This is the place to submit your questions as the forum is officially on hold for now.
I’m in the process of getting a F.A.Q. section installed at WorkAtHomeTruth which will also allow you to submit your questions.
I’ve decided to do this in place of the forum for now as it seemed like the forum was mostly being used for that purpose and I’m MUCH more likely to answer on the blog than in the forum.
You can post your questions here for now until I get the F.A.Q. section set up.
Thanks.
Note: This is page 4 of questions submitted. You can see previous questions and answers here:
Hello Paul Awesome site. I am totally blind have been sense birth, I have been using computers sense 1997. I am looking fore any help desk work, inbound call center work eg hotel resuvations or something no outbound stuff and general cs work possible phone answering work. is there anything from work at home sites that can provide this? keep up the awesome work. Hank
@hank smith: Thanks, Hank.
Here are a few on this site you might want to look:
If you find jobs by using the Telecommuting Tool, be sure you also follow The Rules here.
You might also consider taking a look at Virtual Vocations and grab a copy of the free ebook at IveTriedThat that they give to subscribers.
Paul, I am checking out the online business and I dont have the extra money to be ripped off. I was looking at My Home Wealth System by Scott Davenport, is it a scam or not? And I was also looking at this other one http://www.internetprofitsuccesssystem.com, is it a scam or not? I’m looking to make $2-5,000 a month to support my family while my boyfriend goes to school for a year and we dont have to struggle. Please help point me and my family in the right direction.
@Tiff: Tiff, probably the best choice for you would be Niche Blitzkrieg – you can get some free information about how it works here.
I’ve put out warnings about the other two you mentioned.
Click here to read about Internet Profit Success System along with customer feedback/complaints.
Click here to read about My Home Wealth System along with customer feedback/complaints.
Hello Paul,
I read through your site and didn’t find anything on this “business”.
I applied to a job offer on Craigslist. I was “hired” to do accounts payable. My “work” is to deposit a check in my checking account, keep 10% and forward the rest to what seems to be a legitimate business. Not to worry, I still have the check. I have no reason to believe this is not a scam but that is why I”m sending you this question. The “business” is “David’s Wedding Store”. The posting on Craigslist was ID 1633756512. I informed Craigslist of the results of the “application” before I received the check.
I would like to know if you have any information on “David’s Wedding Store”. If not, would it be something you could investigate?
I am already subscribed to your newsletter which I appreciate very much. Thank you.
I’m glad you checked with me first, Lola.
It is a payment processing scam (also known as Advance Fee fraud or an overpayment scam) which continues to be one of the biggest scams online and offline. You can read about how these scams work here:
This Scam Can Get You Arrested.
That post also discusses what to do if you want to help law enforcement attempt to catch the scammers.
The scary part is that unwitting victims of these scams can be criminally charged IF they deposit the check. While that rarely happens, it DOES happen from time to time.
Luckily you haven’t deposited the check.
Paul – let me start by echoing the sentiments of so many that have stopped by this blog via their search for success at making money onine. Your work and in-sights here are invaluable. Thanks!
I’ve been researching and contemplating Niche Blitzkrieg for some time now…even sat in on one of Michael’s webinars and got a few questions answered……was impressed. The only thing that would help me to seal my decision to move forward with this are some real life testimonials from real people that are using the system and seeing some success. I’ve seen several blogs from people that have purchased the product and have good things to say about the information layout, but they will end by saying something like “I haven’t made any money yet, but it’s a great product”….etc etc. Are there any success stories by people just like me that can be shared? I can’t speak for all the readers out there, but this would greatly help me in my contemplation of this. Again thanks for your time and your awesome efforts in bringing forth this great information.
@Allen: That’s an interesting question, because there are success stories, BUT the FTC has really cracked down on how testimonials can be used. In fact a lot of the testimonials you see around the web violate current FTC guidelines which actually make it almost impossible to use testimonials in many cases – even for the best products.
Here’s what the guidelines state:
“Under the revised Guides, advertisements that feature a consumer and convey his or her experience with a product or service as typical when that is not the case will be required to clearly disclose the results that consumers can generally expect. In contrast to the 1980 version of the Guides – which allowed advertisers to describe unusual results in a testimonial as long as they included a disclaimer such as “results not typical” – the revised Guides no longer contain this safe harbor.”
You can read the full guidelines here:
FTC Publishes Final Guides Governing Endorsements, Testimonials
Well, there is no way to say what people can “generally expect” with even the best training available – because so much of that depends on the actual person – their background, their level of discipline, their ability to persist, etc.
In order to comply with the FTC regulations data would have to be collected from thousands of customers and the customers would have to provide documented proof of their earnings (Property & Loss statements, etc.)
I do know that once you are a member that there are success stories that are shared. But keep in mind that when people share success stories ANYWHERE – even in a great forum like the Niche Blitzkrieg forum you have no way of knowing that they are being accurate or not.
I think the only place where you might be able to get documentable proof is if you were to invest in certain franchises where all those kind of records are automatically kept by the franchisor.
Thanks Paul for the info. Looking forward to getting in there, working hard, learning the ropes and reaping some good results from my efforts.
@Allen: You are welcome, Allen.
I’m not sure what to think of the FTC position – but I think testimonials and fake success stories have been abused so much in infomercials and online that it’s probably a good approach for them to take.
To Allen & Paul,
Like many others before me, i thought long and hard and researched extensively before committing to any programs due to their being so much to take in. After coming across this site and niche blitzkriegs reviews from many i decided to give it a crack. I have started and it is in my opinion evryhting it claims to be. i truly beleive i will get out of it what i put in, but it takes time to apply it all, but so does going to work every day for a living. its easy to get influenced by all the other stuff on the net. Im now ignoring everything until i complete niche blitzkrieg, best way to learn it quickly in my opinion. would you agree with this Paul ?
@Peter: Yes, Peter. I completely agree.
Niche Blitzkrieg will lay a great foundation for you that you can plug other knowledge from other systems into later on if you choose to do so.
1. Do I understand you that none of the”Top 3 Newbie Home
Based Systems” require that you pay for PPC advertising to success?
If you have to buy PPC for every $100 in sales how much do you
have to spend on adv?
Thanks, Jim
@jim fine: Jim, That’s correct.
None of the top 3 involve PPC advertising. 5 years ago PPC was really easy.
Now I don’t recommend people learn PPC marketing until they have $500 they can afford to lose while they are learning the ropes.
So I suggest they make money using other methods FIRST.
Hi, Paul,
I’ve just discovered your site, and I am sooooooo impressed. Your sincerity is refreshing! I have a bit of an issue. I suddenly find myself almost unemployed for the summer, although I have been doing whatever I can to generate some extra income. In my panic, I signed up for ICM Websites, but now that I’ve read some reviews, I think I’m going to attempt to cancel on Monday. But I’m really in need of some income! I know you recommend Niche Blitzkrieg for newbies like myself, but I need some quick cash, not a course that is going to take a long time to get through. I also took a look at your #2 Newbie Pick, Extra Income for All, and it seems like it might be a good fit for me. Affiliate marketing might be good, because I do have a few areas of interest that I would like to pursue. My only concern is that my advertising budget would be very limited. I don’t want to pay money that I can’t really afford for the training course and then find out that I need to spend a lot more for tools and advertising. Can a desparate and very financially challenged person like myself use Extra Income for All to make some quick income without spending a lot? Or do you have a different recommendation for someone in my circumstances?
Thanks!
Hi Sue,
Yes, ExtraIncomeForAll could be what you’re looking for. There are a lot of methods in ExtraIncomeForAll that don’t require that you spend any money.
Also, Niche Blitzkrieg focuses on free traffic methods. Your main expense is monthly hosting which will run you about $10.00/month and you will have an $8/year expense each time you set up a new website. But the hosting can host multiple websites so that won’t increase. There’s a couple optional low-cost tools (around $50 total) that you don’t need to start with and Michael shows how to do the steps without them.
What’s your background, though? Maybe there’s something more directly related to what you do that I can point you towards. The reason being is that the “quick cash” methods in ExtraIncomeForAll are for small amounts each typically. So if you are looking to do something like replace a job fast, really the only realistic solution for most people is to actually try to find another job – or find freelance work.
I know that’s easier said than done, but at least I can point you to the right places to look.
Hi Paul,
I’ve taken the time to read through a lot of your replies & comments and the first thing that springs to mind is how truly amazing it is that you reply to everyone!
I’ve been self-employed for quite some time now but decided to try my luck at making my living via the internet – tired of clients who don’t listen…
From the info you’ve been providing, I decided to use Niche Blitzkrieg first and once I’m more proficient, contact Kyle & Carson from Wealthy Affiliate and double-up with their program.
If you don’t mind, I’ll be keeping you updated on my successes (hopefully no failures) – I think anyone who succeeds using your help should show their appreciation by giving you the feedback on how they go there!!
@Mark: Thanks Mark. Yes, I love hearing success stories.
hello I found this on google http://makemoney.surfmoney.com/ is this home based business a scam? thanks Hank
@hank smith: Looks extremely questionable – not to mention that the site is making blatantly illegal income claims – at least if they are targeting U.S. citizens they are. I’d stay FAR away from that.
hello this group is the apsilute bomb I am trying to find a perticular line of phone work its phone answering service I didn’t find anything under phone jobs does any such lajit beast ixist? also what about outfits to help some one who has ideas start there own business? these are 2 things I have been looking fore. your site is the one I go to now fore checking aggenst companies fore lajit or not thanks fore all your good help. god bless Hank
@hank smith: Hank, if you mean invention promotion companies, be EXTREMELY careful. Is that what you mean?
If you mean general business advice, there are actually a lot of sharp people who hang out at Community.Business.Gov
As far as phone work, you might take a look at virtualvocations.com as well as the free ebook put out by IveTriedThat.com for their newsletter subscribers.
hello this is a good starting point and this is what I was looking fore. as far as the invention promotion companies are you aware of any lajit ones out there? will also give these other sites a look at as well hanks Hank
@hank smith: Hank, I would start here at the site called InventorFraud.com here which will help you avoid Invention Promotion company fraud and point you to better resources (see the “Good Guys” link.
Hi,
Just wondering if the following is legitimate:
http://www.worldofpaidsurveys.com/index.php
There is apparently a flat $25 joining fee to join & register to complete online surverys for companies. It states that the companies pay you directly. It also states that you can complete the paid surverys no matter where you live in the world – I do not live in USA and am just concerned as there is no way to contact them except via an online form..
@Sap: Sap, no. I would suggest you get the real information about paid surveys for FREE at SurveyPolice.com
I’m considering NB but I’m not sure about one thing. From the video I saw, Michael said that first you do keyword research, then you build your website based off the research results. How is it that one blog’s about something that they may know nothing about? What I mean is if it comes out that the keyword research reveals a popular searched for product, how can you blog about it if you know nothing about it? Thanks
@Kim: Kim, one thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t hard-core blogging. You are typically providing details about products. Michael shows how to do very simple research to put together very basic blog posts – which is all you need for this type of blogging, because the competition for the keywords is quite low.
For example, one of the niches Michael has been is the toy Marshmallow Gun niche – and some people look for specific types or brands of Marshmallow guns – and getting the information needed to write about those is quite either – either through company articles, product specs or through other sources that Michael goes through.
I’m trying to understand what you mean by niche market. I googled “marshmallow toy gun” and there were 28 pages of links to websites selling this product. How do you compete with that? Sorry if I’m naive, but I’m just doing my due diligence. Thanks so much.
@Kim: Kim, you may want to watch this video presentation from the creator of the Niche Blitzkrieg system:
Video Presentation from the creator of the Niche Blitzkrieg system
I would like to know if this system is MAC compatible.
Paul,
What do you think of Dean Holland and Adam Spiel’s turbotrafficsystem.com?
Hi Garden Gal,
I’m sorry to say I don’t know it.
Hello I have a couple of business I found online was wanting to know if you have heard good or bad things about them. 1. panthermobile, 2. tviexpress have you heard good or bad things about these 2 companies? Hank
Can you confirm if http://www.higherimpactonline.com is a scam? Their address is 550 West Baseline Road, Suite 102-268
Mesa, Arizona 85210
@Renee Bergner: Avoid HigherImpactOnline.com – it is essentially a rebirth of Web Wealth Strategies which you can read about here:
Web Wealth Strategies Online at the BBB.
Note: NEVER take BBB reports at face value – there are A LOT of problems with the BBB in my (and many other peoples’) opinions. However, if you see a pattern of non-responsiveness as you do with this company than it is a HUGE red flag.
Hi Paul
First off, I would like to thank you for the prompt responses you have given to comments sent by people who are trying to find ways of making money online. Thank you!
I have been reading most of the posts left by concerned people who are trying to avoid being scammed. The online business that I have been contemplating is the ‘Google Cash Detective’. I have read the information that you have provided on your website, but I am still none the wiser insofar as clarification on the Google Cash Detective. You don’t seem to include this one in your top 10 online home businesses. I am confused. Could you please clarify if the Google Cash Detective is a legitimate online business that people could make money from?
If it is legitimate, then does this software do what the owner, Chris Carpenter, states it does? Also, I have viewed some of the videos from the free video tutorial narrated by a French man who introduced himself, it sounded like he said his name is Peter, but I did not get his surname due to his strong French accent. Are these videos related to the Google Cash Detective?
The information and training given in the free tutorial videos look and sound amazing, and did give me the notion that the marketing techniques that the French man was demonstrating could actually work insofar as making a substantial amount of money. I am thinking of buying, but first I want to make sure with you Paul that this online business software and techniques it uses is not just a load of nonsense. Could you please give me your verdict?
I am trying, with some help from you Paul, not to be fooled by a scam. That’s why I have come to your website. Please advise…
Thanks Paul for your cooperation
Let me start this out by saying that I made my first good money online based on the principals of the ORIGINAL Google Cash course MANY years ago – however there are many things that have changed since then that make succceeding with PPC Marketing much harder – even with tools like Google Cash Detective.
I should also say that at one point a lengthy quote and picture of me was used as a testimonial for their product WITHOUT my permission. While that shouldn’t be a deciding factor it should at least be considered when considering the integrity of the people you will be learning from.
I didn’t test Google Cash Detective after the first incarnation because I and many others had such a horrible experience with not only the software, but also with getting refunds on a product that didn’t work as claimed.
That being said, I do believe the software is now functioning properly.
The reason I don’t recommend ANY PPC marketing for most people starting out is because it is much riskier than it used to be – even with the tools. If you have at least $500 – $1,000 you can afford to lose while learning the ropes of PPC along with the money required for the tools, then it can be an “OK” way to start.
I would highly recommend you read the following report:
The Spy Tool Conspiracy
Another site you might want to test drive BEFORE taking the plunge into Google Cash Detective is PPC Coach. They have a $14 trial for $1. I’ve not reviewed the membership myself, but I’ve read a lot of information by the owner of the site and he knows what he’s talking about.
Within the 14 days I think you will get a GREAT sense of a lot of different approaches to PPC and will be able to get important feedback on the reality of using spy tools like Google Cash Detective, Keyword Spy, SpyFu and the MANY other tools that are out there.
Spy Tools really are NOT for complete newbies – you really have to understand enough about PPC marketing to be able to interpret the data correctly.
Hi, I know this might sound like a stupid question since everyone seems to be interested in some sort of marketing, but I was wondering if there is something out there for a total beginner that really doesn’t want anything to do with marketing at this time. I love to type but I don’t have any profession in it. Would like something where the income depends on the time you put into it, which I have alot of.I need something simple where I can make a good income in a short amount of time to help my family keep my house out of foreclosure. Thank you for any suggestions you may have and keep this page going for it is very informative and enjoy reading from you
@Melinda: Melinda, look for quick income is often a recipe for getting scammed – however, I would suggest the following for you:
And of course if you find something but aren’t sure if it’s legit, you can always ask me to take a look at it for you.
Hello I posted this a while back didn’t see any responses do any of you know if liberty international is a reputal company to go with are they lajit?
Hi Paul, Just wanted to say thank you for giving me some ideas to look into. Haven’t had much luck with anyone giving me a honest answer to any questions I have had. I will look into all that you have suggested and thank you again for your time and suggestions
Hi Paul, first of all…I want to thank you for being here for all of us! Your insight, tests, and research I know has saved a lot of us searching for legit online businesses!
My question(s) to you for now are….how much do you know about Jeff Paul with “Internet Profits Network”? I have come to the conclusion, and pls correct me if I’m wrong, that overall he is a scammer. Then sometimes he’ll throw something out there that really sounds good!?! The most recent being a “program” for newbies. Basically Internet Marketing 101. He claims pretty much everything is done for you….yada yada, if you know what I mean. I can get the link to that site if will help, just let me know.
Also, I’m wondering what you may know about an Affiliate Marketing program called “Carbon Copy Pro”? Jay Kubbaseck(Kubbasak ?sp)is the Founder.
One more thing. I’m a nurse, however due to health problems as well as burn out, I have been DESPERATLY trying to find a legit work at home business that will supplement the income I am accustomed to making as a nurse. Which between $3800-$4200 a month. I don’t have to “get rich” (but would be nice), but just something I can do from home FULLTIME, and due to almost 2 yrs of unemployment = broke, it would need to be VERY low, or no start up fees(which I realize that’s not likely).
Any help, advice you can give me will be very much appreciated. Mr. Brown, jump in one this one if you would like to. Oh, and just FYI, I’m published with some of my poetry, and I’m an aspiring Novelist/Author. So if there are Blogs that pay well or any other “writing” jobs you know of, pls let me know!
Thank you so much,
Seliece D.
@Seliece D.: I don’t really know much about Carbon Copy Pro other than what I’ve read in forums like this one where it seems as if you really need around $2,500 to get started.
You can read a bit about Jeff Paul in this Federal Trade Commission injunction against his company here
If you are a writer you have a talent that is incredibly valuable online – although the type of writing typically won’t be the creative writing that would be your ideal.
I would highly recommend you join the forum at AbsoluteWrite.com if you haven’t already.
I also helped put this resource together for writers:
Make Money Writing For The Web – the resources under Freelance Jobs and Additional Jobs For Writers would be the sections you want – as well as the video series at the bottom.
I think you’re best bet is going to be to combine revenue you can generate from writing along with affiliate marketing using a system like Niche Blitzkrieg (there are a lot of good niche marketing systems – the reason I’ve picked Niche Blitzkrieg is because there aren’t any monthly charges for the forum which most others charge for and because support there is SO good).
Hi Paul,
I got an email from this site today. At the bottom of their page are 3 recommended sites:
Approved Program #1: Key Jobs Online System (This is the one most recommended)
http://www.keyjobsonline.com/today/
Approved Program #2: OvernightProfitSystem.com
http://www.overnightprofitsystem.com/welcome.php
Approved Program #3: TheAutoPilotSystem.com
http://www.theautopilotsystem.com/welcome.php
The first site looks interesting. Are any of these sites legitimate business opportunities?
Chris
Chris – I don’t know the procucts, but there are HUGE red flags on ALL of their sales pages. I had actually just written them all up for you, but my browser crashed.
It’s really late here, so I’ll write them up again tomorrow when I wake up.
Noticed that a few people asked you about the legitimation of the Dana Glover Postcard system, and you gave no answer (at least I did not see one). I have joined, but would like to know if her advertising is really true. Really trying to find something to do from hom that does not cost a arm and leg to get into. Don’t really want to call people and give a sales spill, did that with AmeriPlan, that was a bust. Do you have any suggestions. thks
Hi Beatrice,
I’ve answered questions about postcard marketing in a few places. What people don’t understand is how complicated postcard marketing or any form of direct mail actually is. What I suggest for them to do is to grab a copy of something like Ed Nash’s Direct Marketing and read the section on Direct Marketing probability tables and confidence levels to understand your risks.
I believe if you follow the following link you should be able to see at least a portion of that section of the book:
Ed Nash discusses Direct Marketing probability tables
As far as recommendations – the course that has gotten tremendous feedback from people who visitor WorkAtHomeTruth is
Micahel Brown’s Niche Blitzkrieg. I think a lot of them weren’t used to someone telling them things like “yes, you have to
work at it” – “you have to be patient” – “you need to stick with it” – etc. and it was a refreshing experience for them
to hear something other than “you’ll make a gazillion dollars overnight”.
He does webinar presentations to explain how he teaches and to answer people’s questions. You can see one of the
recorded webinar’s here if you like:
Michael Brown’s webinar presentation
Hi Paul,
I just recieved this money making opportunity with data entry work, can you give me some feedback please as the website looks very proffesionsl. http://p1.fr/Click-Here-For-More-Information
cheers James
James,
I would RUN from that. I try to drive people away from ridiculous hype, but people keep falling for the make $40,000 in one month without any experience type sales pitches.
I did notice that they claim that they “made the news” on eMediaWire which is completely bogus – as eMediaWire is a press release site where companies submit their own press releases.
They claim that you don’t need any experience for the data entry positions they claim to list – for most of those you definitely do need experience. For the ones that you don’t need experience you will be competing for work with people in the Phillipines and India who are willing to work for $1/hour to $2/hour – I have a friend in the Phillipines who told me that some people she knows actually work for $2/day sometimes.
The product itself looks like it consists of affiliate marketing training and since the company appears to be out of California would be potentially violating Federal Trade Commission Earnings Disclaimer regulations.
It uses the Scam-X “seal of approval” which is generally considered laughable.
It does seem to have a valid WebAssured seal until July 27, 2010 which means that you’d potentially be able to get Web Assured to arbitrate any dispute you would have with the company – at least until July 27, 2010.
If you’re interested in finding data entry work or typing work you are going to have a really hard, if not impossible time because of the issues I mentioned above.
If you are interested in affiliate marketing, I suggest you read this presentation to understand what it’s really all about.
Hi All,
i read this site a lot, and i know when ya new its great to have a champion like Paul with all the answers (should be knighted). But trust me when i say this ” if it sounds too good to be true and unbeleivably awesome, it is definitely a load of crap” ive been looking for years like many others. The one thing all of us would agree on is that there is great money and opportunity online, but only if you work for it. It will not land in your lap. Save yourself a heap of time and frustration and just pick one that you think suits you and give it your all, thats how every single one of these online millionaires did it. If im wrong anywhere here, please feel free to tell me Paul, or anyone else for that matter.
Thanks, Peter.
That’s a great way of putting it.
Does anybody know anything about Tom Bell Fast Profit Pages. Sounds promising, but not sure. Have seen so much about online businesses,not really sure to commit to anything. Any kind of info would be appreciated. Thanks.
Gerald,
I haven’t had a chance to learn about Tom Bell’s product. I can tell you that he’s a smart guy – I heard him speak once a long time ago and was impressed. However, I can’t really give you much more info than that right now.
Hi Paul… I have been following your blogs for a while now, I also do some research about what I have read…wrt Tom Bell on the previous forum, I found this http://promotedprofits.com/tom-bell/
it also has a similar article about Shawn Casey (Tom’s partner for the next product launch??) I am unsure of the reputation of promoted profits, but I do have one comment: If you (promoted profits) write articles with links, promotions and ratings about individuals and their companies, the very least you could do is use spell check… I found too many grammar and selling mistakes to feel comfortable about the article or it’s writer!!
Thanks, Si!
Interesting – I really do not like the products Shawn Casey puts out. And while I respect Tom Bell based on what I’ve learned from him I would be EXTREMELY reluctant to point anyone in his directions – and I’m surprised that he and Tom Bell are working together.
There seems to be a close association between Jeff Paul and Shawn Casey. Shawn Casey gives a testimonial on one of Jeff Paul’s infomercials (which in my opinion is presented a bit oddly) and at one point included Jeff Paul’s materials in the free version of his “Business-in-a-Box”. And while certainly someone isn’t necessarily “guilty by association” the recent FTC filings against against Jeff Paul here make me incredibly reluctant to ever consider sending anyone Shawn Casey’s direction. Although I guess we don’t need the FTC to point out to us that Jeff Paul’s infomercial’s are ridiculous.
Now, that doesn’t necessarily mean Tom Bell’s product is bad – again he’s a smart guy from what I can tell – but my concern would be Shawn Casey’s involvement.
But, I can’t really give any definitive answers without seeing the actual product/program
Hi Paul, Upon further research, I have found this article… http://www.ripoffreport.com/computer-marketing-companies/tom-bell/tom-bell-flat-out-liar-don-t-75326.htm
Also at the bottom of that article is this link… http://www.ripoffreport.com/computer-fraud/todayican-com-princi/todayican-com-principal-mr-t-ma7c4.htm which dates back to 2004.
I know you strongly caution your followers with very strong advice about some companies, and even the government agencies, that in my opinion are doing their best, but just can’t keep up with the volume of inquiries… I suspect it will be a long time before internet policing will be able to take care of fraud artists, as it is a virtual, almost invisible world in cyberland. It just seems way too easy for the fakes…
Reminds me of a Company that submitted fake prospectus reports to the stock exchange and were then granted status. They were then allowed to sell IPOs (Initial Public Offer) of stocks. The stocks were a small amount ($4/share), to raise capital for the (fake paper and samples) prospectus report venture…needless to say frenzy ensued, stock value climbed 10-fold, and many people lost it all… (when the fraud was revealed the Government also took some responsibility for failing to follow some of their basic rules for upstart companies on the exchange)…was a big story and changed the future of trading… (I know the company name but will not put it here, but if you search for Mining Stock Scams 1996-7…
Cheers
Awesome, Si!
Thanks for the help.
I think the problem in a lot of cases is that just because someone might be a smart marketer doesn’t necessarily mean they are an ETHICAL marketer.
I”m a beta tester for your company and i”m trying to montoir my account to see if anybody log on to buy any product to see if i made any money.
Darryl,
You’re posting to the wrong website. There are no beta testers here.
Thanks Paul and Si for the heads-up on Tom Bell. Another inquiry about Tyler Koling Quick Profit Formula,not really sure what it is,but curious. Would really like to find a way to make money online but don’t really know how to go about it. Thanks again and look forward to your input.
@Gerald: Gerald, I did a lengthy write-up of MULTIPLE red-flags in the Quick Profit Formula sales page here
Hello Paul:
I do need extra cash, but am not so desperate as to lose my money in a scam. I would like your opinion on an email I keep receiving over and over regarding how to create a website online that sells other companies products and once you set it up using their system (Bill Killer System), you can go to bed at night and wake up and find you’ve made money doing nothing. He claims he quit his job to do this.
Will you check it out as I don’t see any category except Internet Marketing that it would be in.
Many thanks,
Anita R.
@Anita: Anita, I did a long write-up of Your Bill Killer and many of it’s related sites here:
Internet-Scam-Review.com – No Thanks!
The current version of Your Bill Killer is on a site called MakeGreatIncome.com – I did a write-up of that site here pointing out 3 major red flags:
MakeGreatIncome.com sales page review including (and I kid you not) the creator of the product giving HIMSELF a testimonial!
Hi Paul-
Just wondering if you have free time this weekend. Of course Ernie has to work Saturday but Sunday might work for us. Also check out my blog !! Its an occasional thing I’ve been doing. Do think I could make money online ? I’m looking for some extra income to help pay for a car we just bought.
http://joysjumblings.blogspot.com
@Joy: Hi Joy,
Yes, let’s talk about that this weekend.
Hi Paul, I don’t want to ruin your weekend but thought I would share this tidbit of information with you and your readers…(you may have already wrote or investigated this one!)
I was recently catching a little late-night tube and an infomercial came on. It was set up like “The Veiw” with 4 women hosting (a “Playboy Playmate”, a suitcase opener from “Deal or No Deal”, a lady from “The Apprentice”…) and Kevin Trudeau was the guest with his new book “Free Money – …”
I did some searching and found a few stories…none of them seem to be very flatering for Mr. Trudeau…this link is about the previous criminal side and FTC actions (pending as well??)
http://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2010/02/irate-judge-orders-tv-pitchman-to-court-after-e-mail-deluge.html
He is also listed on Wikipedia, and I found this next one a good read…
http://hubpages.com/hub/Is-Kevin-Trudeaus-Free-Money-for-Real-or-a-Scam
One comment on that site is this: “Before reaching 30, Kevin Trudeau was already a twice convicted felon serving time in a Federal penitentiary. He had posed as a doctor to gain credibility with bank officials, deposited $80,000 in fraudulent checks and misappropriated (for personal use) $128,000 from customer credit cards. After being released from prison, Trudeau got caught running an illegal pyramid scheme. Under investigation by 18 state Attorney Generals and the U.S. Postal Service, he was stopped from doing business and fined a half million dollars – a drop in the bucket to the millions he had made at the expense of others. He then became king of the late night TV infomercials, selling worthless products by playing on people’s hope for a “miracle” cure. By the mid 90’s, he was in trouble again. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) began successfully prosecuting him for fraudulent infomercials ripping off millions of people for millions of dollars.
Let’s see Trudeau for what he really is – a criminal sociopath without any moral responsibility, conscience or remorse. Sure he’s charming, but don’t let him CON you. Don’t buy his book. Don’t subscribe to his newsletter. Those are the facts”
Then there is some “guilty by association with Kevin Trudeau and Jeff Pauls” similarities in book product… http://themonetizer.blogspot.com/2009/03/jeff-pauls-shortcuts-to-internet.html
It is absolutely amazing to me that even after the criminal past and charges against some of these “artists”, they are back at it without missing a beat… in other countries, if you get those types of charges against you and do jail time etc…part of your rehabilitation is a complete ban from even partaking in the “business” that you broke the law with in the first place…some for X# of years, some for life (Pete Rose and betting on Baseball???!!!)
Some of these “make money on the internet” border very close to those pyramid scams of the 80′s!
Any comments or advice for your loyals???
Si,
You’re not reading my weekend at all. I really appreciate you helping everyone out here.
I’ve been stunned by Kevin Trudeau.
The problem traditionally has been that all the FTC will do is order a cease & desist or
fines, etc. and has traditionally almost NEVER given any jail time.
That’s starting to change a bit, but we’ll see how aggressive the FTC gets.
That will solve part of the problem, but we will still be flooded with scams because:
1) Law Enforcement doesn’t have enough resources
2) There are criminal networks that are VERY good at hiding their identities operating
across multiple jurisdictions to make it very difficult for law enforcement to bring down
the whole network.
I wrote about that here:
Digging Deeper Into Hidden Negative Option Scams
Recently purchased The Rich Janitor, was immediately requested to purchase another $197 package of stuff that I had no clue what it was! Didn’t buy, realize I am a complete newbie, but just didn,t understand what it is. Also have e-mailed them for some info. No reply. Don,t really know how to even get started! He advertised it as being as easy as sending an e-mail but obviously it is not! Will probably request a refund, hopefully that will be as simple as it sounds! Would like to know if you have any information on William Weeks or Simple Wealth Solutions. Don,t know who else to ask questions about this c**p so hopefully I can get an honest answer from you!
Gerald,
It looks like that Rich Janitor product is sold through ClickBank.
If you bought within the past 60 days you can get a refund by following the instructions here:
http://www.workathometruth.com/Clickbank-product-recommended.php
In general it sounds like you’re looking for some way to make easy money by doing very little work. I can’t help you there. That’s not what this site is about.
Paul, I appreciate your reply but is definately not the case. I am willing to do whatever it takes to build some sort of online business as long as it is within the realm of my understanding or something I can learn as I go. Hopefully I haven’t left the wrong impression as far as just wanting something that I don’t have to work for. Would still like to know if you have any info on William Weeks or Simple Wealth Solution. Again, appreciate any input you might have. Thanks in advance for your help!
Paul, don’t want to leave the impression that I just want something just handed to me. I am willing to do whatever it takes to build some type of online income, as long as it is understandable to a newbie like me. Would still like to know if you have any info on William Weeks or Simple Wealth Solution. Thank you for your patience and input. Look forward to your reply.
Gerald,
I looked into Simple Wealth Solution.
It appears to be controlled by the same company that controls many of the sites on this warning I put out:
183 Websites To Avoid
I’ve added it to the end of that page – you’ll see how I connected it in that write-up.
William Weeks seems to be involved in Carbon Copy Pro. That’s out of my area of expertise as it seems to either be network marketing or some variation of network marketing.
You might check http://www.mlmhelpdesk.com
Also, you can check This Banned Programs list. If it’s on there then there’s very likely an issue with it. But if it’s not on there it means it’s either OK or it hasn’t been reviewed by the people who compile that list.
Hi Paul,
Thank you for all of the valuable information on your site! I have learned so much in the very short time that I have spent reading the comments.
I was wondering about some work from home options. I don’t want to get rich quick or even make a ton of money, all I want is an opportunity to stay at home with my children and while bringing in extra money to help my family. I am more than willing to put in the time and energy, I just don’t know where to start or who to trust. What do you know about work from home medical billing and coding opportunities, or any othere ideas you might have? I appreciate any advice you can give me! Thank you for your time!
Hi, that’s a bit outside the area of my expertise – but I can tell you that Medical Billing scams continue to be one of the top scams of all time – however not ALL of them are scams – I would suggest you check out http://www.katieshugs.com – you’ll see a link to the messageboard she’s on.
Hi Paul, long time no chat…
I was wondering if you had any information on these “Mystery Shoppers” of late. I have read your previous site info/articles, and even clicked on a link from your site (the Ads by Google link) to http://www.mysteryshopperscanada.org/
Is it now legitimate that they ask you to “Join” their site for $30 to get links to sites of companies looking for mystery shoppers? (Sounds like you still have to sell yourself to work for that company)
I have investigated one mystery shopper type site… it was part time work for the food service industry, and the requirements were for you to obtain samples of food, beverages etc. and the package and send them to a lab for testing agaiinst National Standards/Laws etc. That one is actually legit (although does not pay much in comparison to what is advertised on the above link) But it was a legitimate laboratory conducting testing and reporting to the regulatory authority (from what I could tell) – they advertised on workopolis.
Is there something suspect to paying money to join something like the link above…
As always your comment/opinion would be much appreciated.
Regards,
Si
Well, looks like I might have to look at taking off Adsense ads again. I had taken them down because of stuff like this, then they seemed to have cleaned up their act, but now it looks like they are getting worse again.
So, no. I can’t recommend that.
You should only use http://www.mysteryshop.org
Thanks for the catch, Si.
I’ve been thinking of putting a “Trusted Ad” zone in the place of Adsense where I pick the adverts.
Thanks Paul,
I do not know if a “Trusted Ad” would work for you either…the Ad could be trusted when you put it up through your site, but as we both know, site owners can change their site or affiliae with another company at the drop of a hat, and suddenly the policy of “Free this or that” can quickly become “Join our site for X $, and you will get …”
I suppose if you put up “trusted ads”, as long as they were trusted and marked trusted on a specific date, then if someone links through your page they could always report it back to you?
I am not saying there is anything wrong with nominal fees etc. if in fact everything about what they advertise is still truthful, but my radar switches on when the money comes out before the product is presented, or the method of “how” the earnings will transpire.
Like you, I have researched some of the names of people from such-a-place they claim made $2400/month. The latest one I found was a “Jessica Holcomb from Winnipeg that made 7500 month working from home”… Funny thing is that surname does not exist in any of the white pages/411′s I have searched for Winnipeg, the facebook link they provide does not work (or is suspended) and in fact that surname is only listed 37 times in all of Canada!
buyer beware…
Cheers, enjoy your weekend.
Si
You’re right, Si.
Dating it would be important. I’ve run into that on more than one occasion here where I had to pull down products I had recommended in the past.
Yes, Jessica Holcomb is the new popular fake person – we’ve gone through Mary Steadman, Maria Steadman, Kelly Richards, Jessica Holcomb and many more of these famous fake people now. I don’t think Jessica was around yet when I made this video though:
Paul, I am sure you have seen this site before, another one like yours, you can look for the Jessica Holcomb scam here, and if you read throughthe posts…she lives everywhere!
http://richinwriters.com/my-cash-printer-scam/
Si
Yep, I’ve seen that site.
I did a post back in April of 2009 called “Robert’s Cash Blog” travels the world that talks about the same thing:
http://www.workathometruth.com/blog/2009/04/26/robertscashblog-travels-the-world/