Tips on how to avoid SCAMS

Thursday, 22 June 2006 00:00

Tips on how to avoid SCAMS 06/22/2006 It's sometimes hard to tell if a sales pitch is legitimate or fraudulent. You can't judge it by the tone of someone's voice, or how friendly or sincere the person seems. Good salespeople are convincing, and so are crooks. But it's probably a scam if: You get a call or postcard from someone telling you you've won a prize and asking for payment to buy something, for processing or administrative fees, for customs, for taxes, or any other reason. Legitimate sweepstakes or prize offers don't ask for payment because it's illegal. The person says you have to take the offer immediately or you'll miss the opportunity. Legitimate companies don't pressure people to act without time to look into the deal. The caller refuses to send you written information before you commit to anything. Legitimate companies are always glad to send information about what they're offering. The caller insists that you send your payment by a private courier or wire money. Legitimate companies don't try to keep people from checking the deal out and changing their minds, or try to evade the postal authorities, by demanding immediate payment by courier or wire. The caller asks for your social security number. Legitimate companies don't ask for that unless you are applying for credit and they need to check your credit report. The caller asks for your credit card number, bank account number, or other financial information when you aren't buying anything or paying with those accounts. Legitimate companies only ask for financial information to bill you or debit your account for purchases you've agreed to make. < Prev   Next >

Last Updated on Monday, 30 June 2008 08:56