How to Avoid a Scam

Money Trap

No one wants to fall for a scam. Scams can come in the form of emails requesting to use your bank account, false lottery winnings, work at home ventures, or any other number of ways. While some scams are pretty obvious, others may be more difficult to recognize. It is particularly tricky to avoid a scam when there is a crafty salesman involved. Use these tips to avoid a scam when someone is trying to actively push you into giving them money or participating in their business venture.

Instructions

1. Research any companies who are requesting your money or participation. What is their standing with the BBB? What do other REAL people think of them?

2. Open your ears. Does the person you are dealing with seem to speak in sales pitches? Do they talk fast, blur over problems and explain nothing? Avoid companies and people like this to avoid a scam.

3. Read everything you sign. When someone suggests not reading the fine print because it is too extensive or jargon, avoid a scam by reading it anyway.

4. Legitimate work does not cost anything upfront, sorry.

5. Run the numbers. If you have to get 500 friends before breaking into real income than consider the question, "Do I know 500 people who would sign up for this?" The answer to this question will be a great way to avoid a scam.

6. Pay attention to what someone is pushing. Do they draw your attention to hundreds of mundane details? This is likely because the company is lacking any real substance. Avoid this scam.

7. Be skeptical of every claim to avoid a scam.

Tips & Warnings

• For real opinions of a company ask people in forums what their experiences with the company have been.