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Tips On Disaster Relief Donations

5/21/2013

Posted on 5/21/2013 by

In the wake of a disaster, the BBB Wise Giving Alliance offers the following tips to help donors decide where to direct donations to assist victims:

Be cautious when giving online.

Be cautious about online giving, especially in response to unsoliciteds pam messages, and emails and social media posts that claim to link to a relief organization. If you want to give to a charity involved in relief efforts, go directly to the charity’s website. In response to hurricanes Katrina and, Rita, and the Asian tsunamis, the FBI and others raised concerns about websites and new organizations that were created overnight, allegedly to help victims.

Rely on expert opinion when it comes to evaluating a charity.

Be cautious when relying on third-party recommendations such as bloggers or other websites, as they may not have fully researched the relief organizations they list. The public can go to www.bbb.org/charity to research charities and relief organizations and verify that they are accredited by the BBB and meet the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.

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 100 percent of collected funds will be assisting disaster victims, the truth is that the organization is still probably incurring fund raising and administrative expenses. It may use some of its other funds to pay these costs, but the expenses will still be incurred.

Find out if the charity has an on-the-ground presence in the impacted areas.

Unless the charity already has staff in the affected areas, it may be difficult to bring in new aid workers to provide assistance quickly. See if the charity’s website clearly describes what the charity 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 those that have a presence in the region. Or, at a minimum, check out the ultimate recipients of these donations to see whether they are equipped to provide aid effectively.

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 distribute such aid properly. Ask the charity about its transportation and distribution plans. Be wary of those who are not experienced in disaster relief assistance

BBB Warns of Charity Scams, Offers Giving Tips in Wake of Boston Marathon Bombing

4/16/2013

Posted on 4/16/2013 by

Arlington, VA – April 16, 2013 – At least one poorly-conceived charity scam has already emerged in the wake of the explosions at the finish line of the Boston Marathon yesterday, and more are likely. BBB Wise Giving Alliance (“Alliance”), the national charity monitoring arm of the Better Business Bureau, and BBB Serving Eastern Massachusetts, Maine, Rhode Island and Vermont (“BBB Boston”) cautions donors about potential red flags concerning tragedy-related philanthropy.

“Tragedies inspire people to give,” said H. Art Taylor, president and CEO of the Alliance, “but, tragedies – whether natural disasters or manmade catastrophes – also inspire scammers to take advantage of that generosity. Social media, in particular, makes it very easy to reach a lot of people quickly, when emotions are running high and people feel the need to take action, any action, to help.”

BBB Wise Giving Alliance urges donors to give thoughtfully and avoid those seeking to take advantage of the generosity of others:

BBB Wise Giving Alliance: Ten Tips for Giving with Confidence

1. Thoughtful Giving

Take the time to check out the charity to avoid wasting your generosity by donating to a questionable or poorly managed effort. The first request for a donation may not be the best choice. Be proactive and find trusted charities that are providing assistance.

2. Help Spread the Wise Giving Word

Remind your friends and family to be cautious about giving requests in the wake of such a tragedy and ask them to spread the word as well. People are emotionally moved by events like these and may react before they have time to carefully consider.

3. State Government Registration

About 40 of the 50 states require charities to register with a state government agency (usually a division of the State Attorney General’s office) before they solicit for charitable gifts. If the charity is not registered, that may be a significant red flag.

4. Respecting Victims and Their Families

Organizations raising funds should get permission from the families to use either the names of the victims and/or any photographs of them. Some charities raising funds for the Colorado movie theater and Newton school victims did not do this and were the subject of criticism from victims’ families.

5. How Will Donations Be Used?

Watch out for vague appeals that don’t identify the intended use of funds. For example, how will the donations help victims’ families? Also, unless told otherwise, donors will assume that funds collected quickly in the wake of a tragedy will be spent just as quickly. See if the appeal identifies when the collected funds will be used.

6. What if a Family Sets Up Its Own Assistance Fund?

Some families may decide to set up their own assistance funds. Be mindful that such funds may not be set up as charities. Also, make sure that collected monies are received and administered by a third party such as a bank, CPA or lawyer. This will help provide oversight and ensure the collected funds are used appropriately (e.g., paying for funeral costs, counseling, and other tragedy-related needs.)

7. Online Cautions

Never click on links to charities on unfamiliar websites or in texts or emails. These may take you to a lookalike website where you will be asked to provide personal financial information or to click on something that downloads harmful malware into your computer. Don’t assume that charity recommendations on Facebook, blogs or other social media have already been vetted.

8. Financial Transparency

After funds are raised for a tragedy, it is even more important for organizations to provide an accounting of how funds were spent. Transparent organizations will post this information on their websites so that anyone can find out and not have to wait until the audited financial statements are available sometime in the future.

9. Newly Created or Established Organizations

This is a personal giving choice, but an established charity will more likely have the experience to quickly address the circumstances and have a track record that can be evaluated. A newly formed organization may be well-meaning but will be difficult to check out and may not be well managed.

10. Tax Deductibility

Not all organizations collecting funds to assist this tragedy are tax exempt as charities under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donors can support these other entities but keep this in mind if they want to take a deduction for federal income tax purposes. In addition, contributions that are donor-restricted to help a specific individual/family are not deductible as charitable donations, even if the recipient organization is a charity.

Other Resources:

BBB Wise Giving Alliance is asking anyone who receives a suspicious charitable solicitation to report it to BBB Report a Scam.

The FBI has the lead investigative role following the bombing. Anyone who has information, visual images and/or details regarding the explosions should call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324), prompt #3. The FBI says no piece of information or detail is too small.

The American Red Cross says it has enough blood and financial resources committed to Boston at this time, but asks that people make appointments to give blood in the weeks and months ahead.

Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino offers the Mayor’s 24-Hour Hotline at 617-635-4500 for anyone with concerns about their family members or friends who were at the race.

The Mayor’s office also suggested resources from the National Association of School Psychologists to help children deal with tragedies.

About BBB Wise Giving Alliance: BBB Wise Giving Alliance produces reports on over 1,300 nationally soliciting charitable organizations, and local BBBs report on another 10,000 local and regional charities. BBB Wise Giving Alliance does not rank charities but rather seeks to assist donors in making informed judgments by providing objective evaluations of national charities based on 20 standards that address charity governance, finances, fund raising, appeal accuracy, and other issues. The outcomes of the evaluations are available online at www.give.org. BBB Wise Giving Alliance is an affiliate of the Council of Better Business Bureaus.

About BBB: For more than 100 years, Better Business Bureau has been helping consumers find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2012, consumers turned to BBB 124 million times for Business Reviews on more than 4.5 million companies and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at bbb.org. The Council of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for 113 local, independent BBBs across the United States and Canada, as well as home to its national programs on dispute resolution and industry self-regulation.

Man claims tax refund is delayed due to mistake by tax preparer

3/19/2013

Posted on 3/19/2013 by
BBB Central Indiana President/CEO Bill Thomas interview with Fox 59 News

http://fox59.com/2013/03/18/man-claims-tax-refund-is-delayed-due-to-mistake-by-tax-preparation-company/#axzz2NzJspM1a

BBB warns of scams

2/5/2013

Posted on 2/5/2013 by
http://www.wthr.com/story/20964463/bbb-warns-of-scams

BBB Offers Ten Giving Tips for Newtown Tragedy

12/19/2012

Posted on 12/19/2012 by

Arlington, VA – December 18, 2012 – In the wake of the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, the BBB Wise Giving Alliance, the national charity monitoring arm of the Better Business Bureau, cautions donors about potential red flags in fund raising to help Newtown and to be aware of the different circumstances that often emerge in tragedy-related philanthropy.

“Certainly this tragedy will inspire people to give. Americans are emotionally drawn and will respond to requests to help the Sandy Hook community, advocacy groups and mental health charities among others,” said H. Art Taylor, President & CEO, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, “and while they should be on the lookout for questionable solicitors and scammers, people may be less clear about the complicated legal character of their gifts.” The BBB Wise Giving Alliance offers ten tips to educate donors, avoid problem appeals, and give with confidence.

BBB Wise Giving Alliance urges donors to give thoughtfully and avoid those seeking to take advantage of the generosity of others. Here are “Ten Tips for Giving with Confidence” –

1. Thoughtful Giving

2. State Government Registration

3. Respecting Victims and Their Families

Organizations raising funds should get permission from the families to use either the names of the victims and/or any photographs of them. Some charities raising funds for the Colorado movie theater victims did not do this and were the subject of criticism from victims’ families.

4. How Will Donations Be Used?

5. What if a Family Sets Up Its Own Assistance Fund?

6. Advocacy Organizations

Tragedies that involve violent acts with firearms can also generate requests from a variety of advocacy organizations that address gun use. Donors can support these efforts as well but note that some of these advocacy groups are not tax exempt as charities. Also, watch out for newly created advocacy groups that will be difficult to check out.

7. Online Cautions

8. Financial Transparency

9. Newly Created or Established Organizations

10. Tax Deductibility

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 Reports on 12,000 charities, all available for free at www.bbb.org. The Council of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for 114 local, independent BBBs across the United States and Canada, as well as home to its national programs on dispute resolution and industry self-regulation.

Tips on Hurrican Relief Donations

9/4/2012

Posted on 9/4/2012 by
In the wake of Hurricane Isaac and other storms threatening coastal regions of the U.S., this season, BBB Wise Giving Alliance offers the following tips to help donors Americans decide where to direct donations to assist hurricane victims:

Be cautious when giving online.
Be cautious about online giving, especially in response to unsolicitedspam messages, and emails and social media posts that claim to link to a relief organization. If you want to give to a charity involved in relief efforts, go directly to the charity’s website. In response to hurricanes Katrina and, Rita, and the Asian tsunamis, the FBI and others raised concerns about websites and new organizations that were created overnight, allegedly to help victims.

Rely on expert opinion when it comes to evaluating a charity.
Be cautious when relying on third-party recommendations such as bloggers or other websites, as they may not have fully researched the relief organizations they list. The public can go to www.bbb.org/charity to research charities and relief organizations and verify that they are Aaccredited by the BBB and meet the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.

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 100 percent of collected funds will be assisting hurricane victims, the truth is that the organization is still probably incurring fund raising and administrative expenses. It may use some of its other funds to pay these costs, but the expenses will still be incurred.

Find out if the charity has an on-the-ground presence in the impacted areas.
Unless the charity already has staff in the affected areas, it may be difficult to bring in new aid workers to provide assistance quickly. See if the charity’s website clearly describes what the charity 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 those that have a presence in the region. Or, at a minimum, check out the ultimate recipients of these donations to see whether they are equipped to provide aid effectively.

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 distribute such aid properly. Ask the charity about its transportation and distribution plans. Be wary of those who are not experienced in disaster relief assistance.

Citizens Energy Group and IPL Warn of Utility Payment Scam

7/6/2012

Posted on 7/6/2012 by

INDIANAPOLIS – Citizens Energy Group and Indianapolis Power & Light Company (IPL) are warning customers of a bill payment scam involving requests for personal information and mentions of a federal program that provides funds for utility payments. A number of customers of both utilities have reported a scam in which they are told that President Obama has authorized a new federal program or that "Obamacare" will pay utility bills.

According to the Better Business Bureau, customers have been contacted in person and through fliers, social media and text messages with claims that President Obama is providing credits or applying payments to utility bills if customers provide social security and bank routing numbers. In return, customers are given invalid bank information that will supposedly pay their utility bills. In reality, there is no money, and customers may believe they have paid their bills when in fact they have not.

Customers are reminded that they should never provide their Social Security numbers or other personal information to anyone contacting them by phone or in their homes unless they initiated the contact and are confident with whom they are speaking. If customers receive calls or visits from individuals claiming to represent the utility company and feel pressured to make payments or provide personal information, they should immediately call the customer service number provided on their utility bills or request to see the visitor's company-issued identification. All IPL and Citizen Gas employees carry company issued identification badges.

More information about the scam is available at:

www.bbb.org/blog/2012/05/scam-alert-president-obama-wont-pay-your-utility-bill/

About Citizens Energy Group

Citizens Energy Group is a Public Charitable Trust providing safe and reliable utility services to more than 300,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in the Indianapolis area. The Public Charitable Trust means its utilities are managed only for the benefit of customers and the community. Additional information is available online at www.CitizensEnergyGroup.com- Facebook-Twitter-YouTube

About Indianapolis Power & Light (IPL): Indianapolis Power & Light provides retail electric service to more than 470,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in Indianapolis, as well as portions of other Central Indiana communities surrounding Marion County. During its long history, IPL has supplied its customers with some of the lowest-cost, most reliable power in the country. For more information about the company, please visit www.IPLpower.com

Media Contact: Media Contact:

Sarah Holsapple Crystal-Livers Powers

Media Relations Coordinator Indianapolis Power & Light

Citizens Energy Group (317) 261-8423

927-4341 (Office) (317) 393-7584 pager

363-6900 (Cell) crystal.liverspowers@aes.com

Sholsapple@citizensenergygroup.com

Get BBB News and Scam Alerts sent Directly to your Phone or Email

3/22/2012

Posted on 3/22/2012 by

I would like to receive information on scams, consumer tips, alerts, newsletters and information about other BBB programs and services by email. Please email communications@indybbb.org and include “Subscribe” in the subject line. You may also provide your cell phone number if you are interested in receiving SMS Alerts (text messaging).

Reminder: This is optional. You may choose not to receive these kinds of messages from the BBB at any time by contacting us at info@indybbb.org or you may unsubscribe using the link at the bottom of any message you receive. We protect your information. To view the BBB’s privacy policy, please click here.

Consumer Choice Control Your Data Online

3/12/2012

Posted on 3/12/2012 by

Online behavioral advertising uses your web surfing history to display online ads that are most likely to interest you. Advertising pays for a lot of great online content we’ve come to depend on, but advertisers want to make sure that they are reaching the right people with their messages. Information is collected as you search the web and move across various websites but, thanks to a new industry-created program, you have some a lot more control over who gets your information.

http://www.bbb.org/us/interest-based-advertising/

Exercise your choice – There is an important new symbol you need to get to know: the AdChoice icon.

When you see an advertisement that carries the above icon or AdChoices message, you can click on the icon or message to learn more about the ad, and how to opt-out from future collection and use of your web browsing data for interest-based advertising.
You can visit the AboutAds consumer choice page to see a list of businesses that collect and use data for OBA purposes and you can opt out of some or all on the list.
You can set preferences on some web browsers that enable you to control the delivery of cookies to your computer.

http://www.aboutads.info/consumers

File a Complaint – If you believe a business is following your online browsing history and serving you ads based on that information without giving you notice and choice through the icon or the AdChoices message, we encourage you to fill out our easy-to-use online report form. The more information you can give us, the better able we will be to act on your report. If you can capture screen shots related to your report, you can send them to obacompliance@council.bbb.org as attachments to your report or by separate email.

http://www.bbb.org/us/interest-based-advertising/report-ads/

Learn More About the Participants – Hundreds of websites and other businesses support this new initiative – about 90 percent of the companies that deliver ads to you. These are companies that have committed to honest online advertising and respect for your privacy, and they deserve your business. Look for the icon and make your choice.

http://www.aboutads.info/participating

BBB AUTO LINE is Fast Fair and Saves You Money

3/12/2012

Posted on 3/12/2012 by

For more than 30 years, BBB AUTO LINE has helped consumers resolve “lemon law” complaints simply, and without the cost of hiring a lawyer. Our dispute resolution program covers car warranty issues against participating manufacturers, and we have helped more than 2 million consumers in that time. Last year alone, BBB AUTO LINE consumers received re-purchase, replacement and reimbursement awards totally more than $41 million, while saving automakers millions in legal fees – a “win-win” situation.

http://www.bbb.org/us/auto-line-lemon-law/

Know your lemon law – Every state has a lemon law, which makes automakers responsible for vehicles that fail to meet performance and safety standards, regardless of the warranty. You can get details on state laws here, but make sure you keep all documentation on your vehicle, its history, repair orders, etc., take notes when you talk to your dealer or repair shop, and keep track of how many days your vehicle is out of commission.

http://www.bbb.org/us/auto-line/state-lemon-laws/

Is my car included? – Most automakers agree to participate in BBB AUTO LINE to resolve their consumer complaints quickly and efficiently. And we’ve made it easy for you to check and see if your car, truck, van or SUV is included. If you are looking for a new vehicle, check this list and see if your top choices are covered. These manufacturers stand behind their vehicles and are committed to working with consumers fairly. They deserve your business.

http://www.bbb.org/us/auto-line-lemon-laws/accredited-manufacturers/

File your complaint – At BBB AUTO LINE, we strive to make resolving your lemon law complaint as simple as possible. Our role is to open communication between you and your manufacturer and to assist in the speedy resolution of your auto warranty or lemon law dispute. We will guide you each step of the way: through collecting documentation, negotiating a possible settlement and navigating the arbitration process.

http://www.bbb.org/us/auto-line-lemon-laws/process-information/

Keeping Kids Safe Online

3/9/2012

Posted on 3/9/2012 by

For more than 35 years, the BBB Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU) has been helping parents control what their kids see and hear on television, radio and, more recently, the Internet by evaluating child-directed advertising and promotional material. Working closely with major advertising trade associations, CARU developed Self-Regulatory Guidelines for Children’s Advertising and a process for enforcing them.

http://www.caru.org]

Keeping kids safe online – The average kid spends 2-7½ hours online every day. From homework to games to chatting with friends via social media, the Internet has become the primary channel of communications for children and teens. Safety on Screen: Keeping Your Children Safe on the Internet is a free online guide that explains issues such as privacy, security, cyber-bulling, stalking, setting parental controls and more.

http://www.caru.org/program/SafetyonScreen.pdf]

Problems with what your kids watch? – If you’ve seen an ad on children’s television (programming aimed at children under age 12) or on a child-oriented website (aimed at children under 13) that you think is inappropriate, report it to CARU and we’ll look into it. Many advertisers clear their ads with us before they air to be sure they are offering a responsible message, and we watch carefully the ones who don’t.

http://www.caru.org/complaint/index.aspx]

Tips for Tornado Relief Donations

3/7/2012

Posted on 3/7/2012 by

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

March 7, 2012

INDIANAPOLIS— With the severe storm and tornado damage still fresh, Hoosiers from all across the state are looking for ways to lend assistance.

“As with all recent major disasters, Hoosiers have again stepped up to the plate to help our neighbors in southern Indiana and all across the Midwest and Southern states affected by the recent severe storms and tornados,” said Bill Thomas, president/CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Central Indiana. “Parallel with recent history, we expect fake and fraudulent organizations and individuals to start surfacing and attempting to cash in on this most recent disaster.”

In the wake of the severe storms and tornados that came through southern Indiana, the BBB serving Central Indiana offers the following tips to help Hoosiers decide where to direct donations to assist storm victims and their families:

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. If you are seeking to give to a charity organization involved in relief efforts, go directly to the charity’s website.

Rely on expert opinion when it comes to evaluating a charity.

Be careful when relying on third-party recommendations such as bloggers or other websites, 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 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 100 percent of collected funds will be assisting 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.

Find out if the charity has an on-the-ground presence in the impacted areas.

See if the charity’s website clearly describes what they can do to address immediate needs. Watch out for charities that don’t already have staff in the effected areas as they may not be able to provide assistance quickly.

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.

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.

“Historically, Hoosiers have always been generous towards helping our neighbors and friends in times of disaster,” said Joseph Eldridge, BBB Charity Review Manager. “However, there is a distinctive difference between simply giving and smart giving. By doing some simple research and understanding the organization you are giving to, you will be doing the most good for everyone involved.”

BBB offices are available to answer any questions at 317-488-2222 as well as through email at info@indybbb.org.

Financial Field Manual for Military Families

3/7/2012

Posted on 3/7/2012 by

Since 2004, BBB Military Line has supported our military communities with free services such as financial readiness classes, outreach activities, information, data collection and dispute resolution. Local BBBs across the U.S. work with military installations to provide information on financial literacy and consumer protection.
http://www.bbb.org/military]

Financial Readiness = Mission Readiness: We are particularly proud of our brand new Kiplinger-BBB Financial Field Manual: The Personal Finance Guide for Military Families. Free copies are available at many military installations and USO kiosks around the country, or you can download it for free from our website.

http://www.bbb.org/us/Military/resources/]

Get news you can use through Facebook: BBB Military Line’s page on Facebook is a great resource for service members, families and veterans. It’s chock full of news and links to resources from DOD, the media, and private sector organizations that support our troops.

https://www.facebook.com/militaryline]

Become part of the mission: BBB Military Line is a proud supporter of the White House’s Joining Forces national initiative. First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden are leading the charge in advocating for support for military families on everything from jobs for spouses and veterans to educational opportunities for military kids to recruiting community volunteers to support our troops.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/joiningforces]

Giving Wisely to Accountable Charities

3/6/2012

Posted on 3/6/2012 by

The BBB Wise Giving Alliance helps donors make informed giving decisions, and advances high standards of conduct among charitable organizations. Our “Standards for Charitable Accountability” are the most rigorous of any charity review organization, and ours is the only review program that requires charities to respond in order to be evaluated.

http://www.give.org

Give to accountable charities – You decide on the causes and issues you want to support, but a BBB charity report will show whether your charity of choice meets our high standards for accountability, transparency, governance and more. Here is a list of national charities that meet BBB Wise Giving Alliance standards (many local BBBs also review regional and local charities).

http://www.bbb.org/charity-reviews/national/

Give to charities that make an impact – BBB Wise Giving Alliance is one of the founders of Charting Impact, a new organization that is helping charities and nonprofits create a common framework for reporting effectiveness. Supporters, donors, academic researchers, volunteers and the media are coming to recognize the Charting Impact Report as a valuable tool for assessing a charity’s impact on society.

http://www.chartingimpact.org

Give through texting and social media – Social media makes information about societal needs easier than ever to find, and “text-to-give” makes donating a breeze. Learn more about how charities are using social media and mobile giving to support their causes.

http://www.bbb.org/us/storage/16/documents/wga%20guides/holiday-2011-wise-giving-guide.pdf

Managing Credit Made Simpler

3/6/2012

Posted on 3/6/2012 by

In today’s society, credit management is as important as money management. You need to read agreements you sign with lenders, understand your credit score, and manage your credit effectively. It’s complicated, but BBB has made it simpler with three clear and easy-to-understand guides based on your level of experience with credit and the amount of your debt.

http://www.bbb.org/credit-management/

New to Credit – Secure your first credit card, manage a personal credit line, apply for a loan. Having a good credit record may help you qualify for lower interest rates, and your credit record may also affect your ability to get a job, an apartment or affordable car insurance, among other things.

http://www.bbb.org/credit-management/new-to-credit/index.html

Balancing Act – Have you tried to manage your money well, but are facing changes in you financial situation? Are mounting bills and limited resources making you aware that you need to develop a new plan before your financial situation gets worse?

http://www.bbb.org/credit-management/balancing-act/index.html

Overwhelming Obligations – If your bills are piling up, you are barely making minimum payments, or creditors are calling, this version is for you. Get solid advice that can help you pay down high balances and get back to financial health.

http://www.bbb.org/credit-management/overwhelming-obligations/index.html

Top Ten Scams of 2011

3/6/2012

Posted on 3/6/2012 by

Whether it’s a knock on the door or an email in your in-box, when a stranger wants to offer you something that sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Likewise, when you hear from a friend or family member in trouble and in desperate need of money, it may be too bad to be true.

These are two of the most common tactics use to scam people. Now you can fight back with BBB Scam Source:

Learn more about the biggest scams of 2011 – Did Facebook try to give you $1 million? Did you see the video of Osama bin Laden’s death? Did you get a middle-of-the-night call from the hotel front desk? These all made our Top Ten Scams of 2011.

http://www.bbb.org/us/article/bbb-names-top-ten-scams-of-2011-31711

Know Your Scam: Your Guide to Outsmarting the Top Scams – Here are the top categories of scams we hear about, and what you can do to protect yourself.

http://www.bbb.org/us/scam-source/top-scams/

Sign up to get our Scam Alerts by email – Be a scam-savvy consumer. You’ll hear about the latest scams as soon as we do.

http://www.bbb.org/us/scam-source/alert/

Be a scam detector and report what you know – Maybe you’ve heard about a scam even before us. Let us know! By filing a scam report with BBB, you are helping everyone stay on top of the newest twists.

https://cbbb.wufoo.com/forms/report-a-scam/

Home Rental Demand to Increase as NFL Playoffs Continue

1/17/2012

Posted on 1/17/2012 by

INDIANAPOLIS— The demand for Indianapolis home rentals is expected to increase as the NFL playoffs continue and teams advance closer and closer to competing in Super Bowl XLVI on Feb. 5, 2012 in Indianapolis.

“As their favorite team advances deeper into the playoffs, fans will be more adept to purchase tickets and place down payments on home rentals in Indianapolis,” said Bill Thomas, president/CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Central Indiana. “The prospect of making up to thousands of dollars a day to rent out your home is very appealing, but it also comes with some dangers.”

The Better Business Bureau serving Central Indiana is warning Indiana residents of fraudulent listing companies that offer to market your home to potential renters for the Super Bowl.

“In cases we saw in Dallas last year and other events in cities throughout the country, some of these listing companies will require a large, up-front payment for their services only to disappear with your money,” Thomas said. “Other cases may be that the listing company grossly over exaggerates their reach or the overall professionalism of their listings.”

Indianapolis residents interested in renting their home to Super Bowl guests should be sure to do the following:

· Research how to best effectively market your home rental to a mass audience. If you decide to use a third-party business, be sure to research the business and get all guarantees in writing and require a signed contract.

· Research the going rate of home rentals in Indianapolis. Be sure to take into account amenities such as a bar, game room, number of bedrooms, daily cleaning, etc.

· Develop a contract to be signed by the homeowner and the renter. Be sure to include damage provisions, security deposit details and payment details.

· Talk to your homeowner’s insurance provider and make note of any requirements to remain covered while renting out your home.

· Check with your homeowners association to be sure you are not in violation of any rules or ordinances and communicate with your renters any rules or ordinances that must be followed.

“The Super Bowl will provide an unprecedented opportunity for select Indianapolis home owners, however, through the excitement, homeowners must still be aware of potential scams, frauds and other pitfalls that can dampen this opportunity,” Thomas said.

For a list of BBB-accredited home rental businesses, please click here

Super Bowl Ticket Prices may be Sky High May also be Counterfeit

1/17/2012

Posted on 1/17/2012 by

INDIANAPOLIS—The countdown is under 20 days before the city of Indianapolis hosts its first ever Super Bowl and largest-ever event. Tickets to the big game are highly sought after, but also very limited.

According to www.indianapolissuperbowl.com, the official website of the Super Bowl XLVI Host Committee, Lucas Oil Stadium will seat around 70,000 fans for the game. The city of Indianapolis, however, is expecting to play host to between 100,000 and 150,000 guests in addition to the general population of nearly 840,000.

“Looking at the expected attendance numbers and population statistics, only about five percent of the people who will be in Indianapolis the week of the Super Bowl will actually make it into Lucas Oil Stadium for the game,” said Bill Thomas, president/CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Central Indiana. “The percentage of people who would like to be at the game will be significantly higher, which, in turn, will create an opportunity for counterfeiters to swoop in and make a quick buck.”

The Better Business Bureau serving Central Indiana suggests fans buy from a brick-and-mortar business, in person, or from a trusted website and use a protected credit card so there is a paper trail. The BBB also warns against purchasing tickets via wire transfer.

“Traditionally, wire transfer is the preferred payment method of scammers,” Thomas said. “Wire transfers cannot be traced and the money exchanges hands very close to real time.”

According to Renny Harrison with Fanfare Tickets, LLC, a Carmel-based BBB-accredited business, hopeful Super Bowl game attendees should expect ticket prices to change frequently and significantly, both up and down, as the game approaches.

Locally, the BBB reports on a number of businesses that sell tickets, for a list of local, BBB-accredited businesses in the ticket industry, please click here.

Build a Fast-Growing Company on a Bootstrap Budget

1/5/2012

Posted on 1/5/2012 by

#BBB Accredited @SlingshotSEO Built a Fast-Growing Company on a Bootstrap #Budget.Learn how. inc.com/kevin-bailey/b… via @IncMagazine
— Nick Ostergaard (@BBBindy) January 5, 2012

Build a Fast-Growing Company on a Bootstrap Budget

1/5/2012

Posted on 1/5/2012 by

<P class=MsoNormal><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p><a href="<A href="https://twitter.com/search/%2523BBB">https://twitter.com/search/%2523BBB</A>">#BBB</a> Accredited @<a href="<A href="https://twitter.com/SlingshotSEO">https://twitter.com/SlingshotSEO</A>">SlingshotSEO</a> Built a Fast-Growing Company on a Bootstrap <a href="<A href="https://twitter.com/search/%2523Budget">https://twitter.com/search/%2523Budget</A>">#Budget</a>.Learn how. <a href="<A href="http://t.co/mQeo3ZSx">http://t.co/mQeo3ZSx</A>" title="<A href="http://www.inc.com/kevin-bailey/build-a-fast-growing-company-on-a-bootstrap-budget.html?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=socialmedia&utm_campaign=button">http://www.inc.com/kevin-bailey/build-a-fast-growing-company-on-a-bootstrap-budget.html?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=socialmedia&utm_campaign=button</A>">inc.com/kevin-bailey/b…</a> via @<a href="<A href="https://twitter.com/IncMagazine">https://twitter.com/IncMagazine</A>">IncMagazine</a></p>— Nick Ostergaard (@BBBindy) <a href="<A href="https://twitter.com/BBBindy/status/154948451396894721">https://twitter.com/BBBindy/status/154948451396894721</A>" data-datetime="2012-01-05T15:32:44+00:00">January 5, 2012</a></blockquote></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></P>

Advanced Fee Loan Scam uses Indianapolis Address: Swindles Consumers all across the Country

1/4/2012

Posted on 1/4/2012 by

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Jan. 4, 2012

Contact: Nick Ostergaard

nostergaard@indybbb.org

317-488-2221 x122

Advanced Fee Loan Scam uses Indianapolis Address: Swindles Consumers all across the Country

INDIANAPOLIS— Forestview Equity Group has earned an “F” rating with the BBB and is receiving complaints for an Indianapolis address from consumers across the country. Complaints allege paying an upfront fee in order to secure a loan, only to be denied the loan and unable to recover the original fee.

The BBB has received four complaints from consumers in four states including: Arizona, Virginia, Florida and New York. These complaints were all returned to the BBB as undeliverable due to the company not having a presence at the physical location in downtown Indianapolis that is being disclosed as part of the scam. The address listed is a building primarily occupied by a prominent law firm.

“Consumers should never have to pay in advance to secure a loan,” said Bill Thomas, president/CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Central Indiana. “This is one of the very few cut-and-dry scams. Under no circumstances should you be required to pay a fee to secure a loan.”

According to the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) website, consumers may be tempted by ads and websites that guarantee loans or credit cards, regardless of credit history. The catch comes when the application requires a fee to be paid for in advance. If asked to pay a fee for the promise of a loan or credit card, you are dealing with a scam artist.

Consumers who are interested in securing a loan or need financial assistance are urged to contact local for profit and not-for-profit financial institutions or credit counselors and resist the temptation of applying for loans that advertise guaranteed approval.

“Both locally and nationally, consumers have legitimate options to seek financial help,” Thomas said. “Paying an advanced fee, particularly via money wire, is not a solution and will only compound existing financial difficulties.”

For a list of local, BBB-accredited businesses offering financial services, please click here.

###

Scam Artist Target New Payment Methods

12/8/2011

Posted on 12/8/2011 by

Holiday Budget Calculator

11/23/2011

Posted on 11/23/2011 by
http://video.bbb.org/clearpoint-holiday-tips/clearpoint-holiday-budgeting-calculator.html

Dear Santa Email Program

11/18/2011

Posted on 11/18/2011 by
http://www.fox59.com/videogallery/66167024/News/BBB-warns-against-Dear-Santa-email-programs#gl-0

Is Direct Selling for You? Five Important Questions

10/25/2011

Posted on 10/25/2011 by

Millions of people have found a way to be their own boss and make money on a flexible schedule through direct selling. Being successful at direct selling doesn’t require any special education or experience but it isn’t for everyone. Better Business Bureau suggests people ask themselves a few questions when considering a new venture in direct sales.

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.

“Many families are able to survive tough economic times by getting involved in direct sales,” said Alison Southwick, BBB spokesperson. “Direct selling can be a great opportunity, but it may not be for everyone. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of the differences between legitimate companies and pyramid schemes.”
BBB recommends asking the following five questions when deciding whether to start a career in direct sales:

Do you have what it takes to be a good salesman? Some people are born with innate qualities for being a salesperson. They are outgoing, friendly, good public speakers and self-motivated. For those that weren’t born with these traits, they can be acquired. Direct selling offers the opportunity to develop fundamental business and personal skills. But remember, success in direct selling will take time and effort. Before taking the plunge, arrange to shadow a couple of successful direct sellers who can show you what it takes—every day—to be a success.

Is this a product you believe in and can sell? If you are selling a product you believe in, most of the work is already done for you. Excitement over a product or service is infectious and will grab potential customers. If you wouldn’t buy the product yourself, you’re going to have a very hard time selling it.

Can you trust the company? Ask the company plenty of questions and read company literature thoroughly. Familiarize yourself with the Code of Ethics established by the Direct Selling Association so you can identify potential red flags. Find the time to sit down with actual representatives and customers for their insight on both the company and the products. Take your time in choosing the right opportunity and always vet the company with BBB at www.bbb.org.

Is it just a pyramid scheme? Pyramid schemes will often pretend to be legitimate opportunities. The biggest red flag for a pyramid scheme is that the money making potential lies predominantly in recruiting other people, like you, to pay to join. Your compensation should come primarily from the sales of products and services to actual users – whether they are your own sales or those of people you have recruited..

Do you risk financial loss by joining the company? Start-up costs for a legitimate direct selling company are generally quite low – often less than $100. Regardless of the fee, however, it’s important to check out a company’s buy-back policy so you’ll know your rights if you decide to quit the business. The Direct Selling Association Code of Ethics requires member companies to buyback inventory and sales aids purchased in the past 12 months for at least 90% of the purchase price if one decides to leave the business.

For more advice on getting into direct sales, visit bbb.org, www.dsef.org or www.directselling411.com.

About Direct Selling Education Foundation (www.dsef.org)
The Direct Selling Education Foundation (DSEF), created in 1973 by visionary leaders of the Direct Selling Association, serves the public as the industry’s goodwill ambassador. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the international non-profit organization offers comprehensive programs that advance the direct selling industry’s support of consumer rights and protection, education about the industry, ethical leadership, and individual economic empowerment. Thousands of industry and community thought leaders from diverse backgrounds and organizations have come together at DSEF sponsored programs to learn, grow and create a vital and healthy business climate. Our services include conferences, training sessions, publications, university campus visits, teaching and instructional materials, networking opportunities, grants to organizations, consultative assistance and grants for research and case studies. For more information, visit www.dsef.org or watch this video.

As a matter of policy, the CBBB and Better Business Bureaus do not endorse any product, service or company.

Taking Action For You Getting the best price when selling gold

10/7/2011

Posted on 10/7/2011 by

By Jenny AnchondoFox59

Indianapolis— There have been more than 500 complaints to the Better Business Bureau this year involving gold buyers. Many stem from Central Indiana and involve false advertising, delivery issues and customers not getting the amount quoted during an appraisal.

Fox59 is taking action for you with a gold industry insider about how to make sure you're not ripped off.

"Sometimes you feel like, here comes grandma and she needs money for whatever and you're taking her jewelry and not giving her the best you can give her for it," said a woman who wanted to remain anonymous. We’ll call her Jackie for this story.

Jackie wanted to get the message out, when it comes to making cash from selling gold. She worked for a local gold buyer for years.

"At any given day our rates were lower than anyone else in town," Jackie said.

Yet, that business remains in business because people continue to sell there.

"They (customers) need to walk in the store knowing what the price of gold is," she said.

Jackie knew day-to-day rates, and felt like she was ripping customers off.

"Chances are, they could go across the street and get $200-300 instead of settling for $50," Jackie said.

Desperate people didn't even try to negotiate.

"If anybody had an objection to the price we offered, we were to call the bosses and they would make a price increase. Sometimes yes, sometimes no," she said.

She was also pushed by management to host "gold parties." That way, the guests wouldn't be focused on comparing prices, they'd just see the payout as a bonus.

"If you can't see them testing it when you're there, don't ever let them walk in the back room with it. Don't ever," she said.

Mailing gold for money is another option, but Central Indiana’s BBB CEO said you need to create a detailed list of what you have, before you mail.

"Make sure you're going to take pictures of your items before you ever mail them out. See if you can get some sort of a guarantee so that if you're not happy ultimately with the money you've received, you can send that check back and get your items back," said BBB CEO Bill Thomas.

He also said consumers need to understand the sellers still need to make a profit.

"They’re not going to give you 100 percent of the daily value based on the current price of gold, but you want to make sure the margin they're taking isn't so much so that you are getting a lot less for your gold than what you'd expect to get," Thomas said.

Also, be sure to know the karat weight of each item and separate them based on that. Otherwise, you might get paid for the lowest karat weight from a group, Thomas said.

"People that come in knowing the facts, they go out of there with a lot more money than anybody else would," Jackie said.

When you go to sell, be aware that stores buying gold are supposed to make a copy of the seller's identification and take a picture of the goods they buy to have on record, Jackie said.

The Better Business Bureau suggests that sellers get at least two to three appraisals before deciding to sell.

College Students Increasingly Susceptible to “Friendly Fraud”

9/22/2011

Posted on 9/22/2011 by

By Kent Erdahl

Indianapolis

As students all over the country begin college, many are becoming victims of identity theft, and it's often because they're letting their guard down among 'friends.'

So-called 'friendly fraud' is a growing problem among young people who often know how to keep their guard up when it comes to online solicitations, but are often careless with their personal information around friends online and on campus.

Former college student Mark Engleking traveled with Fox59 to the Butler University campus to ask current students a simple question.

"How aware are you guys of identity theft in college?" Engleking said.

"Unless you've gotten your identity stolen, or know someone really close who's gotten their identity stolen, I don't think it's a big issue pressing on everybody's mind," said Butler freshman Daniel Cutter.

Mark would've had a similar response if he'd been asked a few years ago.

"I would have probably laughed because it wouldn't have happened to me," Engleking said.

But it did happen to Mark, because he made a common mistake among students who often take their personal security for granted among people they think they know.

"My roommate, who I thought was my best friend at the time actually used my debit card for gas and he used it to buy a phone online," Engleking said.

"The younger generation knows that you don't want to open unsolicited emails and provide information," said Bill Thomas with the Better Business Bureau. "They may not think of some of these things that they don't perceive as a potential threat, though."A study sponsored by the Better Business Bureau found that 14 percent of all identity theft cases last year involved friendly fraud, and it comes at a time when more young people are sharing more of their lives with more so-called friends online.

"I wasn't worried at first," said Butler freshman Julianne Stribiak, "but then last week I actually got a message on Facebook and it was some random guy from a frat and he said he found my license and debit card on the street."

Each of the freshman students Engleking spoke to shared similar stories in just their first few weeks, which is why he was happy to share his.

"It's not so much not trusting others but protecting yourself first," Engleking said.

The best way to avoid friendly fraud is to safeguard all access to your personal information. Keep your wallet in a secure location, but also set security locks on cell phones and computers which often contain just as much vital personal information. In addition, be extra careful about what information you share online, even with people who are perceived to be friends.

http://www.fox59.com/news/wxin-college-students-increasingly-susceptible-to-friendly-fraud-20110921,0,4727298.column?page=2

BBB Tips for Super Bowl Home Renting

8/26/2011

Posted on 8/26/2011 by
http://www.indystar.com/article/20110826/NEWS11/108260333/Rent-your-house-Super-Bowl-sure-read-fine-print?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|IndyStar.com

Watch Out for False Promises from 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 $1500 to $2000 for assistance in collecting money owed from businesses only to forward consumers’ complaints to BBB.

OnlineBusinessScams.com told one consumer that in order to help him collect money owed from a business he needed to pay 30% of the amount owed. The site requested half of the 30% upfront, which he paid.

After receiving the fee, OnlineBusinessScams.com asked the consumer to provide the details of the dispute so the site could determine whether to handle the “case.” Afterwards, the consumer received an information packet that included an envelope addressed to BBB. OnlineBusinessScams.com told the consumer that they would recover his money within 90 days. It’s now been 90 days and the consumer tried to contact OnlineBusinessScams.com to no avail.

BBB wishes to remind all consumers that their services are free. Consumers never have to pay a third party in order to receive help from BBB. To file a complaint against a business, please fill out BBB’s online form or contact your local BBB

Stretching Your Dollar: AC repairs

7/28/2011

Posted on 7/28/2011 by

Click on the link below for some helpful tips on air conditioner service and repairs.

http://www.fox59.com/videobeta/08f2acea-7205-4956-a9e0-86299a2055d0/Home/Stretching-Your-Dollar-AC-repairs

Better Business Bureau Warns Hoosiers Of Super Bowl Scams

7/11/2011

Posted on 7/11/2011 by
http://www.theindychannel.com/news/28490050/detail.html

Arizona Business solicits BBB-Accredited Businesses, may Falsely Imply BBB Endorsement

6/30/2011

Posted on 6/30/2011 by

INDIANAPOLIS- Your Better Business Bureau has received notification that a business, Website Connection, LLC of Scottsdale, Ariz., is using BBB accredited business directories as sales leads to sell web-based advertisements.

The alert from the BBB serving Southern Colorado states the business has multiple identities. In Colorado, Website Connection, LLC is doing business as Colorado Springs Business Directory. Locally, the business may similarly identify themselves as Indiana Business Directory, Hoosier Business Directory or Indianapolis Business Directory.

In Colorado, the sales representative for the business was said to imply a close relationship or even endorsement by the BBB as a sales pitch. The Better Business Bureau serving Central Indiana is not selling advertisements nor endorsing a third party to sell advertisements.

What to do before purchasing advertisements or listings:

• Check with your local library. The public library will most likely stock well-known and useful general directories and can advise you about its knowledge of the volume in question.
• Ask the solicitor if they belong to any nationally-recognized trade associations and personally verify this information.
• Ask questions. A reputable company will be willing to provide you a list of subscribers and other advertisers, as well as the number of volumes published in past years.
• If they indicate distribution to federal or local government agencies, ask for references by a contact name, agency, address and phone number of any local agencies.
• Do your own research; a reputable business will encourage you to check them out before agreeing to make a purchase.

What to do after you agree to purchase advertisements or listings:

• Prior to signing, read the entire purchasing contract and be sure you are purchasing only what you need and agreed to.
• Establish effective internal controls for the payment of invoices.
• Channel all bills through one department.
• Check all invoices against purchase orders and against services received. Make certain that order numbers correspond with the invoices.
• If you receive additional invoices for services not ordered and the invoicing company claims to have tape recordings of the order and verification calls, insist on hearing them.

Contact the Better Business Bureau with any questions or click here to file a complaint.

###

Please share this e-mail:

Contact: Wendy Dych
Nick Ostergaard
Phone: 317-488-2222
Email: wdych@indybbb.org
nostergaard@indybbb.org

Free Webinar: Identity Theft Protection

5/19/2011

Posted on 5/19/2011 by Nick Ostergaard

Think you're not at risk?
Think again!

The Attorney General's office is inviting you to REGISTER
for a FREE online webinar designed to minimize your risk of identity theft

Schedule of upcoming classes:*

Tuesday, May 24 @ 3:00 p.m. EDT click here to register
Tuesday, May 24 @ 6:30 p.m. EDT click here to register
Thursday, June 9 @ 3:30 p.m. EDT click here to register
Saturday, June 18 @ 1:00 p.m. EDT click here to register
Wednesday, June 22 @ 1:00 p.m. EDT click here to register

*New webinar classes will be added regularly.

The Indiana Attorney General's Office, in conjunction with the Indiana Bankers Association, is offering FREE webinar training sessions to help educate Hoosiers about identity theft in efforts of reducing the spread of this crime in our state. Participants of this free online training course will gain:

An understanding of how the crime occurs to help thwart threats
Insight on ways ID thieves use the evolving technological landscape and other methods to perpetrate the crime
Techniques for spotting red flags and practical tips to avoid falling prey to them
The tools and knowledge to educate others about identity theft prevention

Identity theft takes on many forms, affecting victims with more than just financial loss. In some cases, victims have lost out on job opportunities or the approval of loans for cars, education or housing. In rare cases, they have even been arrested for crimes they did not commit. Victims of medical identity theft may have erroneous patient data – that of the identity thief – in their medical records. The crime is widespread because the thieves are becoming savvier with the ways they collect and use personal information to commit crimes in victim's names. That is why it is critical to stay educated on this topic.

Spread the word, not the crime

Participants of the identity theft training course will gain the knowledge and tools to help educate others about the prevention of this crime. You are encouraged to share the information you learn in this training program with friends, family or other members of your community. This can be accomplished with educational workshops, publishing information in newsletters or other mailings within your organization/affiliations, or by sharing helpful prevention tips or links to this web page via email or social networking sites.

Click here for more information on identity theft

Free Webinar: Identity Theft Protection

5/19/2011

Posted on 5/19/2011 by Nick Ostergaard

Think you're not at risk?
Think again!

The Attorney General's office is inviting you to REGISTER
for a FREE online webinar designed to minimize your risk of identity theft

Schedule of upcoming classes:*

*New webinar classes will be added regularly.

An understanding of how the crime occurs to help thwart threats
Insight on ways ID thieves use the evolving technological landscape and other methods to perpetrate the crime
Techniques for spotting red flags and practical tips to avoid falling prey to them
The tools and knowledge to educate others about identity theft prevention

Spread the word, not the crime

Click here for more information on identity theft

Internal Revenue Service Webinar for Small Businesses

5/3/2011

Posted on 5/3/2011 by Nick Ostergaard

Small Business Advantage: Put Our Knowledge to Work for You

Presented by the Internal Revenue Service

Date: May 18, 2011

This FREE webinar is for:

• Small business owners

• Self-employed persons

• Independent contractors

• Tax practitioners – Please note: CPE credit is not available for attending this webinar.

Learn about:

· The new IRS brand for small business resources

· Discover multiple resources to help small businesses thrive

· What are the benefits of using Small Business Advantage?

· Find out about opportunities available now for small businesses

Register & Attend

· Click on the link to register for the session

http://www.visualwebcaster.com/IRS/77699/event.asp?id=77699

EASTERN	CENTRAL	MOUNTAIN	PACIFIC
2 p.m.	1 p.m.	Noon	11 a.m.

Information

• Visit www.IRS.gov and search Webinars for information about other events.

• If you experience difficulty viewing the event, please use the email option on the event page or call 866-956-4770.

• This event will be archived on the IRS Video Portal for later viewing approximately two weeks after the date of the event.

Sponsored by: IRS Small Business/Self Employed Division

Door-to-door scams targeting storm-damaged homes

3/15/2011

Posted on 3/15/2011 by Indiana Attorney General

Hoosiers encouraged to be cautious of home improvement scams following storms

Reports of a potential scam artist in Knox County have prompted the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS), Indiana State Police and the Office of the Indiana Attorney General to remind anyone who sustained storm damage during recent severe weather incidents to be cautious of frauds and scams.

“Identity theft and building scams are two schemes con-artists sometimes use to defraud individuals recovering from manmade or natural disasters,” said IDHS Executive Director Joe Wainscott. “While most service providers in the building industry are honest, it is particularly important to be alert after disasters because these situations of widespread damage can attract scam artists and identity thieves.”

Individuals should be especially alert for solicitors who promise to speed up the insurance or building permit process and those who ask for large cash deposits or advance payments in full.

Some con-artists may even pretend to be employed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) or other government agencies.

You can protect yourself from such impersonators and dishonest individuals by following a few precautionary guidelines.

Always

Ask for ID. If someone represents themselves as a federal employee, such as an inspector, but does not produce identification, ask to see it. A FEMA or U.S. Small Business Administration shirt or jacket is not absolute proof of someone’s affiliation with the government. Federal employees carry official photo identification.
FEMA representatives are never allowed to accept money. If someone claiming to be a federal employee or federal contractor attempts to collect money for their help, report the person and their license plate number to your local police department.
Safeguard personal information. Never give personal information such as social security numbers, bank account numbers or credit card numbers to individuals claiming to be affiliated with the federal government. FEMA inspectors never require this information.

When hiring a contractor

Research. You may also check with the local Better Business Bureau, homebuilders’ association or trade council to independently confirm the legitimacy of a contractor.
Check references. Contractors should be willing to provide names of previous customers. Call several former customers who had similar work done to make sure they were satisfied with the job.
Ask for a written estimate and check to make sure it includes all the work you expect to have done, as well as taxes and other fees. Keep in mind that some contractors charge for an estimate.
Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics. Take your time. Don’t let the contractor rush your decision.

Before signing a contract

· Get a written contract. Indiana law requires home improvement contracts exceeding $150 to be in writing. Before signing the contract, make certain it includes:

The price of the job
Payment schedule
A detailed description of the work and materials (including colors, brand names and patterns)
Estimated start and completion dates
The contractor’s name and address
A name and telephone number of the person to contact if problems arise
The contractor’s signature

Never pay for the entire project before the work begins. Do not pay more than 1/3 of the total cost as a down payment. Remaining payments should be tied to completion of specified amounts of work.

Hoosiers who believe they may have been a victim of a home improvement scam can file a complaint with the attorney general's Consumer Protection Division. The complaint form is available for downloading at www.IndianaConsumer.com or call 1-800-382-5516 to request a form by mail.

Be Careful with your Support

3/11/2011

Posted on 3/11/2011 by Joseph Eldridge

As evidence of the devastation in Japan continues to mount, many Americans are looking for ways to help by donating to a relief organization or charity. The Better Business Bureau warns that, as occurred with previous natural disasters, fraudulent charities will likely emerge to scam donations from well-meaning Americans.

The BBB offers the following eight tips to help Americans decide where to direct donations and ensure that their money provides the most benefit to the victims in Myanmar:

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.

Find out if the charity has an on-the-ground continuing presence in Japan.

Because of the conditions in China, unless the charity already has staff inside the country, it will be difficult for new aid workers to attain visas and ultimately accomplish aid assistance in the country. Check out organizations at www.InterAction.org—the nation’s largest coalition of international relief organizations—to verify which aid organizations are currently active in Japan.

Find out who will benefit in Japan and what type of assistance they will be provided.

The immediate needs in Japan are food, water, shelter, transportation and clean-up efforts. Because it has not been determined how long organizations will be permitted to operate in Japan, long-term goals might not be achieved.

Be wary of claims that 100 percent of donations will assist Japan 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 100 percent of collected funds will be assisting Japan 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.

Find out if the charity is providing direct aid or raising money for other groups that are active in Japan.

Some charities may be raising money to pass along to relief organizations that are already active in the region. If so, you may want to consider “avoiding the middleman” and giving directly to charities that have a presence in the Japan. Or, at a minimum, check out the ultimate recipients of these donations to ensure the organizations are equipped to effectively provide aid.

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, there were concerns raised about many Web sites and new organizations that were created overnight allegedly to help victims.

Gifts of clothing, food or other in-kind donations are not recommended.

In-kind donation assistance is not practical. Most foreign relief organizations prefer cash donations so that supplies can be purchased near the relief site. In-kind drives for food and clothing—while well intentioned—will not end up being delivered to those in need in Japan.

If tax deduction is a concern, donate domestically.

To help ensure your contribution is tax deductible, the donation should be made to a U.S.-based charitable organization that is tax exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Go to IRS Publication 78 on www.irs.gov for a current list of all organizations eligible to receive contributions deductible as charitable gifts

BBB and Secretary of State Team Up to Educate Hoosiers During National Consumer Protection Week

3/3/2011

Posted on 3/3/2011 by

INDIANAPOLIS — For 13 years, government and non-profit entities have joined together for National Consumer Protection Week to inform consumers about protecting privacy, deciphering advertising messages, learning more about credit and debt and steering clear of fraud and scams.

National Consumer Protection Week 2011 will take place March 6-12, 2011. During this week, Indiana Investment Watch (a program of the Secretary of State) and the Better Business Bureau serving Central Indiana will travel to local library branches to educate Hoosiers on local and national scams as well as investment fraud and identity theft and provide tips to avoid becoming a victim.

Free presentations will be held at the following:

6:30 p.m. on Monday, March 7 at the Hancock County Public Library (Greenfield, Ind.)
5:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 10 at the Monroe County Public Library (Bloomington, Ind.)
5:30 p.m. on Monday, March 14 at the Bartholomew County Public Library (Columbus, Ind.)

“It is important to get out in the local community and educate our neighbors and friends,” said Nick Ostergaard, BBB advertising review and marketing coordinator. “Consumer education can go a long way in shutting down the scams and fraud that we see every day.”

The BBB serving Central Indiana processed more than 10,500 consumer complaints in 2010 and provided more than 500,000 instances of service, which included taking consumer phone calls, handling consumer complaints and helping to guide Hoosiers away from scams and fraud.

Similarly, Indiana Investment Watch educates Hoosiers about the various types of investment and mortgage fraud and promotes financial literacy in Hoosiers of all ages. The program is not funded by taxpayer dollars but rather by the money collected in fines and penalties levied against violators in securities fraud cases. In 2010, Indiana Investment Watch held 106 educational presentations in 25 Indiana counties.

“By getting out and educating Hoosiers, we provide the best defense against investment scams and fraud,” Secretary of State Charlie White said. “Our goal is to keep individuals’ and businesses’ hard-earned money in their pockets and out of Ponzi schemes and other investment frauds.”

The BBB and Indiana Investment Watch will provide a presentation and Q&A session to help educate Hoosiers on the dangers of marketplace scams and fraud. Topics of discussion will include protecting consumers against:

Common fake check scams
Fly-by-night businesses
Misleading advertisements
Identity theft
Online invasion of privacy
Investment fraud
Mortgage fraud

Thousands of Hoosiers fall victim to scams and fraud each year. Unfortunately, most victims are uninformed of the signs of the scam or fraud and the potential dangers they pose. The Better Business Bureau and Indiana Investment Watch aim to prevent Hoosiers from becoming victimized through education, information and guidance.

For additional information, please visit www.indybbb.org or www.indianainvestmentwatch.com.

The mission of the Better Business Bureau is to provide active leadership to the community to promote business integrity and ethics; build consumer confidence in the free enterprise system; and encourage cooperation between business and consumers. The Better Business Bureau of Central Indiana is one of 137 regions in North America that makes up the Council of Better Business Bureaus. Visit the Better Business Bureau online at www.bbb.org

Tax Time Tips

2/11/2011

Posted on 2/11/2011 by Joseph Eldridge

We are now in the tax filing season. Many of us are now receiving our W-2 forms from our employers and getting our final preparations to file our federal and state taxes. Many of us throughout the year may have made contributions to local non-profit organization or made donations to your local places of worship or donated some clothing or household items and you are wondering how these affect your tax filing.

Here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your

1. Make sure your donations were made to a qualifying organization. Remember, an organization may be tax-exempt but your donation may not be tax deductible. Ask the organization for clarification if you are unsure.

2. For any cash or property contribution of $250 or more, you must have written acknowledgment from the organization to substantiate your donation such as a receipt from the organization, bank statement or credit card statement.

3. Only contributions that were actually given to an organization in the calendar year are eligible for a deduction. A donation pledge is not deductible unless it is paid.

4. You can’t deduct the cost of any games of chance, raffles or bingo on your taxes.

For addition information on how to properly deduct your charitable contribution, please go to www.irs.gov

Give, But Give Wisely

2/9/2011

Posted on 2/9/2011 by Joseph Eldridge
With the recent death of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Officer David Moore, there have been several individuals that have been contacted by organizations claiming to be collecting donations for Officer Moore. Currently, there are no authorized phone solicitation campaigns or authorized organizations to raise money for Officer Moore. If an organization calls soliciting donations and you have questions about the organization, you can go to www.bbb.org and obtain a report detailing an organization’s finances, governance and solicitations as well as tips and questions to ask before you make a donation.

Dateline Looks Inside National Network of Air Duct Cleaning Scams

2/1/2011

Posted on 2/1/2011 by Nick Ostergaard
http://openchannel.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/01/30/5956602-dateline-looks-inside-national-network-of-air-duct-cleaning-scams

TOP 11 Regulatory Changes for Small Business in 2011

1/24/2011

Posted on 1/24/2011 by Nick Ostergaard

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (December 27, 2010)

By ACCOUNTING TODAY STAFF

The start of the New Year ushers in a series of new regulatory, compliance and legislative changes that could potentially affect every small business.

Payroll processor Paychex has released a list of the top 11 regulatory issues facing small businesses in 2011.

1. Tax changes – In 2011, businesses will confront the increasing complexity of the tax environment, including the implementation of a partial payroll tax holiday, the ability for businesses to expense 100 percent of their capital investments, and the retroactive extension of many temporary business tax incentives that expired at the end of last year.

2. Health care reform – A key aspect for 2011 is the provision providing business tax credits for small employers that purchase health insurance, which is effective for tax year 2010 and carries into next year. It provides, with some limitations and requirements, incentives for providing health insurance to employees. Grandfathering will remain an important component of health care reform. Health plans that existed on March 23, 2010 are grandfathered, meaning that they do not need to add many of the new protections under the health care reform law. To remain grandfathered, health plans cannot make any significant changes to the plan.

3. FSA plans – Effective 1/1/11, over-the-counter medicines and drugs other than insulin (i.e., aspirin) will no longer be eligible for reimbursement from a health flexible spending account unless the item is prescribed by a medical practitioner.

4. Unemployment Insurance rates/changes – Unemployment insurance funds in many states are at critically low levels due to the large numbers of people out of work for extended periods. Many employers will see a trend that promises to send state employer UI contribution rates higher in 2011 to replenish depleted UI trust funds and repay federal loans taken to allow states to continue to pay benefits. In addition, measures to reduce unemployment insurance fraud are in the works.

5. Employment law – The United States Department of Labor and many states have enacted or are considering measures to provide greater transparency to workers on the wages they are owed, especially in key areas such as minimum wage and overtime requirements, and to increase penalties on those who fail to pay their workers the compensation they are entitled.

6. 401(k) disclosures/target date funds – For employers offering 401 (k) plans to their workers, regulations requiring disclosures pertaining to fees of the plan will be required; additionally, plans offering target date funds will likely see further disclosure requirements around those investments.

7. State budgetary challenges – Many states are facing critical budget shortfalls, and as such may contemplate impromptu tax or fee increases or filing changes to raise badly needed revenue. Additionally, many state agencies are reducing staff, which could result in processing delays for businesses requiring licensing or other state services.

8. Federal Trade Commission requirements – With the dramatic increase in the use of social media such as blogs, Facebook, and Twitter, the Federal Trade Commission has issued further regulatory guidance around the use of this media in advertising, especially regarding endorsements and misleading or dishonest product reviews. The agency has also recently proposed the creation of a “Do Not Track” tool for the Internet (similar to the telemarketing “Do Not Call” registry).

9. IRS enforcement – To help collect more tax revenue in this era of budget deficits, the IRS is ramping up its enforcement efforts in several areas. In 2010, the IRS kicked off an employment-tax audit program that will carry into 2011. These audits are focusing on employee misclassification, executive compensation, fringe benefits, and adherence to general employment tax filing requirements. Further, the IRS is accelerating efforts to increase tax compliance among employees who collect tips.

10. Privacy – Most states have instituted laws requiring businesses to notify customers (and, in some states, governmental authorities) when sensitive data is breached. Some states have enacted laws requiring that businesses have processes to adequately safeguard sensitive client data. Businesses handling protected health information are subject to additional requirements governing the protection of that data.

11. Employment verification/immigration – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement continues to crack down on companies knowingly hiring undocumented aliens. Several different Congressional immigration reform proposals, which may present further employment verification obligations, are expected to get attention in 2011.

Credit Cards: Loan vs. Cash

1/21/2011

Posted on 1/21/2011 by Nick Ostergaard

A perennial problem, especially among young adults, is credit card debt. From the time a person turns 18, he or she can expect to receive offers from different credit card companies through the mail. Although establishing credit history is important and beneficial to have for future endeavors such as purchasing a new car or home, many people, young and old, treat credit cards as cash and can soon run into trouble.

A Credit card, in the simplest form, is nothing more than personally managed, preapproved loan. When you use a credit card, the money is not directly taken from your checking account, but it is expected to be paid back in full.

“Consumers, young adults especially, can get themselves into trouble by treating a credit card as a form of cash,” said Nick Ostergaard, BBB Advertising Review & Marketing Coordinator. “Credit card users should get into a early habit of paying off credit card statements in full or setting up a repayment plan to avoid high interest charges. In hindsight, the alternative is not only paying for the original purchase, but paying upwards to 20% or more in additional interest charges.”

Minimal credit card payments can seem beneficial in the short-term because more cash remains in your other accounts, but overall simple purchases can end up costing double or even triple the original purchase price. Add in new monthly purchases and the balance can get out of hand in a hurry.

The BBB recommends finding a happy medium in regards to credit card repayment. If you have enough cash in reserves, it is better to pay off your credit card in full. If cash is short, it is important to develop a personal budget including all monthly fixed and variable expenses and designating additional cash from other variable expenses to your credit card bill.

Long-term benefits of healthy credit card usage are plentiful, but early credit mishaps and mismanagement can have long-term repercussions.

For more information on avoiding or managing credit card debt, please visit http://www.bbb.org/us/clearpoint-tips/

Hot Topics-March 2013

1/19/2011

Posted on 1/19/2011 by

This list is current as of March 28th, 2013. Readers should take into consideration the importance of the practice in question and the total performance of any companies referenced in this statement. For complete information, please visit www.bbb.org.

Hot Topics for March 2013

BBB Advice: Look For Warning Signs Of Fake Coupons

Coupons are a great way to trim the cost of groceries and other purchases, and online sites offer dozens of coupons. But the BBB advises consumers to be skeptical of higher-than-usual coupon discounts and other signs that the coupons may be invalid.

“Scam coupon sites often ask for your contact information or other sensitive data, such as bank or credit card account numbers,” said Bill Thomas, BBB president and CEO. “Since most coupons are available free, the request for your personal information should be a red flag indicating a scam.”

Here’s how the scam can work. Most online coupons promise modest discounts of 10 to 15 percent, but one may offer a significantly better deal, such as 50 percent off your purchase. If you click a link for the offer, the website may look official, and it may use the logo of a familiar brand. But then you are asked to enter your email address and telephone number, promising that your coupon will be sent to you.

When you complete the form, you may be taken to a promotion for an unrelated (and untrustworthy) product. This "bait and switch" is a way for unscrupulous businesses to collect names and contact information for resale. If your information is sold, you will start receiving spam calls, text messages and/or emails to the contact information you provided.

Other sites do provide fake coupons to print, meaning that consumers don't know they were scammed until the store clerk rejects their coupon. Remember: It’s easy to copy a business' logo and make a fake coupon look real.

The BBB offers the following advice to help you weed out fake coupons or coupon sites:

The website is the only one with that great deal. If most websites offer 10 percent off, a 75 percent discount is likely a scam.
Be wary of all high value offers. A promo for a $500 gift card is nearly always fake.
Never pay for coupons. Don't be tricked into paying for something that's actually free.
If you suspect that a coupon is fake, check it against this list, maintained by the non-profit Coupon Information Center.
Check to see if the coupon is being offered directly by the store or by a third party. If it’s from a third party, a store may ask for more information or require that the consumer sign up for additional services to redeem the coupon. If so, the BBB recommends using extreme caution before divulging any personal information.
Be wary of pop-up ad coupon offers that require you to click immediately to redeem the offer. Clicking on the ad may automatically sign a consumer up for services they were not interested in receiving. In some cases, the consumer may be billed every month for unwanted services.
Carefully read the terms and conditions for each coupon. Check the expiration date, limitations of use and whether it is good only for online purchases or can be redeemed at a store as well. Online coupons need to match manufacturer requirements.
Because some stores are concerned about fraud related to online coupons, not all businesses are eager to redeem them. The BBB recommends contacting stores to determine their policy for online coupons. Show them coupons before you try to redeem them. Be extremely cautious if the coupon requires that you call the company to redeem the coupon or requires you to divulge personal information.
Don’t fall for phony coupons sent via e-mail. Just because it may come from a friend or family member, don’t assume a coupon is legitimate.

Consumers can learn how to protect themselves or find BBB Business Reviews and charity reviews by calling (317) 488-2222 or by going online to www.bbb.org.

BBB Warns Businesses to be on the Lookout for Fake Invoices

BBB alerts Central Indiana businesses to the solicitation tactics of Construct Data located in Bratislava, Slovakia.

A local accredited business contacted BBB about an invoice it received from Construct Data in the amount of $1,717 for an advertisement in www.fairguide.com. The business indicates it did not order this directory listing even though Construct Data is attempting to collect monies for the phony invoices.

BBB research shows that this company and others have conducted this invoicing scheme to businesses across the country for many years. Hundreds of businesses fall for this kind of invoice scam every year and millions are lost.

Generally, invoices like these will come to the business a few weeks after receiving a form which states: "Your entry has been published to date for free under the following event (a legitimate event in which the business was an actual exhibitor)," as well as a partially pre-populated form where the recipient is asked to review, correct, sign and date before returning it to Construct Data. The fine print states that the fee for this advertisement is $1,717 per year for three years and automatically renews each year unless cancellation is made by registered mail at least three months prior to the next expiration.

Although the invoice claims Construct Data will initiate legal proceedings for failure to pay the invoice, no legal action has occurred. BBB cautions businesses to exercise great care should they receive this particular solicitation, as the letter from Construct Data is misleading. The contract is formulated in such a way that it is very easy to sign without understanding what one is committing to. In addition, the annual cost is only shown in small print.

One of the most common variations of the phony invoice scheme is issuing solicitations disguised as invoices. These documents, which are actually solicitations for the purchase of goods or services, are carefully designed to look like legitimate invoices for goods or services ordered and received. In some cases, the small print may identify the bogus bill as a solicitation. The business that pays a solicitation disguised as an invoice may receive the merchandise or service it was duped into ordering; more often, it will not, and efforts to trace the fraudulent firm that issued the "invoice" will prove futile.

The BBB urges that businesses (and consumers) be extremely cautious of documents from unfamiliar companies that appear to be requesting payment. Research the company to make sure that you are being billed for goods or services that you have, in fact, ordered or received. To protect yourself from phony invoice scams, you should observe the following precautions:

· Watch for fraud. Alert your accounting personnel to be on the lookout for disguised solicitations, fake invoices and fraudulent phone calls. Channel all invoices through one person or department in your company.

· Check all invoices against purchase orders and against goods or services received.

· Make certain that order numbers correspond with the invoices.

· Verify all invoices with the person who gave written or verbal authorization.

If you receive a phony invoice or a solicitation disguised as an invoice, file a complaint with BBB at www.indybbb.org and the U. S. Postal Service.

BBB’s 7 Tips for Hiring a Trustworthy Contractor

Even though the weather in Central Indiana this spring has not cooperated with those of us ready for a warm-up, home repair season is still upon us. If you’re thinking about improving your home or making repairs, you probably need to hire a contractor. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) can help you find a trustworthy contractor or allow you to check out the ones recommended by friends.

Bill Thomas, BBB president and CEO, said consumers should always check out a contractor’s BBB Business Review, which has valuable information like the length of time a contractor has been in business and how many complaints – if any – have been filed against the company. The review includes a rating from A+ to F, with F being the lowest grade the BBB gives to any company. The reviews are available 24 hours a day at indybbb.org.

“BBB Business Reviews are a great resource for consumers,” Thomas said. “BBB staff verify the details, and we have detailed information on how companies resolve complaints.”

The BBB’s Request A Quote service allows consumers to obtain information from one or more BBB Accredited Businesses. These businesses have pledged to comply with BBB Standards, such as advertising honestly, honoring promises and responding to customers’ complaints.

The BBB’s seven tips for hiring contractors are:

1. Ask at least three companies for bids based on the same requirements. Discuss the bids in detail with each contractor and ask them about variations in pricing. The lowest-priced bid may not be the best.

2. Ask about the company’s insurance. Does it carry worker’s compensation, property damage and liability insurance? Ask for proof of insurance or for the name of an insurance agent you can call to verify the coverage.

3. Ask whether the contractor is licensed for the type of work you need. Does the firm meet the bonding requirements of your town, county or state?

4. Check with local authorities to find out whether permits are needed. The contractor should be aware of any permits or inspections that may be required.

5. Ask the contractor to provide a lien waiver when the job is completed. A lien waiver is a statement that all suppliers and contractors have been paid for materials and labor.

6. Ask for a contract and read it. Get any verbal promises in writing. Make sure the contract includes the start date and expected completion date.

7. Don’t pay the entire amount due until the work is completed and you are satisfied. Be careful if a contractor wants to be paid in full up front. In some cases, a contractor may need a down payment to cover materials. But the bulk of the money should not be due until the work is complete.

Want to report a potential scam or alert the BBB of unethical business practices? Send us an email to info@indybbb.org.

For more information, contact: Tiffany Whisner, Coles Marketing Communications, 317-571-0051, twhisner@colesmarketing.com.

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Tips for Joining a Gym after the Holidays

1/5/2011

Posted on 1/5/2011 by Nick Ostergaard

Thinking about joining a gym this year? Make sure you get the complete details before you sign up. Below are 10 simple questions to ask before you hand over your credit card in exchange for a pair of spandex and sweatbands:

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.

Heading Back to School? Look for Seven Red Flags When Applying to a For-Profit College

1/4/2011

Posted on 1/4/2011 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, the Better Business Bureau recommends doing your research and looking for five 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 thinking about heading back to the classroom to further your education or advance your career, it is important to look into different avenues,” said Traci Fitzsimmons, BBB V.P of Operations. “Not all post secondary schools offer the same level of education and if you are not careful you may end up attending a school that is either unrecognized or that offers only certain certifications as opposed to an actual degree.”

When applying to a for-profit school, the BBB recommends looking out for the following red flags:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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/us/Consumer-Tips/.

Merry Christmas, from the BBB to You

12/23/2010

Posted on 12/23/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

As we near Christmas day, we here at the BBB would like to express our thanks, gratitude and goodwill to all of our accredited businesses and consumers that use, depend on and, most importantly, support our services. Without your support we would be rendered unable to perform our daily tasks to ensure and continue to build the marketplace of trust. 2010 has been a successful year for the Indy BBB and we look forward to launching new ways we can better support both our accredited businesses and consumers coming out in 2011. The Indy BBB also wishes to thank all of our troops serving around the world this Holiday season for all their bravery and sacrifice, which does not go unnoticed, and allows the rest of us to live and work in a great, free nation.

Thank you for your endearing support and, from the BBB, we wish you and your family a healthy and merry Christmas and a happy, prosperous New Year.

Best Regards,

Bill, Traci, Terry, Joe, Julie, Rhonda, Daisy, Diane, Wendy, Peggy, Theresa, Jamie, Nick, Cathy, Tracey, Crystal, Amy, Lisa and Laura

Beware of Towing Scams this Winter

12/16/2010

Posted on 12/16/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

It’s a situation we all dread, being stuck, alone with a broken down vehicle and in need of a towing company to pick you up and give you a tow. The BBB serving Central Indiana warns consumers that not all tow truck companies are a solution to your problem, some, in fact, can just be the beginning.

For starters, in a situation where a driver is stranded, he or she is at the mercy of a towing company in terms of both transportation and price. Nationwide, consumers have fallen victim of extremely high service prices and have seen their vehicles be held, usually at the towing company’s service shop, and charged high “storage fees.” Above all else, unethical towing companies usually either run their own vehicle service business or partner with a separate vehicle service business and often do not give stranded drivers an option of where to take his or her vehicle for repairs. This can result in high costs and possible shady workmanship to repair a broken down vehicle. Locally, the BBB has received complaints indicating that unruly towing and repair companies often underestimate the price of a repair and the timetable and then charge an excessively higher amount upon completion days, if not weeks after the original due date.

Allstate Insurance recently issued a warning about the rise of such towing scams. Some tips from Allstate include:

1. When possible, use a towing operator pre-screened by your motor club or roadside assistance program.

2. Never give a tow truck operator permission to take your car if they weren’t called by you or by law enforcement personnel.

3. Do not provide a tow truck operator your insurance information.

4. Make sure all signage on the truck and documentation provided is identical and consistent.

5. Whenever possible, have your car towed either to your home or a repair shop of your choice to avoid any storage fees or additional fees.

6. Make sure you receive a printed price list that includes daily storage fees and miscellaneous charges as well as printed documentation of where the vehicle will be towed.

7. Make sure you sign below the dollar amount quoted, not necessarily the bottom of the document.

8. Always remove personal items and valuables before having your car towed.

The BBB additionally suggests to find a towing company you can trust by visiting BBB.org and searching Towing-Automotive businesses or calling 317-488-2222. BBB.org is available on most Smartphone’s and other mobile devices with internet access.

For more information, please visit http://www.allstatenewsroom.com/releases/with-tow-truck-scams-on-rise-allstate-offers-tips-to-help-prevent-drivers-from-being-taken-for-a-ride.

Good Service and Holiday Goodwill

12/13/2010

Posted on 12/13/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

Never can be too Careful

11/30/2010

Posted on 11/30/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

The Holiday season is the time-of-year when family and friends join together to celebrate, to give and to receive. The month of December is one of the busiest shopping and donating months of the entire year. Unfortunately, it is also the time when scammers most often prey on the good nature and hectic schedules of consumers.

By all means, enjoy the Holiday season, but take extra precautions because scams taken place during the Holiday season can last much longer than the month of December.

The following is a BBB Checklist to help avoid fraud, scams and theft this Holiday season and beyond:

1. Take only the essentials when out shopping.

· Drivers License

· Cash or card to pay with

2. Do not carry your Social Security Card or number

· If you have trouble remembering your social security or other account number, disguise them with other numbers, such as a phone number or zip code.

3. Get all guarantees and warrantee information in writing and signed if possible.

4. Avoid using money wiring services such as Money Gram and Western Union.

5. When purchasing gift cards, purchase cards held behind a counter or cash register, NOT cards in isles or set-alone stands in the store.

6. If financing a purchase, read and understand the terms, particularly the interest terms, prior to signing.

· Often higher interest rates will kick-in after a certain period of time if the purchase is not already fully paid off.

7. Although it is the Holiday spirit, do not give donations to individuals, not-for-profits or businesses before learning where your money will go and what it will be used for. The BBB maintains reports on charities and not-for-profits as well as businesses at bbb.org.

8. Place a lock on your social security number. This is a free service by the state of Indiana. For more information contact the Indiana Secretary of State’s Office.

9. Use your credit card when purchasing online rather than your debit card.

· You debit card allows direct access to your checking account while most credit cards come with fraud prevention and forgiveness.

10. Remember, a bank will never initiate contact with you over the phone regarding your account information. If you receive a phone call or text from a bank asking for account information, hang up and contact the Better Business Bureau.

· When speaking with a bank, always take the front door approach. This means if you receive a phone call, tell the caller that you will call them back and then dial the phone number you have for your bank and ask about the previous phone call. Therefore, you always know exactly who you are talking to.

For more BBB Holiday Tips and Advice, please visit http://www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-holiday/

Attention Victims of Bad Business Practices: The BBB Can Help!

11/18/2010

Posted on 11/18/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

Check out the latest BBB article in La Voz de Indiana titled “Attention Victims of Bad Business Practices: The BBB Can Help!”

http://www.lavozdeindiana.com/images/periodicos/Volume10-Number256.pdf - Page 14 of the online version.

La Voz de Indiana is a bilingual newspaper that serves communities throughout Indiana by concentrating on the Hispanic and American markets. Published in both Spanish and English, La Voz’s goals are to embrace diversity by promoting understanding and to improve communication between people

Attention Indiana Consumers: Deal Only with Reputable, LICENSED Plumbers

11/17/2010

Posted on 11/17/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

Would you get in a car with a driver who does not have a license? Would you trust your money with an unlicensed investment broker? Would you allow an unlicensed electrician wire your home? So why would you allow an unlicensed plumber anywhere near your kitchen or bathroom?

The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency requires all plumbing contractors to be licensed in the state of Indiana through the Indiana Plumbing Commission.

Next time you are in need of a plumber, instead of searching Craigslist or the phone book, check out bbb.org, where you can find many different plumbing contractors, who’s licenses are verified, do get the job done for you.

Local handymen often advertise plumbing services, but why wouldn’t you want to give yourself the peace-of-mind knowing that the contractor or business you hired for your plumbing project is properly licensed to do the work requested?

For Indiana plumbing license information visit http://www.in.gov/pla/plumbing.htm

To search and verify licensing information visit https://mylicense.in.gov/EVerification/Search.aspx

BBB Warns Consumers to Beware of Storm Chasers

11/9/2010

Posted on 11/9/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

INDIANAPOLIS—The Better Business Bureau of Central Indiana is warning local residents affected by the recent storms to beware of storm chasers and out-of-town contractors soliciting business.

“It is not uncommon for out-of-town storm chasers to solicit business after storms like the ones we had Tuesday morning,” said Bill Thomas, President & CEO of the Central Indiana Better Business Bureau. “Storm chasers often run scams where they collect up-front deposits from consumers, but before they perform any work, they move on to the next town, chasing the next big storm and pocketing your money.”

The BBB warns that storm chasers may falsely create or hi-jack a local identity in order to appear to be a central Indiana business.

Consumers affected by the recent storms are strongly urged to use the BBB’s free services and find local businesses by visiting www.bbb.org.

“We offer BBB reports over 35,000 local businesses,” Thomas said. “Consumers are urged to check out businesses before making any hiring decisions.”

The BBB offers the following tips for storm victims:

· When approached by a contractor, ask for proof of licensing and bonding.

· Try to get at least 3-4 quotes from contractors, and insist that payments be made to the company, not an individual.

· Do not pay for the job in advance. Be wary of any contractor who demands full or half payment upfront.

· Do not hire people who show up at your door offering services such as tree or debris removal and roof repair.

· Resist high-pressure sales tactics such as the “good deal” you’ll get only if you hire the contractor on the spot.

· Check out the company first with the BBB and deal only with reputable contractors.

· Get a written contract that specifies the price, the work to be done and a time frame.

· Prices are often high in the immediate aftermath of a storm. Be careful of price gouging.

· Pay by credit card, if possible; you may have additional protection if there’s a problem.

· Check that the contractor’s vehicle has signs or markings on it with the business name and phone number.

“Violent storms present golden opportunities for unethical contractors and scammers

to take your money,” Thomas said. “Everybody wants to get their property fixed and back to normal as quickly and painlessly as possible, but it is important to make careful decisions and hire the best crews at a fair price.”

For additional information, contact the Better Business Bureau.

Contact:

Nick Ostergaard, BBB Advertising Review & Marketing Coordinator

317-488-2221 x122

nostergaard@indybbb.org

The Holidays on a Budget

11/9/2010

Posted on 11/9/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

Halloween is over and that means the Holidays are right around the corner. Despite certain retail stores displaying holiday decorations way back in September, the time really is fast approaching where consumers should be thinking about their holiday budget.

Budgeting is important during a slow economy, but especially important around the Holidays. By keeping a budget, consumers can be sure to enjoy the Holidays without fear of the January financial hangover.

To start, add up your monthly income:

· Salary

· Dividends

· Child Support

· Bonus

· Interest

· Etc.

Then, subtract your monthly expenses:

· Rent/Mortgage

· Credit Cards

· Finance bills

· Utilities

· Groceries

· Gas

· Healthcare

· Misc. (be sure to include a category of miscellaneous expenses which include random purchases such as haircuts, laundry detergent, going out-to-eat, etc.)

The difference will give you your “play” money for the month. If you cannot afford your Holiday expenses strictly on this extra “play” money, you have some different options:

Look into your savings account and budget a certain amount of savings for Holiday purchases. Be sure to include replacing these funds as part of your budget for the next year. Also look at your credit cards, it may be a better option to pay off your credit card balance in full before the Holidays and then charge holiday purchases to your card and pay off as you go into 2011. This depends on the original balance amount and interest rate. Additionally, look into finance options, some purchases allow for interest free financing if the purchase is paid off in full within a certain period of time. This can help because you can budget monthly payments throughout the year to pay off larger purchases, just be sure to pay off the purchase in full before the time limit is up to avoid a large interest charge. Finally, don’t underestimate your Holiday expenses, based on a survey conducted last year by Consumer Reports, the average consumer planned on spending just under $700 on Holiday expenses….the actual expenses averaged over $800. Budget on the high side and if you find you have extra money, use it towards extra gifts and donations or put it into savings or towards finance or credit charges.

Different budgeting options work for different people in different financial situations. The best tip is to be sure to purchase within your means. The last thing anyone wants to do is have a great Holiday season, but struggle financially for the rest of the year. For more information on managing your finances visit www.bbb.org or click the links below.

http://www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-holiday/

http://www.bbb.org/us/article/tips-on-how-to-develop-a-working-budget-6101

http://www.bbb.org/us/article/five-steps-to-create-and-keep-a-holiday-budget-23166

The Holidays on a Budget

11/5/2010

Posted on 11/5/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

To start, add up your monthly income:

· Salary

· Dividends

· Child Support

· Bonus

· Interest

· Etc.

Then, subtract your monthly expenses:

· Rent/Mortgage

· Credit Cards

· Finance bills

· Utilities

· Groceries

· Gas

· Healthcare

· Misc. (be sure to include a category of miscellaneous expenses which include random purchases such as haircuts, laundry detergent, going out-to-eat, etc.)

The difference will give you your “play” money for the month. If you cannot afford your Holiday expenses strictly on this extra “play” money, you have some different options:

http://www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-holiday/

http://www.bbb.org/us/article/tips-on-how-to-develop-a-working-budget-6101

http://www.bbb.org/us/article/five-steps-to-create-and-keep-a-holiday-budget-23166

THE MCGRAW-HILL COMPANIES AND BBB MILITARY LINE

10/29/2010

Posted on 10/29/2010 by

(NEW YORK, NY AND ARLINGTON, VA, APRIL 12, 2011) -- As part of First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden’s “Joining Forces" initiative, McGraw-Hill (NYSE: MHP) and Better Business Bureau are joining together to develop and deliver expanded financial literacy and consumer protection programs to military families. The campaign builds on six years of BBB Military Line training initiatives and McGraw-Hill's decade-long commitment to ensuring financial literacy for all. The combined effort will reach more than 40,000 military families initially and will include a full complement of online and onsite financial resources including webinars, mobile applications, workshops and promotions.

According to an October 2010 FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) study entitled, "Financial Capability in the United States: Military Survey," military populations suffer disproportionately from financial strain (poor credit, high debt, foreclosures, etc.) due to service members' unique circumstances of long deployments, protracted family separation and frequent moves. The study notes, "Improving financial capability is not only important for military service members and their families, it also affects the military as a whole. When military families make poor financial decisions, the cost of those decisions can undermine military readiness."

"Lack of financial literacy can become a serious national security issue, as well as an unnecessary and burdensome distraction for our service members and their families," said Stephen A. Cox, President and CEO of the Council of Better Business Bureaus. "Financial readiness is critical to mission readiness and BBB Military Line is honored to work with McGraw-Hill to make this happen."

"McGraw-Hill is proud to work with BBB Military Line to equip the armed forces and their families with the tools to make informed financial decisions," said Harold McGraw III, Chairman, President and CEO of McGraw-Hill. "We applaud First Lady Obama and Dr. Biden for launching this worthy campaign and McGraw-Hill stands ready to do our part."

###

About McGraw-Hill

Founded in 1888, The McGraw-Hill Companies is a leading global financial information and education company that helps professionals and students succeed in the Knowledge Economy. Leading brands include Standard & Poor’s, McGraw-Hill Education, Platts energy information services and J.D. Power and Associates. With approximately 21,000 employees in more than 280 offices in 40 countries, the Corporation's sales in 2010 totaled $6.2 billion.

Connect with McGraw-Hill on Twitter and Facebook.

McGraw-Hill's philanthropic mission is to ensure financial literacy for all. Please visit www.mcgraw-hill.com/site/cr/community/financial-literacy for additional information about its financial literacy programs. Additionally, stay up-to-date about McGraw-Hill’s Financial Literacy Now campaign on Twitter and Facebook.

About BBB Military Line

BBB Military Line is a Better Business Bureau program established in 2004 and in partnership with the DOD Financial Readiness Campaign, brings financial workshops tailored to the military for adults and teens; participates in community fairs, conferences, and military installation events; and provides consumer protection information and services --- all through the efforts of local BBBs throughout the US. Our program empowers our military communities and builds bridges between civilian and military cultures through face to face interaction and cooperation. Our online presence provides financial literacy and military consumer information, along with consumer threat alerts that specifically target the military population. Please visit www.bbb.org/military for more information.

Connect with BBB Military Line on Facebook.

Indiana Home Improvement Contracts

10/28/2010

Posted on 10/28/2010 by Diane Dove

Storms in Indiana sure can wreck havoc. Soaked carpets, downed trees, broken windows and blown off roofs, some storms can last beyond the initial wind and rain. If you have storm-related damages and are in need of a contractor, be sure to do your homework before singing on the dotted line. Part of that homework will be reviewing the contract that is presented to you by the contractor.

In Indiana, for home improvement contracts where the price exceeds $150.00, the contract must at the minimum contain the following:

· Name of consumer and the address of the property where the work is to be done.

· Name, address and phone number of the contractor.

· The date the contract was submitted to the customer and any limitations on the consumer’s acceptance on the contract.

· A detailed description of the work to be done.

· Approximate start and completion dates of the proposed work.

· A statement of any contingencies that could change the approximate completion date.

· The price.

· If the work to be done is a result of damage or loss that is covered by insurance, there must be a clause addressing certain insurance issues, including, but not limited to: the requirement that a reasonably detailed description be included in the contract may be satisfied with a statement that the subject real estate will be repaired or restored to the same condition in which the real estate existed before the damage, loss, or expense occurred, or to a comparable condition; the starting and completion dates may be expressed in terms of the number of days elapsed from the date when sufficient approval of the insurance carrier terms allowing for adequate repair or restoration is obtained; the consumer may agree to a contract price expressed in terms of the consumer's liability for payment after the application of insurance proceeds or payments from a liable third party.

· Signature lines for the consumer and the contractor, with a printed or typed name after or below the signature.

Also keep in mind, any modifications made to the contract must be in writing and signed by the customer.

Top Ten Imports/Third Scroll Products Complaints Increase over 60%

10/28/2010

Posted on 10/28/2010 by

By comparing complaint statistics from the last 90 days to those earlier in the year, the BBB found a 60% increase in consumer complaints filed against TSP. During that time, 100% of consumer complaints are in regards to the EZ Book PC. September garnered the most total complaints with 52.

“The increase in complaints against the company seems to correlate largely with an increase in advertising,” said Bill Thomas, BBB President and CEO. “We are receiving complaints from consumers coast-to-coast who are being drawn in by misleading newspaper and magazine advertisements that do not properly portray the actual product for the consumer and, in addition, create a sense of hurried panic by stating ‘limited quantity available’ or ’48 hours only’.”

TSP provided the BBB with their return/refund policy. The company provides a “replacement” warranty where consumer’s may return their EZ Book PC for a new one if they find it is not working properly within 30 days of the date the product was shipped. Shipping charges are not refunded. TSP does not offer a refund policy and there is absolutely no money back satisfaction guarantee.

“Third Scroll Products generally does not offer a refund policy to consumers,” Thomas said. “Instead they promote their 30-day replacement warranty, which consumers often mistake for a refund policy.”

Through consumer complaints, the BBB has become aware of a pattern of consumers being offered a full refund after filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. The BBB contacted the company and was informed that certain newspapers around the country require advertising companies to provide a refund policy in order to place an advertisement in the publication. Consumers ordering from these markets are offered a full refund, less shipping charges, if they are not satisfied with their purchase. Conversely, however, consumers who order from markets where the local paper does not require advertising businesses to provide a refund policy are left out in the cold and are not offered a refund for their purchase.

In addition to handling consumer complaints, the Better Business Bureau challenged the advertising of TSP on multiple occasions. The BBB challenged advertising claims such as, “similar products sell for up to $600 in stores,” and “extremely limited quantity available.” These two claims create a sense of excitement and hurried panic for consumers because they do not want to miss out on what they believe to be a great deal. Upon review, the BBB found that TSP continues to run the same advertisement claiming “48 hours only” in publications around the country. The BBB also challenged the product’s actual appearance as it relates to pictures in advertisements and inconsistencies in advertising a return/refund policy.

The company failed to respond to the BBB regarding multiple advertising challenges and failed to substantiate their advertised claims.

Top Ten Imports/Third Scroll Products is also responsible for a product called the iHeater. The iHeater has driven numerous complaints to the BBB in regards to misleading performance claims. As the weather turns cooler, the BBB has noticed an increase in advertisements for the iHeater.

For more information, view Top Ten Imports/Third Scroll Product’s BBB Business Review at bbb.org.

Be Smart with your Investments

10/28/2010

Posted on 10/28/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

Indiana Investment Watch (www.indianainvestmentwatch.com) Provides 5 Keys to Investing Success

1. Make Investing a Habit

Adding to investments and reinvesting at different rates can drastically increase your end return. $5,000 can be turned into over $170,000 over a 20-year period by adding $250 each month to your investment and reinvesting at higher rates.

2. Set your Goals

Short term: Do not invest money in the stock market that you will need in the next 3-5 years. Instead, low-risk vehicles such as CDs that mature about the time you’ll need the cash is a better option.

Medium-term: Consider longer-term CDs that pay more interest or mutual funds that invest in stocks that pay good dividends but don’t tend to fluctuate much in price.

Long-term: You can afford to take more risk. Consider a wide range of possibilities: stocks, corporate and government bonds and long term CDs for diversification. Additionally, take advantage of tax-sheltered plans (IRA’s and 529 college-savings plans).

Your goals are likely to change so reassess them and your investment strategy annually.

3. Don’t Take Unnecessary Risks

Risk is the chance you take that you will lose money or that your money will lose value. A pyramid is a useful visual image for a sensible risk-reducing strategy. The higher up you go, the greater the risk and less money you should put into an investment.

Your savings goal should be 6 months to a full year worth of living expenses and should be the base of your pyramid. One level up is the appropriate place for mutual funds and dividend-oriented stocks. Real estate is the next block up, and further towards the top are penny or microcap stocks, precious metals, commodity futures and most limited partnerships.

The rule as you move up the pyramid is to only invest as much money as you can afford to lose.

4. Keep Time on Your Side

Money today is worth more than the same amount of money a year from now due to inflation. Opportunity costs are in play because money that you have now will have more purchasing power than the same amount of money in a year. For instance, 15-year mortgages are paid off faster with less interest, which saves thousands of dollars. However, the homeowner with the 15-year mortgage parts with the money sooner. What else might you do with the money you’d spend on the higher monthly payments on the 15-year mortgage? If you could invest it at a higher rate of return than the mortgage rate, you’d actually come out ahead. Of course, the return is not guaranteed, so you have to weigh your risk options.

5. Diversify

Do not put all your eggs into one basket. When an investment is down, other investments tend to be up. By spreading your investments you are more likely to increase your overall return and reduce your risk at the same time.

Top Ten Imports/Third Scroll Products Complaints Increase over 60%

10/28/2010

Posted on 10/28/2010 by

The BBB has noticed a spike in consumer complaints against Top Ten Imports/Third Scroll Products (TSP). Most complaints deal with the heavily advertised EZ Book PC netbook, which is advertised in magazines and newspapers as great for students, seniors and small businesses.

The company failed to respond to the BBB regarding multiple advertising challenges and failed to substantiate their advertised claims.

For more information, view Top Ten Imports/Third Scroll Product’s BBB Business Review at bbb.org.

Dial Toll Free Numbers Carefully!

10/25/2010

Posted on 10/25/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

Be careful when ordering a product/service from a toll-free number. Toll free numbers are relatively cheap in price and scammers are using that to their advantage by buying hundreds of toll free numbers which are similar to numbers advertised for ordering products or services.

For example, let’s say a number is advertised on TV for a product or service (heath care products and financial services are especially vulnerable). Scammers will purchase all similar numbers in hopes that consumers will make an error in their dialing. The scammers will answer the phone in similar ways as the company the consumer is meaning to call would and then proceed to collect personal information such as full name, address, phone number, credit card number, social security number, etc.

Make sure to double check which number you are calling and if you have any doubts, do not provide personal information. Always inquire why the information is needed, particularly you social security number. In most cases your social security number is not needed, but is collected as an identifiable number for you in the company system. If you have an option, do not provide your social security number and if the person on the other line says it is required, proceed with extreme caution.

If you feel you may have fallen victim to this scam, check your credit report on an regular basis for any irregularities and contact the Better Business Bureau and the Attorney General.

Money Smart Week 2010

10/19/2010

Posted on 10/19/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

This year marks the fifth running of Money Smart Week, Indiana. Money Smart Week is a service of the Federal Reserve Bank in Chicago and includes hundreds of events to promote and provide information on being smart with your money. On Monday, October 18^th the BBB of Central Indiana along with the Attorney General’s Office and Indiana Investment Watch (a program of the Secretary of State’s office) all presented on behalf of Money Smart Week at the Tippecanoe County Public Library.

The main points of the evening were:

· If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

· Check out individuals and businesses with third party sources before transacting business.

· Closely monitor your credit scores and take advantage of Indiana programs such as locking your social security number.

· Anyone selling investments or investment opportunities must be licensed in the state of Indiana.

· Scammers and fraudsters are not always strangers, a lot of times they are people you know and may trust.

· Never wire money to unknown persons or businesses.

· When purchasing online, it is better to use your credit card rather than a debit card because credit card companies usually have fraud protection and are NOT direct links to your bank account.

· Be extremely cautious when it comes to your personal information, even your birthday.

· You do not have to go through a third party to try and lower your credit card interest rate (beware of calls from Rachael).

· If the first three or second three numbers on your caller ID show up as 000, the person on the other end is trying to block their number. This usually constitutes a possible scam.

· Scammers can manipulate caller ID’s to show whatever they want, even to show up as the FBI or local police.

· Never take a back door approach when it comes to dealing with your bank or credit card company. Always initiate the call to a number you know.

· Beware of claimed affiliations, scammers and fraudsters will tell you anything to solicit business.

· Trust your instincts.

For more information on local scams, scam alerts or business information, contact the Better Business Bureau.

For more information on investment fraud, contact Indiana Investment Watch.

For more information on identity theft and identity theft prevention as well as additional scam information, contact the Attorney General’s Office.

Contact Information:

Better Business Bureau 866-463-9222

Attorney General’s Office 800-382-5516

Indiana Investment Watch 800-223-8791

“No Whining!”

10/14/2010

Posted on 10/14/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

Recently, CEO and Entrepreneur Clate Mask participated in an event in Las Vegas titled “Conquer and Grow.” Mask simply began with the message, “No whining!” Over the last few years the economy has given every business owner, employee and college grad reason to whine, but Mask challenges all of us to, instead of whining, “become the solution to the current market conditions.” Mind over matter. Be bigger than the market. Come out on top. Control your surroundings with your attitude. To do so, proactive approaches must be put in place. This includes: improving systems, building referral partnerships and being smart with social media and not to mention studying trends, setting goals, strategically plan and leverage your reach. But hey, it beats whining.

For more information read “No Whining: Thought Leaders on Thriving in Today’s Economy.”

What do you do when you cannot Find a BBB Report?

10/8/2010

Posted on 10/8/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

Recently, I was looking through the morning headlines of a favorite online news source when I came across a new, up-and-coming “charity.” It’s called Pedaling for Patriots and, according to their website, 100% of donations go to the CIA Officers Memorial Foundation. (http://www.pedalingforpatriots.com/sponsors/)

Pedaling for Patriots is a coast-to-coast bike ride being done by Rob and Kim Richer. The two met in the Marine Corps in 1981 and married in 1983. The couple spent the next 22 years with the Central Intelligence Agency. Rob retired in 2005 as the Associate Director for Operations, the number two position within the ranks of clandestine service.

Kim, while following Rob around the world, delivers Meals on Wheels, leads church outreach and has organized various fundraising efforts for children around the world. She also participates in the ONE Organization.

Neither Pedaling for Patriots nor the CIA Officers Memorial Foundation currently has a BBB report, so how do you know if they are legitimate?

Below are some personal research tips to use when the BBB does not have information on a business or charity:

· Find a Website- In today’s day and age, an online presence is almost a must. Most legitimate businesses and charities will have some form of online presence to provide information to customers and/or donors.

· Find a Name- Most scams hide behind a company or charity name and do not provide an actual person’s name. Find an actual person’s name and use that in your research.

· Find an “About Us” page- Likewise, most scams will either not have an “about us” page or will have a very vague “about us” page.

· Testimonials- Find out what others are saying about the business or charity. Type the business/charity name into a search engine along with the word “scam” and see what comes up.

· Don’t Ignore your instincts- Do not make decisions on instincts alone, but do not ignore them either. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is, but if you feel the business or charity is legitimate, don’t ignore that either, take a few extra minutes to back-up your instincts with research.

The BBB has over 4 million reports nationwide on businesses and charities. We are always adding to our database. If you cannot find information on a business or charity, or want us to look into a business or charity please contact us at info@indybbb.org. Please include any information you have such as: location, owners and contact info.

Tempted by Secret Shopping Offers? Better do your Research.

10/6/2010

Posted on 10/6/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

One of the most common fake check scams on the BBB radar has to be Secret Shopping. Now, don’t get me wrong because some secret shopping firms are completely legitimate and extremely valuable in performing market research for businesses. Others, however, simply take a relatively simple business model and turn it into a way to steal your money.

Maybe you have received an offer or maybe you know someone who has, but a typical secret shopping scam begins with a letter delivered through the mail with a sizable check attached. The letter will explain how “Easy it is to earn extra money by going though everyday activities such as shopping and eating out!” and that “You have been selected as a prime candidate for this position.”

Next the letter will explain as to why the check is for such a high amount. The “employee” is then directed to the nearest Western Union or similar money wiring service and is instructed to wire a large portion of the check to the “business” via a provided account number. This is required as proof of proficiency in wiring money….Don’t worry though because the check also covers related fees for wiring the money as well as money to compensate you for your first secret shopping excursion…

Once the money is off, your bank will discover that the check is a fake. The money you wired comes out of your account and the check is determined completely worthless. The funds from the check are removed from your account and if you already wired the money, it is nearly impossible to get it back.

The moral of the story is twofold. First, put yourself in the place of a business owner, ask yourself, “Would you send a check, of any amount, to a person you have never met and offer them a job on the spot?” Probably not. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Contact the BBB before entering into any kind of agreement with a secret shopping company. Second, if you are “100% Certain” this is a real opportunity, then the company should not mind that you wait for the check to clear before you prove that you can wire money. Contact the company and tell them before you wire the money back to them, you want to wait for the bank to clear the check. If the company is legitimate, they should have no problem waiting a few extra days.

Remember that scammers are not dumb, they are smart enough to find ways to scam thousands of people every year. Before making any decisions, take a few minutes to think everything over. If something seems fishy, trust your gut and trust your instincts. Contact the Better Business Bureau for more information. The BBB is here to help.

Auto Ads: If they Sound too Good to be True, They Probably Are

9/29/2010

Posted on 9/29/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

I’ve recently noticed a spike in auto dealers advertising a deal to pay off your existing car loan no matter how much you owe. This sounds like a dream come true, especially for those who owe more than their current vehicle is worth. Simply trade in your vehicle and the auto dealer will pay the rest of your loan and, for your troubles, you get to drive off the lot with a new loan and in a brand new car!

Like most everything else, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

In most cases the auto dealer will take the amount still owed on your car, subtract what your car is worth as a trade-in and pile the difference onto your new loan for your new car. In other words, if your current vehicle is worth $5000, but you still owe $10,000, the auto dealer will give you $5000 (or less) as a trade-in value. That money, in effect, comes off the amount you still owe on your loan; dropping the amount owed to $5000. If your new car costs $20,000, your loan will be for $25,000 (the price of your new car plus the amount still owed on your old car). In essence, the auto dealers do pay off your existing loan, but you end up paying that money back to the auto dealers in your new loan.

This also creates immediate negative equity in your new vehicle. This means, should something happen and you need to sell your new car, the most you will probably get out of it is the $20,000 you bought it for, but as it goes with new cars, they usually loose thousands of dollars in value as soon as they are driven off the lot; but best case scenario, you sell it for what you paid for it, except you still owe $5,000 on your loan.

The BBB recommends being very cautious with these types of offers and to keep asking questions until you fully understand all the terms and agreements of your new loan. Always remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Texting Donation

9/24/2010

Posted on 9/24/2010 by Joseph Eldridge

Beginning in 2010, one of newest ways for a donor to make a donation was texting through cell phones. With a few simple keystrokes, you can send donations to a specified number to benefit a charitable organization but before you press SEND on your phone there are a few things you should know about this type of donating.

1. Verify with the charity that the number you are texting is the number of the organization. Check the organization’s website or contact directly to verify

2. Know that a texted donation may not directly go to the organization and can take up to 90 days to reach the organization. Your donation is delayed going through multiple parties such as your phone service provider and third-party carriers that transmit the donation to the charity.

3. In addition to the donation amount to the organization, there may also be text message rates that may apply depending on your contract and messaging plan.

4. Does the charity provide an opt out so that you can choose not to receive future text messages from the organization? Many phone providers charge for messages received to a cell phone whether you read them or not and the opt out function allows you to not receive info from the organization on your cell phone.

Indianapolis: It’s the People and the Businesses that make our city Great.

9/20/2010

Posted on 9/20/2010 by Wendy Dych

I take a large amount of pride in the city I live in, and have lived in for all of my life. Recently, I was attending a Colts game and while outside the stadium a man asked me if I was from Indianapolis. I of course said, “yes, born and raised.” He said a funny thing happened to him that day, he is from Ontario, Canada and was on his way to Indiana and got lost, ending up in downtown Indianapolis. Since he was here, he and his wife decided to visit our downtown scene. Boy he was glad he did. He said to me, “You Midwesterners are the nicest and friendliest people I have ever met.”

He went on to explain how he and his wife ate dinner at a local restaurant, had great service and wonderful food. They purchased tickets from a vendor on the street and decided to go to the game. “What a beautiful stadium you have,” was his words to me. Additionally, they had already walked the canal, visited the Museum of Art and shopped at local stores. Because of his great experiences, he and his wife planned on staying in Indy for a long weekend.

In a business sense this is what it takes to increase our local economy, good customer service and even better people make for great experiences and more revenue for our local businesses. Above all, it made me proud to be a Hoosier.

Trust is the Name of the Game

9/17/2010

Posted on 9/17/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

In a capitalistic society, to run a successful and profitable business, some level of marketing must be in place. Whether marketing consists of in-house posters and flyers strategically placed on telephone poles and in other common areas or is outsourced to a large marketing communications firm that encompass a multi-million dollar budget, what people ultimately think of your company, through dealings, will ultimately decide the success of your company.

Grassroots, word-of-mouth, even gossip all describe the simplest and often most impressionable form of marketing. What people think of your company matters; it matters when they make purchasing decisions, it matters when they look for expert advice, it matters when they need something done NOW. In business, the reputation of your company can be the deciding factor as to whether or not you are in business 6 months from now. When a company loses the trust of the public, the company loses money, customers, investors and community support. Especially in a tough economy, a business is only as good as the trust consumers have in the company and its ownership.

Despite the finest, most high tech marketing efforts, if a business has a bad reputation, that is what the consumers will remember; not some catchy jingle and slogan. Business review sites, blogs, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and of course Google have made it easier than ever to connect consumers and create reputations for companies. Just look at the aircraft company that had employees videotaped and put on YouTube when they destroyed a passengers luggage. Something like that can happen to anyone, at anytime. When a consumer has a bad experience with a company, millions upon millions of people can know about it in a matter of seconds. All it takes is a consumer taking out his/her iPhone, connecting to Twitter and clicking “Tweet.”

Now, more than ever it is important to provide sound customer service and handle customer complaints in a timely, ethical and respectful manor. You don’t want to be that next company getting 15 million hits on YouTube, having your ethics questioned by news hosts and being featured in the monologs of late night talk shows.

Customer service, building and maintaining a strong reputation just might be the cheapest form of marketing available.

Scammers Target the Military

9/13/2010

Posted on 9/13/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

Original article published on foxnews.com by Katie Landan

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2010/09/08/scammers-target-military-scams-know/

It is hard for me to believe how low some scammers will stoop to make a profit from, no let me rephrase that, to outright steal from innocent, unsuspecting individuals. But, to scam the men and women who are fighting for freedom and defending the United States is utterly despicable to me. Yet, it happens and continues to happen.

Holly Petraeus, director of the Better Business Bureau’s military line and the wife of Gen. David Petraeus, commander of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan said “[In] the military you have a young population on the web. They get caught up on these Internet scams, specifically targeted to them.”

Unfortunately, however, most of the scammers sit behind a laptop computer in a cyber café in Africa to work their scams, which makes finding, much less prosecuting these scammers almost impossible. Therefore, the best way to combat these and other scams is to increase awareness in hopes that the scammers’ inboxes remain empty and bank accounts vacant.

The most common military scams are:

Online Dating Scams: These are the latest and most popular to hit the web. Scammers, usually out of Ghana or Nigeria steal identities of real soldiers on social networking sites like Facebook and MySpace and pose as military members. Others create identities off of British military members. After posting pictures and stories to popular dating sites, the scammers contact women. “They [build] up a huge story about who they are, they are heroes and serving the country,” Grey said. “People fall for the ploy, and some people are sending them money.” Scammers ask for everything from laptop computers to money for airfare so they can fly back to the U.S. and visit the victims, most of whom are women. “They are very poetic, they are very savvy,” Grey said. “Luring these women in and they take them for their money.” Victims have been cheated out of up to $23,000. Grey cited one case where a woman took out a second mortgage on her home to finance her romantic interest overseas.

Protest Scams: Not every online military scam is created for financial gain. Some scammers are contacting the families of military members by phone or email and making false claims that their son or daughter is injured or wounded overseas. Grey says they sometimes ask for money for medical bills, but usually they are only contacting the family to scare them as an anti-war protest.

Craigslist Car Scam: Scammers are taking to Craigslist, offering too-good-to-be-true discounts on cars for military personnel. In some cases, the scammers claim they are military members about to be deployed and need to sell a vehicle fast. Similarly, others offer military members a special discount for serving their country. More disturbingly, the scammers are offering low-priced vehicles because a U.S. military member who died in combat owned the vehicle and the family wants to get rid of it fast. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) says scams like these usually require a wire transfer and promise free shipping. The description of the cars is lifted from auto sites, and typically you can Google the vehicle ID number, to determine whether it’s a real deal or a hoax.

Military Loan Scams: Military members who have less than perfect credit are becoming victims of flashy offers that typically promise "up to 40% of your monthly take home pay," "same day cash," "no credit check," "all ranks approved." But these offers often up with sky-high interest rates that do more harm than good for military members. The BBB says that this scam involves the entire family of military members, so it can do years of damage to their financial security.

Terrorist Capture Scam: Some scammers claim to be military members fighting in Iraq or Afghanistan and who are faced with a tough decision -- they have either gained access to Saddam Hussein’s secret fortune or have captured Usama bin Laden, and need your help. This scam preys on U.S. civilians who are looking to fight justice and maybe earn a little money in the process. Scammers say they have come across millions of dollars of Hussein’s secret fortune but need a monetary advance in order to gain access to the money, and will give you a dividend when the cash is obtained. The BBB says that even though Saddam is dead, people are apt to believe that his wealth is still circulating somewhere out there. Other scammers claim they have captured bid Laden but need money to transport him, so that they can turn him over to authorities.

Housing Scams: Due to the nature of military service, those who serve and their families are forced to move from base to base around the country. Though the military often provides housing, some members are responsible for finding their own living arrangements, which scammers are fully aware of. Scammers go to Craigslist to target areas where they know military members will need housing. They lift the descriptions of legitimate rental properties and rewrite the post so it offers a special discount for military members. Depicting a too-good-to-be-true offer, they ask for a security deposit to be wired in advance to ensure their occupancy. But often, the individual or family arrives at the rental property only to find it already occupied.

The BBB outlines several tips to protect yourself from becoming a victim of military scams:

-- Always research a company with the BBB before you hand over any money or personal information.

-- Be sure keep your computer protected by installing updated anti-virus software.

-- Observe the golden rule of avoiding scams: if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

If you have found yourself a victim of a scam, you can file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau, the Federal Trade Commission or the FBI at www.ic3.gov.

BBB Partners with La Voz de Indiana, Indiana’s Leading Bilingual Newspaper

11/3/2010

Posted on 11/3/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

The Better Business Bureau of Central Indiana is partnering with La Voz de Indiana bilingual newspaper to provide content, including consumer alerts, business news and BBB services, on a regular basis. The first article courtesy of the Better Business Bureau will appear in September.

Owner and founder Liliana Hamnik has been recognized as Hispanic Business Woman of the Year and received Kroger’s Most Outstanding Women- and Minority-Owned Business (WMBE) of the Year. Hamnik is also the recipient of the Julia Carson Certificate of Honor as well as multiple recognitions from the Consulate of Mexico in Indianapolis.

With a circulation of 20,000 papers, La Voz de Indiana can be found at 15 libraries around Indiana, 10 Kroger stores, two Marsh stores, 200 Hispanic stores and restaurants and 20 boxes in Indianapolis.

The Better Business Bureau and La Voz aim to provide useful and timely information to businesses and consumers through alerts and articles as well as education on BBB services that are readily available.

La Voz de Indiana prints every other Wednesday and is located at 2911 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46222. La Voz can be reached at 317-423-0957 or via fax at 317-423-0956. La Voz de Indiana is also available online at www.lavozdeindiana.com

BBB Partners with La Voz de Indiana, Indiana’s Leading Bilingual Newspaper

9/8/2010

Posted on 9/8/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

BBB Partners with La Voz de Indiana, Indiana’s Leading Bilingual Newspaper

Owner and founder Liliana Hamnik has been recognized as Hispanic Business Woman of the Year and received Kroger’s Most Outstanding Women- and Minority-Owned Business (WMBE) of the Year. Hamnik is also the recipient of the Julia Carson Certificate of Honor as well as multiple recognitions from the Consulate of Mexico in Indianapolis.

The Right Accountant: One of the Most Important Investments a Businesses can Make

9/4/2010

Posted on 9/4/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

Many of us view accountants simply as the machines that work tirelessly from the start of the year until April 15^th and then take a long 8-month golf trip. Unfortunately for our accountant friends, the 8 months between tax seasons are usually not filled with seeking the illusive hole-in-one or island hopping in the Caribbean. On the contrary, those 8 months are spent being a trusted, knowledgeable and very important advisor to business owners and executives.

Accountants, by virtue of their profession, are able to help identify tax breaks for businesses that may save thousands, and in some larger cases, millions of dollars as well as increase proficiency by running cost/benefit analysis, discover inventory problems before they have a chance to harm the business, and organize and manage different accounts and detect potential problems before they arise.

Generally, accountants are very up-to-date on new regulations and legislation and are usually knowledgeable when it comes to the economy and economic trends. Most accountants are good advisors when it comes to raising or lowering prices, salaries and the hiring/firing process.

To review a list of local BBB accredited, Certified Public Accountants, please click here.

To review a list of local BBB accredited Accountants, please click here.

To review a list of local BBB accredited Accounting Service Providers, please click here.

For more information visit Business News Daily.

Some Benefits of BBB Accreditation

9/1/2010

Posted on 9/1/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

1. Marketplace Authority on TRUST
· Our accreditation program is a coveted honor earned by elite businesses and charities.
· In an independent study, 8 out of 10 people indicated they would rather do business with a BBB accredited business.
· Our mission is to build a TRUSTworthy marketplace of buyers and sellers.
· The Economics of TRUST: Increased TRUST in your business leads to increased returns for your business.

2. BBB Business Reviews
· The BBB reports on both accredited and non-accredited businesses.
· BBB grades reflect the TRUST the BBB has in the business.
· Designed to help consumers make informed purchasing and donation decisions.
· Includes: Time in business, Complaints against the business, BBB grade, Contact information, Government action(s) and Advertising review.

3. Exclusive Use of BBB Name & Logo
· Proudly display your commitment to sound ethics and TRUST.
· Gain the identification, respect, long history and TRUST that comes with the BBB name and logo.
· Differentiate yourself from your competition by agreeing to uphold the BBB’s 8 Standards of TRUST.
· Demonstrate your commitment to help build a TRUSTworthy marketplace to your consumers and your competitors.

4. BBB Legal Line
· BBB accredited businesses are provided free legal services by Riley Bennett & Egloff (RBE), a well established Indianapolis law firm.
· The free services include: periodic newsletters, presentation of information seminars and telephone consultations to discuss legal issues that may affect your business and provide general information regarding your legal rights, obligations and options.

“Thank you so much. That helps tremendously. I had no idea we had that kind of benefit as members. I appreciate the info” –Amanda Galloway, Accredited Business

“We encourage our customers to contact the BBB about us and we actually have had customers that found us via the BBB.” –Chad Mann, Accredited Business

“I checked him on your website and saw an A+ rating, which I soon learned was true…He would be my recommendation for all home and business repair, maintenance and building needs.” –Vicki Malayer, Consumer.

There is no such thing as a FREE lunch

8/24/2010

Posted on 8/24/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

How many times have you seen or heard it? “Call now for a free subscription.” “Call now for a free list.” “Apply online now for a free directory.” These types of ads are all over the radio and television. But, while they are saying the word “free,” often times what they really mean is, “give me your credit card so I can charge you $1.95 for shipping and handling and then charge you $39.99 per month, every month, after the first 30-days.”

These so called “free” deals attract thousands of consumers per month, many of whom never fully realize what they are truly getting themselves into until they check their credit card statement. And even then, it may be too late. Some companies charge very high cancelation fees if the product or service is not cancelled within the 30-day, “free” trial run.

Always be sure to check, double check and recheck with a company representative if you inquire about a “free” offer. Ask how long the free offer lasts, ask if you will ever be charged money for any services and always question why a company wants your credit card number for an offer that is supposed to be “free.”

Don’t feel pressured and don’t let the representative on the phone talk you into something or intimidate you into purchasing something you are not comfortable with. You can always hang up.

When you cancel, make sure you cancel. If you call the business, the job of the company representative you will speak to is to retain your order. He or she will try to make you think you are making a mistake by cancelling. Have a game plan and stick to it. Also be sure to get the name of the person you are speaking to and any identifying company number or transaction number in regards to your cancellation, in case of a dispute.

Companies need to make money in order to operate; they don’t do this by giving away their products and services for free for forever. When in doubt contact the BBB and find out information about the business.

Hot Topics-January 2011

8/23/2010

Posted on 8/23/2010 by

This list is current as of January 19, 2011. Readers should take into consideration the importance of the practice in question and the total performance of any companies referenced in this statement. For complete information, please visit www.bbb.org.

1. Mystery shopping scammers name-jack legitimate, BBB-accredited business. Quantum Market Research, Inc., located in Oakland, Calif., has informed the BBB that their name is being used by scammers on fake checks in a mystery shopper scam. Consumers are instructed to cash the checks, keep a percentage of the money for themselves and wire the rest via Western Union.

The letter instructs consumers to send money back to an address located in Modesto, Calif., and the letterhead shows an address in Staten Island, N.Y. These addresses are not locations for Quantum Market Research, Inc.

Individuals who receive a fraudulent check or have information about the scam should contact their local law enforcement office. The Better Business Bureau also suggests filing a complaint with United States Postal Inspector at postalinspectors.uspis.gov or the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov.

2. Auto service contract seller Stop Repair Bills leaves trail of unhappy customers. A year after the collapse of US Fidelis, the nation’s largest seller of extended auto service contracts, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises customers to remain extremely skeptical of any company marketing similar after-market contracts. Currently piling up similar complaints is NRRM Enterprises, LLC, of St. Peters, Mo., better known as Stop Repair Bills or StopRepairBills.com. More than 200 consumers have filed complaints against Stop Repair Bills since Jan. 1, 2010. Many claimed they were pressured into buying service contracts they later discovered did not cover their vehicle repairs.

Stop Repair Bills has an “F” grade with the BBB, the lowest possible. Governments in the U.S. and Canada have taken action against Stop Repair Bills and affiliated businesses.

Please click here to continue reading the story.

The BBB also offers the following advice to persons trying to decide whether to purchase after-market service contracts:

• Never give personal or credit card information to anyone over the phone or via e-mail unless and until you are ready to purchase a contract.
• Do not be pressured into making an immediate decision. Beware of sales offers that require you to buy immediately in order to qualify for the best rate.
• Beware of any claims that you will receive “total” or “bumper to bumper” coverage on your vehicle. That does not necessarily mean that every problem with your car will be covered.
• Read your manufacturer’s warranty, and contact your dealer or manufacturer to make sure you are not purchasing duplicate coverage.
• Check the contract seller’s BBB Business Review by going to www.bbb.org or by calling 317-488-2222. Do not be misled by marketers who suggest that you check the Business Review for contract administrators and not the brokers themselves.

3. Beware of “Virus Protection” scammers claiming to be Microsoft. A new scam emerging out of India-based call centers involves scammers calling consumers claiming to be Microsoft Corp. They use scare tactics and high-pressure sales strategies to convince the consumer that their computer is infected with a virus. Next, they attempt to convince the consumer to allow them remote access via the Internet to clear the virus. Victims have primarily been international (Australia), but the BBB warns that anyone can be targeted. Once a third party has access to your computer, they can view recent history, access different accounts, plant a virus or even install software that monitors activity and can log passwords and other personal information.

The BBB recommends keeping up to date with the latest virus protection software and to never grant access to your computer, bank account or other personal information to anyone over the phone or Internet. Always verify who you are speaking with and never feel pressured into making an immediate decision. If the offer is available immediately, it should also be available tomorrow and for however long it takes to verify information. For more information, please click here.

4. Scary new twist to old Nigerian check scam. E-mails are circulating that claim to be from a hired assassin. The e-mail states that someone has hired a professional hit man to assassinate you, but the hit man claims he/she believes you are a good person and is willing to let you live provided that you pay the cost originally charged for the assassination. This scam plays off the fear of being watched, followed and, eventually, killed. This scam can target anyone, but the most liable victims are elderly individuals or couples who either do not understand the scam or who simply wire money to avoid having to deal with a potential problem. The BBB recommends immediately calling the police if you feel your life is being threatened. Additionally, never wire money to an unknown person or company. For an example of the e-mail, please click here.

5. Local businesses targeted by Regional Yellow Pages, Inc. On March 25, 2010, the State of Indiana entered a complaint seeking injunctive and other statutory relief pursuant to violations of the Deceptive Commercial Solicitations Act. Regional Yellow Pages, Inc. (Regional) allegedly called businesses seeking to verify advertising accounts and mailing addresses. However, according to the complaint, Regional asked business representatives to say "yes" if the information was correct. The State claims Regional then used the response of "yes" to the organization's correct contact information as evidence the organization purchased Regional's services. The company has over 675 complaints filed against them, with nearly 630 filed in the last 12 months. Click here to view the company’s BBB Business Review Report.

Want to report a potential scam or alert the BBB of unethical business practices? Send us an e-mail to info@indybbb.org.

For more information, contact: Tiffany Whisner, Coles Marketing Communications, 317-571-0051 twhisner@colesmarketing.com.

Volunteerism

8/23/2010

Posted on 8/23/2010 by Joseph Eldridge
Many individuals in these economic times are struggling with wanting to financially support charitable causes and organizations but due to financial constraints are not able to give accordingly but that shouldn’t discourage people from still giving to charitable organizations. While donations are the lifeline of most charitable organizations, many organizations say they need volunteer support just as much as financial support. There are many ways to donate and volunteer your time and talents to your favorite organizations. You can start by contacting the organization and ask are there volunteer opportunities such as office work (filing, answering phones, etc.), special events that need staffing, stuffing envelopes. These support responsibilities, while not the most glamorous jobs, are the lifeline of organizations that keep the organization functioning and able to provide additional services. Support of an organization goes deeper that the pocketbook.

Seven Tips for College-Bound Students to Fight Identity Theft

8/20/2010

Posted on 8/20/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

Indianapolis, IN – College students have enough to juggle when it comes to school, work and their social life — fighting fraud often doesn't make the list of priorities. Because college students are so susceptible to identity theft, the Better Business Bureau recommends 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 ages 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 the 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 Bill Thomas, president and CEO of the Central Indiana Better Business Bureau. "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."

The BBB recommends college-bound students take the following seven steps to fight identity theft on campus:

1. 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 P.O. Box.

2. Important documents should be stored under lock and key, such as in a filing cabinet. This includes a 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.

3. 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 co-sign for a loan or financing for items like a TV.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. When shopping on unfamiliar websites, always check the company out first with the BBB online. Look for the BBB Accredited Business seal along with other trust seals; click on the seals to confirm they are legitimate.

7. 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 us online at www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-finance.

Enough with Identity Theft!

8/18/2010

Posted on 8/18/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

“Identity theft,” the term hardly goes a day without being said or heard. It is one of the major problems in each the private, social and business world. Identity theft can claim you as its next victim in a multitude of ways including: pre-approved credit card offers, bill stubs, bank statements, lost or stolen mail, a lost or stolen wallet or purse, hacking into your computer, inadvertently entering personal information online and being scammed any number of ways.

The BBB recommends the following to help cut the risk of falling victim of identity theft:

1. Only carry cards that you need and be very cautious who you trust with your personal information.

2. Invest in a shredding machine that can shred pre-approved credit card offers, old bank statements and all other documents you no longer need but contain personal information.

3. Use unique passwords and passwords that are unidentifiable based on your username.

4. Memorize as many personal identification numbers as you can, if you have to write them down do so in a fashion in which they are not identifiable, such as, as a phone number or as an IP address.

5. Do not hand out your social security number without asking “why?” first and make sure the “why” is a legitimate reason.

6. Do not give personal information over the phone, it is nearly impossible to unequivocally know who you are speaking to.

7. View your credit report from the three credit reporting agencies at least once every year and pay particular attention to anything out of the ordinary or that you do not understand, as it could be a type of fraud.

The harder you make it for thieves to steal your identity the more likely they will give up and move onto somebody else. So, enough with identify theft!

Beware of 809 Area Code Phone Calls

8/17/2010

Posted on 8/17/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

This is an old scam dating back to around 1996, but it is good to be reminded of it once in awhile. The area code 809 is in the Dominican Republic and has been used as a scam to run up unnaturally high phone bills. Some reports indicate that calling an 809 number can cost up-to thousands of dollars per minute. The scam originates with a phone call from an 809 phone number in which a person requests a call back about a prize, an illness or a family member in trouble. When the victim returns the call they can be charged an absorbent amount of money to either listen to a long recording or to speak with the scammers themselves. Like I said this is a dated scam, but it doesn’t hurt to be reminded of it every once in awhile.

See the link below for more information from AT&T.

http://www.att.com/gen/press-room?pid=6045

Hoosiers Facing Foreclosure, Help is in Sight

8/12/2010

Posted on 8/12/2010 by Wendy Dych

The housing market has been a newsworthy topic for quite some time now. Recently, I was reading an article by Tom Spalding at IndyStar.com and learned that the State is offering help to Hoosiers facing foreclosure.

In the article Spalding states, “Indiana’s foreclosure rate of 4.51 percent has fallen lower than the national average, and state officials want to continue keeping Hoosiers in their homes.”

On September 1^st a free event will be held at National Guard Armories in eight (8) cities across the state: Indianapolis, Hammond, South Bend, Fort Wayne, Columbus, Evansville, Terre Haute and Richmond. Hoosiers who are struggling and facing possible foreclosure can attend this free event and meet with a trained foreclosure prevention counselor. The foreclosure prevention counselor can help the borrower obtain and prepare the proper paperwork and look at other alternatives to foreclosure.

The event in Indianapolis will be from 3 to 8 p.m. on September 1^st at 3612 W. Minnesota Street.

The information in this blog is from Tom Spalding’s article “State to offer help to Hoosiers facing foreclosure” which was posted on August 10, 2010. To read the full article please visit http://www.indystar.com/article/20100810/BUSINESS/100810007/State-to-offer-help-to-Hoosiers-facing-foreclosure.

Let’s Put a Halt on Misleading Advertising

8/11/2010

Posted on 8/11/2010 by Nick Ostergaard
How many of you are sick and tired of seeing a deal in an advertisement and thinking to yourself, “Okay, where is the catch?” The advertising industry should not be that way, but unfortunately we live in a world where even ads that claim, “NO STRINGS ATTACHED!” often come with not only strings but weights and chains. The only way the advertising industry will change is if it is forced to change….now how can we (as consumers) force the advertising industry to change? We cannot simply boycott products but we can voice our opinions and show advertisers that we do not appreciate having to be fooled into buying products. First, whenever possible buy a product from a straightforward advertisement and inform the business why you are purchasing from them. Second, when you see a misleading or false advertisement, REPORT IT to adreview@indybbb.org. Advertising is supposed to inform consumers about a product, service and/or business and allow for a consumer to make an informed and impartial purchasing decision…..let’s not allow advertisers continue to mislead us all!

It’s Fair Time!

8/6/2010

Posted on 8/6/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

The Indiana State Fair officially kicks off today and continues for the next 17 days. The BBB has a booth in the exhibition hall, booth number 133. In our booth this year we have created an interactive environment to help educate businesses and consumers on how to utilize bbb.org.

We have a computer set up for fair go-er’s use; visitors to our booth can learn how to find local businesses, find BBB accredited businesses, find Type of Business listings for Central Indiana businesses and learn how to read and use BBB reports. In addition we have information on what “accreditation” means and why it is important along with a few goodies to take home with you.

So in between concerts, rides, events and the fair eating schedule, Come over and see us. We’d love to speak with you.

Thinking about Hiring a Grant Writing Business to Help with your Company Financials? Better do your Homework First!

8/5/2010

Posted on 8/5/2010 by Wendy Dych
With the economy crunch, some area businesses are focused on their financial status. Local accredited businesses have contacted the BBB regarding grant assistance companies. These grant assistant companies state they can help a business with their financials. The BBB strongly suggest you use caution. Grants are not as easy as 1-2-3. Organizations do not usually give out grants for personal debt consolidation or to pay for other personal needs. Grants are usually given only to serve a social good, such as bringing jobs to an area, training under-employed youth, preserving local history, etc. One company that we received an inquiry on is US Financial dba My Fundling Consultants/Grant Consultants. To view this company report click here.

Charities on the verge of losing tax-exempt status

8/4/2010

Posted on 8/4/2010 by Joseph Eldridge

The IRS recently published a list of 6,951 Indiana charities that must file tax returns by Oct. 15, 2010 to avoid losing their tax-exempt status.

Many of the organizations on the list are small, community-based organizations, including many service clubs, foundations and school-based groups. The list includes organizations that have not filed returns for the last three years, though other organizations not on the list may also be at risk. But for those charities that are at risk of losing their tax-exempt status for failure to file a notice or return, the IRS is offering a “One-Time Filing Relief” which allows small charities extra time to file returns.

The IRS will automatically revoke the tax-exempt status of charities that do not file a return by Oct. 15, 2010 and will publish a list of those organizations in early 2011. Donors who make a donation to those revoked organizations after the list is published may not deduct those contributions on their tax returns.

Many of the charities on this list are those that were not required to file a return prior to a change in the law in 2007 that now requires all non- profit organizations, regardless of size and income to file tax returns.

A list of these at-risk organizations is available from the IRS at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-tege/in.pdf.

In conducting its Charity Review Program, BBB verifies charities are indeed tax-exempt as well as registered to solicit in the state of Indiana. For additional information and advice that charities and donors can trust, start with bbb.org/charity.

BBB Warns Against Five Scams Targeting Senior Citizens

8/3/2010

Posted on 8/3/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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: www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-scams/

Be sure to know the facts about Air Ducts

8/2/2010

Posted on 8/2/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

Air duct cleaning companies offer a valuable service to consumers. Air duct cleaners can help your home air systems run more efficiently and ultimately save you money on electric bills as well as create a healthier atmosphere for everyone in the home. Consumers have to watch out, however, for unscrupulous air duct cleaning companies that may practice a bait-n-switch advertising tactic, if you allow them.

Be on the lookout for air duct cleaning companies that while or after completing an advertised cleaning special insist your home is not safe because of an extreme mold problem. Although sometimes this may be true, other times this may be a ploy to charge hundreds and even thousands of extra dollars in service fees.

Never make the decision on the spot to allow the company to go ahead and fix the mold problem, instead seek a second opinion from a separate company and contact the BBB to find a business you can trust.

Other Air Duct Cleaning Tips Include:

Check the Company Out With BBB. Before setting up a visit, check the company out with your Better Business Bureau first. Ideally, the business will be Accredited by BBB or at least have a good rating. Pay close attention to the name of the business you’re researching because unscrupulous outfits often choose a name that is similar to an existing business that has a solid reputation. To check out a business’s Reliability Report or locate a BBB Accredited duct cleaner visit http://www.bbb.org/us/Find-Business-Reviews/.
Look for the Fine Print. Ads and contracts may contain fine print which the business might think will absolve them from honoring their advertised price. Always ask plenty of questions and get to the bottom line of what it’s going to cost you, before you sign on the dotted line.
Get a Second Opinion. If the duct cleaner discovers that you have a mold problem, get a second opinion. Mold remediation can cost thousands of dollars so you’ll want expert advice on how to take care of it.
File a Complaint with BBB. If you believe you’ve been misled by a business, file a complaint with your BBB online at www.bbb.org/us/file-complaint. Even if BBB isn’t able to resolve the issue for you, the complaint can serve as a warning to other consumers about the business.

Bridal Expo Scam

7/29/2010

Posted on 7/29/2010 by Wendy Dych

The BBB is issuing an alert about a bridal show promotion that could pop up in our area. The promoters apparently operated solely online and by phone, so they could really be anywhere and could claim to be located anywhere, under any name.

Dream Wedding Bridal Expo (DWBE) came to our attention last week. DWBE has a Web site at www.dreamweddingbridalexpo.com.

A local Dallas, Texas reporter learned from a bridal service that they had received an email blast and paid a deposit to DWBE to be featured at a bridal exhibit at a Dallas hotel. The bridal service said that after paying the deposit, they checked with the hotel and learned DWBE had not even contacted the hotel about exhibit space. The bridal service asked DWBE for a refund but hasn’t received it. The bridal service has filed a complaint with Dallas BBB, and says he is notifying other wedding businesses, and filing complaints with Attorney General and www.ic3.gov. We don’t know if there are other victims out there.

The bridal service noted that the address shown on DWBE’s site is a large office building, and there’s no indication of which suite DWBE supposedly was in.

The Dallas BBB confirmed with the hotel that DWBE had not even contacted them. The hotel representative said she also spoke to three of the “sponsors” listed on DWBE’s site and none of them had heard of DWBE.

Last Thursday the reporter said DWBE told her that due to “issues with the venue” and “lack of support”, the show is cancelled.

The BBB Business review for DWBE is available by clicking the following link.

http://www.bbb.org/dallas/business-reviews/trade-shows-expositions-and-fairs/dream-wedding-bridal-expo-in-dallas-tx-90249499

In addition, the bridal service that complained to the BBB found that a bridal show promoter operated the same way in March 2010 in Boston. Although we have no information to show that the Boston show is connected to the Dallas show, the method of operating looks the same.

Here’s a link to a news story on the Boston show:

http://wbztv.com/local/bridal.show.scam.2.1528587.html

As always, be careful who you are speaking with and always do your own research before making any purchasing decisions. If this or a similar scam happened to you please contact the BBB at info@indybbb.org

The Informed Donor

7/28/2010

Posted on 7/28/2010 by Joseph Eldridge
Have you ever received a letter in the mail, a phone call while eating dinner or been asked for a donation while walking down the street? These are just a couple of ways charities and non-profit organizations raise funds for their programs and organizations. We, as consumers, are often asked to donate quickly and without a lot of information. We are asked to make an informed giving decision on an organization that we may or may not know anything about. The Better Business Bureau and the Wise Giving Alliance have 20 standards for charitable giving that are used to evaluate charities and non-profit organizations to assist donors in making informed giving decisions. These standards evaluate organizations in the areas of: Governance, Finances, Organizational Effectiveness Assessment, Solicitations and Fundraising. As a donor, you owe it to yourself to have as much information as possible before you make a contribution to an organization. You want to be able to make sure your money is going to the right organization(s) and the organization(s) is/are using your donation in a way you are comfortable with. Don’t just be a donor, be an informed donor

The BBB name and logo are not FREE marketing bits for businesses!

7/26/2010

Posted on 7/26/2010 by Nick Ostergaard
All too often I will be sitting at my desk and will be handed an advertisement from a non-accredited business with the BBB name or logo on it. Come to find, the business is usually a former accredited business that did not modify its advertising materials once they stopped being accredited. However, in some cases, it is a business that either has a low grade with the BBB or is not even in the BBB system, but is using the logo as a way to convey a false sense of trust to consumers. The BBB name and logo are the standards for trust in the marketplace and the BBB has and will continue to crack down on businesses and individuals who look to use the name and logo for company gains, despite not being authorized or accredited by the BBB. The BBB will send one warning letter and a brief follow-up letter, if no response or modification, the BBB will report the company to our legal department at the Council of Better Business Bureaus for trademark infringement, violation of copyright law and false advertising. The BBB wishes to protect the rights and privileges of our accredited businesses so consumers, if you see a business falsely using our name and logo please contact Nick Ostergaard at adreview@indybbb.org

The Brickyard 400

7/23/2010

Posted on 7/23/2010 by Diane Dove

I’m a big fan of racing. Have been my whole life. As a kid, it was open-wheel, but now I’m all about NASCAR. And this is a huge weekend for NASCAR! The Brickyard 400 is a great opportunity for not only business owners, but all Hoosiers alike to show what a great state we live in. My last race was this year’s spring race at Bristol and while cold, it was fantastic! Part of what made the trip so great was the hospitality we experienced while in both Bristol, Va. and Bristol, Tenn. From the person that served us our steaks at the local restaurant to the person doing security at the elevator, everyone was just nice. Whether their smiles and cheerfulness was their appreciation for all the race fans coming in and giving their local economy a huge boost or simply the fumes coming from the cars on pitrow, I don’t know, but it was great.

Now I implore my fellow Hoosiers to treat the fans coming in this weekend like you would your family. People from Indiana are known for their “Hoosier Hospitality;” let’s life up to our name and show people from all over the country how great Indiana is. Yeah, there will be a few out there that give race fans a bad name, but most race fans are coming to Indy to have a good clean time- Let’s be sure we do our part in giving them one.

Indianapolis is fortunate to be able to host numerous large-scale events and conventions every year, these events and conventions effect the bottom line of many area businesses. By doing things the right way in a business sense, we all help to create a community of TRUST, which in turn helps add and retain events and conventions. The Brickyard 400 this weekend is just our latest opportunity to show residents and visitors of our city what makes the city of Indianapolis, Indianapolis businesses and most importantly, Indianapolis residents truly great.

Front Page News to Page A12

7/22/2010

Posted on 7/22/2010 by Joseph Eldridge

Front Page News to Page A12: The NEED for Assistance Remains in Tragedies

Recently our eyes have been glued to our television sets as we have watched images of the Haiti earthquake disaster and the BP oil spill. While these events certainly pull at our hearts and emotions, a question that certainly must be thought about is “What happens when the cameras are turned off and the story is not front page news?” Charities, relief and non-profit organizations inspire us with their pleas for assistance and the need to act immediately and while that is certainly true, there is also is a need for on-going assistance. The needs of areas affected by these events will outlive the time they spend on the front pages. Job training and placement, health needs and rebuilding efforts may not bring immediate results but they build the foundation for long term recovery and viability. So remember in times of disaster and tragic events, there are short and long terms needs and if there is a need today, there will be a need tomorrow. Give, but give wisely. To find a trustworthy charity click on the orange box on the home page that says, “Check Out a Business or Charity.” The BBB recommends giving to a BBB-accredited charity, or at least a charity with a positive BBB grade.

Class can still beat Flash: A tale of Customer Service

7/20/2010

Posted on 7/20/2010 by Nick Ostergaard

I recently spent 10 days in Italy on vacation. I traveled to some of the very small towns in the Tuscany region as well as the bigger cities such as Florence and Rome. Being in the advertising industry, my eyes have become trained to not just see advertisements, but to also wonder what they really mean.

After walking the streets of Rome, which I might add is much more commercialized than I anticipated; I noticed that nearly all of the shops had the universal word “SALE” covering most of their window space. Sometimes “SALE” was followed by -30%, or an Italian phrase I could not understand, but, coming from my background, I had to wonder when this “SALE” started. My guess, probably the day the shop first opened its doors.

Cities like Rome and Florence are so touristy that people are there for just a day or just a week and then they are gone. They have no idea that they were probably suckered into a particular store by the universal word “SALE” to pay a highly marked up price, which is not a sale at all. Sometimes overlooked are the shops and businesses that are doing things the right way.

I met an older man who runs a custom leather shop in Florence. He makes about 90% of the products he sells in the back room of his shop. His store was actually pretty bland in comparison, the windows were not covered with ads and sales pitches; actually they were clear so potential customers could peek in the window and actually see his products. This man spoke great English and gave me a tour of his workshop; his sound business practices and customer service earned him 3 sales. I bought a wallet for myself and a nice purse for my girlfriend. My dad also bought a wallet from his shop. When he was ringing us up, he took 15% off of the price because he said he is currently running a sale. Who knew?

I guess the point I am trying to make is that good old fashion customer services can still beat out the flashy and often times misleading “SALE” promotions. I hope more businesses both in the States and abroad take this point to heart

Indiana Law does not require Refunds!

7/21/2010

Posted on 7/21/2010 by Diane Dove

If I’ve heard it once from a consumer, I’ve heard it 5,000 times. “I know my rights and I have 3 days to take this car back” and “The law says I have 30 days to return this stereo and the store won’t do it.” Unfortunately, these consumers are misinformed about their rights and the law. Most consumers just expect companies have a refund policy that allows consumers to return their items for a complete refund. However, in Indiana, there is not a refund law. To put it simply, a company does not have to issue refunds! They don’t even have to post their policies about refunds/no refunds. It is up to the consumer to find out what a company’s refund policy is before making a purchase. If there is no written policy, yet you are told at the time of purchase they do provide refunds, it’s advisable to get that in writing. Be sure to know what the stipulations are of getting a refund. Does the policy provide for a refund or exchanges only? Is there a waiting period for the refund? (Some companies send refunds in the form of a check from their home office and this can take weeks). Are there time limits to which you can take the item back? Does the item have to be unopened or still tagged?

There are a lot of companies out there that answer these questions for you by posting their refund/exchange policy at the customer service desk. This is great, but be sure you periodically read those posted policies at the stores you frequent most. The uncertain economic times of the past year-and-a-half has forced some companies to change their policies. Don’t assume your refund request next month will be handled the same way it was 7 months ago. The times have changed and so have some refund policies.

By: Diane Dove, Director of Dispute Resolutions

Test blog

6/21/2010

Posted on 6/21/2010 by
Comments enabled for the blog?

TEst Blog

6/18/2010

Posted on 6/18/2010 by Nick Ostergood
editing the bbb blog

Test Blog

6/18/2010

Posted on 6/18/2010 by Nick Ostergood
Test blog for the Indy BBB.

test

6/16/2010

Posted on 6/16/2010 by Nick Ostergood
Test page

Indy BBB Blog

6/10/2010

Posted on 6/10/2010 by Nick Ostergood
Testing

BBB Blog

6/8/2010

Posted on 6/8/2010 by Nick Ostergood
BBB to begin blogging the most up to date and relevant information to its consumers.

Helping Businesses Become Better: Required Contract Information

4/16/2010

Posted on 4/16/2010 by

Contractors: Are you unsure what information needs to be provided in a contract? Have you faced contract disputes in the past? Do you simply want to update your contract for your customers? As a part of the ongoing Better Business Bureau of Central Indiana marketing strategy, Helping Businesses Become Better, the BBB has compiled a list of contract requirements. The implementation of this list will help fully disclose information to your customers and give both parties peace of mind that the job will be done to the proper expectations. This list is derived from The Office of Code Revision Indiana Legislative Services Agency.

1. The name of the consumer and the address of the residential property that is the subject of the contractual work to be done.

2. The name and address of the contracted company and the telephone numbers and names of any agent to whom consumer problems and inquiries can be directed.

3. The date the contract was submitted to the consumer and any time limitation on the consumer’s acceptance of the contract.

4. A reasonably detailed description of the proposed home improvements.

5. If the description required by #4 does not include the specifications for the contractual work to be done, a statement that the specifications will be provided to the consumer before commencing any work and that the contract is subject to the consumer’s separate written and dated approval of the specifications.

6. The approximate starting and completion dates of the contractual work to be done.

7. A statement of any contingencies that would materially change the approximate completion date. Examples: Bad weather, unforeseen accident, problems with material distributer, etc.

8. The price for the contractual work to be done.

9. Signature lines for the contracted company or the company’s agent and for each consumer who is to be a party to the contract with a legible printed or typed version of that person’s name placed directly after or below the signature.

10. Additionally, the contract must be in a form that each consumer who is a party to it can reasonably read and understand.

For contracts entered into as a result of damage, loss or expense that is covered, in whole or in part, by the proceeds of an insurance policy, or damage, loss or expense for which a third party is liable, the following information is additionally required.

1. The description, completion dates and statement of contingencies must be prepared for the proposed contractual work to the extent that the damage, loss, or expense is reasonably known by the contracted company.

2. The requirement that a reasonably detailed description be included in the contract may be satisfied with a statement that the subject property will be repaired or restored to the same condition in which the property existed before the damage, loss or expense occurred, or to a comparable condition.

3. The starting and completion dates may be expressed in terms of the number of days elapsed from the date when sufficient approval of the insurance carrier terms allowing for adequate repair or restoration is obtained.

4. The consumer may agree to a contract price expressed in terms of the consumer’s liability for payment after the application of insurance proceeds or payments from a liable third party.

5. The consumer may elect, in writing, to authorize the commencement of work on the property before the consumer receives complete specifications. However, a consumer who elects to authorize the commencement of work under this subdivision is obligated for the home improvements specified and agreed to by the insurance carrier.

6. A modification to a home improvement contract is not enforceable against a consumer unless the modification is stated in a writing that is signed by the consumer.

Visit us at www.indybbb.org

Health Care Scam Alert

4/12/2010

Posted on 4/12/2010 by

Ingredients

1 part Believability
1 part Confusion (substitute: Misunderstandings)
1 part Fear of Consequences

Instructions
Mix well. Serves Thousands.

Scammers have always found ways to take advantage of disasters and major national events to defraud people out of their money or identities. The new federal health care bill recently enacted into law is no exception and includes all the right ingredients for widespread fraud, Attorney General Greg Zoeller warns Hoosiers.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services sent a letter to state attorneys general warning of scammers going door-to-door selling phony insurance policies. The claim is that consumers must buy coverage during a “limited enrollment” period created by the new law. These are false claims and should be ignored.

"Scammers will always find a way to take advantage of a scenario that involves confusion and misunderstandings about a new law, as well as fear of consequences for not following that law. The situation we are in is ripe for fraudsters attempting to sell the public worthless products,” Zoeller said.

It is likely this scam will also be perpetuated over the phone and by mail and email in the coming weeks. Hoosiers should be on alert and prepared to ignore solicitations claiming they are required to purchase health insurance. The individual mandate to purchase health insurance takes effect in 2014 when states will be required to operate insurance exchanges for insurance companies to offer health policies that uninsured individuals can purchase.

If you have been a victim of a scam, please visit www.IndianaConsumer.com or call 1.800.382.5516 to file a complaint.

Advertising Alert

4/8/2010

Posted on 4/8/2010 by

INDIANAPOLIS - The Better Business Bureau of Central Indiana is warning local businesses, business owners and area broadcasters to avoid the bait and switch advertising method and its dissemination. Bait and switch advertising is directly addressed in the BBB Code of Advertising as well as by the Federal Trade Commission.

The BBB Code of Advertising states that a bait offer is an alluring but insincere offer to sell a product or service. The purpose of a bait offer is to switch consumers from purchasing the advertised product or service and sell something else, usually at a higher price or on a basis that will better benefit the advertiser. The BBB Code of Advertising can be viewed in its entirety at www.bbb.org/us/code-of-advertising.

"The bait and switch advertising tactic takes advantage of a consumer's frame of mind when they are ready to make a purchase," said Nick Ostergaard, Advertising Review and Marketing Coordinator at the Better Business Bureau. "Consumers expect to get a good deal when they enter the store, but when told the advertised item is not available, they often get sold on a more expensive item at a better deal for the business."

Bait and switch claims can be avoided by businesses if they can substantiate the non-availability of the advertised product was beyond the advertiser's control and/or by offering rain checks to consumers inquiring about the advertised product.

According to the National Association of Broadcasters, the Federal Communications Commission has advised that licensees who broadcast advertisements that are found to be false or misleading by the FTC could be subject to scrutiny concerning their compliance with their public interest obligations. Businesses found to be using the bait and switch advertising method are subject to potential lawsuits and authoritative legal action by the FTC.

Bait and switch advertising is an effective form of misleading advertising and is a targeted tactic by the BBB. Companies found to be using bait and switch advertising will have such tactics documented in their BBB Reliability Report and reflected in their BBB grade. The BBB has Reliability Reports and grades on nearly four million companies, and they are available to consumers for free and are easily accessible at www.bbb.org.

"Businesses that implement bait and switch advertising do a complete disservice to their consumers," said Bill Thomas, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau. "They create a sense of mistrust in an effort to make a quick buck, but in actuality they drive away their customer base. In the long run, bait and switch advertising is neither advantageous for the business nor the consumer."

To report possible bait and switch advertising or for questions in regard to bait and switch advertising, please contact Nick Ostergaard at nostergaard@indybbb.org or 317-488-2221 ext. 122. If you feel you have been a victim to bait and switch advertising, visit www.indybbb.org and file a complaint against the business.

People Talk: Consumer Driven Marketing

6/16/2010

Posted on 6/16/2010 by Nick Ostergood

Everything that you do as a company is documented somewhere, and every day your customers get better and better at accessing those documents. Sometimes the purchasing decision isn’t made because you have the best product or the lowest price; it’s made because you have the best press, as determined by consumers. You have to be careful with your online storefront, because there is an endless supply of critics, and there’s a trail a mile long if you mess up. But the good news is: You also have an endless supply of advocates. Make sure you give them plenty of ammunition.