If you're not familiar with the term "scareware," it is when a web page you are viewing disguises itself as a pop-up window claiming you need to install a security update. It "scare"s you into clicking on a link that downloads mal"ware" onto your computer. The window is VERY official looking:

Read the full post.

Are you hoping to buy your first home this year? If so, check out the special event that we have coming up during National Consumer Protection Week on Tuesday, March 8, 2011 – you won’t want to miss it!

Read the full post.

This Sunday, January 9th at 7pm, NBC Dateline will debut a new series called "The Hansen Files" featuring investigative reporter Chris Hansen. The first episode was done with the help of the Better Business Bureau to expose a nationwide scheme involving less than trustworthy air duct cleaning companies.

Read the full post.

These five holiday season scams are sure to steal your cheer. As you shop for your friends and family, look out for the common threats that BBB sees every year…

Read the full post.

According to recent investigations by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the amount of inaccurate charges added to cell phone bills is on the rise. The billing of hidden or unexpected charges is called bill “cramming” or bill “shock.” BBB wants you to know how to prevent these additional fees from popping up on your monthly statements.

Read the full post.

Identity theft continues to be a concern for consumers and businesses. That’s why BBB is offering you FREE shredding and recycling at the annual 2010 Fall Shred Day next month, as part of National Protect Your Identity Week (October 17-23, 2010).

Read the full post.

With today's announcement from Blockbuster that it has filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy, many consumers may wonder what this specifically means to them as a customer. The answer in this case is, not a whole lot. According to Blockbuster, their online and retail stores will remain open while the company attempts to restructure and reorganize to help alleviate the debt it has accumulated.

Read the full post.

Facebook users need to be careful about clicking links in status updates that say "OMG This GUY Went A Little To Far WITH His Revenge On His EX Girlfriend." It's a bait technique for a clickjacking attack that is making its way through thousands of profiles. Clickjacking occurs when someone clicks on a link which redicts them to a mechanism designed to register mouse clicks and spam your contacts. Here is what this one looks like:

Read the full post.

Employee fraud costs businesses $400 billion in annual losses, and 76% of frauds are committed internally by employees. To help businesses gain knowledge on how to reduce fraud in the workplace, BBB is hosting a Business Seminar on Fraud Prevention next week in the following locations:

Read the full post.

Recently we have sent a press release and appeared on local television stations to talk about scams that commonly target senior citizens. Just to show you the length scammers will go to, we received the following email last week from a concerned consumer whose neighbors were the target of a scam...

Read the full post.

While the main portion of the 2010 Census has been completed, there are still loose ends that need to be tied up. That being said, consumers may still be visited by a Census worker or see them about in their neighborhood. BBB wants consumers to be aware of the final phases the Cenus Bureau is undertaking to prevent any misunderstandings.

Read the full post.

BBB has received over 10 inquiries in the past week from consumers in the Corpus Christi area regarding timeshare opportunity meetings that seem to come with strings attached. Consumers called regarding flyers in their mailboxes promising free trips to Las Vegas or cheap round-trip airfare to those who came to a meeting at local hotels or restaurants.

Read the full post.

As many Americans are seeking employment, BBB is warning job-seekers to watch out for red flags of employment scams to avoid losing money and sensitive information. Do your research to conduct a safe, fruitful job search.

Read the full post.

Warmer weather in Central Texas is sure to have consumers thinking about summer plans. Whether you are looking to rent a vacation home or put your second home up for rent, Better Business Bureau is here with some advice to keep you from getting scammed.

Read the full post.

According to the Small Business Administration, over a recent 15-year period, small businesses created some 65 percent of the net new jobs in the private sector. As part of National Small Business Week, BBB reminds small business owners about free resources available online from BBB and several federal agencies to help them stay strong in a tough economy.

Read the full post.

Over the past few months, your BBB has continued to provide FREE professional speakers to area businesses and organziations looking for insight on a wide variety of topics we cover. Because of the overwhelming inquiries into this program, your BBB is proud to expand BBB Speakers Bureau to the following areas...

Read the full post.