OH NO...MORE COUPON FRAUD!!!
Wanted to get the word out about some fraudulent coupons that are making the rounds at local stores...I just got word that some stores have been presented with some very real looking coupons that are indeed fakes :-( Hopefully you guys have not come across any of these, but just in case I wanted to get the word out...
$8 off Perdue chicken
Free VIVA 8 rolls paper towels
Free Tyson bagged chicken product
Free Coke 12 packs
Free Tide
(You can click on each item above to see what the fake coupons may look like)
Some of these coupons are VERY legit looking...they even contain barcodes and all the right information (exp dates, retailer information, etc) BUT they are frauds...to the unknowing couponer, especially those just starting out, these can look great. Here's a few tips to help you not be duped by the scams:
1) If it seems too good to be true...than it probably is! If you are unsure of a coupon, please visit the CIC (Coupon Information Corporation) website at www.cents-off.com/index.cfm There you will find a list of all the correct fraudulent coupons...and there are alot :-( You can view the current list HERE and the current coupon alert with barcode numbers is HERE
2) Hardly ever do we find a FREE product coupon that is a printable...and if it's a PDF coupon be extra alert...the manufacturer can't control the number of the prints on PDF coupons, so think about it...they could be giving away tons of FREE stuff if that was the case.
Now, there are some cases in which we can print FREE item coupons...like in the case of the Egglands Best BOGO egg coupon...The difference? Well, that coupon was a one day promotion only available to limited number of people and came directly from the manufacturer. Point being...just be cautious.
3) Most FREE item coupons that are mailed to you will contain a hologram like emblem or a watermark or some kind that lets the store know that it is a valid coupon.
4) Most fake coupons will not scan at the register even if they contain a barcode...so if you have a high value coupon that does not scan...you might want to think twice.
You can also visit http://www.spamlaws.com/coupon-fraud.html for more info on internet fraudulent coupons and how to spot a fake.
What are the penalties for coupon fraud if convicted:
Penalties for those convicted of coupon fraud related crimes vary by each case and the number of laws violated.
As of this date,
Longest prison sentence: 17 years
Highest financial penalty: $5 million
Prison sentences of three to five years are not uncommon. Financial penalties generally vary, but have often been in excess of $200,000.
Yeah...so not worth $8 off chicken...lol
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1 comment:
Wow... Seriously?! What will they think of next!
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