended, follow these tips from BBB:

· Before donating, visit www.bbb.org/charity to research organizations you’re considering supporting.

· Beware of fake charities that imitate the name and style of well-known organizations in an attempt to confuse donors.

· Be wary of “charities” that come knocking on your door who are reluctant to answer reasonable questions about their operations, finances, and programs.

· Don’t give in to excessive pressure for on-the-spot donations. Be wary of any request to send a “runner” to pick up your contribution.

· Don’t give cash. Checks or money orders should be made payable to the name of the organization, not the individual collecting the donation.

· Don’t give your credit card number or other personal information to a telephone solicitor.

· Be cautious when giving online. At times like this, scam artists don’t think twice about tricking you into giving to phony charities. If you want to give to a charity involved in relief efforts, go directly to the charity’s website.

· Don’t click on any links in email solicitations for money for victims.

· 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 bring in new aid workers to provide assistance quickly.

· Find out if the charity is providing direct aid or is raising money for other relief groups. Some charities raise money to pass along to relief organizations. If so, consider avoiding the middleman and give directly to organizations actually helping in the area.

· Be wary of claims that 100 percent of donations will assist relief victims. Charitable organizations have expenses they must cover, including those for fund raising and administrative costs.

For more tips on giving, go to www.bbb.org/charity or call 1-800-388-2222.

Better Business Bureau Exposes New Advance Fee Loan Scam

5/12/2011

Posted on 5/12/2011 by

Scammers Hijack Louisville P.O. Box Belonging to U. S. Department of Education

The Better Business Bureau serving Louisville, Southern Indiana and Western Kentucky announced today that a website falsely claiming a Louisville, Kentucky address is an advance fee loan scam.

The website, www.creative-financial.net, claims to be operated by "Creative Financial Solutions" and offers "loans for people with bad credit!" The website lists the business address "Loan Consolidation Center, P. O. Box 242800, Louisville, KY 40224-2800."

The BBB has determined that this P.O. address is used by the U. S. Department of Education for processing payments of direct student loans. The scammers have "hijacked" the address in an effort to lend legitimacy to their website, but will never have payments sent to this address.

Two URLs linked to this scam, www.creative-financial.net and www.suncorlending.com, were newly registered on April 20, 2011. Both websites claim to have been established by individuals who list addresses in Ontario, Canada. Base on BBB experience, it is likely that the names or addresses listed for these individuals are fictional.

The BBB located a recent online ad on "Kentucky Gazetteer" promoting www.creative-financial.net. The ad stated:

The BBB's experience is that these bogus loan operations typically establish a website using a false address. The website is promoted through classified ads or online ads such as the one above and provides an online application form. Soon after an application is submitted, scammers call the applicant to tell them the loan is approved, but that a payment is needed to cover the processing fees or the first month's payment. The scammers always want this payment wired to them, to "expedite processing the loan." Of course, once money is wired, it is gone and no loan is made.

BBB Warns: Beware of Osama Bin Laden Scams

5/5/2011

Posted on 5/5/2011 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 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Hot Topics - May 2011

5/3/2011

Posted on 5/3/2011 by

BBB Hot Topics

May 2011

1. Check out companies before you hire them to do flood or storm repairs. A rip-off artist may overcharge, perform shoddy work, or skip town with your money – without finishing the job. When hiring, ask for a local address and phone, deal with licensed and insured contractors, take your time signing a contract, and resist hiring a contractor who asks you to pay for the entire job up front. Also, check with BBB to see if complaints have been filed against the contractor.

2. Scammers are using Osama Bin Laden’s death to spread Malware on Facebook and Google. One site shows a “purported photo of a murdered Osama bin Laden” with a call to download a video player to view video of his death. The download is actually malware, software that is intended to damage or disable computers. On Facebook, pages offering “FREE Subway” and “2 Southwest Plane Tickets” to celebrate Osama’s death are spreading malicious links. Be sure your security software is up to date!

3. When shopping for Mother’s Day flowers, deal with a local company. Some telemarketers place bogus listings in local phone directories. When you call the local number you are actually forwarded to an out-of-town firm that takes your order and credit card information, then forwards the order to an area florist. The telemarketer pockets a processing fee, and sometimes you are charged more than you planned, the flowers are not delivered as ordered, or worse – not delivered at all!

4. Sony PlayStation Security Breach - Personal information, including names, addresses, birth dates, email addresses, and PlayStation logins and passwords were compromised after a major security breach. Credit card information MAY have been compromised as well. Sony reports it can’t be ruled out. Check your accounts and credit report information regularly to be sure your personal information was not compromised

5. Jury Duty Scam - A jury duty “coordinator contacts you. You protest that you never received a summons for jury duty. The scammer intimidates you, then asks for your Social Security number and date of birth so he/she can verify the information and cancel the arrest warrant. This is an attempt to steal your identity. NEVER give personal information out over the phone to someone you don’t know!

6. Mortgage Scam - Struggling homeowners across the Country are receiving notices in the mail that read, “your loan may be eligible for a national litigation settlement aimed at fraudulent lender actions.” The out-of-state law firm asks you to pay an upfront fee to join the lawsuit to force your mortgage lender to reduce your monthly payments. Don’t fall for this scam! Contact your mortgage company if you cannot pay!

7. The 809, 284, 649, or 876 area codes have been used in scams before but now they are gaining popularity targeting cell phones. The goal is to make you return the call to the area code which appears to be a domestic number. The number is connected to a phone number out of the US - often Canada or the Caribbean, and charged expensive international rates. They may say to call to collect a prize, get some information, or find out about a sick relative.

8. Daily Deal Sites aren’t always a great deal. Before you sign up, check the voucher restrictions for excluded dates and any extra charges the voucher doesn’t cover. Also, check the expiration date. Some companies may oversell a deal, making it difficult to get an appointment, so check the refund policy as well.

9. Bed Bugs are a pest! Prevent bed bugs by inspecting furniture; enclose mattresses and box springs in covers labeled “allergen rated, for dust mites, or for bed bugs.” Check for rips or openings and patch them securely. Traveling? Use luggage racks to hold suitcases, and when staying in a hotel check the mattress and headboard before getting into bed. When you get home, unpack directly into a washing machine. For more tips, go to www.bbb.org.

10. Summer Camp - BBB recommends parents do their homework on summer camps for their kids before they submit applications. Be sure to visit the site, ask about the staff’s training and experience, and find out how the camp will handle medical emergencies. Parents should also find out the total fees and payment deadlines, and ask for references.

BBB Tips: Clean-up after the Flood

5/2/2011

Posted on 5/2/2011 by

When a flood is over, victims must start the task of cleaning up their homes. First and foremost, consumers should check with their insurance company about policy coverage and specific filing requirements if anything gets damaged. If damages do occur, shop around before hiring a contractor and take your time. Be sure to inspect all appliances for damages and check your warranties. Also be aware of pests and termites that may appear from the water and mildew. Take your time in assessing your situation as damages may not appear for days. Check with the BBB for a free Business Review on any company by visiting www.bbb.org.

Clean-Up

If a consumer chooses to hire a cleaning and restoration company to assist in clean-up efforts, the BBB urges consumers to keep the following in mind:

· The restoration contract should include a description of all the work to be performed, including the quality of materials to be used.

· Flood victims should not make decisions they are uncomfortable with or be pushed into making a decision.

· Victims should save all receipts, including those for food and temporary lodging that are covered under their insurance policy.

· Contracts should include a price break-down for both labor and materials.

· Any promises made orally should be written into the contract, including any warranties on materials or labor.

· References at least a year old should be requested. It may seem impossible to travel to an unaffected area to inspect references after a disaster, but remember the time spent will be minor in comparison to the possibility of living with inferior repair work for years.

· Review all documentation before any payments are made and before signing on the dotted line.

Home Repairs

Before homeowners make any repairs they should determine how much aid is available. The amount of aid may determine the extent of repairs. The three basic funding sources for repairs are insurance proceeds, government assistance, and private funds. If a homeowner makes emergency repairs, they should be sure to document all expenditures including temporary lodging and meals. Documentation may be necessary for reimbursement.

Although the victims may be most concerned with getting things back to normal, additional heartache and money will be saved by proceeding with caution. The BBB suggests you watch out for these red flags:

· Homeowners should be suspicious of door-to-door workers who, in order to get the job, may use scare tactics such as allegedly unsafe structural conditions.

· Contractors that use high-pressure sales tactics or “price is good for today only.”

· Companies who are vague about their location. Homeowners should check to see if the company’s name is on the worker’s vehicle, if the company is listed in the telephone directory, and if a street address is provided.

The BBB offers these tips on hiring a contractor:

· Unless you know a contractor you can trust, homeowners should request two or three estimates for the the cost of repairs. The homeowner should also be certain that the contractors are bidding the same package including materials to be used, when work is to begin and end, and when payments are to be made. If financing, the contract should include a breakdown of these costs as well.

Prepare a written contract agreement with anyone you hire. Make sure oral promises are included in the written contracts, including warranties on materials or labor.
Make sure the written contract includes the contractor’s full name, telephone number, address, and license number.
Make sure the contractor will apply for any building permits in his or her name, so you are not financially responsible.

· Be sure the contractor is registered with the Attorney General’s Office.Never pay for all repairs in advance. The time when work is to begin is particularly important as many contractors may have a backlog of work due to the flood. Homeowners should not sign a completion form until they are totally satisfied. It is wise for homeowners to ask for a lien waver to protect them in the event the contractor fails to pay their suppliers.

For more tips go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Reminds Storm Victims to Check Out Unknown Repair Crews

4/27/2011

Posted on 4/27/2011 by

Due to strong storms throughout the area last night, and the chance of severe weather today, BBB is warning, AGAIN, for storm victims to beware of unknown repair crews. Weather damage usually results in traveling repair crews descending on residents offering emergency repair services to homeowners and businesses.

If you are one of the many homeowners or businesses affected, you may need major home repairs as well as clean up jobs from falling tree limbs or other damage as a result of the recent storms. You should be on the watch for traveling, fly-by-night repair crews. These repair crews know demand for service will be high and that local, well-established home repair and roofing companies will be working their crews around the clock. Many homeowners don’t want to wait for estimates on repairs…so when there is a knock on the door from a home repair crew, good consumer business practices are all but forgotten.

Checking with the Better Business Bureau on the reliability of any company can provide valuable information on its marketplace reliability including whether the company is a BBB Accredited Business, a listing of its principal officers, business start date, number of complaints, and what to do if you experience a problem. Go to www.bbb.org for a Business Review. BBB offers the following advice on how to avoid being the victim of a fly-by-night repair crew:

· Don’t do business with a crew that knocks on your door, unless you can absolutely verify they are a legitimate company, with a good reputation.

· Don’t pay in advance.

· Don’t be rushed in making a decision to hire a contractor. Take time to ensure the business is local and has a track record of reliable workmanship.

· Don’t just ask for references, call them! Ask if the job was performed as agreed upon and if they were satisfied with results.

· Check to see if the contractor has all required licenses and insurance.

· Ask for a written contract and read it to ensure everything that was discussed is included. Make sure it includes all details of the job.

· Get at least 3 estimates.

You can also Request-A-Quote from a BBB Accredited Business. For more information, go to bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Hot Topics - April 2011

4/14/2011

Posted on 4/14/2011 by

BBB Hot Topics
April 2011

Beware of phishing scams related to the Epsilon Breach. Phishing involves unsolicited emails, pop-up messages, text messages, or phone calls that appear to come from reputable companies to fraudulently obtain personal information. BBB recommends: Never reply to unsolicited emails and do not give personal or financial information to anyone you do not know who contacts you via email or phone.
Russell Research is contacting businesses for the IRS. The company is asking businesses what they think about risks associated with electronic tax preparation and transmission. The survey focuses on providers of return preparation and e-filing technologies. Go to www.irs.gov for more information.
BBB wants to remind consumers to Check Bank and Credit Card Statements regularly! This, after a woman’s card number was stolen at a local restaurant. Charges of $500 appeared on her card after she bought chicken for lunch at the restaurant!
Beware of contractors who knock on your door offering a “great deal.” These contractors, often called “Irish Travelers,” come out of the woodwork after spring and summer storms. They often say they have materials left over from a job down the street. If these contractors do shoddy work, you may never be able to find them again. Also, don’t pay anything up-front - they may take your money and run!
Consumers aren’t smiling over Ivory White. The teeth whitening company, which offers free trial offers via the internet, has an “F” rating with BBB due to complaints regarding advertising, billing, and product issues. One local consumer complains she signed up for a free trial offer, she had to pay $1.00 shipping, then her bank account was charged several times. The company does a majority of its advertising through pop-ups on third-party Web sites, including social media networks.
Direct E-cig has an “F” rating with BBB. Local and national consumers complain they ordered what they thought was a free starter kit, then the company billed their credit cards for $100, $200, or more. Consumers also complain about additional deliveries of the products. The business’s website states additional monthly deliveries will be made unless the consumer opts out. However, consumers complain they are not able to contact the business by phone to opt out. Beware of any “Free Trial Offer.” Read the fine print.
Free Movies - Users of movie sites like letmewatchthis.com, letbobwatchthis.com, and movie-source.org should beware of copyright infringement traps. Sites like these house hundreds of pirated movies. By downloading one, movie lovers are committing copyright infringement, which could cost thousands of dollars in fines and possible time in prison. BBB suggests: look for statements that say the website has obtained copyright permission. Also, seek legal alternatives instead, like iTunes and You Tube.
Twilight FB Scam - Posts are circulating that promote a Facebook game surrounding Twilight: Breaking Dawn. Clicking the link offered on the post will force you to “Like” the post, thus spreading it. The app is a survey asking for personal information. Always avoid suspicious-looking links on Facebook
Getting “unwanted texts?” Cell phone users are receiving spam text messages that offer free laptops, information about mortgage assistance, loan offers, and more. Some of these texts are trying to get you to divulge personal information in an attempt to steal your identity - a practice known as Smishing. Don’t reply to these messages - delete them! You can also have the numbers blocked by your cell phone provider - if you don’t have free texting, it could cost you!
Planning for a perfect wedding? Avoid disappointment by reading contracts carefully and checking vendors out with BBB. Beware of one-day specials, discounts for advance payment, and hidden costs as you meet potential vendors. Be weary of vendors that ask you to pay fees in advance. Also, be sure to ask about refund policies on deposits or prepayments.

BBB Warns: Beware of Phishing Scams after Epsilon Breach

4/13/2011

Posted on 4/13/2011 by

BBB is warning consumers to watch out for phishing scams related to the recent Epsilon data breach. Phishing involves unsolicited emails, pop-up messages, text messages or phone calls that appear to come from reputable to fraudulently obtain personal information such as logins, passwords, a Social Security number, and bank or credit card numbers.

Epsilon handled email marketing programs for hundreds of corporate brands, including Best Buy, Capital One, Chase, Kroger, Marriott, New York & Co. and Walgreens. It announced on April 1 that “unauthorized entry” into its system exposed the names and email addresses of its clients’ customers. Some consumers have since received emails or other correspondence from those companies, letting them know of the breach. It would be easy for scam artists to take advantage of those who were affected. The following tips can help consumers confronted with phishing scams.

Never reply to unsolicited emails. If the message includes a link within it, never click it. Many schemers use this as way to spread a viral attack on your computer.
Do not give personal or financial information to anyone who contacts you via email. Your bank, the IRS or a law enforcement agency will not contact you by email. They will send you a letter.

· Even if the request sounds authentic, check out the inquiry before you respond. Visit the website of the legitimate company you know and trust, or call the number on the back of your credit card, recent statement or receipt to confirm that representatives have been authorized to solicit customer information.

Transmitted information should be encrypted. When sending personal information like addresses, credit card numbers and Social Security numbers over the Internet, make sure the website is fully encrypted and the network is secure. Look for https (the “s” stands for secure) at the beginning of the URL address.
Know the red flags. Poor grammar or misspelled words are red flags that the email is probably a scam. Most importantly, never wire money based on instructions in one of these suspicious emails. Scammers prey on those who think they need to wire money to have a situation resolved.
Protect your computer. Keep your antivirus software up to date and run it regularly.
If people who say they represent your credit card company or bank call you to discuss suspicious activity in your account, they should ask only about the transactions in question. Do not provide your account number, expiration date or other data, because the legitimate company or bank would have that information on file.
Spread the word. Discuss phishing scams with all family members who have email addresses. Young people may be computer savvy, but not scam savvy. Older adults often are targeted by scammers, too.

For more tips on protecting yourself from fraud, go to www.bbb.org or call 800-388-2222.

Massive Data Breach May Result in Fraudulent Emails

4/4/2011

Posted on 4/4/2011 by

Louisville, KY – April 4, 2011 – In what appears to be a major data breach, customers of numerous banks and other major businesses are learning that their names and email addresses have been obtained by a hacker who infiltrated online marketer, Epsilon International.

News reports indicate that many companies do business with Epsilon International and have had their customers' data affected by this data breach. Businesses affected include Best Buy, Kroger, Capital One, JP Morgan Chase, US Bank, Citigroup, Walgreens, Tivo, Inc, HSN Inc, Marriott International, and Ritz-Carlton.

Customers of these affected companies should watch for notifications and alerts about this data breach.

According to notifications that have come to the BBB's attention, the data breach was limited to customer names and e-mail addresses. It appears no personal financial information was revealed or compromised. But the Better Business Bureau warns that if your email address has been stolen, you may be the target of phishing emails that try to trick you into providing such information.

“Don't be surprised if this data breach leads to more spam in your e-mail, and be particularly alert to 'phishing emails' that seek personal information like user names, passwords, and account numbers. These hackers may know that they have obtained contact information for people who have bank accounts and credit cards, and that may make this data leak even more dangerous,” said Charlie Mattingly, president and CEO of the BBB serving Louisville, Southern Indiana and Western Kentucky. “Be very cautious of emails you receive from any company or bank that asks for information or contains links to websites. If you’re not sure of its legitimacy, contact the company directly.”

The BBB advises consumers:

Legitimate businesses will never request personal ID, user names, passwords, Social Security numbers, PIN numbers or account numbers by e-mail.
You are safer if you never provide personally identifying information if you access a website through a link in an e-mail message (even one that appears to be the website of a business that you know is legitimate). Instead, go directly to the website of the business and login from that website.
Anytime you are entering sensitive information such as user names, passwords, Social Security number, PIN or account numbers, you should be sure that you are on a secure website, where the address in the browser bar will begin with “https://” (an “s” after http) rather than just "http://."
Be sure your computer is protected by up-to-date anti-virus software and that a firewall (Windows Firewall or another firewall) is turned on.

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

# # # #

About the BBB
The BBB is an unbiased nonprofit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB Accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. The BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Reliability Reports^TMon businesses and BBB Wise Giving Reports^TMon charities, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, your BBB also offers dispute resolution services for consumers and businesses. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 125 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada. Please visit www.louisville.bbb.org for more information.

BBB Warns: Mystery Shopping Scam Uses BBB Name

3/30/2011

Posted on 3/30/2011 by

Scam artists are using the Better Business Bureau’s good name in a Mystery Shopping Scam. BBB Evaluation Inc promises to pay $50 to $100 an hour. The email states “your urgent response needed ASAP.” An excerpt from the email, which has several grammatical and spelling mistakes, is below:

From: BBB Evaluation Inc. <jobs@nankankaki.co.jp>
Subject: Re: Your Urgent Response Needed ASAP®

Hello,

Yes, it's true you really can make money shopping!

You can become a mystery shopper and make anywhere from $50- $100 an hour. You are probably not going to get rich mystery shopping, but in time you can earn some extra money.

We are a company that conduct surveys and evaluate other companies. We get hired to go to other peoples companies and act like customers in order to know how the staffs are handling their services in relation to their customers. Once we have a contract to do you would be directed to the company or outlet and you would be given the funds you need to do the job (either purchase things or require services) after which you would write a comment on the staffs activities and give a detailed record of your experience.

Fraudulent mystery shopping promoters often use emails, like this one, and newspaper ads to entice people into “easy money.” Solicitations often promote a website where consumers can “register” to become mystery shoppers – after they pay a fee for information about a certification program, a directory of mystery shopping companies, or a guarantee of a mystery shopping job. In other mystery shopping scams, the scam artist sends the “mystery shopper” a check to cash. The shopper is told to use part of the money to buy the merchandise or service, and wire the rest of the money back to “employer.” Later, the shopper finds out the check was fake and he/she owes the bank the money.

Consumers should be skeptical of mystery shopping promoters who:

Advertise for mystery shoppers in a newspaper’s ‘help wanted’ section or by email.
Sell “certification.” Companies that use mystery shoppers generally do not require certification.
"Guarantee" a job as a mystery shopper.
Charge a fee for access to mystery shopping jobs.
Sell directories of companies that provide mystery shoppers.

The fact is, a list of companies that hire mystery shoppers is available for free; and legitimate mystery shopper jobs are on the Internet for free. Here’s how you can become a mystery shopper:

Search the Internet for mystery shopping companies that are accepting applications. Legitimate companies don’t charge an application fee. Many accept applications online.
Do some homework about mystery shopping. Check libraries or bookstores for tips on how to find companies hiring mystery shoppers, as well as how to do the job effectively.
Visit the Mystery Shopping Providers Association (MSPA) website at www.mysteryshop.org for information on how to register to be a mystery shopper with a MSPA-member company, a database of available jobs, and additional information on the industry in general.

If you think you have encountered a mystery shopping scam, file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau, your State Attorney General, or the FTC (ftc.gov).

For more consumer tips go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

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 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Warns: Beware of Earthquake/Tsunami Charity Scams

3/14/2011

Posted on 3/14/2011 by

After a major disaster like the Japanese earthquake and tsunami, many Americans want to help those impacted. Unfortunately, with any major disaster, there are scam artists who will attempt to take advantage of those who want to help. Your Better Business Bureau offers this advice for donors to ensure their donations go to trustworthy relief efforts.

Before donating, visit www.bbb.org/charity to research organizations you’re considering supporting.
Don’t click on any links in email solicitations for money.
Be wary of charities that are reluctant to answer reasonable questions about their operations, finances and programs.
Ask for written information about the charity’s program(s) and finances such as the charity’s latest annual report and financial statements.
Ask what the charity intends to do with any excess contributions remaining once they’ve fully funded the disaster relief activities mentioned in solicitations.
Don’t give cash. Checks or money orders should be made out to the name of the charitable organization, not to the individual collecting the donation.
Beware of fake charities that imitate the name and style of well-known organizations in an attempt to confuse donors.
Don’t give in to excessive pressure for on-the-spot donations. Be wary of any request to send a “runner” to pick up your contribution.
Be wary of any charity that is inexperienced in carrying out relief efforts but is suddenly soliciting for aid in the wake of the earthquake and tsunami. Although well intentioned, they may not be able to quickly deliver aid to those in need.
Be wary of appeals that are long on emotion, but short on describing what the charity will do to address the needs of victims and their families.
Don’t give your credit card number or other personal information to a telephone solicitor or in response to an e-mail solicitation.
Make sure your contribution is tax deductible: donations should be made to charitable organizations that are tax exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Go to IRS Publication 78 on the IRS’ website for a current list of all organizations eligible to receive contributions deductible as charitable gifts.

For additional information you can trust when making giving decisions, or to view BBB Wise Giving Reports on charities across the nation, start with bbb.org.

BBB 2011 March Hot Topics

3/3/2011

Posted on 3/3/2011 by

BBB Hot Topics

March 2011

1. National Consumer Protection Week is March 6 - 12. NCPW is a national effort to educate the public on how to use money wisely. BBB advises, to become a savvy consumer, one should always read the fine print, get everything in writing, shred sensitive documents, monitor financial accounts closely, never wire money to an unknown person, and check out businesses with the BBB at www.bbb.org.

2. Publishers Clearinghouse Scam - A local consumer received a phone call, telling him he won $500,000 from Publishers Clearinghouse Sweepstakes. He was told before he could get the winnings, he would have to pay a luxury tax. The man wired a total of $13,500 via Western Union. This is a scam! NEVER wire money to unknown persons.

3. Craigslist/Ebay Motors Scam - A local consumer found a bobcat for sale on Craigslist. After inquiring on the equipment, the seller sent the buyer to what appeared to be Ebay Motors to purchase it. The buyer was told the bobcat was ready to ship, and money should be wired for shipping purposes. The man wired $1400 and never received the bobcat. NEVER wire money to unknown persons!

4. Automatic Profit System claims to be the Internet’s “#1 Work at Home Opportunity.” The company promises $1000 a month working at home. A local consumer paid the company $98.00 to get started, then the company requested $198.00 more. The company has an “F” rating with the BBB.

5. Turbo Tax Scam - Users of the tax software, Turbo Tax get an email asking them to download updates, to comply with IRS requirements. Problem is, the email isn’t actually from Turbo Tax. The link takes them to a bogus site where they’re asked to download the updates. The download is a virus that wrecks computer security. In another scam, the phony site asks for personal information -- a phishing scam. Turbo Tax never solicits personal information by email.

6. Citizens Aid Government Agency claims to be affiliated with the U.S. Department of Treasury and claims to provide government grants to pay off credit card and other debts that a consumer might have. Consumers are asked to fill out an application, providing personal information, including account numbers, social security numbers, etc. and to pay a fee of 13.8% of the total amount of the grant they are awarded. This appears to be a government grant scam.

7. Scholarship Scams - Don’t pay for Free Advice on scholarships for college. Every year, BBB receives complaints from parents who paid money up front to a company that promised to find scholarships and grants for their child but didn’t deliver. One such company, Edifi-College Financial Aid, which has been known to send invitations to seminars in the local area, has an “F” rating with BBB.

8. Planning a Spring Break Escape? Remember, if it sounds “too good to be true, it probably is.” Vacation packages presented for one low price often involve hidden taxes or fees. When booking a package, call th individual providers to be sure they all participate in the deal. Also, get all vacation details in writing, including cancellation policies. And, use a credit card to book the travel.

9. Prom season is right around the corner! Before hiring a Limousine service, do your homework! Check references, ask for proof of insurance, get everything in writing, inquire about the company’s cancellation policy and get a copy in writing, and check out the company with BBB at www.bbb.org.

10. Don’t get scammed Buying Tickets Online! With March Madness and the KY Derby right around the corner, scam artists are sure to take advantage of ticket seekers. Remember, if a ticket price sounds “too good to be true,” it probably is. Also, never wire money to buy tickets. If they end up fake, you have no recourse. Do your research - check out the company with BBB at www.bbb.org.

BBB Advice: Don’t Pay for Free Advice on College Scholarships

2/17/2011

Posted on 2/17/2011 by

BBB is recommending doing your research BEFORE paying a company to help you find financial aid for college.

During the 2009 – 2010 school year, $94 billion in grants was made available to college students to help cover education costs, according to The College Board. Sources of the funding included federal and state government, institutions, private entities and employers.

Navigating the process of applying for financial aid can be confusing. Some companies claim they can help, but only end up providing information and assistance the student can already get for free elsewhere. Every year, BBB receives complaints from parents who paid money upfront to a company that promised to find scholarships and grants for their child but ultimately didn’t deliver.

One such company, Edifi-College Financial Aid, sends prospective college students a letter explaining they have been selected for a personal interview. BBB has seen these letters sent to local students. Students who call for their interview are scheduled for a financial aid seminar along with other students and parents. A local consumer says after signing up with Edifi, she tried to cancel the same day, and the company would not allow it. She says the company took money out of her bank account. Other complainants say they attended the seminar and later paid more than $1,000 for help finding aid, but the services offered were mostly assistance in filling out financial aid forms.

BBB recommends listening for the following red flags when receiving the sales pitch from a financial-aid finder:

· “The scholarship is guaranteed or your money back.” In reality no one can guarantee that they will get you a grant or scholarship. The refund guarantees that are offered usually have so many conditions or strings attached that it is almost impossible for consumers to get their money back.

· “You cannot get this information anywhere else.” Actually, scholarship information is widely available in books, from libraries and financial aid offices and on the Internet, if you are willing to search for it.

· “We will do all the work.” Only parents and students can really determine and provide the financial information needed to complete the forms.

· “You have been selected by a national foundation to receive a scholarship.” If you have not entered a competition sponsored by the foundation, this claim is highly unlikely.

· “May I have your credit card or bank account number to hold this scholarship?” This is never a requirement for a legitimate scholarship offer.

· “The scholarship will cost some money.” Legitimate scholarship offers never require payment of any kind.

For more information on finding financial aid for school, visit www.fafsa.gov. BBB has advice for everyone on managing personal finances and avoiding scams at www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Warns: Valentine’s Day Scams could Break Your Heart

2/7/2011

Posted on 2/7/2011 by

Valentine's Day is a day of romance and expressions of love, but it’s also a time for scam artists to take advantage and break a heart. If you're not careful you could fall victim to a Valentine's Day scam.

Valentine’s Phishing Scams

As February 14^th approaches, we expect notes of love to arrive in our mailboxes. Cyber-crooks are well aware of this and use this time of year to trick those who are “love-struck” into divulging their personal and financial information. One email claims to be from a flower company and indicates the flowers you ordered for your sweetheart won’t be delivered unless you log in and re-enter your credit card information. A significant number of these messages will reach people that have actually ordered flowers, and no one wants their loved one to think they've forgotten them on Valentine's Day! If you click the link in that email and enter your credit card information you could have a real problem once you get your next statement. Even if you think a message like this is real, go directly to the florist's website or call them on the phone.

Online Dating Scams

As Valentine's Day approaches many singles turn to online dating websites to find true love. What many find is a broken heart. Scam artists often create fake profiles designed to match a certain kind of person. Once they make contact with you the scam begins. Whether you are talking in a chat room, through instant messages, or emails it slowly becomes clear that you've hit the jackpot. This new person you've met is perfect in every way. They have the same likes and dislikes as you and most importantly, they really dig you. The cybercriminal gains your trust, and then attempts to “meet you.” However, your true love won't have enough money for the trip and will need you to wire funds for a plane ticket. This often involves mail order bride scams, or a scam where you wire a “soldier” money for military leave. This is a very old and common scam.

Valentine’s Day eCard Scam

Be careful opening eCards on the web! In the case of the Valentine’s Day eCard scam, and email directs the receiver to a fake website that looks a lot like Hallmark or American Greetings. The site prompts the receiver of the card to download the latest version of Flash Player, in order to view the card. Once the love-struck receiver of the card installs the software, their computer is taken over with a Trojan, which is a program that can give someone (besides the user) full access to a computer and all of the files on it. Pay attention when you click on links, be sure the web address you are going to is the correct one, and in this case, the email doesn’t state a name – it is generic – which is another sign that this could be a scam and it could have gone out to millions of people.

BBB Hot Topics - February 2011

2/4/2011

Posted on 2/4/2011 by

BBB HOT TOPICS
February 2011

1. IRS Scam - If you get an email that claims to be from the IRS telling you that you need to submit information for your W-2, it is a scam. Beware of any other emails purporting to be from the IRS. Some may ask you to click on a link and provide personal information. The IRS will never email you. They will send a letter if they need more information.

2. Beware of Tax Anticipation Loans! They can be costly! Some tax preparers offer these “rapid refunds” in the form of checks or “gift” debit cards. These are similar to payday loans. They are short-term loans with high interest rates that range from 50 to 500 percent, and in some cases have hidden administrative fees

3. Valentine’s Scams - Look out for online dating scams, in which the cybercrook creates a false dating profile, complete with attractive photos. Victims are lured into one-on-one chats by e-mail, text, or phone. The goal is to trick you with a mail order bride scam, or one where you’ll wire a “soldier” money for military leave. Another threat includes e-cards that link to hacker Web sites. And, a Valentine’s phishing scheme involves an email indicating the flowers you ordered for your sweetie won’t be delivered unless you log in and re-enter your credit card.

4. Walmart/Target Gift Card Scam - If an ad pops up on your cell phone while you are using the internet and offers a “free” $100 gift card to Walmart or Target, don’t fall for it. This is a scam. When you call a toll-free number, you will be asked to pay a $4.95 shipping/handling fee for the card with your credit card. This is an attempt to steal your personal information.

5. Visa/MasterCard Fraud - Scammers pretend to be fraud investigation agents for Visa or MasterCard in order to get your credit card security code. It’s a scam that has worked its way across the Country for years. The caller already has your credit card number and says your card has been “flagged” for an unusual purchase pattern, and then wants you to “verify” the code on the back of your card.

6. Unemployment Surveys - Websites that offer “free stuff” in exchange for completing an Unemployment Survey are not all they’re cracked up to be. The “free” sites make you jump through hoops to get the “free gift,” if you actually ever receive it. On one website, you must complete a survey and 13 required sponsorship offers that may cost you money. Also, your personal information is sold to other companies and you are bombarded with emails, phone calls, and text messages.

7. Shopping Job Scam - A concerned local consumer contacted us after she replied to an ad in the paper for a job. The “architect,” who was out of the country, wanted the job seeker to do some shopping for him. The employer sent money orders that were to be deposited and the job seeker was supposed to wire part of the funds back to the “employer.” This is definitely a scam!

8. Travel and Holiday Job Scam - A local consumer says she was contacted by this company after they found her resume on Hotjobs.com. The company offered a job as Tour Manager for $3000/month plus 5% of the client’s payment, only working 5 - 10 hours per week. (sound too good to be true?) The company then told the job seeker she would need to deposit the clients’ payments and wire money to the company. NEVER wire money to someone you don’t know.

9. State Record Retrieval Board sends a postcard to homeowners offering to get a copy of their deed and property profile for “just” $87. The company is NOT a government entity, and has an “F” rating with the BBB. Homeowners can get the same information from their County Clerk’s office at a minimal cost.

10. Nigerian Scam hits Facebook. Don’t believe every email you receive on Facebook. A consumer reports to the BBB that she received an email in her FB account that asked her to assist in retrieving funds that were left behind by a legal practitioner’s client who died in a car accident. The email starts with “your inheritance,” implying she will get some money. She was asked to contact the person at an email address outside of FB. This is a scam!

BBB Tips on Tax Season

2/3/2011

Posted on 2/3/2011 by

BBB is warning taxpayers to beware of tax scams! If you get an email that claims to be from the IRS, telling you that you need to submit information for your W-2, it is a scam. The email tells the taxpayer to click on a link to input the information. This is an identity theft scam! First, W-2 forms are submitted by employers, not tax payers. Also, the IRS will not email you! The IRS sends a letter if it needs more information.

There are several IRS scams that make their rounds at this time of the year. Sometimes the email comes from the “Treasury Department” stating a refund or tax inheritance is waiting and the taxpayer needs to provide personal information. Here are tips from the BBB to help you recognize a tax scam:

· If the IRS needs information, it will send a letter. You will NOT be asked to send information through email.

· Do not click on any links in unknown emails. It could infect your computer with viruses and spyware.

· Do not give out personal information, including SSN, home address and birth date to anyone who emails or calls you.

· If the email has a lot of punctuation and spelling errors, that's a “red flag” that it is probably not an official letter.

Not a scam – the IRS recently released a mobile app which allows users to check the status of their tax refunds. The app, IRS2go, is available for free downloads on iPhones and Androids. Taxpayers are prompted to provide some basic information, including their social security number, which the IRS says wil be encrypted for security purposes. Users can then select the filing status used on their tax return and enter the amount of money they expect to receive form the IRS.

If you pay someone to prepare your tax return, BBB urges you to use caution when selecting tax preparation help. Every year BBB receives thousands of complaints from consumers against tax preparers. Commonly, complainants state the tax preparer made errors in their return which resulted in fines and fees.

Taxpayers are legally responsible for what is on their tax return, even if it is prepared by someone else. While most tax preparers are honest and professional, BBB offers these tips on choosing a trustworthy tax preparer to file your return:

· 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 itesm.

· 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.

For more advice on finding professionals you can trust, visit www.bbb.org

About Better Business Bureau
As the leader in advancing marketplace trust, Better Business Bureau is an unbiased non-profit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Every year, more than 65 million consumers rely on BBB Reliability Reports® and BBB Wise Giving Reports® to help them find trustworthy businesses and charities across North America. Visit www.bbb.org/us for more information.

BBB Names Top 10 Complaints and Inquiries in 2010

1/19/2011

Posted on 1/19/2011 by

2010 proved to be a busy year for the Better Business Bureau serving Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western Kentucky:

· Provided more than 510,000 BBB Reliability Reports on companies in BBB's local service area in 2010;

· Closed more than 9,200 complaints in BBB's local service area in 2010.

Manufacturers and Producers continue to top the list of type of business complaints within the BBB’s 52 county service area. The industries that topped BBB’s complaint list in 2010 included:

1. Manufacturers and Producers

2. Auto Dealers – Used Cars

3. Auto Dealers – New Cars

4. Extended Warranty Contract Service Companies

5. Hospitalization, Medical & Surgical Plans

6. Restaurants

7. Appliances – Small – Supplies and Parts

8. Internet Shopping Services

9. Services (General)

10. Furniture – Retail

The industries that topped BBB’s inquiry list in 2010 included:

1. Mortgages

2. Roofing Contractors

3. Auto Dealers – New Cars

4. Auto Dealers – Used Cars

5. Heating & Air Conditioning

6. Marriage, Family, Child, Independent Counselors

7. Banks

8. Plumbing Contractors

9. Contractors – General

10. Heating Contractors

Remember to Start with Trust before doing business. Get a BBB Reliability Report at www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB January 2011 Hot Topics

1/18/2011

Posted on 1/18/2011 by

BBB’s Top Scams of 2010 include job hunter scams, work from home schemes, debt relief and settlement services, foreclosure help, not so “free” trial offers, and more. Go to www.louisville.bbb.org to get the entire list, which will affect consumers in 2011 as well.

Is your New Year’s resolution to Join a Gym? Before signing on the dotted line, BBB recommends asking these questions: What are the terms of any introductory offers; Will my membership renew automatically; How can I get out of my contract; What happens if I move; What happens if you go out of business? Be sure to know what your fitness goals are, and whether you can afford a membership on a monthly basis as well, and ALWAYS get it in writing!

Consumers say callers claiming to be from Microsoft are attempting to bilk them out of their money and personal information. The caller states they are with Microsoft, that they have a report from the consumer’s internet service provider of serious virus problems on their computer. The consumer, caught off guard, gives personal information to the caller.

Consumers report calls from the “Consumer Protection Bureau” announcing they have won a prize worth as much as $595,000, but have to pay 1% in advance to secure the payment. BBB advises the public to disregard such promotions.

Scammers from Jamaica are posing as lawyers, customs officials, or lottery representatives and target U.S. residents with promises of large winnings. To receive the money, the “winner” must wire fees. If the “winner” does not wire the money, the calls become threatening. U.S. and Jamaican authorities partnered to crack down on this crime. The partnership, known as JOLT (Jamaican Operations Linked to Telemarketing) allows the agencies to share information. Go to www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt148.shtm.

Payday Loan Collection Scam - Scammers claim the victim is delinquent in a payday loan and must repay the loan to avoid legal consequences. The callers have social security numbers, date of birth, addresses, employer information, bank account numbers, and more. How the fraudsters got the personal information varies, but in some cases, victims have reported they completed online applications for other loans or credit cards before the calls started.

Pay Up or I will Kill You Scam Email - According to the email, a friend wants you dead and has hired a professional assassin to kill you. The email is from the assassin and he claims that he will spare your life if you pay him a large fee. If you pay, the hitman will even throw in recordings of the “friend” ordering the hit.

Auto-mall-inc.com offers re-possessed vehicles at unusually low prices. Consumers complain they cannot complete an online transaction, and only bank to wire transfers are accepted. Complainants state they have sent thousands of dollars to the company for the purchase of a vehicle, but have not received the vehicle as promised.

Consumers complain they ordered hot dog carts from New World Hot Dog Cart Company and never received them after paying in advance. The carts, which were advertised on eBay, sell for $1500 to $4300. BBB received returned mail from the addresses on file for the company, however consumer complaints allege the company is still doing business online.

Enrollment is up at For-Profit Schools. BBB advises while many for-profit’s are legit, do your research and look for these red flags before you enroll: High-pressure sales tactics; Recruiter exaggerates potential income or guarantees a job; Prices are inflated when compared to other options; The school is not accredited; The degree seems too easy to obtain; or, the recruiter encourages you to lie on financial aid forms.

BBB Releases Top 10 Scams of 2010

1/3/2011

Posted on 1/3/2011 by

Job hunters and those struggling to make money and get out of debt are common targets in the Better Business Bureau’s list of Top 10 Scams and Rip-Offs of 2010.

While some of the most popular scams are perennial problems that have always plagued consumers, some new additions to the list are signs of our tough economic times. Following, in no particular order, is BBB’s list of top scams and rip-offs that took advantage of consumers and small business owners across the U.S. in 2010:

Job Hunter Scams – Scams targeting job hunters vary and include attempts to gain access to personal information such as bank account or social security numbers and requirements to pay a fee in order to even be considered for the job. Job hunters can be scammed through newspaper ads and online through job hunting sites.

Work from Home Schemes – These schemes promise to teach the secrets to making money online, others claim you can make money assembling items at home or get paid to be a mystery shopper. Some victims even found that their opportunity to work from home was a job to fence stolen goods. The end result is that instead of getting paid, you can end up losing hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars.

Debt Relief and Settlement Services – These companies often require upfront fees and potentially leave the consumer drowning in even more debt. Complaints to the BBB about debt relief and settlement services increased by approximately 30 percent in 2010, according to tentative year-end estimates.

Foreclosure Help – Like debt relief scams, so-called foreclosure companies offer to get your mortgage modified – after you send them a large fee. The modification does not occur and the homeowner falls further behind on their mortgage. BBB suggests homeowners talk to their mortgage holder, or get foreclosure avoidance counseling from groups approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Not So “Free” Trial Offers – Misleading free trial offers online for diet supplements, penny auctions, and money making schemes blanket the internet resulting in thousands of complaints ever year. The free trial offers seem no-risk but complainants state they were repeatedly billed every month and found it extremely difficult to cancel.

Itinerant Home Repair/Roofers – BBBs across the country received complaints from consumers who answered a knock from a door to door salesman or itinerant worker who eventually failed to deliver on promises to fix their roof or conduct other work to the home. Complaints to BBB about roofing companies increased by roughly 40 percent in 2010, according to tentative estimates, due in part to one company that solicited door to door, American Shingle, which received nearly 1,000 complaints nationwide after going bankrupt and not providing new roofs to angry customers.

Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams – The victim—often a senior citizen--receives a letter in the mail or phone call from someone pretending to be with Reader’s Digest, Publisher’s Clearing House, or a phony foreign lottery. The scammer claims the victim has won millions but must first wire hundreds or even thousands of dollars back to the scammers to cover taxes or some other bogus fee. The victim wires the money, but the prize never arrives.

Advance Fee Loan Scams – A perennial problem, advance fee loan scams prey on consumers and business owners who are struggling financially. Victims are told they qualify for large loans but must pay upfront fees—often more than a thousand dollars. The victim wires money to the scammers, but never receives the loan.

Over-Payment Scams - Over-payment scams typically target small business owners, landlords or individuals with rooms to rent, and sellers on classifieds or sites like Craigslist. The scammers overpay the amount for the services or products and then ask the victim to wire the extra amount back to them or to another fraudulent entity. Ultimately though, the check is forged and the victim is out the money wired back to the scammers.

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, or even through no fault of your own as the result of a corporate data breach, millions fall victim to identity theft every year.

Consumers or small business owners victimized by a scam can contact their local BBB or file a complaint at bbb.org. Always research a business with BBB before you sign any contracts or hand over any money.

BBB Tips on Holiday Travel

12/15/2010

Posted on 12/15/2010 by

Last year, AAA estimated that 87.7 million Americans traveled more than 50 miles during the holidays. Eighty-five percent of that number drove.

The BBB recommends taking the following steps for safe driving this holiday season:

Create a car safety kit – Holiday driving often includes the threat of dangerous winter weather. Snow and ice lead to accidents, car troubles, long delays and road closures. Prepare for bad weather by creating a safety kit. Items to include: a blanket, flashlight with extra batteries, radio, first aid kit, jumper cables, non-perishable foods like granola bars and nuts, bottled water, an ice scraper and warm gloves.

Take the car in for a checkup – If your car is due for a check up, take it in before making a long trip. At the very least, check the car’s fluid levels, wipers and tire pressure. Check the condition of your tires and, if you plan on driving through serious winter weather, consider getting snow tires.

Take the BBB with you – When you’re away from home or in the midst of an emergency, it’s hard to know which businesses—such as tow trucks and locksmiths—you can trust. You can rely on BBB’s mobile optimized website for finding businesses you can trust when you’re away from your computer.

Start early and slow down – The best way to fight holiday traffic is to give yourself some extra time to make the trip, and don’t speed. Speeding leads to accidents which increase traffic even more. Also, if you’re caught speeding by law enforcement, that adds travel time and puts a dent in your holiday spending.

Drop the distractions – According to the National Safety Council, 28 percent of accidents occur while drivers are talking on their cell phones or sending text messages. When you’re behind the wheel, don’t text and drive, use a hands free headset when talking on the phone and get someone else to operate the GPS.

For more advice on staying safe over the holidays, visit us online at www.louisville.bbb.org.

BBB December 2010 Hot Topics

12/9/2010

Posted on 12/9/2010 by

December 2010 Hot Topics

Beware of the Reader’s Digest scam! – A local resident received a letter claiming he won $145,000 along with a fraudulent check in the amount of $3975.69. Do not try to cash the check or wire any of the money. The letter includes the BBB’s Accredited Business seal and logos from WalMart, Kmart, Sears, Target, The Home Depot, Zellers and Macy’s but never explains these businesses’ association with the sweepstakes.

BBB has received phony distress e-mail messages from scammers posing as friends or business associates requesting money wires or transfers. The e-mail claims the person is stuck somewhere far from home, like London, with no wallet or passport and no access to funds. The scammer asks for money to purchase a plane ticket and settle hotel bills. Never wire money to anyone you don’t know or without confirming the person’s identity first.

BBB is receiving e-mails containing Twitter and eBay scams. The eBay e-mail claims it’s announcing a new safety initiative called Trusted Security Shield with Identity Confirmation. The e-mail states that eBay and PayPal members must install it in order to safely continue using their services. The Twitter e-mail claims you have two unread messages from @inordinate and instructs you to click on a link. The links in both emails redirect you to overseas websites that attempt to download and install hostile software on your computer.

BBB offers these tips for returns & exchanges this holiday season: Know the seller’s return policy. A business is not obligated to accept items for refund, exchange, or credit except in cases where the item is defective or misrepresented. Check for restocking fees if an item is returned. If you want to return an item, understand the difference between exchanges & credits. Don’t delay! There may be time limits for returns. Always keep receipts and original packaging.

iPad offer scams - Scammers are busy distributing bogus offers for free iPads this holiday season. Internet spammers, via pop-ups and e-mails, ask consumers to provide their credit card number to get a free iPad. Victims never receive the iPad and their credit card number is stolen. On Facebook, users take a quiz to win a free iPad and must supply their cell phone number to receive the results. In reality, victims are signed up for a cell phone scam that costs $10 a week.

Beware of fake gift card offers. Cyber criminals are using Facebook and Twitter to promote fake gift card offers to steal consumers' money and information, which is often sold to marketers or used for ID theft. BBB recommends avoiding such offers on social media sites.

Grinch greetings! - Cyber crooks are distributing phony versions of e-cards containing links to computer viruses and other malware. BBB warns consumers to only open e-cards from a trusted source to avoid spreading computer viruses instead of holiday cheer.

BBB recommends using caution when downloading holiday-themed screensavers, jingles and animations. Scammers can easily use these to spread viruses and other computer threats, especially in links from an e-mail or IM that appears to be from a friend.

During the holidays, many people travel and use free Wi-Fi in hotels and airports. Thieves use this opportunity to hack into networks to steal sensitive information. BBB warns consumers to stick to well-established and trusted sites. Do not respond to offers that arrive in a spam e-mail, text or instant message. Never download or click anything from an unknown source.

BBB tips on finding a trustworthy kennel to board your pets: Check the kennel out with the BBB first to make sure they have a good track record for keeping customers satisfied. Personally visit the facilities. Check for cleanliness and offensive odors, safety of cages, certificates of inspection, feeding and exercise schedules, proof of immunization policies and medical emergency procedures.

BBB Tips: Mistakes to Avoid when Donating to a Charity

12/9/2010

Posted on 12/9/2010 by

Every holiday, billions of dollars are donated to worthy causes and now more than ever charities need the support of donors to help those who are struggling. The BBB Wise Giving Alliance advises donors on how to avoid five common mistakes in order to ensure their dollar stretches the farthest in these tough economic times. BBB recommends donors avoid these common mistakes when donating to a charity this holiday:

1. Assuming that only “low overhead” matters. How much money a charity spends on the actual cause—as compared to how much goes toward fundraising and administration—is an important factor, but it’s not the whole story. A charity with impressive financial ratios could have other significant problems such as insufficient transparency, inadequate board activity and inaccurate appeals.

2. Failing to do your research before you give. Even good friends may not have fully researched the charities they endorse, so don’t just take their word for it. Expertise is available. Go to www.bbb.org/charity to verify that a charity meets the BBB’s 20 standards for Charity Accountability.

3. Succumbing to high-pressure, emotional pitches. Giving on the spot is never necessary, no matter how hard a telemarketer or door-to-door solicitor pushes it. The charity that needs your money today will welcome it just as much tomorrow.

4. Assuming that the charity wants any item you donate. Worn out, unusable or unwanted donated goods cost charities millions of dollars each year because the organization has to bear the cost of tossing the unacceptable donation. If you have questions about an item’s acceptability, call the charity and ask.

5. Mistaking a charity’s identity. With so many charities in existence, their names can blur in a donor’s mind and similar-sounding organizations are common. Be sure you know which charity you’re supporting and that it’s not a case of mistaken identity.

When donating, BBB Suggests:

Do not give cash. Always contribute by check, and only make checks out to the charity, not individual names.
Always keep proof of your contributions, this helps you document during tax time.
Don’t donate because the charity or individual names impress you.
Confirm existence of the charity through local charity registration or with your local BBB.

Mail requests:

Charities or organizations should be identified clearly. General and specific information should be explained in clear language. Don’t just give based on emotions. Gather all of the facts about the organization.
Requests should not be made to look like bills or invoices. You are not obligated to make donations.
Any received, unordered products don’t require a donation. You are not required to make a donation for something you didn’t order, you are also not required to send items back.

If you are approached in person or over the phone for donations make sure to ask questions. Don’t feel pressured to give on the spot, take your time to consider it. Legitimate charities are willing to answer questions. Important information to consider before donating:

The charity’s full name and address.
Find out if your donation is tax deductible, it may not be.
Ask if the charity is approved by the state. Registration is required in most states.
Do not feel pressured to give.
Find out what amount is actually going to charity. Be careful of statements like “all proceeds go to charity.”

BBB Tip: Read the Fine Print before Buying Gift Cards

12/8/2010

Posted on 12/8/2010 by

According to a recent survey by the National Retail Federation, gift cards will be the most requested gift for the 2010 holiday season. According to market research company TowerGroup, gift cards are an $87 billion industry.

New federal rules that took effect in August are designed to protect consumers, and will restrict fees and affect gift card expiration dates. These new rules apply to two types of cards: Retail gift cards, which can only be redeemed at the retailer’s and restaurants that sell them; and bank gift cards, which carry the logo of a payment card network like American Express, Visa, or Mastercard and can be used wherever the brand is accepted. Here are the highlights:

Longer Expiration Dates on Balances

The balance on a gift card cannot expire for at least five years from the date the card was purchased, or from the last date any additional money was loaded onto the card. If the expiration date listed on the card is earlier than these dates, the money can be transferred to a replacement card at no cost.

Inactivity Fees

Inactivity fees can be charged only after a card hasn’t been used for at least one year, and then only once per month. These fees are required to be clearly disclosed to the consumer before the card is purchased. The BBB recommends reading the fine print on the back of the card before purchasing it.

Increased Disclosure to Consumers

The card must clearly disclose its expiration date and any fees. Notifications should be printed on the packaging of the gift card.

There is one exception: Some cards produced before April 1, 2010, that list a short expiration time or inactivity fees in the first year may be sold through January 31, 2011. However, no matter what a card says, consumers still are protected by the new rules.

Bottom Line: Consumers should be sure that they read the fine print on all gift cards and try to use the full balance as soon as possible to ensure they’re getting their money’s worth.

Tips for buying gift cards:

· Buy from known and trusted sources. Avoid online auction sites, because the cards sold there may be counterfeit or may have been obtained fraudulently.

· Read the fine print before buying. Is there a fee to buy the card? Are there shipping and handling fees for cards bought by phone or online? Will any fees be deducted from the card after it is purchased?

· Inspect the card before buying it. Verify that no protective stickers have been removed, and that the codes on the back of the card haven’t been scratched off to reveal a PIN number. Report any damaged cards to the store selling the cards.

· Give the recipient the original receipt in case the card is later lost or stolen.

· Before you buy retail gift cards, consider the financial condition of the retailer or restaurant:

o A card from a company that files for bankruptcy or goes out of business may be worth less than anticipated.

o If the business closes a store near the recipient, it may be hard to find another location where the card can be used.

o A company that files for bankruptcy may honor its gift cards, or a competitor may accept the card. Call the company or its competitor to find out if they are redeeming the cards, or if they will do so at a later date.

Tips for using gift cards:

· Note any terms and conditions, and check for an expiration date or fees.

· If it appears that a card has expired or fees have been deducted, contact the company that issued the card. Ask whether the card can be honored or the fees can be reversed.

· Ask anyone who gives you a card for its terms and conditions, the original purchase receipt, or the card’s ID number. Keep this information in a safe place.

· Use gift cards as soon as possible, because it’s not unusual to lose or forget about them.

· Treat a card like cash, and if it is lost or stolen, report this immediately to the issuer. Some issuers will not replace cards that are lost or stolen, while other issuers will, for a fee.

For more consumer tips go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Warns: Tis' the Season for Holiday Scams

12/2/2010

Posted on 12/2/2010 by

Consumers can fall into any number of traps over the holidays and become victim to identity thieves, hackers and deceptive online merchants. The BBB is warning holiday shoppers and donors to look out for these common scams this holiday season:

UPS/FedEx/DHL/USPS package delivery scam

The scam begins with an e-mail complete with a phony tracking number informing you that there was a package delivery error. You’ll be instructed to open an attachment to print out a correct delivery label that you’re supposed to take to the nearest UPS/FedEx/DHL/USPS office. Open the attachment, however, and you’ll open your computer to malware and virus attacks. Delete the phony e-mail.

Scam shopping sites online

Some sites offer electronics, the “must have” toys, or luxury goods at prices that are too good to be true. Every holiday season BBB hears from holiday shoppers who paid for a supposedly great deal online, but received nothing in return.

Bogus charitable pleas

The holidays are a time of giving which creates a great opportunity for scammers to solicit donations to fill their own pockets. Beware of solicitations from charities that don’t necessarily deliver on their promises or are ill-equipped to carry through on their plans.

E-Card Scam

This fraudulent e-mail claims to contain an electronic greeting card from an anonymous individual, such as a "friend" or "classmate."The fraudulent emails, which claim to be from legitimate greeting card companies, tell consumers to click on a link in the email message to view their e-card. Clicking on the link can possibly expose a person's computer to a virus. If you receive one of these e-cards from a generic “friend,” or from a person whose e-mail you don’t recognize, delete it.

Surveys Offering Holiday Spending Cash

In an effort to take advantage of cash-strapped holiday shoppers, scammers are posing as popular retailers and e-mailing fake surveys to consumers. One e-mail has a subject line that reads, “Online Survey from Wal-Mart Stores!!!” The body of the message states, “This survey has been sent only to a few people from our random generator!”, and “You’ve been selected to take part in our quick and easy 9 questions survey. In return we will credit $90 to your account - Just for your time!” The e-mail includes a link to a Web site where the recipient is supposed to take the survey, but navigates to a site asking for personal information.

BBB Tips: Top Ten Tips for Cyber Monday

11/24/2010

Posted on 11/24/2010 by

Cyber Monday—the Monday after Thanksgiving—has officially replaced Black Friday—the day after Thanksgiving—as the most popular holiday shopping day. Shopping online means avoiding the crowds, but it also means possible attacks from scammers and hackers. The BBB recommends 10 tips for safe online shopping:

1. Protect your computer – A computer should always have the most recent updates installed for spam filters, anti-virus and anti-spyware software and a secure firewall.

2. Shop on trustworthy web sites – Shoppers should start with the BBB to check a seller’s reputation and record for customer satisfaction. Always look for the BBB seal and other widely-recognized “trustmarks” on retailer websites and click on the seals to confirm they are valid.

3. Protect your personal information – BBB recommends taking the time to read the site’s privacy policy to understand what personal information is being requested and how it will be used. If there isn’t one posted, it is a red flag that personal information may be sold to others without permission.

4. Beware of deals that sound too good to be true – Offers on web sites, and in unsolicited e-mails, can often sound too good to be true, especially extremely low prices on hard-to-get items. Consumers should not be afraid to pass up a “deal” that might cost them in the end.

5. Beware of phishing – Legitimate businesses do not send e-mails claiming problems with an order or an account to lure the “buyer” into revealing financial information. If a consumer receives such an e-mail, BBB recommends picking up the phone and calling the contact number on the web site to confirm that there really is a problem with the transaction.

6. Confirm your online purchase is secure – Shoppers should always look in the address box for the “s” in https:// and in the lower-right corner for the “lock” symbol before paying. If there are any doubts about a site, BBB recommends right-clicking anywhere on the page and select “Properties.” This will let you see the real URL (web site address) and the dialog box will reveal if the site is not encrypted.

8. Keep documentation of your order - After completing the online order process, there may be a final confirmation page or the shopper might receive confirmation by e-mail – BBB recommends saving a copy of the Web page and any e-mails for future reference and as a record of the purchase.

9. Check your credit card statements often – Don’t wait for paper statements; BBB recommends consumers check their credit card statements for suspicious activity by either calling credit card companies or by checking statements online regularly.

10. Know your rights – Federal law requires that orders made by mail, phone or online be shipped by the date promised or, if no delivery time was stated, within 30 days. If the goods aren’t shipped on time, the shopper can cancel and demand a refund. There is no general three-day cancellation right, but consumers do have the right to reject merchandise if it’s defective or was misrepresented. Otherwise, it’s the company’s policies that determine if the shopper can cancel the purchase and receive a refund or credit.

BBB Advises: Be a Smart Shopper this Holiday Season

11/22/2010

Posted on 11/22/2010 by

The holiday shopping season is upon us once again! The BBB wants you to be a smart shopper and offers these tips for successful holiday shopping:

Start with setting a budget and keep it! Know who you need to buy for and what gifts you have in mind, which will keep you from impulse shopping.
Compare prices. Shoppers should be wary of exaggerated claims of discounts whether shopping online or in a retail store at the mall. Be sure to shop around to compare prices, matching descriptions or model numbers of items you want to buy.
Return or exchange policy. Check before you buy. Every store has its own policy.
Keep Receipts. Keep all receipts and tags in case the recipient needs to return or exchange an item. Many stores will provide gift receipts upon request.
Be mindful of your personal belongings. Don’t carry so many items that you lose track of your purse or wallet. Theft can be very active this time of year, so be careful and ask a security guard to help carry items to your car if needed.
If shopping online or through a catalog, allow for plenty of time for shipping. Keep all receipts or any record of purchase and payment. Check the company’s Reliability Report with BBB at www.bbb.org.

Check the web 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- hand corner of the screen.
Often, free online offers are followed by an open-ended enrollment in a program that automatically bills your credit card account. Before ordering anything online, make sure you click on and read all terms and conditions.
Pay with a credit card whenever possible so 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. Inspect toys carefully 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.

Always check Reliability Reports of retail stores and online companies with BBB at www.louisville.bbb.org

BBB Torch Awards Winners and Finalists

11/16/2010

Posted on 11/16/2010 by

BBB Announces 2010 Torch Award Winners and Finalists

The Better Business Bureau serving Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western Kentucky is proud to announce the winners of the 2010 Torch Awards for Marketplace Ethics.

Very Small Business:
Window World (Winner)
Louisville, KY

Serenity Spa (Finalist)
Anchorage, KY

Small Business:
Ashley Furniture (Winner)
Louisville, KY

Medium Business:
Mortenson Family Dental (Winner)
Louisville, KY

CarMax (Finalist)
Louisville, KY

Large Business:
SurePoint Lending (Winner)
Louisville, KY

Sam Swope Auto Group (Finalist)
Louisville, KY

Non-Profit (with revenue under $1,000,000):

Interfaith Community Council, New Albany, IN (Winner)

Non-Profit (with revenue over $1,000,000):

Volunteers of America, Louisville, KY (Winner)

Day Spring (Finalist)
Louisville, KY

There is no better way to strengthen trust in business and free enterprise than by shining light on businesses and organizations that are doing well and doing right. The businesses and non-profit organizations were honored at the BBB Torch Awards luncheon November 3, 2010.

BBB November Hot Topics

11/4/2010

Posted on 11/4/2010 by

BBB Hot Topics – November 2010

1. Better Business Bureau email scam - An email from Better.Business.Bureau@gala.net that says, “MAKE MONEY BY SIMPLY DRIVING YOUR CAR,” is not from the BBB. The email claims BBB will pay you $200 a week to rent advertising space on your car if you pay $400 up front, then you are asked for personal information including address, phone number, and bank account numbers. If you receive this email, don’t click on any links or open attachments, and never give out your personal information.

2. BBB warns consumers to be wary of a McDonald’s email scam. An entity calling itself “McDonald’s” is sending fraudulent emails promising consumers $80 if they fill out a customer service satisfaction survey. Once consumers fill out the survey, they are directed to a web site that requests personal information, such as date of birth, social security number, and credit card information. McDonald’s Corp. does not endorse this program.

3. A local consumer contacted the BBB saying she received a postcard from ID Shield 360, an identity theft protection and prevention company, invoicing her for services that she had not ordered. She also received a bill from American Patriot Savings, a company sharing the same address as ID Shield 360, also charging her for services she had not ordered. This company has a “C-” rating with the BBB.

4. The BBB has received complaints against Vacations & Resorts, a company based in Georgia. Consumers claim the company expresses interest in purchasing their timeshare properties, asks for an upfront fee, and doesn’t deliver on promises once the money has been paid. The company has an “F” rating with the BBB for failing to respond to numerous complaints.

5. The United States Postal Service is warning consumers to be wary of scammers calling about sweepstakes winnings, often from trusted charities like Make-A-Wish Foundation. Scammers ask victims to pay taxes or insurance on the winnings in advance. USPS discovered the victims were selected by collecting returned sweepstakes mailers with shaky handwriting; possibly indicating that the potential victim was elderly.

6. ATM skimming is a growing problem and the BBB recommends consumers take steps to protect themselves from becoming victims. When entering your PIN, cover the keypad with your other hand to prevent any cameras from catching your digits. False keypads placed over the real keypad are also a way scammers get PIN numbers so if the keypad looks different, move on. Avoid using ATMs in poorly lit or low traffic areas. Keep an eye on your statements and report fraud immediately.

7. ‘Tis the season for online holiday scams - BBB warns consumers to be wary of purchasing the “must have” toys or gadgets on sites like Craigslist where sellers might take the money and run. Never wire money and always conduct the transaction in person. Be careful of email phishing scams that may come through holiday e-cards by avoiding clicking on links or opening attachments from unfamiliar email addresses.

8. BBB offers these tips on holiday shopping: Set a budget and keep it; compare prices; always check a store’s return or exchange policy before you buy; if shopping online or through a catalog, allow for plenty of time for delivery; keep all receipts; and be mindful of your personal belongings. Don’t carry so many items that you lose track of your purse or wallet. For more tips on holiday shopping, check out www.louisville.bbb.org.

9. How you give is just as important as what you give this holiday season. BBB recommends giving items like canned goods, coats, or toys. Give when you shop by donating to charities that have partnered with businesses for a promotion during the holiday season. Give online by using your credit or debit card to donate directly to the charity. Give your time to help support a worthy cause. Always review charity evaluations with the BBB before giving at www.louisville.bbb.org/charity.

10. The BBB warns consumers to carefully evaluate advertising for winterizing services and energy-saving products. Be wary of devices, gadgets, and energy-saving products that promise drastic reductions in home heating costs or extreme energy savings. Check with the BBB before hiring contractors offering furnaces, windows, roofing, or other heat-saving home improvement projects.

BBB October Hot Topics

10/4/2010

Posted on 10/4/2010 by

BBB Hot Topics
October 2010

Businesses Beware! The Internal Revenue Service issued an alert to warn businesses and consumers about an IRS e-mail scam using the name of the government’s Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) in an attempt to infect a user’s computer with malware. The e-mail claims a tax payment made through EFTPS was rejected and directs the recipient to a different web site for more information. The IRS advises those receiving this message to forward the message to the IRS at phishing@irs.gov.

Louisville is one of the top cities most infected by bedbugs in the U.S. The epidemic has brought scammers out of the woodwork. BBB suggests seeking referrals, to get three or four written estimates, including a pest management plan that says exactly what they will do, what products they will use, how frequently, and the cost and the kind of warranty. Eradication may require several treatments. Before any treatment is applied, the technician should produce evidence of infestation.

Kentucky Lottery Scam: A local consumer received a call from a scammer pretending to be with the KY Lottery, informing them they have won the lottery. The caller is then asked to send $325 in order to claim the prize money. The BBB warns consumers to always check thoroughly before sending money upfront to anyone claiming to be awarding a monetary prize that seems too-good-to-be-true.

BBB has received reports of an increase in Unclaimed Property Scams. Scammers email consumers offering to help find unclaimed money or property. One scam asks consumers to call a 1-809 number to begin the search. The consumer is asked to send money for “more information” or pay a fee to view a “database.” The company does not guarantee the name contained in the list is actually the consumer. BBB suggests www.kytreasury.com/Unclaimed+Property+Search.htm tosearch for unclaimed money

The BBB warns consumers to be wary of Mystery Shopper scams. Some scammers are using the BBB database to impersonate legitimate mystery shopping companies to con consumers into depositing checks into their personal bank accounts, withdrawing the funds and wiring the money through Western Union. Always check www.bbb.org to be sure the contact information you are asked to use matches a legitimate business in good standing with the BBB.

On Oct. 27, companies selling debt relief services via telephone may no longer charge a fee before settling or reducing a customer’s credit card debt. Three other Telemarketing Sales Rule provisions, that just took effect require debt relief companies to make specific disclosures to consumers, prohibit misrepresentations, and extend the Telemarketing Sales Rule to cover calls consumers make to these firms in response to debt relief advertising. For more info, visit www.ftc.gov.

LinkedIn can be a successful tool for employees and employers. However, the BBB advises against opening email messages for contact requests before logging into your LinkedIn account. Some requests are accompanied by a link that navigates the user away from the site to a page that says “PLEASE WAITING.” The user is taken to Google, but during transfer, the user’s computer gets infected with malware, which can steal passwords. BBB recommends logging into your LinkedIn account to view your Inbox.

The BBB says buyers should beware when purchasing collector’s coins from National Collector’s Mint. The BBB has received reports that the sales representatives use harassing sales techniques, the coins arrive damaged or not at all, and refunds are difficult to obtain. This company has an “F” rating with the BBB on a scale of A to F for not responding to complaints or providing basic information.

The BBB suggests caution to anyone considering buying the iRenew bracelet, advertised on TV across the U.S. The bracelet is distributed by Harvest Trading Group of Norwell, Mass., which has a “D” rating with the BBB on a scale of A to F. Many consumers say they felt the bracelets were useless, the TV commercials misleading, the cost of shipping and handling was exorbitant and obtaining a refund proved to be extremely difficult. Check a company’s Reliability Report with the BBB by going to www.bbb.org.

Don’t get spooked by Halloween boutiques! Many of these shops and online stores are seasonal. BBB recommends the following tips to avoid being haunted long after Halloween is over: Ask the company for its physical address and phone number so you can check its reliability with the BBB at www.bbb.org; Make sure you understand the company’s refund and return policy before you buy; Know the price and shipping charges before ordering; Only provide credit card information in a secure environment.

BBB Warns: Scammers Targeting Job Hunters

9/21/2010

Posted on 9/21/2010 by

With the unemployment rate still hovering around 10 percent, the Better Business Bureau warns job hunters to beware of scammers preying on the unemployed.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, unemployment claims unexpectedly jumped to 500,000 in mid-August, an increase of 12,000 over the previous week. According to a July report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 45 percent of unemployed Americans have been out of work for more than 6 months.

BBB warns job hunters to beware of these red flags:

Red Flag: The employer offers a work-at-home opportunity. While many legitimate businesses do allow employees to work from home, scammers take advantage of this by targeting senior citizens, stay-at-home moms, students, and injured or disabled people wishing to work from home. Job hunters should use caution when considering a work-at-home offer and always research the company with their BBB at www.bbb.org.

Red Flag: The employer asks for money upfront.
Employers rarely ask an applicant to pay upfront fees or make a required purchase to get a job. BBB often hears from job hunters who paid a bogus employer for “required” background checks or training for jobs that didn’t exist. Always research the job thoroughly before reaching for your wallet.

Red Flag: 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 with no experience necessary in order to lure unsuspecting job hunters into a scam.

Red Flag: Employer e-mails are filled with poor grammar and spelling errors. Online fraud is often perpetrated by scammers located outside the U.S. E-mails will often contain poor grammar and misspellings of common words.

Red Flag: The employer asks for personal information such as Social Security or bank account numbers. Legitimate employers do not ask for personal or financial information via e-mail. Regardless of the reason given, a job applicant should never give out his or her Social Security or bank account numbers over the phone or in an email.

Red Flag: The employer asks you to check your credit report. After posting resumes online or responding to online job listings, many job hunters may receive an e-mail from an interested employer. In order to be considered for the job, the applicant is asked to check his or her credit report through a recommended web site. The e-mail is an attempt to get the job hunter to divulge sensitive financial information or sign-up for credit monitoring services.

Red Flag: The job requires you to wire money through Western Union or MoneyGram or receive and forward suspicious goods. Scammers ask the prospective employee to cash a check sent by the company through the mail and then wire a portion of the money to a person or business. The check is usually a fake and the employee is not reimbursed for the money. BBB also warns against receiving and mailing suspicious goods, such as electronics or luxury items, overseas.

For more tips, go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

Five Steps to Take When a Collector Comes Calling for a Debt You Don’t Owe

9/9/2010

Posted on 9/9/2010 by

If a debt collector is contacting you about a debt you know you don’t owe, explaining your case can be an uphill battle. Whether it’s a matter of mistaken identity, an honest error or identity theft, the Better Business Bureau recommends taking five steps to fight back against erroneous debt collectors.

According to a 2010 report, the FTC received 119,364 complaints about third-party and in-house debt collectors last year, up from 104,766 in 2008. While complaints can be about any number of issues, trying to collect on a debt the consumer doesn’t owe is common. In a recent example, the FTC reached a million-dollar settlement with Credit Bureau Collection Services over accusations that the collection agency violated federal law by inaccurately reporting credit information and pressing consumers to pay debts they often did not owe.

“It can be an exhausting process to set the record straight on a debt you don’t actually owe,” said Alison Southwick, BBB spokesperson. “Because debts are often sold and resold to many different collection agencies over time, you may have to make the same case every few years when the debt trades hands again.”

If you’re receiving calls for a debt you don’t owe, it could be a case of mistaken identity. Perhaps you share the same name, or even inherited an old phone number of the person who actually owes the debt.

You could also be the victim of zombie debt—it could be that you paid the original debt off but it wasn’t recorded as paid, or the statute of limitations on the debt has expired and the debt collector is trying to get you to pay for a debt you can no longer be taken to court over.

A final common cause of being hounded for a debt you don’t owe is fraud. It could be that you have become a victim of identity theft and someone is opening up new lines of credit or buying items using your good name. Additionally, the “debt collector” calling could actually be an identity thief who is trying to get you to divulge personal financial information such as Social Security, bank and credit card numbers.

If you’re being pursued for a debt you don’t think you owe, BBB recommends taking the following five steps:

1. Request written proof of the debt. By law, a debt collection agency must provide you with a validation notice within five days of contacting you about the debt. If you would like to get verification of the debt, send a written request to the debt collector within 30 days after you receive the validation notice. This written proof can help you determine if the callers are actually identity thieves, or if you really do owe the debt. Once you have the name and contact information for the agency, confirm they are a legitimate debt collector with your BBB at www.bbb.org. After you confirm that you don’t owe the debt, advise the debt collector you do not owe the debt and advise them to stop contacting you (see step 4).

2. Correct any errors. After confirming you do not owe the debt, you may want to correct any incorrect submission related to the debt captured on your credit report. Contact the company that has provided the information to the reporting bureau by writing a detailed letter and include copies of pertinent documents which back your case. The FTC provides additional information on how to report errors at www.ftc.gov.

3. Weed out fraud and errors. Check your credit report with the three major credit reporting bureaus, Experian, Equifax and Transunion every year by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com. If you’ve been the victim of fraud or identity theft, you may also be eligible to view your reports for free. By keeping a close eye on your credit reports, you’ll be able to more quickly identify fraudulent activity or mistakes and make corrections before the debt collector calls.

4. Tell them to stop contacting you. According to federal law, a debt collector cannot continue to contact you—at work or home—if you tell them to stop. After confirming you do not owe the debt in question, you may cease all contact from the debt collection company by sending a letter (via certified mail) to the debt collector advising them to cease contact. Keep a copy of the letter and the return receipt for verification purposes. Any further contact to you from the debt collector except to advise you there will be no further contact, or to inform you that the agency is filing legal action, is a violation of the FDCPA.

5. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. Familiarize yourself with the consumer protections provided under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Included are rules that debt collectors may not make false or deceptive claims and must investigate the validity of a dispute over a debt. If a debt collector violates the law, report them to the FTC—the federal government’s agency overseeing fair debt collection practices. You should also file a complaint with your BBB at www.bbb.org.

For more information on taking control of your debt and managing credit effectively, check out BBB’s Managing Credit – Made Simpler.

BBB September Hot Topics

9/3/2010

Posted on 9/3/2010 by

BBB Hot Topics
September 2010

1. The Grandparent Scam preys on the emotions of seniors who believe a grandchild is in trouble. A local grandparent lost $12,000 when scam artists contacted her, posing as her grandchild in distress seeking money for a supposed arrest in Haiti. If faced with such a call, indicating an emergency situation, BBB advises seniors to verify the identity of the individual, check-out the story with other family members, and be wary of any requests to wire money.

2. Mystery Shopper Scam – Survey Platinum is mailing letters to the local area that contain checks, usually in the amount of $3,500.00, in exchange for participation in a “Mystery Shopping Program.” The letter instructs consumers to cash the check and wire the money to an undisclosed location the consumer obtains by calling a “Training Coordinator” at the phone number provided in the letter. BBB warns that the check is not legitimate and should not be cashed.

3. Colton Financial, a company claiming to be located in Farmington Hills, Mich., informs consumers they are approved for a secured loan for $5,000.00 if they wire a down payment first. Consumers wire the money, never receive the loan, and then are unable to contact anyone with the company. The company has an “F” rating with the BBB for not responding to several complaints. BBB warns consumers to be wary of bogus loan brokers impersonating legitimate lenders.

4. Facebook phishing scams are designed to seize personal information and can lead to identity theft. Beware of the “dislike” button scam, the Free Gift Card scam, and the Fraudulent Status Update scam. Also, the Free Apple iPad scam links consumers to an external site operated by Better-Gifts.net that asks consumers to register for free trial offers. Consumers’ credit cards are charged if the limited-time offers aren’t cancelled on time. BBB recommends consumers avoid these Facebook offers.

5. Military dating scams are surfacing on Internet dating and social networking sites. Scammers pretending to be members of the military are building relationships with women then asking for money. Once the women send the money, they never hear from their Romeos again. BBB warns against sending money to someone you’ve met on a dating site.

6. Door-to-Door scams – BBB recommends exercising caution when hiring companies to do home repairs, driveway re-paving, etc. that solicit business door-to-door. Be wary of companies claiming to have “leftover materials” from a recent neighborhood job and offering services for advance payment. Always research the company first with the BBB at www.bbb.org.

7. Homeowners should use care when choosing a roofing contractor. BBB has received several complaints against American Shingle & Siding Inc. across the South and Mid Atlantic regions. The company often solicits door-to-door and requires homeowners to sign a contract with payment due upfront. Consumers complain that after payment, work is often poorly executed, not completed on-time, or never completed. BBB tips: Get at least three bids, beware of low estimates, and avoid high pressure sales tactics.

8. National Magazine Exchange, a company that appears to go by at least 13 other names, calls consumers to solicit magazine sales and asks for credit card and bank account information. Invitations are also mailed to consumers inviting them to enter the Million Dollar “Strike It Rich” Sweepstakes, a promotion aimed at boosting subscription sales. The company has an “F” rating with the BBB for not responding to several complaints.

9. Beware of Vishing and SMIShing scams! High-tech scammers pose as financial institutions using voicemail and text messages to inform consumers their credit card or bank information has been compromised and their accounts have been drained or closed. Consumers are given a phone number to call for more information. Once they call the number, they’re asked to dial in their credit card number, social security number, PIN or bank account number. BBB warns against giving out financial and personal information via phone.

10. Scholarship scams – Parents and college students should be wary of private scholarship scams offering “a scholarship guaranteed or your money back.” Legitimate scholarship foundations don’t charge application fees or ask for credit card or bank account information in order to “hold” a scholarship. Research the foundation or financial institution with the BBB at www.bbb.org.

Buying a Franchise? Don't Fall for a Business Opportunity Scam

9/2/2010

Posted on 9/2/2010 by Charlie Mattingly
The Better Business Bureau received an inquiry yesterday about a franchise opportunity based in Western Kentucky and being sold to potential business owners across America. As with any business or franchise opportunity, a person interested in the franchise should carefully research the company before investing.

When jobs are hard to find, people often consider creating their own job. In a "pure capitalism sense," this is one of the good things that happens during a time of high unemployment. Perhaps it's based on an old saying, that "necessity is the mother of invention." That can be a wonderful thing.

But going into business for yourself is filled with risk. Most new businesses fail. Purchasing a business franchise can increase a person's chances of success, but brings other risks. The key is very careful research to insure that you are choosing the right franchise opportunity.

Too often, people interested in starting their own business or earning extra income become victims of a "business opportunity scam." Such scams are often operated by fly-by-night franchisors who sell opportunities that sound good ("under $10,000 to start your own business;" "we provide you with leads;" etc.). But once these franchise sellers have your money, the promises they made go unfulfilled.

Anyone considering a franchise as a way to start a business could do no better than start at the Federal Trade Commission website. Two publications available on the FTC's website, www.ftc.gov, offer excellent information and advice:

Franchise and Business Opportunities provides basic information.
Buying a Franchise: A Consumer Guide provides an in-depth review of the Franchise Rule and the information that must be included in a disclosure document that a franchisor is required to provide to potential investors.

The Better Business Bureau especially encourages anyone considering a significant investment in a franchise or business opportunity to, as the FTC recommends, "visit current owners in person" (emphasis added). Spend time seeing the business in operation. This will assure that you don't become a victim of a common tactic used by business opportunity scammers, which is to hire "shills" to serve as references for the business. These shills can falsely claim to be happy owners of the business opportunity that is being marketed and make it sound like a wonderful opportunity, when in reality they are only helping an unscrupulous seller who wants your money.

BBB Offers KY State Fair Tips

8/20/2010

Posted on 8/20/2010 by

Check out the Better Business Bureau at the 2010 KY State Fair! The BBB booth is located in Main Street KY in the South Wing of the KY Fair & Exposition Center.

As hundreds of thousands of people enjoy the fair over the next two weeks, the BBB wants to remind consumers to be cautious when dealing with some indoor exhibitors. New products on display meant to make life easier could be enticing to purchase, but consumers need to ask questions about the product, and the company selling it. BBB suggests asking the following questions:

How long has the company been in business?
Does the exhibitor have a telephone number and address where they can be reached should the product be defective?
Is there a warranty or guarantee covering the product?
How long is the product covered?
If the product is defective, can the consumer get their money back or do they have to trade the damaged product for a new one?

Guarantees may give consumers a false sense of security, as a guarantee is often only as good as the company that stands behind the guarantee.

Before consumers buy, they should check the product itself. Consumers need to make certain the materials and construction are up to the actual product's reputation. Also check the packaging. Does the item inside of the packaging resemble what’s on the outside? The printing on the packaging or the actual construction for counterfeit products is often of poor quality and is a telltale sign the product contained is counterfeit. And remember, if the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Offers to win a free trip may also be on display at the fair, along with credit card companies trying to lure customers to sign up for free gifts and prizes. While the prize may be free, by giving the promoter your name, phone number and address, consumers could receive unwanted credit cards in the mail as well as unwanted phone calls from telemarketers to their home. Consumers need to be aware when they sign up to win a prize, and giving the promoter a phone number and address, they’re establishing a business relationship with the company promoting the prize. The business may then contact you regardless of no call list registration due to that relationship.

If you’d like more tips for consumers at the Kentucky State Fair, call Reanna Smith-Hamblin at the Better Business Bureau at 502-588-0043.

The Association for Firefighters & Paramedics, Inc.: Lots of Money for Fundraisers, Not So Much for Fire Victims

8/19/2010

Posted on 8/19/2010 by
The story sounds almost unbelievable: 10 to 15 calls daily. 150 calls in three months. All these calls despite the fact that the consumer asked repeatedly to be taken off the organization's call list and has advised the BBB that she is on the Do Not Call list.

An Elizabethtown consumer who contacted the BBB last week says the calls stopped only after a $25 pledge to the Association for Firefighters & Paramedics, Inc., when the solicitor said, "NOW he would take us off the call list." As the consumer wrote, "This compares to robbery without a gun, bordering on extortion."

The Association for Firefighters & Paramedics, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, eligible to solicit tax-deductible charitable contributions. The organization's pledge form states that it was "formed to be able to provide assistance to the victims of catastrophic fires on a national level...comprised primarily of children and seniors..." This sounds like wonderful work.

But when choosing a charity to support, BBB urges you to learn more about the organization than what might be stated in its solicitation materials.

The Association for Firefighters & Paramedics currently has a fundraising drive registered with the Kentucky Attorney General, using a paid professional solicitor which does business as Community Support, Inc. The registration forms filed with the Attorney General project that 10% of the funds raised will go to the charity. This means that 90% will be kept by the solicitor, a for-profit company.

Not surprisingly, the Association for Firefighters & Paramedics has not responded to written requests from the BBB Wise Giving Alliance for information that would enable the BBB to evaluate the organization in relation to BBB Standards for Charitable Accountability. Undoubtedly, the organization does not currently meet BBB standards and is unlikely to come into compliance with these standards.

The most recent IRS Form 990 publicly available for the Association for Firefighters & Paramedics, Inc. reports on the organization's finances in 2008. According to this form, the California-based organization received contributions of $2,597,589 in 2008. The amount spent on program services was $82,085, just slightly more than 3% of the contributed amount. The organization spent $2,189,869 in payments to ten different professional fundraising companies, including Community Support, Inc.

Although Community Support, Inc. is the professional fundraising company for which the Association for Firefighters & Paramedics has registered a Kentucky solicitation campaign, the pledge form sent to the Elizabethtown consumer states that, "AFP has retained Public Safety, Inc, a paid solicitor, to ensure the success of this campaign."

The pledge form lists the address of the organization as, "Association for Firefighters & Paramedics, Inc., 974 Breckinridge Lane PMB 227, Louisville, KY 40207-4639." The Breckinridge Lane address is the location of a UPS Store, which means that this is a "postal mail box" (a mail drop) rather than a physical location for the organization.

By the way, the Federal Trade Commission says that although a charity itself is not covered by the Do Not Call list law, a professional fundraising company that solicits under contract with a charity is covered by this law. So it appears that either Community Services, Inc. or Public Safety, Inc., whichever was making calls to the Elizabethtown consumer, may have been in violation of the Do Not Call list regulations if the consumer's phone number is on this list, as she believes it to be.

BBB Scam: “Mailbox has exceeded storage limit”

8/16/2010

Posted on 8/16/2010 by

The Better Business Bureau is warning email users to be cautious when reading their emails, after an employee at the BBB received a suspicious message.

The message states that the email user’s “mailbox has exceeded the storage limit.” The message the BBB received came from a Brandon W Snyder, with an email address bws3671@esu.edu. Here is a copy of the email received:

“Your mailbox has exceeded the storage limit which is 20GB as set by your administrator, you are currently running on 20.9GB, you may not be able to send or receive new mail until you re-validate your mailbox. To re-validate your mailbox please CLICK HERE: http://ow.ly/2mzCS
Thanks
System Administrator”

This is actually an old scam that is making its rounds again. Scam artists use a technique called e-mail spoofing, where the scammer forges a header so the message appears to have originated from someone or somewhere else than the actual source. In many cases the emails are sent via a university email account, ending in .edu, by hacking into the system and taking over student’s email addresses. In this case, it appears to be an email out of East Stroudsburg University in PA, but scam artists have used universities all over the U.S. including, University of Hawaii, and University of Minnesota.

While most spoofed e-mails are merely an annoyance and can simply be deleted, others with the more malicious intent can cause a serious security risk. For example, when a spoofed e-mail suggests being from someone in a position of authority, asking for sensitive data, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal information it can be easier to fall victim to the hoax.

The BBB offers these tips when reading emails:

Be extremely wary of messages from friends or strangers that direct the user to another website via a hyperlink.

Users should always make sure their computer's operating system and antivirus and firewall software are up to date. In some web browsers, you can download security applications that will help to find and warn users about dangerous web links.

If you question the validity of the email, personally call the site administrator to confirm the content. Also ask co-workers and friends if they received the same email.

For more information on this scam or other online phishing techniques contact the Better Business Bureau at 1-800-388-0022 or go to www.bbb.org.

BBB Tips: Back-to-School Basics

8/9/2010

Posted on 8/9/2010 by

The summer is winding down, and soon students will be headed back to school! Chances are, you still have some major “back-to-school shopping” to do. Whether your child is headed to high school or college, the Better Business Bureau has some Back-to-School basics.

When shopping for anything from new attire to electronic items, BBB has these tips to help you be a savvy back-to-school shopper:

5. Carefully check out businesses and deals before signing anything, before paying any money up front, and before releasing any personal or financial information (this includes your Social Security number, mother’s maiden name, credit card, banking account number and other personal data).

If your child is in the market for a computer, BBB recommends doing your research:

· Decide what your child’s needs will be;

· What is the computer going to be used for? Word processing, graphic/web design, gaming?

· Determine what type of hardware and software that will be required;

· Find out what you have to do if the computer breaks down;

· Check out the warranty on the computer;

· Call your school or university and ask what other students in the class use;

· Compare prices, and check out the companies with the BBB at www.bbb.org;

If you are thinking about allowing your college-bound student to sign up for a credit card, do your homework.

· Shop around for the plan that best fits your student’s needs. There are often special offers for students;

· Compare terms and fees before you agree to open a credit card for your student.

· Find out the interest rate on the card, are they introductory

rates, and if so, how long do they apply?

· Are there annual fees?

· Check into the transaction fees and any other charges that could be incurred.

For more consumer information, go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

You Too Can Donate Like a Billionaire

8/6/2010

Posted on 8/6/2010 by

Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance recommends donors research charities fully before they give—just like billionaires do

Forty billionaires have pledged to donate a substantial portion of their wealth to charity with the hope of inspiring others to donate to worthy causes as well. While the dollar amount you donate might be less, the BBB encourages everyone to give like a billionaire by researching any charity fully before making a donation.

Evaluating the effectiveness of a charity is more than just looking at the fundraising and administrative costs. Transparency, impact, and accountability are also important factors that everyone should consider before they give. The BBB Wise Giving Alliance recommends the following five steps to give like a billionaire:

Take Your Time. Check the organization out with the BBB Wise Giving Alliance at www.give.org and the local charity registration office (usually a division of the state attorney general's office). Don’t be pressured to give before you do your research.
Consider more than just the charity’s finances. Impressive financial ratios are not a guarantee that a charity is being run ethically and effectively. Review the BBB’s Standards for Charity Accountability at www.give.org to identify fundamental features of an accountable organization.
Don't be fooled by names. Names may look impressive or may closely resemble the name of a well-known organization. Sometimes name similarity is used as a ruse to confuse the potential donor.
Look for clarity. Watch out for appeals that focus solely on a problem but don’t clearly explain what the charity intends to do about it. The charity’s intended program activities should be spelled out.
Review the charity’s plans. If you want to consider donating to a newly established charity, take the time to review the charity’s program plans including its board approved budget. Make sure that it has the capacity to be able to follow through on its intended objectives.

For more advice on giving, contact the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance at www.give.org or call your local BBB at 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Hot Topics - August 2010

8/4/2010

Posted on 8/4/2010 by

BBB Hot Topics
August 2010

1. Local consumers are receiving calls from scammers who are targeting diabetic Medicare beneficiaries. Callers claim to be from Medicare or what sounds like “Med-care.” The callers seem legitimate because they have personal information on the beneficiary. The callers ask if the beneficiary has “the red, white, and blue card,” and ask for the Medicare number. NEVER release personal information to unknown callers!

2. Beware of a lottery scam, using the BBB name. Consumers in the area are receiving phone calls informing them they have won a BBB Lottery worth $2 million dollars. The scammers are asking the “winners” for personal information to claim their winnings. The BBB reminds you to never give out personal information over the phone.

3. Survey Platinum is sending letters and checks to residents in the area, offering a chance to participate in a mystery shopping program. Consumers are instructed to cash the $3500 check and wire the bulk of the money to an undisclosed location. The check is fake. This is a SCAM!

4. Another phishing email using the BBB name has resurfaced. The fake email states that the company did not respond to a complaint, and links the reader to a page to review the complaint, where the reader is susceptible to a virus. The email has an address of “seatac.” Contact the BBB if you receive one of these emails.

5. Pacific Publications is an online company that offers a “genuine” employment opportunity, in which consumers can make money from home by stuffing and mailing envelopes. The company claims they will pay $5 for every envelope an employee stuffs and mails. Consumers who have purchased the program report never receiving anything from the company.

6. Several deceptive marketers were banned from selling mortgage relief services under settlements with the FTC, which alleged the marketers charged homeowners up-front fees and falsely claimed they could get their mortgage loans modified to prevent foreclosure. Some of the companies that settled include: Federal Loan Modification Law Center, Loss Mitigation Services, Inc., Synergy Financial Management Corp., and Hope Now Modifications LLC.

7. Colton Financial has an “F” rating with the BBB. The BBB has received numerous complaints against this business regarding advance fee loans, requiring prepayment via Western Union. Consumers who wire the money are never able to contact the company after it is wired. Never pay ahead of time for the promise of a loan.

8. Free Airline Tickets? Not Really! Congratulations letters are going out, informing consumers they “qualify for an award of 2 (free) round-trip airline tickets.” The letters, sent by a company called Nicholson Barns, ask the consumer to call a toll-free number. Consumers who call reach a travel awards division, which sets appointments for consumers to attend high pressure sales presentations to purchase Outrigger Vacation Club memberships.

9. “Free Laptops” aren’t so free! FreeUSLaptop.com advertises on radio stations across the country, offering a free laptop. Consumers say, when they visit the website, they are asked to complete a survey and sign up to participate in trial offers with their “sponsors.” This offer really IS NOT free. Consumers have to try products which initially cost money. Consumers also complain they never receive their laptop.

10. Back to School! Whether your child is going to high school or college, you’ll want to shop smart! When shopping, ask about the store’s return and refund policies; If you are purchasing a cell phone, get all details of the phone plan before signing a contract; Read the fine print when signing your child up for a credit card; and. do your research before buying a computer, what is the price, what does it include? For more shopping tips, go to www.bbb.org.

You Are Your Own Advisor When Choosing a Financial Planner

7/29/2010

Posted on 7/29/2010 by Charlie Mattingly

A Wall Street Journal reporter contacted the Better Business Bureau this week, researching a story about the "alphabet soup" of certifications in the financial planning industry. There are literally dozens of credentials that may be claimed by advisors in this industry. Most certifications are legitimate, but these certifications vary greatly in how difficult they are to obtain and maintain. Some are totally bogus, involving little more than a payment.

Most financial advisors are legitimate and honest. But because a financial planner is "certified" or "chartered" (or BBB Accredited, for that matter) doesn't mean the planner will provide the impartial expert advice that you need to help manage your money. It's important for you to understand what the certification means and what expertise and training it requires.

There are other important questions to ask and things you need to know to help you avoid choosing someone who might be a small-time (or "big time") Bernie Madoff.

Know how the financial planner is compensated. Many offer "free advice," which means they are paid through sales commissions. Others require a fee paid by the investor. Keep in mind that there is "no free lunch." The consultant who invites you to a free lunch or dinner, or doesn't charge you a fee for service, is usually being paid by a company whose product the advisor is selling.

You must be your own financial advisor -- especially when it comes to choosing a financial advisor. Do research and choose carefully. To avoid scams:

Be cautious about choosing an advisor who wants to be your friend. A great personality doesn't mean that a person will be a bad financial advisor, but neither does it make that person a good investment advisor. Sometimes the most unscrupulous financial advisors are the ones who work hardest at becoming your friend.
Exercise healthy skepticism, especially if an advisor promises high returns with low risk. Higher returns always involve higher risks. Anyone telling you otherwise wants to sell you "a bill of goods" that will be less than promised.
Check out any advisor you are considering with four regulatory agencies, to verify proper licensing and to look for past disciplinary action involving the advisor:

www.finra.org-- the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority
www.sec.gov-- the Securities and Exchange Commission
Your state's securities commissioner:

Kentucky: kfi.ky.gov, the Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions
Indiana: www.in.gov/sos/securities/, the Indiana Securities Division

Your state's insurance commissioner:

Kentucky: insurance.ky.gov, the Kentucky Department of Insurance
Indiana: www.in.gov/idoi/, the Indiana Department of Insurance

Finally, the U. S. Securities and Exchange Commission has established a new website, www.investor.gov, with links to an abundance of information and tools to help you manage your money carefully and avoid many to the traps that exist in the marktetplace.

BBB Alert: Beware of Amazon.com Fraudulent E-mail

7/16/2010

Posted on 7/16/2010 by

BBB is warning online shoppers about a fraudulent e-mail that appears to be from Amazon.com. Scam artists are sending out the e-mails that state “thanks for your order.” The e-mail has an order number on it, a total price, and a link to click on to check out your order.

A BBB employee received the e-mail this morning. The employee has never shopped on Amazon, so she became suspicious and called the company. A customer relations manager told her that he had received 5 calls on it already, and that Amazon is investigating the fraudulent e-mail. The manager did not know what would happen if you clicked on the link. The link could be a virus or it could be a phishing attempt (to steal your personal information).

Amazon is asking anyone who receives a fraudulent e-mail like this to forward the e-mail to stop-spoofing@amazon.com.

Below are some key points from Amazon.com to help identify e-mails that appear to be from Amazon, but are not:

1. Know what Amazon.com won't ask for - Amazon.com will never ask you for the following information in an e-mail:

Your social security number or tax identification number
Your credit card number, PIN number, or credit card security code
Your mother's maiden name
Your Amazon.com password

2. Requests to verify or confirm your account information - Amazon.com will not ask you to verify or confirm your Amazon.com account information by clicking on a link from an e-mail.

3. Attachments on suspicious e-mails - Amazon.com does not send order confirmations or other unsolicited requests that require you to open attachments.

4. Grammatical or typographical errors - Be on the lookout for poor grammar or typographical errors.

5. Check the Web site address - Genuine Amazon.com web sites are always hosted on the "amazon.com" domain--"http://www.amazon.com/. . . " (or "https://www.amazon.com/. . ."). Sometimes the link included in spoofed e-mails looks like a genuine Amazon.com address. You can check where it actually points to by hovering your mouse over the link--the actual Web site where it points to will be shown in the status bar at the bottom of your browser window or as a pop-up. Amazon never uses a web address such as "http://security-amazon.com/. . ." or an IP address (string of numbers) followed by directories such as "http://123.456.789.123/amazon.com/. . . ."

6. Protect your account information - If you did click through from a spoofed or suspicious e-mail and you entered your Amazon.com account information you should immediately update your Amazon.com password. You can do this through Your Account by choosing the option to "Change your name, e-mail address, or password" found under Account Settings. Even if someone has been able to look at your account, they are still not able to see your full credit card information. However, orders can be sent from your account using your credit card. Contact Amazon immediately if you notice any orders that you do not recognize.

If you submitted your credit card number to the site linked to from the forged e-mail message, you should contact your credit card company. You should also delete the credit card from your Amazon.com account to prevent anyone from improperly regaining access to your account.

BBB ALWAYS recommends, if an e-mail looks suspicious, go directly to the Web site, or call the company directly. When in doubt, do not click on a link in an e-mail.

For more consumer tips, go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

Merchandise Discount Center: Is This A Good Deal, Or What?

7/15/2010

Posted on 7/15/2010 by

The Merchandise Discount Center offer says: For $23, you could get a "Panasonic 50" Plasma TV or a check of equal value." Well, not quite!

The Merchandise Discount Center is located at 10330 Central Ave, Montclair, CA 91763. This is the address of a business named Fast Mail Box Plus, suggesting that Merchandise Discount Center is using a "mail drop" rather than have a phisical business location. CLICK HERE to see a picture of the business from Google Map's "Street View."

“Use an ‘X’ for you two favorite items below” is a great come-on...but nothing more. The postcard doesn’t promise that you’ll get your “favorite items.” Undoubtedly, you won't, unless your “favorite items” are the “Hematite Bracelet with ‘Pearl’ Accents” (‘Pearl’ in quotes obviously means imitation pearl, not real pearl) and the “Museum Collection Pendant 275-MCP) Layered in 18K Gold.” (Layered real thin, undoubtedly.) Or maybe you will receive the “Genuine fresh water pearl necklace,” depending on how cheap those fresh water pearls can be found. Since you are promised two items, you can expect two of those three items.

But what are your chances of getting the “Panasonic 50” Plasma TV or a check of equal value” or a “Dell Inspirion 15, Laptop Computer” or a “Blackberry 8830 World Edition Smartphone” or “$2100.00 in Cash”? The chances are very slim, in any. Probably ZILCH...NONE...ZERO!

These Scammers Pose As An Out-Of-Business Louisville Used Car Dealer

7/1/2010

Posted on 7/1/2010 by

Super Auto Sales was located at 815 E. Broadway, Louisville, KY. The dealer went out of business about two year ago. The company is out of business...except on the Internet. If you are shopping online, you'll find an attractive website, www.superautosalesus.com, claiming to be an auto dealer located at 815 E. Broadway, Louisville, KY. If you visit Google Maps Street View, you'll find a picture of Super Auto Sales that must be a couple of years old.

Problem is, this website is entirely a scam. It's a scam that the Better Business Bureau has found to be operating across the US, often using the stolen name of legitimate, operating used car dealerships, and registering a bogus website with a similar name that appears to be selling repossessed cars at too-good-to-be-true prices.

Better Business Bureau is warning car shoppers to beware of websites offering 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.

“These scammers are very sophisticated," said Charlie Mattingly, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Louisville, Southern Indiana and Western Kentucky. "They are stealing the identity and good name of reputable businesses, as well as posting pictures, VIN numbers and links to CarFax reports for real cars. The websites also claim third-party credentials that can be deceiving to consumers, such as 'Verified by MerchantCircle' and several other credentialing organizations."

In another recent case, 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 websites claim to sell repossessed cars at prices well below market. Buyers are instructed to wire a deposit—as much as $5,000—to an individual rather than the company, which, according to the phony websites, “helps us avoid taxes legally.” The balance is to be paid upon delivery at the consumer’s address within five days.

In some cases, after paying the deposit victims have called the real dealership to arrange delivery of their car. Some customers have 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.

Nominate a Business or Non-Profit You Trust for the BBB Torch Awards

6/24/2010

Posted on 6/24/2010 by

It’s time to nominate a business or non-profit organization for the Better Business Bureau Torch Awards! Each year the BBB relies on the public to help recognize and celebrate businesses and non-profit organizations that have gone above and beyond in their commitment to ethics and customer service excellence. Companies and non-profit organizations are nominated by individuals and recognized at the annual BBB Torch Awards event.

The BBB is encouraging everybody to take a few minutes to nominate one of the many amazing businesses or non-profit organizations, in the area, for a 2010 Torch Award.

Whether it is your hairdresser, your local coffee shop, a retailer, contractor, dentist, insurance broker, academic institution, non-profit organization, or other professional service, the BBB wants all that are honest, reliable and trustworthy to be recognized for their efforts. All businesses, no matter the industry and regardless of whether they are an Accredited Business are eligible to be nominated and to win a Torch Award if they do business and are located in the Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western Kentucky region. They must be in good standing with the BBB.

This year’s Torch Awards luncheon will be held November 3, 2010 at the Olmsted in Louisville, KY. Kent Taylor, CEO/ Founder, Texas Roadhouse will be the Keynote Speaker, and Barry Bernson, Anchor, FOX 41 News in Louisville will be the emcee for the event.

For sponsorship or ticket information, contact Reanna Smith-Hamblin, VP/Communications, BBB serving Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western KY at 502-588-0043 or rsmith-hamblin@louisville.bbb.org.

The deadline for nominations is September 1, 2010. And should include the following information: The name/contact information of the person nominating, the company/non-profit that is being nominated, it’s address and phone number. Or, you can find the nomination form online at http://louisville.bbb.org/special-events/Torch-Awards/. You can email, fax, call, or mail the information to:

Reanna Smith-Hamblin

Better Business Bureau

844 South 4^th Street

Louisville, KY 40203.

Phone: 502-588-0043

Fax: 502-588-0080

Email: rsmith-hamblin@louisville.bbb.org

Seeking Financial Advice? A Free Lunch or Dinner Could Be Costly.

6/24/2010

Posted on 6/24/2010 by Charlie Mattingly
Many investment advisors and estate planning services generate business by inviting prospective customers to a free lunch or dinner, coupled with a presentation on the company's services. Anyone who is retired or approaching retirement age can expect to receive such lunch and dinner invitations. Most invitations are sent by legitimate businesses that offer legitimate products and services.

However, the Securities and Exchange Commission recently obtained an emergency restraining order against an Illinois corporation named USA Retirement Management Services. The SEC alleges that the owners of this company used the "free dinner" route to operate a Ponzi Scheme that raised at least $20 million from more than 120 investors in Illinois and California. The company invited potential investors to a free estate planning seminar and dinner. The seminar offered general estate planning advice. Those who attended the seminar subsequently received a letter inviting them to the company's offices for a "personal consultation" where they would be offered advice on setting up a Living Trust or Will."

According to the SEC, once investors arrived at the "personal consultation" and shared their personal financial information with the company, investors were offered what were represented as "safe, guaranteed investments in 'Turkish Eurobonds' through the purchase of USARMS promissory notes that would earn annual returns of between 8 and 11 percent." The SEC alleges that the owners of USA Retirement Management Services misused investor funds to purchase luxury automobiles, homes and vacations.

The Better Business Bureau is unaware of any investment advisor or estate planning service in this area that is using lunch or dinner invitations to lure investors into a Ponzi Scheme. Most businesses offering free lunch and dinner seminars are legitimate businesses that offer legitimate financial and estate planning advice.

Anyone attending one of these seminars should exercise caution and be alert to "red flags" that may warrant even greater caution:

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.

E-mail Hijackers Try To Steal From Your Friends

6/17/2010

Posted on 6/17/2010 by Charlie Mattingly

The Better Business Bureau has heard of almost every scam. The scam described below has gone on for years, using almost identical messages and money amounts. Similar to the famous "grandparent scam," where the scammer wants a would-be victim to think their help is urgently needed by a grandchild, this scam seeks to convince recipients of an e-mail message that they have a friend or family member who needs their immediate help.

This case is more personal than the many scams that are reported each day to the BBB. In this case, I have a very good friend who uses a Yahoo.com e-mail address as his primary e-mail. A few days ago I received a message, appearing to be from my friend. The message said:

From: (Friend's Name Removed)
Sent: Thursday, June 10, 2010 12:12 PM
Subject: SAD NEWS!!!

Hello,
This message may be coming to you as a surprise but I need your help. Few days back I made an unannounced vacation trip to London,UK. Everything was going fine until last night when I got mugged on my way back to the hotel.They Stole all my cash, credit cards and cellphone but thank God I still have my life and passport. Another shocking is that the hotel manager has been unhelpful to me for reasons I don't know. I'm writing you from a local library cybercafe..I reported to the police and after writing down some statements that's the last I had from them.I contacted the consulate and all I keep hearing is they will get back to me. I need your help ...I need you to help me out with a loan to settle my bills here so I can get back home tomorrow. I'll refund the money as soon as I get back. All I need is $2400..Let me know if you can get me the money then I tell you how to get it to me.Thanks.
(Name Removed)

First, I called my friend. Not to my surprise, he was at home in Louisville. All was well. When I described the e-mail that I received, he was surprised and concerned. Over the next few hours, he heard from scores of friends who received the same bogus e-mail. In fact, everyone in his e-mail contact list and everyone with whom he had traded e-mail in the past appears to have received the same message.

When the friend attempted to go to his Yahoo e-mail account, he found that he could not. The password on the account had been changed. At this point, he and I knew that the account was being used by the e-mail hijackers as if it was their own account.

My friend immediately went about contacting the Yahoo e-mail security team to alert the company to the breach of his e-mail account. Meanwhile, I decided to conduct a test, by responding to the e-mail that I had received.

Replying to what appeared to my friend's e-mail, I wrote:

From: Charlie Mattingly
Subject: RE: SAD NEWS!!!
To: (My friend's e-mail address)
Date: Thursday, June 10, 2010, 12:22 PM

I would like to help. Call me at 502-583-1099 to let you know how I can help.

Charlie Mattingly

A reply came promptly, again appearing to come from my friend. It said:

From: (My friend, with his real e-mail address)
Sent: Thursday, June 10, 2010 12:31 PM
To: Charlie Mattingly, Better Business Bureau.
Subject: URGENT!!!

Oh, thank you so much,...it's so devastating at the moment. l wish l could call but l don't have access to phone at the moment. I have nothing left on me and i'm grateful to God that i still have my life and my passport because it would have been worst if they made away with my passport and right now i need your financial help so that i can get myself out of this mess.

Still lacking instructions on how to help my friend, I e-mailed back:

From: Charlie Mattingly
Subject: RE: URGENT!!!
To: (Friends Name and E-mail address removed)
Date: Thursday, June 10, 2010, 12:42 PM

How can I get financial help to you?

Charlie Mattingly

A reply with the "needed information" came quickly:

From: (Friend's name and e-mail removed)
Sent: Thursday, June 10, 2010 12:52 PM
To: Charlie Mattingly, Better Business Bureau.
Subject: INFO NEEDED!!!

Am very happy that you replied back,well all i need now is just $2400, you can have it wired to my name via Western Union i'll have to show my passport as ID to pick it up here and i promise to pay you back as soon as we get back home. Here's my info below.

Name - (Friend's Name Removed)
Location - 547 Great Marlborough Street, London W1F 7HS, United Kingdom

As soon as it has been done, kindly get back to me with the confirmation number, let me know if you are heading to the WU outlet now??....i owe you a lot

Having no intention of "heading to Western Union," I nonetheless replied:

From: Charlie Mattingly
Subject: RE: INFO NEEDED!!!
To: (Friend's name and e-mail removed)
Date: Thursday, June 10, 2010, 1:02 PM

It will take me some time to round up the money. Please be patient. But I should be able to help by later today.

Charlie Mattingly

The scammers first replied with a simple "thank you, I understand" and "let me know when you are ready to wire the money." But only minutes later, they became impatient. I received this message:

From: (Friend's name and e-mail removed)
Sent: Thursday, June 10, 2010 1:55 PM
To: Charlie Mattingly, Better Business Bureau.
Subject: RE: INFO NEEDED!!!

What's going...i have limited time here

These e-mail exchanges occurred within the space of less than two hours. The message above is the last I heard from the scammers/e-mail hijackers. Shortly after this last message, I expect Yahoo's e-mail security team had reset the account password, locking the hijackers out of my friend's e-mail account and returning the account to its rightful owner. As the scammer(s) surmised, "i have limited time here."

This story ends happily. To the best of our knowledge, no one on my friend's contact list fell for the scam. And thanks to prompt action by Yahoo, it wasn't long before the scammers lost use of my friend's e-mail account.

What can we learn from this case? At least three things:

Never wire money unless you know the person to whom you are wiring the money and have very high trust in this person.
Even if you think you are wiring money to a friend, be careful. Verify that the friend will in fact recieve the money you are wiring. Unless you can talk to your friend by phone and have complete confidence that the person is actually your friend, don't wire the money.
Scams such as this one continue because it only takes one person in a hundred, or even one in several hundred, to fall for the scam in order for the scammers to have succeeded.

Gulf Oil Spill Recovery: BBB Tips for Donors and Volunteers

6/11/2010

Posted on 6/11/2010 by

In the wake of any disaster, many reach for their checkbooks and donate money to organizations. But, with any disaster are a slew of scams. In the wake of the oil spill, the BBB Wise Giving Alliance cautions consumers to beware that scammers will use e-mails, websites, door-to-door collections, flyers, mailings, and telephone calls to make contact and solicit money. Some will claim they are raising money for environmental causes or they may offer fraudulent services like remediation services related to the oil spill. BBB Wise Giving Alliance recommends 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 web sites, as the authors might not have fully researched the organizations they list. The public can go to www.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. More information and charity evaluations are available at www.bbb.org/charity.

BBB Hot Topics June 2010

6/9/2010

Posted on 6/9/2010 by

1. Beware of a group selling bogus health insurance without proper authorization in KY. The Group uses multiple names, including American Trade Association, Smart Data Solutions, and First American. Victims were paying for what they believed was health insurance, but it was actually a health discount or limited benefit plan. Before purchasing insurance, be sure the company is authorized to do business in the State.

2. BBB is getting reports that representatives of Nitro Green Cleaner are going door-to-door using an aggressive selling technique. The company’s phone number matches Iredia Marketing/Dynamic Wonder Cleaner, which has an "F" rating with BBB. Always check a company’s BBB Reliability Report before making a purchase.

3. BBB is warning Craigslist users to be cautious of scams when selling or buying items on the Website. Make sure you deal with local buyers, never use Western Union, do not disclose any financial information, and avoid using third parties. Other red flags include lots of misspellings and grammar errors in responces, offers of immedaite purchase, and use of DHL, Fed Ex, and other shipping that is not regualted by the US Postal Service.

4. Be careful of free lunch investment seminars that target senior citizens with time and retirement accounts, and those willing to take a gamble. Attendees should watch for large, up-front investments, promises of high returns for low risk, the use of high pressure sales tactics, and the reliance of off-shore investments. At the end of the day if "it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is."

5. Oil and Gas Scams are on the rise! The FBI is advising all investors to be wary and do their homework before rushing into any investment. Many scams target out of state investors because it is unlikely for the investor to visit the site. Be sure to check with the state commisions office, along with the Securities and Exchange Commission to make sure the offering is registered.

6. Manyscam artists use popular auction sites like eBay to find buyers to rip off. Buyers need to be cautious of sellers who ask that they bypass the auction site and deal directly with them. There has been a significant increase of fraud claims from consumers who thought they were buying a veichle from eBay, but were actauly dealing with a third party. Consumers should be aware that eBay specifically prohibits its sellers from requesting paymet through instant cash transfer services, and it does not offer purchase protection services.

7. Beware of an IRS e-mail scam. The scam aims to fool consumers into believing that they’ve gotten an e-mail message from the Internal Revenue Service reguarding a "notice of Underreported Income." The e-mail directs the reader to a link, which might make the user and his computer system susceptible to malicious websites that will ask for personal information. The IRS will not contact taxpayers via e-mail. All corresponce is through postal mail.

8. Job seekers who are looking to the internet to find employment should be cautious of employment scams. Scam artists find your resume online, on sites like CareerBuilder, then they send personal invitations via e-mail to offer employement. They often ask for personal information, putting you at great risk for identity theft. Often scammers will pretend to be an employer and ask for your personal information to deliver their pay via "direct deposit."

9. Door-to-Door sales are always popular during the summer months. While some salesmen are reliable, hard workers, there are many scams out there to take your money. Magazine sales, alarm systems, meat sales, and offers of physical labor on your home are among the most reported fraud claims made. Be sure to ask for the company’s brochure or information, take your time making a decision, and never pay with cash. Also, check out the company with the BBB.

10. There is no inside scoop on Federal Postal Jobs. All federal government positions are publicly announced and federal agencies never charge application fees or guarantee that an applicant will be hired. Avoid websites or classified ads that promise, for a fee, to give you the inside scoop on how to get a Federal or Postal Service job.

Shopping For A Car Online May Lead To A Scammer

6/3/2010

Posted on 6/3/2010 by Charlie Mattingly

I received a call yesterday from a Louisville consumer who was shopping for a car on AutoTrader.com, a legitimate website that advertises automobiles being sold by dealers and private sellers. Two cars appeared to be what he was looking for, both at excellent prices. The sellers had posted pictures and VIN numbers for the cars. The prospective buyer got a CarFax report on each car, which appeared to match-up with what the sellers were saying about the cars. So far, so good.

Both sellers (one a man, the other a woman) said they were selling the car because they were in the military and preparing to deploy to Afghanistan. Both stated in an e-mail to the buyer, in exactly the same words, that they were selling because they "don't want the car to get old in my backyard." Two messages using these exact same words prompted the buyer to call to the Better Business Bureau.

Not surprisingly, the BBB staff quickly recognized this as a scam, similar to numerous car-selling and car-buying scams that use legitimate websites such as AutoTrader, Craigslist and online newspaper classified ads.

Car seller scams such as this one usually involve a price that sounds cheap -- often too cheap. But there is always a reason why the seller is offering such a good deal. In this case, the sellers said they were leaving for Afghanistan and needed to sell the cars quickly and just "didn't want the car to get old in my backyard." BBB has seen other cases where the seller claimed to be selling due to a divorce, or the car belonged to a recently-deceased mother or father, or the seller had lost a job and needs money quickly.

The car being offered for sale is real, the VIN number is real. Problem is, the seller doesn't own the car and has snatched the pictures and VIN number from the Internet, usually from a dealer website or another car ad placed by a legitimate seller.

The seller usually claims that the buyer will be protected by using a third-party escrow service to pay for the car. Supposedly, the money will be held by the escrow service for several days after you receive the car, and you'll have 5 days or so to decide whether to keep the car or return it and get their money back. The seller will ask you to wire funds to the escrow service, promising to deliver the car once money arrives in the escrow account.

Problem is, the escrow service isn't real, even if the seller gives you a name that sounds legitimate. If money is wired to the "escrow service," the seller will quickly take the money and run. Your money will be gone. You'll have no car and no way to contact the "seller."

Don't be fooled by a low price or "money back guarantee." Some people are willing to buy a car sight unseen, but if you've only communicated online and by e-mail with the seller, you have no idea where the person is actually located. These scammers are almost always outside the United States, making it hard for law enforcement to track them.

When shopping for a car, you are always better-protected when you deal with a known seller, such as a licensed car dealer. Whether you buy from a dealer or a private seller, it's safer to buy when you can talk directly to the seller, see and test drive the car, and have it checked out by an independent mechanic. It's a good idea to get a CarFax report and check out the car's Blue Book value. Be cautious if the car's selling price is way below or way above this Blue Book value.

Check Your Credit Report Regularly

5/20/2010

Posted on 5/20/2010 by Charlie Mattingly
Federal law requires that consumers be able to obtain one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit reporting companies -- Experian, TransUnion and Equifax. The only truly free website for obtaining these free credit reports is www.annualcreditreport.com. Consumers can also call 877-322-8228.

Keep an eye on your credit report by getting one of the three free annual credit reports every four months. This will help you be sure that your credit report is error free. And in the event someone else has stolen your identity or Social Security number, checking your credit report regularly will help you catch such fraud more quickly.

CLICK HERE for more informaiton about staying on top of your credit report.

BBB Hot Topics - May 2010

5/18/2010

Posted on 5/18/2010 by

BBB Hot Topics - May 2010

1. Flood Repairs - Property owners in need of repairs after the recent floods should carefully check out companies before hiring them. A home repair rip-off artist may overcharge, perform shoddy work, or skip town without finishing your job. BBB Tips: Deal with licensed and insured contractors only, take your time signing a contract, resist hiring a contractor who asks you to pay for the entire job up front, and check with the BBB to see if complaints have been filed against the contractor.

2. Scam Calls – BBB wants to remind consumers NOT to share personal information, including social security, checking account, or credit card numbers over the phone with someone you do not know. BBB is receiving many reports from consumers who say they have been contacted by someone they don’t know who is asking for their information, for several purposes including lowering interest rates on credit cards, healthcare, gift cards, and more.

3. If you received a letter from Our Lady of Peace notifying you of an "unfortunate incident where a flash drive containing personal information went missing," the letter is legitimate. Personal information could have been compromised. The organization recommends contacting at least one of the credit reporting bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit report.

4. This month, Census takers start knocking on doors of households that did not return their census forms through the mail. BBB warns, beware of census scammers who may ask for your social security number, credit card, or bank account information. Legitimate census workers will carry official government badges marked with just their name, they may also have a "U.S. Census Bureau" bag, and will provide you with supervisor contact information and/or the local census office phone number for verification.

5. Oil Spill Fraud - Beware of scams surrounding the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. The scams could involve individuals who claim to be raising money for environmental causes. Solicitations can come from emails, websites, and door-to-door. The FBI has a fraud tip line for information from the public on suspected fraud associated with the oil spill. Call (866) 720-5721. Emails can be sent to disaster@leo.gov.

6. It looks like a government notice, but a yellow postcard stamped "2010 Senior Income Tax Update" is apparently a marketing ploy used by Texas company, Acc-U-Lead, that collects the information and sells it to other businesses looking for leads to sell insurance annuities. The company has an "F" rating with BBB for not responding to several complaints. Be wary of giving anyone your personal information through the mail, email or over the phone.

7. Beware of healthcare-related scams! Complaints continue to rise against fake coverage" and medical discount plans. There are also scams surrounding the new healthcare reform bill. Consumers should confirm the company is licensed with the state insurance commissioner, read all fine print, recognize the difference between insurance and discount medical cards, and always research the company with the BBB at www.bbb.org.

8. U.S. Fidelis, which also operates as National Auto Warranty Services, is being sued by the Pennsylvania Attorney General for allegedly using "deceptive, misleading or false information" when selling car owners warranties across the country. The company filed for bankruptcy protection in March and reportedly stopped selling car warranties last year. The company is also accused of disregarding the "Do Not Call" law. The company has an "F" rating with the BBB.

9. Help4Troops is a work-at-home shipping scam that claims to help American troops overseas. Shippers are told to accumulate a number of small packages at their home then consolidate them into a larger box to ship. Help4Troops promises each volunteer a salary of $20 per package shipped, and requests personal banking information in order to deliver these payments via check, wire, or money transfer. BBB has confirmed Help4Troops is not located at its listed address in Spring Green, Wisconsin.

10. Summer Camp – BBB recommends parents to do their homework on summer camps for their kids before they submit applications. Be sure to visit the site, ask about the staff’s training and experience, and find out how the camp will handle medical emergencies. Parents should also find out the total fees and payment deadlines, and ask for references.

BBB Tip-Offs to Potential Rip-Offs

5/18/2010

Posted on 5/18/2010 by

Whether you’re planning a small repair project, like repaving your driveway, or a more extensive project, like adding a family room to your home, it pays to look beyond the lowest bid when selecting a contractor.

Right from the start, you can eliminate what are likely to be less-than-reputable contractors by considering a list of traits common to rip-off artists. The BBB has found the following to be indications that a contractor may not be interested in satisfying customers:

Solicits door-to-door: Be suspicious of contractors who attempt to gain business by visiting door-to-door. "Cold calls" can sometimes mean that the contractor is not from a local, established business but is instead just passing through and trying to make a quick buck.
Has materials left over from a previous job: It is not your lucky day when a contractor shows up on your doorstep offering a cut-rate price on a project because they have materials left over from a recent job at your neighbor’s house or the house “down the street.” This is a common ploy of fly-by-night operators or handymen who are based out-of-state and use their pick-up trucks as their place of business.
Asks you to get the required building permits: This could be a sign that the contractor is hoping to avoid contact with the local agency that issues such permits. Perhaps he is not licensed or registered, as required by your state or locality. A competent contractor will get all the necessary permits before starting work on your project.
Does not list a business phone number in the local directory: This can be a red flag indicating that the contractor does not have an established business presence in-state. Or, that he perhaps relies on a home answering machine to “screen” customer calls.
Pressures you for an immediate decision: A reputable professional will recognize that you need time to consider many factors when deciding which contractor to hire. You will want to check references; look into the contractor’s standard of work and his professional designations and affiliations; verify his insurance; check to see if he needs a license (and if so, that it is valid); get written estimates from several firms based on identical project specifications, and, contact the Better Business Bureau and local consumer protection agency to see if they have information.
Asks you to pay for the entire job up-front or demands only cash: Whatever the reason, never pay for the entire project upfront. Payments should be by credit card of check so that your credit card statement or cancelled check can provide proof of payment, if needed. Do not pay anything until after the first day of work, and then pay up to one-third. Make additional payments during the project contingent upon completion of a defined amount of work. Do not make the final payment or sign an affidavit of final release until you are satisfied with the work and have proof that the subcontractors and suppliers have been paid.
Suggests you borrow from a particular lender: Do not agree to financing through your contractor or someone he suggests. Many people have been ripped off when they agreed to use the suggested lender; sign a lot of papers in a rush; and find out later that they had agreed to a home equity loan with a very high rate, points and fees. Secure financing on your own by shopping around and comparing loan terms.

For more consumer tips, go to www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

BBB Warns: Insurance Scams are Up in Current Economy

5/18/2010

Posted on 5/18/2010 by

In the midst of a tight economy and in the wake of the new national healthcare reform bill, State and Federal regulators are warning about a surge in healthcare-related scams. Better Business Bureau advises consumers to do their research before signing up for insurance coverage because their personal and financial health is on the line.

According to an October 2009 survey conducted by the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud, 57 percent of state fraud bureaus reported a higher incidence of health insurance fraud in 2009 compared to the previous year. The increase was largely attributed to “unauthorized entities selling fake coverage” and “the rise of medical discount plans.”

Companies such as HealthcareOne/Elite Healthcare, Consolidated Workers Association, and Smart Data Solutions/American Trade Association have all recently come under fire from state regulators for peddling worthless coverage or discount medical plans—instead of actual insurance—to thousands of consumers.

Additionally, the new healthcare reform bill quickly sparked new scams; shortly after it was signed into law, the US Department of Health and Human Services issued a warning to consumers to beware of health insurance offers claiming to be part of new federal regulations. For example in Missouri, the state Insurance Director warned that a door-to-door salesman was claiming to be a federal agent selling insurance under the new law.

BBB recommends taking the following steps when shopping for health insurance coverage to avoid getting ripped off:

Research the company with BBB. Always check out the insurer’s BBB Reliability Report online at bbb.org. Reliability reports are available for free and will tell you how many complaints the business has received, whether there has been any government actions brought against the business, as well as BBB’s overall rating.

Confirm the company is licensed with the state insurance commissioner. Each state has a department devoted to regulating insurance companies. Make sure the insurer is licensed to operate in your state.

Read the fine print carefully. Make sure all verbal commitments are in the fine print. Don’t just take the company’s word for it. Also confirm with your pharmacist and doctor that they accept the plan you’re considering.

Recognize the difference between insurance and discount medical cards. Some consumers purchased what they thought was health insurance but was actually a discount medical card which could only be used to get reduced rates at limited doctor’s offices and pharmacies. Make sure you’re purchasing insurance coverage and not just a discount medical card.

Beware of copy cats. Some phony insurers will go by a name that is similar to a trusted company. Confirm that you’re really dealing with the right company that has a good reputation.

For more advice on finding healthcare companies and services you can trust, visit http://www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-health/ or call 1-800-388-2222.

Census Workers Knocking on Doors Nationwide

5/18/2010

Posted on 5/18/2010 by

The next phase of the 2010 Census began this month with roughly 700,000 Census takers knocking on the doors of households that did not return their census form through the mail. BBB encourages anyone who didn’t return their form in the mail to prepare for a visit from a Census taker by learning what to expect and how to identify scammers.

The goal of the Census is to count every man, woman, and child in the country. It is a massive undertaking and unfortunately scammers are taking advantage of the situation by sending out bogus Census forms or knocking on doors and asking for sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers.

Census takers will visit households that didn’t respond by mail up to three times for a response, each time leaving a door hanger featuring a phone number for residents to call to schedule a visit. It costs the Federal Government, and ultimately the taxpayer, $57 for every visit a Census taker has to make to a household. BBB encourages everyone to work with the Census and respond promptly.

BBB answers the following frequently asked questions about receiving a visit from a census taker:

How can I identify a census taker?

First ask to see their ID. All census workers carry official government badges marked with just their name; they may also have a "U.S. Census Bureau" bag. If asked, he or she will provide supervisor contact information and/or the Local Census Office phone number for verification. The Census Bureau has also created a video on how to identify a census taker.

What kinds of questions will they ask?

The Census taker will ask the following questions:

1. The number of people living in the residence
2. Any additional people that might be living there as of April 1, 2010
3. Whether the residence is owned or rented
4. Telephone number (in case the Census Bureau has follow-up questions)
5. Name
6. Sex
7. Age and date of birth
8. Whether of Hispanic origin
9. Race
10. Whether that person sometimes lives somewhere else

Why might a census taker visit me if I mailed my form back?

Even if you mailed your form back, you might still get a visit—or a phone call—from a census taker. Reasons include if they are spot-checking for accuracy, have questions about your response or if you mailed your form in late.

Do I have to respond?

Yes. Your participation in the 2010 Census is vital and required by law. Not only do you have to respond, it’s in your community’s best interest that you take part. By responding, you’ll help your community get its share of more than $400 billion per year in federal funds to help increase job training, improve schools and more.

How safe are my answers?

All census responses are confidential; they are protected by law and not shared with anyone—including other government agencies like Immigration and Naturalization Services. All census takers have passed an FBI background check, taken an oath of nondisclosure and are sworn for life to protect the confidentiality of the data. The penalty for unlawful disclosure is a fine of up to $250,000, imprisonment of up to five years or both.

Will the census taker ask any questions other than what was on the mail-in form?

At any point in time, the Census Bureau is conducting a number of surveys in order to better understand the complexities of our nation. Therefore, you may be asked to respond to a survey that is not related to the 2010 Census. The topics include healthcare, employment and the demographics of your household. Before responding to a survey that claims to be with the Census Bureau, do your research on the Census Bureau’s Web site (“Are you in a survey?”) at www.census.gov/survey_participants/.

For more information on the 2010 Census visit 2010census.gov and advice from BBB on how to avoid scams at http://www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-scams/

Avoid Petal Pushers this Mother's Day

5/5/2010

Posted on 5/5/2010 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 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 Tips on Storm and Flood Damage

5/3/2010

Posted on 5/3/2010 by

BBB Tips on Storm and Flood Damage

BBB is urging property owners in need of repairs and clean-up to carefully check out companies before hiring them after heavy rain made its mark on the area this weekend. BBB warns, be aware of those who may take advantage of your situation: The home repair rip-off artist, who may overcharge, perform shoddy work, or skip town without finishing your job. BBB suggests homeowners call or go to the BBB’s website, www.bbb.org, to check out contractors before hiring them.

BBB offers the following tips for homeowners looking for repairs:

Deal only with licensed and insured contractors. Verify the track record of any professional you are thinking of hiring. Ask for a list of recent customers and call them.
Get recommendations from friends, relatives, neighbors, co-workers, insurance agents or claims adjusters. Also check with the local Better Business Bureau to see if complaints have been lodged against the professional you're considering.
Take your time signing a contract. Get a written estimate that includes any oral promises the contractor made. But remember to ask if there's a charge for an estimate before allowing anyone into your home. Ask for explanations for price variations, and don't automatically choose the lowest bidder. Get a copy of the final, signed contract before the job begins.
Resist dealing with any contractor who asks you to pay for the entire job up-front. A deposit of one-third of the total price is standard procedure. Pay only by check or credit card - and pay the final amount only after the work is completed to your satisfaction. Don't pay cash.
Be skeptical of contractors who encourage you to spend a lot of money on temporary repairs. Make sure there's enough money for permanent repairs.

Unfortunately, many home owners will find that their regular homeowner’s insurance won’t cover water that comes from outside the home. That may require additional coverage. Now is a good time to review your home insurance policy and make any adjustments, if they are needed.

For more tips, go to the Better Business Bureau website at www.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

Avoid Moving Scams This Summer

5/3/2010

Posted on 5/3/2010 by

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.

Unfortunately, every year, BBB receives extremely serious complaints from consumers who have fallen prey to dishonest and sometimes unlicensed moving companies. BBB received more than 8,400 complaints against movers in 2009. Complaints to BBB about movers are primarily about damaged or lost goods and final prices in excess of original estimates. In a common worst-case scenario, the moving company will essentially hold the customer’s belongings hostage and require potentially thousands of dollars to unload the truck.

Following a few simple rules when looking for a mover will go a long way toward protecting you from being victimized by scammers this summer, advises Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA).

“Virtually anyone with a truck and a Web site can claim to be a mover and they can’t all be trusted to 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 save a lot of heartache by doing just a little homework to track down the companies that put customer service and integrity first. For interstate moves, that means an AMSA certified ProMover.”

“Checking a mover’s credentials is critical and easy. Just last year, consumers relied on BBB more than 1 million times for finding a trustworthy mover,” says Reanna Smith-Hamblin, VP/Communications of the BBB serving Louisville, Southern Indiana, and Western Kentucky. “When deciding who to hire, check the company out with the BBB first.”

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 Motor Carrier Safety Administration and are assigned a motor carrier number you can verify at www.protectyourmove.gov. Also check the company’s rating with your BBB; BBB maintains more than 17,000 reliability reports on movers across North America. Having at least a satisfactory BBB rating is one of seven screenings that 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 In-Home Estimates. No legitimate mover will offer to give you a firm estimate on-line 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 both the state you currently reside in and where you are moving to. Also enlist the help of BBB or local law enforcement if the moving company fails to live up to its promises or decides to hold your belongings hostage.

More tips and information on how to choose a mover and plan your move are available at AMSA's consumer Web site, www.moving.org; and the U.S. Department of Transportation's site, www.protectyourmove.gov. To research a mover or find your nearest Better Business Bureau, visit www.bbb.org.

Seeking a Mortgage Foreclosure Consultant? It's a "Buyer Beware" Market!

4/22/2010

Posted on 4/22/2010 by Charlie Mattingly

The Better Business Bureau received an inquiry this week from a Louisville, KY consumer who wants information about a home loan modification consultant (or mortgage foreclosure consultant). Here is what the consumer wrote in an e-mail to the Better Business Bureau:

"This outfit was suggested to me by my lender. I called the number and a representative met with me with some information papers and items I needed to apply. Really did not seem legitimate. There was no official letterhead and no one named who was responsible for the program. Just would like to have more information."

The BBB is gathering information on the specific company inquired about. Meanwhile, we can offer general advice that should be helpful.

While the Better Business Bureau would generally consider it a positive sign that this consultant was "suggested to me by my lender," the remainder of the message raises several "red flags." The consumer is wise to be cautious.

The U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development website, www.hud.gov, may be the best place to start for homeowners seeking a loan modification or wanting help from a mortgage foreclosure consultant. This website, under the buttons for "Foreclosure Assistance" or "Talk to a Housing Counselor," can put you in touch with a list of HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agencies. This list of trustworthy agencies and organizations -- including organizations such as the Louisville Urban League, the Housing Partnership, Inc., the Legal Aid Society, the Kentucky Housing Corporation and numerous others -- will provide the information and advice you need.

The mortgage foreclosure/loan modification consultant the consumer inquired about is not on this HUD Approved list. This doesn't mean that the company or organization is not legitimate, but the consumer is at high risk of encountering a scammer or predator who is more interested in profiting from the misfortune of homeowners in financial difficulty than in helping these homeowners find the best path forward.

The Better Business Bureau encourages consumers to watch for these "red flags" when dealing with a mortgage foreclosure or loan modification consultant:

The consultant requests payment before doing any work
The consultant tells you to stop communicating with your lender
The consultant wants you to sign a wage assignment, a lien on property, or a security agreement to secure payment of compensation to the consultant
The consultant contacts you first, rather than you contacting the consultant.
The fee sounds too high for the work to be done.

The Federal Trade Commission warns that a "foreclosure prevention specialist" may be "a phony counselor who charges high fees in exchange for making a few phone calls or completing some paperwork that a homeowner could easily do for himself. None of the actions results in saving the home. This scam gives homeowners a false sense of hope, delays them from seeking qualified help, and exposes their personal financial information to a fraudster."

If you are facing foreclosure or are behind on mortgage payments, you can find helpful information and advice using the links below:

Fake News Is Big Business for Scammers

4/15/2010

Posted on 4/15/2010 by Charlie Mattingly

Kelly Richards has in intriguing story that undoubtely tempts many people into falling for a scam. (Bruce Gadansky, BBB/Louiville Vice President/Operations, recently sent an e-mail about Kelly to the BBB system, noting that she has been found to live in various cities; his message alerted me to Kelly’s existence).

You can visit http://onlinenews6.com/FINANCE/Local-Report/?t202id=51602&t202kw to read Kelly's story for yourself.

Kelly makes $6,397 per month by working 10-15 hours a week from home. Really? And the wonderful thing about this “onlinenews6.com news story” is that Kelly lives in your hometown. Wherever you are, that’s where she lives. To test this theory, BBB managers Linda Chambers in Bowling Green and Cathy Williamson, who lives near Glendale, KY, used their computers to take a look at the Kelly Richards story. The attached file, “Where Does Kelly Richards Live.pdf,” shows the results. Not surprisingly, Kelly Richards lives in their hometowns, too.

How do these scammers place Kelly in your hometown, you may wonder? The scammers’ server uses the IP address of your computer, which is broadcast to any website you visit, to identify the geographical location of the IP address. Bingo, that’s where Kelly Richards lives and works.

Until I looked into the Kelly Richards story, I had no idea how big “fake news” has become as a tactic for promoting a multitude of scams, especially work-at-home offers and Acai Berry wonder cures for weight loss or anything else that might be a problem in your life. In researching the Kelly Richards story, I found that there are dozens of websites similar to “onlinenews6.com.” (By the way, you can’t go to that privately-registered website directly; you must have the routing within the site, as in the URL above, to access the site).

The other thing I’ve learned is that, while Kelly lives where you live, there are many other success stories similar to hers, involving men and women with numerous names. Their stories are being told on a multitude of “fake news” websites similar to “onlinenews6.com.” Maybe these people are Kelly Richards’ sisters and brothers – some of them look like her. Many of these “fake news” websites and the stories they tell are listed on the attached blog listing.

These websites apparently feel that they can avoid prosecution for their deceptive behavior by having an “honest” disclosure at the bottom of the page. The disclosure is somewhat “buried,” presumably to make it unlikely that people will read it. In the case of the onlinenews6.com story about Kelly Richards, the fine-print, grayed-out disclosure includes wonderfully creative wording and excellent usage of a double negative: “Thus, this blog, and any page on this website, are not to be taken literally or as a non-fiction story.” In other words, this story is fiction.

I thought that I’d heard and seen everything when it comes to scams. Little did I know, until now, how big “fake news” has become as a way of promoting scams.

BBB Warns Businesses About New Phishing Attack

4/13/2010

Posted on 4/13/2010 by

Better Business Bureau is warning business to beware of a new malicious e-mail that pretends to be from BBB about a complaint filed against the company.

Several businesses in the Louisville area, and across the US – including law firms, advertising agencies and architecture firms – have reported receiving a suspicious e-mail from the address seatac@bbb.org with the subject line “BBB Complaint Case #” followed by a nine-digit number. BBB Accredited and non-Accredited businesses have been targeted.

The body of the e-mail claims that the company did not respond to a complaint filed by a Jason Harlow (however other names may be used) and includes a link to a page at www.ca-bbb.org where the business can supposedly review the complaint.

Because the message is fraudulent, BBB advises any business that receives this e-mail to take the following steps:

1. Do not click on any links or reply to the message, Forward the message to phishing@council.bbb.org,
2. Completely delete the message from your inbox.
3. Run a full virus scan on your computer if you did click on any links.

If you receive an e-mail from Better Business Bureau about a complaint filed against your business and need assistance in determining whether or not it is legitimate, contact your local BBB directly at www.louisville.bbb.org or call 1-800-388-2222.

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

To see a copy of the actual email click here.

BBB April Hot Topcs

4/7/2010

Posted on 4/7/2010 by
BBB April Hot Topics

Look out for Irish Travelers! These would-be construction workers, who take thousands of dollars from victims who pay them up front for painting, paving, roofing, or other small construction jobs are on the move. BBB recommends consumers not to deal with these types of solicitors, who often have out-of-town license plates and unmarked vehicles.

Insurance Scams – Scam artists are taking advantage of consumers’ confusion over the new government health care reform law. Scam artists are going door-to-door, telling consumers there’s a limited open enrollment period to buy health insurance now, and they are selling the consumer fake insurance. Other scam artists are setting up toll-free lines.

2010 Census - If you didn’t fill out your census form, you will soon be contacted by a census worker. BBB wants to remind consumers that census workers will never ask for donations, bank account, Social Security, or credit card numbers. The Census Bureau may contact you by mail or phone, but will never send an unsolicited email requesting personal information.

Trustnet Financial Company is sending letters to local consumers stating they’ve won a "Consumer Promotion Draw." The company, which claims to have a Louisville address, sends a check that the "lucky winner" is supposed to deposit, then wire part of the money back to the company for taxes in order to claim the prize. The "winner" never receives the prize and is out the "tax money."

iPad Scams – Scam artists are taking advantage of the popularity of the new iPad by sending out spam emails requesting product testers for the iPad. The victims are told they can keep the iPad at the end of the test. The scam artists are after personal information. Other iPad scams involve ads on social networking sites. BBB recommends consumers who want to buy an iPad shop through an authorized dealer or directly with Apple.

Facebook Scam – Facebook users are being targeted in another scam. An email, that appears to be from Facebook, says that the user’s FB password has been reset and the user should download an attachment that contains the new password. The attachment is actually a Trojan horse program, which infects a computer without any visible signs. It can steal passwords from your computer.

Exclusive Media Services – has an "F" rating with the BBB. Consumers say the company, which also does business as National Publishers, is claiming membership or affiliation with the BBB. They say the company is also using the names of Publishers Clearing House and other sweepstakes companies. The company is not affiliated with the BBB. Consumers say they receive calls from the company informing them they’ve won sweepstakes for cash prizes or items, but that they must purchase magazine subscriptions to win.

Internet Auto Sales Scam - Be careful when shopping online for a vehicle! Be sure you are buying from a company that you can trust. Consumers report a scam that is erupting, that is misusing company names like Spirit Motor Car, Kiki Motors, and Extreme Motorcars. The scam artist asks the buyer to send a deposit for the vehicle via Moneygram, usually for $2,000 - $3,000 and the car will be delivered in 5 days. The buyer is out the money and never receives the car.

Managing Credit - Made Simpler – BBB has partnered with Capital One to create a unique set of free resources to help consumers learn how to effectively manage credit. The program provides tailored advice for different types of credit cardholders - including young adults who are new to credit and consumers who may be looking to pay down high balances. For more information: www.bbb.org/credit-management/.

Air Passenger Rights – New rules go into effect later this month to protect air travelers. Among the new rules: Airlines will be required to acknowledge customer complaints within 30 days and address the issue within 60 days. Also, airlines can be penalized for any domestic flight that is more than 30 minutes late on at least half its trips each month for four months in a row. For more information on the new rules, go to www.regulations.gov.

BBB Warns: iPad Scammers Are Hard at Work!

4/5/2010

Posted on 4/5/2010 by

Apple's new iPad came out April 3rd, but scammers were already taking advantage of the popularity of the new product before that. Better Business Bureau warns eager shoppers to stay away from offers to become a “tester” or “researcher” just to get a free iPad.

Apple announced the iPad in January and U.S. customers were able to pre-order in March for the April release. Because Apple bumped the delivery date for later orders, rumors started circulating that the company did not have enough iPads to meet pre-order demand.

Tech Web site GeekSugar.com recently warned about spam e-mails requesting product testers for the iPad. The e-mail directs to the Web site Testitandkeepit.com which claims that they are looking for people to test the iPad for a couple months, as compensation you get to keep the iPad. The biggest red flag with this offer is that you have to provide your e-mail address and password in order to “tell your friends.”

Offers to become a tester on Facebook also cropped up but with a different intent. As software company Sophos explains in an online video, the Facebook page “iPad Researchers Wanted—Get an iPad Early and Keep It” was designed to trick people into signing up for a cell phone subscription service that cost $10 a month. Sophos alerted Facebook to the page—which had already racked up more than 3,500 fans—and it was taken down, but users should be on the lookout for similar offers.

Not all bogus offers come under the guise of becoming a tester, McAfee reported on their security blog that spam e-mails have landed in inboxes offering free iPads—the catch is that you have to buy items first and provide your credit card number.

If you’re planning to buy an iPad, BBB recommends shopping through an authorized retailer or directly with Apple. Eventually a secondary market for the iPad will spring up online on sites like Craigslist; if you plan on buying an iPad secondhand, purchase it from someone local and never wire money as payment.

For more advice on how to be a smart online shopper, visit http://www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-technology/.