Columbia BBB

BBB Mission: help make #midmo region a better place to do business by encouraging positive, ethical business practices. 573.886.8965

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Make your children aware that online actions can carry real life consequences. Have a discussion about how to handle cyber bullying.

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Avoid ransomware by not downloading it in the first place. Sketchy websites and popups are regularly used by scammers to spread malware. Steer clear of questionable sites and prevent popups from appearing in the first place by adjusting your browser settings.

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In many states, charities are required to register, usually with the office of the attorney general, before soliciting. Click https://t.co/dDZKsp8aE2 for the relevant office in your state.

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Teach your kids to be careful about sharing on social media. Make sure they know to stop and think before sharing SSNs, phone numbers, and home addresses.

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Our 8th Standard of Accreditation: EMBODY INTEGRITY. Accredited Businesses agree to approach all business dealings, marketplace transactions and commitments with integrity, good faith and intent to do what is reasonably expected.

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Use parental controls. Check with your mobile provider to see what controls are available to you — you can limit where your children go online, the types of ads they see, even what hours they can use their devices.

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Don’t buy online unless the transaction is secure. Make sure the website has “https” in the URL and a small lock icon on the address bar. This means that your browser has verified the site, and any personal or financial information you enter will be encrypted.

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Whether you’re starting a business, owning your own business, working as a freelancer, or working as an independent contractor, this is a list of some of the deductions you can claim if you are self-employed. https://t.co/iLZVzQdL6n

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What have you learned from your failures?

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Our 7th Standard of Accreditation: SAFEGUARD PRIVACY. Accredited Businesses agree to protect any data collected against unauthorized disclosure and fraud, collect personal information only as needed, and respect the preferences of customers regarding the use of their information.

[Columbia BBB @ColumbiaBBB]

Have a discussion about apps: they can collect personal info, and some that are free to download may contain features that cost money.

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You have the right to ask for verification that the charity operates ethically. Avoid charities that refuse to provide detailed info about their identity, mission, costs, and how your gift will be used.

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How do you know whether to grab your tools (or a plunger) and head to the bathroom, or grab the phone and call a (BBB Accredited) plumber instead? https://t.co/8OzWQtBIJU

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Be persistent!

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Follow BBB for info on how to steer clear of scams. Use BBB Scam Tracker to see the latest scams happening in your area. Report any scams you’ve come across and help us support law enforcement agencies in their efforts to shut scammers down.

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Work with local businesses that have proper identification, licensing, and insurance, especially contractors who will be coming into your home or anyone dealing with your money or sensitive information. Check them out at https://t.co/AHmlsCBoad!

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Be extremely cautious when dealing with anyone you’ve met online. Scammers use dating websites, Craigslist, social media, and many other sites to reach potential targets.

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Be wary of purely emotional appeals. We all want to help those in need, but scammers use these methods to take advantage of your goodwill. Always do your research before you donate.

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According to a BrightLocal survey, 93% of consumers say that online reviews influenced their purchases. Making sure you respond to customer reviews, both negative and positive, can be the key differentiator for potential customers. https://t.co/GAzFpKmooD

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Don’t try to do it all by yourself. You don’t need to have all the answers. Surround yourself with capable, inquisitive people and give them the opportunity to show you what they can do.