Home Business Credit Card Scams: Beware

by David Gates

With the sluggish economy were now living in, the promises of success with home-based businesses seem to be everywhere. After I unwittingly became the victim of one of these scams, I decided to examine them more carefully so I might give advice to others considering the same option.

Most jobs that can be performed at home involved data entry to taking orders through your home phone line for other companies. The opportunity looks great, promises lots of money, and many even back up their claims with a guarantee. Thats what convinced me; if I wasnt satisfied Id simply get my money back.

I looked at several listings. I wanted to find one where I was actually an employee and had real tasks to perform. I didnt want the type where I was sold software or instructions on how to make money at home. I thought it would be simple.

The one I chose had the aforementioned guarantee plus I was one of the first several callers so I received a special discount (or so I thought). What I really got was not at all what Id been promised. I knew Id been scammed as soon as I give my information (including my credit card account information). I shouldve known better.

They informed me that my website was ready to promote. They had a website for me to promote credit cards. All I had to was enter it into hundreds of search engines. I would have to promote the credit card website through FaceBook and other forums online. This is not mentioned anywhere on their initial site. I was also required to apply for four credit cards and when approved I would receive $20 back for each one. This never happened since they later said I could only receive it after I made $500.

I couldnt get paid until Id provided leads. There was always another reason why I couldnt yet get paid and no way to really get answers since they didnt provide a telephone number or online helpjust an email address that was usually ignored (or it replied with generic, automated messages that werent applicable).

I repeatedly requested a refund to no avail and finally tried to call the number that was on my credit card bill. It was based in Australia and the voicemail requested to leave a message and someone would get back to me. This never happened as well. I ended up filing a fraud complaint with my credit card company and currently await a credit to my account.

Im a college graduate. Im embarrassed to have fallen for this scam. I know being desperate for a paycheck is stressful though and I was in a place where I was susceptible to the lure of easy money. I am ready and willing to work hard, I just couldnt do that through opportunities like this that are based on deception. I really want others to realize that a job probably isnt legitimate if the promises are too good to be true; research carefully before you take a chance on a work-at-home business.

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