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(Debt Negotiation) Companies And Cyberspace: Business & Consumer Pros & Cons
By: Bhr Agent
The Internet seems to be one of the most dangerous, yet convenient places out
there. But, as in real life, there is still more good than we hear about.
Amongst the spy ware, pop-up ads, search engine spamming, redirect only sites,
phishing scams, and illegitimate business sites out there, there are still
trustworthy companies. Research businesses and their background. Don’t go by
first impressions nor hearsay whether trusting or disregarding a website.
Established companies that we pass by in person and would immediately deem as
legit make up some of these we see online. It is unfortunate that solely
cyberspace-based businesses created to deceive consumers created a stereotype.
Debt negotiation companies are meshed into these gray populations even though
debt negotiation is a legal service. There is a difference between
commercialized, "pennies on the dollar", too good to be true scams that are
popping up everywhere online, versus companies that have actual offices, actual
representatives/employees (as opposed to cramped call centers full of people
recently trained just to be able to work that specific position, without prior
field education, nor background/years of hands on experience). There are
companies that are different; that don't charge upfront fees, and don't make
100% guarantees on things that can't be said with full certainty.
Scams can be pretty obvious. For instance, asking for money upfront just to get
an explanation or potentially begin a service, with a risk of the service not
even being completed; some employees don't give additional information, can't
answer basic questions, are unable to give background information about the
company's history, etc.
As an everyday, hardworking consumer myself, I understand the precaution taken,
but it is a different thing when a reliable, caring company's ability to thrive
is hindered/hurt simply because it's title category is automatically associated
with that negative stereotype. Much of the up sides of stepping onto the web
scene are negated.
- Pay attention to what a company offers and or guarantees
- Be wary of immediate demands of payment, or a rush in receiving them before
service or any additional information
- Can they give company background information?
- Are they hesitant or unable when asked even basic questions, or for further
details? Do they explain risks?
- How are you treated? Do they give room, and control? Obligations?
Just as you want to look for warning signs, there are positive signs that tell
you a company is good as well. If the product is presented truthfully, wholly,
and with confidence and knowledge, before discussing payment, thumbs up, I'd
say. If the contact person is personable, courteous, and makes you feel like you
are at your service, another 'continue on'. Some businesses do offer free
assessments, and give you control and choices. Research. Educate yourself.
Continue on unless an uncomfortable scenario is reached. You should always be
able to make decisions without penalty-- even if it is not to use the service.
Get what you are considering paying for-- never less.
The web can help as much as it can hurt. Just be alert. There are still
companies that aren't just companies trying to make millions with appalling
quality products and or services! Some are made up of people like you and I, who
have been around for years, at the service of the people; our neighbors; our
community; or even you!
About the Author:
(The author is an agent for a debt negotiation company (http://www.Knuckleheaded.Com). The business is attempting to expand onto the
webscene, but as other good businesses, there are negatives that come along with this expansion. We all should be aware of the pros+cons when dealing with a
power like the internet. |
