What is a sweepstakes scam?

A sweepstakes scam is a fraudulent attempt to get people to send money or provide personal information in exchange for the promise of winning a prize. These scams often use the names of well-known companies or organizations to make them seem more legitimate.

How do sweepstakes scams work?

Sweepstakes scams typically start with a phone call, email, or letter claiming that you’ve won a prize in a sweepstakes you don’t recall entering or haven’t heard of before. You’re told you need to make an up-front payment to collect the prize.

What are some warning signs of a sweepstakes scam?

There are a few things you can look out for that may indicate that you’re dealing with a sweepstakes scam. Legitimate sweepstakes companies won’t ask for any of these. They include:

• You’re contacted out of the blue without having entered their sweepstakes.
• You’re asked to pay money to claim your prize.
• You’re asked to provide personal information, such as your Social Security number or bank account number.
• The prize seems too good to be true. If you’re being offered a large prize, such as a car or a vacation, it’s probably a scam.

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

If you think you’re being scammed by a sweepstakes scam, 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 from a sweepstakes company, 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 from a sweepstakes company, don’t respond. Instead, forward the email to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
• Verify the sweepstakes. If you’re still unsure whether or not the sweepstakes is legitimate, you can verify it by checking the company’s website or by contacting the company directly.

Sweepstakes scams can be very stressful and upsetting. If you’re a victim of a scam, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. There are resources available to help you, and you can take steps to protect yourself from future scams.

Here are some additional tips to help you avoid sweepstakes scams:

• Be suspicious of any sweepstakes that asks for your credit card information. Legitimate sweepstakes companies will never ask for your credit card information before you’ve won a prize.
• Be careful about clicking on links in emails or text messages from sweepstakes companies. These links may lead to malicious websites that can infect your computer with malware.
• Use a spam filter to block emails from sweepstakes companies that you don’t recognize. This will help to prevent you from being scammed in the future.

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

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

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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 to do if a Scammer Comes to Your House?

If a scammer comes to your house offering you a free home, there are a few things you can do:

• Be polite but firm. Tell the scammer that you are not interested in their offer and that you would like them to leave.
• Do not give out any personal information. This includes your name, address, Social Security number, or financial information.
• Do not sign any documents. If the scammer asks you to sign anything, refuse.
• Report the scammer to the police. This will help them track down the scammers and bring them to justice.

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?

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What is an Imposter Scam?

What is an Imposter Scam?

An imposter scam is a type of fraud where the scammer pretends to be someone they’re not in order to trick you into giving them money or your personal information. They might call you on the phone, send you an email, or even message you on social media.

Imposter scams come in many different forms, but they all follow the same basic pattern:

1. The scammer will identify themselves as someone you trust, such as a government official, a representative from a company you do business with, or even a family member or friend.
2. They will then tell you a story that is designed to make you feel scared, worried, or excited. For example, they might say that you owe money to the IRS, that your computer has been infected with a virus, or that you have won a prize.
3. They will then ask you to do something that will give them access to your money or personal information. This could be anything from giving them your credit card number to wiring them money to providing them with your Social Security number.

There are a few things you can do to spot an imposter scam:

• Be suspicious of any unsolicited contact. If you get a phone call, email, or text from someone you don’t know, be wary. Legitimate businesses and organizations will never call you out of the blue to ask for money or personal information.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If someone calls you claiming to be from a government agency or a company you do business with, ask them to verify their identity. You can do this by asking them for their name, title, and department. You can also ask them to provide you with a phone number or website where you can verify their identity.
• Never give out your personal information over the phone or in an email. This includes your Social Security number, credit card number, or bank account information. If someone asks you for this information, hang up the phone or delete the email.

Be aware of common scam tactics. There are a number of common scam tactics that imposters use. These include:

• Urging you to act quickly. Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency by telling you that you need to act immediately or you’ll miss out on a great deal.
• Threatening you with legal action. Scammers may threaten to arrest you, sue you, or take away your benefits if you don’t cooperate.
• Playing on your emotions. Scammers may try to appeal to your emotions by telling you that you’re in danger or that you’ve won a prize.

What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Scammed _link

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What is a Grandparent Scam?

A grandparent scam is a type of fraud in which the scammer impersonates a grandchild in distress and asks the grandparent for money. The scammer will often claim to be in a foreign country and need money to pay for bail, medical expenses, or other urgent needs. The scammer may also try to create a sense of urgency by saying that the grandchild will be arrested or deported if the money is not sent immediately.

Grandparent scams are particularly effective because they prey on the love and concern that grandparents have for their grandchildren. The scammers often use personal details about the grandchild, such as their name, age, and location, to make the scam seem more believable.

There are a few things you can do to spot a grandparent scam:

• Be suspicious of any call that comes out of the blue. Scammers often target people who are not expecting to receive a call, so if you get a call from someone claiming to be your grandchild, be sure to ask them some questions to verify their identity.
• Ask the caller to identify themselves in a different way. If the caller claims to be your grandchild, ask them to say something that only your grandchild would know. For example, you could ask them what their favorite color is or what their pet’s name is.
• Don’t be rushed into sending money. Scammers will often try to pressure you into sending money immediately. If the caller is pressuring you, it’s a good sign that they’re not who they say they are.
• Hang up and call your grandchild directly. The best way to verify that the caller is actually your grandchild is to hang up and call them directly. If you can’t reach your grandchild, you can also try calling their parents or another trusted family member.

What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Scammed

If you think you’ve been scammed, there are a few things you can do:

• Report the scam to the authorities. You can report the scam to your local police department.
• Contact your bank or credit card company. If you sent money to the scammer, you may be able to get your money back.
• Beware of follow-up scams. Scammers may try to contact you again, pretending to be a lawyer or government official. Don’t fall for these scams.

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?

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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 is a Phone Scam?

A phone scam is a fraudulent attempt to obtain money or personal information from a victim over the phone. Scammers often use intimidation, pressure, or deception to trick victims into giving up their personal information or sending money.

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

• Imposter scams: Scammers pretend to be someone you trust, such as a government official, a law enforcement officer, or a representative from a well-known company. They may use a fake name or number to appear legitimate.
• Tech support scams: Scammers claim that there is a problem with your computer or phone and that they can fix it for you. They will then ask for your personal information or credit card number to pay for the “repair.”
• Sweepstakes and lottery scams: Scammers claim that you have won a prize, such as a car or a vacation. They will then ask you to pay a fee to claim your prize.
• Debt collection scams: Scammers claim that you owe money to a company or government agency. They will then demand payment, often in the form of a gift card or wire transfer.

How to Spot a Phone Scam

There are a few things you can do to spot a phone scam:

• Be wary of unsolicited calls. If you receive a call from someone you don’t know, be cautious. Don’t give out any personal information, such as your Social Security number or credit card number.
• Don’t trust caller ID. Scammers can easily spoof caller ID to make it look like they’re calling from a legitimate number.
• Be suspicious of offers that sound too good to be true. If someone is offering you a free vacation or a large sum of money, it’s probably a scam.
• Ask questions. If you’re not sure if a call is legitimate, ask the caller questions about their identity and the purpose of their call.
• Hang up if you’re suspicious. If you’re at all suspicious about a call, hang up and don’t call back.

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 Repair Scam

A home repair scam is a fraudulent scheme that involves offering home improvement services at a low price, but then either performing shoddy work, not completing the work at all, or taking the victim’s money and running. These scams can be very costly for victims, both financially and emotionally.

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

• Door-to-door scams: Scammers will knock on your door and offer to fix a problem with your home, such as a leaky roof or a broken window. They may pressure you to sign a contract immediately and pay for the work in cash.
• Telephone scams: Scammers will call you and offer to fix a problem with your home. They may claim to be from a reputable company or even a government agency. They may pressure you to pay for the work over the phone with a credit card or wire transfer.
• Internet scams: Scammers may create fake websites that look like they belong to legitimate home improvement companies. They may offer very low prices for their services, and they may pressure you to pay for the work upfront.

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

• Get multiple estimates: Before you hire a contractor, get estimates from at least three different companies. This will help you compare prices and quality of service.
• Check the contractor’s credentials: Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured. You can check their credentials with your state’s contractor licensing board.
• Get everything in writing: Before you start any work, get everything in writing, including the scope of work, the price, and the timeline.
• Don’t pay in cash: Only pay for home improvement work with a check or credit card. This will give you some protection if the contractor doesn’t do the work or does it poorly.

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

• Report the scam to the police: The police may be able to investigate the scam and recover your money.
• File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau: The Better Business Bureau can help you get your money back and prevent other people from being scammed.
• Contact your state’s contractor licensing board: The contractor licensing board can investigate the contractor and take disciplinary action if they are found to be violating the law.

Home repair scams can be very costly and emotionally draining. By being aware of the red flags and taking steps to protect yourself, you can help avoid becoming a victim of these scams.

Here are some red flags that may indicate a home repair scam:

• The contractor is unlicensed or uninsured.
• The contractor pressures you to make a decision immediately.
• The contractor offers a “special deal” that is only available today.
• The contractor says they have “extra materials” left over from a previous job.
• The contractor asks for payment in cash or wire transfer.
• The contractor does not provide a written contract.

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What is a Tech Support Scam?

A tech support scam is a type of fraud in which a scammer claims to offer legitimate technical support services. The scammers often pose as representatives of well-known tech companies, such as Microsoft, Apple, or Norton. They may call you directly on the phone, send you an email, or pop up a fake error message on your computer.

Once the scammer has your attention, they will try to convince you that there is a problem with your computer. They may say that your computer is infected with malware, that your warranty has expired, or that you need to renew your software license. They will then offer to fix the problem for you, often for a fee.

In some cases, the scammers may even ask you to give them remote access to your computer. This allows them to install malware on your computer or steal your personal information.

How to Spot a Tech Support Scam

There are a few things you can do to spot a tech support scam:

• Never call a number that appears in a pop-up message. These numbers are often spoofed to look like they belong to legitimate tech companies.
• Be wary of unsolicited calls or emails from people claiming to be from tech support. Legitimate tech companies will never cold call you.
• If you are unsure whether a call or email is legitimate, hang up or delete it. You can always contact the tech company directly to verify.
• Never give out personal information, such as your credit card number or Social Security number, to someone you don’t know.
• Be suspicious of anyone who asks you to install software on your computer. Legitimate tech support companies will never ask you to do this.

How to Protect Yourself from Tech Support Scams

The best way to protect yourself from tech support scams is to be aware of them. Here are a few tips:

• Install a security software on your computer and keep it up to date.
• Be careful about what websites you visit and what files you download.
• Don’t click on links in emails or pop-up messages unless you’re sure they’re legitimate.
• Back up your data regularly.

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

Don't Open Email or Text from Senders That You Don't Know

Be careful about what emails and texts you open. Phishing scams and malware attacks are on the rise, and they can cause a lot of damage to your computer and your personal information.

One of the best ways to protect yourself is to simply not open emails or texts from senders that you don’t know. If you’re not sure who the sender is, don’t even open the message. Even if the email or text looks like it’s from someone you know, don’t open it if the subject line or the body of the message doesn’t make sense.

Here are some other things to look out for when you’re trying to determine whether or not an email or text is safe to open:

• The sender’s email address. Is the email address from a legitimate company or organization? If the address looks strange or misspelled, it’s probably a scam.
• The subject line. Does the subject line sound urgent or threatening? If so, it’s probably a phishing scam.
• The body of the message. Does the message ask you to click on a link or open an attachment? If so, don’t do it. These links and attachments could contain malware that could infect your computer.

If you’re not sure whether or not an email or text is safe to open, you can always contact the sender directly to verify their identity.

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.

What are the top 10 Senior Scams?

Seniors are often targeted by scammers because they are more likely to have accumulated wealth over their lifetimes and may be less likely to be familiar with the latest scams. Here are the top 10 senior scams:

1. Grandparent scam: This scam involves a scammer calling the victim and pretending to be their grandchild. The scammer will say that they are in trouble and need money immediately. The victim is often afraid to ask questions and will send the money without verifying the caller’s identity.
2. Medicare scam: This scam involves a scammer calling the victim and pretending to be from Medicare. The scammer will say that the victim needs to pay a fee or provide personal information in order to keep their Medicare benefits. The victim may be afraid that they will lose their benefits if they do not comply.
3. Online romance scam: This scam involves a scammer creating a fake online profile and posing as someone they are not. The scammer will start a relationship with the victim and eventually ask for money. The victim may be blinded by love and not realize that they are being scammed.
4. Employment and money mule scam: This scam involves a scammer offering the victim a job that pays a lot of money. The job will often involve wiring money to other people. The victim is actually being used as a money mule to launder money for the scammer.
5. Online shopping scam: This scam involves the victim being tricked into buying something online that they never receive. The scammer may create a fake website that looks like a legitimate retailer. The victim will enter their credit card information and never receive the product.
6. Phone scam: This scam involves a scammer calling the victim and trying to get them to give up personal information or money. The scammer may pretend to be from the government, a charity, or a tech support company.
7. Home repair scam: This scam involves a scammer knocking on the victim’s door and offering to do home repairs. The scammer may be very convincing and may even have a fake ID. The victim may end up paying a lot of money for repairs that are never done.
8. Tech support scam: This scam involves a scammer calling the victim and pretending to be from a tech support company. The scammer will say that there is a problem with the victim’s computer and that they need to pay for help to fix it. The victim may end up giving the scammer remote access to their computer, which the scammer can then use to steal personal information.
9. Obituary scam: This scam involves a scammer contacting the victim after the death of a loved one. The scammer will say that they are from a debt collection agency and that the deceased person owed them money. The victim may be afraid to ask questions and may send the scammer money.
10. Reverse mortgage scam: This scam involves a scammer convincing the victim to take out a reverse mortgage. A reverse mortgage is a loan that allows seniors to access the equity in their home. However, scammers may take advantage of seniors who are not familiar with reverse mortgages and convince them to take out a loan that they cannot afford.

How to protect yourself from senior scams:

• Be suspicious of anyone who calls you and asks for money.
• Never give out personal information over the phone or online.
• Do not click on links in emails or text messages from people you do not know.
• Be careful about what information you share on social media.
• If you think you have been scammed, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

The FTC has a website with information about senior scams and how to protect yourself. You can visit the website at www.ftc.gov/seniors.

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

You Should Restrict Your Phone Incoming Calls and Text to Your Contacts List to Avoid Scams

Scammers are always coming up with new ways to trick people out of their money. One of the most common ways is to call or text people from unknown numbers. These calls and texts often appear to be from legitimate businesses, such as the IRS or a credit card company. However, they are actually from scammers who are trying to steal your personal information or money.

There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from phone scams. One of the most important things is to restrict your phone incoming calls and text to your contacts list. This means that only people who are already in your contacts will be able to call or text you. This will help to prevent scammers from reaching you.

To restrict your phone incoming calls and text to your contacts list, you can follow these steps:

On your Android phone: 

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Privacy & security.
• Tap Spam & contact settings.
• Tap Manage contact settings.
• Turn on Only receive calls and texts from your phone contacts.

On your iPhone:

• open the Settings app.
• Tap Phone.
• Tap Silence Unknown Callers.

This will not block all calls and texts from unknown numbers. However, it will block most of them, which will help to protect you from scams.

In addition to restricting your phone incoming calls and text to your contacts list, you should also be aware of other common phone scams. Here are a few tips to help you avoid them:

• Never give out your personal information over the phone. This includes your Social Security number, credit card number, or bank account number.
• Be suspicious of any calls or texts that ask you to pay with a gift card or wire transfer.These are common methods that scammers use to steal money.
• If you are unsure whether a call or text is legitimate, hang up and call the company directly using the number on their website.

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

Here are some additional tips to help you avoid phone scams:

• Be wary of calls or texts that come in on holidays or weekends. Scammers often target people when they are less likely to be suspicious.
• If you receive a call or text from a number that you don’t recognize, don’t answer it. If it’s important, the caller will leave a voicemail.
• If you do answer a call from an unknown number, don’t give out any personal information. Just say that you’re not interested and hang up.
• If you receive a text message that asks you to click on a link, don’t do it. These links can often lead to malware or phishing websites.

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

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

What is a Sweepstakes or Lottery Scam?

A sweepstakes or lottery scam is a type of fraud in which the scammer contacts you and claims that you have won a prize, but in order to claim your prize, you must first pay a fee. These scams are often targeted at older adults, but anyone can be a victim.

How do sweepstakes and lottery scams work?

The scammer will often contact you by phone, email, or mail. They may claim to be from a legitimate sweepstakes or lottery company, or they may create a fake company that sounds official. They will tell you that you have won a prize, but in order to claim your prize, you must first pay a fee. The fee may be for taxes, processing fees, or shipping and handling.

What are some red flags of a sweepstakes or lottery scam?

• You are contacted out of the blue. Legitimate sweepstakes and lottery companies do not contact people who have not entered their contests.
• You are asked to pay a fee to claim your prize. Legitimate sweepstakes and lottery companies do not require you to pay any fees to claim your prize.
• The caller or emailer is very pushy. They may pressure you to pay the fee immediately or they may tell you that your prize will be forfeited if you do not pay.
• The caller or emailer uses official-sounding language. They may use the names of legitimate companies or government agencies to make their scam seem more credible.

How can I protect myself from sweepstakes and lottery scams?

• Never pay a fee to claim a prize. Legitimate sweepstakes and lottery companies do not require you to pay any fees to claim your prize.
• Be suspicious of any unsolicited contact from someone claiming that you have won a prize.
• Do your research. If you are contacted by someone claiming that you have won a prize, do some research to make sure that the company is legitimate. You can check the company’s website or contact the Better Business Bureau.
• If you think you have been the victim of a sweepstakes or lottery scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can file a complaint online at ftc.gov/complaint or by calling 1–877-FTC-HELP (1–877–382–4357).

Tips for Seniors

• Seniors are often targeted by sweepstakes and lottery scams. If you are a senior, be especially careful of any unsolicited contact from someone claiming that you have won a prize.
• Never give out your personal information, such as your Social Security number or bank account information, to someone you do not know.
• If you are unsure about whether or not a sweepstakes or lottery is legitimate, contact the Better Business Bureau or the state attorney general’s office.

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