Money Fix: 5 things to know about 'free trial' offers

At this time of year, with so many people resolving to improve their personal appearances, it could be easy to fall prey to deceptive online "free trial" offers. The Better Business Bureau says to take particular care with offers for products related to weight loss, anti-aging and teeth whitening.

Certainly many such deals are legitimate, but some are full of red flags, says Brian Rauer, executive director of the Long Island Better Business Bureau. That's why it's important to pay attention to the following:

1. Look for the asterisks. The terms "free" and "no risk" may be in large, prominent type. But the real deal could be explained at the bottom in mouse-sized type, signaled by an asterisk, says Rauer. Read that fine print.

2. Find out how easy it is to opt out. Before opting in for the free trail, find out how easy it is to opt out. You may need to send a certified letter. And know that many retailers take "your failure to cancel as permission to start charging," says Rauer.

3. Check the pre-checked boxes. On some sites the "I agree" box will already be checked. If you don't uncheck it, you could be bound to terms and conditions to which you do not agree.

4. Before you sign up. Before signing up, look for information on the full cost and billing procedures if you continue with the product. Look, too, for customer service contact information. If there's a phone number, give it a call just to make sure someone answers.

5. If it goes wrong. If you do sign on to the deal and find you can't opt out, or you do but get billed anyway, first try to address the problem with the company. If that doesn't work, contact the Better Business Bureau, which Rauer describes as "a neutral third party" that will try to work out a resolution between you and the retailer.

(Click here for  further information from bbb.org.)