Avoiding Fraud Both Online and Off

With more consumers at this time of the year, Black Friday and Cyber-Monday approaching, it is a perfect time to remind your adult teens as well as yourself about the high risks of fraud and scams that exist.

Warning Signs:

• If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
• People, sales reps, online pressure: Anyone or anything that pressures you to act "right away," stop and think.  Do your due diligence - it could save you money and grief at the end.
• Guarantees of success.  In life there are two main guarantees: Death and taxes.  After that - use caution.
• Requires an upfront investment, even if it is for a free nothing.  Run, and don't look back.  A perfect example is when an adult will approach a vulunerable teen and tell them they have the look of a model - but they need a portfolio.  Unless they are providing you the necessary means to get one (which could be nearly $1000.00 or more), don't believe it.  If an honest modeling agency wants you - they will pay to get your portfolio completed.
• Buyers want to overpay you for an item and have you send them the difference.
• Doesn't have the look or the feel of a real business.
• Something just doesn't seem or feel right.  Your gut is telling you to run.

Play it Safe:

• Never click on a link inside an email to visit a website.  Type the address into your brower instead.
• It's easy for a business to look legitimate online.  If you have doubts, verify the company with the Better Business Bureau.
• Only 2% of reported identity theft occurs through the mail. Report online fraud to the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov/complaint.
• Retain your receipts, statements, and packing slips.  Review them for accuracy.
• Shred confidential documents instead of simply discarding them in the trash.

The FTC, the nation's consumer protection agency, works hard to prevent fraud and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop and avoid it.  To file a complaint or get free information on consumer issues, visit ftc.gov or call toll-free 1-877-FTC-HELP.

Safety matters!

Read more.

Sue Scheff: How to file an FTC Complaint

Have you or your child (especially teens) ever been a victim of a scam? With the increased use of the Internet and websites that seem credible however can be questionable, today people of all ages are prone to stumble across some form of fraud or scam. If you do, it is imperative you share it with the Federal Trade Commission.

People can help stop scams, rip-offs and fraudsters by sharing their experience with the FTC. Be sure to watch the informative video below and find out how to file a complaint.

Each time we speak up, we are potentially protecting another person being attacked by a scam. You may be that person, you may be the one that didn't get scammed since someone else took the time to file a complaint and bring recognition to a scam.

If a business doesn't deliver on their promises, identity theft, you were offered a free service and see a charge on your bank account or credit card, report it to the FTC immediately. Help put a stop to shady business and less than ethical services.

The more you get involved, the safer everyone will be.

Watch the video and read more on Examiner.