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The Better Business Bureau warns consumers of scams targeting Internet users of free classified ad Web sites. Internet scams are far from new, but free classified ad Web sites such as Craigslist, Myspace Classifieds and Yahoo Classifieds have made it easier for scammers to trick consumers.

Free classified ad Web sites allow visitors to post classified ads in a variety of categories; anything from items for sale to properties for rent.

However, many of these sites do not require users to verify their identity or the information in their ads. Users can post as many ads as they would like after simply providing a valid email address, which is convenient, because many scammers are working from foreign countries.

Online classified scams targeting consumers looking to purchase or rent property are all too common. Scammers will request a down payment on a property that does not exist or is not legally theirs to sell. The scammers disappear after receiving a payment. In some cases, scammers will even provide an address so interested consumers can drive by to view the property.

Online classified scams also target individuals looking for work or who have posted an online resume. Scammers claim they need the applicant's personal bank account number for direct deposits of future paychecks. These scams usually promise high wages for jobs that involve forwarding, transferring or wiring money using the victim's personal bank account. The victim is then sent a large check, asked to take out a percentage as payment, and then wire the balance out of the country. These checks are counterfeit and the victim is responsible for the money used in the transaction?including any related bank fees.

Scammers even target other posters who use the online classified Web sites. A common scam targets consumers trying to sell vehicles. They offer the seller the full asking price for the vehicle, but claim they only have a check for an amount much higher than the asking price. The scammer will send the check and then request the consumer return the difference. The check is counterfeit and will bounce a few days later. Once again, the victim is responsible for the money used in the transaction, including any related bank fees. In some cases, the scammers take the vehicle, too.

The BBB wants to caution users, posters and job seekers about the common scams on Web sites that offer free classified ads. The BBB offers the following tips to avoid being scammed:

* Deal locally with people you can meet in person.

* Never give out financial information. Never give out any of your personal information, including your bank account number, Social Security number, eBay or Paypal usernames, passwords, etc.

* Consult your local BBB. Go to www.bbb.org to get a free reliability report on any company with which you intend to do business. Better Business Bureau reliability reports provide valuable information on companies.

Brenda Smith is the Alaska office manager and PR communications manager serving Alaska, Oregon and western Washington.

The BBB is a not-for-profit organization funded by BBB accredited businesses. Its mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. For more information about the services and products provided by the BBB, call 907-562-0704 in Alaska or visit www.bbb.org.