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Avoid Scams and Fraudsters:
Never give out personal or financial information (banking information, account data, social security number, log in/password info, etc.)
Deal on the local level if possible (By staying local you are more prone to spotting a scam when it appears. Local knowledge is a safety net and an advantage.)
It is advised to never wire funds via Western Union, Moneygram or any other wire service; many scams have been accomplished utilizing these services.
Know that banks will hold you responsible for cashing a fake cashier check or money order... even if you knew nothing about it.
NeighborAide is not involved in any transaction!
NeighborAide does not handle payments, guarantee transactions, provide escrow services, offer "buyer protection" or "seller certification" and does not perform background checks!
Notify the following concerning fraud:
- FTC toll free hotline: 877-FTC-HELP (877-382-4357)
- Canadian PhoneBusters hotline: 888-495-8501
- Non-emergency number for your local police department
If you suspect that an item posted on NeighborAide may be part of a scam, please email the details to abuse@neighboraide(dot)com. Be sure to include the URL (or posting ID number) in your message.
Remember:
Many scams can involve one or some of the following:
- Inquiry from someone far away, often in another country
- Western Union, Money Gram, cashier`s check, money order, shipping, escrow service, or a "guarantee"
- Inability or refusal to meet face-to-face before completing the transaction
- Wanting payment first before a service is rendered. Always remember to pay half or less at first if hiring someone far away such as; web designers, distance courses, etc.. This is commonly referred to as creating milestones for a job. This way as certain aspects of the job are completed then divided payments are released upon pre-agreed terms.
Personal Safety Tips:
We know that the overwhelming majority of NeighborAide users and people in general tend to be sincere and trustworthy. With that said it`s important to take some simple precautions.
When meeting someone for the first time, make the following choices:
- Insist on a public meeting place
- Have a friend go with you
- Tell a friend or family member where you`re headed
- Take your cell phone
- Trust your gut
- Until you are sure the person is ok do not give them your home address or phone number.
- Don`t ever be pressured into doing or saying anything you feel uncomfortable with.
Taking these simple precautions helps make NeighborAide safer for everyone.
For more information about personal safety online, check out these resources:
- http://www.staysafeonline.info/
- http://getsafeonline.org
- http://wiredsafety.org
Protect Your Identity:
- http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/
- http://www.fbi.gov/majcases/fraud/fraudschemes.htm
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