Please be aware of Coupon Fraud. It's unacceptable!

Recently, I've been hearing lots of murmurings in the blogosphere on the topic of "Coupon Fraud".  This issue is being discussed in relation to one of those profiled on the TLC Extreme Couponing show that aired this past Wednesday 4/6/11 evening.  There are a couple of articles written by Jill Cataldo, which further explain the concerns.

Using coupon fraud practices is completely unacceptable.  It is a CRIME much like shoplifting: 

What is coupon fraud?

• Coupon fraud occurs whenever someone intentionally uses a coupon for a product that he/she has NOT purchased or otherwise fails to satisfy the terms and conditions for redemption (example: buying "cheerios" with a "fiber one" coupon because certain aspects of the barcodes match)
• When a retailer submits coupons for products they have not sold or that were not properly redeemed by a consumer in connection with a retail purchase
• When coupons are altered/counterfeited  (example: photocopying/other in order to change the expiration date, alter the barcode, or change the value of a coupon)
• See the CIC website (Coupon Information Center) for further information & to see a list of fraudulent coupons currently in circulation.

I absolutely do not and will not recommend (or condone) fraudulent coupon deals in any way. 

• These activities are almost always in violation of Federal, State or local laws.
• Coupon fraud costs consumer product manufacturers hundreds of millions of dollars every year.
• Coupon fraud also increases costs for consumers and makes it more difficult for honest consumers to legitimately use coupons.

There are plenty of fantastic legitimate deals available without the use of these desperate tactics.