Avoiding online mobile scams
Dec 9th, 2009 by admin
AdAd.co.za is committed to providing quality mobile web services and for the most part providing them for free.
For premium customers we only charge against AdAd credits and you have to purchase these through a prescribed method. We then only charge for described services and we tell you clearly what service will cost. All transactions are then visible in your zone and you can query any transaction at any time.
Unfortunately the South African Mobile Web Landscape also has people who do not have particularly honest methods – they will get you to click some link (often for an IQ test or ringtones/games) and then will start charging you fees every day/week or month – sometimes as much as R50 a week.
Bizarrely the mobile operators often let these dubious players get away with such scams so it is best to play safe when on the mobile web. Here are a few tips to help make you mobile web experience a good (and scam free) one.
1. Do not click on ringtone/wallpaper/game ads and offers unless you have read everything and are aware of the costs. If no costs/details about costs are described then do not click – just press the back button. AdAd.co.za is now blocking ringtone based ads for your security but you should still be careful. Also if that’s your thing you should have a look at sites like zedge & getjar.
2. Anything that says IQ test – avoid!
3. Report any dodgy ads to us (admin@adad.co.za) and we will try to block them from our site. We will also start naming and shaming (As the operators and WASPA should be doing).
4. If you do start getting SMSs that you think they have unfairly signed you up for then – please file a complaint with Waspa.org.za here – http://www.waspa.org.za/code/complaint.shtml, they have the power to fine a load of these “service providers”. Also immediately send the stop short code – if one provided (if they don’t send one they are in breach of conditions)
Okay that’s it, don’t be afraid – the mobile web is a fun place to be with lots of great free resources but remember to be safe, report and complain when you need to.