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Betting on Friends

5/16/2012

Posted on 5/16/2012 by

Betting on Friends:

Facebook, BBB Warns, Should Bring Attention to Investment Strategies, Risks and Traps

The most talked about initial public offering of stock in history is projected to hit Wall Street this week. But BBB cautions when Facebook goes public, prospective investors should ignore the hype and rely instead on research and even consider professional advice.

"Many young or inexperienced investors may be drawn to jumping into the stock market for the very first time," said Angie Barnett, president/CEO, Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland. "In fact, we routinely teach our children investment strategies through the purchase of familiar brands' stock, like Disney, McDonalds and Wal-Mart. But despite explosive growth to date, whether Facebook will be a wise investment has yet to be determined," Barnett added.

While past performance is one thing to look at when evaluating an investment, other things to consider are the company's ability to sustain growth, the valuation of the stock against earnings, competition and future trends including an increased number of mobile device users. Management risk is another factor and investors don't have to look beyond other headlines this week to see why. JPMorgan Chase CIO, Ina Drew, retired after 30 years amid billions in losses and swirling accusations. When the stock hits the market, Facebook's Zuckerberg will retain a controlling interest of 57%. A bad decision, scandal, or other management crisis, could cause a drop in company stock.

Barnett stressed, "No matter if you're in your first job or nearing retirement, adults of every age and income bracket need to invest and save for their future. Even if Facebook isn't the right buy, right now, today is the perfect time to update your status to that of an investor."

June 27 Seminar Offers Free Advice for Investors
BBB and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority's Investor Education Foundation have put together a free seminar to help investors avoid investment fraud. A class will be offered on June 27 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm in downtown Baltimore. Class-size is limited and advance registration is required. Please visit www.greatermd.bbb.org/investmentor call 410-347-3990 to register.

BBB and FINRA offer the following common investor traps based on investor complaints and how to avoid them:

Misrepresentation

Misrepresentation can occur when a broker purposefully makes untrue representations of material facts or omits material information. This can happen in any security in any account, but this problem is commonly found with low-priced, speculative securities because of their increased risk.

How To Avoid This Problem

Ask the broker to send you information that will back up his/her representations.

If you rely on your broker, make sure the investment meets your objectives; and make sure you understand and are comfortable with the risk, costs and liquidity of the investment. Never invest in a product you don't understand.
Ideally, you should independently verify information by thoroughly reading a prospectus, research reports, offering materials, annual reports (10K), quarterly reports (10Q), brochures or other documentation.
Keep contemporaneous notes of your conversations with the broker.

High-Pressure Sales Calls (Cold-Calling)

When an investor receives frequent phone calls, is badgered, insulted or told that the caller is an expert or has "inside information," these are all signs of high-pressure solicitations.

How To Avoid This Problem

NASD's Telemarketing Rule (NASD Rule 2211) limits the calling time to between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. Brokers calling must identify themselves by providing their name, firm name, address or phone number. If you do not want such calls, ask the caller to place you on the firm's "do-not-call" list.
Find out about the broker's background via FINRA BrokerCheck or by calling the FINRA BrokerCheck Hotline (800) 289-9999. Call theMaryland Securities Division of the office of the Attorney General and Better Business Bureau.
Meet with your broker and visit the firm, if possible. Investments are major financial undertakings and should be afforded the same degree of investigation and caution as any other major purchase you might make.
When opening a new account, read the New Account Agreement carefully for all the terms and conditions, especially margin and credit terms. Fully understand what you are agreeing to.
Ask for and review written material before buying.
Check confirmations and account statements carefully. Look for evidence of unwanted credit or margin use.
Take immediate action if you detect a problem. Time is critical.

Other resources are available on this topic via the Internet, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission's Cold-Calling Web page, and information from FINRA about Telemarketing Rules to protect investors.

Unsuitability

A suitability problem can involve any security and occurs when an investment made by a broker is inconsistent with the investor's objectives and investing profile (e.g., age, financial status, long-term goals, income and net worth of the customer).

How to Avoid This Problem

Read and understand the terms of any new account agreement you may be asked to sign with the firm. Make an informed decision before agreeing to allow the broker to use discretion in buying or selling your investments. Also, fully understand how margin and other credit provisions work and the circumstances in which you could be asked to pay additional monies.
Understand and agree to what is being purchased before the transaction occurs. If you can't explain it, don't buy it.
Provide the firm with accurate information and don't inflate your net worth, income etc. Be candid about disclosing financial constraints. Doing so would help prevent running into a problem.
Ask to review what is on file at the firm regarding your account, such as a new account form with client profiles, margin account agreement, options account agreement, discretionary account agreement, etc. You have the right to know what is on file about you, and information must accurately reflect your objectives-age, financial status, long-term goals, income, net worth, etc. These are the documents the brokerage firm's compliance staff uses to monitor broker's activities, and provide an opportunity for the firm to intervene early if any problems arise. If it gets to that point, regulators use this information as well when investigating a complaint.
Do your homework, review prospectus material and conduct other research.
Thoroughly read and retain your monthly account statements, confirmations and any other information you receive about your investment transactions.
Be proactive, ask questions (How is this in line with my investment objectives? What is my risk of losing money on the investment? What has been the past performance of the investment? How liquid is this investment, and what are the costs of liquidating the investment and other barriers to sale?).
Keep good records of communications with the broker. Contemporaneous notes of your conversations with the broker will help. Also, repeat your sense of the conversation to ensure you both have the same understanding. Be careful not to be the victim of miscommunication. For example, when a broker says "can I put you down for x shares" he really means can I purchase them for you.
Can you afford to use margin or other credit? If you can, know exactly what to expect and under what conditions you may be required to pay additional funds should the price of the security drop.

Unauthorized Trading

Unauthorized trading involves the purchase or sale of securities in a customer's account without the customer's prior knowledge and authorization. Remember, brokers generate commissions through executing transactions (sales or purchases). Pay close attention to activity in your account.

How to Avoid This Problem

Document (keep notes) all conversations with brokers.
Thoroughly read and retain, in a timely fashion, your monthly account statements, confirmations and any other information you receive about your investment transactions.

Take immediate action if you see a transaction you do not recognize.Time is critical. Reconcile any discrepancies at once. Contact the firm's branch manager. And, send a telegram, or registered or overnight letter to the compliance department of the firm refusing the purchase. Also, follow up with a phone call to the firm's compliance department. The longer the lag time, the less substance and credibility your argument has.

Don’t be Pestered with Pests this Summer

5/15/2012

Posted on 5/15/2012 by
As temperatures start to warm up, bugs and other pests will attempt to seek shelter in homes and office buildings. BBB reports an increase in inquiries for pest control services during the months of May, June and July. So when the pest control job gets too big for a flyswatter, mousetrap or do-it-yourself spray, it could be time to call in a professional.

Common complaints filed with BBB allege treatments were not effective and pests were not fully exterminated. Other complaints allege issues over the final cost of the services or the payment process.

To help prevent pests from entering your home, make sure there are not any outside openings such as torn screens, cracks under the door or foundation issues. Homeowners should check and reapply any worn out weather stripping around outside doors and windows.

If considering a professional service to help with your pest problems, BBB recommends the following:

Start with trust. Check any pest control company’s BBB Business Review before signing a contract. Look at the company’s rating, how it has responded to past customer complaints and any previous advertising issues.

Compare price quotes. Solicit bids from at least three different pest control companies before making a decision. Be sure to provide the details of the services you need, and keep in mind the lowest price may not always be the highest quality of service.

Ask about safety and risks. Because pesticides and pest control strategies can be dangerous to touch or directly inhale, be sure to ask the company about the safety of the chemicals it uses. Let the company know if you have pets, children or sensitive plants as that may impact the products they select for your home.

Read the fine print. Carefully go over any contract before you sign. Pay close attention to any warranties or termination fees if the contract is extended for monitoring or future services. Make sure any additional discounts or guarantees promised are included in the contract.

Check for licensing and insurance. Make sure company meets state licensing requirements by verifying with the Maryland Department of Agriculture. Also, be sure to ask for proof of the company’s workers’ compensation insurance and coverage for any potential property damage or personal liability.

Get on Top of Your Game to Hire a Roofer

5/11/2012

Posted on 5/11/2012 by

Natural disasters like tornados, hurricanes and earthquakes often bring out the best in people, as strangers reach out to help others in need. Unfortunately, crises also bring out persons who choose to take advantage of the victims. Some of the most common "after-disaster" scams involve damage done to roofs. Whether your roof was hit hard by a hurricane, or is just a little leaky, you must take certain precautions when it comes to hiring a roofing contractor.

BBB | Greater Maryland received 68,412 inquiries about roofing contractors in the past year, making it the fifth most inquired industry in the BBB | Greater Maryland system.

BBB has the following tips to homeowners looking for a roofing contractor:

Do your research. Check with your insurance company about policy coverage and specific filing requirements. Save all receipts if temporary roofing repairs are necessary.

Keep calm and take your time. Although you may be anxious to have your roof repaired, don't let your emotions get the best of you. Never feel pressured into making an immediate decision with a long-term impact. Be proactive in selecting a company rather than reactive to sales solicitations.

Avoid high-pressure sales tactics. Be wary of door-to-door workers who claim to have left-over materials from a job "down the street", or those who don't have a permanent business address.

Trust your gut. If a worker shows up on your doorstep to announce that your home is unsafe, be leery. Unscrupulous contractors might actually create damage in order to get work. Keep in mind that you can always have an engineer, architect, or building official inspect your building if you are concerned.

Shop around. For major repairs, take time to shop around and get 3-4 estimates based on the same specifications and materials. Keep in mind that the cheapest estimate may not be the best − if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Many fly-by-night contractors' below-cost bids seem attractive, but these contractors are often uninsured and perform substandard work or use lower quality materials.

Check licenses and permits. Every contractor operating in Maryland must be licensed with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC). You can check if a contractor has a current license on MHIC's website, or by calling 1-888-218-5925. Also, be sure to check with your building inspector to see if a building permit is required.

Get everything in writing. Get a written contract agreement from anyone you hire. Be sure their name, address, license number and phone number are included in the contract. Read and understand the contract in its entirety, and make sure you get a copy of the signed contract at the time of signature.

Clearly written proposals that are detailed and broken down into separate line terms are a good sign that the contractor is being thorough and has prepared an accurate estimate. The following is a partial list of items your estimate or proposal should include:

The type of roof covering, manufacturer and color
Materials to be included in the work, e.g., underlayment, ice dam protection membrane
Scope of work to be done

Removal or replacement of existing roof
Flashing work, e.g., existing flashings to be replaced or re-used, adding new flashing, flashing metal type
Ventilation work, e.g., adding new vents

Who is responsible for repairing/replacing exterior landscape or interior finishes that are damaged during the course of the work? Make sure it contains language addressing who is responsible for any damage that occurs as a result of the work. All items of concern and work to be done should be included in the contract.
Installation method
Approximate starting and completion dates
Payment procedures
Length of warranty and what is covered, e.g., workmanship, water leakage
Who will haul away the old roofing materials and/or project waste (e.g. extra materials, packaging, etc.)? Is there extra charge for this service?

Make sure to read the fine print. Some contracts use a clause where substantial cancellation fees or liquidation damages are required if the homeowner decides not to use the contractor after insurance approval of the claim. In some instances you may be required to pay the full agreed price if the homeowner cancels after the 3 day cancellation period. If an estimate or contract is confusing, ask the contractor to break it down into items/terms you can understand.

Don't pay too much in advance. In Maryland, it's illegal for a contractor to accept more than one-third of the total contract in advance. Before making your last payment, live with the improvement for a few days, and make sure you are satisfied with the work.

Remember, you should never feel forced to make a hasty decision, or choose a contractor blindly. BBB | Greater Maryland has BBB Business Reviews on 175 local roofing contractors, available free at www.bbb.org.

BBB Honored with Sustainability Award

5/11/2012

Posted on 5/11/2012 by

Cintas Corporation, a leader in secure document management services, today awarded Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland the Environmental Award for its strong commitment to the environment. Utilizing Cintas' shredding services, all of the shredded materials BBB collected were recycled into secondary paper products to reduce waste and impact on the environment. In doing so, BBB has saved 408 trees, 96000 kilowatts of energy and 168000 gallons of water while reducing green house gas emissions.

Cintas prides itself on its environmentally-conscious approach to protecting confidential information by shredding it thoroughly and recycling the waste. Each year, Cintas recognizes its top customers that share the same drive in reducing their environmental footprint.

"We are pleased to recognize BBB with our sustainability award," said Karen Carnahan, president and COO of Cintas' document management division. "BBB is an earth-friendly business that has demonstrated its commitment to saving natural resources by utilizing a sustainable document management program."

"When we set about to help our community fight identity theft with BBB Shred Day four years ago, we didn't even consider the environmental impact," Angie Barnett, president and CEO of BBB | Greater Maryland reflected. "But thanks to the support of Cintas, we have been able to expand our efforts tenfold. BBB is deeply honored to receive this Sustainability Award," added Barnett.

For more information, please visit www.cintas.com/documentmanagement.

About Cintas Corporation

Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Cintas Corporation provides highly specialized services to businesses of all types. Cintas designs, manufactures and implements corporate identity uniform programs, and provides entrance mats, restroom supplies, promotional products, first aid and safety products, fire protection services and document management services to approximately 800,000 businesses. Cintas is a publicly held company traded over the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol CTAS, and is a Nasdaq-100 company and component of the Standard & Poor's 500 Index.

About BBB of Greater Maryland

Headquartered in Baltimore, BBB | Greater Maryland is a non-profit organization that was established in 1922. It serves 18 Maryland counties and Baltimore City. In 2011, BBB provided over 1 million Business Reviews and handled over 11,300 marketplace disputes. BBB is supported by Accredited Businesses that have passed a comprehensive review, met BBB's Standards for Trust and agreed to the organization's Code of Business Practices governing sound advertising, selling and customer service practices that enhance customer trust and confidence in business. For more information please contact your BBB at 410-347-3990 or visitbbb.org.

BBB Tips for Successful Mother’s Day Shopping

5/10/2012

Posted on 5/10/2012 by

BBB Tips for Successful Mother’s Day Shopping

It’s almost Mother’s Day! Whether you are ordering flowers, shopping for custom jewelry, or arranging for a special spa day appointments for the wonderful women in your life, be a smart consumer. BBB sees lots of scams that focus on holiday shopping and warns consumers to proceed with caution before falling victim to a Mother’s Day vendor scam, especially when shopping online.

BBB urges consumers to take extra precaution with placing floral orders, especially online. Not all online florists are the same. While some people are extremely happy with their online floral purchases, others find themselves disappointed when the flowers don’t arrive on time, or don’t arrive at all.” In 2011, more than 96,000 consumers searched for trustworthy florists on www.bbb.org.

When finalizing gifts and shopping online, BBB recommends the following:

Do your homework. Before ordering flowers, jewelry or any other gifts for Mother’s Day, check out the company’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org. This is a great way to help prevent disappointment with the product or customer service.

Allow time for shipping and delivery. Check with the retailer or website to be certain that you have allowed enough time for delivery. Make sure that this date is specified clearly and guaranteed when you order. If you order ahead of time, delivery and other charges will be less than last-minute or overnight shipping. Some florists offer discounts for deliveries a couple of days before a major holiday, since that helps them deal with the rush.

Have a back-up plan. Make sure you understand the store's guarantee. Find out how customer complaints are handled and what recourse you will have if the arrangement is not satisfactory. It’s best to use a credit card when ordering online, because you can dispute charges if the vendor doesn’t come through. Charges made on a debit card are the same as cash and you have no recourse through your bank if there is a problem.

Make sure the business has your information. When it comes to flower delivery, there are times when delivery instructions need to be confirmed or a delivery driver needs additional directions. Making sure the florist has a call-back phone number or your cell phone to help them make sure your mom gets what you expect.

New Phishing Scam Hurts Small Businesses

5/7/2012

Posted on 5/7/2012 by

When a small plumbing company received an email yesterday from BBB saying they’d had a complaint filed against them, they took it seriously. What they got, however, was much worse than a complaint from an unhappy customer. The email was a fake, a phishing scam that downloaded viruses on two of the small business’s computers, which had to be wiped clean in order to get rid of the malware infection. Fortunately for the plumbing company, the virus hadn’t had a chance to steal any banking information.

Unfortunately, small businesses and consumers across the country are falling victim to the latest phishing scam that exploits BBB’s trusted name. The campaign that started yesterday was the second biggest phishing scam in the country on Wednesday, according to the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Spam Data Mine, one of the nation’s foremost computer forensics labs. SDM is assisting the Council of Better Business Bureaus in tracking phishing scams that use the BBB name.

The phishing emails – the fifth wave since Thanksgiving that uses the BBB’s name – uses BBB’s name and logo in an attempt to look like a notice of a newly filed complaint. The latest round includes a ZIP attachment, but that has not always been the case. Whether by an attachment or a link, the phishing emails attempt to trick the recipient into clicking and opening the “complaint,” which downloads malware onto their computer. The malware is designed to infect the computer and look for information such as bank account numbers and passwords in order to steal money from the recipients’ accounts.

If you receive an email that looks like it is about a BBB complaint:

Do NOT click on any links or attachments.
Read the email carefully for signs that it may be fake (for example, misspellings, grammar, generic greetings such as “Dear member” instead of a name, etc.).
Be wary of any urgent instructions to take specified action such as “Click on the link or your account will be closed.”
Hover your mouse over links without clicking to see if the address is truly from bbb.org.
Delete the email from your computer completely (be sure to empty your “trash can” or “recycling bin,” as well).
Run anti-virus software updates frequently and do a full system scan.
If you are not certain whether the complaint is legitimate, contact your local BBB (www.bbb.org/find).
Forward the email to phishing@council.bbb.org so that our security team can track the perpetrators. If you receive a “bounce” message, there is no need to resubmit.

BBB also recommends that all businesses take steps to secure their data and the information they’ve collected on their customers. BBB’s “Data Security – Made Simpler” is available free-of-charge at www.bbb.org/data-security.

BBB Destroys ID Risk for Many at Annual Event

4/26/2012

Posted on 4/26/2012 by

The Federal Trade Commission estimates that as many as 9 million Americans have their identities stolen every year. On Saturday, April 21st, BBB | Greater Maryland helped 1,340 families and small businesses avoid becoming part of that statistic.

The local BBB Shred Day events, which took place in Hanover at Arundel Mills Marketplace and The Avenue in White Marsh, were part of a national document destruction campaign to fight identity theft.

"Unlike many other crimes, victims of identity theft often don't realize they've been compromised," said Angie Barnett, president/CEO of BBB | Greater Maryland. "Many times, they find out when they try to access their credit, take out a loan or even worse, receive a collection call for something they didn't do."

With the help of Cintas Document Management and local volunteers, BBB destroyed over 42,000 lbs of personal identifying documents. The organization provided attendees with free gift bags filled with identity theft prevention tips and resources.

Shredding documents with financial and other personal information is an important step in preventing identity theft, according to BBB and the FTC.

BBB Shred Day was sponsored by AES Builder & Home Improvements, Apple Remodeling, Atlantic Financial Federal Credit Union, AT&T, CARCHEX, CareOne Debt Relief Services, Cintas Document Management, EZ Shield Identity Protection Services, IWIF, Kolb Electric, Luna, Travel Advantage Network and WBAL TV.

BBB Advises Parents To Check Facilities, Qualifications To Ensure Safe, Rewarding Summer Camp Experience

4/24/2012

Posted on 4/24/2012 by

With summer approaching, many parents think ahead to what camps or other activities their children may attend. BBB has tips that can help parents find camps that will provide safe, rewarding experiences for children.

A great camp can be a wonderful experience for your child. For your own peace of mind, check on staff qualifications and the camp’s procedures to keep your child safe and well.

When choosing a camp, parents need to use the same care and common sense they would use in evaluating a day care program. They should look for a camp that provides activities that are of interest to their child and appropriate for the child’s age and skill level.

Parents need to take time to visit camps to inspect facilities, ask about the staff’s training and experience, and find out how the camp handles medical emergencies. If the child is staying overnight, be sure to look at cabins, showers and other facilities that your child will be using.

Some camps, such as those organized around a particular sport, are highly structured and stress development of specific skills. Others are more flexible and give campers the opportunity to choose some of their activities. Your child’s interest and personality should be your guide in choosing an appropriate program. If the child is old enough, ask what activities he or she would enjoy at camp.

Parents should ask how long a camp has been in business and check with parents of past and returning students. Check bbb.org for the camp’s record on handling complaints. The standards for day and overnight camps may be different, but each should have your child’s safety and well-being as its top priority.

BBB offers the following tips for parents searching for the right camp:

Always visit the camp before submitting your deposit. Check its location and view the living, eating and recreational facilities. Ask about safety procedures (particularly for water activities, archery and out-of-camp trips), and assess the quality and commitment of the staff.
Ask about fees and payment deadlines. Is your deposit refundable? Are there extra charges for any activities? Are meals and transportation offered?
What is the camper return rate? The counselor return rate?
What is the camp director’s background? How is the staff trained? Are criminal checks made for employees and volunteers? What is the ratio of campers to staff members?
Are medical facilities adequate? Is a nurse or doctor on site? What are the procedures for transporting injured or sick children to medical facilities? Are those facilities nearby?
What are the safety rules and how are they enforced? Does the camp have appropriate insurance coverage?
Are family visits or other communications with campers allowed? How is homesickness handled?
Are references from parents of repeat campers available? Ask the parents about their child’s experience and why they recommend the camp.
Finally, look for camps that are certified by the American Camp Association. ACA-accredited camps have met up to 300 nationally recognized standards.

6 Tips to Consider Before You Spend this Year’s Tax Refund

4/17/2012

Posted on 4/17/2012 by

Many consumers view tax refunds as unplanned bonuses, but it makes more sense to plan for that new chunk of change so it doesn’t go to waste.

Making smart decisions with your money is a great way to reward yourself for all the hard work you did to earn it. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of unplanned or extra cash, but you’ll be glad you saved some of it for a rainy day when the time comes to use it.

Whether or not you are in need of debt relief, a tax refund provides the opportunity to improve your financial situation. BBB and Clear Point Credit Counseling Solutions recommend the following tips to tax refund recipients:

Pay down your debt. Refund checks usually arrive when many consumers are still struggling with holiday bills. Use your refund for some much needed debt relief: pay off your credit card. If you have an outstanding balance on more than one credit card, you can either try to pay off the lowest balance card first (good for motivation) or direct the funds toward the card carrying the highest interest rate (wiser from financial perspective). Or, apply your refund toward other debts, like a car loan or a home equity loan.

Consider your financial goals. Are you trying to save for a down payment on a house or car? Do you hope to contribute to your child’s college tuition one day? Consider applying your tax refund toward these goals. If you don’t yet have a set of short-term and long-term financial goals, put one together. You’ll be more conscientious about how you spend your tax refund, or any other extra money that comes your way.

Save it for a rainy day. Why not give yourself an even bigger return on your tax refund by putting the money into a savings account–or an emergency savings account, CD or retirement fund? Your tax refund will continue to grow if you put it into savings or invest the money. Plus, it’s always helpful to have a savings account to draw from when a major car repair bill, medical emergency or other unexpected expense comes along. That way, you don’t have to borrow money and add to your debt-load.

Keep things in perspective. Working your way out of debt can seem like a daunting task. Perhaps you assume that a small tax refund check won’t make enough of a dent in your debt. Think again. Every little bit helps. Paying down debt takes time, but steadily increasing your monthly payments does have an impact. Just stay focused on the end goal. It may take years to pay off your debt, but your ultimate reward — being debt-free — will be well worth the effort.

If debt is a continuing problem, consider a credit counselor. Certified consumer credit counseling agencies can assist people who are facing financial challenges and are looking for debt relief. BBB has information on more than 2,000 Credit & Debt Counseling firms, including hundreds of Accredited Businesses. BBB Business Reviews are available for free at www.bbb.org/search.

Consider investing in your home or in others. Even if your finances are in good shape, your refund check provides the opportunity to improve your life or the lives of others. Use the money to spruce up your home or make it more energy-efficient. Improve your career opportunities by taking a class or training course. Use your refund to teach your older children how to handle money. Give them a portion of the refund and help them budget for school, clothing and entertainment expenses and savings. Finally, you may want to donate your tax refund to a charitable organization. You’ll help improve the lives of others, and your charitable gift may reduce next year’s tax burden. Check out BBB Wise Giving Alliance at www.bbb.org/charity for more information on trustworthy charities.

BBB Small Business Advice for National Financial Literacy Month

4/11/2012

Posted on 4/11/2012 by
Seventy-six percent of Americans are stressed about money, according to research by the American Psychological Association, and more than two-thirds of employers say that contributed to higher health costs, employee absences and lost productivity. The President’s Advisory Council on Financial Capability recommends financial literacy education for employees to combat this growing trend.

Regardless of the kind of business you own or the financial benefits you provide, every employee should have access to financial literacy planning tips. By giving employees the tools they need to succeed in their personal finances, you are giving your business the gift of dependable employees who aren’t distracted by personal financial woes.

Providing your employees with financial tools and counseling is the best way to ensure that your employees won’t need to miss time working due to unplanned financial stressors.

Employers do not need big budgets to provide financial literacy education. Check with BBB to see if one of the many BBB Accredited Businesses in Maryland can assist (banks, credit unions, financial planners and others in the sector often offer this kind of programming).

BBB offers “Managing Credit – Made Simpler” for online learning. The Small Business version helps business owners manage credit and business debt, while the Consumer version offers three tracts depending on your financial situation.

BBB has also partnered with FINRA Investor Education Foundation to provide assistance to consumers on investment issues and avoiding investment scams.

BBB's Back for More Document Shredding

4/10/2012

Posted on 4/10/2012 by

Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland will host its annual Shred Day, identity theft prevention event, on Saturday, April 21 at two locations including Arundel Mills Marketplace behind hhgregg on Arundel Mills Boulevard and behind The AMC Lowes at The AVENUE in White Marsh. The event will occur simultaneously from 8 a.m. to 12 noon.

According to the FTC's Consumer Sentinel Network in 2011, Maryland was third for the most complaints filed for fraud and ninth for identity theft.

Local residents and businesses are encouraged to bring up to three boxes of personal identifying documents for free on-site shredding. Attendees will also receive gift bags filled with identity protection tips and resources.

"Properly disposing sensitive documents serves as your first defense against identity theft," said Angie Barnett, president/CEO, BBB |Greater Maryland. "Remember, if it has your signature, address, social security number or a personal record, find a safe place or find a shredder."

Cintas Document Management will conduct the massive destruction of documents using secure, on-site process and a total of six commercial trucks. Each truck has the ability to destroy up to 8,000 pounds of personal information. However, early arrival is suggested, as shredding trucks could reach full capacity before noon.

BBB Shred Day is sponsored by AES Builder & Home Improvements, Apple Remodeling, Atlantic Financial Federal Credit Union, AT&T, CARCHEX, CareOne Debt Relief Services, Cintas Document Management, IWIF, Kolb Electric, Luna and Travel Advantage Network.

For more information, visit www.greatermd.bbb.org/shred2012.

BBB Small Business Advice for National Financial Literacy Month

4/10/2012

Posted on 4/10/2012 by
Seventy-six percent of Americans are stressed about money, according to research by the American Psychological Association, and more than two-thirds of employers say that contributed to higher health costs, employee absences and lost productivity. The President’s Advisory Council on Financial Capability recommends financial literacy education for employees to combat this growing trend.

Regardless of the kind of business you own or the financial benefits you provide, every employee should have access to financial literacy planning tips. By giving employees the tools they need to succeed in their personal finances, you are giving your business the gift of dependable employees who aren’t distracted by personal financial woes.

“Providing your employees with financial tools and counseling is the best way to ensure that your employees won’t need to miss time working due to unplanned financial stressors,” notes Katherine Hutt, spokesperson for the Council of Better Business Bureaus. “By educating employees on their employee benefits, the importance of financial stability, and what to do when life throws you a financial curve ball, your employees will be able to focus on their work at hand and remain stable, reliable workers.”

Employers do not need big budgets to provide financial literacy education. Check with your local BBB to see if they offer financial literacy programs or if one of the many BBB Accredited Businesses in your area can assist (banks, credit unions, financial planners and others in the sector often offer this kind of programming).

BBB also offers “Managing Credit – Made Simpler” for online learning. The Small Business version helps business owners manage credit and business debt, while the Consumer version offers three tracts depending on your financial situation. BBB has also partnered with FINRA Investor Education Foundation to provide assistance to consumers on investment issues and avoiding investment scams.

For more business tips you can trust or to check out businesses in your area, visit www.bbb.org.

BBB Warns Consumers and Businesses About Phishing Scam

4/4/2012

Posted on 4/4/2012 by
Arlington, VA – April 3, 2012 – The Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB) issued the following statement today:

“For the past 4+ months, BBB has been the victim of a massive phishing scam that uses our name and logo to fool people into thinking the email is from BBB concerning a complaint against their business. Although they appear to be coming from a BBB computer, they are not.

The emails appear to have been totally random in who they are sent to. They have gone to businesses, but they have also gone to individuals who have never owned a business, as well as to educational, nonprofit and government addresses. There is no indication that BBB Accredited Businesses are being targeted.

The emails appear to be part of a criminal campaign that has spoofed other trusted identities, including Bank of America, Intuit (maker of Turbo-Tax) and the Internal Revenue Service. The FBI has made this a priority and CBBB is working closely with their cyber crime division and other law enforcement agencies to shut down the scammers.

The spammers’ goal is to get as many email recipients as possible to click on the link within the email which redirects to a website infected with malware. If you clicked on the link within these emails, your computer is likely to be infected. The criminals then use that malware to transfer money out of bank accounts or obtain additional email addresses.

BBB is directing many resources to combat this attack. We have hired security specialists to track the fraudulent emails and shut down the websites hosting the malware. We have been working with forensic criminal experts to make sure no malware has infiltrated BBB’s computers or those of our vendors.

In the past week, many recipients have gotten multiple copies – sometimes dozens or even hundreds – of the same email. This may be due to some unsophisticated “copycat” spammers who don’t even know or care that they are sending multiples of the same email.

The two things people can do right now to prevent being victimized by this scam or other phishing scams:

Install good anti-virus software on your computer(s) and get regular updates of virus definitions several times a day.
Never click on links in emails that have come to you unsolicited.

If you have clicked on a link in one of these emails, run a complete system scan of your computer or network, and make sure your anti-virus software includes elimination of the Zeus or Z-bot virus.”

--

ABOUT BBB: For 100 years, Better Business Bureau has been helping consumers find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2011, consumers turned to BBB more than 100 million times for Business Reviews on more than 4 million companies and Charity Reviews on 11,000 charities, all available for free at www.bbb.org. The Council of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for 116 local, independent BBBs across the United States and Canada, as well as home to its national programs on dispute resolution and industry self-regulation.

It's Not Us! Don't Be Deceived by Fake BBB Emails

3/29/2012

Posted on 3/29/2012 by

They're at it again! Phony emails bearing the BBB name are bombarding in-boxes across the country and right here in Maryland. The recent attack on consumers and businesses led the FBI to issue an alert this week about the recurrent scam.

Like many financial institutions and government agencies, BBB's visibility and reputation for trust makes us an ideal vehicle for scammers. Consider that bbb.org receives over six million visits every month; this makes us an attractive decoy for fraud and malicious activity.

We recommend 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.

Microsoft offers a simple, four-step process for setting up an SPF:www.microsoft.com/mscorp/safety/content/technologies/senderid/wizard/.

There are two authentic BBB email addresses that should be whitelisted:

@bureaudata.com (for complaints)
@greatermd.bbb.org (for local correspondence)

If you receive an email saying that 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. If you "whitelisted" the two addresses above, this may eliminate your problems.
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.

Note - an authentic email from BBB will always:

come from your local BBB - not the Council of Better Business Bureaus or a BBB from another state.
the from email address is baltimore.xx@bureaudata.com. The "xx" will be replaced with your BBB complaint contact person's initials.
the email will include a secure HTTPS link to the complaint details.
complaints are never sent as attachments.

The BBB system is working with federal law enforcement agencies to identify the perpetrator(s) of this fraud and has retained a deactivation company to help with those efforts.

Four BBB Tips for Driving a Good Deal When You Sell Your Car

3/27/2012

Posted on 3/27/2012 by
When looking to sell your vehicle, you don’t need to be a rocket scientist, but you do need to know how to get your car into the right hands. Better Business Bureau recommends following a few key pointers to ensure that your sale goes smoothly.

With the Internet becoming the go-to hub of information, any “buyer” can look reputable. Every year BBB hears horror stories of car sales gone bad and, many times, it all boils down to: “If the offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

If the buyer is asking you to wire money or is avoiding meeting you face-to-face, steer clear. Never give too much personal information to the potential buyer. In some scamming situations, the buyer will send a check for an amount greater than the asking price, and ask you to wire him back the difference. If the buyer’s check bounces, you’re out the money you wired…and you’re still left with the car.

When working with a potential buyer, BBB recommends considering the following:

Communicate with the potential buyer. Don’t rely solely on email conversations. Meet face-to-face and be open and honest about your car’s conditions. Many times buyers are good at vetting a car’s conditions and will turn down your offer if it’s not all you say it is. Keep all records of service so that the buyer can see proof that you have cared for the vehicle.

First impressions matter. Consider getting the car cleaned and tuned up. You’ll be glad you did when the buyer’s eyes sparkle with delight as they accept your offer. Same goes for the buyer – trust your gut. By investing in the time to let them test ride your car, you’ll know that the buyer is serious about making an offer.

Don’t overshare. Make notes for yourself that you can refer to while on the phone with a potential buyer. Keep them handy for when it comes time to talk about car’s maintenance history. When meeting with the buyer, meet in a neutral, well lit location. Don’t give them your home address.

Seal the deal. Give the potential buyer ample time to ask questions. This will help avoid problems in the future. Once you feel confident that you have shared all of the nitty-gritty details about the car, it will be time to start talking money. Aim high and work your way down, but always be honest with the buyer on the car’s conditions.

Smishing Scam Touts Free Walmart Giftcard

3/21/2012

Posted on 3/21/2012 by

Have you received a text message offering you a free Walmart gift card? Despite the attraction of a $1,000 gift card, BBB warns that the text message is a smishing scam.

The text message says - “Walmart $1000 gift card for the first 1000 users to go to ____ and enter code ____.”

Smishing is a relatively new twist on an old scam capitalizes on the explosive growth in smartphones. A smishing scam is a phishing scam that is sent to you via SMS text to your phone, instead of via email to your computer.

This smishing scam is using Walmart’s name and popularity to lure in victims. Nationwide, consumers have reported to BBB that they are requested to provide personal identifying information, and to provide a credit card to cover the costs of shipping and handling. Consumers who actually complete the gift card program often find themselves caught up in fulfilling “sponsor offers” which may include:

“Free trial offers” requiring a credit card for shipping and handling and may result in recurring monthly fees
Surveys resulting in the sell of personal marketing information which will result in increased solicitations, telemarketing and junk mail, and subscriptions

On their website the retail guru warns, "Walmart will never initiate a text message where we ask for sensitive personal data like credit card information or social security numbers."

If you receive similar texts or emails, BBB has this advice:

Contact your cell carrier. Both AT&T and Verizon provide specific instructions to report SMS spam, block numbers and in some cases websites. Both companies report they have and will take aggressive legal actions against identified sources of spam.
Discuss smishing scams with all members of your family who have cell phones, from the youngest to the oldest.
Do not click on links in text messages or emails offering prizes or ‘free’ products or trial offers.
Delete any texts or emails that claim you have won a prize or are eligible for a free product.
Do not provide personal information to claim ‘prizes’ or to sign up for free trials.
Never give your credit card number, social security number or bank account information to pay for fees, taxes, or shipping costs for anything that you may have ‘won’ or are getting for ‘free’.
Check your bank statements and credit cards on a regular basis for unauthorized charges.
Check you and your children’s credit reports with all three credit bureaus annually for any unauthorized credit accounts that have been opened using your social security numbers. You can get a free credit report at www.annualcreditreport.com

Spring Forward with BBB Home Improvement Tips

3/7/2012

Posted on 3/7/2012 by

With the promise of warm weather rapidly approaching, spring is a popular time to do some home improvement projects. Whether you are looking to replace your home's windows or build a swimming pool in your backyard, it is essential that you find a contractor that you can trust.

In 2011, as a group, BBB | Greater Maryland received fewer than 2,000 complaints against general contractors, home improvement related companies and pool contractors. While there are many trustworthy and reliable contractors out there, there are always those unscrupulous few that end up charging too much and doing too little...or nothing at all.

Watch out for red flags from those just looking to make a quick buck. Be especially wary of doing business with a contractor who solicits business door-to-door. This could mean that the contractor is just passing through the area trying to scam innocent consumers.

BBB advises consumers to use the following checklist when choosing a home contractor:

Be picky and have lots of options. Seek at least three bids from prospective contractors based on the same specifications, materials and labor needed to complete the project. Homeowners should discuss bids in detail with each contractor and ask questions about variations in pricing. The lowest-priced contractor may not be the best.

Make sure they are licensed. It is considered a crime to act as a contractor in the State of Maryland without a license from the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC). Don't just assume that they are licensed-some unlicensed contractors drive vehicles with fake or expired MHIC license numbers in order to appear legitimate. To verify that a contractor, subcontractor, or company has a current license, search the Home Improvement Public Query at http://www.dllr.state.md.us/, or call 1-410-230-6231.

Make sure they are insured. Consumers should ask whether the company is insured against claims covering workers' compensation, property damage and personal liability in case of accidents. Consumers should obtain the name of the insurance carrier and call to verify coverage.

Get everything in writing. Ask whether the contractor will provide a lien waiver upon completion of the job. A lien waiver is a statement by the contractor that all suppliers and subcontractors have been paid for their work. Read and understand the contract before signing. Get all verbal promises in writing. Include start and completion dates in the contract.

Remember the rule of thirds and follow it. Pay one third at the start of the project, one third when work is 50 percent completed and one third after completion.

Other means of research. As always, you can visit BBB's website to look up an organization or file a complaint. You can also ask the contractor for local references, and get a chance to see the actual work done by the contractor. If the contractor does quality work, they should have no problem providing references.

Beware of Scam Using BBB Email Address

2/28/2012

Posted on 2/28/2012 by

BBB has issued numerous warnings about a malicious e-mail that continues to circulate in BBB's name, but the scammers continue to add new twists.

Recently, accountants – and even some businesses that aren’t in that industry - are receiving emails from a bbb.org address that contains the American Institute of CPA's name and logo. The message informs recipients that their CPA license is being terminated due to tax fraud allegations and encourages them to click on a link and reply to the charges. The link leads to a third party website that downloads a virus on to the recipient's computer.

BBB also continues to receive calls from local businesses that have received a suspicious e-mail coming from a variety of addresses, such as risk@bbb.org, service@bbb.org, or risk.manager@bbb.org with the subject line "BBB Service Re: Complaint #" followed by an eight to nine-digit number. Both BBB Accredited and non-Accredited businesses have been targeted.

Because these messages are malicious and fraudulent, BBB advises any business that receives these e-mails to take the following steps:

Do not click on any links and do not reply to the message,
Forward the message to phishing@council.bbb.org,
Completely delete the message from your inbox, and
Run a full virus scan on your computer if you clicked on any links.

Additionally, BBB encourages you to whitelist our email address, greatermd.bbb.org.

If you receive any e-mails from BBB about a complaint filed against your business and need assistance in determining whether or not it is legitimate, contact your BBB directly at 410-347-3990.

For more advice on how to protect your business from malicious online attacks and data breaches visit www.bbb.org/data-security/.

Don’t Be Held Hostage by an “Authorization Hold”

2/15/2012

Posted on 2/15/2012 by

Baltimore, MD --- Credit is a convenience; it allows you to charge a meal on your credit card, pay for an appliance with an installment plan, or take out a loan to buy a house. With credit you can make a purchase when you lack ready cash, and you can enjoy the purchase while you are paying for it.

However, whether you’re having a nice dinner in the Inner Harbor, or staying at a hotel in Washington D.C., be sure to take notice of what the banking industry calls an “authorization hold”.

Here’s how it works: Let’s say your restaurant bill comes to $100 and you give the server your credit card. When they run it through, they put an authorization hold on your account for $120, assuming you’re going to add a nice tip to the bill. But what if you leave the tip in cash on the table instead? Your bank or credit card company still “holds” that $120 for a couple of days until the actual amount of your charge is processed, which means you don’t have access to that $20. If you are close to your credit limit, it could mean a declined purchase. If you used a debit card, it could mean a bounced check and overdrafts fees. The amount of time it takes for the balance to become available again varies by bank and the type of card you use.

Now imagine it’s a hotel stay. You’ve checked in and given a credit card at the front desk. They put an authorization hold on your card for what they think your total bill will be (room charge, taxes, and incidentals). If you are staying for several nights, this could amount to a lot of money that you no longer have access to; and when you are traveling, that can be a huge problem.

Credit card processors discourage vendors from doing these kinds of holds, but they are perfectly legitimate as long as the vendor notifies customers of the practice. BBB advises consumers to keep tabs on their credit and bank accounts online, especially when traveling, and read the fine print on hotel agreements. When dining, pay for your check and tip together with either credit or cash, but not both. And whenever possible, keep a “cushion” of available funds on credit cards by paying off the balance regularly.

Sites Target Football Fans and Fashionistas

2/14/2012

Posted on 2/14/2012 by
There is a huge market for counterfeit luxury items on the Internet, with unscrupulous sellers offering everything from jewelry and perfume to handbags and sunglasses. However, the latest counterfeit scam hit Maryland residents close to home, counterfeit Ravens gear.

With jerseys sometimes costing hundreds of dollars, it is easy to see why fans would flock to the Internet in search of deals. However, it is important to make sure you are shopping at legitimate sources.

"In a tight economy, consumers are always looking to save a buck or two," said Angie Barnett, President and CEO of BBB Greater Maryland. "Too often, what looks to be a 'great deal' is really a shoddy knock-off in disguise."

Take www.nfljerseyswhole.com for example. At the beginning of the football season, the website featured great deals on Ravens and other teams' jerseys. However, if you visit the website now, there is a message from ICE-Homeland Security Investigations that alerts visitors the website has been seized for knowingly selling counterfeit goods, amongst other claims.

According to a report by the Department of Homeland Security, the total domestic value of merchandise seized during fiscal 2011 was $78.3 million. Officials estimate the total value would have been $1.11 billion had the goods been legitimate.

Online classified sites like Craigslist and eBay are hot spots for counterfeit luxury item fraud online, and both include "buyer beware" warnings. To elude detection, some venders provide links to their own websites hoping to fool frugal fashionistas.

BBB offers the following advice for finding designer deals, as well as, tips on how to avoid fake "Flaccos":

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 before making a purchasing decision.

Trust your instinct! If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Although it can be tempting to believe an attractive price, unrealistic pricing is a huge red flag for knock-off merchandise. Paying $100 for a $1000 purse or $20 for a $100 jersey 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 words such as "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, on the other hand, usually aren't so meticulous. Misspelled words or brand names are obvious giveaways, but savvy shoppers should also look for poorly sewn logos and labels. Similarly, make sure any sports merchandise purchased online is the appropriate color. Manufacturers of counterfeit jerseys sometimes have trouble replicating the exact team colors, especially the Ravens' purple. Try holding your jersey up next to a friend's, and make sure the colors match up. Also check for consistency in the numbering and the Maryland flag patch on the sleeve of Ravens jerseys.

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. Additionally, some luxury goods carry an "authenticity label" with a hologram or other security measure. Look on the manufacturers' website to see if a brand employs any security measures.

Consumers who have purchased counterfeit luxury goods online should contact BBB and file complaints at www.bbb.org. Consumers can also contact the Consumer Product Safety Commission at www.cpsc.gov and file an online complaint.

For more consumer tips you can trust, visit www.bbb.org. To sign up to receive our Scam Alerts, visit BBB Scam Source.

Protect Your Heart From Online Dating Scams

2/14/2012

Posted on 2/14/2012 by

Are you looking for love? Millions use dating and social networking sites to meet people. The Association of Psychological Science reports online dating is the second most common way for couples to meet– keeping the good old fashioned “friends and family introductions” at the number one spot but surpassing church, gym, and of course, the bars.

While many are looking to start a successful relationship, the anonymity of the internet makes it easy for con artists to meet potential victims. As a group, BBB ranked “dating service” 61 among the top 100 industries in 2011 receiving the most complaints.

Common BBB complaints

BBB, as well as, the FTC and FBI found a growing number of fraudulent profiles posted by overseas scam artists who seduce love-struck victims into sending money. The disingenuous “single” usually makes initial contact with the victim using a legitimate online dating service – but as the online relationship progresses, the online stranger changes communication channels to a personal e-mail, fabricates an “emergency” and requests monetary assistance.

Complainants accuse national advertisements of falling short on promises to deliver “matches made in heaven”. Complaints include the online dating services submits matches who don’t meet the criteria specified in their online application. Allegations claim the number of singles within the desired criteria is exaggerated and months into the membership, the inventory is exhausted.

As with any membership service, consumers complain of inability to cancel and recurring monthly fees.

BBB offers these tips to help you recognize when a prospective love may not be what you think:

He/she wants to leave the dating site immediately and use personal email or telephone.
Their interest is all about you and they omit or evade detailed personal information about themselves.
He/she claims love within moments of meeting you online.
He/she claims to be from the U.S. but is traveling overseas.
They plan to visit, but is prevented by some sort of emergency. A sobbing story turns into a situation that only your financial “loan” can solve.

What you can do to avoid becoming a dating site victim:

Don’t wire money! 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.
Review the terms and conditions of the dating site. Understand the benefits offered through a free service and all the terms related to a “free trial period.” Carefully examine the cancellation and privacy policies.
Review the website. Do they have a privacy policy to protect your information? Do they sell your email address to other companies? Do they have a way to report and block email contact if someone is making you uncomfortable?
Put the cancellation timeline on your calendar and note the required method of cancelling. Be prepared for automatic renewal if you do not initiate cancellation as outlined in the terms and conditions.
Set up a separate mail account just for online dating to help protect your identity and manage your messages. And never give your home phone number which can be traced to your home address. If you want to talk, use your cell phone number.

If you believe you have been a victim of online dating scam, contact the website in question immediately. You can report online relationship scams to the FBI’s IC3 at www.ic3.gov, the State Attorney General, and BBB.

Gift Cards Offer Something for Everyone & That Means Scammers Too!

2/14/2012

Posted on 2/14/2012 by

A consumer filed a complaint with BBB against a Maryland based gift card exchange company. She purchased a discounted gift card in December 2010, tried to use it in January 2012 and was notified by the retailer that the card had already been processed in the full amount.

Another consumer reported buying a gift card from the Maryland company and when they attempted to use it, it was denied. Upon contacting the retailer, they were informed that the original purchaser of the gift card had paid for the card by check, and then sold it to the discount credit card company. The check had bounced so the retailer cancelled the card. The company has a 100 day return policy. By not attempting to use the card within the 100 days, the customer was denied a refund!

When purchasing gift cards BBB suggests:

Buy from sources you know and trust. When looking for discounted gift card sites, look for a business site that has terms/conditions clearly published including customer service information – and look for “guarantees” in the event the card you receive has no actual value (counterfeit/used). Deal we vetted sites and do your research before you buy or sell. Avoid buying gift cards from online auction sites, because the cards may be counterfeit or may have been obtained fraudulently.
Whether buying or selling check with BBB to review gift card companies.
Do an internet search on the site name or search the name plus the word “complaints” or “scam” and see what the results indicate.
Read the fine print before you buy. Is there a fee to buy the card? If you buy a card by phone or online, are there shipping and handling fees? If you don't like the terms and conditions, buy elsewhere.
If you’re trading or selling gift cards – make sure payment process is reputable (like PayPal), know the policies before you send off the gift cards you want to sell, and only use sites that have full disclosure of safeguards for your cards, the data, and the financial transaction.
Remember – money on a gift card cannot expire for at least five years from the date the card was purchased or from the last date any 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.

BBB Advice for Navigating the Funeral Process

2/7/2012

Posted on 2/7/2012 by

At an average cost of $7,000, funerals are one the more expensive purchases made by consumers. During an emotionally-charged time it can be easy to overspend.

In the last 12 months, BBB | Greater Maryland received ten complaints, and more than 2,000 inquires involving funeral related services, many concern pricing issues.

Most funeral providers offer a variety of package plans that include products and services that are most commonly sold. However, it’s important to remember that no package is obligatory and it’s important to take the time, even though it may be constricted, to find the individual products and services that you prefer. The “Funeral Rule,” enforced by the Federal Trade Commission, requires funeral directors to give you itemized prices in person and, if asked, over the phone.

The Funeral Rule:

You have the right to choose the funeral goods and services that you want (with some exceptions).
The funeral provider must state this “Rule” in writing on the general price list.
If state or local law requires you to buy any particular item, the funeral provider must disclose it on the price list, with a reference to the specific law.
The funeral provider may not refuse, or charge a fee, to handle a casket that you bought elsewhere.
A funeral provider who offers cremations must make alternative containers available.

“Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask questions and read contracts before you sign,” said Angie Barnett, president/CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “If you feel as if you are being pressured into buying something you do not want or need, ask to speak to a different funeral director or go to a different funeral home.”

Additionally, The Maryland Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors (BOM) has helpful information for families on their website, http://dhmh.maryland.gov/bom/sitepages/home.aspx. The BOM is responsible for inspecting and providing licenses to funeral establishments in Maryland.

BBB has Business Reviews on more than 200 funeral homes and related services in Md. available for free at bbb.org.

Preparation Choices Need Not Be Taxing, But Poor Decisions Can Be Costly

2/1/2012

Posted on 2/1/2012 by

According to the IRS, more than 64 million returns were submitted through tax preparers last year. BBB | Greater Maryland received 3146 inquiries and 20 complaints about tax related services in the last 12 months and with three months until the next deadline, taxpayers should gather documentation, research options and avoid high interest loans that bank on the projected return.

There is good news for individuals filing the 2011 1040EZ federal return with a special free offer from TurboTax. The company still charges for its more robust packages needed to complete other IRS forms. If you're not comfortable with the do-it-yourself approach and opt to use a tax preparation company, it's important to understand that no matter who does your taxes, the taxpayer is ultimately responsible for filing an accurate return on time. To avoid fines and fees, choose a tax preparer wisely.

BBB and the IRS offer the following suggestions:

Verify that a paid preparer has signed the return and included his Preparer Tax Identification Numbers (PTIN). The preparer must also provide you with a copy of your return.
Avoid preparers who claim they can obtain larger refunds than others. Every preparer should derive substantially similar numbers.
Beware of someone who guarantees results or who bases fees on a percentage of the amount of the refund. A practitioner may not charge a contingent fee (percentage of your refund) for preparing an original tax return.
Understand that reputable preparers will request your receipts and will ask you questions to determine your qualifications for expenses, deductions and other items. By doing so, they have your best interest in mind and are trying to help you avoid penalties, interest or additional taxes that could result from an IRS examination.
Choose a preparer who will be responsive to your needs. Ask who will actually process the return before engaging services. Avoid firms that delegate your return to someone with less training. You need to have access to the person completing your return during the process.
Steer away from preparers that export your return to a foreign country for preparation. Foreign countries do not have the same security and privacy laws as the United States. You may not have recourse if your information or identity is compromised.
Investigate firms with BBB, the MD's Board of Public Accountancy, and the IRS Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) .
Research individual tax preparers to make certain they are registered with the State Board of Individual Tax Preparers.
Find out if the preparer is affiliated with a professional organization that provides or requires its members to pursue continuing education and holds them accountable to a code of ethics.
For low-income and elderly taxpayers, there are options such as the IRS approved Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly, as well as, AARP Tax-Aide.
Use E-File and direct deposit to ensure the most rapid receipt of your refund, often 8-15 days (or less). Use your bank account and avoid sacrificing unnecessary fees to check cashers.

Due to Emancipation Day, the IRS has extended the deadline to file 2011 taxes until Tuesday, April 17. Despite gaining a weekend to crunch the numbers, BBB suggests you start early and don't wait until the last minute to file.

Wait For Your Return and Save

When anxious for cash, taxpayers each year turn to options such as Refund Anticipation Loans or Refund Anticipation Checks to get their money fast. RALs are short term loans borrowed from a lender based upon the taxpayer’s anticipated income tax refund.

According to the National Consumer Law Center (NCLC) and Consumer Federation of America (CFA), in 2009, consumers paid an estimated $606 million in RAL fees. Due to the excessive interest rates assessed, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) called RAL lending “unsafe and unsound.” Only three lenders, including Republic Bank still offer RALs. Pending government litigation may close the door on the existence of RALs after this tax season.

Making Payments on Smartphones Has Risks

1/25/2012

Posted on 1/25/2012 by

As technology continues to rapidly evolve, more and more consumers are turning to their smartphones and tablet devices to do just about everything, including paying bills and making purchases. Unfortunately, while these technologies may be convenient and wildly popular, they may not be as secure as one would assume.

According to a recent analysis conducted by Consumer Reports, if you use your cell phone to make mobile payments, your level of protection against financial liability if something goes wrong will vary depending on your wireless carrier's policies and your cell phone contract.

Protections are not the same as those that are guaranteed for direct transactions made with credit and debit cards.

“Often technology moves faster than the security to accompany it,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO of BBB Greater Maryland. “This is the case with smartphones and similar devices so consumers need to know what protections are in place, as well as what the risks are.”

To avoid problems with your device carrier and/or merchants you purchase from, keep these tips in mind:

Read your contract and make sure you understand your protections. If something isn’t clear, contact the carrier and ask questions.
As much as we would like to think of smartphones or iPads as a mini computers, they are not and may not have security software available. Find out if your device has such software available and purchase it to keep your transactions as safe as possible just like you would with your laptop.
Beware of fake apps. Make sure that your device has a screening process in place for each app you download. Remember that oftentimes, fake apps are the free ones. Also, try to research and review apps before downloading to see if anyone has had any problems with it.

Ringing in the New Year with a New You!

1/24/2012

Posted on 1/24/2012 by

"According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one-third of U.S. adults are obese," said Angie Barnett, president/CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. "Experts consistently agree that the only way to permanently lose weight is to reduce caloric intake and increase exercise, which requires a change in lifestyle and eating habits."

Before beginning any exercise program or diet, BBB recommends that consumers consult a doctor for an assessment of overall health risk. Ask for a doctor’s advice on weight-loss options and exercise regimens that fit individual health status and abilities. If a consumer is looking to get into shape this year, BBB also advises the following tips:

When joining a Gym/Fitness Facility/Health Club:

Visit the facility prior to joining and check on cleanliness, adequacy of space, machines and qualifications of instructors. To verify accreditation on personal training certification programs, check with the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.
Make sure to understand the terms and conditions of any special introductory offers, what the price will be once this period ends and what is included in your overall contract. The The Maryland Health Club Consumer Information informs what you should expect and/or require from your health club such as consumer rights.
Ask about specific steps to cancel memberships and contracts, as some memberships automatically renew.
Inquire what happens to money and membership if you move or if the company suddenly goes out of business.

When seeking a qualified Dietician/Nutritionist:

Consult the American Society for Nutrition or Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for assistance in finding registered consultants. Look for credentials, such as C.C.N. (Certified Clinical Nutritionist), R.D. (Registered Dietitian) and C.N. (Certified Nutritionist) and ask if the issuing institution is accredited.
Verify that the dietician or nutritionist follows health guidelines and does not recommend diets that may not align with a doctor, such as completely cutting out food groups, unless allergy related.
Ask about related fees, as some insurance companies may cover all or part of this expense, while others will not. Don’t be afraid to compare prices to other dieticians or nutritionists.
Request references, especially if seeking advice regarding a specific health issue. It is advisable to seek a dietician or nutritionist who has successfully treated others with the same condition.

When purchasing weight loss products:

Question what is seen or heard in advertisements. Media, such as newspapers, magazines, radio and television, do not always verify claims in their advertisements. For information on advertising review, check out BBB’s Code of Advertising.
Avoid buyer’s remorse by researching a product before making a purchase. Don’t allow a sales person to smooth-talk or force you into a spur of the moment decision.
Be wary of medical quackery. Ask for competent and reliable scientific evidence regarding product weight loss claims. Magazine articles, marketing materials and testimonials from “satisfied customers” are not substantial proof.
If it sounds too good to be true, it most likely is. Be skeptical of products that claim to help you lose weight without diet, exercise or modification of lifestyle.

Prior to making a contractual or monetary commitment in any of the aforementioned ways, remember to conduct a BBB Business Review. You may also search the BBB’s Accredited Business Directory for all industries. To file a complaint or report a potential scam at Scam Source, please visit www.bbb.org.

###

About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased 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. BBB provides objective advice, free business BBB Reliability Reports^TM and charity BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 128 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

Beware: Fake BBB Complaint Emails

1/18/2012

Posted on 1/18/2012 by

Better Business Bureau continues to warn the public of a fake email that is purporting to be from a bbb.org email address about a recently filed complaint. We’ve previously received reports of individuals’ computer systems crashing from downloading the attached links.

If you receive this questionable email, BBB advises the following:

Do not open attachments or click on links
BBB is working with federal investigators, if you would like to assist in these efforts, please forward the email to phishing@council.bbb.org.
Delete the email.
If the email links or attachments were opened, please immediately run a virus scan.
BBB does as regular practice use email to notify businesses of customer complaints to ensure quick resolution to any consumer concerns.
If you're a business owner in the Greater Maryland and believe you have received a legitimate complaint, email info@greatermd.bbb.org for confirmation.

Protecting Your ID After the Zappos Data Breach

1/18/2012

Posted on 1/18/2012 by

Zappos, an online retailer specializing in shoes and accessories, reported on Sunday, January 15^th that their database was a victim of a cyber attack.

The hacker gained access to the company’s network and personal information from more than 24 million customers. That information includes customer names, email addresses, billing & shipping addresses, phone numbers and last four digits of the accompanying credit cards and encrypted passwords.

Zappos alleges the database storing the actual credit card and other payment data was not affected or accessed.

The company immediately “expired and reset” customer’s passwords and provided them with directions on how to change their password. Zappos also advised customers to change their password on any other website where the same or similar password was being used as affiliated with the customer’s name.

Email messaging is the only source of communications Zappos is accepting at this time. Regretfully, as of Tuesday, customers outside of the U.S were unable to access the Zappos website or password reset feature, causing a great deal of frustration.

At this time, Zappos has not provided details as to when the data breach occurred, how long the hackers had access to the systems, and how the breach was detected. Zappos discount shoe store, 6pm.com, was also affected and customers of this site have also had their passwords cancelled and are now required to reset.

If you receive notification of a data breach from any account with your personal information, BBB encourages you to consider the following:

Zappos and 6 pm customers should visit the company’s website and change password immediately.
If you use the same or similar login with other accounts, change those passwords as well.
Monitor your Zappos account. There is some blog and chat room evidence that credit card accounts are beginning to show fraudulent activity.
Visit www.annualcreditreport.com and place a “fraud alert” on your credit report. This alert tells the credit reporting agencies that your identity may have been stolen. They will monitor your report for any unusual credit activity. This alert lasts 90 days.
Contact the organization that is the victim of the data breach and ask if they are going to provide free credit report monitoring services.
Watch for increases in email phishing attempts. Hackers may have the last four digits of your credit card information. You are likely to be contacted by a scam artist who uses that “known” information to convince you to divulge the other numbers.

To limit your exposure to identity theft through credit card fraud, consider the following:

Only conduct business with a credible online retailer. Confirm the legitimacy of the company through bbb.org, whois.net, and simply inserting the company’s name with the words, scam, complaints or reviews through an internet search.
Consider online shopping with one particular card so it is easy to monitor.
Use exclusive passwords for online shopping. Do not use the same passwords for online banking or other financial transaction in which there is greater risk of a security breach occurs. Use a different password for different sites. Never use your name in a password. Change passwords often.
Manage your passwords. Storing them at home or in your cell phone increases the risks or identity theft. An automated solution generates unique passwords, stores them in one database and unlocks with one master key. Consider apps for your smart phones and free services such as KeePass (not to be confused with KeyPass which has an annual cost).

BBB Hosts Live Facebook Chat on January 26

1/17/2012

Posted on 1/17/2012 by
Save money. Manage finances. Spend carefully. No matter how you put it, consumers resolve to make wise financial decisions each year. Unfortunately, when an individual neglects to research a company before spending their money, he/she risks the chance of becoming unsatisfied with the purchase. Last year, Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland resolved over 4,800 marketplace disputes ranging from contract, to delivery, to sales practice issues.

To encourage smart buying habits, BBB will host a live Facebook chat on Thursday, January 26 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at www.facebook.com/bbbgreatermd.

The organization will offer tips and answer your questions on:

Finding a trustworthy business
Getting the most bang for your buck
Detecting and avoiding scams
Protecting your identity

The BBB system helps millions each year. Your BBB in Greater Maryland receives hundreds of consumer inquires by phone and email every the week. Unfortunately, that means folks often have to leave a message or wait for a return email. Our Facebook chat will enable you to engage friendly and knowledgeable staff members for unbiased and timely information. So, get your questions ready and prepare for a lively discussion.

For the latest consumer news or to research a business, visit www.greatermd.bbb.org.

Advance Fee Loan Warning

1/12/2012

Posted on 1/12/2012 by
BBB's trade practices analyst, Andrew Rice, is sending out a warning about a website that appears to solicit an advance fee for a loan.

A website marketed under the name of Greenridge Brokerage was recently created and lists a business address for Chestertown on Maryland's eastern shore. As a reminder, never do business with a company that requests and up-front fee. Upon further investigation, BBB determined the site requests $440 be wired via Western Union to Ontario, Canada. A quick Google search of a testimonial pointed to another URL that had been shut down.

For a list of companies you can trust, start at www.bbb.org.

Officials Puts the Brakes on Mid-Atlantic Bus Company

1/4/2012

Posted on 1/4/2012 by

Double Happyness Travel has been shut down by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The Pennsylvania bus company was declared an “imminent hazard” to the public’s safety, violating hours-of-service and drug and alcohol testing regulations.

Double Happyness provided services between Baltimore and Wilmington; and New York City and Albany.

Before purchasing a bus ticket, remember to review the company’s track record at bbb.org/reviews. The Department of Transportation’s Think Safety: Every Trip, Every Time pre-trip safety checklist helps you to review a bus company's safety record, safety rating and DOT’s operating authority.

Five Resolutions You Can Keep

1/3/2012

Posted on 1/3/2012 by

BBB's Steps to Becoming a Confident Consumer in 2012

Monitor My Credit Report: Get on top of your financial reputation by monitoring your credit report in 2012. Set up a calendar reminder to go to www.annualcreditreport.com on January 15, May 15, and September 15. Request one free copy of your credit report from a different credit bureau each time and scan the report for unauthorized accounts or outstanding balances that you didn't make. Report any problems to the credit bureau immediately.

Read More: Make a commitment to read the fine print! Most disputes would be avoided if buyers took the time to read the tiny text. It's not uncommon for less scrupulous sellers to bury important terms or conditions that they know would kill the sale if they were more prominently disclosed.

Defend My Computer: Keep your computer - and your personal and financial information - safe by investing in anti-virus software and anti-spyware today. Avoid "free" solutions and fixes that often infect rather than defend. Make sure your protection offers timely updates, so that your information stays safe as new threats surface.

Fight Identity Theft: Protect your personal information! Be selective about what information you share and how you share it. Don't carry your Social Security Card and be especially careful when online. Avoid phishing schemes that request sensitive information and properly safeguard personally identifying documents in your home. Shred as much as you can and check your bills and financial statements for suspicious activity.

Start With Trust: Bookmark bbb.org and use it to search for companies you can trust. You can also file a complaint and learn about the latest scams targeting job seekers, lottery hopefuls, "want to be" mystery shoppers or anyone looking to get out of debt in 2012. If you shop using an iPhone or iPad, download the free "BBB Search" app from the App Store and you can take us with you where ever you go!

Ringing in the New Year with a New You!

1/3/2012

Posted on 1/3/2012 by

Many consumers have resolved to welcome 2012 by maintaining resolutions of getting into shape, exercising more and shedding extra pounds. Unfortunately, the lure of quick fixes and false claims can entice consumers into spending their hard-earned cash on schemes or businesses utilizing unscrupulous practices. The Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland is warning consumers to be aware of false claims and to consider carefully before investing money in a gym or health club membership, seeking council from a dietitian or nutritionist or purchasing weight loss products.

Before beginning any exercise program or diet, the BBB recommends that consumers consult a doctor for an assessment of overall health risk. Ask for a doctor’s advice on weight-loss options and exercise regimens that fit individual health status and abilities. If a consumer is looking to get into shape this year, the BBB also advises the following tips:

When joining a Gym/Fitness Facility/Health Club:

Visit the facility prior to joining and check on cleanliness, adequacy of space, machines and qualifications of instructors. To verify accreditation on personal training certification programs, check with the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.
Make sure to understand the terms and conditions of any special introductory offers, what the price will be once this period ends and what is included in your overall contract. According to the Maryland Attorney General, any business that sells health club services must be registered with Consumer Protection Division (except non-profit, government and academic facilities).
Ask about specific steps to cancel memberships and contracts, as some memberships automatically renew.
Inquire what happens to money and membership if you move or if the company suddenly goes out of business.

When seeking a qualified Dietician/Nutritionist:

Consult the American Society for Nutrition or Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for assistance in finding registered consultants. Look for credentials, such as C.C.N. (Certified Clinical Nutritionist), R.D. (Registered Dietitian) and C.N. (Certified Nutritionist) and ask if the issuing institution is accredited.
Verify that the dietician or nutritionist follows health guidelines and does not recommend diets that may not align with a doctor, such as completely cutting out food groups, unless allergy related.
Ask about related fees, as some insurance companies may cover all or part of this expense, while others will not. Don’t be afraid to compare prices to other dieticians or nutritionists.
Request references, especially if seeking advice regarding a specific health issue. It is advisable to seek a dietician or nutritionist who has successfully treated others with the same condition.

When purchasing weight loss products:

Question what is seen or heard in advertisements. Media, such as newspapers, magazines, radio and television, do not always verify claims in their advertisements. For information on advertising review, check out BBB’s Code of Advertising.
Avoid buyer’s remorse by researching a product before making a purchase. Don’t allow a sales person to smooth-talk or force you into a spur of the moment decision.
Be wary of medical quackery. Ask for competent and reliable scientific evidence regarding product weight loss claims. Magazine articles, marketing materials and testimonials from “satisfied customers” are not substantial proof.
If it sounds too good to be true, it most likely is. Be skeptical of products that claim to help you lose weight without diet, exercise or modification of lifestyle.

Prior to making a contractual or monetary commitment in any of the aforementioned ways, remember to check out the company's BBB Business Review.

Last Minute Charitable Giving: Five Questions to Ask

12/30/2011

Posted on 12/30/2011 by

As 2011 closes out, charities are making a final push for donations, and donors are scrambling to make tax-deductible contributions before the year ends. Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns patrons to make several considerations before giving their last-minute donation.

“We may be rushed to give to that one last charity in order to deduct it from our taxes, but donors need to take the time to ensure the charity is reputable – and that the donation actually is tax-deductable,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO of BBB | Greater Maryland.

Many tax law provisions have changed in recent years and the BBB recommends donors to educate themselves on all IRS rules to avoid surprises come tax time.

The BBB also recommends donors to ask the following five questions before giving:

1) Is this a charity I can trust?

Look at the appeal carefully; some charities’ names sound the same. Do not be fooled by names that look impressive or that closely resemble the name of a well-known organization. A common scheme used in charity fraud is name-pirating of well-known organizations to gain the trust of donors. Check it out first. If someone says they are with the Red Cross, for instance, contact the Red Cross directly and verify that who you spoke with or what you receive really is affiliated with them. Also, visit the BBB’s website www.greatermd.bbb.org/charity to find out whether the charity meets the 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability. These standards address charity governance, finances, fund raising, donor privacy, and other accountability issues.

2) How will the charity use my donation?

Ask questions about how your donation will be used. Beware of appeals that bring tears to your eyes but tell you little about what the charity is doing about the problem it describes so well. For example, if the charity says it is helping the homeless, do they explain how and where this is taking place? (Shelter, food, medical care, etc.) Watch out for statements such as “all proceeds will go to the charity.” This can mean that only the money left after expenses, such as the cost of written materials and fund raising efforts, will go to the charity. These expenses can be high, so check carefully.

3) Is my donation tax deductible?

If you want to take a charitable deduction for federal income tax purposes, make sure the organization is tax exempt as a charity under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. A charity appeal will usually include a reference to this. To verify a charity’s tax status, access an IRS database of organizations by viewing Publication 78 on the IRS website at www.irs.gov.

4) Can the charity actually use what I am donating?

All charities welcome the receipt of monetary donations, but some also solicit in-kind donations such as clothing, food, and toys. If you are planning to donate items to a worthy cause, make sure you know the in-kind contributions your charity prefers. For example, a food bank may prefer food items that are not perishable such as canned goods, and a toy drive may be seeking new and not used toys.

5) Am I feeling pressured to give?

Do not succumb to pressure to give money on the spot, either immediately over the phone via credit card or by allowing a “runner” to pick up a contribution. Also, never donate in cash. Always use a check or credit card to document the donation and to stop payment or dispute if you discover a problem. Take the time to research the charity fully; the charity that needs your money today will welcome it just as much tomorrow.

Return Fraud Causing Retailers to Tighten Return Policies

12/28/2011

Posted on 12/28/2011 by

Return fraud causing retailers to tighten return policies

Understand a seller’s policies to avoid a stressful return

As return fraud continues to be a concern for the retail industry, many retailers are tightening their policies to combat the growing crime. Better Business Bureau recommends consumers fully understand these policies to avoid unnecessary stress.

Return fraud is the act of somehow defrauding a retail establishment via the return process. Three common methods of return fraud are purchasing merchandise for short-term use and then returning the item, returning stolen merchandise, and using reused, stolen or falsified receipts to return merchandise for a profit.

To crack down on this type of crime, many retailers are adopting stricter return policies, such as requiring receipts and making customers show identification when returning items. Some businesses only allow in-store credit for returns.

To put you in the best position for a happy return or exchange, BBB offers this advice:

· Know and understand the seller’s return policy. Most return policies will be listed on a company’s website or on the back of the receipt. Make sure to fully understand what’s required for a return or exchange, and if you have questions, call the store directly and ask about your specific situation.

· Keep original packaging. Some stores may require products be returned in original purchase condition, unused or un-opened.

· Bring identification and credit cards. Some retailers will ask for identification when making a return, as well as the credit card used to purchase the item.

· Don’t expect cash back. If you don’t have the original receipt for the item you’re returning, chances are you will only receive store credit or be allowed to exchange the item. Even with a gift receipt, many stores will only offer store credit.

· Read the warranty first. If a gift you received is damaged or defective, read the warranty. In some cases, warranties exempt retail stores from product liability and require consumers to mail the product directly to the manufacturer in order to receive monetary refunds, credit or product replacement.

· Don’t delay. In almost every case, a store will require an item be returned within a specific time frame. If you wait too long, you may miss your chance at returning the item.

To check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visit bbb.org.

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

12/20/2011

Posted on 12/20/2011 by

Scammers have released another round of malicious phishing emails purporting BBB’s trusted name.

BBB IS NOT SENDING THIS EMAIL

Here with the Better Business Bureau would like to notify you that we have been filed a complaint (ID 33806151) from a customer of yours related to their dealership with you.

Please open the COMPLAINT REPORT below to find more information on this matter and let us know of your position as soon as possible.

We hope to hear from you very soon.

Kind regards,
Nita Aracely
Dispute Counselor
Better Business Bureau Council of Better Business Bureaus
4200 Wilson Blvd, Suite 800
Arlington, VA 22203-1838
Phone: 1 (703) 276.0100
Fax: 1 (703) 525.8277

If you have received any fraudulent emails , BBB advises the following:

Do not open attachments or click on links
BBB is working with federal investigators, if you would like to assist in these efforts, please forward the email to phishing@council.bbb.org.
Delete the email.
If the email links or attachments were opened, please immediately run a virus scan.
BBB does as regular practice use email to notify businesses of customer complaints to ensure quick resolution to any consumer concerns.

Note - an authentic email from BBB will always:

1. come from your local BBB - not the Council of Better Business Bureaus or a BBB from another state.

2. the from email address is "baltimore.xx@bureaudata.com". The "xx" will be replaced with your BBB complaint contact person's initials.

3. the email will include a secure HTTPS link to the complaint details.

4. complaints are never sent as attachments.

Give with Confidence in 2011: Ten Holiday Giving Tips from BBB

12/19/2011

Posted on 12/19/2011 by

Avoid Scams

Holiday time is the season for giving. These days, when household budgets are stretched, consumers naturally want to make the most of their precious contributions. BBB can offer tips to help you avoid charity scams and enrich your experience as a philanthropist.

1. Be sure the group is a charity. Not every group that solicits money at holiday time is a charity. This year, the Internal Revenue Service stripped over a quarter of a million charities of their tax exempt status, after they failed to file required paperwork for several years in a row. If you plan to deduct your contribution, take a moment to check the current list of tax exempt charities through the search utility in “Publication 78” at www.irs.gov.

2. Find out if the charity is properly registered with the state. See whether the charity is registered to solicit locally, as legally required, through the Maryland Office of the Secretary of State .

3. Check to see if the charity meets high performance standards. BBB has published reports on over 9,000 national and local charities, which have been assessed against the 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability. The Standards cover a wide array of evaluation points, including strong governance and financial management; accuracy and honesty in fundraising practices; privacy protection for donors; and the charity’s assessment of its own impact, to name just a few. We’ve done the homework for you. See all the reports at bbb.org, where you can search for your charity by name.

4. Watch out for sound-alike charities. Questionable charity groups sometimes spring up in popular giving categories (such as cancer charities). If a charity sounds familiar but you aren’t sure about its identity, contact your BBB or the Maryland Office of the Secretary of State.

5. Say no to high-pressure pitches and charities you have not vetted. If you are pressured by someone to give, over the phone or in person, ask to see written information or simply say no. High pressure or a refusal to provide written details is a sign that you may be encountering a scam. Friends may contact you through social media, forward solicitation emails or text you about giving opportunities that sound cool but that are really unknowns which haven’t been checked out. If you are interested in one of these – check them out yourself before considering a gift.

Enrich Your Giving Experience

6. Look inside yourself: choose charities that reflect your passions. If you are a hiker, you may care about environmental issues and wildlife causes. If you are interested in visual or performing arts, you may decide to support museums or symphonies. Perhaps you know of a charity that is helping an underserved group or neighborhood that matters to you. This is a great time of year to “vote” for causes you care about, by supporting them with your dollars.

7. Look outside yourself: support charities that are meeting community needs. In the current difficult economic environment, charities are facing increased needs with limited resources. Every donation matters, no matter how small. Look around and see what the needs are - where you live, and across the world. Then give to charities that are helping the communities you care about in key ways.

8. Be proactive with your giving. It’s better to select charities yourself, check them out, and then go directly to them to make your donations, without waiting to be solicited. If you look up a charity’s website and donate through the site or call them to donate, you can be certain that your gift is reaching the actual charity of your choice. For any online donations, make sure you are giving through a secure site: look for the “https” letters in your browser, where the site’s address appears, as well as the lock symbol. When you give without being asked, you also save the charity money on fundraising costs, which can then be used for program purposes.

9. Give with your family. Many families like to research charities, talk about issues that interest them, and choose donations as a group. For parents, this can be an especially meaningful and rewarding way to spend time together and to impart strong philanthropic values to children.

10. Give with your friends. Giving circles are popular. Like-minded individuals often form groups to share information and research about issues and charities. Sometimes they even join forces and give together to specific causes or nonprofits. This can be a valuable bonding experience, as well as a great way to sharpen your understanding of the community environment.

Give with Confidence in 2011: Ten Holiday Giving Tips from Metro NY BBB

12/19/2011

Posted on 12/19/2011 by

Enrich Your Giving Experience

Postcard Offer Costs Consumers

12/13/2011

Posted on 12/13/2011 by
A Md. woman received a postcard offering a free "$100 gift card." BBB investigator warns consumers report the $3.90 fee turns into numerous charges that end only upon cancellation of the credit card. Resist offers to pay for FREE gift cards by providing credit card information, personal information or by enrolling in loyalty programs.

BBB Warns: Beware of Amazon Shipping Scam

12/12/2011

Posted on 12/12/2011 by

Consumers across the country are complaining about an email they received from what appeared to be Amazon.com. 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, run a virus scan. 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 e-mail:

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.

Warning: Phony BBB Complaint Email

12/7/2011

Posted on 12/7/2011 by

Better Business Bureau is issuing a second warning cautioning businesses and consumers about a phony email that is purporting to be from a bbb.org email address about a recently filed complaint.

Do not open attachments or click on links
BBB is working with federal investigators, if you would like to assist in these efforts, please forward the email to phishing@council.bbb.org.
Delete the email.
If the email links or attachments were opened, please immediately run a virus scan.
BBB does as regular practice use email to notify businesses of customer complaints to ensure quick resolution to any consumer concerns.

Note - an authentic email from BBB will always:
1) come from your local BBB - not the Council of Better Business Bureaus or a BBB from another state.
2) the from email address is "baltimore.xx@bureaudata.com". The "xx" will be replaced with your BBB complaint contact person's initials.
3) the email will include a secure HTTPS link to the complaint details.
4) complaints are never sent as attachments.

Bogus BBB Emails Continue to Surface

12/7/2011

Posted on 12/7/2011 by

Better Business Bureau is issuing a second warning cautioning businesses and consumers about a phony email that is purporting to be from a bbb.org email address about a recently filed complaint.

Do not open attachments or click on links
BBB is working with federal investigators, if you would like to assist in these efforts, please forward the email to phishing@council.bbb.org.
Delete the email.
If the email links or attachments were opened, please immediately run a virus scan.
BBB does as regular practice use email to notify businesses of customer complaints to ensure quick resolution to any consumer concerns.

Note - an authentic email from BBB will always:

come from your local BBB - not the Council of Better Business Bureaus or a BBB from another state.
the from email address is "baltimore.xx@bureaudata.com". The "xx" will be replaced with your BBB complaint contact person's initials.
the email will include a secure HTTPS link to the complaint details.
complaints are never sent as attachments.

__________________________________________________

BBB IS NOT SENDING THIS EMAIL

From: ::Better Business Bureau:: [mailto:manager@bbb.org]
Sent: Wednesday, December 07, 2011 3:56 AM
To: ----

Subject: Re: BBB Case # 64168176

Hello,
The Better Business Bureau has been filed the above-referenced complaint from one of your customers regarding their dealings with you.
The detailed information about the consumer's concern is included in enclosed document.
Please review this problem and let us know about your point of view.
Please click here to respond this complaint.

We look forward to your prompt response.

Faithfully yours,
Shawna Dennis
Better Business Bureau

Council of Better Business Bureaus
4200 Wilson Blvd, Suite 800
Arlington, VA 22203-1838
Phone: 1 (703) 276.0100
Fax: 1 (703) 525.8277

Buying Extended Warranties for Electronics

12/7/2011

Posted on 12/7/2011 by

This year’s Black Friday results revealed that consumer electronics and computer accessories set an overall record in sales, accounting for about one-third of all holiday spending. While this may be good news for the economy, these purchases can create post-holiday blues if the products don’t meet your technological needs. Therefore, BBB offers the following consumer tips to make sure your electronic gifts don’t blow a fuse.

Electronics

Buy Online: Consumer Reports advises the highest-rated electronic retailers are web sites – Amazon.com and Crtuchfield.com. With many web merchants offering free shipping even on TVs, shopping online for electronics is increasingly affordable. Remember, Free Shipping Day is December 16.

Watch out for the up-sells: While retailers may be cutting the price of big ticket items, the cost of accessories, such as video cables or memory cards, may increase. Choose standard accessories rather than those marketed as premium. These items tend to cost twice as much and may offer little performance benefits. If you are considering a premium upgrade to your accessories, consider whether the sales person receives a commission on the up-sell. Don’t succumb to high pressure sales without knowing the true benefits.

Service or Price: When considering the item, reflect on your priorities. Big box mass merchandisers are probably some of the best prices. If you need extra customer support or training, visit your independent electronic store or manufacturer’s outlet. These are usually a standout for service but rarely best price.

Warranties

Most products have a standard one year warranty. When that year is up, consumers are on their own to protect their product with two options.

Extended service plans typically offer protection that would not normally be covered by the warranty such as water damage and routine wear and tear.

Under extended warranties, consumers should look for the following areas:

Coverage: This insures mechanical and electrical failures, surge protection failure, 100 percent parts and labor with zero deductibles.
Claim Services: Beyond customer service and technical support consumers want to claim services with high accessibility and options such as in-house services, expert service technicians and 24 hour support.
Product Warranties: These may vary based on each company, but can extend to GPS, vehicle audio and video gaming systems.
Service Network: Multiple locations should provide repair and replacement services.

In today’s market, if repairs are required after the manufacturer’s warranty, the bill is often comparable to the cost of an extended warranty. If you are considering an extended warranty, know your product brand’s reliability. Ask someone familiar with repairs about the average costs, but not someone affiliated with the particular retailer.

If you are considering premium plans from retailers for extra services such as tech support, Consumer Report suggests a consumer may be better off buying those as needed.

Before purchasing an extended warranty for your electronics, BBB advises the following:

Be aware of the fine print: The coverage should not have a large number of exclusions. If you have to pay out of pocket for certain repairs and only specific types of damage is covered, it might not be worth the warranty. Read the exclusions first.
Utilize the manufacturer’s one year: Look for extended warranties that pick up after the manufacturer’s warranty ends. Otherwise, the consumer is losing out on a year or whatever the terms of the manufacturer’s warranty pays for.
Consider the item’s lifespan: If there is something wrong with the product it most likely will happen early on during the return period or manufacturer’s warranty. For instance, getting a GPS warranty might not be worth the money, the manufacturer’s warranty should be enough. Remember when purchasing warranties to find the right length correlating to the product. Don’t purchase 10 years for an item that typically lasts 5 years.
Shop around: The best warranty might not be with the retailer you purchased the item from. It’s always possible to find a warranty with companies such as SquareTrade.com. Typically, you have a month to purchase the warranty. The same is true in retail stores, so don’t feel pressured to purchase it on the spot.
Keep all your paperwork.

BBB Sets Sights on Community Engagement & Accountability

12/5/2011

Posted on 12/5/2011 by

Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland didn't waste time putting seven new members on its board of directors to work. The recently elected volunteer leaders hail from a diverse background and offer expertise in a variety of disciplines from digital marketing, to finance and data privacy and security. The new board members recently completed a half-day orientation at BBB headquarters followed by an afternoon retreat with the full board unveiling the non-profit's 2012-2013 strategic plan.

"The economic climate tested our organization. But with the leadership of our board, the commitment of our staff and the support of our community, our BBB has never been better," said Angie Barnett, president and CEO. "Our new leaders and senior advisors have rallied behind an impressive plan that focuses on community engagement and accountability."

The first-year board members include Lt. Col. Ronald Edwards, CEO, Hague Quality Water of Maryland, Brandon Green, general manager of Cintas Document Management, Betsy Hayes, vice president of Chapin Davis Investments, Kate Kasabula, corporate sales account executive for the Baltimore Ravens, Tim Kassouf, marketing director of G.1440, Ellie Meyd, BBB Educational Foundation chair and vice president, Atlantic Financial Federal Credit Union and Charles Sawyer, president of The Sawyer Group.

The board is led by an eight-person executive committee. Paul Frey, BGE, smart grid demonstration manager, serves as chairman. Frey and Barnett rolled out a number of initiatives at the retreat including performance metrics, best practices, corporate development and program expansion to help consumers find and recommend businesses, brands and charities they can trust. The organization is seeking volunteer advisors from its Accredited Business community to assist on their finance, personnel, corporate development and customer engagement committees.

BBB | Greater Maryland 2012 Board Members

Executive Officers

Chairman, Paul J. Frey, BGE
Past Chair, Larry Taylor, AT&T Mobility
Treasurer, Keith Novak, Clifton Gunderson LLP
Secretary/President, Angie Barnett, BBB
Tim Munson, AES Builder & Home Improvements
Francel M. Smith, Benefits Perspectives, Inc.
John Von Paris, Von Paris Moving & Storage
Tommie Tarsell, Tomco Insurance Corp.

Directors

Lisa Corona, McCormick & Co., Inc.
Lisa Decker, The Whiting-Turner Contracting Co.
Lt. Col. Ron Edwards, Hague Quality Water of MD
Michael Evans, Frederick Mutual Insurance Co.
Jason Goldsmith, CARCHEX
Brandon Green, Cintas Document Management
Betsy Hayes, Chapin Davis Investments
Bill Hurley, Bray Scarff Inc.
William Jameson, Luna Home
Kate Kasabula, Baltimore Ravens
Tim Kassouf, G.1440
Shohreh Kaynama, Ph.D.
George Layfield, IWIF
Ellie Meyd, Atlantic Financial Federal Credit Union
Charles Sawyer, The Sawyer Group
Alan Shephard, Advanced Computer Tech Support
David H. Wilson, Preston Automotive Group
Brian Wuest, Thompson Creek Window Co.

Legal Counsel

Kimberly Grimsley, Bowie & Jensen, LLC

Save on Heating Costs with Seven Ways to Winterize Your Home

12/2/2011

Posted on 12/2/2011 by

With a tough economy looming like the Grinch over this year’s holiday season, many people are looking for ways to save money through energy efficiency. Better Business Bureau is offering a checklist for homeowners to safely prepare their homes for the cold winter months, and perhaps save a few dollars in the process.

According to the Energy Information Administration, home heating costs this winter are expected to rise by 10.2 percent for homeowners who rely on heating oil. Luckily, homeowners can fend off some of the rising energy costs by winterizing their home before the harshest weather takes hold.

"Even though cold weather is just beginning, consumers have been researching contractors since early fall," said Angie Barnett, BBB | Greater Maryland, president/CEO. "For example, BBB has already provided over 5,000 Business Reviews on heating contractors and almost 2,000 on chimney cleaners since September 1. Taking the time to winterize your home and make needed repairs gives you the peace of mind that you will not only save money, but be energy efficient as well"

The following is a BBB home winterizing checklist for consumers to consult when preparing for the cold months ahead:

Furnace. Furnaces older than 15 years might be due for a replacement. For newer furnaces, BBB recommends making sure the furnace filter is clean, the thermostat is working properly and the pilot light is functioning. Homeowners can also hire an inspector to do the job and make sure the furnace is in safe working order.

Chimney. Before lighting up the fireplace, homeowners should have the chimney inspected for animals, debris and leaves that may have fallen in. BBB also recommends installing a screen over the chimney opening.

Gutters and ridge vents. Gutters should be cleaned to prevent any clogs that would cause rainwater to back up and freeze, making the gutters expand and crack. The ridge vents need to be cleaned as well in order to allow the house to "breath" correctly. Otherwise, air will stagnate and create an unhealthy environment.

Smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors. BBB recommends testing smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and installing fresh batteries. Homeowners should consider replacing smoke alarms older than 10 years.

Caulking and Weather Stripping. To prevent leaks, homeowners should inspect the caulking around windows and doors and check for cracking and peeling. In addition, BBB recommends ensuring that doors and windows shut tightly and no cold air is coming in due to worn weather stripping.

Seasonal equipment. Homeowners won’t need their spring and summer equipment for a few months, so BBB recommends draining the water from garden hoses and air conditioner pipes, and the gasoline from the lawnmower and other garden tools. It’s also time to pull out the snow shovels and plows and ensure they are in good repair.

Emergency kit. When a winter storm strikes, an emergency kit should have all essential materials in one handy place. An emergency kit should include flashlights, candles and matches, a first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable food and a battery-powered radio. BBB recommends creating the same emergency kit for the car as well, including a couple blankets.

Check Privacy Policy on "Dear Santa" Websites

11/23/2011

Posted on 11/23/2011 by
More than 60 domain names have been registered in the name of Santa Claus, offering children a wide range of opportunities to email St. Nick. Sadly, some of the websites aren’t always so trustworthy and can potentially be a dangerous way to share personal information. Better Business Bureau is advising parents to do their homework before letting their child write to Santa this holiday season.

Writing to Santa has been a long lasting tradition, and while it seems innocent and fun, it is very important for adults to carefully review the site to determine who is seeking the information, how it will be used and whether it will be shared with third parties.

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.

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 CARU.org and for more information you can trust, visit bbb.org.

Scammers Use BBB's Name to Send Phishing Email

11/23/2011

Posted on 11/23/2011 by

BBB IS NOT SENDING THIS EMAIL

It appears to be an attempt to infect computers with malware. If you have received this:

Delete the email, do not open attachments or click on links
If the email links or attachments were opened, please immediately run a virus scan
If you have reason to believe a customer has recently contacted BBB seeking assistance with dispute resolution, please call 410-347-3990 and confirm the authenticity of the complaint.
BBB does as regular practice use email to notify Maryland businesses of customer complaints to ensure quick resolution to any consumer concerns.

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:

Shop with Precaution on Black Friday and Cyber Monday

11/22/2011

Posted on 11/22/2011 by

Black Friday and Cyber Monday advertisements are already in full force. With these two critical shopping days around the corner, consumers will be looking to find the best prices in town. Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland encourage consumers to be cautious with astonishing deals, whether found in stores or online.

In 2010, the National Retail Federation reported 212 million shoppers visited stores and websites during Black Friday. Compared to 2009, that was an increase of over 17 million shoppers. The average amount spent totaled $300.

Last year, Cyber Monday entered the record books as the largest online purchase day. Online retailers saw a 28 percent increase in sales with consumers spending about $1 billion.

This year, retailers have extended their hours on Black Friday and some will be opening on Thanksgiving Day. Other businesses, such as Amazon, are already giving consumers daily deals at Black Friday prices. Retailers entice consumers with Black Friday deals such as door buster savings, but the "terms and conditions" for those valued discounts are often unknown.

BBB offers a few tips to help you avoid the pits of holiday shopping.

Email Coupons: Be cautious of unsolicited email alerts with links for coupons and discounts. If you didn't sign up or have a relationship with that retailer, the email solicitation may include links that download malware into your computer. Always run a virus scan on an attachment in an email before opening.

QR Codes: More retailers are using square black-and-white quick response codes to provide information about products, coupons and special deals. Black Friday ads attracting mobile shoppers can also be a ploy of scam artists attempting to send malware into your cellphone. Download a smart-phone application that enables you to preview the QR code first. Scan codes only from businesses you know. Rub the QR Code square to make sure it is not a sticker replacing an original QR Code.

Refund:Know a store's refund and exchange policy. Sometimes Black Friday sales may be final sales and cannot be returned. There are few regulations regarding these policies so there is no uniformity other than a requirement to post these policies. Sales items may require store credit rather than a refund. Restocking fees are becoming more common.

Warranty: Major store brands may alter the terms of their standard warranties for promotional models sold during Black Friday. For example, a new television purchased on Black Friday may include a shorter warranty or excludes in-home service for larger sets. Make sure you're comfortable with the terms in the event something goes wrong with the product.

Gift Cards: More than half of last year's holiday shoppers said they would like to receive gift cards. The safest way to purchase gift cards is directly from the merchant. BBB advises against purchasing gift cards from auction sites. Last year, federal regulations improved consumers' rights with gift cards such as:

Gift cards cannot expire for at least five years
An inactivity fee cannot be charged until the card has not been used for 12 months
Information must be printed on the card related to fees and expiration date, along with a toll-free number or website for additional information

Online Shopping: Many of the largest retailers including Amazon and Walmart have offered online sales during Black Friday week. Remember to use credit and not debit cards. If a scammer gets your credit card number, they may cause chaos, but you will have buyer protection which limits your level of responsibility. A bank card in the hands of a scam artist can result in an emptied bank account of cash. Verify how the items will be shipped. This year's top five phishing emails includes tracking email with links that download malware from "UPS" and "FedEx." Confirm your online purchase is secure by looking for the s in https:// in the URL. Check the lower-right corner for a lock symbol before paying.

Malicious Mobile: National Retail Federation survey found 52.6 percent of consumers with a smartphone said they will use their device for holiday shopping. McAfee cites a 76 percent increase in malware targeting Android, making it the most targeted cellular device. Besides malware found in the use of QR Codes, malicious mobile applications steal information. These are usually "free applications" that masquerade as fun games. Shoppers are advised to only download mobile applications from official stores such as iTunes and the Android Market. Read user reviews before downloading them.

Make Sure Your Charitable Donation is Legitimate

11/16/2011

Posted on 11/16/2011 by

In the spirit of the holidays many businesses and individuals are eager to make charitable donations. As Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland has witnessed each year, scam artists are anxious to wrap their hands around this season of generosity. Marylanders have been victimized by charity scams in the past and should exercise caution in future giving.

Do You Understand the Cause/Mission?

A $12 million Maryland based cancer research institute spent more than $6 million on fundraising expenses, while spending only 5 percent of the money raised on cancer research. Local supporters paid $175 per ticket to attend a fashion show that made no contributions to research or a cure. It was simply an event to raise awareness. Did the event make a profit and if so, what did the proceeds go toward?

Tips: 65 percent of the revenue should go into the programs and services of the non-profit. Donate to charities with a positive track record. When you buy merchandise or event tickets, remember that part of the contribution was used to pay for those expenses. Skip the gala and give directly to the charity for the highest bang for your buck. Emotional pitches may result in more money, but a legitimate charity will welcome your money tomorrow after giving you time to do your research.

Firefighter and Police Charity Scams

Phone solicitations from organizations that claim to raise funds to meet the local needs of first responders and their families plague communities. Unfortunately, many of these fundraisers give as little as 10 percent of the funds raised to local charities. Just because the solicitations have the words "police" or "state troopers" in their name doesn't mean our local officers will be the ones who benefit.

Tips: Before you give, ask whether the group is a local,
state or national organization. Ask if the solicitation is coming from a professional organization and how much of the money raised goes towards the officer programs. If you want to give to your local first responders, give directly to them at their local headquarters.

Disaster Charities

Following major disasters, scam artists are quick to set up bogus websites to misdirect genuine signs of charity into their personal bank accounts. 60 percent of these sites are hosted on foreign servers and redirect potential donors from a legitimate to a rogue site.

Tips: Make sure the website's URL ends in .org, not .com.
Use a search engine to go to websites of organizations that you are familiar with and contribute directly online. Do not contribute through a link in an email solicitation. Use credit cards only on secure sites. Check for the "s" after the "http" and a padlock or key symbol.

Remember, how you give is just as important as what you give:

Give items specified by the charity such as coats, toys, and canned goods.
Give when you shop - embedded giving enables a customer to shop at a specific store because the business donates an amount of the purchase price to a worthy cause.
Give through text messaging - a donation is tacked on to your cell phone bill but remember, it may take months to reach the charity through your phone carrier text service.
Give online - the most efficient way to directly support a charity.
Give your time - volunteer and raise awareness.
For more information and to find a charity you can trust, visit bbb.org.

Cell Phone Providers Sell Customers’ Information

11/9/2011

Posted on 11/9/2011 by
While cell-phone hackers have become a growing concern for consumers, many have added cell-phone providers to the list. Keeping tabs on our phone calls, geo-location and web searches, how can we prevent this information from being sold?

If you missed BBB’s president and CEO, Angie Barnett on Fox 45 this morning, check out our blog for tips on how to protect your information.

Scams That Target Veterans And Military Personnel

11/9/2011

Posted on 11/9/2011 by
Veterans Day is one where we take time to honor those who have served our country. It’s also a time when scammers come out to take advantage of our veterans and active duty military personnel. BBB wants to make sure those who serve us do not become victims of fraud.

Veteran’s scams can take many forms. BBB provides the following information on different types of offers and scams that can put our Veterans at jeopardy of becoming victims of fraud, paying more for items than they should or identity theft.

Types of Scams:
• Look out for firms that target veterans and charge them for products and services they can receive free or at lower cost elsewhere, such as military records and forms.

• Be cautious of scammers who contact veterans saying that they need to update their credit card information or other records with the Veterans Administration. The scammers then use the information to commit identity theft.

• Be wary of bogus charities with names that reference the Armed Forces and seek donations.

• Hang up on fraudsters calling themselves veterans advocates who try to convince veterans that they can get more benefits by transferring their investments into an irrevocable trust, which often contains unsuitable investments.

• Military Loans: Flashy offers promising "up to 40 percent of your monthly take home pay," "guaranteed loans," "instant approval," "no credit check," "all ranks approved," often come with sky-high interest rates and hidden fees designed to bilk borrowers out of cash and damage financial security.

• Housing: Ads promising military discounts and too-good-to-be-true incentives use stolen photos of legitimate rental properties to bait renters out of security deposits via money transfer schemes.

• Cars: Low-priced vehicles posted on classified ad websites tout discounts for military personnel, or claim to be from soldiers who need to sell fast because they've been deployed. Schemers convince buyers to wire money; however, vehicle data is stolen.

• Veterans For Hire: This scam targets our younger veterans. Scammers pose online as representatives of government contracting firms. When veterans contact them for a job, they ask for a copy of the veteran’s passport before they can officially offer them a job. Of course there is no job to offer and the con artist now has personal information that can be used for identity theft.

What to do? BBB offers help:
• Protect Finances: Never wire transfer money to strangers.

• Check Companies and Charities: Research companies at www.greatermd.bbb.org

• Defend Computers: Avoid visiting unfamiliar sites or opening e-mails from unknown senders. Install a firewall and updated anti-virus software.

• Safeguard Identities: Actively deployed military personnel can place an "active duty alert" on their credit reports to help minimize the risk of identity theft. With this alert, the Fair Credit Reporting Act requires creditors and businesses to verify identities before issuing or granting credit. The Federal Trade Commission offers advice to help military families deter, detect and defend from identity theft.

• Report Scams: File complaints with BBB, www.bbb.org, the FTC, www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov, or the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.

What We Can Do:
For those of us at home, if you receive a call or mail from a veteran’s organization asking for a donation, do your research. Many, if not most, veterans organizations use professional fundraising organizations that can keep up to 85% or higher of donations received. If they do not provide the information, ask if they are professional telemarketers. By law, they must disclose this information. Also, many of these veteran organizations are not tax deductible. A legitimate charity will allow you ample time to check them out. Visit www.bbb.org/charity for a list of nationally soliciting charities to make sure any charity you’re interested in donating to meets BBB’s Standards.

Remember that federal agencies do not contact veterans via e-mail or text, and if they do call someone, they don’t request personal information. Veterans who receive suspicious correspondence can contact the Department of Veteran Affairs at 1-877-222-8387 with questions. You can get information on how to qualify for veteran’s benefits by contacting your state veterans affairs agency.You can report suspicious e-mails and online scams to the FBI at their online complaint center.

Don’t Get Smoked Out of a Chimney Sweep Scam

11/8/2011

Posted on 11/8/2011 by

With the chilly weather fast approaching, many consumers are yearning for a toasty fire by the fireplace and looking to have their chimneys cleaned in preparation. However, Better Business Bureau is advising consumers to know which businesses to trust and which to avoid to prevent their hard earned dollars from going up in smoke.

To date this year, BBB has received more than 380 complaints against chimney cleaners, which is up from the 342 complaints received in all of 2010. In the past two years, BBB | Greater Maryland has received 22 complaints- many alleging deceptive sales practices, bait and switch, or poor workmanship.

“Chimney sweeping is not something that homeowners deal with often, so we may lack knowledge of the cleaning process,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Many scammers take advantage of this and do shoddy work…or no work at all.”

In some cases, consumers have reported calls stating the town fire department recommends the resident’s chimney be cleaned. The calls go on to recommend a particular chimney sweep and endorse their services on behalf of the fire department. Though town fire departments do recommend having chimneys cleaned on an annual basis, they do not endorse any particular company or inspect chimneys. Many scam artists are targeting the elderly, making vague, unclear phone calls claiming they have done business in the past and it is time for their annual sweep.

Scam artists are also advertising at a much lower price than legitimate businesses. Typically, a professional chimney sweep will charge between $150 and $200 for the cleaning of one chimney shaft, whereas scam artists are charging as little as $50. BBB advises that if a price sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

Many scam artists use a low price tactic to get in your door, at which point they recommend additional work be done immediately, bullying the consumer into a much more expensive bill. If the price you are quoted is significantly lower than that of other businesses, it should be viewed as a red flag.

BBB suggests consumers do their homework before hiring a chimney sweep and inviting them into the home. Additionally, check with your local fire department and with the Chimney Safety Institute of America (csia.org).

BBB recommends using these helpful tips when hiring a chimney sweep:

Check out a chimney sweeping business at bbb.org. Always check with BBB for a trusted chimney sweeping business in your area. Are they an Accredited Business? Do they have any outstanding complaints?

Find out how long they have been in business. How long have they operated in your area? Find out if they offer current references, or if you know anyone who has used their services in the past.

Ask if they have a valid business liability insurance policy. In the event of an accident, this policy keeps your home and belongings safe.

Find out if any employees are certified through CSIA. Though this is not law, it is recommended by the fire department, and speaks to the qualifications of the individual or business you hire. CSIA is a national nonprofit agency with a certification program for chimney sweeps and certification is required of members of the National Chimney Sweeping Guild.

BBB Urges Consumers to Support Small Business Saturday

11/4/2011

Posted on 11/4/2011 by

In honor of Small Business Saturday, a day dedicated to supporting small businesses on the busiest shopping weekend of the year, Better Business Bureau is spreading awareness and advising consumers to support the small businesses in their area.

As a joining member, BBB is teaming up with American Express OPEN to spread the word on why small businesses are so awesome. For the second year in a row, American Express OPEN has declared November 26th, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, to be Small Business Saturday. Sandwiched between black Friday and cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday is a perfect way to support the small businesses that you love.

It’s great to have a day that’s completely dedicated to the success of our small businesses and it’s even better to think that the success of this day could lead to the growth and prosper of the small businesses in the days and years to follow BBB encourages consumers to take advantage of this day and show support to the small businesses in their community.

In preparation for Small Business Saturday, FedEX will be giving away 40,000 $25 American Express gift cards to lucky consumers, which can be used to shop at small businesses on Saturday, November 26th. 30,000 will go to people who register at FedEx Facebook's page, beginning at noon CDT November 1st. FedEx will give the other 10,000 to customers.

American Express is also giving a $25 statement credit to American Express card members who spend $25 or more on Small Business Saturday at a qualifying small brick-and-mortar, independent merchant that accepts American Express. You must register to receive the credit. Registration is available in early November at www.facebook.com/smallbusinesssaturday. For small businesses, $100 in free Facebook ads will be awarded to the first 10,000 businesses that sign up at www.facebook.com/smallbusinesssaturday.

For more information on Small Business Saturday, visit http://smallbusinesssaturday.com.

Don't Get Wrapped in an eBay Shopping Scam

11/2/2011

Posted on 11/2/2011 by

In 2010, Maryland consumers filed over 1,600 complaints against internet auctions, while national complaints totaled 56,107. As the “gift buying” season approaches and consumers rush to online shops, BBB | Greater Maryland reminds consumers to be on the lookout for eBay Grinches.

Fraudulent Gift Card Scams: Multiple techniques have been used to sell gift cards. In several instances, cards will have an initial credit line and cleared to zero dollars once the buyer receives them. Other consumers never receive their cards because they were “lost in the mail.” Some sellers set up a “mystery auction” where the price of cards is undetermined and buyers pay more than the cards’ real worth. FTC advises against buying gift cards online or from auction sites. Go directly to the retailers for authenticity.

International Scams: Do not deal with sellers that are temporarily out of the country. Many consumers have reported loses with international sellers, finding it more difficult to retrieve their transaction or find a resolution based on laws. Be wary if things do not add up such as the seller’s registered location, the eBay site or the item location. Sometimes the seller directs the winner to send a payment to a different location. If there are inconsistencies, the transaction could be fraudulent.

Hijacked Accounts: When accounts are hijacked, the seller or scammer will avoid conducting emails through eBay, because it will alert the account owner. The page may not include a “Buy It Now” emblem. However, eBay’s terms state to email the seller about it, or the button is a phony. The original listing might be directed to a phony page through the scammer. The item for sale is unrelated or more expensive than the seller’s typical items.

Vehicle Scams: The amount of online vehicle scams offering extremely low prices are rising. The seller tricks consumers to send money to various “legitimate” places such as Kelly Blue Book. The scammers claim to be connected to these sources as well as eBay motors, and attempts to have money sent to a phony escrow agent.

General Tips:

If something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts.
Take notice if the seller does not provide a photo or uses a generic photo of the item.
Review the seller’s feedbacks. Look at the comments that other people have left and note their presence as well. Sometimes sellers use multiple identities or have friends boost their numbers.
Take stock of the seller’s other items. Use caution if they are selling something out of the norm.
Be wary of eBay sellers who want you to bypass the site and deal directly with them.
Understand the terms and conditions, payment options and return policies.
Use PayPal for purchases. Do not pay with cash or non-refundable money transfers.
Beware of fraudulent eBay pages. Consumers have received fraudulent emails asking for account information and directed to a fraudulent Ebay site. Never divulge account information and other sensitive material. When in doubt, look for https in the address bar to know that you are dealing with a secure site or ask a representative of the site to directly authenticate it.
If the seller is a business, check with your local BBB at www.bbb.org to evaluate their practices.

BBB Helps FTC Shut the Door on Deceptive Mortgage Relief

10/26/2011

Posted on 10/26/2011 by

While the luck of the Irish might have been shining on some back on St. Patty's Day 2010, Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland closed its first complaint against Residential Relief Foundation, a company targeting homeowners who were struggling to keep their homes and desperate for a little good luck.

Between March of 2010 and September of 2011, 156 homeowners from 33 states filed complaints with BBB alleging losses of $250 to $1,595. Their complaints against the Baltimore company, revealed an alarming pattern of false and broken promises. Single parents, seniors and families from across the country, teetering on the brink of losing their piece of the American Dream, were only left deeper in debt or even homeless.

"It's a tragedy," said Angie Barnett, president/CEO of BBB | Greater Maryland. "BBB provided its complaint detail to federal investigators and applauds the outcome of the FTC's court orders." Barnett added, "We hope that restitution helps the families affected rebuild their lives."

In a complaint to BBB, one troubled homeowner wrote, "I am seeking my $1,595 back that I paid...services were incomplete and now I'm left out to dry and don't know where to go from here."

According to court documents filed by the Federal Trade Commission in the U.S. District Court of Maryland, Residential Relief Foundation and another defendant, Mitigation America, which operated from the same address and their five business officials, including Baltimore attorney, James Holderness, must refrain from deceptive practices and assessment of upfront fees. In violation of their own privacy policies, the companies were also accused of disposing of customer documents including detailed personnel information in unlocked dumpsters.

The resulting court settlement imposed over $11 million in judgments - the equivalent of the losses incurred by consumers - and barred the defendants from working in the mortgage relief and debt settlement industries. Unfortunately, the majority of the settlement money dismissed for inability to pay. A receiver has been appointed and the defendants will have to forfeit assets that were frozen as part of the court proceedings.

BBB Advises Business Owners to Secure Their Online Banking

10/26/2011

Posted on 10/26/2011 by

Online banking is a great tool to help small businesses quickly and conveniently track financial information, as well as pay their bills and employees. However, data thieves are now targeting small business owners — and their employees — to get access to their online banking credentials and accounts so that they can make unauthorized money transfers. A small business can protect itself against increased liability on its financial transactions by using strong procedures to secure the credentials they use to access their bank accounts.

BBB recommends the following guidelines to help you protect the computers you use to access your bank accounts and your online access credentials.

Initiate a "dual control" payment process with your bank and employees. Ensure that all payments are initiated from your bank accounts only after the authorization of two employees. One employee will authorize the creation of the payment file and a second employee will be responsible for authorizing the release of the file. This process should be in place regardless of the type of payment being initiated-including checks, wire transfers, fund transfers, payroll files, ACH payments, etc.

Have dedicated workstations. Restrict the use of certain workstations and laptops to be utilized solely for online banking and payments, if possible. For example, a workstation or laptop used for online banking should not be used for web browsing or social networking.

Use robust authentication methods and vendors. Make sure your financial service providers allow for "multi-factor authentication." This means that you need more than just a username and password to access your account.

Update virus protection and security software. Ensure that all anti-spyware, anti-malware, and security software and mechanisms are robust and up-to-date for all computer workstations and laptops used for online banking and payments. Implement a process to periodically confirm they remain up-to-date. Security patches are often available via automatic updates.

Reconcile accounts daily. Monitor and reconcile accounts daily against expected credits and withdrawals. If you see any kind of unexpected activity on your account, notify your financial institution immediately.

Beware of Direct Withdrawals from Funds Direct

10/26/2011

Posted on 10/26/2011 by

BBB is alerting Maryland consumers of a Las Vegas company Funds Direct, who, according to a pattern of complaints, debits consumer’s accounts for $30 without their authorization.

Some consumers report that due to the debits, they were charged account overdraft fees and in some cases, were forced to close their accounts.

“I’ve never had any contact with Funds Direct, and hadn’t even heard of them until they took $30 out of my account causing an overdraft,” stated a Florida consumer. “I was told that my account would be refunded within 7-10 business days. It’s been over a month and I still haven’t received a refund.”

Although the company’s terms and conditions state “If you feel that for any reason you are not completely satisfied with our services we offer a no question 30-day money back guarantee,” some consumers report not receiving promised refunds. The company’s website guarantees “instant” and “fast cash,” however, the information cannot be accessed until a password and email address are given through an unsecure site.

BBB called the company representing a consumer who was charged the $30 membership fee, and was directed to a call center. They refused to give us the company’s actual physical location, refused to let us talk to a supervisor, and refused to tell us from where they received the consumer’s debit account information. The telemarketer we spoke with confirmed he was not located in Las Vegas and that he answered phone calls for a variety of similar companies. After persistently asking the same questions, the telemarketer finally told us he’d transfer us to his supervisor, at which point, he hung up.

The company has responded to some BBB complaints with a form letter stating refunds have been given for the withdrawals as well as the overdraft fees. Some consumers report never receiving the promised refunds.

BBB reminds consumers seeking loans (particularly short-term or bridge loans) to consider the following:

Maryland has two specific regulations designed to protect consumers when applying for loans; (a) small loan rate cap is 2.75% per month and 33% per year and (b) it is illegal to require upfront fees when applying for a loan (except for incidental costs such as credit report). While the cap dissuades the payday loan sharks of other states whose APR (Delaware) may be as high as 300%, the online lending sharks continue to swarm.

Under the Truth in Lending Act, the cost of the loan must be fully disclosed and the customer must receive in writing the finance charge and the annual percentage. Consumers are advised to find out specifically additional charges such as late charges. Individuals with bad credit or credit risks are easy targets and while they may be charged a higher interest rate, they should not be required to pay pre-payments or upfront fees.
If you are searching these companies online, carefully read their privacy and security policies to ensure they will not “sell” your information and to find details about their business location (company’s legal name, address, and contact information).

If using online search features, be cautious of giving any personal identifying information without full knowledge that this site is a legitimate lender. If completing an application online, make sure the information is encrypted by looking for the “https” URL and the “clicked” padlock. And remember, if you fall victim to a bogus loan website, you are also at risk of identity theft in the future.

If the loan offer is “guaranteed” over the phone or online and you are instantly approved without sufficient background review – OR if the lender is more interested in processing the loan than in your financial health and history, then this lender is probably not “legit”.

Think Before You Give

10/20/2011

Posted on 10/20/2011 by
During Breast Cancer Awareness month, BBB | Greater Maryland offers a few tips to ensure your donations are going to legitimate charities.

Read our blog to learn how to evaluate pink ribbon marketing campaigns.

BBB iPhone App Now Available

10/18/2011

Posted on 10/18/2011 by

Last year, consumers turned to Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland over 1.3 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.

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: Find BBB Search app in the app store.

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

Don't Let Online Shadows Play Tricks on You

10/18/2011

Posted on 10/18/2011 by

October is the season for ghosts, goblins and ghouls. Unfortunately, they’re not all friendly like Casper nor are they like neighborhood kids ringing your doorbell in search of treats. Instead, you need to be on the alert for those who will play tricks on you while you’re playing, doing business or shopping online.

Because October is National Cybersecurity Month, this is a good time to bone up on cyber precautions, whether you’re new to the online community or you’ve been surfing and working online for years.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, for example, suggests approaching computers and the Internet in the same way we urge children to approach the real world.

For example:

Don’t trust candy from strangers. Finding something on the Internet does not always make it true or good for you. Anyone can publish information online. So before accepting the statement or advertisement as fact, verify that the source is reliable and if it’s a business, check it out first with the BBB at wynco.bbb.org. Because many scam artists “spoof” email addresses to appear that they’re coming from your financial institution or an online payment service, you should be wary of any email requesting that you verify account information. And never ever open attachments or respond to requests for personal or financial information from someone you don’t know.

Don’t be tricked into falling for an offer that is too good to be true. Many emails promise outlandish rewards or monetary gifts in the millions of dollars. They might state you’ve won a sweepstakes or that a rich businessman in a war-torn country left millions in a foreign bank with no heirs. Here’s the trick: You can’t win a sweepstakes you didn’t enter and there are not wealthy strangers desperate to send you their money. These emails are phishing for your bank account number. Simple as that. Also, beware of pop-ups advertising free downloadable software – they may be disguising spyware or malware.

Don’t advertise that you’re away from home. Some email accounts, especially within an organization, offer a feature called an autoresponder that allows you to create an “away” message if you’re going to be away for an extended period of time. While this is a helpful feature for letting contacts know you are unable to respond right away, the Department of Homeland Security advises that you do not provide details about your location and itinerary. Instead, use phrases such as “I will not have access to email between [date] and [date].” If possible, restrict recipients of this message to people within your organization or in your address book. If the away message replies to spam, it may increase the amount you already receive.

Don’t leave “treats” out in the open. Take steps to protect your personal and financial data by locking your computer when you step away; using firewalls, anti-virus software and strong passwords; installing appropriate software updates; and taking precautions when browsing or using email. Attackers and viruses are constantly scanning the Internet for available computers to target. To play it safe, whenever you’re not online, the DHS recommends disabling your Wi-Fi connection, turning off your computer or modem, even going so far as to disconnect cables.

Don’t throw caution to the wind. Information on your computer is vulnerable – but if you make regular backups, all is not lost in the event of an equipment malfunction, an error or a cyber attack.

Don’t go a day without your BBB. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. For more information visit us at www.bbb.org.

BBB Greater Maryland Hosts Secure Your ID Day in Salisbury

10/17/2011

Posted on 10/17/2011 by
This marks the 4^th annual National Protect Your Identity Week (PYIW) and BBB | Greater Maryland is holding a free community event on Saturday, October 22. Families and businesses are encouraged to take action to reduce the threat of identity theft.

"Secure Your ID Day" runs from 8 a.m. - 12 noon, rain or shine, at Perdue Stadium in Salisbury. Volunteers will provide tips, information and shredding of 3 bags or boxes of personally identifiable information per car for free.

The event is sponsored by BBB, Daily Times, Delmarva Shorebirds, Great Scott Broadcasting, Lower Shore Enterprises, Preston Automotive Group and WMDT ABC47.

"Identity theft has interrupted the lives of more than 8 million adults," said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland. "It was the second most reported Internet crime in 2010 and Maryland ranked 6th in the country when you look at population and the number of complaints lodged," added Barnett.

In addition to shredding your documents on October 22, here are some tips from your BBB to prevent ID theft and protect your identity:

Don't carry your Social Security Number: While you might need your card sometimes, it's best to keep it in a safe deposit box or somewhere secure at home until you need it. Thieves have full access to your identity once they have obtained your S.S.N. It is crucial to keep your number protected.
Immediately report lost or stolen cards: It's better to be safe than sorry. Call your financial institutions or credit card companies the instant you notice they're missing. To better protect yourself, remove any cards you don't use daily to limit your exposure. If you have inactive cards, you may want to close the account. Cutting them up is not the same. The account is still open and identity thieves can still access your financial information.
Swipe and skim: With the increased use of cards, thieves have resorted to skimmers to access your PIN number and bank account information.Be sure to look for suspicious card swipers at ATM's or gas station pumps. If the swiper appears bulky or out of place, it could be a skimmer.
Safeguard important documents: From financial statements to medical records, these documents have highly personal information. Don't let them get in the wrong hands. Identity theft is commonly a crime of access - and more often than we would like to believe it's committed by someone we know. Secure your documents in a locked filling cabinet, safe deposit box, etc.
Check your credit reports: Request a free copy of your credit report with the three major credit bureaus yearly for suspicious activity. Go to www.annualcreditreport.com.
Access statements regularly: If you can access banking, financial or credit statements online, you have a better chance of catching misuse quicker than if you wait on monthly statements.
Online protection: Personal identity theft is easily accessed online through outlets such as shopping, checking email or even browsing. Ways to protect your online identity can start with investing in anti-virus software, anti-spyware and/or firewalls for your privacy. When shopping or conducting online banking, or any other highly sensitive material, be sure the sites are secure and are displaying "https" instead of "http" in the address bar. Avoid clicking links to unsolicited emails and regularly change your passwords. Never use the same passwords for everything and use letters and numbers to better protect your information.
Keep your personal information private: Identity thieves may impersonate legitimate companies or businesses, so never give your personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call and you verified the number through a third party like BBB or the Yellow Pages and not through a letter or email. The same goes for your online identity. Be wary of handing over your social security number, birth date, address, etc., on websites or profiles.
Shred it! Shred anything and everything that contains your personal information that is not needed for business or tax purposes. Before disposing of electronics, properly delete information and wipe hard drives, etc. from old cell phones and computers before they get into the wrong hands.

For more information contact BBB at 410-347-3990 or visit www.greatermd.bbb.org/shred.

BBB Announces 2011 Torch Award Winners

10/14/2011

Posted on 10/14/2011 by
Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland presented five local businesses with its Torch Award for Marketplace Excellence on October 6, 2011. The award pays tribute to businesses that demonstrate high standards of honesty and integrity toward customers, employees, shareholders and their community.

The five companies, Main Street Oriental Rugs, Prometric, Inc., River Crest Design Build, Merritt Properties, and Chesapeake Telephone Systems were each recognized for their long-term dedication and commitment to BBB's Standards for Trust in all aspects of their business.

A panel of independent judges, including previous winners, evaluated nominees on common criteria. The businesses were to have demonstrated exceedingly high standards of behavior toward customers, employees, shareholders and their communities; adhered to truthful and honorable advertising and sales practices; and, earned a reputation for noteworthy contributions to their industries and the communities in which they do business. The companies were presented with the awards at a reception before 200 Maryland business executives. Five companies including CARCHEX, Carroll Landscaping, Preston Automotive Group, Reznick Group, P.C. and The Thomas Roofing Company were also selected as finalists for distinguished commitment to ethics and integrity.

"This year's winners and finalists were subjected to intensified scrutiny," emphasized Angie Barnett, BBB | Greater Maryland president/CEO during the awards ceremony. "In fact, these ten companies underwent the most in-depth review in the history of this competition in our service area. We are proud and confident of our criteria, selection practices and un-biased judging," added Barnett.

Visit our facebook page for more event photos! https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150354397674568.369541.53468964567&type=3

About the 2011 Torch Award winners:

Main Street Oriental Rugs

Mojan Bagha founded Main Street Oriental Rugs in Ellicott City in 1997 after years of working in the Oriental rug business. The business provides high quality repairs and cleaning services, and fair-priced luxury products. Bagha requires high standards from his employees, and manufacturers to keep customers coming back.

Lisa Corona; Angie Barnett; Mojan Bagha, Owner, Main Street Oriental Rugs

Prometric, Inc.

For 40 years, Prometric has provided the world with reliable and credible testing and assessment. More than nine million test takers use Prometric's thousands of test centers every year. Expecting the highest standards from employees, Prometric understands that trust and credibility are paramount to their success.

Michael Brannick, President/CEO, Prometric, Inc; Angie Barnett; Mike Croxson

River Crest Design Build

Founder Joe Duval has been designing, building and remodeling homes for 25 years. Understanding that the foundation of River Crest's success comes from a combination of quality work and lasting relationships, this family-owned business always works to put customers first. Whether it's a client's vision or a structured time and budget, River Crest strives for clear communication to earn satisfaction and repeat business.

Jeanne & Joe Duval, Owners, River Crest Design Build; Lt. Colonel Ronald Edwards; Angie Barnett

Merritt Properties

Merritt Properties is a full-service commercial real estate firm with more than 70 commercial properties in the Baltimore/Washington area. It has quietly developed the largest privately owned commercial real estate portfolio in its service area and bases business on trust and respect. Merritt Properties emphasizes and values excellent customer service, community philanthropy, employee service, and strong work ethic, which significantly impacts on tenant satisfaction.

Angie Barnett; Rob Merritt, President, Merritt Properties; Bradley Callahan

Chesapeake Telephone Systems

The Millersville based company has served over 5,000 customers in the Mid-Atlantic region. Chesapeake Telephone Systems is a second-generation, family owned business that values the customer over a quick buck. Chesapeake has countless examples of sacrificing time and profits on behalf of their customers and the community, which is why they were awarded the 2010 Maryland Small Business of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Association.

Angie Barnett; Jeff Nolte, President, Chesapeake Telephone Systems; Ellie Meyd

BBB Joins National Effort to Highlight Identity Theft Protection

10/13/2011

Posted on 10/13/2011 by

Identity theft is a growing crime that is causing damage to credit reports of young and old. Recognizing the need for a nationwide grassroots consumer education outreach, BBB | Greater Maryland is joining the Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB), government agencies and national advocacy organizations in launching the 4th annual National Protect Your Identity Week (PYIW) October 16 - 22, 2011.

The week coincides with BBB's free identity theft prevention event to be held on October 22, 2011 at Perdue Stadium in Salisbury. The public can take advantage of tips, information and the shredding of documents, all free of charge. The event, "Secure Your ID Day" runs from 8 am - 12 noon, rain or shine.

"Before another year passes, make a little time to shed your home of unnecessary records that include sensitive information like account numbers and personally identifying information, said Angie Barnett, president/CEO of BBB | Greater Maryland. "The peace of mind that comes from watching your documents be destroyed is immediate gratification. In one morning, you can limit this crime of access," added Barnett.

Identity theft touched the lives of more than 8.1 million adult victims in 2010. According to a report from Javelin Strategy and Research, the theft resulted in the loss of $37 billion dollars. On top of that, children may be 51 times more likely than adults to have their identity stolen, according to a study conducted by AllClear ID. Additionally, hundreds of online enterprises comb the Internet for inactive Social Security numbers - most of which are assigned to children under the age of 18 who have not started using them yet. The Internet bandits then sell the numbers under different names to people who wish to establish fake credit. Protecting your child's innocent, clean record is something that every parent needs to do.

BBB's identity theft prevention event at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium on Saturday, October 22 is sponsored by Delmarva Shorebirds, Lower Shore Enterprises and Preston Automotive Group. For more information visit www.greatermd.bbb.org/shred.

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

10/4/2011

Posted on 10/4/2011 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.

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.

Confident Consumer: Social Media and Customer Service

9/28/2011

Posted on 9/28/2011 by
This morning on Fox 45 Confident Consumer, Angie Barnett, BBB president and CEO discussed social media as a growing outlet for consumers to engage in conversations about a business or product.

Today's blog encourages consumers to take advantage of social media outlets as a quick research tool, but you should not solely rely upon social media posts as the only tool to make pre-purchase decisions.

Timeshare Owners: Beware of “City Resorts”

9/22/2011

Posted on 9/22/2011 by

Better Business Bureau is warning timeshare owners who are trying to sell or rent their timeshares to beware of Las Vegas based company, City Resorts.

City Resorts has been the subject of 23 complaints from around the country including Maryland neighbors, Pennsylvania and Virginia, since March 2011. The company holds an F rating with BBB for failing to respond to complaints.

Complainants allege that City Resorts initiates contact with timeshare owners stating they’ve found a buyer for their timeshare. According to complaints, the owners are told to send a cashier’s check ranging between $2,000-$6,000 for closing costs or processing fees. Complainants report that no buyers or renters emerged and that they were unable to get responses to calls or their money back.

“After City Resorts got my money, I never heard from them again,” bemoaned a consumer who lost $2,000. “They completely fooled me into believing I had a buyer for my timeshare.”

BBB representatives confirm that the phone number, website, and email have been disconnected and the current address is a mail-drop. Nationwide, BBB processed 2,804 complaints on timeshare resale services in 2010.

“Consumers should instantly be on alert if a timeshare resale service demands funds up front,” said Angie Barnett, president & CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland.

BBB offers the following advice to timeshare owners who are looking for help in selling their timeshare:

Check out the business – You can check out a business at www.bbb.org. BBB Business Reviews include basic information, complaint overview, and BBB ratings from A+ to F, along with an explanation for the rating.

Confirm location and licensing – Confirm where the company is located and in what states it does business. Ask if the company's salespeople are licensed to sell real estate where your timeshare is located and verify this with the state licensing board.

Get the facts on the figures – Find out if the business charges a commission. Do they handle the entire closing and provide escrow services? Do they charge an up-front listing or advertising fee? What does it cover and is it refundable?

Be wary of upfront fees – Consider opting for a company that offers to sell for a fee only after the timeshare is sold.

Don’t fall for the hard sell or an offer that sounds too good to be true – Don’t agree to anything over the phone, but instead ask the salesperson to send you written materials; take the time to think it over and don’t be pressured.

For more consumer tips or to check out a business or file a complaint with BBB, start at www.bbb.org.

BBB Advice for Making “Golden” Gold Transactions

9/21/2011

Posted on 9/21/2011 by
As global markets are currently seeing rapid declines, worried investors are seeking safe havens for their funds. Many are looking to new investment plans to help their money grow. With the price of gold at an all time high of more than $1,700 per ounce, Better Business Bureau is advising consumers to do their homework before making tempting gold transactions.

Whether through an online venue, an at home “gold party,” or your local jeweler, many consumers are looking to sell their gold jewelry for some quick cash. However, not just any dealer can be trusted. BBB | Greater Maryland has received 392 inquires from consumers researching jewelry. This year alone, BBB nationwide has received more than 500 complaints against gold, silver and platinum dealers, a number that is well on its way to reaching 2010’s 581 total complaints.

Consumers need to be on the lookout for not so reputable sellers. Many of the complaints we receive stem from false advertising and delivery issues where the consumer ends up being appraised far less than what they thought their gold was worth.

BBB recommends following these tips to ensure a “golden” gold transaction:

Find a trustworthy appraiser. For an appraisal, if possible, go to someone locally whom you know and trust. Always check with BBB first at www.bbb.org. BBB suggests obtaining two or three appraisals to compare prices, prior to any sale.

The true price of gold may not be what you receive. If gold is worth $1,700 per ounce, you aren’t going to be paid $1,700 for every ounce of gold you have. Ask what you will be paid (if an online company, make sure you ask for specifics and give details on items you’ll be sending). Understand that the ounce quote is for pure gold only. For instance, 14-karat gold is composed of just 58.5 per cent gold. Ask how much the company’s going rate is for each ounce of each karat you are sending. The lower the karat, the less the gold content.

Don’t let jewelry of different karat value be weighed together. Some dealers will weigh all jewelry together and pay you for the lowest karat value. Separate your jewelry by karat value before attending a gold party.
Don’t let anyone steal your diamonds from gold pieces. Single gold stud earrings might be worth $5 or $10, yet diamonds in the earrings can be saved. Some are too small, and the labor to remove them might exceed their value, but engagement ring diamonds, for example, should be given a value separate from the gold.

Know the terms and conditions when sending items by post. Make sure your items are insured when being shipped, so if they are lost you can recover the value. Obtain appraisals prior to mailing items, so if they are lost you have proof of their value. Check the company’s policy as to what they will reimburse if they lose your product. Many limit their liability. Make a list of the items included in the package, keep a copy for yourself, and put a copy in the envelope. Take a picture of the items you are sending, including any identifying marks.

Ask about the company’s guarantee if you are not satisfied with the price offered. Can you get your product back, if you return the check? Many companies melt down the items in 10–14 days. If you send the check back, send it “return receipt requested,” so you have proof when it arrived at the company.

Year-End Car Buying Tips

9/13/2011

Posted on 9/13/2011 by

Leaves aren’t the only thing falling this time of year. Prices on new cars tend to hit the ground as car dealers look to make room for next year’s newest models. If you are searching for a new ride, BBB offers some year-end car buying and leasing tips.

Buying Year-End Models

If you plan to keep the car for more than five years, consider purchasing a “year-end model”. It may come loaded with rebates and incentives. After five years, the difference of a year between cars in similar condition and mileage is most often less than $1,000.

If you want to lease a new car, again, the year-end model should have tons of rebates and incentives, and costs per month should be lower on the 2011 than the 2012 vehicle.

Know What You Have and What You Want

Determine your current car’s value using the Kelley Blue Book. This may help you decide if you should trade or sell your car.

There are 2011 models (such as a Cadillac DTS or STS) that are discontinued which mean big time savings, but could make future service a bit pricey. Ask your dealer if they are aware of any expected “makeovers” to your new car.

Lease or Buy- A Financial and Personal Decision

Leasing and buying a car usually requires a down payment, registration and other fees, but leasing a car is most often a lesser monthly payment because you are only paying on a “portion of a vehicle’s cost.” This is important to those whose personal priorities are “high end” or luxury vehicles. If you intend to buy the car at the end of the lease, leasing may allow you to start with lower payments at the onset, but it is nearly always more expensive to lease than buy outright.

Personal Preference:

Lease if you want a new car every 3-4 years; lower monthly payments; don’t care about ownership; have a predictable lifestyle; drive an average number of miles and properly maintain your car. If you are a business owner and can write off your lease payment as a business expense, then leasing is a good option. The biggest drawback for many is the mileage cap that limits drivers to 12,000-15,000 miles a year. Expect additional charges if you exceed your contract’s limit.

Buy if you hold on to cars to build up trade-in or resale value; want to have ownership of your car; like being payment-free for a while; don’t mind (and are prepared) for the unexpected cost of repairs after the warranty has expired; and drive more than average miles per year.

If you consider leasing, be sure and ask about early termination penalties, over mileage costs and excessive wear clauses.

Give with Both Head and Heart When Supporting 9/11 Charities

9/9/2011

Posted on 9/9/2011 by

Ten years after September 11, 2001, Americans remain deeply moved by the tragedy of that day and generously willing to aid those who still suffer from the impact of 9/11 events. A number of charities, both old and new, are currently soliciting donations in order to respond to ongoing needs of victims and their families, to support 9/11 memorials, and to carry out other legitimate 9/11 related purposes. However, recent news reports have suggested that some charities that solicited funds in the name of 9/11 relief did not apply the funds appropriately. It is wise to be wary.

BBB recommends: do your homework before giving to the 9/11 cause of your choice. Here are some tips to consider if you are approached with a 9/11 related giving opportunity, especially one that seems unfamiliar, or that is similar to the name of a well-known charity.

Ask questions about why the charity still needs to collect 9/11 related money now. What ongoing purposes are they serving that flow from the events of 9/11? You can request written details from the charity about what it does with the donations.
Check with the IRS to verify the organization’s tax exempt status. In Maryland, you can also verify charity registration through the Maryland Office of the Secretary of State.
Contact your BBB to get BBB charity reviews on 9/11 related charities. See national BBB charity reviews at www.bbb.org/charity. Local charity reviews are also available through www.greatermd.bbb.org.

In the months following the 9/11 disaster, the Metro New York BBB Foundation’s New York Philanthropic Advisory Service surveyed 9/11 related charities and published a report about its findings. To view that report click here.

BBB Forecasts Repair Scams Headed for Md.

8/25/2011

Posted on 8/25/2011 by

Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland is cautioning residents to anticipate a spike in door-to-door storm chasers following the first major hurricane of 2011 predicted to hit the region on Saturday. BBB and government agencies frequently receive a high-volume of reports of post disaster rip-offs that come and go following violent weather.

While there's still time to prepare, Marylanders are urged to gather food, water, emergency and medical supplies for family members and pets. A filled gas tank, a fully charged cell phone and list of emergency contact numbers for your utility and insurance agent are must-haves for every head-of-household.

"If your car or home is damaged by Irene, the worst thing you could do is make a rash decision or leap at the offer of a quick fix. It could really cost you dearly," said Angie Barnett, president/CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. "Call your insurance agent, check with BBB, get it in writing and sleep on big decisions."

BBB offers the following tips to keep consumers from getting soaked after the storm:

High-pressure sales - Close the door on offers you must "act now." If damage is extensive, it may take a while to have your repairs done. However, if you use a rogue, unlicensed contractor, you forfeit significant protections under Maryland state law including bonding and insurance coverage.

Upfront or cash payments - Never under any circumstance pay for repairs upfront or in cash. Receipts are needed for insurance and warranty purposes. If you pay upfront, don't be surprised if some or all of the repairs go undone.

Handshake agreements - We all want to trust one another, but it's just not smart when it comes to home improvement. Get everything in writing. This includes the materials to be used, any warranty for parts and labor, the payment schedule and the date of completion. Ask for proof of licensing and validate the information by contacting the Maryland Home Improvement Commission, or in the case of tree service, the Department of Natural Resources.

Here are some other red flags that can help you spot a trouble on your doorstep:

Unmarked or unprofessional vehicle signage
Business cards with only a name and phone number, but no local address
License numbers missing on vehicles, business cards and estimates
Repairmen that just happen to show-up with left-over material from another job

"Don't forget to save those receipts," adds Barnett. "If the storm forces you out of your home, or to your local home improvement store, you'll want to keep everything in order so you can submit eligible costs for reimbursement through your insurance provider."

For more information here are some links that can help you before and after the storm:

www.bbb.org
www.bge.comwww.dllr.state.md.us/license/mhic
www.dnr.state.md.us (licensed tree experts)
www.fema.gov

BBB Announces 2011 Torch Award Finalists

8/25/2011

Posted on 8/25/2011 by

Business Bureau | Greater Maryland selected ten finalists for its 2011 Torch Award for Marketplace Excellence. The Torch Awards is BBB's most celebrated event of the year and recognizes local businesses that substantiate exceedingly high ethical practices through an in-depth application process. Winners will be announced at the organization's annual meeting on Thursday, October 6 in Baltimore.

BBB | Greater Maryland 2011 Torch Award for Marketplace Excellence Finalists:

CARCHEX, Hunt Valley
Carroll Landscaping, Inc., Randallstown
Chesapeake Telephone Systems, Inc., Millersville
Main Street Oriental Rugs, Ellicott City
Merritt Properties, LLC, Baltimore
Preston Automotive Group, Hurlock
Prometric, Inc., Baltimore
Reznick Group, PC, Baltimore
River Crest Design Build, Inc., Annapolis
The Thomas Roofing Company, Inc., Westminster

A panel of judges comprised of past winners evaluated the self-nominated applicants for evidence of ethical standards of behavior, a steadfast reputation over time, policies to ensure ethics and truth were demonstrated in their sales advertising and how management practices promote integrity in the workplace. Torch Award winners will reveal exceedingly high standards of behavior toward customers, employees and shareholders; adhere to truthful advertising and sales practices; and, have a reputation for noteworthy contributions in their industry and community.

"Publicly, BBB is most often called upon to denounce businesses for a lack of transparency, poor customer service, unproven advertising claims and the like," said Angie Barnett, president/CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. "However, there are a remarkable number of businesses in our community that are fair and honest. The Torch Awards helps BBB shine a light on quiet forces in our economy that have documented leadership in trust, respect and social consciousness."

Proceeds from the event will support BBB | Educational Foundation, a non-profit, charitable organization that provides consumers with information, time-sensitive alerts and free services including identity theft prevention events and education.

Reservations are $75 per person before September 19 and can be made online or by calling 410-332-0739.

Sponsors for the Torch Awards include AES Builder and Home Improvements, Atlantic Financial Federal Credit Union, AT&T Mobility, Bowie & Jensen, LLC, CARCHEX, CareOne Financial Services, IWIF Workers' Compensation Insurance, Luna, Mid-Atlantic Waterproofing, Prometric, The Thomas Roofing Company, Towson University College of Business and Economics, Travel Advantage Network and Whiteford Taylor & Preston L.L.P.

Scam Alert: Do NOT Respond to Emails from “bbbupdate@post.com”

8/19/2011

Posted on 8/19/2011 by

BBB reminds local business owners that all email correspondence from our office will come from a valid bbb.org address. Currently, an email from “bbbupdate@post.com” is circulating to businesses nationwide requesting verification and validation of a BBB rating review. The phony email address appears to originate from the Atlanta, GA. metro area stating the following:

“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.”

Should your business receive the above email, please disregard its message. The Council of Better Business Bureau’s Legal Department is working to find out who is behind this and will take all appropriate action to protect the BBB trademark.

Yellow Pages Scam Uncovered by FTC

8/19/2011

Posted on 8/19/2011 by

In October 2010, Better Business Bureau warned about an entity that appeared to be trying to scam local businesses by sending unsolicited faxes that deceived them into paying for Yellow Pages listings. The entity went by the names Yellow Pages B.V., Yellow Publishing Ltd and YellowPage-Colorado.com.

The Federal Trade Commission has uncovered the individual and operations behind this scheme and is putting a stop to it.

According to a recent FTC announcement, a federal judge has temporarily halted the European-based operation that has allegedly bilked small businesses and nonprofit organizations, including churches, out of millions of dollars by deceiving them into ordering and then paying for unwanted listings in online business directories. In addition to stopping the allegedly deceptive practices, the court also froze the defendants’ assets. The FTC seeks to permanently stop the illegal practices and to require that the defendants provide refunds to their victims.

Last year, a flooring company was a target of this scam when it was contacted by Yellow Pages B.V. via fax and asked to update a few search words and key industry phrases to, “help people locate your company.” The form, which required a signature and date turned out to be a contract for two years of advertising. The company referred to the form’s fine print which was illegible due to poor fax quality.

About a month and a half later, the company received an invoice for $1,068 with a late fee of $20.

This scenario echoes what other businesses around the world claim to have experienced as well as the FTC’s complaint. Yellow Pages B.V. has an F rating with the BBB with over 500 complaints on file, many of which have gone unanswered or unresolved.

The BBB offers the following tips for businesses dealing with Yellow Page solicitations:

Look closely at any Yellow Pages bill before paying it. If you have a question about the legitimacy of a bill, contact your Yellow Pages representative.
Channel all invoices through one department and make sure they are cleared with the appropriate executives before they are paid.
While it is not always the case, bogus invoices often are marked with the notice “This is Not a Bill.” They may lack a contact phone number.
If you suspect you have received a call, fax or mailing from a bogus Yellow Pages entity, contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Trade Commission, BBB, and/or the Yellow Pages Association at 1-800-841-0639.
Check BBB Business Reviews on any company that has contacted you before signing anything or giving any information.

Business Blogging – Why Every Business Owner Should Do It

8/15/2011

Posted on 8/15/2011 by
Between Facebook posts and Twitter tweets, it seems like there are a thousand and one ways to communicate virtually these days. However, what many in the business world overlook is blogging. Better Business Bureau is recommending that business owners consider some simple blog implementation strategies to heighten their business’ visibility on the web.

A blog dedicated to the thoughts of a business’ president or CEO or a business’ mission can serve as a meaningful way to attract potential customers – and allow business owners to establish themselves as a thought leader in their respective market(s). Business blogs can be linked from the business’ website, Facebook page and Twitter account and are a great way of sharing the longer, more thought provoking messages.

According to a recent survey by HubSpot, 57% of companies using blogs reported that they acquired customers from leads generated directly from their blog. They go on to find that businesses are now in the minority if they do not blog. From 2009 to 2011 the percentage of businesses with a blog grew from 48% to 65%.

So what’s so great about a blog? A blog gives a president or CEO the chance to communicate in more of a dialogue-like setting with their constituents. Limited characters and space can confine a message in some settings. A blog allows for a full message to be shared and can even be catered towards targeted audiences.

BBB recommends that business owners consider the following when implementing a blog for their business:

Heightened visibility is always a plus. When you blog, you get more eyes on your business and increase your search engine optimization (SEO).

Voicing your passion gets your customers noticing. Letting your customers see how and why your business came about and sharing what it is you love about doing what you do is a great way to make a connection with your audience. With (almost) no length limits, a blog is a great platform to share exactly what it is that makes your business different from the rest.

A blog can serve as a great networking tool. A blog is a great place to inspire your constituents and build a subscriber base. By giving your voice a platform and reaching out to other fellow business bloggers, you have the ability to establish a solid business-to-business network.

Medical Equipment Seller Angers Docs

8/11/2011

Posted on 8/11/2011 by

Amerisource Medical LLC, an ultrasound equipment retailer based in Columbia, Md., is not delivering on orders to doctors and veterinarians according to complaints filed with Better Business Bureau. A recent article in VIN News Service, the media arm of the Veterinary Information network, stated the company is under investigation by authorities in Howard County, Md. and Waukesha, Wis. The company's main number is 'temporarily out of service' and unanswered complaints with BBB have landed Amerisource the organization's lowest rating, an F.

"This just goes to show that no company can disregard their responsibility to operate according to fair business practices and fly under the radar of BBB or public scrutiny," said Angie Barnett, president/CEO BBB | Greater Maryland. "Frequently," she added, "we get reports of seniors and at-risk populations feeling the brunt of unfulfilled promises. But in this case, we're talking about highly educated medical professionals and business owners. Unfortunately, it appears this is not the first time Mr. Jackson has attracted the attention of the authorities."

Together, the 10 complaints received by BBB in the past year, claim losses of more than $49,000. The businesses report Amerisource failed to deliver the equipment they purchased altogether or that they had received faulty ultrasound equipment. Out-of-pocket requests for refunds ranged from $1,000 to $12,000 and came from businesses in ten states.

The advertised address for Amerisource is a Columbia UPS store. However, another search for the company president, Patrick Jackson, returned an address for Ameritech Medical at 6008 Bee Court, Elkridge, Md. BBB investigators also found an FCC official Citation from December 2007 alleging Jackson had violated of the Federal Communications Act.

BBB recommends the following tips to businesses and individuals who are considering a major purchase:

Research the company name at bbb.org and through a general search engine, like Google, Yahoo! or Bing
Check out key company officials using the same search engine.
If the company is marketing through the Internet, request a physical address. Use an online mapping service to decipher if the address is a residence, UPS box, P.O. box or other mailbox address or if it's truly a brick and mortar business. BBB investigators routinely contact commercial property managers to verify the business is a tenant.
Ask for references and call them. Find out when they purchased, what they purchased, if the equipment was delivered as promised and if they would order again.

BBB Summer HVAC Tips

8/10/2011

Posted on 8/10/2011 by

New Uses for Old Technology are Revolutionizing Marketing but Prone to Abuse

8/8/2011

Posted on 8/8/2011 by
Just what are those squares? They are in shop windows, and newspapers, on packaging and posters.

They are called Quick Response (QR) codes, an outgrowth of barcodes that have become an integral part of retail record-keeping.

QR codes take advantage of growing consumer use of smart phone technology. Free apps allow users to capture the image of a QR code which in turn, converts that information into a coupon or business card, launches an email, links to a website or even launches a "how to" video.

The sky is the limit with this marketing technology and information delivery tool. In the coming months consumers can expect to see these graphic squares appearing on luggage, “for sale” signs, games, menus, t-shirts and more.

The technology that generates QR codes is available free online, and that has put it into the hands of scammers.

Like any technology that involves “invisible” programming information, QR codes can be used to direct a browser to a website that may download destructive software or convert a computer into a SPAM generator.

Because QR codes are increasingly being used in on-the-street marketing, Better Business Bureau recommends consumers and businesses use caution with rogue QR codes to avoid becoming a victim:

Understand the potential dangers – While browser-based phishing and spyware require the user to click on a hyperlink or enter a URL, a QR code can execute a program simply by being scanned. You may not know that your reader has captured a malicious QR code until it is too late.

Verify the Source – Exercise caution before capturing a QR code from an unknown source. These can include QRs on printed flyers in public places and in email attachments. Although a flyer may offer a tremendous deal on goods or services, its QR code may turn an “opportunity” into a nightmare.

Check the label – A scammed QR code label can easily be generated on a sticker and placed over legitimate QR codes to launch an ID theft attack. Take a close look before snapping a QR code on a flyer or shop window in the street.

Be cynical – A QR code that asks you to sign up for a service may be phishing for personal information that can be sent to a cybercriminal once that information is entered. Be wary if a QR code takes you to a website and encourages you to create a login profile or enter credit card or other personal information.

Protect your device – Purchase security software for your smart-phone, tablet or other mobile device to protect your personal information.

Allegations of Unauthorized, Unnecessary and Unproven Claims by OnlineBuinessScams.com

8/2/2011

Posted on 8/2/2011 by
BBB cautions consumers to watch out for a website that is falsely charging for BBB complaint resolution services. OnlineBusinessScams.com charges consumers an upfront fee of $1,500 to $2,000 for assistance in collecting money owed from businesses only to forward the complaints to BBB.

One person alleged OnlineBusinessScams.com told him their fee for helping him collect money owed by another business was 30 percent of the disputed amount. The site requested he pay one half of the 30 percent upfront.

After the fee was paid, OnlineBusinessScams.com asked the complainant to provide the details of the dispute, so it could determine whether to handle the “case.” The consumer then received an information packet that included an envelope addressed to BBB. The complainant reported to BBB that OnlineBusinessScams.com told him they would recover his money within 90 days. The 90-day window has since passed and the consumer has been unsuccessful in attempts to contact OnlineBusinessScams.com.

BBB reminds the community that their dispute resolution services are free and the majority are satisfactorily resolved. In fact, in the last 12 months, BBB | Greater Maryland earned a 97 percent satisfaction index on reported disputes against BBB Accredited Businesses (the other 3 percent are no longer accredited) and a 69 percent satisfaction index for resolution services against all other businesses in its service area. In some instances, if both parties are willing and unable to come to an agreement, a dispute may be recommended for arbitration or mediation. BBB | Greater Maryland charges both the business and the complainant a fee of $100 each if the business is not BBB Accredited or $75 each if it is. To file a complaint against a business, please contact your local BBB.

Scam Cooking in Your Inbox

7/29/2011

Posted on 7/29/2011 by

Scammers posing as Kentucky Fried Chicken are luring victims with false promises of a free $100 KFC gift card. Emails mimicking the fast food chain have led consumers to believe they would receive the prize after completing an online survey. While KFC’s logo may be displayed in the message, BBB warns that scammers are at work for your personal information.

One victim complained to BBB that instead of receiving the gift card, she received numerous calls from telemarketers.

The sender, freechickensurvey@arlissnovemarticulate7372.info is not associated with KFC, its vendors or surveyors. If this phishing scheme lands into your inbox, BBB suggests filing a complaint with the FBI at www.ic3.gov.

Verizon Shakes Up Data Plans

7/28/2011

Posted on 7/28/2011 by

Immigrants Jammed in a U.S. Citizenship Scam

7/25/2011

Posted on 7/25/2011 by
Last month, Loma International Business Group in Baltimore was shut down for charging immigrants for filing immigration forms that the group was not authorized to file. Spanish speaking immigrants from Honduras and El Salvador lost money to this business by trusting them to file their immigration forms in order to gain a legal immigrant status in the United States. The company claimed they were authorized to perform such duties when in fact they were not, making it illegal for them to be charging money for their services.

"Immigrants who speak little to no English can often be easy prey for unscrupulous businesses," said Angie Barnett, president and CEO of Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland. "Some operators have even posed as government agents to lure victims."

In another case from earlier this year, a fabricated immigration company developed an Internet scam that collected fees from immigrants ranging from $200 to $2,500. According to published reports, promised services were never performed.

In the wake of recent scams, the FTC has created educational materials for immigrants who speak English, Spanish, Chinese and Korean. The tools can help immigrants educate themselves on avoiding immigration scams and provide them with means to file FTC complaints and report suspected scams or fraud.

BBB offers some tips to persons looking to obtain legal status in the U.S. while avoiding common scams:

Never sign blank documents or documents that contain inaccurate information.
Always retain your original documents and only provide photocopies if necessary.
Do not make online payments or send money to someone who is not a licensed attorney.
Make copies of every document you prepare and submit for your own records.
Request a receipt as proof of payment.
Check the Maryland Bar Association for referrals on licensed attorneys practicing immigration services and find help from the FTC.
Read up on materials provided by the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services that can help you obtain your citizenship.

Avoid the Tolls When Buying a Used Car

7/20/2011

Posted on 7/20/2011 by

As with any large purchase, buying a new car can be a strenuous task. Buying a used car can make the process seem even more difficult. But if done the right way, purchasing a used car does not have to drive you up a wall.

Read Full Blog Post

Proceed with Heed When Selling Your Vacation Home

7/12/2011

Posted on 7/12/2011 by

Many timeshare companies, such as Timeshare Rescue and Resorts Condo Management, are scamming timeshare sellers by promising a sale and taking their money. These companies, along with a few others, have been known to lead timeshare owners to believe that they have buyers that are interested in purchasing their timeshare. To make themselves seem more believable, the timeshare companies provide contracts and other paperwork for the owner to fill out. The companies then require the owners to pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars in upfront fees. The owners never get their timeshares sold, and the upfront money they pay is stolen.

Because of these scams, multiple timeshare buying companies have F ratings with the BBB. Among these are Resorts Condo Management, Vacation Property Resellers, Creative Vacation Solutions, Platinum Property Exchange, True Vacation Services, and Premier Timeshare Solutions. Numerous timeshare companies have a high number of unresolved complaints in the last year. There have been a total of 7,290 complaints regarding timeshare companies in the past twelve months, 176 of those from Maryland customers.

Two Marylanders have filed complaints about Timeshare Rescue and Vacation Property Resellers within the past year. Timeshare Rescue allegedly took almost $2,000 from a timeshare owner who was under the impression that the deed was taken out of his name and into the company’s name. He paid to have the timeshare transferred over to the company but it was never completed. Vacation Property Resellers guaranteed a sale on an owner’s timeshare property for a $700 fee. The owner never came in contact with the company again about selling her property and lost her money. Vacation Property Sellers has had 75 complaints filed with the BBB in the last year.

True Vacation Services has received five Maryland complaints in the past year, and BBB has posted on its site that it believes True to be a scam. BBB advises not to hire this company when selling your timeshare.

While there are well performing companies in the business, some bad operators have given the industry a black-eye. Here’s how to ensure selling your vacation home is smooth sailing:

Find a trusted timeshare company- ask friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations, and check out bbb.org.
Make sure the company you are dealing with is licensed.
Confirm the physical location of the business- use a third party reference to be sure it's legitimate.
Beware of timeshare companies that initiate contact- watch out for companies that tell you they have a buyer lined up for you and can make the sale right away. Many complaints reported to BBB complaints share this proactive approach.
Avoid paying upfront fees- multiple complainants to BBB stated they were charged a high-dollar appraisal fee that they never recouped for a sale that never materialized.
Ask for written documents when dealing with a salesperson over the phone, do not agree to anything without reading the fine print and doing your homework.

BBB Seeks to Honor Ethical Businesses in Greater Maryland

7/12/2011

Posted on 7/12/2011 by
Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland is calling ethical businesses and organizations to apply for its 2011 Torch Awards for Marketplace Excellence.

"The Torch Award symbolizes a company's long-standing history of honesty and integrity in the marketplace," says Angie Barnett, BBB, president/CEO. "Recipients of this award deserve recognition for demonstrating high standards of behavior toward customers, employees, vendors and shareholders."

All businesses and organizations in the Greater Maryland area are eligible to submit an application for consideration. BBB accreditation is not a requirement to enter. Nomination guidelines and forms can be found at greatermd.bbb.org/bbbs-2011-torch-awards/. The deadline for submissions is Thursday, July 14.

Winners are chosen by an independent selection committee comprised of business ethics experts. Honors may be named in multiple categories according to the number of employees, minority and multi-generation family owned. Award recipients will be recognized at the 2011 BBB Torch Awards reception on October 6.

For more information, contact Jody Thomas at 410-347-
8593.

Don’t Fall Victim to High Pressure Magazine Sellers at Your Door this Summer

6/29/2011

Posted on 6/29/2011 by
Better Business Bureau receives thousands of complaints each year from consumers who have unknowingly purchased multi-year magazine subscriptions. Unscrupulous telemarketers sometimes trick consumers into paying hundreds of dollars for multi-year subscriptions to magazines they don't want or can't afford. BBB warns that deceptive door-to-door magazine sales crews are hitting the pavement and looking to earn a quick buck this summer.

Oftentimes, the door knocking presentations are so slick that consumers aren't even aware that they have bought several magazine subscriptions until they receive the bill. Across the country, BBB has already received 662 complaints about door-to-door magazine sellers and dealers, a number that’s well on its way to topping last year’s nearly 1,200 complaints. These high pressure sellers use tactics that can have anyone falling victim.

With the summer here, the warm weather is sure to bring an eager group of door knockers from all trades to your door. Most complaints against door knockers selling magazine subscriptions allege that sales representatives took their check and the magazines never arrived, while some complainants also allege being subjected to high-pressure and misleading sales tactics.

A BBB staff member recently found herself face-to-face with a magazine sales representative from Unified Doers Management Group while tending to her yard in Anne Arundel County. The sales rep was undaunted by her knowledge of the industry's tattered reputation and continued to push the sale, even handing over a survey of his presentation skills for her to assess.

"Despite my insight, I was quite impressed with the young man's manner and presentation. I explained my role at BBB and requested a business card or brochure, so I could check out the company before making a decision," said Jody Thomas, BBB V.P. of Communications.

Unfortunately, Unified Doers, earned only a D+ rating from Better Business Bureau. BBB cites 42 complaints against the company in the last three years including one of a serious nature.

Major precautions should be taken when dealing with magazine solicitors, especially if you are home alone. Further investigation by BBB found an article by the Houston Press stating that there have been various incidents involving Unified Doers salespeople with criminal backgrounds attacking customers. One salesman, Daniel Deshawn Neal, who had burglary and trespassing charges in Maryland, raped a 78 year-old woman and set her on fire, according to the article. The company has been known to hire salespeople with criminal backgrounds, so consumers should be warned about Unified Doers representatives coming to their homes.

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

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 magazine sales can file a complaint with their Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org, local law enforcement, and state Attorney General offices.

Will Your Insurance Stand Up Even If Your Home Doesn’t?

6/22/2011

Posted on 6/22/2011 by Angie Barnett

Nowadays, it seems like you can’t watch or open a news report without hearing harrowing stories of devastation and survival. Living through such an ordeal takes an emotional toll. But if you’re not prepared for the unexpected, the experience could also trigger financial disaster.

After making sure your home is well-built, suited for your environment and properly maintained, homeowner insurance is the best line of defense for your home, financial stability and peace of mind.

Standard homeowner insurance policies include four main categories:

the structure - purchase enough insurance to rebuild your entire home at current construction costs

your personal belongings - take an inventory to determine how much insurance is needed – consider video taping or photographing your home and its contents to help document your possessions

liability protection – don’t cut corners – this covers damage or injuries inflected on others in your home (or by your pet) – short-changing coverage puts you at risk of out-of-pocket expenses that could lead to bankruptcy

living expenses – think about what it will cost if you cannot live in your home temporarily due to damage or reconstruction

Disasters that most policies cover:

fire/lightning
wind/hail
explosion
aircraft damage
riots
vehicle damage
smoke
vandalism
theft

Basic homeowner insurance policies do not cover floods, earthquakes, maintenance damage, or sewer back ups. Flood insurance is available independently from your standard homeowner insurance policy and is something many Marylanders must consider. The National Flood Insurance Program, which is administered by FEMA, offers flood insurance that may be purchased at any time, even after a flood has occurred. The price of flood insurance, along with standard homeowner insurance, depends partly on how likely your home is to be damaged.

For example, with flood insurance, there are high and low risk areas defined by how close your home is to bodies of water. With standard insurance, your home is at less of a risk if it is near a fire hydrant or a professional fire department, or if the house has new (less than 10 years old) electric, heating and plumbing systems. To make sure your home is properly covered for a disaster, it is important to update your insurance policy regularly to keep up with improvements, major purchases, and increased rebuilding costs.

Insurance also covers home improvements. If you are remodeling your home:

make sure that your home, the contractor, and subcontractors are insured properly (contractors can sue you if they are injured on the job and are uninsured)
do not wait until additions or renovations to your home are finished to buy insurance- instead purchase insurance as soon as construction begins
increase your insurance on personal belongings if you purchase valuable new items such as furniture, electronics, etc.
consider adding a rider for luxury items, such as art, collectibles and precious gemstones/jewelry

Tips for Saving Money on Homeowner Insurance:

shop around - get at least 3 different quotes from different types of agencies, consider the credit worthiness of the provider as ranked by an independent source such as A.M. Best, ask friends for recommendations and check www.bbb.org to choose a company your can trust
raise your deductible – the higher your deductible, the more you save on your premium
research home and auto insurance from the same company - some insurers offer multi-policy discounts
make your home more disaster-resistant - a waterproof basement, well maintained exterior including roof and gutters and proper drainage will all improve your odds against flooding

Five Common Mistakes to Avoid when buying Homeowner Insurance:

Insuring the house for real estate value instead of rebuilding/replacement cost
Choosing an agency based only on price - financially stability and good customer service matter
Canceling flood insurance
Neglecting to purchase renter’s insurance – even if you don’t own your home, you need to protect your personal belongings
Overlooking the security - insurance rates may go down if your home has proper alarm systems and safety features

Send It Packing: A “UPS” Email Warning

6/16/2011

Posted on 6/16/2011 by Angie Barnett

Today, BBB received a suspicious email and warns it may be lurking in your inbox too.

In the past, your BBB has shared information on fraudulent email messages claiming origination from the DHL, IRS, Western Union, Chase Bank and other financial institutions. Usually, the aim of these falsely identified messages is to steal your personally identifying information, your identity, your money, and/or infect your computer with a virus or spyware.

BBB has reported this to the fraud department at UPS. UPS posts tips to help consumers spot the fraudulent use of their brand. A copy of the new message is pasted below for your reference. The email links have been altered for your safety.

-----Original Message-----
From: UPS Shipments [mailto:tracking@ups.com]
Sent: Thursday, June 16, 2011 2:51 PM
To: Jody Thomas
Subject: Your package has arrived!

Dear client
Your package has arrived.
The tracking # is : 28273335EF548B17 and can be used at :
http://www.ups.com/track/track.html
The shipping invoice can be downloaded from :
http://www.ups.com/track/invoice/download.aspx?invoice_id=35F548B7

Thank you,
United Parcel Service

*** This is an automatically generated email, please do not reply ***

Nominate Your Business for BBB Greater Maryland Torch Awards

6/15/2011

Posted on 6/15/2011 by
Better Business Bureau invites eligible businesses in the Greater Maryland area to apply for its annual Torch Awards for Marketplace Excellence. This honor recognizes local companies and organizations that exemplify a commitment to ethical business practices.

Nominees must demonstrate high standards of behavior toward customers, employees, shareholders and their communities; adhere to truthful advertising and sales practices; and, have respectfully contributed to their industries and the communities in which they do business. Qualified businesses are encouraged to visit www.greatermd.bbb.org/torch-entry and submit their nomination along with supporting documents by July 14.

"Too often a business success is measured solely against their financial profit, said Angie Barnett, BBB | Greater Maryland, president/CEO". But, the Torch Awards is a time to acknowledge those companies that have defined success through their honorable actions."

A panel of independent judges including past winners with expertise in business ethics will evaluate nominees on common criteria. Awards may be named in multiple categories according to the number of employees, minority and multi-generation family owned.

Important Dates:

Thursday, June 23

Torch Application Workshop

BBB's Office- 10:00 a.m. & 3:00 p.m.

Get inside tips on completing your nomination. To reserve a seat contact Amber Smith at 410-332-0739.

Thursday, July 14

Torch Awards entries due.

Thursday, October 6

Torch Awards for Marketplace Excellence Reception

BBB's Office- 5:30 p.m.

502 S. Sharp Street, Baltimore, MD

Protect Yourself, Your Car: Ask Questions, Do Homework

6/15/2011

Posted on 6/15/2011 by
Since January 2009, Better Business Bureau has received 52 complaints about companies offering extended warranty contract services - many concerning vehicle service contracts (VSC) - from consumers residing in the Greater Maryland area.

"It wasn't that long ago that BBB received regular calls from motorists complaining about non-stop, recorded, "robo-calls" to their land and cell lines, telling them their vehicle's warranty was about to expire," noted Angie Barnett, president/CEO of BBB | Greater Maryland. "Some were infuriated and others fell for persistent and under-handed sales practices alleged against US Fidelis and others." In fact, Md. Attorney General, Doug Gansler's, Consumer Protection Division joined other states in formerly charging US Fidelis. The Division alleged unfair and deceptive practices in violation of Maryland's Telephone Solicitation Act. The company collapsed in late 2009, filed for bankruptcy in March of 2010 and the lavish fortunes of its owners have gone to the highest bidders in a series of auctions as recent as April of this year.

As a result of the number of complaints filed with BBB in St. Louis, home to US Fidelis and other VSC companies, BBB in St. Louis undertook a study of the industry that included a survey of 660 complainants across the country. The study recommended that state and federal authorities be more vigilant and vigorous in prosecuting violators of the law, including criminal prosecution of the more egregious offenders.

"In the last 12 months, our BBB has received 14,240 inquiries from consumers across the country about a Hunt Valley company, CARCHEX and only 11 complaints during the same period," said Barnett. "The company resolved or made a good faith effort to resolve every complaint filed with BBB. Stiffer regulations may indeed be needed, but self-regulation is what we like to see."

CARCHEX CEO, Jason Goldsmith, serves on BBB's board of directors and his company has cracked the Inc. 5000 for the last two years as one of the nation's fastest growing privately held firms. But Goldsmith is not unaware of the stigma the industry has earned.

"Many problems in our industry have been caused by companies willing to say anything to make a sale, regardless of the impact to consumers. Collectively, the industry must clean up its act and provide straightforward information to educate consumers prior to a sale to help them understand exactly what they are buying."

BBB advises consumers who are considering buying a VSC:

Always read the contract carefully before agreeing to purchase it. See what is covered, what isn't covered and what conditions apply. If the seller won't provide a contract, don't buy it.
If you are on a do-not-call list, report any violations to the attorney general's office or FTC.
Do the arithmetic. Sometimes the cost of a contract may be more than the car's value.
Ask the seller the names and locations of the providers, administrators and insurers. Ask how claims are processed.
Check out all companies involved in the contract with BBB at www.bbb.org.

Proceed with Caution before Investing in Technology Buy-Back Programs

6/15/2011

Posted on 6/15/2011 by
Today’s technology is constantly being replaced with updated models that showcase newer, cooler features. To keep up with the latest technology, many consumers are tempted by the increasing number of retailer buy-back programs. Better Business Bureau advises consumers to weigh the pros and cons of the program before parting with their money.

Typical programs come in the form of a one-time fee that is acquired at the time of the original gadget purchase. To avoid falling short of the latest technology, shoppers can often opt-in to a buy-back program to ensure that their gadget doesn’t fall victim to digital dust. As long as your gadget is in good condition, many buy-back programs allow trade-ups for a percentage of the current value for items such as cell phones, laptops, tablets and televisions. Usually, this credit will come in the form of a gift card that can be used toward the purchase of a newer model.

If you are an individual that likes to stay on top of the latest and greatest technology, then a buy-back program may be for you. But, as with anything else, you will need to do your research to find out if the program is worth the cost.

BBB recommends that consumers weigh the pros and cons before participating in a retailer’s buy-back program:

Buy-back programs can provide a sense of insurance on your product. Buy-back programs essentially guarantee a resale value, meaning they act as insurance against loss of value. But like any insurance policy, its true value can become nominal and hard to define. Before becoming a member of a buy-back program, make sure to read the fine print. Many buy-back options have conditions and constraints that could ultimately keep you from being able to sell back your used gadget.

Remember that the interest of the retailer is usually at heart. In exchange for your old gadget, your return will come back in the form of a gift card more times than not .The plan and gift card mean you are locked into using the issuing retailer for your next technology purchase. Not to mention, that you may end up paying triple the sales tax when all exchanges are said and done. While sales tax rules vary from state to state and buy-back programs vary from program to program, you are the one responsible for paying the tax. By paying the tax once when you buy the gadget and again when you return it, and then again when you use the gift card, you could end up paying triple the tax in the end.

Gadget-buy backs are not ideal for the forgetful or the disorganized. If you haven’t saved your original receipts, power cords and manuals, you could be at a loss or your payout could be less than expected. Most buy-back programs insist that the original items be brought back to the store at the time of the exchange.

Mobile phone contracts are not covered. When you purchase a new phone and add the retailer’s buy-back program, you can resell your phone back to the retailer for the agreed upon dollar amount. But, keep in mind that even when you sell your phone back to the retailer, your cell phone provider will keep billing you for the duration of your contract.

You can compromise your identity. Before selling your electronics back to the retailer take care of your personal data. Many electronic items such as your smartphone or laptop can hold a ton of personal information. If this information gets into the wrong hands, your identity could be compromised. Be sure to fully wipe out all personal data.

You could get more for your electronic gadgets elsewhere. Reselling electronics is not new. Many consumers use sites like eBay and Craigslist to sell their gadgets. In most instances you could get more for your electronics by using these sites than opting for a retailer’s buy-back program.

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

Scammer Poses as Paving Contractor in Md. Area

6/10/2011

Posted on 6/10/2011 by Angie Barnett
Better Business Bureau and police here and in the Carolinas have issued warnings that homeowners – especially seniors – need to be on the lookout for a dark-haired, 39 year-old, door-to-door salesman aiming to pave his pockets with your money, and lots of it.

Tommy Edward Clack has a long history of strong arming homeowners into paying too much for paving that won’t stack up to conventional standards. The Consumer Protection Division in North Carolina has tracked Clack for years. Last June, it won a court order to permanently bar him from ever laying another driveway in the state.

Car Rental Insurance on a Budget

6/8/2011

Posted on 6/8/2011 by Angie Barnett

We know to start our vacation car rental search using websites that allow us to compare various car rental prices based on the model size and number of days. Using online services such as Priceline or Hotwire may offer those cost comparisons, but beware of the hidden/ add-on fees that may not be disclosed on their website.

Consider the following when planning on renting a car while on vacation:

1. Start with your own car insurance company: Find out how much coverage you currently have on your own car and verify if this coverage and the deductibles will apply to a rental.

If you have dropped either “comprehensive or collision” coverage on your own car as a way to reduce costs, you will not be covered if your rental car is stolen or damaged in a collision. If you do not have this insurance, you may want to purchase “loss damage waiver” for a rental car. This will relieve you financial responsibility if the rental car is damaged or stolen.
If your liability insurance protection meets the state (rental jurisdiction) required amount, then there is no reason to purchase additional insurance.
Ask about personal injury insurance and make sure it extends to coverage when driving a rental car.

2. Check insurance benefits offered by your credit card company: Many credit card companies offer automobile insurance coverage. This may be secondary benefits to your personal insurance. If you have several credit cards, call each one to determine the best insurance protection. When coverage through a credit card is secondary, this may mean you will pay out the damage payment first then argue for the reimbursement from the credit card company which may take time!

3. Make sure all family members driving the car are covered: Most states have minimum age requirements to rent a car. Some companies review your driving record or credit history so check out the policy from the rental company and your own insurance providers to make sure everyone is adequately covered.

You may expect drivers 21 to 24 years of pay to pay additional underage charges or fees.
There is normally an extra fee when adding an additional driver. Ask if the company exempts the spouse as a second driver?

4. Other valuable tips to take the sting out of car rental budget ding:

Consider renting from a car rental service located off site – truly away – from the airport – fees and taxes are usually less expensive.
As the “demand” increases for car rentals, the prices may change drastically. Arrange a rental as soon as you know you need it.
Rent Full – Return Full. Fill up the gas tank before you return and keep the receipt to prove the full-in pricing.
Check to verify the rental car company allows for unlimited mileage; when their late fees are assessed; whether they offer road assistance; and always check the car before you leave the parking lot for any damages.

Building a Facebook Presence That Works For Your Business

6/1/2011

Posted on 6/1/2011 by
Social media has become a dominating force in the eyes of today’s consumer. From YouTube to Facebook, consumers are turning to social media sites now more than ever to get more deeply connected to a business. Better Business Bureau is advising businesses to use their Facebook presence to their advantage.

A Facebook page can serve as an eye catching way to lure in potential customers – if used correctly. Making sure that your website is up-to-date and fresh is the first step to having a solid, successful Facebook page. Don’t make the mistake of having your Facebook page serve as your only online presence. An eye catching Facebook page is a great way to complement your business’ website.

According to Human Business Works, 60% of U.S. businesses are not online in any fashion — a huge mistake in an age where most people rely heavily on search engines to find information about businesses. Investing the time and creative brain power behind your website serves as a great landing page for your Facebook link. As many have found, Facebook serves as a great way to build your fans and overall constituency and it’s important that your page’s messaging speaks volumes about the effectiveness of your business and its brand.

BBB recommends the following to small businesses that are looking to grow their Facebook presence:

Keep your page fresh, lively and interactive. When posting to Facebook make sure to keep your audience in mind. What would they like to know and what do they need to know? Are you offering any special deals, rewards or promotions? All comments should be kept positive and sincere. Consider polling your audience with a question of the day or week to keep them engaged and feeling valued.

A picture (and video) is worth a thousand words. Make sure to keep the communication light and avoid talking at your audience. Try mixing it up by adding pictures and videos with fun,telling captions to reel in your audience.

Spread the love. By becoming fans and “liking” your business partners, vendors and sponsors, you can not only grow your own constituency, but gain more eyes on your work.

Share the wealth of knowledge. Informative postings that are in-line with your business are a great way to show your followers that you are up-to-date and keeping with the trends of the industry.

BBB Advice on Choosing a Driving School That’s Right for You

5/31/2011

Posted on 5/31/2011 by
While a scary but exciting time, having your eagerly-awaiting teenager soon to be behind the wheel is one that comes with lots of necessary preparation. When choosing a driving school for your soon-to-be driver, Better Business Bureau urges both parents and students to make smart, informed decisions.

A driver education course is designed to teach new drivers fundamental skills and basic knowledge about driving a motor vehicle. However, in the last two years, BBB has received more than 700 complaints against driving instruction with complaints ranging from no shows to customer service and sales practices.

BBB recommends the following when choosing a driving school in your area:

Check it out. For information on driving schools in your area, start your search at www.bbb.org for a free BBB Business Review that will help you make informed decisions.

Ask around. Call several schools to find out about the course schedules, fees and registration procedures that they offer. Neighbors and friends can be a great resource, as well. Ask for references from previous students of the school. Remember, price is not the sole factor in choosing a driving school. You must compare instructional quality, class size and behind-the-wheel lessons.

Visit the driving school. Ask to see classrooms and if you could observe part of a course. Ask to see the course book. Is the text up to date? Are there enough textbooks for all students? The ideal course integrates behind the wheel and classroom training. Do not assume that the fastest course is the way to go.

Check the details. Find out if the school has a policy on make-up classes and refunds. Know how to file a complaint against the school and check to see how the school resolves its complaints.

Talk to your insurance company. Ask your agent for a list of recommended local driving schools and inquire if there is a discount or safe driver discount. Not every school qualifies for a reduction in premiums by every car insurance company.

Verify licensing information of the school and instructors. According to Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, driving schools and instructors must be licensed if the school charges students for taking their program. The instructors are required to pass exams and state inspectors visit each school and conduct background check of owners. To find a certified driver education school visit the MVA's website and search for driver services.

BBB and AMSA Offer Advice on Avoiding Moving Scams this Summer

5/24/2011

Posted on 5/24/2011 by
Following a few simple rules when selecting a mover will go a long way toward protecting yourself from being victimized by scams this summer, according to Better Business Bureau and the American Moving & Storage Association. Chief among them: make sure you know who you’re hiring and know your rights.

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.

Every year, however, both BBB and AMSA receive complaints from consumers who have fallen prey to dishonest and often unlicensed moving companies. BBB received more than 8,900 complaints against movers in 2010—a five percent increase over the previous year—primarily about damaged or lost goods and final prices in excess of original estimates. In a too-frequent worst-case scenario, the moving company holds the customer's belongings “hostage” and requires potentially thousands of dollars to unload the van.

One particularly-egregious complaint last year involved a consumer who hired a moving company found on Craigslist. A-1-A Jay's Way Moving quoted a reasonable price of $80 per hour. It wasn’t until they arrived at the new apartment that A-1-A Jay’s Way Moving upped the price to $800 – practically doubling the quoted price. Demanding the payment in cash, A-1-A Jay’s Way Moving refused to unload the belongings and threatened that the furniture would be taken to storage, leaving the consumer no choice but to pay the drastic difference in price.

BBB discovered that the company did not have its required licensing as a household mover with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). A-1-A Jay’s Way Moving did not respond to the complaint.

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 government and are assigned a motor carrier number you can verify on FMCSA’s website, www.protectyourmove.gov. Also check the company's rating with your BBB, which maintains more than 17,000 Business Reviews on movers across North America. Having at least a satisfactory BBB rating is one of seven screenings 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 written in-home estimates. No legitimate mover will offer to give you a firm price online 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 either FMCSA for interstate moves or the state in which you reside for moves within that state. Also, enlist the help of BBB or local law enforcement if the moving company fails to live up to its promises or threatens to hold your belongings hostage. FMCSA requires interstate movers to offer arbitration to help settle disputed claims.

Consider getting full value protection. It may cost a few dollars more up front, but it can provide some peace of mind and eliminate a headache after your move. Investing in full (replacement) value protection means any lost or damaged articles will be repaired or replaced, or a cash settlement will be made to repair the item or to replace it at its current market value, regardless of age. It’s important to note that the required minimum coverage of 60 cents per pound would not cover the replacement cost, for example, of a flat panel TV if damaged in transit.

BBB Warns of Online Directory Solicitation

5/24/2011

Posted on 5/24/2011 by

Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland reminds businesses to be leery of solicitations for online listing “renewals.” Mimicking popular directories such as the Yellow Pages, companies attempt to lure businesses into paying reoccurring fees.

Your BBB recently received a fax from “YellowPage-Maryland.com” asking the organization to update its listing. Outlined in small text, the form implies that upon verification, the organization agrees to the billing terms.

The company listed above gives approval for the above data and orders registration at YellowPage-Maryland.com by Yellow Data Services LTD…Registration in the directory is for a term of two years at a cost of $89 per month.

Another red flag BBB discovered within the solicitation was an overseas return address.

In past years, businesses have filed complaints with BBB against telemarketers calling to “verify and renew” similar online directory ads. Complainants report receipt of invoices and/or late notices, requesting payment after conversations with telemarketers. Complainants confirmed their address, yet denied approval for advertising had been given.

BBB offers the following tips for businesses dealing with directory solicitations:

Look closely at any advertising directory bill before paying it. If you have a question about the legitimacy of a bill, review your files and contact your local representative.
While it is not always the case, bogus invoices often are marked with the notice “This is Not a Bill.” They may lack a contact phone number.
Channel all invoices through one department and make sure they are cleared with the appropriate approvals before they are paid.
If you suspect you have received a call, fax or mailing from a bogus company, contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Trade Commission, BBB and/or the Yellow Pages Association.
Check our BBB Business Reviews to research unfamiliar companies before signing anything or giving any information.

BBB | Greater Maryland New Address

5/17/2011

Posted on 5/17/2011 by
As of May 12, 2011, BBB | Greater Maryland new offices are located at

502 S. Sharp Street, Suite 1200
Baltimore, Maryland 21201-2445

To schedule an appointment or meet with a staff member, please contact your BBB at 410-347-3990.

More Information

BBB Advice on Giving to Storm and Flood Relief Charities

5/16/2011

Posted on 5/16/2011 by
Americans watching the mounting Mississippi floodwaters and the devastation wreaked by recent tornadoes are responding with generous gifts of time and money, as they’ve traditionally responded to disasters throughout the world. But even when needs are close to home, givers should take steps to assure themselves that their donations will go to legitimate and reputable charities and relief efforts that have the capability to help victims, cautions Better Business Bureau.

“Despite long experience in giving for major natural disasters, and with the desire to quickly help those in need, Americans sometimes forget to heed advice that’s relevant to all charitable giving,” says Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “In the present situation, we advise donors especially to learn about what individual charities are doing and the time frame of their work. Donors who know what to expect from the charities they support are less likely to question the benefit of their gifts.”

BBB offers the following five tips to help Americans decide where to direct donations:

Take time to check out the charity. The best way to avoid being disappointed in helping Flood Relief Charities is to find out more about the charity before making the donation. Unfortunately, most people don’t. Donors should review the charity’s website and go to third party sites such as the BBB Wise Giving Alliance (www.bbb.org/charity) to learn more about the charity and verify its accountability.

Identify what stage of relief the charity intends to provide. There are three general stages to flood relief efforts. Find out which stage the charity is intending to address. The Emergency Response stage involves immediate rescue needs and takes place within the first week of the storm or flood. Next, Disaster Relief occurs in the first month and provides clothing and temporary shelter for displaced families. Finally, the Recovery Stage can last over a year and involves clean up, repair and/or rebuilding homes, and other long-term recovery needs.

Find out if the charity is providing direct aid or raising money for other groups. Some charities may be raising money to pass along to relief organizations. If so, you may want to consider “avoiding the middleman” and giving directly to charities that have a presence in the region. Or, at a minimum, check out the ultimate recipients of these donations to ensure the organizations are equipped to effectively provide aid.

Be wary of claims that 100 percent of donations will assist relief victims. Despite what an organization might claim, charities have fund raising and administrative costs. Even a credit card donation will involve, at a minimum, a processing fee. If a charity claims that 100 percent of collected funds will be assisting flood victims, the truth is that the organization is still probably incurring fund raising and administrative expenses. They may use some of their other funds to pay this, but the expenses will still be incurred.

Verify if the charity is registered to solicit donations in your state. Most states require charities to register with a state agency in order to solicit charitable contributions. Locally, check with Maryland's Secretary Office to determine if the soliciting flood relief charity is properly registered. Watch out for newly created entities that do not have a track record and/or experience in providing disaster relief.

BBB Featured in The Hansen Files on "Dateline" this Sunday

5/13/2011

Posted on 5/13/2011 by
This Sunday, May 15th at 7pm ET/6pm CT, “Dateline’s” Chris Hansen files go undercover after using the house of a couple in Phoenix, AZ.

With the help of Better Business Bureau, Chris Hansen and "Dateline's" hidden cameras uncover how easily a homeowner can end up spending hundreds, even thousands of dollars on unnecessary home repairs. This brazen scam—one that has thrived for more than a decade—cons thousands of homeowners out of millions of dollars.

“It’s so important to shine a light on how common it is for homeowners to be taken by unethical service professionals who don’t honor their promises,” said Matthew Fehling, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Central, Northern and Western Arizona. “When you’re looking to invest in a home project, it’s worth it to take your time and find a company you can trust. Keeping consumers educated and informed on these issues is our priority.”

Equipped with hidden cameras from top to bottom, watch as repairmen are put to the test to see if they can make a fix quickly, honestly and efficiently.

Follow @datelinenbc and @chrishansen for more on #TheHansenFiles and for a sneak peek, go to http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032600/vp/43008066#43008066

BBB Phone System is Temporarily Down

5/11/2011

Posted on 5/11/2011 by

BBB | Greater Maryland will move its offices from Key Highway in Federal Hill to the nearby community of Otterbein opposite Camden Yards on Thursday, May 12.

BBB's phone service and computer system will be temporarily down starting Wednedsay at 3 p.m. Normal operations will resume on Friday, May 13 at 8 a.m. Please pardon any delays in our communication.

Press Release

BBB Cashes in on Federal Reserve Bank Lease Opportunity

5/11/2011

Posted on 5/11/2011 by

Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland will move its offices from Key Highway in Federal Hill to the nearby community of Otterbein opposite Camden Yards on Thursday, May 12.

BBB Board of Directors encouraged the organization to identify a lease opportunity that was financially beneficial and appealing to the retention and recruitment of quality employees. The new facility accommodates staff members by offering a safe and secure work environment and building amenities, while creating an effective workplace for improved services.

"As a small non-profit committed to building a trustworthy marketplace, we have continually witnessed an increase in the number of Accredited Businesses and consumers seeking our help and support," said Angie Barnett, president/CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. "Our new space will complement our growth tremendously, providing room for meetings, dispute resolution services, educational programs and events including our annual Torch Awards for Marketplace Excellence on October 6."

To meet with a BBB staff member, the public is advised to schedule an appointment before visitation. The organization's email, phone and fax numbers remain unchanged after the move.

Last year, BBB provided over 1.3 million reviews on businesses and processed over 12,500 marketplace disputes. BBB's latest community accomplishment was helping 1,200 consumers and small businesses destroy over 48,000 lbs of personal and financial documents in April at their Secure Your ID Day event.

Contact your BBB:
Telephone: 410-347-3990
Fax: 410-347-3936
Email: info@greatermd.bbb.org

Address:
BBB | Greater Maryland
502 S. South Sharp Street, Suite 1200
Baltimore, Maryland 21201-2445

BBB Warns of Phony Acai Berry Weight Loss Products

5/6/2011

Posted on 5/6/2011 by
In conjunction with the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) recent lawsuits on acai berry weight loss products, Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to be wary of phony “news” announcements of free trial offers for online diet pills.

According to the FTC, millions of consumers are being lured to websites that imitate those of reputable news organizations. The “reporters” on these sites have supposedly done independent evaluations of acai berry supplements, and claim that their products cause major weight loss in a short period of time with no diet or exercise. In reality the websites are deceptive advertisements placed by third-party or “affiliate” marketers. The websites are aimed at enticing consumers to buy the featured acai berry weight-loss products. These fake news operations are the subject of a nationwide law enforcement initiative.

Ubiquitous deceptive online ads for the acai berry weight loss products can be found posing to be from popular outlets like ABC, Fox News, CBS, CNN, USA Today and Consumer Reports. According to the FTC, the defendants collectively have paid more than $10 million to advertise their fake news sites, and have likely received well in excess of that amount in ill-gotten commissions.

In 2010, the FTC filed an action against acai berry marketer Central Coast Nutraceuticals which has an F rating with BBB. According to the more than 2,800 complaints to BBB, the company deceptively marketed acai berry supplements as weight-loss products, and “colon cleansers.” Consumers also reported refund and exchange issues.

“Fighting deceptive free trial offers online continues to be a game of whack-a-mole,” said Angie Barnett, president/CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Just as soon as one company is put out of business it’s replaced by another with the same model of ripping consumers off under the guise of a no-risk free trial offer.”

“Before signing up for any free trial offer, read the fine print carefully and always check the company out with BBB. You’ll save time and money by avoiding the hassle and recurring charges of some unscrupulous offers,” added Barnett.

Online Scams Proliferate in the Wake of Bin Laden's Death

5/5/2011

Posted on 5/5/2011 by

In the aftermath of the death of Osama Bin Laden this past weekend, Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland warns the public to watch out for a slew of cyber-scams that have popped up in the past few days.

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.

"The Internet and social media are allowing people to get news more quickly than ever before," said Angie Barnett, president/CEO, Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland. "But Americans must use caution when searching for more information about the death of Bin Laden or they could end up a victim of cybercrime," added Barnett.

On Facebook, a fake video purporting to show the death of Bin Laden prompts the viewer to input a malicious URL into their browser, which will infect the computer with a virus. Kaspersky also reports that other Facebook scams lure victims to malicious Facebook Pages with promises of free airplane tickets, and other "free" offers to "celebrate Osama's death."

The FBI also issued a warning that Bin Laden viruses could spread through infected users' contact lists, infecting friends, family and business associates.

Citizens should also be very wary of links to Osama related Web sites found on Twitter, or of any link with a URL that leads to an unfamiliar Web page. Often these links will lead to Web sites with viruses, or to forms that request personal information, which can be used to steal their identity, or for phishing scams.

BBB Tips to Avoid Online 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.
Check your account privacy settings for Facebook and other sites. Allowing friends to post to your page can make you more vunerable to spreading viruses.
Watch out for typos, misspellings and poor grammar.
Do not agree to download software to watch a video. These applications can infect your computer.
Search for trustworthy sites by business name or URL at bbb.org.
Report suspect Web sites to your BBB and the government's Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.

BBB Warns That Scammers May Be Chasing Your Wallet In Light Of Recent Storms

5/4/2011

Posted on 5/4/2011 by
Your home and wallet may take a serious beating when a big storm hits and with several recent storms and tornadoes, Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to be wary of fly-by-night “storm chasers,” as well as fraudulent charities promising to provide relief.

Storm chasers and other door-to-door salespeople often peddle dubious deals that may cost homeowners thousands of dollars and create serious headaches. BBB recommends doing your research to avoid getting taken advantage of by untrustworthy home contractors and the like.

For those who seek to aid in relief, BBB urges donors to check trustworthy charities before making any donations. Not only do Americans need to be concerned about avoiding fraud, they also need to make sure their money goes to competent relief organizations that are equipped and experienced to handle the unique challenges of providing assistance.

Not only do Americans need to be concerned about avoiding fraud, they need to know that their home contractors and charity relief efforts are legitimate and honorable. It’s imperative to find a home contractor and charity that you can trust.

When looking for a contractor you can trust and when seeking to aid to relief efforts, BBB recommends that homeowners and donors do the following:

Start Your Search with BBB. In addition to offering Business Reviews on tens of thousands of contractors—good and bad—across the US, you can also rely on BBB’s Accredited Business Locator to find trustworthy contractors in your area. BBB accreditation standards require that accredited businesses make a good faith effort to resolve disputes.

Find trustworthy charities when aiding to relief. BBB Wise Giving Alliance urges donors to make sure their donations will go to legitimate and reputable charities and relief efforts that have the capability to help those in need. Be cautious when relying on third-party recommendations such as bloggers or other Web sites, as they might not have fully researched the listed relief organizations. Interested donors should visit www.bbb.org/charity to research charities and relief organizations to verify that they are accredited by the BBB and meet the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.

Recognize the red flags. Beware of any contractor who uses high pressure sales tactics or requires full payment upfront. Also avoid contractors who require you to get the necessary permits. When looking to make a donation, be cautious about online giving, especially in response to spam messages and emails that claim to link to a relief organization. In response to the previous natural disasters, there were concerns raised about many Web sites and new organizations that were created overnight allegedly to help victims.

Vet the contractor carefully. Verify the business meets all state and local requirements including being licensed, insured and bonded. Also ask the business for references from recent jobs. Confirm whether or not the contractor will be subcontracting the job or relying on their own employees.

Beware of storm chasers. In the wake of a storm, fly-by-night repair businesses will solicit work, often door-to-door, in unmarked trucks. They might require advance payment and make big promises on which they won’t be able to deliver.

Seek at least three bids. Beware of low-ball estimates that may potentially balloon over time or foreshadow shoddy work to come.

Make sure everything is in writing. Make sure that the full scope of the work is explained in the contract including cleanup and disposal of waste. All verbal agreements need to be included in the written agreement. Pay close attention to the payment terms, estimated price of materials and labor and any warranties or guarantees.

For more advice on hiring home professionals and for finding a charity you can trust, visit us online at www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-home and BBB Wise Give Alliance at www.bbb.org/charity.

Judge Rules to Deny Contempt of Court against Local Locksmith

5/4/2011

Posted on 5/4/2011 by
BBB | Greater Maryland previously reported that the Attorney General was seeking contempt charges against Around the Clock Locksmith for violation of a 2010 court order. After hearing evidence from seven witnesses, Anne Arundel County Circuit Court Judge Alison Asti ruled the Consumer Protection Division of the Office of the Attorney General did not prove its case alleging Joe Horton, owner of Around the Clock Locksmith, acted in contempt of 2010 court order.

BBB | Greater Maryland has received over 70 complaints against Around the Clock Locksmith, 12 of which were classified as serious. BBB previously cooperated with the Attorney General's office in an investigation that resulted in issuance of a cease and desist order on April 7, 2010 against Around the Clock Locksmith and its owner.

According to a report by a person attending the April hearing, Horton testified that he is no longer in business. However, at this writing, the company web site is still active and a letter sent by Mr. Horton on April 28 was signed, "Joseph Horton Around the Clock Locksmith" and included his company phone number.

Complaint volume, unresolved complaints, the severity of complaints and government action resulted in ATCL's F rating with BBB.

BBB | Greater Maryland recommends the following tips for considering a locksmith:

Research a locksmith before one is needed by going to www.bbb.org to search for a reputable locksmith and verifying certification with the Associated Locksmiths of America http://www.aloa.org/.
If a company answers the phone with a generic phrase like "locksmith services," rather than a company-specific name, be wary. Ask for the legal name of the business. If the person refuses, call another locksmith.
Get an estimate for all work and replacement parts from the locksmith before work begins. In cases of "lock-outs" (being locked out of your car or home), most legitimate locksmiths will give you an estimate on the phone for the total cost of the work.

Ask about additional fees before you agree to have the locksmith perform the work. Companies may charge extra for responding to a call in the middle of the night. Ask if there is a charge for mileage, or a minimum fee for a service call.
If the price the locksmith provides when he arrives doesn't jibe with the estimate you got on the telephone, do not allow the work to be done.

All service vehicles, vans and trucks should be clearly marked with the company name and identifying details.
The qualified locksmith should always ask for your proof of ID and authorization to begin work upon arrival, as well as supply his or her own professional identification and credentials.

When Hackers Attack: Sony Data Breach

5/4/2011

Posted on 5/4/2011 by Angie Barnett

Just as consumers and businesses muddled through the recent Epsilon security scare, another massive data breach has hit the online and video gaming industry.

Last month, Sony Corporation notified the public and 77 million PlayStation Network and Qriocity online service customers their personal information including, credit-card data and billing addresses may have been stolen.

On May 2, Sony disclosed hackers got a hold of nearly 25 million more Sony’s Online Entertainment user’s personal information. The corporation continued to share that this breach actually occurred a day or two prior to the PlayStation Network cyber-attack.

The massive size of Sony's security breach could potentially rise to become the largest one to-date.

Data breaches are getting the attention of Congress who are now pushing for stronger legislation requiring near real-time notification to consumers their information falls into the hands of hackers. An Alabama man has already filed suit against Sony and is prompting consideration of a class action suit.

BBB offers the following advice for consumers who personal information may have been compromised:

1. Sony’s website states they will offer in the near future complimentary enrollment in identity theft protection services. If you are a consumer of these products/services, monitor your regional sales/distributors for these offerings. BBB strongly suggests consumers accepting the credit monitoring service as long as it is from a reputable company.

2. Place a Fraud Alert on your credit report which will “alert” you if creditors are accessing your report for new accounts to be opened. The initial alert is good for 90 days and an extended fraud alert is available for up to seven years if your ID has actually been compromised. A consumer needs to only contact one of the three credit reporting bureaus (www.annualcreditreport.com) to place the fraud alert – and it’s free!

3. Monitor not only your credit reports, but all financial accounts ranging from banking, credit card statements to utility bills. If there is any unauthorized activity, contact bank and all creditors for fraud alerts on those accounts and to receive new account numbers.

4. Stay alert for signs of identity theft for at least one year, watching fors:

a. Accounts you didn’t open, debts on your accounts that you can’t explain;

b. Failure to receive bills or other mail. A missing bill could indicate an identity thief has taken over your account and changed your billing address to “cover his tracks”;

c. Being denied credit;

d. Getting collection calls from collectors about merchandise or services you didn’t buy.

Auto Repair Tips

4/27/2011

Posted on 4/27/2011 by
test

Unauthorized Wire Transfers to China

4/26/2011

Posted on 4/26/2011 by

A fraud alert involving unauthorized wire transfers to China was recently issued by the FBI and the Internet Crime Complaint Center. U.S small and medium sized businesses’ banking credentials have been compromised as the result of a phishing email or visit to a malicious website. The unlawful wire transfers sent to Chinese economic and trade companies total about $20 million.

Read the official alert.

If you have become a victim of cyber crime, contact your local FBI field office or file a complaint with the IC3.

Don’t Fall for Gimmicks Involving Gas Saving Devices

4/26/2011

Posted on 4/26/2011 by Angie Barnett

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. 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 BBB Business Review. www.bbb.org.

1,200 Join BBB for Secure Your ID Day

4/22/2011

Posted on 4/22/2011 by

BBB along with event sponsors and over 50 volunteers helped more than 1,200 families and small businesses in Maryland combat identity theft by shredding 48,000 pounds of sensitive documents at Secure Your ID Day on Saturday, April 16. The free event, which was a first for Anne Arundel County, was simultaneously held in Hanover and White Marsh. Despite the rain, the event drew 33 percent more traffic, while doubling the amount of documents destroyed as compared with last year.

Cintas Document Management, who maintains a AAA Certification with the National Association for Information Destruction, donated a total of six mobile shredders and operators to conduct the massive on-site shredding. BBB distributed identity protection tips as attendees lined-up to shred behind hhgregg at the Arundel Mills Marketplace and across from AMC Loews Theater behind The Avenue in White Marsh.

"Empowering consumers to protect their identity and avoid fraud is at the heart of BBB," said Angie Barnett, president & CEO of BBB | Greater Maryland. "While we're humbled to assist Marylanders every year at Secure Your ID Day, we stress taking daily precautions when sharing and securing your personal information."

Secure Your ID Day was made possible in part by the financial support of AES Builder & Home Improvements, AT&T, CARCHEX, CareOne Services, Cintas Document Management, Clifton Gunderson LLP, IWIF Workers' Compensation Insurance, Kolb Electric, Luna, Travel Advantage Network.

BBB's National Secure Your ID Day is scheduled for April 21, 2012, while the group has a similar event planned for the eastern shore on October 21, 2011.

Check out event photos on Facebook

Confident Consumer: How Clean is Your Green?

4/20/2011

Posted on 4/20/2011 by Angie Barnett

Mintel International reported 37 percent of adults always or sometimes shopped for green products/services in 2010. In many cases, consumers are willing to spend extra money for environmentally friendly purchases. But, how does a consumer have confidence in a product or service advertising itself as “green”?

Greenwashing is when a company spends more time and money claiming to be “green” than actually implementing business practices that minimize the environmental footprint. The hotel chain that calls itself green because the guests can sleep on the same sheets or reuse towels, but does nothing to save energy or water where it counts is a great example of “greenwashing”.

The Mintel International survey also showed that the demand for green products has reached what is hopefully a temporary plateau because consumers are becoming weary of the “green” hype. As companies seek third-party certification to authenticate their “green” claims, consumers are left to sort out the validity of the more than 349 seals or eco-labels.

The FTC is charged with preventing false and deceptive advertising and has stepped up “greenwashing” enforcement under the Obama administration, bringing settlements against at least seven businesses regarding biodegradable products and the environmental benefits of bamboo-based clothing. FTC guidelines for environmental marketing claims offers instructions to businesses who want to make “green” claims.

BBB offers you the following advice to “check out” the products, services and marketers before spending more green to buy green:

Fluffy Language or Concrete Claims: Marketers should avoid implications of significant environmental benefits if the result is in fact negligible. . Making “fuzzy claims” such as “environmentally friendly” or “100% natural” without solid examples to back up the claim is misleading and should not be the sole premise to buy a product/service.

Who gives the “stamp of approval”: Companies may create their own logo intentionally to look like it’s a third party certification for their environmental claims. Research any third-party carefully before accepting their “stamp of approval” and look for clear and prominent qualifying language that can back up the environmental seal.

Check out ingredient listings and packing: A long list of ingredients or scientific unpronounceable ingredient names may be harmful to you and the environment. While the product may be green, is the packaging green and can it be disposed in an environmentally safe way? Avoid products where fragrances are a key ingredient and if they issue a “caution” or “use in well-ventilated area”, those are indications the product is probably hazardous. Remember, a green image on the packing doesn’t mean it’s green!

Best in Class - Be specific with source-reduction claims: If the product states it “uses less material” or “creates less waste”, then walk away unless it backs up these claims with comparisons such as “uses 20% less material than WYZ product”.

If you have questions about products or services marketed in your community and whether they may be “greenwashing”, visit the FTC Environmental Marketing Claims Guidelines. File a complaint with FTC and your BBB if you believe any business is engaged in deceptive advertising.

Confident Consumer: How Clean is Your Green?

4/20/2011

Posted on 4/20/2011 by Angie Barnett

Mintel International reported 37 percent of adults always or sometimes shop for green products/services in 2010. In many cases, consumers are willing to spend more money for environmentally friendly purchases. But, how does a consumer have confidence in a product or methods used in the delivery of a service advertising itself as “green”?

Greenwashing is when a company spends more time and money claiming to be “green” through advertising than actually implementing business practices that minimize the environmental footprint. The hotel chain that calls itself green because the guests can sleep on the same sheets or reuse towels, but does little or nothing to save energy or water where it counts is a great example of “greenwashing”. They’re just making green claims to sell more!

The Mintel International survey also showed that the demand for green products has reached what is hopefully a temporary plateau because of “green fatigue,” consumers who are weary of the “green” hype and don’t know what to believe. As companies seek third-party certification to authenticate their “green” claims, consumers are left to sort out the validity of the more than 349 “seals” or eco-labels.

Who is charge of making sure consumers aren’t seeing red as they are trying to go green? The FTC is charged with preventing false and deceptive advertising and has stepped up “greenwashing” enforcement under the Obama administration, bringing settlements against at least seven businesses regarding biodegradable products and the environmental benefits of bamboo-based clothing. FTC guidelines for environmental marketing claims offers instructions to businesses who want to make “green” claims.

BBB offers the following advice for consumers to “check out” the products, services and marketers before spending more green to buy green:

1. Fluffy Language or Concrete Claims: Marketers should avoid implications of significant environmental benefits if the result is in fact negligible. Making “fuzzy claims” such as “environmentally friendly” or “100% natural” without solid examples to back up the claim is misleading and should not be the sole premise to buy a product/service.

2. Who gives the “stamp of approval”: Companies may create their own logo intentionally to look like it’s a third party certification for their environmental claims. Research any third-party carefully before accepting their “stamp of approval” and look for clear and prominent qualifying language that can back up the environmental seal.

3. Check out ingredient listings and packing: A long list of ingredients or scientific unpronounceable ingredient names may be harmful to you and the environment. While the product may be green, is the packaging green and can it be disposed in an environmentally safe way? Avoid products where fragrances are a key ingredient and if they issue a “caution” or “use in well-ventilated area”, those are indications the product is probably hazardous. Remember, a green image on the packing doesn’t mean it’s green!

4. Best in Class - Be specific with source-reduction claims: If the product states it “uses less material” or “creates less waste”, then walk away unless it backs up these claims with comparisons such as “uses 20% less material than WYZ product”.

5. If you have questions about products or services marketed in your community and whether they may be “greenwashing”, visit the FTC Environmental Marketing Claims Guidelines. File a complaint with FTC and your BBB if you believe any business is engaged in deceptive advertising.

Confident Consumer: Identity Theft

4/13/2011

Posted on 4/13/2011 by Angie Barnett

The FTC’s 2010 Consumer Sentinel Network reports Maryland ranks #9 in the US regarding identity theft with 5,000 complaints filed by Maryland residents and 2,100 of those reports by Baltimore residents. There are scam artists literally from all over the world whose business and profit is to walk a mile in your shoes while pretending to be you.

According to Javelin Strategy & Research, the cost of Identity theft was $37 billion in 2010; the mean fraud amount per victim was $4,607; and out-of-pocket costs such as monetary losses and lost wages to those victimized by debit and credit card fraud was $565. The study also shows 14% of US fraud victims in 2010 reported their personal information stolen by a family member, friend, co-worker or other person they knew – with the mean fraud amount significantly higher at $8,233.

Identity theft is simply defined when someone steals your personal identifying information (like your Social Security number or credit card account number) to commit fraud or theft for financial gain.

Common methods of ID Theft include:

· Theft: They may steal your wallet, purse or mail (Red Flag Theft);

· Deception: Obtain personal information directly from you by posing as a government agency, legitimate company or charity through email or by phone;

· Dumpster Diving: Going through papers in your trash;

· Discarded electronics: Accessing used electronics such as your cell phone and computer or older copying machines;

· Data Breach: Your personal records are stolen from businesses or other institutions – from VA records, to major universities and hospitals, from Home Depot to Marshalls, hackers break into records electronically and employees sell data all for financial gains;

· Personal: Someone you knows lifts your information while visiting you in your home;

· ATM: Lifting your banking information by using a “skimming device” at the ATM or observing the insertion your PIN when using the ATM; and

· Computer accomplice: Spyware downloads which transmit private information such as bank login and password.

Whether by phone, email, or mail, consumers should prevent identity theft by shredding financial documents and personal paperwork, leaving the Social Security card at home in a secure device/place at home, never clicking on links sent in unsolicited emails or giving personal information on the phone, mail or over the internet. When using an ATM machine, cover the key pad and think twice before giving out your email and personal information to retailers, online surveys, and on social network sites.

To detect suspicious activity that may indicate you are a victim of identity theft, order your credit report at www.annualcreditreport.com and regularly inspect your credit report and financial statements from utility, phone, and credit card bills to monthly financial statements looking for unauthorized charges. And if you believe you are a victim of identity theft, place a 90-day “Fraud Alert” on your credit report immediately, notify your creditors and your bank, file a police report and report your complaint to FTC at www.ftc.gov/idtheft.

Confident Consumer: 10 Things to Know About Groupons

4/6/2011

Posted on 4/6/2011 by Angie Barnett
On this week's Confident Consumer, BBB | Greater Maryland president & CEO, Angie Barnett talks about a recent Wall Street Journal article that reveals the inside scoop on online discounts offered through sites like Groupon and LivingSocial.

Data Breach Could Spell Trouble for Consumers

4/4/2011

Posted on 4/4/2011 by

Until recently, Epsilon wasn’t exactly a household name. But now that the marketing giant firm has notified its high-profile customers that it was the victim of a data breach, web results and social media trends about the company are growing.

If your bank, credit card lender, or favorite retailer is an Epsilon customer, you need to keep an eye on your email and a tight grip on your personal information. The same goes for parents and students signed-up with The College Board for prep tests and help with their college search.

"According to the notifications BBB received, only names and email addresses were compromised by the hack. Reports indicate that personal and financial information on file with Epsilon were not accessed," said Angie Barnett president/CEO, BBB Greater Maryland. "However, it is very likely that information obtained during the breach could be used in phishing attacks designed to scare customers into divulging personal and financial information,” Barnett added.

While BBB has received notices from Best Buy, Chase, BJ's and The College Board, it has not been able to confirm exactly how many consumers are at risk. But the attack certainly has the potential of impacting a huge number of consumers. On its Web site, Epsilon states, “We are the world’s largest permission-based email marketing provider, sending over 40 billion emails annually.” In a press release, Reuters claimed this “…could be one of the biggest such breaches in U.S. history…”

BBB Tips to Avoid Phishing

Beware of any email asking for personal, financial or account information. Legitimate companies you rely on for your online shopping, financial needs and college tests will not request this information – they already have it.

Do not open any attachments. Attachments may contain malicious code that will infect your computer.

Do not click on any links. If you want to communicate with the business use your favorite search engine to find their Web site and/or contact information. Do not trust the information provided in the email.

Never provide your User ID or password in an e-mail.

Watch for strange emails from family/friends. Hackers sometimes use stolen information to pose as someone in your address book.

Make sure your computer’s spyware, spam filter and virus protection are up to date.

Report suspicious emails to www.ic3.gov and your BBB.

At this time, the following organizations’ customer records have been reportedly compromised by the Epsilon data breach:

BJ’s
Barclays Bank of Delaware
Best Buy
Brookstone
Capital One
Chase
Citi
Disney Destinations
Home Shopping Network
JPMorgan Chase
Kroger
LL Bean
Marriott Rewards
McKinsey & Company
New York & Company
Ritz-Carlton Rewards
The College Board
TiVo
US Bank
Walgreens

Phony Calls Claim to be from BBB

3/31/2011

Posted on 3/31/2011 by

BBB | Greater Maryland is warning consumers to be cautious of phony calls claiming to be from BBB.

A Bakersfield consumer complained to BBB that he received a voice message stating that he had won $250,000. The unknown caller had a Jamaican accent and requested the consumer’s banking information to cover “shipping and handling” costs. While at work, the consumer received another call with his caller ID reading “BBB” and a number with an 876 area code (Jamaica). This time, the same caller allegedly demanded to know if the consumer was home. Afraid of a possible burglary, the consumer contacted the police.

BBB does not conduct sweepstakes or lotteries. Legitimate sweepstakes will never require you to purchase, “insurance,” “taxes,” or “shipping and handling” to collect your winnings.

To date, BBB has not received any reports that consumers in Maryland have been targeted by the Jamaican scammer. Please contact (410) 347-3990 to verify any calls claiming to be from BBB, or to report questionable calls.

How to Respond to Online Customer Complaints

3/30/2011

Posted on 3/30/2011 by

The old adage is that a satisfied customer will tell three people and an unsatisfied customer will tell ten. However, with the advent of blogs, Twitter, and YouTube, disgruntled customers can now share their rant about a company for the whole world to hear. Consumers are taking their complaints online and your Better Business Bureau advises that responding to complaints is necessary if a company wants to maintain a reputation for great customer service.

The Internet empowers customers to air their grievances like a megaphone to the world which can be a scary prospect for a business owner. Instead of being scared, companies should view the Internet as a great tool to work directly with disgruntled customers, fix the issue and hopefully turn them into a repeat customer.

In the same way that an online rant can damage a company’s reputation, successfully handling complaints online can showcase a company’s dedication to customer service, setting it apart from the competition.

Customer complaints can be found on customer review sites like Yelp.com and CitySearch.com, blogs, Twitter, YouTube and in comment sections of newspapers online. Regardless of where the complaint is found online, BBB offers the following advice to small business owners on responding to customer rants:

Continually Monitor the Online Conversation. In addition to searching the aforementioned review Web sites, there are many tools you can use to monitor who is talking about your company online. Backtype.com and Google Alerts will send you e-mail messages when people post comments online or if your company is mentioned in the news, respectively. One of the easiest ways to monitor the conversation, however, is to simply do an Internet search of your company’s name every couple days, keeping an eye out for new results.

Pick your battles. Depending on the size of your business, it can be extremely time consuming to address every blog post, comment or tweet. When choosing rants to respond to, look for ones that are less than a few days old, on prominent sites and are about problems that you can solve.

Offer full disclosure. When defending your company online, don’t pretend to be an unbiased consumer. Tech savvy individuals can easily deduce who is behind comments so it’s best to be honest and admit up-front that you represent the company.

Take the conversation offline. Some companies have made the mistake of hashing out disputes online for everyone to see. Instead, keep online responses polite and direct and ask the customer if you can contact them directly by e-mail or phone to discuss the specific details of their complaint.

Don’t say anything privately that you wouldn’t want public. Just because you’ve taken the conversation offline, it doesn’t mean that your e-mails and phone conversations won’t end up on the Internet, so always remain polite and professional.

Follow through. Don’t drop the conversation when resolving a dispute and always follow through on promises. Consider providing a little extra perk, such as coupons, after the issue has been resolved.

Know when to walk away. There’s no satisfying some angry customers and at times a small business owner can only offer a sincere apology and walk away from the conversation.

For more BBB advice on providing great customer service both on and off-line visit www.bbb.org.

Content sponsored by Direct Selling Education Foundation

APR Moans Over Payday Loans

3/30/2011

Posted on 3/30/2011 by

In March 2010, the Maryland Dept. of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, Commissioner of Financial Regulations Division brought “usurious interest” charges against three payday loan services operating under 29 DBA identities. As cited in court documents, a Maryland resident received a $400 payday loan and was required to repay $520 six days later – an APR of 1,825%. The consumer was permitted to pay an “interest-only” payment on the sixth day for an additional $120 and this “interest-only” payment was permitted up to four times. Three months after receiving the loan, the borrower had paid $705 against a $400 loan and still owed $390!

Payday lending is a short-term small loan (less than $6,000) that is made against your next paycheck. Payday loans target those who have a steady source of income, but are ineligible for bank credit. Maryland is one of three states that prohibit payday lending through interest rate caps. The 2002 “Senate Joint Resolution 7” set a cap on interest rates on consumer loans at 33% interest on any loan below $6,000. Payday lending interest rates in other states are most often triple digit figures. Mypaydayloan.com lists APR for a $200 seven day loan at annual percentage rate of 1,303.57%

Within the past two years, BBB has processed 66 complaints from Maryland residents against payday lenders throughout the US with the average claim citing excessive usury fees, inability to interrupt the payday “deposit” and “withdrawal” weekly cycle, and denial that the services were initially authorized. All loans were accessed through online submission. This also puts the consumer at risk as there is the risk the website is actually a bogus or fictional lender and their primary goal is to obtain your personal identifying information – or the online vendor accepts the Maryland resident as a customer without regard the Maryland’s usury laws.

Most of the websites have tabs for a consumer to immediately “apply” for a loan and the application page asks for all personal identifying information such as driver’s license, date of birth, social security number and employer information. The “mypaydayloan” site offers a disclaimer that not all states permit payday services; the transaction is taking place with their primary office in Costa Rica, and is it the “borrowers” responsibility for complying with any local laws with respect to transactions with mypaydayloan.com!

This industry is also associated with phantom debt collection schemes that are also circulating through Maryland. A consumer may have had a payday loan years ago, but suddenly they are receiving threatening and heavy handed phone calls from individuals claiming to represent a collection agency who is attempting to collect on payday loans. Most Marylanders BBB spoke with reported they had paid the debt in full and more than three years had transpired since the debt was incurred.

The most important “little known fact” about payday lending in Maryland is it is a violation of Maryland law to collect on loans that exceed permissible interest rate caps. A loan made in the amount of $6,000 or less is unenforceable if a rate of interest, charge, discount or other consideration greater than 33%, the cap or ceiling for allowable interest rates on loans!

If a consumer finds themselves in a financial “crunch” and is in need of a small loan for a short period of time, consider the following before conducting an online search for payday loans:

· Visit your local credit union affiliated with your place of work to inquire about a small loan. They are familiar with your employer and they are a first line of defense for local financial services.

· Contact a local credit counselor for discussions of your options such as a debt consolidation or a debt management program to enable you to pay down and pay off your bills without a payday loan.

· Contact your creditors as soon as possible if you think you might have trouble making any payments toward your debt. Ask them for more time to pay your bills and find out what they will charge for that service. Keep those lines of communication open and steer clear of any credit rescue programs that advise you to discontinue correspondence with your creditors.

· Do not give personal information to untrustworthy websites or businesses. Do not blindly apply for a loan online without checking the business out first to ensure they are legitimate and you understand that you may be agreeing to the terms/conditions of the loan simply by applying.

· Keep in mind it is illegal for payday lenders to offer a loan with an interest rate higher than 33% so make sure you calculate the APR of any loan!

· Check out any business by visiting www.bbb.org and check consumer tips for more information on financial fitness.

Better Business Bureau Offers Advice on Finding a Tutor to Match your Child’s Needs

3/29/2011

Posted on 3/29/2011 by

If your child is having a hard time learning to read, needs a hand with their calculus homework or even SAT*/ACT® preparation, a tutor may be the answer. Your Better Business Bureau has advice on finding and working with a tutor to best meet your child’s needs.

While private tutors can be expensive—$30 to $70 an hour—they do offer the most tailored approach for helping your child learn. Qualifying families with limited income can receive free tutor sessions for their children as part of the No Child Left Behind Act.

A commercial learning typically costs around $150 per week, paid weekly or monthly. A learning center provides a customized and specialized learning environment for your child. These programs often offer incentives for children of all ages—kindergarten to pre-college—to help make learning more fun and are typically very good about reporting on your child’s progress.

For the computer-savvy child, online tutoring usually carries a monthly fee of $35 to $130. Tutors are often available online 24-hours for kids to chat about their homework or SAT*/ACT® prep.

BBB offers the following advice for finding and working with a tutor:

• Check it out. For information on tutoring services or commercial learning centers, start your search at www.bbb.org for a free BBB Business Review that will help you make informed decisions.

• Ask around. Get referrals from your child’s teacher; other parents and friends can be a great resource, as well.

• Look for credentials. Check the tutor’s credentials and make sure they’re qualified in the subject area your child needs help with.

• Schedule a meeting. Meet with the tutor and discuss measurable, specific goals to be achieved and don’t be afraid to hold the tutor and the child accountable if goals aren’t met. While a tutoring program can’t necessarily guarantee a higher SAT*/ACT ® score, a tutor can help identify problem areas and address any specific subjects where your child needs help.

• Play a role. If you use a personal tutor, feel free to sit in now and then and observe how the tutor and your child are working together. Ask the tutor for advice on what you can do as a parent to help your child learn more effectively.

For more trustworthy information on issues affecting your child’s education go to www.bbb.org.

Free Community Shred Event

3/25/2011

Posted on 3/25/2011 by
BBB invites consumers and businesses to "Secure Your ID Day" on Saturday, April 16 at The AVENUE in White Marsh and Arundel Mills Marketplace in Hanover. The free event can help attendees take a step toward identity protection by shredding and properly disposing of their sensitive paper documents. BBB staff and volunteers will be on-site to provide expert advice and tips for identity theft protection.

"Properly destroying documents that carry information you don't want getting into the hands of crooks is important in fighting identity theft, but it doesn't end there," said Angie Barnett, president & CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. "That's why BBB experts will also be on hand offering important advice and simple steps everyone can take to prevent ID theft in their daily lives, both online and off."

Event Details

Who: BBB | Greater Maryland with Cintas Document Management

What: Free on-the-spot document shredding and tips and resources for protecting your identity.
When: Saturday, April 16 from 8 a.m. to 12 noon
Where: The AVENUE at White Marsh & Arundel Mills Marketplace, Hanover
Sponsored by:
AES Builder & Home Improvements, AT&T, CARCHEX, CareOne Services, Clifton Gunderson LLP, IWIF Workers' Compensation Insurance, Luna, Travel Advantage Network and WBAL TV.

More Info and Directions:greatermd.bbb.org/shred

Bring up to three boxes or bags of documents to be shredded and take home the tips and resources you need to help protect yourself. Documents to be shredded should be removed from binders. There will be the capacity to shred three truck loads or up 24,000 lbs of information at each location over the four-hour event.

"Identity theft is largely a crime of access," Barnett. "Our goal here is to make the information less accessible and empower people to be their own first line of defense against identity theft. With community-based BBBs across North America collaborating simultaneously, we'll have a tremendous coast-to-coast presence that will reach a lot of people and, hopefully, prevent a lot of theft."

Confident Consumer: Speedy Degrees!

3/23/2011

Posted on 3/23/2011 by Angie Barnett

The advertisement offers a “life experience” online diploma ranging from an Associate’s degree to a PhD in just seven days for a price point “as low as $239” from Ashwood University – a BBB “F” Rated business. The alleged University is not accredited in the US.

In 2008, a Chicago Tribune reporter purchased a Doctorate Degree in Medicine and Surgery for $699 and for $75 surcharge he received a 4.0 grade point average. The appeal of earning a degree in days for under one thousand dollars seems pretty convenient - but as usual- if it sounds too good to be true… then it’s too good to be true!

The speedy degree scheme is part of the growing trend known as a diploma mill. The diplomas or certificates granted by the institution are either fraudulent or worthless. Diploma mills are interested in taking your money rather than providing you with a quality (or any) education.

Two types of diploma mills:

1) Selling a degree used to “dupe” employers who require advanced or specific education criteria for employment

(2) Imitating legitimate schools.

In 2008, the New York Times reported a couple who sold worthless diplomas totaling “$1.65 million in 2005, and churning out more than 10,000 diplomas for customers in 131 countries. The Times also reported a bogus diploma mill that “graduated” 350 federal employees who used the credentials to win promotions and raises. There are only about 20 states that have laws designed to curtail the industry.

BBB cites the following red flags to help identify diploma mills:

Degrees or diplomas awarded based on life experience and require no work;
The institution guarantees receipt of a degree or diploma within a few days, weeks or months;
The institution offers deals if you sign up to receive more than one degree;
Prices are stated per degree instead of per credit hour.
Be wary of sound-alike names to well-known reputable universities and addresses that are POBox numbers or suites.
Watch for false claims of “Accreditation”! What the diploma mills fail to mention is they create their own phony accrediting organizations.

If you’re considering an online degree, be sure to check with the Council on Higher Education Accreditation, or US Dept. of Education to see if a school is accredited and contact BBB for their complaint record.

Tips for Giving to Earthquake Relief Efforts in Japan

3/14/2011

Posted on 3/14/2011 by

As we learn more about the 8.9-magnitude earthquake that hit near the northeast coast of Japan on Friday, your Better Business Bureauwarns that — as occurred following the tsunami in 2004, Katrina in 2005 and the earthquake in Haiti just last year — fraudulent charities will likely emerge to try and scam donations from well-meaning Americans. BBB urges givers to make sure their donations will go to legitimate and reputable charities and relief efforts that have the capability to help those in need.

“Whenever there is a major natural disaster, be it home or abroad, there are two things you can count on. The first is the generosity of Americans to donate time and money to help victims, and the second is the appearance of poorly run and in some cases fraudulent charities,” said Angie Barnett, President and CEO, BBB | Greater MD. “Not only do Americans need to be concerned about avoiding fraud, they also need to make sure their money goes to competent relief organizations that are equipped and experienced to handle the unique challenges of providing assistance.”

BBB offers the following seven tips to help Americans decide where to direct donations:

Rely on expert opinion when it comes to evaluating a charity.
Be cautious when relying on third-party recommendations such as bloggers or other Web sites, as they might not have fully researched the listed relief organizations. The public can go to www.bbb.org/charity to research charities and relief organizations to verify that they are accredited by the BBB and meet the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.

Be cautious when giving online.
Be cautious about online giving, especially in response to spam messages and emails that claim to link to a relief organization. In response to the tsunami disaster in 2004, there were concerns raised about many websites and new organizations that were created overnight allegedly to help victims.

Find out if the charity has an on-the-ground presence in the disaster impact areas.
Unless the charity already has staff in the affected areas, it may be difficult to get new aid workers to quickly provide assistance. See if the charity’s website clearly describes what they can do to address immediate needs.

Find out if the charity is providing direct aid or raising money for other groups.
Some charities may be raising money to pass along to relief organizations. If so, you may want to consider “avoiding the middleman” and giving directly to charities that have a presence in the region. Or, at a minimum, check out the ultimate recipients of these donations to ensure the organizations are equipped to effectively provide aid.

Be wary of claims that 100 percent of donations will assist relief victims.
Despite what an organization might claim, charities have fund raising and administrative costs. Even a credit card donation will involve, at a minimum, a processing fee. If a charity claims that 100 percent of collected funds will be assisting earthquake victims, the truth is that the organization is still probably incurring fund raising and administrative expenses. They may use some of their other funds to pay this, but the expenses will still be incurred.

Gifts of clothing, food or other in-kind donations.
In-kind drives for food and clothing—while well intentioned— may not necessarily be the quickest way to help those in need - unless the organization has the staff and infrastructure to be able to properly distribute such aid. Ask the charity about their transportation and distribution plans. Be wary of those who are not experienced in disaster relief assistance.

Look for details when texting a donation.
Beginning with the earthquake in Haiti, it’s become common to send a text to make a donation. Make sure you understand the amount to be donated, and whether there will be any service fees charged to your account. Be sure the offer clearly identifies which charity will receive the donation, then check out the charity.

Can't Wait for Your Refund?

3/10/2011

Posted on 3/10/2011 by

Each year, some anxious tax filers expecting refunds, choose to take out a Refund Anticipation Loan to speed the return of their money.

According to a report released by the National Consumer Law Center and the Chartered Financial Analyst Institute, the most recent IRS data states that 7.2 million taxpayers received RALs in 2009. RALs are short-term loans that are paid back once the refund has been received from the IRS. Some tax preparers also offer a Refund Anticipation Check. The RAC is facilitated through a bank in partnership with the tax preparer. In the case of a RAC, a temporary bank account is established into which your IRS income tax refund will automatically be deposited.

However, if consumers borrow more than their refund actually may be, they will have to pay back the bank, and there could be fines and fees attached.

"The taxpayer may assume that the loan will be paid off quickly when the refund arrives, but problems can arise if the refund is less than the loan,” said Angie Barnett, president/CEO of BBB| Greater Maryland. “In the event of a shortage, you must repay the difference and get stung with fees and fines."

As the appeal of electronic filing and lighting fast refunds grow, scammers are increasingly creative in deceiving individuals into handing over personal information and money. Phishing e-mails have warned individuals of an issue delaying the processing of their taxes. The often convincing, yet fraudulent e-mails provide phony links and look-alike websites to gain social security, bank and credit card account numbers. Taxpayers should be aware that the IRS will not e-mail you about your taxes.

Confident Consumer: Your Hotel Photo, Really?

3/9/2011

Posted on 3/9/2011 by Angie Barnett

The internet is a useful tool for planning most aspects of vacation travel but our sources for planning fun in the sun such as the internet and online travel agencies may lead to dampened and cloudy spirits.

While the FTC monitors “truth in advertising”, they have yet to focus on the online marketing for hotels, resorts and vacation destinations. These sites offer tantalizing photos or as an online travel site, oyster.com calls them, “photo fakeouts” of a crystal clear beach – minus the gigantic cranes building the view-blocking high-rise next door!

From out-of-date photos of a pre-erosion beach to photos of pools taken with a wide-angle lens and minus the crowd of children swimming, false advertising in destination travel has received little attention. Unfortunately, there is little recourse for those misled by marketing photos when choosing their final destination. The biggest and best prevention? Do your homework before you book your sunny vacation online.

BBB offers the following suggestions before you plan your next get-away:

1. Know your need for accommodations, your budget, and your priorities – location vs. price, pool for the kids vs. the quiet of a bed and breakfast.

Tip: Use booking search engines such as Expedia or Kayak to get the best rate and then go directly to the hotel’s website to book directly as most hotels guarantee the lowest rate or will match a lower price you find elsewhere.

2. Decide whether or not to use “bidding” sites like Priceline and Hotwire who offer cheaper deals, but you may not know the name of where you’re staying until you’ve already booked the accommodations, and in general, reservations are non-refundable and cannot be changed.

Tip: If using a bidding site, keep in mind the days of the week you want to book – in most cities, the lowest rates may be on weekends or even holidays. So, do not base your bid on a Wednesday rate if you are actually arriving on Friday.

3. Read the reviews and ask for references before you book – knowing reviews can be biased but many are based on real life experiences. Use sites that offer information about the hotel’s conduct toward their customer such as BBB Business Reviews (www.bbb.org) or those that permit users to post photos of their hotel (back to the photo fakeout prevention).

Tip: Pick up the phone, call the hotel directly (not the 800 number) and ask the front desk about the preferred view, noise, parking, location of the hotel compared to the attractions you want to see and of course, the hotel’s cancellation policy.

Make the Right Turn after an Auto Collision

3/8/2011

Posted on 3/8/2011 by

Car accidents usually bring a load of stress, leaving motorists in need of immediate help. Therefore, Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland, the National Insurance Crime Bureau and Maryland Attorney General are providing tips to help drivers make informed decisions after a traffic collision.

“Without the proper knowledge, consumers may fall prey to tow truck operators, mechanics and alliances looking to make a quick buck,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Review your auto coverage each time your policy renews or when you make a policy change and know what your policy provides.”

In complaints filed with BBB, accident victims allegedly received towing and repair referrals from law enforcers. The motorists reported high up-front fees, improper repairs and extended lengths of time in which their vehicles were out of service while waiting for repairs.

One victim complained that the recommended body shop failed to correct her car’s alignment and damaged key hole, left a broken panel under the steering column and grease on the car’s seats. The victim alleged she left the mechanic numerous voicemails and received no response. Unfortunately, her insurance paid the full cost of the repairs, which totaled $5,200 before any work was “completed.”

Another victim complained that a towing company needlessly transported his son’s car to a storage lot after a minor accident. The victim later learned that it would cost him $495 for 2.5 miles of towing and nearly two days of storage. Unable to afford the charges, his son could not retrieve his vehicle.

“It’s difficult to think clearly after a collision, but it’s vital to get all the facts before saying ‘Yes.’ When you allow a tow operator to carry your vehicle, you become responsible for the costs. Be mindful that the costs could exceed your coverage,” added Barnett.

Here are tips from BBB, NICB and the Maryland Attorney General’s Office to help you make sound decisions on towing and repairs following an accident:

Towing

Call your insurance agent from the accident scene.
Never give permission to a tow operator who arrives unsolicited to take your vehicle.
Do not provide a tow truck operator with personal lien holder information.
Ensure that the tow truck signage matches the name that you called and is identical to any documentation the tow truck operator provides.
If the truck is not marked, ask for identification.
If in doubt, call the company back to insure the operator is.

Repairs

Get recommendations. Talk to friends and family for recommendations. Ask your auto insurance agent, auto parts salesperson, or other business people you know.
Check the repair shop's complaint records with the Consumer Protection Division and their Business Review your Better Business Bureau. The shop you select should have a good track record of resolving any complaints.
Look for a mechanic with experience working on the same automobile model and make as yours.
Seek out a mechanic with good credentials, updated knowledge and skill. Some shops display ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification, which indicates the mechanic has met basic standards in a specific technical area. You can also check for shops that participate in the AAA auto service program. But be careful. An ASE test or other certification is not an indication of ethics and integrity.
Interview mechanics. Are they willing to answer your questions? Do they convey a positive, professional image? Ask if the technician or shop has experience working on the same model vehicle as yours.
Ask the shop for the names of customer references. Then call those references.
Look for a shop with a clean and well maintained repair area.
Do not pay in full until the repairs are complete.

Tips for Choosing a Tax Preparer

3/2/2011

Posted on 3/2/2011 by

This year, taxpayers get a little extra time to file their 2010 income tax return. Emanicaption Day will be observed April 15 in Washington, D.C. and, as a result filers have until Monday, April 18, to get their refund stamped or filed electronically.

"Despite a couple of extra days, it's not too soon to begin your search for a reputable tax preparer if you don't want to tackle the return on your own," said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. "In the last 12 months, BBB received nearly 6,000 inquiries on tax-related businesses in Maryland. We issue Business Reviews on hundreds of firms to help taxpayers choose wisely."

For those considering paid tax preparers, your BBB and the IRS offer the following suggestions:

A paid preparer must sign the return as required by law.
Avoid preparers who claim they can obtain larger refunds than other preparers. If your returns are prepared correctly, every preparer should derive substantially similar numbers.
Beware of a preparer who guarantees results or who bases fees on a percentage of the amount of the refund. A practitioner may not charge a contingent fee (percentage of your refund) for preparing an original tax return.
Understand that the most reputable preparers will request to see your receipts and will ask you multiple questions to determine your qualifications for expenses, deductions and other items. By doing so they have your best interest in mind and are trying to help you avoid penalties, interest or additional taxes that could result from an IRS examination.
Choose a preparer you will be able to contact and one who will be responsive to your needs. Ask who will actually prepare the return before engaging services. Avoid firms where your work may be delegated down to someone with less training or some unknown worker. You should know exactly who works with your tax matters at all times and how to contact him or her; after all, you are paying for it. Determine if the preparer is exporting your return to a foreign country for preparation. Foreign countries do not have the same security and privacy laws as the United States nor is there any recourse should your information be compromised as a result of lax or nonexistent privacy procedures.
Investigate whether the preparer has any questionable history with BBB, the MD's board of accountancy for CPAs under the Dept. of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, the IRS Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) for enrolled agents.
MD has a State Board of Individual Tax Preparers under the Dept. of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. However, registration of ITPs has yet to be implemented.
Find out if the preparer is affiliated with a professional organization that provides or requires its members to pursue continuing education and holds them accountable to a code of ethics.
For low-income and elderly taxpayers, there are options such as the IRS approved Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly, and the AARP Tax-Aide.

Once you've selected a tax preparer and your return is ready - check it before signing! You are responsible for any errors. Ask your preparer to explain anything you don't understand.

Prison Bars May be Key to Stopping Md. Locksmith

2/17/2011

Posted on 2/17/2011 by
In the last year, BBB | Greater Maryland has received 31 complaints regarding the business practices of Joe Horton, owner of Pasadena, Md. based Around the Clock Locksmith. Now, the Maryland Attorney General's Office has filed a Petition for Contempt of Court against the company and Horton for continued violation of the Maryland Consumer Protection Act.

"Not only did BBB receive numerous and serious complaints in the last year, the Attorney General provided us with more than 50 reports that Horton overcharged his victims and used deceptive practices to collect payment from mothers, senior citizens and a bevy of vulnerable customers," said Angie Barnett, president & CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. "These victims were often stranded in the cold and dark, with no means to combat the alleged behavior of this locksmith."

The Attorney General's Petition for Contempt of Court states, "[ATCL] tricked some consumers by charging a high, undisclosed fee simply for the service call..." It adds that "[ATCL and Horton] manipulate and pressure consumers into signing receipts by holding onto consumers' personal documents and keys until they sign..."

Unresolved complaints, the severity of complaints and government action have all resulted in ATCL earning an F rating with BBB.

One unlucky victim's signed affidavit describes meeting Horton while locked out of his house the night after Christmas. Over the phone, the Davidsonville, Md. man was quoted $195 and told it would take two hours for the locksmith to arrive. When the trusting homeowner later looked at his receipt, he saw he had been charged $695. To add insult to injury, the homeowner spent close to 45 minutes helping Horton free his van, which was stuck on his front lawn.

Other victims describe similar scenarios of deception with reported charges for emergency locksmith service as high as $2,190. With a generous dose of cooperation by BBB, the Maryland Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division announced the issue of a Cease and Desist Order on April 7, 2010 against Around the Clock Locksmith and its owner.

BBB | Greater Maryland recommends the following tips for considering a locksmith:

Research a locksmith before one is needed by going to www.bbb.org to search for a reputable locksmith and verifying certification with the Associated Locksmiths of America http://www.aloa.org/.
If a company answers the phone with a generic phrase like "locksmith services," rather than a company-specific name, be wary. Ask for the legal name of the business. If the person refuses, call another locksmith.
Get an estimate for all work and replacement parts from the locksmith before work begins. In cases of "lock-outs" (being locked out of your car or home), most legitimate locksmiths will give you an estimate on the phone for the total cost of the work.

Ask about additional fees before you agree to have the locksmith perform the work. Companies may charge extra for responding to a call in the middle of the night. Ask if there is a charge for mileage, or a minimum fee for a service call.
If the price the locksmith provides when he arrives doesn't jibe with the estimate you got on the telephone, do not allow the work to be done.

All service vehicles, vans and trucks should be clearly marked with the company name and identifying details.
The qualified locksmith should always ask for your proof of ID and authorization to begin work upon arrival, as well as supply his or her own professional identification and credentials.

Confident Consumer: Quick Fix Credit? Forget It!

2/16/2011

Posted on 2/16/2011 by Angie Barnett

They’re everywhere – in the newspapers, on the internet, radio and TV. And add to your phone solicitation list those smooth sales pitches offering:

“Credit problems? No problem!”
“We can erase your bad credit — 100% guaranteed.”
“We can remove bankruptcies, judgments, liens, and bad loans from your credit file forever!”

Whatever form the offer comes, the offers are all the same – to clean up your credit problems, and often times for an upfront (set up) fee. As consumers become more aware of the impact of negative credit or low credit scores on their ability to obtain mortgage and automobile loans, apply for credit cards, or even get a job, they are seeking “immediate fixes” to buy good credit. In the past twelve months your BBB received 245 inquiries into credit repair agencies and 608 in the past 36 months.

BBB believes the credit services or credit repair business is most often one that over promises and rarely delivers. The fact is- no one can permanently remove accurate information from your credit report, even if it is negative.

Legitimate bad credit goes away with time and issues that are negotiable (i.e., asking a creditor to remove the delinquent payment notice when you have a proven track record for several months in a row) take time and hard work – but none of it simply disappears without your involvement.

Tips on Identifying Scams

The FTC and BBB offer the following tips to identify credit repair scams:

The company wants you to pay for credit repair services before they provide any services. Under the Credit Repair Organizations Act, credit repair companies cannot require you to pay until they have completed the services they have promised.
The company doesn’t tell you your rights and what you can do for yourself for free. These action steps include your right to receive a copy of your consumer report and your right to dispute, absolutely free the completeness or accuracy of any item on your report.
The company recommends that you do not contact any of the three major national credit reporting companies directly.
The company tells you they can get rid of most or all the negative credit information in your credit report, even if that information is accurate and current.
The company’s method of eliminating your bad credit is to dispute all of the information in your credit report (regardless of the accuracy).

Maryland has strict laws to protect consumers from the illegal credit repair services whose trademark is the “upfront fee”. These businesses typically dispute all negative credit which by law must be investigated for accuracy within 30 days. The rip-off occurs when the total fees have been paid to the credit repair business within 30 days, only to have the negative credit listing return because it was indeed factual and accurate.

Maryland law stipulates that any business in Maryland offering credit repair must put these following protections into place:

No up-front fees
Must be licensed by the Commissioner of Financial Regulations
Must enter into a written contract outlining the services to be performed and the results to be achieved.

Upload BBB's Seal to Your Facebook Page

2/14/2011

Posted on 2/14/2011 by
Here's how...

Upload the New BBB Accredited Seal

2/14/2011

Posted on 2/14/2011 by

BBB has released a new version of the BBB Accredited Business seal. Although it looks like the previous seal that you’ve been displaying on your website, its added features are designed to benefit your business.

Dynamic delivery- the installation will automatically create a link to your BBB Reliability Report. This link, along with some behind the scenes BBB generated text, should help to bring your business’ BBB report higher up in search engine results.

A call to action- “Click for Review”, which should promote click throughs to your report, thus also contributing to improved results in searches for your business.

Easy Installation- once done, we will never have to trouble you again about other changes we might make.

You will find all seal options at http://www.bbb.org/online/business/dynamicseal.aspx.

To login, all you will need is your company ID and our location.

The old seal will be phased out so it’s important that you add the new seal to your site.

Keep your kids safe online by teaching them the seven stop signs

2/10/2011

Posted on 2/10/2011 by

Knowing where your kids are can be a full time job. Knowing where they are online—which websites they’re visiting and who they’re talking to—is even harder, but is no less important. The Better Business Bureau Children’s Advertising Review Unit encourages parents to teach their kids and tweens about unsafe online situations and recommends looking out for seven stop signs.

According to a study by the Neilsen Norman Group, kids as young as nine years old are becoming just as capable—if not more so—than their parents at navigating the Internet. While young kids may be computer whizzes, they aren’t necessarily as smart as their parents when it comes to identifying online threats, including predators and fraud.

“The best way to keep your kids safe online is to keep the lines of communication open,” said Wayne Keeley, director of the BBB Children’s Advertising Review Unit. “Talk to them about the possible dangers and let them know that they can always come to you if they feel confused, threatened or bullied online.”

Sit down with your kids and let them know that they should stop and come talk to you whenever they find themselves in these seven situations online:

You visit a website which asks for financial information like bank, credit or debit card numbers. Some websites may try to get at your wallet through your kids. Let your kids know that it is never acceptable to give out your bank, credit or debit card numbers to anyone.

You visit a website that asks for personal information like your home address, first and last name, e-mail address, phone or Social Security number. Your kids may not realize that information such as their full name, address, phone number or even their e-mail address or Social Security Number can be very valuable to companies that want to market products to them and also to identity thieves or predators online.

A person you don’t know sends you inappropriate pictures or inappropriate language, or wants to actually meet up. Talk to your kids about what would constitute as inappropriate photos and conversations online, as well as the immense dangers of meeting up or talking to strangers.

You want to post a picture of yourself online. Posting pictures online can seem harmless, but can often provide important clues to predators. Approve any photos before your kid posts them online until you feel they are old enough to make the right call.

You are being harassed or bullied through a social networking site, e-mails or instant messages. Online bullying isn’t just a harmless prank and your kids need to know that it’s important they tell you before it goes too far.
You get a friend request on a social networking site from someone you don’t know. Friending someone online that you don’t know in real life is opening the door to many possible threats such as hackers and predators.
You want to sign up for a “free” service online or get “free” ringtones or daily joke text messages. “Free” rarely comes without a price online and supposedly, free services can result in repeated charges to your credit card or phone bill.

For more than 35 years, the BBB Children’s Advertising Review Unit has promoted responsible children's advertising by evaluating child-directed advertising and promotional material in all media to advance truthfulness, accuracy and consistency. CARU performs a high level of monitoring, including the scrutinizing of over ten thousand television commercials, and the review of advertisements in print, radio and online media.

To raise awareness of children’s online safety, CARU has created a series of TV PSAs that are airing nationwide and are also available online. Blogs, television and radio stations interested in spreading the word about online safety can contact Wayne Keeley at wkeekey@caru.bbb.org to learn more about airing these PSAs.

Parents can report websites that request personally identifiable information from children under 13 at www.CARU.org.

More information about kids online safety is available at the CARU Parent’s Corner.

Biz Bit: Coaching Workshop for Business Owners

2/7/2011

Posted on 2/7/2011 by
Enjoy Success Through Greater Focus & Accountability

Wednesday, March 2, 2011
8 AM-12 PM
Turf Valley Resort: Oakdale Room
2700 Turf Valley Road, Ellicott City, Md. 21042

Join your BBB for an exclusive coaching workshop designed to help Accredited Business owners:

Face Reality- identify and address what is and isn't working in your business
Adopt a Strategic Mindset- break the cycle and go from reactive to pro-active
Enhance Business & Personal Visioning- gain satisfaction and synergy in your professional & personal life
Develop Strategic Focus and Priority Management- utilize the time gap" assessment & become more effective
Grow Your Business- learn five tips from Susan to get started today!

Presenter:

Susan Katz is a certified business coach and CEO of The Growth Coach. Susan has over thirty years of publishing experience, beginning in sales and progressing into product development and management.

Her success in routinely achieving double-digit revenue growth and increasing profitability, stemmed from her understanding of key business drivers, and her dynamic and effective approach to staff development.

Cost: $25.00, BBB accredited owners only, limited to the first 20 paid registrants. Lunch will be provided after the session.

To register contact Amber Smith at 410-332-0739.

Make the Right Call When Choosing a Cell Phone

2/2/2011

Posted on 2/2/2011 by Angie Barnett

The competition is fierce between today’s four major cell phone carriers as they clamor to be on top of offering you not just a cell phone, but a mini-computer that happens to make phone calls as well! Using research from Consumer Reports and PC magazine, BBB offers the following tips when choosing a cell phone carrier to make sure you get the service and phone features that meets your needs!

Phones

If you’re on the hunt for must-have technology think about how you are going to use your phone and buy the plan without all the extras. Bluetooth and a build in camera are great, but they are a waste of money if you’re not going to use them. Consider not just the features but a comfortable keypad – and for those of us who are aging, are the screen and buttons big enough to see!

Plans
Most of us are billed at the end of each month for services rendered. You start with a two-year contract, iron-clad with hefty cancellation fees. Often these plans offer incentives on phones and packages to sweeten the deal.

Next, there are monthly plans. Cricket and some others fall into this category. You may have options to pay by the minute if you don’t require lots of cell time and you probably have to pay more to purchase a phone.

When choosing a plan today, it’s not just the phone (remember roaming charges?) calls and text messaging that counts, but data plans are now to be considered. If you use your phone only for texting and phone calls, choose a carrier who offers these services without a “data plan” which is required for “smartphones” – phones that offer access to e-mail, appointments, office documents and a host of applications. Infrequent mobile phone users should look seriously at prepaid, pay-by-the-minute phones.

And be sure to calculate your usage. Look at your old phone bills and determine your average minute uses and calling patterns and take that into consideration as well. You’re better off overestimating the number of anytime minutes rather than paying overage charges and you can easily change your rate plan – though that could result in extending your contract.

Coverage
The bottom-line: test reception before you buy. There’s no point in having a cell phone if you have no reception. Ask your carrier if you can “test” a phone’s service reception before you finalize the contract.

While the smaller and regional carriers may offer more value – they are cheaper - the trade-off is in coverage. Small carriers may supplement their voice coverage with roaming agreements. On average, the smaller a carrier's coverage map, the cheaper the plans are.

Coverage maps are good as a general guide, but beware of unmarked dead zones. Ask around and see what friends, co-workers and neighbors have to say. Use of your carrier's no-penalty return period to make sure your phone works where you need it. Check out CellReception.com Type in your zip code to find cell phone towers registered with the FCC – the more towers your carrier has, the better reception you’re likely to have.

Service
BBB receives complaints against all carriers, but it’s important to consider the size of the company in relation to the volume of complaints. Compare carriers at bbb.org.

Questions to Ask
Before you sign on the dotted line ask:

How long is the grace period for testing the service and phone?
How long is the contract?
How many minutes do I get and how can I track my usage between billings?
Are there any extra fees? Does the plan charge for nationwide roaming, what about International travel?
Will a bundle or data plan save me money if I am using email, multimedia messaging or web browsing – what’s the break even point?

Our final advice: Read the fine print and get only what you need! Don’t be pressured into purchasing a plan that offers more time, more features than you need. You can almost always upgrade – but you may not be so lucky if you overpaid for services you don’t need or can’t afford in the beginning.

Make the Right Call When Choosing a Cell Phone

2/2/2011

Posted on 2/2/2011 by Angie Barnett

Phones

Service
BBB receives complaints against all carriers, but it’s important to consider the size of the company in relation to the volume of complaints. Compare carriers at bbb.org.

Questions to Ask
Before you sign on the dotted line ask:

How long is the grace period for testing the service and phone?
How long is the contract?
How many minutes do I get and how can I track my usage between billings?
Are there any extra fees? Does the plan charge for nationwide roaming, what about International travel?
Will a bundle or data plan save me money if I am using email, multimedia messaging or web browsing – what’s the break even point?

BBB Service is Temporarily Disrupted

1/31/2011

Posted on 1/31/2011 by

BBB service is temporarily disrupted due to a server failure. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Complaints: To file a complaint or check the status of a complaint, please send information to info@greatermd.bbb.org

Inquires: Maryland BBB Reports may not be accessible during this time, call 410-347-3990.

BBB Web Server Down

1/31/2011

Posted on 1/31/2011 by

Confident Consumer: Online Valentine

1/28/2011

Posted on 1/28/2011 by Angie Barnett

As Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and the media “love” blitz is a reminder of the power (and pain) of Cupid’s arrow, online dating is one way consumers can truly “hurry up love”. If today’s single has access to the internet, there are literally thousands of websites offering the chance for a free search for love or in many cases, a search for just a monthly fee. The subscription services sweeten the deal by reducing the costs if the love seeker “joins” for an extended and committed time period.

It is projected that in 2010 over 15 million subscribers searched for love online. This is also big business and a wealth generator for the owners. Jupiter Research, an online research group projected the revenues for the online dating service sites to increase from $900 million of revenue in 2007 to $1.9 billion in 2012, or an increase of 16% over five years. In 2010, Dating Service ranked 75th in the top 100 industries receiving the most consumer complaints with 2,402 complaints filed with BBB that year. This was a five percent increase over 2009.

Common sites such as Match.com have over 900 complaints filed with BBB Dallas in the past 36 months and eHarmony.com shares that statistic with a little over 1000 complaints within the same time period. Both businesses are Accredited by their local BBBs and their reports indicate the companies respond to all disputes and the most common complaint is related to the industry’s practice for “automatic renewals” and the inability to cancel the membership (thus the monthly fees).

Nationwide, consumers also complain about incompatible matches when advertisements led them to expect “matches made in heaven” and fewer than expected prospects. The industry responds to these frequent allegations by stating that it is expected at least 70% of the online registrants are not honest when completing their profiles. Sites such as match.com also retain “postings” from users who are no longer active (no longer paying for the service) so they appear on the search features, but they may not be accessible when it comes time to initiate that first date – they’re simply not active or searching online any longer!

When using an online dating service, BBB recommends the consumer has the criteria in mind for online dating and do your homework:

1. Read and understand all the terms and conditions of the contract/agreement. Understand the benefits offered through a free service, a free trial period, and of course, the paid membership services. Carefully examine the privacy policy – how they are going to use your information – and the cancellation policy.

2. Put the cancellation timeline on your calendar and note if cancellation requires written notice via mail or email along with phone call. Be prepared for automatic renewal if you do not initiate cancellation.

3. Set up a separate mail account just for online dating to help protect your identity and manage your messages.

Lastly, BBB joins the FTC, FBI and other agencies concerned with online dating scams and fraud that leads to crime. Scam artists use these sites to target their victims using fake profiles with the end goal to convince their victims to “send money in the name of love”. The typical scenario begins with a “fast moving t” online romance with the perpetrator often moving the exchange off site to personal email or Instant Messaging and away from the legitimate online dating service. With promises of love at first site, the scam artist fabricates a sudden and personal crisis with often a complicated story ending with a request for money to be wired overseas, often totaling over tens of thousands of dollars. Besides a “con game” netting millions of dollars to overseas scam artists, this game can end in personal threats, blackmail, and an ongoing demand for cash.

This problem is so pervasive, the Ghana US Consulate, Embassy of the United States posts “Romance Scams” warning of the hallmark indicators of the scam on their international and governmental website. The bottom line warning:

· Do NOT send money to someone you haven’t met – Period. It is nearly impossible to recover money sent to scammers as they work from internet cafes and use prepaid telephones so they are truly portable and elusive.

· Immediately cease all contact with the Scammer! Block their email address, ignore their instant messages, ignore their phone calls.

· Contact Western Union to see if the payment has not been picked up yet.

· Make copies if your email conversations, and instant messages. Keep originals for yourself, give copies to the various reporting agencies, and keep all receipts and envelopes, anything that can be used as evidence.

Reports of online dating fraud and scams should be reported to www.ftc.gov/complaint and www.ic3.gov

BBB Greater Maryland Annual Review

1/24/2011

Posted on 1/24/2011 by

Complaint Resolution

Your BBB handled over 12,000 disputes in 2010. Non-accredited businesses satisfied consumer complaints only 69% of the time. BBB Accredited Businesses earned a 98% satisfaction level – the other 2% are no longer accredited.

Business Referrals

BBB logged a record-setting 1,307,089 referrals. This number reflects inquiries we received for company reports, general advice reports, BBB Online “seal clicks” and eQuotes to our Accredited Businesses.

Web Site

Our web site received over 3 million page views last year! That equals more than 254,000 impressions a month and represents a 16% increase over the same period last year. Our visits have climbed an average of 33% with almost 86,000 visitors seeking our information each month. Among global Internet users,
bbb.org ranks higher than Angie’s List and Consumer Reports.

Media

Nationally, we ranked 22nd for media mentions over the year, often ahead of larger markets such as New York, Los Angeles and Philadelphia.

Cookies Help Web Sellers Get Fat

1/20/2011

Posted on 1/20/2011 by Angie Barnett

As the saying goes, “The only constant in life is change.” This is true in what is known as dynamic pricing, the practice of charging different consumers varying prices for the same item.

Dynamic pricing is a way for companies to get the highest price for a product by allowing the price to change within in a specific period, either a few hours or a day, while staying within the maximum amount they think - by virtue of your online history - you would be willing to pay. The highest price you are willing to pay is what economists call the reservation price.

Here’s an example of how it works:

The base price of the item is $25. However, the seller knows you might be willing to pay up to $4 more according to your buying habits. Using dynamic pricing, the seller adjusts the price you see to no more than $29.

You are likely to encounter dynamic pricing when you purchase an airline ticket or rent a car online. At certain times on certain days, airlines will charge a different price for the same flight. Sometimes using a different browser will affect your pricing results. If you allow cookies, those little file snippets that sites download to your computer to ‘enhance’ your shopping experience, your chances of encountering dynamic pricing are increased.

Is it legal? Yes, as long as the seller does not discriminate based on race, gender, location or age.

To get the best price, try the following tips:

Shop around.
Compare prices on different days and times.
Use different search engines.
Remove the cookies on your computer browser.
Shop from multiple IP addresses/different computers.
Look for the BBB seal on the company’s web site. Be sure it is authentic and links to their BBB review. If there is no seal, check them out on www.bbb.org.

Cyber Crooks Target Businesses via Email

1/19/2011

Posted on 1/19/2011 by

BBB warns business owners to be on the lookout for cyber crooks engaging in ACH/wire transfer fraud via email. These criminals are responding to businesses’ employment ads with the hopes of obtaining sensitive financial information. With embedded malware in their emails, schemers have successfully captured the online banking credential of the person who was authorized to conduct financial transactions within the company. Currently, over $150,000 has been stolen from business owners across the country.

Please visit the Internet Crime Complaint Center for details: Emails Containing Malware Sent to Businesses Concerning Their Online Job Postings

Cyber Crooks Target Businesses via Email

1/19/2011

Posted on 1/19/2011 by

BBB warns business executives to be on the lookout for cyber crooks engaging in ACH/wire transfer fraud via email. These criminals are responding to employment ads with the hopes of obtaining sensitive financial information, by embedding malware in their email replies. Currently, over $150,000 has been stolen from business owners across the country.

Please visit the Internet Crime Complaint Center website for details: Emails Containing Malware Sent to Businesses Concerning Their Online Job Postings

Ten Questions to Ask Before Joining a Gym

1/19/2011

Posted on 1/19/2011 by

Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions after the gluttony of the holiday season. If you’re pledging to lose some pounds this year by joining a gym, Better Business Bureau recommends asking ten questions before signing on the dotted line.

In 2010, BBB received over 2,000 inquires and 68 complaints from Marylanders about gyms and health clubs. Nationally, consumers filed 7,251 complaints, putting the industry in the top 25 for most complained about businesses.

BBB recommends asking the gym and yourself the following questions before signing up for a membership:

Questions to ask the gym:

What are the terms of any introductory offers?
Gyms often use special introductory offers to lure in new members. Just make sure you understand the terms and what the price will be once the introductory period is over.

Will my membership renew automatically?
Every year, BBB receives a large number of complaints from people who joined a gym and didn’t realize that their contract would renew automatically and that they would have to take specific steps to cancel their contract.

How can I get out of my contract? Getting out of a gym contract isn’t always as easy as getting into one so make
sure you understand what steps you would need to take to cancel your membership.

What happens if I move?
Gyms have any number of different policies when it comes to how moving will affect your membership. It might depend on how far away you’re moving and if they have other locations nearby.

What happens if you go out of business?
BBB often receives complaints from people after their gym suddenly closed up shop and took their money with them. Ask the gym to explain what will happen to your money if they suddenly go out of business.

Questions to ask yourself:

What are my fitness goals?
Determining your fitness goals in advance will help you select a facility that is most appropriate for you. If you have a serious health condition, consult with a medical professional when setting your fitness goals.

Is this location convenient? If the gym is across town, you’ll be less likely to workout. Choose a fitness club that is convenient to work or home so the location is not a deterrent to getting exercise.

Can I really afford this every month? Monthly gym fees add up and, after any introductory periods are over, the price could jump higher than your budget can handle. Do the math before you join and make sure you can afford a gym membership.

Am I feeling pressured to join? Do not give in to high-pressure sales tactics to join right away. A reputable gym will give you enough time to read the contract thoroughly, tour the facilities and make an informed decision.

Did I get everything in writing? Read the contract carefully and make sure that all verbal promises made by the salesperson are in writing. What matters is the document you sign, so don’t just take a salesperson’s word for it.

For more advice from BBB on how to be a savvy consumer all year long, visit www.bbb.org.

Look for Seven Red Flags When Applying to a For-Profit College

1/13/2011

Posted on 1/13/2011 by

Enrollment at for-profit schools—including trade schools and online universities—has skyrocketed in recent years. Unfortunately, not all schools offer a quality education and enrolling in a sub-par program can be a waste of time and money. When checking out for-profit schools, Better Business Bureau recommends doing your research and looking for seven red flags.

For-profit colleges enroll 1.8 million students—a number that has increased significantly in the last decade, according to the US Department of Education. While for-profit schools are becoming a more popular option for students, a recent investigation by the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that some are misleading students about the cost and quality of the education they will receive.

“If you’re looking to expand your horizons and get a better education, take the time to explore all of your options and do your research,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Not all post secondary schools offer the same level of education and you can waste tens of thousands of dollars and years of your life if you sign up with an institution that doesn’t meet standards.”

When applying to a for-profit school, the BBB recommends looking out for the following red flags:

The recruiter uses high-pressure sales tactics.
If a sales rep is subjecting you to high pressure sales tactics—including bullying you or claiming you have to sign up immediately, just walk away. A reputable school will take the time to answer your questions, allow you to talk to a financial aid advisor and not push you into making a hasty decision.

The recruiter exaggerates potential income or guarantees a job.
Beware of any school that guarantees you will get a job after completing their program. Landing a job is never a sure thing, especially in this economy. If the representative tells you how much money you’ll make after completing their program, confirm it with a third party—don’t just take their word for it.

The prices are inflated when compared to other options.
A recent GAO investigation alleged price gouging at some for-profit schools. As an example, one school charged $14,000 for a certification in massage therapy while a similar certification at a local public college would have cost only $520. Before signing up with any for-profit school, do your research and compare costs against other for-profit schools and public colleges.

The school is not accredited.
Accreditation is extremely important, but not always easy to confirm. Ask the school’s representative about national and regional accreditation and then confirm with the accrediting organization. You can check with the US Department of Education at http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/ to learn which post secondary schools are accredited by approved agencies. More information on the importance of accreditation is available through the Council for Higher Education Accreditation’s website.

The degree or program seems too easy to obtain.
Diploma mills pose as online schools and often promise to give you a cheap and easy degree. Unfortunately, such diplomas aren’t worth the paper they’re printed on and won’t be recognized by the military, employers or other colleges. If the degree seems too easy to earn—this includes simply taking a test online or earning your degree based largely on life experience—it probably isn’t legitimate.

The school does not disclose information as required.
Some of the for-profit schools the GAO investigated "failed to provide clear information about the college's program duration, costs, or graduation rate despite federal regulations requiring them to do so." Don’t be afraid to ask plenty of questions when talking to recruiters and if you get the runaround instead of clear, concise answers, it’s a bad sign.

The recruiter encourages you to lie on financial aid forms.
The GAO report also found that some recruiters encouraged students to lie on their financial aid applications in order to get more money from the government to pay for tuition. If you get caught lying on your financial aid forms, not only will you have to pay the government back the money you borrowed, you could be fined and sent to prison.

For more advice on managing your personal finances and finding trustworthy businesses, visit www.bbb.org

Confident Consumer: Check Your Credit

1/12/2011

Posted on 1/12/2011 by Angie Barnett

With the New Year, consumers are reminded to take the time to review their overall financial health by requesting a free credit report.

An annual review of a credit report is essential to verify all outstanding debts and helpful in maintaining a strong protection against identity theft. Supporting the value of reviewing credit reports annually, the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act was enacted by the US Federal Government in 2003. This act entitles consumers to receive a free copy of their credit report every year, from each of the 3 nationwide consumer credit reporting companies.

An annual credit report is also crucial in order to combat the potential complications when communicating with a debt collection agency. BBB reports that approximately 500 consumers nationwide have filed complaints about debt collection agencies this year. Debt collection was noted as one of the top scams for BBB | Greater Maryland in 2010. Without a recent credit report to verify all outstanding debts and lenders, consumers are more susceptible to confusion about unpaid debts and are at risk to fall for threats from phony debt collectors.

To illustrate the risk of fraudulent collection agencies, Marylanders reported to BBB aggressive and threatening collection phone calls related to past due “pay day loans” from CashNet. The consumers all had taken out pay day loans via internet years ago and believed the loans to be paid in full, but the phone calls persisted demanding payment. It is assumed the client list for this pay day lender was either sold or hacked and the scam artists were making efforts to collect on phantom debt – an industry purported to generate millions of dollars for skillful and persistent scam artists.

To stay on top of your financial health and avoid confusion about unpaid debts, BBB urges all consumers to take advantage of the opportunity to review a free credit report this year. Here are five tips to use in preparation of requesting your report:

1. Visit AnnualCreditReport.com , the only FTC authorized source for free annual credit reports under federal law.

2. Expect to be given an opportunity to view free credit reports from each of the three credit reporting agencies: Experian, Transunion, and Equifax. Order only report from one agency, then four months later, order a report from the next agency, and so-on, therefore monitoring your credit year round.

3. Be cautious of advertisements offering credit report monitoring trial periods.

4. Review the difference between a credit report and a credit score.

5. Beware of pop-up ads and unsolicited spam offers for credit reports.

Don't Wing It When Buying Ravens Tickets

1/5/2011

Posted on 1/5/2011 by Angie Barnett

Paint the town black and purple! The Ravens are headed to the playoffs. Many fans are planning to tag along, as the Ravens hunt for victory. However, BBB warns you to be careful while purchasing tickets for the upcoming playoffs.

All it takes is one click using your favorite search engine and up pops page after page of playoff ticket sales. A similar search on eBay returned 70 matches and a review of craigslist returned over 50 ads for playoff tickets posted in less than 24 hours after the team won their wildcard berth. Scams are common, especially in the forms of counterfeit and non-existent tickets.

Across the country, ticket scams have left quite a history. In 1994, nearly 10,000 college football fans made a long journey from Wisconsin to California after purchasing a ticket package. They arrived to discover that they had been scammed and were not able to attend the game. So, before boarding the plane to Kansas City, BBB recommends you shop wisely using the tips below and have your playoff ticket in hand.

BBB tips for buying tickets to the playoffs or other popular events:

Purchase tickets directly from the team or the venue whenever possible. Otherwise, try to buy from someone local who has a good history of satisfying customers. Your next option is to consider purchasing your tickets through a legitimate travel agency in the community who has package deals – including a guarantee/refund policy. And finally, consider buying from a legitimate ticket exchange.

When purchasing tickets online, always use a credit card or PayPal, so that charges can be disputed. Ask for a picture of the ticket, verify it using the venue’s seating chart, and get a receipt.

If shopping on eBay never leave the website to finish a transaction or buy from the seller directly; you will lose all buyer’s protection the site provides.

Get the seller’s real name and contact information.

Never go alone to pick up tickets purchased from someone online, and always meet in a public place. The “seller” knows when and where you’re going to be, and that you’re carrying a lot of cash. He/she may be setting you up to get robbed.

Only buy from people or ticket brokers that you trust. Look for the BBB Accredited Business logo to select a ticket broker that has been screened by BBB and click on the logo to be sure it is authentic. You can find reports on ticket brokers at bbb.org.

BBB Touts Achievements, Exposes Top Md. Scams of 2010

1/3/2011

Posted on 1/3/2011 by

Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland and its charitable sister organization, BBB Educational Foundation, racked-up quite a list of achievements in 2010. Between the two organizations, they provided the community with the following free services:

Answers to more than 1,302,000 inquiries by providing reports on local businesses
Handled over 12,500 complaints
Destruction of 6,000 lbs of personally identifying information
Investigations into questionable businesses and marketplace practices indentifying scams, fraudulent web sites and enlisting assistance and cooperating with law enforcement agencies as necessary

"BBB Greater Maryland conducted some of its best work on behalf of the marketplace this year," said Angie Barnett, president and CEO. "We refused to let tightened resources impact our delivery of service and instead our teams excelled putting their passion, dedication and expertise to the test."

During the year, BBB provided assistance to a number of federal and state agencies including the Federal Trade Commission and the Office of the Maryland Attorney General.

"Joint investigations have benefitted the marketplace by drawing scrutiny to bad businesses and unfair practices and government action can ultimately put the worst offenders out of business," added Barnett. "Scams on the other hand, are usually perpetrated by an individual or individuals, who pretend to operate a business, agency or venture. Many scams originate out of the country, but all are interested in your personal information and/or your money."

Here's a list of the top scams BBB | Greater Maryland assisted the public with in 2010:

Government Grants: Trading on confusion and news headlines of government stimulus programs, scammers targeted consumers with offers of grants for home improvement, school loans and to start a business. Online grant offers were rampant and boasted glowing testimonials from clients. While many were all out scams requiring an upfront fee, others peddled publicly available advice about obtaining assistance for a fee.

Lotteries & Sweepstakes: BBB phones rang all too often with anxious callers looking to claim a lottery or sweepstakes prize. Some callers tried to convince BBB operators in vain that the letter they received must be legitimate - even though they never remembered entering the contest. Winners were always asked to wire a small percentage of their prize to the organizer to pay for taxes and other legal-sounding, contrived fees.

Mortgage Assistance: As foreclosures swelled, many hardworking families were targeted by scammers who offered help to save their homes. For the most part, foreclosure rescue loans were too good to be true. Desperate victims sometimes lost thousands of dollars in upfront fees. Ultimately, many homeowners reported foreclosure proceedings had begun while promised assistance never materialized.

Mystery Shoppers: Marylanders were targeted this year by scammers who offered them the opportunity to earn extra money, generally $200 or more by acting as mystery shoppers in various retail stores. Those who signed up received at least one and sometimes several checks in the mail. After depositing the check(s) and following specific instructions from their 'employer' to buy specified items in specific stores, the scam would end with the shopper's evaluation of a money-wire service where they would wire back a portion of the money received to the agency. By the time the check(s) bounced, either because they were fraudulent or stolen, the shopper would be out the money wired and sometimes on the hook for the items purchased.

Phantom Debt & Payday Loans: Thanks to the Internet, Marylanders are not as insulated against payday loans as they once were. As people failed to stretch their money to their next payday, these high-interest loans offered a bitter, temporary solution. However, while payday loans are a bad way to make ends meet, it was the resulting connection to phantom debt that became alarming in late 2010. As calls spiked, BBB found a connection between old payday loans and mysterious calls about unpaid debt. Callers claiming to be collection agencies used scare tactics to frighten victims into providing bank account information and authorizing automatic withdrawals. The scammers were usually armed with personally identifying information about the victim that allowed them to spin a convincing web of lies.

Phishing: Each year, phishing e-mail scams take different tacks. Scammers have posed as businesses, government agencies and even friends. Though the guise may vary, the bottom-line is the same. These Internet crooks want your personal information and they're willing to say anything to get it. Unwitting victims who disclose personal and/or financial information risk losing money and their identity.

Extended Warranties For Your Electronics

12/28/2010

Posted on 12/28/2010 by Angie Barnett

Did you receive an iPad or a digital SLR camera over the holiday? Have you decided to take advantage of those post-Christmas sales and pick up a new TV? If purchasing an electronic device is in your future plans, you should know that retailers and third parties offer extended warranties or service contracts at an additional cost with or after the sale. To help you decide if an extended warranty or service contract is right for your purchase, BBB suggests the following:

Educate yourself. Understand the warranty before purchasing extended coverage. Don’t rely on the salesperson for your information, read the warranty yourself. The standard warranty that comes with electronics covers parts for one year and labor for 90 days. Certain devices often come with more, such as hard drives and TVs.

What is the expected/desired lifespan of the product? Most electronics have a three to four year average life. Remember, technology moves quickly. How long do you want to go before investing in an upgrade?

Weigh the cost of the warranty against the risk of damage or loss. For example, a TV is probably going to be hung on the wall or set-up in your family room and never moved. A laptop, or camera might be dropped or stepped on.

Consumers spend a long time shopping for products, but often don’t shop for warranties. Do a Google search and you’ll find results for numerous Internet companies that market extended warranties that range from service to replacement coverage of protected products. You may find a better deal online, some have a one-time fee, and others have recurring monthly costs. Make sure you’re dealing with an established company.

Questions to ask.
* Will you have to ship the product?
* Does the warranty cost more than 20% of the total cost of the product?
* Will the company replace your product if multiple instances of service are required?
* Will they reconnect a complex home theater or just return the component, leaving you to sort through a sea of cables?

If you buy a lemon, the manufacturer’s warranty should protect you. But when considering first-generation technology/products, know that there won’t be a lot of data on performance and reliability at the time of the sale.

Check out the warranty company with your BBB at bbb.org for a record of customer experience.

An extended warranty can provide peace of mind for a worrier and for some that may be reason enough to spring for it.

Confident Consumer: Electronics' Extended Warranties

12/27/2010

Posted on 12/27/2010 by Angie Barnett

Maybe you received an iPad or a digital SLR camera over the holiday or have decided to take advantage of post-Christmas sales and pick up a new TV. Many new electronics are sold with a manufacturer’s warranty. Retailers and third parties offer extended warranties or service contracts at an additional cost with or after the sale. How can you decide if you should add an extended warranty to your purchase?

You have options when considering a warranty. Retailers offer extended warranties at the time of sale. These plans have a one-time cost and are often offered as tiered-plans with varying levels and lengths of protection. It’s estimated that on average extended warranties have a 50% profit margin for retailers, which is much higher than that of most electronics. Consumers spend a long time shopping products, but often don’t shop for warranties. Do a Google search and you’ll find results for numerous Internet companies that market extended warranties that range from service to replacement coverage of protected products. You may find a better deal online, some have a one-time fee, and others have recurring monthly costs. Make sure you’re dealing with an established company.

Check out the warranty company with your BBB at bbb.org for a record of customer experience.

BBB Tips for Hassle-Free Holiday Returns

12/22/2010

Posted on 12/22/2010 by

As shoppers check off the final names on their Christmas shopping lists, Better Business Bureau reminds consumers to know their return rights before making any purchase.

Unfortunately, not all gifts are winners, so BBB advises that you remember the following before you make your purchase:

Ask the store about its return policy.

Can a customer obtain a refund, a store credit, or exchange for unwanted merchandise? If so, check to make sure the return time limit doesn’t start until December 25^th if it is a gift.

Ask for a gift receipt and enclose it with the present.

Most stores require a receipt for returned items, even gifts. Ask for a gift receipt to include with the present. And before you start wrapping, be sure not to remove electronics or similar products from their boxes before wrapping as the original packaging may be required for a return.

Do not assume the regular return policy applies to sales or clearance items.

Some merchants consider sales items to be final, so ask to be sure. If you are the gift-recipient, do not assume you have the right to return or exchange an unwanted present. Like the shopper, you are bound by the merchant’s return policy. Health regulations, which can prohibit the return of hats and intimate apparel, also apply.

Ask about restocking fees.

Some merchants charge a restocking or “open box” fee for returns of electronics products or large-ticket items. Ask if that is their policy. Restocking fees can be as high as 25 per cent of the purchase.

Look for a posted return policy when shopping online.

If returns are permitted, find out what procedures and timeframe need to be followed. Many online retailers will post their return policy on their website. If you can’t find one, ask.

Save your receipts.

Whether you are the giver or the receiver, be sure to save your receipts and you know the return timeframe. You likely don’t have to brave the crowds the day after Christmas, but don’t wait too long to return the item.

Confident Consumer: Give from the Heart, Give Smart

12/22/2010

Posted on 12/22/2010 by Angie Barnett

While the holidays are a time when many people look to donate to charities, it is also when scammers are looking to receive by taking advantage of their kindness.

With so many people out of work and in need, it’s extremely important that you maximize the impact your holiday donations have by avoiding the common giving mistakes. A smart donor takes a hard look at a charity’s programs, finances and governance before making a donation. While almost all charities have the best of intentions, not all organizations meet standards or are well managed.

Fraudulent charities use valid-sounding names and employ telemarketing, direct mail and e-mail to solicit donations. Many scam artists use specific words, such as police, firefighter, veteran or children in their titles.

Your BBB wants to offer you the following tips on how to avoid charity scams and give wisely this holiday season.

Warning Signs

If you receive a call from an organization and are being pressured into donating, it is okay to hang up. Reputable charity organization representatives do not pressure donors into giving anything.

If you receive a thank you for a pledge that you didn’t make, be suspicious. If you do not recall making any donations, resist the current solicitation.

Avoid charities that offer to send a courier to receive your money.

Be aware of similar sounding names. Some phony charities use names that closely resemble those of respected, legitimate organizations. If you notice a small difference from the name of the charity you intend to deal with, call the organization you know to check it out.

There is a difference between “tax exempt” and “tax–deductible”. Tax exempt means the organization doesn’t have to pay taxes. Tax deductible means you can deduct your contribution on your federal income tax return.

Tips

Always ask for the charity’s name, address and phone number and some documentation on its programs

Inquire if the person contacting you is a professional fundraiser and what percentage of your donation will go to paying fundraising costs. Some charities hire professional fundraisers for large-scale mailings, telephone drives, and other solicitations rather than use their own staff or volunteers, and then use a portion of the donations to pay the fundraiser’s fees.

Do your research: Check out the organization’s history and validity. This can be done through the National Association of State Charity Officials and your BBB.

Avoid giving cash donations and always request documentation of what you have donated.

Call the charity the person is ‘representing’ and inquire if they are currently soliciting donations and if the caller is in fact a representative of theirs.

Donors can check out BBB Wise Giving Alliance evaluations on national soliciting charities for free at your BBB.

Confident Consumer: Give from the Heart, Give Smart

12/22/2010

Posted on 12/22/2010 by Angie Barnett

While the holidays are a time when many people look to donate to charities, it is also when scammers are looking to receive by taking advantage of their kindness.

Your BBB wants to offer you the following tips on how to avoid charity scams and give wisely this holiday season.

Warning Signs

If you receive a call from an organization and are being pressured into donating, it is okay to hang up. Reputable charity organization representatives do not pressure donors into giving anything.

If you receive a thank you for a pledge that you didn’t make, be suspicious. If you do not recall making any donations, resist the current solicitation.

Avoid charities that offer to send a courier to receive your money.

Be aware of similar sounding names. Some phony charities use names that closely resemble those of respected, legitimate organizations. If you notice a small difference from the name of the charity you intend to deal with, call the organization you know to check it out.

There is a difference between “tax exempt” and “tax–deductible”. Tax exempt means the organization doesn’t have to pay taxes. Tax deductible means you can deduct your contribution on your federal income tax return.

Tips

Always ask for the charity’s name, address and phone number and some documentation on its programs

Inquire if the person contacting you is a professional fundraiser and what percentage of your donation will go to paying fundraising costs. Some charities hire professional fundraisers for large-scale mailings, telephone drives, and other solicitations rather than use their own staff or volunteers, and then use a portion of the donations to pay the fundraiser’s fees.

Do your research: Check out the organization’s history and validity. This can be done through the National Association of State Charity Officials and your BBB.

Avoid giving cash donations and always request documentation of what you have donated.

Call the charity the person is ‘representing’ and inquire if they are currently soliciting donations and if the caller is in fact a representative of theirs.

Donors can check out BBB Wise Giving Alliance evaluations on national soliciting charities for free at your BBB.

Confident Consumer: Scams Under the Tree

12/15/2010

Posted on 12/15/2010 by Angie Barnett

As the holiday “crunch time” is upon us, McAfee Inc. and BBB offers the following “tips” to make sure technology isn’t the “grinch” who steals Christmas:

1. iPad Offers — Apple products are some of the most popularly requested items this Christmas and scammers have figured out how to trick consumers into handing over their personal info by sending sham offers for free iPads. Shoppers are invited to buy other products and by providing their credit card number, they will receive a free iPad. In the end, the only thing victims receive is the frustration of having their credit card number stolen. The online version asks consumers to take a quiz, but must provide their cell phone numbers to know whether they have won it, however, all they receive is the gift of a cell phone scam costing them $10 a week.

2. “Help! I’ve Been Robbed” — With friends and family traveling for Christmas, scammers send fraudulent messages to loved ones desperately asking for money to be wired so that they can make it to their destinations.

3. Fake Gift Cards — Some scammers target consumers by offering free gift cards. The initial appeal of the gift card scheme is the offer comes from or is posted by a trusted email or web site. As we all know, there is no such thing as a free lunch. They will give you the voluntary option to answer marketing surveys. Then, the terms/conditions for collection of the $1,000 prize require participation in 13 sponsor offers. The offers consist of the outright purchase of specific products or services from companies including Blockbuster, Columbia House and the New York Times.

4. Holiday Jobs — In this troubled economy, scammers continue to prey on desperate job seekers during the holidays with the promise of work-from- home jobs. Interested persons submit their information and pay an upfront set up fee, but instead of giving you the job, the hackers run away with your money and stolen information.

5. Smishing — Cyber crooks have targeted consumers by sending fraudulent SMS texts claiming to be from your bank or an online retailer, alerting you that there is something wrong with the account you have with them. All you have to do fix this is to call a number and then verify your account information. This scam is particularly popular during the holidays when shoppers are keeping track of their expenses and check their accounts quite often.

6. Holiday Rentals — Travelers looking to stay in alternative places besides hotels should be on the lookout for bogus rental sites that promise cheap housing. However, many of these sites are fictitious. Scammers will sometimes copy real listings but change the details, such as the contact information and urge you to send an overnight deposit, or wire money to secure your reservation. In the end, victims are left out in the cold with no place to stay.

7. E-cards — Sending holiday cards to everyone in your contacts list can be a pain; sending holiday e-cards often times, is a lot easier. But consumers need to be wary of receiving e-cards and holiday PowerPoint attachments from people they don't know. Often, these attachments are malicious viruses or worms.

8. Dangerous Holiday Downloads — If you're searching for a holiday ringtone for your cell phone or wallpaper. Around this time of the year, hackers create fake holiday websites and as soon as you click “download”, your computer could become infected with malware, spyware, adware or viruses.

No Matter How You Give, Give Wisely

12/13/2010

Posted on 12/13/2010 by
Because of technology and the creativity of charities, there are many different ways that donors can give to a worthy cause. Whether giving money, canned goods, used items or time, BBB Wise Giving Alliance reminds 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. According to the Salvation Army, red kettle donations in November and December 2009 increased by $9 million over the previous year.

"In the midst of the holiday cheer, you find many people eager to help those in need," said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. "However you decide to give, it's important to research the charity thoroughly to make sure that your dollar stretches the farthest it can in this economy."

Following are five common ways that 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 had great success partnering with businesses who agree to donate a portion of the purchase price from sales of items to a worthy cause. This type of cause-related marketing means that you can help while you shop.

Check if the promotion identifies the actual or anticipated amount of the purchase price the charity will receive. Some businesses, like grocery stores, ask if you want to donate to a charity and have that amount added to your receipt which is called embedded giving. See if the embedded promotion states which specific charity will receive the collected funds.

Give online - Giving online with a credit or debit card 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. 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 disastrous earthquake in Haiti. After texting a message to a number, the donation is tacked on to your cell phone bill. While donating via text is fast and easy for the donor, the actual money can take months to reach the charity. 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 some of your time to help support a worthy cause. In addition to volunteer service, you can also be a vocal supporter of a charity and help raise awareness among friends and family and on social networking Web sites.

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.

To review charity evaluations and get more advice on how to give when times are tight, visit www.bbb.org/charity.

Don't Get Burned By Free Fireplace Offer

12/9/2010

Posted on 12/9/2010 by

Marylanders hoping to cut heating bills this winter may get burned by the promise of free Amish-made heaters. BBB | Greater Maryland has a history of receiving consumer complaints for Heat Surge products. Past complaints began after full-page ads ran in the Baltimore Sun. BBB conducted a review of ads for the electric units resembling a fireplace to address concerns raised by consumers.

"Heat Surge continues to confuse the public," said Angie Barnett, president/CEO Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland. "A two-page advertisement crafted to look like an article just ran in a newspaper insert in our region last weekend. The ad uses an 'apples to oranges' comparison about the product's energy consumption. A headline offers a 'free heater,' while costs for the fireplace mantle are buried within the text of the 'article,'" added Barnett.

Other controversial products and services marketed by companies under the Arthur Middleton Capital Holdings umbrella, which owns Heat Surge, have included an offer of "absolutely free" $2 bills, healthcare plans and "free" digital TV converter boxes. The TV converter box ads were labeled misleading and confusing by the Columbus, Ohio, BBB in 2008.

More than 350 consumers have filed complaints against Heat Surge in the last three years. Complaints covered a wide range of business practices, including advertising, service, customer service and refunds. An additional 300 have filed complaints against Universal Syndications/World Reserve Monetary Exchange for the latest string of ads in the Mid-West. Many of the complaints dealt with concerns over misleading ads, high-pressure sales tactics, an inability to get refunds and problems with subsequent charges for additional products the consumers did not want.

Since 2007, attorneys general in at least three states have taken action against the firm. Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal that year called on consumers to reject the company's "phony discount offer" for sheets of $1 bills, as advertised in full-page newspaper ads. In May 2008, Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley obtained an agreement from the company to stop running misleading coin and currency advertisements. In July 2009, Pennsylvania Attorney General Tom Corbett reached an agreement calling for the company to stop misleading advertising and to refund money to consumers. Corbett said the company's full-page newspaper ads offering millions of dollars in surplus cash were deceptive. "These advertisements led people to believe that they could claim cash that was 'up for grabs,' but that was not the case at all," Corbett said.

For more information on millions of companies across North America, visit www.bbb.org.

Confident Consumer: Shopping Tips

12/8/2010

Posted on 12/8/2010 by Angie Barnett

As holiday shopping reaches its peak, keep in mind these simple tips to protect your wallet and your ID.

1. Shop around. A “sale” price isn’t always the “best” price. Some merchants may offer a sale price on the item you want for a limited time; other merchants may offer items at a discount everyday.

2. Look for price-matching policies. Some merchants will match, or even beat, a competitor’s prices. If you purchase an item based on “Lowest Price Guaranteed”, ask for the store’s criteria for that claim and hold them to it. Many merchants use this to lure customers in without “backing up” the claim.

3. Go online. Check out websites that compare prices. If you decide to buy from an online merchant, keep shipping costs and delivery time in mind.

4. Carefully consider bargain offers that are based on purchases of additional merchandise. For example, “Buy One, Get One Free” or “Free Gift with Purchase.” If you don’t really want or need the item, it’s not a deal.

5. Clip coupons. Coupons are useful when they save you money on what you’re already planning to buy. Check coupons for any restrictions. For example, do expiration dates apply, or do you have to spend a certain amount before you can use the coupon? Some retailers will accept expired coupons, and even coupons from their competitors. Check with the retailer before you leave home to learn their policy.

6. Ask about sale adjustments. If you buy an item at regular price and it goes on sale the next week, can you get a credit or refund for the discounted amount?

7. Keep an eye on your wallet. Don’t flash cash. Keep an eye on your credit or debit card during transactions, and get them back as quickly as possible. If your cards are lost or stolen, report the loss or theft immediately to the card issuers.

8. Use credit and debit cards with care. Save your receipts. You need them for returns and exchanges. Check credit and debit card sales and return receipts against your monthly bills and statements, and report any problems to the credit card issuer promptly. When possible, put all holiday purchases on one credit card to monitor more closely and with greater ease. And if at all possible, make purchases using a credit card rather than a debit card. A debit card is the like using cash and if the personal information falls into the hands of an Identity Theft Scammer, the bank account can be wiped out.

9. Ask about refund and return policies. Many merchants may have different refund and return policies for sale items. For example, clearance merchandise may be on final sale, meaning no refunds or exchanges.

10. Keep good records. Whether you’re ordering by mail, phone, or online, it’s important to keep detailed information about the transaction, including your order number, shipping costs and dates, warranties, and refund and return policies.

BBB Warns Job Seekers of Employment Ad Scam

12/7/2010

Posted on 12/7/2010 by

Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to be on the alert for an employment ad scam targeting residents in the Greater Baltimore area. An investigation identified phony employment ads in the Baltimore Sun, Simplyhired.com and CNNMoney.com.

"This time of year sometimes triggers the search for a new job for the New Year," said Angie Barnett, president/CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. "Job seekers need to exercise caution when communicating over the phone or via email with persons identifying themselves as hiring agents. Otherwise, you could end up a victim of identity theft or fraud."

Upon investigation by BBB, the following ad copy was found to be a fake:

"Managers-for Negotiations and contracts department of large natural gas drilling corp. Manager will lead a large staff which will negotiate with land owners the mineral rights for our gas drilling. Must have strong leadership and/or organizational skills...Excellent Salary and Benefit Package..."

An applicant who responded to the ad, and later contacted BBB serving Central Virginia, was told by the "company" that he had the job. The prospective employee was instructed that in order for the company to be assured his appearance at the interview, he would have to wire them the price of the plane ticket. Growing suspicious, the applicant did not wire the money or call the Beverly Hills landline he had been provided by the phony employer and phoned BBB instead.

BBB's investigation found the phone number was linked to ads for different positions including a travel agent, restaurant manager, and other restaurant-related opportunities in Baltimore and Hunt Valley, Md.

Phony employment red flags

Employer requests money upfront. Valid employers do not ask for money upfront to cover administrative costs or to ensure the applicant's presence at an interview, or require you to wire money through Western Union or MoneyGram.
Grammatical and spelling errors. Since the source of many of these online scams are outside of the U.S., the scammers' first language is not English, as is evident in their poor grasp of the language.
Personal information. The "employer" asks you to provide personal information, such as a bank account or social security number.
Hired without an interview. Applicants shouldn't expect to be hired without an interview, especially right after contacting the company.

Tips from Your BBB

When searching for employment opportunities online, your BBB wants to help you avoid employment scams by offering the following tips.

Seek employment only on reputable sites. But beware that even legitimate sites may not screen advertisers, so scams can get through.
Research the business - Google the phone number, the address and any other details about the company or the job that you might find. If you find unrelated industries connected to the same phone number, like ads for restaurant managers and energy company contract negotiators, be cautious.
Go to bbb.org and check for information on the company.

Google Launches Search Algorithm to Punish Bad Businesses

12/6/2010

Posted on 12/6/2010 by Angie Barnett

Google has developed a new algorithm that will avoid rewarding businesses who exhibit bad customer service, PCWorld reports.

The move comes in response to a story published in the New York Times about a business with a troubling advertising plan consisting of the idea that negative advertising is just as good as positive advertising when it comes to Google PageRank. Multiple comments about bad customer service were actually boosting the company’s ranking on the site.

The search engine was “horrified” to read the customer’s dreadful experience with DecorMyEyes.com, which has an F rating with BBB, and immediately sought action, creating a new algorithm that finds merchants who provide (in Google’s opinion) bad customer service. The businesses are then penalized in PageRank.

Your Better Business Bureau reminds consumers to check up on businesses and their reliability through bbb.org partaking in any transactions.

To read the full article, visit http://www.pcworld.com/article/212223/google_search_
algorithm_will_punish_bad_businesses.html?tk=hp_new

Residential Relief Foundation Victims

12/2/2010

Posted on 12/2/2010 by

As you may be aware, the FTC filed a lawsuit on November 15, 2010, against Residential Relief Foundation, LLC, Silver Lining Services, LLC, Mitigation America, LLC, and their principals James Holderness, Michael Valenti, Bryan Melanson, Jillian Melanson, and Dennis Strzegowski (Case No. 1:10-cv-3214-JFM). On November 15, 2010, the United States District Court in Baltimore, Maryland entered a temporary order freezing the defendants’ assets and ordered them to cease misleading consumers. The Federal Court also appointed a temporary receiver over the corporations.

Unfortunately, the FTC often finds that in cases of this type much of the money taken from consumers has been spent. Redress is then limited or even non-existent. In addition, the eventual unwinding of the finances of a company that has engaged in deception may take months or years. As a result, consumers who paid money to defendants in actions of this type should attempt to resolve their affairs as best they can without any expectation of recovering money from the defendants.

There are legitimate people, places, and agencies that American families can turn to when they are facing foreclosure, starting with www.MakingHomeAffordable.gov and the Homeowner’s HOPE Hotline at 1-888-995-HOPE for free foreclosure counseling assistance.

Victims should file a complaint with the FTC at https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/ or call 877-382-4357. The FTC will keep a record of your status as a possible victim of these defendants. Please make sure that you provide the following information, which you should update if it changes:

· Your name, address, telephone numbers, and email address.

· The total amount of money paid, how you paid it (credit card, check), and who it was paid to.

· Any additional contacts you receive from the defendants in the FTC’s lawsuit or anyone else on their behalf.

· Any contacts made with your lender by defendants, or any one else on their behalf.

From time to time, possible updates may be made available by the FTC at www.rrf-receiver.com.

Press Release: BBB Credited with Helping FTC

Pet Owners Seek Trustworthy Kennels

12/1/2010

Posted on 12/1/2010 by Angie Barnett

Many pet owners will travel this winter and need to find a place for their furry friends to stay. Leaving a pet behind can become worrisome if the owner does not trust the kennel they have chosen. BBB has created a checklist to help pet owners choose a safe and reliable home-away-from-home for their pets.

In the last 12 months BBB has received 3,324 inquires and 15 complaints on kennels, boarding facilities, animal hospitals and veterinarians in Greater Maryland. Nationally, complaints include disputes over billing, but also over the treatment of the pet. Owners have reported instances of dehydration and malnourishment and infestations of fleas and ticks. Some reported problems that resulted in lengthy stays at the animal hospital.

"For many of us, our pets are like family and leaving them in the care of someone else can be nerve-wrecking and the stress can overshadow your whole trip," said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. "Taking a few moments to do your research and find a kennel you can trust will make your time out of town much easier for you and your pet."

If you are looking for a reliable kennel, BBB recommends the following checklist:

Check the kennel out with BBB to make sure they have a good track record for keeping customers satisfied.
Talk with friends, neighbors, veterinarian or local animal shelters for recommendations. The Pet Care Services Association website has a pet service locator that may be helpful in your search.
Visit the facilities. Check for cleanliness and offensive odors, and note the overall safety of the kennel and cages.
If your pet is prone to running away, ask about steps the kennel has taken to make their facilities escape-proof.
Ask about how your pet may come in contact with other animals. Some kennels let animals play together while others keep them separate at all times.
Look for the certificate on the wall and make sure the kennel is properly licensed.
Inquire about the feeding schedule, water accessibility and frequency of - or fees related to - exercise.
Note the friendliness of staff members and how they interact with the other boarding pets.
Make sure the facility requires that all entering pets have proof of immunization and ask about their policies regarding flea and tick control.
Ask about the hours for drop off and pick up and make sure you understand their billing policy.

Confident Consumer: Safe Toy Shopping

12/1/2010

Posted on 12/1/2010 by Angie Barnett

As the toy industry’s busiest season is upon us, many parents will be shopping for the hottest toy item for their children. The hot topic this holiday season is a trust issue – ‘which brands and what toys can I trust?’ There is plenty of reliable information available about toy recalls, and your BBB urges everyone who will be giving or donating toys this year to take a few minutes and become a safe toy shopper.

US Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates over 120,000 children are treated in hospital emergency rooms for toy-related injuries each year. The CPSC requires labels to be on all toys marketed for children from three to six years old if the toys pose a choking hazard to children under age three. The labels tell consumers the toy is not safe for younger children and why.

How to Avoid Recalled Toys

The toy industry spends an estimated $300 million a year on safety testing and inspection of toys, and approximately three billion toys are sold in America each year issued last year.

According to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC), less than 20 percent of recalled toys make it back to the manufacturer for proper disposal or repair.

If your gift list has toys on it, BBB has the following advice to ensure that the toys you give are safe:

Find out which toys have been recalled - The CPSC keeps a list of recalled toys on their Website at www.cpsc.gov. The Toy Industry Association also provides extensive information on toy safety and you can scroll through photos of recalled toys in an easy-to-use index on their Website www.toyinfo.org. Also, parents can go to www.recalls.gov and sign up for email alerts on recalled children’s products.

What to do if you have purchased a recalled toy - The CPSC negotiates the specific resolution over a recalled toy with the toy manufacturer – usually resulting in a refund or an exchange for a different toy. Check with the CPSC Website for the specific resolutions for the recalled toy you’ve purchased. If you purchased the toy from a retailer, try returning the item to them first to potentially save yourself the time it will take to deal directly with the toy manufacturer. Major toy outlets often have their own return policy for recalled toys. If second-hand toys are purchased or received, visit www.cpsc.gov and make sure the toy hasn’t been recalled for safety reasons.

Be careful when shopping online - Most large stores are quick to pull recalled products off the shelf, and, as a secondary precaution, flag the bar codes so if the item is scanned at checkout the cashier knows to not let you purchase the item. While online auction sites or bulletin boards may have policies against selling recalled toys, recalled toys and other unsafe products still pop up online. It’s very important to check with the CPSC and the Toy Industry Association before buying a new or used toy or product for children online.

Be a label reader – Look for labels that give age recommendations and use that information as a guide. If a new toy comes with a product registration card, mail it in right away so the manufacturer can contact you if the item is ever recalled.

Discard plastic wrappings on toys immediately

Toxic and Hazardous Toys

According to Maryland Public Interest Research Group, choking on small toys is still a serious hazard and in the past three years alone, 15 deaths have occurred.

Phthalates: Although there is a ban on toys that contain over 0.1% of this chemical that can cause hormonal development problems, some children’s products contain up to 30% concentration.

Lead and lead pain still present hazards in children’s toys. Some of the toys that contain lead are girls’ bracelets, toy figures, train sets and cars. Children sometimes mouth these toys, thus exposing them to the lead contained in them.

Toy Recall Hotlines

Consumer Products Safety Commission: (800) 638-2772
Toy Industry Association: (888) 888-4TOYS
Mattel: (800) 916-4498
Fisher-Price: (800) 991-2444
Toys R Us: (800) 869-7787

Top 5 Holiday Scams

11/23/2010

Posted on 11/23/2010 by

The holidays are a happy time for food, family, and friendship, but they are also a time for fraud. Consumers can fall into any number of traps over the holidays and become victim to identity thieves, hackers and deceptive merchants online. Your Better Business Bureau is warning holiday shoppers and donors to look out for five common scams this season.

“While the rest of us are pulling the decorations out of the attic, scammers are blowing the dust off of their tried and true holiday scams,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “We can all help make these holiday scams a ghost of Christmas’ past by not falling for them anymore.”

BBB recommends being on the lookout for the following scams this holiday season:

Scam shopping sites online

We’re all looking for a great deal online, but some sites offer electronics 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.

BBB advice: Always look for the BBB seal when shopping online and click on the seal to confirm it is legitimate. When shopping on sites that aren’t household names, check the business out with the BBB before you buy.

Finding the season’s hottest toys and gadgets online

Every year, holiday shoppers fight over the “must have” toy or gadget of the season. When the item is sold out in stores, you can often find it online through sites like Craigslist or eBay—for a much steeper price. The problem is that some sellers will take your money and run.

BBB Advice: Shop locally on Craigslist and conduct the transaction in person—never wire money as payment. When purchasing items on auctions like eBay, research the seller extensively and always listen to your doubts if the deal doesn’t sound legit.

Identity theft at the mall

While you’re struggling at the mall with bags of presents, identity thieves see an opportunity to steal your wallet and debit or credit card numbers.

BBB Advice: Don’t let yourself get bogged down in purchases and lose track of your wallet. Know where your credit and debit cards are at all times and cover the keypad when entering your pin number while purchasing items or getting money from the ATM.

Bogus charitable pleas

The holidays are a time of giving which creates a great opportunity for scammers to solicit donations to line their own pockets. Also beware of solicitations from charities that don’t necessarily deliver on their promises or are ill-equipped to carry through on their plans.

BBB Advice: Always research a charity with the BBB Wise Giving Alliance before you give to see if the charity meets the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.

Phishing e-mails – Phishing e-mails are a common way for hackers to get at your personal information or break into your computer. Common phishing e-mails around the holidays include e-cards and messages pretending to be from companies like UPS or Fedex with links to package tracking information.

BBB Advice: Don’t click on any links or open any attachments to e-mails until you have confirmed that they are not malicious. E-mail addresses that don’t match up, typos and grammatical mistakes are common red flags of a malicious phishing e-mail. Also beware of unsolicited e-mails from companies with which you have no association. Make sure you have current anti-virus software and that all security patches have been installed on the computer.

For more advice on being a savvy consumer this holiday season, visit us online at http://greatermd.bbb.org/consumer-tips-holiday/

BBB Credited with Helping FTC

11/23/2010

Posted on 11/23/2010 by
Homeowners in distress from across the country have contacted BBB | Greater Maryland by the thousands for information on a Halethorpe, Md. business, Residential Relief Foundation. The FTC announced on Friday that a federal court had shut-down the company's operations and seized its assets, ending what it alleges were deceptive practices designed to mock government mortgage assistance programs.

BBB processed a total of 62 complaints about the business in the last year since the first complaint was received. At the time of this release, the company report had received 2,543 inquiries.

"It's been a difficult economy and many of our neighbors have been struggling to stay on their feet. Victim reports illustrate actions of desperation by homeowners looking to save their home," said Angie Barnett, BBB president and CEO. "Unfortunately, many found that despite paying up-front fees, some as great as $1,495 that no solution had been offered and foreclosure proceedings had begun."

According to the FTC's website, the defendants in the case include Residential Relief Foundation Inc., Silver Lining Services LLC, Mitigation America LLC, Michael Valenti, and Bryan J. Melanson, Jillian N. Melanson, Dennis Strzegowski, and James W. Holderness, also doing business as the Law Office of James Holderness. They are charged with violating the FTC Act and the FTC's Telemarketing Sales Rule by falsely claiming they would obtain loan modifications and significantly lower mortgage payments for consumers, and that reports they create would enable them to do so. They are also charged with misrepresenting an affiliation with the federal government, falsely claiming to have taken reasonable and appropriate measures to protect consumers' personal information from unauthorized access, and improperly disposing of consumers' information in unsecured dumpsters, in violation of the FTC Act.

A copy of the federal court order against Residential Relief Foundation can be found online at www.residentialrelief.org. A copy of the FTC press release is available at http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2010/11/mortgage.shtm.

BBB Tips for Homeowners on the Brink of Foreclosure

Avoid up-front fees. A new FTC rule actually bans up-front fees effective December 29, 2010.

Do not be fooled by clever marketing ploys or seals designed to make the company or its services look like it is part of a government program.

Try to work out a foreclosure rescue scenario yourself by talking directly with your lender. Explain your situation and ask for a revised repayment schedule.

Do not sign away the title of your home and make sure you have your own attorney review a contract before you sign.

Before you endorse a contract to a so-called mortgage rescue company, check visit bbb.org for an indication about the company's history, record of performance and business practices.

Rule Offers New Protections to Help Homeowners

On the heels of the charges against Residential Relief Foundation, the FTC announced a new rule that bans providers of mortgage foreclosure rescue and loan modification services from collecting fees until homeowners have a written offer from their lender or servicer that they decide is acceptable.

The FTC is issuing the Mortgage Assistance Relief Services (MARS) Rule to protect distressed homeowners from mortgage relief scams that have sprung up during the mortgage crisis. Bogus operations falsely claim that, for a fee, they will negotiate with the consumer's mortgage lender or servicer to obtain a loan modification, a short sale, or other relief from foreclosure.

Confident Consumer: Top 10 Cyber Monday Tips

11/22/2010

Posted on 11/22/2010 by
Cyber Monday, the Monday after Thanksgiving, has officially replaced Black Friday 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, Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland 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. Last year, 96.5 million Americans shopped online during Cyber Monday while 79 million Americans shopped at brick-and-mortar retailers on Black Friday, according to the National Retail Federation.

"The convenience and ease of shopping online has replaced the hassle of going to the store for many people-but online shopping has its own set of risks," said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. "Taking steps to avoid the fraud online will result in a much happier holiday for everyone except the scammers and hackers."

Following are the "Top 10 Online Shopping Tips" for holiday shoppers 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.

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.

For more advice on staying safe online this holiday season http://greatermd.bbb.org/consumer-tips-holiday/

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11/17/2010

Posted on 11/17/2010 by
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Screening for BBB Accreditation

11/16/2010

Posted on 11/16/2010 by

Fighting Cold and Flu Season in the Workplace

11/16/2010

Posted on 11/16/2010 by

Cold and flu season is setting in and the close quarters of the workplace allow coworkers to easily trade germs. Better Business Bureau recommends that business owners take a few simple steps to prevent illnesses from spreading and promote productivity throughout the workplace.

According to the National Institutes of Health every year there are more than 1 billion cases of the common cold in the United States. The flu also affects 5 to 20 percent of Americans every year with the peak season starting in late November, according to the Center for Disease Control.

“Fighting germs around the office is about keeping your employees safe and maintaining productivity throughout the peak cold and flu seasons,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Encouraging proper hygiene and a liberal leave policy will help maintain a happier, healthier workplace.”

BBB recommends taking the following steps to protect employees during cold and flu season:

Build up an arsenal to fight germs. Kleenex, hand sanitizer, and products for cleaning work spaces are three basic purchases employers can make for fighting germs around the office. Also consider investing in no-touch trashcans.

Encourage people to stay home. Sick employees may think they’re being dedicated workers when they still come into work but, the truth is, they spread germs to other employees and cut down on the overall productivity of the business. Encourage employees to stay home when they are sick at least 24 hours after they no longer have a fever or severe symptoms. Consider instituting a flexible leave policy—and appropriate technology—that allows employees to work from home if they or their kids are sick.

Promote good hygiene around the office – Remind everyone of the importance of hand washing and covering your mouth if you sneeze or cough. Encourage employees to regularly clean shared equipment such as phones and computers and wipe down common areas. Post friendly reminders around the workplace in languages that all employees can easily understand.

Encourage flu shots – Contact your local hospital to see if they provide on-site flu shots or consider reimbursing some or all of the cost for employees to get a shot on their own time.

Hold a health fair – Contact your local hospital to see if they provide health fairs for larger offices. You can also contract the coordination of an on-site health fair with a company specializing in the service.

Set a good example. Now that you’ve asked everyone to wash their hands regularly and stay home if they’re sick, it’s important as the business owner that you follow your own advice. When you’re the boss it can seem like an impossible task to take a sick day, but stay home and keep your germs out of the workplace.

Earning Trust: Screening for BBB Accreditation

11/15/2010

Posted on 11/15/2010 by

Five Tips for Staying Safe on the Roads over the Holidays

11/15/2010

Posted on 11/15/2010 by

The holidays are a time of cheer, but they can also be a time for battling traffic and bad weather all the way to Grandma’s house. Staying safe should be a top priority for all travelers so BBB recommends taking a few precautions when hitting the road this holiday.

Every year, holiday travelers take to the skies and hit the rails, but most spill onto the highways. Last year, AAA estimated that 87.7 million Americans traveled more than 50 miles over the holidays—85 percent of which drove.

“Because of weather conditions and increased traffic, staying safe on the roads over the holidays takes a few additional precautions,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Before loading up the family, make sure the car is in good shape and you’re prepared for bad weather. While you’re driving, put down your cell phone or GPS and focus on the road ahead.”

Your 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. You can prepare for bad weather by creating your own safety kit. Basics for the kit 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 – Breaking down on the side of the road can definitely put a damper on the holiday spirit. If your car is due for a check up, 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 your Better Business Bureau 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 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 happen when people are talking on their cell phone 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 fumble with the GPS.

Confident Consumer: Holiday Gift Cards

11/10/2010

Posted on 11/10/2010 by Angie Barnett

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.

Recent rules enacted by the Federal Reserve Board changed the regulations on gift card fees and expiration dates. Under the 2009 Credit Card Act, the new went into effect for ALL cards sold after August 22, 2010 and serve to protect consumers from problems they were reporting with unexpected or hidden fees.

New Rules for Gift Cards

Longer Expiration Dates on Balances:

Under the new regulations, the balance on a gift card cannot expire before 5 years after it is issued. This means that the balance cannot expire, but the actual plastic card can expire (similar to how credit cards expire) so be sure to keep track of these expiration dates and contact the store if your plastic card needs to be replaced soon. Expiration dates are uncommon with gift cards from most retailers but bank issued gift cards are more likely for the “plastic card” to expire.

Increased Disclosure to Consumers:

The new changes require you to be aware of all fees and limitations before you buy a gift card. These should be printed on the packaging of the gift card and include the amount each fee will be and how frequently they will be made. Basic rule of thumb applies here: read the fine print before purchasing.

One Year of Inactivity = Fees:

Companies can charge a fee if gift cards are unused after a one-year grace period. After that grace period, one fee can be charged per month and these fees are required to be clearly disclosed to the consumer before they purchase the card.

Do the rules apply to just store issued gift cards?

No, the changes apply to gift certificates, single-store cards (like iTunes) and the Visa/Mastercard/Amex general-use gift cards which can be used at any store.

Prepaid phone cards and reloadable cards not marketed as gift card and reward cards are exempt from these new regulations.

Even with these new protections in place, what should consumers keep in mind when purchasing gift cards?

There is no maximum when it comes to monthly fees so a company could charge a very high amount after a year of inactivity as long as they disclose it. For example, Chase charges a $2.50 monthly fee after the first 12 calendar months following the gift card’s purchase, Discover charges a $2.50 per month maintenance fee if the card is not used for 12 consecutive months following the card’s activation.

Check the terms and conditions of the gift card.

If you are giving a gift card to someone who will make all their purchases online, be sure the gift card is redeemable for Internet shopping and not just for in-store use.

Can the card be replaced if lost or stolen? What information do you need to know if so and is there a fee for replacing a lost card.

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.

Want to jump on the newest Gift Card Trend?

On November 2, 2010, Amazon.com announced it’s Amazon.com e-Gift Card can now be given by way of Facebook wall post.

1. Begin with a Facebook account and you must be Facebook friends with the person whom you’d like to give the gift card.

2. Visit amazon.com gift cad page and select the Facebook gift card option.

3. Connect with Facebook, design a card, select the dollar value and delivery date, create a message and your gift will be posted to your recipient’s Facebook wall!

BBB Board of Directors Adds New Members

11/9/2010

Posted on 11/9/2010 by

Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland announces the election of seven new members to its 27 member Board of Directors. The new leadership staff is comprised of representatives from six BBB Accredited Businesses and a local university. The new Board members recently participated in an orientation followed by the organization’s annual Board Retreat.

“With a diversity of intellectual, business and geographical backgrounds and a commitment to the standards that make BBB unique, there’s no doubt that this board will advance marketplace trust within the community,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “They have proposed an impressive agenda of initiatives that reflect their energy and passion for this organization and we are fortunate to have their support.”

Headquartered in Baltimore, BBB | Greater Maryland is a non-profit organization that was established in 1922. It serves 18 Maryland counties and Baltimore City. In 2009, BBB provided over 1,107,000 Reliability Reports on businesses and processed over 7,000 marketplace disputes. BBB is supported by Accredited Businesses that have passed a comprehensive review, met BBB's Standards for Trust and agreed to the organization's Code of Business Practices governing sound advertising, selling and customer service practices that enhance customer trust and confidence in business.

About the New Board Members:

Stephanie Bogan represents NFM, Inc., a national mortgage lender headquartered in Linthicum Heights, Md. As their general counsel and chief compliance officer, Bogan plans and guides the corporation’s legal and compliance affairs including mortgage lending, brokering operations, human resources, commercial transactions, organizational matters, risk management and special projects. Bogan conducts legal research and provides the senior management team legal advice regarding the corporation’s rights and duties. Prior to joining NFM, Inc., Bogan served as regulatory compliance officer for Capital One, analyzing internal policies and procedures; and as a regulatory compliance attorney for Lotstein Buckman, DC based law firm.

Lisa Corona, McCormick & Company’s vice president of human relations, consumer products division, has been with the company headquartered in Hunt Valley, Md. since 2007. She first joined McCormick as the vice president, human relations for their industrial group. Corona has been responsible for talent management, recruiting and staffing, compensation and benefits, communication, training and development, coaching and team planning, and employee relations. Each year, she participates with the company in strategic planning and goal setting processes. Corona belongs to McCormick’s Global Diversity and Inclusion Executive Steering Committee, Global Multiple Management Board and Americas Regional Multiple Management Board. Corona’s election marks McCormick’s 19^th year on BBB’s Board of Directors. Corona previously ran the human resources department for JLG Industries, a $2.8 billion global access equipment company.

Michael D. Evans holds the position of Chief Underwriting Officer at Frederick Mutual Insurance Company located in Frederick, Maryland. Mr. Evans has been employed in various capacities in the property and casualty insurance field for more than 30 years. This insurance veteran has a background in administrative, compliance, marketing and business development. His current responsibilities include managing the Personal Lines and Commercial Lines Underwriting Unit as well as the Business Development or Marketing Team at Frederick Mutual. Prior to joining Frederick Mutual Insurance Company, Evans served as Vice President-Middle Markets-Financial Enterprises, Zurich North America Insurance, an insurance-based financial services provider with a global network of subsidiaries and offices. Evans previously led his local Homeowners Association as President for four years.

Jason Goldsmith is the chief executive officer of CARCHEX, an industry leader in providing extended auto warranties and mobile pre-purchase vehicle inspections. Since buying the company in 2003, Goldsmith has grown the business significantly, now with over 75 employees and 900 independent contractors nationwide. In 2010, Goldsmith negotiated a new endorsement relationship with NASCAR‘s popular driver, Dale Earnhardt Jr., to endorse and represent the CARCHEX brand. Before acquiring CARCHEX, Goldsmith founded several other businesses including GoldNet Marketing which eventually merged with e.magination as well as TheLoanPage.com, an online program generating leads for mortgage lenders. Smart CEO Magazine recognized Goldsmith this year for “Excellence in Young Entrepreneurship,” and he was included among the magazine’s Smart100 for the second year in a row. Also for the second year in a row CARHCEX ranked high on the annual Inc. 500/5000 list, an exclusive compilation of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies.

William Jameson is the senior sales director of Luna, a full shop-at-home floor covering company. Luna credits Jameson for hiring staff to jumpstart a new market in Baltimore and D.C. last year and outperforming their budget by 100 percent. Since then, he has created systems to keep his team aware of each other’s performances, in effort to drive individual performance and maximize sales opportunities. This year, Jameson’s team is positioned to exceed their sales goals by 50 percent. Jameson has invested in the growth of his staff through training, data analysis, system integration and delegation.

Dr. Shohreh A. Kaynama represents Towson University as the Dean, College of Business and Economics. She presides over 3,500 students and more than 100 employees. Additionally, Dr. Kaynama has been teaching undergraduate and graduate marketing courses at the university since 1984. She previously served as the Chair of the marketing department from 1998 to 2003. Dr. Kaynama led faculty, staff, business partners and students to the development of the College of Business and Economics’ strategic plan for academics years 2008-2013 and beyond. Their plan has served as a model for other parts of the academic division. Dr. Kaynama has several Board affiliations including, the Small Business Resource Center, Maryland Center on Economic Education, National Academy Foundation/Academy of Finance and Towson University Foundation Board.

Dave H. Wilson is president of Preston Automotive Group and has more than 33 years of industry experience. The automotive veteran successfully developed his own marketing strategies through experience gained over the years working with advertising executives. Wilson has been with the company since its inception in 1977. Starting with a single location in Preston, Maryland, the business has grown to include Preston Ford Lincoln, Preston Nissan, Preston Mazda, and Preston Hyundai, Denton Ford, Pittsville Ford and Carnet of Cambridge all located in Maryland. He also is the President of Millsboro Auto Mart located in Millsboro, DE. Wilson has served on the Board of Directors for Provident State Bank since 1989, Ford Credit Dealer Council since 2000 and the Hyundai Dealer Council since 2009. He works with several local charities and sports organizations.

BBB Offers Three Steps to Safely Dispose of Office Electronics

11/9/2010

Posted on 11/9/2010 by

Disposing of outdated computers, printers and copiers the right way is not only important for protecting the environment; it also staves off the efforts of data thieves.

Electronics contain toxic poisons such as lead, mercury and cadmium. If old items are tossed into a landfill the chemicals will eventually leak out and pollute the soil and water. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 1.84 million tons of TVs, computers, printers, cell phones and other electronics were discarded primarily into landfills in 2007. Only 18 percent of discarded electronics were recycled that year, however, the EPA notes that e-cycling is growing in popularity.

When disposing of old electronics you need to consider both the environmental and data security concerns. Computers, cell phones and copiers not only contain toxic chemicals, they also contain a wealth of information. Data thieves are all too eager to get their hands on financial and sensitive information belonging to your business and/or your customers.

BBB recommends the following steps to ensure that all hazardous and data sensitive office equipment is disposed of the right way:

Step 1: Identify hazardous and data-sensitive electronics

The following office equipment contains toxic materials or sensitive data and should be recycled responsibly and should not be taken out with the garbage:

Computer CPUs
Mobile phones
Copiers, Printers and Fax Machines
Monitors, Keyboards, Speakers and Mice
Landline phones
Computer cables and wires
TVs, VCRs, DVRs and stereos

Step 2: Destroy Sensitive Data

While most electronics have toxic components, some also contain sensitive business information stored in the product’s hard drive. Ensure that any data has been wiped before getting rid of the following electronics:

Computers: You can purchase inexpensive software to wipe a computer’s hard drive, but the data could still be retrievable to a determined person. If you have extremely sensitive information, the most secure way of destroying the data is to remove and physically destroy the hard drive.

Copiers and Printers: Copiers and printers have internal hard drives that save digital copies of the documents printed. Consult the manual to find out how to wipe the memory; you can also use third-party software to overwrite the hard drive. The most secure way of erasing data is to physically destroy the hard drive—as long as you don’t lease the product. If you lease, consult with the company on how your data will be erased.

Mobile Phones: Consult the owner’s manual or search online for directions on how to wipe the phone’s memory. Remove the SIM card if your phone has one.

Step 3: Dispose Properly

When it comes to actually getting rid of outdated office electronics, there are many options available depending on the condition of the item, the retailer, the manufacturer and, in some cases, state laws. Following are the main disposal methods to consider:

Donate: Schools, charities and community organizations can use your electronics—such as computer equipment, phones, copiers and printers—as long as they are in proper working condition. Your donation may even be tax deductible.

Recycle: There are many companies across the country that break down and recycle old electronics for free. They usually have drop off locations or you may even be able to schedule a pick up if you have many heavy items. To locate a BBB Accredited e-cycler visit www.bbb.org.

Community e-cycling collection events are offered throughout the state and by contacting the Maryland Department of the Environment . In Anne Arundel County, businesses can contact the Department of Public Works at 410-222-7951 and in Howard County contact the Alpha Ridge Landfill at 410-313-6444.

Return: Some manufacturers including Cannon and Apple and even retailers such as Best Buy and Costco provide “take back” programs to help customers recycle their old products safely and cheaply. Every major cell phone carrier will also take your old cell phone and donate it to a charity or have it disposed of properly. The EPA has a list of manufacturer and retailer programs on their web site, www.epa.gov .

Resell: While more labor intensive, you may be able to make a little money selling your electronics through auction websites or online classifieds. Be wary if any buyers overpay or ask you to wire money for any reason.

For more small business advice on how to manage data check out Data Security – Made Simpler at www.bbb.org/data-security .

How to Choose a Credit Counseling Agency

11/8/2010

Posted on 11/8/2010 by

If you are knee deep in debt and unable to pay your bills, credit counseling can be a financial lifesaver. A credit counseling agency may arrange a debt repayment plan, a creditor-approved arrangement that allows you to repay your unsecured debts at reduced interest rates. In these plans, you deposit money each month with the counseling agency. Your deposits are used to pay your creditors according to a payment schedule the counselor develops with you. Some credit counseling agencies charge little or nothing for managing the plan; others charge a significant fee over time. Ask up front what the cost will be.

As part of the repayment plan, you may have to agree not to apply for, or use, any additional credit while you are participating in the program. A successful plan requires you to make regular, timely payments, and could take 48 months or longer to complete.

A debt repayment plan does not erase your credit history. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, accurate information about your accounts can stay on your credit report for up to seven years. In fact, creditors may report an account in financial counseling as payments missed, or that there are write-offs. But, a demonstrated pattern of timely payments should help you qualify for credit in the future.

If you want to work with a credit counseling agency, interview several. Check them out with your Better Business Bureau, state Attorney General, and local consumer protection agency. Any reputable credit counseling agency should send you free information about itself and the services it provides without requiring you to provide any details about your situation. If not, consider that a red flag and go elsewhere for help.

Before you select a credit counseling agency ask for information on the following:

Are the agency services confidential?
Will they devise a plan tailored to fit your needs?
Are the counselors certified?
Are budget and credit education opportunities offered?
Will your funds be protected? How?
Is the agency accredited?

How to Get a Temporary Job Over the Holidays

11/5/2010

Posted on 11/5/2010 by

Many job hunters will get an early present this year as retailers are increasing the number of hires for the holiday season. Competition for these jobs will likely be fierce, and Better Business Bureau recommends applying early and taking steps to put your best foot forward.

Many retailers such as Toys R Us, Macy’s, Kohl’s, and UPS are looking for more seasonal employees this year than in previous years. According to the outsourcing firm, Challenger, Gray, and Christmas, as many as 600,000 people are expected to get holiday jobs this year. “Opportunities also exist in areas such as food service, hospitality and leisure. Job seekers also should not limit their searches to the biggest employers. Toys R Us will undoubtedly be swamped with applicants, making it extremely competitive. Meanwhile small, mom-and-pop toy stores may be overlooked,” said Challenger.

“The holiday season will create a much welcome bump in the number of job openings, particularly in the retail and restaurant industry,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “While the jobs are usually temporary, this is great news for struggling families and people who have had problems finding work.”

BBB offers the following advice for job hunters this holiday season:

Start the job search earlier rather than later.
The key to landing a seasonal job is to start searching early. Retail, shipping, restaurants and catering companies are common sources of seasonal employment and now is the time for job hunters to determine which job suits them best, identify companies they’d like to work for and then begin submitting applications and resumes.

Work where you shop.
Try to identify seasonal employment with businesses you actually shop at or frequent. You will already be familiar with the company and its products and, secondly, discounts available for employees mean significant savings when shopping for Christmas gifts. Discounts can range from 20-40 percent for seasonal employees.

Put your best foot forward.
Even if you are just picking up an application at stores in the mall, dress your best and be prepared for an interview. This includes being familiar with the company’s brand and its products. Retail job hunters in particular need to focus on impressing potential employers with their customer service skills—which is a must when dealing with stressed-out shoppers, long check-out lines and day-after-Christmas returns.

Be flexible.
Full-time employees usually have first dibs on the preferred hours and shifts, so, as a seasonal employee, expect to work long, sometimes inconvenient hours including working on Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve. If this is a second job in addition to your day job, be upfront and clear with your new employer about your available hours.

Confident Consumer: Protect your Debit Card Number from ATM skimming

11/3/2010

Posted on 11/3/2010 by Angie Barnett

Even if you’re choosy about which ATMs you use, you can still become a victim of identity theft by thieves who place seamless devices on machines to steal debit card information. ATM skimming is a growing problem and BBB recommends consumers take a few steps to protect themselves from becoming the next victim.

According to Bankrate.com, ATM skimmers are close to reaping $1 billion annually from unsuspecting consumers. Javelin Strategy & Research estimates that one in five people have become victims. In addition, bankinfosecurity.com reports ATM skimming was ranked as one of the top 10 scams for 2010. If this is any indicator it seems the thieves who use this long existing scam have no intentions of going away any time soon. In fact, chances are pretty good they'll get more savvy with their equipment and techniques and continue forward with pilfering from the bank accounts of others.

Identity thieves tamper with ATMs in any number of different ways in order to steal debit card numbers and PINs. It only takes a few seconds to install cameras over the keypad or a device over the card reader. ATMs aren’t the only hot spots. Credit card swipers at gas pumps and retailers can be tampered with as well.

Following are a few ways to fight identity thieves at the ATM:

Protect your PIN – 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.

Give it a wiggle – Skimming devices are often false panels attached to the ATM—such as where you put your card into the machine. If parts of the ATM look damaged or different, give it a wiggle. Also look for new or suspiciously placed cameras and unusual signage. Don’t hesitate to walk away and use another ATM if it doesn’t feel right.

Be picky with your ATMS – Avoid using ATMs in poorly lighted or low trafficked areas. Experts often recommend choosing a bank ATM over stand-alone ATMs in public places. Not only do identity thieves attach devices to legitimate ATMs to steal numbers. They will also place their own phony ATMS in public places.

Opt for inside ATMs-It sounds obvious, but inside ATMs are less likely to have installed skimmers. It takes some work to set up an ATM for skimming. Employees and customers would notice. Since inside ATMs may be less convenient and because many people are unaware of ATM skimmers. This tip is often overlooked.

Keep an eye on your statements – The most vigilant person can still fall victim to ATM skimmers, and it’s important to always keep a close eye on your accounts, particularly the itemized breakdown of charges and debits, so that you can quickly report any suspicious activity on your account.

Know your liability constraints - With credit cards, liability is limited to $50 US. Debit cards are different, so find out what your bank subscribes to. Normally, liability depends on when the theft is reported. It can vary from $50 US if reported within two days to the full amount if not reported within 60 days after receiving a statement.

Report Fraud Immediately – Report any fraudulent activity to your bank as soon as you discover it. Consumer protections for debit cards vary but depend largely on when you report the fraudulent activity. If you wait too long to report the fraud, your bank account could be cleaned out and your bank might not reimburse you.

Five Steps to Create and Keep a Holiday Budget

11/2/2010

Posted on 11/2/2010 by

Unless you’re among a select group of people, sitting down and creating a budget does not sound like very much holiday fun. Nevertheless, in tough economic times, Better Business Bureau recommends that mapping out your spending in November will help ease the strain of a financial holiday hangover in January.

According to a survey by Consumer Reports, shoppers planned on spending about $699 over the holidays last year. However, in a follow-up survey, they admitted to actually spending closer to an average of $811, 16 percent more than planned. Creating a budget, and being disciplined enough to follow it is one of the best ways to avoid overspending during the holidays.

“While it isn’t the most festive way to spend an evening, sit yourself down with a mug of eggnog and crunch the numbers, because tough economic times mean that you literally can’t afford to spend with abandon,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Building a budget and sticking to it over the holidays will stave off a painful financial holiday hangover.”

Step One: Consider your Income.

The first step is to measure how much money is coming in. Add up your monthly salary along with your spouse’s and any child support payments, dividends or interest payments and other sources of income.

Step Two: Add up regular monthly expenses.

Adding up expenses is usually harder than determining your income because there are so many more factors to consider. Start with your rent or mortgage, utilities and credit card payments. Also factor in other expenses for gas and car maintenance, healthcare and groceries.

Step Three: Estimate Extra Holiday Expenses

A lot of little purchases have a way of adding up over the Holidays and it’s important to consider all of the expenses of the season including:

Gifts - Make an itemized list of everyone you want to buy presents for and estimate how much you’re willing to spend for each. This includes presents for family, friends and coworkers. Also consider the cost for holiday cards and postage.

Entertaining - Entertaining is big over the holidays. Think about who you’ll be having over and also budget for any food or beverages you might need to bring to someone else’s party. Also consider the costs for eating out and going to the movies—both popular expenses over the holidays.

Decorations - Take stock of what you already own and then consider any additional spending you might need to make for a tree, lights, ornaments, wrapping paper, etc.

Travel - If you’re heading out of town for the holidays, consider the cost of travel including any car maintenance or pet boarding if applicable.

Charitable Donations - The holidays are a time of giving, so budget in how much you plan on donating to a worthy cause. You can learn more about being a savvy donor from the BBB Wise Giving Alliance.
Step Four: Revisit, evaluate and revise your budget along the way.

Once you’ve added up your income and your expenses, it’s time to compare. If more is going out than coming in, it’s time to go back over your budget and pare down expenses. Consider giving fewer gifts or less expensive ways of entertaining. Last year’s decorations are also probably just fine.

Once you’ve balanced your budget, revisit it frequently over the holidays to make sure you’re sticking to it. You might find that you over estimated in some categories and underestimated in others.

Step Five: Reward yourself. Work into your budget a small reward that you can earn if you meet your goals. If you don’t meet your goals, you can guess where that money is going instead: Paying off your credit card bill in January.

How to Score Better Airplane Seats

11/1/2010

Posted on 11/1/2010 by Angie Barnett
With holiday travel just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about booking your airline flight to see family and friends. While finding a flight is stressful itself, often the seat you sit in can affect your on-board experience as well. Jaunted has recently come out with some tips to score a better seat to help make your holiday travel experience more enjoyable.

Pay Attention to Seating Maps
Often times, airlines bump their frequent flyers up to better seats as soon as five days before the flight is set to take off. Make sure to check the seating map when these upgrades are processed to score that window or aisle seat. Persistence is key!

Resist Picking a Sub-Par Seat
Ever get those messages telling you your seat will be assigned at the airport? This may not be a bad thing. Even if there are seats available on the map, don’t frantically pick a seat that may not be up to your standards. Many times, the bulkhead rows and other halfway decent are only assigned at the gate. There’s a chance you could score an awesome seat if you wait.

Check the Kiosk
Many airlines have kiosks located throughout the terminal, often near the gate. After checking in, make sure to look at the seating map one more time to see if any better seats have become available.

Don’t Forget Your Credit Card
Plenty of airlines have begun to charge for more leg room, so bring your credit card in case you want to upgrade to an exit row or the front of the cabin.

Volunteer to Bump
Fights will be packed this holiday season, so don’t be afraid to be flexible with your plans. Volunteer yourself to be bumped to a later flight-often times you can score flight vouchers, or even a first class seat.

Jaunted

Fraudulent Checks Leave Mystery Shoppers Holding the Bag

10/27/2010

Posted on 10/27/2010 by Angie Barnett

BBB is warning Marylanders that a mystery shopping scam is actively soliciting victims. Forward Business LLC, a fraudulent company, claims to offer individuals the opportunity to earn extra money, as much as $200.00, by acting as mystery shoppers in various retail stores.

A local woman looking to earn additional money recently enrolled as a mystery shopper online. She received two checks in the mail totaling $990, with instructions to deposit the funds before she started shopping. The shopper became suspicious after discovering the name on the check was Motel 6 and not Forward Business. She went to her local bank, which identified the checks to be fraudulent. A week later, she received two more checks. In addition to the Maryland consumer’s inquiry, BBB in New York, Chicago and Phoenix had reports on mystery shopping scams associated with either Forward Business or the phone number given to the local resident.

“Genuine jobs as mystery shoppers are few and far between,” said Angie Barnett, BBB | Greater Maryland, president and CEO.”Schemers profit by sending fraudulent or counterfeit checks, asking the victim to shop and wire part of the money back to them either under the guise of ‘rating’ the store’s wire service. Eventually, the check will bounce, leaving the victim on the hook for the purchases and out the wired money,” added Barnett.

BBB tips to avoid mystery shopping scams:

Avoid companies that promise large monetary rewards. Mystery shopping usually provides only part-time income.
Ignore unsolicited e-mails offering ‘work-from-home’ shopping opportunities.
Obtain the company’s name and verify their legitimacy with your BBB.
Avoid companies that charge a fee for applying or charge a fee for access to secret shopping job opportunities. You should not pay any fee to apply or to obtain job information.
Do not depend on the funds from a cashier's check from a source you do not know.
Do not wire money to the company or a third party. There is usually no legitimate reason for someone who is giving you money to ask for it to be wired back.
Do not rely on the fact that the check was accepted for deposit by their financial institution as evidence of the check's authenticity. It can take up to a week or longer for a financial institution to determine whether a check is good, especially if the check is from an institution located outside the United States.
Consumers are responsible for the deposited fake check, even if it was a cashier's check. When the check bounces, the bank deducts from the consumer's account the amount that was credited with the fake check--often with charges added. The bank will not take the loss.

If you think you have encountered a mystery shopping scam, file a complaint with BBB, the Attorney General of Maryland, and/or the Federal Trade Association. Prospective shoppers looking for legitimate mystery shopping companies should look for companies that belong to BBB Accredited Business, Mystery Shopping Providers Association. This Dallas, TX based organization provides information on how to register to be a shopper with an MSPA company, available jobs by region and additional information on the mystery shopping industry.

Angie's Two Cents: Work at Home, The Mule Train

10/25/2010

Posted on 10/25/2010 by Angie Barnett

Work Online From Home was the opening sentence from an email sent to BBB this week. The subject line stated the email was from Dell Small Business Store and introducing the text of the email was the easily recognizable Dell trademark. The unsolicited email seemed rather compelling.

The nationally recognized company “is committed to global citizenship by operating in a responsible and sustainable manner around the globe.”

Keeping with the reputation of this company, the email states they are looking only for honest individuals.
This part-time work enables the intended target to work part-time, pays 10% commission and declares there will be an opportunity to increase the commission based on performance.

The Job Description
This position and those similarly posted on major employment listing sites, classified ads in local newspapers, and social networking sites enlist unsuspecting “mules” to accept funds (usually in the form of counterfeit checks or money orders) from credit card thieves and cyber-criminals posing as the “employer.” The mule immediately transfers the funds via electronic wire transfer out of the country. Simply stated – money laundering. The FTC recently announced a sweeping crack down on work-from-home fraud schemes fueled by the economic downturn. A 2009 study quoted in IT World stated the fake job ads was up 345 percent over the past three years and a 2008 McAfee survey reported 1,000 official looking money mule recruitment websites online.

The Crime
Whether they know it or not, money mules are creating bank fraud when they help to transfer funds to unknown individuals. Many consumers are unaware this is highly illegal and comes with dire consequences, including frozen assets, confiscation of “commission” payments, liability for repayment of money wired, and possibly jail time. In addition to criminal charges, mules incur damage to their credit and financial reputations – all the while the real perpetrator of the crime disappears.

In 2009 the FBI reported that money mules were responsible for $40 million in losses for small to mid-sized companies in the last six years. Out of the 205 cases investigated, scammers had attempted to swindle businesses of $85 million. However, security measures put in place by banks recovered about $40 million

The Warning Signs
There is no law preventing global companies from directly transferring money from one country to another. Therefore, there is no need for a legitimate organization to pay a third party to do what they can do for free. If a posted job offer requires you to accept payments and transfer part of the proceeds by money wire it’s a red flag. Never open a new bank account to receive money from people you do not know.

BBB Advice
If you think you are involved in a money mule scheme, contact your bank and law enforcement agency. Those who step forward are more likely to avoid jail time. Be sure to keep your financial and information private when applying for jobs online.

New Laws Fight Deceptive Debt Relief

10/22/2010

Posted on 10/22/2010 by

Good news for those struggling to pay their bills: all of the new Federal Trade Commission regulations to help protect financially-desperate families from deceptive offers for debt relief will go into effect on October 27. While the new rule will have a significant impact on reducing predatory debt relief, BBB advises consumers that they still need to use caution when enlisting the help of a third party to get out of debt.

Since the start of the recession in December of 2007, BBB has received more than 6,000 complaints from consumers about debt relief or debt settlement companies. Typically, complainants say they were charged large up-front fees in exchange for the empty promise that the company would significantly reduce or eliminate their debt. Remember the commercials – “we can reduce your debt by 50-60 even 70 percent”!!! False promises hurt!

Here’s a story from a Maryland resident who used a California based Debt Settlement Firm:

“I contacted the company to help me with my bills. They informed me that they could help me. I had to pay them $3,910.64 before they could help me and I had to stop paying my bills that I was current with. They stayed in contact with me and kept me happy until they received their money. In April 2009, I received my first offer that I had to make four payments of 975.00 plus 200.79 for their commission. I was able to make the first payment but I was not able to make the rest. I notified the company that the amount was too much to handle. In August 2009, the company came up with three offers at the same time. This was great but too late. All the settlement offers I received were more than what I could afford. One of the offers from Chase was $5,000.00 a months for 4 months. This did not include the commission for the company. Since the bills were mounting and the company was not helping me, I have filed for Bankruptcy. the company did not deliver what they promised me. They took $3910.64 from me and I never was able to pay one credit card off.”

(1) Under the new rule, any company that solicits debt relief services over the phone—including taking incoming calls from new customers—will not be able to charge upfront fees until:

the debt relief service successfully renegotiates, settles, reduces, or otherwise changes the terms of at least one of the consumer’s debts;
there is a written settlement agreement; and
the consumer has made at least one payment to the creditor as a result of the agreement negotiated by the debt relief provider.

(2) Additionally, debt relief providers cannot require that consumers set aside payments in a “dedicated account” unless:

the dedicated account is maintained at an insured financial institution;
the consumer owns the funds (including any interest accrued);
the consumer can withdraw the funds at any time without penalty;
the provider does not own or control or have any affiliation with the company administering the account; and
the provider does not exchange any referral fees with the company administering the account.

(3) Finally, before the consumer signs up for any debt relief service, providers must disclose fundamental aspects of their services, including how long it will take for consumers to see results, how much it will cost, the negative consequences that could result from using debt relief services, and key information about dedicated accounts if they choose to require them.

Before enlisting the help of a business to settle or negotiate your debt, BBB offers the following advice for consumers.

Contact your lender first. Try to work out an agreement directly with your lenders before enlisting outside help.
Seek help from a non-profit credit counseling center – Credit counseling centers can provide guidance for little or even no cost. You can find a credit counseling center near you at the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, www.nfcc.org.
Consider debt settlement only as a last resort before filing for bankruptcy. The debt settlement process can take years and have a severely negative impact on your credit rating and can limit your access to future credit. In the meantime, your credit card company or other creditors can decide to take you to court and garnish your wages. It is best to avoid these potential consequences if you have other workable alternatives to dealing with your debt.
Research the debt settlement firm with BBB first. Find out how many complaints it has received, how the firm responded to complaints and whether or not there are any recent government actions or lawsuits against the company.

Confident Consumer: Snow on the Way, Winter Getaway

10/20/2010

Posted on 10/20/2010 by Angie Barnett

Looking to get away this winter? With the cold weather fast approaching, airlines and travel agents will be offering packages to those seeking an escape to warmer climates, and BBB | Greater Maryland wants to help you plan your travel. Here are some tips to help you get away and enjoy yourself.

Start Planning Now. Rental properties in popular locations get snatched up quickly so start your search early before all of the best properties are booked.

Research Where You’d Like to Go. Find out more about your destination, such as what kinds of activities are offered. If you are traveling with children, find out what child-friendly activities are available for you and your family. If it is a foreign country, go to the U.S. State Department’s website to find out updated information about your destination.

Plan Your Budget. In a tough economy, we are all looking to get the most for our limited budget. Review which activities you would like to do and which will match your budget, and decide much you are willing to spend. Also, the sooner you start saving and setting money aside, the better your budget will be.

Buying Your Tickets. Search and compare the prices of the many airlines offering flights to your destination. You can also search the many low-fare websites that allow you to compare and bid for cheap flights, but you should always check the airline’s official website. Many airlines offer special packages that are available only on their websites, and may offer better discounts on tickets if you purchase them online. Be aware that many low-priced airline fares are for non-refundable tickets with specific dates on which travel can occur, or carry high cancellation and rescheduling fees.

Travel Agents. Travel agents can help you select the best choices in planning your trip and will be very knowledgeable about the place you want to visit. They can also inform you of the visa requirements for foreign countries. They also offer promotional and consolidated packages. However, the price of your flight may be higher than purchasing it directly from the airline.

Ticket Consolidators. Ticket consolidators can also be useful in saving money when purchasing tickets. They purchase a large number of tickets from airlines at a reduced rate, giving them the opportunity to sell them at discounted prices, helping you save money. With these low prices, however, there are usually trade-offs, such as limited time for the offer, limited availability of seats and cancellation penalties. They also do not offer trip planning assistance, or know the connecting time between flights or visa requirements for foreign countries. Ticket consolidators also do not offer the same degree of assistance as travel agents. You should contact the airline directly to check the status of your reservation and of any connecting flights.

Travel Insurance. When finalizing your travel plans, you may consider purchasing travel insurance. With the possibilities of unforeseen circumstances, such as natural disasters or unrest in your chosen destination, you might be forced to return home earlier than planned or cancel your trip altogether, or seeking medical emergency. Travel insurance offers the extra protection and peace of mind you need to enjoy your vacation. Before purchasing coverage, however, you should check to see if your homeowner’s or medical policies have coverage that may overlap with the travel insurance; e.g., your homeowner’s insurance might already cover items such as your camcorder if it is stolen, or your medical insurance might already include travel coverage.

Some of the different types of insurance available include:

* Trip Cancellation/Interruption (TCI) – If your plans suddenly change and you have to cancel or end your trip early, TCI will cover you for this. But, it will only reimburse you for reasons on the insurer’s acceptable list, such as, injury, sickness, death of yourself, a family member, a traveling companion or business partner. Some policies will cover only medical reasons and some will not cover pre-existing medical conditions. It is very important to read the fine print.

* Emergency Medical Evacuation – If you are going on an adventure vacation or to an area that is far from modern medical facilities, it may be a good idea to buy this coverage. If adequate treatment is not available at a local hospital, you would be transferred to the nearest adequate medical faculty.

* Baggage Loss – This coverage reimburses you for lost, stolen or damaged bags. Before packing, be sure to make a list of everything; if your bag is lost, you may be reimbursed for some contents, but not all.

Before you buy, check bbb.org for the company’s record of service.

Beware IRS/ETPS Phishing Scam

10/13/2010

Posted on 10/13/2010 by

Better Business Bureau is warning Marylanders that an IRS EFTPS phishing scam is actively soliciting victims. EFTPS, the IRS’s Electronic Federal Tax Payment System, is a free online service offered by the U.S. Department of Treasury to help businesses and individuals conveniently pay their taxes electronically.

Businesses and individuals have received e-mails that claim to be sent from the U.S. Treasury with the subject line: Your Tax Payment ID: 010377149 has been rejected. Urgent Report information. The body of the e-mail reads:

Your Federal Tax Payment ID: 0103758 has been rejected.
Return Reason Code R21 - The identification number used in the Company Identification Field is not valid.
Please, check the information and refer to Code R21 to get details about your company payment in transaction contacts section:

http://eftps.gov/R21
In other way forward information to your accountant adviser.
EFTPS:
The Electronic Federal Tax Payment System
PLEASE NOTE: Your tax payment is due regardless of EFTPS online
availability. In case of an emergency, you can always make your tax
payment by calling the EFTPS.

If you receive this e-mail, delete it. “The IRS does not send out unsolicited e-mails asking for personal information,” said Angie Barnett, president & CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Don’t be taken in by these criminals.”

Tricking consumers into disclosing their personal and financial information, such as secret access data or credit financial loss or bank account numbers, is fraudulent activity and can result in identity theft. Such schemes perpetrated through the Internet are called “phishing” for information.

The information fraudulently obtained is then used to steal the taxpayer’s identity and financial assets. Typically, identity thieves use someone’s personal data to empty the victim’s financial accounts, run up charges on the victim’s existing credit cards, apply for new loans, credit cards, services or benefits in the victim’s name and even file fraudulent tax returns.

When the IRS learns of new schemes involving use of the IRS name or logo, it issues consumer alerts warning taxpayers about the schemes.

The IRS also has established an electronic mailbox for taxpayers to send information about suspicious e-mails they receive which claim to come from the IRS. Taxpayers should send the information to: phishing@irs.gov.

How to Report and Identify Phishing, E-mail Scams and Bogus IRS Web Sites

If you receive an e-mail from someone claiming to be the IRS or directing you to an IRS site,

* Do not reply.
* Do not open any attachments. Attachments may contain malicious code that will infect your computer.
* Do not click on any links. If you clicked on links in a suspicious e-mail or phishing Web site and entered confidential information, visit their Identity Theft page.

Use the following steps to report the e-mail or bogus Web site to the IRS.

How to report phishing, e-mail scams and bogus IRS Web sites
If you receive an e-mail or find a Web site you think is pretending to be the IRS,

* Forward the e-mail or Web site URL to the IRS at phishing@irs.gov.
* You can forward the message as received or provide the Internet header of the e-mail.The Internet header has additional information to help the agency locate the sender.

* After you forward the e-mail and header information, delete the message.

Confident Consumer: Layaway Can Lessen the Post-Holiday Debt Hangover

10/13/2010

Posted on 10/13/2010 by Angie Barnett

With the holidays fast approaching and a fear of rising credit card debt, many shoppers are deciding to purchase items through layaway plans. Layaway has been around for decades. The plans only recently began gaining popularity with a new generation of consumers as a method of purchasing gifts and non-essential items without tapping into revolving credit while payment in cash is not manageable.

There are two types of layaway plans in today’s marketplace:

* In the traditional layaway plan, the consumer arranges for the merchant or retailer to hold the item, while agreeing to a payment plan. Once the item has been paid for in full, the buyer can take the item home.

* In contemporary layaway plans, the retailer offers the consumer a payment plan through a third-party company. The layaway company collects the payments from the consumer and once all payments are made, the layaway company purchases the item from the store and arranges for shipping to the buyer.

There are also online layaway services. “Online layaway services have the same basic structure, although they may actually operate differently,” said Angie Barnett, president & CEO BBB | Greater Maryland. “Nowadays, you can pay for anything from furniture to vacations to planned surgery with a layaway program.”

In this scenario, a retailer will post items for sale on the Internet. An online layaway firm enables the consumer to set up a payment plan to cover the cost of the purchase. Once the consumer makes the agreed upon payments in full, the layaway company sends the money to the retailer and the retailer ships the purchase directly to consumers.

Layaway Tips
Get the merchant’s layaway policy in writing. Look for details concerning the:

Terms of the layaway plan
* How much time do you have to pay for the merchandise or service?
* When are your payments due?
* What’s the minimum required payment?
* Are there added charges for using the plan, like a service fee?
* Is there a fee or a penalty for missed or late payments, and, if so, will your contract be cancelled?
* Will the merchandise be returned to inventory?

Refund policy
Can you get a refund if you decide you don’t want the merchandise after you’ve made some or all the payments? Shoppers should take note that retailers’ policies may differ. Some will refund all of your money; others may charge a non-refundable service fee; still others may offer a merchant credit for the amount you already paid.

Keep good records of the payments you make on layaway merchandise. They may come in handy if you have a problem with the seller.

Check out the business. Contact your Maryland Attorney General’s Office Consumer Protection Division (http://www.oag.state.md.us/consumer/) and your BBB (http://greatermd.bbb.org/). They can tell you if consumers have filed complaints against the retailer or online service. Layaway plans are not specifically governed by federal law, but unfair or deceptive sales practices are illegal.

How to Find a Pest Control Company You Can Trust

10/7/2010

Posted on 10/7/2010 by

Not satisfied with the comforts of home, bedbugs are migrating to public places like movie theaters and retail stores and then hitching rides on unsuspecting consumers. Not only are bedbugs a growing problem, they are also a hard problem to get rid of. BBB recommends doing your research to find a pest control company you can trust to get the job done efficiently.

According to a recent survey by the Pest Management Association, 95 percent of exterminators had encountered a bed bug infestation in the previous year—compared to only 25 percent of respondents ten years prior. While homes are the most common place for infestations, cities around the country have reported bedbug invasions in hotels, movie theaters, clothing stores and offices. BBB | Greater Maryland has received almost 5,500 inquiries on pest control companies in the last 12 months an increase of 51% over the previous year.

“When you discover an infestation in your home or business, you want to act quickly and get a professional in there fast,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Despite the urgency of the problem, you still need to do your research and make sure you are enlisting the help of a qualified and trustworthy pest control specialist.”

When hiring a pest control company, BBB recommends that home and business owners consider the following:

Start with BBB.

Always research a business with your BBB first. BBB maintains reports on good and bad exterminators across North America. You can use BBB’s Accredited Business Locator to quickly find local companies that uphold BBB’s standards for ethical business practices.

Credentials count.

Make sure the exterminator has sufficient training and certifications. Ideally, the company will also be a member of a national or local trade association. Also research the company with your local pest control regulatory board.

Ask about liability insurance.

Find out how the company is covered, and how you will be reimbursed, if they happen to break any of your belongings or damage your home.

Get educated.

Make sure that you completely understand the extent of the infestation as well as the possible remedies and side affects of any chemicals used. Do your own research online into the problem and possible solutions.

Read the fine print.

Always read the find print carefully and don’t just take a representative word for it. Pay close attention to any warrantees or termination fees if entering into an extended contract for monitoring or future services

Confident Consumer: Don’t Get Left in the Cold

10/6/2010

Posted on 10/6/2010 by Angie Barnett

With colder weather around the corner, it’s time to think about heating your home. BBB wants to help you chose a reputable contractor, who will give you that warm feeling and not leave you in the cold.

“It’s common to see an increase in consumer inquiries about contractors needed for furnace inspections and annual tune-ups to their home heating systems,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO of BBB | Greater Maryland. “While most HVAC companies are reputable, competent and fair, there are con artists that may try to frighten you into unnecessary installations or repairs using high pressure and fear as their primary tactics.”

BBB Tips

Know what kind of heating system you have and the model number before you contact a contractor.

Check credentials and find contractors near you through the Dept of Labor Licensing & Regulation and BBB to verify whether the contractor is reputable and how many complaints, if any, exist.

Ask around for contractor referrals from family, friends, neighbors, co-workers.

Interview more than one contractor to get the best estimate for the type of heating requirements for your house.

A reputable heating contractor will first spend some time to inspect your home and your existing system.

Ask for a detailed, written proposal which outlines the work to be done, the price and the estimated time for completion of the work.

Require the contractor to supply you with references and call them; inquire about the contractor’s service and performance and whether the job was completed as scheduled and on budget.

Do not make full or cash payments up front; a reputable contractor will never ask for such payments.

When choosing which contractor to hire, don’t make a hasty decision. If a contractor tries to pressure you into signing a contract, resist. If you don’t and end up with buyer’s remorse, the three-day, Cooling-Off law may help as long as the contract was signed in your home and the work has not been started.

College Students and Credit: There's a New Law

10/5/2010

Posted on 10/5/2010 by

For years, credit card companies have marketed directly to students on college campuses, offering t-shirts, free meals, and other freebies, to encourage them to apply for credit card accounts. But since the Federal Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure Act became law last February, students are now much less likely to face this scenario. And that’s not all. Under the new law:

§ Young adults under the age of 21 cannot get a credit card unless they can verify they have the income to support their debt OR their parents co-sign for the credit card account.

§ Credit reporting agencies, such as Equifax, Experian, and Transunion, cannot supply the credit reports of under-21 consumers to credit card companies unless the consumer specifically asks that they do so.

§ Credit providers can no longer offer tangible gifts to college students in exchange for completing credit card applications at sites on or near a campus.

§ Colleges, universities, and alumni associations must annually disclose the terms of any marketing or promotional agreements they make with credit card companies, including how much money they made the past year from affinity credit cards that display the school logo or mascot. The law also recommends that colleges and universities adopt policies to limit credit card marketing at their institutions, such as requiring advance notice before companies can be on campus and restricting their use of locations.

§ Credit card issuers must file annual reports with the Federal Reserve Board that detail all the marketing, promotional, and business agreements they hold with colleges, universities, alumni associations, and other school-related groups.

Congressional members who crafted these elements of the new credit card law did so in reaction to a disturbing trend: In the past decade, college students have taken on increasingly larger and larger amounts of credit card debt. Eighty-four percent of undergraduates polled in last year’s Sallie Mae study had at least one credit card, and half had four or more. These students carried an average balance of $3,173, and only 17% regularly paid their credit card bill in full each month. The study found that freshmen carried a median debt of $939, nearly triple the $373 owed in 2004. Seniors graduated with an average credit card debt of more than $4,100, up from $2,900 just five years ago.

The new credit card law is likely to limit the flow of credit to young adults and may keep them from filling out credit card applications without thinking, but it won’t make them informed financial consumers. Students still need to know how credit cards work and develop the skills to use them wisely and responsibly. Here are a few Cliff Notes on credit:

§ Shop around before you apply. Don’t be tempted by introductory offers that sound too good to be true or offer enticing rewards that conceal excessive rates. Before applying, check and compare account features such as the APR (the interest rate you pay on an annual basis), grace period, fees, and penalties. Unsure about credit card terminology? The Federal Reserve Board micro website (www.federalreserve.gov/creditcard/) has an interactive tool that provides easy-to-understand definitions and other informational resources.

§ Spend wisely. Used properly, credit cards can help you establish good credit. They also come in handy for online purchases or when you buy big-ticket items, such as textbooks or computers. Avoid using them for impulse buys or when you know you won’t be able to pay off the balance when the bill arrives.

§ Steer clear of cash advances and credit card checks. These transactions generally involve a much higher interest rate.

§ Pay your balance in full each month. If you can’t pay the complete balance, pay as much as possible. Making minimum monthly payments leads to trouble -- and lots of interest. For example, if you owe $1,000 on a credit card with an 18% APR and only make minimum payments of $30 each month, it could take up to eight years to pay off the balance, and you will pay almost $700 in interest.

§ Avoid identity theft. Only carry your credit card when you need to use it. During in-store purchases, shield it with your hand, and if possible do not let it out of your sight. Never give out your account number over the phone or online unless you have a trusted business relationship with the company and you have initiated the call or transaction. Regularly request and review your personal credit report. To obtain a free, annual credit report from each of the three major credit reporting companies, visit www.AnnualCreditReport.com.

§ Review monthly statements. Each month, your credit card bill shows how long it will take to pay off your balance if you only make minimum monthly payments. It also lists how much you need to pay each month in order to pay off your balance in three years. This information can help you make more informed spending and payment decisions. If you find unexplained charges on your statement, dispute these using the format required by your credit card company.

§ Seek outside help. If you know that you’re going to be late on a credit card payment, call and alert the creditor. Explain your situation and ask if late fees can be waived. If you find yourself in serious debt, don’t wait until the problem gets even bigger. Seek immediate advice from a reputable nonprofit credit counselor.

BBB Small Business Advice: Writing a Privacy Policy

9/29/2010

Posted on 9/29/2010 by

Online privacy policies have taken center stage as social networking sites and search engines have recently come under fire for sharing user information. Even if you think your business is too small to merit a privacy policy, BBB advises that if you have a website, you will benefit by having a comprehensive privacy policy.

“Privacy policies are about transparency and are key to building trust between your business and your customers,” said Angie Barnett President & CEO, BBB Greater Maryland “While it’s easy to get intimidated by the scope and legalese, the bottom line is, you will increase consumer confidence in doing business on your website if you have a clear privacy policy.”

When drafting your website’s privacy policy, BBB recommends using simple language to answer the following five questions:

What information do you collect? – Outline the types of personal information that you collect from customers. This includes home address, e-mail, phone numbers and credit card numbers.

How do you collect the information? – Websites collect information from customers in many different ways. Even if you don’t actually sell goods through your site you might have an e-mail sign-up for a newsletter, an application for credit or install cookies on the visitor’s computer to track their activities. Disclose how data is being collected to show you have nothing to hide.

How do you use the information? – Include background on how you share customer information with third parties such as to process orders. If you sell customer information to marketers, explain what information is sold and how it could be used.

What control does the customer have over their personal information? – Customers need a way to contact your business and control their personal data, whether it’s changing a password on their account or taking their name off of a mailing list. Plan to include a direct phone number or e-mail address that customers can use to manage their information.

How do you protect the information? - Explain how you protect customer data including, but not limited to, website encryption, limiting employee access to sensitive customer data, and server security.

There is no cookie-cutter privacy policy. Your business is unique and your privacy policy should reflect that. Seek legal guidance before you finalize your policy. You are legally liable if you fail to abide by your privacy policy statement or if the statement does not comply with local and national laws.

As your business changes, so should your privacy policy. Plan to revise your policy as your web activities evolve and alert customers when you make revisions affecting their personal data.

For additional free advice on keeping customer data safe visit www.bbb.org.

Confident Consumer: Saving Energy

9/29/2010

Posted on 9/29/2010 by Angie Barnett

Consumer Reports October isse states “Energy consumption per capita in 200u9 dipped to the lowest level in 41 years”. In effort to boost home energy efficiencies, 81% of consumers bought energy efficient light bulbs, 44% of consumers purchased an Energy Star appliance and 29% installed energy efficient windows/doors.

Why are consumers interested in Energy?

According to Consumer Reports’ survey, 77% of consumers wanted to lower their energy costs, 54% have environmental concerns and 36% wanted to take advantage of a rebate or credit introduced with the Obama administration.

BBB offers the following tips when considering energy cost reductions without being left in the cold!

PRODUCT CLAIMS: Avoid purchasing products whose claims are unrealistic or unsubstantiated. A gadget claiming to actively monitor and improve the “power factor” of your home sounds good, but it is not logical that a device inserted in a single plug point in your home can give accurate readings and assessments. Using the “as seen on tv” logo, E-Saver Nitro claims to save up to 40% on the electric bill each month, just by plugging in a box. They claim a $300 savings for a product costing $399!

SHOP ENERGY STAR PRODUCTS – CAREFULLY: Early this year, news sources such as the New York Times reported at least 15 bogus products that passed the Energy Star certification. Auditors posting as companies secured the “energy star label” were able to pass of an “air purifier” that was an electric space heater with a feather duster pasted on top. These reports indicated the “logo” was being downloaded from the government’s web site and pasted on products that were not approved.

Upgrading to energy efficient appliances, will likely increase your energy savings. While new appliances may have a hefty price tag, Energy Star certified appliances can make a difference. Older refrigerators consume 200% more energy than newer models. Upgrading from a pre-1994 dishwasher will save enough water to pay for a year’s worth of detergent.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TAX CREDITS & REBATES: Whether using a rebate for your appliances or Federal Energy Tax Credits for air duct sealing, HVAC systems and windows, make sure the business selling and delivering your products are reputable (bbb.org). Ensure that the products meet the standards outlined in each piece of legislation. Check out Maryland Energy Administration (http://energy.maryland.gov) for energy programs.

USE PRACTICAL SENSE:

Carefully, examine your windows. Drafty windows are a major cause for home energy loss as the heating/cooling system must work harder. Caulk and replace windows and receive the tax credit.

Install a programmable thermostat. Properly using a programmable thermostat can save 10% on your energy bill. For maximum results, there should be periods of eight (8) hours or more during which the temperature is set back 10-15 degrees from the standards setting (workday or night).

Turn off the power source to appliances and electronics when not in use. It is estimated between 5 and 10 percent of residential electricity goes to devices (video games are major offender) that draw power when off or in standby mode.

Switch to energy-efficient CFL (compact florescent lamp) bulbs or the newest option, LED lighting. This is one of the easiest steps to take – and save your receipt for a tax credit!

BBB Torch Award Winners Announced

9/24/2010

Posted on 9/24/2010 by

BBB | Greater Maryland presented two local businesses with its Torch Award for Marketplace Excellence on Wednesday, September 22, 2010 at the American Visionary Art Museum. The two companies, Hague Quality Water of Maryland, Inc. and Empire Today were each recognized for their dedication and commitment to BBB's Standards for Trust in all aspects of their businesses.

A panel of independent judges, including previous winners, evaluated nominees on common criteria. The businesses were to have demonstrated exceedingly high standards of behavior toward customers, employees, shareholders and their communities; adhered to truthful and honorable advertising and sales practices; and, earned a reputation for noteworthy contributions to their industries and the communities in which they do business.

The winners of this year's Torch Award have shown a strong commitment to both their employees and their customers. It is not always easy to appease both, but with diligence and dedication they were able to have successful outcomes." said Angie Barnett, president and CEO of BBB | Greater Maryland.

Holly K. Petraeus, BBB | Greater Maryland's keynote speaker from the Council of Better Business Bureaus, shared with guests her role as the Director of BBB Military Line, a program that provides consumer education and advocacy for servicemembers and their families.

About the 2010 Torch Award winners:

Hague Quality Water of Maryland, Inc.

Lt. Col. Ronald Edwards founded Hague Quality Water after retiring from the United States Air Force. What started in a shopping center has expanded into a large showroom, now serving a larger population including residential and commercial customers. For the past three years, Hague Quality Water has been named a Top Ten Dealer by Hague Quality Water International and has been recognized by many community organizations for their business practices and ethics.

Kathleen Edwards & Lt. Col. Ronald Edwards

Empire Today

Since 1959, Empire Today has been working not only to make great first impressions with their floor coverings, but lasting ones with customer satisfaction. Their 24-hour phone line accommodates inquiries everyday of the year, no matter what time of day. To date, the company has served over 1 million customers. Currently, Empire Today is located in 35 major markets nationwide including Maryland.

Dave Finan & Bridget Moscatello

Sponsors for the Torch Awards include AES Builder and Home Improvements, Atlantic Financial Federal Credit Union, AT&T Mobility, Brothers Services Company, CarChex, IWIF Workers' Compensation Insurance, McCormick & Co., Mid-Atlantic Waterproofing, Mr. Basement, SmartCEO Magazine, Travel Advantage Network and Whiteford, Taylor & Preston, LLP.

Confident Consumer: Forensic Loan Audit

9/15/2010

Posted on 9/15/2010 by Angie Barnett

In March 2010, the Federal Trade Commission released a consumer warning about a relatively new industry, Forensic Loan Audit. BBB has experienced increased inquiries from consumers seeking advice about this business service and the internet has exploded with companies whose marketing strategies target distressed homeowners. Many of these companies claim the audit could result in the reduction of the principal amount of the home loan, can be used to avoid foreclosure, accelerate the loan modification process, or enable the homeowner to cancel their loan.

Within the past twelve (12) months, BBB | Greater Maryland reports of the Maryland businesses with the most complaints, five of the top 20 were businesses designed to help with debt solutions and foreclosure rescue services. Combined, these four companies constitute 21,000 inquiries and 160 complaints within the past 12 months. Forensic Loan Audit, when used improperly or sought out as a foreclosure rescue measure by a consumer may be next in line in causing inherent problems for consumers.

What is Forensic Loan Audit?

The Forensic Loan Audit is a process involving the examination of all documents related to a mortgage loan. The purpose of this audit is to find violations made by the lender that could possibly be used as leverage to modify/reduce home loan or to cancel the loan/loan buy-backs or possibly sue the mortgage lender. An audit may be a useful tool when used by attorneys who are seeking evidentiary proof of lender violations to be pursued through the legal system. Most often, the fist violations an audit seeks are those related to “Truth-In-Lending Act (TILA) to determine if there was inaccurate reporting of APR and finance charges. The next level of “audit” review is seeking violations of Anti-Predatory Lending regulations designed to literally protect the consumer.

FTC’s Assessment:

According to the FTC,

There is no evidence the audit provides the homeowner with foreclosure relief or loan modification assistance.

Federal laws enable a homeowner to sue the lender based on any errors in the document, but does not require the lender to modify your loan.

If a homeowner cancels their loan, they are still obligated to return the money that was borrowed plus they will lose their home.

BBB Advises:

Avoid companies who market directly to you, the homeowner with promises or even guarantees of foreclosure prevention, reduced loan amounts, or loan cancellations. Seek the advice of an experienced real estate attorney if you believe you are a victim of predatory lending and report your suspicions to the Maryland Attorney General’s office.

Avoid companies who rely only on loan audit software as the only assessment tool. The audit process should include thorough review of all documents by trained professionals knowledgeable of mortgage loans, underwriting, compliance regulations and the manual review, including client interviews should be part of the professional service.

Ask the auditing firm not only the number of clients who have been served (and how long), but also the number they decline to serve because the client would not benefit from the service. For example, the typical homeowner who has a 30 year fixed mortgage would probably not benefit from the loan audit process.

Avoid any company offering homeowner assistance directing you to cease communications with your mortgage lender, your attorney, or a credit counselor. If they redirect you to pay your mortgage payments to them, walk away.

As always, never sign any documents without reading them first, reading them outside the presence of the business sales rep, and thing long and hard before you ever make a full payment and/or up-front fee for any service. If you walk away without a valid service and failed promises, you have little recourse and your “money’s gone”!

Confident Consumer: Rogue Contractors Likely to Blow into Town with Seasonal Storms

9/9/2010

Posted on 9/9/2010 by Angie Barnett

Storm chasers – or traveling contractors – are usually on your doorstep within hours of any major weather event. Storm chasers look for consumers in desperate need of home repair and pressure them into making quick and ultimately expensive decisions. It’s tempting to give them the go-ahead to make repairs, especially if a storm leaves a gaping hole in your roof or siding.

In Maryland, home improvement contractors, subcontractors and salespersons are regulated and must be licensed by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission. According MHIC, “Home improvement work includes alteration, remodeling, repair or replacement of a building or part of a building used as a residence.” To lawfully conduct business, other types of companies are also licensed through your city or county. Residents should check the Business License Information System at www.blis.state.md.us.

Tips from Your BBB

Do:

Check with BBB to find business you can trust. Many times scam artists flock to severe weather disasters and move on, making them difficult to trace.

Call your insurance company before work begins to make sure all necessary procedures are followed according to your policy. If you do not follow your insurance company’s guidelines, you may be stuck with the entire bill. A common form of insurance fraud occurs when a contractor offers to overlook or pay a consumer’s deductible.

Get bids from at least three companies; be sure each provides their physical address. Compare address on estimate, business cards, trucks/vans, and even shirt identification – are their differences? Ask why.

Ask the business for references of recent jobs they’ve completed in the area (past few months) as well as jobs over a year ago – you want to do business with a local company and a company who is not “fly by night”. Ask customers about their experience with the business, quality of work and time frame it took to complete and overall satisfaction. Go see their work if at all possible.

Verify local license, general liability insurance and workers’ comp insurance.

Get everything in writing. The written contact includes all warranty information, timeline and pricing. Agree to a price before work begins. Specify all repairs, included materials, name brands, as desired and labor costs.

Don’t:

Pay large sums of money up front – pay only 1/3 of estimate and if necessary, arrange to pay upon delivery of the supplies and materials.

Pay by cash and it is optimal to pay by credit card.

Let payments get ahead of the work performed. A payment schedule should be outlined in your contract. Be sure that the final payment is not made until after completion of the project.

Give into high-pressure sales techniques, such as, “the price is only good today.” Take your time and make an educated decision; door-to-door solicitors are skilled in creating a heightened sense of urgency.

Scammers Target Job Hunters in Weak Economy

9/2/2010

Posted on 9/2/2010 by

As the unemployment rate hovers around 10 percent, Better Business Bureau warns that scammers are taking advantage of the opportunity by preying on the unemployed. Identifying the common red flags of a scam is one way for job hunters to protect themselves and their wallet.

According to the Labor Department, new jobless claims in mid-August unexpectedly jumped to 500,000, an increase of 12,000 over the previous week. Not only did jobless claims rise suddenly, but the length of unemployment is bleak for many. According to a July report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 45 percent of unemployed Americans had been out of work for more than 6 months.

“The dismal employment rate means that a lot of people are desperate for work and may be grasping for any job which creates a great opportunity for scammers,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB|Greater Maryland. “Not thoroughly researching a job opportunity can make a bad situation even worse and a victim can lose hundreds or even thousands of dollars to any number of job-related scams.”

BBB recommends looking out for the following seven red flags when searching for a job:

Red Flag: The employer offers the opportunity to become rich without leaving home
While many legitimate businesses allow employees to work from home, there are also a lot of scammers trying to take advantage of senior citizens, stay-at-home moms, students and injured or handicapped people looking to make money conveniently at home. Job hunters should use extreme caution when considering a work-at-home offer and always research the company with their BBB first at bbb.org.

Red Flag: The employer asks for money upfront
It is rarely advisable for an applicant to pay upfront fees or make a required purchase to get a job. BBB often hears from job hunters who paid a phony employer for supposedly required background checks or training for jobs that didn’t exist. Always research the job thoroughly before opening up your wallet. Also be wary of job placement companies that ask for large upfront fees to find you a job.

Red Flag: The salary and benefits offered seem too-good-to-be-true
The adage holds true for job offers: if the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Phony employers might brag about exceptionally high salary potential and excellent benefits for little work and no experience necessary in order to lure unsuspecting job hunters into their scam.

Red Flag: Employer e-mails are rife with grammatical and spelling errors. Online fraud is often perpetrated by scammers located outside the U.S. Their first language usually isn’t English and this is often evident in their poor grasp of the language which can include poor grammar and the misspelling of common words.

Red Flag: The employer requires you to check your credit report
After posting their resumes online or responding to online job listings, many job hunters received what they thought was good news: an e-mail from an interested employer. In order to be considered for the job, the applicant has to check his or her credit report through a recommended website. The truth is, the e-mail is just an attempt to get the job hunter to divulge sensitive financial information or sign up for credit monitoring services.

Red Flag: The employer is quick to ask for personal information such as Social Security or bank account numbers
Some job seekers have been surprised to learn they’ve gotten a job without having to do a single interview. However, when the employer then asked for personal information in order to fill out the necessary paperwork, suspicions were raised – and rightly so. Regardless of the reason, a job applicant should never give out his or her Social Security or bank account numbers over the phone or e-mail and only after they’ve confirmed the job is legitimate.

Red Flag: The job requires you to wire money through Western Union or MoneyGram or receive and forward suspicious goods
Many phony jobs require the employee to cash a check sent by the company through the mail and then wire a portion of the money on to another entity. Reasons given for this requirement vary from scam to scam. Whatever the reason though, the check might clear the employee’s bank account but will eventually turn out to be a fake and the employee is out the money he or she wired back to the scammers. BBB also warns against receiving and mailing suspicious goods—such as electronics or luxury items—overseas.

Confident Consumer: Back to School

9/1/2010

Posted on 9/1/2010 by Angie Barnett

With most schools back in full swing, BBB offers a few parent reminders that could save you headaches and heartaches tomorrow.

Shopping for Back to School Bargains? Stick with Major and Known Retailers – For Right Now:

Online: Visit reliable merchant websites, Look for coupons, freebies and rebates. Web merchants are working hard to be competitive with brick and mortar stores, so do an online search for the product brand name with "coupon code" before you check out.

Looking for electronics/technology discount? Students on a budget should check out websites of known and reliable technology manufacturers such as Sony and Dell. The sites sell electronics that have been refurbished, returned unopened or bear slight blemishes that don't affect performance. Be sure and read the terms/conditions and guarantees/warranties.

Look for freebies that retailers are offering to get you into their stores. Recent deals include an iPod Touch with the purchase of a Mac computer and, from Toys "R" Us, a lunch kit when you buy a backpack. Staples was offering a “penny special” and other major retailers such as Kmart and Target offering great savings for back-to-school supplies and clothing. Search online for current back-to-school promotions before you head into stores.

Wait on computers and bikes. According to Consumer's Union, October and November are the best months to buy small electronics, digital cameras, computers and, yes, bikes. If your child needs an upgrade but can wait a month or two, hold off for another month or two.

Protect Your Child’s ID:

Teach your child to never give out personal identifying information. If your child has opportunities to surf the web or is a latch-key child for a short time after school, teach your child never to give out their address, phone number, or any personal information unless they contact 911. Phone calls and e-mail solicitations by schemers and scam artists can lure your child into believing they must provide the information – if unsolicited, teach them to not share!

Internet Safety Laws - A federal law, the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), was created to help protect kids online. It's designed to keep anyone from obtaining a child's personal information without a parent knowing about it and agreeing to it first. COPPA requires websites to explain their privacy policies on the site and get parental consent before collecting or using a child's personal information, such as a name, address, phone number, or Social Security number. The law also prohibits a site from requiring a child to provide more personal information than necessary to play a game or participate in a contest. But even with this law, your kids' best online protection is you. By talking to them about potential online dangers and monitoring their computer use, you'll help them surf the Internet.

Online Protection Tools

Online tools are available that will let you control your kids' access to adult material and help protect them from Internet predators. No option is going to guarantee that they'll be kept away from 100% of the risks on the Internet. So it's important to be aware of your kids' computer activities and educate them about online risks.

Many Internet service providers (ISPs) provide parent-control options to block certain material from coming into a computer. You can also get software that helps block access to certain sites based on a "bad site" list that your ISP creates. Filtering programs can block sites from coming in and restrict personal information from being sent online. Other programs can monitor and track online activity. Also, make sure your kids create a screen name to protect their real identity.

Getting Involved in Kids' Online Activities

Aside from these tools, it's wise to take an active role in protecting your kids from Internet predators and sexually explicit materials online.

Keep the computer in a common area, not in individual bedrooms, where you can watch and monitor its use.

Forbid your child from entering private chat rooms; block them with safety features provided by your Internet service provider or with special filtering software. Be aware that posting messages to chat rooms reveals a user's email address to others.

Monitor your credit card and phone bills for unfamiliar account charges.

Many sites use "cookies," devices that track specific information about the user, such as name, e-mail address, and shopping preferences. Cookies can be disabled. Ask your Internet service provider for more information.

BBB Torch Award Finalists Announced

8/31/2010

Posted on 8/31/2010 by

Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland has narrowed the field from almost 50 nominations and selected nine businesses that show exemplary integrity and ethics as finalists in their annual awards competition. The winners will be announced on Wednesday, September 22, 2010 at the American Visionary Art Museum in an event benefitting BBB's Educational Foundation.

The nine finalists for BBB | Greater Maryland's 2010 Torch Awards for Marketplace Excellence are:

Brothers Services Company of Hampstead
Chapin Davis Investments of Baltimore
Empire Today of Odenton
Hague Quality Water of Maryland, Inc. of Annapolis and Ocean City
Herl's Fiberglass Repair, Inc. of Salisbury
Kolb Electric, Inc. of Elkridge
Larry and Sons of Hagerstown
Luna of Rosedale
Mr. Basement, LLC of White Marsh

A panel of independent judges including past winners with expertise in business ethics evaluated nominees in each group for common criteria. The businesses must demonstrate exceedingly high standards of behavior toward customers, employees, shareholders and their communities; adhere to truthful and honorable advertising and sales practices; and, have a reputation for noteworthy contributions to their industries and the communities in which they do business.

"As BBB shares the dedicated and humbling stories of this year's finalists, we hope the Torch Awards will encourage all businesses to follow a code of ethics and understand the importance of marketplace trust," said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland.

Proceeds from the Torch Awards will support BBB Educational Foundation, a non-profit, charitable organization. The Educational Foundation's mission is to provide consumers with education and information on issues of business ethics and customer satisfaction. Reservations are $75 per person by September 3 and $90 per person after September 3 and can be made online at www.greatermd.bbb.org or by calling 410-332-0739.

Sponsors for the Torch Awards include AES Builder and Home Improvements, Atlantic Financial Federal Credit Union, AT&T Mobility, Brothers Services Company, Carchex, IWIF Workers' Compensation Insurance, McCormick & Co., Mid-Atlantic Waterproofing, Mr. Basement, SmartCEO Magazine, Travel Advantage Network and Whiteford, Taylor & Preston, LLP.

BBB Warns Consumers to Avoid Credit Score Fixers

8/26/2010

Posted on 8/26/2010 by
BBB warns consumers to steer clear of a new scam that promises to improve consumers' credit scores using a "credit protection number," or CPN.

Scammers get the numbers by using computers to find dormant Social Security numbers - often those assigned to children. They sell the numbers to people who use them to establish phony credit and run up huge debts they will never pay off. To get around the law, scammers call the numbers credit profile, credit protection or credit privacy numbers - CPNs - rather than Social Security numbers.

In an Associated Press story, Linda Marshall, an assistant U.S. attorney in Kansas City, was quoted as saying the fraud could lead to another financial collapse. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has been working with lenders to alert them to the fraud, which was uncovered while investigating a mortgage fraud case.

In addition to fraud, the use of CPNs poses another danger to consumers: ruined credit scores for children and others whose Social Security numbers are used to perpetrate the fraud. The buyers open a new, unblemished line of credit, which they then use to build up their own rating in a process called piggybacking.

The BBB advises parents to check credit reports for their children regularly. If parents see unauthorized activity under a child's Social Security number, they should alert authorities and credit reporting agencies.

"This scam is a two-edged sword - defrauding banks as well as consumers whose Social Security numbers are stolen," said Angie Barnett, BBB President and CEO. "Consumers need to protect their credit by checking their credit reports annually at annualcreditreport.com or by calling the three credit reporting firms."

Authorities say they aren't sure how widespread CPN fraud is, but they believe it could grow as Americans watch their credit scores sink to new lows. As of April, more than a quarter of consumers - nearly 43.4 million people - had credit scores of 599 or below, making them poor risks for lenders.

BBB advises consumers to take positive action to correct credit problems by paying bills on time and reducing the amount owed on credit cards. Other steps that can be taken include:

· Contact your creditors at once and explain why you're having trouble paying your bills. See if they will help you work out a manageable payment plan. Once arranged, follow it carefully. Don't wait until your account has been turned over to a collection agency.

· If you have been turned down or feel an error exists on your credit report, contact the reporting agency in writing and send your appeal by mail "return receipt requested." Include your name, address, account number, dollar amount in question and the reason you believe the actions taken were wrong.

· If in doubt, request written verification of the debt. Ask for a photocopy of the paperwork including the signature(s).

· Keep receipts, sales slips and billing statements to make sure they match. You may need them if you dispute a bill or report. If the credit agency requests documents, send copies; never send your originals.

· Be skeptical of companies that promise they can immediately solve your credit problems or "clean up your credit report." There is nothing they can do for you - for a fee - that you cannot do for yourself at little or no cost.

· Be persistent. If your credit file contains errors, you are entitled to have it investigated by the credit bureau. The credit-reporting agency must give you a written report of their investigation - and a copy of your report if the investigation results in any change. Inaccurate information must be corrected or deleted. Cleaning up errors on your credit report can take time and effort.

If you need help in developing a payment plan, non-profit credit counseling agencies may provide help for little or no cost. Questions to ask the agency include:

· Are the agency's services confidential?
· Will they devise a plan tailored to fit your needs?
· Are the counselors certified?
· Are budget and credit education opportunities offered?
· Will your funds be protected? How?
· Is the agency accredited? By whom?
· Is there a charge for the service?

For more advice on avoiding fraud, visit www.bbb.org.

Confident Consumer: Making Heads of Tails of Minimum Credit Card Purchases

8/25/2010

Posted on 8/25/2010 by Angie Barnett

Recently, more and more local store owners are posting signs at the check-out counter notifying customers of a “minimum purchase requirement” when credit cards are used. The minimum price is not standardized – a coffee shop posts a $2.00 minimum, a convenience store posts $10, and many merchants do not require a minimum purchase amount. This trend seems to be more pervasive for the small independent retailer where cost of doing business is a significant factor. And, for some customers, point and mileage rewards for the use of credit card or sadly, use of credit card for survival has resulted in the increase use of these cards for every day purchases. When a “minimum purchase” is posted, the customer is forced to decide to buy more items or not buy any items at all if a credit card is to be used.

The reason behind this growing trend is directly related to the merchant/retailer’s cost of doing “credit card” business. Many retailers/merchants will pay as much as 2% ($2.00 for every $100 spent) of the purchase costs to the credit card company as a “price” for offering this convenience to the customer. The business owner may also pay the bank issuing the credit card a “transaction fee” (usually around .10) for every credit card transaction. When considering the profit margin for some businesses, offering a credit card convenience to the customer may not be worth it – especially for a cup of coffee.

The bottom line: It is up to the consumer to know the rules, terms and conditions specific to the credit card they are using. AND – the rules apply differently if it is a bank issued debit card connected to a “checking” account vs. Credit Card.

There are no specific federal or state regulations around charging minimums – this is a policy that is between the merchant and the credit card company, is included in their Merchant’s Agreement, and is found in FAQs or acceptance policies found on the website of each major credit card company. Traditionally, the blanket response was retailers were not allowed to set a minimum purchase amount for any of the major cards and the recourse for the customer was to report the practice to the credit card company – who in turn, reported to the bank issuing the credit card.

Recently, Visa posted on their site that retailers may require a minimum purchase on credit card transactions but that minimum is not to exceed $10.00. What is common among all creditors is the merchant may not charge a minimum fee for one card, but not do so for the others. They all prohibit imposing fees or disadvantages if not imposed equally among all credit cards accepted.

What rights does a customer have?

Visit the website for your credit card company and review the terms/conditions for credit card acceptance.
If your creditor explicitly prohibits the establishment of a “minimum purchase”, report the merchant to the credit card company if they violate that policy – AND you feel strongly about the policy.
Remember they cannot set a minimum requirement for debit card and the policy cannot be imposed unequally (some cards, not others).
Consider the cost of doing business for your local store before you blow the whistle – making sure the fuss is worth the end result.

And for the record – if you are using a credit card in Maryland (see MD Commercial Law Section 13-317), the merchant may request form of identification by the credit card holder – and that is for your protection of Identity Theft – but the merchant cannot record the address or telephone number of the credit card holder (or driver’s license or social security) on the credit card form unless it is necessary for shipping/special orders.

Confident Consumer: Online Shopping

8/18/2010

Posted on 8/18/2010 by Angie Barnett

Shopping online can be very convenient and easy for anyone with a computer and a credit card. You can shop 24 hours a day seven days a week, looking for anything from a cat shaped cookie jar to a new computer. Sometimes it is cheaper to buy an item online since many sites do not charge sales tax and offer free shipping. However, while purchasing items online may be convenient it is important to take several safety precautions to protect you identity and finances.

Begin with the end in mind! Shop from a secure PC. Before you shop online, make sure your system is running with up-to-date anti-virus software, you have the latest software security updates installed and you are using a firewall to block potential intruders. If you don’t, your internet shopping excursion could end in phishing, key-logging malware, or destruction of your system!

Do your research. Avoid “search-engine shopping”, try to stick with merchants you know, you trust, or have been validated by others you trust. Remember – anyone can set up a shop online under almost any name! Don’t be “duped” by sound-a-likes (i.e. Craigslist is actually .org NOT .com – great way to lead you to a false or deceptive site). NEVER buy anything advertised via unsolicited email.

If you have not heard of the company before or just want to make sure you are choosing the right company for you, go to www.bbbonline.org. This website allows consumers to check out a list of online companies and see if they have a seal of approval. Research how long the company has been in business and see if they have a good history.

Be very cautious if the website which you are purchasing from has spelling and grammatical errors. Some fake websites are created by scammers overseas. Just because the website looks polished doesn’t prove a company’s quality or good reputation.

Keeping things private. Read the privacy policy and know what personal information is being requested and how it will be used. Many, if not most merchants, including your credit card merchant have agreements to sell or permit access of their customer’s contact information – so your name is sold for solicitation possibly many times over. If a company does not have a privacy policy posted – BBB considers this a “red flag” that personal information may be sold to others without permission.

What’s the Policy? Review the return, refund, shipping and handling policies carefully. Merchants may permit returns and refunds, but charge you for shipping both ways! Some sites offer prices that are too good to be true but their shipping/handling costs will make up for the low pricing! The FTC requires sellers to ship items as promised OR within 30 days after the order date – or offer you the right to cancel without any charge.

Is your purchase Secure? Always look at the address box when paying to see if there is an “s” in https:// and a “lock” symbol in the lower-right corner. If you have any doubts about the website right click anywhere on the page and select “Properties”. This lets you see the real URL and the dialog box will reveal if the site is not encrypted. If the website is not secured, that could mean you are on a website which looks official but in actuality it is a phisher. Keep your browser updated for an additional layer of security.

Pay by credit or charge card. When buying online, payments using credit card protects your transaction by the Fair Credit Billing Act. Under this law, you have the right to dispute charges under certain circumstances. In addition, the credit card issuer can only hold customers liable for the first $50 of fraudulent transactions in the event your shopping trip takes you to a bogus site. Never shop at sites asking you to wire your payment or send money orders – it’s money spent and never returned!

Get it in writing – keep a paper trail. Once you are finished ordering there is sometimes a final confirmation page or a confirmation email. It is smart to save a copy of the web page and any emails for future reference and as a record of the purchase.

Phishing. Ignore any emails concerning possible problems with your order or account that ask for financial information. If you do get such an email call the contact number listed for the website to see if there really was a problem with the transaction. Phishers are simply trying to get your personal information.

Discount Coupons. Coupons on the web can vary from free shipping to 25% your entire order. Use established online coupon sites such as couponcabin.com and currentcodes.com.

For more information about making purchases online go to www.bbb.org.

Seven Tips for College-Bound Students to Fight Identity Theft

8/16/2010

Posted on 8/16/2010 by

College students have enough to juggle when it comes to school, work and their social life and fighting fraud often doesn’t make the list of priorities. Because college students are so susceptible to identity theft, BBB recommends that they take seven simple steps to protect themselves on campus.

According to the 2010 Identity Fraud Survey Report released by Javelin Strategy and Research, more than 11 million people became victims of identity theft in 2009. Young adults aged 18-24 took the longest to detect identity theft—132 days on average—when compared to other age groups. Subsequently the average cost ($1,156) was roughly five times more than amount lost by other age groups.

“Identity thieves don’t care if you’re a struggling student and don’t have a penny to your name; sometimes all they want is to exploit your clean credit record,” said Angie Barnett, BBB | Greater Maryland president and CEO. “Young adults that establish good habits for monitoring and detecting fraud are laying a path that will help create a healthy financial road for the rest of their lives.”

BBB recommends that college-bound students take the following seven steps to fight identity theft on campus:

School mailboxes are not always secure and can often be easily accessed in a dorm or apartment. To combat sticky fingers in the mailroom, have sensitive mail sent to a permanent address such as the parents’ home or a PO Box.

Important documents should be stored under lock and key—such as in a filing cabinet. This includes social security card, passport and bank and credit card statements. Shred any paper documents that have sensitive financial information rather than just tossing them out. Also shred any credit card offers that come in the mail.

Never loan your credit or debit card to anyone, even if they are a friend. Also just say no if your friend wants you to cosign for a loan or financing for items like a TV.

Make sure your computer has up-to-date antivirus and spyware software. Always install any updates and patches to your computer’s operating system or browser software which help keep your computer safe from any new advances by identity thieves online.

Always check your credit or debit card statements closely for any suspicious activity. The sooner you identify any potential fraud, the less you’ll suffer in the long run.

When shopping on unfamiliar web sites, always check the company out first with BBB online. Also look for the BBB Accredited Business seal along with other trust seals; click on the seals to confirm that they are legitimate.

Check your credit report at least once a year with all three reporting bureaus for any suspicious activity or inaccuracies. You can do this for free by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com.

For more advice on fighting fraud and managing personal finances visit BBB Consumer Tips.

Do You Really Know Where Your Children Are on the Internet?

8/11/2010

Posted on 8/11/2010 by Angie Barnett
The Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU) of the Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc., recently launched its first public service announcements, cautioning parents to be alert to their children’s activities on the Internet.

The PSAs can be viewed at: http://www.youtube.com/user/CARUSelfRegulation.

The spots feature Catherine Hicks, star of the family drama “Seventh Heaven,” and they recast the time-honored broadcast message “It’s 10 p.m. Do you know where your children are?” to reflect contemporary concerns about the privacy and safety of children on the Internet.

“As a learning tool, the Internet provides an amazing depth and breadth of information about the world. As an entertainment vehicle, it can offer experiences that are creative, engaging and fun,” said CARU Director Wayne J. Keeley. “But beyond the boundaries of age-appropriate Web content is territory that is far less benign. It is critical that parents know where their children go on the Internet.”

Beware of Deceptive Auto Loan Modification Offers

8/9/2010

Posted on 8/9/2010 by

Ads on TV may promise to modify car loans and stave off a visit from the repo man, but some companies fail to carry through on their promises. BBB recommends that cash-strapped consumers save their money by trying to work out a deal with the lender directly before paying out hundreds in upfront fees to a loan modification company.

High unemployment in the country means that many families are struggling to make ends meet and the number of repossessed cars continues to rise. More than 1.9 million cars were repossessed by lenders in 2009 according to Manheim Auctions. Some businesses are seeing an opportunity in the increased number of repossessed cars and claim that, for a large up-front fee, they can work with the lender to modify the terms of the loan for the borrower.

“Auto loan modification companies are following in the footsteps of unscrupulous mortgage modification companies which have long targeted struggling families who are just trying to stay above water,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Some companies may make it look like they are tossing out a life preserver, but they end up pulling many borrowers deeper underwater.”

BBB has received complaints from across the country against one Florida-based company, Auto Relief Group (ARG).Complainants say they paid hundreds of dollars in advance fees in exchange for the promise that ARG would significantly reduce the monthly payments on their car loans. Complainants wanted their money back after the company was unsuccessful in modifying the car loan. ARG has also caught the attention of the Florida Attorney General who has filed a lawsuit against the company for deceptive and unfair trade practices

If you’re having a hard time making payments on your auto loan and are considering assistance from a loan modification company, BBB recommends that you:

Start with your lender. Many complainants to BBB stated that their lender told them they didn’t need to pay a company to help modify their loan and they could have worked something out together. Lenders are often eager to work out a more convenient payment plan because it’s in their best interest to keep you paying your bill.

Do your research. If you are planning to enlist the help of a third party to modify your loan, always research the company with your BBB first. The business’s BBB Reliability Report will tell you how many complaints BBB has received, if the company has responded to complaints and if there are any government actions or lawsuits against the business.

Beware of Advance Fees. Large fees in advance should be considered a red flag even if the company claims to offer a money-back guarantee if they are unsuccessful. Some states do not allow companies to charge customers in advance for financial services including loan modification.

Get it in writing. Ask for documentation from the company. Be sure it discloses the services they will provide and their terms including refund policies and any money-back guarantees.

Complain to BBB. If you feel you’ve been misled by a loan modification business, file a complaint with your BBB online. Even if the business is unwilling to resolve the issue, your complaint will serve as a warning to other consumers about that business.

For more advice on managing personal finances, visit BBB's consumer tips.

Changes in Credit Laws Take Effect This Month

8/5/2010

Posted on 8/5/2010 by Angie Barnett

The Credit Card Act of 2009 was signed into law by President Obama on May 22, 2009. What does the credit card law mean for cardholders? Millions of credit card users will avoid retroactive interest rate increases on existing card balances and have more time to pay their monthly bills, greater advance notice of changes in credit card terms and the right to opt out of significant changes in terms on their accounts. That will take the surprise out of "gotcha" fine print and give consumers time to shop around for better deals if they don't like the new terms. The requirements are being phased in. The first batch took effect Aug. 20, 2009, and the majority of provisions started on Feb. 22, 2010, while some begin in August and December 2010.

Credit Card Act of 2009 Phase 1 (HIGHLIGHTS):

The first phase of the Credit Card Act required credit card companies to give 45 days advance notice to cardholders before making any significant changes to the account holder’s terms and conditions or interest rates. The 45 day advance notice applied to increases in interest rates, certain fee changes (annual fees, cash advance fees, and late fees), or make other significant changes to the terms of your card. The company must give you the option to cancel your card before the fee increases take effect. It also required credit card companies to mail statements no later than 21 days before the due date (the previous requirement was 14 days).

Credit Card Act of 2009 Phase 2:

The second phase went into effect on Feb 22, 2010.

Interest rate increases:

Credit card issuers cannot increase interest rates within the first 12 months of the account being opened (unless consumer makes late payments).
Introductory promotional rates must remain in effect for at least 6 months (great news for people who take advantage of 0% Balance Transfers).
Credit card issuers will not be able to raise an interest rate on an existing balance unless the cardholder goes 60 days past due on the account.

Credit card fee restrictions:

Over limit fees. Card holders must give consent to allow card issuers to process over the limit transactions. Even with consent, only one over limit fee is allowed per billing cycle.
Payment processing fees. Credit card issuers will no longer be allowed to charge payment processing fees for accepting payments via mail, phone, or online, but will be allowed to charge fees for expedited payment processing.

Student credit cards:

Consumers between the ages of 18-21 will need to provide proof of income or have a co-signer before they can be approved

Billing and Payment Allocation:

Payments must automatically be applied to the highest interest balance first. This is great for consumers who open a new credit card for a favorable interest rate such as 0% Balance Transfer.
Credit card statements need to include a minimum payment disclosure that details how long it will take to pay off the current balance and how much interest will be paid over the life of the loan. These numbers must be given for both minimum payments and the payment need to pay the card off in 3 years.
Double-cycle billing will no longer be permitted – they can only impose interest charges on balances in the current billing cycle.

Credit Card Act of 2009 Phase 3:

The third phase of the Credit CARD Act goes into effect on August 22, 2010 and it’s all about FEE PROTECTIONS

$25 CAP: Penalty Fees such as late payment fee can no longer exceed $25 unless you have had a previous late fee within past 6 months – then the cap is $35. This is big news because for some, late fees were as much or more than the balance owed!
Inactivity Fee No Longer Permitted: Credit card companies can’t charge you inactivity fees for not using your card!!!
Transparency: If the company raises your card’s rate, they must tell you why!
Gift Cards: This phase prohibits gift cards from expiring for at least five years – and they can’t charge inactivity fee unless the card is unused for 12 months.

BBB Warns Against Five Scams Targeting Senior Citizens

8/2/2010

Posted on 8/2/2010 by

BBB Warns Against Five Scams Targeting Senior Citizens

Fraud targeting senior citizens is a growing concern as millions have fallen victim to scammers. Better Business Bureau encourages families to keep the lines of communication open with their elders regarding finances and to recognize some common cons targeting senior citizens.

According to a June 2010 survey by Investor Protection Trust, more than 7.3 million senior citizens—roughly 20 percent of Americans aged 65 or older-- have “been taken advantage of financially in terms of an inappropriate investment, unreasonably high fees for financial services, or outright fraud.”

“Having a serious conversation with your elderly parents about how they are managing their money is not easy, but it is extremely important in order to help protect them from unscrupulous crooks,” said Angie Barnett, President and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “It’s extremely important to keep the lines of communication open so that you can identify suspicious spending habits, as well as educate your elder family members on recognizing the red flags of common cons.”

BBB warns against the following five scams that commonly target senior citizens:

Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams –Typically, the victim receives a letter in the mail stating they have won a lottery or sweepstakes; it might even claim to be from Publisher’s Clearing House or Reader’s Digest. The letter instructs the victim to deposit an enclosed check and then wire a portion back to the company to cover taxes or administration fees. While the funds will initially show up in the bank account, the money will be removed when the bank determines the check is fake. The victim is out whatever they wired back to the scammers—often amounting to thousands of dollars.

· BBB Advice: Never wire money to someone you don’t know. You should never have to send money to receive any winnings from a lottery or sweepstakes.

Medicare Scams – Navigating the Medicare system isn’t easy and some scammers will look for any opportunity to take advantage of the confusion. Commonly, a scammer will claim to be with Medicare and ask for personal information such as Medicare, Medicaid, social security, credit card or bank account numbers. The victim might be given any number of excuses to provide this information including that an error needs to be fixed, that he or she is part of a survey or eligible to receive free products or can sign up for a new prescription drug plan.

· BBB Advice: Remind your elderly family members that Medicare will never call to ask for sensitive personal financial information. If you suspect fraud contact your local police or the Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General at 800-HHS-TIPS.

Bereavement Scams – Scammers will often try to take advantage of the increased vulnerability of senior citizens who have recently lost a loved one, such as a spouse. In one recent example, a mother and daughter team in Ohio would find targets by scouring the obituaries. They would then call the widow or widower and claim that their spouse had outstanding debts that needed to be paid immediately. Victims would then provide a blank check or credit card.

· BBB Advice: Offer help to elderly family members if they have recently lost a loved one and are inexperienced in managing finances. If you are uncertain about owing a debt when collectors call, ask for written confirmation.

Deceptive Professionals – While many scams targeting senior citizens might not have a face, some scammers will be invited in the front door including technicians, contractors, chimney sweeps, air duct cleaners and other services. Some professionals will lie about the extent of the problem or claim safety issues and then inflate prices for unsuspecting senior customers.

· BBB Advice – Find professionals you can trust by checking out BBB’s directory of Accredited Businesses. Always research a company with BBB before you hand over any money and report any deceptive services to your BBB, local law enforcement and the state Attorney General.

Investment and Work at Home Opportunities - Promises of easy money often target older adults because they may be looking to supplement their income. The pitch might come in the form of an investment opportunity that promises big returns, or as a way to make money at home for an upfront cost. Regardless of the specifics, the victim is offered what sounds like a great opportunity but the extra income never materializes.

· BBB Advice: Always research any work at home opportunity with BBB. Beware of investment or money-making offers that seem too good to be true or use high pressure sales tactics to get you to sign up immediately.

For more advice on avoiding scams and fraud visit: http://greatermd.bbb.org/Consumer-Tips/

E-mails Link to Suspicious Website

8/2/2010

Posted on 8/2/2010 by

An e-mailed "complaint" supposedly originating from Better Business Bureau is being sent to BBB Accredited Businesses and non-accredited companies in Maryland and other states across the country.

Businesses of all sizes and industries have received the bogus e-mail complaint, ranging from banks and construction companies to major manufacturers and professionals. There is no indication how the e-mail addresses were collected.

The e-mail sender's address is seatac@bbb.org with the subject line "BBB Complaint Case #" followed by a nine-digit number. It's important to know that the sender's address may change as awareness of the scam increases. A sample e-mail can be found at: BBB Fake Email Complaint

The body of the e-mail claims that the recipient did not respond to a complaint filed by Jason Harlow (however, other names may be used) under the category "Contract Issues." The goal of the e-mail is to get the recipient to click on a hyperlink with the following text: "Please click here to access the complaint."

A link in identical e-mails sent out earlier this year downloaded malware to the recipients' computers. Malware consists of programs designed to damage or initiate unwanted actions without the knowledge of the user. This may include harvesting logins and passwords and forwarding them to the e-mail's author.

BBB advises businesses that receive this e-mail to take the following precautions:

Run a full virus scan on your computer, if you did click the link
Do not on any links or reply to the message
Forward the message to phishing@council.bbb.org
Delete the message from your inbox and recycle bin

If you receive any e-mail from Better Business Bureau about a complaint filed against your company and need assistance in determining whether or not it is legitimate, contact the BBB directly at www.bbb.org.

For more advice on how to protect your business from malicious online attacks and data breaches visit http://www.bbb.org/data-security/.

Help for Folks Facing Foreclosure

7/29/2010

Posted on 7/29/2010 by

This past quarter, more than 895,000 foreclosure filings were reported on U.S. properties, and bank repossessions increased a record 5 percent. Foreclosure filings may exceed 3 million before the end of 2010. For homeowners who are delinquent on their mortgages, this may seem like old news. What they may not know is that free, HUD-approved housing counseling is available and may help them sort through options and find a solution to their problem.

Tom Simonton, Manager of Housing at Consumer Credit Counseling Service of MD & DE (CCCS), a BBB Accredited Business, notes, “When people get behind on their mortgages, they often react with fear and desperation. They may have talked with their lender already, but are frustrated, because they still don’t have a real course of action. HUD-approved housing counseling like we provide makes it possible for clients to fully evaluate their situation. During a counseling session, we help them determine where they stand financially and examine all available options. Our clients leave the session with a better understanding and a clear plan of action.”

Simonton acknowledges that the “face of foreclosure” is changing. “When the foreclosure problem first hit, most of the clients we saw here at CCCS were people of modest means who may have purchased more home than they could afford. Then as the economy got worse, we started seeing people who had solid careers and good incomes, but who had lost their job or run into other economic hurdles. Now, we are seeing people from all sectors of society. Clients may have triple digit incomes or be retired, but due to investment losses, they are now having trouble making their mortgage payments.

A recent online survey by Housing Predictor asked participants, “Are you afraid of losing your home to foreclosure or have you already?” Eight percent responded that they had already faced foreclosure; 30 percent -- or nearly one in three -- stated that they are afraid they will lose their home.

Local residents who have fallen behind on their mortgages aren’t just fearful; they are vulnerable: Late night cable is full of unscrupulous spots that make false promises and that may ultimately result in consumers losing their homes. Commercials for these scams may make reference to a government stimulus windfall, but ultimately involve a large fee up front.

Desperate homeowners do fall prey to mortgage foreclosure prevention scams. There is no ‘one size fits all’ answer. It’s impossible to know what options are available without first analyzing a person’s finances and mortgage situation. Based on that assessment, there may be several ways to respond: For example, the homeowner may benefit from lender or government modification programs and initiatives. In some cases, it may be necessary to appeal decisions that have already been made. If the client is too far behind or has no viable income, it may even be necessary to sell the home.”

HUD-approved nonprofit housing counseling is free of charge. The first step to receiving help is to schedule an appointment. CCCS provides counseling throughout the Baltimore metropolitan area and in Easton and Salisbury. At the counseling session, consumers are asked to provide:

Proof of income.
An outline of monthly expenses and copies of major monthly bills.
Most recent statement from the mortgage lender and other relevant communications.
Legal foreclosure documents.
Most recent tax return.

Experts recommend that clients put together a hardship letter that details when and why their mortgage payment problem started and if their inability to make payments is expected to be temporary or long lasting.

Rental Car Tips

7/28/2010

Posted on 7/28/2010 by

Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure it is important to know what to do and look for when renting a car. Take the necessary steps to make sure your renting experience is a positive one. The more informed you are before renting a car, the better off you will be.

So how to find a bargain? Your best bet is to hit the Internet: Expedia.com and Orbitz.com offer reliable online comparison-shopping tools for rental car companies at locations near you and you should also visit the car rental companies’ web sites – they may offer exclusive discounts and you’ll avoid booking fees.

If you're booking online, read the terms and conditions carefully before confirming your reservation. If you're booking over the phone, ask the agent about restrictions. Be sure you understand the conditions of your reservation. Is there a penalty for no-shows? How long will the car be held if you're stuck in traffic on the way to the pickup station? Is there a fee for additional drivers and must their names be listed in the contract? Is your 20-year-old daughter old enough to drive the car? (For liability reasons, this is important.)

If pertinent, ask about any restrictions on interstate travel. For your own protection in case of breakdown, be sure the company has offices in all the states on your itinerary.

Airport pick ups are more than convenient. If possible try and get a rental car from a company located away from the airport. Car companies located at the airport are more likely to be more expensive because of taxes and fees. Texas, Arizona, Ohio, Maryland, Missouri and New Mexico were listed as some of the states with the highest prices due to added fees according to Travelocity.

Think about insurance. Most companies make reserving and renting a car pretty simple—until it comes to the issue of insurance. That’s where they offer a bewildering array of supplemental coverage, which can easily add $10 to $30 to your daily bill. What the overeager reps won’t tell you is that you may already be covered, either partially or completely.

There are two major types of insurance you’ll want: a collision/damage waiver and liability. In many states, auto insurance policies do not cover “loss of use” which are the fees from the rental car company while the car is in the shop. If you need to file a claim on your insurance policy for an accident you caused (most likely because you are driving an unfamiliar car in a new area) your company will most likely mark you as a higher risk driver. As a result your premiums will probably increase.

As with any type of insurance, it’s always more complicated than it seems. Check ahead of time with both your credit card and auto insurance providers to see if, when, and how you’re covered.

Gassing up. In most scenarios, rental car companies offer the choice of prepaid gas, so you can return your vehicle with an empty or less than full tank. It may sound convenient, but in reality you will be paying more to gas up your rental car. Those who use this service will be charged for a full tank of gas, instead of what is needed to fill up the remainder of the tank. Take the extra time and fill up before you return the car to avoid having to pay extra fees. And, remember the stations closest to the airport are also probably the most expensive!

There is no such thing as free. Rental car companies will sometimes offer a “free” upgrade. Unless the extra space will benefit you, stick with the compact car you were originally going to rent. Larger vehicles use more gas, so that “free” upgrade isn’t really free. You’ll end up paying more at the pump.

Signature(s): By signing your car rental agreement or rental contract you agree to comply with all terms and conditions listed. NO if’s ands or but. If you book in advance, ask the company to provide you a copy of the Agreement for your review before you get to the counter! Otherwise, be prepared to initial and sign and hope for the BEST!

Will that be Debit or Credit: Many national companies are imposing restrictive policies such as credit check if you use Debit Card; Holding maximum amount on your card until you return; and of course, points if you use their affinity payment card.

Check In and Out: Be sure that the check-in attendant inspects the car's body in your presence BEFORE AND AFTER and that you agree about any damage. Examine your rental agreement carefully for all charges and make sure they credit any deposit to your account while you wait.

Door-to-Door Magazine Sales Could Spell Trouble for Consumers

7/27/2010

Posted on 7/27/2010 by
Better Business Bureau warns that potentially deceptive door-to-door magazine sales crews are hitting the pavement looking to earn a quick buck this summer. In the last 12 months, BBB has received over 600 complaints from consumers across the country, eight of which were Md. residents, about companies selling magazines door-to-door.

Many of these operations employ crews of high school and college-age people who are trying to earn money over the summer. These crews are sent to communities to knock on doors and sell magazines - sometimes without appropriate licensing. In the sales pitch, the representative might explain he is working to help get his life back on track, raising money on behalf of a charity, for a school trip, or are even selling subscriptions to support troops overseas.

Sales representatives are typically high school or college-age, victims readily believe the potentially fictitious sales pitch and often pay several hundred dollars for the subscriptions by personal check given directly to the sales representative. Most complaints against such companies allege that a sales rep took their check and the magazines never arrived. Some complainants also allege being subjected to high-pressure and misleading sales tactics.

Experience tells BBB that customers aren't the only victims of this scam; the young salespeople are potentially being taken advantage of by their employers and forced to work long hours, endure substandard living conditions and have their wages withheld from them.

BBB offers the following advice to avoid getting scammed by a door-to-door magazine sales rep:

· Always research the company with your Better Business Bureau for free at bbb.org before filling out a check for a magazine subscription.

· 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 magazine sales can file a complaint with Better Business Bureau and the Maryland Attorney General.

New Overdraft Rules for Debit and ATM Cards

7/23/2010

Posted on 7/23/2010 by

On July 1st new rules went into effect concerning overdrafts on your debit or ATM cards. You now get to choose in advance what happens when you make a charge on your debit or ATM card and don’t have enough money in your account to pay for it.

Let’s say you buy something with your debit or ATM card but haven’t been keeping track of how much you have in your account. It turns out you don’t have enough money in there, which means the withdrawal will lead to an overdraft. According to the Federal Reserve Board there are usually two ways that banks deal with an overdraft:

Standard overdraft practices. Your bank will cover your transaction for a flat fee of about $20-$35 each time you overdraw your account. For example, if you make a purchase with your debit card for $150 but only have $100 in your account, your account will be overdrawn by $50 and your bank will charge you a fee. If you then make an ATM withdrawal for $50, your account will be overdrawn by $100 and you will be charged another fee. In this example, if the fee your bank charges for its standard overdraft practices is $30, you will pay a total of $60 in fees on $100 in overdrafts.

Overdraft protection plans. Your bank may offer a line of credit or a link to your savings account to cover transactions when you overdraw your account. Banks typically charge a fee each time you overdraw your account, but these overdraft protection plans may be less expensive than their standard overdraft practices.

So what’s different under the new rules? Basically, your bank has to give you the option to choose how the bank will deal with an overdraft from you. In the past, some banks automatically enrolled you in a standard overdraft program when you opened an account with them. Now, the bank has to ask your permission and you have to opt in. If you don’t opt in, beginning August 15th, 2010, your bank’s standard overdraft practices won’t kick in when you charge too much. Instead, the transaction will typically be declined when you don’t have enough in your account to cover it. You won’t be charged an overdraft fee, but you also won’t be able to complete the purchase or withdrawal, either.

If you have an existing account that was opened any time before July 1st, you are supposed to get a notice from your bank about their standard overdraft practices, asking if you want them to continue or not. If you open an account after July 1st, you will be asked if you want to opt in or out when you fill out the initial paperwork. Whichever way you decide, you can change your mind at any time.

Warning: If you write checks or set up automatic bill payment from your checking account, the new rules do not cover checks or automatic bill payments. Your bank can still automatically enroll you in their standard overdraft practices for those types of transactions. If you don’t want that to happen, contact your bank, but you may find that you don’t have the option to cancel.

As always, it pays to shop around when you open a checking account. Banks could lose significant revenue if a majority of customers now opt out of overdraft protection, so down the road certain banks may decide to charge their customers new fees to make up for that loss of revenue. Always be aware of the terms of service of your account, and that includes reading those updates that come in the mail! If you don’t like your bank’s terms, you may want to shop for a bank whose fee structure you like better.

Changes to US Military Savings Bond Program

7/21/2010

Posted on 7/21/2010 by
The Army Times reported last week that military personnel who have an allotment to buy U.S. savings bonds with their pay must take a couple of steps before the U.S. Savings Bond Payroll Savings Plan goes all electronic by the end of August. Read the full Army Times article here.

Summertime and the BBB Makes Livin' Easy

7/20/2010

Posted on 7/20/2010 by Angie Barnett

It’s summertime and the livin’ is easy. Sunscreen slathered all over, water bottle within arm’s reach, tunes on the MP3 player. What could possibly go wrong?

Indeed. You look around your backyard, pretty pleased with life. Then you notice your two-story could use a major paint job. Your daughter leaves a text message about finding an auto mechanic. And your spouse informs you that the AC just went on the fritz.

So much for Shangri-La.

But rather than put away the beach umbrella, you reach for your laptop. Just a couple clicks of the mouse take you to http://www.bbb.org/greater-maryland/accredited-business-directory and you’re researching reliable painters, auto mechanics and HVAC repair businesses in your area.

At the top of each report you find a letter grade – A+ to F – assigned to the business based on a lengthy list of criteria. You scan each report to see if there have been complaints and if they were resolved. The BBB has 4 million business reports in its database, which makes checking both BBB Accredited Businesses and non-accredited businesses a snap.

Vacation Tips

7/19/2010

Posted on 7/19/2010 by

After waiting all year, it is finally time to pack up the bags and head out for a nice relaxing vacation. However, consumers need to be aware that whether they are going to the beach, the city or the mountains, it is important not to let their guard down.

Here are some things to consider before you start packing:

Plan ahead, just not too far ahead. Avoid travel deals that require full payment more than 60 days in advance. Credit card companies may allow consumers to dispute a charge within 60 days of purchase. Some vacation destinations will only refund a percentage of your costs if you pay far in advance.

Nothing is free. It is important not to get your hopes up when looking at professional looking websites and e-mails which promise free products or services. With technology is it pretty simply to make a professional looking website or company email. Very few legitimate companies can afford to just give away products and services of real value. Check for the company’s report at bbb.org.

Always ask questions and get everything in writing. Know the names of airlines, car rental companies and travel providers. It never hurts to call ahead to make sure everything is in order. Get a confirmation of your travel arrangements in writing to ensure you receive copies of cancellation and refund policies. If you make your travel plans online, always remember to save the confirmation email and print it out.

Consider traveler’s insurance. Whether your plans suddenly change, you become ill in a location with limited medical services, or your luggage is lost or stolen there is insurance which can help to cover those costs. The BBB recommends looking into an independent firm, rather than from the tour operator or cruise line as well as paying with a credit card. Baggage-loss protection is only necessary if you are carrying more than $2,500 worth of items in your bag.

While on your vacation:

Beware of “front desk” calls. Hotel goers should always be on guard when they receive a call from the “front desk” asking for credit card information. Sometimes individuals call hotel rooms asking for personal information. These people are not hotel representatives and should not be given any information. If you happen to get a call like this, inform the caller that you will come down to the desk later to discuss matters and hang up. Tell the hotel staff about the occurrence if it was indeed a scammer calling.

Plastic, Plastic, Plastic. Travelers who use credit cards are at an advantage when they book their travel arrangements. This gives consumers the option to dispute any fraudulent charges. Some credit cards even offer point rewards for money spent on the card. eBay suggests you never pay with personal checks and even recommends services such as PayPal, which has built in security measures. Bottom-line, be careful how you spend your money.

Contact BBB. If you think you might be a victim of travel fraud, or you are just interested in finding out more about a company visit bbb.org.

Extreme Home Volunteers Needed Today

7/14/2010

Posted on 7/14/2010 by

Volunteer Your Time or Donate Today to Help Complete the Baltimore Home for Girls Hope

The EXTREME weather in Baltimore has pushed the Girls Hope build behind schedule. Extreme Makeover Home Edition is in need of significant help over the next 48 hours to make this home a reality for a very worthy cause and some very deserving girls.

All the factory-build modules are in place, but they need all the help they can get to catch up after the delays caused by the weather. Please reach out to every builder, sub-contractor and set crew you know. Modular builders will be especially helpful since this is a hybrid build. They need project superintendents, framers, drywallers and every other finishing trade to assist in finishing the on-site construction of this home.

They are expecially in need of the following skilled volunteers:

Spray Foam- Wednesday, July 14 at 10AM
Drywall Hangers/Finishers- Wednesday, July 14 at 8PM
Trim carpenters- Thursday, July 15
Tile installers- Thursday, July 15
Painters- Friday, July 16
Flooring- Friday, July 16
Volunteers with a background in construction management

The crew is also in need of donated bottled water. Water can be dropped off at any security check point or at the check in and donation headquarters at the Belvedere Shopping Center located at 5830 Hillen Road, Baltimore, MD 21206.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE! The construction team needs at least 100 extra people on site NOW to get this finished in time. Learn more at http://excelhomes.com/baltimoreextreme/index.php/get-involved/volunteer.

BBB's Barnett wins Brava! Women Business Achievement Award

7/14/2010

Posted on 7/14/2010 by
BBB| Greater Maryland is pleased to announce Angie Barnett, President and CEO has been honored with a Brava! Women Business Achievement Award. The award is granted to those whom are making strides in business and who are building a stronger community financially, philanthropically, and through leadership.

Barnett was recognized with 24 other women by the Brava! Awards after being nominated and reviewed by a nominations committee of local business leaders. The award serves as an extension of Smart CEO's mission to educate, motivate and inspire decision makers each month with stories about the milestones, challenges and rewards of a business. The women CEOs who were recognized all serve as exemplary leaders within their companies and communities at large.

This year also marks a significant milestone in the history of the program. The 2010 awardees will join past BRAVA! recipients to form the BRAVA! 100 - an elite group of the first 100 female entrepreneurs recognized in the program. SmartCEO is proud to acknowledge their success at the July awards event, celebrating What 100 Women Can Do.

"I was made for this role," Barnett said. "I believe that people and businesses should do the right thing for the right reason. I wake up every day knowing BBB team and I are ready and able to make a difference in the community."

Working with BBB's Board of Directors since March of 2006, Barnett has implemented many strategies to advance BBB's mission of creating a trustworthy marketplace.

She has worked with numerous media outlets, including television, radio, online and print across the state to provide time sensitive community alerts and expert advice on scams and the Standards for Trust.

Combined, winners of the Brava! Award lead 4,300 people and earn $562 million in revenue. The women recognized were from various fields such as biotech, healthcare, public relations, staffing, consulting, human resources and more.

The BRAVA! winners are profiled in the July issue of SmartCEO, which is read by more than 30,000 business owners in the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan area. Each winner is also featured in the digital edition of the magazine. The winners are selected by an independent panel of business leaders.

"BRAVA! Women Business Achievement award recipients are not only selected and honored for their success in growing a company, but also for demonstrating leadership throughout the Greater Baltimore community. This unique combination of attributes is fit to be admired by any CEO. We are honored to recognize Angie Barnett as one of Greater Baltimore's most influential leaders," said Craig Burris, publisher and co-founder of SmartCEO.

The 4th annual Brave! Women Business Achievement Awards will be held July 23 at the American Visionary Art Museum.

Scams Increasingly Target Young Recruits

7/12/2010

Posted on 7/12/2010 by Angie Barnett
Young, inexperienced, and often drawing their first paychecks, enlisted men and women are easy marks for sleazy car dealers, insurance scammers, predatory lenders, and identity thieves. So pervasive are the rip-offs—and so troubling the debt incurred by military personnel as a result—that U.S. Department of Defense officials recently labeled the situation a threat to national security. Read the full article here.

Choosing a Pool Builder

7/7/2010

Posted on 7/7/2010 by

1. Have an idea of what you want and know your budget. A good contractor probably have suggestions to enhance your vision – but the costs for extras like spas, waterfalls and high-end materials can add up quickly. Know your minimum list of requirements, so that you can make a smart choice.

2. Put together a list of possible builders – your key here is research!

* Talk to friends

* Check with the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (apsp.org) - APSP Certified Pool Builders (CPB) received a comprehensive pool construction education. They are tested, certified and they maintain their status with continuing education

* Go to BBB (bbb.org), put in your zip code and do a search for swimming pool contractors for a list of builders in your area and details on their record of performance

* Pool builders must be licensed by the MD Home Improvement Commission

3. Ask Questions:

* How long have they been building pools?

* Who are their references? Ask the references if they would choose them again?

* Do they provide service/repair – a pool is a long-term commitment, so what happens after construction?

4. Have builders come to your site before requesting written proposals.

5. Get at least three written proposals – include any changes, additions, deletions in the final contract – never rely on oral agreements or modifications.

6. Watch out for red flags:

* The builder has lengthy industry experience, but limited pool building experience

* A price that is inconsistently low – are the materials and construction techniques up to par with the other prices?

* No proof of insurance

* A request cash or large up-front payments

* Equipment brands or exact material specifications are not on the contract

* There’s no written warranty (structure & equipment)

* A poor report with BBB

BBB Warns that Scams Emerge in the Wake of the BP Oil Spill

7/2/2010

Posted on 7/2/2010 by

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill continues to threaten the environmental and economic health of the Gulf Coast. In the wake of the largest environmental disaster in U.S. history, a coordinated effort is underway to clean up the spill and provide aid to affected families. Your Better Business Bureau warns that the recovery effort creates a great opportunity for scammers to make an easy dollar by deceiving those who are trying to find work, file claims with BP or donate money or volunteer to help with the cleanup.

“It’s tragic that scammers are taking advantage of an already disastrous situation,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Unfortunately, history has shown that in the wake of a national disaster, scammers find a variety of ways to prey on the misfortune of others.”

Whether you’re looking for work or financial assistance or want to help out by donating money or volunteering your time, BBB recommends doing your research and avoiding the following scams:

The Job Scam: Several organizations including BP and BBB have reported on job scams in the wake of the oil spill. Most commonly, job hunters say they were told to pay an upfront fee to get a job or pay for training. BBB has also heard from people who were recruited for cleanup work by outfits that did not seem to have a contract with BP.

Jobs available directly with BP are posted on www.bp.com. For jobs through the state, such as Florida, Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi, you can visit the states’ job websites. If you have been recruited by a company that claims to have a contract with BP, research the business fully and try to confirm with BP that they are a legitimate employer for the oil spill clean up. BBB advises job hunters to be wary of companies that require applicants to pay an upfront fee.

The vast majority of jobs created will go to Gulf residents or industry specialists. Many of the jobs involved in the cleanup also require specific training or certifications, such as Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response training. For most cleanup jobs, the employer will provide appropriate training for new employees.

The Claim Scam: Unsolicited e-mails claiming that the recipients qualify for compensation from BP are landing in inboxes. Additionally, the FTC warns against phony adjusters who ask for fees to expedite services.

BP is accepting claims from individuals and businesses for property damage, loss of income and bodily injury or illness. At this point it is unclear whether or not BP is accepting claims from vacationers who are seeking reimbursement for cancelled trips to the Gulf.

The toll-free BP claims line is 1-800-440-0858. The line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or you can file a claim online. Additionally, there are many claims offices along the Gulf Coast. More information is available through the Deepwater Horizon Response and BP's website.

The Charity Scam: Following any major disaster, scammers will pose as charitable organizations and try to solicit donations from well-meaning individuals.

The oil spill is unlike previous disasters and constraints in the clean up effort limit what charities can do with your money or how you can volunteer.

While you can’t donate or volunteer to clean up oil, 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. 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.

How to Contact BP and Where to Report Fraud:

BP has set up phone numbers to address specific concerns surrounding the Oil Spill. You can find a contact list on their website.

BP has also set up a fraud hotline at 1-877-359-6281. Additionally, you can alert the FBI by calling (866) 720-5721 or via e-mail disaster@leo.gov. Also contact your BBB so we can help get the word out and warn other people.

Find an Adoption Agency You Can Trust

7/1/2010

Posted on 7/1/2010 by

Celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Sandra Bullock, Madonna and many others are building families through adoption. While celebrities might make it look easy, the Better Business Bureau recommends doing your research when enlisting the help of an adoption agency. Adopting a child is a complex, lifelong experience; it is also a legal transaction that can be complicated and expensive.

According to the most recent numbers from adoption experts, there are more than 125,000 adoptions annually in the U.S. While not all adoptive parents rely on an agency, professional help can be key to creating your family, as well as navigating the various laws and requirements. Last year alone, eager families vetted adoption services with the BBB more than 35,000 times.

“There are many different paths to adoption and the services, expertise and competency of agencies vary,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Because the process can be expensive, complex and take years to complete, you want to make sure you’ve got the best people showing you the way.”

When searching for an agency, BBB recommends that adoptive parents:

Research your options – Many factors will have a large impact on the type of agency you choose such as adopting a child from foster care, opting for an open or closed adoption or a domestic versus international adoption. You may also choose to adopt a special needs child who might have physical or mental health issues.

Understand the laws – No matter what option you choose, there are state, federal and international laws that will drive the adoption process. Getting a good grasp on the governmental requirements and procedures will help you evaluate the expertise of adoption agencies and give you a better idea of which path for adoption is best for you. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services adoption website is a good starting point for looking into adoption laws and other adoption-related resources. Visit http://www.childwelfare.gov/adoption.
Get advice from other parents – Your best source of information may be people you already know who have adopted. If you don’t know any families that have adopted, ask friends and family. There are also many support groups both online and community-based for adoptive parents. Through these support groups, you can learn from the experience of others about the adoption process, including which agencies they were happy with and which ones they weren’t. If you choose to work with an agency, many have their own support groups.

Vet the agency with experts – Always make sure that the adoption agency is properly licensed to offer the promised services in your state and, if applicable, with the country from where you intend to adopt a child. Also check the agency out with your BBB; if the agency is an Accredited Business it is required to meet BBB’s standards for ethical conduct and resolving complaints.

Visit several agencies – Before deciding on any one adoption agency, try to visit and meet with several. You can often arrange an appointment to sit down and discuss what services they offer, what you will be required to do, as well as what you can expect in the adoption process. Many agencies also have informational group meetings that may answer many of your questions. Make sure the agency has extensive experience in the form of adoption you want to pursue. Find out what kind of pre- and post-adoption support the agency will provide, such as social programs that foster friendships among waiting and adoptive families, educational or cultural opportunities to allow families to learn about their children’s home country, programs for adopted children, teens or adults and counseling services. While adoption fees will be dependent on many variables, an agency should be able to disclose any required fees in advance, as well as any refund policy.

For more advice you can trust from BBB on evaluating businesses and services, visit www.greatermd.bbb.org/Consumer-Tips/

Slamming and Cramming

6/24/2010

Posted on 6/24/2010 by Angie Barnett

A Maryland consumer received a phone call from a gentleman who identified himself as a Verizon representative. The representative indicated that the consumer’s current carrier would no longer offer long distance service. The "Verizon" representative asked the customer to authorize a change to her Verizon account, reflecting the new carrier. She would later receive a separate bill.

The customer questioned the caller extensively and said she would not authorize any action without contacting Verizon first. The caller continued to press that he was from Verizon. The savvy consumer stood firm and did not succumb to repeated pressure to make an on-the-spot decision. At her insistence, the representative provided a call back number.

After calling the customer service number on an old Verizon bill, the consumer soon learned that the caller was not a legitimate Verizon representative.

Bottom Line:

As consumers demand the freedom to choose their own carriers for telecommunication services – the competition between carriers can sometimes result in aggressive, deceptive and even illegal sales strategies. This Maryland resident experienced a business scheme called “slamming”. Slamming is the illegal practice of changing your local or long distance telephone service without your permission. Cramming is also illegal and occurs when charges are added to your telephone bill for services you did not receive or agree to – and is more often associated with a business. Both slamming and cramming have ranked in the top 10 complaint types with the Federal Communications Commission for the past three years.

Slamming, when successful, results in higher fees, interrupted telephone service and unauthorized service provider for the consumer.

Telephone bills are already complicated enough due to various surcharges and taxes. So, many people don’t even take notice if there are a few extra or unexpected charges on their bill. It is important to carefully review all phone, cell, and even cable bills. Search for new or unexplained charges.

If you have been slammed:

Start by contacting the company who “slammed” the unauthorized change in service provider. Demand they return your service to the original carrier and do NOT pay for any services within the first 30 days.
Call an authorized provider and request restoration of service and request removal of any charges for switching companies from your bill. Document every step of the way!
In Maryland, consumers file complaints of slamming with the Maryland Public Services Commission – and they should also file their complaints on bbb.org.

If you are pleased with your current provider, you may want to consider asking your phone company to put a freeze on your account to help prevent being slammed. The freeze will require a written request or authorization via phone to remove the freeze, in the event you want to change provider in the future.

How to Avoid being Slammed:

If a telemarketer contacts you and you are uninterested, be firm and tell them “no”. You can also place your telephone number on the national “Do-No-Call” list by registering online at www.donotcall.gov.

When the Mortgage Gets You Down

6/21/2010

Posted on 6/21/2010 by Angie Barnett

The current state of the economy has pulled and tugged on many homeowners’ pockets. “How am I going to pay this month’s mortgage?” “Will I ever catch up on my past due payments?” Thousands of Americans face these questions and challenges daily. Not to mention, the fear of foreclosure is a harsh reality. In light of these factors and armed with the knowledge that worried homeowners are prime targets for scamsters, BBB offers some reliable online resources providing education and assistance for struggling homeowners.

Home Affordable Modification Program

This government program provides eligible homeowners the opportunity to modify their mortgages, making them more affordable. Over one million homeowners have already gotten help under the program.

Hope Now

HOPE NOW is an alliance between counselors, mortgage companies, investors, and other mortgage market participants. This alliance functions to maximize outreach efforts to homeowners in distress to help them stay in their homes.

Foreclosure Avoidance

The U.S Department of Housing and Development outlines facts, tips, and suggestions for citizens fearing foreclosure.

Consumer Credit Counseling of Md. And De.

CCCS provides HUD-approved housing counseling to make it possible for homeowners to fully evaluate their situation. During a counseling session, CCCS helps consumers determine where they stand financially and examine all available options.

Unemployment Benefit Estimation Tool

In an effort to keep unemployed workers in their homes, the Department of Labor has developed this tool to help mortgage companies quantify income from unemployment benefits for eligible individuals.

Loan Look Up

This site enables mortgage borrowers to determine if Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac owns their loan by providing their street address, unit, city, state, and zip code.

Fannie Mae 1-800-7FANNIE

Freddie Mac 1-800-FREDDIE

Grand Prize or Grand Illusion?

6/18/2010

Posted on 6/18/2010 by Angie Barnett

On May 28^th Maryland resident from Sabillasville sent BBB an “official looking” “Notice of Assessment” with the words “Monthly Prize Claim” for $125,000 at the top and inside a box immediately under the monthly prize was “Annual Prize Total” for 1.5 million. The documents include other “official sounding statements” such as

Offer expires in 7 days
“In the Matter of” and “approved Verdict”
Bar Codes and even a counterfeit “post it” note reminding consumer to sign the document/blue/black ink!
Disclaimer that GRN cannot be held accountable for any prize deadlines missed!

The consumer was confused – did she win a sweepstakes and if so, how much? And, why is the company asking for $3.25 check to accept - this just didn’t make sense!

BOTTOM LINE:

Global Reporting Network issues to residents mail solicitations BBB believes to be deceptive or at best, confusing advertising. The advertisement preys on the hopes of winning that “grand prize”!

The “Notice of Assessment” eludes to Sweepstakes winnings of $125,000 -1.5 million. The wording, format and style of the solicitation indicates direct delivery of prize and cash award.

In actuality, the notice is solicitation for the promotion and sales of monthly reports compiling entry details for cash awards and prize sweepstakes and merchandise offers. For initial $3.25, a “$125,000 Monthly Dispatch” will be mailed to your home. No guarantee of the information contained in the monthly report – but guarantee that the purported winnings of the entire report totals $125K per month, 1.5 million per year!

Here’s the “catch” for consumers who have complained to BBB – resulting in “F” Rating for this company.

The consumer is required to submit credit card or checking account info for “$39 recurring annually fee” and the “fine print” describes “annual fee consists of aforementioned fee multiplied by twelve” – again, price is not one time fee but annual fee ($39)x 12! Wow!

In addition, consumers report no avenue to stop the recurring charges. The company has no phone listing so consumer’s can’t call and speak with customer service rep. The form states consumers are required to notify the company in writing if they want to cancel. Consumers allege to BBB failure of the company to honor refund or cancellations as requested. Company also has California address on the return envelope!

How to tell Sweepstakes Scam:

Require you to pay to receive the prize
You don’t recognize ever entering
Pressure you to act quickly
Requires bank or credit card information
Notice of winning is sent by bulk mail!

Hooked On Hope; BBB warns sweepstake scams trading on tough economic times

6/8/2010

Posted on 6/8/2010 by

BBB is alerting consumers to be wary of phone calls, emails, and letters promising large sums of money from a sweepstakes. After a tip-off from a Glen Burnie consumer, BBB noticed an insurgence of scammers attempting to swindle optimistic and naive consumers.

"BBB staff have been researching a high frequency of calls about sweepstakes," said Angie Barnett president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. "Despite ongoing training to help consumers spot fraud, BBB staff has to work really hard to combat the temptation created by these clever solicitations," adds Barnett.

The Maryland consumer reported to BBB she was told by phone she had won 5.5 million dollars and other gifts including a red BMW convertible, Geico Insurance and a gas card for a year. Allegedly, the sweepstakes was sponsored by Gold Rush Casino, an unidentified magazine publisher, and Better Business Bureau of Las Vegas.

The consumer was instructed to call back ths sweepstakes company giving them the time to assess Maryland regulations for "winners." The return call to a New York landline resulted in directions to wire transfer $485.27 to cover related fees.

Another phone number used by the victim to claim the award was also traced to Jamaica. According to other reports by victims, calls to those numbers go unanswered.

When money is wired to unknown individuals, through services like Western Union, there is little recourse. Last year alone the Federal Trade Commission reported about 10,000 complaints a year from consumers about gifts, sweepstakes and prize promotions. In the same year, U.S. consumers reported paying $1.7 billion in fraudulent charges - a category separate from identity theft.

Suspicious or fraudulent awards should be reported to BBB. In addition, those received through the U.S. Postal Service should be reported to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455. If the sweepstakes is received via phone, attempt to gather as much information as possible and file a complaint with www.ftc.gov. Any emails should be forwarded to www.ic3.gov.

How to Spot the Red Flags of an Investment Seminar Scam

6/4/2010

Posted on 6/4/2010 by

Falling victim to a fraudulent investment scheme can mean losing anywhere from a few hundred dollars to your life savings. While most people might not see the harm in sitting through an investment seminar, Better Business Bureau recommends researching the investment company first, rather than run the risk of falling for a financial siren song over a free lunch.

Investment scams and schemes can come in many forms and a common technique to lure people in is the offer of a free financial seminar over lunch. In one recent example, the Securities and Exchange Commission shut down a Ponzi scheme which stole $20 million from retirees in California and Illinois. The scammers invited senior citizens to estate planning seminars and later coaxed their victims into buying promissory notes for purported Turkish investments.

“Free lunch seminars can seem like an easy way to get a meal, but attendees run the risk of getting drawn in by the slick presentations and promises of big returns,” Angie Barnett president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Unscrupulous seminars often use the promise of a free lunch to lure in leisurely senior citizens who have time and exploitable retirement accounts and real estate.”

When listening to an investment pitch, the BBB recommends looking for the following red flags:

• 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.

For more advice from your BBB on financial planning and investing visit http://www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-finance/.

For more tips on checking out investment advisors visit the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Maryland Attorney General Securities Division.

No Credit? Bad Credit? Beware of Loan Scams

6/4/2010

Posted on 6/4/2010 by

Arlington VA - June 3, 2010 - According to complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau, victims across the country have lost a total estimated quarter million dollars to advance fee loan scams this spring. Advance fee loan scams target individuals and small business owners who are desperate to get a loan and often take the victim for thousands of dollars.

Despite recent improvements, the economy continues to provide a great opportunity for scammers to take advantage of struggling individuals and small business owners. Lending standards remain stringent at most banks and many cash-strapped individuals are turning to fraudulent lenders that promise loans regardless of your credit history.

“Schemes preying on people looking for loans are not new, and they are flourishing in an economy when so many are struggling to get by,” said Stephen A. Cox, President and CEO of the Council of Better Business Bureaus. “The complaints received by BBB are only the vocal few and we know from experience that many more people across the country are falling for this scam every day—just when they can least afford it.”

BBB has recently received complaints about advance fee loan scammers operating under more than 75 different names including Capital Alliance Financial Group, Harford Financial Services, Howard and Clark Financial, Lending Hand Financial, among others.

Most people stumble upon the scam online or learn about the bogus loan offer from ads in local Thrifty Nickel publications and online through classified sites like Craigslist. Often, an advance fee loan scam website will be created and taken down within a couple weeks only to be replaced by another operating under a different name and fake business address.

The websites look professional and might even put the victim through the rigors of filling out loan application forms—often requiring the victim’s bank account and Social Security numbers. Eventually victims are told they are approved for the loan and just need to pay as much as thousands of dollars upfront via money order or wire transfer to pay for insurance or collateral. Those that pay, never get the promised loan and are even sometimes tricked into giving the scammers even more money.

BBB advises cash-strapped individuals and small business owners to recognize the red flags of an advance fee loan scam:

The lender has a bad reputation—or none at all. Research the lender thoroughly online and with your BBB. Most trustworthy lenders have an established track record; be wary if you can’t find much information about the lender online.

The lender is not registered in your state to do business. Check with your state financial or banking regulators.

The lender asks you to wire money or send a money order—such as for insurance or collateral—before you can receive the loan. You might be told to wire money to another country, consider this yet another red flag.

If you’ve become a victim of an advance fee loan scam, contact your local Better Business Bureau and report the incident to your police department. If you were asked to wire money to Canada, file a complaint with Canadian law enforcement by calling toll free: 1-888-495-8501 or e-mail: info@phonebusters.com

For more information or to schedule an interview with a BBB spokesperson, contact Alison Southwick at 703-247-9376.

Say “I Do” to Taking Control of Personal Finances; BBB offers money management advice for newlyweds

6/2/2010

Posted on 6/2/2010 by

Marriage is an exciting time for a couple, however, once the honeymoon is over, it’s time to sit down and get serious about your finances. After walking down the aisle, the Better Business Bureau advises newlyweds to take control of their money or risk a rocky financial future.

According to research by Utah State University, married couples that frequently fight over money are more likely to split up. Even when compared to frequent fights over other issues - such as chores, sex and in-laws - fighting about money was a better predictor of a future divorce.

“When considering your financial future, it’s important for newlyweds to realize that they are in it together and nurturing their nest egg can be a rewarding experience - and not just a source of frustration and fights,” said Angie Barnett president and CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. “Have the conversation earlier, rather than later, so that you can develop healthy personal finance habits together.”

In order to start your new life together on the right financial foot, the BBB offers the following advice:

• Let Financial Skeletons out of the Closet. After marriage, any personal debt becomes “our debt” and it’s important to sit down early on and discuss what outstanding obligations exist on both sides including car loans, school loans and credit card debt. Review your credit reports to get a better idea of what you are both bringing to the marriage.

• Build a Budget. After you’ve gotten a grasp on your debt, it’s time to build a monthly budget. Look at your monthly bills to create a realistic picture of how you spend. Discuss your long term goals - such as buying a house or car and having kids - and figure out how much money you need to set aside every month to reach those goals.

• Designate a Driver but Travel Together. In order to avoid confusion, one person should be assigned to paying the bills every month. This doesn’t mean that the other person takes a back seat role in managing the finances. Have a discussion at least every month about your financial progress in order map your path and nip any bad spending habits in the bud.

• Plan for Emergencies. Many young couples fail to save money to get them through hard times such as health problems and unexpected unemployment. Experts recommend you set aside three to six months of salary in a rainy day fund - ideally an interest-bearing account that can be easily accessed.

• Save for the Future. Retirement may seem like a long way off to newlyweds, but setting aside money now means reaping big rewards later on. Take advantage of both employers’ retirement matching programs - if available or set up individual retirement accounts.

• Make a Vow to Be Savvy Consumers. Many families have had their life savings decimated after becoming a victim to fraud or identity theft. Check out your BBB’s website to find trustworthy businesses, get educated on the red flags of fraud and learn how to protect your identity.

For more advice on managing your money, www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-finance/.

Towson Business Duped by Mid-West Sales Lead Company

5/24/2010

Posted on 5/24/2010 by
Baltimore, MD - May 24, 2010 - Clients of a Granite City, Ill., lead-generation firm say they paid the company hundreds of dollars for lists of potential customers that turned out to have little, if any, value.

Better Business Bureau advises businesses that sell insurance, or provide money management and mortgage services to consider alternatives before buying lead prospects from Select Marketing Solution, owned by Paula Caveny and Ronnie Henderson. The 15-month-old firm has generated a number of complaints from businesses across the country.

A businessman from Towson, Md., who bought a list for $300, said he was promised that all of the prospects had specifically asked to be contacted by a salesperson. Instead, he said, the 200 to 300 people the company called from the list "had no idea what we were talking about."

The BBB has received 15 complaints and reports about the company in the past seven months, 11 in 2010.

Angie Barnett, BBB | Greater MD president and CEO, said the complaints indicate that Select Marketing Solution may be promising more than it delivers. "In many cases, businesses are telling us that the leads are no better than what they could get by taking names straight out of a phone directory."

A financial advisor from O'Fallon, Mo., said he spent $400 for a list of 900 names and called everyone on the list. Of those he was able to reach, he said, none had ever requested to be contacted by a financial advisor. "Four hundred bucks; that is like taking food out of my kid's mouth," he said.

Businesses said Select Marketing Solution first contacted them by phone or e-mail. A solicitation sent to financial planner, introduced Select Marketing as a "leads generation and marketing company" that develops and generates "investment leads and prospecting information for financial advisors and insurance agents all across the United States." The e-mail offered three separate lists of prospects "within a 20-mile radius of your office." The price of each list was between $300 and $350, or all three for $800. It also offered a "2 to 1 replacement on any bad lead" and a "full money-back guarantee."

That financial advisor said he bought all three lists from Select Marketing earlier this year. His company sent letters to 400 prospects on the lists, then contacted many of them by phone. Not one, he said, said he or she remembered filling out any survey or answering any question indicating a desire to be contacted by a financial planner. According to the complaint "It was rather embarrassing, and a huge waste of time."

Johniece Gully, a manager for Select Marketing, said the company sells "lists," not "leads." However, the company's website and contracts refer to the company's products as "state-of-the-art leads," "sales leads," "lead generation program" and "lead packages." A business profile questionnaire sent by Select Marketing to the BBB in February 2009 says, "we are a lead lists company."

Gully said her company makes it clear that the lists of prospects are not developed by Select Marketing, but rather by third-party suppliers. She said she doesn't know exactly how the suppliers obtain the names, but said often they are generated through online or mail questionnaires or surveys.

Businesses filing complaints with the BBB said Select Marketing salespersons made it sound as if those on the lists had asked specifically to be contacted by a salesperson.

Each of those interviewed by a BBB investigator said he requested a refund from the company, but was turned down. Gully said it is company policy to issue full refunds if a client offers proof that he or she tried to contact everyone on a list and received no business from the contacts. She said Select Marketing has issued about 100 refunds. "We do our best to make everyone happy," she said.

The company's website includes testimonials from several clients around the U. S., all identified with their first names and first initials of their last names. Despite a BBB request, Gully did not provide contact information for the clients.

BBB offers the following tips for businesses considering buying lead lists:

Deal only with reputable companies that provide these services. Ask for the names of satisfied customers and call or write them before signing a contract.
Be wary of promises from salespeople that are not part of a written contract.
Try to find out how the lead list was compiled. Did a consumer respond to an online questionnaire? Was he or she screened in a prior phone call? If you are not satisfied with the responses, it might be best to walk away from the deal.
In many cases, you get what you pay for. Offers to provide lead lists for what seems like a very low cost may not prove productive.
Pay by credit card in the event you may want to challenge the purchase at a future date.
Contact the BBB for a Reliability Report by visiting www.bbb.org/.

BBB and Direct Selling Education Foundation Partner to Educate Direct Sellers and their Customers

5/20/2010

Posted on 5/20/2010 by
Better Business Bureau and the Direct Selling Education Foundation (DSEF) today announced the launch of a national partnership to raise awareness of ethical business practices and consumer protection by providing expert advice and guidance for direct sellers and their customers.

According to the most recent figures from the Direct Selling Association more than 15 million people in the US sold about $30 billion in products and services through direct selling in 2008. Nearly one-third of the sales were for personal items such as cosmetics, jewelry, skin care; a quarter of the items sold were for home goods including cleaning products and cookware. Worldwide, direct selling is a $100 billion industry.

“The direct selling industry represents a vibrant channel of distribution, and BBB and the DSEF created this partnership to educate the growing number of sellers and customers on their responsibilities and rights,” said Angie Barnett, President and CEO of BBB| Greater MD. “Building trust is integral to success in sales and it’s important for direct sellers to maintain best practices and for customers to know what to expect when making a purchase.”

BBB and DSEF have created a series of articles, videos and PSAs to educate direct sellers, their customers and even those considering a career path in direct selling. The topics covered include maintaining ethical sales practices, understanding consumer rights and recognizing red flags to avoid pyramid schemes. All the information is available for free online at http://www.bbb.org/us/DSEF-tips/.

“Promoting ethical business practices is at the heart of DSEF’s mission,” said Charles L. Orr, Executive Director, Direct Selling Education Foundation. “Our partnership with BBB brings ethics to life for both direct sellers and their customers.”

For more information visit bbb.org.

National Small Business Week: Free Online Resources for Entrepreneurs

5/20/2010

Posted on 5/20/2010 by

More than 27 million small businesses serve as the backbone of our economy and provide 60-80 percent of new jobs. In the midst of the recession, many small business owners are struggling to stay in business. As part of National Small Business Week, Better Business Bureau wants small business owners to know that they’re not alone. Following are free resources available online from your BBB and federal agencies for small business owners to help them stay afloat in a tough economy.

BBB Data Security – Made Simpler
BBB partnered with data security experts at Symantec Corporation, Visa Inc., Kroll’s Fraud Solutions and NACHA – The Electronic Payments Associationto produce free, easy-to-understand data security guidelines, with checklists and links to data security resources that make sense for small businesses. BBB’s Data Security – Made Simpler arms small business owners with the information they need to protect their customers…and their business. www.bbb.org/data-security/

BBB TrustBrief
The BBB TrustBrief is a free weekly email for small business owners to help them stay on top of the recent headlines and get the best guidance and expert advice on running a business. You can sign up for a free subscription at www.smartbrief.org/bbb

BBB Tips on Direct Selling
BBB and the Direct Selling Education Foundation have created a series of articles, videos and PSAs to educate direct sellers, their customers and even those considering a career path in direct selling. Free tips and advice you can trust on direct selling are available at www.bbb.org/us/dsef-tips

Business.gov
Business.gov is the U.S. Government's official website for small businesses. Business.gov provides small business owners with information and resources they need to comply with laws and regulations, and to take advantage of government programs and services to help them start, expand and run their businesses. http://www.business.gov/

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Wondering what kind of proof you need to back up the claims in your ads? Planning on using email to publicize your company? Thinking about buying a franchise or business opportunity? Concerned about your legal obligation to keep information secure? The FTC has free resources on best practices for complying with the law, many of which you can order in bulk for your employees at no charge. Written with a minimum of legalese, the FTC offers online tutorials, videos, and more than 100 to-the-point publications created with the small business owner in mind: http://ftc.gov/bcp/business.shtm

US Small Business Administration (SBA) Small Business Training Network
A virtual campus housing free training courses, workshops and knowledge resources designed to assist entrepreneurs and other students of enterprise. The Training Network makes SBA's business management resources available 24/7. http://www.sba.gov/training/

SCORE
SCORE is a unique federal government resource that utilizes volunteers, both working and retired, with expertise to advise small businesses, lead business seminars, and coach entrepreneurs online. A resource partner of the SBA for more than 40 years, SCORE has helped more than 7 million businesses succeed and stay active in the local and national small business marketplace. http://www.score.org

Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)
SBDCs provide management assistance to current and prospective small business owners. SBDCs offer one-stop assistance to individuals and small businesses by providing a variety of information and guidance in central and accessible branch locations. The program is a cooperative effort of the private sector, the educational community and federal, state and local governments. http://www.sba.gov/sbdc/aboutus.html

The National Women's Business Council (NWBC)
The NWBC is a bi-partisan federal advisory council created to serve as an independent source of advice and policy recommendations to the President, Congress and the SBA on economic issues of importance to women business owners. The council's mission is to promote bold initiatives, policies and programs designed to support woman business enterprises at all stages of development in the public and private sector. http://www.nwbc.gov

U.S. Export Assistance Centers (USEACs)
USEACs provide export information and development assistance to help small businesses take advantage of export markets, including trade counseling, training, legal assistance and publications.
http://www.sba.gov/oit/export/useac.html

More advice for small business owners can be found online from the Better Business Bureau at http://greatermd.bbb.org/.

Avoid Moving Scams this Summer: MMC and BBB Offer Advice on How to Protect Your Move

5/7/2010

Posted on 5/7/2010 by

Baltimore, MD – May 7, 2010 – 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 and the Maryland Movers Conference.

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.

In the last 12 months, BBB received 18,821 inquiries and 105 complaints regarding movers and relocation services in the greater Maryland service area. 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.

“The rise of the Internet has dramatically increased this problem,” says Maryland Movers Conference Chairman Glenn Duvall of Suddath Relocation Systems of Maryland, “A rogue company used to be limited to advertising in the local yellow pages. Today they can put up a Web site, giving them exposure to thousands of unsuspecting customers. With the proper research and planning, consumers can make sure they hire a qualified mover.”

“Checking a mover’s credentials is critical and easy. BBB provides trustworthy information on over 200 movers and relocation services,” said Angie Barnett, president & CEO of Better Business Bureau of Greater Maryland. “When making the final choice, check their BBB rating and consider choosing a company that meets BBB standards for their performance and ethics, one that has earned BBB Accreditation.”

BBB, the Maryland Movers Conference, and the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) offer the following checklist for finding a trustworthy moving company:

Research the Company Thoroughly. Maryland is considered an unregulated state because there is no registration requirement for movers, there are few laws, and there is no single state agency available for consumers to research a moving company. While state regulations vary, all interstate movers must, at a 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. 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. Whenever possible, ask any company you are considering hiring to come to your home, inspect your goods, and give you a written estimate of the cost. 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. If you are moving out of state research your rights as a consumer to see what your new state will provide in terms of protection. 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 the MMC’s site, www.mdmovers.org, 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 with your local Better Business Bureau, visit www.bbb.org.

BBB Travel Tips: Vacation Rentals for the Budget-Traveler

5/7/2010

Posted on 5/7/2010 by

Vacation rentals can be a great way to save money when traveling on a tight budget and many travelers are foregoing the mint on the pillow experience for less cushy and less costly accommodations. Better Business Bureau advises vacationers to do their research before booking rentals because sometimes the properties are not as advertised.

In a tough economy, a vacation rental is one way to save if you’re willing to forgo some of the luxuries. According to a summer 2009 survey by TripAdvisor.com, 43 percent of respondents said that they were planning to stay at a vacation rental in the coming 12 months. On average, the price per square foot for a U.S. hotel is more than twice the price per square foot of a vacation rental according to a report by HomeAway, an online vacation rental company.

“Many travelers have shaved hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars off of their vacation costs by renting a house or condo instead of paying for a hotel or resort,” said Angie Barnett, president and CEO of BBB| Greater Maryland. “A vacation rental can seem riskier than booking a hotel, but if you do your research and pay attention to the fine print, it can be a safe way to save money.”

There are many different Web sites that travelers can turn to for finding a vacation rental. Some companies specialize in connecting renters and vacationers—and take a cut for their efforts—while other sites cut out the middleman and potentially some consumer protections like money-back guarantees.

BBB offers the following advice to travelers looking to save money with a vacation rental:

Start Planning Now. Rental properties in popular locations get snatched up quickly so start your search early before all of the best properties are booked.

Do your Homework. If you plan on enlisting the help of a business, such as a third-party Web site or professional service, to connect you with a renter, always check them out with BBB first at bbb.org.

Manage Your Expectations. A home rental is not a hotel so you can’t necessarily expect the same level of professionalism, cleanliness or modernization. Some companies will guarantee that the property meets your expectations. If a guarantee isn’t being offered, consider travel insurance.

Take a Virtual Tour. Sometimes the pictures and descriptions of the property posted by the renter can be deceiving. Research the property on your own online and take a virtual tour of the surrounding area using Google Maps Street View. Don’t be tentative about asking plenty of questions about the property.

Get it all in Writing. Make sure that all of the verbal agreements are included in the rental contract including details on the deposit, rules on pets, refunds, and what is included in the cost of the rental such as utilities, internet, etc.

Use a Secure Form of Payment. Do not send money until you’ve signed the rental agreement and never pay via money wire, such as through MoneyGram or Western Union. When possible, use a credit card which can provide some amount of consumer protection.

Vacation Rentals By Owner. Take extra precautions when renting from an individual, particularly for international rentals. If possible, get references from previous renters and double-check the location of the property to avoid getting stuck in international waters.

More tips for the budget-savvy traveler can be found at http://bbb.org.

BBB and Capital One Partner to Help Cardholders Manage Credit Wisely

4/27/2010

Posted on 4/27/2010 by

Baltimore, MD – April 29, 2010 – Better Business Bureau and Capital One Financial Corp. have partnered to create a unique set of free resources to help consumers learn how to effectively manage credit. Recognizing that not every credit cardholder is the same, the new “Managing Credit – Made Simpler” (www.bbb.org/credit-management/) 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.

“Faced with the realities of the economic downturn, millions of Americans have been taking a second look at their finances, including examining their spending habits and how they are using credit,” said Angie Barnett, President and CEO, Better Business Bureau | Greater MD. “Regularly examining your finances including how and why you use credit is important. BBB’s Managing Credit – Made Simpler provides easy-to-follow tips, checklists, and advice that can help consumers better understand and successfully manage their credit.”

“Used wisely, credit can be an invaluable tool,” said Shelley Solheim, Director of Financial Education, Capital One. “Armed with basic information about credit, including understanding of the agreements they are entering into and knowing what's expected of individual cardholders, consumers can make better choices about how they’re using their cards. Our goal is to help consumers establish good credit habits and empower them to take control of their personal finances.”

Most credit card users understand the need to manage credit effectively, however there is no “One Size Fits All” answer about how to do it. The needs and perspectives of credit users differ based on their level of experience with credit and how they use it. Managing Credit – Made Simpler provides targeted advice for:

· Consumers interested in securing their first credit card or managing a personal credit line for the first time

· Cardholders who recognize they need long-term guidance on managing their credit efficiently.

· Cardholders who face mounting bills and need advice on how to pay down high balances efficiently.

BBB and Capital One created Managing Credit – Made Simpler to give customized credit management guidance to different types of credit users, based on their specific needs and perspectives. Credit users can self-select the version that fits their needs best: “New to Credit,” “Balancing Act,” “Overwhelming Obligations”. Topics include strategies to pay off balances faster, how to improve your credit score, reputable resources to get help now, five ways to find more cash and fraud prevention guidelines.

All of the resources and guidance made available through Managing Credit – Made Simpler can be found online for free at www.bbb.org/credit-management/.

BBB Offers Steps Consumers Can Take To Reduce Unwanted Mail

4/27/2010

Posted on 4/27/2010 by

Baltimore, MD, April 28, 2010 - Consumers can protect themselves against identity theft and also protect the environment by taking steps to reduce unwanted mail, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises.

“Some forms of unsolicited mail can put consumers at risk of identity theft,” said Angie Barnett, BBB of Greater MD president and CEO. “Consumers can take control of their mailboxes by opting out of credit card offers, coupon packs and other types of unwanted mail.”

Reducing the volume of mail you receive can make a big difference in the amount of solid waste a household generates. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says that Americans throw away more than 4 million tons of mail a year. That garbage can be a gold mine for identity thieves.

Pre-approved credit card offers can be an easy target for identity thieves. They can steal incoming mail and use the offers to open fraudulent credit card accounts. Consumers can opt out of credit card offers for at least five years by calling 1-888-567-8688 or by visiting www.optoutprescreen.com. Your Social Security Number and birth date are required, but they are encrypted for your protection. The service is offered by the three major credit reporting bureaus.

Unsolicited mail that is addressed to children under 13 years old can be a sign that identity theft has occurred. If a child is getting unwanted mail, parents should contact the three credit bureaus and inform them of the situation. The credit bureaus and their numbers are:

Equifax: 1-800-525-6285.
Experian: 1-888-397-3742.
TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289.

Catalogs can easily overrun a consumer’s mailbox. Some catalog companies hand your address over to others, resulting in an avalanche of mail. You can ask individual companies to stop sending you catalogs by contacting them directly, or you can stop mass mailings by e-mailing Abacus, an alliance of catalog and publishing companies, at optout@abacus-us.com or by writing to Abacus Inc., P.O. Box 1478, Broomfield, CO 80038.

Some mail can be stopped by contacting organizations that represent direct marketers. In some cases, codes or addresses from the mail may be required to process a request.

The Direct Marketing Association, a trade group representing 5,200 companies that use telephone, mail and the Internet to pitch products directly to consumers, gives consumers the option to opt out of mail. Consumers can go to www.dmachoice.org. It can take six months for the solicitations to stop.

Consumers can stop mailings of coupon packs by filling out an online request at www.coxtarget.com/mailsuppression/s/DisplayMailSuppressionForm or by contacting the sender of the packs.

To stop “resident” or “occupant” mailings, consumers can contact Valassis, formerly known as ADVO Inc. by calling 1-888-241-6760, by sending a written request to ADVO Inc. Customer Assistance, P.O. Box 249, Windsor, CT 06095 or by going to www.advo.com/consumersupport.html.

For more advice on protecting yourself from identity theft or to check out a business or charity, go to www.bbb.org.

BBB a Key Player in Helping Md AG Shut Down Local Locksmith

4/21/2010

Posted on 4/21/2010 by

Baltimore, MD - With a generous dose of cooperation by BBB | Greater Maryland, the Maryland Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division announced on April 7, 2010 the issue of a Cease and Desist Order against Around the Clock Locksmith (ATCL) and its owner, Joseph M. Horton. The Pasadena business is charged with billing customer's excessive, even outlandish fees and deceptive practices related to estimates of charges prior to delivery of the service. Consumers reported to BBB unauthorized credit card charges from the business when the consumer disputed or declined the service upon learning of the fees.

Better Business Bureau began receiving multiple consumer disputes against ATCL in August, 2009 and to date has received 18 reportable complaints, all of which were addressed or answered by Mr. Horton but did not result in refunds to the consumers. In addition, BBB received letters of information by an additional 55 consumers notifying BBB of their experiences as indicated in the Maryland Attorney General's allegations. These letters of experience combined with the consumer complaints enabled BBB to detect a pattern of deceptive and misleading practices resulting in the company's "F" Rating and ineligibility for BBB Accredited Business membership.

Angie Barnett, president/CEO BBB |Greater Maryland advised consumers to avoid the selection of a locksmith during a stressful and oftentimes emotional situation by establishing a relationship with a local provider now. "As every consumer is encouraged to purchase insurance as a safety net for unexpected emergencies, BBB encourages every home and car owner to identify a reputable locksmith within their local community. Store that contact information in both your mobile phone and wallet, and your memory so you do not find yourself at the mercy of someone holding the only key to entry back into your personal property," said Barnett.

In March of this year, after discovering the keys to their home had remained inside while they enjoyed an evening out, ATCL was contacted by local residents and had the couple inside their home within ten minutes. The bill presented for this work totaled $881 which included a $675 service call fee. Another Marylander reported during the winter snowstorms, ATCL was called out to assist with a locked car with no key which was blocking the snow removal route, and the final charge for this service exceeded $1000.

BBB | Greater Maryland recommends the following tips for considering a locksmith:

Research a locksmith before one is needed by going to www.bbb.org to search for a reputable locksmith and verifying certification with the Associated Locksmiths of America http://www.aloa.org/

If a company answers the phone with a generic phrase like "locksmith services," rather than a company-specific name, be wary. Ask for the legal name of the business. If the person refuses, call another locksmith.

Get an estimate for all work and replacement parts from the locksmith before work begins. In cases of "lock-outs" (being locked out of your car or home), most legitimate locksmiths will give you an estimate on the phone for the total cost of the work.
- Ask about additional fees before you agree to have the locksmith perform the work. Companies may charge extra for responding to a call in the middle of the night. Ask if there is a charge for mileage, or a minimum fee for a service call.
- If the price the locksmith provides when he arrives doesn't jibe with the estimate you got on the telephone, do not allow the work to be done.

All service vehicles, vans and trucks should be clearly marked with the company name and identifying details.

The qualified locksmith should always ask for your proof of ID and authorization to begin work upon arrival, as well as supply his or her own professional identification and credentials.

MD Businesses Receive Phony BBB Phishing Attack

4/14/2010

Posted on 4/14/2010 by

Beware of fake complaint reports coming from seatac@bbb.org .

Better Business Bureau is warning businesses to beware of a new malicious e-mail that pretends to be from BBB about a complaint filed against the company. The e-mail first came to BBB’s attention on April 12, 2010.

Businesses across the US and several in Maryland 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. Both BBB Accredited and non-Accredited businesses have been targeted.

The body of one reported 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:

Do not click on any links or reply to the message,
Forward the message to phishing@council.bbb.org,
Completely delete the message from your inbox, and
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 http://www.bbb.org/us/find-a-bbb/.

For more advice on how to protect your business from malicious online attacks visit www.bbb.org/data-security/.

A copy of the actual e-mail follows:

MD Craigslist Advertiser Is the Beneficiary of Fake ‘Pay It Forward’ Offer

4/14/2010

Posted on 4/14/2010 by

What does renting a house have to do with WalMart Gift Card? But, on the other hand, who doesn’t want a $1000 WalMart Gift Card FREE?

A local MD homeowner places a “house for rent” ad on Craigslist and receives the following email:

From: swiftleonard@aol.com [mailto:swiftleonard@aol.com]
Sent: Saturday, April 03, 2010 6:14 PM
To:
Subject: house for rent

I came across your craigslist posting for the house for rent.
A little over a month ago I had a run of bad luck and was forced to sell some of my things on craigslist to pay the bills. One person stopped by to buy my tools and gave me way more than what I was asking for. When I asked the guy why, he said that he wanted to help me out as long as when things worked out I helped someone else out too.
I can't give you cash the way he did me, but a few days ago I did find these Walmart gift cards. I'm passing on the link, but if it works for you, I'm asking that you do the same thing I did and pass it on to someone else.
Go Here
Thank You
Bryce

Through the CraigsList response email LINK (never click), our advertiser is led to believe he can receive a FREE $1,000 WalMart gift card. The offer is actually made by Better-Gifts.net. To qualify/redeem Gift Card, the recipient MUST:

Answer Survey Questions (optional)
MUST Participate in 13 Sponsor Offers:

· Sponsor Offers consist of “free trials” with recurring monthly charges until “cancelled” – with companies such as Netflix, Gevalia Coffee, Rising Star which has $79 per month billing, Clear Revolution which has $50 per month billing, and Advantage Language with 10 day free trial with $80 monthly charges! Some of the company’s you’ve heard of, others are unknown.

· Sponsor Offers also consist of actual purchases for “Blockbuster” $9.99 first month, $17.99 thereafter until “cancelled”; Columbia House (DVDs) buy five in two years; NYTimes subscription, or Discover Card!

BBB's review of company and consumer complaints on companies offering “free trials” report the following: excessive unauthorized recurring charges; cancellation of the “free trial” product is fraught with obstacles (phone’s not answered, customer service reps rude, no contact info on the company); multiple companies begin charging at the same time causing hundreds of dollars of unexpected charges spiraling into “bounced” accounts, overdraft charges, etc.

ADDITIONAL FACTS

The “WalMart” offer has been found in other schemes in which you receive ToysRUs or Loews gift card.

The address listed for “Better-Gifts.net” website leads to another scam “Super Free Laptop” which is same scheme, but by completing all the “Sponsor Offers (free trials/purchases)”, the consumer is awarded a free lap top (same complaints).

This scheme is operated through numerous other sites such as feebie-fusion.net; bargainsurveys.net and the list goes on – incredible volume of domain names sharing the same name server!

WalMart has posted on their corporate website warning of the scam http://walmartstores.com/AboutUs/9309.aspx?p=9073

BBB TIPS

Don’t open or respond to unsolicited e-mails offering free gift cards;
Don’t click on or respond to online ads or websites offering free gift cards;
Pay attention to the website URL. If the URL does not match the branding to a legitimate website navigate away from the website.

BBB's Secure Your ID Day

4/7/2010

Posted on 4/7/2010 by

BBB's Free Community Shredding and Identity Theft Prevention Event from 8 a.m. - 12 noon
Rain or Shine

THE AVENUE at White Marsh

(On Town Center Drive behind AMC Loews - MAP)

Bring up to three boxes of documents from your home or office for free, on-site shredding. Get tips to prevent identity theft, enjoy some shopping and discounts at many of THE AVENUE's eateries.

Secure Your ID Day hotline - 410-332-0739

BBB would like to thank the following sponsors for their support:

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Linthicum Area Biz Bits & Networking Event - June 22

4/7/2010

Posted on 4/7/2010 by

What Is Your Business Worth? (And Why You Ought To Know)
6/22/2010
7:30-9:00 a.m.

NFM
505 Progress Drive Suite 100
Linthicum, MD 21090

Advanced Registration Required

ABOUT THE TOPIC
Learn what your company is actually worth! Presenters will discuss the four milestones all businesses should aim for. Benefit from tips and suggestions on how to sell a business and increase it's sale value.

ABOUT OUR NETWORKING EVENT
Before the program enjoy a networking opportunity with complimentary refreshments and breakfast pastries. Make new contacts and friends with ethical businesses like yours.

ABOUT THE PRESENTERS
Business owners rely on SPARDATA Business Valuation Experts for high quality, affordable, quickly delivered valuations of their operating businesses and professional practices.

Sunbelt provides business owners with the road map of how and when to exit their businesses while achieving the highest return.

Call Jody Thomas at 410-347-8593 or email jthomas@greatermd.bbb.org to register.