Scam?

Let's face it. The Internet is the easiest method of deceit these days. It's also the best way to check if you're being faced with a potential scam.

In this blog entry, I'm going to start off by discussing money-making online basics and how to avoid scam sites.

The first thing I advise my friends and family to do when they're considering joining a site that promises online money-making, such as survey sites, is to do as much prior research as possible. There are plenty of websites dedicated to debunking myths and exposing scam sites. Read through other people's posts in forums and blogs. Ultimately, you're making the decision for yourself whether or not you want to give each website a try. The more positive feedback you get regarding a particular website, the better chance you have at actually receiving payment and/or prizes.

Don't be fooled into thinking making money by taking online surveys is quick and easy. It's not. It can take weeks, months, even years of filling out surveys just to earn a sizable paycheck. These things should not be considered primary work; legitimate work-from-home sources that provide training would be a better option. If you're looking for a small, supplementary income, then a survey site might be all right for you. Just expect to take a lot of time filling out the surveys and letting your dollar amount accumulate.

Most sites have a minimum payout. I've been minimums as small as $5.50 and as high as $20. It all depends on the site. Be sure you are well-informed from the get-go about minimums and payment methods (generally by way of a mailed check or PayPal).

Generate as many referrals as you can; most sites offer incentives per referral received. Links for those can be found on each individual website. Banners for websites and blogs are also a good way to generate interest.

Last of all, expect to join more than one survey-taking site. If you're really gunning for those paychecks, one site isn't going to get it done. There are plenty of legitimate websites out there, and I will suggest a few that I have found beneficial to my bank account:

CashCrate
myLot
InboxDollars
Treasure Trooper
SendEarnings
Cashle
Opinion Outpost
TrekPay