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Rules, Scams, Spam, and Abuse from Bornagain.com Users

Internet Spam, Abuse, Account Suspension

Internet SCAMS

1. Assume that any business transaction through the internet is a scam, unless you have detailed verification that it is legitimate. Never trust a business just because it has an email account through Bornagain.com !!!
   
   
2. NEVER send money to a potential seller of goods or services using Western Union or Money Gram. Many scams for merchandise (like puppies) ask for payment by Western Union.
   
   
3. NEVER accept payment (if you are a seller) for more than the asking price. A common scam is to overpay for an item, and then ask you to refund the difference. The scam works when they cash your refund check, and the check they send you fails. Always wait for checks to clear your bank, which may take a week or more. A check has not "cleared" when you cash it at your bank. Ask your bank when the check clears.
   
   
4. NEVER buy items, or invest in things that appear "to good to be true". They are almost always scams.
   
   
5. NEVER assume that somebody using a Bornagain.com address is reputable. A number of scammers state that they are ministers or missionaries. They use the Bornagain.com address to gain your confidence (this is why it is called a "con game", since they plead on your symphathies and try to gain your confidence).
   
   
6. ALWAYS ask for multiple contact points. A reputable dealer will ALWAYS give you a telephone number, a postal address (standard mail), and other references. Even if they do supply multiple contact methods, never assume they are reputable.
   
   
7. The law requires a U.S.D.A license to breed, exhibit or sell exotic animals. Ask the dealer to supply you with copies of their license, and then check that license with the USDA. Almost all transactions involving exotic animals on the Internet are scams.
   
   
8. Use an escrow service, like www.Escrow.com, or www.PuppyEscrow.com for payments. DO NOT use an escrow service that is not well known. DO NOT use an uncommon escrow service suggested by the seller (or buyer). Consider using www.Paypal.com for payments, and make the seller guarantee receipt of goods.
   
   
9. Transactions that are international (i.e., between a seller in Africa and the USA) are frequently fraudulent, and are impossible to track when their is trouble.
   
   
10. Check a dealer's reputation with the Better Business Bureau, www.BBB.org
    
    
11. Request a personalized photo of the item you are purchasing. For example, ask them to send a photo that includes something in the picture that YOU request, like a picture of a dog next to the latest newspaper with recent headlines. Do NOT let the seller suggest what to put in a personalized photo. Do NOT accept excuses for not supplying a photo. This is helpful, but not foolproof, since photos can be faked.

Filing a Complaint with the FBI

1. The Fraud Complaint Center (IFCC) was established by the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center. You can file an on-line complaint with the IFCC by going to www.ifccfbi.gov.
   
   
2. A good source of information on avoiding Internet scams can be found on the Federal Trade Commission's website at www.ftc.gov/bcp/menu-internet.htm . The FTC has a toll free hotline: 877-FTC-HELP (877-382-4357)
   
   
3. The Internet Complaint Center is another good place to file a complaint, www.ic3.gov