29 days ago
COLUMBIA, SC (WLTX) - You've probably seen the ads on the Internet promising whiter teeth. In fact, some companies are even giving free samples of their product, but consumer experts say there's nothing free about them.
The ads are popping up just about everywhere, including social networking sites.
The Better Business Bureau says scammers are preying on consumers by claiming that all you need to do is "pay shipping and handling" to get the free sample of tooth whitener.
But there's a catch. You have to use your credit card to pay for the free sample, that eventually shows up on your credit card as an $80 or more "free" trial.
"They're just trying to get your credit card information from you with the intent of continuously charging your credit card. And that's the trick. That's the tip off to the rip-off,"says Steve Bernas with the Better Business Bureau.
The BBB says folks from across the nation are filing complaints saying they were unaware of any other charges beyond the shipping and handling fees.
Consumer agencies say many of these websites disclose extra fees and automatic monthly charges in the fine print often found at the bottom of the ad.
Even more troubling, the BBB says it's not certain the scammers are even in the United States. "They're probably outside the country someplace,"says Bernas.
The BBB has found a number of companies involved in the teeth-whitening scam.
Dazzle White, Teeth Smile, Ivory White, Bella Brite, Max White, My Whitening and Gleaming White Smile are among them says the BBB.
In addition to repeat billing, consumer experts say these scams often sign you up for other products.
Here's some advice. Always read the fine print. Be careful of any ad that links to a blog or website news article. And remember, you can always get your teeth whitened by a professional. It may actually save you some money in the end.
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