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Be a smarter consumer to fight identity theft and save money

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By John North, Better Business Bureau 8:15 PM Saturday, January 1, 2011

As you begin 2011, your Better Business Bureau encourages you to resolve to be a smarter consumer. It can help you fight scams, prevent identity theft and save money.

One of the most important things you can do this year and every year is to start with trust. Contact your BBB before responding to too-good-to-be true promotions or making purchases or donations. Your BBB has reliability reports on businesses and nonprofits and offers tips on a variety of marketplace issues and scams. Visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.

Start the new year off armed with the following tips to help you be a smarter consumer:

• Never give out personal information (credit card, bank account, driver’s license or Social Security numbers) to unfamiliar people or companies, in pop-up screens or unsecured Web sites. Verify the legitimacy of requests with organizations directly using trusted contact information.

• Get everything in writing, including contracts, warranties/guarantees, oral promises, terms and costs. Review and understand contracts before signing.

• Ask nonprofits for written materials, find out whether contributions are tax deductible and make checks payable to the organizations.

• Beware of unsolicited notifications accompanied with checks claiming you’ve won money, been awarded grants or offering secret shopping jobs. If a letter asks you to cash or deposit a check and forward money, don’t do it. The checks are usually counterfeit.

• Steer clear of work-at-home offers claiming big profits and no experience necessary. Trustworthy companies won’t charge for materials, training or recruiting.

• Review income and expenses and develop a realistic budget and savings plan.

• Avoid high-pressure or scare tactics to get you to buy something, make donations or invest immediately. Reputable organizations will give you time to make decisions.

• Don’t be afraid to say no if your questions aren’t answered or something doesn’t feel right. Saying no is better than making a decision you’ll regret.

Resolve to be a smart consumer this year. It’s a resolution to help you protect your money and put scam artists out of business.

John North is president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau.

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