Fraud Alert! Beware of fraudulent business practices
As a result of today’s unstable economy, many people are becoming victims of those who practice unsavory business tactics. There are many individuals and organizations that claim to be “experts” in their field, but don’t have the proper training, the necessary paperwork, or required business license. To protect yourself from becoming a victim, The Lee County Sheriff’s Office urges you to follow these tips:
1. Beware of individuals who claim to be crime prevention consultants or experts and solicit your business, neighborhood watch program or gated community residents to arrange a “free” crime prevention seminar. Although there may not be a fee required for their service, often times scare tactics are used to motivate home and business owners to purchase their supplies such as pepper spray, security systems, etc. If you are interested in a crime prevention program the Lee County Sheriff’s Office offers these classes for free and we will not try to sell anything. Call Community Relations at 477-1400 to arrange a program.
2. Research the business online. Pay particular attention to any searches relating to the company that might be associated with terms such as “scams”, “reviews” or “lawsuits”.
3. Does the information given to you by the company or individual match the information you have received either from your on-line search or prior customer’s of the business?
4. Contact the Better Business Bureau about a company before you do business with them. The BBB documents complaints and scams which have been registered by unhappy consumers.
5. Use common sense. When in doubt, don’t!
If you are not sure how or where to check on the legitimacy of a business or you want to report activity you think might be deceptive, call the Lee County Sheriff’s Fraud Line.
For assistance call the Sheriff’s Office Fraud Line for C.A.S.E., Communities Against Senior Exploitation: 477-1242
submitted by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office