A 400 Percent Return In 7 Days? Riiiight.

The Delaware Division of Corporations shows Financial Independence LLC registered in November 2006.

The more questions I asked, the more agitated and defensive Garnett became. She said I could find out more by going to the company's Web site. But I learned little there except that the company was founded by Lee, a "gifted humanitarian and entrepreneur," and has grown to a more than 15,000 members.

To get more details, I had to pay the $100 membership fee. "Why do I have to become a member before learning more about the company?" I asked.

"Membership has its privileges," Garnett quipped.

Finally Garnett asked, "Who invited you here?"

"My friend," I said.

"Would your friend introduce you to anything that is crazy?" she asked.

That was a huge red flag for me and should be for you, if you should ever hear similar words at any business or investment promotion. Friends can unknowingly pull you into a scam or risky venture.

"I can't say if this company is illegal, but based on what you've told me, I would stay away from it in a hurry," said Borg of NASAA, whose membership consists of securities administrators. "I would be very concerned."

� On the air: Michelle Singletary discusses personal finance Tuesdays on NPR's "Day to Day" program and online athttp://www.npr.org.She also has a new personal finance call-in show that airs Sundays on XM Satellite Radio, Channel 169 "The Power," at 8 to 10 p.m.

� By mail: Readers can write to her at The Washington Post, 1150 15th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20071.

� By e-mail:singletarym@washpost.com.

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