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It's not always easy to spot con artists. They're smart, extremely persuasive, and
aggressive. They invade your home by telephone and mail, advertise in well-known
newspapers and magazines, and come to your door. .
Most people think they're too
smart to fall for a scam. But con artists rob all kinds of people - from investment
counselors and doctors to teenagers and elderly widows - of crores of rupees every
year.
Just remember... if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
If Someone Rips You Off
Report con games to the police, your city or state consumer protection
office, or a consumer advocacy group. Don't feel foolish. Reporting is vital. Very
few frauds are reported, which leaves the con artists free to rob other people of
their money - and their trust.
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Be a Wise Consumer
1.
Don't buy health products or treatments that include: a promise for a quick and
dramatic cure. Quackery can delay an ill person from getting timely treatment.
2. Never
give a caller your credit card, phone card, or bank account number over the phone.
3.
Investigate before you invest. Never make an investment with a stranger over the
phone. Beware of promises that include the terms "get rich quick," or "a once in
a lifetime opportunity."
4. Look closely at offers that come in the mail. Con artists
often use official-looking forms and bold graphics to lure victims. If you receive
items in the mail that you did not order, you are under no obligation to pay for
them - throw them out, or return them.
5. Be suspicious of ads that promise quick cash
working from your home. After you have paid for the supplies or a how-to book to
get started, you often find there's no market for the product and there's no way
to get your money back.
6. Beware of cheap home repair work that would otherwise be
expensive, regardless of the reason given. The con artist may just do part of the
work, use shoddy materials and untrained workers, or simply take your deposit and
never return.
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