BBB Presss Releases

In the News -- Experts Warn of Shady Discount Website

Thu, 24 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Better Business Bureau (BBB) in Dallas warns consumers about daily deal site SaveMore.com, Addison, TX, reported Brent Hunsaker of ABC4-TV, Salt Lake City, Utah.

Milwaukee Man Scams Businesses, Consumers under Guise that Money is Helping Vets

Thu, 24 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Wisconsin BBB is warning local businesses and consumers about a Milwaukee man who has been selling coupon books throughout metro-Milwaukee, claiming that proceeds from the sales will help local, injured veterans. However, when the BBB asked him to prove it, he would not.

Don't Get Rolled Over by a Paving Scam

Tue, 22 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Better Business Bureau serving Central, Coastal, Southwest Texas and the Permian Basin warns consumers to beware of asphalt paving scams. Unscrupulous contractors may offer bargain prices if the consumer pays in advance, but often leave the job unfinished or perform subpar work.

BBB Alerting North Alabama Residents to Check for Unauthorized Transactions on Debit & Credit Cards

Mon, 21 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The BBB has received calls from numerous North Alabama consumers who report that they have been charged $19.95 or more for a credit report on their debit or credit card account by Experian, Consumerinfo.com or Creditreport.com, but have not recently purchased their credit report. Creditreport.com is part of a family of online consumer credit reporting sites belonging to Consumerinfo.com, Inc. an Experian company.

Don’t get Heated by High-Pressure Door-to-Door Salespeople

Thu, 17 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

After receiving hundreds of complaints against companies using aggressive door-to-door sales tactics to pressure consumers into buying bogus or misleading products, Better Business Bureau is issuing an alert about such companies. The issues range from magazine subscriptions that were paid for but never delivered, to food products that were not of the high quality originally promised.

Mystery Shopper Scam Is Using the Name of a Legitimate Memphis Business

Wed, 16 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers about a new mystery shopping scam that is using the name of the Memphis research firm in an attempt to defraud the public. Axiom Research LLC in Memphis TN has been the victim of business identity theft. Their company’s name is being used to convince folks that an offer to be a mystery shopper – accompanied by a phony check – is legitimate.

Proteja sus mudanzas y a usted mismo durante el Mes Nacional de la Mudanza

Wed, 16 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

La BBB se unió a la Asociación Americana de Mudanzas y Almacenamiento para ofrecerle sugerencias sobre cómo seleccionar a la compañía de mudanzas adecuada y cómo evitar estafas.

Calls About Receiving Government Grants Are Scams

Tue, 15 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Grant scams involve wiring upfront fees and victims receive nothing

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

Tue, 15 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.

Gift Card Scam Through Smart Phone

Tue, 15 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

If you received a text message on your smart phone about how you have won a gift card worth hundreds of dollars. Be careful! That’s right. This may be the latest ploy in a fraudulent scheme aimed at stealing your private information. Victoria Acosta-Rubio has more.

Local BBB CEO's Name Used to Perpitrate Scam

Mon, 14 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Oops They Did it Again! - Phony Timeshare Services Strike Once More

Mon, 14 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

On April 4th, the BBB warned consumers about the risks of getting involved with a timeshare escrow company called Wade Capital Management. Now just one month later, the BBB is faced with investigating the legitimacy of another timeshare company by the name North South Title.

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.

DOD and Financial Protection Bureau Underscore Partnership

Thu, 10 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Department of Defense and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau officials signed a joint statement of shared principles that underscores their partnership to protect the finances of service members.

Memorial Day Scams Target Military, Families, Supporters

Thu, 10 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Memorial Day Scams Target Military, Families, Supporters 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. “The unique lifestyle of our service members makes them prime targets for scammers,” notes Brenda Linnington, Director of BBB Military Line. “It’s imperative that we educate our service members and ensure that the support we give to them equals the effort they make every day on behalf of us.” Linnington said scams can include those that target service personnel and their families directly, but also those that appear to be helping military members via charities. “Donors need to watch out for questionable charities that raise funds on behalf of military organi

BBB Warns Consumers of HCG Weight-Loss Products

Wed, 09 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

BBB is warning consumers about HCG Xtreme weight loss drugs. HCG is not approved by the (FDA) for weight loss and can pose serious health risks.

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.

In the News -- Smishing Is New Way to Scam Your Info

Mon, 07 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Smishing scams send phishing messages by SMS text, reports Roni Proter of CW33-TV, Dallas - Fort Worth. BBB warns some fake texts appear to be from Walmart but aim to steal personal information.

BBB Warns of Online Dating Scams- Local Woman Is Heartbroken and $7,600 Poorer

Fri, 04 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Millions of people looking for love use dating and social networking sites to meet people. The Association of Psychological Science reports online dating is the second most common way for couples to meet– keeping the good old fashioned “friends and family introductions” at the number one spot but surpassing church, gym and bars.

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.

Alleged bait-and-switch sours consumers’ opinions of Capitol Kia

Wed, 02 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

It was advertised as the right car at the right price. Robert Munzer said funds were tight when he saw an advertisement for a base-model Kia Sorento for a great price at Capitol Kia in Austin. Not wanting to waste his time, Munzer sent an email to the dealership asking if it still had that particular vehicle in stock. The company emailed back that it was. However, when Munzer arrived on the lot, the salesman told him the vehicle had sold out, and showed him a similar, but more expensive, car.

BBB encourages caution as HomeServe USA solicits locally

Wed, 02 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

BBBs across the country report confusion from recipients of solicitations

BBB Warns of Door-to-Door Scams Hitting the Ozarks

Wed, 02 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The warm weather not only brings spring showers and flowers, but door-to-door scammers as well. Better Business Bureau of Southwest Missouri has learned of two potential scams targeting Ozarks homeowners.

Protect Your Move and Yourself During National Moving Month

Wed, 02 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

May 2, 2012 – Arlington, VA - 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 of consumers who aren’t careful.

Basic Training for Your Money

Tue, 01 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Steve Repak left the Army in 1997 and was offered a job in finance, despite having $32,000 in credit card debt. His clients inspired him to get his finances in order.

BBB Scam Watch: Door - to - Door Sales

Tue, 01 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT

With warmer weather approaching, the Better Business Bureau of Coastal Carolina would like to warn consumers of potential door-to-door scams that are making their way back into the area

Don't Waste Time with Midwest Timeshares, BBB Says

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning consumers about Midwest Timeshares, a Green Bay-based timeshare reseller who has racked up 70 complaints from consumers in 33 states and Canada.

GI Bill Restrictions Loom for For-Profit Schools

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Army Times reported that the father of the Post-9/11 GI Bill is fighting to preserve the benefit by proposing new restrictions on tuition payments to for-profit schools.

BBB Warns of Lenders ‘Promise of Quick Cash’

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Austin City Council is holding a public hearing today to consider a new ordinance which would put tighter restrictions on where payday and auto loan lenders can do business.

Look Out for Alarm Company Tricks

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Over the last several years, the volume of inquiries into door-to-door alarm sales companies has spiked and summer is normally when the door-to-door alarm companies are hitting the pavement hard. The BBB still expects an increase in door-to-door activity as the summer approaches because many companies use students on their summer break from school to conduct door-to-door sales.

BBB Continues Warning on Independent Publisher of Yellow Pages Directories

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

BBB alerts businesses to mailings from Yellow Pages Directories, Carrollton, TX, an independent yellow pages publisher. Complaints allege the mailings are misleading about a "free" listing that can end up costing over $300 semi-annually.

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.

'Crazy out there': Hailstorm brings 'storm chaser' repairmen

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Ruben Celedon summed it up succinctly: “It’s crazy out there right now.”

Roofing Fraud Pouring in After the Storm

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

MCALLEN — Last week's hailstorm brought an influx of contractors to the Valley for roofing services. Some of these roofers might be out to get your money. NewsCenter 23's Claudia Mickle reports on what to look out for for hiring someone to repair the damage.

Beaver Worx Does Work, But Leaves Liens

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Complainants Contest Liens from Roofing Suppliers

Es el Mes Nacional de Capacitación Financiera: ¿Sabe cómo está su dinero?

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

El FINRA National Financial Capability Study recientemente analizó los hábitos de gasto y ahorro de los estadounidenses y descubrió información sorprendente.

Top Tips to Get Your Finances in Order

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The FINRA National Financial Capability Study recently looked at the spending and saving habits of Americans and came up with some startling information.

Travel Clubs' 'Free Airline Tickets' Not Always the Case

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Not too long ago, I received an email from Roseann Guyette of Greeley regarding a letter she received informing her that she won two roundtrip airline tickets with a value up to $1,400 for anywhere in the U.S.

BBB Warns of Phony Online Auto Dealer

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Better Business Bureau serving Northern Colorado and Wyoming warns consumers to beware of phony online auto dealers after a New Hampshire consumer wired $35,000 to what he thought was a legitimate online Cheyenne auto dealer only to discover the website was phony and he has no way of getting his money back.

BBB Issues an Alert on Cedarburg Company “Tropical Travel Vacations”

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns consumers about Tropical Travel Vacations.

Consumer Alert: High Pressure Security Alarm Salesmen

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Consumer Alert: High Pressure Security Alarm Salesmen

E-Book Fraud Leaves Consumers with Worthless Material

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

With the growing popularity of e-books, scammers have found ways to capitalize on this new method of buying books. Some of these scams offer worthless material at a low price while others target authors or authorized publishers by pirating their books.

BBB Warns Consumers of Phony Timeshare Escrow Service

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Better Business Bureau has undertaken an investigation into the legitimacy of a company going by the name, Wade Capital Management.

BBB Warns Consumers and Businesses About Phishing Scam

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Fake BBB emails download malware that can steal bank information; BBB is working with FBI to stop the thieves

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

Tue, 03 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.

BBB Warns Consumers About Mission Attic Pros

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The San Antonio address listed for Mission Attic Pros is empty and mail sent there is returned; the website was taken down; and calls to the company’s listed phone number go immediately to voicemail.

Door-to-Door Magazine Sales Spin Stories Around Spokane/Coeur d'Alene

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Blue Diamond Subscriptions based in Phoenix, AZ is soliciting door-to-door magazine sales in full force across the Greater Spokane and Coeur d’Alene region. BBB offers tips to avoid falling victim.

Digital Project Manager

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Digital Project Manager will assist in the development and implementation of BBB’s digital marketing and communications initiatives.

Don't Be Fooled by Jokers Racing

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

- Power sports enthusiasts have found the joke is on them after placing online orders through jokersracing.com. According to complaints filed with Better Business Bureau, shoppers allege that online orders from Jokers Racing are not delivered and attempts for refunds are unsuccessful.

Local 2 investigates abusive debt collectors

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Local 2 investigates abusive debt collectors. The Federal Trade Commission received a record number of complaints about debt collectors last year -- nearly 181,000. There are laws in place to protect you from collectors who go too far, but you may be surprised at who we discovered may be on the other end of the line.

Better Business Bureau Investigates Contracting Crews

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Better Business Bureau serving Greater Iowa, Quad Cities and Siouxland Region is issuing an alert to local contractors regarding a company claiming to offer local job leads.

TaxMasters files Chapter 11 bankruptcy

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A Houston-based tax advisory firm filed for bankruptcy Sunday, a little more than one day before it was scheduled in court to defend itself against fraud accusations levied by the Texas Attorney General.

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.

Business Development & Sales Director

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Council of Better Business Bureaus has an exciting, newly created opportunity for a seasoned business development and membership sales director. The position will be responsible for development and sales of national partnerships (membership) with the Council of Better Business Bureaus in order to meet revenue goals.

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.

Ignore that Text! You Didn't Win a Walmart Gift Card

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Cell phone users across the country are receiving suspicious text messages that claim to be from Walmart. The texts tell consumers they won a free gift card... and all they have to do is click a link and enter some information.

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.

Severe Weather Warning Issued for Central Texas, BBB Warns of Weather-Related Scams

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

A strong storm system is making its way toward Central Texas, expectedly bringing with it severe storms and heavy, flooding rainfall. The National Weather Service predicts damaging winds, hail, torrential downpours and isolated tornados are all possible.

Avoid Becoming Victim of Medicare Frauds and Scams

Sat, 17 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

A consumer recently contacted us to help determine if a call she received was a scam. The caller offered to send her new Medicare cards, including one that offered extra benefits, then asked for the name of her bank. The consumer wisely hung up and contacted us. It’s a scam that some seniors fall for. The crooks claim to represent Medicare or another government agency and ask consumers to update information in order to receive their Medicare cards or benefits. If the crooks can get banking information, they’ll use it to commit identity theft.

SCAM UPDATE: BBB Phishing Alerts

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Businesses are receiving fake BBB Complaint emails that contain malware. BBB warns to be wary of any complaint emails and check with your local BBB before opening.

Watch out for Tricky Leprechauns and Imposters this St. Patrick’s Day

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

With most holidays, sporting events and disasters, scammers use these opportunities to target consumers and lure them into their schemes. As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, Better Business Bureau reminds consumers to be suspicious of sweepstakes winnings claims.

BBB Rings Warning Bells About Bel Furniture

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Ron Poole no longer expects to get the television stand he paid for in July. He has also accepted that his brand new sofa is going to be damaged. But, he said, he should have known there were going to be problems as soon as he walked into Bel Furniture in San Antonio to take advantage of the free high-definition television the store had advertised.

In the News -- Tax Scams Strike in Tax Season

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

In tax season, scams include phishing emails that appear to be from IRS as well as identity theft, reports Giselle Phelps of KDAF-TV. Know your preparer and watch the details, advises Jeannette Kopko of BBB in Dallas.

Callers Claiming to be from Microsoft Tech Support are Really Scammers Attempting to Gain Control of Your Computer

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Better Business Bureau is alerting consumers of a phone scam in which the caller claims to be from Microsoft. The caller offers to solve a consumer’s computer problems or sell him or her a software license, all in an effort to gain remote control access to the consumer’s computer.

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.

Attorney General Brings Action Against AGT American Silver and Gold

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

The Texas Attorney General froze the assets of AGT American Silver and Gold March 1, and issued a temporary restraining order against the owners of the Austin-area company, which sells gold and silver bullion and coins.

Enterprise Programs, Administrative Assistant

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Provide support to the CBBB’s Enterprise Programs, which include a National Partner program, an auto warranty program (BBB AUTO LINE), a financial education program for military families (BBB Military Line), a dispute program for U.S. companies that receive data from the European Union (BBB EU SAFE HARBOR), and an advertising self regulation program for food and restaurant companies that advertise to children (the Children’s Food and Beverage Advertising Initiative).

Timeshare Pitfalls Continue to Trap Consumers

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

It is a common scenario. Someone receives a mailer or email offering a free trip or other fantastic prize and all he or she has to do is sit through a half-day seminar. Once the victim is there, the company turns on the high-pressure tactics in an attempt to sell a timeshare.

BBB Consumer Alert: Tax Preparation Scam Operator Opens Doors Under New Name

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Columbus, OH – March 6, 2012 – BBB is alerting the public about a Central Ohio company now doing business as X-Press Taxes. According to consumers complaints in eight states the company has filed for tax refunds on behalf of consumers and failed to deliver the refund.

HelpMyCredit

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Seniors & Scams - Your BBB on Coming of Age TV

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Every year, more and more Americans fall victim to scams, many of which are targeted at the elderly.

BBB Advice on Giving to Tornado Relief Charities

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Americans seeing the devastation wreaked by recent tornadoes are responding with gifts of time and money. Givers should take steps to assure themselves that their donations will go to reputable charities.

Better Business Bureau Warns of Storm Chasers

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

The recent damage done by the tornadoes in the Midwest and South brings out the best in people. Unfortunately, the aftermath of a crisis also brings out contractors who take advantage of those who have already been victimized.

Hiring a Tree Service After a Disaster

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Better Business Bureau reminds those who experience storm damage to take certain precautions when hiring a tree service.

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.

Semana nacional de protección al consumidor, 7 días, 7 sugerencias, 1 consumidor inteligente

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT

BBB le ofrece a los consumidores sabios siete sugerencias importantes para celebrar la 14.ª Semana nacional de protección al consumidor (National Consumer Protection Week, NCPW). Regístrese aquí para recibir una sugerencia diaria de BBB al sobre los temas más recientes para el consumidor.

BBB Warns Seniors of Various Scams

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Senior citizens continue to be a large target for scammers. As a result, BBB is providing education and outreach to help prevent this kind of fraud.