Top 5 Scams
Telemarketing!
Slick telemarketers tried to talk Essex and Kent County residents out of a lot of cash this last year with promises of prizes that failed to materialize. If a friendly stranger on the line promises you a prize, remember: if you won it, you DON'T have to make a purchase or pay a fee to claim it, and you DON'T have to pay for delivery.
You Have Won $$$ ..Send us a Cheque
Essex and Kent County consumers are being notified that they have won money. Dazzled by a slick mailing piece and a cheque, residents are asked to send money by wire to pay for the taxes. Of course, their cheque bounces and you are out the money you sent.
Letter From Nigeria Promising Big Profits
A criminal syndicate in Nigeria continued to target small businesses this year with promises of big profits for businesses that "invest" in their phony operation. The faxes and letters they send prey on greed and gullibility. When individuals respond, they can expect a lot of fast-talk and intimidation... but no financial gains.
Vacation Certificates
To promote their goods or services, some companies offer special travel certificates for a free trip to an exotic location. The wording on these certificates tend to be vague and doesn't clearly state that if you take the trip but don't buy their (goods or services, you may end up paying the bill. Many times the free' trip they offer doesn't include meals, transportation, tips and other hidden expenses which can add up very quickly. A cliché worth remembering - If it sounds to good to be true, it probably is.
Gas Brokers
The most common complaint we hear is, "I didn't know I had switched gas companies!. Someone came to our door a few months ago and asked to see our gas bill. Later I find out that someone else is supplying my gas. I didn't even sign anything."
Homeowners that have supplied their gas utility account number, signed a 'rebate" cheque, or signed a document confirming that the door-to-door sales person had been there. are entering into a five year contract. This contract is automatically renewed for another five years unless the broker is notified by the homeowner to cancel.
Consumers are also misled into believing that the price they will pay is lower than that of their current utility. The Bureau urges homeowners to compare any "savings" with their current supplier.