How to spot a scam..
(image source. svcnews.com)
There are so many cons out there and so many ignorant (I don't mean that in a derogatory way) people who are just
clamoring to get ripped off.
The safest way to ensure you don't get ripped off is to get educated.
This is my little bit of help to get newbies started in the art of self protection in this dangerous world of internet 'businesses'.
Before you part with ANY money there are a series. The list below should be taken as a starting point for your questions, feel free to expand upon them.
- What is the cost?
- what do I get in exchange for parting with this money?
- Is there a service or product provided in exchange for parting with your money?
- Are there any restrictions such as is the business only operational in certain countries?
- what support will I be given? (you are looking for a personal commitment of support and/or a group support network)
If there is no service or product then it's illegal, do not part with your money. Thank them for answering your questions and say farewell.
If there is a product or service, is it something you would ordinarily use? Is it something you would recommend to others even if you were not getting paid to do so?
If you answer 'no' to either of those questions, though especially the last question, then take no part in the biz.
Restrictions are not always bad. It depends if those restrictions will impact negatively on you and your potential to grow your business. Ideally you want something that operates globally.
The fith question is the least asked question.
Most people who are posting biz op posts are recruiters.
A Recruiter is only interested in getting you into their business. Once you're in, that's usually the last time you'll hear from them. :-(
As a 'newbie' it is ESSENTIAL that you find a 'sponsor' not a recruiter.
What's the difference?
A Sponsor will guide you. They want you to duplicate their proven and successful system and methods.
They'll show you where to go to get the information you need. They'll support you.
You'll not just be a cog in their machine.
I hope this article is of help to someone. If it stops even one person getting ripped off then I'll be happy with that
If someone has to tell me about an "opportunity", it usually isn't one.
That's not always the case.
Same as with a job advertisement. If no one tells you about an employment vacancy, does it not exist? ;-)
It's just a matter of learning to differentiate between the biz ops that are 'real' biz ops and those that offer nothing of any worth at all.
I always start from 'would I buy this'?
Then 'why would I buy it?'
If you can answer those then you're off to a good start.
If the only 'value' is money can be made promoting this then there is no real VALUE at all.