BBB News

BBB Uncovers Fraudulent Finance Scheme in Twin Falls, Idaho

Fri, 25 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Dewitt Financial Group, with an advertised address in Twin Falls, Idaho, is bilking potential clients of hundreds of upfront fees for loans they never receive. “A month-long investigation by Better Business Bureau has turned up evidence showing Dewitt Financial is running an illegal upfront fee loan scheme,” says CEO Dale Dixon, of Better Business Bureau serving the Snake River Region. “We’ve moved to have this website shut down.”

Scammers Fake Facebook Account Cancellation Notices

Wed, 23 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

A clever scam in the form of a fake Facebook account cancellation email is making the rounds. Don’t let the threat of losing your account trick you into installing malware on your computer.

Memorial Day Scams Target Military, Families, Supporters

Mon, 21 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Memorial Day is a time to honor those who serve and remember those who have died in war. But sadly, it has also become a key opportunity for scammers to target those who are serving or have served their nation, especially elderly veterans. BBB is urging consumers and donors to be on the lookout for deals that seem too good to be true, and for disreputable charities.

Clear-Cast HDTV Antenna’s Advertising not so Clear…Earning the company an “F Rating” with the BBB

Wed, 16 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Better Business Bureau has received hundreds of calls from consumers nationwide inquiring about the Clear-Cast HDTV Antenna. The product is manufactured by Brilliant Built Technologies, a subsidiary of Universal Media Syndicate, Inc., located in Canton, Ohio. The company is running large advertorial ads that appear in newspapers across the U.S. and mailing to residents nationwide offering to eliminate cable and satellite costs completely using the Clear-Cast HDTV Antennae.

Idaho Attorney General Gains Refunds for Idaho Purchasers of Skechers Shoes

Wed, 16 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Idahoans who purchased Shape-Ups, Tone-Ups, or the Skechers Resistance Runner shoes can apply for partial refunds resulting from a legal settlement, Attorney General Lawrence Wasden said.

Want to Avoid Scams? Learn to Say 'No'

Wed, 16 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Want to know how not to become a victim of a scam? Just say “no.” Sounds easy enough. And it should be. But every day thousands of consumers do just the opposite.

BBB Advice for Hiring a Roofing Contractor You Can Trust

Mon, 14 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Natural disasters like tornados, hurricanes and earthquakes can bring out the best in people, as strangers reach out to help others in need. Unfortunately, crises also bring out persons who choose to take advantage of the victims. Some of the most common "after-disaster" scams involve damage done to roofs.

BBB Warns: Scam Poses as Amazon.com Cancellation Email

Fri, 11 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

BBB is warning online shoppers to beware! The latest email phishing scam looks just like an order cancellation notice from Amazon.com. Be sure to double check suspicious emails you receive from the online retailer before clicking on any links!

Consumers Get Smart and Shred, Shred, Shred to Prevent Fraud

Thu, 10 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

More than 23,000 consumers and businesses participated in “Secure Your ID Day” on April 21 – 1.5 million pounds of documents were shredded at 75 free events around the United States and Canada.

Summer Job Season Brings Out Fake Internet Job Postings

Tue, 08 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Gordon Bowlden, who has searched at Job Service, local bulletin boards, and online, says he’s had little to no luck finding a position. A qualified handyman, he has been looking for work for the past seven months. He recently responded to a posting on craigslist.com, hoping that it would be a good fit.

BBB Tips for Successful Mother’s Day Shopping

Mon, 07 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

It’s almost Mother’s Day! Whether you are ordering flowers, shopping for custom jewelry, or arranging for a special spa day appointments for the wonderful women in their life, be a smart consumer. BBB sees lots of scams that focus on holiday shopping, and is warning consumers to proceed with caution before falling victim to a Mother’s Day vender scam, especially when shopping online.

CFBAI Highlights Significant Progress in Child-Directed Food and Beverage Advertising

Mon, 07 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Products advertised to children are now lower in calories, sugars, sodium and fats; that was the some of the progress under self-regulation reported at CDC’s Weight of the Nation conference today by Elaine Kolish, Director of the Children’s Food and Beverage Advertising Initiative (CFBAI) and Vice President at the Council of Better Business Bureaus.

New Phishing Scam Hurts Small Businesses

Thu, 03 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Small businesses and consumers across the country are falling victim to the latest email phishing scam that exploits BBB’s name. The campaign that started yesterday was the second biggest phishing scam in the country.

Protect Your Move and Yourself During National Moving Month

Wed, 02 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

May is National Moving Month and the start of the busiest time of year for changing residencies…which means unlicensed movers and dishonest scammers are waiting to take advantage consumers who aren’t careful.

Scammers Replicate Verizon's Email Bill Alerts

Tue, 01 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Consumers nationwide are receiving fake emails that are almost identical to the real alerts many Verizon customers get to remind them of their monthly payments.

Boise area zip codes turn up cash ad from World Reserve Monetary Exchange

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Consumers hoping to cash in on an advertised offer of “crisp seldom seen uncut” $1 bills may end up frustrated and disappointed, BBB warns.

Convicted Scammer, From Behind Bars, Tells All on Identity Theft

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The 40-year-old Adrian Gunn speaks with authority when it comes to his former lifestyle. He has all the poise of a man with money. His eyes are keen, his smile contagious and his wit sharp. He could be a banker or a financier as he sat in front of the television camera this past year. His voice didn’t quiver, shake or stutter. He seemed to be filled with confidence, a confidence he has used many times.

Postal Service Issues Warning on Delivery Fraud

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The United States Postal Service is reporting a new email scam circulating. The fake email tells consumers that they have a package waiting at the post office and claims that the consumers owe charges related to the package.

Don’t Be Lured to Sell Gold Because of the Large Advertisements

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Recently a four-page, full-color advertising spread appeared in the Statesman placed by Kravit The Estate Department. In the ad, it asks individuals to stop by and have their jewelry appraised and purchased.

Avon is Not Calling Through the Email

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Beth, an Idaho Falls woman, reported getting an email from an out-of-state photographer asking for her assistance in procuring Avon brand makeup for an upcoming showbiz photo shoot in the area.

Energy Efficient Windows Are “Clearly” Better, But How Do You Compare?

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The warm weather is here and many consumers are looking to make home improvements while sticking to a budget. BBB advises consumers to balance cost effectiveness with energy efficiency, as more efficient windows, doors and skylights can make a big difference in energy consumption over time.

Security System Calls From 208-690-3115 Distress Mountain Home Residents

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Mountain Home resident Ron became more and more concerned after he received a call saying he needed a security system because of excessive crime.

Wartluft Motors Doesn’t Exist; It’s a Shell

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Car buyers are being deceived into thinking they are ordering a luxury car from Gooding, Idaho, at a cheap rate.

6 Tips to Consider Before You Spend this Year’s Tax Refund

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Do you spend weeks each spring eagerly anticipating your income tax refund? When the money finally comes in, is it gone tomorrow?

Flashback Attack on Mac May be Biggest Ever; Take Action

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

A new computer virus has latched on to Mac computers, infecting nearly a half million uses already. The malware is called Flashback.

Don't Fall for Fake DEA Agents Calls, Hang Up

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

An ABC News report is causing quite a stir among those who buy pharmaceutical drugs over the Internet. A year ago, the Drug Enforcement Administration warned the public about criminals posing as DEA special agents or other law enforcement personnel as part of an international extortion scheme.

Magazine Sales Reps May be Knocking on Area Doors

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Blue Diamond Subscriptions based in Phoenix, Ariz., is soliciting door-to-door magazine sales in full force across the northern part of the region.

Stop Unwanted Text Messages; Report it to SPAM (7726)

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The New York Times has come out with a great article today that should help put a stop to those middle of the night text messages from scammers.

Clear-Cast Ad Prompts Numerous Calls to BBB

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

An ad in last week’s Idaho Statesman touts the newest free TV invention with no monthly bills and the slick little invention pulls in “953 crystal clear shows.”

Don’t Be Fooled, e-book Scams are Just a Click Away

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The growing e-book popularity has opened the door for scammers that offer worthless material at a low price or pirate books. These two e-book frauds are already rising. They are: content farming –creating automatically generated content, web-collected content or fake content, turning it into an e-book.

To Shred or Not to Shred – Protect Your Identity at BBB’s Annual Secure Your ID Day

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

In honor of National Financial Literacy Month, Better Business Bureau will hold a nationwide “Secure Your ID” Day on Saturday, April 21, 2012.

Microsoft Email Phishing Scam

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Microsoft ‘phishing’ scam tells Outlook users they have received a notification of being selected in a lottery email draw United Kingdom. Users who open the “Word” attachment open themselves unto a virus that scans the computer and targets financial information.

BBB Lists 6 Common Scams To Avoid Every Day - Not Just On April Fool's Day

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.

Loan Modification a Great Idea, but Beware

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Idahoans beware! Don’t get sucked into loan modifications programs – low interest rates, new refinancing programs and emails still require consideration before you fill out the forms.

Buying Ad Space in a Business Directory? Use caution

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Earlier this year, businesses in Homedale were sold advertising in a local business directory to be delivered in the surrounding communities. The businesses paid as much as $250 for advertisements. The publication was to come out in February.

Lawn Service Professionals Don’t Let Grass Grow Under Foot

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

As we approach the spring and summer months, be very cautious as lawn services begin soliciting your business or home. BBB offers the following tips when choosing a trustworthy landscaper. Make a list of questions to ask, and remember that how the contractor responds may be as valuable as the answers themselves.

Security Alarm System Calls Terrifying Boise Residents

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Phone calls from 718-732-1022 are terrorizing Boise residents into thinking there is a huge residential burglary problem. The call starts with a recorded introduction claiming the FBI says “your area” is experiencing a high volume of crime. BBB has already received several complaints about the solicitations from elderly individuals. Calls to the number ended with a busy signal. Comments made online indicate the number belongs to a telephone-marketing firm in New York.

Fake Faxes Fixate on Farmers

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

An Idaho USDA officer is reporting a scam targeting ag businesses and individuals. Dick Rush, state Executive Director of the Idaho Farm Service Agency, says fraudulent letters were being faxed to ag producers in Idaho and phone calls have been received in surround states asking for personal and financial information.

Idaho Transportation Department Disagreements Leave Brides Standing at Altar

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Announcements, floral arrangements, decorations, food and catering of five brides may be on hold as a battle rages for an outdoors location in Eagle. Key consideration in any wedding festival may be the location, says Lacey Howard of Boise. She became enraged, and then weepy, when she received an e-mail March 15 stating her location, Century Hall and Gardens was not available this summer.

Pin Your Consumers’ Interest – Pinterest Captivates the Visual Audience

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Facebook, Twitter and YouTube have dominated the world of social media. However, it’s time to make way for a new, growing social media outlet that’s perfect for small businesses – Pinterest.

Magazine Promoter Must Give Refunds and is Barred from Selling Ads in Idaho

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Idaho businesses that paid for ad space in the Gem County Spotlight are entitled to refunds under a settlement with the publisher, Attorney General Lawrence Wasden said today. The settlement resolves allegations that Sam Consalvi, owner of Sector Marketing, accepted money from businesses based on his misrepresentation that their purchased ads would appear in the monthly Spotlight. Consalvi subsequently left Idaho without publishing the magazine or returning the businesses’ money.

Spoofing E-mail Targets ISU Students

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Idaho State University students appear to be the target of a “spoofing” scam, as possibly thousands of current and former students received emails today.

The Aftermath of Identity Theft is a Long Process

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Don Pline, of Pocatello, has no idea how his mother lost her identity. For the past several months, the 85-year-old Boise resident has complained that her social security checks have not been showing up in her bank account. “We’ve had them direct deposited for a number years,” Pline says, “so when she said something about it, I began to look at her finances.”

AmEx's "Thanks for Updating Your Email" Messages are Fakes

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

American Express card holders beware! Scammers are using the credit card company's email address for a phishing scam. Consumers nationwide reported receiving fake emails informing them that their account's email address has been changed.

Hang up the Phone. Microsoft Doesn't Need to Fix Your Computer.

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Have you received a call from Microsoft claiming that errors or warnings have been found on your account? If so, it's a scam.

BBB Issues Warning About U.S. DOT Procurement Scam

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

BBB is warning contractors about a phony fax from the U.S. Department of Transportation Procurement Office. BBB is advising businesses to not respond to the fax request for bank account information.

BBB Advice for Avoiding a Moving Scam

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Following a few simple rules when selecting a mover will go a long way toward protecting yourself from being victimized by scams this moving season.

Consumers Should Be Aware of ‘Puffery’ in Advertising

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Recently at a restaurant for lunch, I noticed a sign next to the door when we were leaving that read, “Great Kids Menu.” With no small children at home any longer, it caused me to pause and reflect a bit on what the statement means. Who determines whether a child’s menu is great and why would restaurants want to draw that population segment.

CONSUMER ALERT -“My grandson’s safe and sound, you scammers!”

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

When a Meridian grandmother received a call from Barcelona, Spain, saying it was her grandson and he’d been in an accident and needed a little help, she was quick to act. “Please, don’t tell mom and dad, I don’t want them to worry,” the caller said. She hung up the phone, called her grandson who is a member of the military in San Diego, Calif., and confirmed that he was safe and in the United States.

Gimmicks Can Drain Your Wallet and Gas Tank

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

With gas prices climbing, BBB warns drivers to be wary of gas-saving claims that empty your wallet instead of saving fuel. "Consumers must understand that there are a few practical steps to take to increase gas mileage," says Dale Dixon, CEO for the BBB serving the Snake River Region. "But they also have to remember there are fraudsters ready to take advantage of these high prices."

Kony 2012 Video Sends Mixed Message to Young Activists

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

BBB Wise Giving Alliance tried for six years to get Invisible Children to cooperate in a charity review. Since 2006, BBB has sent 18 letters to the non-profit behind the Kony 2012 video, but has received no response.

Alaska Airlines Not In On Promo

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

William Precht, of Meridian, opened the mailbox and saw an invitation from what appeared to be Alaska Airlines with the words "Final Notice -Ticket Vouchers Enclosed."

Secret Shopper Information Sets Off Red Flags

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

When Idaho Falls resident James Peterson (not his real name) received his acceptance letter to become a secret shopper, he was delighted to think he would be going to places like the Gap, Wal-Mart, Pizza Hut and Western Union. Aside from being paid to shop, he would also be able to keep the purchases as part of his participation.

Four BBB Tips for Driving a Good Deal When You Sell Your Car

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

When looking to sell your vehicle, you need to know how to get your car into the right hands. Better Business Bureau recommends following a few key pointers to ensure that your sale goes smoothly.

Wal-Mart Rewards Card Part of Phishing Scam

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

A series of late night text messages received on cellular phones throughout the region have people calling BBB to verify if they are real.

National Consumer Protection Week – 7 Days, 7 Tips, 1 Smart Consumer

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

BBB is offering savvy consumers seven important tips to celebrate the 14th Annual National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW). Sign-up to receive a BBB tip a day on the latest consumer topics.

Complaints Down, But Huge Jump in Inquiries Means Shoppers Are Doing Their Homework

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Consumer savvy, smart shopping and common sense all had a great year. Consumers asked BBB for help more than 103 million times in 2011, up from 87 million in 2010 and the highest rate in the organization’s 100-year history.

Hiring a Home Contractor - Do You Know the Red Flags?

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

It’s always important to find a home contractor that you can trust. Better Business Bureau recommends following this smart shopper checklist before choosing a contractor for your home.

New Work-at-Home Regulations Offer Consumers More Protections

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Effective today, March 1, amendments to the Federal Trade Commission’s Business Opportunity Rule go into effect. The changes implement new disclosures that work-at-home businesses must provide to ensure consumers have the appropriate information they need when considering a work-at-home program.

Prepare for Door-to-Door Sales with Knowledge

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

It's the same old story! Salesman shows up on the doorstep, offers you a good price for what he claims a cheap price, promises delivery, and then fails to deliver.

Don’t Let Gold Rush Blur Your Senses

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Gold prices continue to be at an all-time high, and make selling rarely worn jewelry an ideal place to make extra cash.

FTC Releases Top Complaint Categories for 2011

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, Feb. 28, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Federal Trade Commission today released its list of top consumer complaints received by the agency in 2011.