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A Podcast by BBB of the Tri-Counties: https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/bbb-of-...

A BIG thank you to Ayers Automotive Repair for Supporting this Channel!

Welcome to this week’s edition of Your Moment of Trust! Buying refurbished items can save you money, but it’s important to research before you take the plunge. While many reputable businesses offer quality pre-owned electronics, appliances, and other products for a fraction of their original price, BBB Scam Tracker has received reports of con artists ripping off consumers by promising a great deal on “like-new” devices that they don’t plan on delivering. How the scam works: You find a website that sells refurbished items ranging from car parts to cellphones to hair dryers. The site looks legit, and they are selling a high-dollar item you want for a price that fits your budget. You decide to purchase through the website or a payment app like PayPal (a BBB Accredited Business). Then, a few days after receiving your order confirmation, you wonder why you haven’t received a shipping confirmation. You reach out to the company, and they respond with an excuse. They may claim they are understaffed or have had a problem with their supply chain. Still, they assure you the item will be shipped soon. As more time passes, it eventually becomes clear that the seller has no intention of shipping anything. Each time you try to contact them, they either have more excuses or become impossible to reach. One consumer reported, “I was told multiple times the delay was from the owner being in a major car crash or dealing with a catastrophic medical accident. They even told me they were moving shop (more delays) and then that they had moved personally, which slowed delivery.” Unfortunately, the item you ordered doesn’t exist, and you’ve li lost the money you paid for it.

How to avoid refurbished product scams:

● Carefully examine a website before making a purchase. Before doing business with an online retailer, examine their website carefully. Not only should it have quality photos and typo-free content, but it should also have working contact information. In addition, you’ll want to research to find customer reviews and complaints. If you find reports of scams or no reviews at all, think twice before making a purchase. Always double-check the URL you are visiting to ensure you aren’t on a fake website.

● Understand what the term “refurbished” means. Keep in mind that refurbished means different things to different manufacturers. It can mean the product had shipping damage and was returned; it could refer to an open box product, a demo model, or an item that was broken and returned to the manufacturer. Find out what a company means by refurbished before you commit to a purchase. Remember that unauthorized third-party resellers are a big risk, especially if they don’t offer returns. Even if a reseller claims the manufacturer has refurbished the item, there’s no way you can confirm it. Buying under these circumstances is a big gamble.

● Ask about return policies. It can take a while for problems to show up, so make sure you have the option to return a refurbished item. If you can’t return it, or the return window is only a week or two, it may not be worth the risk.

● Inquire about warranties. Some manufacturer-refurbished items have an extended warranty, but this isn’t always true. Find out if the item you’re interested in qualifies for a warranty and what the conditions are. Warranties can come in handy if the refurbished item does have issues down the road. Know that anything marked “as-is” won’t have a warranty.

● Buy refurbished products from the manufacturer when possible. When a manufacturer gets a returned product, they recondition it to be like-new. They use original parts and trained repairmen to get the job done. An item refurbished by a third party may not get the same treatment. It could be repaired by someone who isn’t an expert with the brand, or it might contain different parts. Either issue means it won’t be in like-new condition when you buy it.

● Use a safe payment method. Always make online purchases with your credit card. If an online retailer doesn’t deliver on their promises, it will be easier to dispute the charges, and you’ll be more likely to get your money back. Until next time!

A Podcast from BBB of the Tri-Counties: 

A BIG thank you to Ayers Automotive Repair in Santa Barbara for supporting this podcast.

Welcome to this week’s edition of Your Moment of Trust! The weather is warming in some parts of the country, inspiring people to clean up or clear the clutter. The one area many overlook isn't the corner of a room or a forgotten closet; it's the digital device you're reading this article. The BBB encourages people to check their smartphones, laptops, and tablets and take a few minutes to review these tips.

● Lock down your login: Security is critical to protecting accounts used for work and home. Ensure passphrases for each account are lengthy, unique, and safely stored. Enable 2-factor authentication on all accounts that offer it.

● Update your system and software: Avoid procrastination! The most current software, web browsers, and operating systems are some of the easiest and fastest ways to protect your most sensitive assets.

● Back it up: Protect your personal and workplace data by making electronic copies – or backups – of your most important files. Use the 3-2-1 rule to help guide you: 3 backup copies, two different media types, and one offline in a separate location.

● Clean up your online presence: When did you last use all the apps on your phone or tablet? Do you know the settings on all social media accounts that check in with friends and family? Check up on all your accounts. Then, control your role by ensuring you know who has administrative access to your accounts. Keep all of your passwords private.

● Be careful what you share: Quizzes on social media are fun, and keeping in touch is necessary. However, questions on social media might give away too much information about you, your location, or your family. In addition to following the above-listed tips, small business owners should take time to establish, update, and communicate policies and procedures around topics like record retention. It is also imperative that a cybersecurity strategy is in place and used by all employees. BBB has tips on BBB.org/bizhq on how to avoid online scams when working from home. BBB Secure Your ID Day Did you know that protecting your identity is largely in your own hands? Many identity theft victims can trace the theft to something stolen from their possession. BBB has a few guidelines to help safely dispose of electronically stored data. Before participating in BBB’s Secure Your ID Day or other shredding events, prepare your data. Know what devices to digitally “shred”: Computers and mobile phones aren’t the only devices that capture and store sensitive, personal data. External hard drives and USBs, tape drives, embedded flash memory, wearables, networking equipment, and office tools like copiers, printers, and fax machines all contain valuable personal information and stored images.

● Clear out stockpiles: If you have a stash of old hard drives or other devices – even in a locked storage area – information still exists and could be stolen. Don’t wait: wipe and/or destroy unneeded hard drives immediately.

● Empty your trash or recycle bin on all devices, and be sure to wipe and overwrite: Simply deleting and emptying the trash isn’t enough to eliminate a file. You must permanently delete old files. Use a program that deletes the data, “wipes” it from your device, and then overwrites it by putting random data in place of your information ‒ which cannot be retrieved.

○ Various overwriting and wiping tools are available for electronic devices. Remove any identifying information written on labels before disposal for devices like tape drives. Use embedded flash memory or other methods to perform a full factory reset and verify that no potentially sensitive information exists on the device.

● Decide what to do with the device: Once the device is clean, you can sell it, trade it in, give it away, recycle it, or have it destroyed. Note the following:

○ Failed drives still contain data: On failed drives, wiping often fails; shredding/destruction is the practical disposal approach for failed drives. Avoid returning a failed drive to the manufacturer; you can purchase support to keep it – and then destroy it.

○ To be “shredded,” a hard drive must be chipped into small pieces: Using a hammer to hit a drive only slows down a determined cybercriminal; instead, use a trusted shredding company to dispose of your old hard drives. Device shredding can often be the most time- and cost-effective option for disposing of many drives.

Until next time!

A Podcast by BBB of the Tri-Counties https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/bbb-of-the-tri-counties A BIG thank you to Aers Automotive Repair in Santa Barbara for supporting this podcast! https://www.ayersrepairs.com

You’ve likely heard ads on the TV or radio about the Camp Lejeune class action lawsuit for U.S. military veterans and their families exposed to tainted water at the camp. Marketing agencies and law firms spent over $40 million advertising the lawsuit. Now, scammers are jumping on board too, hoping all the media attention makes it easier to trick people, especially military personnel, into falling for common scam tactics.

How the scam works:

You receive an email or phone call telling you you qualify for compensation for the Camp Lejeune class action lawsuit. The email may claim you are entitled to tens of thousands of dollars. You need to click a link or call a number to get your compensation. For example, one recent target told BBB Scam Tracker: “[The caller] said they were representing Camp Lejeune and needed information about my brother who served in the military. Since he died years ago from cancer, they said I had $5,000,000 waiting in compensation from the Marines.” From here, the scam takes several different forms. Clicking the link could download malware onto your computer or mobile device, putting you at risk for identity theft. In other versions, scammers direct you to a website with a form that asks for personal information.

In yet another variation, the scammers are after your money and personal details. They claim you need to pay an upfront fee, so they can file your case and receive your money. If you pay them, they’ll continue to ask for more “filing fees” until you become suspicious. As soon as you realize the con, the scammer will disappear with your information and money.

How to avoid class action lawsuit scams: 

● Don't believe in promises of quick cash with minimal effort. Scammers love to promise that fast cash is in your immediate future. The reality is even well-deserved compensation will take time to receive. It’s worth noting, too, that veterans who served at Camp Lejeune can apply for VA disability compensation and health care benefits without filing a lawsuit or getting help from a lawyer. BBB Accredited Businesses promise to adhere to BBB's Standards for Trust, so look for the BBB Accredited Business Seal. It's the Sign of a Better Business.

● Never click on links in suspicious emails. Be wary of unsolicited emails in general. Please don’t click on the links they contain, as they could lead you to fake websites or download malware onto your computer.

● Stay alert to variations of this scam. Emails aren’t the only way scammers may try to contact you about this and other class action lawsuits. Keep your eye out for similar scams sent via text messages, phone calls, or even mail.

● If you think you deserve compensation, apply through official channels. Visit VA.gov/CampLejeune for official information on how to apply for compensation. You can file for disability compensation online and learn what steps to take to file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit.

● Only work with reputable representatives. If you are ready to file a claim or appeal and need help, don’t settle for working with the first lawyer who pops up on a TV ad. Instead, do thorough research before choosing a legal representative. Get to know all your options, including working with an accredited attorney or a Veterans Service Officer (VSO).

For more information For more ways to avoid email scams, see the BBB Tip: How to recognize a phony email and the BBB Tip on phishing scams. For more information about how to receive compensation related to a stay at Camp Lejeune, visit VA.gov/CampLejeune. You can also report your experience at BBB.org/ScamTracker to help boost public awareness about this and similar scams. Until next time!A

A Podcast by BBB of the Tri-Counties https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/bbb-of-... A BIG thank you to Ayers Automotive Repairs in Santa Barbara for supporting this podcast. https://www.ayersrepairs.com

Tips for Buying New Tires:

● Assess your current set of tires.

For starters, determine whether you need new tires. Try the “Lincoln test” if you’re unsure. Place a penny upside down into the tread of your tires. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, your tires should be replaced immediately. If the tread falls somewhere on his forehead, you should plan to buy new tires in the next few months. Even if the tread is thick enough, uneven wear, flaking, cracks, bulges, or other damage can all indicate you need new tires. Finally, if your tires are over six years old, vehicle manufacturers recommend replacing them, no matter their condition. 

● Get to know tire types.

The type of tire you need will depend on the weather conditions you drive in and how you use your vehicle. 

○ All-season tires: Most vehicles have all-season tires designed to work reasonably well in most weather conditions. They can handle some mud, snow, and slush.

○ Winter tires: If you live in a climate with frequent snow and ice, winter tires might be a better choice. They are more effective in deep snow.

○ Summer tires: These tires are best for warm weather climates. This kind of tire shouldn’t be driven if temperatures dip below freezing.

○ All-terrain tires: These are used mainly for four-wheel drive vehicles. They are great for off-roading but not meant for extended highway driving.

○ High-performance tires: These are designed with high-speed handling in mind, but they wear out quicker than “regular” tires. They may be a good choice if you drive a sports car. But they aren’t ideal for your everyday grocery store runs.

● Check out tread wear warranties.

You can find treadwear ratings on a tire’s sidewall. The higher the number, the longer the tire is supposed to last. Most tires have manufacturing quality and defect warranties, but some have a tread life warranty. In most cases, if your tires wear out before your reach the mileage number, you can get a credit towards a new set of the same tires. Shop around. Consider cost, convenience, and customer service when choosing where to buy your tires. Warehouse clubs, online sellers, tire dealers, car dealerships, and local shops all sell tires and have their pros and cons. If you’re looking for something specialized and unique, a local tire shop might be your best option, though you’ll probably pay a little more. Warehouse clubs and online sellers may offer more competitive prices, but their selections might be limited. Car dealerships provide convenience, but they aren’t the cheapest option, and you’ll likely have no choice but to buy original equipment tires. In the end, where you purchase your tires will depend on the kind of tires you want and your personal preferences. 

● Only purchase tires from a reputable seller.

Visit BBB.org to see business ratings and read customer reviews. Make sure you only do business with a tire vendor with a good reputation and plenty of positive reviews. A little research goes a long way in finding out if a company is trustworthy or if they employ questionable business practices. Speak with someone on the phone or in person and ask plenty of questions about tire selections, installation, and warranties. Note the level of customer service you receive during this initial interaction to determine how you’ll be treated during tire installation and after the sale. 

● Keep an eye on the fees.

You’ll probably have to pay some extra fees on top of the cost of the tires. You’ll likely see installation charges, disposal fees for your old tires, and taxes on your final bill. Some vendors may ask you to pay for new tire stems and resetting the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Still, others might offer add-on services like filling the tires with nitrogen and road hazard warranties. Review all the fees and add-ons carefully before you agree to buy.

● Inspect new tires upon installation.

Take a good look at your new tires before you leave the shop. Look for any signs of damage and make sure the directional tread is facing the same way on all four tires. After you’ve driven a few miles on the new tires, check the tire pressure for each tire to make sure it matches the numbers indicated in the car’s door jamb. If tires are not within the suggested range, take the vehicle back to the shop for inspection.

● Maintain your new tires to extend their life.

Regularly check your tire pressure, inspect the tires for signs of uneven wear and damage, and get regular tire rotations. These are all easy ways to keep your tires in good shape and make them last for as long as possible.

Until next time!

This podcast is brought to you by BBB of the Tri-Counties: https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/bbb-of-the-tri-counties

How to avoid this Scam:

• Remember, the SSA’s Cost of Living Adjustment is automatic. You don’t need to do anything to receive the increase in benefits. If someone tells you otherwise, you’re likely dealing with a scammer.

• Know how the SSA communicates. According to SSA, “If there is a problem with your Social Security number, we will mail you a letter. Generally, we will only contact you if you have requested a call or have ongoing business with us.” A call, text, or email from an SSA agent out of the blue is a red flag.

• Don’t give in to threats. SSA will never threaten you with arrest or legal action. They will never suspend your Social Security number or demand payment from you. They will never ask for personal information or banking details to give you an increase in benefits. If someone demands these things or threatens you over the phone, they are not with SSA.

• When in doubt, hang up. If you suspect you might be getting scammed, stop all communications. Visit SSA.gov to research or call 1-800-772-1213 to confirm that the correspondence is legitimate before taking action.

For more information Read more about healthcare scams in this BBB tip. Learn more about other government impostor scams. Get more general tips to avoid scams by visiting BBB.org/AvoidScams.

A BIG thank you to Ayers Automotive Repairs in Santa Barbara for supporting Your Moment of Trust!

A podcast by BBB of the Tri-Counties

Romance scams are more common than ever. Even if you don't use dating apps, you might still be targeted by one. BBB Scam Tracker is getting reports from dating scam victims who were conned through social media. Get to know the signs, so you can spot a fake romance before getting in too deep.

How to Avoid Dating Scams: 

● Know the signs of romance scams. Romance scams often start with someone who seems too perfect and immediately falls in love with you. They may be in a hurry to create a future together but hesitant to meet you in person. They'll probably tell you they are overseas or in the military. They often talk about the importance of trust to gain yours, and they may share sad stories to pull on your heartstrings before asking you for money. Any one of these tactics is a big red flag. If you notice similarities with someone who has messaged you on social media, think twice about your relationship. 

● Never send money or personal information to someone you haven't met. Refrain from giving a stranger your credit card or bank account information. Don't wire money to or share the PIN of a gift card with someone you've never met. An online "friend" might not even really exist!

● Ask lots of questions. When you meet someone online, ask them specific questions about the details in their profile and pay close attention to their answers. If they lie, they likely won't be able to keep their story straight.

● Do some research. Do a reverse image lookup of a person's profile picture to see if it is being used elsewhere on the internet. Scammers often use the same stolen photos to create fake profiles. You can also search their name, email, and phone number to see if you find anything fishy.

For more information: Read BBB's tip on romance scams for more helpful advice. Get information on specific dating scams on the BBB Romance Scam page.

Also, be on the lookout for a similar scam involving wrong number text messages. If you spot a scam on social media, romance-related or otherwise, report it! By sharing your experience at BBB.org/ScamTracker, you can help us expose scammers’ tactics.

A BIG thank you to Ayers Automotive Repair in Santa Barbara for sponsoring this podcast. https://www.ayersrepairs.com

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