Watching out for Business Opportunity Scams
A Home Business Article Contributed by Alina Sandor
Business Opportunity Scams: a Quick Buck?
We've all seen them. They're on the internet, on TV, and in the paper: a business opportunity that sounds like a great chance to make a quick buck. But is it? How can you tell? Can you find out without wasting a lot of time on research?
Sure you can! Protect yourself.Read on to find out more.
Quick Scan That Business Opportunity Scam!
When you come across an advertisement in the newspaper or on the internet that sounds interesting, first scan it. Does it have small print? If it does, that may be your first clue. Phrases like "Results may vary" or "Not typical customer" after a testimonial are real tip-offs.
Does the business opportunity list the company's name? If not it may be hiding it so that a prospective reader will not be able to call the Better Business Bureau or others who may know what the company is all about.
Does the the business opportunity ad just sound too amazing? Is it claiming that you can make thousands a week? Or that you can do it all in your home with no training? If so, you may just want to pass on it.
Further Investigation of the Business Opportunity
If the opportunity has passed these first tests, it may be time for further investigation.
If the business opportunity offers a website address this is a great way to check out a iffy advertisement. Scam sites often have a very long home page, taking usually several minuets just to scroll to the bottom, let alone read the massive text. If there is a catch to the business opportunity, it is usually at the bottom of the text. Often it will ask for money so that you can start your business. Does the money go towards materials that will help start your business? Does the site even say?
Also, take a look at the site itself. Does it look cheaply made? Does it look professional? If not, this may be a clue.
If the advertisement offers a phone number make sure it is toll free. Never call a number that isn't free. The scam may simply be to collect from your phone. When someone answers, are they professional? Do they answer by telling you who their company is?
Never give a company your personal information unless you are sure they are on the up-and-up.
The Real Test of a Business Opportunity.
The most important test for any advertisement is how you feel about it.
Do you feel like it is worth your time, money and work? Are the people involved with the advertisement well known? Can you check with the Better Business Bureau to see if the business is listed? DO you have a sneaky feeling the website or the person you contacted on the phone is not giving you the complete information on the business?
If you have any feelings that tell you something is wrong, listen to them. No get-rich-quick scheme is worth getting ripped off.
