• Requests for up-front payment. Beware of companies asking for advance payments to invest, be considered or receive more information.
• Offer includes a check. Notifications often are accompanied with checks requesting you return part of the money. They may appear legitimate, but are later discovered to be phony.
• You’re asked to wire money. Scam artists often ask you to wire payments because they know you won’t be able to get your money back.
• High pressure to act immediately. Legitimate companies will give you time to make a decision.
• Refusal to give you details in writing. Ask for complete information in writing, including what you have to do, how much it costs and how you’ll be paid. Get earnings claims and refund and cancellation policies in writing.
• References are missing or suspicious. Legitimate businesses should be able to provide viable references. Request at least 10 people who’ve been successful in your area.
• Contact information is missing. Be cautious if a company lacks a physical location with a verifiable street address. A P.O. Box and Web site address or cell phone number aren’t substantial.
• You must buy expensive materials to get started. Companies may require you to buy equipment, software or inventory, but you never receive it.
• Requests for personal information. You may be asked to provide personal information, such as bank account and Social Security numbers, as part of the application process. In reality, it’s used to steal your identity and money.
When in doubt, check it out. Contact the BBB to determine if work-at-home companies are legitimate and trustworthy. Visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.
John North is president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau.
About the Author