text:
I decided to click at random on a sponsored ad. The link took me to this page (I refuse to give them a free link, and if you go to the page, I'm not responsible if you click any links): http://cashtestimonials.com/lindas-story/.
Wow, this is the story of someone who's supposedly making big money from Google with a kit she purchased online. Awesome! But wait...in the right column, under About Me, it says:
My name is Linda and I'm making a full-time income working only 10-15 hours a week, from my home...But if I look right down the middle of the page, at what appears to be a blog post titled, Mom Making Money at Home, it says:
My name is Beth and I just wanted to share with everybody my story on how IDidn't you say your name was Linda? Make up your mind, dude-ette, are you Linda or are you Beth? Or have you made so much money with this fool-proof system that you've forgotten who you are?
As you scroll through this amazing blog post, you'll find the following text:
The kit is totally FREE*, I just paid $2.95 to ship it (*wierd shipping I guess?)Is that wierd or weird? At any rate, if you blew right by it, notice that there is an asterisk next to the FREE. So that must mean it's not REALLY, TOTALLY, FREE, right? Did it even get your attention?
The Disclaimers - Didn't You Read the Fine Print?
Now, if you bother to scroll through all the phony comments on this supposed blog post, you'll find the fine print at the bottom of the page (assuming you haven't clicked your way through to untold Google riches yet). Instead of being on a white background with easy-to-read text, the disclaimer text is on a gray background with lighter gray text. But here is where it gets funny. Here's an excerpt (with my emphasis added):
This page and associated pages on this site are an advertisement. All persons mentioned on this blog are fictional examples of people who used the promoted products and is for demonstration purposes only. The statements contained herein come from many different people and are not necessarily being made about the specific products discussed.So I guess these fictional people are raving about someone else's product then. Well, at least you admitted it - if anyone bothered to notice. But wait...there's more:
If you utilize any information provided in this site, you do so at your own risk and you specifically waive any right to make any claim against the author and publisher of this Website and materials as the result of the use of such information.OK, so you're saying you're not responsible for anything these fictional people are saying about someone else's product - it's okay for your to rip me off, because you just told me you're not responsible. Hmmm, interesting. But here comes the kicker, and why it's not really "FREE" (again, my emphasis added):
Upon submitting a request for Membership, a Member ID and Password are assigned to you and can be used to gain access to ...The initial shipping and handling charge of $2.95 S&H which includes fourteen (14) days worth of access to the online directories and training. After 14 days, you will be charged MONTHLY of $47.50 for the recurring monthly fee... After the 30 day trial I will be charged $99 for the programOK, I get it now. I'm paying $2.95 for shipping and handling, which you've just defined as access to online directories and training. Well, that gives a whole new meaning to "shipping and handling" since you aren't shipping me anything, are you? Yes, and by the way, you'll charge my credit card that I used to pay this $2.95 shipping and handling (for "air shipping") another $47.50 per month, forever or until I cancel my credit card, whichever comes first, plus, at the end of the month you'll charge me an additional $99 fee for the program. Or are you charging yourself the $99? After all, you did say, and I quote, "After the 30 day trial I will be charged...". Wow, how could I turn that down? You had me at FREE*!
Well, alrighty then. What happens if I decide to cancel? Again, I have to weigh my options between two choices:
Access is contracted on a month-to-month basis and can only be cancelled by calling customer service any time fourteen days prior to the payment date.But then in the next paragraph, it says:
You may stop payment on any pre-authorized charge by notifying .... at least three business days prior to the scheduled charge date.14 days? 3 days? Oh well, it's all the same thing, right? And, I'm assuming you meant canceled (the status your ad deserves). I suspect it doesn't really matter if you cancel within 3 days or 14, they're going to try to keep charging your credit card no matter what. Aren't you glad you gave it to them?
Moral of the Story
People like this are out to take your money and be held completely unresponsible for doing so. You don't make the money - they do! They have no respect for their customers and would prefer that they find every loophole possible to cheat you out of every penny you have. So, always remember...
- Always read the fine print
- Ads are ads, no matter where they appear
Guide Note: This blog post was among the 10 most popular on the About Home Business site in 2009. Do you agree that it should have been?
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- July 10, 2009 at 11:58 am(1) Clara says:
THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!!! You have no idea. I was looking for that job again. My husband and I are very tight. I can't get a job- due to health problems. So,I have been looking for something at home.I could do when I felt good enough to do it. Just to help my husband out. If I hadn't found this 1st..Oh my gosh…with prices like that. We would have lost our home. I know in time God will send me a good REAL job at home. Like I said, you have no idea how much you just saved our family. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
- July 13, 2009 at 2:44 pm(2) homebusiness says:
I'm glad to hear someone was spared the indignity – your comment makes it worth it.
- July 15, 2009 at 9:04 am(3) carolyn says:
My god, I cannot believe I fell for it. I can't even remember how it appeared on my screen. So if I cancel my credit card, will that be the end of it?
Thank you for your article.
- July 15, 2009 at 12:38 pm(4) Terry Nelson says:
How can such a reputable company get away with misleading so many innocent people that just want to work? I also clicked on the link and was a bit leary of the offer. I need a job and it sounded fine – especially because the Google name is there. I never went any further and have been called multiple times daily by the company since. I can't believe Google would be this deceitful.
Thanks for the heads up…….
- July 16, 2009 at 7:55 am(5) Randy Duermyer says:
If you cancel your credit card, they won't be able to keep charging it. You can try contacting the card company first and see if they will refuse any further charges from the company – that would save you from having to update your card information with whomever you've authorized to charge it legitimately.
"How can such a reputable company get away with misleading so many innocent people …"
IT IS NOT GOOGLE THAT IS DOING THIS. THESE SCAMMERS HAVE NO RELATIONSHIP TO GOOGLE WHATSOEVER – They just want you to believe that they do so you'll bite. If you read carefully and read the fine print – they generally admit that. I will post more on this issue very soon. About.com has notified Google to ban one particular outfit that was doing this – but the ads are still out there from others trying to do the same thing, and I'm fed up with it!
- July 17, 2009 at 2:23 pm(6) Dee says:
I almost got sucked into that scam and I'm glad I looked at the fine print. I also went to GOOGLE jobs and found nothing on the work at home kit from them. The ad I saw was "FREE" as well, plus $1.95 S/H, a six day trial, and additional $84.75 a month after the six day trial. The link also displays Yahoo, MSNBC, and etc. to make it look legit. So, do the research everyone and if take that chance, get a pre-paid credit card from the store fist. THANKS for the posting.
- July 19, 2009 at 12:21 am(7) Bladdidy Blah Blah Blah says:
Only one mistake in this article:
"And, I'm assuming you meant canceled (the status your ad deserves)"
– If you look up both cancelled and canceled at dictionary.com, both are valid.
- July 19, 2009 at 9:32 am(8) Randy Duermyer says:
Blah – Yes, I guess it's acceptable, and it may be that the British often add the second L. Either way, the scammers can go to 'ell.
- July 21, 2009 at 4:17 am(9) Jon says:
hmm. so what if it's debit? just ask the company to also refuse any charges from them?
- July 21, 2009 at 8:50 am(10) homebusiness says:
Yes, same with debit or credit. See if the card issuer can help you by refusing to accept charges from them, if not, have them replace the card with a new number – but don't forget to update the other accounts that use that card once you get the new one.
- July 21, 2009 at 10:08 am(11) Sal says:
THANK YOU! I ordered this CD and now my CC has been getting this charge on it and I had no idea why!!! Now I have to TRY to see if I can stop this!!!! I guess the past charges are my loss????
- July 22, 2009 at 9:07 am(12) Randy Duermyer says:
They're pretty good about putting in lots of disclaimers that you will continue to be charged unless and until you cancel. If you hadn't tried to cancel in the past, those charges probably can't be disputed now.
- July 23, 2009 at 9:39 pm(13) Christina says:
I'm so happy I found this site before I actually went through with it..ur a life saver and money saver..LOL..can't something be done about this
- July 24, 2009 at 2:47 am(14) Ashley says:
My goodness! My boyfriend is soo smart! I just read him the "mom makes $$ on the internet" thing and asked him how it sounded. He told me to do more searching and if it still looked good we'll see what's up. And that's when I read this. We're struggling and this would have been disastrous…
- July 24, 2009 at 9:04 am(15) homebusiness says:
Ashley and Christina:
Glad to hear you were spared. Christina – In my opinion, the best thing we can do is to spread the word to others that these deals are scams. I've been reporting them to Google and it still amazes me that Google approves their ads since they are all subject to Google's approval in the first place.
- July 25, 2009 at 1:15 am(16) Frank says:
Isn't it sad that there are people are there who would make money by lying, stealing and what ever else they are able to do. Its even more sad that a reputable company such as Google would approve these people's ads. God have mercy!!!!!
- July 25, 2009 at 11:01 am(17) homebusiness says:
I'm actually surprised they're not shutting these people down – certainly their legal department could do so.
- July 27, 2009 at 2:33 am(18) Heidi says:
I fell into this trap and quickly found out what it was about and cancelled it immediately. I should know better! I was suppose to recieve a "CD" or "kit" that had detailed info on it. At day 6 still no CD. I called and asked what was going on and they man told me "Most people don't recieve the Cd withing the trial period". At that time I read him the riot act. I also asked him exactly what would I be charged 84.95 a month for…you are not going to believe this…he said it was to use their website.. HA! are you kidding me? You can do what they are saying without paying a DIME to anyone! Scammers! I have filed a report against them as well. Google will soon have them shut down. I couldn't believe the gull of these people going as far as using the Google trademark on their website to trick you.
- July 27, 2009 at 8:35 am(19) Randy Duermyer says:
Way to go Heidi! People like you can make a difference. And you're absolutely right, you can do it all and not pay a cent.
- July 27, 2009 at 4:37 pm(20) Kristie says:
Thank God for you & your blog of the researched info on this scam. I too am not working & have been struggling to find a way to work from home due to health issues. I was also almost scammed into one of these links, however I have experience in Real Estate & also worked as a paralegal to Real Estate Attorney so I knew I needed to read the terms & conditions very closely. They are absolutely ridiculous. Not only are they completely contratdictory they are also very confusing. Even with my experience in working with contracts & legal documents, I found myself having to read & re-read these so called terms. I just pray that there is something done to stop these people from this horrible criminal activity. God Bless You!
- July 27, 2009 at 6:28 pm(21) Nickie says:
I almost fell for this trick myself, until I read the "terms and conditions" and fell out fo my chair laughing so hard! What a bunch of idiots! I do feel sorry for anyone who falls into traps like this. However, I do want to work from home and I hope that there are legitimate websites out there to give me info on how I can make this a reality. The world needs more good people like you, Randy! Keep up the excellent work!
- July 27, 2009 at 6:41 pm(22) Amanda says:
I have ads on figi and craigs list and I get anywhere from 2 to 5 emails a day from those ads advertising this same thing. is there a way to stop them. and thank you for your intrest
- July 28, 2009 at 1:01 pm(23) Randy Duermyer says:
Kristie and Nicki – thanks for the kind words. It's always good to know the materials are of benefit.
Amanda – here is a URL for reporting spam and/or fraud within ads served by Google:
You may or may not get anywhere reporting them to figi and Craig's list. You can also file a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center at: http://www.ic3.gov/complaint/default.aspx
but I think to do that you actually have to have been a victim for them to accept your report.
- July 28, 2009 at 9:36 pm(24) Nikka says:
Thank You so much for your article regarding the Google work from home offer. I was in the middle of filling out the form and after typing in my credit card info I paused and decided to research this opportunity first before submitting my cc#. Thank goodness I never clicked "for instant access CLICK HERE", so that they could start charging and ripping me off.
Eventhough I never submitted my cc#, is it possible that they can track and see what I typed in those sections and attempt to charge me anyway? I just cannot afford to receive these charges.
Now why is Google approving these ads? These scammers are giving Google a bad reputaion.
Thanks again.
- July 29, 2009 at 8:32 am(25) Randy Duermyer says:
Usually, your card doesn't get charged until you click the Submit button, so I'd think you should be okay. Keep an eye on your statements none the less. And I have no idea why Google is approving the ads. It seems very counter-productive to me, since they can pretty much ban anyone they want to from their ad system.
- July 31, 2009 at 1:29 pm(26) jettie says:
And my kids I'm the smartest mom around. Can't believe I got sucked in. Way too late for me to realize it was a scam. Good to know that I still had this sense something was wrong somewhere but didn't listen to this instinct. Perhaps I got lured by the promise of this business to encourage my teen kids to make use of their time wasted on the computer. Now, my big job of the day is to cancel this stupid $1.97 charge on my account. If I won't be successful to have it refunded in 5 days, time to cancel the card.
Still can't believe I got so stupid this morning. Thanks for a great job you're doing, Randy!. God Bless you!
- August 1, 2009 at 8:40 am(27) homebusiness says:
Over the years I've learned that your gut instinct is almost always right. I recently turned away a client for that very reason. Your heart was in the right place – you just slipped up in the execution by not doing enough homework before jumping in. Thanks for your kind comments and best of luck to you in the future.
- July 31, 2009 at 3:15 pm(28) Ranjeesh says:
Thanks buddy…..u made a through investigation thru the site…which made me believe against the easy way of making money…Thanks again – Ranjeesh
- August 1, 2009 at 8:42 am(29) homebusiness says:
You're welcome! All of the comments are making me want to expose these types of scams even more. It's a jungle out there – be careful!
- August 1, 2009 at 4:07 pm(30) Lynne says:
If you bought into this and need to cancle the contract, call your Credit / Debit card company and ask them if there is a phone # listed with the charge – call the number and ask them to cancle. I bought into a government grant scheme similar to this and had to go through the process, and if it has just been a month or you haven't used the product ask for a refund – you might get it. You don't have to go to the point of canceling the cards, I didn't have to. If they get real ugly or won't quit – report it to your CC company.
- August 2, 2009 at 10:37 am(31) homebusiness says:
Thanks Lynne. There's no better teacher than first-hand experience. From what I've heard, not all of these characters are quick to let you cancel though.
- August 2, 2009 at 4:18 am(32) kim says:
I did this so angy with this there was alink to xcl i did that but after reading some of the post's i am going to xcl my debit card asap…thanks everyone
- August 2, 2009 at 10:39 am(33) homebusiness says:
Might be better safe than sorry, Kim. You might also want to check with your bank first, though, to see if they can disallow the charges so you won't have to update everywhere you're using your debit card. Best of luck to you!
- August 2, 2009 at 2:59 pm(34) cynthia says:
- August 3, 2009 at 8:24 am(35) homebusiness says:
Thanks, Cynthia. I have yet to see an actual "work from home program" that does anything except take your money and make the people running the program all the richer. The whole key to me is to make things happen for yourself, depending on what you can do well. People often ask me what they should do, but that always depends on what they are skilled at doing and what they like to do and what experiences they have that can be converted into something that will provide them with a living.
- August 3, 2009 at 10:01 am(36) Deb says:
Thank you so much for this information. I almost fell for this but read the fine print…
- August 3, 2009 at 10:28 am(37) homebusiness says:
Congratulations, Deb. If more of us would take the time to read the fine print and not rely on taking everything at face value, fewer scammers would succeed in the first place.
- August 3, 2009 at 8:06 pm(38) Jenny says:
I can't even express how much I THANK YOU, for saving the little money I have left, I almost fell for this, I also didnt know how I got to the website but it suddenly appeared in my screen and I inputed some of my info…then I thought about it and opened a new tap to research and almost..almost skipped your blog…Now that I read it..I'm amazed at how there's people out there who are willing to take someone else money with no mercy.
I applaud you for helping us not to fall into this scam…in which I personally think google should stop and if they are not stopping this is because there's some kind of profit for them too.
- August 4, 2009 at 10:14 am(39) homebusiness says:
Glad you didn't get taken.
Yes, there is profit in it for Google every time someone clicks one of the ads. I now they are well aware of these schemes as I have been reporting them, and there are loads of posts on Google's own forum about these sites, but no one from Google has seen fit to respond to those posts (at least not as of 2 days ago). I'm sure Google has to deal with legal issues as well, which we may not fully understand.
Randy D.
- August 4, 2009 at 11:38 am(40) shelli says:
I actually fell for it! I was charged 49.95 once so far. I am going to my bank to see if they can help me by not allowing these charges. Now I am worried bacause I gave my social, my routing info and all of my other info. I admit to not reading the fine print thoroughly, and now I regret it. I haven't told my husband yet, because he won't believe that I could do something so stupid!
- August 4, 2009 at 2:15 pm(41) homebusiness says:
Don't beat yourself up. What's done is done. I'd encourage you to share this with your hubby sooner, rather than later.
Randy D.
- August 4, 2009 at 1:38 pm(42) momlogicwriter says:
Im so sorry to hear what happened to you.
Im a writer for a parenting website who wants to talk to people who fell victim to one of these fraudulent advertisements. Im working with Randy to help spread the word so others do not fall prey to the same tactics. We will protect your identity. We just want to talk with someone who can share their experience in an effort to warn other people.
If you, or anyone else reading this post who has had a similar experience wants to talk with me, please email me at firstname.lastname@example.com
Thank you!
- August 4, 2009 at 2:20 pm(43) homebusiness says:
To all:
I can confirm I have discussed this with momlogicwriter, who has agreed to be sensitive to your needs. Since I won't share your contact information with anyone, you would need to get in touch with her directly if you want to share your story with her in confidence. You will not have to share any information you don't wish to disclose. With your cooperation and the cooperation of other important online publishers, maybe we can get some more attention to this problem and shut some of these scammers down.
Randy D.
- August 4, 2009 at 5:54 pm(44) Jessy says:
Well sad to say I fell for it. My Aunt sent it to me, she's really smart, and she knows I could use a job. I'm greatful I noticed it through my online banking early on. I tried calling the company, all I get is a voicemail to call another number or the speal about the office being closed but that they are open 7 days a week from 5 AM to 9 PM pacific time. I called my bank and they informed me what was going on. I canceled my card. Thank goodness I didn't loose to much. not even $60. Man I stopped falling for these scams years ago. I've been dealing with a concussion so reading to much hurts my eyes. I didn't do it to get rich I just thought why not try it for 1.98. If it works it works if not oh well. So much for that! I hope these comments gets circulated a lot for others peoples sake.
- August 5, 2009 at 9:03 am(45) homebusiness says:
Sorry to hear they almost got you, and sorry to hear about your concussion, but glad you caught on in time.
Those of you who know how could get the story much greater exposure through posting it on social bookmarking sites like Digg, Delicious, StumpleUpon, Yahoo Buzz, etc. – I'll leave that up to you. I'll be writing more about social bookmarketing services soon, but from the sounds of things, the whole concept of making money with Google (legitimately and watching out for scams) will probably take some priority.
Meanwhile, if you want to follow the comments on this post as they develop or link in from your blog, the permanent link for this page is:
- August 7, 2009 at 9:43 am(46) Gifty says:
I have been searching for a work at home business. I saw the phony google ad and almost signed up, then I decided to go to search more on that. Thank goodness for your article. Keep up the good work!
- August 7, 2009 at 11:39 am(47) homebusiness says:
Glad to hear I prevented another mistake. Thanks for your kind words.
- August 7, 2009 at 2:38 pm(48) homebusiness says:
Great news for those of you who have been following the comments on this post. The FTC is suing these creeps! I wrote a more detailed post on this today, which you can see at http://homebusiness.about.com/b/2009/08/07/ftc-cracking-d k-at-home-scam.htm. You can also read the entire 17 page complaint (PDF) here:
http://homebusiness.about.com/library/GoogleScamFTCComplaint.pdf. Enjoy!
Randy D.
- August 7, 2009 at 8:10 pm(49) Mark says:
I also thank you for your watchdog efforts to warn people. As to where I received the prospective link, it was on my MSN.com homepage! Not far under the AARP ad, of which I'm a member and advocate! MSN must have dropped the ball on this one.
- August 8, 2009 at 9:21 am(50) homebusiness says:
The response from my readers has been heartwarming and I intend to continue, if not intensify, my whistle-blowing efforts.
Go AARP! Also a very satisfied member. I don't really feel MSN dropped the ball. It's pretty tough to always be on guard for rogue pay-per-click ads because the ads essentially rotate each time the page is refreshed. If it was a permanent ad that needed MSN's pre-approval, that's another story!
Randy D.
- August 9, 2009 at 11:44 am(51) homebusiness says:
Yes, my recommendation is stay away from "work at home companies". You either work for a legitimate employer in a job that allows you to work from home, freelance from home, or start your own home business. Paying someone money for the privilege of working from home – for their "system", for access to their "website", etc. is NOT the way to go.
Randy D.
- August 8, 2009 at 2:08 pm(52) Andy says:
Thanks Randy, I was looking into doing work from home, and I am glad I found your blog. Do you any recommendations for "work from home" companies?
- August 8, 2009 at 2:57 pm(53) Joe M says:
Ok Now Im a little concerned here.I did not submit any debit/credit info..Thank Goodness.But what I did submit was the initial name and zip and e mail info……….should I be concerned if that s all I have done thus far? And I have seen one of these offers at the 2.95 rate and one at the 1.97 rate.Are these both the same ad?
I AMMMM thankful for looking round about to try and search further into this matter and grateful I came across this site with all of these posts.Any input or replies/remarks in regard to my "concern" will be apreciated.
- August 9, 2009 at 11:42 am(54) homebusiness says:
If they don't have your valid credit card number, they can't charge it. All they can do at this point (if they wanted to) would be to sell your information to spammers.
I too got to this point in the process – on purpose – because I wanted to see what happened next, but I entered bogus information in the form.
Randy D.
- August 9, 2009 at 12:05 pm(55) Randy Duermyer says:
Joe M:
I didn't answer your other question. No matter what the charge, they're all variations of the same scam.
Randy D.
- August 9, 2009 at 12:51 pm(56) Mea says:
I had typed in my name and began typing in my address when that "little inside voice" told me to stop and research scams. I can't believe I almost fell for this. I so could use a small monthly income, so I guess the temptation/desperation ALMOST got me. Thanks for all the great info., and for saving me a very expensive hassle!
- August 10, 2009 at 8:53 am(57) homebusiness says:
Mea – you're welcome. And congratulations on not getting scammed! Keep up the good work.
Randy D.
- August 9, 2009 at 1:45 pm(58) Rufina says:
Mea, I did the same right in the middle of my entering my CC #.
Randy, thank you for being a consumer advocate and posting this info. I guess the following link is a fraud as well?https://secure0.profitcenterlearning.com/gofcr/?offer=go_qg_bk&bk=2263&id1=1254310616&id2=&session-id=0767ddc5b79152225676868ba541ef5a
- August 10, 2009 at 8:52 am(59) homebusiness says:
You're welcome. Glad to hear you didn't get snagged. Yes, the site you mention certainly appears to have the same issues as the Google scams. If you click on the Terms and Conditions link you'll find the following information:
"By submitting this form I authorize to immediately charge my credit card $2.95 for access to the eAuction Toolkit. I hereby request that activate my account and authorize them to advance funds as indicated. Monthly Service fees will commence 14 days from the date of this purchase, and will be billed monthly thereafter. After the 14 day trial you will be billed $59.90 monthly for the continued service of the website, No refunds will be given for failure to use the requested and provided services. We reserve the right to transfer your billing to a third party Merchant of Record. This authority will remain in effect until revoked by me. "
This follows, almost to the letter, the same modus operandi as the Google scammers. Another big tipoff is you can't access any information until you sign up. It's not to say this site might not provide some information that could be helpful – but why would you want to pay these people $59.90 per month when there are plenty of free and well-respected sources and books on the subject, including our own ebay.about.com site, which doesn't charge you anything.
Randy D.
- August 10, 2009 at 12:45 pm(60) people says:
so what is up with this tampon- {Edited by moderator to break link} {http://} {dubdubdub dot}avoid-work-at-home-scams{dot com} {End edit by moderator} surely he doesn't exist, but i think people should look out for fake blogs etc when researching the legitimacy of work at home jobs… bottom line- work isn't easy, and your only overpaid if you know your employer– such as parent, in-law, or childhood friends.
- August 10, 2009 at 4:06 pm(61) homebusiness says:
He is engaging in affiliate marketing, which I could tell by hovering over the links on the page — except the Google Profits System, which was probably specially developed just for him.
This is how you do NOT want to engage in affiliate marketing – by sending your visitors to crap opportunities – they won't come back, they won't spread the word, nothing. It's pure "rookie".
The worst part is even this person, who is supposedly trying to help you avoid work at home scams, is sending you right to them!
Randy D.
- August 11, 2009 at 8:04 am(62) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comment. The response has been so overwhelming I hope to be able to create more content in this area on an ongoing basis.
Randy D.
- August 11, 2009 at 12:49 pm(63) Ibrah says:
I too happened to be scammed one time by these so called affiliate sites. This on was called gofreelance. Its web is http://www.gofreelance.com, go check out its phishy site.
- August 11, 2009 at 2:29 pm(64) homebusiness says:
When I went to the site, it looked innocent enough. But then I did a lookup on the Better Business Bureau and found the following comments at:
Which said:
Consumers report to the Bureau that after signing up for a 7 day trial period with Freelance Work Exchange, they were unable to cancel their subscription and were billed for the subscription. Attempts by consumers to contact the company regarding a refund were unsuccessful.
I also saw this article on Why You Should Avoid GoFreelance:
Thanks for the heads up. If anyone is using them as part of an affiliate program, I'd drop them ASAP. If you are going to be linking to affiliates you need to make sure they are legit – otherwise your own reputation (and eventually your earnings) goes to hell in a handbasket. Who needs that headache?
Randy D.
- August 12, 2009 at 2:24 pm(65) jennifer says:
Thank you i was considering trying this until i read your letter and went back and revieved the small print.
- August 13, 2009 at 8:31 am(66) homebusiness says:
Jennifer -
You're welcome. The more people who learn to look for and read the fine print like you did, the fewer who will become scam and identity theft victims – and that's a win for all of us.
Randy D.
- August 12, 2009 at 9:00 pm(67) jettie says:
Hi Randy,
Just an update. When I stupidly (pardon the pun/borrowed from dear Pres. Obama) paid the $1.97 charge on debit card and too late to realize something was wrong and after getting to your site, I was ready for the nightmare. Here's what happened next, no charge was made on the card BUT bank called to alert of use of account at numerous gas stations. Exactly a week or less after I signed in (around July 31st).
Thank God for the alert system the bank had offered when I opened bank account (I used debit card). They automatically cancelled the card and will send me new one. The bank will also refund the money. These evil, callous robbers are total losers and jerks. Their days are numbered and count on me to make sure no more innocent and gullible souls will get sucked in.
My best to you and God Bless you!!
- August 13, 2009 at 8:32 am(68) homebusiness says:
Thanks for the update. How can you be sure the very same people are the ones who used the card?
Randy D.
- August 12, 2009 at 9:12 pm(69) jettie says:
I forgot to mention that the card number I provided those thieves were not used to pay the $1.95 fee neither will I expect some $49.95 or higher amount to be charged monthly which will be a pain to process the cancellation. If for any reason, my account was used for those unauthorized gas purchases from different stations and different cities totalling almost $500.00 (by the way bank called today there was another $100.00 charge)because I provided the account no., by mere coincidence this was an identity theft issue, I still lucked out because the bank caught it and offered to cancel the account and send new card.
To the thieves: start getting real jobs and find dignity in whatever you need to do to feed yourself or your family.
I hope that no one will be too fast to type in their info (just like I did) and realize the stupidity of their ads. Sorry, can't still get over the fact that I was duped. I should have known better that even $1.97 is too cheap for shipping and handling. Too good to be true.
All my best to you Randy!
- August 13, 2009 at 8:33 am(70) homebusiness says:
Thanks for the clarification. ID theft seems to be everywhere these days.
Randy D.
- August 13, 2009 at 10:54 am(71) brett says:
Ok, I understand your point.. don't get scammed read fine print blah blah blah, Google is not to blame. Google works is a great way to earn ezxtra income im doing it myself. What you need to be aware of is ads that appear to be google's don't go into anything blind. I'm suprised google hasn't tried retaliating agains this. well… not yet
- August 13, 2009 at 11:46 am(72) homebusiness says:
You're right, as I have said many times, this has nothing to do with Google itself, other than its popularity making it a natural scammer's target. Yes, Google actually does hire people to work from home, but you need to go to Google's site to get it. And, AdSense can be a profitable home business, you just don't need to pay these creeps for that information.
Randy D.
- August 13, 2009 at 11:26 pm(73) Christa says:
There has to be some serious penalties placed against people who do such horrid things to desperate people. I know its not fun to have the government in our lives but in such cases the government is supposed to protect us. I hope something gives on this. You don't know how many scams the average person is wheeled into!
Thanks for the information. You are doing a job that allows you to sleep soundly at night and I thank you for all you are!
- August 14, 2009 at 8:30 am(74) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your kind comments, Christa. I agree, the penalties need to be harsh. However, it seems like these operators are getting more and more attention from the FTC, and some will be paying what I hope are stiff penalties for conning people. If you haven't seen it yet, check out:
It's important that people who are victims speak up and not just put up with this as "another annoyance". It's also important to pass the word that complaining can help.
Randy D.
- August 14, 2009 at 9:51 am(75) John says:
This sounds like the perfect way to get rich. All I need to do is set up my own website that is better than theirs. Thanks for pointing out all the flaws. I will have to do better in hiding the disclaimers.
Just kidding, thanks for saving my bacon.
- August 15, 2009 at 7:55 am(76) homebusiness says:
Thanks for the smile today, John. You'd better also make sure you comply with the FTC rules too!
Randy D.
- August 14, 2009 at 5:27 pm(77) Peter, Glasgow, Scotland says:
Hi there.
I fell for one of these scams a few months ago.
Luckily, my bank called me as they weren't used to me paying in dollars to a company in the USA.
So I cancelled my credit card and that was the end of it. Wish I'd read your column first.
Why do Google allow these ads?
Keep up the good work.
- August 15, 2009 at 7:56 am(78) homebusiness says:
Hi Peter:
Thanks for stopping by, all the way from Glasgow. Sorry to hear you took the bait. I've actually been on touch with the folks at Google, but haven't heard anything from them yet.
Randy D.
- August 15, 2009 at 2:25 am(79) Jeff says:
I am so dumb i fell for the google works scam and gave my cc number. I figured it only $1.97 I'll c what happens. Thank god i found this site a few min later and called and canceled my card they got the $1.97 from me but that all there gettin! Wish Id seen this column before i gave my card number.
- August 15, 2009 at 7:58 am(80) homebusiness says:
Yep, you need to be careful out there. The common thread with these scammers is they won't tell you anything until you fork over your credit card. Always look for the terms and disclaimer links first – it's about the only information you can access anyway. Surf safe!
Randy D.
- August 15, 2009 at 11:33 am(81) Rob says:
Almost got suckered in this morning. I was filling out the details when I stopped and did a search on Google – 'Working from home for Google is it worth it?' – and got Randy's post. As I read through I went back to the details page and did not submit. Good for you, man. And that's the moral – if something sounds to good to be true always always check it out because invariably it is a scam. Thanks again, mate. Rob.
- August 16, 2009 at 11:15 am(82) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping by and letting me know. Glad to hear you stopped before you fell off the cliff! You're absolutely – if it sounds too good to be true….
Randy D.
- August 17, 2009 at 5:07 am(83) Rob says:
Just in addition. The trickiest part about this one is the clear and blatent (though erroneous) link with Google. That's what has to be addressed.
- August 17, 2009 at 8:19 am(84) homebusiness says:
Couldn't agree more.
- August 18, 2009 at 3:21 pm(85) Mary says:
I saw this ad pop up on my screen, and after about 10 seconds I realized something was off. When ppl are claiming to be raking in thousands a week, you have to wonder!
Not to be mean, but I am always shocked to learn how many people fall for stuff like this. I think as a society, we have such a hard time realizing that there is no such thing as the get rick quick schemes. There is a reason why the saying, "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is" is still around after all these years….
- August 19, 2009 at 7:20 am(86) homebusiness says:
You're absolutely right. I think there are a variety of reasons people fall for it, and obviously if they never did, there would be no Internet scams because there wouldn't be any money in it. I think for the most part, people believe what they read and take things at face value, call it being too trusting? Definitely. I think another reason is that so many people want to work from home or are struggling to make ends meet, they'll try almost anything, especially since it only costs a few bucks (until they reel you in). For this particular scam, the Google name is being used, and some assume that makes it legitimate. We are probably a too gullible, trusting society. Usually it takes getting burned once or twice to wise up.
Randy D.
- August 18, 2009 at 6:30 pm(87) Joi says:
I almost got scammed with this ad. It actually popped up while I was looking at another site. I gave them my name, address and phone number then when it went to the pay with credit card page and I said he ahem if its free then it should be free without any money. That's when I closed it. We have to stay aware of all types of scams during these economical challenges.
- August 19, 2009 at 7:21 am(88) homebusiness says:
Very true, Joi.
Randy D.
- August 18, 2009 at 9:59 pm(89) Benhuon says:
Google home business sux,and the real google too for allowing this to happen.The real google is making money out of this too ya know.why havnt they made any formal apology yet.I will not be using google search engine anymore,all yahoo from now on.
- August 19, 2009 at 7:29 am(90) homebusiness says:
Google's "official response", according to Gina Kaysen Fernandes over at MomLogic who wrote a follow-up story on this blog thread was:
"As Google is not affiliated with these sites, we can't comment on individual claims. However, we recommend that users exercise the same amount of caution they would when evaluating other types of get rich quick claims. If there are trademark concerns regarding sites that misuse Google Trademarks, our Legal team reviews them and takes appropriate action if necessary."
This makes absolutely no sense to me at all, since Google has to approve these ads in the first place. They have banned ads for far less serious "violations", that's for sure. Maybe they need to re-word their Terms of Service – then they could kick them out of AdSense once and for all.
I don't think using Yahoo instead of Google is the answer either. It's just like computer viruses – today there are many, many more targeting PC systems. However, as Apple's popularity grows, there will be additional viruses written that target Macs too.
Randy D.
- August 19, 2009 at 12:04 am(91) someone says:
THANK i was about to sign up for one the google ad but than i got to thinking something not right and found this useful information thank for post keep and keep on posting for people like us cause we can use the info.
- August 19, 2009 at 7:30 am(92) homebusiness says:
Glad to hear you didn't get caught in their trap. Thanks for your comment.
Randy D.
- August 19, 2009 at 4:14 pm(93) Sandy M says:
As an internet marketer myself, my husband asked me "whats this about google jobs and making money with google?" I pointed him towards your article which I think hits the nail on the head. A classic piece which gets the message accross just nicely. Just wanted to say thanks for the good read and the giggle.
- August 19, 2009 at 4:16 pm(94) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping by and for your comment!
Randy D.
- August 20, 2009 at 6:53 am(95) Emily says:
I was surfing the internet and a pop up interrupted me and GUESS what it was! I researched it, found your article and read a lot of the comments. Since you said google had banned one group, I figured I would post the link and see if anything could be done about this one!
{Link edited by moderator to intentionally break it – I don't want to link to this site}
http://{dubdubdub dot}news3show{dot com}{slash}finance{slash}google-now-hiring-you{dot html}
{end moderator link edit}
- August 20, 2009 at 9:35 am(96) homebusiness says:
I've seen it. See Mary's comment a bit earlier. Unfortunately, people think these stupid scam ads are really news sites. It looks to me like this is spreading by way of affiliate marketing, which is kind of scary. Because the landing pages are so much alike, and all of the phony comments are duplicates of others on many of the other pages, it makes me wonder if the scammers haven't started signing up affiliates to post these ads and pop-ups for them.
You're likely to see the same garbage on ads that are being displayed on sites through Google AdSense, in spam email messages, and now pop-ups. It's like a cancer that just won't go away. It's this kind of stuff that ruins the Internet and email for everyone else.
Randy D.
- August 20, 2009 at 5:35 pm(97) Cindy says:
so my husband signed me up for this, about 2 months ago. im not sure who was charging us the money bc he also signed me up for something called twitter profit house….
in the long run, we have been charged 2-3 hundred dollars from who knows who!
we cancelled our account with this twiter BS, but how do i cancel with google!?
i am totally and completely sick and tired of all the calls from them at 6am – around 5pm! i never pick up and then i call back to "press 1 to be taken off the call list" but dont know what else to do for them to leave me alone. UGH, why oh why didnt my husband READ the FINE PRINT!!!? so now i am suffering for what info he gave them about me =[ (for 2months now!)
please if you know what i can do to get them off of my a$$, PLEASE let me know.
thank you
- August 21, 2009 at 8:14 am(98) homebusiness says:
The Twitter scam is basically the same thing.
You could report them to the BBB, the Internet Crimes Commission and the FTC. At the very least, they're guilty of deceptive advertising. The more people that report, the more likely someone will take action against them. Plus you have the satisfaction of knowing you didn't let them get away with it. Since all of the scams say you can cancel at any time, if they continue harassing you after you've cancelled, you might also contact your state's attorney general's office for guidance.
- August 20, 2009 at 5:54 pm(99) Cindy says:
oh yea, he did cancel his credit card and get a new one…. that means they cannot charge us anymore right?
- August 21, 2009 at 8:14 am(100) homebusiness says:
Once the card is canceled, no one can make charges to it.
Randy D.
- August 21, 2009 at 1:48 am(101) Steph says:
Hi Randy, I realy like the article very helpful, I don't speak or understand a lot of English but this article was very clear I even understood the funny part of it. Also this scam is being posted in Spanish, and a lot of people that are desperate to get a job are getting into it.
- August 21, 2009 at 8:21 am(102) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comments. I wasn't aware this was spreading through the Spanish-speaking community as well.
Randy D.
P.S. A Spanish version of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection website, with tips and a place to file complaints is available online at:
- August 21, 2009 at 6:47 pm(103) Shaking my head says:
It never ceases to amaze me at how gullible people are. The old saying…….if it sounds too good to be true…I'm sorry but no job is going to be dropped in your lap, money will not appear from nowhere, you can't make money doing nothing especially when you have no formal education in a field that allows you do perform work at home. By the way I have some land for sale….hahahahahah
- August 22, 2009 at 8:44 am(104) homebusiness says:
I've been saying that for a long time now. However, I don't think that people getting raked into these schemes is at all funny, after reading the stories of what has happened to some of them.
I think the problem is that most of us have been raised with a certain level of trust, especially when things appear in the newspaper, TV, etc. and it has tainted some of our ability to differentiate fact from fiction. Scammers take advantage of that by making their pages look like actual news stories (of course, you can't believe all of those either). When it comes to email and web offers though, especially for working at home or starting a business, we need to be every bit as vigilant as we would tell our young children to be when confronted by strangers.
Randy D.
- August 22, 2009 at 9:49 am(105) Stephanie says:
I looked at all that yesterday and I made sure to read the fine print. I have always been told that it a company asks you to pay for anything for a job then its not a legit job. Im so glad I was taught to read the fine print. If it sounds too good to be true then it probably is.
- August 23, 2009 at 9:39 am(106) homebusiness says:
Sounds like you've got the idea – way to go!
Randy D.
- August 22, 2009 at 11:42 pm(107) Joey Bruington says:
I find it sad that so many people are having to look for a job!!!! These are hard times. Luckily I read the fine print as well. May GOD bless all of you looking for work with something legit……
- August 23, 2009 at 9:40 am(108) homebusiness says:
I echo your sentiments!
Randy D.
- August 23, 2009 at 11:56 am(109) MARVIN DAVIS says:
- August 23, 2009 at 12:34 pm(110) homebusiness says:
Google has a lot of good things to offer, but yes, they are making some money from these ads. If they were all banned, the scammers would likely find another way to get in your face anyway – like pop-ups and email spam, which they're already doing. What I'd really like to see? If Google's problem is it doesn't have enough humans to review ads – then hire some more folks who can work at home reviewing and weeding out the scams for them. There are plenty of people who stop by here who would love to have an actual legitimate job working for Google, and who would also love to get the scammers off the ad network. That would be cool, and it would bring tons of credibility to the AdWords program!
Randy D.
- August 24, 2009 at 11:15 am(111) pete says:
that was a close shave… from the moment i told her about it my mother thought it sounded very fishy. thank goodness for female intuition!
- August 24, 2009 at 4:37 pm(112) homebusiness says:
Yeah, sometimes moms just seem to know everything!
Randy D.
- August 24, 2009 at 12:33 pm(113) laura says:
thanks for this, my family has been in financial turmoil this year, i even lost temporary custody of my son because we weren't financially stable and i couldn't work due to an injury that left me disabled and my husband getting layed off, i got sucked into something like this and am still trying to recover
- August 24, 2009 at 4:38 pm(114) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comment. You've been through a lot, but keep the faith. Sometimes these trials seem to go in cycles. Maybe your luck is about to change for the better.
Randy D.
- August 25, 2009 at 6:03 am(115) mjhixson says:
i am so glad that you were decent enough to post this information. i started to do a little digging of my own and noticed something else. if you look at the picture of the so called check they recived on several different sites from several different people claiming they have succeeded, you will notice its the same pic. the fingers holding the check are of the same person and the positioning are the same. the check number is even the same. the thing they were smart enough (not by much) to change was the amount on the check. check out these two sites for an example.
{Note from moderator: I have removed these URLs. You're exactly right, it's the same picture, the same testimonials, etc. That was the point made in the story. No point in giving them more traffic and possibly sucking someone else into their trap. The other idiotic part of this story is that the testimonials tell you they get checks from Google every week. NOT. Google AdSense pays out once per month at most, and then only if you've reached $100 in earnings to that point. You're also right – the more you dig into these sites, the more you can see right through the phoniness. Thanks for your comment! Randy D.}
- August 25, 2009 at 10:43 am(116) betty says:
thank you! I too, as many of these readers am looking for extra income. I saw the fine print for these ads and had a problem with them. I emailed the lady profiled in the article by American Jobs Weekly, to find out if she was still paying all the fees, still haven't heard from her. I'm glad I did my own "Google" search and found your article.
- August 25, 2009 at 2:42 pm(117) homebusiness says:
Way to go – and thanks for your comment!
Randy D.
- August 25, 2009 at 4:41 pm(118) thehow says:
I went right from the Google works site to Google, and it led me to you and comfirmed my suspicions. Stay safe cyber folks, and piece.(haha)
- August 26, 2009 at 8:49 am(119) homebusiness says:
Smart thinking. It's easy to fall for a work at home scam if you don't check things out. In short, look before you leap!
Randy D.
- August 25, 2009 at 5:25 pm(120) julie says:
Hi filled out info even cc# turns out my prepaid card was out of funds. I was thinking of adding money to it for this job then decide to research it. Wow am i happy i did. Thanks
- August 26, 2009 at 8:47 am(121) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comment. I hadn't thought about it, but (Duh), a pre-paid card that needs to be recharged seems like a really good way to limit your losses if you get sucked into a scam. Maybe one to use just for this type of thing where you're not really sure, with minimal recharges when necessary. Can't get blood out of a stone!
Randy D.
- August 26, 2009 at 1:23 pm(122) Robert says:
Here's the scary part…
After 27 years with "Company A" I was laid off over 18 months ago. Since then I've been laid of from two other jobs as well, the most recent was last week.
My sister who is a career/job placement counseler as a local university sent me a link to this garbage.
I had already seen this scam as well as others like it, so obviously I didn't pay them to extort money from me.
My sister claims she has given this information out to "quite a few people" – I've of course enlightned her using this website as my back up!
And here I thought I was her favorite brother!
- August 26, 2009 at 2:08 pm(123) homebusiness says:
Hey Robert:
Wow, that is scary! Our own family sending us to work at home scammers { shudder, shudder}. I suppose she meant well.
Randy D.
- August 26, 2009 at 1:23 pm(124) kennzy says:
I just went to one of those sites by mistake prolly 10 minutes ago and put my inforamtion in what should I do?
- August 26, 2009 at 2:13 pm(125) homebusiness says:
If you gave them credit card information, contact them and tell them you changed your mind and that you want to cancel. Keep a record of who you spoke to, when you called and what they said. Call the bank holding the credit card and see if they will block future charges from these people should they show up (the initial charge probably already appears). Ask the bank if they recommend you cancel your card if they cannot block new charges from them. If they continue to charge you, report them to all of the sources in this week's spotlight – Reporting Work at Home Scams – Get Even.
Keep records, save receipts, bank statements etc.
Best wishes – let me know how you make out.
Randy D.
- August 26, 2009 at 6:31 pm(126) Melissa says:
Here is the info people need to stop this maddness!
This is an *automated* message to confirm your cancellation for WebMoneyTraining.com.
Customer Service: 800-416-1339
For additional support, please visit http://www.CSRegister.com or call toll-free 1-800-490-4417
Copyright (C) 2008 http://www.WebMoneyTraining.com All rights reserved.
Make sure you tell them right away and get a confirmation number and follow up email. Smart people get suckered everyday!
- August 27, 2009 at 8:43 am(127) homebusiness says:
This is just one of hundreds of outfits that are doing this. The information you provided is only useful for those caught on this particular site and it does not apply to everyone.
To others I'd suggest clicking the Terms and Conditions link at the bottom of the signup page from whatever site scammed you. You should find contact information there about cancellation. Additionally, part of the problem is that people did follow the cancellation instructions and continued to get charged anyway.
Randy D.
- August 26, 2009 at 11:39 pm(128) Yvonne says:
Thanks for the info on this scam, i ak=lmost filled it out myself but thought it may be a scam and didnt. does ANYONE know of any stay at home jobs tht are NOT a rip off? can be over the computer or just done from home…thanks everyone.
- August 27, 2009 at 9:00 am(129) homebusiness says:
Thanks for the comment. If you approach a work at home job as you would an in-office job, you won't have problems. In-office employers don't charge you to come work for them and they don't want your credit card number. The legitimate work at home job is nothing more than an in-office job in which the employer allows people to telecommute (work from home). Approach your work at home job search just as you would approach a traditional job search: Polish up your resume, review and know what you're really good at and why you'd be a good selection for the employer, submit applications and network with others who may be able to help you get a foot in the door. By working at home you actually have an advantage – while the number of work at home employers may be fewer than traditional in-office employers, unless the employer insists you be close enough to come into the office when needed, you're not restricted by the geographic boundaries that would limit your search for a traditional job, which would need to be within commuting distance or you'd have to move.
There's lots of information for you on this site, including my hand-picked work at home job postings that are updated every week. I will now await the flood of spam responses I'm bound to get from your question – "does ANYONE know of any stay at home jobs that are NOT a rip off?" because that questions just draws scams out of the woodwork.
Good luck in your work at home job search. Keep a positive attitude and stick to the basics of any job search.
Randy D.
- August 28, 2009 at 2:07 pm(130) Craig says:
sure sounded to good to be true lol
thanks randy
at least some out there cares
- August 29, 2009 at 9:19 am(131) homebusiness says:
You're welcome. I plan to continue doing my part.
Randy D.
- August 29, 2009 at 1:45 pm(132) diamondsu says:
I found the link for this on Facebook, beware. Must admit like everyone else that I am desperate to work, from home, at an office anywhere, but jobs are few and far between and many are in line before me. I'm computer literate and can find myself around the internet very well. I admit to having started filling in the form for the kit, but decided there was something wrong when the county list for the UK showed towns instead of counties. I live in Essex, not listed. Google should be shot for not taking action against these scammers – anyone using your name to commit fraud would usually take action. I know I would! Thanks to my intuition and this blog I have been saved in more ways that one. Thanks so much.
- August 30, 2009 at 10:07 am(133) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comment. Glad to hear you didn't get caught in the trap.
Randy D.
- August 29, 2009 at 4:04 pm(134) john says:
I was seconds away from buying into it when something told me to "google" google works and then I found your report here. Thanks a bunch. As a single dad of 3 boys I have no money to lose in a scheme. Thanks again! Thank GOD for Google and all it's free info.
- August 30, 2009 at 10:09 am(135) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comment. Isn't it ironic that Google makes it possible to find out these are scams, when the very target of the scam is Google's name to begin with?
Randy D.
- August 29, 2009 at 11:09 pm(136) Angel says:
Thanks so much for your time in writing that article….it was vivd and clear. You just never knew how many people you have saved in getting into this kind of scam…and I am one of them (haha). I was just trying my way to sign up for this when I remembered to google search for any article re: this and thank God I found this site. Im a foreign medical graduate about to take the state medical board this October, 2009. BIG THANKS again!!!God bless!!!!
- August 30, 2009 at 10:27 am(137) homebusiness says:
You're welcome and thank you for your kind words. Glad you didn't fall for it. Good luck with your medical boards!
Randy D.
- August 31, 2009 at 10:34 pm(138) Eve says:
I got ripped off by this scammers just recently. It said on there that is free for 14 days and they charged my bank account for 70 dollars after 7 days. I cancelled my card and now im waiting for the charge to pull of my account and then try to file a dispute. Thats what my bank suggested me to do. If I found your blog before i signed up for I would of save 70 dollars.
- September 1, 2009 at 1:23 pm(139) homebusiness says:
What a bummer! At least you caught it quickly. Good luck in getting all of this resolved. Let us know how it all works out in the end.
Randy D.
- August 31, 2009 at 10:47 pm(140) eve says:
Thank you for posting this blog. I learn my lesson and I will never ever fall for this scams again. I am just desperate to find a job because of my husband is getting out of the military and I need a job. Right now I am just waiting for my State Pharmacy Tech License to get here. Once again thank you Randy for this blog it help me and a lot of people too.
- September 1, 2009 at 1:24 pm(141) homebusiness says:
Good luck with your pharmacy tech – that would have a great future. Thanks for your comments!
Randy D.
- September 1, 2009 at 3:54 pm(142) Liz True says:
I just fell for this scam, its been one week since I paid the 1.97 for a google kit and I was charged 70 dollars today. I have called them like 20 times and although they have canceled my account they said i have to file a claim for a refund, the problem is that every time i call their lines are terrible and they cut out every 2 minutes and I cant speak to anyone! I am so upset for falling into this, and plan to file a dispute with my bank as soon as it posts to my account!
I wish i would have found this before I fell for this scam. Its still good to know that I found this now!
Thanks a lot!
- September 4, 2009 at 8:36 am(143) homebusiness says:
You're welcome, and thanks for sharing your story. Also see Eve's comment to you. Let us know how things work out for you.
Randy D.
- September 1, 2009 at 4:04 pm(144) Iraj says:
Hello Randy,
Thanks for the heads up. You are a good man. I was this close to signing up. Out of curiosity, do you know any legitimate 'work from home' companies? I am trying to find one, but am fairly new and am very nervous of who or what I sign up with, being that they all seem fraud. Any help would greatly be appreciated.
- September 4, 2009 at 8:41 am(145) homebusiness says:
It's like I tell everyone – you can work at home by working for a legitimate employer who lets you telecommute or you can start your own business from your home. I can't really say there are any "legitimate work at home companies" in the sense that they make you pay a fee or buy into something in order to work from home. All you are doing is making someone else rich. Finding a work at home job is just like finding any other job, except that the employer allows you to telecommute. Finding a home business opportunity is just like finding any other business opportunity – you either pay for someone else's system (such as a franchise opportunity) or you create your own opportunity by finding a need and filling it. In either case it takes planning and research to find the best opportunity that works for you.
Randy D.
- September 1, 2009 at 5:53 pm(146) Eve says:
Liz, call your bank and tell them the situation and try cancelling the card that you use before the money posted on your account. Mine was pending and I called my bank saturday and told them that i fall for this scam and they tried to help me to get my money back. I was suppose to call my bank back today for dispute but my money is still in my account and nomore pending for 70 dollars, so it means those scammers didnt get my money.
Thank you, Randy. I am so glad that I research more about that google kit and I found your blog.
- September 4, 2009 at 8:42 am(147) homebusiness says:
You did the right thing – you took matters into your own hands and took fast action. Thanks for your comment.
Randy D.
- September 3, 2009 at 4:42 pm(148) rollingb says:
I am always amazed how people fall for this stuff as if it was that easy to make money.
- September 3, 2009 at 6:16 pm(149) ian says:
I saw the googlework ad also and the dummy link was called amercianjobsweekly.com with a bogus news article about people making easy money in less than a month. Then a link was attached to the article asking for $1.97 for starter kit with free shipping & handling. It sounded too good to be true, so I ignored it.
- September 4, 2009 at 8:49 am(150) homebusiness says:
Way to go, Ian! Yep, this is the same old scam dressed up as a "news" article, but still the same old crock.
Randy D.
- September 4, 2009 at 10:41 am(151) desiree wright says:
Your sponsored links ar "make money from home" and Make money from work and home" are these companys ok?
- September 5, 2009 at 12:29 pm(152) homebusiness says:
You should treat all ads the same – with caution. While I report scams when I find them advertising here, every time the page refreshes new ads display and I can't police them 24/7. If you click through an ad you find to be a scam, you should let me know. In order to get the ad removed I have to create a screenshot of the ad that displayed and would need the URL of the page the ad was pointing to.
Again – ads (Sponsored Links, etc.) are just that – ads, like you might encounter anywhere else on the web, TV, etc.
Randy D.
- September 4, 2009 at 2:59 pm(153) Emily says:
So are there any work from home opportunities that you would suggest that are not scams? I am normally a teacher, but we recently had to move because of my husbands job & we have a baby so I am staying home with her since we do not know there area & I cant just leave her anywhere. We still havent sold our other house so things are getting tight. Just a little extra money would really help out. Very glad I read this though bc I was thinking about it but I had also read the fine print & thought it sounded fishy..had a bad feeling about it & this just confirms it….would appreciate any help though! Thanks!
- September 5, 2009 at 12:36 pm(154) homebusiness says:
I think what gets most people trapped is the word "opportunities". Work at home "opportunities" are just that – an opportunity to buy into a business or network, so nearly all of the "work at home opportunities" you see advertised are going to want money. The vast majority of those aren't worth a lick – I haven't really seen any.
On the other hand, "work at home jobs" are jobs. You shouldn't have to pay to get a job (except maybe a placement agency) and you wouldn't be expected to run the company. It's a job, just like any other job, except you're allowed to do it from home. Real jobs are offered by real employers – not scam artists.
My advice has always been – if you want a "work at home opportunity" (meaning self employment) create your own – you don't need to buy into anyone else's system – you just make them rich and yourself poor. There are lots of ideas around this site and around the About network to create your own "opportunity" without falling victim to scam artists. If you want a "job", search like you would for any other job except restrict your search to those companies that will allow you to telecommute.
Both require work and commitment on your part to succeed.
Randy D.
- September 6, 2009 at 9:17 pm(155) grateful girl says:
hi there randy, i really appreciate your ad on here. i was very close to falling today for the 1.97 shipping and handling google biz kit today. i saw it on msn. com and thought wow this could be something i do while i'm at home. i also thought since this is with google.com, a highly credible company, it will not be a scam. i already got scammed on craigslist this year and shipped a ten thousand dollar diamond tennis bracelet to a scammer. everyone should learn about the fake paypal scammers as well. thank you for this page you created. i hope many other people read this.
- September 7, 2009 at 10:10 am(156) homebusiness says:
Grateful Girl:
Thanks for your comments, I'm glad it helped. Yes, I'll probably be posting something about PayPal soon as I've been thinking about doing so – in the meantime, don't trust any email messages that are supposedly from PayPal that want you to log in or provide a password – per PayPal's instructions, I also forward those messages to firstname.lastname@example.com and they generally respond to every message I forward them, sometimes within hours, sometimes within a day or two.
That's awful about the CraigsList swindle…couldn't you do anything and did you notify CraigsList?
Thanks for dropping in – spread the word!
Randy D.
- September 10, 2009 at 4:21 pm(157) ChArLeY says:
Thanks your a life saver, sucks though the job is not real would have been great. lol o well thanks for saving my money any ways
- September 11, 2009 at 8:15 am(158) homebusiness says:
You can check out REAL Google work at home job postings at: http://www.google.com/support/jobs/bin/static.py?page=loc.html&loc_id=1628&dep_id=1173&topic=1628. This link is for US jobs that include telecommuting. And you won't have to pay anything for the privilege!
Randy D.
- September 13, 2009 at 9:25 am(159) Amy says:
Thank you for the explanation. I was also trying to find something my husband could do until he returned to work after being injured in an accident. Good article Great explanation. I was kind of upset that the google link for a job that sounded like one I would qualify for would take me to that Google Works site…..
- September 14, 2009 at 8:45 am(160) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comment, Amy. That's the problem I have with this particular scam – these are not jobs at all and they are certainly not sanctioned by Google, yet the ads lead you to believe that's true in both cases. You can check out REAL Google work at home job postings at: http://www.google.com/support/jobs/. If you are in the U.S., click all "U.S. locations", and then "Multiple Locations…includes telecommuting". Don't be afraid of the "software engineering" jobs link – these Google jobs include work at home positions verifying search results and ads and really don't require much of a technical background other than being familiar with search.
Since Google doesn't accept applications from recruiting agencies, your best bet is to keep checking back for openings and then apply as soon as you see one, but ONLY doe this on Google's own site. The competition is bound to be tough.
Randy D.
- September 16, 2009 at 2:18 pm(161) wanda says:
Thank you i was fixing to fall into the trap!!!!!
- September 17, 2009 at 8:30 am(162) homebusiness says:
Glad to hear you didn't fall for this nonsense!
Randy D.
- September 24, 2009 at 8:07 pm(163) Johnathon says:
Is there anything out there that you know is legit? online business that is legit?
- September 25, 2009 at 8:37 am(164) homebusiness says:
See the FAQ, Legitimate Work at Home Business for the answer to your question.
Randy D.
- October 1, 2009 at 12:34 am(165) Kary says:
My sister sent me an email saying 'this is not a scam' and after two links i found your site. Wonderful information and great that you are doing this, it looks as though you've really helped a bunch of people here…. great job.
I did want to point out that at the bottom of this listing under 'sponsored links' there are many 'work from home scam free' links. I found that interesting since you've clearly said that you 'have yet to find one'.
It's been mentioned man times by you and other posters that Google could block these users, my question to you is… Can you control your own 'sponsored links' on your own blog site? If the answer is NO… then I'd like to point out how easy it is to get sucked into promoting something that you're against. If the answer is YES… then you are as misleading as the advertisers.
- October 1, 2009 at 8:33 am(166) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comments. I always advise readers to proceed with caution with "Sponsored Links" – as they are just that – ads.
With regard to do I control the ads on the site, in a word, "No". If this were my own site and the ads were being served up through Google AdSense, I could log into Google AdSense and specifically ban either entire domains or specific display or destination URLs using the Competitive Ad Filter. This doesn't ban the advertiser from using Google to display ads – it would only keep them off my site.
However, this is not my own site, it is part of the About.com network. When I see a fraudulent or misleading or offensive ad, I report it to the folks at About. They look into it and if they agree an ad is inappropriate, pass it on to Google. If Google agrees, the ad is banned, which can take several weeks or longer to go through all of the various channels. This process involves a lot more documentation than just recording the URL of the landing page (a screen shot of the offending ad, the page on which it displayed and an explanation of why the ad should be removed also have to be submitted each time). Now, add to that the problem that every time the page refreshes, a new set of ads displays. As you might guess, this becomes a very frustrating exercise in futility, making it very difficult to catch the offenders. This is why it is my contention that Google is in a much better position to do this since they have to approve all ads in the first place.
My best advice is stay tuned – I'll call out the fraudsters when I see them and let my readers know about them as I can – even if those ads are on this site. I'll also let you know if I see something I think you should be aware of. In the meantime, readers need to be skeptical of any ads they see – not only on this site, but on any site on the Internet, in the newspaper, ads and offers received in email, etc. Keep in mind – these are ads and they support the site so readers can have access to free information.
In short, readers need to do some due diligence on their own to see if they should trust the advertiser or not and make up their own minds if they want to do business with or make a purchase from any advertiser.
Randy D.
- October 2, 2009 at 4:44 am(167) Kary says:
Thank YOU very much for your response. I understand the process and is easy as it is to say 'have them banned' is it much harder than it looks.
You are very good at response and I have a high regard for people that do this, so thank you for your honest and quick response.
Reading the posts you are doing a GREAT thing helping people get out of something they've gotten into and more importantly avoiding these scams altogether.
- October 2, 2009 at 8:40 am(168) homebusiness says:
Thanks, Kary!
Randy D.
- October 5, 2009 at 6:28 pm(169) DV Young says:
Hello. I just found your information about the Googe AdSense work at home scheme. I wish I'd known about it sooner. Normally I'm pretty shrewd when it comes to these, but this one sounded legit after I checked it out and looked ok, so I sent off for the cd, paying only $2.00 or so for the S&H. That was back in May. I received the cd, put it up and forgot about it, thinking I'd get to it later and check it out. Well, I got a fraudulent charge on my check card for $70 3 months later that I traced back to that purchase. HUGE mistake. I called the company, and from the very get-go, they were showing they must be a fraudulent concern in the way they acted. First they didn't have me on record, then it was from two other different states than the one I live in, then they had to have my credit card # to reverse the charge (when all others were good with the transaction #), then the phone went dead (this happened on both occasions that I called!) just after I finally relented and gave the #. I reported them to my bank and have since closed the associated account with the check card (which I found out that you have to do in order to stop the charges, otherwise, even with a different card #, they still somehow track you down and can still get to the account) and am filing a fraudulent charge report on them. I hope I get my money back, but I don't have very much that I will. Thanks for your article. I will be more leary in the future of any work at home anything!!!
- October 6, 2009 at 4:21 pm(170) homebusiness says:
Sorry to hear you didn't catch this earlier and the hassle you are going through. At any rate, I encourage you to report the creeps if you can – perhaps to your State Attorney General's office and then to the BBB, IC3, etc. Information on reporting such scams is available here: http://homebusiness.about.com/od/workathomescams/tp/work-at-home-scams-report.htm.
Good luck with everything!
Randy D.
- October 6, 2009 at 3:03 am(171) Frank says:
Thanks. I didn't even notice the disclaimer until i read your article.
- October 6, 2009 at 4:23 pm(172) homebusiness says:
Yep, that's about the only place you can get any information before signing up, so may as well check it out, right?
Now you'll be looking for it!
Here's to a happy, scam-free life and legitimate work from home!
Randy D.
- October 7, 2009 at 6:15 pm(173) P says:
I don't believe it after all i've just sat and read and looking how far it goes back just today facebook allowed one of these google approved ads to appear surely surely they must be wise to it by now? Why are these "reputable" companies allowing these scammers to continue with these ads this one offered a kit for a £1.00. I didn't read the whole article i saw that you needed to have a google account first so I set one up then set about gettin the info direct from google and up popped your site. I think maybe facebook and google should start getting hit in their pockets for approving these ads.
- October 8, 2009 at 9:31 am(174) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment. Glad you didn't get taken by this work from home scam. Keep in mind that it's VERY hard to police these ads – Google has the best opportunity to do so, they complain that they ban one and several others then pop up. My thinking is that if they think they don't have enough humans to review these ads before they're approved, Google should hire more people to work from home and check the ads – that would be a win-win for everyone and would bring a great deal more credibility to Google's advertising program. With regard to Facebook, it's a humungous network, and banning individual ads is not easy – as evidenced by the fact that some ads that show right here on this site fall in the same category and I can't stop all of them. I think the buck has to stop with Google, who has the power to ban anyone they want to with or without a valid reason and have done so repeatedly in the past.
Randy D.
- October 7, 2009 at 7:35 pm(175) Robin says:
Thank you for your great information and warnings. I was really interested in the ad I saw on one of the job sites. So what about this ad you have on your site for the postcard business. Is it legitimate?
- October 8, 2009 at 9:35 am(176) homebusiness says:
I've seen these ads here too (again, I don't have control over them). What I've seen appears to be a bit more "real" than the Google work at home scams, but as with any ad or any "opportunity" you need to do your homework. Check with the BBB and do a Google search on the company or "opportunity" name and see how they check out before you do anything. Otherwise, be sure to read the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy pages before you hand over your email address or other information to anyone. If you're not sure about an "opportunity" I'd recommend getting a pre-paid credit card before handing over any credit card information. If the company is legitimate you can always change your billing information later if you want to continue on.
Randy D.
- October 13, 2009 at 5:25 pm(177) Silky says:
What would be the reason(s) Google would not do somthing about their logo and name being used in this fraudulent manner?
- October 14, 2009 at 8:20 am(178) homebusiness says:
That's my point, and what seems to most befuddling. Most companies would be on their doorstep with lawyers shutting them down.
Randy D.
- October 13, 2009 at 8:55 pm(179) John says:
Good question Silk!
I posted this on the Google Help Forum:
Look at how blatant these scams are with their lies, even claiming to quote Google!
"Google Now Hiring People To Work From Home
Google is Set To Hire A Group Of Americans To Work From Home In The Next Few Days. Thousands Of Jobs Available, Anyone Can Apply. "
"Google has now released a new "Work From Home Program" that will allow Americans to work for the titan from the comfort of their own homes."
"The way this works is very simple, Google says.
First you will need to apply for their work from home kits. Google has release a limited amount of kits, all distributed through local websites in your area, which will cost $2 of shipping and handling to the public. "
Come on Google – this has been going on for months now – why don't you sue out of existence these sites which abuse your brand like this?
You are allowing the trust in the Google brand name to be damaged by these affiliates of the cpa networks who create these flogs (fake news sites/blogs) full of lies.
- October 16, 2009 at 9:56 am(180) Gene says:
i did the same thing and so far i havent recieved a bill yet and i still have access to google revolution and this has been several months, and from what i have learned i can take my time and do things when i am ready.
- October 17, 2009 at 7:50 am(181) homebusiness says:
While I haven't heard of Google Revolution before, it's essentially the same thing, although it looks like you can access some information without actually surrendering your credit card information. This snippet from the terms of service on the site tells me it is essentially the same scam:
"On day 1 of your purchase, Google Revolution will begin your 7-day FREE trial period. After your trial has ended, Google Revolution will charge your payment card $73.83 for the monthly service fee you agreed to upon signing up for membership. Your account will be debited the same amount every month thereafter unless or until you contact Google Revolution by phone at 1-866-756-1774 to terminate your membership."
Also, if you Google "google revolution" you'll see many who feel they've been scammed in the same way as Google Works and the other worthless money grabbing Google scam artists.
Since you say you have access, have you found anything on the Google Revolution site to make it worth $73.83 per month?
Randy D.
- October 18, 2009 at 8:07 pm(182) Mr.Poverty says:
Just wanted to thank you for the article! That was a close call just now, went looking for the scam site and I swerved here instead. Bullet dodged, I'm heading back into the sea of opportunity
- October 19, 2009 at 8:55 am(183) homebusiness says:
Mr. Poverty – Glad I was of help. Be careful out there!
Randy D.
- October 19, 2009 at 9:44 am(184) NotWorkingMom says:
Hi, I just submitted an application and was sent to the Credit Card Screen where my application was denied. Has anyone else had this happen to them? I just want to know if I dodged a bullet or if i should call my bank. Thanks for this blog!!!!
- October 19, 2009 at 4:35 pm(185) homebusiness says:
Hard to say, maybe others will have some feedback. At any rate, if you can check your credit card activity online, I'd recommend you do so daily for a while to see if anything suspicious crops up. Hopefully, you made a slip on the cc number or something that wouldn't allow it go through.
Randy D.
- October 20, 2009 at 3:31 pm(186) james says:
lol, i found the ad on a google link at careerbuilder.com (job seeker, jobHQ)..
So being that, i naturally thought click the link 'Wanted – $47/ hour workers'.
The page i landed was:
I already was skeptic just by the article googled it and landed here. I love the way you expressed about this opportunity lol,,, YOU HAD ME AT FREE*.. that was great
- October 21, 2009 at 8:56 am(187) homebusiness says:
Glad to hear you didn't fall for it and glad you liked the post. I changed the URL you left to an image as I don't want them to get a link from this site. This one is part of the Google Works scam. I especially love the disclaimer text at the bottom of the page in gray with very hard to read text:
Looks to me like this is being run by someone who actually fell for the scam and is trying to make money from it – poor soul, may end up getting prosecuted by the FTC and others, as well as end up being banned from Google AdSense for life.
Randy D.
- October 23, 2009 at 6:18 pm(188) Teresa says:
THANK YOU, Been reading these ads all day, looking for some real help at helping myself.
new meanings everywhere, after even reading several ads with the expenses, I kept going back to "FREE"!
it does take someone to point out the false ads.
Got Real info for all of us out here?
- October 26, 2009 at 9:19 am(189) homebusiness says:
You're welcome. As for "real info", it's scattered all over this site, but you might want to start with the Home Work Guide.
Randy D.
- October 23, 2009 at 11:26 pm(190) Shawna says:
omg i seriously almost entered my credit card number, after i entered address and other information….for some reason i decided to google "does google have a credit card scheme" and i found this thankyou so much!! Life Saveeeeeeer!!!
- October 26, 2009 at 9:20 am(191) homebusiness says:
Glad I could help!
Randy D.
- October 24, 2009 at 3:45 pm(192) MMad says:
Lord have mercy on me!!! I just fell into the scam! Well I put all my info and it lead me to another page to download these books. Well dumb me, I check after the fact about scams and I see all these testimonies and golly I think I got fooled! Well God is my vindicator and I called customer service to cancel. I will have to call my bank and tell them, I should not have to close my account. Where can i get real parttime job at home? I live on the property i work full time and I need extra cash for my bills!
- October 26, 2009 at 9:23 am(193) homebusiness says:
Work is where you find it. Try the Home Work Guide for starters. Also, Google really does have work at home jobs available. See Is There Legitimate Google Work at Home, as well as my weekly job listings.
Good luck!
Randy D.
- October 26, 2009 at 10:24 am(194) Naomi says:
Please read my blog on how to avoid work at home schemes. I have listed places to validate the company and information to collect on them. Please read to avoid giving people your hard earned money. If you find the site useful, please pass it on to others. Also, if anyone needs help looking up a company, just leave a comment on my page so I can help.
- October 27, 2009 at 9:23 am(195) homebusiness says:
Hi Naomi:
Thanks for stopping by and chiming in. Your advice is solid, so I'm allowing your link. Don't hesitate to link back! Thanks for being part of the community – I hope you'll continue to contribute.
I've left a comment on your blog as well. Looks like you are just starting out with your blog. I wish you all the best. I think that over time you'll find it's a great way to start earning with work from home. And, because you're in control, you don't have to worry about getting scammed.
Randy D.
- October 29, 2009 at 12:20 pm(196) Nancy says:
Do not apply for this Google Scam. I signed up and immediately received two emails from companies. One said that my credit card would be charged $10.00 per month for my account and the other one said my credit card would be charged $19.95 per month for my account. I spent the entire day getting these accounts canceled. Now, I have to change my credit card. Do not, I repeat, do not fall for this SCAM.
- October 30, 2009 at 8:55 am(197) homebusiness says:
Sorry to hear they got you, but you have to admit, it was probably a good learning experience.
Randy D.
- October 29, 2009 at 3:13 pm(198) Susan Smith says:
Greenly, I fell for this on Monday, right away just after I clicked accept I noticed the 7 day trial followed by monthly fees. I spend all day Monday and night trying to ring the international number with no luck – so then I found the code for Utah from the UK and dialed the American number someone answered right away …………. I think they ignore international callers so they can not cancle within 7 days therefore allowing them to charge the first bill. Anyhow I managed to cancle and got a confirmation email and code and was assured no charges would be made – I just prey and hope I'm now out of this. My bank tells me to keep a close eye on my account and if anything goes out they will jump right on it. If anyone else needs to know the number from the UK I managed to get them on it's 001-800-497-4988 this is direct to pacific web works in the US – I had no luck with the international number of 001-646-205-0230 they provide you with.
I felt and still feel so stupid – the name google and having daughters running around me caught me in the middle of not thinking straight – usually I'm so on top of things like this I feel like screaming at myself!
Good luck all
- October 30, 2009 at 8:57 am(199) homebusiness says:
Thanks for the info. You really acted quickly. The phone numbers you are listing here will not work for everyone – there are literally tons of scammers out there doing the same thing – they are not all owned or operated by the same band of thieves.
- October 30, 2009 at 1:04 pm(200) cece says:
Wow, thanks for this page. I was reading up on it and decided to do some research to find out if this was legit. I came across your article and thank god I did before punching any of my personal info in.
- October 31, 2009 at 10:41 am(201) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping in. I'm glad to have helped and I hope you find additional useful information on my site.
Randy D.
- October 30, 2009 at 3:16 pm(202) Bozo The Clown says:
I also checked out this stuff and being semi-intelligent knew it was a scam. Like most good lies they are always rooted in truth. This makes a more believable lie. Turns out Google does pay you in its program ad-sence IF you have a web page. They have to pre-approve it, but once started if you have a good site then you can generate money just like any other type ads you might display.
Unfortunatly there is always someone trying to scam people and personally I think they should be shot.
- October 31, 2009 at 10:46 am(203) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comment. You're absolutely right, if you have your own site or blog, you can make legitimate money with Google's AdSense program. But there's no need to sign up for revolving charges for information that's readily available for free directly from Google, from my site and from many, many others who are willing to share free tips with you, as well as plenty of available tips for building your website or blog's traffic to boost your AdSense earnings.
Randy D.
- October 31, 2009 at 12:54 pm(204) Raja says:
Hi Randy,
I have my own article on the similar topic "how people can work from home with google" I generally help my Indian friends with various ideas of working from home through my website, i really liked this post, need your permission to link it to let my visitors to take advantage of this article.
if you want to take a look at the article i have written http://www.1moneymania.in/google_make_money.html
Let me know,
- November 1, 2009 at 10:38 am(205) homebusiness says:
Hi Raja:
Yes, you can link to me, and your site presents an accurate picture of things in regard to AdSense.
Randy D.
- November 5, 2009 at 5:17 pm(206) MICHELLE says:
- November 6, 2009 at 9:32 am(207) homebusiness says:
Glad you found these comments – thanks for yours. If you have online access to your account, I strongly recommend you monitor it daily for the next few weeks in case they get it to finally go through.
Randy D.
- November 5, 2009 at 6:48 pm(208) Bryant says:
Wow. I believed this, until I read the fine print at the order screen that said something like, "Google does not sponser and is not affiliated with this program"
- November 6, 2009 at 9:35 am(209) homebusiness says:
Good catch, Bryant! These "Google" scam sites make it as difficult and inconvenient as possible to find wording like that, and they go out of their way to try to look legitimate, when in fact you can get everything they're offering for free anyway, right from Google.
Randy D.
- November 6, 2009 at 3:21 pm(210) Jakube Duke says:
Really, Great thing you are displaying at here…
- November 10, 2009 at 9:45 am(211) David says:
I just signed up for a job like the one you mentioned, but based on what you said I want to quit, how do I quite? I singed up about an hour ago, what do I do?
- November 11, 2009 at 10:35 am(212) homebusiness says:
First of all, it's not a job. You don't pay and your credit card doesn't get raped when you take a job. Secondly, how you get out depends on whom you signed up with. Go back to the site where you signed up and click the Terms and Conditions link. You should find specifically what you are required to do to cancel. Document all of your efforts to cancel – when you called, who you called, what was said, who told you what, if you got disconnected etc. If you are unable to get them to confirm your cancellation (or even if they do), keep an eye on your credit card activity. If they don't confirm cancellation, contact the bank that issued the card and tell them what happened. If the company has already charged your card, the bank should be able to identify them and refuse any further charges from them. Each credit card issuer is a bit different, so ask them if you should close the card and get a new number. Also, read through the comments on this post and see what others have done and what worked for them.
- November 11, 2009 at 6:35 pm(213) Diane says:
I was driving home and heard an ad on the radio that said workathomedotcom. So when I got home I went on the computer and clicked the ad. I then saw what appeared to be legit ads and bloggers about how this wasn't as scam promising millions. You would only make one to seven thousand a month depending on the time you put into it. All you had to do was to place ads on all of your google accounts. I thought HMMM…that sounds like a scam and too easy to be true. So I exited the site, typed into search "working for Google" and found this site towards the top of the list. I am glad I found this site. Saddened that the scammers are now relying on radio advertising to induce people to their site, but I am pleased they did not con me into anything. Keep up the good work.
- November 12, 2009 at 8:14 am(214) homebusiness says:
Thanks, Diane! Glad you didn't get caught. There have been loads of ads on both radio and TV and I cringe when I see or hear them. I've yet to see or hear ONE that wasn't a load of BS that would only end up making you part with your hard-earned money. It's all very sickening to me.
Randy D.
- November 13, 2009 at 2:44 pm(215) Krystal says:
Yeah umm my boyfriend signed up for the google scam and actually entered our debit card info. When he told me about it I looked up the site and saw that it would charge 70.00 a month for this "membership" I had him call the customer service number and cancel. They gave him a hard time about it and offered several other options. Luckily it was cancelled and we changed our debit card because we got a call on his cell phone two days ago saying we were preferred card users on our visa (then they said the last four numbers of our old card) they never would tell me the name of a company. They were trying to send out items including vouchers for free gas to us and bill us to our card for another membership opportunity. I finally got the lady to listen to me long enough for me to tell her we weren't interested and she had the nerve to call me the dumbest mother f'er on the planet because I wouldn't let her scam me. Then she immediately hung up. I called the number back and was placed in an automated system (still never hearing a company name) and there were no options to speak with a representative. I made yet another attempt to find out some information by doing a reverse phone number search but it came up as an unlisted number in MI. So please whatever you do DON"T SIGN UP FOR THIS!!! It leads to nothing but trouble.
- November 14, 2009 at 7:51 am(216) homebusiness says:
Krystal – you did the smart thing and stopped this from spreading through your finances like a virus. My latest post on these scammers points out in the example I gave that they blatantly admit they will sell your information to others – that's why it's so important that people read both Terms and Conditions and the Privacy Policy information before they sign up for anything – and that's hoping they're actually being honest with what they say. Unfortunately, that's not guaranteed either.
Randy D.
- November 14, 2009 at 10:45 am(217) Christina says:
Sadly I wish I would have looked this up further before I went by what I was told about this by a trusted person.. I was looking for some way to make money and keep my home.. but this looks like I got caught into this fraud.
- November 15, 2009 at 10:23 am(218) homebusiness says:
You certainly weren't the only one. Be sure to follow up with your bank before credit card charges get out of hand.
Randy D.
- November 15, 2009 at 5:49 pm(219) TJ says:
His very bottom "Free Work at Home list" takes you right to one of the websites he is bashing. 2.95 shipping and handling, and 39.95 monthly fee after the trial period.
- November 16, 2009 at 8:32 am(220) homebusiness says:
That's exactly why I'm trying to point these things out. In fact, you'll see that I wrote about that ad here.
Randy D.
- November 17, 2009 at 12:11 pm(221) STOCKS says:
SADLY, I DO SYMPATHIZE FOR YOU ALL WHO WERE VICTIMS, BUT COME ON, WORK FROM HOME AND MAKE THOUSANDS. HUH! HELLOOOO! IF THAT'S THE CASE WHY IS THE ADVERTISING COMPANY AFTER YOUR MONEY IF THEY TOO CAN WORK FROM HOME AND MAKE THOUSANDS IN A DAY OR A MONTH. LUCKILY, THE STOCK MARKET IS ABOUT THE ONLY COMPANY OR METHOD I KNOW TO MAKE THOUSANDS IN A DAY OR A MONTH, BUT IT TAKES MONEY TO MAKE MONEY. LET ALONE I am going to seat home and make thousands with a product that is not original or a company. Better consider the targeted consumers.
Hint: "think before you act people"
- November 18, 2009 at 9:02 am(222) homebusiness says:
The stock market??? Oh, puhleeze! Who hasn't lost money there? And who hasn't been conned by the unscrupulous on Wall Street, who keep sucking taxpayer money on bailouts. THE STOCK MARKET IS ABOUT THE ONLY COMPANY OR METHOD I KNOW TO MAKE THOUSANDS IN A DAY OR A MONTH? Huh? Relatively few people would agree. How about good old fashioned hard work?
Think before you act, is right. I hope you don't end up eating your words.
- November 17, 2009 at 3:39 pm(223) Sue says:
Just a quick reply to Stocks comment, I didn't reply to an add to make thousands and I'm sure neither did many people here – I required and paid for information regarding what I thought was a legit google guidance information pack on how to use features offered in google to increase traffic and how to work with affiliates, to your own blog or website – like an E-book purchase if you like – just like you could buy from Ebay. I'm sure many people thought they were buying the same thing – these advertisements are all over the internet, lets just hope you don't get caught out with one eh… as it's easy to sit on the other side – but don't become over confident and so quick to criticise as it could happen to you without you even knowing.
Thankfully, I was quick and realised my mistake and cancelled within the given time frame – many were unfortunate and did not, and many did not even see the terms and conditions. Perhaps you should look a little more into this scam before posting – clearly on something you know very little about.
Kind regards
- November 18, 2009 at 9:03 am(224) homebusiness says:
Great comment, Sue.
- November 19, 2009 at 11:58 am(225) John says:
I have seen the ad and thought about it so I ended up putting my info and then theirs that live rep that comes on so I asked if there would be any charges after the shipping is paid. The person would not answer so I kept asking and still avoiding the question I decided to start typing words that I don't think anyone here wants to read. LOL. My conclusion is that the one who should be held responsible is Google and they should be held accountable and pay all those who lost money. If the ad has to go through them first and they are actually doing their jobs they would know that there was no such job opportunity with Google and the ad should have not ever been allowed. It goes to show you how all that these big corporate giants care about is money, money, and money not us the people struggling to make a buck during these hard times. Everyone who got ripped off should be going after this company if they can but also go after google since their policy must include screening the ads. Michael Moore is the best and his new Documentary, Capitalism says it all. Attack!!!!!!! Attack all you Joe the Plumbers and go after these greedy, evil, uncaring corporations who rip us off in one way or another starting with Google. I liked Google until I read this article on this site. Now one thing I hate is that in order to leave a comment here I have to leave my email address. I hope that you don't put me on some email list because I'm not interested. What a nice way to create an email list not a bad idea.
- November 19, 2009 at 3:17 pm(226) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comment. I deleted your duplicate post. It can take a while for comment to go through. Those that get caught in the spam filter don't appear at all unless I go approve them. Your comment didn't get trapped, it was just the delay of updating things.
As far as your email goes, you have to sign up for my newsletter in order to get it. I don't, and About.com doesn't, harvest email addresses from blog comments. Come on, we don't suck that bad, do we?
As far as requiring an email address, I'm guessing it's to cut down spam. If that's the case, I'd really hate to see the spam if people (or machines) didn't have to leave a valid email address. If you have an issue, use a free email address that you only use for posting in such places. Otherwise, don't leave a comment.
As for Google, I think they do some amazing stuff. Reviewing ads is not in the category by any stretch of the imagination.
Randy D.
- November 19, 2009 at 12:03 pm(227) John says:
Sorry about the double post but it had appeared that the first one didn't go through. Remember no email list. lol
- November 19, 2009 at 3:20 pm(228) homebusiness says:
I took care of the double post. I've had the same thing happen to me, so I can relate. And I really don't give a crap about your email address already (LOL). I guess this world has become so jaded we can't put trust in anybody. That's a pretty sad state of affairs.
Randy D.
- November 20, 2009 at 6:31 am(229) Sarah says:
Many people have said I'm a major cynic by nature and I would have to agree, but boy am I glad I am.
I am a single mum, am currently studying and trying to set up as a self employed bookkeeper. In January I became a victim of the recession and lost my job and, as I'm sure is the case with many people, with all my financial commitments, was disastorous.
Business is slow at starting up and although I have managed to cut down on some of my finances I am still finding it a hell of a struggle keeping up with everything. I am looking for a job, with little success so am really beginning to worry especially with Christmas around the corner. So, when I stumbled across a similar site, I thought my prayers had been answered. This site, however, made no mention that the people writing it were fictitional, not that I was looking for it lol, and so I clicked on the link. At 99 cents postage I thought "What the hell." lol.
I was took to a page with the form to get the "Kit", where there was no mention of any fees and the Terms and Conditions were a tiny link right at the bottom of the page. Luckily I only typed in my 1st name before the suspicions crept in and I decided to do a little research. I managed to stumble across this site which was quite obscure because everytime I typed in "Google work from home scams" or "Can I trust Google work from home," it just brought up loads more links claiming the same, "Make $4000 a month" etc. This site was several links down.
I never read the terms and conditions usually I have to be honest, but then this was the 1st time I actually thought about doing this, but as you suggested I read them. And surprise surprise, it was detailing all the charges that would be made and how they would not be responsible blah blah blah…
So, I would just like to give you many thanks for posting this and helping make us all aware of these awful, conscience free companies intent on making the poor poorer and themselves richer.
- November 20, 2009 at 8:43 am(230) homebusiness says:
Thanks for you comment Sarah and for sharing your experience. Your thanks are well timed, since another reader just blamed ME for getting scammed through an ad. I don't know what else I can do here, people need to be skeptical when it comes to ads, just like you were.
Randy D.
- November 23, 2009 at 4:18 pm(231) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your great comment. Isn't it a shame that these crooks end up at the top of the search results? Doesn't say much for the search results either, I guess. Anyway, glad to hear you caught on before you signed up – and here's best wishes for business picking up for you (and for the rest of us) in the very near future. Hopefully, you'll find some more useful information right here and will stick around and become part of our community.
Randy D.
- November 21, 2009 at 11:27 am(232) Dawn D. says:
I was really hoping this would be my all and be all to financial freedom. Thank you for showing me the light.
- November 22, 2009 at 9:55 am(233) homebusiness says:
There is not be all or do all when it comes to financial freedom when you're looking to buy into someone else's "system" – it's only financial freedom for them – not you. I firmly believe you have to do this on your own. Read up, research, be determined. There are so many free resources out there, 99% a lot more reliable than what you end up paying for. Best for your future.
Randy D.
- November 26, 2009 at 5:20 pm(234) peter says:
I saw that advert and went to google jobs and did not found anything.
I smelled something was fishy but till this day I kept searching for this home job. In fact I saw this article when I typed "Google jobs" in Google search engine.
Anyway thanks for your interesting article.
- November 27, 2009 at 9:00 am(235) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping by and for your comment. Glad you didn't fall into the trap.
Randy D.
- November 27, 2009 at 7:20 am(236) maurice f says:
thank u Randy im so happy i didnt go thru wit this i was just about to send them that $2.95 i was actually looking for the site now but god sent me to this blog thank u!!! but im from chicago and im really down and out looking for a job. do u know of any legit at home online ways to make money
- November 27, 2009 at 9:04 am(237) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment. Legitimate work at home is what this site is all about – I'd suggest you start digging in to find the advice and pointers you're looking for. Also visit the forum and sign up for my newsletter.
Randy D.
Randy D.
- November 28, 2009 at 6:21 am(238) Trenton S says:
Well due to my own stupidity i got sucked in, Being 20 yrs old i said to myself what would be a better way to make money and have a part time job for that Down payment on my new vehicle and extra activitys such as vacations or just a little extra income to help out with bills. So looks like i'm calling the Bank To cancel my credit card.
- November 29, 2009 at 10:02 am(239) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping by and posting about your experience. You are young and showing the signs of being an entrepreneur – but you have plenty of time to learn and to this on your own without buying into someone else's system.
Randy D.
- November 29, 2009 at 7:04 pm(240) caitlin says:
Im a little scared now because I was stupid and ordered a Cd called e millionaire.
I dont think it cost anything to send out but do you think they are charging me?
Im not sure if they are or not.
- November 30, 2009 at 11:01 am(241) homebusiness says:
How this usually works is they agree to send you something for nothing or next to nothing and if you don't cancel within 7 days you'll automatically be charged anywhere from 39 to 79 dollars per month. You can see lots of comments on people who fell into the emillionaire trap here: http://www.complaintsboard.com/complaints/emillionaire-institutekevin-got-his-green-c163463.html
If they have your credit card number (and I doubt they would have sent you anything without it), watch it closely with your bank/credit card company. If you have any issues canceling, should you want to do so when and if you receive the materials, alert your bank and see if it's necessary that you cancel you card.
Good luck! Stop back and let us know what happens.
Randy D.
- November 30, 2009 at 8:12 am(242) dj says:
1 more victim….
{link removed by moderator and replaced with text}
[dub-dub-dub dot]sandiego[dash]tribune[dash]news[dotcom][slash]WorkAtHome[slash]?from=megavid#
I fell for it. I thought it was a real newspaper article and ordered it. When I clicked, it went to another site/web page and had timer on it. So, I ordered in a hurry and got screwed. After ordering, I went back to newspaper page. And, there seems something odd about newspaper. So, I clicked other places on the page and it all went to same another site/web page. Then I read the fine prints, it's not sponsored by google. As soon as, I found out that I've made stupid mistake.
1.I've sent e-mail (rather reply e-mail) cancelling account.
2.I've called credit card company and cancelled my credit card. Question about credit cards, credit card company (mine was chase). Eventhough, I change credit card number. Credit company still have to give the new credit card number to same merchant since I give them the original credit card number which means merchant can still charge me.
So, rather than changing number, I've cancelled account and looking for new company.
So far, it seems I'm still out of shipping charges….for honest work at home…let me know
- November 30, 2009 at 11:14 am(243) homebusiness says:
The phony news layout is one of my biggest pet peeves with these people and one of the main reasons I think they should be subject to prosecution. I've never heard of a card company changing your account number (supposedly for your protection) and then giving the buttheads your new number. You're right to find another credit card company as they aren't looking out for your at all. And yes, I'd say you're out the shipping charges. You should also attempt to cancel your account with the scammers and document your efforts to do so.
As far as honest work from home – there are no quick and easy get rich solutions. Once you realize that you'll be on your way to finding it.
Randy D.
- December 1, 2009 at 4:01 am(244) Noel (UK) says:
I had a bad feeling as soon as I had clicked the fatal button. A Google search found this site and confirmed my bad feeling. An email to Search Income Pro was returned undelivered despite the address having been supplied by the site. I rang my bank's 24-hour fraud number. They have now frozen card transactions, but it lasts for only 15 days. They are sending out a form which I must return before the 15 days is up. Basically they need in writing that I am terminating a monthly standing order unilaterally, otherwise the money will still come out of my account even if they cancel the card and issue a new one.
This is hard work.
I'm glad that I found this site.
- December 1, 2009 at 8:12 am(245) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping by and posting your comment. Sorry you're having such a bad time with it – I guess these scam artists know how to work the banks in their favor, too.
Randy D.
- December 1, 2009 at 11:01 am(246) AL says:
I FELL 4 THE SCAM 1.97 FOR SHIPPN JUST LAST NIGHT.THEN I REALIZED IVE BEEN SCAMMED.I HAVE CANCELLED MY DEBIT CARD AND WAS WONDERING IF I STILL NEED TO WORRY ABOUT IT OR WILL THEY BE ABLE TO CRAck my checking account some how.
- December 2, 2009 at 8:19 am(247) homebusiness says:
See Sue's response. Part of the problem is that if you don't actually try to cancel with the scammers, some have wording to the effect they will "prosecute you for fraud" – essentially you made a purchase and then backed out, but didn't follow the "terms" of cancellation. So you need to make the effort to cancel with them and keep a record of your attempts. If you change the number, they can't charge your account without the bank's approval – but I've seen some comments here where the bank has advised if you don't cancel they have to give it to them.
Randy D.
- December 1, 2009 at 1:50 pm(248) Sue says:
Hi Al,
If you used your debit card and have just cancelled that debit card and not the whole account – i.e they are sending you a new debit card out with a new number to the same account (same sort code and account number only thing that has changed is the long number across the middle of the card) then yes they can possibly still take money out each month – you do have to try and phone them to cancel and get some confirmation from them that the account has been cancelled and then still keep a check on your account each day to be sure
Kind regards
- December 2, 2009 at 8:19 am(249) homebusiness says:
Thanks, Sue.
Randy D.
- December 1, 2009 at 2:14 pm(250) Tripp says:
Funny thing: the internet. While on an unrelated website, my pop up blocker didn't block the google ad. I investigated and proceeded to the page requiring a credit card. Then I remembered that I read about this scam on the internet sometime in October. I decided that I would google, "google work from home program." That's when this blog came up. Thanks for the confirmation!
It's funny how a marketing ad will connect with nearly every person in the population, oftentimes more than once. In my case, I easily avoided it the first time, and almost wasn't so lucky the second. Maybe our perspectives (however similar) are those of an urban legend; and someone tied to the success rates is behind the curtain saying, "Suckers!" (whether for being tricked, or for not believing).
I feel terrible for everyone who honestly pursues progress and is gypped.
- December 2, 2009 at 8:20 am(251) homebusiness says:
Well said.
Randy D.
- December 1, 2009 at 3:13 pm(252) Jessi says:
THANK YOU for your blog and information! I can't believe I was even too close to "buying" the pitch. I'm REALLY grateful that I investigated instead & found you!! Being so scammed would have destroyed me during this tough time.
I'm curious re: your related articles and sponsored links; are they legitimate, or might they also be scams? I'm so nervous, however 'Connections Planet," and a couple of others seem legit? Have you investigated their M.O? Please apprise, Randy, I have skills and can provide an honest service to an honest work-at-home employment venue.
Again, Thanks for the F.Y.I. & 411. You are a "hero" to so many of us honest folk, who cannot afford to be scammed by scammers!!
- December 2, 2009 at 8:27 am(253) homebusiness says:
I have said repeatedly that "Sponsored Links" are just that – ads. You shouldn't trust them any more or any less than any ads you see on the web. I cannot control who advertises here and do not sanction or approve them in any way, except that I can report an issue when I see one – which I have done on more than one occasion.
I have been in touch on several occasions with the owner who is offering the Connections Planet work at home arrangement. This is not a con – there is no cost to you. Essentially, it's like hosting your own site or blog with income from ads, except that you're part of a network and someone else is going to bat for you as far as getting traffic. See the article for more information, and read the details carefully to determine if this is the right work at home opportunity for you. You won't get rich – and there's no claim that you will – but you could make some money if you work hard and apply yourself – especially if you are good at selling ads within your community. I am not specifically promoting this opportunity and I have nothing to gain in doing so, you need to decide on your own.
Thanks for your kind words.
Randy D.
- December 2, 2009 at 9:43 am(254) jESSI says:
Thanks for your reply and esp. the info.
I'm moving ahead with legit. home-based biz's, willing to work hard, not looking to get-rich(quick), just want to EARN an honest living!
Will keep you appropriately apprised.
Thanx again for affording me viable directions!
G'luck to e'one…hope y'all find the right direction, too!
- December 3, 2009 at 8:33 am(255) homebusiness says:
You're welcome. And that sounds like a great New Years resolution for a lot of people!
Randy D.
- December 3, 2009 at 12:26 am(256) Banker says:
I saw one such work from home link and happen to the image of a check, which "appears" to be issued from Google, Inc. THe image can be found at this link :
http : {slash slash} news11nyc. com {slash} finance /2.php?t202id=11482&t202kw=adsonbiz
{spaces and other characters added by moderator to avoid direct link to scam site}
Well, i do this for a living and personally I wouldn't deposit this check into my account even if it was made payable to me. There is more than one thing wrong with the check. The routing number for Citi Bank on the aforementioned check seems invalid. This seems like a classic example of check fraud. To verify the routing numbers of the financial institutions visit : http://www.fededirectory.frb.org/search.cfm
- December 3, 2009 at 8:45 am(257) homebusiness says:
Thanks for the tip. These are the same images (and same blog comments) I've seen on hundreds of these sites. If you scroll to the bottom of the page and read the fine print (in pale grey, of course) you'll see my favorite part:
That should give you a pretty good clue right there. This is another page that uses the phony look of a news site "News11 NYC", yet the first sentence of the disclaimer also says:
"We are not affiliated in any way with CNN, WebTV, News Channel 7, ABC, NBC, CBS, U.S. News or FOX. "
Duh. No one even bothered to mention News Channel 11 – how funny!
Randy D.
- December 3, 2009 at 4:36 pm(258) Kihehe Muigai says:
Why does Google allow these companies to post these scams. Can't Google be held liable for being complicit in a scam?!
- December 4, 2009 at 7:54 am(259) homebusiness says:
I doubt it. See Google responds to scams.
Randy D.
- December 4, 2009 at 8:08 am(260) Nicole says:
OMG! I almost fell for it!!! I had it on the other screen and I saw that I had to pay for it… I was confused and did some research… Glad I found this page…. THANKS a fartload!
- December 5, 2009 at 11:53 am(261) homebusiness says:
You're welcome two of those loads.
Randy D.
- December 4, 2009 at 10:57 am(262) 8monthsprego says:
i fell for this trick. was fired from my job. they found a good enough reason not to give me unemployment. expecting in a couple months. thought id give it a try… paid for it, gave them all my information. and now still nothing… still jobless. thank you for posting this..
- December 5, 2009 at 11:48 am(263) homebusiness says:
You're welcome – and welcome here any time. Best to you and your upcoming delivery!
Randy D.
- December 4, 2009 at 11:55 am(264) Manny says:
wow!! Dude..youve oepened my eyes! I was thinking of applying for the kit for economic reasons. I wish I could shake you hand. THANK YOU KIND CITIZEN!
- December 5, 2009 at 11:47 am(265) homebusiness says:
Reaching out with a virtual handshake – and high five! You're welcome and thanks for stopping in.
Randy D.
- December 6, 2009 at 9:38 pm(266) GoshDangIt says:
It's appalling that as long as the truth is (buried) somewhere in the fine print, these things are essentially legal.
How did we get to where it's OK to advertise a bogus product as long as the ad says "results not typical" at some point.
I'm so glad I don't have kids, 'cause I'm very concerned our future.
- December 7, 2009 at 8:49 am(267) homebusiness says:
Gosh: Couldn't agree more.
Randy D.
- December 7, 2009 at 1:29 pm(268) Ed says:
As far as I can see, the term and conditions are NOT on the page your order it from, it's on one of the beginning pages where it says to see if you qualify. That should make it illegal right there..
- December 8, 2009 at 9:02 am(269) homebusiness says:
The real problem the FTC had was that people were forking over credit card information without being told they were going into perpetual charge made by doing so. To me, that still hasn't been resolved. The Terms and Conditions are sometimes in barely legible light gray text right on the ad landing page – but no one scrolls down to see it. It's also usually available by clicking the Terms & Conditions link. Obviously, standards need to be tougher than they are currently, or more of these goons need to answer to the FTC.
Randy D.
- December 8, 2009 at 9:47 am(270) James says:
Haha… What a crock of shite. So I fell into the trap today and had a look through some of the useless imformation provided by the instant access link. I've got to admit on reading through pieces imediatly wondered whether this was for me or not figuring NOT. Anyway I enrolled and then went on to signup for clicklink or whatever it was. I was suppposed to get an e-mail with activation link within 5mins and as I didn't then googled the subject and came across your board.
With all I needed to see I imediatly rang the bank and cancelled my card. New one on way. I noticed Randy you say if you don't cancel at the source they could still try and charge or maybe even prosicute for fraud. I was just wondering how that works and have also now sent an email for the closure off my Search Income Pro account. Does that cover what you mentioned about the fraud thingy or do I need to do more?? This is a copy of the mail I sent to them…
Hi, I opened account today and within 20mins realised there was something really fishy about this whole process. I have cancelled my debit card and now I've given you an order to cancel my membership too. I want no part of this scam and you may have already taken $1.97 or whatever but you won't be taking anymore. I've been reading through some blog pages and it say's about if I don't cancel you could try charging me still or possibly even take me for fraud ???? LOL. Well I have a copy of this saved on file and you have my instructions. I will not be sending no mail via post or anything of the same. This is that mail so deal with it and get me off your list. You best not try calling my phone number either or I will look to having yourselfs prosicuted.
Many thanks now.
Get A {expletive deleted by moderator} LIFE!!!!
Does this put my in the clear now and are they any other precautions I should take. I'm aware off needing to moniter my account for the next couple of months and was just wondering if you know of anything else I should add to this to save further concerns.
Thanks in advanve and Good work !!
People are correct when they say Google needs to do something about this. On 1st glance the whole thing looks to be endored by Google, CSN, Yahoo and many other well known names. It's suprising none of these have taken serious action as it is indeed a part of there reputation at stake too, and although short term it may make them a little extra cash. It goes without saying, Long Term. It will have quite the opposit effect. Naff Said.
- December 9, 2009 at 9:09 am(271) homebusiness says:
Already answered. Sounds like you should be in okay shape. That was a long one – I could see why you wouldn't want to have to rewrite. Expect that on most blogs it can take some time for your comment to appear – if you resubmit, some will think you are spamming them with multiple comments.
Randy D.
- December 8, 2009 at 10:00 am(272) James says:
Hey.. Just jumped back to where it began.
{link edited by moderator}
http {colon}{slash slash}news6bristol{dot com}{slash}2009{slash}FINANCE{slash}income.opportunity{slash}google{slash}?subid=390
Check out this page Randy. Not sure if you've already seen it but I can't get through on the Google Wealth Kit link now which says to me that possibly a lot of people may still be signing up.
Go Do Your Thing !!
- December 9, 2009 at 9:06 am(273) homebusiness says:
Of course I've seen it – it's all the same load of crap.
Randy D.
- December 8, 2009 at 10:19 am(274) James says:
I posted a summery before that message but doesn't seem to have gone through !! Cant write all that again.
Randy I signed up taday and within 20mins realised the errors off my ways. Immediatly I contacted the bank and have a new card now on it's way. I've read through posts on here and notice you say about cancelling at source too. The program I got was Search Income Pro. I don't intend to have these cowboys take me for fraud and is it there I need to cancel in order to avoid such an outcome ? I emailed them confirming my desire to cancel and am not the kind of guy who ever sends mail in post so that's a Big nono. I understand I should monitor my bank account for the next month but apart from the site I just listed I cannot find any other way of cancelling what ever I just ordered. I thought after coming off the phone to the bank that was simply enough. As they said these culprits will NOT be able to take any further amount. Though I have now done this too. Is there anything else I need to address in order to clear this situation up?? Or am I now resolved?
Many thanks…
- December 8, 2009 at 12:11 pm(275) James says:
BTW. That link I posted has GOOGLE sprawled all over it. Most of it is in Capital Letters too (video) It is a little shocking to think they allow this through their systems. Ohhh deary me !! BBC news, CNN and Fox too. Wouldn't they all Love to get involved? Sue the f'ers for more than they are worth. And so say I.
- December 9, 2009 at 9:01 am(276) homebusiness says:
Your other post contained a profanity, so it was held for approval. I review all comments, so even if spam gets through I can get rid of it.
You are probably okay at this point. The idea is if you don't follow their cancellation instructions to the letter, you give them an out – although if they can't get your money, so what. Keep a record of your sent email requesting cancellation, etc. Otherwise, sounds like your bank has your tail covered.
Randy D.
- December 8, 2009 at 5:37 pm(277) Matt says:
Woah! I got the pop-up this morning and showed it to my mom. The first thing she said was scam… haha
- December 9, 2009 at 9:03 am(278) homebusiness says:
Good catch Mom!
- December 8, 2009 at 7:52 pm(279) ruth says:
thanks for that…Yesterday i had a couple of pop up adds on my laptop. i had a good read.The one from "Sophie Frude" sounded great, mainly beause she said she used to work for Bayleys real estate, which i did too. Hahahaha. googled her and turns out shes a fraud.The other one said in one bit he was a lowly drywaller but the next one said he was something to do with shetmetal.oh well i guess its hard graft again!!!!!
- December 9, 2009 at 9:03 am(280) homebusiness says:
I guess it should have been Sophie Fraud and bull sheet thrower! Most of these sites admit in the fine print that the stories are fictitious – what a joke!
Randy D.
- December 14, 2009 at 5:23 pm(281) James says:
Ok thanks for the Input randy. I have saved all copies of emails sent and recieved just in case.
Yes, the banks are very good with me. I've been with Lloyds TSB for over 11years and will be with them for a long while yet. When it comes to occurances like this they do seem to be very good with what they do.
It's also very nice to have helpful people as yourself on top of that too, just to add that extra security alongside that too. Keep up the good work fella and Hats off to ya.
If the world was full of people like you, I'm sure it would much nicer place. Take care and Live long dude.
- December 15, 2009 at 8:00 am(282) homebusiness says:
Thanks, James. Best to you in the New Year.
Randy D.
- December 15, 2009 at 9:34 am(283) Selma says:
Thank you so much! I was going to do it!!!!
- December 15, 2009 at 2:44 pm(284) homebusiness says:
Glad you didn't!
- December 15, 2009 at 12:55 pm(285) James says:
UPDATE- I just received a call from 08015428598
The guy on the other end sounded american and claimed to be from Google something or the other. It's the same people. I explained to him I knew it was a scam and had cancelled and was Not interested anymore.
The first thing he then asked me was what I thought of DisneyLand? I kinda laughed and said well I'm 26, Male and as such have no intention of ever going there. He then remarked, well if you look online at blogs for that you'll also see people have said bad things about it. But personally, would you agree that it's a happy place? I laughed again and repeated myself, said thanks for the call and hung up.
Imbecilic. Who do these call centres think we are? I'd have thought they could come up with something more convincing than that. I'm sure my 2yr old neice could. Hahaaaaa !!! I sure hope this is the last off it. And although I say call centre, I'm quite sure it could be a 1 man band. Just the way it sounded !!!
Heads up people. Don't sign up..
And a good New year to you too Randy. Happy Christmas also.
- December 15, 2009 at 2:43 pm(286) homebusiness says:
I'm going to Disneyland!
- December 15, 2009 at 3:20 pm(287) MADINA* says:
oh jeez thnk u so much for the info…i ws jst abt to sign up for this– i do believe whn ppl like u guys do exist to help other** thnk u so much for ur time n energy to let others knw da "real" site:)
- December 16, 2009 at 7:55 am(288) homebusiness says:
Madina – thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment. Glad to hear you didn't fall into the trap.
Randy D.
- December 21, 2009 at 1:20 pm(289) Janet says:
Dear Randy,
Enclosed is a copy of a letter I just wrote to Google. If I had only read your article sooner.. it says it all. Janet
Google Inc.
1600 Ampitheatre Parkway
Mountain View, CA 94043
Dear Google:
Please do not allow FNDFRMNY to advertise on Google. I trust google.com and believed I could, Make Money on Google.
On 12/14/2009 I was billed $144.40, the company represent said, its in the fine print on all 3 pages. If I did receive anything from this company it must have gone to my spam folder, I have never received anything by mail. I am enclosing the only receipt I have from this transaction indicating $0.00 owed.
I spent an hour reading and listening to information before I decided I would purchase the steps to building a web page and Google AdSense for $1.99. I feel stupid, this is obviously a scam. My husband has been unemployed since April 2008, Im selling used books online and thought this could be additional income. Were worried about foreclosure, of course were desperate.
If I had known the companys name was Find Free Money I would have never viewed the information. Their representative, Cerise, told me, be careful, even restaurants will sell your credit card information. Cerise was unable to give me the companys address; she did say they are located in the UK. They will refund me only a partial amount $70.00 because I didnt read the fine print. Cerise called back to verify my address, they are sending me a check.
If there is anything you can do to help me recover our money I would greatly appreciate it.
- December 21, 2009 at 4:31 pm(290) homebusiness says:
Janet -
Thanks for sharing that with us. I wish you the best!
Randy D.
- December 21, 2009 at 11:00 pm(291) Me says:
Hi I fell for this scam last night. Although being broke has it benefits I don't have a credit card lol. so I never went through with the final steps. I did however fill out the first page that says your name address and phone number. do they sell that information too? or just Credit card stuff. I didn't read the privacy and legal stuff ti'll after but like i said no credit card so i'm safe that way because when i got to page too i def seen the 60 dollar here 80 dollar there print. but like i said i'm wondering if they share first and last names and address's .. i received 2 phone calls today from them trying to get me to do the second step: " we have a job lined up starting at $29.99 for whoever signs up will Bell off my website i'll set up" they said OH and get this.. they say "hello this is google calling"
- December 22, 2009 at 8:21 am(292) homebusiness says:
Thanks for the post. "This is Google calling"? They must be out of their tree. And who the f&^% would want to pay these crooks for job?
I wouldn't be surprised if they sold your info – they'll want to make money off of you any way they can. Disgusting!
Randy D.
- December 23, 2009 at 7:14 am(293) Troy says:
Well, we were hooked
On the 18th December, I foolishly copied the link to my wife who was at home with our 2 kiddies, without even 2nd guessing the power of Google….. I usually spot these scams a billion miles away, however, call it the xmas season, or maybe i was distracted, either way, we got billed our $1.95.
My wife then tells me (via MSN messenger), that the site is trying to sell her some book to make money on twitter….she declined it. Next page was trying to sell more stuff…..by this time my scam alarms were really racing.
Long story short, within 10 minutes of having our 1st debit, she was on the phone to our bank cancelling her debit card (Mastercard). She also filled out their cancel form, which emailed her confirmation.
Today we have been hit another $1.95 fee, even though we cancelled well before their 3 day cool off period and the card is supposedly cancelled. I say supposedly because after calling the bank AGAIN about this, they say today that they will still allow merchants to charge the mastercard for 15 days after cancellation!!! WTF!? It sounds like MC are endorsing this kind of behavious to me!
I've written a formal complaint to Mastercard, My bank, the US fraud site, the Australian Fraud site, and to the scammers.
Lets hope they only take the $4 from me I suppose, and I'll notch that one up to a stupid mistake.
- December 23, 2009 at 8:49 am(294) homebusiness says:
Troy – Thanks for sharing your story. It's mind boggling to think that you tell a bank you're worried about fraud, cancel the card and they still accept charges. I suppose their excuse is that there could be legitimate charges in progress, but I think if that was the case the legitimate businesses would contact you for payment so you could deny the cheaters access.
What a world, eh?
Randy D.
- December 23, 2009 at 10:16 pm(295) Noel (UK) says:
As I said in my last message (244) I sent an email of cancellation to the email address on the website and it was returned undelivered. 5 days later I thought about the email of confirmation that I received in my junkmail folder. I replied to it saying "I wish to cancel my account".
Two hours later I received a reply:
Dear Valued Customer,
Thank you for using the Money Mastery System. It is regrettable that you would like to cancel your account with us. We have a very important service that, if utilized, can be a doorway to many benefits for you. We are sending this email to confirm that your subscriptions have been canceled and there will be no further charges from Money Mastery.
The Cancellation Verification Codes for your subscriptions are:
mymoneyplan.net cancellation number:CAAHZM920
searchprofitsystem.com cancellation number:CAIFMZ211
I printed the email and sent it to my bank with the form they had sent me. A phone call confirmed that no more money could go out of my account now that they had authorisation.
Today I had my bank statement: £1.23 had been paid.
I feel lucky and relieved. Thank you homebusiness and all you contributors.
All you readers : cancelling your card is not the answer. I didn't do that. The card was used as authority/identity to set up monthly payments from your account. Once set up, the card is no longer necessary – the money will continue to go from your account until you cancel. To do that, reply to the email you received. No rudeness, no profanity. I hope this works for you.
- December 24, 2009 at 7:54 am(296) homebusiness says:
Thanks for sharing that – some great information.
- December 29, 2009 at 9:06 pm(297) Anonymous says:
Okay, so I'm reading through your article and I have found some very useful information. I, however, was smart enough to read the fine print and decipher that it was a scam. Then I figured I would Google it…ironic huh? Thank you for the information, you have probably saved me a lot of hassle. I then get to the bottom of the page and find the "Sponsored Links" section of the page…all of them are "work from home" links. Are these ones that you endorse personally, or is it something that about.com puts on here? And do you know of any legitimate work from home businesses?
- December 30, 2009 at 8:38 am(298) homebusiness says:
First, this post arose from a phony ad right here on this site. So the answer is a resounding NO, I do not endorse any of the Sponsored Links or any other ads on this site. I have also responded to this issue in comments 35, 54, 148 and 153 of this post. I'll re-quote my response published earlier as comment number 153:
"You should treat all ads the same – with caution. While I report scams when I find them advertising here, every time the page refreshes new ads display and I can't police them 24/7. If you click through an ad you find to be a scam, you should let me know. In order to get the ad removed I have to create a screenshot of the ad that displayed and would need the URL of the page the ad was pointing to."
"Again, ads (Sponsored Links, etc.) are just that – ads – like you might encounter anywhere else on the web, TV, etc."
The ads that display in the Sponsored Links areas are served through About.com's use of the Google AdSense program. In other words, these links are there because the sites are advertising through Google AdWords. Advertisers who use Google AdWords (and other pay-per-click advertising programs) can specify if their ads appear only in search results or in the "Content Network", which is a collection of sites, including About.com, that have agreed to display these ads. That's why these scam artists say "As seen on ABC, CNN" etc. because those sites accept ads too.
With regard to your question of "Do you know of any legitimate work from home businesses?" please see my FAQ titled, Do You Put Out a List of Legitimate Work at Home Businesses?.
I hope that you and my other readers will understand the dilemma that I (and About.com) face: We need the revenues the ads generate in order to operate this site for a profit. Yet, there is little control – especially in the case of individual Guides, but also in the case of About.com – over which ads appear. Guides can report specific ads they find deceptive or misleading to About.com. About.com then checks it out, and if they agree with the Guide, notify Google. If Google also agrees, the advertisers are banned from the Google AdWords program. But they usually show up again in short order using a different name or URL.
As you might appreciate, it is extremely frustrating to me to try to work as a champion for busting scams when the very scams I'm reporting on are advertising right here. I think the reason that many people who have read this post appreciate that I had the guts to stand up and call out the very people who are advertising on this site.
Again – for everyone out there – ADS ARE ADS REGARDLESS OF WHERE THEY APPEAR – TREAT THEM AS SUCH.
Randy D.
- December 29, 2009 at 11:44 pm(299) Jenna H. says:
The moment I read about making so much money from home with Google, I knew it was too good to be true! After clicking, I noticed the word "trial" for the $1.98 price. By the way, the trial lasts for only 2 days, after which you will be charged $79.86 PER MONTH! Just for grins, here are a couple of points from the extensive fine print list:
"This website, and any page on the website, is based loosely off a true story, but has been modified in multiple ways including, but not limited to: the story, the photos, and the comments. Thus, this blog, and any page on this website, are not to be taken literally or as a non-fiction story." Um…why don't they just come out and call it what it is, a LIE!
This is priceless: "This page receives compensation for clicks on or purchase of products featured on this site."
These websites are disgusting — and will inevitably suck someone into their traps. I am a student and working from home would be wonderful…unfortunately too good to be true with these scam websites. I hope Google shuts these sites down!
- December 30, 2009 at 8:40 am(300) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comment. Google is beginning to respond. See Google Sues Group of Work at Home Scammers.
Randy D.
- January 2, 2010 at 6:12 pm(301) Brandy says:
A few months back, I seen this on yahoo's homepage. I read it and thought it sounded too good to be true. Seems that I was right, I never actually signed up for it or anything, oh how did I want to. After reading ur article, I found it very informative and useful. I then went back to another article I seen about it and read it and the terms. A paragraph that stuck out to me was…
"Google is in no way associated with this website. The Publisher and Author disclaim any personal liability, loss or risk incurred as a consequence of the use and application of the offer, either directly or indirectly, of any advice, information, or methods presented in this publication. Individual comments are unedited and not the opinion of Author or Publisher and not liable for their comments and opinions.
*INCOME CLAIM WARNING: Testimonials do not result typical result. Photographs or images are depiction of individuals and payment methods. These income examples are representative of some of the most successful participants in the program. Some individuals purchasing the program Sept make little or NO MONEY AT ALL. These claims are not a guarantee of your income, nor are they typical of average participants. Individual results will vary greatly and in accordance to your input, determination, hard work, and ability to follow directions. No person or company can guarantee profits or freedom from loss. Any and all use of this website certifies you are agreeing to our Earnings and Income Disclaimers."
At the very end …the "Earnings and Income Disclaimers" is a link and when you go to click it; it states "error on page" and doesn't load it. I don't know if thats my computer or just… it not working! Either way this scam is terrible and unhealthy for society, especially with our economy the way it is today. Thanks again for this post; I hope that it means a great deal to you.
- January 3, 2010 at 9:59 am(302) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment. I love the disclaimers on these sites – that's part of what I meant by "Can it get any funnier?" As long as people take the time to read the fine print they'll usually realize it's a joke and won't fall for it.
Randy D.
- January 6, 2010 at 10:05 pm(303) Simon Darlington says:
I wish I had seen this article before being sucked in.
Yes its all a scam and I have had to cancel my credit card because of it.
The sad thing really is that a company like Google is allowing these people to use the Google name as an endorsement of the service. H
How does Google feel about this,, ( well i guess they don't care as they are getting paid to advertise these charletons).
Its a lesson learned i guess.
- January 7, 2010 at 9:05 am(304) homebusiness says:
Sorry to hear you fell for it. Actually, Google is tacking action now, see Google Sues Group of Work at Home Scammers.
Randy D.
- January 6, 2010 at 10:18 pm(305) Simon says:
They got Me,, I really thought it was an authentic Google scheme. It looked authentic ,,(i.e. Google advertising, Google endorsements etc).
There is no info pack,, in fact there is nothing of any value at their site.
What starts out as Google marketing ends up being a sign up to a scam called 'mymoneyplan" and "SearchIncomePro".
I tried canceling but got no reply until AFTER they had already taken over a $100 from my credit card.
Even though they say they have canceled my "subscription" I have still had to cancel my credit card just to be safe.
Not sure about other countries but here in Australia if you use bogus endorsements etc as advertising then its a criminal offense.
I guess Google doesn't care as long as they are getting paid to advertise these scams.
Live and Learn i guess,,,,
- January 7, 2010 at 9:05 am(306) homebusiness says:
Thanks for sharing your experience. As I indicated on my reply to your other post, Google is starting to crack down on these crack heads.
Randy D.
- January 7, 2010 at 11:36 am(307) Simon says:
Well here's a thought,,,maybe there are a few hackers out there who could use there brilliant skills for "good" and hammer these websites at there landing/home pages.
Just a thought…
- January 7, 2010 at 11:48 am(308) homebusiness says:
I'd never advocate hacking any site, and I despise hackers…but…what if…
Randy D.
- January 7, 2010 at 6:02 pm(309) buddy says:
i have seen this ad several times. same mom and name BUT…,always in a different city! and get this, believe or not one of the cities is the town i happen to live in. well if all this dont send up a red flag,….well you know. b.k.
- January 8, 2010 at 7:48 am(310) homebusiness says:
Good observation. What happens is the scammers site checks your IP address to see where you are visiting from – then, the town is automatically switched to your town – or one very close by. NBC News and others have pointed out they were doing this, and it's actually one of the things that makes this scam so funny – same pictures, same people, different towns and the same comments on multiple sites that are "supposed to be" from real people.
Randy D.
- January 12, 2010 at 8:25 pm(311) heavenscent says:
ohh man………..i knew it when i read this stupid google work from home and the money that the claim they're makin i knew somethings up and its too good to be true that is why i search google work from home scams before i fall from that scam goole b.s and here i am i saw this blog thank you so much randy
- January 13, 2010 at 8:20 am(312) homebusiness says:
You did exactly what you should have done, and that's why you didn't fall for it. Way to go!
Randy D.
- January 12, 2010 at 11:49 pm(313) Donna says:
i gave them a gift card that had only $5.00 on it,then when i got to where they wanted my banking info i decided to stop and ck it out further.too good to be true. so they only got $1.95 from me. days later after thinking about it i found your site. you saved me. i know better. thank you.
- January 13, 2010 at 8:21 am(314) homebusiness says:
Good job in proceeding with caution. I bet next time you won't even get that far!
Randy D.
- January 13, 2010 at 3:23 am(315) Rebecca says:
Well, like the last comment I read, I thank you for your candor. I was almost nearly sucked into this same hoax as the woman before for nearly the same reasons. Mine aren't health problems, but pregnancy woes and my husband and I are about at the end of our ropes. The Google Work At Home program seemed like the greatest idea ever but after reading your article now I must say I am horribly disappointed. Again, appreciate your candor, but would also appreciate maybe some real ways to make money online? Thanks.
- January 13, 2010 at 8:39 am(316) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comment. I also visited your blog and it sounds like you are in a tough situation. I feel for you and hope that you can keep your chin up and avoid depression.
One thing you need to do is recognize that successfully making money online takes a lot of hard work and determination, that it won't fall out of the sky for you right away. That being said, here are some ideas, and I'm planning to write about many more in the weeks and months ahead:
1. Google really does hire people to work from home. See Google Work from Home.
2. You're blogging, which is very good for working at home, and you write well. Check the job boards at problogger.net often. Also use that site for great blogging tips.
3. You're pregnant. This puts you in a somewhat unique position. You could write about the trials, tribulations and joys of going through your pregnancy and once you have your baby, of raising him or her. These are high-traffic topics in the blogosphere. The About.com site on pregnancy (pregnancy.about.com) is consistently one of the highest traffic sites on the About network.
4. You have a Blogspot blog but you currently don't have any ads on it. Sign up for Google AdSense and add some ad code to your pages to start earning some money. Also see my feature on Google AdSense.
Ways to make money online at home are endless, and you don't need to buy into anyone else's program to do it – that's just going to leave you disappointed and broke. You have the right attitude, I sense you have the determination, and your opportunity for making money online in legitimate ways is right in front of you. Just make it happen!
There's plenty of information around my site and on tons of other sites to help you and I will be posting more, even more basic information, in the days ahead – watch for it and best wishes to you, your husband and your new little one!
To you success!
Randy D.
- January 13, 2010 at 2:44 pm(317) John Adams says:
Great post! Thank you.
Also thank you for including some really good advice. The amazing thing about this Google scam is where the program actually starts from.
The program is in the PCA/CPC/PPC directory for a lot of the major players in the advertising networks. How they can still be advertising this is a scary issue.
Consider the honest website owner/CPA/CPC that decides to join one of the networks and ends up trying to promote the Google work from home program?
They risk so much without even realising what they are doing. And these are the poor unfortunate people (the honest ones) who end up with a Google slap without even realising what they've done!
This would be the perfect time to remind us the power of program and product research.
It does not actually take much research to find out the truth about the scam; as your excellent post has proved.
Thank you again for sharing.
John Adams
- January 14, 2010 at 9:04 am(318) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comment. I doubt that many of my readers will understand the acronyms you used, so here's what I can tell them:
PPC – Pay per click – the advertisers pay a certain amount each time the ad is clicked.
CPA – Cost per action – the advertiser only pays if someone clicks the ad and then makes a purchase or completes some other action, such as signing up (At least that's what I think you're referring to. Also referred to as PPA or "Pay Per Action", if I'm not mistaken.)
CPC – I've only ever heard this used to represent Cost Per Click – which is that "certain amount" I mentioned in the PPC explanation.
PCA – I have no idea what you are referring to, and probably neither do the vast majority of my readers.
Randy D.
- January 13, 2010 at 10:22 pm(319) Justin says:
Just for your info, My wife and I got involved with this. Each time we would cancel with the company, they would change the buisness name and continue charging us. The last 6 months we have been having trouble getting our bank statements. We finally get them just to find out that they are still taking money from our account. I hope that cancelling the card works because the bank will not do anything about it. Also, if they change the name of the company, Your bank or credit institution will continue to pay. Thank you for the article.
- January 14, 2010 at 8:54 am(320) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comment. That's a crappy situation to be in. We all need to watch our bank statements closer these days and be more proactive – it's a jungle out there.
Randy D.
- January 18, 2010 at 2:33 pm(321) Frank says:
Thanks alot…i was jus lookin at all that. I have learned to always read the fine print and look for the little stars. I looked, i saw, i read, and then i googled ande found your blog.
- January 19, 2010 at 8:55 am(322) homebusiness says:
Congrats on not getting reeled in.
Randy D.
- January 19, 2010 at 3:36 am(323) David says:
God knows how I love this web-site.
smart, fresh, and considerable …
- January 20, 2010 at 10:35 pm(324) Anna says:
Scams like this seem very good for people who have no other option. but is there any actual online offers like this that is actually legit??
- January 21, 2010 at 8:25 am(325) homebusiness says:
They are really few and far between. You might want to check out How To Find A Proven Legitimate Online Business. My overall view is that if you want to buy into someone else's "online success system" the only who is successful will be the outfit that took your money.
Randy D.
- January 21, 2010 at 7:14 pm(326) Marcia says:
Wow…thanks for breaking it down for us!
So nicely written, by the way *applause*
- January 22, 2010 at 7:33 am(327) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment.
Randy D.
- January 25, 2010 at 5:08 pm(328) Evelyn says:
I was looking for an at-home-job and came across some that had to do with posting links. When I read the fine print, I realized it was a scam. It so happened that the ad said everything that Randy talked about. Then I read Randy's article and said: "THAT'S RIGHT!
- January 26, 2010 at 8:34 am(329) homebusiness says:
That's right! Good work on reading the fine print before diving in!
Randy D.
- January 28, 2010 at 1:40 pm(330) MissMary says:
Ok so first I would like to say that as far as google making money for you there is some truth to it. If you have a site that you can put links on then you can make money by putting google links and get paid but its not much and depends on how much traffic you get to that site. If you have to advertise that site then you could use adwords but you end up paying more to get traffic to the site than you get paid for posting the inks.
Second I would like to say that I got roped into the scam and actually did get the "kit" which is actually just a disk that has all the information you get from the google help page. I got charged about a week later the 80 dollars and still havent been able to get it off (it was charged before thanksgiving). So I've taken it as a loss and now I move on. Anyone wanting to make money online should try a small LLC or work for avon. It takes about as much work as a full time job and a little startup cost but if you can't or dont want to work anywhere but home its a good idea.
Thanks for reading!!!
- January 28, 2010 at 3:24 pm(331) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment, and thanks for the insight on what you went through. Your points are very true!
Randy D.
- February 2, 2010 at 5:23 am(332) Greg says:
Have you heard any late news about the Pacific WebWorks lawsuit brought by Google?
The last I heard is that they were going to settle out of court. This is not what many of us hoped for.
There are three additional class action suits being brought against Pacific WebWorks. Maybe these will help to bring them down.
- February 2, 2010 at 8:10 am(333) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping by. I haven't heard anything yet, but I'm not surprised by the out of court settlement – that's how most of them end up and then these creeps just keep on scamming people over and over again under different names. The post you linked to was excellent, so I'm going to link to it here again in the body of this post.
Kevin Hoeffer the Google Scam King of the Internet
Randy D.
- February 2, 2010 at 10:14 pm(334) Ingrid Coleman says:
I just clicked on an ad being that I'm currently looking for employment due to a lay-off. Somehow it targeted me since I'm a single mom as the ad headline said: Grand Haven, MI Mom earns $6000/mo. from Home! Of course that caught my attention!
As I scrolled down and read the fine print, it states that it has no association with Google whatsoever and the story dipicted should not be considered non-fiction and its for illustrative purposes only. The company is called Quick Profit Kits. TOTAL SCAM!! When I tried to click on their hi-lited link for their terms and conditions, surprisingly it didnt work!!
Another thing I thought was funny was the applauding comments in the ad from satisfied customers was fake as well! It stated it in the fine print!! Unbelievable!!
Anyway, they had similiar charges and relations with this story. I just wanted to tell others so they dont get scammed. Just because they say Google cuts you a check, its not true.
Please read the fine print at the bottom of the ad!!
- February 3, 2010 at 9:19 am(335) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping by and congratulations on spotting the "wolf in sheep's clothing". They picked up your location from the IP address on your computer's Internet location and then automatically changed the locality of the so-called (fictional) "successes" in their program. My original post on this – Can It Get Any Funnier – is that some of the tactics they used – like some of those you've mentioned here – are just hilarious if you read them closely. "Should not be considered non-fiction" – ROTFLMAO
Randy D.
- February 15, 2010 at 8:17 pm(336) David says:
I found two different individuals for this particular ad, and both women are different with different names; but here's the kicker! They both happen to be from Ashtabula, Ohio; is this coincedence or what? I am from Ashtabula, Ohio!
- February 16, 2010 at 7:53 am(337) homebusiness says:
No, it's not a coincidence. The location of your IP address was captured when you visited these sites and the location you were identified with was automatically inserted into the content.
Randy D.
- February 16, 2010 at 4:19 pm(338) antonette says:
thanks for the information . there' s a guy named Paul that is saying he's a internet guru. says he makes 123,000,00 a month threw Google from home. i didn't see anything on Google about it and he say's its all free what is that about
- February 17, 2010 at 7:56 am(339) homebusiness says:
Not sure who he is, but I'd put my red flag up if he wants you to buy something or sign up for something. Be careful out there. Yes, people do it but you shouldn't have to pay them to tell you how.
Randy D.
- February 20, 2010 at 9:18 am(340) homebusiness says:
Another thing – if he says it's free you'd better check all the fine print really closely – usually it's free for a short while – like 7 days, and then if you don't cancel you end up paying. Remember too – if something is free, why the heck would they want a credit card?
Randy D.
- March 2, 2010 at 9:58 pm(341) tim says:
Hey thanks for all your efforts and helpful information. Do you know of any reputable work-at-home businesses?
- March 3, 2010 at 10:55 am(342) homebusiness says:
Hi Tim:
Thanks for stopping by and for the compliment – I'm trying!
To answer your questions, see Do You Put Out a List of Legitimate Work at Home Businesses?
Randy D.
- March 3, 2010 at 9:52 am(343) Yolanda says:
When originally looking for "work from home" projects, scams like this came up frequently. Instead, I found a very legitimate Work From Home project to get involved in. I am building my own website, from my own subject interest, and as with any legitimate work-from-home, it's a lot of time and hard work! My web host gives me all the tutoring I need, and handles most of the technical stuff for me. I feel like I've gone back to college, in a sense, but I have a real peace of mind knowing that I am doing legitimate work, and that I'm not being scammed. My web host never offered me "free" anything! I pay my web host on a monthly basis, and am committed to one year. Meanwhile, I am building my website, and building traffic. I have found an entire community of people doing the exact same thing, and making a real success of it. Nobody claims an easy road. It takes a while to see the money, and there's no "pie in the sky" scheme at all. You can visit my site to see what I do, who I am, and click on the bottom link to find how my web host might work for you too.
- March 3, 2010 at 11:00 am(344) homebusiness says:
Thanks for stopping by. I wish you and your husband success with your business!
Randy D.
- March 3, 2010 at 11:41 am(345) Yolanda says:
Randy – Thanks for your kind wishes, and keep up the good work in warning the masses (among all the other things you do)!
- March 4, 2010 at 1:34 pm(346) Jennifer says:
I read the fine prints and follow my instincts…..I knew it was a SCAM……shame on Google for not banning such an activity under his name…But those Scammers are so danm good!! The weaks are usually the victims!!
- March 5, 2010 at 7:41 am(347) homebusiness says:
Sounds like you have a good scam sniffer!
BTW – Google has started suing some of these scam artists – see http://womeninbusiness.about.com/b/2009/12/26/google-sues-companies-over-work-from-home-scams.htm.
Randy D.
- April 19, 2010 at 8:45 pm(348) Mom of 4 says:
I just got a recorded message saying it was from Google, and wanted me to call 888-215-4412 about at home jobs making up to 500 a day. Is this real?
- April 20, 2010 at 8:57 am(349) homebusiness says:
Mom of 4:
NO, it's NOT. Google isn't going to call you with recorded message – EVER.
If you really want to work for Google itself, see Is There Legitimate Google Work from Home?
Randy D.
- June 15, 2010 at 9:27 am(350) Paula says:
I signed up yeaterday because it claimed my friend did! Anyway- I cancelled via email right away…will I be spared?
- June 16, 2010 at 9:39 am(351) homebusiness says:
If you gave them credit card information you need to keep a close eye on your account to make sure no charges are made. If they are, you need to contact your financial institution right away. Also check the Terms & Conditions, especially conditions for canceling as they may specifically say how you have to cancel in order not to incur any charges.
At least you caught it quickly – best of luck!
Randy D.
- June 18, 2010 at 7:32 pm(352) jj says:
Thank you so much , i was desperate looking for some of these jobs and it is a real eye opener.Thank you
- June 19, 2010 at 8:43 am(353) homebusiness says:
Thanks for your comment. It's when you feel desperate that you really need to be careful to avoid getting trapped.
Randy D.
- July 23, 2010 at 4:33 pm(354) Vicki says:
I am selling a sofa on Craigslist. I just got an email that said, "You don't have to sell this so cheap! I used to sell things on CL to pay bills, but I started using www.(name of the site) you can do it too!" I deleted it immediately! Last year, someone hacked into my computer and started sending emails to all my contacts. So, I'm careful about who I send and receive emails from. Glad you are here to help us out.
- July 24, 2010 at 10:17 am(355) homebusiness says:
Thanks for sharing. No telling where you'd end up if you clicked the link!
Randy D.
- October 9, 2010 at 10:42 pm(356) john says:
oh!! Last week i had same problem with this scam so how would they allow scam to be on the news front pages?
They sucked my credit card $175.00. I started with a free trial for $2.95. To be member they say I have to update full membership $89.95. I payed but still nothing. So please watch out for this trick. On the web, most free gifts are really no gift at all.
- October 10, 2010 at 1:25 pm(357) homebusiness says:
Thanks for sharing your experience with us. I'm sorry you had to learn the hard way. These pages aren't on the news at all – they just dupe you into thinking they're news sites.
Randy D.