Or you don't get the coverage you thought you purchased. The child selling candy on your doorstep may not be collecting for the local middle school, but for a company that employs minors to sell their goods. The Better Business Bureau claims that many for-profit organizations may be violating child labor laws by working children for long hours at low pay. Know whom you're dealing with by always asking for identification. Protect your own privacy by not handing out personal information until you know who's collecting and why.
Credit cards offer better protection than cash.
Know exactly what you're buying and think the purchase through. If you do fall victim to some scam, know where to go for help or to register a complaint. First try to resolve your problem directly with the company. The information in this column is based on financial data, research and the advice of financial experts, but is not intended as professional financial advice. Contact your advisor before making a financial decision.