Better Business Bureau alerts consumers to be on guard against Google work-at-home schemes that use unfair and deceptive practices to obtain cash from consumers, particularly by misrepresenting their association with the well-known search engine Google.
Google Money Tree and related entities advertised opportunities to generate a six-figure income in months, by using their online money-making system. Complainants contend that after purchasing the low-cost starter kit and providing payment information for the one-time purchase, they discovered additional monthly charges between $72 and $82 they felt were undisclosed. Others say these companies failed to send the "free kit" and refused to honor customer refunds.
Enforcement actions from the Utah Division of Consumer Protection and the Texas Attorney General's Office charged that Google Money Tree failed to clearly inform purchasers that they had been enrolled in monthly memberships and had only seven days to cancel their trial memberships. In late June 2009, the Federal Trade Commission filed charges through the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada. Other affiliated companies include: Google Pro, Internet Income Pro, Internet Income Initiative, Infusion Media, Two Warnings, Two Part Investments, West Coast Internet Media and Google Treasure Chest.
"Scam artists have learned that by using the names of large, well-known companies, they can trick consumers into thinking there is some sort of affiliation or reputability," said Robert W.G. Andrew, CEO of BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington. "In this economic downturn, these deceptive tactics exploit vulnerable job seekers."
Complaint Activity:
Las Vegas based Google Money Tree (GoogleMoneyTree.com, Internet Money Tree) has 781 complaints filed with BBB in the last three years.
Las Vegas based Google Pro (Infusion Media, InternetIncomeInitiative.com, Two Part Investments Inc.) has 262 complaints filed with BBB in the last three years.
Sandy, Utah based Google Treasure Chest has 495 complaints filed with BBB in the last three years.
Detect Fraud:
With similar logos and convincing Web sites, it may be difficult to distinguish a fake opportunity from the real thing. Visit www.bbb.org for work-at-home scheme red flags.
Victims of false work-at-home opportunities should file a complaint with the FTC, the Attorney General's Office where the company claims to be located, and Better Business Bureau.
About your BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington:
Your Better Business Bureau is a not-for-profit organization funded by Better Business Bureau Accredited Businesses. The BBB's mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. For more information about the services and products provided by your BBB, call 206-431-2222 or 253-830-2924 in Washington, 503-212-3022 in Oregon, 907-562-0704 in Alaska, or visit our Web site at www.bbb.org.