Fraud/Scams

Everyone loves a good deal, and scammers know it. Counterfeit coupons are a popular way for scammers to steal your identity and money. These fake deals are tricking consumers on websites, social media platforms, and in texts and email inboxes. ...

Better Business Bureau® Serving Greater Cleveland (BBB®) has released its local Top Ten Scams of 2024, compiled from reports by residents of Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain and Ashtabula counties. The continued influences of steady inflation and the changing dynamics of the job market played a large part in how scammers chose to target their victims. ...

When contacting rental car companies to book a rental, make sure you're talking with the right person. BBB Scam Tracker is receiving reports of con artists impersonating rental car company representatives. They claim to be able to get you a deal on your rental, but trick you into paying hundreds of dollars for a car that doesn’t exist. ...

If you are changing your Medicare or Healthcare.gov coverage during open enrollment, watch out for unsolicited calls claiming to "help" you find the best deal. Unfortunately, scammers see this open enrollment period as a chance to trick people out of money and personal information. ...

Have you received an alarming notice in the mail regarding an expiring home warranty? These notices vary in style, but the messages are the same, urging recipients to “call IMMEDIATELY” and that the letter is a “FINAL ATTEMPT TO NOTIFY.” But they are fakes. ...

Area consumers are still cleaning up tree limbs and other debris from recent storms. Over 400,000 residents lost power as the wind speeds topped 86 miles per hour. Many reported downed trees and flash flooding. With severe widespread property damage a concern, Better Business Bureau® Serving Greater Cleveland (BBB®) is warning area homeowners to beware of “storm chasers” and out-of-town contractors soliciting business. ...

Since 2023, consumers across the U.S. have contacted the BBB after attempting to purchase assorted household goods from a company named “Beauty Suppliers," which claims to be headquartered in Cleveland. Consumers complain that they have paid for, but never received, items ranging from everything from spiced tea mix to deodorant to car tires. Further, the company allegedly provides fake tracking numbers and charges ambiguous purchase fees. ...

A locally-based company specializing in stovetop accessories has generated complaints from consumers nationwide. Stove Guard, headquartered in Seven Hills, sells stovetop protection mats. Most complaints concern delays in delivery and refund issues for ill-fitting mats. ...