http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/WWWRoot//SitePage.aspx?site=40&id=a824b759-3137-43b5-aedf-a38056bcce73&debug=False 10 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 05:00:00 GMT Effective today, the prerecorded telemarketing calls for expiring car warranties, lower credit card rates and other solicitations are officially prohibited by the Federal Trade Commission. This new requirement is one of several amendments to the FTC’s Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR) that was originally announced last year. Unless the telemarketer has obtained permission in writing from consumers who want to receive the calls, they can face penalties of up to $16,000 per call. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/bbb-alert-ftc-prohibits-robocalls-12224 Wed, 02 Sep 2009 05:00:00 GMT With the school year in full swing for most families and college students, now is the time many consumers are looking for a new computer. Advances in technology make even the latest computer models obsolete in a few months, but knowing when and how to select the right computer can save consumers money and time spent in the electronics section. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-on-buying-a-computer-12233 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 05:00:00 GMT With record-setting afternoon temperatures continuing, some areas of Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas are facing new water restrictions. In addition to the time constraints on watering outside lawns and plants, consumers need to be aware of water efficient upgrades available for their homes that can save money. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/navigating-through-the-summer-drought-12360 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:00:00 GMT With Cash for Clunkers over and many families on tight budgets, making timely vehicle payments can sometimes become overwhelming. Unfortunately, vehicle repossessions are on the rise and having a car repossessed hinders more than just a car owner’s mobility. It has a severe impact on credit scores which limits the ability to get loans or credit cards for up to seven years. Better Business Bureau advises troubled car owners on how to avoid losing their vehicle and their good credit standing. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/bbb-advice-on-managing-your-auto-loan-12409 Mon, 28 Sep 2009 05:00:00 GMT The Texas legislature’s decision earlier this month to “sunset” the Texas Residential Construction Commission, or TRCC, means the agency is no longer handling complaints or requests for inspections on residential construction. This leaves some consumers and builders concerned about how disputes will be resolved in the future. Better Business Bureau serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas’ dispute resolution service are available to serve the needs of consumers and businesses formerly with the TRCC. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/bbb-offers-dispute-resolution-services-as-texas-residential-construction-commission-expires-12645 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 05:00:00 GMT 36 million, or one-third of U.S. households currently rent according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. Many prospective renters find homes through online classifieds, but some consumers are being set up by scammers. Better Business Bureau warns to be on the lookout for phony ads on Craigslist and other Internet services aimed at stealing money from unsuspecting renters. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/beware-of-bogus-online-home-rentals-12494 Tue, 29 Sep 2009 05:00:00 GMT Fun is sputtering to a halt for some customers of New Braunfels, Texas-based The Family Exchange. The new go kart, ATV or dirt bike they ordered is not working and they are out the money they spent. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/the-family-exchange-lacking-in-family-friendly-business-12676 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 05:00:00 GMT This year’s flu season is generating considerable attention due to the addition of H1N1 or “swine flu” to the normal seasonal flu concerns. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most flu seasons peak in January, but outbreaks can begin to occur as early as October. This year, the CDC says consumers will need a separate vaccination for “swine flu” which should be available in October. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/be-prepared-for-flu-season-2009-12715 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 05:00:00 GMT BBB serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas invites consumers and businesses to take steps towards preventing identity theft and promoting recycling efforts. BBB’s Shred Day will offer free on-site shredding services in Austin, San Antonio and Corpus Christi on October 10, 2009 from 9am to 1pm. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/bbb-provides-free-on-site-shredding-12554 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 05:00:00 GMT Better Business Bureau serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas invites local residents and small businesses on Saturday, October 10, 2009, to take steps toward recycling and identity protection. BBB Shred Day gives consumers access to free shredding services in three locations throughout Central Texas. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/bbb-shred-day-offers-free-shredding-recycling-and-id-theft-prevention-12830 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 05:00:00 GMT Following the Justice Department’s first settlement under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) last month, BBB reminds service men and women in Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas of certain protections in the event they are called for active duty or deployment. The SCRA is intended to postpone or suspend some civil obligations to enable service members to devote full attention to duty and relieve stress on their family members. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/bbb-reminds-active-military-of-their-consumer-rights-12944 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 05:00:00 GMT BBB serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas helped consumers and businesses shred 125,000 pounds (over 62 tons) of financial records, business forms and other sensitive documents during BBB's Shred Day on Saturday, October 10th. Consumers and small business owners like Ana Cortez of RAM Practice Management in Manor, TX cleared out desk drawers, file cabinets and garages to fill boxes and bags with documents to shred. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/bbb-shreds-and-recycles-125000-pounds-of-documents-12953 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 05:00:00 GMT October is National Dental Hygiene month and Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to be cautious of online ads offering the promise of a whiter, brighter smile. BBB has received a recent increase of complaints from consumers who thought they were signing up for a free trial of teeth whitening products, but were repeatedly billed for products and services they didn’t want. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/deceptive-ads-for-teeth-whitening-products-wipe-smiles-off-consumers-faces--13017 Tue, 20 Oct 2009 05:00:00 GMT Time is running out for first-time home buyers to take advantage of the up to $8,000 tax credit set aside this year as part of the economic recovery effort. Barring a time extension, consumers looking to cash in must purchase a home by November 30th, 2009. Considering it usually takes 30 days to close on a house, now may be the time to act and Better Business Bureau offers guidance on how to benefit from the First-Time Home Buyers Tax Credit. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/first-time-home-buyers-tax-credit-set-to-expire-next-month-13074 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 05:00:00 GMT According to a report by the Anti-Phishing Working Group, scareware attacks, or pop-up ads deceiving consumers into thinking their computer is infected with viruses, are on the rise. Most recently, companies like Google, Twitter and the New York Times are being exploited by hackers as part of a massive scareware attack on consumers. Better Business Bureau is offering advice to consumers on how to protect computers and personal information from the threat of scareware. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/scareware-pop-ups-target-google-new-york-times-13118 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 05:00:00 GMT BBB serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas recently received five international awards at the 2009 BBB International Assembly in Boston. The awards - including three of the highest honors a Better Business Bureau can earn - recognize all facets of Better Business Bureau work: communications, core services and business development. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/bbb-serving-central-coastal-and-southwest-texas-awarded-highest-honors-at-international-assembly-13134 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 05:00:00 GMT This month marks the 25th anniversary of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and many businesses and charities are marketing “pink” products and services to support breast cancer charity groups. In order to make sure donations go to the right place, BBB advises consumers to research pink product claims before making a purchase. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/make-sure-your-pink-donation-ends-up-in-the-right-hands-13152 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 05:00:00 GMT Millions of people have found a way to be their own boss and make money on a flexible schedule through direct selling. Success at direct selling does not require any special education or experience but it is not for everyone. Better Business Bureau suggests consumers ask themselves a few questions when considering a new venture in direct sales. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/is-direct-selling-for-you-13180 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT With the NFL and college football seasons underway and the NBA season just beginning, BBB warns sports fans to be on the lookout for fraudulent sellers when shopping for hard-to-get tickets online. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/slam-dunk-your-next-online-ticket-purchase-13300 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT The second annual report issued by the Council of Better Business Bureaus on the progress of the Children’s Food and Beverage Advertising Initiative (CFBAI) shows that, because of the self-regulatory efforts of the nation’s leading food and beverage producers, there has been a continued significant shift in children’s advertising in the United States toward the promotion of healthier dietary choices and lifestyles. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/food-and-beverage-companies-continue-to-raise-the-bar-when-advertising-to-kids-13345 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT Individuals across the country are looking for ways to help support the victims and families affected by last week’s tragedy at Fort Hood. Initially, supporters were encouraged to donate blood to help victims. As options for monetary donations in support of victims and their families become available, it is important to understand exactly where and how your funds will be used. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/supporting-the-victims-of-the-fort-hood-tragedy-13459 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT Prepaid calling cards may seem like a great value, claiming to provide hundreds of minutes for a few dollars. However, some phone cards come with hidden fees and service charges which deliver far fewer minutes than advertised. Better Business Bureau offers advice on how to get the most out of a prepaid phone card and avoid getting ripped off. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/avoiding-deceptive-prepaid-phone-cards-13512 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT Last week, the Federal Trade Commission asked a federal court to issue a contempt order against Maryland-based BlueHippo Funding, LLC for violating a court ordered settlement issued in April 2008. BBB serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas first alerted consumers to this computer dealer in a press release on May 8, 2009. Since then, 12 additional consumers in the local area have filed complaints against BlueHippo. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/ftc-says-bluehippo-business-model-is-built-on-deceit-13569 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT The CARS, or Cash for Clunkers, program and the Chrysler and General Motors bankruptcy agreements have headlined a very busy year for auto manufacturers and new car owners. The U.S. Department of Transportation reports nearly 700,000 vehicles were purchased through Cash for Clunkers at a value of over $2.8 billion. With so many new vehicles on the road, BBB reminds new car owners that BBB AUTO LINE® provides dispute resolution for manufacturer warranty issues that may arise under the Lemon Law. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/bbb-auto-line-helps-consumers-turn-lemons-into-lemonade-13647 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT Consumers with mobile phones capable of accessing the Internet have the convenience of using www.bbb.org while on the go to make informed decisions. This week, BBB released new online Reliability Reports™ optimized for iPhone viewing. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/bbb-reliability-reports-optimized-for-the-iphone-13669 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT The day after Thanksgiving, commonly known as Black Friday, is the busiest retail day of the year in terms of sales volume. Last year consumers spent $10.6 billion according to a report by ShopperTrak. BBB serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas reminds holiday shoppers to look out for scams and deceptive advertising to make sure they get the right deal. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/shopping-smart-on-black-friday-13698 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT The Monday following Thanksgiving, or Cyber Monday, is thought of as the beginning of the online holiday shopping season. Last year, consumers spent $846 million online during Cyber Monday according to a report by the Online Publishers Association. A 15 percent increase from 2007. http://www.sanantonio.bbb.org/article/keep-your-purchases-safe-on-cyber-monday-13753