Here at HBWM, we get calls and emails almost daily hearing of how some sweet parent lost their money to an unscrupulous company preying on parent's deep desire to be at home with their children. We make it our business to educate our visitors and members on how to avoid these nasty scams.

1. Research the company and always check them out with the Better Business Bureau. 
   Review the BBB's Work-at-Home Schemes information.
2. Ask for at least three references of people they have worked with. Call each person and ask about their experiences with the company.
3. Don't be fooled by ads claiming you can make large amounts of money in short periods of time. And be cautious of companies that require you to sign up immediately. Usually if it sounds too good to be true; it probably is.
4. Before you invest in a business opportunity, get specific information (in writing) from the company such as how long they have been in business, where they are located (not just a P.O. Box), how many customers they have, what their refund policy is (read it thoroughly), how long it takes to get paid and if there are any restrictions on payments, etc.
5. Try to use your credit card instead of cash if you invest in a business opportunity. That way if you do want a refund, it may be easier to dispute the charges with your credit card company rather than trying to get your money back from the fraudulent company.

6. Be cautious of any employment opportunity that asks for money (such as money for "job" instructions, to test your printer, to see if you are qualified or for an application).
7. Research current scams on web sites such as ScamBusters and *Safe From Scams*.
8. Contact the National Fraud Information Center or (800) 876-7060 for information.
9. Report any scams or fraudulent companies to the Federal Trade Commission. Send email to the FTC with business opportunity or work-at-home spam email you receive at: uce@ftc.gov.  Also contact your state's Attorney General and the National Fraud Information Center, PO Box 65868, Washington, DC 20035 or (800) 876-7060.
10. Don't invest in any opportunity that you are not sure about. Instead, find something that you are interested in and will enjoy doing. (Do what you love, and the money will follow.)

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