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Articles
Plain-language advice to help you understand your consumer rights and avoid and report scams.
Scammers advertise jobs the same way honest employers do — online (in ads, on job sites, and social media), in newspapers, and sometimes on TV and radio. They promise you a job, but what they want is
Going to college, vocational school, or a certificate program can often help you move up in your career and make more money — but it can also be expensive. Scammers take advantage of that, saying they
Paying for school can be expensive. Many people need to take out loans to cover the cost, but dealing with the debt and repayment options can be confusing. Some companies promise to help reduce
If you’re looking for a job as a babysitter, nanny, or other kind of caregiver, you might have searched online or used a website that matches you up with potential employers. Scammers also use these
If you’ve ever thought about starting an online business, being your own boss, or earning a living from investing, you’re not alone. But many people looking for ways to earn money are finding scams
Could you really be a model or actor? Or maybe it’s your kids who have the right look? You might be flattered — and interested — if a talent scout says you’ve got a future in the business. But you
Offers of free money from government grants are scams. Someone might offer you a grant to pay for education, home repairs, home business expenses, or unpaid bills. But they’re all scams. Here’s how to
Fake checks might look like business or personal checks, cashier’s checks, money orders, or a check delivered electronically. Here’s what to know about fake check scams. Types of Fake Checks Scams Why
Getting paid to shop sounds like a dream job — especially if you’re looking for a side job or going to school full-time. Don’t let your dream job turn into a nightmare. Find out how to avoid mystery
Confused about cryptocurrencies, like bitcoin or Ether (associated with Ethereum)? You’re not alone. Before you use or invest in cryptocurrency, know what makes it different from cash and other
Dishonest invention promoters lie about the profit potential of your invention to get you to pay for expensive, but often useless, services. Here’s what you need to know to avoid an invention
If you’re applying for a job or a promotion, an employer might run a background check. Federal law and some state laws give you rights when this happens. Employers must get your written permission
If you want to improve your chances of being hired or promoted, earning a college degree might help. But not all degree programs are real. Though many online schools and distance learning programs are
Vocational schools, also known as trade or career schools, and certificate programs can be a great way to train for a variety of jobs. But not all of these programs are useful or legit, so it’s
Getting a college degree can give you more job options, and might help you make more money. But not every college is the same. Most will give you a valuable education that can help you achieve your
There are plenty of good reasons to get your high school diploma through an alternative route. It can open doors to a new job or promotion, or help you get into college or the military. But not all
You get a call, email, or letter saying you won a sweepstakes, lottery, or prize — like an iPad, a new car, or something else. But you can tell it’s a scam because of what they do next: they ask you