Pamphlet warns against latest scams

For a free copy of "Small Businesses Targeted by Big Scams: How to Survive Scams, Schemes and Techno-Frauds!," write to Call For Action, 5272 River Rd., Suite No. 300, Bethesda MD 20816 or call 1-800-647-1756.

The eight-page pamphlet has information and tips on scams involving phone service, office equipment and supplies, advance fee loans, the Internet and business opportunities.Among the suggestions:

--Always check invoices and credit-card statements carefully before paying.

--Check out online companies before paying for merchandise or services. Ask for the company's physical address.

--Avoid making a decision on the spot about any deal. If it's legitimate, it will be there tomorrow.

--Get a copy of the FTC Franchise Rule before signing any franchise agreement. Write to FTC, Washington, D.C. 20580. The FTC's Web site is www.ftc.gov.

The Better Business Bureau offers these tips:

--Make sure invoices are handled in one place and keep tabs on how many people are authorized to pay them.

--Before paying a publication for advertising space, get verifiable circulation figures, details of publication dates, name(s) of publishers, number of paid subscribers and sample copies.

--Find out the full name, address and purpose of any charity that asks for a donation, and ask for a copy of its latest financial statements. Make checks payable to the charity itself, not to an individual solicitor.