In 1999 we began our own Home Based Business. We did our research, online, offline, in bookstores, and conferences. What we now look back on to is how there really was not any information or discussion on how to protect buying and selling activity. We, like others, learned the hard way. We made several of what we thought was good deals soon realizing that we had fallen victim of fraud.

Why do people commit fraud? The answer can only be assumed that it is financially driven. Yet one of the most important safeguards is to not think of the reasons a scammer is doing what he/she is, but to think that the possibility exists. Always keep your guard up and ask questions no matter how unlikely they may seem to be. For example, one of the most common mistakes small, online business operators make is to assume that scammers are males. A mother of three inspired one of our hardest learning lessons. Remember, you can't see through the computer screen, just by saying you're someone, doesn't mean that you are. Make no assumptions scrutinize your information.

Now to the hard of the matter, many people reading this article may sell on Ebay or operate their own online store. When you research and attempt to find products, there are some places you want to stay away from. Here are a few tips:

• Refrain from Trade leads from "free" members. Use members whose information has been validated through the trade site.
• Don't buy into sample orders from unknown companies. A dollar is a dollar and getting a little money from you, means success to a scammer
• Always make contact with the supplier before making a buy. Shopping carts won't validate the legitimacy of a company.

If we can offer you nothing else remember to thoroughly investigate your buyers and suppliers. You have a mountain of resources and may not even know it. For example, run a search using the terms of the company or contact name. You may also want to use the countries website resources dedicated to preventing online fraud. Ask for resources, although this step alone should not be a complete investigation. Create forms and ask for as much information as you can. The most effective step we have used is to run a partial payment; this way you will be able to validate the payment option and establish some trust between you and the supplier/buyer.

Remember if and a deal sound too good to be true, it is most likely is. Be smart and your business will flourish. Do not rush your sells or orders.