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It’s National Moving Month – Move Safely and Securely While Avoiding Scams

5/13/2013

Posted on 5/13/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – May 13, 2013 - May is National Moving Month, which kicks off the busiest time of year for Americans changing residencies. It also means unlicensed movers and dishonest scammers are waiting to take advantage of unwary consumers.

In 2012, on a national basis, BBB received over 1.4 million moving-related inquiries and more than 9,300 complaints against movers. Complaints included damaged or missing items, big price increases over originally-quoted estimates, late deliveries, and goods being “held hostage” for additional (disputed) payment.

"It is important for consumers to take the time to research and find a trustworthy mover,” says Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. "Starting your search with BBB can help you to avoid paying thousands of extra dollars for damaged or lost items. BBB can provide access to over 17,000 Business Reviews on companies that provide moving-related services to help you make an educated hiring decision.”

"A con artist with just a truck and a website can claim to be a legitimate mover with unfortunate results for consumers who don’t check out a company in advance,” agreed American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) President and CEO Linda Bauer Darr. "When it comes to such an important decision, you can save yourself a lot of problems by finding a mover who puts customer service and integrity first. For interstate moves, that means an AMSA-certified ProMover."

BBB and AMSA offer the following checklist for finding a trustworthy moving company:

Research the company thoroughly. Compare and contrast what you find about the company and their services with their competitors to find the best fit for your needs. Check with the BBB at www.bbb.org to search for a company’s Business Review or to find a BBB accredited mover in your area. While state regulations vary, all interstate movers (a move that crosses state or country lines) must, at minimum, be licensed by the federal government and are assigned a motor carrier number you can verify with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. If you are moving within the state of Pennsylvania, a company must be licensed by the Public Utility Commission and maintain adequate levels of insurance coverage and charge fees approved by them. All movers must display their PUC number in advertisements and a list of PUC certified carriers can be found by visiting the Public Utility Commission’s website.

Get at least three written in-home estimates. Tariff charges may vary among companies and not all price quotes provided online or over the phone are accurate. Keep in mind that the lowest estimate can sometimes be an unrealistic low-ball offer, which can end up costing you more in the end. Remember to verify that the person you are speaking with works for the actual mover and is not a household goods broker. A household goods broker generally has no authority to provide you an estimate on behalf of a specific mover and is not responsible for any loss or damages incurred.

Know your rights. Research your rights as a consumer with either the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for interstate moves or with the Public Utility Commission for moves within the state of Pennsylvania. Also, enlist the help of BBB or local law enforcement if the moving company fails to live up to its promises or threatens to hold your belongings hostage. FMCSA requires interstate movers to offer arbitration to help settle disputed claims.

Consider purchasing full value protection. It may cost a few dollars more up front, but it can provide some peace of mind and eliminate headaches after your move. Purchasing full (replacement) value protection means any lost or damaged article will be repaired or replaced, or a cash settlement will be made to repair the item or to replace it at its current market value, regardless of age. It’s important to note that the required minimum coverage of 60 cents per pound would not cover the replacement cost, for example, of a flat panel TV if damaged in transit. For your protection, an interstate regulation requires the cost of full value protection to be included in the estimate you receive. Be sure to ask your mover for a written explanation of any limitations regarding articles of extraordinary value before you move.

Pay attention to red flags. If the move is being charged on weight and mileage, beware of a mover who does not insist on an on-site inspection of your household goods. The company is giving you a sight-unseen estimate and they are usually too good to be true. An estimator who does a quick walk-through of your home without opening cabinets and taking notes of exactly what you plan to move is going to provide an inaccurate estimate as well. Keep in mind that reputable movers will not demand cash or any large deposit before moving your items. You generally pay upon delivery because if you pay up front, you have zero control over when you will see your belongings again. When you do pay, it is recommended that you do so with a credit card, so you have some protection against fighting any fraudulent activity. Be sure to read the contract’s fine print carefully and look for any hidden fees or charges.

Overall, though the majority of moves are made without incident, it is in your best interest to do research on moving companies to avoid making an already stressful event more chaotic. The best protection against moving scams is to be an informed consumer, to ask questions and get everything in writing. For more consumer news you can trust and to check out a mover near you, visit www.bbb.org and AMSA’s website.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 114 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

BBB Warns of Telemarketing Scam Targeting Seniors

5/10/2013

Posted on 5/10/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – May 10, 2013 – A new phone scam is making its rounds and targeting local senior citizens and senior caregivers. BBB has received reports of consumers being contacted by aggressive telemarketing calls claiming to be from Philips Lifeline or simply, “Medical Alert.”

These callers allege to be promoting a personal emergency response service. They claim to offer free monitoring as part of a government program or tell consumers that the service was already paid for. Reportedly, callers use high-pressure sales tactics, refuse to mail out information and transfer calls once asked questions about the service. When pressed further, callers often hang-up altogether.

Your BBB is warning seniors and senior caregivers to be cautious of these telemarketers’ sales tactics. According to Philips Lifeline, “their company does not engage in telemarketing of this kind, nor do its partners or distributors. The unauthorized telemarketers making these claims do not represent Philips Lifeline.”

If you or anyone you know receives a call similar to this, BBB offers the following tips on how to handle the situation:

Refuse to answer the phone for unrecognized phone numbers and let the call go to voicemail or your answering machine.
Be suspicious if the caller is secretive in nature and refuses to disclose the company’s name, location or product information. Simply, hang up the phone.
Never provide credit card or financial account details and personal information over the phone without first being able to verify the caller’s true identity.
Don’t give into high pressure sales tactics. Always take your time when making a decision. Legitimate companies won’t pressure you to make a snap decision.
File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau and the Federal Communications Commission.

Keep in mind that these scammers can be aggressive in nature and sound very convincing. They may also call several times, at various hours of the day, hoping to catch someone unaware. For more helpful tips and information on scams, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB Tips for Successful Mother’s Day Shopping

5/8/2013

Posted on 5/8/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – May 8, 2013 – With Mother’s Day quickly approaching on Sunday, May 12, many consumers are still searching for the perfect gift to show appreciation for their mothers. According to the National Retail Federation, total spending for Mother’s Day this year is expected to reach $20.7 billion. In addition, consumers will spend an average of $168.94 on mom, an increase of 11 percent from 2012.

“With every holiday, the Better Business Bureau sees scams that focus on targeting unsuspecting shoppers,” says Caitlin Vancas, Public Relations Director of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “BBB is warning consumers to take precaution and check with BBB before placing orders to help avoid disappointment and a stressful shopping experience.”

Whether you are ordering flowers, shopping for jewelry, or arranging a special spa day appointment for mom, be a smart consumer. Pick a gift for mom with confidence by following your Better Business Bureau’s shopping tips:

When shopping online, verify the website’s legitimacy. Don’t trust unsolicited emails containing links to unknown shopping websites. Consumers should be wary of offers that look too good to be true, such as designer items or name-brand goods that are being sold at extreme discounts. Look out for spelling and grammatical errors that could be a giveaway that the website or person contacting you might not be legitimate.

Do your homework. Before ordering flowers, jewelry or any other gifts for Mother’s Day, check out the company’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org. This is a great way to help prevent disappointment with a product or customer service.

Allow time for shipping and delivery. Check with the retailer or website to be certain that you have allowed enough time for delivery. Make sure that this date is specified clearly and guaranteed when you order, especially last minute.

Have a back-up plan. Make sure you understand the store's guarantee. Find out how customer complaints are handled and what recourse you will have if the arrangement is not satisfactory. It’s best to use a credit card when ordering online, because you can dispute charges if the vendor doesn’t come through.

Make sure the business has your information. When it comes to flower delivery, there are times when delivery instructions need to be confirmed or a delivery driver needs additional directions. Making sure the florist has a call-back phone number or your cell phone to help them make sure your mom gets what you expect.

Many consumers think they can spot a scam from a mile away, but when scammers get emotions involved it can cloud judgment and impair ability to make smart purchasing decisions. If it looks or sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Keep these tips in mind and spend your Mother’s Day celebrating with family, not tracking down missing gifts or funds. Visit www.bbb.org for more helpful tips and information.

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About the BBB System

BBB Hot Topics - April 2013

5/2/2013

Posted on 5/2/2013 by

Pittsburgh, PA – May 2, 2013 – The Better Business Bureau of Western PA’s Hot Topics is a monthly alert regarding companies across all industries that are currently targeting Western Pennsylvania consumers. The Hot Topics list and information is also available on the BBB website under the News Center.

According to Warren King, President of the Better Business Bureau, “The BBB’s goal in creating Hot Topics is to help educate and protect the marketplace from businesses targeting local consumers.”

The following report is based on your BBB’s research as of May 2, 2013 and includes information received at our office on companies marketing to local Pennsylvanians. Click on the company name for an updated BBB report. Please take into consideration the importance of the practice and total performance of the company. To access over four million companies nationwide, visit www.bbb.org.

1. Caribbean Cruise Line – Vacation certificates

Caribbean Cruise Line’s BBB file contains a pattern of complaints from consumers who were contacted by the company and told they won a free three day, two night cruise to the Bahamas. The only fees mentioned are $59 per person port fees. Some consumers state they are not told of additional fees or that they must attend a two hour timeshare presentation which is reported to be very high pressure. Some consumers also allege difficulty obtaining refunds that are mentioned during the sales presentation. The company responds to BBB complaints by issuing a full or partial refund. BBB urges consumers who choose to do business with this company to read and understand all aspects of the agreement and obtain all verbal promises in writing. Visit www.bbb.org for more helpful tips on vacation offers.

2. Global International – Foreign lottery scam

Consumers report to BBB that Global International representatives call and state they have won a lottery and/or prize valued from $25,000 to $8.5 million. In order to collect winnings, consumers are instructed to wire $175-$499 to pay for administrative fees and insurance. Those who pay the money never receive the prize and if the offer is declined, consumers report receiving harassing phone calls. The company lists a conflicting street address and zip code, while phone numbers originate from Jamaica. BBB reminds consumers that it is illegal for a company to offer a foreign lottery in the United States and it is illegal to participate in one. Check out BBB tips on identifying foreign lotteries.

3. Advanced fee loan schemes targeting Western PA consumers

BBB has identified through consumer complaints and investigations that Pittsburgh Infinity Financial Trust, Keystone Lending Group, Dowell Financial Solutions, Payday Loans of America and Merrick Capital Lending are targeting consumers and alleging to be located in the Western PA region. All of these companies have an F rating through BBB and are offering loans for an advanced fee. Consumers state that they have responded to advertisements from the companies on the internet for loans. After paying several hundred dollars, consumers report that they never receive the promised loan. BBB has confirmed that these businesses are not registered with the PA Department of State or PA Department of Banking. View BBB’s information regarding advanced fee loans

4. Universal Adcom – Specialty marketing company

Universal Adcom has received 371 BBB complaints in the last three years. Of these complaints, which were filed by businesses, 307 were resolved through BBB. This company also had past government action taken against it by different states’ Attorney Generals. Complaints have been filed against various alternate business names and allege the company billed for orders not placed; misrepresented its affiliation with a school, chamber of commerce or other civic organizations; harassing and deceptive sales calls, non-receipt of product and poor quality product; and refusal to remove from calling lists. In July 2010, Universal Adcom met with BBB to discuss their pattern and volume of complaints. To date, the company has not eliminated the underlying causes of customer complaints. Visit www.bbb.org to review schemes against businesses.

5. Universal Syndications, Inc. – Currency and coin collectibles

An F rated company with an alternate business name of World Reserve Monetary Exchange, Universal Syndications, Inc. has received 68 BBB complaints in the last 12 months. The majority of complaints allege problems with the product/service, delivery issues and advertising/sales issues. The company has been the subject of various BBB advertising challenges regarding ads that appeared in newspapers across the country. Once contacted by BBB, the company has responded to, modified or discontinued any BBB advertising concerns brought to its attention. BBB files still indicate that the business has failed to resolve the underlying cause of a pattern of complaints though. BBB wants consumers to be aware that while the company obtains products from the Department of Printing and Engraving, it is not a government agency, nor does it have any government affiliation. Read BBB’s information pertaining to coin collection.

6. WN Positions – Work-at-home scheme

Beginning in March 2013, BBB has been advised by consumers who have filed complaints on WN Positions that it is a work-at-home scheme. Consumers allege receiving unwanted calls to their cell phones during work hours regarding an online survey and home job opportunity. When consumers request to have their numbers removed from the company’s calling list, they continue to receive calls. When consumers ask to speak to a supervisor, the callers hang up. BBB is uncertain where these calls originate, but there is some indication calls are routed through Central Florida from the Philippines. Consumers with complaints against this company are also encouraged to notify the PA Attorney General and Federal Trade Commission. Find information and tips on work-at-home schemes by clicking on the link.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free Business and Charity Reviews and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB offers dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Visit www.bbb.org for more information about BBB.

Top Five Tips for Mobile Banking

4/26/2013

Posted on 4/26/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – April 26, 2013 - In our tech-savvy world, everything is readily accessible and convenient. This statement even applies to banking. Gone are the days of waiting in line at the bank or even waiting for your computer to boot up. Now you can access your bank account from anywhere in the world via your smart phone or tablet.

But consumers need to be more cautious than ever when banking through any device, as hackers can prey on the unsuspecting. Your Better Business Bureau and the FINRA Investor Education Foundation, part of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, offer these five tips on how to keep your identity safe and your money in the bank:

Password-protect your phone or tablet so that only you can access the information on your device. This will help protect you if your phone or tablet is ever lost or stolen. Do not store or save PIN numbers and login information to accounts on your device.

Never provide personal information unless you initiate contact with your bank or other financial institution. Financial institutions should not request account numbers, Social Security numbers or other sensitive information through email or text messages. If you’re not sure about a request, contact your bank by calling the number on the back of your debit or credit card.

Don’t stay “auto-logged in” to your accounts. Even though it’s convenient, it increases the risk that an unauthorized user will access your accounts.

Delete old texts from your bank to reduce your exposure to fraud.

Report lost or stolen devices immediately to your wireless provider and financial institutions.

For more helpful information and tips you can trust, visit www.bbb.org. Check out FINRA’s website for additional advice about how to protect your money.

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About the BBB System

BBB Warns of Charity Scams, Offers Giving Tips in Wake of Boston Marathon Bombing

4/17/2013

Posted on 4/17/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – April 17, 2013 - At least one poorly-conceived charity scam has already emerged in the wake of the explosions at the finish line of the Boston Marathon, and more are likely. BBB Wise Giving Alliance (“Alliance”), the national charity monitoring arm of the Better Business Bureau, and your Better Business Bureau of Western PA caution donors about potential red flags concerning tragedy-related philanthropy.

“Tragedies inspire people to give,” said H. Art Taylor, president and CEO of the Alliance, “but, tragedies – whether natural disasters or manmade catastrophes – also inspire scammers to take advantage of that generosity. Social media, in particular, makes it very easy to reach a lot of people quickly, when emotions are running high and people feel the need to take action, any action, to help.”

BBB Wise Giving Alliance urges donors to give thoughtfully and avoid those seeking to take advantage of the generosity of others:

BBB Wise Giving Alliance: Ten Tips for Giving with Confidence

1. Thoughtful Giving

Take the time to check out the charity to avoid wasting your generosity by donating to a questionable or poorly managed effort. The first request for a donation may not be the best choice. Be proactive and find trusted charities that are providing assistance.

2. Help Spread the Wise Giving Word

Remind your friends and family to be cautious about giving requests in the wake of such a tragedy and ask them to spread the word as well. People are emotionally moved by events like these and may react before they have time to carefully consider.

3. State Government Registration

About 40 of the 50 states require charities to register with a state government agency (usually a division of the State Attorney General’s office) before they solicit for charitable gifts. Pennsylvania is no exception. Check registration at www.charities.pa.gov or call 1-800-732-0999 for Pennsylvania charities. If you are a Pennsylvania resident and you are solicited here, then the group should be registered here. If the charity is not registered, that is a significant red flag. If you are looking for Boston-area charities, check the Massachusetts registration at www.charities.ago.state.ma.us or call 617-727-2200 ext. 2101.

4. Respecting Victims and Their Families

Organizations raising funds should get permission from the families to use either the names of the victims and/or any photographs of them. Some charities raising funds for the Colorado movie theater and Newtown school victims did not do this and were the subject of criticism from victims’ families.

5. How Will Donations Be Used?

Watch out for vague appeals that don’t identify the intended use of funds. For example, how will the donations help victims’ families? Also, unless told otherwise, donors will assume that funds collected quickly in the wake of a tragedy will be spent just as quickly. See if the appeal identifies when the collected funds will be used.

6. What if a Family Sets Up Its Own Assistance Fund?

Some families may decide to set up their own assistance funds. Be mindful that such funds may not be set up as charities. Also, make sure that collected monies are received and administered by a third party such as a bank, CPA or lawyer. This will help provide oversight and ensure the collected funds are used appropriately (e.g., paying for funeral costs, counseling, and other tragedy-related needs.)

7. Online Cautions

Never click on links to charities on unfamiliar websites or in texts or emails. These may take you to a lookalike website where you will be asked to provide personal financial information or to click on something that downloads harmful malware into your computer. Don’t assume that charity recommendations on Facebook, blogs or other social media have already been vetted.

8. Financial Transparency

After funds are raised for a tragedy, it is even more important for organizations to provide an accounting of how funds were spent. Transparent organizations will post this information on their websites so that anyone can find out and not have to wait until the audited financial statements are available sometime in the future.

9. Newly Created or Established Organizations

This is a personal giving choice, but an established charity will more likely have the experience to quickly address the circumstances and have a track record that can be evaluated. A newly formed organization may be well-meaning but will be difficult to check out and may not be well managed.

10. Tax Deductibility

Not all organizations collecting funds to assist this tragedy are tax exempt as charities under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donors can support these other entities but keep this in mind if they want to take a deduction for federal income tax purposes. In addition, contributions that are donor-restricted to help a specific individual/family are not deductible as charitable donations, even if the recipient organization is a charity.

Other Resources:

BBB Wise Giving Alliance is asking anyone who receives a suspicious charitable solicitation to report it to BBB Report a Scam.

The FBI has the lead investigative role following the bombing. Anyone who has information, visual images and/or details regarding the explosions should call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324), prompt #3. The FBI says no piece of information or detail is too small.

The American Red Cross says it has enough blood and financial resources committed to Boston at this time, but asks that people make appointments to give blood in the weeks and months ahead.

Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino offers the Mayor’s 24-Hour Hotline at 617-635-4500 for anyone with concerns about their family members or friends who were at the race.

The Mayor’s office also suggested resources from the National Association of School Psychologists to help children deal with tragedies.

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About BBB Wise Giving Alliance: BBB Wise Giving Alliance produces reports on over 1,300 nationally soliciting charitable organizations, and local BBBs report on another 10,000 local and regional charities. BBB Wise Giving Alliance does not rank charities but rather seeks to assist donors in making informed judgments by providing objective evaluations of national charities based on 20 standards that address charity governance, finances, fund raising, appeal accuracy, and other issues. The outcomes of the evaluations are available online at www.give.org. BBB Wise Giving Alliance is an affiliate of the Council of Better Business Bureaus.

About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 114 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4.5 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

“Secure Your ID” Day: Shred Paperwork You No Longer Need at BBB’s Free Event

4/11/2013

Posted on 4/11/2013 by

Pittsburgh, PA – April 11, 2013 – Your Better Business Bureau (BBB) and its partners, Northland Public Library, The Paper Exchange and First Commonwealth Bank, invite Allegheny County residents and surrounding communities to BBB’s “Secure Your ID” Day Saturday, April 20, 2013 at Northland Public Library, 300 Cumberland Road in the North Hills of Pittsburgh from 10 AM – 2 PM.

Residents and small businesses are encouraged to attend the April 20^th event and take a key step in identity protection by shredding and properly disposing of sensitive documents. BBB staff will be on-site to guide cars through a moving line, offload disposable items and shred them on the spot. Free goodie bags containing educational advice and tips for identity theft protection will also be distributed to attendees.

“Spring cleaning is an ideal time to organize and clean out documents that are no longer needed and BBB’s “Secure Your ID” Day offers a safe and fun way to dispose of such sensitive information,” says Warren King, President of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “By collaborating with over 40 other community-based BBBs across North America, we’ll have a tremendous coast-to-coast presence that will reach a lot of people and hopefully, prevent a lot of theft.”

According to Javelin Strategy and Research, identity fraud incidents increased by over one million victims and fraudsters stole more than $21 billion in 2012. In addition, the study found 12.6 million victims of identity fraud in the United States in the past year, which equates to one victim every three seconds.

Bring up to three boxes or bags of documents to be shredded and take home the tips and resources you need to help protect yourself. Documents to be shredded should be removed from binders. For more information about this free event, visit to www.bbb.org or call 877.267.5222.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews, charity BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 114 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

About Northland Public Library

Northland Public Library enables, empowers and encourages lifelong learning and discovery. Northland Public Library is supported by and serves the communities of Bradford Woods, Franklin Park, Marshall, McCandless, and Ross in the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh, but welcomes all Allegheny County residents. Visit www.northlandlibrary.org.

About The Paper Exchange

Established in 1996, we are one of the largest independently and locally owned providers of document destruction to all types of organizations in Western Pennsylvania, West Virginia & Eastern Ohio. The Paper exchange can also service national accounts through our affiliation with IPSA. The paper exchange is more poised than ever to continue providing outstanding service programs to our customers. Since our inception, we have continued to invest in quality people and equipment in our efforts to maximize our efficiency. In 2004, we increased our capacity by installing a new state-of-the-art shredding facility and continue to add new vehicles to our fleet of trucks. In 2005 and 2006 the paper exchange was selected as one of Pittsburgh’s fastest growing companies by The Pittsburgh Business Times. The paper exchange offers a full range of office solutions from file record storage, to the shredding of sensitive materials like invoices, credit card numbers, financial statements, Healthcare information, client, and employee personal information. The Paper exchange is a NAID AAA certified company, which is the highest certification for security in the industry. No matter the size or need of your organization, the paper exchange has an affordable program to meet your needs. Visit our website at www.thepaperexchange.org.

About First Commonwealth Bank

First Commonwealth Financial Corporation is a $6.4 billion financial holding company headquartered in Indiana, Pennsylvania. It operates 115 retail branch offices in 15 counties in western and central Pennsylvania through First Commonwealth Bank, a Pennsylvania chartered bank and trust company. Financial services and insurance products are also provided through First Commonwealth Insurance Agency and First Commonwealth Financial Advisors, Inc.

Start With Trust when Hiring Wedding Vendors

4/4/2013

Posted on 4/4/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – April 4, 2013 – Planning a wedding can be an exciting, yet expensive and stressful time in many couples’ lives. According to an annual survey of 17,500 couples released by www.TheKnot.com, newlyweds spent an average of $28,427 on their weddings in 2012. It can be easy for couples and their families to become overwhelmed by all of the associated wedding costs and the process of choosing wedding vendors.

Your Better Business Bureau can help with the wedding vendor selection though. Business practices of more than 4.5 million companies nationwide and over 38,000 local Western Pennsylvania businesses can be found in BBB’s business reviews at www.bbb.org or by calling 877.267.5222. While there is no way to guarantee that mistakes won’t happen, dealing with reputable companies can help reduce the chance of a wedding disaster.

Some common problems that couples encounter during the wedding planning process and tips for avoiding them include:

· Unexpected costs including catering hall fees. Some caterers, hotels or reception venues charge extra for services that you may think are included such as “cake-cutting” or “corkage” fees, especially if you bring in a cake or liquor purchased from another source. Ask whether any fees apply beyond the cost per person, gratuities or room rental, if applicable. This includes any vendors that are engaged by the catering company. All written contracts should include specific dates, products, prices, name brands, and be signed by all parties involved. The price and type of alcohol to be used should also be included.

· Not clear on cancellation policies: Be sure you understand any vendor cancellation policies and that the terms are completely spelled out in a written contract. This includes any refunds or return of deposits. BBB also suggests verifying that vendors have any current, valid licenses that are required within their industries before signing the contract.

· Dresses that don’t measure up. Brides have complained to BBB about bridal shops ordering the wrong sizes and colors of gowns, as well as dresses that arrive too late for timely alterations. Make sure your order specifies new merchandise, sized to fit you and your bridesmaids. Call the shop to remind the staff of your schedule if you don’t hear from them by the promised time.

· Wedding transportation problems. Complaints about limousine service include poor customer service and rigid cancellation policies. Get details in writing. Ask how the company handles problems if you aren’t satisfied and what they will charge if you need the vehicle longer on your wedding night. You should also ask about the company’s policy regarding vehicle break-downs and if they would be able to provide substitute transportation in that unfortunate circumstance.

· Musician switch. Couples shouldn’t rely on a website, demo tape or phone conversation when hiring a band or other music service. Find out where you can hear the musicians play before you hire them. Ask who will actually perform at the reception and get a written commitment from the band or musician, including the amount of time they will play and costs to extend the time the night of the event. Ask if you have a say in the type of music played and if you can meet in person before the big day to finalize any specific songs and timing.

· Photographer issues. A common complaint from brides is that the photographer they hired doesn’t show up for the wedding or fails to deliver pictures until months after the wedding. Find out when and how pictures will be delivered, whether you will have the option of getting all of the images on a DVD or CD, how much time you will have to choose the pictures and whether other members of your family or wedding party will have access to the pictures.

· Floral changes. Fresh flowers are a perishable commodity and the final bouquet or arrangements may need to change depending on what’s available on the wedding day. Make sure you spell out a minimum size or number of stems in each bouquet or arrangement. Ask how the florist will handle any last-minute substitutions and charges, especially if the value of the flowers actually used is markedly different from what you had originally agreed upon.

· Bridal gown preservation. Some bridal shops or other businesses sell bridal gown preservation packages, including cleaning and a box, for $250 or more. Many of these packages are no more than regular dry-cleaning and a cardboard box, which may not be acid-free. Check with a reputable cleaner on the cost of cleaning your gown after the wedding. The cleaner or another supplier may be able to sell you an acid-free box and tissue at a more reasonable price.

· Wedding memorabilia. Monogrammed napkins, decorations, photo booths, pens or other souvenirs often are marketed as a way to enhance the event or remember the wedding. Unless you have budgeted for these extras and have researched them first, resist the temptation to buy items that may be overpriced, of poor quality or that add needlessly to the total bill.

BBB advises engaged couples to have a plan, including a budget, and stick to it:

• Beware of one-day specials, high pressure sales tactics, discounts for advance payment and hidden costs that you may encounter as you meet potential vendors, especially at bridal shows and expos.

• Pay with a credit card. Credit cards offer consumers the added protection of disputing any charge over $50 within 60 days of the purchase. Use them whenever possible, including for payment of deposits.

• Don’t pay in full. While it’s customary to pay a reasonable deposit to hold your day, do not pay more than half of your total cost up front.

• Consider wedding insurance. Wedding insurance can help take the stress out of any possible wedding mishaps. A wedding vendor might go out of business, you may need to cancel due to bad weather or you may not receive the goods you’ve paid for, such as bridal gowns or a wedding cake. But be sure to check with your vendor first – they may already have you covered.

• Get confirmation from everyone. Confirm all services one to two weeks prior to the event and verify all of the details agreed upon. You don’t want any unpleasant surprises on your wedding day.

For more helpful tips to ensure your big day goes off without a hitch, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB Hot Topics - March 2013

4/3/2013

Posted on 4/3/2013 by

Pittsburgh, PA – April 3, 2013 – The Better Business Bureau of Western PA’s Hot Topics is a monthly alert regarding companies across all industries that are currently targeting Western Pennsylvania consumers. The Hot Topics list and information is also available on the BBB website under the News Center.

The following report is based on your BBB’s research as of April 3, 2013 and includes information received at our office on companies marketing to local Pennsylvanians. Click on the company name for an updated BBB report. Please take into consideration the importance of the practice and total performance of the company. To access over four million companies nationwide, visit www.bbb.org.

1. American Freight, Inc. – Furniture distribution

Having received 539 BBB complaints in the last 3 years, BBB files indicate that American Freight, Inc. has a pattern of complaints regarding their “layaway” policy. In addition, customer complaints allege misleading sales practices and failure to honor contracts, disclose delivery charges and respond to requests for assistance. In March 2011, BBB requested the voluntary cooperation of American Freight, Inc. in resolving BBB complaints. The company responded that their delivery method is disclosed on invoices/receipts, a larger font may be an option to better notify consumers and the company’s refund/exchange policy is posted in all stores. BBB strongly urges consumers to understand all layaway policies before choosing a plan.

2. Bene-Fit Health Products – Magnetic mattresses

Offering magnetic therapy devices, Bene-Fit Health Products has received a pattern of BBB complaints concerning not responding to customer calls and emails and failure to deliver products and refunds within a timely manner. In February 2013, BBB brought these concerns to the company’s attention and the company has not responded to the request. As a result of violating BBB Accreditation Standards, Bene-Fit Health Products’ BBB accreditation was revoked in March 2013. According to information found in BBB files, Bene-Fit Health Products is no longer in business at this time.

3. Bennett Brothers, Inc. – Mail order and catalog shopping

An F rated company based out of Chicago, Bennett Brothers, Inc. has received 169 out of 179 BBB complaints in the last 12 months. Many complaints allege that customers never receive ordered items and that the company has delayed sending items for several months. Other complainants allege that the company is difficult to contact as consumer emails go unanswered and unreturned. Some complainants also state difficulty receiving refunds after requesting them from the company. BBB has determined that Bennett Brothers, Inc. has failed to alleviate the pattern of complaints against it and will continue to monitor complaints against this business over the next 12 months.

4. Best Leading Lenders – Advance fee loan brokers

BBB has received information from consumers and complainants that Best Leading Lenders, based out of Pittsburgh, is offering loans for an advance fee. Consumers allege that they have responded to solicitations for loans and after paying several hundred dollars, never receive the loan promised by the company. Best Leading Lenders is not currently licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and utilizes alternate business names of Faxless Payday Loans Cash, Leading Payday Loans, Payday Advance Cash Loans and Payday Loan America Company. For more information on advance fee loans, visit www.bbb.org.

5. Real Wealth Inc. – Work-at-home company

Real Wealth Inc. offered a work-at-home opportunity by selling mailing lists and information products. In 2009, BBB asked the company to substantiate advertised claims that participating in its money-making methods would result in earning $9,250. Real Wealth Inc. has not substantiated to the BBB a single earnings claim. In 2011, a federal judge ruled in favor of the FTC and ordered Real Wealth Inc. and its owner to pay $10.4 million to consumers nationwide who were victimized by its work at home and grant scheme. In February 2013, the FTC announced it was mailing 50,365 refund checks totaling more than $685,000 to consumers who were victimized by the company. View BBB’s tips regarding work-at-home opportunities.

6. TRX Software Development Inc. – Tax preparation software

Since January 2013, BBB has received numerous complaints alleging tax preparation consultants purchased tax software to assist clients with 2012 tax filings; however, the software is incomplete. As a result, tax preparation consultants are unable to file tax returns for their clients. Complainants also allege poor customer service and difficulty obtaining refunds. In March 2013, BBB met with TRX Software Development Inc. to address its pattern of complaints and find a means of eliminating it. The company recognizes the need to address the underlying issues with its program to alleviate its pattern of BBB complaints and has put together a plan to do so. BBB will monitor the company’s efforts and update its BBB business review accordingly as additional information becomes available. Visit www.bbb.org for more helpful tips at tax time.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free Business and Charity Reviews and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB offers dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Visit www.bbb.org for more information about BBB.

BBB Tips for Driveway Improvements

3/22/2013

Posted on 3/22/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – March 22, 2013 - An attractive, well-kept driveway can increase your home’s curb appeal, provide protection against weather, and even add value to your investment. Replacing a driveway can be a costly and confusing endeavor though. A poorly designed and constructed driveway that begins to crack and crumble after its first winter is far more expensive than a well-constructed driveway that costs a little more to start with, but remains solid and attractive for many years with minimum upkeep.

Your Better Business Bureau advises home owners to take the time to choose a contractor you can trust, who does quality work. When looking to hire a contractor for your driveway, BBB recommends the following tips:

Check references. Ask for local references and if possible, go out to inspect work the contractor has already done. Verify that the contractor is in compliance with all local licensing, bonding and insuring requirements. Always check out a contractor on www.bbb.org before doing business with them and verify that they are registered with the PA Attorney General’s office. Before you agree to a paving or paving repair job, there are three things to check: the status of the contractor's license, whether the contractor's bond is current, and the contractor's complaint resolution history with BBB. You may want to see if the contracting company is a member of an industry trade association such as National Asphalt Pavement Association as well.

Get it in writing. Be sure that the contract spells out which party is responsible for grading and subgrading, equipment and materials, labor, pavement thickness and smoothness, etc. Make sure the payment schedule is satisfactory and that there is a clear guarantee or warranty for the work. Also, get in writing an agreement that your yard is to be returned to pre-construction condition. Don’t sign an agreement without understanding it.

Know your rights. If you hire a contractor, pay by check or credit card when the work is completed to your satisfaction. If you are dealing with a traveling contractor, be extra cautious and make sure to ask for identification and note the license plate number on the contractor's vehicle. If you get “buyer’s remorse,” you may be able to change your mind after the contract is signed. The Federal Trade Commission has a three-day cooling off rule for in-home purchases.

For more helpful tips and information regarding driveway repair and hiring a trustworthy contractor, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB Tips for March Madness

3/20/2013

Posted on 3/20/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – March 20, 2013 - With a local team playing in the NCAA tomorrow afternoon, your Better Business Bureau wants to warn the public about scams related to March Madness. Major sporting events like the NCAA tournament almost always inspire scammers to capitalize on the scarcity of tickets and fans’ desire to snap up souvenirs or team jerseys. BBB advises fans to check out offers before spending their hard-earned cash.

Craigslist has thousands of sports tickets listed, but the site offers no guarantees, and sellers do not have to provide identification to list tickets. If you decide to try purchasing a ticket outside the event, remember that there are no refunds or guarantees there either. For official NCAA ticket information, visit www.ncaa.com.

BBB’s website, www.bbb.org, lists reputable, secondary market ticket firms that provide buyer protections, including money-back guarantees if tickets are fake. On some sites, sellers must also provide credit card numbers so the site can charge a seller’s card for the cost of replacement tickets if they sell fraudulent tickets.

While counterfeit items may seem like a good deal, remember that they are actually stolen goods. If you love your team, do not buy a hat or jersey from someone who has stolen the team’s name and logo for their own profit. Many counterfeit items are more cheaply made than genuine merchandise, which means they may not last as long as the real thing. Buying counterfeit memorabilia online poses even more potential problems. Some websites do not even have merchandise to sell. They just want your credit card number and personal information so they can steal your identity or drain your bank account. The best way to ensure you are getting official sports gear is to buy directly from the team or league websites, from official vendors at the stadium or from other trusted stores.

BBB advises fans to ask lots of questions and be wary of any offer that requires wiring money or using Green Dot cards. When you send money by wire transfer, it is almost impossible to get it back or to trace the recipient, who may actually be overseas.

The following are some BBB tips for avoiding scams connected to special events:

Read ads carefully to understand what is being offered and what the full price will be.
Be wary of ticket offers listed at extremely low or discounted prices. If it sounds too good to be true, it most likely is.
Ask the seller where he or she is located and how he or she may be contacted after the sale. If the seller is evasive, do not pursue the offer.
When booking hotels to follow your favorite team, ask for the name, address and phone number of the hotel where the room is located, and call the hotel to verify that the room actually exists. Check the hotel’s website or a reputable travel site to be sure that the location is convenient for getting to and from the arena.
Be wary of ads that pile on incentives to make the package look better. Often the items – such as lanyards, T-shirts or other trinkets – have limited value.
Use a credit card. A credit card company can assist you with obtaining a refund if the offer turns out to be fraudulent.

Also, if you are obsessed with checking the progress of your bracket selections, beware of cyber scams. Cyber-scammers take advantage of the large interest in March Madness by poisoning search results related to the tournament with malware that can infect computers and put consumers’ personal information at risk.

For more helpful consumer tips and information, visit www.bbb.org or call 877.267.5222.

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About the BBB System

Get the Most from Your Auto Insurance

3/19/2013

Posted on 3/19/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – March 19, 2013 – Motor vehicle collisions and other auto-related mishaps result in billions of dollars in property damage, medical and legal bills and lost income every year. Car owners need to protect their vehicle and themselves with auto insurance, but how do you know if you are properly covered?

It is not enough to simply have car insurance. Car owners should be aware of exactly what their insurance covers and what it does not. Your Better Business Bureau advises that you:

Understand the insurance coverage you are purchasing. Compare the different types of insurance and choose the coverage that best suits the vehicle you own and your financial situation. Most jurisdictions require you to carry liability insurance in case you are at fault in an accident. But if your car is relatively new or if you still owe money on it, you will want to consider collision insurance, as well. Prices and coverage levels vary from company to company, so it pays to shop around. Get at least three quotes and call insurance agents or companies directly. Consider asking friends and relatives for recommendations as well.

Ask about all available discounts. Insurance companies offer a wide variety of discounts ranging as a result of having multiple policies with the same company, good credit records, low annual mileage, no accidents for three years, or even being a student with good grades. Ask about everything you may be able to qualify for.

Know and monitor the condition of your vehicle. When considering a new car purchase, think about maintenance costs. Cars that are expensive to service and repair are often targets for theft. If you are buying a used car, ask to see the title, check all the gauges, and consider getting a vehicle history report, which will tell you if the vehicle has ever been in an accident or flood.

Report damage to your insurance company as soon as possible. If you are in an accident, or if your vehicle suffers damage from severe weather, contact your insurance agent or claims center right away. They may be able to save you money and may also arrange to have your car towed if it is not drivable.

Get to know your mechanic. Have them explain the repair process to you and get estimates in writing for large service jobs. Always ask about any additional charges before authorizing work.

BBB rates tens of thousands of insurers, car dealers and auto repair facilities. Be sure to check out bbb.org before buying, insuring or repairing your vehicle. Obtain insurance from companies, independent brokers or direct marketers that have a proven track record of handling auto insurance claims effectively. You can also check with the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance to find licensed insurance professionals.

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About the BBB System

BBB Sets a Milestone – Provides Over 1 Million Instances of Service Locally in 2012

3/18/2013

Posted on 3/18/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - March 18, 2013 – Your Better Business Bureau set a milestone and concluded 2012 having provided over 1 million instances of service to local consumers and businesses. On a national level, consumers asked BBB for help more than 180 million times in 2012, a 27 percent increase from 142.5 million times in 2011, and the highest rate in the organization’s 100-year history.

2012 was the first full year that BBB business reviews and ratings were available on an iPhone app. The organization’s popular Scam Alerts, blog and social media sites attracted a new generation of BBB users. Two new microsites – BBB Smart Investing and BBB Scam Stopper – generated a lot of interest, as did the annual list of Top Ten Scams.

BBB maintains business reviews on more than 4.5 million businesses, both BBB accredited and non-accredited, and provides ratings from A+ to F based on complaint history, responsiveness to customers, licensing, legal and government action and other factors. Nearly 400,000 of these 4.5 million businesses are Accredited Businesses that meet the BBB Code of Business Practices and are permitted to display the BBB logo in their marketing and place of business.

“As the Better Business Bureau enters its second century of providing unbiased information to consumers, we continue to be proud of the high standards we set and maintain in fulfilling our mission to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust,” says Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “It is gratifying to see the total instances of services BBB provides continue to increase each year. This confirms the trust that consumers place in BBB to provide quality information and assistance in making smarter buying decisions.”

Requests for BBB’s business reviews on Western Pennsylvania companies increased to over 841,000, up nearly 17% from 2011. The Construction Industry accounted for 40% of this activity followed by Automotive (11%), Home Related Services (9%), Financial Services (8%), Retail (8%), Scams (5%) and Health Services (4%). BBB business reviews are available 24/7 to assist consumers and businesses in their purchasing decisions at www.bbb.org.

In 2012, there were 9,997 complaints processed against local companies through your local BBB’s dispute resolution services. There were also 9,739 complaints filed through BBB by local consumers against businesses outside of Western Pennsylvania. Overall, locally the Construction Industry accounted for 20% of the total complaints followed by Automotive (16%), Retail (14%), Home Related Services (12%), Financial Services (12%), Scams (10%) and Health Services (3%).

Complaints are filed by consumers against a particular business when they have a problem they cannot resolve on their own. Every complaint is reviewed by a staff member at BBB where the business is located and the company is given two weeks to respond. Through a self-regulatory process, honed over 100 years, about 95% of complaints to BBB are resolved at this level (either the business and consumer come to a resolution, which may impact the business’s BBB rating positively, or the business refuses to cooperate, which may impact their BBB rating negatively).

One number that decreased on a national basis resulting in good news though is that BBB AUTO LINE handled fewer lemon law disputes against auto manufacturers in 2012. Only 17,158 disputes were handled, which is a slight drop compared to 2011. This is a positive statistic, as automakers are continuing to improve customer service and make better quality automobiles.

Overall, the following local inquiry and complaint statistics are typical from year to year, as consumers tend to do more research on larger purchases, such as cars and home remodeling:

2012 Top 10 Local Industries by Inquiries:

Contractors - General
Heating & Air Conditioning
Roofing Contractors
Construction & Remodeling Services
Plumbing Contractors
Product Development & Marketing
Auto Repair & Service
Auto Dealers - Used Cars
Auto Dealers - New Cars
Windows

2012 Top 10 Local Industries by Complaints

Banks
Auto Dealers - New Cars
Contractors - General
Auto Dealers - Used Cars
Security Control Equipment & System Monitor
Plumbing Contractors
Internet Shopping
Product Development & Marketing
Restaurants
Windows

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free business BBB Reliability Reports^TM and charity BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 114 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

National Consumer Protection Week – Sign-Up for a Tip-a-Day!

3/1/2013

Posted on 3/1/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – March 1, 2013 - To celebrate the 15th Annual National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), BBB is offering savvy consumers seven important tips. Sign up here to receive a BBB tip-a-day on the latest consumer topics during National Consumer Protection Week.

“Every year, thousands of consumers turn to the Better Business Bureau as the preeminent resource on businesses,” says Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “BBB’s goal for participating in National Consumer Protection Week each year is to empower and equip consumers with the necessary tools to make smarter purchasing decisions.”

National Consumer Protection Week is March 3-9, and government organizations and non-profits across the country are offering consumers a wealth of free tips and information from partner organizations. Your BBB is encouraging every consumer to take full advantage of their rights and to make better-informed decisions.

In addition, your BBB will be participating in speaking engagements and the following two local events throughout the course of NCPW to educate consumers on common scams and industry tips:

· 2013 Home & Garden Show: Booth 2217
March 1-10, David L. Lawrence Convention Center

· PA Attorney General Annual Consumer Awareness Fair
March 6, 10:00-2:00 PM, Vintage Senior Community Center, Pittsburgh

Visit www.bbb.org and follow BBB Western PA on Facebook, Twitter and our blog to read more helpful consumer protection tips and to share ideas and tips of your own. NCPW.gov also offers consumers a wide selection of free materials to learn how to protect their privacy, stay safe online, manage their money, avoid identity theft, understand mortgages and steer clear of frauds and scams.

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About the BBB System

Beware of Credit Report Scams

3/1/2013

Posted on 3/1/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – March 4, 2013 – In a recent study conducted by the Federal Trade Commission, it was found that one in five consumers had an error on at least one of their three major credit reports. In addition, one in four of these consumers were able to identify errors that might affect their overall credit scores. As a result of this study, the Better Business Bureau is urging consumers to check their credit reports on a regular basis for potential errors to avoid putting their pocketbooks and financial health at risk.

“Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), consumers are able to request a free copy of their credit report through annualcreditreport.com from each of the three nationwide reporting agencies – Experian, Equifax and TransUnion – every 12 months,” says Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “Verifying information contained in credit reports on a consistent basis is a great way for consumers to avoid financial and identity fraud, as well as correct mistakes before they have a major impact on their credit score.”

Additionally, BBB is reminding consumers to be aware that no one, including a credit repair company, can magically clear a negative report. There is no fee that you can pay to remove accurate information from your credit file. Thus, all the company can do is charge you for something that you can do yourself for free.

Your BBB offers the following tips for verifying information contained in your credit reports:

Do not access the Annual Credit Report Request Service through links from unfamiliar websites. If you receive an email or a pop-up ad claiming to be from AnnualCreditReport.com or any of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies, do not reply or click on any link in the message. To help ensure the privacy and protection of your personal information, visit AnnualCreditReport.com directly to request your free annual credit report either by phone, mail or online. AnnualCreditReport.com will not approach consumers via email, telemarketing or direct mail solicitations.

Avoid companies that claim they can improve your credit for free. Consumers need to be wary of companies that make claims regarding credit repair. These companies, commonly called credit clinics, don’t do anything for consumers that consumers cannot do for themselves at little or no cost. Beware of any organization that offers to create a new identity and credit file for you.

Consider pulling your credit reports on a quarterly basis. While you can pull all three credit reports at once, you can also consider pulling your credit reports quarterly. Pulling reports separately allows you to better monitor your reports and keep track of any changes or new information that may appear on your credit report. If you pull all of your reports at once, you won’t be eligible to pull your report for another 12 months.

Monitor your child’s credit report. As child identity theft remains a national problem, it is just as imperative to pull your child’s report as it is to pull your own. While the credit reporting agencies do not knowingly maintain credit files on minor children, you can contact the credit reporting agencies directly and they can run the report.

Dispute inaccuracies on your credit report. Inaccurate information can lower your credit score and may indicate possible fraudulent activity. If you find information that you believe is inaccurate, you have the right to dispute it free of charge. Go directly through the reporting agency you pulled your report from to file your dispute. As you dispute errors and if you report fraud, keep meticulous phone logs and copies of all of your correspondence. For online submissions, keep screen shots of your requests and any email confirmations you receive from the bureaus. In your log, track the date you spoke with someone, the name of the person, and what he or she said. These notes may prove valuable if you have trouble resolving your issues with the bureaus or creditors.

For more helpful information on credit reporting and repair and identity theft, visit www.bbb.org. To obtain information on receiving your free credit reports, visit www.annualcreditreport.com.

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About the BBB System

BBB Hot Topics - February 2013

3/1/2013

Posted on 3/1/2013 by

Pittsburgh, PA – March 1, 2013 – The Better Business Bureau of Western PA’s Hot Topics is a monthly alert regarding companies across all industries that are currently targeting Western Pennsylvania consumers. The Hot Topics list and information is also available on the BBB website under the News Center.

The following report is based on your BBB’s research as of March 1, 2013 and includes information received at our office on companies marketing to local Pennsylvanians. Click on the company name for an updated BBB report. Please take into consideration the importance of the practice and total performance of the company. To access over four million companies nationwide, visit www.bbb.org.

1. ASUS Computer International – Computer wholesale, manufacturer and repair

Based out of California, ASUS Computer International has responded to all 1,040 complaints filed against the business in the last 3 years, but has failed to resolve its pattern of complaints concerning service issues. Complaints processed by BBB claim that products sent to the company for repairs are still not working properly when returned to the consumer. In June 2012, the company responded to the issue by stating that it continuously enhances repair service levels across the board, but has strengthened core processes which may have been at the root of the matter. As of January 2013, this issue and pattern of complaints still remains.

2. JST Merchant Services – Work-at-home company

An F rated company based out of Arizona, JST Merchant Services is a provider of credit card processing services to businesses. The company has failed to respond to 12 out of 18 complaints filed against it since June 2011, of which 9 were serious complaints and 5 were unresolved. Complainants allege being harassed by high-pressure sales calls from company representatives regarding a work-at-home opportunity, convincing merchants to switch their carrier service to JST. After making an initial investment, complainants allege difficulty in obtaining requested refunds and reaching the company for discussion. For tips on evaluating work-at-home opportunities, visit www.bbb.org.

3. OneClickCash – Check cashing and loan service

Since having a BBB file opened in August 2012, OneClickCash has an F rating with the BBB and received 14 complaints, including 4 unresolved complaints. Complainants allege exorbitant interest rates, incorrect debits from customer accounts and poor customer service. BBB has been unable to ascertain a valid address for the company after communicating via email and has also contacted the company to ask that they address the pattern of customer complaints received by the BBB. To date, BBB has not received a response from the company.

4. Paradise Dreams Tours LLC – Travel agency

Paradise Dreams Tours LLC received 184 BBB complaints in the last 12 months out of 213 total complaints. BBB files contain a pattern of complaints from consumers that allege after purchasing a vacation package from the company, reservations and itinerary cannot be confirmed. Consumers also allege having difficulty reaching a customer service representative or receiving a return call/email when requesting refunds. The company responded to some complaints by issuing refunds. According to BBB files, the company informed BBB it would no longer be in business as of September 18, 2012. The company’s listed telephone number has also been disconnected. Visit www.bbb.org for helpful travel tips.

5. P.N. Financial Inc. – Collection agency

An F rated company with 80 complaints closed by BBB in the last 3 years; P.N. Financial Inc. has failed to respond to 5 complaints and has 6 unresolved complaints. In January 2012, the Illinois Attorney General announced suit against the company and its president for violations of the Illinois Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act, Illinois Collection Agency Act and the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act. This lawsuit sees to shut down P.N. Financial Inc., permanently bar it from debt collection in Illinois, provide restitution to affected consumers and assess an array of civil penalties. Click the link for additional BBB information regarding debt collection practices.

6. Reward Port – Online loyalty program

Reward Port has received 157 out of 158 BBB complaints in the last 12 months, failing to respond to 124 complaints. Consumers have reached out to BBB regarding the length of time it takes to receive gift cards from the company. In April 2012, BBB contacted Reward Port to address a possible pattern on complaints. The company’s Terms of Service state that redemptions take a minimum of 8 to 12 weeks to process and this time frame is in no way a guarantee of when redemptions will be sent. The company does its best to get rewards out as soon as possible, but sometimes payments are withheld from vendors and they are unable to process rewards until payment is received. BBB is satisfied that the Terms of Service on the company’s website sufficiently address issues raised by consumers.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free Business and Charity Reviews and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB offers dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Visit www.bbb.org for more information about BBB.

BBB Supports Military Saves Week 2013

2/24/2013

Posted on 2/24/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania– February 25, 2013 – As a participating organization in Military Saves Week 2013, held February 25 through March 2, the Better Business Bureau is encouraging all service members,their families and civilian employees to take the Military Saves pledge. Participants who take the pledge can opt to receive a monthly informational e-newsletter from Military Saves, as well as a quarterly e-newsletter from America Saves.

Military Saves, a partner in the Department of Defense Financial Readiness Campaign, created Military Saves Week in 2007 to motivate service members and their families to improve and better their finances. To date, more than 128,000 individuals have taken the Military Saves pledge, a commitment to begin the journey toward financial freedom. This year, Military Saves Week is encouraging everyone to “Set a Goal, Make a Plan, Save Automatically.” Military Saves provides helpful tips for successful saving, establishing credit, paying down debt, planning for retirement and much more.

As a whole, the Better Business Bureau, through BBB Military Line, supports and assists military members, veterans and their families through education. BBB recognizes that as a result of the unique lifestyles of service members and their families, they are considered a target by many scammers. Since 2004, BBB Military Line has provided free resources to military communities across the U.S. in the areas of financial literacy and consumer protection.

In support of Military Saves Week, BBB Military Line provides assistance in five main areas:

Education: Many local BBBs on and around military installations teach financial readiness classes and seminars to service members.

Outreach: BBB attends and supports community fairs, conferences and other events, speaking with service members and distributing information.

Information: BBB Military Line’s website provides a one-stop shop for articles, links and consumer alerts for each branch of service. Check out our resources page for free consumer guides written just for military members and find BBB Military Line on Facebook and Twitter.

Data collection: We analyze BBB data to help identify the threats and needs of our military community in the marketplace.

Complaint and dispute resolution: Filing a complaint with BBB helps military consumers resolve disputes and alert us to issues affecting the military community at large.

For additional information about BBB Military Line, visit www.bbb.org. To learn more about Military Saves Week and to take the Military Saves pledge, visit www.militarysaves.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior.BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 114 BBB sserve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

Helpful Tips for Finding a Trustworthy Tax Preparer

2/24/2013

Posted on 2/24/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania– February 24, 2013 - Need help filing your taxes but want to make sure the tax preparer is legitimate? Do your research! BBB hears about lots of tax scams every year, from ill-trained preparers to companies that file for you without your permission. Although tax preparers must sign off on the paperwork, the taxpayer is ultimately responsible for filing the return and will be subject to penalties if there are problems.

BBB advises taxpayers to be extra cautious when choosing a tax preparer, since that person or company will have access to lots of personal information. Here are some tips on finding a trustworthy tax preparer:

Ask around. Get referrals from friends and family and check out the service’s BBB Business Review at bbb.org.

Look for credentials. Ideally, your tax preparer should either be a certified public accountant, a tax attorney, an enrolled agent, and/or a certified E-file provider. Find out if the preparer is affiliated with a professional organization that requires continuing education and has a code of ethics.

Make sure they are properly registered. In the U.S., a tax preparer must obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number from the Internal Revenue Service.

Do not fall for the promise of big refunds. Be wary of any tax preparation service that promises larger refunds than the competition, and avoid tax preparers who base their fee on a percentage of the refund.

Read the contract carefully. Read tax preparation service contracts closely to ensure you understand how much it is going to cost for the service, and how the cost will be affected if preparation is more complicated and time consuming than expected.

Remember that a paid preparer is required by law to sign your return and fill in the preparer areas of the form. They should also include their appropriate identifying number on the return. In addition, the preparer must give you a copy of your return.

For more information on tax filing in the United States, go to the Internal Revenue Service and for more helpful tips on choosing a tax preparer, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior.BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 114 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

BBB Tips to Avoid Valentine’s Day Heartache

2/11/2013

Posted on 2/11/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – February 11, 2013 – With Valentine’s Day less than a week away, many consumers are still searching for that perfect last minute gift or way to show affection for their significant other. Some are even still hoping to find a special person to share the holiday with. Unfortunately, scam artists take advantage of the heightened emotions and communication that takes place surrounding this holiday of love.

“It is important for consumers to think with their heads, as well as their hearts all year, but especially leading up to Valentine’s Day,” says Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “Whether you are still searching for love or wish to show appreciation for a current relationship, you should spend your money and time wisely and always Start with Trust.”

Your Better Business Bureau is issuing advice regarding some of the most commonly reported consumer issues pertaining to Valentine’s Day:

Faulty Florists –Valentine’s Day still ranks first for fresh flower purchases and is the number one holiday for florists, according to aboutflowers.com. Not all florists are equal in the level of service they provide though, and typical complaints concern flowers not being delivered as promised or recipients receiving the wrong arrangements.

BBB Tip: Confirm that the florist you are placing an order with is actually the florist fulfilling the order and who your contact should be for follow-up communication. Ensure that you have the florist’s accurate street address and phone number in case you need to adjust your order. It is not uncommon for a third party to be involved with fulfillment during periods of high demand. Request a written receipt for the order and get the business’s refund policy in writing if a delivery is late, incorrect, never arrives or is in poor condition. Place your order as soon as possible to allow adequate time for shipping and verify the delivery date and time.

Pesky Package Phishing – Many consumers order Valentine’s Day gifts and have them automatically shipped to loved ones as a surprise. Cyber criminals are well-aware of this shopping trend though and are creating phony package delivery phishing emails. The emails can be very official looking, fraudulently using trusted companies’ logos to trick consumers into divulging personal information that can be used for identity theft. Usual emails claim that the recipient must click on a link or enter personal or financial information to re-confirm the order or that there was an issue with billing and you account information must be re-entered.

BBB Tip: If you receive an email about a package or delivery that you do not expect or did not send, do not open it. If you suspect that someone sent you a package and you are receiving an email delivery confirmation, verify with the shipping company on the phone through their known telephone number, not one listed in the email, before opening the message. Be especially careful with any unexpected emails that ask you to download items or click on website links.

Evil E-cards – E-cards are a popular way for consumers to send funny or thoughtful greetings to loved ones around Valentine’s Day. Due to their popularity, scammers have been known to setup fake emails directing the receiver to a bogus website that appears to be a lot like Hallmark or American Greetings. Recipients who open the E-card may be prompted to download the latest version of a software in order to view the card. If this program is installed however, it will download a virus that can provide a scammer with full access to computer files and personal information.

BBB Tip: Pay close attention to links and files before clicking or downloading them. Verify that any web address you are being directed to is where you intend to visit by hovering your mouse over the link first to see where it is actually taking you. Enhance email filters and maintain updated anti-virus and malware software. Overall, be sure to only open E-cards from people that you know and trust.

Conniving Catfishing – A new label for an old scam, catfishing occurs when a scammer assumes a persona on a social networking site and creates a fictitious identity using the pictures, hobbies, interests and even friends of someone else. While the purpose for doing so varies, the most common progression of this scam is the development of a relationship in hopes that the scammer will be able to ask for and receive money from their unsuspecting love interest. This scam has grown with the popularity and increased use of social media sites and can target those who may be lonely on Valentine’s Day.

BBB Tip: If you begin corresponding with someone online, be cautious of anyone who proclaims instant feelings of love, claims to be from the U.S. but is currently overseas and is continually cancelling face-to-face visits because of tragic or unexpected events. Be suspicious if the person hints that they are in financial trouble or if you are asked to wire transfer money. Never wire your own money unless you know and trust the receiver on the other end. Do a search of the name, text of a message or profile description in Google to see if similar information is used by others. Some criminals create multiple profiles and use the same information over and over.

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About the BBB System

BBB Hot Topics - January 2013

2/4/2013

Posted on 2/4/2013 by

Pittsburgh, PA – February 4, 2013 – The Better Business Bureau of Western PA’s Hot Topics is a monthly alert regarding companies across all industries that are currently targeting Western Pennsylvania consumers. The Hot Topics list and information is also available on the BBB website under the News Center.

The following report is based on your BBB’s research as of February 4, 2013 and includes information received at our office on companies marketing to local Pennsylvanians. Click on the company name for an updated BBB report. Please take into consideration the importance of the practice and total performance of the company. To access over four million companies nationwide, visit www.bbb.org.

1. Budget Me Today – Consumer finance loan company

An F rated company, Budget Me Today received its 62 complaints with BBB beginning August 14, 2012. BBB has received a pattern of serious complaints from consumers alleging that the business made unauthorized charges of $34.95 on their bank accounts, after having applied on the internet for a loan. Many complainants claim to have never heard of the business prior to money being taken out of their accounts. In December 2012, BBB contacted the company to request information as to why it believes consumers are filing these complaints and what actions are being taken to help eliminate the causes of them. BBB is currently waiting for the company’s reply.

2. Great American Readers – Magazine telemarketing services

Great American Readers has had 648 complaints filed with BBB in the last three years. Complaints allege that consumers are contacted by the company via phone and told they won a $1,000 shopping spree if they order magazines. Consumers state they are told they can cancel anytime, but when they try to cancel are told they cannot or are unable to speak with anyone. Consumers also allege that merchandise shipping costs are more than the merchandise is worth or that the merchandise is not what was promised. The company has responded to most complaints by cancelling contracts or by sending magazines for the amount already paid by the consumers. While the company has resolved most complaints, it has not eliminated the underlying cause. Check out BBB’s tips regarding magazine sales.

3. LoanTree Advances – Payday loans

Having received 137 BBB complaints since August, 11, 2012, complainants of LoanTree Advances allege being debited $30 in unauthorized charges for online payday loans. According to complainants, they neither applied for any payday loan nor authorized these charges. After contacting the company to remedy the charge, consumers are told that they applied for a payday loan and that they will receive a refund within fifteen business days. Complainants claim that the promised refund fails to materialize. In addition, the address that BBB currently has on file for this company is a mail drop at a mail service office that appears to be shared by multiple payday loan companies. For more information on payday loans, visit www.bbb.org.

4. NoMoreRack.com, Inc. – Internet shopping

448 BBB complaints have been filed against NoMoreRack.com, Inc. since August 29, 2012. Consumers claim that they are not receiving merchandise purchased through NoMoreRack.com by the estimated delivery date. In addition, consumers are not being alerted to revised shipping dates and must make repeated inquiries to the company’s customer service department. NoMoreRack.com has responded to BBB’s inquiry about their complaint patterns and the business has experienced supplier logistical issues, which delayed merchandise shipment. The business is working to strengthen its supply chain and has increased customer service representatives to resolve concerns. See how you can protect yourself when internet shopping.

5. Online Local Yellowpages – Directory advertising

Based out of New York, all 275 complaints filed with BBB against Online Local Yellowpages were received from November 6, 2012 until now. Consumer complaints to BBB allege that representatives of the company have been contacting local businesses and organizations regarding payment for advertising space in Online Local Yellowpages. Businesses that had previously declined or never agreed to purchase the services are receiving billed invoices with interest charges and in some cases, collection notices. Complainants are being told that they had entered into a verbal contract with Online Local Yellowpages and are liable for the payments. Read BBB’s tips on bogus billing schemes.

6. Vertrue, Inc. – Discount membership programs

Of Vertrue, Inc.’s 1,838 complaints closed with BBB in the last three years, 241 were closed in the last twelve months. Complaints primarily involve claims of unauthorized charges by the company’s affiliates. The company has responded to all complaints by offering a full unconditional refund for such unauthorized charges, while also denying that any of its charges were not authorized by the customers. On February 23, 2012, New York Attorney General Schneiderman announced a settlement with Vertrue Inc. and its subsidiary, Adaptive Marketing, LLC to provide $2 million in refunds to New York consumers who were tricked into enrolling online in Adaptive’s discount club programs and then charged hidden fees. Similarly, in 2011, a Polk County Judge ordered Vertrue, Inc. to pay more than $30 million after ruling the company violated Iowa’s buying club law. Vertrue, Inc. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in April 2012.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free Business and Charity Reviews and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB offers dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Visit www.bbb.org for more information about BBB.

Small Business Tip: Is a Smartphone Credit Card Processor Right for Your Business?

1/31/2013

Posted on 1/31/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – January 31, 2013 - Gone are the days of having to rely on your “brick and mortar” store to drive shoppers to your business. These days, traveling retailers can make a sale with just the touch of a button and the swipe of a credit card via their Smartphone.

No matter how large or small the business, employees don’t even need to be near their store’s credit card processor to make a credit transaction with their customer. Using Smartphone credit card readers, businesses have the capability of taking their sales to the next level, but your Better Business Bureau is advising business owners to make sure that such a system is right for their business.

For businesses looking to add the credit card reader capability to their sales, BBB recommends the following tips:

Do your research. Just like a landline-based credit card system, you’ll need a merchant account to process payments, a scanner device to read the card, and software (app) to make it run. Don’t skimp on research. Start with your bank or your credit card service for suggestions on recommended services and devices. Check out all vendors at www.bbb.org. Ask for references.

Choose the right combination. Your Smartphone merchant account might interface with your existing landline-based account, and that will make life easier. Build from there; find the app you feel comfortable using that has the features you want. There are over a hundred apps available for different Smartphones; each is usually compatible with a number of different swiping devices. The reader itself is the last step (and the easiest to replace or exchange).

Read the fine print. Using a Smartphone credit card reader might be a great way to increase your sales while on the road. However, make sure to read the fine print for the Smartphone app to make sure that you won’t be charged while you’re not using it.

Offer the customer service your shoppers expect. Some shoppers may not be familiar with this kind of payment method. Be sure to offer them the option of having a receipt emailed to them, or even offer to print the receipt there with a separate Smartphone printer. This will reduce the hassle should your customer want to return the product.

Beware of scams! As with any emerging technology, scammers are figuring out how to exploit vulnerabilities. Don’t buy the devices or apps from vendors you don’t know.

For more helpful business and consumer related tips and information, visit www.bbb.org or call 877.267.5222.

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About the BBB System

Avoid Getting Burned by Unscrupulous Heating Contractors

1/25/2013

Posted on 1/25/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – January 25, 2013 – Cold weather can put a strain on your furnace and you could unexpectedly find yourself in need of an emergency heating contractor for repairs or a replacement system. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning consumers to be cautious about misleading heating contractors who may use high pressure scare tactics to convince homeowners to purchase expensive and sometimes unnecessary repairs and parts.

“The heating and air conditioning industry still remains high on BBB’s top ten list of most inquired and complained about industries in Western PA; in fact, these numbers increased in 2012 from the previous year,” says Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “Though the majority of heating contractors are reputable, competent and fair, there are still unethical companies who continue to target unsuspecting consumers in an emergency situation.”

Before choosing a heating contractor, consider the following BBB tips:

Start your search with BBB to see if the contractor you are considering has a business review on file at www.bbb.org. Check out their BBB rating, complaint activity and other relevant information to help you make an informed decision. Search the Accredited Business Directory to find companies that have met and agreed to uphold BBB’s strict Code of Business Practices.

Solicit at least two or three bids. Make sure bids for extensive repair or replacement of systems are in writing and include a full description of services to be provided. The company should give you ideas suited for energy efficiency and the proper size unit to heat your home. Energy Star qualified products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Act and offer long-term energy savings. Visit Energy Star’s website to find a furnace that is Energy Star qualified.

Read the contract thoroughly and understand it before signing. Request and keep a copy for your records. Many companies have a policy of charging a trip fee, to offset gasoline prices and then charge for the actual service. In addition, some contractors may charge a diagnostic fee, costing hundreds of dollars before doing any actual work. BBB suggests that you inquire about these fees prior to contracting with a company, as every company’s fees will vary. Ask if the contractor charges a trip fee and if so, what it is. Inquire about diagnostic fees and what you can expect to pay for them as well as service rates and whether they are charged on a flat or hourly rate. Request information regarding overtime rates and when they come into effect.

Request that a contractor shows you proof of a current insurance certificate covering workmen’s compensation, property damage and personal liability.

If you end up having to replace your heating system, never pay for the job in its entirety or with cash. The PA Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act states for any sale of over $1,000, the contractor cannot accept a deposit of more than one-third of the price or one-third of the price plus the cost of special order materials. Never make a final payment or sign an affidavit of release until the job has been completed, any subcontractors have been paid and you are satisfied the work has been done to your specifications.

Do not allow a contractor to use a sense of urgency in their selling methods. PA law allows consumers a 3 day right of cancellation unless the situation is indeed an emergency which requires you to waive the right of rescission by signing an emergency waiver. Some dishonest contractors may use high pressure tactics, such as telling you that your system is leaking dangerous gases that could explode or poison those inside the house, or recommend repairs and replacements that are not actually needed to convince you to waive this right. Take the time to get a second opinion.

If a heating contractor claims your furnace is dangerous or "Red Tags" it, the local utility company will come out to your home and verify the findings. If possible, all three parties should be present at the inspection - the utility representative, the contractor and the homeowner.

Find out if a service contract is available providing you with an annual furnace inspection and maintenance. Check your owner's manual for details on routine maintenance you can perform. When scheduling a furnace inspection, ask that a test for Carbon Monoxide be performed. Carbon Monoxide in a home can be deadly, so consider installing a detector to monitor levels.

When facing issues with your heating system, the most important initial step is to not panic. Be sure to check the warranty on your current system to see whether any repairs or replacements are covered to avoid spending unnecessary money and always get a second opinion before authorizing major work. For more helpful tips and information from your BBB regarding hiring a heating contractor, visit www.bbb.org or call 877-267-5222.

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About the BBB System

Be Brick Smart if You Choose a Brick Home Exterior

1/22/2013

Posted on 1/22/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – January 22, 2013 - When you are looking to make home improvements, it is important to balance reliability, cost-effectiveness and attractive design. Whether you are remodeling an existing home or working with a builder on a new home, if you choose brick, make sure you know what to expect. Your Better Business Bureau and the Brick Industry Association recommend the following tips to help home buyers choose the right brick exterior.

Understand your options. Although a production builder will likely offer a limited brick selection that will be packaged with other trim and detail features – such as matching brick and shutter styles – home buyers may be able to mix and match various options to achieve a unique look.

Be brick smart. There are three major types of brick manufacturing available, at widely different price points.

Most modern construction brick is extruded – forced through a rectangular die – then sliced into individual bricks with added textures, making it the lowest-cost brick option.
Machine-molded bricks offer the look and elegance of handmade brick but at a more affordable price.
Handmade brick are pressed into wood molds in a traditional process that goes back centuries, and cost more than extruded or other machine-made brick.

Understand your contract. Review your contract to determine what your builder allows and your options (both standard and what can be ordered) and compare that to your available budget.

Visit your brick distributor’s showroom. Your local brick distributor can show you hundreds of sample bricks, demonstrate how mortar can change the look of your brick, and direct you to actual sample houses.

Don’t forget the mortar. Mortar makes up 20 percent of a brick wall, and comes in different colors and shades. A minor change in mortar color could dramatically change the look of your house. Many home buyers now match the mortar to the brick for a monochromatic, seamless look, and often use computer or web-based programs to view their options.

Roof, shutters and trim create the total package. The type and color of your roof shingles and window shutters will also have a dramatic effect on your home’s overall appearance. Where possible, use a computer or web-based program that allows you to mix and match roof and shutter options to determine the finished look you want.

Consider the details. Custom arches and windowsills can personalize the look of your home. Custom brick detailing comes in several varieties—from projecting the brickwork on the corners of your home to installing artistic designs above doorways or other locations.

Always compare your options. Other exterior options may cost less than brick, so review the pros and cons of different exteriors such as vinyl, fiber cement, concrete masonry, manufactured stone, and exterior insulation finishing system.

For more helpful tips and information you can trust from your Better Business Bureau, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

Don’t Let Paperless, E-Receipts Compromise Your Personal Information

1/18/2013

Posted on 1/18/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – January 18, 2013 - Have you ever opted for a paperless, e-receipt? Some retailers and banks have started offering customers the option of receiving receipts from purchases and ATM transactions via email. While this is a convenient alternative to paper clutter, your Better Business Bureau is reminding shoppers to protect their identities in the process.

Many retailers offer e-receipts for both consumer convenience and theirs. E-receipts save retailers money, and make it easier for consumers to electronically file them away until they are needed for returns, warranties or taxes. E-receipts can often be tied to your store affinity card, but you can usually opt for paperless simply by providing your email address to the clerk at the time of purchase.

There are also online companies that offer to organize and store digital receipts. You must create an account and provide your credit or debit card information, which the company uses to track transactions. After purchases, the company retrieves receipt information directly from retailers and stores it online. Be careful because this kind of service is ripe for scammers to mimic in order to steal personal information.

While paperless receipts may offer savings for retailers and convenience to consumers, be sure you are aware of what else you could be receiving in your inbox. Along with receipts, businesses may send “junk mail” filled with surveys, coupons and other promotional offers. They may also use your information to build profiles on demographics and buying habits.

For shoppers who are interested in opting for paperless, e-receipts, BBB offers the following tips:

Find out how the business plans to keep your information secure. You’ll want to check to see if the business plans on selling your information to third-parties. If they do, be on the lookout for unsolicited emails requesting your personal information; they could be scams that download malware on your computer.

Ask if you can opt-out of receiving promotional emails. Now that the business has your email address, it’s possible you will start to receive coupons, newsletters and other promotional emails from them and from others if they have sold or shared your data. You may want to set up a separate email address to use for paperless receipts so that you can easily monitor it for spam.

Beware of scams! Having receipts emailed can also make you susceptible to phishing and other identity theft scams. Scammers pose as retailers or banks with realistic-looking emails that may claim there are problems with your purchase and request that you click a link to fix it. The link may take you to a fraudulent site that asks for your personal information, or it might download malware on your computer that will search your hard drive for account numbers and passwords.

Make sure your anti-virus software is up-to-date. Whether or not you plan to increase your internet and email use, it is always a good idea to make sure your system’s security plan is updated regularly. Spammers feed off of online shoppers who fail to update their security patches.

For more BBB tips and information you can trust, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

Better Business Bureau Names "Top 10 Scams" of 2012

1/11/2013

Posted on 1/11/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – January 11, 2013 - The Better Business Bureau investigates and helps to educate consumers and businesses about thousands of scams every year. The annual “Top Ten Scams” list is developed through a variety of resources. BBB gathers information on scams from consumers, some of whom have been victims of scams; from federal agencies; and other reliable information sources.

“Many of these scams have been around as long as BBB – 100 years – and continue to evolve as consumers become savvier and new technologies are made available,” says Warren King, President of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “It is unfortunate that many scams still go unreported each year, but BBB strives to make people aware of the ones that are reported and seem to be most prevalent.”

Here are BBB’s Top Ten Scams of 2012:

Overpayment/Fake Check Scam: Car Ads - An online ad claims you can “Get Paid Just for Driving Around” and that a company is offering $400+ per week to drive around with their logo on your car. They send a check to you, which you are to deposit in your account and wire a portion to a graphic designer who will customize your car ad. Eventually, the check bounces, a graphic designer is nowhere to be found and you are out the money you had wired. The Internet Complaint Center reported seeing this scam a lot in 2012.

Emergency Scam: Grandparent Scam - The “Grandparent Scam” is still prevalent, in which a scammer pretends to be a grandchild, niece, nephew or friend abroad and claims that he or she is in trouble and needs money immediately. According to the FBI, it’s getting easier for scammers to tell a more plausible story due to finding real facts from the supposed victim’s life on social media. Before wiring money in an emergency, remember to check with the supposed victim or their family members to make sure they really are traveling. The odds are likely they are safe at home.

Employment Scam: Mystery Shopping - Working as a secret shopper may sound like an ideal way to supplement income. Scammers have figured this out though and many job offers are simply a variation of the Overpayment/Fake Check Scam above. Sometimes they even claim that evaluating the wire service company is part of the job, which is why it’s required to send back part of the money. The Mystery Shopping Providers Association says it’s not the practice of its members to pre-pay shoppers, but legitimate mystery shopping positions can be found through their website.

Advance Fee/Prepayment Scam: Nonexistent Loans - Most loan scams advertise online and promise no credit check or easy repayment terms, but require the first payment upfront, purchase of an “insurance policy,” or initial payment of some other kind to “secure” the loan. This year, BBB heard a new, aggressive twist on loan scams: consumers who were threatened with lawsuits and law enforcement action if they didn’t pay loans they had never actually taken out. Some even reported receiving calls at their workplace and to relatives. The embarrassment of being thought of as a delinquent caused some victims to pay even when they knew they didn’t owe money.

Phishing Scam: President Obama Will Pay Your Utility Bills - Of all the politically-related scams, this one seemed to be very prevalent. At the peak of summer with utility costs soaring, consumers reported receiving emails, letters and even door-to-door solicitations about a “new government program” to pay utility bills. Victims “registered” with an official-looking website and provided everything scammers needed for identity theft purposes, including bank account information.

Sweepstakes/Lottery Scam: Jamaican Phone Lottery - In this old scam that flared up again in 2012, calls come from Jamaica (area code 876) but the person claims to represent a trusted group, such as BBB or the FBI. The caller claims you’ve won a prize (typical haul: $2 million and a Mercedes Benz) but a fee must be paid in order to collect winnings. There are numerous variations on this; sometimes it’s a government grant. It is best to just hang up and file a phone fraud report with the appropriate government agency.

Identity Theft Scam: Fake Social Media Messages - Two top social media sites were exploited in one of this year’s top scams. A direct message from a “friend” on Twitter gets sent regarding a video on Facebook, such as “ROFL they were taping you” or “What RU doing in this FB vid?” In a panic, people click on the link to see and receive an error message saying Flash or another video player needs updated. The file isn’t a new version of Flash though; it’s a virus or malware that can steal confidential information from computers or smart phones. Twitter recommends reporting such spam, resetting passwords and revoking connections to third-party applications.

Home Improvement Scam: Sandy “Storm Chasers” - BBB spends a lot of time investigating and reporting on home improvement scams, but this year an unusual amount of “storm chaser” activity followed Super Storm Sandy. Some tree removal, roofing and general home repair companies were legitimate contractors who came from other areas for the volume of work available; others were unlicensed, uninsured and ill-prepared for the work; while some were even out-and-out scam artists who took money and never did work. In an emergency, it’s tempting to skip reference checking, but it’s never a good idea. Check out BBB’s Accredited Businesses in the home contracting field who are committed to upholding the BBB mission of trust.

Sales/Rental Scam: Real Stars, Fake Goods - Sports memorabilia and phony tickets always make the list of top counterfeit goods, from the Super Bowl to the World Series. With the London Olympics added to the mix, it appears that 2012 was a good year for sports fakes. Some scammers sold cheap knock-offs in front of stadiums, while others set up websites that just stole money and never had goods to begin with. Counterfeit goods are not only a rip-off because the merchandise is usually shoddy, but they are also a rip-off for the teams, athletes, designers and artists who create, license and sell the real thing. Buy directly from team stores /websites, or from legitimate retailers. Remember, if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Scam of the Year: Newtown Charity Scams - Within hours of the horrific shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, social media pages dedicated to the child victims began cropping up; some of them were scams asking for money. The FBI has already arrested one woman for posing as the aunt of one of the children killed, and state and federal agencies are investigating other possible fraudulent and misleading solicitations. In response to these reports, BBB Wise Giving Alliance offered tips for donors to understand how and when to best support those dealing with such a tragic crisis. Although the number of people defrauded and the total dollars stolen is most likely low, the cynicism and sheer audacity of these scams merit selection of it as the “Top Scam of 2012.”

For more information on these and other scams and to search for a business or charity review, visit www.bbb.org. In 2012, BBB also launched two websites to help consumers discover which offers are real and which ones are possibly frauds: BBB Smart Investing, developed in partnership with FINRA Investor Education Foundation, and BBB Scam Stopper, developed in partnership with Western Union.

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About the BBB System

Start 2013 “Consumer-Savvy” with BBB’s Tips

1/3/2013

Posted on 1/3/2013 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – January 3, 2013 - With 2013 in full swing, it is more important than ever to resolve to start the New Year as a savvy consumer. Your Better Business Bureau of Western PA offers ten New Year’s resolutions to help you save money and avoid becoming a victim of scams and identity theft.

“The start of a new year is always a great time to get into new habits to protect yourself and your loved ones from scams,” says Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “Small steps such as taking time to really read the fine print and do research on a company can make a big difference.”

BBB recommends sticking to the following New Year’s resolutions to become a savvier consumer in 2013:

1. Always check out a business with BBB prior to making a purchase. Whether it is a business you’re looking to hire or a product you’re looking to buy, take the time to do your research. Check out a business at www.bbb.org to see its Business Review and whether a company is accredited and meets BBB’s Code of Business Practices.

2. Read the fine print—especially for “free” trial offers. Many consumers complained to BBB in 2012 after signing up for “free” trial offers online. These often resulted in repeated charges to their credit or debit cards, sometimes amounting to hundreds of dollars every month. Read the terms and conditions of any “free” trial offer before handing over credit or debit card numbers.

3. Get everything in writing. Don’t just take a business’ word for it. Get every verbal discussion in writing to limit miscommunication and misunderstandings between your expectations and what the business actually delivers.

4. Beware of “job” offers to make easy money. Unemployment in the nation remains high and scammers are targeting the large pool of job hunters. Beware of any job offer, work-at-home scheme or business opportunity that promises big money for little work and no experience. Look up companies with BBB before you apply for any job.

5. Keep your computer safe. If you haven't already, install anti-virus software onto your computer and don't forget to regularly check for software and operating system updates. Don't open attachments or click on links in emails unless you can confirm the email came from someone you trust. Before you provide any personal or banking information over the web, make sure you're using a trusted site. Look for the "s" in https:// as opposed to http:// in the address box.

6. Never wire money to someone you don’t know. Many scams require that victims wire money to the scammers. Tracking money sent via MoneyGram or Western Union is extremely difficult. Even more troubling for victims is that it’s nearly impossible to get your money back once it is gone, much like cash.

7. Fight identity theft. Shred paper documents that include sensitive financial data and dispose of computers, cell phones and digital data safely. Your BBB hosts Secure Your ID Day, a free shred event in the spring and fall each year. For information about our upcoming shred event in April, visit www.bbb.org.

8. Fight fake check fraud. Because of advances in printing technology, scammers have the ability to create very real-looking but phony checks. Educate yourself on the common types of check fraud and be extremely wary of checks that come with claims that you’ve won the lottery, are eligible for a government grant or have landed a job as a secret shopper when you never applied. Be aware if it sounds too good to be true.

9. Ask BBB for help. File a complaint with BBB if you need assistance with dispute resolution or have been ripped off by a scammer. Your complaint will go on record and may help others in dealing with that company. Use BBB to educate and empower yourself to make informed decisions.

10. Limit the amount of information shared on social media pages. Scammers use social media sites to gather information on potential victims. Avoid sharing too much personal information and check your privacy settings. Additionally, never announce through a social media site that you are going out of town, or won’t be home for a specified amount of time.

For more helpful tips and information you can trust from your BBB, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB Hot Topics: December 2012

12/21/2012

Posted on 12/21/2012 by

Pittsburgh, PA – December 27, 2012 – The Better Business Bureau of Western PA’s Hot Topics is a monthly alert regarding companies across all industries that are currently targeting Western Pennsylvania consumers. The Hot Topics list and information is also available on the BBB website under the News Center.

The following report is based on your BBB’s research as of December 27, 2012 and includes information received at our office on companies marketing to local Pennsylvanians. Click on the company name for an updated BBB report. Please take into consideration the importance of the practice and total performance of the company. To access over four million companies nationwide, visit www.bbb.org.

1. American Entry Exchange – Prize promotion scheme

An F rated company, American Entry Exchange received 71 out of 90 complaints with BBB in the last 12 months. Consumers allege they received a “Rapid Notice” letter from the company stating they had won a prize of $2,536,092.23. After paying a $20 transfer and processing fee, consumers claim to never receive the prize money. The company responds to most complaints by removing requested names from their mailing list and issuing refunds. In September 2012, BBB sent certified correspondence to American Entry Exchange requesting voluntary cooperation in resolving their pattern of complaints, but BBB has not received a response. Read BBB’s tips about prize promotions.

2. Big State Industrial Supply Inc. – Tool and industrial supply

Based out of Riverside, California, complainants of Big State Industrial Supply Inc. allege misrepresentation of the quality of merchandise and unethical collection practices. Some complainants report being harassed for payment of merchandise that was returned, shipped without authorization or never received, as well as receiving unwanted solicitations. In some cases, the company responds by indicating orders are verified prior to shipment, reiterating their refund policy or threatening to report negative information to credit reporting agencies or use other means of collection. Check out BBB information on unsolicited merchandise.

3. Nicols & Grant LLC – Collection agency

Nicols & Grant LLC, also known as N & G Capital, has received 70 complaints with BBB since January 3, 2012. Of these complaints, 30 are serious in nature, one remains unresolved and two received no response from the company. Complainants assert that the company makes harassing phone calls to their home, place of employment and sometimes to family members regarding alleged or false debt claims. Some complainants also report being threatening with lawsuits and jail time, as well as not being given any proof of the alleged debt after requesting further information. For information on your rights regarding debt collection practices, visit www.bbb.org.

4. Tummy Tuck Slimming System – Television advertisement

Out of 137 complaints filed with BBB since August 2011, 129 of Tummy Tuck Slimming System’s complaints were closed in the last 12 months. The majority of complaints are regarding billing and collection issues. In many cases, the company issues a complete refund to the consumer, deems that no product return is necessary and/or responds by explaining its offer terms and conditions and product cancellation instructions. BBB is reminding consumers to read all disclosures and fine print prior to making purchases, especially through home shopping services, and to be aware of their mail order rights.

5. US Public Yellowpages – Directory Publisher

BBB’s business review for US Public Yellowpages was opened in October 2012. Since then, 260 complaints have been filed with BBB. Based on a pattern of complaints, businesses allege receiving invoices of $599.99 for a listing on US Public Yellowpages that they never ordered. In some instances, the company responds to complaints stating the bill has been cancelled. In other instances, the company maintains the services were ordered and claims they have audio files authorizing $599.99 in services, which many businesses claim as being doctored. Discover information on how bogus billing schemes work.

6. World Law Debt – Debt relief services

An F rated company, one of World Law Debt’s contacts is listed as the President of Clear Your Debt and a managing member of its parent company, Orion Processing, which also has an F rating. Complainants of World Law Debt allege that the company accepts payment for services to negotiate debt, but does not render the agreed services or contact creditors to begin negotiations. In February 2012, BBB requested clarification from the company regarding its principles, associations to other debt negotiation or settlement companies, marketing and sales practices and disclosures with consumers, among other information. The company has not yet responded to BBB’s request. View BBB’s tips on debt negotiation.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free Business and Charity Reviews and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB offers dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 114 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Visit www.bbb.org for more information about BBB.

BBB and FINRA Foundation Launch Smart Investing Website and Roll Out Local Programs to Help Stop Investment Scams

12/21/2012

Posted on 12/21/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – December 21, 2012 – The Better Business Bureau and FINRA Investor Education Foundation launched a new consumer website, BBB Smart Investing, which is designed to help investors make smarter investing decisions while avoiding fraud, risky investments and unlicensed brokers. The campaign combines the research and expansive knowledge base of FINRA Foundation with the extensive consumer outreach of BBB’s trusted 100-year-old name.

“Our partnership with BBB will help Americans in communities across the country protect their savings from fraudsters,” said FINRA Foundation President Gerri Walsh. “The FINRA Foundation’s ‘Outsmarting Investment Fraud’ curriculum and resources have been field-tested, and give consumers the tools and information they need to thwart fraudsters touting investment scams.”

Consumer financial fraud is a serious problem in North America. According to fraud complaints in the Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Sentinel Network, consumers reported losing more than $1.5 billion as a result of fraud in 2011. FINRA Foundation research has found that investors are overconfident in their knowledge of financial management, particularly Baby Boomers who are often the target of investment scams. A telephone survey found that 92% felt “somewhat” or “very confident” about managing their finances, with almost 80% describing themselves as “somewhat” or “very” knowledgeable about investing. Only 44% of respondents received a passing grade on a basic financial literacy knowledge test though. BBB Smart Investing hopes to help change that.

“This is a mutually beneficial partnership that will help educate countless consumers and businesses regarding the prevention of investment scams that target them,” says Warren King, President of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “BBB is excited to expand its portfolio of investment scam prevention tools through FINRA’s extensive knowledge base and continue to protect consumers from the growing threat of investment fraud, as more people begin to actively manage their own retirement funds.”

BBBs across the United States, including your Better Business Bureau of Western PA, have begun rolling out programs and offering to host and speak at events in their local areas. A wide variety of educational tools from FINRA Foundation are being used by trained BBB presenters across the country to introduce smart investing skills and to teach consumers how to detect investment schemes, scams and frauds.

Contact Caitlin Vancas, at 877.267.5222, extension 110 or cvancas@pittsburgh.bbb.org for more information on hosting a FREE Smart Investing seminar, presentation or DVD Speakers Bureau event for your staff, group or organization.

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About the BBB System

About the FINRA Foundation

FINRA, Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, is the largest independent regulator for all securities firms doing business in the United States. The FINRA Investor Education Foundation is the largest foundation in the United States dedicated to investor education. Its mission is to provide investors with high-quality, easily accessible information and tools to better understand the markets and the basic principles of saving and investing. For more information, visit www.finrafoundation.org.

BBB Offers Ten Giving Tips for Newtown Tragedy

12/19/2012

Posted on 12/19/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – December 19, 2012 - In the wake of the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, the national charity monitoring arm of the Better Business Bureau, cautions donors about potential red flags in fund raising to help Newtown and to be aware of the different circumstances that often emerge in tragedy-related philanthropy.

“Certainly this tragedy will inspire people to give. Americans are emotionally drawn and will respond to requests to help the Sandy Hook community, advocacy groups and mental health charities among others,” said H. Art Taylor, President & CEO, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, “and while they should be on the lookout for questionable solicitors and scammers, people may be less clear about the complicated legal character of their gifts.” The BBB Wise Giving Alliance offers ten tips to educate donors, avoid problem appeals, and give with confidence.

BBB Wise Giving Alliance urges donors to give thoughtfully and avoid those seeking to take advantage of the generosity of others. Here are “Ten Tips for Giving with Confidence” –

1. Thoughtful Giving

2. State Government Registration

3. Respecting Victims and Their Families

Organizations raising funds should get permission from the families to use either the names of the victims and/or any photographs of them. Some charities raising funds for the Colorado movie theater victims did not do this and were the subject of criticism from victims’ families.

4. How Will Donations Be Used?

5. What if a Family Sets Up Its Own Assistance Fund?

6. Advocacy Organizations

Tragedies that involve violent acts with firearms can also generate requests from a variety of advocacy organizations that address gun use. Donors can support these efforts as well but note that some of these advocacy groups are not tax exempt as charities. Also, watch out for newly created advocacy groups that will be difficult to check out.

7. Online Cautions

8. Financial Transparency

9. Newly Created or Established Organizations

10. Tax Deductibility

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About the BBB System

Ensure Your Holiday Giving is Wise Giving

12/14/2012

Posted on 12/14/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – December 14, 2012 – The holiday season is a critical fundraising time for charities. Although charities accept donations year-round, close to 40 percent of a charity’s annual contributions are received in the last few weeks of the year. Many businesses and consumers make year-end donations for tax purposes and/or to extend the spirit of Thanksgiving and generosity to those who are less fortunate.

“Donating to a worthy cause is an admirable way to spend hard-earned money,” says Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “Unfortunately, well-intentioned donors can unknowingly lose their money to fake charities or may not realize that the majority of their donation is actually being spent on fundraising, if they don’t do their homework.”

The Better Business Bureau is urging donors to give wisely and do their research when it comes to charitable giving. Before making a charitable donation, follow these tips from BBB:

Research the organization. Check with BBB Wise Giving Alliance to see if a charity meets its Standards for Charity Accountability. These standards seek to encourage fair and honest solicitation practices, promote ethical conduct by charitable organizations and advance support of philanthropy. Donors can also check to see if a charity is registered with the Bureau of Charitable Organizations’ online database of charities.

Be wary of claims that 100 percent of donations will benefit the cause. Despite what an organization may claim, charities have fundraising and administrative costs. Even a credit card donation will involve, at a minimum, a processing fee. You have the right to request a copy of their financial statement or 990 IRS Form to verify how they spend your donation. Go to www.guidestar.org to search for a charity’s 990 IRS Form.

Confirm the charity’s identity. If you are unfamiliar with an organization, don't hesitate to ask the charity for written information about its programs and finances. Legitimate charities are transparent and willing to provide such written information. Be aware that some charity names sound alike. Be careful that the one soliciting you is the one you have in mind.

Do not give with cash. When making a monetary donation, do so by check to the charity, not an individual, or by credit card. Before making online donations, determine whether the charity’s website is secure and that it has a privacy policy concerning the use of your name, email address or other personal facts. (Secure sites’ addresses begin with https://.)

Keep records of your donations. You should keep records of all donations so you can document your charitable giving at tax time. Check with the IRS to ensure the organization is recognized as a 501(c)(3) as well.

Don’t succumb to high-pressure, emotional pitches. Giving on the spot is never necessary, no matter how hard a telemarketer or door-to-door solicitor pushes it. A charity that can use your money today will welcome it just as much tomorrow. Watch out for appeals that bring tears to your eyes, but tell you nothing about how your donation will be used.

Charitable donors should never feel forced to make a hasty decision or to donate to an unknown charity. Start With Trust. For reliable information, lists of BBB Accredited Businesses by industry and BBB Business Reviews you can trust on local businesses and national charities, visit www.bbb.org or call 877.267.5222.

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About the BBB System

BBB Tips for Gift Card Givers

12/13/2012

Posted on 12/13/2012 by

Pittsburgh, PA – December 13, 2012 – Are you still searching for the perfect gift for someone who is difficult to shop for? Giving a gift card as a present may be the ideal solution, as your recipient can pick exactly what he or she wants from a retailer or restaurant. In fact, according to a survey by Consumer Reports, 62 percent of consumers are planning to buy gift cards this holiday season. Prior to making your gift card purchase, be sure to read the fine print and understand any hidden fees or strings attached first.

In 2010, changes in federal laws improved consumers’ chances of getting full value out of the cards they buy and give. These rules generally apply to gift certificates, store gift cards and general use prepaid cards, which are often branded by payment networks such as Visa or MasterCard. The law states:

Money on a gift card cannot expire for at least five years from the date the card was purchased, or from the last date any additional money was loaded onto the card. If the expiration date listed on the card is earlier than these dates, the money can be transferred to a replacement card at no cost.

Inactivity fees can be charged only after a card hasn't been used for at least one year, and you can be charged only once per month. But you may be charged a fee to buy the card or to replace a lost or stolen card.

The expiration date of a card must be clearly disclosed on the card, and fees must be clearly disclosed on the card or its packaging.

Here are some helpful tips from the Better Business Bureau regarding gift card purchases:

· Buy from sources you know and trust. Avoid buying gift cards from online auction sites, because the cards may be counterfeit or may have been obtained fraudulently.

· Read the fine print before you buy. Is there a fee to buy the card? If you buy a card by phone or online, are there shipping and handling fees? If you don't like the terms and conditions, buy elsewhere.

· See whether any fees will be deducted from the card after you purchase it.

· Inspect the card before you buy it. Verify that none of the protective stickers have been removed. Make sure that the codes on the back of the card haven't been scratched off to reveal a PIN number. Report any damaged cards to the store selling the cards.

· Give the recipient your original receipt so they can verify the card's purchase in case it is lost or stolen.

· Consider the financial condition of the retailer or restaurant. BBB encourages consumers to use gift cards as soon as possible. If the retailer or restaurant goes out of business before the card is redeemed, there will more than likely be no recourse for the card holder.

For more helpful tips and information regarding gift cards, visit www.bbb.org. If you have a problem with a gift card, contact the company that issued the card first. If the issue remains unresolved, contact the Federal Trade Commission for cards issued by retailers or the Comptroller of the Currency for cards issued by national banks.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free business BBB Reliability Reports^TM and charity BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 114 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

Counteract Counterfeiting and Shoddy Knock-offs on the Internet

12/7/2012

Posted on 12/7/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – December 7, 2012 – Savvy shoppers are always searching for ways to save money, especially during the holiday season. Unfortunately, when shopping for special gifts, it is important for bargain-hunters to beware of counterfeit products. If the prices seem too good to be true for luxury brands on the internet, the goods may actually be shoddy knock-offs!

According to a report by the Department of Homeland Security, the total domestic value of merchandise seized during 2011 was $178.9 million; an amount that would have had a value of $1.1 billion had it been legitimate. The report lists the top 10 types of counterfeit products seized as pharmaceuticals, health/personal care, eyewear/parts, critical technology components, electronic articles, cigarettes, perfumes/colognes, batteries, exercise equipment and transportation/parts.

“Online classified sites such as Craigslist or eBay are popular methods for scammers to sell counterfeit items to unsuspecting consumers and both sites offer ‘buyer beware’ warnings,” says Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “But vendors are also setting up their own websites to trick frugal shoppers into purchasing counterfeit items.”

The Better Business Bureau is encouraging buyers to combat product counterfeiting and intellectual property theft. When shopping for deals on designer and luxury goods, BBB offers the following advice for shopping safely:

Always deal with reputable businesses. The number one way to avoid getting ripped off when buying luxury goods is to deal with reputable businesses. When in doubt, shoppers can contact the manufacturer and verify which vendors are authorized sellers. Consumers should also check out the company’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org before making a purchasing decision.

If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. One of the biggest red flags for knock-off merchandise is an unrealistic price. Extremely low prices are tempting, but not to be believed. Paying $100 for a $1,000 purse could result in the consumer receiving a poorly constructed and worthless fake.

Read between the lines. Some websites or online classified ads will go overboard in their description of the item in order to coax the buyer’s trust. Overuse of “genuine,” “real” or “authentic” is a bad sign. Buyers also need to keep an eye out for sneaky phrases like “inspired by.”

Check the merchandise. Considering that the name is a large part of the motivation for buying a luxury item, many manufacturers spend considerable time and energy on crafting the physical label. Counterfeiters aren’t usually as meticulous. Shoppers should look for misspelled words and brand names, poorly sewn logos and labels, etc. Some luxury goods carry an “authenticity label” with a hologram or other security measure.

Know the brand. Different luxury brands, such as purses, have specific hardware consumers can rely on to identify a genuine piece. Zippers, screws, clasps and stitching are usually very specific for a brand and the manufacturer often has details on its website explaining what to look for and how to spot a knock-off. Craftsmanship is king for most luxury brands. If the sunglasses snap in two in the first week or if the stitching and seams are ragged and don’t match up on a purse, the items are probably counterfeit.

Consumers who have purchased counterfeit luxury goods can file a complaint with BBB and can also contact the Consumer Product Safety Commission to file a complaint there as well. For more consumer tips and information you can trust, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

Another BBB Phishing Scam…Don’t Bite

12/4/2012

Posted on 12/4/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – December 4, 2012 - Phishing scams are created to look like legitimate emails, and they are getting more sophisticated every day. What these con artists are really after is your banking and financial information and they are willing to destroy your computer to get it.

Once again, scammers are sending emails that appear to come from the Better Business Bureau. The email says that a complaint has been registered against your business, or that a customer has submitted a review of your business, even if you don’t own a business!

The email will ask you to download and complete an attached form, or click on a link to view and respond to the consumer posting. Don’t do either!

The “attached form” is actually an executable file that will drop a nasty virus onto your system. Next thing you know, you’ll see a pop-up message that claims your computer is infected with dozens of viruses, and that will offer to clean your system for a fee. If you provide your credit card or banking information to have your system cleaned, you will waste your money, and the scammers will then have access to your funds and will steal even more of your money.

The links in the bogus email are dangerous, as well. They look like a link to a BBB page, but the code behind the link will actually route your browser to a website where malware is dropped onto your computer. The malware is written in such a way that it usually passes by anti-virus programs undetected. Once the malware is in place, the scammer can sniff for your banking information (including user names and passwords), and can use your system to send more scam emails out to your contacts under your name.

If you get an email that looks like it is a BBB complaint or says that a customer has submitted a review of your business:

1. Do NOT click on any links or attachments.

2. Read the email carefully for signs that it may be fake (for example, misspellings, grammar, generic greetings such as “Dear member” instead of a name, etc.).

3. Be wary of any urgent instructions to take specified action such as “Click on the link or your account will be closed.”

4. Hover your mouse over links without clicking to see if the address is truly from bbb.org. The URL in the text should match the URL that your mouse detects. If the two do not match, it is most likely a scam.

5. Delete the email from your computer completely. (Be sure to empty your “trash can” or “recycling bin,” as well.)

6. Run anti-virus software updates frequently and do a full system scan.

7. Keep a close eye on your bank statements for any unexpected or unexplained transactions.

BBB would also like you to send bogus emails claiming to come from BBB to phishing@council.bbb.org. Don’t worry if you receive a notification that the email could not be delivered because of an attached virus, as they are pulled from quarantine and examined anyway. Please understand that due to heavy traffic to the phishing mailbox, you may not receive a direct reply. If you need personal assistance with an email, contact your BBB at 877.267.5222.

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About the BBB System

BBB Hot Topics - November 2012

12/3/2012

Posted on 12/3/2012 by

Pittsburgh, PA – December 3, 2012 – The Better Business Bureau of Western PA’s Hot Topics is a monthly alert regarding companies across all industries that are currently targeting Western Pennsylvania consumers. The Hot Topics list and information is also available on the BBB website under the News Center.

The following report is based on your BBB’s research as of December 3, 2012 and includes information received at our office on companies marketing to local Pennsylvanians. Click on the company name for an updated BBB report. Please take into consideration the importance of the practice and total performance of the company. To access over four million companies nationwide, visit www.bbb.org.

1. CDA Consulting – Vacation certificates and vouchers

An F rated company based out of Tyler, Texas, CDA Consulting has had 105 complaints closed with BBB in the last 3 years, of which 9 were serious complaints and the company failed to respond to 62 complaints. According to consumers, the company sends postcards under various names requesting that they call to schedule a pickup that they missed, in an attempt to sell a vacation package. As of September 2010, the company states the gifts offered are in the form of rebate programs and that the company’s new owner has claimed no responsibility for providing refunds owed by previous owners. For more tips and information about vacation vouchers, visit www.bbb.org.

2. Credit Arbitrators – Debt relief services

Owned by the same individual as Credit Answers, which also has an F rating with BBB, Credit Arbitrators has had 71 complaints closed since March 2011. The majority of these complaints regards advertising/sales issues and includes six unresolved and six serious complaints. In 2011, BBB contacted the company to request substantiation or modification of a mailed solicitation labeled as a “debt mediation notice” that consumers allege uses fictitious financial balances and account numbers. After initially responding to BBB, Credit Answers failed to respond to its latest request. Check out BBB’s tips about debt relief laws and your rights and BBB’s Code of Advertising.

3. DigiExpress – iPod, iPad, iPhone service and repair

Having 72 of 77 BBB complaints closed in the last 12 months, DigiExpress failed to respond to 14 complaints and has three unresolved complaints. The company has posted on different pages of its website about a $25.00 repair service fee. Complainants allege confusion about the fee and what is covered, which according to the company includes a complete diagnosis, itemized list of parts needed for repair and all labor costs. In August 2012, BBB requested substantiation or modification of the claim regarding this fee, but DigiExpress has not responded or modified its website.

4. National Retail Supply – Office supplies by telemarketing

Previously highlighted in BBB’s September 2010 Hot Topics, National Retail Supply has closed 117 complaints with BBB in the last three years and has a pattern of complaints concerning selling and billing practices. Based on BBB files, National Retail Supply still solicits businesses to offer supplies for credit card machines, sends and bills for unauthorized orders and charges a restocking fee on all returns. To resolve some complaints, the company zeroes out the invoice balance and blocks the business from further activity. Read BBB’s tips relating to unsolicited merchandise.

5. Online Profit Masters – Work-at-home company

Based out of Utah, Online Profit Masters has had all 83 of its complaints closed with BBB in the last 12 months, failing to respond to 12 complaints and leaving four unresolved. Complainants allege that this work at home company or its advertisements informed them that they had 60 or 90 days to request a refund when the company has a 30 day money back guarantee. Consumers also claim that they are charged additional fees to sign-up for the program and are invited to sign up for training which costs thousands of dollars. BBB recommends that consumers get everything in writing prior to paying money if they are promised anything other than the 30 day money back guarantee.

6. Vantage Funding – Payday loans

Vantage Funding’s BBB Business Review was opened in June 2012 and in this time, the company has closed 193 complaints, failing to respond to 107 complaints and leaving 29 unresolved. Complainants of this F rated company based out of Las Vegas, Nevada allege that without their knowledge or prior notice, $30 was taken from their bank accounts for an application fee on a payday loan that was never applied for. Some consumers allege that the company offers $100 gas vouchers for their troubles or instead of receiving a $30 refund. Visit www.bbb.org for additional information related to payday loans.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free Business and Charity Reviews and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB offers dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 114 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Visit www.bbb.org for more information about BBB.

Purchasing a Puppy over the Holidays? Check Your List Twice

11/29/2012

Posted on 11/29/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – November 29, 2012 - What could be more charming than surprising the family with a puppy under the Christmas tree? Not so fast! Your Better Business Bureau is advising consumers to think twice before investing in and giving a puppy as a present this holiday season.

With emotions high and priorities stretched, giving a puppy as a present during the holidays can be stressful for both you and the new pet. Puppies are an exciting new addition to any family, but many animal experts recommend against introducing a new pet, especially a young one, into the family during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. If you have your heart set on surprising the family, consider giving them a “gift voucher” for the dog and picking one out together after the holidays.

Regardless of when you buy or rescue your new dog, BBB and the American Kennel Club offer the following advice:

Don’t fall victim to a puppy scammer. Because of the emotional investment in buying a puppy, scammers are looking to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers. Make sure to ask around for a breeder, rescue group, or shelter referral. Always check out the business’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org.

Never send money without first checking a breeder or shelter’s credentials. If you locate a puppy through a website, do not send money without speaking to the breeder and checking references and credentials first. Ask if the breeder is a member of an American Kennel Club-affiliated club and contact the club to verify membership.

Don’t support puppy mills. Unless you can visit the breeding facility before the purchase and bring your puppy home personally, do not purchase a puppy from a website. When you have a puppy shipped from another area, you don’t know how that puppy has been treated, how healthy or young it is, or whether or not the puppy exists at all.

Don't be fooled by a well designed website. Unscrupulous scammers will often create a professional-looking but fraudulent website designed to lure the potential buyer in with cute puppy pictures.

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Beware of scammers who offer to "re-home" their purebred puppy in exchange for transportation or vaccination fees. If a free purebred puppy sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Scammers will continually ask for more money for unexpected and fraudulent costs.

Check for a clean bill of health. Under the PA Dog Purchaser Protection Act or Puppy Lemon Law, a seller must provide you with a health record for the dog at the time of purchase. The seller must provide a health certificate issued by a veterinarian within 21 days prior to the date of sale or a guarantee of good health issued and signed by the seller. Remember that to preserve your rights under the law, you must take your newly purchased dog to a licensed veterinarian for examination within 10 days of purchase.

Know your rights. In PA, if the dog is registerable and the seller does not provide within 120 days all documentation to affect registration, you may either return the dog and receive a full refund of the purchase price or retain the dog and receive a 50% refund of the purchase price. The seller must also provide the breeder’s name and address, the name and registration number of the dam and sire and the name and address of the pedigree registry organization where the dam and sire are registered at the time of sale.

For more helpful tips and information you can trust, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

Fight “Online Grinches” When Shopping Online This Cyber Monday and Holiday Season

11/26/2012

Posted on 11/26/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – November 26, 2012 - With many shoppers switching altogether to online shopping for holiday gifts and forty-four percent of holiday shoppers choosing to make some purchases online, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is offering tips for safe shopping today, Cyber Monday and throughout the entire season.

“Unfortunately, the holiday season provides scammers with many opportunities to steal personal information while online shopping,” says Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “Every year, scammers devise new tricks, so it is critical for consumers to take specific steps to protect themselves from high-tech, identity thieves.”

The BBB’s 10 tips for safe online shopping are as follows:

Protect your computer. Install a firewall, anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Check for and install the latest updates and run virus scans regularly.

Check a site’s security settings. If the site is secure, its URL (web address) should start with “https://.” You also may see a picture of a small closed lock in the lower right hand corner of the screen.
Shop trustworthy websites: Look for the BBB seal on the site and click to confirm that it’s valid. New BBB dynamic seals will take you to a site’s BBB Business Review. You also may find the review at www.bbb.org.
Protect personal information. Read a site’s privacy policy and understand what personal information is being requested and how it will be used. Don’t enter that information on unsolicited emails. If a site lacks a privacy policy, it could be a red flag that the site could sell your information without your permission.
Beware of too-good-to-be-true deals. Offers on websites and in unsolicited emails may offer free or very low prices on hard-to-find items. There may be hidden costs or your purchase may sign you up for a monthly charge. Look for and read the fine print.
Beware of phishing. Legitimate businesses do not send emails claiming problems with an order, account or a package to lure the buyer into revealing financial information. If you receive such an email, the BBB recommends that you pick up the phone and call the contact number on the website where the purchase was made to confirm a problem.
Pay with a credit card. Under federal law, you can dispute the charges if you don’t receive an item. Shoppers also have dispute rights if there are any unauthorized charges on the card, and many card issuers have zero-liability policies if someone steals and uses your card number. Check your credit card statement regularly for unauthorized charges. Never wire money.
Keep documentation of your order. Save a copy of the confirmation page of an order or emails confirming the order until you receive the item and are satisfied.
Obtain a tracking number for shipments. If you need the product before the holidays, find out when the seller intends to ship it and if possible, how it will be shipped. The tracking number can help you find a lost order.
Know your rights: Federal law requires that orders made by phone, mail or online be shipped by the date promised or within 30 days if no delivery time was stated. If goods aren’t shipped on time, shoppers can cancel and demand a refund. Consumers also may reject merchandise if it is defective or was misrepresented.

For more helpful holiday shopping tips and to check a company’s BBB Business Review before you make a purchase, visit www.bbb.org or call 877.267.5222.

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About the BBB System

BBB Tips for Holiday Budgeting and Shopping

11/19/2012

Posted on 11/19/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – November 20, 2012 - Grab your shopping bags and compile your lists! The biggest holiday shopping weekend is almost here. With Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday all crammed into one long weekend, your Better Business Bureau wants to help make shopping adventures go as smoothly as possible. When shopping for the holidays, consider the following tips:

Create a budget and stick to it. According to the National Retail Federation, the average holiday shopper will increase spending to $749.51 on gifts, decor, greeting cards and other seasonal items; up slightly from the $740.57 they spent last year. How can you keep from overspending? BBB has once again teamed up with Clearpoint Credit Solutions to offer the Holiday Planner Calculator. This easy-to-use online tool will help you create a budget that is realistic for the way you celebrate,entertain, travel and give gifts this holiday season.

Don’t fall for the too-good-to-be-true deal. On “Black Friday” (and every day), get to know retailers first by checking out their BBB Business Reviews.Compare prices before you hit the stores on Black Friday so you know if you really are getting a great deal. Newspapers will often have coupons that give discounts for Black Friday. When searching for coupons online, make sure to get them from the store’s website, not from an offsite deal promoter.

Shop small on Small Business Saturday. November 24th is Small Business Saturday, a day dedicated to supporting small businesses on the busiest shopping weekend of the year. BBB is teaming up with American Express, a BBB Accredited Business and National Partner, to spread the word on why small businesses should be supported. Check out this small business infographic to see the positive impact small businesses have on our economy.

Watch out for scams. Visit BBB Scam Source at www.bbb.org to find information about the latest scams and most common tactics used by scam artists both in-person and online. Be especially careful of holiday related scams. Make sure that letter from Santa is from a legitimate site before you share your child’s personal information. Check twice before wiring cash to that “friend or grandchild” who was mugged while traveling and needs emergency money. It is likely a scam that you shouldn’t fall for!

Shop safely online. November 26th is “Cyber Monday,” and there will be lots of online deals to be had. Before you surf the net, make sure your computer has the most recent updates for spam filters, anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Scammers use this holiday time to prey on online shoppers. Only shop on trusted websites and look for a URL to begin with “https” with the “s” standing for secure, before entering payment information on a website.It’s also best to use a credit card when shopping online because it can be easier to dispute charges if you don’t receive the item you ordered.

Know your rights. Whether shopping retail or online, know your legal rights. U.S. law requires that orders made by mail, phone or online be shipped by the date promised or if no delivery time was stated, within 30 days. If the goods are not shipped on time,the shopper can cancel and demand a refund. A consumer also has the right to reject merchandise if it’s defective or was misrepresented. Otherwise, it’s the company’s policies that determine if the shopper can cancel the purchase and receive a refund or credit, so be sure you understand return policies before you buy. Keep track of all receipts and documentation, too.

For more advice on shopping this holiday season go to BBB Helpful Holiday Hints and always “Check Out A Business Or Charity” with your Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org or by calling 877.267.5222.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior.BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 114 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

BBB Announces Winners of 2012 Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics

11/13/2012

Posted on 11/13/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – November 13, 2012 - The Better Business Bureau of Western PA is pleased to announce the winners of its 2012 Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics. The businesses selected to receive this year's prestigious award are: AquaGuard Systems, Inc. of Pittsburgh, PA; and Energy Swing Windows of Murrysville, PA. There was one company who was selected to receive runner-up distinction: Baker’s Waterproofing & Foundation Repair of Bentleyville, PA.

Both winners and the runner-up are previous recipients of the Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics.

The BBB, founded with a mission to see that all share in the opportunity of a fair and equitable marketplace, established this annual awards program to gain public recognition for local businesses that maintain a solid commitment to conducting their business practices in an ethical fashion.

"These companies were selected by an academic independent panel for their exceptional conduct in the marketplace," said Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. "Each winning company clearly demonstrates superior character on a daily basis and consistently exceeds marketplace standards for ethics in its relationships with customers, employees, suppliers, industry peers and the communities in which it does business.”

About the Winners:

AquaGuard Systems, Inc.

Founded in 1991, AquaGuard Systems Inc. is one of Pittsburgh’s and Western Pennsylvania's leading basement waterproofing and foundation repair specialists providing customers with the best possible services at affordable rates. Experienced representatives take time to inspect and evaluate the issues causing problems and design solutions which best fit customer needs. In addition to basement waterproofing and foundation repair AquaGuard Systems also offers a wide variety of structural repair options including beams, wall anchors, and foundation reconstruction. AquaGuard deploys specialized teams for every facet of its work.

“AquaGuard Systems is honored and humbled to once again be recognized by the Better Business Bureau and to receive the prestigious 2012 Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics,” says Tom Gallagher, president of AquaGuard Systems, Inc. “To receive this award validates our commitment to providing superior customer service. AquaGuard Systems has an unsurpassed reputation earned over years of offering the highest quality craftsmanship with a willingness to stand behind its work and warranties. We strive to be the most innovative and stay effective in our field by consistently improving on our methods and by implementing cutting edge equipment and technology. AquaGuard and its employees would like to thank the Better Business Bureau for its recognition and the opportunities this award has presented to us.”

Energy Swing Windows

The core business philosophy at Energy Swing Windows is “Do the right thing”, and that is a philosophy that encompasses all aspects of the business. Energy Swing Windows is committed to doing the right thing not only for its clients and employees, but for the local community, too. The company strives to improve the lives of its clients by providing them with the right products and the right installation to meet their individual home improvement needs. Energy Swing Windows is unique in the market because they have total control of the entire project. They market, sell, manufacture, and install their own unique patented window designs at their plant in Murrysville.

Steve Rennekamp, president of Energy Swing Windows had this to say about winning the Torch Award: "I am extremely proud to receive this honor for a second time – not because of the recognition, which is nice, but more so because it is a reflection that we must be doing the right things, in the right way for our clients. We have a team that delivers because they recognize and strive to provide real value. The recognition that means the most to us is what our clients say about us. We deliver what we say—and then some. Everyone in the company understands our culture of always working to do the right thing.”

About the Runner-up:

Baker’s Waterproofing & Foundation Repair

Since 1975, Baker's Waterproofing & Foundation Repair has solved thousands of basement seepage and foundation repair problems throughout the Tri-State area. In early 2012, former president and owner, Tim Baker passed the torch on to his son Brian. Brian’s focus on successful home repair solutions along with the ethical and fair treatment of customers is the foundation for the company. Today, Baker’s still looks to provide great solutions for homeowners and knows finding a responsible and trustworthy contractor is challenging. By adhering to simple guidelines of respect, integrity, open communication and responsibility, Baker’s arrives on time for scheduled appointments, follows through with promises, and stands behind all warranties.

According to Brian Baker, “Being selected as the Runner-Up for the Better Business Bureau Torch Award is truly an honor. I know there are many good companies, so getting recognized as one of the most ethical in our half of the state is quite humbling. We have great people working at our company and I am so thankful for them. Don’t believe folks that say there are no good hard-working people anymore. They are out there and I believe it is the responsibility of the ownership to find, recruit and retain these quality people. Tim Baker (my Dad) was the owner for the first 37 years of our company and has always been known for his honesty and ethical ways. I dedicate myself to follow in his footsteps. I want to relay a special thank you to the Better Business Bureau for selecting us as a Torch Award recipient for the fourth time. Baker’s has great respect for all the hard work the BBB does for Pennsylvania’s consumers.”

About the BBB Torch Awards for Marketplace Ethics:

The panel of judges for the 2012 BBB Torch Awards was:

Dr. Faith Bjalobok received her BA in Philosophy from Chatham College, a MA in Criminology from IUP, and a MA and Ph.D. in Philosophy from Duquesne. She is Fellow of Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics. She is an adjunct professor at Duquesne and is also a facilitator for the Waynesburg University MBA program. She is an Outreach Program Director at Hog Heaven Rescue Farm and is also the founder of Fluffyjean Fund for Felines.

Dr. Virginia Gerde is an Associate Professor at Duquesne University who teaches business ethics, strategy and sustainability, and information ethics at the undergraduate and graduate level. As the new Director of the Beard Center for Leadership in Ethics, she supports ethics in the business school curriculum and programs promoting integrity and ethics for the business community. She received her Ph.D. from Virginia Tech in Management and has published research in Business & Society, Business Strategy and the Environment, and Journal of Business Ethics. Her research examines environmental issues, corporate performance, and organization theory.

Dr. James Weber is currently a Professor of Business Ethics and Management at Duquesne University. Jim is also the Senior Fellow and founding Director of the Beard Center for Leadership in Ethics at Duquesne University. He received his Ph. D. in Business Administration from the University of Pittsburgh and M.B.A. from Saint Louis University. With the Beard Center, he is involved in developing ethics training seminars for business and community organizations and forums for discussions of critical ethical issues in business. His research interests include the assessment of values, moral reasoning and ethical behavior on both the individual and organizational levels. He has published numerous manuscripts in various management and business ethics journals and is the co-author of 13^th edition of Business and Society: Stakeholders, Ethics, Public Policy, published by Irwin/McGraw-Hill, Inc.

The BBB Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics program is open to all for-profit companies (accredited and non-accredited) who are located in the 28 county service area of Western Pennsylvania. Companies are evaluated against criteria that includes commitment to and demonstration of ethical practices in the marketplace; high standards of behavior toward customers, employees, suppliers, shareholders and the communities in which they do business; long-term value of ethics policies to shareholders, customers and employees; and training and communications programs to assist employees in carrying out established ethics policies.

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About the BBB System

Are You in Need of Long Term Care?

11/9/2012

Posted on 11/9/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – November 9, 2012 - What exactly is long term care? According to the National Clearinghouse for Long Term Care Information, long term care is “a range of services and support you may need to meet your health or personal needs over a long period of time.” These services fall into two major categories:

· “Activities of Daily Living” include bathing, dressing, transferring to or from a bed or chair, and eating.

· “Instrumental Activities of Daily Living” include (but are not limited to) housework, taking medication, errands, caring of pets, and using communication devices.

The need for long term care, which can be provided at home or in a special facility, usually stems from a health condition, such as a chronic illness or disability. Age-related factors can also increase the likelihood for needing services.

The National Clearinghouse for Long Term Care Information is a government website that provides information and resources to those who are inquiring about long term care needs for themselves or a family member. Here’s a short list of age-related factors or risks they cite when considering long term care:

Age: The older you get, the more likely it is that you’ll need help.
Living alone: If you live alone, you’re more likely to need paid care than if you live with others.
Gender: Women are more likely to need long-term care than men, primarily because women tend to live longer.
Lifestyle: Poor diet and exercise habits increase the chance that you’ll need long-term care.
Personal history: Health and family history can increase the chances you’ll need long-term care.

The cost of long term care is a major issue to consider, and you may benefit from signing-up for coverage early on. Medicare, VA benefits and employer programs cover some costs of long-term care, but more and more people are adding private long-term care insurance policies to their retirement planning. The younger you are when you buy the policy, the less it will cost you and once you have a major health issue, you may not be able to get coverage.

To find out more helpful consumer tips and information or to check out a business or charity, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

Are You in Need of LongTerm Care?

11/9/2012

Posted on 11/9/2012 by

· “Activities of Daily Living” include bathing, dressing, transferring to or from a bed or chair, and eating.

· “Instrumental Activities of Daily Living” include (but are not limited to) housework, taking medication, errands, caring of pets, and using communication devices.

Age: The older you get, the more likely it is that you’ll need help.
Living alone: If you live alone, you’re more likely to need paid care than if you live with others.
Gender: Women are more likely to need long-term care than men, primarily because women tend to live longer.
Lifestyle: Poor diet and exercise habits increase the chance that you’ll need long-term care.
Personal history: Health and family history can increase the chances you’ll need long-term care.

To find out more helpful consumer tips and information or to check out a business or charity, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB Offers Donation Tips for Aiding Hurricane Sally Victims

11/2/2012

Posted on 11/2/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – November 2, 2012 – Natural disasters can bring out the best in people, as strangers reach out to help those in need. Unfortunately, they can also bring out those looking to take advantage of the situation. In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, your Better Business Bureau is reminding consumers to donate wisely and do their research prior to contributing to relief efforts.

“Though the ease of technology provides a convenient way to make well-meaning donations, it also creates the potential for scammers to simply pocket money through phony organizations and websites,” says Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “With every natural disaster, we see opportunists come out of the woodworks that do not have the best intentions in mind.”

BBB offers the following tips to donors when deciding where to contribute to assist Hurricane Sally victims:

· Be cautious when giving online. Especially, take caution in response to spam messages, social media posts and emails that claim to link to a relief organization. If you are seeking to give to an organization involved in relief efforts, go directly to the charity’s website. Consider it a red flag if the website or organization seems to have just developed overnight in relation to the disaster.

· Do your research. Check out BBB Wise Giving Alliance to research charities and relief organizations to verify that they are accredited by BBB and meet the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability. Check with the IRS to ensure the organization is recognized as a 501(c)(3); get a better understanding of how your donation will be used; and choose an organization that has experience in the specific type of relief efforts they are claiming to undertake. Check with the Bureau of Charitable Organizations’ online database of charities as well.

· Be wary of claims that 100 percent of donations will assist relief victims. Despite what an organization might claim, charities have fundraising and administrative costs. Even a credit card donation will involve, at a minimum, a processing fee. If a charity claims 100 percent of collected funds will be assisting hurricane victims, the truth is that the organization is still probably incurring fundraising and administrative expenses. It may use some of its other funds to pay these costs, but the expenses will still be incurred.

· Find out if the charity has an on-the-ground presence in the impacted areas. Unless the charity already has staff in the affected areas, it may be difficult to bring in new aid workers to provide assistance quickly. See if the charity’s website clearly describes what the charity can do to address immediate needs.

· Find out if the charity is providing direct aid or raising money for other groups. Some charities may be raising money to pass along to relief organizations. If so, you may want to consider “avoiding the middleman” and give directly to those that have a presence in the region, or at a minimum, check out the ultimate recipients of these donations to see whether they are equipped to provide aid effectively.

· Gifts of clothing, food or other in-kind donations. In-kind drives for food and clothing, while well intentioned, may not necessarily be the quickest way to help those in need – unless the organization has the staff and infrastructure to distribute such aid properly. Ask the charity about its transportation and distribution plans. Be wary of those who are not experienced in disaster relief assistance.

· Watch for red flags. Someone soliciting for a charity should know details about the organization. Be wary of solicitors who cannot or will not answer your questions. If a solicitor pressures you to donate immediately without allowing you time to research the organization, reconsider your donation. In addition, consider it a red flag if the organization is insisting on a cash donation and refuses to provide a receipt.

Disaster victims should never feel forced to make a hasty decision or to donate to an unknown charity. Start With Trust. For reliable information, lists of BBB Accredited Businesses by industry and BBB Business Reviews you can trust on local businesses and charities, visit www.bbb.org or call 877.267.5222.

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About the BBB System

BBB Hot Topics: October 2012

11/1/2012

Posted on 11/1/2012 by

Pittsburgh, PA – October 31, 2012 – The Better Business Bureau of Western PA’s Hot Topics is a monthly alert regarding companies across all industries that are currently targeting Western Pennsylvania consumers. The Hot Topics list and information is also available on the BBB website under the News Center.

The following report is based on your BBB’s research as of October 31, 2012 and includes information received at our office on companies marketing to local Pennsylvanians. Click on the company name for an updated BBB report. Please take into consideration the importance of the practice and total performance of the company. To access over four million companies nationwide, visit www.bbb.org.

1. Morgan Drexen – Debt relief services

Morgan Drexen claims to provide attorney support services for the debt services industry. Having 242 complaints closed with BBB in the last 3 years, 7 unresponded complaints, 17 unresolved complaints and 33 serious complaints, complainants allege unfulfilled contracts and inability to obtain refunds when services are not performed, among other issues. The company responds to some complaints by advising that they do not provide debt settlement services to consumers or contract with consumers for such service, but that a third party attorney has authorized them to make settlement offers. In 2010, the Minnesota Attorney General’s office filed a lawsuit against the company and in 2011, the West Virginia Attorney General’s office filed suit to ban it from conducting business in the state.

2. National Bankcard Monitor, LLC – Debt repayment plan

Based out of Arizona, National Bankcard Monitor, LLC has closed 62 BBB complaints since August 2010. Consumers reported that NBM offers to consolidate/obtain lower interest rates on credit cards up to 50% in exchange for an upfront fee of $798 to $1,995. NBM informed BBB that it does not negotiate debts like a debt consolidator or charge for “balance transfer services,” nor does it change terms of credit card agreements; rather, it provides a "debt analysis program guide" that advises the consumer how to pay debts faster. Some consumers allege delays in receiving the guide or say they do not receive it, along with other complaints regarding difficulty obtaining refunds. NBM responded to a number of BBB complaints by issuing full refunds to consumers.

3. National Magazine Exchange – Magazine telemarketing

An F rated company with 343 BBB complaints, National Magazine Exchange mails notices inviting people to call and enter the Million Dollar “Strike It Rich” Sweepstakes to help promote magazine subscriptions. The company has received complaints alleging billing disputes, misinterpretation of the sweepstakes promotion and misunderstanding the company’s billing terms. Most complaints brought to the company’s attention by BBB are addressed by cancelling the consumer’s account or responding to questions regarding the sweepstakes promotion or its billing process. For helpful tips regarding magazine sales and sweepstakes, visit www.bbb.org.

4. Search and Social, LLC – Work-at-home company

Closing 40 out of 53 BBB complaints in the last 12 months concerning sales practices, alleged misrepresentation of company products/services and refund or exchange issues, Search and Social, LLC has an F rating with BBB. Some complaints claim the work-at-home company offers a program to earn extra cash at home, posting links for businesses advertising the sale of certain products, or a program to start an online business, for additional fees. Though failing to respond to 18 complaints, some company responses reference a 30 and 60 day money back guarantee; however, BBB has been unable to view any such guarantee. BBB has also received confirmation from some consumers that promised refunds have been received.

5. West Bay Acquisitions, LLC – Collection agency

Due to 1,106 complaints, 10 unresolved complaints, length of time the business has been operating and government action taken by the Kentucky Attorney General’s office, West Bay Acquisitions, LLC has an F rating with BBB. Based on BBB files, this business has a pattern of complaints concerning billing/collection issues. Consumers state that when they look at their credit reports they have a negative hit on them from this company saying they have outstanding debt. Consumers state that West Bay Acquisitions, LLC is trying to collect on old accounts with no outstanding balances and accounts they never had opened. Check out BBB’s tips on debt collection.

6. Zaken Corporation – Work-at-home company

Involved in training courses for buying and selling closeout merchandise, many of Zaken Corporation’s 138 complaints filed with BBB allege dissatisfaction with materials received due to misrepresentation of the offer, and incomplete disclosures concerning start-up costs. The company responds to most complaints by denying refund requests and explaining that the customer did not comply with their refund policy or by delivering materials or issuing refunds. The company also claims to offer a second guarantee to refund money once a sale is made based on a lead generated by the buyer. In these cases, the company responds by explaining why particular deals could not be completed. In 2011, BBB asked the company to substantiate claims that buyers can earn $4,280 a month from their home without investing a dime; that they offer a “FREE $9.95 report;” and that buyers are not required to "sell or buy" anything to participate. To date a response has not been received.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free Business and Charity Reviews and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB offers dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Visit www.bbb.org for more information about BBB.

Auto-Deer Collision? Your Auto Insurance May Cover More Than You Think

10/31/2012

Posted on 10/31/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – October 31, 2012 - With migrating and mating season occurring between October and December, your chances of a single-vehicle accident involving a deer or other large animal just went up. Are you covered?

State Farm Insurance estimated through its claim data that deer hit 1.23 million vehicles between July 2011 and June 2012. In addition, claims over the past four years, from deer hits rose nearly 8 percent, while claims from all other types of collisions fell 8.5 percent. According to the study, Pennsylvanian drivers are at high risk and have a 1 in 82 overall likelihood of colliding with deer in the next year.

Your Better Business Bureau recommends that drivers read their auto insurance policy closely or they could miss out on reimbursements or other benefits they are entitled to receive. You might be surprised to see what is included, and what’s not.

According to the non-profit Insurance Information Institute, on average a deer-vehicle collision costs $2,800 per insurance claim; $10,000 if there is injury to the driver or a passenger.

Only comprehensive coverage reimburses drivers for loss due to contact with animals such as birds or deer. This fact often causes confusion among drivers who are not aware that collision coverage will not cover a collision with an animal. In addition, most auto insurance policies do not automatically cover the cost of a replacement rental car after an accident.

Although many drivers have coverage for a replacement rental car, they may not realize it because this optional coverage was added at such a minimal expense, usually just a couple of dollars a month. This coverage provides immediate access to a replacement rental car until repairs are made to their damaged car, or you are authorized by your insurance company to purchase a new car.

You should also know if you have gap coverage. If you do and your car is totaled, you won’t have to continue making payments on the balance owed on the car. Gap coverage pays the difference between the amount the insurer pays for the totaled car and the amount the insured owes on his or her lease or loan. Without this coverage, drivers are responsible for paying the remainder of their lease or loan even when their car is totaled.

BBB recommends the following tips to car owners who are looking to understand what their auto insurance covers:

Report the damage as soon as possible. If your car is not drivable, your agent or claims center may be able to save you time and money by having the car towed directly to the repair facility instead of to a temporary storage facility. In addition, arrangements may be made immediately to provide you with a replacement rental car, but only if your policy includes this coverage.

Know what your deductible is and ask about any additional charges before authorizing work. Expect your insurance adjuster, claims representative or repair facility appraiser to review the damage with you and explain the repair process, including the use of original or generic auto parts. Before authorizing repairs, know what your deductible is, as well as any additional charges you will be expected to pay once repairs are complete.

Ask about warranties on repairs. Ask whether your insurer has a repair facility referral program that offers a written limited or lifetime repair warranty backed both by the repairer and insurer for as long as you own your vehicle.

Do business only with a reputable company. Obtain insurance from companies, independent brokers or direct marketers that have a proven track record of handling auto insurance claims effectively. Get a referral, or check out the insurer’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org. The Pennsylvania Department of Insurance is also another great resource in finding licensed insurance professionals.

For more helpful tips and information you can trust, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB Issues Hurricane Sandy Warning and Storm Preparation/Damage Tips

10/29/2012

Posted on 10/29/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – October 29, 2012 – As Hurricane Sandy approaches our region, your Better Business Bureau urges Pennsylvanians to prepare for all possible effects from the potentially dangerous “super storm.” According to local meteorologists, the largest threat to Pennsylvanians will come from high sustained winds of 25-35 mph and gusts up to 60 mph. Pennsylvania is also expected to receive 2.5-3.5 inches of rain, potentially causing flooding and creating road hazards.

It is important for consumers to be proactive in their emergency preparedness plans by developing a family communication plan and making an emergency supply kit. Your BBB suggests having a basic emergency kit with the following essentials in case of a disaster:

Emergency Documents Packet: This should contain your social security card, birth certificate, passport, contact information, will and medical directives, insurance, financial accounts, health records, pet information and property deeds/vehicle information.

Supplies: Store water and food for three days (one gallon per person per day), blankets, a manual can opener, first aid kit, plastic sheeting and duct tape for additional protection from outdoor elements, moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties, a tool kit, local maps, small battery operated radio with extra batteries and a flashlight.

In the event that consumers experience storm damage as a result of Hurricane Sandy, BBB offers the following tips and suggestions for after the storm:

Document the damage to your property and possessions thoroughly. Take pictures or video if possible. Go room to room or document all debris piles and create a detailed account of your belongings and losses. Contact your insurance adjuster immediately and get the ball rolling on the claims process.

Beware of fly-by-night contractors. Check to make sure any contractors you are considering hiring are properly licensed and have up-to-date workers’ compensation and liability insurance. Verify the company’s Business Review with the BBB and contact your insurance company to confirm they are approved prior to signing a contract. Remember to never pay more than 1/3 of the job price up front as a rule of thumb.

Obtain clearly written estimates for roof repairs. Your estimate should include the type of roof covering, manufacturer and color, materials to be included in the work, scope of work to be done, who is responsible for repairing potential damages created during the course of the work, approximate starting and completion dates, payment procedures and the length of warranty/what is covered.

Ask if a tree service will perform work according to industry standards. If the company mentions “topping a tree,” “lion’s-tailing” or “using climbing spikes to prune a tree” the company does not follow industry standards. Beware of a tree service that is vague about formal credentials as an arborist, offers an unusually low price, pressures you for an immediate decision or only accepts cash payments.

Dispose of debris safely. When cleaning up debris, assess the types of waste you are dealing with and check with the PA Department of Environmental Protection to see what the disposal procedures should be. The four main categories of debris are branches, trees and vegetative wastes, construction debris, other household wastes and hazardous wastes.

Donate wisely. Visit BBB Wise Giving Alliance to research charities and relief organizations to verify that they are accredited by the BBB and meet the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability. Verify with the Bureau of Charitable Organizations that a charity is registered, and be wary of claims that 100 percent of donations will assist relief victims.

Storm victims should never feel forced to make a hasty decision or choose an unknown contractor. Start With Trust. For more disaster resources, lists of BBB Accredited Businesses by industry and Business Reviews you can trust on local companies, visit www.bbb.org or call 877-267-5222.

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About the BBB System

ALERT: Phishing Scam Looks Like BBB Email…But It’s Not

10/25/2012

Posted on 10/25/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – October 25, 2012 - The BBB name and logo are being fraudulently used by criminals in an on-going phishing scam. The emails look very much like notice of a complaint from BBB, but contain links to malware that can infect your computer, steal passwords, etc. BBB is working with law enforcement, as well as with a private deactivation firm (at our own expense), to shut down as many criminal websites as possible. To date, we have shut down well over 100 sites.

If you get an email that looks like it is a BBB complaint, here is what you should do:

1. Do NOT click on any links or attachments.

2. Read the email carefully for signs that it may be fake (for example, misspellings, grammar, generic greetings such as “Dear member” instead of a name, etc.).

3. Be wary of any urgent instructions to take specified action such as “Click on the link or your account will be closed.”

5. Send a copy of the email to phishing@council.bbb.org (Note: This address is only for scams that use the BBB name or logo)

6. Delete the email from your computer completely. (Be sure to empty your “trash can” or “recycling bin,” as well.)

7. Run anti-virus software updates frequently and do a full system scan.

8. Keep a close eye on your bank statements for any unexpected or unexplained transactions.

If you have a business and are not certain whether the complaint is legitimate, contact your BBB at 877.267.5222.

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About the BBB System

Don’t Get Tricked When Buying Halloween Treats

10/22/2012

Posted on 10/22/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – October 22, 2012 – Are you still looking to buy or rent a last minute Halloween costume? You’re not alone. According to the National Retail Federation, a record 170 million Americans will spend close to $8 billion on candy, pumpkins, decorations and costumes – both for them and for their pets. It’s a holiday we love, and retailers respond to that with specialty stores that set up shop and are gone the minute Halloween is over.

When shopping at seasonal, temporary Halloween stores, and especially last-minute, it’s important to exercise caution. Your Better Business Bureau is advising shoppers to know the red flags and read the fine print to avoid fly-by-night costume venders. Even if the store has a return policy, you should go in with the assumption that whatever you buy is yours to keep, no matter what.

Here are some BBB tips to make sure your Halloween is “spooktacular” fun:

Do your research. Many seasonal stores are run by reputable retailers who take advantage of short-term leases on vacant space to set up temporary stores to augment their permanent space, but other shops may be in and out in a matter of weeks. While it is always good to check out a shop’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org, some seasonal businesses change their name from one year to the next as a way of disguising a poor track record. Ask around and know with whom you’re doing business before getting “tricked.”

Read the fine print. Just because it’s a seasonal store doesn't mean that the store or the business backing it up doesn’t have the same responsibilities as a year-round operation. Make sure to note the store’s refund and return policies to get a feel for all of the terms and conditions – they have to be made available.

Know what to expect before renting a costume. Rental costumes tend to be sturdier and more elaborate than the average Halloween costume, and you can often find something unique. Make sure you understand your responsibilities. What happens if, for example, the costume rips, you get a stain on it, or you lose it altogether? Do you have to pay for the whole costume? What about the cleaning? Make sure everything is spelled out in the rental agreement.

When purchasing costumes online, do it securely. Check a site’s security settings. If the site is secure, its URL (web address) should start with “https://.” You also may see a small picture of a closed lock in the lower right corner of the screen.

For more consumer tips regarding the upcoming holidays and to find a business you can trust, check out www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB Warns: Children Continue to be Heavily Targeted by Identity Thieves

10/18/2012

Posted on 10/18/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – October 18, 2012 — According to a study published by Carnegie Mellon University CyLab, a cyber security research center, children are targeted by identity thieves 51 times more frequently than adults. Your Better Business Bureau encourages parents to regularly monitor their children’s credit report to prevent devastating damage to their future.

This CyLab study indicated identity thieves are targeting young children and using their unused Social Security numbers to steal their identity. Thieves steal Social Security numbers, attach a different name and birth date to it, and proceed to open credit cards and secure auto loans, student loans and home mortgages, among other things.

Children are easy targets because they typically do not start using their information until early adulthood, when applying for college, loans or their first credit card.

As a parent, you can better protect your child’s identity by:

· Safeguarding your child’s personal information. Keep your child’s personally identifiable information, such as his or her Social Security card, date of birth and birth certificate, in a secure spot. Share your child’s Social Security number only when you know and trust the other party.

· Monitoring your child’s credit report. As soon as you get your child’s social security card you should start monitoring his or her report. www.annualcreditreport.com allows one free credit report a year for each credit-reporting agency.

· Keeping anti-virus software updated. Some savvy thieves create viruses designed to search computers for documents containing your child’s Social Security number.

· Safely disposing of personal documents. Shred all papers that include your child’s personal information before you throw them out. Delete computer files that you no longer need, and empty your online trash or recycle bin.

Recognizing the need for consumer education and protection, your BBB will hold its “Secure Your ID” Day Identity Theft Prevention and Education Event on Saturday, October 20^th at Peters Township Public Library from 10 AM – 2 PM. This free event features on-site document destruction. BBB volunteers will guide cars through a moving line, offload their disposable items, shred them on the spot and distribute goodie bags with educational ID theft and fraud prevention materials. Each vehicle may dispose of a maximum of 3 boxes/bags of paper-based materials.

For more information about “Secure Your ID” Day, helpful tips and to check out a company’s Business Review, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB Offers Free Identity Theft Protection Tips and On-Site Document Shredding at “Secure Your ID” Day Event

10/12/2012

Posted on 10/12/2012 by

Pittsburgh, PA – October 12, 2012 – Your Better Business Bureau (BBB) and its partners, Peters Township Public Library, The Paper Exchange and First Commonwealth Bank, invite Washington and Allegheny County residents and surrounding communities to BBB’s “Secure Your ID” Day Saturday, October 20, 2012 at Peters Township Public Library, 616 East McMurray Road in McMurray from 10 AM – 2 PM.

Residents and small businesses are encouraged to attend the October 20^th event and take a key step in identity protection by shredding and properly disposing of sensitive documents. BBB staff will be on-site to guide cars through a moving line, offload disposable items and shred them on the spot. Free goodie bags containing educational advice and tips for identity theft protection will also be distributed to attendees.

“Being that identity theft is largely a crime of access, BBB’s goal is to make sensitive information less accessible and empower people to be their own first line of defense against fraud,” says Warren King, President of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “By collaborating with community-based BBBs across North America, we’ll have a tremendous coast-to-coast presence that will reach a lot of people and hopefully, prevent a lot of theft.”

According to Javelin Strategy and Research, identity fraud increased to 4.90% last year from 4.35% in 2010. This represents a 12.6% overall increase. The total number of identity fraud victims also increased to about 11.6 million U.S. adults in 2011, compared to 10.2 million victims in 2010.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews, charity BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 114 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

About Peters Township Public Library

In support of an informed citizenry, Peters Township Public Library provides printed and recorded materials, programs, equipment and staff services to meet the community's educational, professional, and recreational needs. The library strives to enrich and empower every patron by fostering a love of learning. Visit www.ptlibrary.org/.

About The Paper Exchange

About First Commonwealth Bank

BBB Partners with Western Union to Introduce BBB Scam Stopper

10/10/2012

Posted on 10/10/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – October 10, 2012 - Better Business Bureau and Western Union launched BBB Scam Stopper, an education campaign to help consumers in the United States and Canada avoid common scams that con artists use to commit consumer fraud.

“Western Union devotes extensive resources to stopping fraud,” says Shelley Bernhardt, Western Union’s Director of Consumer Protection. “Our agents are trained to intervene if they suspect a customer is the victim of a scam. Through our partnership with BBB, we aim to give consumers the information and resources they need to protect themselves and help stop fraud before it gets that far.”

Consumer fraud is a serious problem in North America. According to the Federal Trade Commission and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, consumers reported losing more than $1.5 billion to all types of scams in 2011.

“On an annual basis, BBB investigates thousands of scams that are reported to us by consumers and businesses, and we have been able to identify scammers’ most commonly used tactics,” says Warren King, President of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “Western Union is the ideal partner for this new campaign, as numerous scams involve the wire transfer of funds. The best way to become a fraud fighter is through awareness and education in order to recognize scams before falling victim.

On the Scam Stopper website, consumers can find facts and tips to stay informed and help reduce their chances of becoming a victim of a scam. The site also explains the science of scams, and how scammers use many of the same “sales tactics” that are used by legitimate businesses. Visitors can also sign up to receive BBB Scam Alerts, weekly emails with the latest scams reported to BBBs across the country.

The site highlights common scams like Emergency Scams (a friend or family member has an emergency, often in another country, and needs money), Overpayment Scams (a buyer overpays and asks for the difference wired back to them), Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams (you’ve won a lot of money, but you have to pre-pay taxes before claiming your prize) and more.

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About the BBB System

About Western Union

The Western Union Company (NYSE: WU) is a leader in global payment services. Together with its Vigo, Orlandi Valuta, Pago Facil and Western Union Business Solutions branded payment services, Western Union provides consumers and businesses with fast, reliable and convenient ways to send and receive money around the world, to send payments and to purchase money orders. As of June 30, 2012, the Western Union, Vigo and Orlandi Valuta branded services were offered through a combined network of approximately 510,000 agent locations in 200 countries and territories. In 2011, The Western Union Company completed 226 million consumer-to-consumer transactions worldwide, moving $81 billion of principal between consumers, and 425 million business payments. For more information, visit www.westernunion.com.

Protect Yourself from Investment Fraud

10/1/2012

Posted on 10/1/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – October 1, 2012 - Before you invest your earnings, it is important to check for scams and verify credibility of the investment firm. Asking questions, research the company, reach out to local investment firms and advisers, talk to other investors. It’s essential to take precaution with all investment opportunities.

Studies show that investment scams are on the rise over the past decade. Baby boomers in particularly are more vulnerable to such schemes, as many are now managing their own retirement account. In 2010, state securities regulators initiated more than 1200 enforcement actions, including criminal complaints and cease-and-desist orders, involving investors ages 50 or older, according to the North American Securities Administrators Association. That was more than double the 506 cases in 2009.

FINRA Investor Education Foundation, specializing in investment fraud, has a plethora of valuable information to help you sort through your next investment decision making. FINRA has provided three key strategies you can use if you aren’t certain about a specific investment opportunity:

1. End the conversation

Practice saying “No”. Simply tell the person, “I am sorry, I am not interested. Thanks you.” Or tell anyone who pressures you, “I never make investing decisions without first consulting my___. I will contact you if I am still interested.” Fill in the blank with whomever you choose – your spouse, child, investment professional, attorney or accountant. Knowing your exit strategy in advance makes it easier to leave the conversation, even if the pressure starts rising.

2. Turn the tables and ask questions

A legitimate investment professional must be properly licensed, and his or her firm must be registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or a state securities regulator, depending on the type of business the firm conducts.

3. Talk to someone first

Be extremely skeptical if the person promoting the deal says, “Don’t tell anyone else about this special deal!” A legitimate investment professional won’t ask you to keep secrets.

Exercising these three key strategies will help protect you from fraudsters. Remember, the more knowledgeable you are when making investments, the less likely you are to become a victim. When making an investment there’s no urgency to race against the clock – take your time and make an informed decision.

For more information on protecting yourself from investment fraud, visit www.bbb.org and www.saveandinvest.org. Your BBB conducts a FREE Speakers Bureau program on Outsmarting Investment Fraud. If you or organizations you are involved with are interested in booking a BBB Speaker for your next event, please contact Caitlin Vancas at 877.267.5222 or cvancas@pittsburgh.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

BBB Hot Topics - September 2012

9/28/2012

Posted on 9/28/2012 by

Pittsburgh, PA – September 28, 2012 – The Better Business Bureau of Western PA’s Hot Topics is a monthly alert regarding companies across all industries that are currently targeting Western Pennsylvania consumers. The Hot Topics list and information is also available on the BBB website under the News Center.

The following report is based on your BBB’s research as of September 28, 2012 and includes information received at our office on companies marketing to local Pennsylvanians. Click on the company name for an updated BBB report. Please take into consideration the importance of the practice and total performance of the company. To access over four million companies nationwide, visit www.bbb.org.

1. Central Tax Bureau of PA Inc – Tax return preparation

Central Tax Bureau of PA Inc is a Pennsylvania based company with 9 out of 14 complaints closed with BBB in the last 12 months. Complainants allege that they have never received their local tax refunds and after calling the company, nobody can be reached and there is no way to leave a message. After attempts to contact the business via mail, BBB has found that the company is either unreachable or appears to be out of business. For helpful tips on choosing a trustworthy tax preparer, visit www.bbb.org.

2. Discounted Telecommunications Services – Telephone Billing

An F rated company, the majority of complaints processed by BBB concern credit or billing issues. Consumers report that charges ranging from $4 to $8 appear on monthly business telephone bills without prior authorization. These charges are listed to Discounted Telecom-Spec (DTS) or Discounted Telecom-Spec Svcs. In some cases the company has responded to complaints by explaining that these charges are for a discount directory assistance service plan that is billed monthly; and by issuing credits for the disputed charges and canceling the service.

3. Eagle Carports, Inc – Self-supporting steel structures

Based out of Virginia, Eagle Carports, Inc has 55 complaints closed with BBB in the last 3 years concerning that the quality of the product was not as advertised, and service/repair issues. BBB files indicate that this business has a pattern of complaints regarding delivery and installation issues. In June 2012, BBB sent correspondence to the company requesting voluntary cooperation and to provide steps it will implement to eliminate the pattern of complaints however, to date; BBB has not received a response from the company. Company president, Mr. Gabriel Torres, is also the president of Tri-State Carports, Inc. which has an F rating with the BBB.

4. Ocwen Loan Servicing, LLC – Residential/commercial loan servicing

BBB has closed 751 complaints in the last 12 months against Ocwen Loan Servicing, LLC. Consumer concerns include inability to reach the same person to discuss issues with alleged excessive add-on fees, processing of payments in a timely fashion and failure to respond to requests for loan modifications in a timely manner. The company states that fees associated with each loan are agreed to as part of the loan service agreement it has with the owner of the loan. The company responds to some complaints explaining its position and offering refunds when applicable while others are unanswered. Consumers who have been unable to speak with a representative may contact Making Home Affordable. Check out BBB’s tips on new laws and regulations on mortgages.

5. Pacific Coast Clearing Services – Magazine sales

Factors that lowered Pacific Coast Clearing Services BBB rating include 86 complaints filed against the business in the last 3 years and 7 serious complaints filed against the business. BBB has received a pattern of complaints from consumers alleging the business uses high-pressure and deceptive sales tactics. Consumers also claim that after paying for subscriptions, delivery of magazines is delayed and the business becomes difficult to reach. Visit www.bbb.org for tips on what to do if you are contacted by a magazine telemarketer.

6. Zeal Funding Services LLC – Financial consultants

With 277 complaints closed by BBB in the last 12 months, Zeal Funding Services LLC has a pattern of complaints in which consumers allege that the business charged their bank account without their knowledge. While the business responds to some complaints by explaining their terms and conditions and offering refunds, they have not addressed the underlying reason in which complaints are filed and there are unanswered and unresolved complaints. In July 2012, the Utah Division of Consumer Protection issued an Administrative Citation against the company alleging that the Respondents made unauthorized debits from multiple consumer accounts. BBB warns consumers to read all of the terms and conditions and any popup boxes that may appear after entering information.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free Business and Charity Reviews and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB offers dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Visit www.bbb.org for more information about BBB.

BBB Issues Visual Voicemail Scam Warning

9/24/2012

Posted on 9/24/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – September 24, 2012 – As you check your daily emails, BBB is warning consumers to be wary of a new twist on the phishing scam involving fake “visual voicemail” emails. These emails send notification of the recipient supposedly receiving a new voicemail message. In this new approach to a classic scam, if the attachment is clicked on, he or she will be taken to a scam website.

Emails containing the visual voicemail scam appear to come from Microsoft Outlook on “Behalf of an Anonymous Caller,” but the messages reference a variety of URLs and phone numbers. Of the cases BBB has seen, emails contain an “Email ID” that appears to be from an internal company email address.

“With the advancements in technology and increase in daily computer usage by consumers, scammers continue to grow more sophisticated in their scamming techniques,” says Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. Though the classic phishing scam has been around for years, it is likely that we will continue to see new variations of this same scam, so it is important for consumers to remain vigilant.

Your BBB offers the following tips to consumers to help safeguard against internet scammers:

Don’t click the attachment. The email attachment appears to be a .wav audio file, but it is really an HTML link that redirects recipients to a malicious website. This destination website may download malware to scan for banking and other sensitive information on a computer.

Protect your computer. Regularly run anti-virus software updates on your computer and do a full system scan. If you receive any kind of phishing email, delete it from your computer completely and empty your trash can or recycling bin as well.

Check for signs of a fake. Read the email carefully for misspellings and incorrect grammar, as this can be a sign that it originated internationally. Be skeptical of any unsolicited electronic requests, even if it appears to come from a known business or organization.

Spot scams first. Visit www.bbb.org and read BBB’s tips on identifying and avoiding phishing scams. Check Scam Source to find information about scams targeting businesses and consumers in your area. Through Scam Source, you can report a potential scam in your area, as well as subscribe to BBB’s new scam alerts.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

In an Emergency, When Seconds Count, Know Where to Turn

9/21/2012

Posted on 9/21/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – September 21, 2012 – Since September is National Preparedness Month, it is a great time to ensure your family’s emergency readiness. Knowing what to do before, during and after an emergency is a critical part of being prepared and may make all the difference when the seconds start to count. Your Better Business Bureau is urging families to devise and discuss their disaster plans with their loved ones.

Safety is paramount in an emergency, but basic protective actions – for instance, whether to evacuate or shelter-in-place – can differ depending upon the disaster. There are important differences among potential emergencies that should influence the decisions you make and the actions you take. Families should familiarize themselves with the website of FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which outlines the emergencies that could potentially occur where you live and offers the appropriate ways to respond to each.

Two things every family needs no matter what the disaster, whether a natural disaster or terrorism, are an emergency plan and an emergency kit.

Recommended items for an emergency kit include:

a gallon of water per person per day for three days,
a three-day supply of nonperishable food for each family member,
a flashlight with extra batteries,
first-aid kit,
a whistle to signal for help,
dust masks,
a wrench or pliers to turn off utilities,
a power inverter or solar charger for your cell phone.

You may consider including prescriptions (at the very least a list of prescriptions), infant formula and diapers, pet food and cash. Place copies of important family documents (insurance policies, identification and financial records) in a waterproof, portable container near your escape route. Pencil and paper, paper cups and plates, and plastic utensils are useful. If you have children, pack some games, books or puzzles. Maintaining your kit is also important. You will want to replace stored water and food about every six months. Mark the date on containers or cans.

For an emergency plan, make sure all family members know where to meet and who to contact in case you get separated. A relative or friend in another area is an ideal emergency contact person. Make sure everyone in the family knows how to send and receive text messages. Consider downloading smart phone apps that provide emergency information.

For more helpful tips and information you can trust, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

Grandparent Scams are on the Rise – Do You Know the Red Flags?

9/10/2012

Posted on 9/10/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – September 10, 2012 – Did you know that this Sunday was National Grandparents Day? Your Better Business Bureau hopes that as you continue to spend time with the grandparents you love, you will recognize the importance of taking the time to educate them about the scams that target them. BBB is warning well-meaning seniors about “emergency” scams designed to fool them into thinking that their grandchild is hurt, arrested or stranded, and in need of money.

According to recent FBI reports, the “Grandparent Scam” has been around since 2008, but there has been a surge recently. Retirees are an attractive target for financial scammers. As noted by Western Union, emergency scams play off of peoples’ emotions and strong desire to help others in need. Scammers impersonate their victims and make up an urgent situation – “I’ve been arrested,” “I’ve been mugged,” “I’m in the hospital” – and target friends and family with urgent pleas for help, and money.

BBB offers the following tips to avoid the Grandparent Scam:

Communicate. Teens should share travel plans with family members before leaving the state or country.

Share information. Teens should provide the cell phone number and email address of a friend they are traveling with in the case of an emergency. Family members should remind students to be cautious when sharing details about travel plans on social media.

Know the red flags. Typically, the grandparent receives a frantic phone call from a scammer posing as their grandchild. The “grandchild” explains that he or she has gotten into trouble and needs help, perhaps caused a car accident or was arrested for drug possession. The "grandchild" pleads to the grandparents not to tell his or her parents and asks that they wire thousands of dollars for reasons posting bail, repairing the car, covering lawyer's fees or even paying hospital bills for a person the grandchild injured in a car accident.

Ask a personal question, but don’t disclose too much information. If a grandparent receives a call from someone claiming to be their grandchild in distress, BBB advises that the grandparent not disclose any information before confirming that it really is their grandchild. If a caller says "It's me, Grandma!" don't respond with a name, but instead let the caller explain who he or she is. One easy way to confirm their identity is to ask a simple question that the grandchild would know such as what school he or she goes to or their middle name.

For more helpful tips and information you can trust, visit www.bbb.org or contact 877.267.5222.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

Is Money Tight? Don’t Ignore Your Retirement Plan!

9/5/2012

Posted on 9/5/2012 by

Pittsburgh, PA – September 6, 2012 –During challenging economic times, it can be tempting to forego contributions to your retirement account, or even pull money out of an existing account to cover other expenses. Some plans allow you to withdraw money for certain hardship reasons (to prevent eviction or foreclosure, for instance), but there can be some pretty tough financial consequences for tapping or ignoring your retirement plan.

The FINRA Investor Education Foundation offers the following good reasons to keep your retirement savings intact (note that these rules are regarding U.S. laws):

1. Tax Liability—Unless you are over the age of 59 ½, you will not only have to pay income taxes on the amount you withdraw, but you will also be subject to a 10% tax penalty. In most cases, your employer will withhold 20% in federal taxes, so the amount you receive will be significantly lower than the amount you requested.

2. Opportunity Costs—The repercussions of withdrawing funds from your 401(k) could be enormous in terms of lost growth opportunity. For example, let's assume you are 30 years old, and have a 401(k) balance of $20,000. If you leave that money alone, and your account averages a 6% rate of return over the next 32 years, your balance at retirement will be $129,068 when you're 62—even if you do not make any additional contributions during that time. If you take it out, you will have nothing. Even if you have a shorter time horizon, you will forego significant savings opportunities by taking money out of your 401(k). For a 45-year-old, that $20,000 will grow to $53,855 in 17 years.

3. Opening Assets to Creditors—Under the Bankruptcy Abuse Protection and Consumer Protection Act of 2005, creditors cannot touch your 401(k) balance or similar retirement savings account—even if, as a last resort, you file for bankruptcy protection. Balances in traditional and Roth IRAs are also protected up to a limit of $1 million. But if you take money out of your retirement plan through a loan or a hardship or regular withdrawal, your creditors can go after that sum.

Another warning: watch out for products that allow you to withdraw your retirement funds and reinvest them elsewhere. FINRA warns that 72(t) withdrawals from an IRA and 401(k) debit cards can deplete your retirement savings and damage your retirement security.

It’s best to look at other ways to save or borrow – tightening your belt on expenses, taking advantage of employer match programs to keep funding your IRA or 401(k), contributing pre-tax dollars to a retirement plan, etc. You may also be able to borrow from your 401(k) without actually taking a withdrawal; this would reduce your tax burden and would likely come with a lower interest rate than a bank loan. Check with your plan administrator on whether or not this option is available.

For more helpful information and tips on this and other financial topics, check out www.bbb.org and www.saveandinvest.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and charity BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

Vote for a Scam Free Election Season

9/5/2012

Posted on 9/5/2012 by

Pittsburgh, PA – September 5, 2012 – Scammers are gearing up for this year’s Presidential election, with robocalls offering a “free cruise” for taking a political survey, to promises that President Obama will pay your utility bill. The Better Business Bureau is advising voters to be on the lookout for the growing number of scams that are likely to continue leading up to the Presidential election.

Scammers use incentives based on what they think voters want to hear. Hot topics such as health care, economic recovery and unemployment, are alluring topics this election season, but it can be anything in the news that makes the pitch sound more realistic. Here are a few of the election-related scams BBB is hearing about. Avoid becoming a victim:

There will not be a “free cruise” at the end of the voting survey. This public opinion poll scam typically involves a recorded announcement offering a “free cruise” in exchange for participating in a telephone survey. At the end of the call, consumers are asked for a debit or credit card number to cover “port fees” and taxes. Consumers who hesitate or ask if they can call back in order to verify the caller’s identity are subject to high-pressure tactics, such as being told that the offer “is only good right now,” and that if they hang up they will be disqualified.

President Obama is not going to pay your utility bill. As nice as that would be, it’s not going to happen. Consumers have been contacted through fliers, social media, text messages, and even door-to-door with claims that President Obama is providing credits or applying payments to utility bills. Scammers claim they need the consumer’s Social Security and bank routing numbers to arrange the payments. In return, customers are given a phony bank routing number that will supposedly pay their utility bills. In reality, there is no money, and customers believe they have paid their bills when in fact they have not. Worse, they have just given away everything needed for identity fraud.

Fundraising calls for political donations may not be real. Consumers have reported calls from organizations that sound legitimate, but may not really be related to either the Obama or Romney campaigns. If you aren’t sure, don’t donate over the phone. If you’d like to contribute to a political campaign or party, locate contact information yourself rather than giving out financial information to a caller. Requesting a callback number is no guarantee you will be connected with a legitimate campaign fundraising committee. Call or visit candidates’ websites to obtain contact information to make donations.

No one will check your eligibility to vote. Your voter registration record is with your state and no one is going to call or email you to verify your eligibility. What do these callers claim they need to check? Just your credit card or Social Security number. Say no!

Don’t fall for these scams. Legitimate polling companies will never offer prizes for participating in a telephone survey, nor ask for a credit card number. Never provide your Social Security number, credit card number or banking information to anyone requesting it over the phone or at your home unless you initiated the contact and feel confident with whom you are speaking. Do not give in to high pressure tactics, whether over the phone or in person.

For more tips and helpful information you can trust, visit www.bbb.org.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and charity BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

BBB Hot Topics - August 2012

8/22/2012

Posted on 8/22/2012 by

Pittsburgh, PA – August 22, 2012 – The Better Business Bureau of Western PA’s Hot Topics is a monthly alert regarding companies across all industries that are currently targeting Western Pennsylvania consumers. The Hot Topics list and information is also available on the BBB website under the News Center.

The following report is based on your BBB’s research as of August 22, 2012 and includes information received at our office on companies marketing to local Pennsylvanians. Click on the company name for an updated BBB report. Please take into consideration the importance of the practice and total performance of the company. To access over four million companies nationwide, visit www.bbb.org.

Common Wealth Federal Holdings – Escrow Service

Common Wealth Federal Holdings is an escrow company involved in a timeshare resale scheme. On July 25, 2012, BBB verified that this company is not currently registered with the Department of State to do business in PA. BBB also confirmed that the Pittsburgh address provided by the company is fictitious per the owners of that actual property. Consumers allege that they have lost money from sale commission, have not received money from the sale of timeshare rights and that timeshare sale paperwork is incorrect. For BBB timeshare sale and resale tips, visit www.bbb.org.

Financial Services Center – Advance fees for loan modification

An F rated company, Financial Services Center has had 52 complaints closed with BBB in the last 12 months. Complainants allege the company collects advance fees for loan modification document preparation, but that loan modifications are not filed with lenders as agreed. Complainants allege they are unable to obtain refunds of advance payments, or unable to cancel pre-arranged bank debits. Some complainants report they are sent to collections when services are canceled. The business has not responded to 12 BBB complaints filed against it and has 3 unresolved complaints and 2 serious complaints. View BBB’s tips on loan modification.

Magic Kids, Inc. – Online store and work-at-home opportunity

Based out of California, Magic Kids, Inc. has 42 complaints closed with BBB in the last 3 years and has not responded to 19 complaints. Some complainants allege difficulty obtaining customer support to return merchandise or to obtain refunds. Other complainants allege they cannot reach the company by phone and attempts to return merchandise were unsuccessful. Some claim that the company’s advertising regarding its work-at-home opportunity misrepresented the offer or that they did not make any money and thus were dissatisfied and requested refunds but failed to receive any. The company responds to some complaints by issuing refunds as per their agreement or explaining the terms of their agreements. In a few cases, the company contends that the complainants were outside any refund period but in some cases offered a partial refund. Take BBB’s tips into consideration when you apply for a work-at-home position or shop online.

4. Mid American Opportunity Research Enterprises, Inc. – Multi-level selling company

Based on consumer complaints, M.O.R.E. Inc. consistently misrepresents its services, return on investments and general business programs through its advertising and promotional campaigns. BBB stresses that consumers need to read the agreement before they sign it because they only have 30 days to request a refund if they decide not to participate in the program. Some complainants state that upon responding to the company’s offer, there were additional monthly fees or that the company did not provide the additional services it stated would be available. The company has failed to substantiate advertising claims when requested by BBB in 2007 and 2009 and BBB believes M.O.R.E’s advertising campaigns can be misleading to consumers.

Progressive Business Publications – Business Directory

BBB has closed 2,035 complaints against Progressive Business Publications in the last 3 years and 887 complaints in the last 12 months. While this company has responded to BBB complaints and concerns, its business performance record demonstrates a pattern alleging billing for unordered merchandise. The company claims that it tapes telephone solicitations for quality control purposes and that it obtains the ordering person's birth date to verify the order. The company claims it has a liberal cancellation policy permitting customers to cancel anytime within the first 3 months of the telephone order and receive refunds on all unsent issues. The company claims its BBB complaint volume is negligible compared to its volume of business.

Warranty Activation Headquarters – Auto service contract company

Complainants of Warranty Activation Headquarters primarily allege difficulty cancelling and obtaining refunds, misleading advertisements, poor customer service, failure to cover repair costs and misrepresentation of the warranty coverage. Other complainants of this F rated company allege the company used misleading sales tactics, made harassing calls and sent flyers after the consumer asked that contact cease. Warranty Activation Headquarters was included in a 6 vehicle extended warranty lawsuit filed by the Missouri Attorney General, charging it with unfair and deceptive practices violations. The company has also failed to respond to a BBB ad review challenge. Check out BBB’s tips on auto service contracts for more industry information.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free Business and Charity Reviews and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB offers dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Visit www.bbb.org for more information about BBB.

Shop Smart on Back-to-School Supplies this School Year

8/21/2012

Posted on 8/21/2012 by

The days of summer are drawing to a close and annual back-to-school specials are starting to surface. Whether you plan to shop at your favorite retail store or reuse supplies from last year, the Better Business Bureau of Western PA (BBB) recommends sticking to a budget to avoid overspending on school supplies.

According to the National Retail Federation, back-to-school spending on children is projected to increase from last year. It is estimated that the average person will spend an average of $688.62 per child in grades K-12, an increase from $603.63 last year. The overall spending for back-to-school is expected to hit $30.3 billion.

“The start of a new school year is always an exciting time and it can be easy to over spend when shopping for supplies,” says Warren King, president of the BBB of Western PA. “Prior to your shopping trip, sort through the supplies you already have that can be reused and create a shopping list of only the items you really need.”

The BBB recommends considering the following when it comes to back-to-school shopping:

· Take inventory. There’s always that endless supply of markers, crayons and notebooks around the house. Reusing these items can save hundreds of dollars over the years. Consider repackaging by sharpening, and cleaning older, gently used items before buying new ones.

· Look for the deals. Some retailers’ back-to-school specials are available for online and in-store purchase. Make sure to check out your local source for deals. Oftentimes, retailers will put ads showcasing the special buy-one-get-one free deals, or coupled items (i.e. a backpack and lunchbox packaged together) to entice customers. Shopping earlier offers a wider selection of merchandise and more opportunity for savings.

· Set a budget. Determine how much you are willing to spend per child, and include your children for a “teachable moment” on creating a budget. After taking inventory, create a shopping list and stick to it. This will help you avoid costly impulse purchases and ensure nothing is forgotten.

· Know what your child's school allows. Schools will often provide parents with a list of required items for the school year, which can help determine what you need to purchase. These lists are also available at many retail stores and on school websites. Additionally, many schools have specific dress codes, so keep these restrictions in mind before spending money on clothes the school may not allow.

· Check for refund and exchange policies. Be sure you can exchange or return items. Keep in mind some items may be non-refundable or have restocking fees associated with a return. If you are shopping online or in stores make sure to check out the company’s Business Review beforehand at www.bbb.org.

Start the new school year with trust with your Better Business Bureau. For more resources on shopping smart, lists of BBB Accredited Businesses by industry and Business Reviews you can trust on local companies, visit www.bbb.org or call 877-267-5222.”

Door-to-Door Selling Complaints Projected to Double Over Last Year

8/16/2012

Posted on 8/16/2012 by

In 2012, BBB has already received more than a thousand complaints about door-to-door magazine sellers and dealers; a number that’s well on its way to nearly doubling last year’s 1,300 complaints. Sellers often use high pressure sales tactics that can cause anyone to fall victim.

“It can be easy for consumers to be taken by unethical door-to-door solicitors who are experienced smooth talkers,” says Warren King, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “Many times consumers end up losing their money and sometimes are not even aware that they have actually made a purchase.”

BBB offers these tips on dealing with high pressure, door-to-door sellers:

Magazine subscriptions: BBB has already received more than 600 complaints in 2012 against companies selling magazines door-to-door. The most common complaint BBB receives involves consumers paying for magazines they never receive. Several consumers allege the sales representative misled them by claiming to work for a local school or charity fundraiser.

Food products: Sales representatives knock on doors selling produce or meat products, claiming their prices are much lower than grocery stores. So far in 2012, BBB has received 25 complaints against companies selling meat products door-to-door. Consumer complaints to BBB allege that their orders never arrive, or are not of the high quality originally promised.

Other industries employing door-to-door sales tactics that BBB receives the most complaints about are cosmetics, photography and cleaning supply companies.

If visited by a door-to-door sales representative, BBB recommends consumers do the following:

Be safe. Ask for identification before you open the door. Never invite the solicitor into your home.

Be wary of high pressure sales tactics. A trustworthy company should let you take time to think about the purchase and compare prices before buying or putting down a deposit.

Research the company with BBB. Visit www.bbb.org to view the company’s BBB Business Review to find out more about their marketplace performance. If you have a smart phone, you can download and use the BBB app to access the company’s report while the person is standing at your door, or visit m.bbb.org on your mobile device.

Get transaction details in writing. Be sure you receive a contract or receipt explaining the details of your purchase and all the terms and conditions that apply.

Remember the “Three-Day Cooling-Off Rule.” The Federal Trade Commission’s Three-Day Cooling-Off Rule gives consumers three days to cancel purchases of more than $25 that are made in their home or at a location that is not the seller’s permanent place of business. Along with a receipt, the salesperson should always provide a cancellation form that can be sent to the company to cancel the purchase within three days. By law, the company must give consumers a refund within 10 days of receiving the cancellation notice.

Listen carefully and be aware of high pressure sales tactics. Some unscrupulous door-to-door sellers will put pressure on you to close the deal at that moment, and even make special offers to entice you. Listen to their tone. Are they increasing in volume as they speak to you? Are they ignoring you despite saying you are not interested? Find a way to end the conversation quickly to avoid long, drawn-out sales pitches.

Stand strong. Do not invite unsolicited salespeople into your home. If you do allow a salesperson inside and decide during the presentation that you are not interested in making a purchase, simply ask him or her to leave. If the salesperson refuses to leave, threaten to call the police, and follow through if they don’t leave immediately.

Victims of fraudulent door-to-door sales can file a complaint with their Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org, local law enforcement, or PA Attorney General’s office.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

Door-to-Door Selling Complaints Projected to Double Over Last Year

8/16/2012

Posted on 8/16/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – August 16, 2012 – The Better Business Bureau receives thousands of complaints from consumers every year who unknowingly fall for scheming door-to-door solicitors. While many door-to-door salespersons are honest, BBB receives troubling complaints from consumers who have purchased items such as magazines that never came, cosmetics, poor quality photography and even spoiled meat. BBB warns that deceptive door-to-door sellers are looking to make a quick buck and they are on the rise.

BBB offers these tips on dealing with high pressure, door-to-door sellers:

Magazine subscriptions: BBB has already received more than 600 complaints in 2012 against companies selling magazines door-to-door. The most common complaint BBB receives involves consumers paying for magazines they never receive. Several consumers allege the sales representative misled them by claiming to work for a local school or charity fundraiser.

Food products: Sales representatives knock on doors selling produce or meat products, claiming their prices are much lower than grocery stores. So far in 2012, BBB has received 25 complaints against companies selling meat products door-to-door. Consumer complaints to BBB allege that their orders never arrive, or are not of the high quality originally promised.

Other industries employing door-to-door sales tactics that BBB receives the most complaints about are cosmetics, photography and cleaning supply companies.

If visited by a door-to-door sales representative, BBB recommends consumers do the following:

Be safe. Ask for identification before you open the door. Never invite the solicitor into your home.

Be wary of high pressure sales tactics. A trustworthy company should let you take time to think about the purchase and compare prices before buying or putting down a deposit.

Research the company with BBB. Visit www.bbb.org to view the company’s BBB Business Review to find out more about their marketplace performance. If you have a smart phone, you can download and use the BBB app to access the company’s report while the person is standing at your door, or visit m.bbb.org on your mobile device.

Get transaction details in writing. Be sure you receive a contract or receipt explaining the details of your purchase and all the terms and conditions that apply.

Remember the “Three-Day Cooling-Off Rule.” The Federal Trade Commission’s Three-Day Cooling-Off Rule gives consumers three days to cancel purchases of more than $25 that are made in their home or at a location that is not the seller’s permanent place of business. Along with a receipt, the salesperson should always provide a cancellation form that can be sent to the company to cancel the purchase within three days. By law, the company must give consumers a refund within 10 days of receiving the cancellation notice.

Listen carefully and be aware of high pressure sales tactics. Some unscrupulous door-to-door sellers will put pressure on you to close the deal at that moment, and even make special offers to entice you. Listen to their tone. Are they increasing in volume as they speak to you? Are they ignoring you despite saying you are not interested? Find a way to end the conversation quickly to avoid long, drawn-out sales pitches.

Stand strong. Do not invite unsolicited salespeople into your home. If you do allow a salesperson inside and decide during the presentation that you are not interested in making a purchase, simply ask him or her to leave. If the salesperson refuses to leave, threaten to call the police, and follow through if they don’t leave immediately.

Victims of fraudulent door-to-door sales can file a complaint with their Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org, local law enforcement, or PA Attorney General’s office.

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

McGraw-Hill and Better Business Bureau Launch Free Personal Finance App for Military Families

8/15/2012

Posted on 8/15/2012 by

New York and Arlington, VA, August 15, 2012 – The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE: MHP), in partnership with Better Business Bureau (BBB), today launched a free mobile app designed to help America’s military families make better personal decisions to ensure their financial independence. The Military & Money App is the first financial educational app that provides service members and their spouses easy-to-use and practical money management tips, including tools to reduce debt and maximize savings.

“Many of our military personnel are young and inexperienced with money management, and their finances are impacted disproportionately by long deployments, protracted family separation and frequent moves,” said Brenda Linnington, Director, BBB Military Line. “This free, independent resource offers unbiased information tailored to address the unique personal finance issues that confront our men and women in uniform, and can help them make better informed decisions about money.”

“The brave men and women of our Armed Forces make selfless sacrifices every day to protect our freedoms,” said Harold McGraw III, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of The McGraw-Hill Companies. “Today, we underscore our appreciation by supporting their financial independence and security.”

“While many military families are thriving, common stressors can further erode their resilience…[I]n surveys conducted by the Department of Defense (DOD), military families have listed personal financial management as number two in their list of biggest sources of stress,” according to Strengthening Our Military Families: Meeting America’s Commitment, a report commissioned by President Obama in 2010 and released last year.

Military service members are often the targets of consumer fraud and high-interest predatory loans, and are heavily indebted, especially to credit card issuers. According to a 2010 survey by the FINRA Investor Education Foundation, 27 percent of military respondents had $10,000 or more in credit card debt compared with 16 percent of civilians. The survey also found “as many as one in three of enlisted personnel and junior NCOs reported using at least one method of non-bank borrowing [such as a predatory loan] in the past five years, compared with 24 percent of civilians.”

Key features of the app include training videos on budgeting and managing debt, calculators to track cash flow and build savings and debt reduction plans, and a prompt that sends monthly savings reminders.

The Military & Money App is available free on iTunes. A companion website can be found at www.militaryandmoney.com

McGraw-Hill and BBB’s collaboration is part of First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden’s “Joining Forces" initiative, which mobilizes all sectors of society to give U.S. service members and their families the opportunities and support they deserve. McGraw-Hill and BBB Military Line announced last year they were joining together as part of this initiative to develop and deliver expanded financial literacy and consumer protection programs to military families.

McGraw-Hill, a leading global financial information and education company, has been focused on improving financial literacy around the world for more than a decade. The company’s campaign for financial literacy recently trained 2,520 teachers to enhance the financial education of 205,000 students. BBB Military Line provides free resources to military communities in the areas of financial literacy and consumer protection through the efforts of 105 BBBs across the U.S.

Stay up-to-date on McGraw-Hill’s financial literacy campaign and receive messages on all matters personal finance related by following @FinLitNow on Twitter.

About The McGraw-Hill Companies:

McGraw-Hill announced on September 12, 2011, its intention to separate into two companies: McGraw-Hill Financial, a leading provider of content and analytics to global financial markets, and McGraw-Hill Education, a leading education company focused on digital learning and education services worldwide. McGraw-Hill Financial’s leading brands include Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services, S&P Capital IQ, S&P Dow Jones Indices, Platts energy information services and J.D. Power and Associates. With sales of $6.2 billion in 2011, the Corporation has approximately 23,000 employees across more than 280 offices in 40 countries. Additional information is available at http://www.mcgraw-hill.com/. Get news direct from McGraw-Hill via RSS.

ABOUT BBB:

For 100 years, Better Business Bureau has been helping consumers find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2011, consumers turned to BBB more than 100 million times for Business Reviews on more than 4 million companies and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at www.bbb.org. The Council of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for 115 local, independent BBBs across the United States and Canada, as well as home to its national programs on dispute resolution and industry self-regulation.

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Email Phishing Scam Hijacks BBB Name, Again!

8/1/2012

Posted on 8/1/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – August 1, 2012 - A new scam using the BBB name popped up this morning, and has been received by consumers and businesses across the U.S. and Canada, including many BBB offices!

How the Scam Works:

Two versions of the email have been received. One claims to be following up on a complaint filed with BBB. The other is asking for updated contact information “as a service to BBB Accredited Businesses.”

Both are good fakes – they use correct grammar and follow formats often used by BBB, so they look quite realistic. Both refer the recipient to an online form, and the address appears to be that of a local BBB. However, if you hover your mouse over the web address (the part that begins with http), you can see that the real address is not BBB at all. DO NOT CLICK ON THE LINK! The link actually takes you to a rogue website that downloads a Trojan virus on your computer.

BBB is working with a professional deactivation service to take down the websites that are spreading the malware, and we have reported the incident to the FBI and other law enforcement agencies. Consumers are urged to delete suspicious emails and keep their anti-virus software up-to-date at all times.

Example of the Phishing Email:

Check out a screen shot of a sample phishing email. The text is below:

Thank you for supporting your Better Business Bureau (BBB).

As a service to BBB Accredited Businesses, we try to ensure that the information we provide to potential customers is as accurate as possible. In order for us to provide the correct information to the public, we ask that you review the information that we have on file for your company.

We encourage you to use our ONLINE FORM to provide us with this updated information. The URL below will take you directly to this form on our website:

[LINK REMOVED]

(UserID: 882600422 Password: mcvn34JDF3r54f)

You may also complete the form on the reverse side of this letter and mail to PO Box 1000; DuPont, WA; 98327; or fax to (206)436-5496.

Please look carefully at your telephone and fax numbers on this sheet, and let us know any and all numbers used for your business (including 800, 900, rollover, and remote call forwarding). Our automated system is driven by telephone/fax numbers, so having accurate information is critical for consumers to find information about your business easily.

Thank you again for your support, and we look forward to receiving this updated information.

Sincerely,

Accreditation Services

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About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports^TM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 115 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

BBB Rings the NYSE Bell to Celebrate Centennial

7/30/2012

Posted on 7/30/2012 by

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – July 30, 2012 - To celebrate its Centennial and 100 years of fostering marketplace trust between businesses and consumers, Better Business Bureau (BBB) executives and guests visited the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on Friday to ring the closing bell. A video of the bell ringing was made available shortly after the market closed.

Carrie A. Hurt, President and CEO of the Council of Better Business Bureaus, rang the closing bell to mark the organization’s 100th anniversary. BBB was founded in 1912 as the Advertising Vigilance Committee by corporate executives who were fed up with deceptive advertising and fraudulent claims. Samuel Candler Dobbs, a vice president of Coca-Cola, drafted “The Ten Commandments of Advertising,” and dozens of corporations signed the manifesto. Later that year, the first local group was founded in Minneapolis.

The Better Business Bureau name was suggested in 1916 by Arthur F. Sheldon, the founder of a school on salesmanship, and the organization continued to grow. The first national office opened in 1921 in Cleveland, Ohio, and the first Canadian BBB opened in 1928 in Montreal. The organization today has 115 local, independent BBBs across the U.S. and Canada that maintain BBB Business Reviews on more than four million businesses, handle dispute resolution for nearly one million complaints a year, and alert consumers of scams and fraudulent business practices.

For a century, BBB has fostered trust in the marketplace by helping consumers make smarter buying decisions through BBB Business Reviews; resolving disputes between consumers and businesses; and educating the public on scams and fraud.

370,000 BBB Accredited Businesses are committed to following the organization’s strict Code of Business Practices, which includes guidelines on ethics, customer service, transparency, financial management, advertising and privacy. They also must maintain at least a B rating in order to remain accredited. The support of these businesses enables BBB to offer virtually all of its services to consumers for free.

In addition to Hurt, guests on the platform included:

● Claire Rosenzweig, President and CEO, BBB of Metropolitan New York

● Sheryl Bilbrey, President and CEO, BBB San Diego and chair of the BBB Operating Committee

● Rhonda J. McLean, Chair of BBB of Metropolitan New York and Deputy General Counsel, Time Inc.

● Lisa Davis, Vice Chair of BBB of Metropolitan New York and Sr. Director Communications & Public Affairs, Sony Corporation of America

● Brian F. Doran, Treasurer of BBB of Metropolitan New York and Region Executive, New York Metro Region & Director of Governmental Affairs, Popular Community Bank

● Michael Portegello, Vice Chair of BBB of Metropolitan New York and Partner, Ernst & Young LLP

● Valerie Reardon, Vice Chair of BBB of Metropolitan New York and Senior Vice President, Compliance, Internal Audit and Internal Controls, EmblemHealth

● Edward J. DeSalvio, Board Member of BBB of Metropolitan New York and Managing Director, Asset Recovery Division, BNY Mellon

● Beverly Baskin, CBBB Senior Vice President, Client Services

● Lee Peeler, CBBB Executive Vice President

● Katherine Hutt, CBBB Director of Communications and Media Relations