http://wisconsin.bbb.org/WWWRoot//SitePage.aspx?site=28&id=a824b759-3137-43b5-aedf-a38056bcce73&debug=False 10 Mon, 06 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB is advising consumers to beware of phishing emails disguised as sources of cut-rate gifts for Mother's Day http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/shopping-online-for-mothers-day-beware-of-phishing-scams-disguised-as-gift-sources-41736 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT Whether it’s Gonzaga going all the way or University of Oregon pulling off the upset, Better Business Bureau is warning fans of March Madness scams. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/avoid-the-foul-and-reject-the-scam-40914 Thu, 27 Dec 2012 06:00:00 GMT The BBB has 10 suggested New Year's Resolutions to help you have a safe, scam-free 2013. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/resolve-to-be-a-smarter-consumer-with-bbbs-10-suggested-resolutions-39199 Wed, 19 Dec 2012 06:00:00 GMT To minimize the hassle of post-holiday returns, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises shoppers to ask about retailers’ return policies before making a purchase. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/for-happy-holiday-returns-bbb-advises-shoppers-to-check-return-policies-keep-receipts-39088 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 06:00:00 GMT Get Educated, Get Ho-Ho-Home Safely http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/avoid-common-holiday-travel-scams-38823 Fri, 30 Nov 2012 06:00:00 GMT While most shoppers enjoy hunting for holiday gifts in stores or online, others prefer spontaneous product pitches on television. Infomercials lure buyers with hard-to-find-elsewhere gifts and “call now” offers on appliances, cosmetics, jewelry, novelty items and weight-loss products. But wait, there’s more! Better Business Bureau warns TV shoppers to watch for possible infomercial inconveniences: http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/infomercial-inconveniences-38622 Wed, 21 Nov 2012 06:00:00 GMT http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/cyber-monday-counterfeit-sites-and-sales-38486 Mon, 12 Nov 2012 06:00:00 GMT http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/scam-alert-computer-ransomware--38038 Thu, 08 Nov 2012 06:00:00 GMT Military Charities: Is it a Sting or the Real Thing? http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/detect-sales-disguised-as-charity-donation-requests-37989 Thu, 18 Oct 2012 05:00:00 GMT A New Scam Targeting Seniors Emerges http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/the-security-of-social-security-benefits-37574 Tue, 09 Oct 2012 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau warns consumers about the downside of attending "free" educational seminars and workshops. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/millionaire-opportunities-are-one-in-a-million-37365 Mon, 24 Sep 2012 05:00:00 GMT The BBB is warning bird fanciers to be wary of buying feathered friends from unknown sellers. Pet scammers often ask buyers to wire money, then fail to deliver the animals. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/consumers-scanning-ads-for-exotic-birds-should-be-alert-to-pet-scams-bbb-warns-37077 Thu, 20 Sep 2012 05:00:00 GMT The BBB advises consumers to be skeptical of claims by sellers of athletic equipment that promise quick results or improvement in a certain part of the body. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/need-to-get-in-shape-after-a-lazy-summer-be-wary-of-claims-for-athletic-equipment-bbb-advises-37063 Thu, 02 Aug 2012 05:00:00 GMT The Consumer Fraud Task Force urges consumers to recognize the most common tactics used by crooks, such as asking victims to send back money using Western Union, MoneyGram or Green Dot MoneyPaks. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/fraud-task-force-warns-consumers-of-scams-using-western-union-moneygram-green-dot-moneypaks-36138 Wed, 30 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT BBB Points Out Phonies; Listen for Scam Signals http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/older-americans-tend-to-be-targets-for-telemarketing-34552 Wed, 16 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT With most mystery shopper job offer scams, cashiers’ checks and letters arrive in the mail. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/employ-caution-with-secret-shopper-job-offers-34366 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT The BBB advises consumers to be skeptical when reading online reviews of businesses, products and services. BBB Business Reviews, by contrast, are verified. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/fake-reviews-can-mislead-shoppers-try-verified-bbb-business-reviews-instead-33860 Tue, 10 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT Deeply indebted consumers are paying thousands of dollars to scammers to modify their credit reports, when they can do the same thing at little or no cost themselves, a BBB study reveals. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-study-consumers-paying-scammers-thousands-for-services-they-can-do-themselves-at-no-cost-33705 Fri, 30 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT April Fool’s Day may be prime time for pranks, but the Better Business Bureau (BBB) reminds consumers that scammers take advantage of the unwary every day, not just on the first of April. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-lists-6-common-scams-to-avoid-every-day-not-just-on-april-fools-day-33538 Fri, 23 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has tips and Business Reviews that can help parents find summer camps that will provide safe, rewarding experiences for children. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-advises-parents-to-check-facilities-qualifications-to-ensure-safe-rewarding-summer-camp-experience-33410 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is advising consumers to ask lots of questions and consider several providers before buying or planning funeral services. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-advises-consumers-to-shop-around-ask-questions-before-buying-funeral-services-32375 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT Former customers of Hollywood Video allege that they are now receiving collection calls and notices from Universal Fidelity LP regarding past-due movie rentals and fees associated with unreturned movies. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/press-pause-on-faulty-video-rentals-32256 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises consumers to focus on meeting their own needs and understanding store policies for the best results from coupon shopping. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/coupon-clipping-can-save-cash-but-bbb-warns-consumers-to-check-terms-store-policies-32062 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin investigates fraud reports throughout the year and reveals twelve scams to watch for in 2012. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-presents-12-scams-to-watch-for-in-2012-31903 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT For those in need of workout wisdom, the Wisconsin Better Business Bureau suggests exercising caution when choosing personal trainers. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-for-choosing-a-personal-trainer-31700 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT For those on the hunt for a healthier new self in the New Year, the Wisconsin Better Business Bureau recommends digesting dietary advice with caution. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/dont-eat-up-bad-diet-advice-31701 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises consumers to check the fine print on gift cards and make sure security seals are intact before buying them for holiday gifts. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-advises-shoppers-to-watch-out-for-fees-tampering-when-buying-gift-cards-31531 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT Consumers who let down their guard during the hectic holiday season can easily fall prey to scammers poised to pounce on careless or overburdened shoppers, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-alert-five-holiday-scams-to-avoid-31345 Tue, 29 Nov 2011 06:00:00 GMT As cyber sales go into full force around Thanksgiving, Better Business Bureau says lookout for unrealistic sales and advertisements. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/read-into-risks-and-red-flags-on-hot-electronics-30998 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises shoppers to check temporary Halloween stores out with the BBB before patronizing unfamiliar stores or websites. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-can-help-consumers-avoid-getting-spooked-by-halloween-boutiques-30173 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises parents to take plenty of time to find safe, reliable child care that suits their child and schedule. Includes tips for interviewing providers. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-advises-parents-to-check-facilities-staff-qualifications-to-find-safe-child-care-30063 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 05:00:00 GMT Car Buyers and Car Sellers, Beware http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/kelley-blue-book-warns-of-fraudulent-online-car-buying-scams-masquerading-as-kbbcom-29581 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMT "Grant Writer" Takes Money Complaints for Granted http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/dont-give-in-to-this-grant-company-29107 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau has seven simple steps college students can take to protect themselves from identity theft on campus. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-has-7-tips-to-avoid-id-theft-on-campus-28878 Wed, 10 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and northern Illinois (BBB) is warning consumers to beware of websites and businesses claiming to provide assistance with immigration services. The BBB recently became aware of an increase in operations claiming to provide passport, citizenship and immigration services, in particular the website www.usaimmigrationsupport.com http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-consumers-of-businesses-misrepresenting-themselves-as-government-agencies-charging-for-free-services-28831 Wed, 11 May 2011 05:00:00 GMT Hiring a lawn service can ease the burdens of caring for your yard. The BBB advises consumers to check the service out with the BBB first, then set clear expectations and get a written contract. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-advises-consumers-to-get-a-contract-set-clear-expectations-when-hiring-a-lawn-service-27235 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMT The 809, 284, 649 or 876 area codes have been used in scams before but now this older scam is gaining popularity targeting cellphones. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/809-284-649-or-876-area-code-scam-26938 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 06:00:00 GMT Brides who spend months and thousands of dollars planning for a perfect wedding can avoid disappointment by reading contracts carefully and checking vendors out with the BBB. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/wedding-nightmares-can-be-prevented-if-you-check-vendors-out-with-the-bbb-first-25647 Fri, 04 Feb 2011 06:00:00 GMT The Consumer Fraud Task Force is warning consumers to be wary of any company that claims it can reduce tax debt in exchange for advance fees. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/consumer-fraud-task-force-urges-consumers-to-be-wary-of-firms-promising-to-reduce-tax-debt-25263 Thu, 03 Feb 2011 06:00:00 GMT Whether you’re trying to snag tickets to the big game or the hottest concert, the Better Business Bureau warns that you run the risk of getting ripped off if you decide to gamble on a less than reputable source. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/avoid-getting-ripped-off-buying-sports-and-concert-tickets-25252 Wed, 26 Jan 2011 06:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises consumers to be wary of tax refund anticipation loans, often marketed as "rapid refunds" in the form of checks or "gift" debit cards. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-tax-refund-anticipation-loans-are-costly-whether-you-get-a-check-or-a-debit-card-25033 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 06:00:00 GMT The Wisconsin BBB offers these tips to help protect Wi-Fi users from having their personal information stolen from hackers. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/free-wi-fi-scam-strikes-at-airports-24286 Thu, 18 Nov 2010 06:00:00 GMT Preparing your home and car for cold weather can reduce heating costs, prevent damage and destruction of property or simply save headaches when ice and snow arrive, the Better Business Bureau advises. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-prepare-homes-cars-for-winter-to-save-money-headaches-23660 Tue, 09 Nov 2010 06:00:00 GMT Cases of timeshare fraud have become so widespread that they are stretching the ability of law enforcement, regulators and consumers groups to keep up, the Consumer Fraud Task Force says. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/consumer-fraud-task-force-timeshare-owners-should-be-wary-of-timeshare-resale-firms-23392 Thu, 19 Aug 2010 05:00:00 GMT New rules on credit card interest rate increases and penalty fees are mostly good news for consumers, according to the Better Business Bureau (BBB). http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/new-credit-card-rules-limit-penalties-rate-increases-21724 Wed, 26 May 2010 05:00:00 GMT If you've decided it's time to give your home a facelift - or if you need repairs, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) can help you find a trustworthy contractor. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/hiring-a-contractor-check-bbb-for-tips-estimates-and-reliability-reports-19778 Thu, 22 Apr 2010 05:00:00 GMT The BBB advises parents to look beyond the sales pitch if they want their children to be safe and well-supervised at summer camp. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-advises-parents-to-visit-check-references-on-summer-camps-19024 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 05:00:00 GMT The ink is barely dry on the new federal health insurance law, but scam artists already are using it to peddle phony health policies, the BBB warns. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/scammers-hawk-phony-health-plans-in-wake-of-new-law-bbb-warns-18973 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 05:00:00 GMT Missouri is so overwhelmed by the number of puppy sellers that it can’t regulate the puppy industry properly, a statewide BBB study concludes. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-study-lack-of-effective-law-enforcement-allows-missouri-puppy-industry-to-thrive-18256 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 06:00:00 GMT The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau has this advice for consumers who are considering joining an online dating service. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/nearing-valentines-day-online-dating-services-may-pose-threat-15207 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 06:00:00 GMT Pittsburgh, PA December 21, 2009 – The Better Business Bureau announced a national partnership with J.D. Power and Associates to better assist consumers in their choices for auto dealers, insurance agents, home inspectors, movers and home builders. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/bbb-announces-partnership-with-jd-power-and-associates-14270 Tue, 01 Jan 2008 06:00:00 GMT If you’ve ever locked yourself out of your car or home, you know what a hassle it can be. Your first thought is to get someone to help you out of your situation. If a family member or friend can’t deliver a spare set of keys, your next call might be to a local locksmith. But before you make that call, consider this: According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, some locksmiths advertising in your local telephone book may not be local at all. They may not have professional training. What’s more, some of them may use intimidating tactics and overcharge you. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/ftc-the-keys-to-hiring-a-reputable-locksmith-4482 Mon, 01 Oct 2007 05:00:00 GMT The Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Care Labeling Rule requires manufacturers and importers to attach care instructions to garments. Updates to the Rule became effective on September 1, 2000. The Rule's section requiring a "reasonable basis" for care instructions has been changed to clarify what is required, and the definitions of "hot," "warm," and "cold" water have been changed to harmonize with the definitions used by the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC). http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/ftc-clothes-captioning-complying-with-the-care-labeling-rule--4379 Mon, 01 Oct 2007 05:00:00 GMT These Voluntary Guidelines represent a consensus of voluntary consumer disclosure practices reached by a panel of weight management companies, weight loss professionals, and consumer protection groups. They are not binding, do not represent legal standards or interpretation of any legal requirements, and are not sponsored or issued by any government agency. Providers1 should only make these disclosures to the extent that they are permissible under applicable state and federal law. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/ftc-voluntary-guidelines-for-providers-of-weight-loss-products-or-services-4452 Mon, 01 Oct 2007 05:00:00 GMT The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) prepared this booklet to help you comply with a new FTC rule that requires labeling on alternative fueled vehicles. The Labeling Requirements for Alternative Fuels and Alternative Fueled Vehicles Rule was issued in keeping with a directive in the Energy Policy Act of 1992. The Rule requires you to provide information to potential purchasers of alternative fueled vehicles to help them compare vehicles. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/ftc-labeling-alternative-fueled-vehicles-4354 Sun, 01 Jul 2007 05:00:00 GMT Alaska is famous for the rugged beauty of its mountains, rivers, and coastlines, as well as for the distinctive arts and crafts produced by Alaska Native artists. If you are considering purchasing an Alaska Native-made art or craft item, it’s smart to invest a little time learning about the processes and materials Alaska Natives may use to make these unique and beautiful objects. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/ftc-alaska-native-art-4497 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 06:00:00 GMT If you're refinancing your mortgage or applying for a home equity installment loan, you should know about the Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act of 1994 (HOEPA). http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/ftc-high-rate-high-fee-loans-hoepasection-32-mortgages-4768 Fri, 01 Dec 2006 06:00:00 GMT It’s not hard to see why ads for business opportunities that promote the benefits of being your own boss and making money quickly are appealing. But the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the government agency that monitors advertising for deception, says that some ads for business opportunities feature empty promises and false claims that potential entrepreneurs could never realize. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/ftc-ads-for-business-opportunities-how-to-detect-deception-4607 Fri, 01 Dec 2006 06:00:00 GMT The Federal Trade Commission staff prepared this business booklet to help finance companies, retailers, and other creditors comply with the Credit Practices Rule, which went into effect March 1, 1985. This booklet tells you what the Credit Practices Rule requires, who must comply, and what transactions are covered. It also discusses liability for rule violations and how exemptions are granted. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/ftc-complying-with-the-credit-practices-rule-4420 Fri, 01 Dec 2006 06:00:00 GMT For many consumers, electronic banking means 24-hour access to cash through an automated teller machine (ATM) or Direct Deposit of paychecks into checking or savings accounts. But electronic banking now involves many different types of transactions. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/ftc-electronic-banking--4646 Fri, 01 Dec 2006 06:00:00 GMT Shopping for gifts can be a real dilemma. Just what do you get the person who has everything: your finicky Aunt Mary, your co-worker, or your child's babysitter? Gift cards may be the answer: one size fits all, and the recipients can get exactly what they want. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/ftc-buying-giving-and-using-gift-cards-4412 Wed, 01 Mar 2006 06:00:00 GMT Internet auction sites give buyers a “virtual” flea market with new and used merchandise from around the world; they give sellers a global storefront from which to market their goods. But the online auction business can be risky business. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) wants to help buyers and sellers stay safe on Internet auction websites. Among the thousands of consumer fraud complaints the FTC receives every year, those dealing with online auction fraud consistently rank near the top of the list. The complaints generally deal with late shipments, no shipments, or shipments of products that aren’t the same quality as advertised; bogus online payment or escrow services; and fraudulent dealers who lure bidders from legitimate auction sites with seemingly better deals. Most complaints involve sellers, but in some cases, the buyers are the subject. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/ftc-internet-auctions-a-guide-for-buyers-and-sellers-4516 Wed, 01 Feb 2006 06:00:00 GMT Whether you’re drawn to the beauty of turquoise and silver jewelry or the earth tone colors of Indian pottery, having some knowledge about American Indian arts and crafts can help you get the most for your money. Be aware also that because Indian arts and crafts are prized and often command higher prices, a few unscrupulous sellers misrepresent imitation arts and crafts as genuine. http://wisconsin.bbb.org/article/ftc-how-to-buy-genuine-american-indian-arts-and-crafts-4487