What exactly is coupon fraud?

All of these practices are NOT ALLOWEDto be discussed or referred to on consumerqueen.com we do not wish to promote illegal activity.
Any posts that encourage or describe improper methods of coupon use will be deleted.

Misuse of the written intent of the coupon otherwise known as decoding
Basically using a coupon for other than what is written on the coupon.
That means using the coupon for another product that is not listed on the coupon.
Purchasing a different size than what is listed on the coupon.
Purchasing a different quantity than what is listed on the coupon.
Using the coupon after it has expired

Printing more than the allotted number of coupons:
Many companies offer Internet printable coupon for many products. (You can find these in the Printable Coupon Forum http://www.consumerqueen.com/forums/viewforum.php?f=22)
When you sign up to print these coupons a software program is often downloaded to your computer to enable you to print the coupons.
These programs have a set limit (such as Bricks coupons) of how many times you are allowed to print that company’s coupon. Some only let you print once, some let you print 2 or 3 times by clicking the back button or returning to the homepage of the coupons. Very few companies will allow you to print unlimited amounts of their coupons.
The software that the companies require you to install on your computer not only allows you to print a limit but may also include a tracking bar code where by the coupons can be traced back to you in case of fraudulent misuse of the coupon.
Setting your computer or printer to override the coupon tracking software is misuse of the generosity of the manufacturer and discussion of such behavior is not allowed at Consumerqueen.com.
Scanning, saving coupons to file, or copying coupons are against most manufacturers written words on their coupons. And once again they could be traced back to you.
If you wish to obtain multiples of an Internet printed coupon there are ways to do so. You can trade for them. Go to the library, or perhaps computers at work. Ask friends and family to print for you.

Modifying a coupon:
Doing anything to the coupon to modify it.
Mainly removing the expiration date or modifying the bar code.

Remember! Coupon fraud hurts everyone.

_________________
~Karen
Moderator