Quad City consumers lose thousands of dollars each year to common misperceptions.

The Better Business Bureau wants you to know the facts 

BE AN EDUCATED CONSUMER: KNOW THE DANGER SIGNALS OF SCAMS

• A deal that sounds much better than any being advertised by firms you know to be legitimate-offers that are "too good to be true".
• Out of area company's who provides no telephone numbers, and uses a PO Box or mail drop, rather than a full street address.
• Pressure words, such as "urgent" or "final deadline" sprinkled throughout the sales literature.
• Immediate request or demand for a check, money order, or cash picked up by a courier or to be sent to a mail drop or PO Box.
• A name and/or logo that closely mimics that of a respected brand or business
• Vague answers or none at all to key questions you ask about the offer

Take your time deciding; be firm in the face of pressure.  

FACT: Oral Contracts are not legally binding

• Make sure your written contract includes all provisions of the job...
• Understand the conditions of the contract before you sign it...
• And keep a copy of the contract as proof of the agreement...

FICTION: Almost all of the money contributed to charity must go to the intended purpose.

• Charities are not obligated to spend a minimum percentage of what they raise on their stated charitable purpose. When in doubt, request written information concerning what percentage of funds raised actually goes to help those in need.

FICTION: You have the right to cancel any purchase within three days.

• Contrary to popular belief, the three-day "Cooling-off" rule (right to cancel) applies to only a limited number of cash or credit transactions of $25 or more. The rule applies to door-to-door sales or other places other than at the company's regular place of business. Purchases of automobiles and other vehicles are not usually covered.

For more consumer tips, contact the Better Business Bureau  

This message has been brought to you by these area supporters of the Better Business Bureau.

QCA Pools & Spas
JD Byrider
Hiland Toyota
Audibel Hi-Tech Hearing Care
Bettendorf Home Repair, Inc.
M & I Construction
Hintermeister Electric
Done Right Satellite, LLC