But the chances of making the money claimed are slim. Consumers don't realize what they're getting into. Newcomers to the medical billing market with no experience and no contacts in the medical field will face fierce competition. As the FTC alleged, most of the consumers didn't earn a dime.

Not all medical billing opportunities are scams. For consumers interested in buying a medical billing business opportunity, the FTC offers advice:

• Check with the state Attorney General's office, consumer protection agency and the Better Business Bureau in your area and the area where the medical billing promoter is based to learn whether any unresolved complaints about them or the promoter are on file. Be aware, however, that the absence of complaints doesn't necessarily mean the medical billing company is legitimate. But at least you can rule them out if there is.

• Be wary of the medical billing promoter wants to only provide a few references.

• Interview these references in person and ask for the names of their clients and a description of their operations.

• Consult an attorney, accountant or other business advisor before signing any agreement or paying any money.

• Consult with organizations for medical claims processors or medical billing businesses and with local doctors.

• If the medical billing opportunity sells another company's software, check with the software company to find out whether company representatives know of any problems with the medical billing promoter.

All these things may seem like a difficult task, but real medical billing is a business. You need to treat it like one. Don't be afraid to ask the medical billing promoter questions.