BBB issues tips, warnings on possible scams in area

FORT WAYNE—The Better Business Bureau of Northern Indiana issues monthly tips and alerts regarding possible scams in the area. This list is current as of April 25. Readers should take into consideration the importance of the practice in question and the total performance of a company when evaluating its performance. For complete information, please visit www.bbb.org.

• Foreclosure Assistance Solutions is contacting Hoosiers, claiming the company can keep them out of foreclosure. Consumers have complained about service issues and not receiving requested refunds. To date, 230 complaints have been filed against this Florida company, and they have the BBB's lowest rating. Consumers needing help in saving their homes from foreclosure should contact the Mortgage & Foreclosure Helpline at (866) 722- 9248.
• House Cleaning Services can be very popular in Indiana in the month of May. We have Mother's Day get-togethers, graduation parties, and of course Indy 500 race bashes, and everyone wants their guests to enjoy a nice, clean home. There are 109 house-cleaning companies in the BBB's database; 13 are Bureau members and meet BBB standards. Three non-members have the BBB's lowest rating; they are: Molly Maid in Plainfield, Ind., Showcase Cleaning in Lafayette, Ind., and Dirt Divas in Indianapolis. When engaging such a company, get a BBB report; check bonding and insurance; ask if the company performs background checks of its employees; and ask if the company provides the cleaning supplies, or if the supplies need to be supplied by the homeowner.
• Hate Scams Publications operates out of a Post Office box in Lafayette,Ind. The company advertises in magazines, stating, "Free 240-page guide reveals how to make $1,833 a day with scam reporting. If you hurry, you'll receive $3,065 in bonuses too!" The "huge manual" was $197, but is now being sold for $25, with a one-year, 100 percent money back guarantee. The ad also states, "You do not need a computer." One consumer sent his money for the "huge manual," but received instead a CD-ROM. When the consumer requested a refund, the company responded, "No offense, but I am not obligated to give you a refund just because you can't seem to find a computer." This is a work-at-home scheme—the advertiser is the only one making the money!
• Financing Alternative offers products such as computers, plasma TVs, and jewelry on their layaway-purchase program. Three monthly payments must be paid, in advance, before shipment. If the consumer cancels, there is a $175 fee. Consumers allege delivery delays, refund delays, and refund denials. To date, 465 complaints have been filed against this Virginia company.
• www.tendollarcar.com is conducting an online raffle. The tickets are being sold for $10 each and the winner will get a Lexus. Also on the website is a three-question contest that enters the consumer to win a $300 gas card. Proceeds are supposed to go to Whispering Angels. The BBB contacted the Indiana Gaming Commission—neither name has a license with the state to conduct a raffle. Also, they aren't registered with the IRS— not a good sign. Anyone with any information, please contact Joseph Eldridge at the BBB at jeldridge@indybbb.org or call (317) 488-2221, Extension 113.

• Youth Solutions sells magazines door-to-door. Last summer, they were selling in Brownsburg. The complaint? Checks were cashed, but no magazines were received. It appears that they are back in Indiana. Complainants allege high-pressure sales tactics and delay in delivery. The Mississippi Secretary of State issued a cease and desist order against the company because company reps had indicated that a portion of the sales proceeds would aid Hurricane Katrina victims. Youth Solutions was ordered to cease this illegal activity and pay a fine of $10,000. To date, 130 complaints have been filed against this Mississippi company, and they have the BBB's lowest rating. Beware of magazine salespeople using a charity pitch! Our advice? If you are concerned for the youth, don't buy, don't let them into your house, and call your local police department and tell them you are concerned for the youth's safety.