(AmericanProsperity.com) – In a world full of technology, it’s getting easier and easier for scammers to take advantage of people. Unfortunately, scams have become a common part of modern-day society. Here are some tips so you can protect yourself from the most common offenders.
Scam #1: Fake Online Stores
It’s simple for scammers to pose as online stores that look like they sell legitimate merchandise. Once a person provides credit or debit card information, the scammers either charge more than the item advertised or use your information to make other purchases.
Thankfully, avoiding these scams is pretty straightforward. Chances are if a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is, so don’t fall for it. If the store is new to you and you’re unsure of its legitimacy, check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or look for reviews and fraud alerts online. Finally, never conduct wire transfers or purchase gift cards that can’t be traced.
Scam #2: Phishing
These scams involve people sending texts or emails to convince people to share their personal information. In addition, phishing scams sometimes include imitations of well-known businesses that ask you to click a link or tell you that you’ve won a prize. These scams are the number-one way cybercriminals can steal information.
To avoid falling victim to phishing scams, be sure to check emails carefully before clicking on anything or submitting any information. Install security software on your computer, phone, or tablet. If you see something suspicious, report it to the company and verify they sent the message. If a message or link is from an unknown source, don’t click on anything. Use a double-factor authentication process for logging into sites.
Protect yourself and your family from fraud and scams this holiday season. For tips on how to protect yourself, visit https://t.co/c85viArXGH. Report fraud and attempted fraud to the #FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at https://t.co/Cb8psUPCju. pic.twitter.com/El2CjLOHfi
— FBI Columbia (@FBIColumbia) December 6, 2021
Scam #3: Posing as Government Agencies
Scammers sometimes pose as government agencies such as the Internal Revenue Service or the Social Security Administration. These scammers often ask for your social security number to verify your identity and claim either your benefits will be cut off or they’re going to arrest you. Sometimes they require you to pay in the form of gift cards.
If this ever happens to you, hang up the phone. Don’t give them any information. Neither of these agencies will ever call you over payment or legal issues; they’ll send out letters if they have any problems for you to address. You can also contact the agency in question to verify it’s them contacting you.
Remember, any business or agency that asks you to perform a wire transfer, pay with gift cards or send cash is likely a scammer, and you should take the necessary steps to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.
~Here’s to Your Prosperity!
Copyright 2021, AmericanProsperity.com
