For Immediate Release: December 30, 2014
December Hot Topics:
- Don't Be "Spoofed" with Caller ID Advanced-Fee Loan Scheme
- Aiming for a Healthier 2015? BBB® Offers These Tips
- Holiday Season Gives Us a Reason to Check Our Credit Report
Don’t Be “Spoofed” with Caller ID Advanced-Fee Loan Scheme
BBB® Serving Central Indiana is aware of another round of “spoofing” incidents offering easy loans.
Caller ID spoofing is when a schemer calls consumers and deliberately falsifies the telephone number and/or name displayed on the Caller ID to disguise the identity of the calling party. The most recent incidents of Caller ID spoofing that have been reported to BBB® Serving Central Indiana involves a company using an Indianapolis business and phone number offering advance-fee loans.
Typically, a consumer is called and told they are preapproved for a loan ― but you must pay first. The “company” requests the first month’s payment be sent to them, many times via MoneyPak or Western Union, to secure the loan. However, these loans are not a legitimate credit offer and once the money is sent, it is nearly impossible for the consumer to recoup their money.
BBB urges consumers to be cautious anytime they are contacted by phone with offers of credit, even when it appears the call is coming from a legitimate lender. Consider it a red flag if someone guarantees or offers a loan or other form of credit without knowing your credit history. If you’re asked to pay before you receive the loan funds, hang up the phone.
If you have questions about a company or want to know more about the legitimacy of a call you received call BBB Serving Central Indiana at 866-463-9222.
Aiming for a Healthier 2015? BBB® Offers These Tips
As we look toward 2015, many of us will start creating our New Year resolutions. Some of us will have resolutions to get in shape and lose weight. BBB® Serving Central Indiana offers tips for starting the New Year off right without losing money with fitness center contracts.
A fitness center may offer a special introductory fee to attract new members. Be sure to understand the price and timeframe of the special offer. Don’t feel pressured to make a commitment during the initial visit. A reputable gym will give you enough time to read the contract thoroughly, tour the facilities and make an informed decision.
Before signing a contract, ask if the gym offers a trial membership. This will allow you to visit and explore the facility during your normal workout schedule. BBB Serving Central Indiana recommends taking a look at BBB Business Reviews of fitness centers in your area before making a decision. Visit bbb.org/indy to find Accredited Businesses you can trust.
If you decide to pursue a membership, BBB Serving Central Indiana recommends you read the contract thoroughly and ask specific questions about the contract and billing:
- How long is my membership contract? Will it renew automatically?
- What is the cancellation policy?
- In the case of life changing events, such as injury, sickness, or relocation, how will my membership be affected?
- Is my membership valid at any other gym location?
- If the business closes, what will happen with the money and membership I’ve already paid for in advance?
Keep in mind your right to cancel the contract as provided in the Indiana’s Health Spa Services Act. Find out the reasons to cancel the contract on the Indiana Attorney General’s website.
Fitness centers aren’t for everyone. If you are more interested in diet and weight-loss products, BBB encourages consumers to learn as much as possible about the product before you purchase. The product may be offered at a cheaper rate or a free trial; prices may increase after the initial offer. Be sure to review testimonials, terms and conditions, and refund policy. Be skeptical of exaggerated claims – there are no instant fixes when it comes to weight loss.
Visit bbb.org/indy to find a Business Review on the product manufacturer. Business Reviews show a rating, customer reviews, complaints and government action along with other important information. Before you purchase, check with U.S. Food and Drug Administration at fda.gov. Think about asking your healthcare provider about the effects of the products. Consider exercising and eating healthy as an alternative to diet pills and products.
Holiday Season Gives Us a Reason to Check Our Credit Report
We often pay with our credit cards for the sake of convenience, especially during the holiday season. While it’s important to pay the bill on time, it’s also important to review the credit card statements for any unknown charges and compare receipt totals. If there is a dispute, be sure to contact the credit card company right away.
Along with checking statements, it’s a good way start the New Year by knowing your credit is in good standing and your credit report is accurate. According to AnnualcreditReport.com credit reports may affect your mortgage rates, credit card approvals, apartment requests, or even your job application. Reviewing credit reports helps you catch signs of identity theft early. By checking into the information now, you might be protecting yourself from a hassle later.
BBB suggests accessing the only free annual credit reports under federal law through AnnualCreditReport.com. There are three nationwide credit reporting companies - Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. A credit report includes information on where you live, how you pay your bills, and whether you’ve been sued or have filed for bankruptcy. A consumer can access each free credit report every 12 months or may choose to access one of the reports every four months, which allows you to review throughout the year.
Do not use any unfamiliar links to access these reports. Be sure to contact the appropriate credit report agency if any of the information is inaccurate.
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To schedule an interview or for more information, please contact Ty Gerig at: tgerig@seasegerig.com