Be Scam Smart

LOOK BEFORE YOU BOOK AT SCHOOLIES

Year 12 students are already booking up big for the end of year party, however Fair Trading warns students and parents to do their homework. When booking accommodation you should:

• Shop around and compare 'per room' to 'per person' rates


• Contact hotels and travel agents directly and compare prices


• Check that the terms and conditions (especially house rules) suit you before booking


• Check to see whether a bond is required, and if this bond is applied to all tenants


• Make sure you get a copy of the bond receipt and know how the money will be refunded


• Know the consequences if you change or cancel your booking

CON JOBS

Seeking employment can be a frustrating experience, and while a 'work from home' job sounds like a dream come true, the Office of Fair Trading warns people not to fall victim to deceptive business and employment opportunities. A common characteristic of many of these 'be your own boss' schemes requires you to pay a fee to receive information. In return you usually receive a kit containing instructions on how to advertise, photocopy and mail out identical kits, such as you have just received. To check out whether a work from home scheme is authentic:

• Talk to other employees, visit them to see what type of work is involved and how they are organised


• Find out as much as you can about the company, and get an actual address


• Ask how much you will be paid and how


• Ask about the product - is it a viable money-maker and are the proposed returns achievable


• Do your sums - work out the time required to do the job, set up costs and expected returns