BBB’s Megan MacBride Warns of Five Common Vacation Scams and How to Avoid Them
By-Hank Stolz
Photo-file graphic
WORCESTER, MA– Megan MacBride of the Better Business Bureau of Central New England detailed five specific types of scams for the Talk of the Commonwealth listeners: fraudulent vacation rentals that use pressure tactics, “free” vacation offers with hidden fees, scams on third-party booking sites, and various hotel-based scams including fake front-desk calls, Wi-Fi skimming, and fake food delivery menus. Throughout the conversation, MacBride provided red flags to watch for and practical tips for consumers to protect themselves, such as verifying information, using trusted websites, and being wary of high-pressure sales tactics.
March Madness Scams Are Surging—BBB Shares How to Stay Protected
BBB CEO Lisa Swanson warns that March Madness brings a surge in scams tied to tickets and sports betting, offering practical tips to protect consumers.
Consumer Protection Week: BBB Explains How It Protects Consumers | Radio Worcester
During Consumer Protection Week, Lisa Swanson of the Better Business Bureau of Central New England visited Talk of the Commonwealth at Sherwood’s Diner to explain how the BBB helps consumers avoid scams through business reviews, scam tracking tools, and public education.
BBB’s Dominique Goyette-Connerty Highlights President’s Club and Resources for New Entrepreneurs
Dominique Goyette-Connerty of BBB Central New England discusses the organization’s President’s Club for long-accredited businesses and shares how new entrepreneurs can access free BBB directory listings to increase visibility during National Entrepreneurship Week.
BBB Warns Consumers About Super Bowl Scams, Fraudulent Tickets, and Fake Merchandise
Lisa Swanson of the Better Business Bureau of Central New England joined Talk of the Commonwealth to explain how consumers can avoid Super Bowl-related scams involving tickets, merchandise, and online betting.
BBB’s Lisa Swanson Promotes “12 Week Year” Planning and Teases New Trades & Tech Initiative
Lisa Swanson, CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Central New England, called in from a BBB conference in Florida to discuss “The 12 Week Year,” upcoming scam prevention seminars, and new BBB events for local businesses — including a major initiative for trades and tech companies to be announced at an upcoming Worcester Railers game.
BBB of Central New England CEO Lisa Swanson on AI, Business Support, and Community Outreach
Lisa Swanson, CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Central New England, reflects on her first six months in the role, outlining new initiatives to better support accredited businesses, embrace AI-driven technology, and strengthen community connections.
New Year, Same Scammers: Financial Scams Surge in January
January creates the perfect environment for scammers. As people expect tax notices, job emails, and financial updates, fraudsters design messages that blend seamlessly into everyday activity — making the first month of the year one of the most dangerous.
BBB Wraps Up “12 Scams of Christmas” -Puppy Scams and Mort
The Better Business Bureau is closing out its 12 Scams of Christmas campaign with warnings about fake delivery alerts, luxury advent calendar fraud, sold-out toy scams, and puppy scams that spike during the holidays.
The 12 Scams of Christmas (Part Two)
In Part Two of The 12 Scams of Christmas, Shannon Manassa of the BBB of Central New England outlines four major scams to watch for during the holiday season — from fake gift card offers and phony seasonal jobs to impostor retail sites and charity fraud. Learn how scammers trick consumers during the busiest shopping months and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
“12 Scams of the Holidays” (Part 1)
BBB’s Shannon Manassa joins Radio Worcester to kick off Part 1 of “12 Scams of the Holidays,” warning shoppers about fake social media ads, gift-exchange scams, and risky holiday apps that could cost families money and personal data.
BBB Warns of ‘Ghost-Tapping’ Scam Targeting Tap-to-Pay Users
BBB of Central New England warns consumers about “ghost-tapping,” a scam exploiting tap-to-pay and mobile wallet technology to make unauthorized charges in crowded public places.
Gaudette Insurance Marks 100 Years of Family Values and BBB Partnership
Gaudette Insurance President Lee Gaudette joined BBB CEO Lisa Swanson to reflect on 100 years of family business tradition, the importance of trust and transparency, and why BBB accreditation remains essential in today’s digital era.
ABOUT
Discover the captivating world behind the scenes of local shows on Radio Worcester. At Radio Worcester, we go beyond just talking about what's happening in Central Massachusetts. We take pride in bringing you a uniquely local perspective on national politics, global affairs, and the rest of Massachusetts.
Our talented hosts and dedicated team work tirelessly to produce thought-provoking discussions, lively debates, and engaging content that truly reflects the pulse of our community. With an intimate knowledge of the region, our hosts bring their unique perspectives to the table, ensuring an authentic listening experience. Join us in celebrating the power of genuine conversations and the magic of community-driven radio.
Turn to Radio Worcester for the information you need to stay up to date on all things Worcester and central Massachusetts!
CONNECT
RADIO WORCESTER STUDIOS
Summit Street (Behind Polar Park)
Worcester, MA 01610.