http://chicago.bbb.org/WWWRoot//SitePage.aspx?site=46&id=a824b759-3137-43b5-aedf-a38056bcce73&debug=False 10 Thu, 13 Jun 2013 05:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL – June 13, 2013 - Crime statistics show that last year, more than 9.9 million Americans were victims of identity theft, costing them roughly $5 billion. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois, in conjunction with various government agencies, invites consumers and businesses to protect their identities by shredding unwanted personal, financial or confidential documents FREE at the annual "Shred It and Forget It" Shredder Day at the United Center 1901 W. Madison St. Lot E in Chicago from 9AM-1PM on June 22nd. Gates close at 12:45pm. Free electronics recycling will also be available. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/help-protect-your-identity--free-bbb-paper-shredding-and-electronics-recycling-june-22nd-42459 Wed, 12 Jun 2013 05:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL – June 12, 2013 – Father’s Day, June 16th, is just around the corner. As families look to celebrate this special day, the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) reminds consumers it’s important to carefully shop for a gift that gives Dad happiness, not troubles. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/be-smart-when-purchasing-a-fathers-day-gift-says-better-business-bureau-42421 Thu, 06 Jun 2013 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL – June 6, 2013 – When homeowners or business owners experience a property loss such as a fire or flood, they are not in the best state of mind to make immediate choices regarding restoration work. Unfortunately, some restoration workers have taken advantage of these stressful times by approaching shocked property owners with business deals within minutes of the event. Last month, media in south Florida reported how stricken homeowners have been bombarded with sales pitches at scenes of property losses. Restoration workers and other contractors listen to police scanners to find business opportunities. They will hear the police report and go to the address of the property. Making decisions in moments of distress can result in repercussions later on. “There are dishonest individuals and businesses that see an unfortunate situation as a business opportunity," said Steve J Bernas, president & CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois. “While http://chicago.bbb.org/article/dont-be-pressured-into-immediate-decisions-following-a-property-loss-better-business-bureau-advises-42320 Tue, 04 Jun 2013 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL – June 4, 2013 – Bad customer service, no shows, and poor sales practices should not be part of a quality drivers education program. But, in reality, those are the complaints being received by the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/look-first-is-good-advice-when-choosing-a-drivers-education-program-42218 Thu, 16 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL – May 16, 2013 – Now that spring is finally here, the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) took a poll to see what type of projects people are planning to do this season. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/new-better-business-bureau-poll-says-its-about-curb-appeal-41932 Tue, 07 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL – May 7, 2013 – Summer break is quickly approaching for high school and college students and many of them will be searching for summer jobs. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois is warning students about job scams that could result in a loss of money and a waste of time. These could include work-at-home jobs paying high salaries for simple work and sales or pyramid schemes. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-warns-job-seekers-about-summer-job-scams-41778 Thu, 02 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL – May 2, 2013 – Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12, is fast approaching. If you are planning on buying a gift, you should make sure to read the “fine print” that can prevent potential misunderstandings as we honor the 85.4 million mothers in the United States, according to the US Census Bureau. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) reminds consumers it’s important to be a smart shopper when selecting a gift for Mom. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/be-a-smart-shopper-for-mothers-day-41663 Tue, 30 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL- April 30, 2013 – Carl Jacobson, Director of Asset Management of GE Real Estate, has been named the new Chair of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB). Jacobson has been a long-serving member of the BBB Board of Directors, most recently as the BBB treasurer. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/jacobson-assumes-chairmanship-of-better-business-bureau-41593 Thu, 25 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL – April 25, 2013 – Appearance projects top the list of work that homeowners are planning to hire contractors for this spring, according to the latest poll by the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB). http://chicago.bbb.org/article/looks-lead-the-way-for-spring-home-improvements-41523 Tue, 23 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL- April 23, 2013 - Spring cleaning is here and many people take the opportunity to spruce up their homes by adding a new coat of paint. Due to health and environmental concerns, many people are wary of buying paint that contains VOCs or volatile organic compounds. VOCs are emitted gases made up of different chemicals that may have short- and long- term negative health and environmental affects. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) warns consumers to take a closer look at what is in their remodeling supplies. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/your-diy-spring-projects-can-be-hazardous-to-your-health-warns-the-better-business-bureau-41483 Thu, 18 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL – April 18, 2013 - Homeowners and businesses who are trying to recover from flood damage due to the extremely heavy rains in the area should be aware so that they do not become victims of unscrupulous contractors. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-warning--flood-victims-beware-41417 Tue, 16 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL – April 16, 2013 – Charity scammers strike after tragedies, and at least one poorly-conceived charity scam has already emerged in the wake of the explosions at the finish line of the Boston Marathon yesterday. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) is alerting consumers of the possibility of phony charity solicitations, supposedly on behalf of the families of victims of the Boston Marathon tragedy. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-cautions-consumers-to-watch-out-for-scammers-in-wake-of-the-boston-marathon-attack-41390 Thu, 11 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL- April 11, 2013 – Chicago has taken a stance against driving with hand held cellphones and passed a prohibitive law in 2005. Many surrounding states, 10 in total, have also passed similar laws. As a result, drivers are turning to use Bluetooth technology to talk hands-free. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) warn that scammers are finding ways to exploit this technology for their gains. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bluebugging-on-the-rise-as-bluetooth-usage-increases-41303 Thu, 04 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL – April 4, 2013 – Although May has beautiful flowers, one must first weather the stormy showers of April. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) advises both renters and homeowners to prepare for April showers so they are not caught off guard if they have to deal with water damage or flooding. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/tips-to-deal-with-the-after-effects-of-flooding-and-water-damage--41150 Tue, 24 Jul 2012 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL- July 24, 2012 – Stay-at-home vacations, or “staycations”, can mean a variety of things to different people. For some, it means getting lots of home and garden projects done such as painting, repairs, or tending vegetable gardens. For others, it means having budget-friendly adventures at or close to home such as visiting nearby parks and attractions, attending a neighborhood block party or camping in the backyard. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-tips-for-improving-stay-at-home-vacations-35947 Tue, 19 Jun 2012 05:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL – June 19, 2012 - The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois, in conjunction with various government agencies, invites consumers and businesses to protect their identities by shredding unwanted personal, financial or confidential documents for FREE at the annual "Shred It and Forget It" Shredder Day at the United Center Parking Lot E, on Wood St. between Madison and Warren Blvd, in Chicago from 9AM-2PM on Saturday, June 23. Free electronics recycling will also be available. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-free-shred-it-and-forget-it-event-june-23--34973 Thu, 12 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL – April 12, 2012 - The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois, in conjunction with various government agencies, invites consumers and businesses to protect their identities by shredding unwanted personal, financial or confidential documents for FREE at the annual "Shred It and Forget It" Shredder Day at the United Center Parking Lot E, on Wood St. between Madison and Warren Blvd, in Chicago from 9AM-2PM on Saturday, June 23. Free electronics recycling will also be available. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-free-shred-it-and-forget-it-event-june-23--33797 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL – February 21, 2012 – Having a pet go missing is a devastating experience. When conniving people find ways to capitalize on your lost pet situation in order to scam you out of money, the loss is even more heartbreaking. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and northern Illinois (BBB) is alerting consumers about scammers defrauding pet owners who advertise a lost pet. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/scammers-taking-pet-owners-for-a-walk-32717 Thu, 16 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL – February 16, 2012 – Consumer protection information and brochures will be among the free items available from the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) from 8:30AM to 3:00PM on March 8, 2012, in the lobby of the James R. Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph St. in Chicago, as the BBB joins federal, state, and local government agencies and national consumer advocacy organizations in the 14th annual National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), March 4-10, 2012. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-joins-government-partners-for-consumer-protection-event-32664 Wed, 15 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL-February 15, 2012 - At an average cost of $7,000, funerals are one of the more expensive purchases made by consumers. During an emotionally-charged time it can be easy to spend more than might be necessary. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and northern Illinois (BBB) recommends the following advice for navigating the funeral process. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/reduce-the-emotional-price-tag-on-funerals-by-planning-them-in-advance-advises-the-better-business-bureau-32651 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT An email scam using the Better Business Bureau’s (BBB) name and logo continues to proliferate across North America, and even to some overseas addresses. Most of the emails carry the well-known BBB torch logo and may come with the subject line “Complaint from your customers.” The emails have a link or an attachment containing malicious phishing malware that steals information, often with devastating results to businesses and private citizens. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/fake-better-business-bureau-complaint-emails-are-scams-phishing-for-personal-corporate-information-31500 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 06:00:00 GMT Veterans Day honors those who served our country. Unfortunately, it’s also a time when scammers come out to take advantage of our veterans and active duty personnel, cautions the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and northern Illinois (BBB). http://chicago.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-warns-of-scams-targeting-veterans-and-military-personnel-30616 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMT Following the recent storms and flooding that plagued northern Illinois this spring and early summer; homeowners are looking for remedies for their mold and mildew problems. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago & Northern Illinois has seen inquiries for mold and mildew eradication jump 16 percent for the most recent 12 month period. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/-better-business-bureau-says-inquires-for-mold-and-mildew-eradication-spike-29006 Tue, 19 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMT With this year’s spring rains, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is reminding both renters and home owners that they should prepare for water damage resulting from the annual rains and possible flooding. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-provides-spring-home-repair-tips-26800 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 05:00:00 GMT While the deadline to file and/or pay your taxes has been extended to April 18 this year, many Americans are looking forward to receiving a tax refund check from the government. During this tax season, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) serving Chicago and Northern Illinois advises taxpayers to use caution when filing returns to avoid making common mistakes and to use caution when selecting tax preparation help to avoid headaches and mounting fines or fees if the return isn’t correct or filed late. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-advice-for-tax-return-filers-26358 Mon, 21 Mar 2011 05:00:00 GMT Many Americans are looking forward to the expected refunds from their 2010 Federal Income Taxes. Many people may also consider applying for a Refund Anticipation Loan (RAL) to speed up the process of receiving the refunds that they expect. The Better Business Bureau suggests consumers consider all of the options before deciding how to collect their refunds this year. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/be-aware-tax-refund-anticipation-loans-provide-immediate-money-but-with-high-fees-26188 Wed, 16 Mar 2011 05:00:00 GMT The continuing rocky economy means that many cash-strapped Americans are anxiously looking forward to receiving a tax refund check from Uncle Sam. During this tax season, the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) advises taxpayers to be on the lookout for schemes and scams. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-alerts-consumers-on-tax-reduction-schemes--26109 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau advises consumers that if they own something of value they would like to pass on to family or loved ones at their death, they should create an estate plan. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-on-the-basics-of-creating-an-estate-plan-11776 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 05:00:00 GMT The Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS) or Cash for Clunkers program provides a rebate for consumers who trade in qualifying gas guzzlers for more energy efficient cars. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/dont-get-scammed-when-participating-in-federal-cash-for-clunkers-program-11679 Thu, 16 Jul 2009 05:00:00 GMT The BBB attempts to help the people interred at Burr Oak Cemetery, but it appears the industry as a whole has a persistent pattern of complaints from the families of deceased relatives. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/burr-oak-cemetery-has-an-f-rating-with-the-bbb-unsatisfactory-for-over-two-years-11552 Wed, 08 Jul 2009 05:00:00 GMT The BBB warns that the large print for work-at-home job offers may promise big returns, but the fine print can cost them every month. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-against-twitter-money-making-schemes-11426 Mon, 29 Jun 2009 05:00:00 GMT While many people are remembering Michael Jackson with memorials, others are looking at his death as an opportunity to cheat sorrowful fans out of money, warns the Better Business Bureau. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/dont-let-sorrow-over-michael-jacksons-death-open-the-door-to-being-cheated-out-of-your-money-warns-bbb-11202 Fri, 26 Jun 2009 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau offers advice on keeping credit rates low. There are a few steps that credit card holders can take to try and keep their old rate despite economic conditions. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/as-banks-hike-credit-card-interest-bbb-offers-advice-on-keeping-rates-low--11183 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 05:00:00 GMT The popularity of online coupons is on the rise and the Better Business Bureau offers the following advice for identifying a deal and avoiding deceptive offers. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-money-saving-advice-tips-for-clipping-coupons-online-11075 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 05:00:00 GMT With the number of victims of identity theft on the rise, the BBB and various government agencies are helping consumers and businesses protect themselves by hosting the 4th Annual Shredder Day. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/identity-theft-prevention-free-shredding-event-11026 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau warns that deceptive door-to-door magazine sales crews are often hitting the pavement and looking to earn a quick buck this summer. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/start-of-summer-signals-door-to-door-magazine-selling-scam-11011 Thu, 04 Jun 2009 05:00:00 GMT With the U.S. Census process beginning, the BBB advises people to be cooperative, but cautious, to avoid becoming a victim of fraud or identity theft. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-urges-cautious-cooperation-as-us-census-workers-start-consumer-contacts--10880 Mon, 01 Jun 2009 05:00:00 GMT With the launch of the Better Business Bureau's new letter grade rating system, consumers are receiving help in effectively making purchases with more specific information. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/consumers-receive-new-help-in-smart-shopping-as-bbb-introduces-letter-grade-a-through-f-ratings-system--10666 Wed, 27 May 2009 05:00:00 GMT With unemployment rates on the rise, the Better Business Bureau is offering advice on how job hunters can make a strong impression and position themselves as the candidate of choice at job fairs. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-on-how-to-stand-out-from-the-crowd-at-a-job-fair-10618 Thu, 21 May 2009 05:00:00 GMT Beginning June 1, The Better Business Bureau will implement a business rating system of letter grades A+ through F. This system will provide more specific information and precise guide to improvement. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/new-bbb-letter-grade-a-through-f-ratings-system-helps-businesses-evaluate-suppliers-improve-operations--10575 Wed, 13 May 2009 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois warns consumers to be alert for deceptive telemarketing phone calls in regard to their vehicle manufacturer on warranty status. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/confusion-about-auto-warranties-opens-the-door-for-scammers-to-cheat-car-owners-warns-bbb-10459 Mon, 11 May 2009 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau advises brides and grooms to consider wedding insurance with the number of commercial bankruptcies on the rise. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-on-purchasing-wedding-insurance-avoid-being-jilted-at-the-altar-by-bankrupt-vendors-10411 Mon, 04 May 2009 05:00:00 GMT A new form of identity theft, "smishing" is gaining significance in cell phone text messaging. "Smishing" is the practice of sending a text message to steal credit card or identity information. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/scammers-keeping-pace-with-technology-as-smishing-is-phishing-done-through-text-messaging-10302 Wed, 29 Apr 2009 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers of spam e-mail messages which take advantage of the public's H1N1 virus concern. These messages may contain harmful computer viruses or malware. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-against-scams-based-on-swine-flu-fears--10197 Thu, 16 Apr 2009 05:00:00 GMT In the past year, complaints to the Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois against payday lenders increased substantially. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/payday-loan-complaints-to-bbb-greatly-increase-in-the-past-year-as-economy-worsened-10016 Mon, 13 Apr 2009 05:00:00 GMT Online promotions promising easy wealth by joining a cash gifting program or gifting club are flourishing on the Internet. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-cash-gifting-pyramid-schemes-flourishing-online-9963 Tue, 07 Apr 2009 05:00:00 GMT Always read the fine print or risk paying the price when being tempted by ads on social networking sites http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-says-buyer-beware-when-clicking-on-facebook-ads-9858 Fri, 03 Apr 2009 05:00:00 GMT The continuing downturn in the economy means that many cash-strapped Americans are anxiously looking forward to receiving a tax refund check from Uncle Sam. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-alerts-cash-strapped-consumers-on-tax-schemes--9816 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT Scam artists’ latest trick is using the well-known Publishers Clearing House name to steal money from unsuspecting individuals and harm the name of legitimate businesses http://chicago.bbb.org/article/publishers-clearing-house-scam-uses-bad-checks-to-get-good-money-from-unsuspecting-people-9737 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT BBB is alerting contractors and their employees to be aware of fraudulent letters re-circulating that appear to be sent from the U.S. Department of Transportation http://chicago.bbb.org/article/fake-department-of-transportation-letter-continues-circulating-9679 Mon, 09 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT Lisa Madigan will speak on the BBB’s vision to enhance and support an ethical marketplace where buyers and sellers can trust each other. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-82nd-annual-dinner-featuring-lisa-madigan-on-march-12-9464 Wed, 18 Feb 2009 06:00:00 GMT If your plans include using a home improvement contractor to help with the fix-up and repair, the Better Business Bureau recommends three things to successfully start a project: request two or three different companies to submit bids for work you want, don’t automatically pick the lowest offer, and make sure all bids are based on the same set of specifications and materials to be used. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/spring-is-time-for-love-robins-and-home-improvement-contracts-9190 Mon, 16 Feb 2009 06:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau is reporting an increase in the number of consumers who are filing complaints against “online pawnshops”. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/pawn-shop-complaints-increase-reflecting-difficult-times-9163 Tue, 10 Feb 2009 06:00:00 GMT Liquidation sales are occurring throughout Chicago and northern Illinois http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-says-buyer-beware-when-shopping-going-out-of-business-sales-9058 Thu, 22 Jan 2009 06:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau is offering advice on how consumers can protect themselves against hackers, scammers and ID thieves on social networking Web sites. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-your-facebook-friends-could-actually-be-hackers-scam-artists-and-id-thieves-8792 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 06:00:00 GMT The FBI has alerted the public that consumers have been receiving spam emails allegedly coming from various FBI executives and the Internet Crime Complaint Center in an attempt to defraud consumers. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/consumer-alert-of-a-new-fbi-email-scam-8706 Mon, 12 Jan 2009 06:00:00 GMT According to estimates by the New York Times, consumers have already spent perhaps as much as $200 million on Obamabilia. Obama memorabilia is also among eBay’s top sellers; in December the company reported that more than 111,000 Obama-related items had already been sold on their site. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/looking-to-cash-in-on-obama-memorabilia-8647 Wed, 07 Jan 2009 06:00:00 GMT Inquiries to the Chicago Better Business Bureau that serves all of northern Illinois jumped by 71 percent in 2008, a significant sign that consumers are getting smarter by investigating companies before doing business with them, according to the BBB president. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/consumers-appear-to-be-getting-smarter-as-inquiries-to-bbb-leap-yet-complaints-grow-only-slightly-8613 Tue, 06 Jan 2009 06:00:00 GMT Ads promoting pills containing Brazilian Acai Berry for weight loss are very common online.Companies may automatically begin charging the consumer reoccurring monthly fees or enter them into memberships that range from $39 to $100 a month. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-about-the-small-print-trapping-those-wanting-a-smaller-waist--8532 Tue, 30 Dec 2008 06:00:00 GMT Employment ads for mystery shoppers are surfacing in many Chicago-area and northern Illinois media, claiming to be an easy way to earn money by evaluating stores, restaurants and other types of businesses. However, the vast majority are scams that cause consumers to spend their own money and get nothing in return. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/mystery-holiday-shopper-scam-targeting-desperate-consumers-8447 Mon, 22 Dec 2008 06:00:00 GMT Your Better Business Bureau has advice to help families go green this holiday season and maybe even save some green in the process. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-on-going-green-this-holiday-season-8395 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 06:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois is offering advice for individuals on a budget on keeping the spirit of giving alive this holiday season. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/top-five-ways-to-donate-to-charities-when-budgets-are-tight-8375 Tue, 16 Dec 2008 06:00:00 GMT The solicitation of used vehicles has become an increasingly popular means of raising funds, especially for local or regional organizations. On the surface, it seems like a win-win situation for the donor and the charity: a convenient and easy way of disposing of an unwanted car while helping a cause. Before handing over those keys, however, there are some things that you should know. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/donating-a-used-car-to-charity--8327 Thu, 11 Dec 2008 06:00:00 GMT 8. All indications are that consumers will be very careful about their spending this holiday season and will be more vigilant than in recent years in their hunt for bargains and deals. Better Business Bureau is offering advice on some inexpensive marketing techniques that could pay off this season. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/tough-times-for-business-bbb-advice-on-drawing-in-customers-this-holiday-season-8268 Tue, 09 Dec 2008 06:00:00 GMT Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois is warning consumers to be alert to scam emails that appear to come from shippers including Fed Ex, UPS and Wal-Mart. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/holiday-shipping-alert-8234 Fri, 05 Dec 2008 06:00:00 GMT As the nation collectively tightens its belt this winter, many families are looking for ways to save money without sacrificing any of their holiday cheer. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-provides-consumers-six-ways-to-save-money-this-holiday-season-8197 Wed, 26 Nov 2008 06:00:00 GMT Know your rights, Use trustworthy Web sites, Protect your personal information, Beware of closeout sales, Beware of phishing, Confirm your online purchase is secure, Pay with a credit card http://chicago.bbb.org/article/tips-for-black-friday-cyber-monday-and-safe-online-shopping-this-holiday-season--8029 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 06:00:00 GMT Pre-paid bank cards are like gift cards, but can be used anywhere credit cards are accepted, allowing the recipient more flexibility in where the money can be spent. Pre-paid bank cards aren't without their downside, however, and the Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois is providing advice on purchasing and using pre-paid bank cards. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/-bbb-advice-on-givingpre-paid-bank-cards-and-receiving-gift-and--7915 Wed, 19 Nov 2008 06:00:00 GMT In 2007, more than 20 million toys were pulled off the shelves as a result of more than 60 recalls – more than twice the number of alerts the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) issued in 2006. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-avoiding-dangerous-or-toxic-toys-this-holiday-season-7860 Thu, 13 Nov 2008 06:00:00 GMT Chicago, Ill., November 13, 2008 - A record number of Americans want to be a part of history and attend the inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama but, unfortunately, only 250,000 tickets are up for grabs. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/want-to-buy-tickets-to-the-obama-inauguration--7780 Mon, 01 Oct 2007 05:00:00 GMT If you or someone you know is trying to get a green card — the right to live in the United States permanently — be on the lookout for unscrupulous businesses and attorneys. They’ll claim that, for a fee, they can make it easier to enter the U. S. State Department’s annual Diversity Visa (DV) lottery (also known as the “green card lottery”) or increase your chances of winning the DV lottery. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/ftc-diversity-visa-lottery-read-the-rules-avoid-the-rip-offs-4496 Fri, 01 Dec 2006 06:00:00 GMT This manual is intended as a businessperson's guide to the basic features of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, the federal law governing warranties on consumer products. The text provides citations to specific sections of the law—the Warranty Act itself, the Rules the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) adopted under the Act, and the FTC's Warranty Advertising Guides. For reference purposes, a supplement to this manual containing the Act, the Rules, and the Guides is available from the FTC's Consumer Response Center. See Additional Sources of Information. http://chicago.bbb.org/article/ftc-a-businesspersons-guide-to-federal-warranty-law-4363