Sundae Station
is not a real business
opportunity. This ad is a fake,
posted by the Federal Trade Commission
to warn consumers to think twice before sinking
their money into what might be a rip-off.

Some ads like this take consumers' cash up front and then fail to
deliver on their promises of big profits. If you're thinking of investing in
a business opportunity based in or out of your home, what can you do to spot
potentially fraudulent offers?

• Steer clear of promotions that promise big money for little effort. Fraudulent ads use similar
  bait: Fast cash. Minimal work. No risk. And the advantage of being your own boss or working from home.



• Check the paperwork carefully. The law requires business promoters to give you a disclosure document before
  you sign a contract or pay a fee. Read it closely. If the promoter doesn't make this document readily available, it's
  a sign that it may be a scam.



• Talk to current investors. Visit their businesses in person and ask questions - lots of them.
  Be aware of "shills," people who are paid to lie for the promoter. Get professional advice if you
  need it. Don't lose your life savings just because you didn't spend a few hundred dollars to talk
  to a lawyer, accountant or other expert.

Before you buy into any business opportunities, check out the FTC's publications on
business opportunities and this Biz-Opps E-card.