When consumers see the VeriSign Secured Seal or the TRUSTe Privacy Seal on a website, they know their information is safe and private on their site.

So what does it mean when they see the Better Business Bureau Seal?

It means the Better Business Bureau has determined that the company meets BBB accreditation standards. In short, it's a symbol that the business has committed to conducting itself in an ethical and trustworthy manner.

And just like in the process of being vetted by VeriSign and TRUSTe, there is a fee involved in BBB accreditation as the BBB works through its process of ensuring your company meets our strict standards. However, there are more perks than just being able to use the BBB seal to show your customers and prospects that you can be trusted.

BBB Accredited Businesses can take advantage of the BBB 'Request a Quote' Program, Affinity Partner Discounts, Business Card Exchanges, the Online Business Directory and more.

In today's brand-crazed culture, labels matter. Whether it's a Coach purse, a Rolex watch or an Apple iPad, certain brands are status symbols.

Brand obsession fuels the market for knock-offs of products ranging from purses to perfume, from computer games to computer tablets.

If you are scanning the internet for last minute deals, or planning to hit the after Christmas sales, the BBB has advice here for how to avoid buying fake products.