Scam Watch

The predators are coming out of the woodwork: scam artists follow the headlines, and news about tight credit, foreclosures, and layoffs has given them a new lease on life. Through ads in the newspapers, on the Internet and on TV and radio, they’re preying on people’s anxiety and working hard to get them to part with their money.

These crooks are really good liars: Their claims are just good enough to be believable; their services and products just practical enough to seem legitimate. Some even try to look like a government agency to enhance their credibility.

So how is someone supposed to know whether a product, service, or offer is legitimate? Count on the fact that the FTC is working the law enforcement front to stop them. At the same time, the agency is counting on consumers to know how to spot, stop and avoid them. Here’s a road map to recognizing the kinds of scams people have reported:

Avoid Money Wiring Scams

Video

Fraud: An Inside Look



View larger, download, or embed this video.

File a Complaint

5 Signs of a Mortgage Rescue Scam:

Share this Website

Money Matters: Tips from the Federal Trade Commission

Help promote Money Matters by posting this button on your blog or website using the code below:

Check out more buttons and banners for sharing this site.