Scam Alert: "Rebate Processors"

Filed in archive Work at Home Scams on January 16, 2008

I received an email today offering a work at home opportunity as a "rebate processor". The ad promised I'd make hundreds a day working just 1-4 hours a day and as much as a $100,000 a year. According to their website, Processathome.com, the process is simple, just log in, fill out a few forms to "process" rebates for consumers, and make money. The site is full of "testimonials" and claims it is for people who want to set their own hours, and want to make lots of money without needing any special training or skills. Scroll down a bit further to see how to apply and you find all you have to do is sign up for their "Home Rebate Processor Certification Programâ„¢", which only costs a mere $197. If you read the fine print you'll see all it is a list of companies that you can apply to as a rebate processor. Processathome.com isn't actually a rebate processing company at all. In other words, the only people that will be making any money in this scam is them, not you.

There are several red flags here. First of most reputable home based business and work at home opportunities don't advertise via unsolicited email. Second, they don't promise untold riches can be had for little work and even fewer skills. Succeeding with a home based business or work at home opportunity takes hard work. Finally, you should never have to pay an employer for a job opportunity-they are supposed to pay you. While many home based businesses may require an initial investment in order to acquire inventory, you should run, not walk, away from any opportunity requiring you to pay for information!

Remember, when researching home based business and work at home opportunities, read the fine print, listen to your gut feelings, and if it sounds too good to be true-it is!

Photo credit: techgurls.com