Think about how you can be a smarter consumer. While schemes and scams take infinite forms, there are basic principles underlying all of them. Knowing the common danger signals and ways to defend yourself can save you time and money. Be alert for these red flags:
 

Look Out for:
• A deal that sounds much better than any being advertised by firms you know to be legitimate-offers that are "too good to be true".
• A promoter who is not based locally, provides no phone number and uses a P.O. box or mail drop, rather than a full street address.
• A promoter name and/or logo that closely mimics that of a respected brand or business.
• Pressure words, such as "urgent" or "final deadline", sprinkled throughout the sales literature.
• Pressure, threats or harassment, either in writing, during a phone call, in an email or in a personal contact.
• Immediate request or demand for a check, money order or cash to be picked up by a courier or to be sent to a mail drop or P.O. box.
• Vague answers or none at all to key questions you ask about the offer.
• Insistence that you finalize a deal orally or provide personal financial information (such as your social security number or credit card number), without a writing contract or other documentation in writing.
 

Better Business Bureau
Be your own best protector. Even with all the consumer protection agencies and laws on the books, you must protect yourself. The Better Business Bureau offers these tips:

• Take your time deciding; be firm in the face of pressure.
• Protect your privacy. Provide personal information only if you know who's collecting it, why and how it's being used.
• Read before you sign. Fully understand the contract and make sure it matches what the salesperson told you.
• Don't believe in just because you saw it on the Internet. Obtain the company's physical address and phone and check the company out with your Better Business Bureau.
• if asked to purchase goods sight unseen, compare the prices and warranties with those offered by local firms. Remember that you run a risk of getting inferior merchandise when you order products from unfamiliar business without being able to inspect the first.

For more information o hoe to protect yourself from scheme, scams and fraud contact your local Better Business Bureau or visit their web site at www.bbb.org.

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