Whether you are looking for ways to meet immediate financial
needs or looking for long-term financial resources, working from
home might just be the solution. From online to multi-level
marketing opportunities there is something for everyone. But are
they all legitimate or are they scams?
With tough economic times comes an influx of scammers hoping to
prey on those desperate to earn income. Unfortunately, the
global, anonymous and inexpensive nature of the Internet has made
it one of the most popular mediums for scamming.
Red Flag Test
Before embarking on one of the many tempting work-at-home
opportunities presented to you, take the Red Flag test by answering
a few basic questions. If you answer yes then stand clear -- it’s
probably a scam.
- Is this a “Get Rich Quick” plan?
- Does this offer huge financial rewards with little time
required? It does not typically work like that. Expect to earn the
money you make in a reasonable amount of time.
- Am I required to send money? This is a huge red flag!
Never pay fees for start-up kits, lists or additional information.
For example, some scammers will make information available via a
1-900 number which you will be charged for calling.
- Do I have to purchase inventory? The majority of home assembly
opportunities require you to purchase unassembled
inventory. Stand clear. It is highly probable that you
will get stuck with a box of junk.
- Is the company selling a product that doesn’t exist? For a
minimal charge, many scammers will send you information on how to
scam others by sending them the same useless information. Don’t let
them turn you into a scammer.
- Is this product or service without a market? If there is no
market for the product, there will be no buyers. Medical billing is
a good example. The demand for medical billing is not great in many
areas because health organizations perform this function
in-house.
Tips:
- Beware of unsolicited e-mail opportunities. Scammers will seek
you out.
- Stay clear of envelope stuffing or e-mail processing
opportunities. They rank high on the scammer list.
- Listen to that inner voice. Remember, if it sounds too •good to
be true, it probably is.
- Do your research. Visit websites that have screened many online
opportunities and weeded out the scams.
- Don’t pay to learn how to start a business. That information is
available for free on the Internet.
