Keep in mind that most of the information posted on these message boards is not necessarily fact. Certain ways of doing things may have worked for one person, but it may not work for everyone. Rules will vary depending on the type of business, the person running it, and even its location. Posters on these message boards may mean well, but sometimes they simply got lucky. The way that they handled their business starting out worked for them, but is not necessarily advisable for everyone.

While most posters on work at home message boards are good, quality people, there are those bad apples too. Some people on these boards prey on those new to the business and post opportunities that will actually scam unsuspecting new business owners.

Keep in mind that no known legitimate business opportunity will ask for large sums of money upfront without a useful product or service included. In this situation, the only person that will benefit is the one extending the offer.

It may be difficult then to decide who you can and cannot trust for advice on a message board. In general, a good rule of thumb is to take note of how long they have been on the message board and how long they have owned their business. A beginner giving out advice can be problematic for obvious reasons.

Also, look at how long the advice has been posted on the board, and read all the comments to it. If several others claim that the advice has been helpful to them, then it is probably good advice. Likewise, posters will warn others if the advice does not work.

Overall, the majority of people want to be helpful to new business owners as they were once there themselves. However, there are some people out there who want to make money off unsuspecting people, and there are also vindictive people online who would like to hurt your chances of succeeding. While they are in the minority, you must be aware that they do exist, which is why you should take much of the advice you receive online with a grain of salt.