Methodology

Each listing is a structured review backed by source evidence. We do not publish full HTML dumps. We store source links, extracted facts, short quotes, and timestamps.

Directory inclusion policy

  • As a rule, we do not list firms with an overall fail outcome. We avoid amplifying failed firms in search engines.
  • Limited exception: we may include a firm that is clearly a legitimate, well-known operator (not a scam) when its model appears materially unhelpful for users and public context is still valuable.
  • Firms marked risk are monitored closely and may move toward reduced visibility or removal if the risk profile worsens.

How reviews are run

  1. 1. Screen for immediate scam red flags (kill-switch).
  2. 2. Verify legal entity identity in official registries.
  3. 3. Verify regulatory or professional claims where relevant.
  4. 4. Run clone-defense checks by comparing independent contact records to website claims.
  5. 5. Verify address consistency using registry plus map/geocoder checks.
  6. 6. Record live-call findings when a human call occurs (otherwise marked not done).
  7. 7. Review domain age and web history.
  8. 8. Review external mentions, complaints, and warnings.

Status model

  • Check statuses: pass, risk, fail, or not_done.
  • not_done means verification was blocked or incomplete, not that risk was proven.
  • risk means verification completed and credible adverse signals were found.
  • overall status: fail (kill-switch failure), risk (important verification still uncertain or adverse), or provisional pass (sufficient checks completed without material issues).

Evidence standard

  • A completed check (pass/risk/fail) must include source evidence and extracted support.
  • Conclusions are only assigned when evidence is present; otherwise checks remain not_done.
  • Reviews are schema-validated and linted before publication.

Important limit

A listing is an evidence-based legitimacy review, not a guarantee of outcomes or legal responsibility for third parties.

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