If you think you’ve been victimized by a fraudulent invention marketing company, first contact the firm in writing and attempt to get your money back. If you are unsuccessful, report the problem to the FTC at www.ftc.gov, your local consumer protection agency, the BBB, and the attorney general (Consumer Protection Division) in your state and the state where the company is located. Also contact any media you think might be interested in following up on your story.

If the invention marketing company is national, you might want to tell your story to reporters who cover the consumer beat at network-level news-gathering operations, national daily newspapers, weekly and/or specialized magazines, and radio programs. Maybe begin with local media just to get the story in play.

Depending on the amount of money owed, small claims court may be an option if the invention marketing company is local.