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05/22/2013
In the last few days, powerful thunderstorms spawned a multi-state outbreak of destructive tornadoes, including a monster twister that devastated Moore, Oklahoma. Donors are eager to help victims recover from these tornado disasters. But before making a donation to a relief charity, be sure the organization is reliable and capable of providing appropriate assistance.
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05/16/2013
May is National Moving Month, which kicks off the busiest time of year for Americans changing residencies. It also means unlicensed movers and dishonest scammers are waiting to take advantage of unwary consumers. Better Business Bureau is joining with the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) to provide important tips on how to avoid moving scams now.
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05/10/2013
The rescue this week of three women and a child from a Cleveland home where they were held captive for a decade has gained worldwide attention. Generous donors wishing to help the victims are being cautioned by Better Business Bureau to confirm the legitimacy of all charitable fundraising and crowdfunding efforts.
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05/09/2013
BBB is urging all consumers and businesses to pay close attention to a Cyber Security Advisory issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation regarding a vulnerability in Microsoft’s Internet Explorer 8 browser(IE8)
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05/06/2013
New York area seniors, especially in the Hudson Valley, have reported receiving suspicious, prerecorded telemarketing calls selling a personal emergency alarm system. According to the recorded message, this system is necessary to protect against a long list of dangers, such as break-ins and medical emergencies. The recording claims that the system — worth several hundred dollars — can be installed for free, but will cost $30 a month thereafter. The consumer is prompted to press a button and speak to a live person for "verification." A telemarketer then asks for personal financial information such as a credit card or bank account number to complete the “sale.” However, victims report that callers refuse to provide even the most basic business information, such as the business address.
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04/24/2013
Within days, crowdfunding sites reportedly raised more than $2 million to support victims of the Boston Marathon bombing tragedy. While online giving provides a quick and easy mechanism for supporting those in need, donors need to ask questions and know what to expect when contributing through crowdfunding websites.
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04/16/2013
At least one poorly-conceived charity scam has already emerged in the wake of the explosions at the finish line of the Boston Marathon yesterday, and more are likely.
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04/10/2013
Spring is finally here and for many, spring cleaning includes clearing out the clutter and paperwork that has accumulated over the past year. However, when it comes to financial records, not knowing what to keep or for how long can be trouble.
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04/02/2013
April is Financial Literacy Month, created to empower consumers to establish and maintain healthy financial habits. One financial decision that might be facing consumers in the coming weeks is what to do with a tax refund. The Better Business Bureau Serving Metropolitan New York advises consumers to consider a few options that can provide some long-term financial benefits.
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03/25/2013
The next few weeks will bring acceptance letters for college-bound students and many are applying for scholarships and financial aid for the 2013-2014 school year. With the cost of college outpacing inflation and crimping family budgets, many students and their families are eager to find resources to help pay for higher education. The Better Business Bureau Serving Metropolitan New York advises students and their parents to be wary of websites, seminars or other schemes that promise to find scholarships, grants or financial aid packages for an upfront fee.
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03/18/2013
Spring is almost here and many consumers are getting ready to remodel, repair, or just spruce up their home as part of “Spring Cleaning.” Some tasks can be accomplished with simple elbow grease but other more difficult or complex chores may require home owners, co-op or condo owners or renters to engage the services of a contractor. After verifying the rules and conditions of your homeowners association or co-op or condo rules, finding a reliable contractor is serious business.
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03/12/2013
BBB of the Southland, the Better Business Bureau that served the greater Los Angeles marketplace, has been expelled from the national organization, has lost its right to use the BBB name and logo, and was cut off from services provided by CBBB, the umbrella organization.
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03/06/2013
The Better Business Bureau Serving Metropolitan New York has announced its annual top ten complaint categories, listing those business categories which received the most complaints in 2012. The announcement was made during National Consumer Prevention Week (March 3-9, 2013), a coordinated campaign that encourages consumers nationwide to take full advantage of their consumer rights and make better-informed decisions.
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03/05/2013
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Metro New York for March 6-7. The storm is expected to bring strong winds, flooding rains and heavy, wet snow to the area. BBB urges consumers and businesses in our area to be prepared for weather emergencies. Creating a disaster plan for what to do before, during and after an emergency may make a big difference to your safety and comfort.
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