Almost everyone knows the Internet can be a great source for printable coupons. In fact, a new report from marketing research firm 
Morpace found that more than two-thirds of US consumers have downloaded printable coupons from the Web. And an article from Promo Magazine says these coupons are redeemed at higher rates than other types of coupons. While there's no doubt online coupons are a great way to save money, sometimes coupon sites can seem sketchy. Avoid viruses, identity theft or fraudulent coupons by making sure a coupon site isn't a scam.
Deal with Familiar Websites
Lawyer and author of "The Truth About Avoiding Scams" Steve J.J. Weisman says it's best to stick with what you know when it comes to coupon websites. Weisman has appeared on the Dr. Phil Show and is recognized nationally as an expert on scams. "A quick check with the Better Business Bureau, your state Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission is a good place to start," he says. That way you'll know you're dealing with a legitimate source.
Do a Quick Google Search
Weisman says a good way to find out if anyone else has had trouble with a site is to tap into Google. Type in the name of the website and the word "scam" to see what you come up with. You may not find any relevant search results, or you may find other comments and complaints already logged by others.
Don't Pay for Something that Should be Free
Sites offering daily deals and coupons should always be free according to Michael Meschures, founder of Spaphile.com, an LA-based website offering deals on local spa services. Meschures says if a site tries to charge you for something that others are giving away for free put away your credit card and head to another site.
Look for Terms of Service
Meschures also says coupon sites and daily deal services will have a "Terms of Service" page that lays out the rules of use. If you can't find this page on a site beware because it could be a scam site.
Beware of Deals that are Too Good to Be True
You've heard it a million times, but Weisman says it's worth repeating: "If the deal looks to good to be true, it usually is," he says. "Particularly be wary of a deal that looks too good to be true and requires you to link to another website." This is a scam called phishing and Weisman says it can often result in malware being downloaded to your computer without you even knowing. Never give away your personal information to an untrusted website because you could end up being the victim of identity theft.
