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MONEY COMMENT
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It drives me nuts whenever I read about people falling for scams. I normally run a mile in the opposite direction if I even get the slightest whiff of a swindle. But then, I can usually spot stings from a distance. Some people, however, can't. According to the BBC, thousand of Britons have fallen victim to fraudulent lottery schemes on the Canadian National Lottery. It seems that winners are told they have won a significant amount of money. But to get their hands on the loot, winners have to pay government taxes in advance before the cash can be released! Money Up Front Being asked to pay money up front through unsolicited mail is usually a good indication that a rip-off is in progress. Most trustworthy companies will never ask for payment in advance, but are quite happy to let you try their product or service before buying. Most reputable company will even offer a return service if you are dissatisfied. Post Office Box Dodgy postal addresses can be another good clue that a fiddle is in progress. Admittedly, Post Office boxes and private mail boxes have grown in popularity over the years. However, companies that do not provide an alternative fixed address should always be treated with suspicion. Incredibly Cheap Prices Goods being offered at ultra-low prices should always set alarm bells ringing. These products are most likely counterfeits. Alternatively they may well be genuine goods that have found their way to market through dishonest means. Either way, it's a good idea to give a wide berth to incredibly low priced goods. Get Rich Quick Schemes Finally, anyone who promises to make you incredibly rich, incredibly quickly, is almost certainly behind a well-orchestrated con. Over the years, the ways that "Get Rich Quick Scams" are carried out may have changed, but the blueprint always stays the same. Unsuspecting punters are always led to believe that they are getting something for nothing. So, if you are ever offered say, quality inside info on the races, a guaranteed plan to become a property millionaire or a chance to run a business from home that will run itself, just walk away. Remember that if something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is!