(Debt Negotiation) Companies and Cyberspace: Business & Consumer
Pros & Cons
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!
(The author is an agent for a debt negotiation company (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 and cons when
dealing with a resource as powerful as the internet).