http://norfolk.bbb.org/WWWRoot//SitePage.aspx?site=64&id=cd7f9b22-5f8b-4d42-a475-081da9891ddd&debug=False&tag=site=64&bbb=0583&firm=18004439 10 Thu, 23 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT In the wake of the devastating tornadoes that ripped through Oklahoma yesterday, and in north Texas last week, Better Business Bureau and BBB Wise Giving Alliance have issued tips to help donors make smart giving decisions and to avoid scams. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-urges-donor-caution-after-tornadoes-42051 Thu, 23 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT Memorial Day is a time to honor those who serve and remember those who have died in war. But sadly, it has also become a key opportunity for scammers to target those who are serving or have served their nation, especially elderly veterans. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/beware-of-memorial-day-scams-aimed-at-military-personnel-41881 Wed, 22 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB tips for hiring an exterminator http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/dont-get-bugged-by-the-wrong-pest-control-business--41949 Wed, 22 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB is warning consumers about a network of Arizona-based companies that have targeted senior citizens and others in an investment and credit card processing scheme. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/missouri-retiree-may-be-victim-of-nationwide-credit-card-scheme-bbb-warns-41948 Tue, 21 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT IC3 warns consumers about a phishing scam targeting telecommunication companies' customers. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/alert-about-a-phishing-attack-on-telecommunication-customers-41945 Tue, 21 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT Spring is in the air and with it a desire to get outside and start cleaning up, fixing up, repairing, maybe evening rebuilding. But let’s face it, there are only so many hours in a day to accomplish all that needs to be done. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/need-help-around-the-house-bbb-tips-for-finding-trustworthy-contractors-41946 Mon, 20 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT Better Business Bureau warns elderly to beware Medicare/Medicaid scams http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-warns-elderly-to-beware-medicaremedicaid-scams-41943 Mon, 20 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 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://norfolk.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-warns-job-seekers-about-summer-job-scams-41944 Fri, 17 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT Robocalls that seem to be from an employment agency may turn to a live person who tries to get your information to sell career training, BBB in Dallas tells Doug Magditch of CW33-TV. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/in-the-news--employment-agency-robocall-scam-41886 Thu, 16 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB is urging all consumers and businesses to pay close attention to a Cyber Security Advisory issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation regarding a vulnerability in Microsoft’s Internet Explorer 8 browser(IE8) http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/fbi-issues-cyber-security-advisory-that-could-impact-all-users-of-microsoft-explorer-8-41885 Thu, 16 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT Do you have unclaimed property? If so, how would you know? Is it worth it to pay a service to help you identify unclaimed property? http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/how-to-claim-your-unclaimed-property-41880 Wed, 15 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT The rescue this week of three women and a child from a Cleveland home where they were held captive for a decade has gained worldwide attention. Generous donors wishing to help the victims are being cautioned by Better Business Bureau to confirm the legitimacy of all charitable fundraising and crowdfunding efforts. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-cautions-on-fundraising-to-assist-cleveland-kidnap-victims-41884 Wed, 15 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT Going green is all the rage these days. Sometimes going green can save you money and other times you just have to think of it as helping to save the environment a little bit at a time, with no monetary savings. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/solar-panels--make-it-a-sunny-decision-41879 Tue, 14 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT FCC 'Bill Shock' Rules Require Alerts About Overages for cell phone users - April 17, 2013 announcement. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/fcc-announces-bill-shock-rules-for-cell-phones-41875 Tue, 14 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT May is National Moving Month: BBB and AMSA Offer Tips for Safe, Secure Move http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/moving-scams-still-a-problem-for-many--41874 Mon, 13 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB advises consumers to check pest control companies' qualifications and BBB Business Review before signing a contract or authorizing treatments. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-advises-consumers-to-check-credentials-reputation-of-pest-control-companies-41873 Mon, 13 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT With rents topping $800 for a one bedroom apartment and more than $1,000 for a two bedroom, it behooves potential renters to research the property – and property management company – before plopping down a deposit along with the first and last month’s rent and signing a yearlong lease. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-tips-for-being-a-smart-renter-41872 Sun, 12 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT Mother’s Day is one of the biggest holidays for gifts, cards, flowers, candy and phone calls. If you’re showing your love with flowers this year, make sure they are on-time and just right. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/make-sure-moms-flowers-arrive-on-time-and-looking-beautiful-41876 Fri, 03 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT They say a picture can capture a moment, but the KHOU 11 New I-Team’s cameras captured a lie told by a wedding photographer whose customers say took their money without giving them what they paid for. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/i-said-i-do-but-i-dont-have-the-pictures--41882 Thu, 02 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB finds award notifications for airline tickets or cruises are promotions for high pressure sales pitches for expensive travel clubs that don't deliver promised savings, with costs for promotions. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/travel-club-schemes-cause-nationwide-promotion-commotion-41581 Wed, 01 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB tips for prom and graduation preparations http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/dont-let-your-childs-senior-celebrations-leave-you-with-bad-memories-41580 Tue, 30 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB has 9 tips to help parents find safe, reliable and satisfying summer camps for children. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-can-help-parents-find-safe-rewarding-summer-camps-for-children-41561 Mon, 29 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB tips for safely purchasing event tickets http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/dont-get-burned-by-a-hot-ticket-scam-41536 Fri, 26 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Beware of Green Dot MoneyPak Scams! Your BBB wants to remind you to beware of scammers using the Green Dot MoneyPak prepaid cards you can purchase at local stores. Using a prepaid card is a convenient way to pay bills online without threat of risk to your bank account. But scammers have found a way to get that money from you too! Green Dot spokesman states, “Fraudsters will call or email you saying that you won a lottery or can buy discount merchandise at their phony websites – but you need to pay fees to get your prize or purchase that merchandise via MoneyPak – and only MoneyPak, then they ask for the 14-digit code.” Once you have given them that code – the crooks can then transfer your MoneyPak funds to their own prepaid cards. MoneyPak offers these 7 tips to help protect you from fraud! 1. Never give your MoneyPak number to someone you don’t know. 2. Never give receipt information about your MoneyPak purchase to another party. 3. Use your MoneyPak only to reload your prepaid http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/beware-of-green-dot-moneypak-scams-41518 Fri, 26 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/paypal-41517 Thu, 25 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT En nuestro mundo con tanta experiencia en la tecnología, todo es fácilmente accesible y conveniente...incluso la banca. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/cinco-consejos-importantes-para-la-banca-mvil-41449 Thu, 25 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://norfolk.bbb.org/article/your-diy-spring-projects-can-be-hazardous-to-your-health-warns-the-better-business-bureau-41492 Wed, 24 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT El robo de identidad es un enorme problema, pero hay varios pasos que puede dar para proteger su información personal. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/da-de-proteccin-de-la-identidad-haga-trizas-los-papeles-que-ya-no-necesita-41447 Wed, 24 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/online-pharmacies-budget-stretcher-or-big-danger-41490 Tue, 23 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Abril es el Mes nacional del control de plagas, según la Asociación Nacional de Control de Plagas (NPMA). http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/lo-estn-fastidiando-los-insectos-asegrese-de-que-un-profesional-maneje-su-control-de-plagas-41448 Tue, 23 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT It took only a few hours for a phony Twitter account claiming to be collecting donations to be set up after the Boston Marathon bombings. Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns that it would not be surprising to find scams popping up after the devastating explosion in West, Texas, on April 17, 2013. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/after-west-texas-explosion-bbb-offers-tips-on-giving-and-warns-of-potential-scams-41450 Mon, 22 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Con la temporada de béisbol ahora en pleno apogeo, asegúrese de que los boletos sean legítimos. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/llvame-al-juego-de-pelota-y-que-no-te-lleven-41445 Fri, 19 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/scam-watch-door-to-door-sales-41423 Thu, 18 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT April 17, 2013-The BBB has received multiple inquiries about a company calling itself Overstock Clearance Center. The company website, www.overstockclearancecenter.com claims to sell generators, fitness equipment and children’s play sets at deeply discounted prices. Inquirers state that they have responded to craigslist ads and then are directed to the company website. The website advertises that the company is a BBB Accredited Business and that they have an A+ rating with the BBB, both of which are untruths. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-issues-warning-about-overstock-clearance-center-41412 Tue, 16 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT 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, and more are likely. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-of-charity-scams-offers-giving-tips-in-wake-of-boston-marathon-bombing-41378 Tue, 16 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT A warning for eBay bidders: If you ever lose an eBay auction, you may be contacted about a second chance to buy that item, but in some cases, that offer is just an attempt to steal your money. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/emails-offering-second-chance-to-buy-item-from-lost-ebay-auction-can-be-scams-41358 Tue, 16 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT With the tax deadline looming, taxpayers need to prepare for unexpected emails and phone calls purporting last-minute issues with returns or refunds. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/is-there-really-a-problem-with-those-taxes-41359 Mon, 15 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Washington Business Under Fire for Dropping Deals and Refusing Refunds http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/electronic-company-malfunctions-on-home-deliveries-41328 Fri, 12 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB is warning consumers to be on the lookout for charity scams and 'storm chaser' contractors after strong storms swept across the Midwest. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-consumers-about-charity-scams-contractor-ripoffs-after-storms-41298 Fri, 12 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT During Financial Literacy Month in April, Better Business Bureau reminds consumers to keep track of their credit reports to help prevent identity theft. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/credit-reports-are-an-identity-theft-protection-tool-41296 Fri, 12 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB tips for filing last-minute taxes before the April 15 deadline http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/file-your-last-minute-2012-taxes-the-right-way-41340 Fri, 12 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB advises consumers to ask about "resort fees" and other unexpected fees that can drive up the cost of vacations. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/unexpected-fees-can-add-to-cost-of-vacations-bbb-warns-41297 Thu, 11 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT April is National Pest Management Month, according to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). In 2012, Better Business Bureau received more than 3,100 complaints against pest control services. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/getting-bugged-make-sure-your-pest-management-is-handled-by-a-pro-41232 Thu, 11 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB advises consumers on how to protect their Bluetooth devices from hacking scams http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/keep-your-bluetooth-both-hands-free-and-hack-free--41230 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Now that spring has sprung, so will the advent of the travelers. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/beware-travelers-this-spring-41229 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT In our tech-savvy world, everything is readily accessible and convenient…even banking. Gone are the days of waiting in line at the bank or even waiting for your computer to boot up. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/top-five-tips-for-mobile-banking-41228 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB tips on finding the right AC contractor http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/dont-sweat-it-get-your-air-conditioning-unit-checked-before-the-summer-heat-hits--41221 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Buying on the secondary market can be useful for non-season ticket holders, occasional fans, or those making a last-minute decision to head to the ball park. But how do you know if the tickets are real? http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/take-me-out-to-the-ballgameand-dont-get-taken-41226 Mon, 08 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 (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://norfolk.bbb.org/article/tips-to-deal-with-the-after-effects-of-flooding-and-water-damage--41223 Fri, 05 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Hackers are exploiting Bluetooth wireless connections to access texts, contacts and photos, send texts and even place long-distance telephone calls without you being aware. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-smart-phone-and-tablet-users-about-bluetooth-security-hole-41142 Thu, 04 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Telemarketers are prohibited by law from calling consumers on the Do Not Call Registry. They also are forbidden to call cell phones. This has not stopped them. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/is-an-end-to-illegal-robocalls-in-sight--41143 Thu, 04 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB tips on making a wise choice for your child’s summer camp activities http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/keep-your-child-and-yourself-a-happy-camper-this-summer-41131 Thu, 04 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Who needs a financial planner? You do if you want to save, invest and grow your money and you have no clue as to how to get started or the best ways to achieve your financial goals. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/take-time-in-finding-qualified-financial-planner-41132 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Better Business Bureau celebrated its Centennial year in 2012 and set new records in many categories of service as seen in this infographic. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-breaks-records-for-consumer-services-infographic-41098 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Some unscrupulous people make a living pretending they are someone else. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/online-dating-scams-41128 Tue, 02 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB gives tips to prevent credit card identity theft http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/a-bad-credit-score-is-no-april-fools-day-joke-41068 Tue, 02 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Internet browsers are the most commonly-used software on workstations and mobile platforms, but they are also used to track our browsing habits and a common entry point for hackers. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-cautions-consumers-about-unsafe-internet-browsers-41067 Tue, 02 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL- April 2, 2013 – The April-May time period is when many leases expire and renters move. If you are among those who rent and are considering a move, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) recommends doing your homework before selecting a mover. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/springtime-is-moving-time-for-many-renters-41108 Mon, 01 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL – March 28, 2013 – Although the temperatures are still low, spring has arrived and it is a good time to rid your home of the clutter and paperwork you have accumulated over the past year. However, when it comes to reviewing your financial records, it is important to know what to keep, what to discard, and when. The Better Business Bureau offers advice on how to safely clear your clutter. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-identifies-what-paperwork-to-keep-when-spring-cleaning-41049 Mon, 01 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Planning a wedding involves orchestrating a symphony of vendors, and bridal expos can be a great one-stop shop to find all of the service providers you would need. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/planning-to-tie-the-knot-41048 Fri, 29 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT The Better Business Bureau of Coastal Carolina is issuing a warning about a local business that hasn’t been delivering on its orders. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-alert-dont-lose-the-shirt-off-your-back-41030 Fri, 29 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT Waiting till you’re locked out of your home, office or car is not the best time to find a locksmith. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/dont-wait-till-youre-locked-out-to-find-a-reliable-locksmith-41032 Fri, 29 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB advises consumers to do their research before they buy http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/some-online-furniture-purchases-cause-consumer-discomfort-41031 Thu, 28 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT With the growing amount of trust in person-to-person marketplaces like Craigslist, consumers have become increasingly comfortable with online transactions. ”Today, people are looking for almost anything online. Whether it’s finding a roommate, a vacation home, a life partner or a rental apartment, the “Craigslist culture” offers no-cost or low-cost services that are quick and convenient,” stated BBB President and CEO Jim Hegarty. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-alert-nebraska-woman-loses-thousands-in-craigslist-scheme-41000 Thu, 28 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL-March 26, 2013 - Deciding what to do if you receive a tax refund is an important decision in this economy. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) advises consumers to consider a few options that can provide some long-term financial benefits. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-tips-for-using-your-2013-tax-refund--41001 Wed, 27 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT Cell phone users are increasingly turning to Bluetooth technology to talk - hands free - on their phones. But as this high tech tool gains popularity in the US and Canada, scammers are finding ways to exploit it. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/use-bluetooth-protect-yourself-from-hacking-scams--40975 Tue, 26 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT Complaints in the U.S about Jamaican scams continue to grow, with a conservative estimate of annual losses of more than $300 million. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/growing-number-of-americans-being-bilked-out-of-retirement-money-by-jamaican-lottery-scams-40957 Tue, 26 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT BROOKSHIRE, Texas - When a viewer's video of the "First Day of Spring: hail storm in Brookshire hit the Fox 26 Facebook fan page, many were impressed by mother nature's ability, some were concerned about a tiny bird looking for cover, and still others were worried about their personal property. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/insurance-advice-for-storm-victims-40958 Mon, 25 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB has 9 tips on which records to retain, which to shred, to protect your identity. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbbs-9-tips-to-safeguard-your-identity-keep-sensitive-records-safe-40941 Mon, 25 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB has eight tips that can help consumers find a trustworthy contractor for their home repair or improvement projects. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbbs-8-tips-for-hiring-a-contractor-40939 Fri, 22 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB is urging consumers considering an online car purchase to be extra cautious following three recent incidents involving bogus auto dealer websites, each claiming to be located in North Dakota. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-warns-of-fake-auto-dealer-websites-40938 Thu, 21 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT With local teams making it to the NCAA, Better Business Bureau wants to warn the public about scams related to March Madness. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-tips-for-march-madness-40907 Thu, 21 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT “In celebration of our new year packages we've selected you to receive 2 round trip airfares to anywhere in the contiguous United States —good for the next 12 months!” http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/post-card-offers-free-airline-tickets-delivers-sales-presentation-40908 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB advises consumers to get a contract in writing & set clear expectations http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/five-ways-to-ensure-youre-hiring-the-right-lawn-care-company-40845 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT Identity theft of information in tax returns and theft of tax refunds have exploded, reported Brian New of CBS11-TV, Dallas - Fort Worth. BBB advises that IRS will only be in touch by letter, not email, phone or text. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/in-the-news--scammers-out-to-steal-tax-refunds-40843 Tue, 19 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT The BBB is alerting investors to the funding mechanism known as 'crowdfunding,' which allows people to pledge small amounts of money to support a business. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-alerts-investors-to-perils-of-crowdfunding-40846 Tue, 19 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT Fake pharmacy websites may put unauthorized charges on your credit card, sell prescription drugs that are from outside the country, counterfeit, pharmacologically-inactive or the wrong dosage. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-warns-online-pharmacies-can-be-dangerous-40844 Tue, 19 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT Online coupons can be great deals but some are too good to be true, warned Doug Magditch of CW33-TV. Scammers could be phishing for your information or cash, said Jeannette Kopko of BBB in Dallas. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/in-the-news--online-coupon-scams-40842 Mon, 18 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB of the Southland, the Better Business Bureau that served the greater Los Angeles marketplace, has been expelled from the national organization, has lost its right to use the BBB name and logo, and was cut off from services provided by CBBB, the umbrella organization. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-expels-los-angeles-organization-for-failure-to-meet-standards-40810 Fri, 15 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT A new phishing scam is making the rounds disguised as a consumer complaint notification from the FTC. If you receive it, just hit "delete." http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/how-fake-ftc-emails-are-tricking-business-owners-40791 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT BBB advice on buying and using dietary supplements http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/dietary-supplements-could-cause-more-harm-than-benefit-bbb-warns-40752 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL – March 11, 2013 - As a new generation increasingly uses the internet, the Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) warns parents that mobile applications for smart phones and tablets are siphoning children’s data and sharing it. In most cases, the applications’ developers do not disclose whether data is being collected, with whom it is being shared nor how it is used. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/study-shows-mobile-applications-targeted-at-youngsters-seldom-disclose-privacy-policies-40753 Wed, 13 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT Car owners need to protect their vehicle and themselves with auto insurance, but how do you know if you are properly covered? http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/get-the-most-from-your-auto-insurance-40705 Wed, 13 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT Most of us have gotten used to charging purchases, large and small, on a debit or credit card. Just swipe the card and avoid the hassle of carrying cash. Look carefully; you may notice a new fee on your receipt. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/new-merchant-surcharges-on-credit-purchases-40706 Tue, 12 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT An attractive, well-kept driveway can help a home make a good first impression, provide protection against flooding, and even add value to your investment. But replacing a driveway can be a costly endeavor. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/tips-for-driveway-improvements-40686 Tue, 12 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT Consumers aren’t the only victims of fraud. Every year, thousands of small businesses are targets of fraudulent or deceptive sales practices. Protect your business from scams by learning what to look out for. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/watch-out-for-these-small-business-scams-40688 Mon, 11 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT Better Business Bureau celebrated its Centennial year by ringing the closing bell of the New York Stock Exchange, laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington Cemetery, and helping a record-breaking number of consumers across the United States and Canada. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/in-its-100th-year-better-business-bureau-breaks-all-records-for-consumer-services--40637 Mon, 11 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL – March 7, 2013 - During this tax season, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) serving Chicago and Northern Illinois advises taxpayers to avoid making common mistakes by using caution when selecting tax preparation help. This step will avoid headaches, fines or fees if the return is not correct or filed late. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/top-tax-tips-from-your-better-business-bureau--40639 Fri, 08 Mar 2013 06:00:00 GMT Tips to enjoy a scam free film and music festival at SXSW http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-on-preparing-for-sxsw-40672 Fri, 08 Mar 2013 06:00:00 GMT BBB AUTO LINE is Fast, Fair and Saves You Money http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-auto-line-is-fast-fair-and-saves-you-money-40581 Thu, 07 Mar 2013 06:00:00 GMT http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/ncpw-tip-how-to-find-a-trustworthy-contractor-40555 Thu, 07 Mar 2013 06:00:00 GMT Scams and identity thefts are particularly prevalent risks during tax time. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/online-and-offline-scams-target-tax-filers-40553 Thu, 07 Mar 2013 06:00:00 GMT You’ve been working on getting your financial information together for your tax return. Which papers should you keep? http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/toss-or-save-a-financial-record-40601 Wed, 06 Mar 2013 06:00:00 GMT Maybe you’ve moved to a new town. Maybe you changed insurance carriers. Maybe it’s simply time for someone new. Whatever your reason, finding a new dentist does not have to be like pulling teeth. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/research-pays-off-when-looking-for-new-dentist-40529 Wed, 06 Mar 2013 06:00:00 GMT HOUSTON (KTRK) -- If you need to have your vehicle towed after a crash, your problems could go from bad to worse. But we have some tips on how to save time, trouble, and money after a crash. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/save-time-money-by-planning-for-car-problems-40528 Wed, 06 Mar 2013 06:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL – March 5, 2013 – Becoming a victim of a “too good to be true offer” does not necessarily mean that all is lost. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) is aware that some taxpayers may have experienced losses in certain investment arrangements discovered to be criminally fraudulent. Often these investments turn out to be “Ponzi Schemes” where investors lose because there are no real profits to be had. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/swindled-taxpayers-have-options-says-the-better-business-bureau-40530 Tue, 05 Mar 2013 06:00:00 GMT The fees are typically neither disclosed nor included in the checkout price on online travel booking sites. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-encourages-consumers-to-prevent-getting-stung-by-undisclosed-hotel-fees-40481 Mon, 04 Mar 2013 06:00:00 GMT BBB tips for protecting your personal information http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/national-consumer-protection-week-protecting-your-computer-and-smartphone-from-hackers-40480 Fri, 01 Mar 2013 06:00:00 GMT Chicago, IL - February 27, 2013 - The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) will be featured at the 15th annual National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), March 7th, 2013, from 8:30AM to 3:00PM, in the lobby of the James R. Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph St. The BBB joins federal, state, and local government agencies and national consumer advocacy organizations at this event. Consumer protection information and brochures will be among the free items available. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/better-business-bureau-joins-government-partners-for-consumer-protection-event-40425 Thu, 28 Feb 2013 06:00:00 GMT Tax Tuesday: Don’t Bet When Borrowing http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/refund-anticipation-loans-come-with-risks-40411 Thu, 28 Feb 2013 06:00:00 GMT HOUSTON -- You’ll find them all across Houston and the country; Bella Terra cosmetic kiosks situated in the walkways of malls. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/watch-out-mall-cosmetics-kiosks-may-use-guerilla-sales-tactics--40412 Wed, 27 Feb 2013 06:00:00 GMT Scammers call seniors asking for information to verify identity in order to send a new Medicaid card. They ask for SSN and bank account number. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/phishing-calls-target-seniors-40381 Tue, 26 Feb 2013 06:00:00 GMT The BBB has 10 tips to help you spot fake coupons online. Extremely high discounts are often a sign of a fraudulent coupon. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-check-for-warning-signs-of-fake-coupons-online-40363 Tue, 26 Feb 2013 06:00:00 GMT Cruising is big business. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/before-you-set-sail-bbb-tips-for-planning-a-cruise-40362 Mon, 25 Feb 2013 06:00:00 GMT CHICAGO, IL- February 21, 2013 – Around this time of year homeowners begin planning home improvement projects for spring and summer. When planning these renovations it is important to be aware of tax credits being offered by the Federal Government on products that increase home energy efficiency. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) offers some tips for money-saving decisions. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/home-improvement-planning-requires-checking-out-contractors-products-to-save-money-40336 Mon, 25 Feb 2013 06:00:00 GMT SUGAR LAND, Texas (FOX 26) - "It hurts because I wouldn't steal anything let alone a TV from a hotel," says Timeka Tyler. http://norfolk.bbb.org/article/woman-shares-her-story-after-accused-of-theft-in-hotel-40335