Scam Watch: Beware of tax relief companies that charge upfront fees

Also: A self-described patent law expert is accused of stealing ideas; some 'green' products aren't so environmentally friendly; three men are charged with recording credit card numbers at gas pumps.Tax "relief" — The Federal Trade Commission is warning consumers to use caution before paying so-called tax relief companies to help them negotiate tax debts. Many of these companies advertise on television and radio that they can reduce or eliminate tax debts, but in fact most consumers don't qualify for the IRS programs that the companies say they will use, the FTC said in a recent advisory. Consumers should be wary of companies that demand upfront fees before negotiating to reduce debt, the FTC said.

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