http://greensboro.bbb.org/WWWRoot//SitePage.aspx?site=54&id=a824b759-3137-43b5-aedf-a38056bcce73&debug=False 10 Mon, 03 Jun 2013 05:00:00 GMT The Consumer Fraud Task Force is warning consumers to be alert to possible contracting fraud in the wake of tornadoes and other severe storms across the Midwest Friday night. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/consumer-fraud-task-force-warns-of-storm-related-fraud-42191 Wed, 29 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL – May 29, 2013 – ATM card skimming is an ongoing problem. Thankfully, few crimes are on the scale of the recent theft of $45 million from ATM machines in 26 countries, accomplished through hacking and deletion of withdrawal limits. However, there are more and more smaller scale ATM scams impacting consumers virtually every day. These may range from hacking into financial systems to installing false card reading devices at point-of-sale terminals. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-advises-atm-skimming-and-other-card-scams-cost-consumers-42138 Mon, 20 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB has nine tips to help working parents find safe, reliable child care. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-advises-parents-to-research-child-care-carefully-to-assure-safety-health-of-children-41958 Wed, 15 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB is advising consumers to research contractors and consider how much you will use a swimming pool before starting a pool project. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-advises-homeowners-to-research-contractors-before-diving-into-a-pool-project-41878 Tue, 07 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT Calgary man comes to BBB after discovering counterfeit traveler's cheques as part of a mystery-shopper scam http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/new-twist-on-an-old-scam-fake-travelers-cheques-41771 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/shopping-online-for-mothers-day-beware-of-phishing-scams-disguised-as-gift-sources-41679 Mon, 29 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB has 9 tips to help parents find safe, reliable and satisfying summer camps for children. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-can-help-parents-find-safe-rewarding-summer-camps-for-children-41537 Thu, 11 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB is warning consumers to be on the lookout for charity scams and 'storm chaser' contractors after strong storms swept across the Midwest. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-consumers-about-charity-scams-contractor-ripoffs-after-storms-41287 Mon, 08 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT During Financial Literacy Month in April, Better Business Bureau reminds consumers to keep track of their credit reports to help prevent identity theft. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/credit-reports-are-an-identity-theft-protection-tool-41239 Mon, 25 Feb 2013 06:00:00 GMT The BBB has 10 tips to help you spot fake coupons online. Extremely high discounts are often a sign of a fraudulent coupon. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-check-for-warning-signs-of-fake-coupons-online-40340 Thu, 14 Feb 2013 06:00:00 GMT BBB is warning consumers to be cautious of letters they may receive in their mailbox stating that they have won two round-trip tickets courtesy of American Airlines or US Airlines. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-of-a-business-luring-victims-with-free-plane-tickets-40218 Thu, 07 Feb 2013 06:00:00 GMT “Pledging” Funds to Startups? Exercise Caution! http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/the-dangers-of-crowdfunding-40048 Thu, 27 Dec 2012 06:00:00 GMT http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/green-dot-moneypaks-pack-funds-for-frauds-39203 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/resolve-to-be-a-smarter-consumer-with-bbbs-10-suggested-resolutions-39178 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/for-happy-holiday-returns-bbb-advises-shoppers-to-check-return-policies-keep-receipts-38144 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 06:00:00 GMT Get Educated, Get Ho-Ho-Home Safely http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/avoid-common-holiday-travel-scams-38779 Fri, 30 Nov 2012 06:00:00 GMT Consumers Who “Call Now” May Get More Than They Bargained For http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/infomercial-inconveniences-38618 Wed, 21 Nov 2012 06:00:00 GMT http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/cyber-monday-counterfeit-sites-and-sales-38460 Mon, 19 Nov 2012 06:00:00 GMT http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/black-friday-bargains-good-buy-or-bust-38224 Mon, 12 Nov 2012 06:00:00 GMT http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/scam-alert-computer-ransomware--38038 Thu, 18 Oct 2012 05:00:00 GMT Sorting out the truth on environmental claims could be a lot easier now that the Federal Trade Commission has come out with revised “green guides” for companies, the BBB says. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-revised-green-marketing-guidelines-help-consumers-judge-environmental-claims-37410 Thu, 18 Oct 2012 05:00:00 GMT A New Scam Targeting Seniors Emerges http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/the-security-of-social-security-benefits-37565 Mon, 15 Oct 2012 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises shoppers to check seasonal businesses out with the BBB before patronizing unfamiliar stores or websites when shopping for Halloween. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/consumers-need-to-use-care-when-shopping-for-halloween-at-seasonal-stores-bbb-advises-37395 Thu, 27 Sep 2012 05:00:00 GMT Don’t Be Left High and Dry http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/lotion-seller-rubs-some-customers-the-wrong-way-37177 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://greensboro.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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/need-to-get-in-shape-after-a-lazy-summer-be-wary-of-claims-for-athletic-equipment-bbb-advises-37057 Wed, 29 Aug 2012 05:00:00 GMT Don’t Share Timeshares With Unregistered Resellers http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/paradise-property-group-puts-on-front-for-upfront-fees-36634 Mon, 20 Aug 2012 05:00:00 GMT Class is almost back in session and Better Business Bureau is teaching parents about smart back-to-school shopping. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/how-to-get-an-a-on-back-to-school-shopping-36462 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/fraud-task-force-warns-consumers-of-scams-using-western-union-moneygram-green-dot-moneypaks-36126 Tue, 24 Jul 2012 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is urging homeowners to be cautious when approached by companies promising to save their insurance deductibles on storm damage repairs. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-contractors-promising-to-pay-insurance-deductibles-is-illegal-35919 Fri, 20 Jul 2012 05:00:00 GMT The fire that left 250 tenants of a St. Louis apartment complex homeless this week is a tragic reminder of the need for renters to insure themselves against potential losses, the BBB advises. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/renters-insurance-can-buy-peace-of-mind-at-little-cost-bbb-says-35902 Mon, 02 Jul 2012 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning consumers to be on the lookout for scams related to the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling that upheld the Affordable Care Act. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/health-care-ruling-could-spark-scams-bbb-warns-35195 Thu, 21 Jun 2012 05:00:00 GMT The BBB has tips to help you stay cool this summer while avoiding budget-busting bills. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-has-tips-to-keep-you-cool-this-summer-without-breaking-the-bank-34991 Mon, 18 Jun 2012 05:00:00 GMT Getting Stuck With a Huge Cell Phone Bill Really “Bytes” http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/disconnect-from-cell-phone-and-tablet-bill-shock-34955 Wed, 13 Jun 2012 05:00:00 GMT Don’t Get Boxed Into a Bad Storage Situation http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/to-store-or-not-to-store-34882 Mon, 11 Jun 2012 05:00:00 GMT Phone calls, emails and views on bbb.org indicate that consumers are still inquiring to Better Business Bureau about Universal Timeshare Sales Associates. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/toil-continues-on-beaverton-timeshare-business-34808 Fri, 08 Jun 2012 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau has tips that can help shoppers avoid scams when buying Father's Day gifts. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/looking-for-fathers-day-gifts-bbb-tips-can-help-you-avoid-shopping-scams-34740 Wed, 06 Jun 2012 05:00:00 GMT From bed bugs to billing blunders, unanswered and unresolved complaints reveal industry-wide patterns for "Hotels" in Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-release-hotels-check-out-before-checking-in-34714 Wed, 30 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT BBB Points Out Phonies; Listen for Scam Signals http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/older-americans-tend-to-be-targets-for-telemarketing-34552 Tue, 29 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL – May 29, 2012 - Summer is a popular time for weddings. However, even before the ceremony, the couple should take time to sit down and get serious about finances. Newlyweds need to take control of their finances, advises the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and northern Illinois (BBB), or else the walk down the aisle will only lead to a rocky financial future. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/discussing-financial-issues-should-be-essential-step-in-wedding-plans-34521 Wed, 16 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT With most mystery shopper job offer scams, cashiers’ checks and letters arrive in the mail. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/employ-caution-with-secret-shopper-job-offers-34366 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-advises-parents-to-check-facilities-qualifications-to-ensure-safe-rewarding-summer-camp-experience-33390 Wed, 08 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT Before you rush out and get your taxes done, The Better Business Bureau advises you to check your tax preparer’s BBB Business Review and be aware of pitfalls that trip up taxpayers every year. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-tax-time-tips-how-to-choose-a-preparer-avoid-scams-and-costly-tax-refund-loans-32524 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT The Consumer Fraud Task Force warns anyone looking for love online to be aware that although some relationships develop there, criminals also troll the sites for victims who will send them money. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/sweetheart-swindles-prey-on-singles-looking-for-valentines-one-true-love-32428 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT Don't Say "I Do" to Dicey Wedding Deals http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/brides-and-grooms-beware-32305 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT Online Puppy-Selling Scam Takes Consumers for a Bad Walk http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/puppy-buyers-bark-up-the-wrong-tree-32113 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/coupon-clipping-can-save-cash-but-bbb-warns-consumers-to-check-terms-store-policies-32060 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT For those on the hunt for a healthier new self in the New Year, your Better Business Bureau recommends digesting dietary advice with caution. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/dont-eat-up-bad-diet-advice-31640 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT For those in need of workout wisdom, Better Business Bureau serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington suggests exercising caution when choosing personal trainers. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/get-smart-before-picking-up-dumbbells-31641 Fri, 23 Dec 2011 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/got-an-unwanted-gift-bbb-advises-shoppers-to-check-return-policies-carefully-31581 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-alert-five-holiday-scams-to-avoid-31315 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT The popularity of online shopping has increased in recent years, and Better Business Bureau wants consumers to be smart and responsible before emptying the virtual shopping cart. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/suggestions-for-safe-shopping-satisfaction-31183 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 06:00:00 GMT Shop or donate online only on sites that use technology that encrypts your personal and financial information before sending it for payment processing. Encrypting sensitive information makes it inaccessible to anyone outside the system. Any page on a site that asks for personal or financial information should have a URL or Web address beginning with https:// as opposed to the usual http://. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/holiday-help-from-your-bbb-of-western-michigan-30961 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-can-help-consumers-avoid-getting-spooked-by-halloween-boutiques-30172 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau is advising consumers to be alert to potential new bank fees in the wake of a government-ordered cut in the fees banks charge merchants to process debit card transactions. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-alerts-consumers-to-potential-new-bank-fees-after-fed-orders-cut-in-debit-card-swipe-fee-29968 Thu, 06 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT Better Business Bureau warns Alaskans to be on alert for phony calls about viruses on their computers. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/computer-virus-hoax-hits-alaska-29880 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 05:00:00 GMT Subject: Authorize.Net Late Fee Warning Notice http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/new-round-of-phishing-attacks-using-fake-authorizenet-late-fee-warning-notices-29722 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 05:00:00 GMT Better Business Bureau cautions consumers to tread carefully before purchasing or repairing vehicles. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/steer-toward-reliable-auto-businesses-29704 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 05:00:00 GMT Car Buyers and Car Sellers, Beware http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/kelley-blue-book-warns-of-fraudulent-online-car-buying-scams-masquerading-as-kbbcom-29581 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 05:00:00 GMT Company has F rating with Colton CA BBB for a Pattern of Selling Practice Issues, specifically, misrepresentation concerning projected income claims http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/dry-tech-systems-sending-random-mailings-to-area-29521 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 05:00:00 GMT Consumers Ink Complaints After Doing Business With Autographs America Inc. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/signed-sealed-satisfaction-not-delivered-29458 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMT Targeting Spanish speaking Idaho homeowners with false promises of a government-guaranteed mortgage loan modification for a large upfront fee http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/id-dept-of-finance-warns-mortgage-modification-scam-via-freedom-companies-lending-aka-freedom-financial-mortgage-29223 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMT "Grant Writer" Takes Money Complaints for Granted http://greensboro.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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-has-7-tips-to-avoid-id-theft-on-campus-28877 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau of Northeast California warns consumers of a phone call targeting Sacramento consumers offering a BMW and check. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/consumers-drive-away-from-free-car-scam-with-nothing-28876 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-consumers-of-businesses-misrepresenting-themselves-as-government-agencies-charging-for-free-services-28831 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 05:00:00 GMT Beware of Questionable Door-to-Door Pitches Made by Out of Area Reps Regarding Your Security System http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/vivint-of-ut-draws-red-flags-with-kenco-of-mt-customers-28540 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 05:00:00 GMT Spokane Police and BBB Warn people to be on lookout, verify such calls before leaving home http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/gift-card-scam-calls-used-to-lure-people-away-from-home-to-commit-theft-28460 Tue, 19 Jul 2011 05:00:00 GMT BBBs reporting various states targeted by same types of calls using spoofed numbers displaying area codes for the states targeted to fake people out http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-consumer-alertphone-scam-running-its-course-through-usa-28404 Mon, 18 Jul 2011 05:00:00 GMT HARD TO TRACK # BEING USED IN ATTEMPT TO FAKE OUT CALLERS, HIDE TRUE IDENTITY OF ENTITIES CALLING http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/406-being-used-by-call-centers-to-make-questionable-pitches-nationwide-406-948-8156--28395 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 05:00:00 GMT As door-to-door magazine sellers are hitting the pavement this summer, Better Business Bureau warns consumers to be on guard for slick presentations and high pressure sales tactics. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/dont-subscribe-to-high-pressure-magazine-sales-27872 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/wedding-nightmares-can-be-prevented-if-you-check-vendors-out-with-the-bbb-first-25535 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/consumer-fraud-task-force-urges-consumers-to-be-wary-of-firms-promising-to-reduce-tax-debt-25261 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-tax-refund-anticipation-loans-are-costly-whether-you-get-a-check-or-a-debit-card-25031 Thu, 30 Dec 2010 06:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has 10 suggested resolutions to help you fight scammers, prevent identity theft and save money in 2011. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-offers-10-consumer-savvy-resolutions-for-a-safe-scam-free-new-year-24504 Fri, 17 Dec 2010 06:00:00 GMT Grand Rapids, MI – December 17, 2010 – More than 60 domain names have been registered in the name of Santa Claus, offering children a wide range of opportunities to persuade St. Nick via email that they were not at all naughty in 2010. Before allowing children to share any personal information with a “Letter to Santa” Website, the Better Business Bureau Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU) recommends that adults carefully review such sites to determine who is seeking the information, how it will be used and whether it will be shared with third parties. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/dear-santa-websites-bbb-recommends-adults-check-the-privacy-policy-twice-24310 Mon, 06 Dec 2010 06:00:00 GMT A gift card may sound like a good alternative to cash or an unwanted present. But many cards still come with fees and other restrictions that can erode their value, the BBB warns. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-urges-consumers-to-check-fine-print-on-gift-cards-24013 Fri, 03 Dec 2010 06:00:00 GMT Holidays can be hectic, and scammers are counting on harried consumers letting down their guard, whether shopping online, juggling packages at the mall or simply reading their e-mail. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-consumers-of-five-scams-to-avoid-during-hectic-holidays-23975 Mon, 25 Oct 2010 05:00:00 GMT Good news for those struggling to pay their bills: all of the new Federal Trade Commission regulations to help protect financially-desperate families from deceptive offers for debt relief will go into effect on October 27, 2010. While the new rule will have a significant impact on reducing predatory debt relief, the Better Business Bureau advises consumers that they still need to use caution when enlisting the help of a third party to get out of debt. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/new-laws-go-into-effect-to-fight-deceptive-debt-relief-22920 Wed, 01 Sep 2010 05:00:00 GMT Your home can take a serious beating when a big storm hits and finding a roofing contractor you can trust isn’t always easy. Storm chasers and other door-to-door salesmen often peddle dubious deals that can cost homeowners thousands of dollars and create serious headaches. The Better Business Bureau recommends doing your research to avoid getting ripped off by an untrustworthy roofer. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/100901b-find-a-roofer-you-can-trust-and-avoid-fraudulent-storm-chasers-21920 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/new-credit-card-rules-limit-penalties-rate-increases-21721 Mon, 02 Aug 2010 05:00:00 GMT Ads on TV may promise to modify car loans and stave off a visit from the repo man, but some companies fail to carry through on their promises. The Better Business Bureau recommends that cash-strapped consumers save their money by trying to work out a deal with the lender directly before paying out hundreds in upfront fees to a loan modification company. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/100802b-beware-of-deceptive-auto-loan-modification-offers-21337 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 05:00:00 GMT Grand Rapids MI - June 1, 2010 - According to complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau, victims across the country have lost a total estimated quarter million dollars to advance fee loan scams this spring. Advance fee loan scams target individuals and small business owners who are desperate to get a loan and often take the victim for thousands of dollars. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/beware-of-loan-scams-warns-the-better-business-bureau-19860 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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/scammers-hawk-phony-health-plans-in-wake-of-new-law-bbb-warns-18971 Sat, 10 Apr 2010 05:00:00 GMT Vacation rentals can be a great way to save money when traveling on a tight budget and many travelers are foregoing the mint on the pillow experience for more reasonable and less cushy accommodations. The Better Business Bureau advises vacationers to do their research before booking rentals because sometimes the properties are not as advertised. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/100410c-bbb-travel-tips-vacation-rentals-for-the-budget-traveler-18819 Wed, 03 Mar 2010 06:00:00 GMT Every ten years the US federal government is required to count every man woman and child in the country. Not surprisingly, the census is a massive undertaking requiring the work of more than a million people to accurately count the hundreds of millions of people living in the country. Contrary to the myths, participation in the census is extremely safe and easy, and the Better Business Bureau encourages everyone to take a few minutes to fill out their census form when it arrives in the mail in March. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/100303c-top-five-reasons-to-fill-out-the-2010-census-form-17892 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 06:00:00 GMT BlueHippo – it was a catchy name and a great logo. You might have been okay buying their coffee mug or even the boxer shorts they peddled on their website. But the company’s primary business was selling computers and other electronic equipment over the Internet to people with low incomes and impaired credit. If you were one of those customers, you’re probably still regretting it. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/beware-of-computer-offers-for-the-credit-impaired-15365 Wed, 30 Dec 2009 06:00:00 GMT The New Year is here and, because of the rough economy, it’s more important that ever to resolve to be a savvy consumer. Better Business Bureau offers the following ten New Year’s resolutions to fight scammers, prevent identity theft and save money in 2010. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/bbbs-top-ten-new-years-resolutions-for-a-consumer-savvy-2010-14334 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/new-time-share-scam-13467 Tue, 29 Sep 2009 05:00:00 GMT Credit Repair Organizations have attracted considerable attention as a "problem industry." If you know what to look for, you can discern the good from the bad. http://greensboro.bbb.org/article/credit-repair-organizations-and-the-law-12636 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://greensboro.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://greensboro.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://greensboro.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://greensboro.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://greensboro.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://greensboro.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://greensboro.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://greensboro.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://greensboro.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://greensboro.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://greensboro.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://greensboro.bbb.org/article/ftc-how-to-buy-genuine-american-indian-arts-and-crafts-4487