Do not believe it just because you saw it on the Internet.
Claims of fast money and "guaranteed" returns on your computer screen are no more reliable than classic chain letters and other "get-rich" schemes.

Guard your personal information.
Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the country. Do not give your credit-card number (or the expiration date), bank account number, social security number or driver's license number over the phone or the Internet to anyone you do not know.

Even if the caller promises a prize, an award, a "guaranteed" credit card or a loan, do not give such personal financial information until you see written information about the offer and have checked it out.

It’s not a prize if you have to pay for it.
With the exception of games of skill where you pay to enter, a prize is something you win by chance, no strings attached. If you must pay for something or buy anything, then it's a purchase, not a prize. Be careful when calling 900 or 888 numbers to verify your prize. You could end-up paying a lot of money for the call.

Don’t be slammed.
Slamming is the illegal practice of switching a service, such as your long-distance phone service provider or your electricity or gas company, without your authorization. This can happen when telephone solicitors misrepresent, or when deceptive documents such as entry forms for giveaways have fine print authorizing the switch, or even through door-to-door solicitations.

To protect yourself, read carefully what you are asked to sign, request written information from telephone solicitors and check your phone, gas or electricity bill each month.

Don’t fall for high-pressure sales tactics.
An offer that is "good only today" is a red flag to be careful. By comparing products, prices, terms and guarantees, you can tell a true bargain from a "too good to be true" scam.

Health Club warnings. Ready to get more exercise in the new year? Before joining a health club-the San Diego Better Business Bureau (BBB) is advising consumers to shop around-stay close to home and avoid clubs that pressure you to sign-up on the spot.

"Choosing the wrong gym can thin your wallet-not your waistline," said Gerry Wilson, BBB president and CEO.

The health club industry operates with the knowledge that the majority of people who buy a membership rarely show up on a regular basis. As a result, there is an emphasis on selling to new customers, which generates more revenue than renewals. Prices can vary greatly and include enrollment and processing fees, finance charges and monthly dues.

The BBB recommends checking out a health club close to home because you're more likely to stick to an exercise routine. Visit them at the time of day when you plan to be there. Is the facility overcrowded? Does the club have exercise equipment and facilities that suit your needs? Leave and go elsewhere if the sales representative asks for your credit card number or deposit check before you have read the contract.