BBB August 2021 Hot Topics

1. A local consumer reported a Facebook “winning user” scam. The user received a message from what appeared to be a FB friend, asking if they had gotten their FB “winning user” payout yet, which was worth as much as $100,000. BBB reminds consumers that FB is not awarding money to users!
2. Don’t fall for a Publisher’s Clearing House sweepstakes scam! A local consumer was told via phone that she won but needed to make a down payment on her winnings with a Vanilla VISA gift card. Do not agree to pay money upfront for any sweepstakes you’ve allegedly won!
3. BBB is seeing more scammers use fraudulent QR codes to trick consumers. Before scanning a QR code, verify the source. Don’t open any links from strangers and install a QR reader with added security (some antivirus companies offer QR scanner apps that check the safety of a link before you open it).
4.  A local consumer reported to BBB he’d received a phone call alleging his social security number was associated with money laundering. The consumer was told he could purchase a new social security number by buying gift cards and providing the gift card numbers over the phone. Don’t fall for it!
5. A BBB staff member received scam calls claiming to be from Citibank. As a reminder, if you receive any suspicious calls or text messages from a bank or financial institution, contact the institution directly and inquire about the message you received. Do not click on links in text messages, and do not give out personal information over the phone!
6. BBB received a report of an online shopping scam from a local consumer. The user attempted to make a purchase from belleshope.com and received a suspicious email from a second party upon submitting payment information. When the user attempted to contact the shop via the email address listed online, their email bounced back. Always check store reviews at bbb.org before making an online purchase, and when possible, pay with a credit card so the charge can be disputed if the site turns out to be a scam.
7. BBB warns consumers to beware of parking lot auto repair scams. This scam typically involves a stranger approaching a victim in a parking lot, claiming to work for a local auto repair shop and offering to fix dents in the victim’s car. The “repairs” often leave the car in a worse state, and the scammers get aggressive when demanding payment or when confronted about shoddy work. Find a reputable auto repair shop at bbb.org.
8. Need a new driveway? Beware of asphalt paving scams! These scams involve fraudulent contractors who either never show up to complete a job once they’ve received payment or do a shoddy job and then can never be reached to make things right. In both cases, it is difficult (or impossible) for the victim to get a refund. Research companies and contractors before you hire at bbb.org, get everything in writing, and use safe payment methods when hiring for any asphalt paving job.
9. BBB warns of timeshare resale scams. Be wary of advertisements from timeshare resale scammers claiming they can easily sell your unit, they have lots of buyers lined up ready to purchase your timeshare, or that they can guarantee big returns on your timeshare. These companies often exaggerate – or just flat-out lie – about what they can do for consumers. Check out the company at bbb.org.
10. Beware of scam marketing services targeting small businesses. These scammers trick small businesses into signing monthly contracts and then never deliver on their promises. If you’re a business owner looking to use a marketing agency, research the agency first, ask for references, and always be clear on the terms of any contract before you sign.

Fern Creek Pop-Up Drop Off Event Saturday, August 28th, 2021

MSD Tree Planting Grants Available

MSD Tree Planting Grants Available The Louisville MSD Urban Reforestation Grants Program is now accepting applications for tree planting projects. Grants will pay for trees planted within the MSD Drainage Service area, which includes all of Jefferson County except for the cities of Shively, Jeffersontown, St. Matthews and Anchorage. Download the application here Urban Reforestation Grant Application or at https://louisvillemsd.org/trees. The application deadline is Wednesday September 15th at 5pm ET. Please contact Jennifer Kern at Jennifer.Kern@LouisvilleMSD.org or (502)540‐6241 with any questions. The MSD Urban Reforestation Program plants 1,000 trees annually by working with local residents, businesses, municipal organizations and neighborhood associations. These trees redirect an average of 1.35 million gallons of stormwater away from the sewer system every year, which decreases sewer overflows into our waterways. By planting more trees, MSD not only absorbs stormwater but also reduces erosion and flooding, provides shade, reduces noise pollution and carbon dioxide in the air, and provides a habitat for nearby wildlife.