1. Spotting Opportunities Among Scams

2. Do I have a deal for you! Why are scams increasing? Increase in the number of Micro-Businesses 2000 – 22,931,777 2007 – 27,361,179 From 2000 – 2005, new businesses starting with 1 – 5 employees grew at an average annual rate of 4.5%. SLIDE 1 Spotting Opportunities Among Scams

3. Watch out! You could: Lose money Damage your reputation Risk legal investigation Lose valuable time SLIDE 2 Spotting Opportunities Among Scams

4. Watch Out! Be Skeptical of Statements… “You can earn hundreds of $$$ working from home in your spare time!” “Only $29.95 will bring you thousands in earning power!” SLIDE 3 Spotting Opportunities Among Scams

5. Scamming Opportunities Assembly or craft work Envelope stuffing Internet-related Medical billing Multilevel and pyramid marketing SLIDE 4 Spotting Opportunities Among Scams

6. Scamming Opportunities Scams against businesses Seminars So-called franchises Vending machines and display racks Wealth-building SLIDE 5 Spotting Opportunities Among Scams

7. Business Opportunity Checklist Check out promoter Don’t judge a company on appearance Ask for disclosure document Watch for pyramids Verify claims in person SLIDE 6 Spotting Opportunities Among Scams

8. Business Opportunity Checklist Get it in writing Realize they are there to “SELL” Avoid making high-pressured decisions Check out sales, profits, and income claims Seek professional advice Be skeptical about “get rich quick” opportunities SLIDE 7 Spotting Opportunities Among Scams

9. Remember: If it sounds to good to be true then it probably is! SLIDE 8 Spotting Opportunities Among Scams

10. Information and Assistance Federal Trade Commission United States Postal Service National Consumer League National Fraud Information Center Better Business Bureau State Agencies SLIDE 9 Spotting Opportunities Among Scams