06/10/2022
May 22, 2022
Avoiding Scams
What is a scam?
A scam is the use of intentional deception for monetary or personal gain. In all cases the victim receives no benefit from what the scammer promises, it’s all fakery, legally it is fraud. In earlier times these people were call confidence or “con” men.
Why is there so much scamming happening now?
Social media, the internet and email are all potential gold mines for scammers. Technology is helpful to scammers and so much more of our personal information is available to them.
Scammers believe their jobs are legitimate, they cannot accept the fact that they are fraudsters and could spend time in jail for their illicit activities.
Who are potential scam victims?
Everyone is a potential scam victim with the elderly being heavily targeted.
Why pick on the elderly?
Elderly people tend to be less tech savvy and kinder, not likely to be difficult with the demanding stranger on the other end of the line. These strangers can become rude and verbally abusive when they know you have their number. They may even threaten bodily harm, remember, these are empty threats, the scammers are halfway across the world, with little in the way of prospects or resources.
How can I protect myself against being scammed?
We have to become more knowledgeable; just a little knowledge and self-confidence will be most helpful.
Understand that companies and government agencies do not conduct formal business by phone. Never be afraid to hang up on an unsolicited call of any nature. If the contact is really important, the caller will follow up with a letter.
Another tipoff to their illicit activities is their request for payment using gift card numbers. Gift cards are the currency of choice because these transactions are quick and untraceable. No legitimate company requests payment via gift card numbers.
Where can I get more information about scamming?
AARP has written extensively on the topic of scamming, their website has very good information and is open to everyone. They define all of the scams being perpetrated currently. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also has written extensively on the topic.
These are two good, authoritative websites:
AARP: https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/
FTC: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid- scam
Get notified about the latest scams in your area and receive tips on how to protect yourself and your family with the AARP Fraud Watch Network.
