Scams

• There are numerous legitimate organizations providing assistance and relief to those in need in our community and beyond. Yet, more and more con artists are using phony charities to scam generous consumers out of millions of dollars.
• If you want to help, contribute only to organizations that you know well and who willingly provide written information about their charitable efforts.
• If you are thinking about contributing, consider several things before you make your pledge:
  • Know what percentage of your contribution actually goes for the charitable efforts.
  • Remember that high administrative and other such expenses may be a method to hide the solicitors profits for raising the funds.
  • Beware of direct solicitations that are high pressure or overly emotional and remember that legitimate charities will give you plenty of time to decide whether and how much to donate.
  • Remember that fraudulent solicitors may pose as members of local law enforcement or use a organization name that is very similar, but in no way connected with, a well established and well known charitable organization.

For information on Fair Debt Collection, please visit the following link: FTC - Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (PDF format)

• Many new car dealers advertise low interest rates and other special promotions such as high trade-in allowances and free or low cost options.
• While these advertisements may help you shop, finding the best deal requires careful comparison.
• When considering an advertised special, read the ad carefully, paying close attention to all small print. Then call or visit the dealer to find out about all the terms and conditions of the offer.
• Here are some questions you should keep in mind when considering an advertised special:
  • Will you be charged a higher price for the car to qualify for the low-rate financing?
  • Would the price be lower if you paid in cash?
  • Does the special financing require a larger than usual down payment or are there shorter limits on the length of the loan?
  • Does the low rate apply to all cars in stock or only on certain models?
  • Does any advertised trade-in allowance apply to all cars regardless of their condition or are there deductions for high mileage, dents or rust?
  • Does the larger trade-in allowance make the cost of the new car higher than it would be without the trade-in?
• You might be giving back the big trade-in allowance by paying more for your new car.

• Consumers should avoid sending money in response to offers promising a chance to earn extra money working at home by stuffing envelopes or assembling small products.
• While there are many different versions of this scam, all of them request money in exchange for the opportunity to earn money at home.
• These schemes are almost never what they appear to be and deceive consumers into wasting their time, energy and money.
• While they have been promoted for many years, especially in classified advertising on yard signs and in direct mail, these schemes have found a new home on the Internet.

• Never buy a used car without first having it inspected by a reputable mechanic. Kicking the tires just won't get it done.
• Have everything put in writing. If a salesman makes a claim and it's not in writing - it just doesn't exist. This is especially true concerning warranties or claims about the car's condition.
• Read the entire contract carefully. If there is something you don't understand, ask questions before you sign.
• Obtain a copy of Consumer Reports from the library and check on the repair rating for the vehicle, it will tell you a lot about the reliability of the car.
• By law you should receive an odometer statement telling you whether the mileage on the odometer is correct. If you have any doubts about the mileage, you can obtain a history of the cars ownership by contacting the Kansas Department of Revenue, Titles and Registration Division at 785-296-3601.