BBB Issues International Alert: Advance Fee Loan Scams Blanketing U.S.
The BBB recently issued an international alert cautioning consumers about a surge in advance fee loan scams. BBBs across the United States and Canada are receiving complaints from consumers who have applied for loans and paid money up-front, but never received the promised loans.

The BBB Reaches Out to Military Families
The The Better Business Bureau is deeply grateful to the men and women of the armed forces. While members of the military serve overseas protecting Americans, the BBB works on the home front to protect them against unsavory con artists. Too often, military families fall victim to unethical businesses seeking to take advantage of their steady paycheck, the absence of a family member serving overseas or their unfamiliarity with a new community. To read the full article, go to http://www.bbb.org/alerts/article.asp?ID=622.

BBB Presents National Ethics Award to Four Companies
The Council of Better Business Bureaus announced last month the winners of the 2005 BBB International Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics.

After natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes and floods, excess moisture and standing water can contribute to growth of mold in homes and other buildings. When returning to a home that was flooded, be aware that mold may be present and may be a health risk for your family. Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria and mold.