Scenario: You respond to an offer to help you set up a Web site, create banner ads, list you in a directory or Internet "mall," or provide other Internet services to your business.
Scam: The services you’ve paid for are never performed.

	If you're interested in getting Internet access, creating a Web site, advertising in an "Internet mall," or purchasing other Internet services, shop around. Look in the phone book and online. Get recommendations from friends, colleagues and other sources you consider reliable. Compare prices and services.
	Depending on the type of services you need, think about whether it makes any difference where the company is located. Will you need to meet in person, or can everything be handled remotely?
	Don't be pressured into making an immediate decision. Reputable companies will be happy to answer all of your questions and give you time to decide.
	Ask for references and contact them to find out if they were satisfied with the company's services, if the services were performed on time, and how the company handled any problems that might have arisen.
	If you want to create a Web site or other forms of Internet advertising, such as banner ads, look at samples of previous work that the company has done.
	Be suspicious of offers for Internet services at incredibly cheap prices. Remember, you get what you pay for. Unrealistic prices can also be a red flag of fraud.
	Find out all the terms of offers for "free trial periods" for Internet services. To avoid charges, it may be necessary to notify the vendor at the end of the free period that you no longer want to continue the service.
	If you aren't familiar with the company, check its complaint record with the Better Business Bureau and your state or local consumer protection office. Lack of complaints is no guarantee, but it is helpful to know if problems have already been reported.
	Get a written contract that includes the company's name, physical address, and telephone number, the price and payment schedule, and a description of the services to be provided, including any regular maintenance or updating. The contract should also have a completion date or, if the services are continuous, the date they will begin and the period for which they will be provided.
	If the agreement is made online, print out the information so you have a record of the transaction and any promises that were made.
	Don't pay the full amount upfront. Pay for each stage of the work as it is done or pay part upfront and the balance on completion.
	Report fraudulent sales of Internet services to law enforcement agencies and the Better Business Bureau.

If you need advice about a solicitation or you want to report a possible scam, call the NFIC hotline at 1-800-876-7060. You can also ask questions or report fraud using our online forms.

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