Work-from-home bizopp operators: the Federal Trade Commission is on the hunt for people who offer bogus business opportunities, or “bizopps.” If you’re running a deceitful work-at-home marketing scheme, it may be time to go legit or shut ‘er down.

The Latest FTC BizOpp Crack Down

Last week, the FTC announced the seizure of several work-at-home operations that promised prospective participants the world – and then delivered bupkis. The now-neutered scheme worked thusly:

1. Phase One: The bizopp offered work-at-home starter kits ranging from $37 to $99. Presumably, these kits instructed buyers on how to establish and run their own online marketing companies.
2. Phase Two: Once an individual purchased the kit, the bizopp marketer added him or her to a mailing list, and then proceed to bombard their inbox with add-on offers costing between $3,000 and $12,000, like coaching and website development programs, in addition to tax filing and drop shipping services. Buyers were encouraged to put the costs of these add-ons on credit cards. According to the FTC, none of the programs offered were of any value.
3. Phase Three: In the third phase of the bizopp scheme, marketers pretended to offer coaching services to participants, but instead used the coaching time to pitch more add-ons.

What Language Did The BizOp Use That Infuriated The FTC?

Here are a few examples of the marketing language used by bizop operators busted by the Federal Trade Commission for offering bogus work-at-home opportunities.“If You Can Spare 60 Minutes A Day, We Can Offer You a Certified, Proven And Guaranteed Home Job To Make $379/Day From Home!”“Important: Read my full report now as only 15 people are accepted into this program per city at any given time . . . because of the personal support given to each new member to ensure everyone’s quick financial success. Don’t hesitate . . . this page is taken down (literally) when the limit is reached, so read on . . .”

“This case halts a massive scam that bilked consumers out of millions for useless work-at-home kits and business coaching services,” explained Director of the Bureau of Consumer Protection, Jessica Rich. “The defendants duped consumers into thinking they could earn thousands working from home. Protecting consumers from such pernicious schemes remains a top priority,” she concluded.

If you’re not familiar with the FTC’s new bizopp rules, it would be wise to cozy up with the guidelines. Violations will cost you a pretty penny – so why not take the time to ensure compliance.

Click Here To Learn More About BizOp Rules.

Speak With An FTC Attorney Today

Are you in trouble with the Federal Trade Commission? Do you need the help of a lawyer who has successfully helped clients ward off the FTC? If yes, get in touch today. Our firm, Kelly / Warner, has been dealing with FTC-related cases for years. We know the niche well. Get in touch now to begin the conversation.