Ten tips on how to avoid a scam
March 2007
You should always be wary of a "money for nothing" scheme. Remember that if it is a scam you may never get your money back. Here are our ten tips on how to avoid a scam.
1. Stay on your guard
Stop, think and be sceptical. If the prize has any conditions or requires that you pay money, you have not won.
2. Don't rush into a decision
Ask for time to think it over. Look for more information about the offer or the company making it. Ask them for detailed written information, and valid references. Search the Internet for information about this particular company.
3. Watch out for premium rate numbers
And remember that all premium rate services should advise you of the price before you access them. In Ireland these numbers begin with a 15. It could be ordinary numbers too. If you are suspicious, hang up.
4. Read the small print
Check for any hidden fees or nasty terms and conditions. Some times terms and conditions contradict each other, and be confusing - read them carefully.
5. Don't reply
Responding to one scam can open the door to many more. There is a growing market for lists of consumers who have responded to scams like these. These lists are called "suckers lists". It seems that these consumers are being targeted again and again by scammers, on the basis that they were naive enough to have been caught once, so they can be caught again.
6. Never buy from spam
Never buy anything from a bulk unsolicited email (or spam). Most of these emails are scams.
7. Don't give out sensitive information
Only fill out questionnaires for companies you know well. Ask questions to determine how your information will be used and. Never give out your bank account details or your PIN code.
8. Don't take part in a pyramid scheme
You could be breaking the law. Members of pyramid schemes will soon be liable to a heavy fine - or even prison. It is also an offence to be a member or invite somebody to be a member.
9. Stop the cold calls
Read our quick guide on how to stop getting all those unsolicited phone calls from the marketing people.
10. Above all, use your common sense
It may sound obvious, but many people don't always do it. If it's apparently offering you something for nothing and seems too good to be true, it probably is. If you have a gut feeling that something is dodgy, you're probably right.
Before you part with any money, think about taking legal or professional advice. The chances are that once you have sent it, you will never see it again.
Have your say
Tell us about scams you have come across. Use our contact form, or email us at haveyoursay@consumerconnect.ie, or call our LoCall number at 1890 432432 or phone (01) 402 5555.
Learn more
Read about our scams awareness campaign
Find out about our previous campaign about distance selling, doorstep selling and scams.