Top 5 Scams and Rip-Offs
The list of scams victimizing people is long. Not surprisingly, they often target people suffering under tough economic circumstances. Here's a list of the top 5:
'Free' Trial Offers
Ads offering trial offers for teeth whiteners, acai anti-aging pills and other miracle supplements blanket the Internet. Thousands of people complained free trials cost them as much as hundreds of dollars.
Stimulus/Government Grant Scams
Scammers set up schemes misleading people into thinking they’d get part of the stimulus plan. Offers for worthless assistance on getting government grants bombarded people.
Job Hunter Scams
Scams targeting job hunters include attempts to gain access to personal information and requirements to pay fees to be considered for jobs. Others were told by bogus employers they had to check credit reports before being considered. These job offers were marketing ploys for online credit monitoring that cost victims every month until cancelled.
Google Work from Home Scams
Countless shady Web sites, featuring the Google or Twitter moniker and logo, claim you can learn how to make money from home using Google or Twitter and offer free trials of learning materials. Victims are lured into misleading free-trial offers and billed monthly for materials and other mystery charges, adding up to hundreds of dollars.
Mortgage Foreclosure Rescue/Debt Assistance
Scammers are offering people help to save homes from foreclosure or get out of debt. Unfortunately, victims are paying hundreds up-front for assistance they desperately need, but never receive.
People victimized by scams can contact your BBB at www.bbb.org or 937.222.5825 or 800.776.5301. You should always research unfamiliar companies with your BBB before doing business.
