How To Spot An Online Scam

November 17, 2006

Now I must state that these are merely my own suggestions. So do not think that all websites that fulfil the following criteria are scams. This is when your sixth sense comes in handy.

1. No Contact Info

This is probably the most important factor in helping you decide if it’s a scam. A real business or marketer would list their contact details because it creates trust. Also they know that some potential customers may have some questions answered before they buy and they would want to help answer those queries.

2. No Opt-in box

By this, I’m referring to the box which asks for your name and contact details. Most people are reluctant to part with their email addresses. They think that if a website asks for their email address, they will get spammed. However, do not fret as I’ve personally signed up for tons of mailing lists and have never gotten spammed once. Nowadays, it’s easy to complain against spam so anyone serious about their online business will not dare to spam.

All real marketers will have an opt-in box. It’s a must. If there’s no opt-in box, it shows that he doesn’t plan to follow up. All he wants is you to buy his stuff and then never to contact him again.

Hence, instead of getting suspicious when a website asks for your email address, be thankful that business owner bothers to follow up.

3. Alexa Ranking

Alexa has a system for ranking the popularity of web pages based on the total traffic they generate. You can get the toolbar here. Follow the simple steps to install it on your web browser. Nonetheless, having a low Alexa rating does not necessarily mean the website is a scam. As some websites are new, it’s Alexa rating is naturally low. But you can roughly gauge though.

4. Watch Out For Websites Which Exaggerates Its Income Potential

Now, don’t start thinking that every website which claims that it can earn you a potential amount of income is a scam. Most home- based opportunities websites, if not all, will boast of its earnings. But still, many are genuine. However, take note of websites which display pictures of houses and cars in order to show off their wealth. Because there’s no proof that these belong to the website owner.

Most website owners like to display their cheques. While most are genuine, some are doctored. Nonetheless, if you’ve been on the internet marketing industry for long, you will know who the reputable marketers are. For starters, some of the reputable marketers include Ewen Chia, Jo Han Mok, Marlon Sanders, Mike Filsaime, Joel Comm, Michael Cheney and Derek Gehl. There are tons of famous internet marketers out there and I can’t possibly list them all here. Nonetheless, the resources that I recommend are all by world-renowned marketers so you need not worry on their reputation.

So there you have it. Some guidelines on how to spot an online scam. Remember, success comes with hard work. So before you cry scam, think if you have really put in the effort!

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