Besides the request for advance payment, the SEC and other sources list a number of other warning signs and wise practices to follow.

FORBES: Magazine Article

A.'s 57 regional offices can request what amounts to an advance payment of their educational benefits.

FORBES: Magazine Article

In fact, we recommend multiple calls one as far in advance as possible to make preliminary arrangements, and another a few days before your trip to confirm your request.

MSN: Traveling with dietary restrictions

Huawei submitted a timely request to the Bureau of Industry and Security at the Department of Commerce in advance of completing the purchase in May and the Department of Commerce certified that no license was required to export the 3Leaf technology.

FORBES: Huawei's Open Letter To U.S. Investigators