BBB Southern Piedmont & Western NC: Links and resources

With many recent data breach announcements from all types of industries, it's become clear how common data breaches are these days.

BBB has tips for consumers to protect personal information and reduce identity theft risks. This is important whether you’re a customer of the affected companies or not.

The use of artificial intelligence is on the rise, and consumers and businesses are able to experience the benefits of using the tool. BBB has tips and best practices for identifying AI and using AI wisely.

Roofing scams tend to pop up after big storms. BBB Scam Tracker often receives reports of shady “free” roof inspections. Homeowners should know how to recognize these cons and always hire businesses they can trust.

In today's digital age, the threat of identity and information theft is becoming increasingly critical. A recent study by the Better Business Bureau's International Investigations initiative highlights the dramatic changes in the landscape of identity theft, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and the proliferation of dark websites.

The Better Business Bureau wants people to be vigilant against scams as the Real ID requirement to board a domestic flight, nears.

Starting May 7, the TSA will require passengers have a Real ID or a valid passport, to fly.

The sense of urgency can make people more susceptible to scams.

Unwanted text messages have become an everyday situation — from companies, political campaigns, and different organizations. But what happens when one of those messages promises a high-paying job?

Is your financial and personal information being sold on the Dark Web? If you haven’t taken the proper precautions, your data may be at higher risk.

When planning your next trip, be wary of false promises and a sense of urgency that can fool you into paying for something that doesn’t exist.

BBB of Southern Piedmont and Western NC congratulates businesses on their BBB Accreditation as of April 2025!

Planning a trip can take a lot of time and effort. You’re sitting at your computer with 50 tabs and two windows open, writing down everything that you think could be useful when you finally get around to booking activities, but there’s an easier way. By using Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) like ChatGPT and Google Gemini, you can get itinerary ideas just by having a conversation with a GAI engine.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is urging consumers to be vigilant about social media scams that are becoming increasingly sophisticated. 

Juliana O'Rork, a representative from the BBB, highlighted the dangers of fake customer service accounts during an interview on Live Impact News, emphasizing the importance of protecting personal information.

Have you noticed that your utility or phone bill is much higher than expected?  Could your account have been switched over to a third party without your knowledge? If this sounds familiar, you may have encountered an unethical tactic known as slamming.

The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers about a rise in phishing scams involving fake subscription renewal notices.

These scams target people through emails that appear to come from legitimate businesses, urging immediate payment to renew subscriptions or memberships.

With the news that retailer JOANN Fabrics declared bankruptcy, as well as Forever 21, and announced the closure of all physical store locations, scammers are wasting no time setting up fake going out of business and liquidation websites.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is sounding the alarm about a rising scam known as financial grooming.

A financial grooming scam is a type of fraud where scammers build trust with their victims over time before exploiting them financially. The BBB's 2024 "Scam Tracker Risk Report" revealed the schemes that are having the greater impact, including financial grooming scams. 

When planning your next trip, be wary of false promises and a sense of urgency that can fool you into paying for something that doesn’t exist.

Scammers pose as representatives from loan companies claiming you applied for a loan. The reality? They're just trying to steal your information.

A package you didn’t order could be a fun surprise, but be careful – especially if it comes with a QR code. It might be the setup for a scam.

In a "brushing" scam, you receive a package you didn’t order, often without a return address. This is often a setup by unscrupulous companies who found your address online.

Your home is your biggest investment and expense. So keeping it maintained and taken care of is crucial. Here's your one-stop resource for everything from financing to building to repairing -- inside and out, from top to bottom.

Ordering flowers for Valentine's Day? Don’t procrastinate, or you may end up falling for a scam.  BBB.org/ScamTracker has received numerous reports from shoppers who turned to online florists for last-minute orders. They paid for a beautiful arrangement but got disappointing flowers – or nothing at all. 

Come visit our Accredited Businesses at the Charlotte Home & Remodeling Show, Feb 21-23 at the Park Expo Center! Use promo code “BBB” for 50% off tickets!

Scammers will try anything to steal from you -- including posing as a potential love interest. BBB has tips to help you spot scammers and protect both your heart and your wallet.

As millions of Americans begin filing their taxes, scammers are trying to take advantage of the season by sending fraudulent messages claiming eligibility for a $1,400 stimulus check. The Better Business Bureau is warning taxpayers to stay alert for these deceptive texts, which are designed to steal personal information.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Serving Southern Piedmont and Western North Carolina has released its list of the Top Five Scams of 2024, highlighting the most common schemes targeting consumers and businesses in the region. 

When shopping for a team jersey or other sports memorabilia, watch out for fakes. Scammers know that authentic game-used and/or autographed items can fetch big bucks – especially for items commemorating big games.

Everyone loves a good deal, and scammers know it. Counterfeit coupons are a popular way for scammers to steal your identity and money.

Scammers are impersonating the IRS to trick taxpayers into sharing personal information, claiming they’re eligible for a $1,400 stimulus check. These fraudulent messages often look official, but they’re part of a phishing scheme designed to steal your sensitive data.

These fraudsters, known as "ghost" filers, set up around tax time and get people to hire them, often promising unusually large refunds.

BBB recommends adding a few precautionary steps to the New Year's resolution list and the weight loss and financial goals to help make the upcoming days and months fraud-free.

If your goal is to lose weight, get in better shape, or improve your overall health, deciding to join a gym may be the first step. Here with more is Juliana O’Rork from the Better Business Bureau. 

If your goal is to lose weight, get in better shape, or improve your overall health, deciding to join a gym may be the first step. However, don't just sign up at the first gym you see or visit. Before signing on the dotted line, research all options first!

Join us for an exclusive session specifically for BBB Accredited Businesses! 

Presented by Pete Blackshaw and Hank Hudepohl, co- founders of BrandRank.AI, discover how to take your business from hidden to highlighted in AI-driven search results and what every small business must know to secure visibility in AI-powered "Answer Engines" like ChatGPT and Google Gemini.

BBB of Southern Piedmont and Western NC congratulates the following businesses on their BBB Accreditation as of January 2025:

Whether you focus on resolutions or not, the start of the new year can feel like a fresh start in many aspects of your life. Here are BBB's tips and other articles to help you as you think about changes you may want to make in the new year.

The loss of money, personal information, and perseverance of scammers continue with online purchase scams as the third riskiest of scams.

BBB recommends adding a few precautionary steps to the New Year's resolution list and the weight loss and financial goals to help make the upcoming days and months fraud-free.

Holiday returns aren't easy! And we don't mean the part where you explain to your mother why you returned the sweater she gave you.

While most retailers do offer refund and exchange programs, policies vary greatly from one store to another. Be sure to double-check policies this holiday season, even if you are familiar with the brand, as stores can change their policies whenever they want.

Consumers report that a New York-based travel booking service is allegedly misrepresenting itself in the name of legitimate airlines and cruise lines and overcharging customers. The BBB is alerting consumers about Flightsassist, whose website claims it is a company formed to “provide the best possible fares to its clients and serve passengers with the best customer service.” But complaints to BBB tell a different story.

Gift cards are a popular and convenient gift-giving option, but they are also a target for scammers. Stay one step ahead and shop carefully to avoid a scam known as “gift card draining.”

As we order all those holiday gifts online, you might want to be careful of some of the boxes that wind up at your door.

Here's the scenario: you get a random package at your door that's addressed to you. But this secret Santa could be on the naughty list trying to steal your information.

It may be hard to believe but GivingTuesday, the charity event which takes place on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving started twelve years ago, in 2012. It evolved into a movement that has helped raise more than $1 billion for online charitable giving around the globe and is now promoted by an organization devoted to this cause. 

The 2024 holiday season is upon us and the Better Business Bureau’s Juliana O’Rork joined us on QC@3 to help you avoid scams, shop smartly, and give wisely.

For years now, some consumers have been getting text messages stating that a major delivery carrier needs them to "update delivery preferences" on a package by clicking a link. The problem? The texts are scams, and the links result in the theft of personal information, money, or both.

Consumers are not the only ones susceptible to scams during the holidays.

Businesses are often targets of scams with costly consequences. It's important that business owners take extra precautions to be able to identify, avoid, and protect themselves from scams.

With Black Friday next week, you will probably be taking advantage of plenty of holiday shopping deals! Many are turning to social media for inspiration as ads pop up on your feed.

But there is a warning tonight that those ads might be on the naughty list. 

With more than $240 billion in U.S. online sales and almost $15 billion in holiday retail expected in Canada, scammers are ready to pounce on unsuspecting shoppers across North America by using fake advertisements to offer deep discounts and hard-to-find popular items.

Black Friday, traditionally the single busiest shopping day of the year, arrives a little late this year on November 29, with many stores advertising Black Friday prices much earlier. If you decide to shop in person on Black Friday, the BBB offers these tips to make your shopping experience productive (and maybe even enjoyable).

For years now, some consumers have been getting text messages stating that a major delivery carrier needs them to "update delivery preferences" on a package by clicking a link. The problem? The texts are scams, and the links result in the theft of personal information, money, or both.

The BBB Institute for Marketplace Trust (BBB Institute), the Association of Military Banks of America (AMBA), and Zelle® are pleased to present a new report, Marketplace challenges facing the military community. This report highlights the ways in which some of those unique challenges are impacting how military consumers engage in the marketplace.

BBB of Southern Piedmont and Western NC congratulates the following businesses on their BBB Accreditation as of November 2024.

An election's approach always seems to turn up the emotional heat across the nation, and the United States 2024 elections are no exception. The voices arguing for and against hot-button issues are loud and persistent. And when emotions run high, bad actors look for ways to use people's passion to trick them.

Consumer experiences matter to us – and businesses! 

This November, help out a business near you and let them know if they've done a great job. Get started below!

Voters may see more political scams as November 5, Election Day, edges closer. The Better Business Bureau said it's because scammers usually take note of major national events -- including elections.

One of the main ways fraudsters target voters is by email. They may mimic candidates or political parties and ask people to donate money or participate in a survey. 

Consumers are gearing up to celebrate Halloween. Total Halloween spending is expected to reach $11.6 billion, according to the National Retail Federation’s annual survey. 72% of people will participate in Halloween-related activities this year. 

Those numbers can seem daunting, especially when watching the family budget. However, there are ways to keep the fun, stylish, and on budget. 

BBB of Southern Piedmont and Western NC congratulates the following businesses on their BBB Accreditation as of October 2024

Join us this Wednesday, October 23 at the Bazemore Active Adult Center from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and learn how to recognize scams, protect yourself against fraud and prevent identity theft!

If your insurance policy has been lost or destroyed, or if you are confused about the policy benefits or exclusions, contact your insurance company to find out what coverages you have and request a copy of the policy.

The Better Business Bureau offers seven tips when dealing with insurance after a disaster strikes.

With fall now in season, many stores are offering big sales, especially as we get closer to Black Friday and Christmas.

Some of those sales happen online, and in those cases, it is important to stay vigilant to avoid potential scams.

As our neighbors to the west struggle to regain any sense of normalcy following the horrific damage caused by Helene; those with heavy heart and wanting to help, need to be on the lookout for potential scammers and fake charities. 

You may be used to getting text messages and emails from your boss, which is why a recent texting scam is so effective. Scammers find out where you work and pose as the CEO or other executive. Be on guard and don’t share money or information – be it your own or your company’s.

Hurricanes can cause severe damage because of strong winds, storm surge, rip currents and flooding. BBB has tips for individuals and businesses, including:

• Preparing for hurricanes
• Dealing with damage
• Finding a trusted professional

You used to have to go to the stadium to root on your local high school athletic team. However, the COVID-19 pandemic changed that. With schools forced to restrict entry to events, they turned to online streaming of games so that people could watch from the comfort of their living rooms. Here with more is Juliana O’Rork from the Better Business Bureau, with words of caution so we are not duped. 

You may be used to getting text messages and emails from your boss, which is why a recent texting scam is so effective. Scammers find out where you work and pose as the CEO or other executive. Be on guard and don’t share money or information – be it your own or your company’s.

With the school year starting again, social media is full of adorable back-to-school photos. Often, these pictures feature a child holding a “first day of school” sign with basic information, such as their name and grade. Here with more is Juliana O’Rork from the Better Business Bureau with tips to keep your kids safe. Parents and children are so excited as they return back to school. And with the advent of social media most share their excitement online. “Before you jump on the trend and snap a similar picture of your little one, read these tips and be cautious about what you share” says O’Rork.

Looking for auto tips and advice? BBB has expert resources to help you at every step of your journey.

Discover our pro tips on buying new and used cars, selling your vehicle, renting with confidence, and keeping your car in top shape.

Hurricanes and other severe storms, a humid climate, leaky pipes, or continuous rain can make homes susceptible to flooding and mold. 

According to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), molds are a natural part of the environment. When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed.

It’s not often a free gift shows up on your front door but that’s what happened for a Fort Mill woman who asked we hide her identity. That free gift was a fake engagement ring sent to her through the mail.

Impersonation has always been a common and effective tactic used by scammers. If a hacker can compromise a company’s voicemail system, they can follow up with customer inquiries (and request payment and personal information) without the business ever knowing.

This study explores how crypto and romance fraud are used by investment scammers overseas to steals thousands from unsuspecting targets.

September is National Preparedness Month, and BBB wants you to have the resources you need to prepare for natural disasters in your area. BBB has resources that include tips and suggestions to make wise decisions and guard against scams. 

Whether you're looking to add a pet to your family or care for one you already have, BBB has info to help.

As the back-to-school season approaches, parents and students are gearing up for the annual shopping spree. Whether you prefer in-person shopping or browsing online, staying informed and prepared can make this busy time more manageable and cost-effective. Here are some tips to help you navigate back-to-school shopping.

Natural disasters like  storms, tornadoes,  hurricanes,  flooding, and wildfires often bring out the best in people as strangers reach out to help others in need. Unfortunately, the aftermath of a crisis also brings out contractors taking advantage of those who have already been victimized. 

A natural disaster can be caused by hazardous conditions traditionally caused in the summer by damaging winds, torrential rain, large hail, flooding and flash flooding, and winter storms that bring freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong winds. Severe weather can also occur at any time, in any location, so it is important to be prepared. 

Many small business owners plan to do everything themselves, but professional assistance can take some weight off an owner's shoulders. More importantly, financial and legal advice can save time and money and even protect from a worst-case scenario. It makes up for your shortcomings as a new business owner so that your track record in the marketplace stays positive.  

As College student return to school they must spend money on tuition payments and school supplies to prepare for the new year. However, scammers are taking this opportunity to try to steal some of that money through various schemes and scams. Here with more is Julie O'Rourke from the Better Business Bureau.  I’s time to vigilant that you don’t get your information or money stolen with fraudulent and fake Information – scams.

business? BBB can help with everything from how to get funding, to creating a business plan, to paying your taxes.

Is your business listed on BBB.org? If not, learn how to Get Listed!

Companies use QR codes to point consumers to their apps, track packages, or view menus. But because these codes can’t be read by the human eye, they have become a way for scammers to disguise malicious links. As QR codes get more popular, BBB Scam Tracker is seeing more reports of con artists using them to mislead consumers.

As a homeowner, you’re probably capable of handling many tasks on your own. But there are some things you should leave to a trustworthy professional who can address your home maintenance needs safely, competently and efficiently. 

The moments after a storm or natural disaster can feel overwhelming.

Cleanup and recovery begin after everyone is accounted for and safe from immediate threat (including pets). Storm victims should never feel pressured to make a hasty decision or choose an unknown contractor. Make temporary repairs if necessary so you can take the time to choose a trustworthy contractor. BBB has tips to help you recover safely and effectively after the storm!

If you recently purchased a new home, you’ve no doubt found that all that extra space requires upkeep and maintenance. BBB recommends the following tips to help you care for your new home and hire contractors you can trust.

With the school year starting again, social media is full of adorable back-to-school photos. Often, these pictures feature a child holding a “first day of school” sign with basic information, such as their name and grade. But before you jump on the trend and snap a similar picture of your little one, read these tips and be cautious about what you share.

College students must spend money on tuition payments and school supplies to prepare for the new year. However, scammers are taking this opportunity to try to steal some of that money through various schemes and scams. 

Buying new supplies and clothes is not enough as your children return to school this year. You also should be thinking about how to help them stay safe online and avoid being easy targets for online scammers.

The Olympics are upon us, and many eyes are on Paris and the athletes representing their countries. Amidst all the distractions, BBB warns consumers and businesses to be alert for potential scams, some of which were reported to BBB Scam Tracker in previous Games, as well as laws surrounding fair use of logos, trademarks and copyrights.

Airline industry profits are projected to exceed $25 billion in 2024 according to the International Air Transport Association, but scammers continue taking advantage of consumers by fabricating flight cancellation notices and tricking consumers when they are trying to contact airline customer service agents. BBB Scam Tracker has received multiple reports of scammers creating fake airline ticket booking sites or customer service numbers to charge travelers for rescheduling fake flights. If you are buying airfare, use caution and double-check the URL or phone number before providing your credit card information.

Between booking flights, hotels, a rental car, and things to do, planning a vacation can get stressful. It’s one reason many travelers turn to vacation packages, which bundle multiple aspects of your trip and may even help you plan your daily itinerary. Vacation packages are simpler to purchase and can save you money too.

Make BBB your trusted ally for informed buying decisions and your go-to resource for trusted consumer information, consumer tips and scam alerts.

Many scams have started with an intimidating phone call from a con artist claiming to be a “debt collector”, or a “police officer”. Now, the latest variation involves a phony "process server" and a non-existent court case against you. Here’s how to spot it.

Charlotte business owner called WBTV for help after writing a check to one person and having someone else cash it.

Check use may be declining, but check fraud is still a serious problem. Watch out for this scam, dubbed “check washing,” which involves stealing checks from mailboxes and then altering them. Fortunately, you can do a few things to protect yourself and your business.

The Better Business Bureau® is here to help you with the many different aspects of running your business. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, learn something new, manage relationships with your customers, or more, you’re in the right place! Check out the opportunities below for both BBB Accredited and non-Accredited businesses.

Hiring a professional painter for your next home project could save you time and money in the long run. Professional painters have the tools, skills, and safety equipment necessary to safely give you a beautiful result. Despite the benefits of hiring a professional, quality work and good customer service aren’t guaranteed.

Be sure to consider the following before hiring a painting contractor.

Introducing BBB Learning, business education opportunities that are designed to level up your professional development with ease. Through on-demand learning, networking opportunities, and webinars centered around leadership development, BBB Learning gives you the tools you need to advance your skills while keeping ethical business practices top of mind. Whether you're looking to launch your own venture, lead teams to success, or drive innovation within your organization, BBB Learning equips you with the tools and insights you need to excel in today's competitive business landscape with trust and ethics as guiding principles.

Hannah Long, vice president-director of dispute resolution for BBB Serving North Central Texas, will draw upon her expertise and the book “Difficult Conversations” in an exclusive webinar to equip business owners with valuable tools to handle a variety of real-life situations effectively, including BBB complaints. Register now! 

With the 2024 election approaching, scammers are taking advantage of political passion by tricking people into handing over their personal information.

Moving is always a stressful project. Throw in the threat of a moving scam, and things get even worse. Before hiring a moving company, careful research is necessary to avoid falling victim to a moving scam. These scams run the gamut from missing items, massive price hikes, and in some cases, goods being held hostage for additional payment.

If you’re a business owner relying on travel to drive success for your organization, you want to have confidence in the travel you’re sponsoring. A consistent approach to business travel can help eliminate stress, unforeseen costs, and potential risks. If travel is built into your company’s business model, plan, book, and travel with trust.

If you’re traveling internationally, you may need to renew your passport. Consumers unaware of the passport renewal process may fall victim to online scams. These scams trick U.S. citizens into paying a fee to fill out a renewal form that is a free download on the government’s website. As a result, consumers may be tricked into providing their personal and financial information on potentially unsecured websites.

The annual sales of big-name retailers often take place in July. More deals are great for consumers, and more people out shopping is great for businesses large and small.  Just be careful, and don't get so caught up in the excitement that you fall for phishing scams, misleading advertisements, and lookalike websites. Ensure you know what to look for when shopping online for the big sales in July.

The BBB is warning homeowners to understand their warranties before signing on the dotted line.

July is Military Consumer Month and BBB is working to empower the military and veteran community to thrive in the marketplace!

Ready to plan your next vacation but don't know where to start? BBB has tips to help you plan ahead, save money, avoid scams, and travel safely.

BBB of Southern Piedmont and Western NC is now collaborating with BrandStar, Accredited Business and the production company behind the Military Makeover program, to not only identify and connect BBB Accredited Businesses with home makeovers for veterans, but to also find volunteers to help bring the makeovers to life.

Independence Day is an excellent opportunity for individuals and businesses to reflect on their history and celebrate the future. However, as is typical during every holiday, it is crucial to remain aware of scammers looking to use Independence Day festivities to con people out of their money. 

The world is more connected than ever before – even on vacation. If you’re traveling for business or pleasure, you’ll likely be taking a device, or two, or three with you. Learn how to keep your cell phone, laptop, tablet, and other devices, as well as the information stored on them, safe and secure with BBB’s cybersecurity tips for travelers.

Many small business owners feel the squeeze, with the inflation rate hovering around 3.3%. When costs rise, profit margins shrink, and owners must act to keep their businesses profitable.

Many people are looking forward to fun festivals this summer. As usual, scammers are taking advantage of the building excitement. This time, they are cashing in with phony tickets—and even fake events.

Don't trust anyone to do the job if your driveway needs paving or repairs. BBB Scam Tracker has numerous reports of unscrupulous contractors who trick homeowners with supposedly good deals on driveway paving and repairs. Homeowners end up with shoddy pavement, or nothing at all, to show for what they paid.

Are you a consumer in the market for a new roof or roof repair? Or are you a roofer, looking for industry information and tips on running your business? BBB has tips for homeowners and roofers.

A new report form the BBB finds a record number of people falling victim to phishing scams in the Charlotte area from the year before, and all signs point to even more reports this year. 

This con happens any time of year and typically during extreme cold or heat events when many people are more likely to need their heat or air conditioning. Scammers impersonate water, electric, and gas company representatives threatening residents and business owners with deactivation of service if they don't pay up immediately. 

What can you do to protect your business’s social media accounts? And how can you get your account back if you’ve already been hacked? BBB recommends the following tips.

This is your BBB HQ for all things related to landscaping. Find consumer and business resources below.

Father’s Day is on June 18, and consumers are actively searching for and purchasing gifts for the father figures in their lives. While shopping online for Father’s Day purchases, BBB reminds consumers to be wary of online purchase scams and all-inclusive packages advertised at steep discounts.

While the methods vary, any attempt by scammers to convince an individual or company to reveal personal information is a phishing attack. These attacks target not only individuals but also businesses.

Camps again look like a good child care and entertainment option over the long, hot summer. Many camps are available for caregivers looking to have their youngsters stay active and engaged during the summer. 

June is National Homeownership Month, an opportunity for U.S. residents to reflect on the importance of the home and its role in their lives. With a median asking price of $319,000 for a home, becoming a homeowner takes dedication, patience and smart budgeting. For many first-time homebuyers, closing the deal on their purchase is a time of celebration and gratitude. 

Whether you’re buying your first house or are looking for an upgrade, the process can be complex and intimidating. So, where should you start?

Moving is always a stressful project. Throw in the threat of a moving scam, and things get even worse. Before hiring a moving company, careful research is necessary to avoid falling victim to a moving scam. 

Moving can be an exciting yet stressful adventure. Luckily, several types of professional moving services exist to make your move seamless. 

If you’re a business owner relying on travel to drive success for your organization, you want to have confidence in the travel you’re sponsoring.

Finding the perfect storage facility is similar to finding a reliable landlord. Before signing any contracts, take time to assess your needs.

May is National Moving Month! Half of all household moves occur in the summer, so May kicks off "moving season."

Mother’s Day is coming up, and along with it, the purchase of special gifts. The National Retail Federation (NRF) survey shows families are planning to spend more on Mother's Day this year than in the past. Flowers, jewelry, and special outings are hot items this year, and 84% plan to celebrate, according to the NRF. BBB reminds everyone to exercise caution when shopping online and in stores when spending money. 

Ordering flowers for Mother's Day? Don’t procrastinate, or you may end up falling for a scam. BBB.org/ScamTracker has received numerous reports from shoppers who turned to online florists for last-minute orders. They paid for a beautiful arrangement but got disappointing flowers – or nothing at all. 

Whether you’ve just started your career or are nearing the end of it, retirement is probably at the top of your mind. Setting goals and planning are essential to ensure you have enough money to enjoy your retirement however you wish, but when should you start planning?

Scams against older adults generate billions of dollars each year for criminals. This age group is often a target because scammers think older adults trust others more readily and are easier to persuade. (According to BBB's Risk Report, that's not the case.) No age group is immune to scams.  Together, we can stop fraud against older adults.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the hot new thing. It’s revolutionizing medical research, challenging the art world, and even helping small business owners streamline and automate tasks. But as with anything new and popular, scammers are quick to take advantage. When evaluating AI products for your business, be on the lookout for scams.

More than 150 million BBB site visits in 2023 indicate that trust matters, and for Accredited Businesses, that all starts with the BBB Accredited Business Seal. 

Have you heard of "subscription bombing?" Essentially, it’s a form of abuse caused by spambots submitting fraudulent information through forms on websites.

Are you looking for tips and resources to help you during a move? BBB has tips on moving to a new home, renting storage units and apartments, and avoiding scams.

When planning your next trip, be wary of false promises and a sense of urgency that can fool you into paying for something that doesn’t exist. 

A beautiful lawn can be both appealing and environmentally friendly, but it can take a lot of work and be a tricky project, and the best of circumstances can still be challenging; extended periods of extreme weather, dull lawnmower blades, bugs, pests, and heavy foot traffic can all lead to a lawn that needs extra care. 

If you have been on a road trip, then you’re probably familiar with modern tolling systems allowing you to pay your toll fees online. If you anticipate paying for any outstanding tolls, watch out for this text message phishing scam where fraudsters impersonate toll collection services.

Gardening season is finally here! You may envision all the herbs, flowers, and vegetables you’ll harvest at the end of the season. But you’ll need to put in hard work – not to mention money – to make your dream garden a reality.

Your home is your biggest investment and expense. So keeping it maintained and taken care of is crucial. Here's your one-stop resource for everything from financing to building to repairing -- inside and out, from top to bottom.

Many small business owners feel the squeeze, with the inflation rate hovering around 3.5%. When costs rise, profit margins shrink, and owners must act to keep their businesses profitable.

When building a new home, finding the right builder is crucial. Ask friends and family for suggestions and contact industry associations for a list of members.  Of course, BBB.org is also a great source of information about local builders you may be considering, including BBB Accredited Businesses.

Use caution when hiring a home improvement contractor, especially following a major storm, flood, or weather event when many homeowners are trying to repair their homes. However, contractor scams can happen anytime, so be wary of high-pressure sales tactics, upfront fees, and fly-by-night businesses. Con artists will take homeowners’ money and deliver (or not deliver) less than quality work.

Planning a party? If you need to rent chairs, decorations, a bouncy house, or any other supplies, take extra caution when searching for rentals. BBB Scam Tracker continues to receive reports of party hosts being tricked by rentals that don’t materialize. Before planning your next party, get to know this scam to avoid being conned.

Weddings are stressful enough. The last thing anyone wants on their big day is to be dealing with businesses that can’t deliver, or potential scammers after your cash.  Better Business Bureau (BBB) can help by providing valuable information on wedding vendors, from caterers and florists to musicians and photographers.

Shopping for the perfect dress is crucial to a wedding or prom. But like many purchases with a big price tag – and high stakes – a lot can go wrong. Buying a wedding dress or prom dress can come with unexpected expenses, delayed orders, surprise policies, and unwanted stress before a big event

BBB continues to receive reports to BBB Scam Tracker about these calls. Usually, the caller will hang up immediately after you respond to the question “Can you hear me?” However, some consumers say the calls can also be about banking, vacation packages, warranties, and even Medicare cards. 

How do scammers trick people? These scam studies, which are in-depth investigations by the BBB, were conducted to give consumers and businesses a better understanding of how each specific scam works. Specifically, BBB looks at how scammers trick their victims by using social engineering and playing on emotions. 

Taxes can be challenging to navigate alone. BBB is here to educate and inform our community members and local businesses on tax scams, tax filing tips, identity theft, hiring tax help, tax resources, and so much more!

Spring cleaning your closets and drawers?! Don't forget about that digital data clutter that lives on your electronic devices! Now is the perfect time to check out our tips to keep your smartphones, laptops and tablets safe and secure.