Three for Thursday 08.04.2022
Welcome to TrustDALE's Three For Thursday with Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell.
Maybe It's because I'm a middle child, but I'm a peace maker. However, I've discovered a few of my friends and acquaintances are conflict spreaders. Sometimes, identifying problems lead to solutions, but the conflict spreaders who write to me appear to be anarchists, or at best worrywarts. I recently listened to a podcast that accurately described how much of a better place the world is today than fifty years ago. Hunger is way down, poverty is way down, even war is way down. I believe the prosperity has led to a good bit of idleness, and idleness begets boredom and gossip. Yes, inflation is up 9%, but did you know wages are up 6%? The problem is, it's harder to sell papers and cable news if you're reassuring people. Telling them the world is on fire is much more profitable. So, friends, if you want to include me on an email chain or social media post that tells me how bad someone is, please spare me. I love this world God has given us and I love you.
Watch this Investigation
Today's investigation - Missing Deposit. Can a bank take your money and really insist they don't, have it? Watch, because this could happen to you!
Ask Dale
Today's Ask Dale question comes from John, who wants to know if a restaurant can charge him extra under the heading "Temporary Inflation Fee."
Todays Lesson on how to be a Savvy Consumer!
Today's seven-point lesson is on accepting the validity of an invoice:
Fast - Do they want your money NOW? Never give money without getting a receipt with explanation of service or product delivered.
Funds - Is the investment required relevant to the promised payoff? Read your bill closely, especially if it's online. Too many companies are building in recurring fees automatic renewals without telling you.
Found - A person who intends to rip you off will make certain he can't be found after he gets your money. A con artist will craft a beautiful invoice for payment and take your cash or check.
Define - Your deal by comparing product, Offer and Price. Your invoice should include the details of what you've purchased. If it doesn't, it will be difficult to demand what you didn't get later.
Ensure - Your deal with an Ethical negotiation, an Equitable contract, and an Effective Guarantee. Following these three steps should enhance the result of receiving a detailed and valid invoice.
Authenticate - Your deal by requesting References, checking reviews, and examining government and watchdog reports. Companies that play games with invoices will be exposed in online reviews.
Legitimize - your deal by determining if the company has a business license, liability insurance and is Lawsuit and background checked. Companies that remain in business are likely pleasing most of their customers. Still, check that invoice for errors and omissions!
SCAMMERS BEWARE: SEASONED CONSUMER INVESTIGATOR DALE CARDWELL GIVES READERS A GAME PLAN TO AVOID RIP-OFFS