Scams: Internets Top Five

Transfer on the Spot reveals the top five web swindles in the world today. In a recent Nielsen survey, almost 60 % of all customers said that they'd rather buy at home then at a mall. With the expansion of the net, shoppers are now ready to purchase almost everything imaginable with a straightforward click. However, what many do not understand is the growing quantity of swindles flowing thru the web today. In this piece, Transfer on the Spot reveals the five most popular cons and the way to avoid them. 


Timeshares 
With timeshares being such an awful investment, many online cons have surfaced during the past few years. Thanks to the business downfall, many timeshare owners are now unable to keep up with the annual maintenance fees. This resulted in many owners making an attempt to sell their timeshare on the web. However, the BBB warns timeshare owners to beware of timeshare resale companies that ask for an front-loaded fee. The BBB even goes as far as to claim never sell a timeshare on the internet. 
One way to avoid being a victim to a timeshare resale scam is to never trust a company who asks for an upfront charge such as processing or title transfer fees. In addition, sellers should never give out any personal information such as their social security or bank info. The BBB advises timeshare owners to use an organization that charges a fee only after the timeshare is sold. 
Be sure to always read the fine print especially when trying to sell a timeshare. Read every contract scrupulously and ensure the company is really selling your timeshare not just charging a charge to publicize the listing. Be sure to never wire cash to a reseller or seller. Credit cards often offer crime protection that wire transfers do not offer.


Designer Goods 
With the economy as it is, many purchasers are looking for a way to save some cash. Many designer purses sold at half price is most likely a knock-off sold by unscrupulous people. What many consumers don't realize is that designer goods will always remain at a hefty price unless the company is having a sale. Counterfeit products have now become a gigantic worldwide industry. Counterfeit products sold and shipped to U.S. Companies have lead them to lose millions of dollars each year. 
The best way to avoid buying a fake or knock-off is to just purchase the item at the official store or from a reputable dealer. 


Financial scholarships and Financial aid 
As college kids graduate many of them have debts that have to be paid off continuously. Since debt must always be avoided at all costs, many scholars and parents are searching for grant opportunities that might be utilized towards higher education. However, the BBB warns parents to never fall for sites that require a charge to access the bursaries or financial aid packages. 
Many conmen have used sites that require a fee for grant possibilities. Students and parents alike have fallen for these grant rip-offs and lose about $100 million annually. All legitimate stipends and financial help information are free and don't need any upfront payment. 


Cruise Deals 
With the great deals presented online though sites like Expedia and Priceline it is hard to say no. But one important thing to avoid is booking a cruise on the internet. Though not all booking sites are scams, it is tough to say no to a good deal. The Better Business Bureau received over 1,000 beefs regarding ship purchases. Many conmen have mailed out postcards stating that you have received a free cruise and in order to claim your prize you need to call them.
 
One important thing to always look for when booking a cruise is the key words such as free, phenomenal offers, or discounted. Any site linked with those key words usually end up being a scam. An alternate way to avoid being scammed is by doing a little research. Read reviews provided by other customers and never give out your Mastercard information until you are guaranteed that the company is One hundred percent legitimate. 


Temp jobs 
Students in highschool or school have a tendency to seek short-term jobs when they have no previous work experience. Many times they're drawn to apply for jobs that offer high wages that need almost no previous work experience. Often times these job offers tend to end up as scams instead of a real job opening. 
To avoid ending up as a victim of this swindle, never send cash to a company in return for a job position. Other examples include costs for info kits, materials, or executive costs. Many times the consumer will pay these charges and end up receiving nothing in turn. One enormous no-no is to give out your private info. Never give out your bank accounts or PayPal info to a company until you are 100% certain they are not a scam.