Crook Pretends to Be From Your Bank - Large Zelle Withdrawal Scam

Scammers are always coming up with new ways to steal money from people. One recent scam involves crooks pretending to be from your bank and asking you to make a large Zelle withdrawal.

The scammer will typically call you and say that they’re from your bank’s fraud department. They’ll tell you that there’s been suspicious activity on your account and that they need you to make a large withdrawal to protect your money. The scammer may also say that they need you to send the money to a specific person or account number.

If you fall for the scam, you’ll end up sending your money directly to the scammer. Once they have your money, it’s gone for good.

Here are some tips to help you avoid this scam:

• Never give out your personal information to someone you don’t know. This includes your bank account number, Social Security number, and credit card number.
• Don’t trust anyone who calls you and asks you to make a large withdrawal. If you’re not sure if the caller is legitimate, hang up and call your bank directly.
• Be wary of emails or text messages that seem too good to be true. If you receive an email or text message from someone claiming to be from your bank, don’t click on any links or open any attachments. Instead, go directly to your bank’s website or call their customer service number.

If you think you’ve been scammed, report it to your bank immediately. You should also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

Be Aware of Sporting Event Ticket Scams using P2P Payment

The start of the new sports season is always a time of excitement for fans. But it’s also a time when scammers are looking to take advantage of unsuspecting fans. One of the most common scams is the sale of fake or non-existent sporting event tickets.

Scammers often use peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps like Zelle, Venmo or Cash App to make it easier for them to get away with their crimes. These apps are designed for quick and easy payments between friends and family, but they’re also being used by scammers to trick people into sending money for fake tickets.

Here are some red flags to watch out for when buying sporting event tickets online:

• The tickets are significantly cheaper than the face value.
• The seller is unwilling to meet in person to exchange tickets.
• The seller only accepts payment through a P2P app.
• The seller has a suspicious-looking website or social media profile.
• The seller asks for personal information, such as your credit card number or Social Security number.

If you see any of these red flags, it’s best to avoid the seller and look for tickets elsewhere. Here are some tips for buying sporting event tickets safely online:

• Only buy tickets from authorized sellers, such as the venue box office, Ticketmaster, or StubHub.
• Do your research on the seller before you buy tickets. Read reviews and look for social media profiles.
• Be sure to meet the seller in person to exchange tickets. This will give you a chance to inspect the tickets and make sure they’re real.
• Only pay for tickets with a credit card. This will give you more protection if you’re scammed.

If you do end up getting scammed, report it to the authorities and to the P2P payment app that you used. You may also be able to get a refund from your credit card company.

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

New Hire Receives Payment Advance Check Scam - Payment back using P2P

A new hire at a company recently fell victim to a payment advance check scam. The scammer contacted the victim, claiming to be the company’s CEO, and said that they needed to send the victim a check for travel expenses. The check arrived a few days later, and it was for more money than the victim was expecting. The scammer then asked the victim to deposit the check and send back the excess money using a peer-to-peer (P2P) payment app.

The victim deposited the check and sent the excess money back to the scammer. However, a few days later, the bank notified the victim that the check was fake. The victim was now out the money they had sent to the scammer.

This is a common scam that targets new hires. Scammers often pose as the CEO or another high-ranking employee of a company in order to gain the victim’s trust. They then send the victim a fake check and ask for the excess money to be sent back using a P2P payment app.  They may ask for payment using Zelle, Venmo or Cash App.

There are a few things that people can do to protect themselves from this scam:

• Never deposit a check from someone you don’t know.
• If you do deposit a check, wait a few days to make sure it clears before sending any money back.
• Never send money to someone using a P2P payment app unless you are sure they are legitimate.
• If you think you have been the victim of a scam, contact your bank immediately.
• If you do receive a check from someone you don’t know, contact the company or organization that the check is supposedly from to verify its authenticity.

In this case, the victim should contact their bank and the P2P payment app to report the scam. They should also contact the police. The victim may be able to get their money back, but it is important to act quickly.

Here are some additional tips to help you avoid payment advance check scams:

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

Beware of Crooks Using Cash App for Fraud

Cash App is a popular peer-to-peer payment app that allows users to send and receive money quickly and easily. However, this convenience has also made Cash App a target for fraudsters.

There are a number of different Cash App scams that fraudsters use to steal money from unsuspecting users. Some of the most common scams include:

• Fake Cash App support: Fraudsters will pose as Cash App customer service representatives and contact users via email or text message. They will then try to trick the users into providing their personal information or sending them money.
• Fake payments: Fraudsters will send users a fake payment notification, even though no money has actually been sent. They will then ask the users to send them money back, claiming that the original payment was a mistake.
• Phishing attacks: Fraudsters will send users emails or text messages that appear to be from Cash App. These emails or text messages will often contain links that, when clicked, will take users to a fake Cash App website. Once the users enter their personal information on the fake website, the fraudsters can steal it.

If you are using Cash App, it is important to be aware of these scams and take steps to protect yourself. Here are some tips:

• Never give out your personal information to anyone who contacts you claiming to be from Cash App.
• Beware of any payments that you did not authorize.
• Do not click on links in emails or text messages that you are not sure about.
• Keep your Cash App app up to date.
• Use a strong password for your Cash App account.

If you think that you have been scammed on Cash App, you should report it to Cash App immediately. You can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

Beware of Crooks Using Venmo for Fraud

Venmo is a popular mobile payment app that allows users to send and receive money quickly and easily. However, this convenience has also made Venmo a target for fraudsters.

There are a number of ways that crooks can use Venmo to commit fraud. One common scam is to create a fake Venmo account and then send requests for money to unsuspecting users. The requests may appear to be from someone the victim knows, such as a friend or family member. Once the victim sends the money, the scammer disappears with the funds.

Another scam involves using Venmo to buy items that don’t exist. The scammer will create a listing for an item that is in high demand, such as a rare collectible or a concert ticket. Once the victim pays for the item, the scammer will either block the victim or simply disappear.

In some cases, crooks may even use Venmo to steal personal information from victims. This information can then be used to commit identity theft or other crimes.

To protect yourself from Venmo fraud, there are a few things you can do:

• Only send money to people you know and trust.
• Be wary of any Venmo requests that seem suspicious.
• Never send money to someone who you haven’t met in person.
• Check the Venmo profile of anyone you’re considering sending money to.
• Only use Venmo for legitimate transactions.

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

Beware of Crooks Using Zelle for Fraud

Zelle is a popular peer-to-peer payment app that allows users to send and receive money quickly and easily. However, Zelle has also become a target for fraudsters.

In recent months, there have been reports of crooks using Zelle to scam people out of their money. One common scam involves sending a text message or email that appears to be from a legitimate Zelle user. The message will ask the recipient to verify their Zelle account by clicking on a link. Once the recipient clicks on the link, they are taken to a fake Zelle website that looks like the real thing. The website will then ask for the recipient’s login information and other personal details.

Once the crooks have this information, they can log into the recipient’s Zelle account and steal their money.

Another common Zelle scam involves posing as a customer service representative from a legitimate company. The scammer will call the victim and claim that there is a problem with their Zelle account. The scammer will then ask the victim to provide their login information so that they can “fix” the problem.

Once the scammer has this information, they can log into the victim’s Zelle account and steal their money.

To protect yourself from Zelle fraud, there are a few things you can do:

• Never click on links in text messages or emails that you are not expecting.
• Be wary of anyone who asks you to provide your Zelle login information.
• Only use Zelle to send money to people you know and trust.
• If you think you have been scammed, contact Zelle customer service immediately.

Zelle is a convenient way to send money, but it is important to be aware of the risks of fraud. By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from becoming a victim.

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

What is a Bank Impersonator Scam Around Two Factor Authentication?

A bank impersonator scam around two factor authentication (2FA) is a type of phishing attack that targets people who have enabled 2FA on their bank accounts. In this scam, the attacker will first try to obtain your username and password for your bank account. Once they have this information, they will then send you a text message or email that appears to be from your bank. The message will say that there has been suspicious activity on your account and that you need to verify your identity by entering a code that has been sent to your phone.

The code that the attacker sends you is actually a 2FA code that they have generated. If you enter this code into the fake website, the attacker will be able to bypass your 2FA security and gain access to your bank account.

How to Protect Yourself

There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from this type of scam:

• Never enter your 2FA code into a website that you do not trust. If you receive a text message or email from your bank that asks you to enter your 2FA code, make sure that you navigate to the bank’s website yourself and enter the code there. Do not click on any links in the message.
• Be suspicious of any emails or text messages that ask you to verify your identity. If you receive a message like this, it is always best to contact your bank directly to verify that it is legitimate.
• Keep your software up to date. Software updates often include security patches that can help to protect you from these types of scams.

What to Do If You Think You Have Been Scammed

If you think you have been scammed, there are a few things you should do:

• Contact your bank immediately. Let them know that you have been scammed and that they need to disable your 2FA and change your password.
• File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can do this online at ftc.gov/complaint.
• Be vigilant about your financial accounts. Monitor your accounts closely for any unauthorized activity.

By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself from bank impersonator scams around two factor authentication.

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

What is the Fake Bar Code on Gift Card Scam?

The fake barcode on gift card scam is a new way for scammers to steal money from unsuspecting victims. In this scam, the scammer will print out a fake barcode that matches the barcode of a popular gift card, such as a Visa or Mastercard gift card. They will then place this fake barcode over the real barcode on a gift card that they have purchased. When the victim purchases the gift card, the cashier will scan the fake barcode, which will load the money onto the scammer’s gift card instead of the victim’s gift card.

There are a few things that you can do to avoid falling victim to this scam:

• Examine the back of the gift card before you buy it. Look for signs of tampering, such as a barcode sticker.
• Lightly Scratch the Bar Code Area. This might highlight that the bar code is on a sticker, if so, don’t buy it.
• Make sure the gift card’s barcode number matches the number on the packaging. You can do this by looking through the window on the back of the packaging.
• Buy gift cards from reputable retailers. This will help to reduce the chances of buying a gift card that has already been tampered with.

If you think that you may have been a victim of this scam, you should contact the gift card company immediately. They may be able to help you to cancel the gift card and get your money back.

Here are some additional tips to help you avoid falling victim to gift card scams:

• Never buy gift cards from online marketplaces or auction sites. These are often the most common places where gift card scams are found.
• Be wary of any deals that seem too good to be true. If you see a gift card for sale that is significantly cheaper than the retail price, it is probably a scam.
• Never give out your gift card PIN to anyone. The PIN is the only way to activate and use a gift card, so it is important to keep it safe.

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

What is Crypto Refund Scam?

A crypto refund scam is a type of investment scam that involves promising to refund victims' cryptocurrency losses. Scammers often pose as legitimate investment firms or cryptocurrency experts, and they may claim to have a way to recover lost cryptocurrency. However, there is no such thing as a guaranteed way to recover lost cryptocurrency, and these scammers are simply trying to take more money from their victims.

How Does Crypto Refund Scam Work?

Crypto refund scams typically work in one of two ways:

• The scammer will contact the victim and claim that they can recover their lost cryptocurrency.They may say that they have a special algorithm or software that can track down the lost cryptocurrency, or they may claim to have inside information about a new government program that will reimburse victims of cryptocurrency scams. The scammer will then ask the victim to pay a fee in order to start the recovery process.
• The scammer will create a fake website or social media account that appears to be a legitimate cryptocurrency investment firm. They will then offer victims the opportunity to invest in a “guaranteed” way to recover their lost cryptocurrency. The victim will send their cryptocurrency to the scammer, but the scammer will never return it.

How to Avoid Crypto Refund Scams

There are a few things you can do to avoid crypto refund scams:

• Be wary of anyone who promises to recover your lost cryptocurrency. There is no such thing as a guaranteed way to recover lost cryptocurrency, and anyone who claims otherwise is probably a scammer.
• Do not pay any upfront fees to anyone who promises to recover your lost cryptocurrency.Legitimate investment firms will never ask you to pay upfront fees.
• Do your research before investing in any cryptocurrency investment firm. Make sure the firm is legitimate and has a good reputation.

What to Do If You Fall for a Crypto Refund Scam

If you fall for a crypto refund scam, there are a few things you can do:

• Report the scam to the authorities. You can report the scam to your local police department, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).
• Try to get your money back. If you paid with a credit card, you may be able to dispute the charge. You may also be able to get your money back if you used a cryptocurrency exchange that offers buyer protection.
• Learn from your mistake. Be more careful about what information you share online, and do your research before investing in any cryptocurrency investment firm.

What is a Debt Collection Scam?

Debt collection scams are a type of financial fraud that involves someone pretending to be a debt collector in order to collect money that you don’t owe. These scams can be very convincing, and they can often leave victims feeling scared and confused.

How do debt collection scams work?

Debt collection scams typically start with a phone call or an email from someone claiming to be a debt collector. The caller or emailer will often say that you owe money to a company that you don’t recognize, and they may threaten you with legal action if you don’t pay. In some cases, the scammer may even pose as a government official in order to add to the pressure.

What are some warning signs of a debt collection scam?

There are a few things you can look out for that may indicate that you’re dealing with a debt collection scam. These include:

• The caller or emailer refuses to provide you with their name, company name, or contact information.
• The caller or emailer demands that you pay immediately, often in cash or by wire transfer.
• The caller or emailer threatens you with legal action if you don’t pay.
• The debt that the caller or emailer is claiming you owe doesn’t sound familiar.

What should you do if you think you’re being scammed?

If you think you’re being scammed by a debt collector, there are a few things you should do:

• Don’t panic. It’s important to stay calm and collected if you’re being scammed. Scammers often rely on their victims' fear to get them to pay up.
• Hang up the phone. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a debt collector, hang up the phone immediately. Don’t give them any personal information, and don’t agree to pay anything.
• Don’t respond to emails. If you receive an email from someone claiming to be a debt collector, don’t respond. Instead, forward the email to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
• Verify the debt. If you’re still unsure whether or not you owe the debt, you can verify it by contacting the original creditor. You can also get a free copy of your credit report from annualcreditreport.com.

How can I protect myself from debt collection scams?

There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from debt collection scams:

• Don’t give out your personal information over the phone or online. This includes your Social Security number, your credit card number, and your bank account number.
• Be wary of anyone who demands that you pay immediately. Legitimate debt collectors will usually give you some time to pay the debt.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you’re not sure whether or not you owe a debt, or if you’re not sure whether or not the person calling you is a legitimate debt collector, ask questions.
• Be familiar with your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). The FDCPA protects consumers from abusive debt collection practices.

If you’ve been a victim of a debt collection scam, there are a few things you can do. You can file a complaint with the FTC, and you can also sue the scammer in civil court. You may also be able to get your money back.

If you think you are being scammed or just feel like you are unnecessarily being harassed, Report a Debt Collector That’s Threatening You

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

What is a Mortgage Payment Relief Scam?

A mortgage payment relief scam is a fraudulent scheme that promises to help homeowners who are struggling to make their mortgage payments. Scammers may claim to be able to get you a loan modification, negotiate with your lender, or even buy your home outright. However, these promises are often false, and the scammers will simply take your money and disappear.

How do mortgage payment relief scams work?

Mortgage payment relief scams typically work in one of two ways:

• Upfront fees: Scammers will often ask for upfront fees in exchange for their services. These fees can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars, and they are often non-refundable. Once they have your money, the scammers will simply disappear.
• Delayed payments: Scammers may also tell you that you can stop making your mortgage payments while they work on getting you a loan modification or other relief. However, this is a dangerous proposition. If you stop making your mortgage payments, your loan will go into default, and you could lose your home.

What are the red flags of a mortgage payment relief scam?

There are a number of red flags that you should be aware of if you are considering using a mortgage payment relief company. These include:

• The company is not licensed or regulated. You should always check to make sure that the company you are considering using is licensed and regulated by the state.
• The company makes unrealistic promises. If a company promises to get you a loan modification or other relief that seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• The company asks for upfront fees. Legitimate mortgage payment relief companies do not typically ask for upfront fees.
• The company pressures you to act quickly. Scammers often pressure you to sign paperwork or make payments without giving you time to read the terms or ask questions.

If you think you have been the victim of a mortgage payment relief scam, there are a few things you can do:

• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can file a complaint online or by calling 1–877-FTC-HELP.
• Contact your state attorney general’s office. Your state attorney general’s office may be able to help you recover your money.
• Contact your lender. If you have stopped making your mortgage payments, contact your lender as soon as possible. They may be able to work with you to come up with a payment plan.

Mortgage payment relief scams can be very costly, both financially and emotionally. By being aware of the red flags and taking steps to protect yourself, you can help avoid becoming a victim.

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

What is a Home Flipping Scam?

A home flipping scam is a type of real estate fraud in which a con artist buys a property, makes minimal improvements, and then sells it for an inflated price. The scam often involves the use of falsified appraisals, straw buyers, and other fraudulent practices.

How Does a Home Flipping Scam Work?

The con artist will typically buy a property in a distressed market for a low price. They will then make some minor improvements to the property, such as painting, carpeting, or updating the kitchen. However, the improvements are often superficial and do not add significant value to the property.

The con artist will then hire an appraiser to appraise the property. The appraiser will often be willing to falsify the appraisal report, inflating the value of the property. This allows the con artist to sell the property for a much higher price than they originally paid for it.

In some cases, the con artist may use a straw buyer to purchase the property. A straw buyer is someone who agrees to buy a property on behalf of the con artist. The straw buyer will typically have good credit and a high income, which makes them appear to be a qualified buyer. However, the straw buyer will not actually live in the property. They will simply sign the paperwork and then turn the property over to the con artist.

How to Avoid a Home Flipping Scam

There are a few things you can do to avoid becoming a victim of a home flipping scam:

• Do your research. Before you buy a property, be sure to do your research and understand the market value of the property. You can use online resources, such as Zillow or Trulia, to get an estimate of the property’s value.
• Get an independent appraisal. Even if the seller provides an appraisal, it’s a good idea to get your own independent appraisal. This will help you to ensure that the property is actually worth the price that you’re paying.
• Be wary of sellers who are in a hurry to sell. If the seller is in a hurry to sell the property, it’s a red flag. This could be a sign that they’re trying to unload a property that they know is overpriced.
• Don’t use a straw buyer. If the seller asks you to use a straw buyer, be sure to ask why. This could be a sign that the seller is trying to hide something.

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

What is a Free Home Scam?

A free home scam is a type of fraud in which the scammer promises to give you a free house in exchange for your personal information. These scams are often advertised online or through door-to-door solicitations.

There are many variations of the free home scam, but they all share some common elements. The scammer will typically claim to be affiliated with a government agency, a charity, or a real estate company. They may also claim to be offering the house as a prize or a donation.

Once you have contacted the scammer, they will ask for your personal information, such as your name, address, and Social Security number. They may also ask for a fee, which they will claim is necessary to cover the cost of closing costs or other fees associated with the transfer of the property.

Once you have provided the scammer with your personal information or a fee, they will disappear. You will never receive a free home, and you may also be at risk of identity theft.

Here are some tips to help you avoid free home scams:

• Be suspicious of any offer that sounds too good to be true. If someone is offering you a free house, it’s probably a scam.
• Do not give out your personal information to anyone you do not know and trust. This includes your name, address, Social Security number, and financial information.
• Be wary of door-to-door solicitations. If someone comes to your door offering you a free home, do not give them any personal information or a fee.
• Check with the Better Business Bureau or your local consumer protection agency before doing business with any company that is offering a free home.

If you have been the victim of a free home scam, there are a few things you can do:

• Report the scam to the police. This will help them track down the scammers and bring them to justice.
• Place a fraud alert on your credit report. This will make it more difficult for the scammers to open new accounts in your name.
• Monitor your credit report for any suspicious activity. If you see any unauthorized charges, report them to the credit bureaus immediately.

Free home scams are a common type of fraud, but you can protect yourself by being aware of the signs and taking steps to avoid them. By following these tips, you can help keep your personal information safe and your financial accounts secure.

What to do if a scammer comes to your house?

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

What is a Medicare Scam?

A Medicare scam is a fraudulent attempt to obtain personal or financial information from a Medicare beneficiary. Scammers often pose as representatives of Medicare, a Medicare-approved insurance company, or a government agency. They may use phone calls, emails, or even in-person visits to trick their victims.

Types of Medicare Scams

There are many different types of Medicare scams, but some of the most common include:

• Imposter scams: Scammers pose as representatives of Medicare or a Medicare-approved insurance company and call beneficiaries to request personal information, such as their Medicare number, Social Security number, or bank account number. They may also claim that the beneficiary is owed money or that their benefits are in jeopardy.
• Phishing scams: Scammers send emails that appear to be from Medicare or a Medicare-approved insurance company. The emails often contain links that, when clicked, lead to fake websites that look like the real Medicare website. Once the victim enters their personal information on the fake website, the scammer can steal it.
• In-person scams: Scammers may visit Medicare beneficiaries at their homes and offer to help them enroll in a Medicare plan or Medicare Advantage plan. They may also claim that the beneficiary is eligible for free medical equipment or other benefits. In reality, the scammer is just trying to steal the beneficiary’s personal information.

How to Protect Yourself from Medicare Scams

There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from Medicare scams:

• Never give out your personal information over the phone or online unless you are sure the person you are talking to is legitimate.

• Be suspicious of any unsolicited calls or emails that claim to be from Medicare or a Medicare-approved insurance company.

• Never click on links in emails that you are not sure are legitimate.

• Be aware of the signs of a Medicare scam. These signs may include:

  • The caller or email sender is asking for personal information that Medicare would not normally ask for, such as your bank account number or credit card number.
  • The caller or email sender is pressuring you to act quickly or you will lose your benefits.
  • The caller or email sender is making you feel afraid or threatened.

If you think you have been the victim of a Medicare scam, there are a few things you can do:

• Report the scam to Medicare. You can do this by calling 1–800-MEDICARE (1–800–633–4227) or visiting medicare.gov/report-fraud.
• Place a fraud alert on your credit report. This will make it more difficult for scammers to open accounts in your name.
• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can do this online at ftc.gov/complaint.

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

What is an Online Romance Scam?

An online romance scam is a type of fraud where a scammer creates a fake online profile to gain someone’s trust and affection, and then uses that trust to ask for money or personal information. Romance scams can happen on any online platform where people meet, such as dating websites, social media, and chat rooms.

In 2021, people reported losing over $547 million to romance scams. The average loss per victim was $10,000.

How do romance scams work?

Romance scammers typically create fake profiles using stolen photos and information. They may pose as someone they’re not, such as a doctor, military officer, or wealthy businessman. Once they’ve established contact with a victim, they’ll quickly start professing their love and making promises for the future. They may also claim to be in a difficult situation, such as being stranded in a foreign country or needing money for medical treatment.

What are some warning signs of a romance scam?

• The person you’re talking to is very quick to profess their love.
• They make excuses for not meeting in person or video chatting.
• They ask for money or personal information.
• They have a sob story that tugs at your heartstrings.
• They seem to know a lot about you, even though you’ve just met.
• They try to isolate you from your friends and family.

How can you protect yourself from romance scams?

• Be skeptical of anyone who you meet online, especially if they’re quick to profess their love.
• Do your research before sending money to someone you met online.
• Never give out your personal information, such as your Social Security number or bank account number.
• If you think you’ve been scammed, report it to the authorities and the dating website or app where you met the scammer.

How much money do romance scammers steal?

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

What is an Employment and Money Mule Scam?

A money mule scam is a type of fraud in which criminals recruit people to help them launder money. The criminals will typically approach the victim through a fake job offer, an online dating scam, or a prize promotion. Once the victim is hooked, the criminals will ask them to open a bank account or use their existing account to receive and transfer money. The victim may be paid a small fee for their participation, but they are ultimately helping the criminals to commit financial crimes.

How does an Employment and Money Mule Scam Work?

There are many different ways that an employment and money mule scam can work, but they all follow a similar pattern. The criminals will first approach the victim with a seemingly legitimate offer. This could be a job offer, an online dating opportunity, or a prize promotion. Once the victim is interested, the criminals will start to ask for personal information, such as their bank account details or their social security number.

Once the criminals have the victim’s personal information, they will start to send them money. This money will typically be from stolen credit cards or from other fraudulent activities. The criminals will then ask the victim to transfer the money to another account. The victim may be told that they are helping to process payments, or they may be promised a cut of the money.

What are the risks of participating in an Employment and Money Mule Scam?

There are many risks associated with participating in an employment and money mule scam. First, the victim could be held liable for any financial crimes that the criminals commit. Second, the victim’s bank account could be frozen or closed. Third, the victim’s credit rating could be damaged.

How can I protect myself from an Employment and Money Mule Scam?

There are a few things that you can do to protect yourself from an employment and money mule scam. Be wary of any job offers that seem too good to be true. Never give out your personal information to someone you don’t know and trust. Be suspicious of any requests to transfer money. If you think that you may be the victim of a scam, contact your bank immediately.

What should I do if I think I’m involved in a Money Mule Scam?

If you think that you’re involved in a money mule scam, there are a few things that you should do. First, stop transferring money immediately. Second, contact your bank and let them know what’s happened. Third, contact law enforcement and file a report.

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

What's and Online Shopping Scam

An online shopping scam is a fraudulent attempt to trick you into giving up your personal or financial information, or into sending money to a scammer. Scammers often pose as legitimate online sellers, either with a fake website or a fake ad on a genuine retailer site. They may use sophisticated designs and layouts, possibly stolen logos, and even a domain name similar to an authentic retailer.

Here are some common online shopping scams:

• Fake websites: Scammers create fake websites that look like the real websites of legitimate retailers. They may even use the same domain name as the real website, but with a slight variation. Once you enter your personal or financial information on the fake website, the scammer can steal it.
• Fake ads: Scammers may place fake ads on legitimate websites. These ads may offer products or services at a very low price, or they may claim to be from a well-known retailer. When you click on the ad, you are taken to a fake website where you are asked to enter your personal or financial information.
• Phishing emails: Scammers may send phishing emails that appear to be from legitimate retailers. These emails may ask you to update your account information, or they may tell you that you have won a prize. When you click on the link in the email, you are taken to a fake website where you are asked to enter your personal or financial information.
• Overpayment scams: Scammers may contact you claiming to be from a legitimate retailer. They may say that they have overpaid you for an order, and they ask you to wire them the difference. Once you wire the money, the scammer disappears.
• Shipping scams: Scammers may sell you products that they never intend to ship. They may take your money and then disappear.

How to protect yourself from online shopping scams:

• Only shop from websites that you trust. Do some research before you shop online. Check the website’s URL carefully to make sure that it is legitimate. Look for reviews of the website from other shoppers.
• Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often use low prices to lure people in.
• Don’t click on links in emails from people you don’t know. If you receive an email from a retailer that you do business with, hover your mouse over the link before you click on it. If the link takes you to a website that you don’t recognize, don’t click on it.
• Pay with a credit card. If you do end up shopping on a website that you don’t trust, use a credit card. This will give you more protection if you are scammed.
• Be careful about what personal information you give out online. Don’t give out your Social Security number, your credit card number, or your bank account number unless you are sure that the website is legitimate.

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

What's a Reverse Mortgage Scam?

A reverse mortgage is a type of loan that allows homeowners 62 or older to access the equity in their home without having to make monthly payments. The loan is repaid when the borrower dies, moves out of the home, or sells the home.

Reverse mortgage scams are a type of financial fraud that target seniors. These scams often involve unscrupulous lenders who promise seniors a way to access their home equity without having to make monthly payments. However, these loans can be very expensive and can lead to seniors losing their homes.

Types of Reverse Mortgage Scams

There are a number of different types of reverse mortgage scams. Some of the most common include:

• Mortgage payment relief scams: These scams target seniors who are struggling to make their mortgage payments. The scammer will offer to help the senior get a reverse mortgage, but they will charge an upfront fee for their services. In some cases, the scammer will simply take the money and disappear.
• Home-flipping scams: These scams involve using a reverse mortgage to buy another property, fix it up, and then resell it quickly for a profit. The scammer will often guarantee that the property will increase in value, but this is not always the case. In some cases, the scammer will simply pocket the money from the reverse mortgage and leave the senior with no home.
• Free homes scams: These scams involve targeting seniors who are looking for a free place to live. The scammer will offer the senior a free home in exchange for them getting a reverse mortgage on the property. However, the home is often in poor condition and the scammer will not actually give the senior the title to the property.

How to Protect Yourself from Reverse Mortgage Scams

There are a number of things you can do to protect yourself from reverse mortgage scams. Some of these tips include:

• Do your research: Before you even consider getting a reverse mortgage, it is important to do your research and understand how the loan works. You should also talk to a financial advisor who can help you assess whether a reverse mortgage is right for you.
• Beware of high-pressure sales tactics: If a lender is pressuring you to get a reverse mortgage, be wary. Legitimate lenders will not pressure you into making a decision.
• Get everything in writing: Before you sign any paperwork, be sure to get everything in writing. This includes the terms of the loan, the fees involved, and the repayment schedule.
• Don’t give out personal information: Never give out your personal information, such as your Social Security number or bank account information, to someone you don’t know.

If You Think You Have Been Scammed

If you think you have been scammed, there are a number of things you can do. First, you should contact the lender who gave you the loan. You should also file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The CFPB can investigate the matter and take action against the scammer.

You can also contact your local law enforcement agency. They may be able to help you recover your money.

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

Common Zelle, Venmo, and Cash App scams:

Zelle, Venmo, and Cash App are all popular peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps that allow users to send and receive money quickly and easily. However, these apps have also become targets for scammers.

• Fake payment requests: Scammers will often create fake profiles on social media or dating apps and then send messages to users asking for money. They may claim to be in need of help, such as needing money to pay for a medical emergency or to help a family member in need. Once the victim sends the money, the scammer disappears.
• Overpayment scams: In this scam, the scammer will send the victim a payment that is more than the amount they owe. They will then ask the victim to send back the difference, which is actually their own money.
• Tech support scams: Scammers will call or text victims claiming to be from Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App’s customer support. They will say that there is a problem with the victim’s account and that they need to provide personal information or download software in order to fix it. Once the victim provides this information, the scammer can use it to steal their money.
• Phishing scams: Scammers will send emails or text messages that appear to be from Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App. These emails or text messages will often contain a link that, when clicked, will take the victim to a fake website that looks like the real Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App website. Once the victim enters their login information on the fake website, the scammer can steal their account information.

It is important to be aware of these scams and to take steps to protect yourself. Here are some tips:

• Only send money to people you know and trust.
• Never click on links in emails or text messages from people you don’t know.
• Always log in to Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App directly from their website or app.
• Enable two-factor authentication for your accounts.
• Be wary of any requests for personal information or payment.

If you think you have been scammed, you should contact Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App immediately. You should also report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.

Crooks Are Stealing Your Checks to Commit Fraud

They may steal your checks from your mailbox, from your car, or even from your home. Once they have your checks, they can use them to write fraudulent checks, or they can sell them to other criminals.

There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from check fraud:

• Shred your old checks. Don’t just throw them away in the trash. Shred them into small pieces so that they can’t be used by criminals.
• Make sure your mailbox is secure. If your mailbox is easy to open, criminals may be able to steal your checks. Consider installing a locking mailbox or a security camera.
• Don’t leave your checks in your car. If you have to leave your car, take your checks with you or lock them in the trunk.
• Be careful who you give your checks to. Only give your checks to people you trust.
• Check your bank statements regularly. This will help you to spot any unauthorized transactions.
• Be aware of the signs of check fraud. These signs include:
  • Unauthorized transactions on your bank statement
  • Checks that have been altered
  • Checks that have been written for more money than you authorized

If you think that your checks have been stolen, you should contact your bank immediately. They will be able to help you to protect your account and to prevent any fraudulent transactions.

Here are some additional tips to help you stay safe from scams and fraud.

• Don’t give out your personal information over the phone or online. This information can be used to open fraudulent accounts in your name.
• Use strong passwords and keep them secure. Your passwords should be at least eight characters long and should include a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Be careful what information you share on social media. Criminals can use this information to target you for fraud.

See Scam and Fraud Protection for 2023 for more information and make sure to Sign Up for our Scam Prevention Newsletter.