This is what we tell our kids if they are offerred drugs. Well there are a lot of instances in which we as adults, should "just say no" as well.Let's stick with
drug issue for a minute. The "pushers" lead someone into their addiction, by making it easy and attractive for them. At first they might give away free samples. They try to lure them into their fold with promise of easy money. Getting hooked however, has serious consequences for anyone. Before they know it, they will do anything to get their "daily fix".
The smart "pushers" however, don't use drugs. They recruit others to do their dirty work. The recruits take all risks, while "kingpin" stays well hidden in background, raking in his profits.
The advent of internet, has created similar situations, referred to as "Dot.Cons", that we face everyday. Our mailboxes overflow with get rich schemes, and lures they use are quite similar to that of drug pusher. The promise of easy money without work is high on their list of tactics.
There are many schemes hatched to separate people from their money. There are some general steps however, that can save you a lot of money and heartache.
First, you should be wary of extravagant claims about performance or earnings potential. Get all promises in writing and review them carefully before making a payment or signing a contract.
Before entering into any agreement, read fine print and explore all relevant links on their web site. Fraudulent promoters may bury disclosures they don't want you to know about, by putting them in an obscure place, where you're unlikely see them. If challenged they cite those pages that you had access to as their defense. Be skeptical of any company that doesn't clearly state its name, street address and telephone number.
The most popular "Dot.Cons" typically are targeted toward retiree's or people who need to supplement their income.
Multilevel Marketing Plans/Pyramids, unfortunately are a fertile field for scamsters, and give legitimate companies a bad image. Many people buy into programs, whose only customers are other distributors and not general public. Some multi-level marketing programs are actually illegal pyramid schemes. When products or services are sold only to distributors like yourself, there's no way to make money.
You should avoid plans that require you to recruit distributors, buy expensive inventory or commit to a minimum sales volume. Beware of shills -- "decoy" references paid by a plan's promoter to describe their fictional success in earning money through plan. This is commonly called "check flashing" and is usually done in an "opportunity meeting", or other high-pressure situation. Never be pressured into making a decision to join at one of these meetings, and take your time to think over offer.
