I opened YouTube, and for the first time, it was not a mistake.
References:
Draft Consumer Protection (Direct Selling) Rules, 2021.pdf
Reserve Bank of India Notification
Disclaimer: I do not intend to call out any one person or business; the sole purpose of this post is to make readers aware of what is happening around us. And to raise my voice for what is right.
#StopScamBusiness #RaiseYourVoice
It’s not just your money in danger but your crucial time. Act accordingly and be vigilant against scams.
Have you ever come across terms like MLM (sometimes referred to as Network Marketing), Affiliate Programs, “Get Rich Quick” Schemes, Fake Products or Services, Paid Memberships/Programs, or Paid Courses? If so, you’re not alone. These things might sound innocent, but there’s a trickier side to them—the world of scam businesses.
In this age of everything being just a click away, it’s super important to be careful. Online and offline, you’ll find promises of quick money, personal growth, and success. But beware! Behind these promises often hides a sneaky world that preys on people just wanting a better life.
MLM and affiliate programs sometimes offer financial freedom through a network of people. While some are real businesses, many are just out to take your money and leave you with shattered dreams.
“Get Rich Quick” schemes might seem tempting, but the truth is they’re more about making money for the people who started them than helping you.
Fake products or services are all over the internet. From miracle health supplements to guaranteed success formulas, these scams play with your hopes for a better life.
Paid memberships and courses can be legit, but it’s tricky to tell the difference between good ones and scams. Some frauds offer expensive courses that don’t really teach you much, all while hoping you’re eager to improve yourself.
As consumers, it’s our job to be careful. Here are a few tips to avoid falling for scam businesses:
- Do Some Checking: Before spending your time or money, look into the company, its products, and what others say about it. Read reviews from people you trust.
- Look out for facts: Check for authenticity. The company will obviously say it is good, but do their actions tell you otherwise?
- Ask Questions: Real businesses are open about what they do. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If they don’t give clear answers, watch out.
- Consult: Ask friends, family, or someone you look up to for advice. They might know if something is fishy.
- Don’t Rush: Scammers like to make you decide quickly. Take your time. Don’t fall for the urgency.
- The company MUST CLEARLY STATE its Refund Policy and related conditions. Exercise caution if promises of quick wealth or substantial earnings are made, especially through examples shown in seminars or by individuals associated with the company.”
In the end, being aware of scams not just online but offline as well is the first step to keeping yourself and others safe. Also one important thing which I have learned from this, to always raise your voice for what is right.
The Real Story Behind MLM and Affiliate Programs
MLM, short for Multi-Level Marketing, and often called Network Marketing, represents a business model where a company distributes its products or services through a network of independent distributors or representatives. These distributors not only earn commissions from their direct sales but also reap benefits from recruiting new distributors into the network.
At the heart of MLM is the hierarchical structure of the distribution network. Distributors gain commissions not only from their own sales but also from the sales generated by the distributors they bring into the organization, creating multiple levels or tiers, hence the term “multi-level” marketing.
While there are legitimate MLM companies with successful business models, it’s crucial to be aware that the primary focus of any reputable company, and consequently its distributors, should be on selling a genuine product or service. Passion for joining a particular company is commendable, but it’s essential to keep in mind that success in MLM should be anchored in the quality and value of what is being offered, rather than an exclusive emphasis on building the network. That being said, ask yourself: “Would I buy or recommend the product/service to ANYONE even if there was no story attached of me or anyone earning commision from this?“
In your exploration of MLM opportunities, be discerning. Ensure that the company’s principles align with your values, and that the emphasis is on tangible products or services rather than an unsustainable focus on recruitment. By understanding the nuances of MLM and keeping a critical perspective, you empower yourself to make informed decisions in the dynamic landscape of network marketing. #StopScamBusiness
Similar to MLM, let’s delve into Affiliate Marketing.
Some proponents of these programs may assert, “This is not MLM; it operates on a different model with just one level—the direct seller and the distributor level. In contrast to MLM, there are no distributors under distributors (tiers).”
However, the bottom line remains: authenticity is key. Take, for instance, the Amazon Affiliate Program—a genuine business endeavor. Associates earn a commission when a product is purchased through their provided link.
On the flip side, caution is warranted when someone encourages you to promote a paid course, perhaps costing 10,000 Rs. or more, with the promise of earning commissions as an affiliate. If the course lacks real value, and you’re pressured to join as an affiliate due to reasons like a lack of refund or buyback policy, or the desire to recover losses, red flags should be raised. In such cases, it’s a clear indication of a potential scam.
Always scrutinize the legitimacy of the product or service before getting involved, whether in MLM or Affiliate Marketing. This discerning approach ensures you steer clear of scams and align yourself with opportunities that hold genuine value.
#StopScamBusiness #RaiseYourVoice