National Consumer Alert from the Council of Better Business Bureaus -- As Operation Iraqi Freedom dominates the headlines, the Better Business Bureaus report that scam artists are playing to people’s patriotism and preying on heightened concerns about homeland security to peddle their wares.

To date, Better Business Bureaus across the nation have identified three types of war-related pitches being used by legitimate organizations, as well as less reputable merchandisers: (1) pleas for funds to help victims of the war or those fighting in the war, (2) appeals to patriotism and claims of government affiliation or approval, and (3) promotions that hype up fear and panic.

“In times of prosperity or poverty, when we’re at peace or at war, Better Business Bureau advice is constant: Be a Savvy Shopper and a Discerning Donor,” said Ken Hunter, President and CEO of the Council of Better Business Bureaus. “People will pitch to your emotional side. Do not make a spur of the moment decision. Call the Better Business Bureau before spending money,” adds Carol Odell, Executive Director and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of the Pikes Peak Region.

The Better Business Bureau suggests the following for consumers:

• Contact the Better Business Bureau at 636-1155 or search the website at Colorado Spring Better Business Bureau for local businesses, or the national website at Better Business Bureau.
• Verify any claims that sound “too good to be true.”
• Do not panic or overreact to sales pitches that are long on emotion and short on details.
• Never provide your credit card number or other personal information to an unknown caller or in response to an unsolicited email.
• Do not give in to high-pressure sales. Take time to evaluate the offer, determine whether you really need the product or service, and if so, comparison-shop.
• Do not abandon your common sense!