Jacquelyn Lynn - Online Consumer Advice and Commentary

Consumer Advisory: Harrisburg, PA, Attorney General Corbett cautions consumers about “mystery shopper” counterfeit check scam

2008-02-19T12:11:00.000-08:00

HARRISBURG, PA — Attorney General Tom Corbett cautioned consumers to be wary of counterfeit check scams which are disguised as offers seeking “mystery shoppers” for major retail stores.

Corbett said the scam mailing typically includes an official-looking notice informing consumers that they have been selected to participate in a “secret shopper” or “mystery shopper” program, where consumers are paid to make purchases at stores and then evaluate the service they received. Consumers are told that they can earn several hundred dollars for each shopping assignment they complete, and the scam mailings imply that the secret shopper program is affiliated with retail outlets such as Wal-Mart, Kmart, Sears, Home Depot, JC Penney and other major chains.

“This scam draws consumers in with an offer of ‘easy money’ – getting paid to shop,” Corbett said. “In reality, consumers are being ‘paid’ with counterfeit checks, and are being asked to electronically transfer money to scam artists, often operating outside the country.”

Corbett said the mystery shopping scam typically asks consumers to evaluate a money transfer using a MoneyGram or Western Union wire transfer as part of their first “training assignment.” A check is normally included with the mystery shopper mailing, which consumers are instructed to deposit in their bank account to cover the cost of their first shopping assignment.

Corbett explained that consumers are often promised earnings of $500 to $800 per week for future shopping assignments, if they successfully complete their training. Consumers are also told that they must keep the nature of their work completely confidential, in order to avoid alerting businesses that they are being evaluated and to preserve the “integrity” of the mystery shopper program.

Corbett said the typical scam instructs consumers to wire-transfer $3,000 to $4,000, often to an address in Canada. Consumers are told that they are sending the money to a training supervisor or account manager, who will evaluate the consumer’s potential as a full-time mystery shopper. After completing the electronic transfer, consumers are asked to immediately send a copy of the MoneyGram or Western Union receipt to a fax number provided in the initial mailing.

Corbett noted that the scam artists are attempting to take advantage of a time-delay between when you deposit their check, and when your bank discovers that the check is actually counterfeit. In some cases, this could take several days, allowing unsuspecting consumers to transfer money long before they discover that the original check was counterfeit – and that consumers are responsible for repaying missing money to the bank.

Corbett said that modern computer and printer technology allows scam artists to generate extremely realistic checks, forms and letters. He urged consumers to look beyond the authentic appearance of any documents, or the attraction of quick money, to identify the basic framework of all these scams.

“Alarm bells should go off in your head any time someone sends you a check, along with a request that you deposit the check in your bank and wire-transfer a certain amount of that money to another person,” Corbett said. “Whether it’s a mystery shopper offer, payment for an online auction, a classified ad, or some other transaction – scam artists are hoping that you send them money quickly, without thinking about the offer, and fall for a deal that’s too good to be true.”

Shield yourself from marketers

2007-08-23T08:03:00.000-07:00

There is absolutely nothing wrong with companies trying to market their products to consumers—that’s business, and it’s what keeps our economy going.

But I like to control—as much as I can, anyway—the amount of marketing messages I receive. You’ll find some great tips for how to do this in Leslie Halpern’s article,“Six Tips for Maintaining Privacy: Marketers Will Invade Your Life If You Let Them.”

Jacquelyn Lynn

Is that really your grandchild calling?

2007-08-22T05:33:00.000-07:00

I have a four-year-old grandson I adore and would do anything for. Right now, “anything” consists of trips to the playground, running around the backyard, and playing with his toys. I imagine things will change when he’s a teenager.

Con artists have sunk to a new low, preying on doting grandparents by posing as a grandchild in trouble and needing help.

The scammer calls on the phone and says something like, “This is your favorite grandson,” or even, “Do you know who this is?” When the unwitting grandparent responds with a name, the scammer has the information he needs. Typically, the scammers spin a story of needing cash but not wanting other family members to know, and they convince the grandparents to wire money.

The easiest way to avoid being a victim is to not offer any information the scammer doesn’t have. If the caller says, “This is your favorite grandson,” ask which one. If the caller asks you to guess who it is, refuse—answer “Do you know who this is?” with “No, I don’t. Who is it?”

And if a grandchild says he or she needs money but doesn’t want his or her parents to know, step back and think. If it was your child, wouldn’t you want to know? Don’t you have a responsibility to your own adult children to tell them when their children are in trouble?

If you get drawn far enough into the scam that you’ve agreed to send money, stop and confirm the need through a known contact number—not the one the scammer has provided—before you come up with any cash.

Finally, if you’ve been the target of a scam of any kind, notify the police.

For more on the fake grandchild scam, check out http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/grandparents_scam.html

Jacquelyn Lynn

Entrepreneur’s Almanac nearing completion

2007-08-13T09:26:00.000-07:00

I have just finished reviewing the page proofs of my newest book, Entrepreneur’s Almanac, due out in October from Entrepreneur Media. This is truly a unique book for business owners and managers, with a special section for start-ups. Click here for more information and to pre-order your copy.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Warning: Company says it is not responsible for criminal acts of its employees

2007-08-09T06:04:00.000-07:00

Orlando Sentinel columnist Greg Dawson’s Aug. 9, 2007 consumer column told a frightening tale of a woman who called a company to repair a piece of equipment in her home. The company’s technician said he was taking the equipment for repair, and then stole it. That’s bad enough, but then the company admitted that it did not run a background check on the employee, who had a criminal record and no driver’s license (but was driving to jobs), and said they were not responsible for their employee’s criminal conduct.

Before you let anyone into your home for any reason, be sure you are dealing with a reputable company that screens employees and accepts responsibility for what their employees do.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Exploiting tragedy – don’t get scammed

2007-07-18T15:00:00.000-07:00

A new scam e-mail campaign is attempting to exploit the recent plane crash in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The e-mail claims to be from the airline TAM and attempts to lure recipients into logging onto a special site for more information. But if users click on the link in the e-mail and follow the instructions, they will download and install an information-stealing Trojan Horse on their computers.

All of the people affected by this horrible tragedy are in my thoughts and prayers, and they shouldn’t be further traumatized by becoming crime victims in the aftermath. If you are seeking information about this crash, do not click on links in any incoming e-mails and don’t give out any information unless you initiated the contact and are absolutely certain you are speaking to a legitimate source.

Sadly, this is something that should be kept in mind whenever a tragedy occurs. Some criminals have no problem with taking advantage of people who are vulnerable—don’t become one of their victims.

Jackie

A product I just discovered: Z Trim

2007-05-21T13:15:00.000-07:00

I want to tell you about a fantastic product, Z Trim®, that will let you eat the foods you love, but without all the calories and fat. It was developed by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help fight the "War on Obesity". In the best seller recommended by Oprah "You: On A Diet" Drs. Oz and Roizen state that Z Trim may eventually change the way we eat.

After years of research and development, finally there is a solution to managing your weight without dieting; exercising or giving up the foods you love. Z Trim is truly a revolution. Whether used in foods as a zero calorie fat replacement, or taken in capsule form as a nutritional supplement, this patented natural fiber contributes to a feeling of non-bloated fullness that will help you control your appetite safely, with no side effects. As a zero calorie fat replacement gel, Z Trim is gluten-free and mimics fat in food preparation so well that most people prefer it over the high fat version of their favorite foods.

Over the years all those extra calories we’ve been eating have taken their toll on our waistlines. If you’re like me, you have told yourself time after time that you need to lose some weight, but you don’t have the time or the desire to spend long hours in the gym. If you hate punishing yourself with diets, losing a little weight after a hard struggle, only to gain it right back, then you’re not alone. Look at our children today. The majority of Americans are overweight or obese. You can do something about it now and help your loved ones too.

With Z Trim you can reduce calories without drugs, additional exercise, painful fad diets, or giving up your favorite foods. Go online to the link listed below and you can begin to "Live Life Better" and be on your way to a healthier "You".

Z Trim is also available in Appetite Control Capsules. In a recent clinical study held during the six weeks between Thanksgiving and New Years (undoubtedly the hardest time of the year to lose weight), one to two capsules taken ten minutes before meals allowed 3 out of 4 subjects to feel fuller faster causing them to eat less, and lose a healthy average of a pound per week without any lifestyle changes and no negative side effects. Z Trim gave them more will-power and it can do this for you too.

As a fat replacer, Z Trim is also available in both gel and powder forms. To create an instant and beneficial impact in your household, mix it in with the high fat foods at home such as butter, mayo, cream cheese, sour cream and salad dressing, you can also use it in all of your favorite recipes replacing some of the fats that you would normally consume, and resulting in a dramatic decrease in total calorie intake. Thanks to Z Trim, managing your weight is finally a reachable, realistic goal without the effort. Z Trim is a healthy fiber that improves digestion with no negative side effects.

So stop punishing yourself for enjoying your favorite foods. Click on the link below, read more about the Z Trim products and then order the ones you want and start to "Live Life Better".

Click here to learn more about Z Trim products.

Jackie

Hit-man threat – a new e-mail scam

2007-04-06T08:32:00.000-07:00

From the FBI: A new scam cropping up in e-mail boxes across the country is preying not on recipients’ greed or good intentions, but on their fears. The scam e-mail, which first appeared in December, threatens to kill recipients if they do not pay thousands of dollars to the sender, who purports to be a hired assassin. Click here to read the FBI’s news release.

Your best defense is simply to delete unsolicited spam e-mails without opening them. If you receive e-mail threats, you can also report them to the Internet Crime Complaint Center or to the local field office of the FBI.

Jacquelyn Lynn

A new phishing scam masquerading as an e-mail from eBay

2007-03-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

I get the standard “update your account information now” scam e-mails pretending to be from eBay or PayPal on a daily basis. Some creative scammers have come up with a new angle: an invitation to become an eBay PowerSeller.

I just received this scam. I knew immediately it was a scam because I am a very low-volume eBay seller. Also, when I hovered my cursor over the links, I could tell that they weren’t going to a real eBay site.

If you are an eBay seller working on achieving PowerSeller status, be careful not to fall for this. It’s a fairly well-done fraud with only a few typos, so it’s possible that an otherwise careful person could fall for it.

If you have any questions about your PowerSeller status, send an e-mail to: powersellersinfo@ebay.com.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Two Hot Scams: “Free” Credit Reports and Iraqi Dinar Investment

2007-02-04T17:35:00.000-08:00

I’ve written about this before, but it’s worth repeating. Most of the “free” credit report offers out there are either identity theft scams or companies wanting to sell you credit monitoring services. The only site you can get a truly free credit report is www.annualcreditreport.com. Read more about this in Scambusters newsletter.

Another excellent article in that issue of Scambusters warns about an investment scheme involving buying Iraqi currency. Don’t do it. There’s a slim possibility you could make money, but your chances are probably better if you buy lottery tickets—and you know those chances aren’t great, right?

Protect your identity and your money with some common sense.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Caringbridge.org – a way to stay in touch during a health crisis

2007-01-29T08:44:00.000-08:00

Recently I received an e-mail from a friend that a mutual friend of ours was going through a serious health crisis. The e-mail said that a page had been set up at www.caringbridge.org to provide everyone who wanted to know what was happening with convenient and regular updates.

The husband of the friend who is ill makes a post to the CaringBridge site every day. Friends can either go online to check the site for new information or subscribe to an e-mail alert when a new post is made. Friends can also sign a guestbook and leaving encourage comments.

This is a wonderful service that helps friends and family members stay in touch and informed with a minimal amount of stress and effort. While it would be nice if no one ever had to use it, it’s comforting to know that it’s there if you need it.

Jackie

Free international calls

2007-01-24T12:49:00.000-08:00

I just discovered a way to make free international calls. I haven't personally tried it because I don't know anyone in the countries this company serves. But if you do, you might want to check it out.

The link is http://www.futurephone.com/index.html. On the FAQ page, they say the reason for this offer is to build your trust so you'll be receptive to future offers from them. In plain language, I'm sure at some point, they're going to try to sell you something.

If you try this, let me know how it works.

Jackie

Secret Shopper Fraud: A new twist on an old scam

2006-12-26T07:48:00.000-08:00

I recently received the following e-mail from the Economic Crimes Unit of the Seminole County (FL) Sheriff’s Office:

The Altamonte Springs (FL) Police Department received a complaint from a resident who received a letter and counterfeit check in the mail from a company called “Paid Surveys” out of Baltimore, MD. The letter advised he had been selected to be a secret shopper and gave him a list of tasks with places to go to shop. They were warned to keep the shopping confidential. The check was to be used to make specific purchases at the locations which included a Western Union and Money Gram office. The letter advised that when he went to Western Union and Money gram he was “To pose as a potential customer sending a payment to Carol Hernandez, a relative of yours in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada”. It asked that all receipts and a customer service evaluation tool be sent back to them to verify they spent the funds properly. Of course some of the money, $881.00 was to be kept by the secret shopper as their fee. It even had an “honest and ethical conduct” section to be filled out and returned.

If you receive solicitations similar to this, contact your local law enforcement agency.

Jackie

Social Security e-mail scam alert

2006-12-11T10:03:00.000-08:00

Social Security has issued a warning about a new email scam message that is being circulated with the subject "Cost-of-Living for 2007 update." The message redirects the reader to a website designed to look like Social Security's Internet website. Once directed to the phony website, the individual is asked register by giving personal information such as the individual's Social Security number, bank account information and credit card information.

No government agency will ever initiate a request for personal information by e-mail. They won't ask for bank or credit card information, either. Social Security will communicate with you via regular U.S. mail.

To report receipt of this email message or other suspicious activity to Social Security's Office of Inspector General (OIG), call the OIG Hotline at 1-800-269-0271. A Public Fraud Reporting form is also available online at OIG's website http://www.socialsecurity.gov/oig

Jackie

Online Shopper’s Survival Guide: A perfect Christmas gift

2006-11-29T17:25:00.000-08:00

I admit: this post is a bit of shameless self-promotion. My book, Online Shopper’s Survival Guide, makes a great Christmas gift, especially for a youth or a senior just learning how to maneuver online, or anyone who wants to know more about savvy online shopping.

To hear my interview about the book on Written Voices, click here.

Jackie

After Black Friday comes Cyber Monday

2006-11-24T13:17:00.000-08:00

Monday, Nov. 27, 2006 is being called “Cyber Monday” and is expected to be the busiest online shopping day of the holiday season. More and more people are choosing to avoid the hassle of brick-and-mortar stores and are shopping online instead.

That’s great—but only if you know what you’re doing and shop wisely. Buy only from e-tailers you know or have researched. Order in plenty of time for your merchandise to arrive before you need it. Pay attention so you don’t get caught in a scam.

Avoiding fraud and finding great deals are two things I discuss at length in Online Shopper’s Survival Guide. Visit my website at www.jacquelynlynn.com to read an excerpt on how to evaluate an online seller.

Jackie

Be a savvy mortgage consumer

2006-11-22T06:46:00.000-08:00

Recently I saw a news article about a couple that had purchased their dream home with an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM). When the initial low term of the mortgage was over, the payments nearly doubled, and the homeowners couldn’t afford the higher amount. The wife was quoted as saying that she hadn’t understood the terms of the loan. Now, they’re facing foreclosure.

This is an all-too-common circumstance, and speaks to the importance of understanding absolutely everything about any loan that you take out—especially a loan that uses your home as collateral. Don’t feel stupid because you have questions. Ask them and make sure you’re satisfied with the answers. If a mortgage broker or loan officer demonstrates impatience with your questions, tries to rush you through the process, tells you not to worry about items in the contract, or says or does anything that makes you uncomfortable, you need to find someone else to deal with.

Don’t let emotions override your common sense. It’s better to buy a home you can afford and keep it than to use “creative financing” to buy one you can’t afford and will lose in a few years because your payments skyrocket to an amount you can’t pay.

For some good information about mortgages that will help you be an educated consumer, visit PersonalHomeLoanMortgages.com.

Jackie

Extended warranties: Don’t waste your money

2006-11-21T12:32:00.000-08:00

Consumer Reports feels so strongly that extended warranties are a waste of money (with two possible exceptions) that the consumer organization took out a full page ad in USA Today that says simply:

“Dear Shopper,
Despite what the salesperson says, you don’t need an extended warranty.
Consumer Reports”

Yet, according to Consumer Reports, shoppers are expected to spend $1.6 billion on extended warranties this holiday season. Think about that -- that's not for merchandise, it's just for warranties. Read Why You Don’t Need an Extended Warranty to learn more about this issue and to find out the two exceptions to this advice.

Salespeople can be very pushy with extended warranties because they are so profitable for the stores. A technique that I have used to halt that part of the sales process is to ask, “Are you telling me that I’m buying a product that will likely break in the near future? If the quality isn’t any better than that, maybe I should reconsider this purchase.”

Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. Some salespeople are more persistent than others. But the bottom line on extended warranties is that, in most cases, you should just say no to them.

Jackie

Online shopping: for when you don’t fit in at the retail stores

2006-11-20T13:42:00.000-08:00

Baltimore Sun columnist Susan Reimer and I must be sisters under the skin. In a recent column, she made a number of observations that had me thinking, “How did she know how I feel?”

For example, she writes, “I try to spend, but I am too confused. … My coffee shop sells books and music. My cheese shop sells linen towels. My bookstore sells coffee and desserts. My grocery store sells beach chairs.” She notes the “you don’t belong here” atmosphere of stores such as Hollister and Abercrombie & Fitch. She points out that in stores such as Saks, Talbots, and Nordstrom, “the help is better dressed than I am on my best day. I don’t have the clothes to shop for clothes in these stores.” Neither do I.

Click here to read the complete column. Then join those of us who prefer to shop online in the comfort of our homes or offices.

And – here’s the shameless plug – if you’d like to know more about online shopping, my book Online Shopper’s Survival Guide will tell you everything you need to know to find bargains and shop safely on the internet.

Jackie

Is all your eBay income taxable?

2006-11-19T16:20:00.000-08:00

Recently someone posted a comment to my post about the IRS looking at PayPal records for people who are trying to avoid paying taxes on eBay income. Click here to see the post and comment.

This person asked: so if I sell the junk in my basement, I have to pay taxes on it?

The answer is, in most cases no.

The reason is that the IRS has a rule about occasional income, such as the money you might make from garage sales or selling other used personal items. Also, chances are that you’ll get less than you paid for a used item when you sell it, so you’re not making a profit on the transaction that could be taxable income.

It’s a different story if you’re buying someone else’s junk and selling it – that’s a business. eBay sellers who shop at garage sales for items they sell on eBay and other online auctions should be tracking their income and expenses, and then reporting their income appropriately. Another situation where you might have to pay tax on the sale of a personal item is when you have a collectible that has increased in value.

If you’re cleaning out your closets, garage, attic, basement, etc., and make a little money in the process, that’s one thing. If you are running an ongoing business, that’s something entirely different.

And now for the disclaimer: check with a qualified tax advisor if you have any questions.

Jackie

Greetings from the White House

2006-11-15T07:10:00.000-08:00

Did you know that the White House will send greetings from the President to commemorate special events, including birthdays for those 80 and older, wedding anniversaries for those married 50 years or more, weddings, and the birth of babies.

Requests for birthday and anniversary greetings must be made at least 6 weeks in advance; wedding and birth greeting requests should be made after the fact.

For more information and to make your request, go to https://app1.whitehouse.gov/greetings/home.

Jackie

If someone uses your Social Security number to get a job

2006-11-08T07:32:00.000-08:00

Last month, I wrote about the problem of illegal immigrants using stolen Social Security numbers to get jobs and how this could create havoc with your own Social Security account if you are a victim. I suggested that you review your Social Security Statement regularly (www.ssa.gov/mystatement) and make sure the numbers match what you know your earnings to be.

While this seems logical, it’s not a guaranteed way to be sure your Social Security number has been stolen and is being used for an illegal to gain employment. It’s possible that not all of those earnings will get reported on your account. Even so, checking your Social Security Statement each year is a good idea because it will help you identify and correct problems quickly. Consider how challenging it would be to correct your income records from 10 or 15 years ago.

When it comes to identity theft, there is no single thing you can do to protect yourself—you need to use a variety of strategies that include keeping your personal information private and monitoring your records and credit reports.

Jackie

Got a complaint? Sometimes the old-fashioned way works best

2006-11-04T08:07:00.000-08:00

Got a problem with a company? First, try its posted problem-resolution processes (usually a form message sent to customer service; in many cases, you can find the link on the website). If that doesn't work, try e-mailing a senior person in the company. And if that doesn't work, you may need to resort to old-fashioned snail mail and send a letter via the U.S. Postal Service to the president of the company.

This will work almost all the time. You can find the name of the president or CEO by doing online searches (states have publicly accessible databases of companies registered and/or incorporated in that state, or you can search public companies through the SEC).

Most of my complaints have been responded to and the situation handled within a week to 10 days after I mailed the letter. A complaint letter to FedEx resulted in an apology (which was all I really wanted) plus an American Express gift card (a nice surprise). The one time in recent memory that it didn't work was when I sent a complaint letter to Nike; they ignored the first letter and a follow up, so I just won't buy Nike shoes anymore. But smart companies respond to letters and use them as training opportunities, so if you can't get the results you want any other way (assuming, of course, that your complaint is valid and your resolution request is reasonable), try an old-fashioned letter.

Jackie

Online Safe Deposit Box – Extra Security for Important Papers

2006-10-31T05:58:00.000-08:00

Physical safe deposit boxes are a great idea, but they don’t meet all your document security needs. And they have definite limitations because they are physical.

An Online Safe Deposit Box lets you store copies of important documents (your passport, driver’s license, credit card information, insurance policies, etc.) online in a completely secure and encrypted location that you can access from virtually anywhere in the world.

Consider these scenarios: You’re traveling on business or vacation and your wallet is stolen. How fast can you access copies of your identification and credit card account numbers? With an Online Safe Deposit Box, that information is available immediately.

Or, what if your home is damaged by a fire or natural disaster such as a hurricane or tornado and your files are destroyed? With an Online Safe Deposit Box, no problem—you’ve got access to that information so you can begin your recovery process right away.

Visit www.keepyousafe.com for complete details and to sign up for a free box.

Jackie

Fraudulent Spam E-Mail Claiming to be From FBI Director Mueller

2006-10-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

A bogus e-mail claiming to be from FBI Director Robert Mueller III is circulating around the internet. The attempt to defraud victims comes in two separate e-mails and includes threats from the FBI for those who fail to comply.

This e-mail is a scam; just delete it.

Click here for the full details from the FBI.

Jackie

Keep pets safe this Halloween

2006-10-25T07:27:00.000-07:00

This isn’t exactly consumer advice, but it’s good information. Halloween is potentially hazardous for dogs and cats. Click here for advice from Lorraine Corriveau, wellness veterinarian at Purdue University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, on keeping your four-legged friends safe.

Jackie

An Easy Way to Protect Yourself from PC Viruses and Spyware

2006-10-24T06:37:00.000-07:00

As I’ve shared with you in earlier posts, I have a tremendous amount of respect for Audri and Jim Lanford, who publish the Scambusters newsletter. They are recommending a product designed for new computer users, and I want to tell you about it.

Audri and Jim point out that every single day we hear about viruses causing major PC crashes, PCs being hacked into, spyware installed without the computer owner’s permission, and private information stolen.

The inconvenience and cost of repairing this physical damage is considerable, but the psychological effect can be devastating. Yet it’s relatively simple to protect yourself. Still, millions of new computer users never take the steps to protect themselves because installing security and safety precautions appears to be costly, technical, and intimidating. But when they don’t do it, the consequences are devastating.

The simple solution Audri and Jim recommend is The PC and Internet Security Kit. Read about it at http://www.theinternetguide.com/oct24.html.

Jackie

Get the customer service you deserve

2006-10-22T14:43:00.000-07:00

You’ve probably gotten lost in the maze of a company’s automated telephone system more times than you can count. Click here for some great advice on how to get around the automated system and to a live person who (we hope) can help you.

Jackie

Credit card fraud prevention

2006-10-20T12:46:00.000-07:00

An e-mail has been floating around the internet for years with advice from someone claiming to be an attorney on how to avoid credit card fraud.

Some of the advice is very good, some simply repeats urban legends, some is useless, and some is downright silly. Click here to read the Scambusters newsletter that evaluates this e-mail—and if you happen to get this e-mail, please don’t pass it on.

Jackie

Getting a free credit report - a truly free report, with no strings

2006-10-19T06:12:00.000-07:00

You know you should check your credit report regularly. Doing so lets you see if there are any mistakes on your report that could adversely affect you when applying for credit or even a job, as well as alerts you to the possibility of identity theft.

You are entitled to a free copy of your credit report once a year from each of the three major credit reporting agencies. However, if you go to www.freecreditreport.com, you’ll be asked to sign up for a trial membership in Experian’s credit monitoring service. If you want that, fine. But I don’t think it’s truly a free report; it’s a marketing technique to get you to buy a service. And that's why I did not make it a live link in this post.

To get the real free credit reports, go to www.annualcreditreport.com.

Jackie

Pretexting: another angle on identity theft

2006-10-17T08:26:00.000-07:00

Have you ever participated in a telephone survey? In most cases, it was probably a legitimate poll, but fraudsters have discovered this as an identity theft technique.

It’s called pretexting. A pretexter uses false pretenses to trick you into revealing personal information, such as financial data (bank, credit card, investment account information), your Social Security number, your various passwords, and anything else they might be able to use to commit fraud. In addition to claiming to be conducting a survey, pretexters have been known to say they represent government agencies, banks, law enforcement agencies, and more.

The pretexter’s call may seem harmless enough, especially in the beginning. Remember, these are con artists, and they know they need you to relax and drop your guard so you’ll give them what they want.

Sometimes the pretexter is also the person who will commit the identity theft or fraud. Other times, the pretexter sells the information to private investigators or to scammers.

The concept isn’t new but, as with so many other scams, the criminals are getting increasingly sophisticated and doing far more damage.

How can you protect yourself?

Be wary of any unsolicited call asking you for information. Participate in phone surveys if you want to, but consider your answers carefully. For example, if the survey is about pets, it’s reasonable to expect questions about the number and breed of your animals, but there’s no reason for a survey company to need to know your pets’ names—especially since a lot of people use their pets’ names as passwords. The same thing applies to children: number and age, fine; names, no. And speaking of passwords, don’t use the names of your immediate family and/or pets as passwords.

If the caller wants to “verify” account numbers or other information, do not volunteer and details he does not already have. For example, if the caller says, “I show your account number as 12345,” your response should simply be, “No, that’s not accurate.” But do not offer the correct number. And never give the name of your bank, stock brokerage, or other financial services provider.

Remember that criminals know how to do things like spoof Caller ID – so you see a display with a phone number and name of a legitimate business, but that’s not really where the call is coming from.

Never totally relax when you are talking with someone you don’t know on a call you did not initiate. And before you answer any question, ask yourself this: Does this person really need to know this and can he or she use the information to commit fraud or steal from me?

Jackie

Receipts printed with disappearing ink

2006-10-16T14:10:00.000-07:00

When you make a purchase in a brick-and-mortar store that might need to be returned (either for an exchange or for warranty repairs) or that is a deductible business expense, make a photocopy of the original receipt and attach the two before filing them. Why? Because many retail receipts are printed on thermal paper that fades. When they become unreadable, you can’t use them to prove the date of purchase or the amount.

Read the discussion on this issue at Janet Attard’s blog.

Jackie

I hope Home Again Pet Recovery Service does a better job tracking animals than rebates

2006-10-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

Orlando Sentinel columnist Greg Dawson repeatedly gives this advice, which I’m happy to echo: Never buy anything based on a promised rebate. If the seller or manufacturer is offering a rebate, fine. Ignore that when making your purchase decision. And if you happen to get the rebate later, then you’ve gotten a bonus. But if it doesn’t come, you don’t get around to filing for it, or you decide not to jump through the rebate hoops, or whatever, you should still be pleased with the terms of your purchase.

Earlier this year we added a dog to our family. When I had her microchip implanted (for those of you who might not know, that’s a small chip implanted under the dog’s skin coded with information that allows a vet or animal control facility to identify her if she gets lost), the receptionist at my vet’s gave me a rebate form along with my receipt.

I didn’t decide to have her “chipped” because of the rebate, but since they were offering to send me $10 back, I figured I’d take advantage of it.

About four months after sending in the form, it occurred to me that I hadn’t received the rebate. I called the toll-free number on the form for Home Again Pet Recovery Service and was told I had to call another (not toll-free) number to ask about the status of my rebate. Thanks to all-you-can-talk flat-rate long distance packages, I didn’t mind making the call. The woman who answered found my rebate in “the system” right away, told me I “had to understand” that it could take 10-12 weeks (it had been more like 16 weeks) to process the rebates. And surprise, surprise! My rebate arrived in the mail three days later.

Draw your own conclusions about the integrity of this particular rebate program. Just remember that if you make rebates part of your purchase decisions, you could frequently end up paying more than you intended.

Jackie

Identity theft: when someone uses your identity to get a job

2006-10-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

When you think about identity theft, you usually think of thieves using your personal financial information to steal from you or others by getting credit in your name. There’s another aspect of identity theft that is a growing problem.

Illegal immigrants often buy a stolen Social Security number to that they can get jobs. Because they’re not applying for credit, nothing will show up on your credit report, and the theft of your information may not be uncovered for years.

But if someone is working under your SSN, it can create havoc with your own income taxes and Social Security payments and benefits. I saw a news story recently about a woman who spent years trying to get straight with the IRS and prove to them that she really had been a stay-at-home mom and had not earned any money for years, even though a number of illegal immigrants had been working using her identity.

According to an article in the New York Times, about 7 million illegal immigrants are working under stolen SSNs. Many of these stolen SSNs belong to children, who might not learn of the fraud until they start working. It doesn’t matter how you feel about immigration issues, if you are a victim of this type of ID theft, you could spend thousands of hours and a lot of money getting it straightened out.

What can you do? If you are 25 or older, the Social Security Administration will send you an annual statement of your earnings and benefits eligibility. Take the time to review this statement and make sure it matches your own records. You can also request a statement from Social Security at any time by going to www.ssa.gov. If you have children, review their accounts as well as your own, and do it on a regular schedule.

Jackie

What do you do with gifts you don’t want?

2006-10-11T07:05:00.000-07:00

More than half of Americans recently surveyed by Harris admit to re-gifting – that is, rewrapping and presenting a gift they’ve received to someone else. Click here to read more about that.

Something else you can do with those gifts that you don’t like or can’t use and can’t return is to sell them on eBay. You can either post the item for sale yourself or use a storefront eBay seller such as QuikDrop to sell it for you. That way you can have the cash to use as you please instead of cluttering up your closets until you can get rid of the item.

Jackie

Online Shopper’s Survival Guide review

2006-10-08T14:06:00.000-07:00

I’m pleased with the early response to my latest book, Online Shopper’s Survival Guide (Entrepreneur Press).

Leslie Halpern recently reviewed the book. She wrote:

If you’ve ever wanted to buy something online, but worried about problems with fraud, identity theft, defective merchandise, or shipping woes, Online Shopper’s Survival Guide can help you safely navigate your way through the Internet. If you’re already an active online shopper (or seller), but want to step up to more high-priced items, such as buying cars, boats, travel accommodations, real estate, or vacation rentals, then you can also benefit from reading this book. In fact, everything that’s legal, including food, pet supplies, jewelry, medicines, jobs, friends, and dates can be obtained through the Internet, and Lynn shows you how to do it.

Click here to read the full review. And click here for the link to the book on Amazon.com.

By the way, I very much admire Leslie Halpern’s work. Her book, Reel Romance: The Lovers’ Guide to the 100 Best Date Movies, makes a great gift. Click here to visit her website.

Jackie

Boost Your eBay Profits

2006-10-01T11:27:00.000-07:00

If you’re thinking about putting some things up for sale on eBay, whether you want to just clear out your closets or start an ongoing business, consider the tips in “Boost Your eBay Profits.” Writer Farnoosh Torabi interviewed me for this piece and did a great job of presenting a lot of advice in a short space.

Of course, if you want to know more, be sure to get the book I wrote with Charlene Davis, Make Big Profits on eBay. Visit my website at www.jacquelynlynn.com for more details and a link to purchase the book.

Jackie

News for PayPal users

2006-09-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

The Texas attorney general has reached an agreement with PayPal designed to protect consumers. For the full text of the news release with details of what the agreement includes, please click here.

Jackie

How to handle telemarketing calls

2006-09-13T08:59:00.000-07:00

You see a lot of stuff floating around the internet about how to handle telemarketing calls, such as asking for the caller’s home phone number and saying you’ll call them back, or just rambling on for a long period about essentially nothing. Those techniques may give you some temporary satisfaction but they won’t stop the calls.

Here’s a script that will actually be effective—and may give you recourse if the telemarketer calls you back. Click here for complete details.

Jackie

Protect the private and work-related data on your personal computer

2006-09-12T18:56:00.000-07:00

Electronic data theft is not just a problem of big companies or government agencies. And if you have a computer that has multiple users, and/or if you store sensitive personal information and work-related data on your home computer, you should take security precautions.

Click here to read an excellent article on ways to safeguard your data.

Jackie

The FairTax: It’s time to dump the current tax code, eliminate the IRS, and make paying taxes truly fair

2006-09-09T13:47:00.000-07:00

I’ve already told you how I feel about the FairTax bill (HR 25). For another perspective on what makes the FairTax fair, check out this article on the FairTax blog.

This is legislation that makes sense and would create astounding prosperity for the United States. If you haven’t checked it out, please do so – and then write to your congressional representatives and senators and let them know how you feel.

The most concise resource for information about the FairTax is The FairTax Book by Neal Boortz and Congressman John Linder. I highly recommend it.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Review of Online Shopper's Survival Guide

2006-09-04T11:04:00.000-07:00

Jordan Taylor has posted a review of Online Shopper's Survival Guide at ezinearticles.com. Click here to read it.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Online Shopper’s Survival Guide mentioned in Woman’s World

2006-08-29T06:26:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago I was interviewed for an article in Woman’s World magazine on finding bargains online. The quote they used is very brief (in line with the style of the publication), but at least my name and my new book, Online Shopper's Survival Guide, are mentioned. It’s on page 23 of the Sept. 5, 2006 issue.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Avoid phishing attacks while using eBay

2006-08-20T14:03:00.000-07:00

I am a huge fan of eBay and shop on the site regularly. However, a vulnerability in the site may allow an attacker to steal your personal information. eBay allows users to incorporate a type of code, also known as scripting, into the auction descriptions on its web site. An attacker can use this code to modify pages on eBay's web site or redirect you to a malicious web page. These may appear to be legitimate eBay web pages that request personal information.

To protect yourself, make sure that the URL is accurate (which means, be sure you are on a real eBay page). Click here for more information on how to avoid becoming a victim of an attacker using this scam.

Of course, to learn more about online shopping, finding bargains, and avoiding scams, read my new book, Online Shopper’s Survival Guide.

Happy and safe online shopping!
Jacquelyn Lynn

New Scam Involving Exotic Birds - USDA Alert

2006-08-15T08:44:00.000-07:00

Here is a new scam alert from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Inspector General – Investigations:

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Atlanta provided the following information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding a scam in which the U.S. Department of Agriculture's “USDA” name and “USDA” correspondence are being used in a scam to obtain money from people who think they are adopting exotic birds. It is similar to the Nigerian letter scams [also known as Advance Fee Fraud or Nigerian 419 schemes. Go to http://www.state.gov/www/regions/africa/naffpub.pdf for more information], except the country Cameroon is being referenced in this case.

The scam basically works this way: Ads are placed over Internet sites such as MecuryNews.com that 3 Macaws or other exotic birds are up for adoption. Individuals in the U.S. see the ad and contact the person placing the birds for adoption by e-mail. The party contacted by e-mail introduces themselves as being from Cameroon. The money trail can start from this point as the party in Cameroon "arranges" to have the birds shipped from Douala, Cameroon to Hartsfield Airport-Atlanta by "Global Pet Express" and of course money is needed for paperwork, etc. for the transfer of the birds. An official itinerary is provided and payment is sympathetically requested.

The party in the U.S. adopting the birds next receives a fax/e-mail from the "U.S. Department of Agriculture, Department of Pets Transportation and Wild Life Animals" stating that the birds are being held at Hartsfield Airport pending USDA regulations requiring further paperwork from the Ministry of Livestock and Animal Industry in Cameroon and references contacting the person who the birds were adopted from to get the paperwork in Cameroon to forward. The party "who the birds were adopted from" is contacted and of course more money, $662 or similar amount, is needed to obtain the necessary permits from the Cameroon government ministry involved. The money pit can continue or stop at this point, depending whether the adopting party in the U.S. contacts the U.S. Department of Agriculture or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and finds that no birds are being held by USDA regulators at Hartsfield. They will also find that there is not a "Department of Pets Transportation and Wild Life Animals" under the U.S. Department of Agriculture and there were never birds sent.

USDA and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are working together on this and hope to publish a nationwide alert.

Jacquelyn Lynn

The Truth about the Fair Tax

2006-08-10T15:38:00.000-07:00

Grassroots support for the FairTax Act (H.R. 25) is growing, prompting those who are afraid of it to distort the facts and engage in fear-mongering. Let’s look at the truth about the FairTax:

The FairTax will replace our current federal taxes with a federal retail sales tax of 23 percent (the rate set forth in H.R. 25; not 30 percent or higher as some claim). Wages will no longer be subject to federal withholding; workers will take home 100 percent of their paychecks. The FairTax will repeal: individual income tax; alternative minimum tax (AMT); corporate and business income taxes; capital gains taxes; Social Security taxes; Medicare taxes; all other federal payroll taxes; self-employment tax; estate taxes; and gift taxes. Because the FairTax abolishes all taxes on income, it eliminates the practice of punishing productive, hard-working people and businesses.

The cost of goods and services will drop because the FairTax will remove embedded federal taxes and the cost of managing and collecting them from prices.

The FairTax will be levied against all new goods and services. Nothing will be exempt, and there will be no loopholes or special interest considerations. Now you don’t see how much federal tax you’re paying when you make a purchase; under the FairTax, you will.

Every taxpayer will receive a monthly “prebate” in an amount covering the amount of tax paid on the bare necessities of life. This protects low-income people and means that no American will ever have to pay federal tax on essentials.

The FairTax will allow individuals and businesses to make financial decisions based on what’s best for them without considering the tax consequences. Millions of dollars previously spent on consulting with lawyers and accountants on tax strategies can instead be invested in economic growth. The millions of hours spent preparing tax returns can be used for more productive, or perhaps just more enjoyable, activities.

The FairTax eliminates the so-called “underground” economy. Drug dealers, prostitutes, illegal aliens, and others who have avoided paying federal income tax will pay their fair share into the tax system through their retail purchases, as will the foreign tourists who come here to shop and spend.

The FairTax will turn the United States into a tax haven and bring businesses and high-paying jobs back to this country.

Finally, the FairTax will create a more informed electorate—something most politicians fear. Every taxpayer will be able to see on every retail purchase the exact amount of money he or she is sending to the federal government. What better way is there to hold politicians accountable?

For more information about the FairTax, visit www.fairtax.org.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Free tutorial: “89 Ways to Write Powerful Press Releases for the Web”

2006-08-07T13:00:00.000-07:00

Whether you are an experienced publicist or just learning how to write press releases, I highly recommend that you take Joan Stewart’s free 89-day tutorial, “89 Ways to Write Powerful Press Releases for the Web.”
I have been recommending Joan’s products for a long time, and she has certainly held to her high standards with this latest effort. It’s full of great information and it really and truly is free.

Click here to sign up for this valuable tutorial so that you can start promoting yourself, your company, or your nonprofit organization on the Web today.

Jacquelyn Lynn

P.S. To sign up for e-mail alerts whenever a new post is added to my blog, scroll down to the bottom of this page, enter your e-mail address, and follow the subscription confirmation instructions.

A Critical Small Business Issue: Managing Cash Flow

2006-08-02T08:10:00.000-07:00

Cash is the lifeblood of a business, regardless of the industry or type of operation. Is there a secret to maintaining a healthy, positive cash flow? All it takes is an awareness of effective techniques and a consistent attention to detail. Click here to read my article on this important business management issue.

Jacquelyn Lynn

P.S. Want to receive e-mail notification when I update my blog? Just scroll down to the bottom of this page and subscribe.

The Latest Identity Theft Victim: Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nevada)

2006-07-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

The U.S. House of Representatives is currently considering a bill that would override state credit freeze measures and limit the control consumers have over their credit data. Click here for details about that bill.

Here’s some delicious irony: Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nevada) has been a victim of identity theft. Click here for that story.

This makes the point that identity theft can happen to anybody. Maybe this will motivate Senator Reid to lead the charge on legislation that will really work to protect consumers from this devastating and expensive crime.

Jacquelyn Lynn

A new e-mail phishing scam

2006-07-24T11:13:00.000-07:00

Consumers must be getting smarter about not clicking on links in unsolicited e-mails because at least one scammer is changing tactics. Instead of asking you to click on a link and enter personal information, the e-mail tells you there is a problem with your account and asks you to call a telephone number. When you call the number, you are asked by a recording to enter your account number.

A red flag is that the recording does not mention a bank name.

If you get an e-mail that asks you to call a bank or credit card company, DO NOT call the number in the e-mail. Banks and credit card companies do not send e-mails asking you to call them; if they need information from you, they have your number—they’ll call you. But if you feel compelled to verify that nothing is wrong with your account, take a moment to look up the bank’s telephone number in your files (it should be on every statement you receive) and call a number you know is legitimate.

Jacquelyn Lynn

What does your voice mail greeting say about you and your company?

2006-07-13T04:48:00.000-07:00

Have you ever called your voice mail system and listened to the greeting from the perspective of someone calling for the first time? What sort of an impression are you giving?

Click here to read my article on how to create a customer-friendly voice mail greeting.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your E-Mail Communications

2006-07-11T08:13:00.000-07:00

E-mail has become one of the most common methods of business and personal communication. It’s fast, efficient, convenient—and it can be dangerous. Click here to read my tips for getting the maximum benefit while avoiding the pitfalls of e-mail, whether you’re at work or home.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Tips to Avoid Being a Phishing Scam Victim

2006-07-08T06:25:00.000-07:00

When I was writing my book, Online Shopper’s Survival Guide, one of the most intriguing topics to research was the chapter about staying safe and avoiding scams. The creativity and perseverance of con artists and thieves is absolutely amazing. And I have tremendous respect for the law enforcement agencies that do their best to keep up with the online scammers—but if you’re going to avoid becoming a victim, you need to be proactive.

Click here to read my article on the easiest way to avoid phishing scams.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Protect Your Laptop

2006-07-03T08:05:00.000-07:00

A laptop is stolen every 53 seconds and only three percent of stolen computers are ever recovered. In 2003, a joint study by the Computer Security Institute and the FBI estimated that the average cost to a company per mobile PC stolen is more than $47,000 per incident reported.

According to ITAC (WorldatWork's Telework Advisory Group), there are some simple steps you can take to protect your laptop whether you’re at home or on the road. Here’s what they advise:

Alarm it. If your laptop is touched by an unauthorized person, the motion alarm will go off, and presumably thieves aren't going to want to carry around a shrieking notebook.

Disguise it. Carry laptops in a case not specifically designed for laptop use.

Lock it or lose it. Use a cable lock to anchor your laptop the same way you would a bicycle. The idea here is you chain it to your desk so that if burglars break into your home, they can't just walk away with your laptop. This could also work in a hotel setting.

Hide it. Do not leave your computer in plain sight in your vehicle or in your home, locked or not. Cover the computer or place it in the trunk of your car where it is not easily seen.

Of course, remember to always back up all your data on a regular basis, so that if the worst happens, you can recover your important information.

Best,
Jacquelyn Lynn

Can car shopping make you a victim of identity theft?

2006-06-29T08:51:00.000-07:00

It seems so innocent – and understandable. You’re shopping for a car, you want to take a test drive, and the salesperson asks for your driver’s license. It makes sense that they would need to know who you are and confirm that you are indeed a licensed driver before they let you behind the wheel of one of their cars.

But the potential problem lies in the fact that some dealers will make a photocopy of your license, and if that photocopy gets into the wrong hands, you could be at risk of being a victim of identity theft.

Click here to learn how to protect your private information when car shopping.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Ransomware: Don’t get held hostage

2006-06-23T13:25:00.000-07:00

Ransomware is a relatively new form of malicious code that can seize control of a victim’s computer and hijack the files. The files are then encrypted by the code, so you can’t read them. The thieves responsible for the ransomware then demand a ransom before they’ll give you the decryption key.

The amount of the ransom can range from something nominal, like $10, to hundreds of dollars or a demand that the victim make a purchase to meet the demand.

Click here to read excellent article by Brian Krebs on the Washington Post blog about this subject.

You can protect yourself from ransomware by using the same “safe computing” techniques you’ve been using – use firewalls, keep your anti-virus and anti-spyware software up-to-date, download security patches when they’re released, and be cautious about downloading files even from people you know. And, of course, maintain regular backups of your entire system, not just your data files.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Watch those eBay and PayPal spoof e-mails

2006-06-15T13:53:00.000-07:00

I just received a very clever spoof e-mail. It was designed to look like it came through the member-to-member eBay system, and the message was that this person had paid for a Dell laptop computer and wanted to know when it would be shipped.

While I do occasionally sell things on eBay (I buy far more than I sell), I’ve never sold a computer. What the sender of the e-mail is counting on is that the receiver will panic and start clicking on links to let the “buyer” know that they’ve contacted the wrong person. And when you start clicking on those links and answering questions, you are giving information away that a scammer can use to steal from you.

Whenever you receive an e-mail regarding an eBay transaction that you’re not involved in, go to your eBay account to see if the e-mail shows up there. If it does, it’s legitimate. (Go to My eBay, then to My Messages.) If it doesn’t, it’s a spoof – forward it to spoof@ebay.com so that the eBay security folks can check it out and report it to the proper authorities.

Be equally suspicious of any e-mails that claim to be from PayPal saying that your account has a problem and that you need to verify your information. Forward those messages to spoof@paypal.com. Never try to access your eBay or PayPal accounts from the link in an e-mail—always close the e-mail, and log on to your account from the main website.

The scammers are smart – you have to be smarter to avoid becoming another fraud victim.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Be careful what you put on the internet

2006-06-14T10:47:00.000-07:00

The growth of blogs along with social networking websites means more and more personal information is getting on the internet where anybody can see it. This means prospective clients or employers might see what you posted for the benefit of your friends and family.

A smart prospective client is going to search on both you personally as well as your company when deciding whether or not to buy from you. Employers are doing routine searches on current employees to see what they’re posting on line, and workers have been fired for revealing insider company information on blogs or posting pictures and stories of scandalous behavior. HR managers are also using the internet as a screening tool.

The outplacement firm of Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc. offers these tips for posting on social networking and blogging sites:

Lock your profiles! If your site is for friends’ eyes only then, if possible, allow access to your site only to those who have a password that you have provided. If you cannot limit access, then consider your profile open to anyone, including an employer or prospective employer. As a rule, do not post anything that you would not want your mother to see.

Remember that your profile is your résumé. If you insist on having your profile available to the world, use it to your advantage. Posting insightful comments on your workplace, industry, current events, or whatever is on your mind shows others that you can articulate ideas, especially if you avoid resorting to insults or derogatory language. Instead of posting pictures of your latest drinking escapade, show examples of interests and hobbies that make you unique, such as photos of you playing guitar, windsurfing, or community service. Anything that shows your expertise with a digital camera or web design is always a plus.

Blog Anonymously. If you are writing on controversial topics or using your blog to criticize an employer, then do so under a pseudonym. A prospective employer may not agree with your views and is not likely to hire a person who publicly disparages an employer.

Vent Wisely. It is okay to express discontent about an employer (anonymously), but to limit the chances of the criticism being traced back to you, do not include names of co-workers or the name of the company in any of your postings. Also refrain from using “inside” jokes, phrases, terms used commonly among circles in the company.

Dealing with Cyberbullies

2006-06-08T08:27:00.000-07:00

Recently I saw an article by Mindi McDowell that addressed the issue of cyberbullies – people who use technology to harass (or bully) someone else. McDowell says that cyberbullying can range in severity from cruel or embarrassing rumors to threats, harassment, or stalking. It can affect any age group; however, teenagers and young adults are common victims, and cyberbullying is a growing problem in schools.

The full text of McDowell’s article is at http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/tips/ST06-005.html. It’s worth reading.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Teaching children about breast cancer

2006-06-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

Why do children need to learn about breast cancer? Because this disease is striking women in their 40s, 30s, and even 20s at alarming rates—women who either have young children or are still in their childbearing years and are hoping to have children.

Metu and Lee Learn About Breast Cancer by Dr. Shenin Sachedina is a book for children five and up that will help them understand this disease and how it may affect the adult women in their lives. Dr. Sachedina is a board-certified general surgeon specializing in breast disease and is the founder of The Central Florida Breast Center in Winter Park, Florida. To learn more and to order the book, please visit www.metuandlee.com.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Are You Using PayPal to Avoid Paying Tax?

2006-06-01T15:48:00.000-07:00

Last year, PayPal users moved $27.5 billion through that system. The company, owned by eBay, now has 100 million account holders worldwide.

Apparently, some of those account holders believe they can avoid paying federal income tax on income received through PayPal. This is wrong. If you are receiving funds through PayPal that should be reported as taxable income, you should report it and pay the appropriate tax.

On April 16, 2006, the IRS requested records on all PayPal transactions from 1999 to 2004. Will they get that information? I don’t know for sure, but I’m betting they will.

Remember, failing to report income is considered tax avoidance and/or tax evasion. It’s a crime and you can go to jail for it—just ask “Survivor” winner Richard Hatch, who was recently sentenced to 51 months in prison for tax evasion.

There are plenty of ways to reduce your tax liability that are legal and ethical. Consult with a qualified tax advisor to see what strategies will work for you. And make sure you report any income you receive through PayPal on your tax returns.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Government to Stop Collecting Long-Distance Telephone Tax

2006-05-28T06:17:00.000-07:00

In case you haven’t heard, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that it will stop collecting the federal excise tax on long-distance telephone service. This tax was first imposed in 1898 and is currently 3 percent of the charges billed for these services.

Taxpayers will be eligible to file for refunds of all excise tax they have paid on long-distance service billed to them after Feb. 28, 2003. Interest will be paid on these refunds.

Taxpayers will claim this refund on their 2006 tax returns. In order to minimize burden, the IRS expects to announce soon a simplified method that individuals may use.

“So taxpayers won’t have to spend time digging through old telephone bills, we’re designing a straightforward process that taxpayers may use when they file their tax returns next year,” said IRS Commissioner Mark W. Everson. “Claiming a refund will be simple and fair.”

Be sure you and your tax preparer remember to make this claim when filing your 2006 return.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Sell Clothing on eBay

2006-05-27T07:50:00.000-07:00

If you’re interested in selling clothing on eBay – whether you want to just clean out your closet or start a serious retail business – you need to read How to Sell Clothing, Shoes, and Accessories on eBay by Charlene Davis (published by Entrepreneur). For more information and to order your copy, click here.

Charlene is my co-author on Make Big Profits on eBay, and she knows the ins and outs of successful eBay selling.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Consumer fraud tip: small recurring credit card charges

2006-05-24T10:18:00.000-07:00

Here’s another reason for always examining your credit card statements completely and promptly: those small recurring credit card charges for products and/or services you may not even realize you’ve purchased.

These charges are easy to overlook because they’re small—typically $9.95, $14.95, $19.95. When the account is held by a couple, often the one who pays the bills just figures the spouse made the charge.

The charges may be the result of a pop-up offer on the internet, a telemarketing call, or what you may have thought was a free offer for something. Companies that do this often operate just barely within the law, or they are outright fraudsters. Though small, the charges can add up over time. If you don’t dispute them within the timeframe required by your credit card company, it’s likely that you won’t be able to get a refund.

What can you do? Review your credit card statements thoroughly as soon as they arrive. Better yet, check your statements online. If you see a charge you don’t recognize, don’t just assume someone else in your family authorized it—find out for sure. And if the charge is not correct, immediately dispute it. Beyond this, take care when accepting online offers and be sure you know exactly what you are agreeing to. Understand the company’s cancellation policies and be sure you follow their requirements precisely.

Jacquelyn Lynn

First Case of False Caller ID Data

2006-05-21T12:36:00.000-07:00

The battle between people who own phones and the businesses that call them (mostly telemarketers and collection agencies) has stepped up to a new level. Technology such as caller ID along with “do not call” legislation is making it more difficult for telemarketers to reach prospects. One way shady marketers are getting around these consumer tools is to transmit bogus caller ID information so you can’t tell who is really calling—and that’s illegal.

The Federal Trade Commission has initiated the first case of false caller ID data. The Justice Department has filed a complaint against Scorpio Systems, Ltd., a financial product marketer, alleging that the company did not transmit a caller ID or sent a phony caller ID. The case was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey (U.S. v. Venkataraman, D. N.J., 4/26/06). It should be a case worth watching.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Online Trading: Great if you know how to avoid the pitfalls

2006-05-09T08:18:00.000-07:00

I conduct as much of my personal business online as I possibly can because it’s usually quick, easy, and efficient. And I use an online brokerage for my investment accounts.

Online trading is a generally safe way to buy and sell stocks and other securities, but it has its risks. You need to be sure you’re dealing with legitimate sources, monitor your accounts, and be aware of how scammers work so you can avoid them.

For a great article on the pitfalls of online trading and how to be a safe, secure online trader, click here.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Gifting Clubs are Illegal Pyramid Schemes

2006-04-29T14:10:00.000-07:00

If you’ve been approached to join a “gifting club,” your best answer is “thanks, but no thanks.”

Gifting clubs are a scam spreading through the mid-Atlantic states and the Pacific Northwest. People pay to join by giving a cash “gift” to the highest-ranking club members. They’re told that if they recruit additional members, their own ranking will rise and they’ll receive money—eventually far more than they initially paid to join the club.

This is an illegal pyramid scheme. Certainly it sounds attractive—make money and new friends at the same time. And the person recruiting you could be someone from your neighborhood or even your church.

If you get involved with a gifting club, you will likely lose your money and could even face criminal prosecution. For more information, and to find out how to file a complaint if you’ve been approached by someone recruiting for a gifting club, click here to visit the Federal Trade Commission’s page on the issue.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Travel Tip

2006-04-27T13:28:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Stephanie Tamblyn is an experienced and adventurous world traveler and is just full of super tips and ideas for things you can do to make your trips absolutely wonderful.

Here’s some advice she gave me recently: when you’re going to be in a hotel for more than one night, tip the housekeeper on the first day—don’t wait until you’re checking out. Leave the tip in a conspicuous place with a note that says “Thank you for taking care of me during my stay.” You’ll find the level of service you receive will usually improve noticeably.

Wishing you safe and pleasant trips,
Jacquelyn Lynn

Online Shopper’s Survival Guide

2006-04-24T10:53:00.000-07:00

I just completed the process of reviewing the page proofs of my latest book, Online Shopper’s Survival Guide. It looks great and I’m very excited about it. It’s got some excellent shopping and fraud prevention tips that you can use whether you’re an experienced online shopper or a novice.

The official publication date is August, but it will be probably be available sometime in July. I’ll let you know.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Long-term Care Insurance: Coverage you should consider

2006-04-18T07:17:00.000-07:00

While working on an upcoming insurance column for Entrepreneur magazine, I did some research on long-term care insurance (LTCI). If you are 50 or older, you need to consider this coverage.

LTCI pays for care that health insurance doesn’t cover—things like non-medical assistance that allows seniors to live at home rather than move into an assisted-care facility. There’s more to it, of course, but a blog isn’t the place to go into a full discourse on what LTCI does. So let’s just hit two important points:

Something many people don’t realize is that LTCI premiums may be tax deductible if you are self-employed or a business owner. Check with your tax advisor to be sure the plan you select is qualified.

If you have employees and want to make this insurance available to them as a benefit (either voluntary, which means the employees pay the premiums, or as a company-paid benefit), I recommend that you look for a policy that allows your employees to also cover their families. Baby boomers in their 40s and 50s are starting to think about what sort of care their parents are going to need in the coming years. With adequate insurance, they’ll be able to maintain their focus on their jobs and not be distracted by dealing with caregiver issues.

For more information about long-term care insurance, contact the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Consumer Action Handbook available and worth getting

2006-04-15T11:20:00.000-07:00

I just received my copy of the 2006 Consumer Action Handbook, a great manual packed with consumer advice and resources. It’s published by the GSA Federal Citizen Information Center, and you can get your copy free by going to www.consumeraction.gov.

Jacquelyn Lynn

Write Your Own Publicity

2006-04-12T06:32:00.000-07:00

It’s great publicity to be quoted in articles, but it’s also very effective to be the expert author of articles. Many small publications that reach your target audience don’t have a lot of money to pay writers, but they might be willing to publish an article by you with a tag line at the end telling readers how to reach you. In fact, many publications are begging for such content.

Publicity guru Joan Stewart addresses this issue on her blog at http://publicityhound.net/?p=553.

My advice: if you are not a writer, hire a pro to ghostwrite these pieces for you. It’s worth the investment. Also, when you pitch articles to publications, let the editors know you will be using a professional writer—it will make their job easier and they’ll be more inclined to use your submissions on a regular basis.

Best,
Jacquelyn Lynn

Avoid e-mail blacklists

2006-04-10T11:18:00.000-07:00

E-mail has become a critical marketing tool, especially for small businesses. At the same time, spam is driving the amount of unwanted e-mail to ever-increasing levels. To combat the problem, companies are using “blacklists” to spot and block unwanted e-mails—and sometimes legitimate messages from legitimate small business get trapped by these blacklists.

Click here for a great article that explains e-mail blacklists and how to stay off of them.

Best,
Jacquelyn Lynn

Raise money for charity on eBay

2006-04-09T11:33:00.000-07:00

Let eBay be a source of fund-raising for your church or favorite charity. Instead of the traditional garage sale, sell it on eBay and donate the money.

The easiest way to do this is to work with an eBay trading post, such as QuikDrop. I have set up an account with a local QuikDrop store so that members of my church can bring things in to be sold and the money (less a commission for QuikDrop) goes to fund mission work.

It's easy and is a great way to get rid of the stuff you don't want but that's too valuable to be sold for pennies at a garage sale. For more about QuikDrop's charity program, go to www.quikdrop.com and click on "charity."

Best,
Jacquelyn Lynn

Ticked off about taxes

2006-04-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

Like probably millions of Americans, I am trying to get my 2005 income tax return finished up. It has gotten so absurdly complicated and frustrating—not to mention unfair—that I am ready to become a single-issue voter. My issue is the Fair Tax. We need to junk this massive, punitive income tax system and replace it with the Fair Tax.

If you haven’t yet read The FairTax Book by Neal Boortz and Congressman John Linder, go to this link and order it now.

Best,
Jacquelyn Lynn

Welcome to my blog

2006-04-03T10:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by. I’ve created this blog as a venue to share business and consumer information with my readers. I hope you’ll find it valuable, and I look forward to your comments.

Jacquelyn Lynn