Now, ATS Research is running similar ads under the name, MOR Market Research. It offers consumers money for free groceries, but instead consumers receive coupon membership cards which look like credit cards, instructing them to log onto a website to activate the cards. The cards contain no money, only site membership.
If you’re considering an offer like this, your BBB advises you to:
• Check out companies before providing personal information.
• Be skeptical of promises of 100 percent satisfaction guaranteed. A guarantee is only as good as the company offering it.
• Be wary of unsolicited telephone calls, e-mails and direct mailings.
• Get everything in writing and read the fine print.
• Be sure to use a credit card for payments. It’s easier to dispute charges.
• Be cautious of companies requiring you to sign up for other services to receive the original purchase you wanted to make.
• Don’t give into high-pressure sales tactics. Take time to think about the deal and confirm arrangements.
• Don’t make a payment until you have all the information you need to make a decision.
Don’t take free offers at face value. Do your research to protect your money and identity.
Check them out with your BBB by calling (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301 or by visiting www.bbb.org.
John North is president and CEO of the Dayton Better Business Bureau.
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