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Places that Can Help

The Better Business Bureau Online has a searchable database, where you can enter the name of the company you have questions about, to see whether there are complaints against them. Keep this in mind as well if you find yourself ripped off -- make sure to lodge a complaint with BBB, so that others will learn from your victimization.

It is worth noting that even the BBB has had problems online. As Web savvy people know, you can "borrow" the graphics from almost any site online. So some unscrupulous firms have borrowed the Better Business Bureau logo to place on their sites, even though they did not go through the rigorous process of certification.

In addition to BBB Online, here are sites that can help:

• Internet Scambusters - You can also sign up to receive their "ezine" (e-mail magazine).
  
• National Fraud Information Center -- Features a toll-free telephone number to call, and it offers excellent information on telemarketing fraud.
  
• Con Artist -- Visit this site to learn insider information on all sorts of con games and frauds, from pyramid schemes to three-card monte (definitely worth the trip).
  

  Frauds, Fakes, Scams, & Other Online Dangers New Swindles Online: The 809 Telephone Scandal How to Avoid Problems Places That Can Help

• Scamwatch -- They call themselves the Web Police, and they list specific scams.
  
• General Fraud-Related Links -- This site fulfills truth in advertising.
  
• Perilous Times Crime Page -- Useful information.
  
• Home Watch&trade -- Lists scams by name.

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