These scenarios, and others, happen every single day. Are you prepared when it's *your* turn?

That's what I thought. You've never considered these things before, have you?

We're *all* at risk for this type of theft. Online and offline it's possible for each and every one of us to be ripped off by scam artists.

Internet business owners are especially at risk because, with technology of computers, people really *can* make fraudulent purchases easily. They can also request fraudulent refunds just as easily.

As an online business owner you can find yourself with a real dilemma. How do you know that person who's buying your product is true owner of that credit card? How do you know that once a customer receives your product they won't falsely request a refund?

It's not an easy situation, is it? It falls into catagory of "things that make you go hmmmmmm..." doesn't it?

There are methods you can apply to help you avoid such circumstances. There are also steps you can take to recoup your money if you're a victim of fraud.

For your own safety, please be sure you take measures to protect your personal money and your business profits. For more information you can get an excerpt from e-book, Get Inside Minds of Scam Artists! Discover Tricks of Their Trade! by sending an e-mail to this address: mailto:hbb_newsletter_excerpt@a1ebiz.com

Denise Hall is the owner of Home Business on a Budget which specializes in tools and resources for your home business needs. Visit http://www.home-business-on-a-budget.com today. Get weekly articles, tips, information and resources here: http://tinyurl.com/4f9k8

4. Forgetting To Write Down Your Objectives. Open Notepad or write what you plan to do on a sticky note. And check off goals as you accomplish them. This listing method works great if you overloaded with too many task.

5. Time Limits. Learn To Set a time limit! This will force you to focus on accomplishing your objective within designated time frame. For example, limit yourself to 30 minutes checking email, or 1 hour researching a topic.

Here's an easy little count down timer that you can download. Download Egg Timer Here:

http://www.geocities.com/smallbizbits/free.html

6. Telephone/Television Distractions. Unplug your telephone. Turn off that television. The telephone is a big time waster. Ignore urges to check your voice mail or answering machine for messages every few minutes. Only return important calls.

No more soaps! That's right! While you are working tape your favorite programs. Watch them after business hours.

7. Family Distractions: Make your home office "Off Limit" during work hours. Tell family members to handle any minor problems while you are at your computer. Close door to your office. Place a sign on it "Do Not Disturb During Work Hours."

-------------------------------------------------------------- BB Lee is Editor/Publisher of SmallBizBits FREE Home Based Business Ideas Newsletter. Subscribe Now and receive a free home based business advice ebook bonus. Visit http://www.geocities.com/smallbizbits/ --------------------------------------------------------------