Showing posts with label Scams. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Scams. Show all posts

Here are some important tips from Amazon to identify scams and keep your account and information safe:

1. Trust Amazon-owned channels.

Always go through the Amazon mobile app or website when seeking customer service, tech support, or when looking to make changes to your account.

2. Be wary of false urgency.

Scammers may try to create a sense of urgency to persuade you to do what they’re asking. Be wary any time someone tries to convince you that you must act now.

3. Never pay over the phone.

Amazon will never ask you to provide payment information, including gift cards (or “verification cards,” as some scammers call them) for products or services over the phone.

4. Verify links first.

Go directly to our website when seeking help with Amazon devices/services, orders or to make changes to your account.

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

Amazon Will Never Ask for Your Password or Sensitive Information

Amazon takes the security of your account very seriously. They will never ask you to disclose your password or other sensitive information over the phone or on any website other than Amazon.com. If you receive an email, text message, or phone call from someone claiming to be from Amazon and asking for your password or other personal information, do not reply. It is a scam.

Here are some tips for avoiding Amazon scams:

  • Never click on links in emails or text messages from unknown senders.
  • If you are unsure whether an email or phone call is from Amazon, hang up or delete the email without responding.
  • Only log in to your Amazon account on the official Amazon website or app.
  • Do not give out your password to anyone, not even Amazon employees.
  • If you have any questions about your account, contact Amazon directly through their website or customer service line.

Here are some examples of Amazon scams:

  • A scammer will send you an email claiming that your account has been suspended or that there is a problem with your order. They will ask you to click on a link and provide your password or other personal information.
  • A scammer will call you and claim to be from Amazon customer service. They will say that there is a problem with your account and that they need you to provide your password or other personal information.
  • A scammer will send you a text message claiming that you have won a prize from Amazon. They will ask you to click on a link and provide your personal information in order to claim the prize.

If you think you have been the victim of an Amazon scam, you should:

  • Change your Amazon password immediately.
  • Report the scam to Amazon. You can do this by going to Amazon’s website and clicking on “Help” in the top right corner. Then, select “Report Phishing or Fraud”.
  • File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can do this online at ftc.gov/complaint.

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from Amazon scams.

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

Amazon Account Suspension or Account Deletion Scams

Amazon is a popular online retailer, and as such, it is a target for scammers. One common scam involves sending text messages, emails, or making phone calls to Amazon customers claiming that their account has been suspended or will be deleted. The scammer will then try to trick the customer into clicking on a fraudulent link or providing personal information, such as their login credentials or payment information.

Here are some things to look out for if you receive a message from Amazon claiming that your account has been suspended or will be deleted:

  • The message will often be poorly written and may contain grammar or spelling errors.
  • The message may ask you to click on a link or provide personal information.
  • The message may create a sense of urgency, telling you that you need to act immediately to avoid having your account suspended or deleted.

If you receive a message that you think might be a scam, do not click on any links or provide any personal information. Instead, contact Amazon directly to verify the status of your account. You can contact Amazon customer service by phone, chat, or email.

Here are some tips to help you avoid Amazon account suspension/deletion scams:

  • Only ever sign in to your Amazon account on the official Amazon website or app.
  • Be wary of any messages that ask you to provide personal information, such as your login credentials or payment information.
  • Never click on links in messages from unknown senders.
  • If you are unsure about the authenticity of a message, contact Amazon customer service directly.

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from Amazon account suspension/deletion scams.

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

Amazon Prime Membership Scams

Amazon Prime is a popular membership program that offers free two-day shipping, streaming video, and other benefits. Unfortunately, it is also a target for scammers.

One common Prime membership scam involves an unsolicited email, text, or phone call from someone claiming to be from Amazon. The scammer may say that there is a problem with your account, such as an unpaid membership fee, and ask you to confirm or cancel your membership. They may also try to get you to provide your payment information so they can “reinstate” your membership.

Here are some things to watch out for if you receive a message about your Prime membership:

  • The message is unsolicited. Amazon will never contact you out of the blue to ask for payment information or to verify your account.
  • The message is urgent. Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency by saying that your account will be suspended or deleted if you don’t act immediately.
  • The message is asking for personal information. Amazon will never ask you to provide your credit card number, Social Security number, or other sensitive information over the phone or in an email.
  • The message is coming from an unfamiliar email address. Amazon’s email addresses will always end in @amazon.com.

If you receive a message that you think might be a scam, do not reply to it. Instead, hang up the phone, delete the email or text, and contact Amazon directly through their website or customer service line.

Here are some tips to help you avoid Prime membership scams:

  • Only ever provide your payment information directly to Amazon through their website or app.
  • Never click on links in emails or text messages from unknown senders.
  • Be suspicious of any messages that ask for personal information, especially if they are urgent or threatening.
  • Keep your software up to date, including your operating system, web browser, and antivirus software.

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from Prime membership scams.

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

Three Key Warning Signs of Scams

Scams are a type of fraud that involves someone deceiving you in order to get your money or personal information. They can be very convincing, and it’s important to be aware of the red flags so that you can avoid becoming a victim.

Here are three key warning signs of scams:

  1. They ask you to act now. Scammers often create a sense of urgency, telling you that you need to act immediately or you’ll miss out on a great deal. This can be a red flag, as legitimate businesses typically don’t pressure you to make a decision right away.
  2. They ask for personal information or codes. Scammers may ask for your credit card number, Social Security number, or other sensitive information. They may also ask you to provide security codes or passwords. Never give out this information to someone you don’t know and trust.
  3. They ask you to pay in an unusual way. Scammers may ask you to pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. These payment methods are often difficult to trace, which makes it easier for scammers to get away with their crimes.

If you encounter any of these warning signs, it’s best to walk away. Don’t give the scammer any personal information or money.

Here are some other things you can do to protect yourself from scams:

  • Be suspicious of unsolicited emails, texts, and phone calls.
  • Do your research before making any online purchases.
  • Only use legitimate websites and apps.
  • Keep your software up to date.
  • Be careful about what information you share on social media.

By being aware of the warning signs of scams and taking steps to protect yourself, you can help to 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.

How to Reduce the Number of Spam and Phishing Emails You Get

Spam and phishing emails are a nuisance, and they can also be dangerous. Spam emails are unsolicited messages that are sent to a large number of people, often for advertising purposes. Phishing emails are fraudulent messages that are designed to trick you into providing personal information, such as your passwords or credit card numbers.

There are a number of things you can do to reduce the number of spam and phishing emails you get. Here are a few tips:

  • Use a strong spam filter. Most email providers have a spam filter built in, but you may want to consider using a third-party spam filter as well. A good spam filter will help to block most spam emails from reaching your inbox.
  • Be careful about what information you share online. Don’t give out your email address on websites that you don’t trust. If you do have to give out your email address, make sure to check the website’s privacy policy to see how they will use your information.
  • Don’t reply to spam emails. Even if you think you’re just replying to unsubscribe from a mailing list, replying to a spam email can confirm to the sender that your email address is active. This can lead to even more spam emails being sent to you.
  • Report spam emails. Most email providers have a way to report spam emails. When you report a spam email, it helps the email provider to improve its spam filtering.
  • Use an email alias. If you’re worried about getting spam emails, you can use an email alias when signing up for new websites or services. This way, you can keep your main email address safe from spam.
  • Be suspicious of emails that look like they’re from a legitimate company. Phishing emails are often very good at mimicking the look and feel of legitimate emails. If you get an email from a company that you do business with, but the email looks strange, don’t click on any links in the email or reply to it. Instead, go directly to the company’s website and log in to your account to see if there’s anything there that needs your attention.
  • Install anti-phishing software. Anti-phishing software can help to protect you from phishing attacks. This software will scan emails for phishing content and warn you if it finds anything suspicious.

By following these tips, you can reduce the number of spam and phishing emails you get. This will help to keep your inbox clean and prevent you from becoming a victim of a scam.

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

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 ZelleVenmo 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 ZelleVenmo 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.

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 a LinkedIn Relationship Fake

A LinkedIn relationship fake is a fake profile that is created to impersonate a real person or organization. These profiles are often used for malicious purposes, such as phishing, spam, or identity theft.

There are a number of ways to spot a LinkedIn relationship fake. Some common signs include:

  • A profile with a generic name or photo.
  • A profile with no or very little work experience.
  • A profile with a high number of connections, but few or no endorsements or recommendations.
  • A profile that is not active, with no recent updates or activity.
  • A profile that is asking for personal information, such as your credit card number or Social Security number.

If you are unsure whether a LinkedIn profile is real, you can do a few things to check. First, you can try to search for the person or organization on other social media platforms or websites. If you can’t find any other information about them, it’s a good sign that the profile is fake.

You can also try to contact the person or organization directly to verify their identity. If they don’t respond, or if they give you a suspicious reason for not being able to verify their identity, it’s best to avoid interacting with them.

If you think you have encountered a LinkedIn relationship fake, you can report it to LinkedIn. To do this, go to the profile and click on the “More” button. Then, select “Report/Block” and choose the option “This profile does not represent a real individual.”

LinkedIn will review your report and take appropriate action.

Here are some tips to help you avoid LinkedIn relationship fakes:

  • Be cautious about accepting connection requests from people you don’t know.
  • Do your research before connecting with someone on LinkedIn.
  • Be wary of profiles that ask for personal information.
  • Report any suspicious profiles to LinkedIn.
  • If you receive a connection request from someone who is using a stock photo as their profile picture, it’s a good sign that the profile is fake.
  • If you receive a connection request from someone who is located in a different country than you are, be careful. There have been cases of scammers using fake profiles to target people in other countries.
  • If you receive a connection request from someone who is asking for money, it’s a scam. Don’t send them any money.

What is a Fake High School Sports Streaming Site Scam

A fake high school sports streaming site scam is a type of online scam that tricks people into paying for a live stream of a high school sporting event that does not exist. The scammers often use social media to promote their fake streams, making it appear as though they are legitimate.

How does it work?

The scammers will create a fake website that looks like it is affiliated with a high school or athletic organization. They will then post links to the fake website on social media, often tagging the school or organization in the posts. When people click on the links, they are taken to the fake website, which will ask them to pay a fee to watch the live stream.

What are the risks?

There are two main risks associated with falling victim to a fake high school sports streaming site scam. First, you will lose the money you paid to watch the live stream. Second, you may also expose your personal information to the scammers, which could be used for identity theft or other malicious purposes.

How to protect yourself

There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from falling victim to a fake high school sports streaming site scam:

  • Only watch live streams from legitimate sources. The best way to do this is to check the school’s or athletic organization’s website or social media pages to see if they are offering live streams.
  • Be suspicious of any links that you see on social media. If you see a link to a live stream that you are not familiar with, do not click on it.
  • Be careful about providing your personal information online. Only give out your personal information if you are sure that the website is legitimate.

What to do if you think you have been scammed

If you think you have been scammed, you should contact your credit card company immediately to dispute the charge. You should also report the scam to the Better Business Bureau and the Federal Trade Commission.

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

What is a Testimonial Video Scam?

A testimonial video scam is a type of fraud where scammers use fake or misleading video testimonials to trick people into buying products or services. These scams are often found on social media, online marketplaces, and other websites.

The scammers will typically create fake video testimonials that feature people who appear to be happy customers. The testimonials will often be very positive and make it seem like the product or service is a surefire way to get results. However, the people in the videos are often actors or paid promoters, and the testimonials are not genuine.

In some cases, the scammers will use real video testimonials, but they will edit them to make it seem like the people in the videos are saying things that they never actually said. For example, the scammers might edit a video to make it seem like someone is saying that they lost a lot of weight using a particular weight loss product, when in reality the person in the video never said anything about weight loss.

Testimonial video scams can be very convincing, and it can be difficult to tell that they are fake. However, there are a few things you can look for to spot a scam.

  • Check the credentials of the people in the video. If the people in the video are experts or celebrities, you can try to verify their credentials. You can also look for reviews of the product or service from other sources to see if anyone else has had a similar experience.
  • Beware of testimonials that are too good to be true. If a testimonial seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often use testimonials that make it seem like the product or service is a miracle cure.
  • Look for inconsistencies in the video. If you notice any inconsistencies in the video, such as the person’s voice or appearance changing, it’s a good sign that the video is fake.

If you think you might have been scammed by a testimonial video scam, there are a few things you can do.

  • Report the scam to the website where you saw the video. Most websites have a way to report scams.
  • Contact your bank or credit card company and report the fraudulent charge.
  • File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC can help you get your money back and prevent other people from being scammed.

Testimonial video scams are a growing problem, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself. By being aware of the signs of a scam and taking precautions, you can help keep your money safe.

Here are some additional tips to help you avoid testimonial video scams:

  • Only trust testimonials from reputable sources. If you see a testimonial on a social media post or an online marketplace, don’t take it at face value. Do some research to see if the source is credible.
  • Read the fine print. Before you buy anything, be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully. This will help you understand what you’re actually getting into.
  • Be skeptical of any offer that seems too good to be true. If a product or service sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to walk away from a deal that seems suspicious.

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.

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.

Be Aware of Wrong Number Texts Scams

Have you ever received a text message from a number you don’t recognize? It might start with something like, “Hey, are we still meeting for coffee later?” or “Sorry, I think I texted the wrong number.” If you respond, the scammer will likely try to keep the conversation going and eventually ask for personal information or money.

This is called a “wrong number” text scam. Scammers use this tactic to trick people into thinking they’re talking to someone they know, which makes them more likely to be scammed.

How the Scam Works

The scammer will send a text message to a random number. The message will be something that is likely to get a response, such as a question about a meeting or an apology for texting the wrong number.

Once the victim responds, the scammer will start a conversation. They will try to build rapport with the victim and make them feel comfortable. In a lot of cases these conversations are started with a Chat Bot until the hook gets set. They may also ask for personal information, such as your name, address, or phone number.

Eventually, the scammer will ask for money. They may say that they need help with a medical emergency, or they may claim to be a government official who needs the victim’s payment to process a refund.

How to Avoid the Scam

There are a few things you can do to avoid falling victim to a wrong number text scam:

  • Don’t respond to texts from unknown numbers.  Just delete the text.  If you do respond, be very careful about what information you share.
  • Never give out your personal information, such as your Social Security number, bank account number, or credit card number, to someone you don’t know.
  • Be suspicious of any requests for money. If someone asks you for money, even if they say they’re a government official, hang up and contact the agency directly to verify.

What Happens If I Text Back a Scammer?

If you text back a scammer, you’re giving them confirmation that your number is active. This means that they’re more likely to keep texting you or even sell your number to other scammers.

In addition, if you give the scammer any personal information, they can use it to commit identity theft or other crimes.

How to Protect Yourself

There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from wrong number text scams:

  • Use a spam filter. This will help to block unwanted texts from reaching your phone.
  • Don’t share your phone number online. This will help to prevent scammers from getting your number in the first place.
  • Be careful about what information you share on social media. Scammers can use this information to target you with scams.
  • Be suspicious of any texts that seem too good to be true. If a text message promises you a lot of money or a free prize, it’s probably a scam.

What is a Driveway Repair Scam?

Driveway repair scams are a common occurrence, and they can be costly for homeowners who fall victim to them. These scams typically involve a contractor who shows up at your door unannounced and offers to pave your driveway for a fraction of the cost of a legitimate contractor. They may claim to have leftover materials from another job, or they may say that they are offering a special deal.

Once you agree to have the work done, the contractor will often ask for a large upfront payment. They may then do a shoddy job, or they may simply disappear after taking your money. In some cases, the contractor may even damage your driveway.

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

  • Be wary of unsolicited offers. If a contractor shows up at your door unannounced, it is best to decline their services. Legitimate contractors will not typically cold-call homeowners.
  • Do your research. Before you hire a contractor, be sure to do your research. Check their references, and make sure they are licensed and insured. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there have been any complaints filed against them.
  • Get everything in writing. Before you agree to have any work done, be sure to get everything in writing. This includes the scope of work, the price, and the payment terms.
  • Pay with a credit card. If you do decide to pay the contractor upfront, be sure to pay with a credit card. This will give you some protection if the contractor does not do the work or does a shoddy job.
  • Ask for proof of insurance. Legitimate contractors will carry liability insurance. This will protect you in case they damage your property.
  • Get multiple estimates. Don’t just go with the first contractor who comes to your door. Get multiple estimates from different contractors before you make a decision.
  • Don’t be afraid to walk away. If you’re not comfortable with a contractor or their estimate, don’t be afraid to walk away. There are plenty of other contractors out there who would be happy to do the work for you.

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

  • File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau.
  • Contact your local law enforcement agency.
  • Contact your credit card company if you paid with a credit card.