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.

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

What is the Fake Bar Code on Gift Card Scam?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is Crypto Refund Scam?

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

How Does Crypto Refund Scam Work?

Crypto refund scams typically work in one of two ways:

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

How to Avoid Crypto Refund Scams

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

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

What to Do If You Fall for a Crypto Refund Scam

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

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

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.

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

What is in Your Purse? Carry This and Do not Carry That

What is in Your Purse? Carry This and Do not Carry That

Your Purse is a personal item that you carry with you everywhere you go. It contains your most important financial information, as well as other personal documents. It’s important to be mindful of what you keep in your Purse, as it could be used to steal your identity or commit fraud.

Here are some things you should carry in your Purse:

• ID: This is essential, as it proves who you are. Make sure you have a current driver’s license or state ID card.
• Credit cards: You should have a few credit cards that you use regularly. Keep them in a secure pocket in your Purse, and do not carry more than you need.
• Debit card: A debit card is a good way to access your bank account without carrying cash. However, you should only carry the debit card that you use most often.
• Some cash: It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand, just in case. However, you don’t need to carry a lot of cash. $20–30 should be enough.
• Medical information: If you have any medical conditions, it’s a good idea to carry a card with your basic medical information. This could include your blood type, allergies, and any medications you take.
• Emergency contacts: In case of an emergency, it’s important to have the contact information for your loved ones.

Here are some things you should not carry in your Purse:

• Social Security card: Your Social Security card is a valuable piece of identification, and it should not be carried in your Purse. If you need to carry it with you, keep it in a secure place, such as a safe deposit box.
• Birth certificate: Your birth certificate is another important document that should not be carried in your Purse. If you need to carry it with you, keep it in a secure place, such as a safe deposit box.
• Pin numbers: Your PIN numbers should never be written down and kept in your Purse. If you need to write them down, keep them in a safe place, such as a password manager.
• Expired cards: Expired credit cards, debit cards, and other forms of identification should be removed from your Purse. They are no longer valid, and they could be used by someone to commit fraud.
• Keys to Your House If you carry keys to your house and your address is on your drivers license, criminals will have easy access to your house.

It’s also a good idea to keep your Purse in a secure place when you’re not using it. If you’re going to be out and about, try to keep your Purse strap around your neck and not just over your shoulder. And if you’re going to be out late at night, it’s a good idea to leave your Purse at home and take something smaller that’s was to keep secure.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your Purse safe and secure. And by only carrying the essentials, you can reduce your risk of identity theft or fraud.

Here are some additional tips for keeping your Purse safe:

• Be aware of your surroundings. If you’re in a crowded place, be mindful of your Purse and keep it close to your body.
• Don’t leave your Purse unattended. If you have to set your Purse down, make sure it’s in a safe place where no one can easily grab it.
• Be careful when using ATMs. When you’re using an ATM, make sure to cover your PIN number with your hand so that no one can see it.
• Report lost or stolen Purses immediately. If you lose or have your Purse stolen, report it to the police immediately. You should also contact your credit card companies and banks to cancel your cards.

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

What is in Your Wallet? Carry This and Do not Carry That

Your wallet is a personal item that you carry with you everywhere you go. It contains your most important financial information, as well as other personal documents. It’s important to be mindful of what you keep in your wallet, as it could be used to steal your identity or commit fraud.

Here are some things you should carry in your wallet:

• ID: This is essential, as it proves who you are. Make sure you have a current driver’s license or state ID card.
• Credit cards: You should have a few credit cards that you use regularly. Keep them in a secure pocket in your wallet, and do not carry more than you need.
• Debit card: A debit card is a good way to access your bank account without carrying cash. However, you should only carry the debit card that you use most often.
• Some cash: It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand, just in case. However, you don’t need to carry a lot of cash. $20–30 should be enough.
• Medical information: If you have any medical conditions, it’s a good idea to carry a card with your basic medical information. This could include your blood type, allergies, and any medications you take.
• Emergency contacts: In case of an emergency, it’s important to have the contact information for your loved ones.

Here are some things you should not carry in your wallet:

• Social Security card: Your Social Security card is a valuable piece of identification, and it should not be carried in your wallet. If you need to carry it with you, keep it in a secure place, such as a safe deposit box.
• Birth certificate: Your birth certificate is another important document that should not be carried in your wallet. If you need to carry it with you, keep it in a secure place, such as a safe deposit box.
• Pin numbers: Your PIN numbers should never be written down and kept in your wallet. If you need to write them down, keep them in a safe place, such as a password manager.
• Expired cards: Expired credit cards, debit cards, and other forms of identification should be removed from your wallet. They are no longer valid, and they could be used by someone to commit fraud.
• Keys to Your House If you carry keys to your house and your address is on your drivers license, criminals will have easy access to your house.

It’s also a good idea to keep your wallet in a secure place when you’re not using it. If you’re going to be out and about, try to keep your wallet in an inside pocket of your coat or purse. And if you’re going to be out late at night, it’s a good idea to leave your wallet at home.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your wallet safe and secure. And by only carrying the essentials, you can reduce your risk of identity theft or fraud.

Here are some additional tips for keeping your wallet safe:

• Be aware of your surroundings. If you’re in a crowded place, be mindful of your wallet and keep it close to your body.
• Don’t leave your wallet unattended. If you have to set your wallet down, make sure it’s in a safe place where no one can easily grab it.
• Be careful when using ATMs. When you’re using an ATM, make sure to cover your PIN number with your hand so that no one can see it.
• Report lost or stolen wallets immediately. If you lose or have your wallet stolen, report it to the police immediately. You should also contact your credit card companies and banks to cancel your cards.

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

Answer Phone Calls Only From People You Know, if Unsure Don't Answer

With the rise of spam calls and other scams, it’s more important than ever to be careful about who you answer your phone for. If you don’t recognize the number, don’t answer. It’s just not worth the risk.

Here are a few reasons why you should only answer phone calls from people you know:

• Spam calls. These are calls from scammers who are trying to sell you something or trick you into giving them your personal information. They can be very convincing, and they often use caller ID spoofing to make it look like the call is coming from a legitimate number.
• Phishing calls. These are calls from scammers who are trying to get you to reveal your personal information, such as your bank account number or credit card number. They may pose as a representative from your bank or credit card company, or they may claim to be from a government agency.
• Telemarketing calls. These are calls from companies that are trying to sell you something. They can be very annoying, and they can often waste your time.

If you’re not sure whether or not to answer a call from an unknown number, you can do a few things to protect yourself:

• Check the caller ID. If you see a number that you don’t recognize, you can do a quick Google search to see if it’s been reported as a spam or scam number.
• Let the call go to voicemail. If you’re not sure whether or not to answer a call, you can let it go to voicemail. If it’s important, the caller will leave a message.
• Use the “Do Not Disturb” feature. This feature will silence all incoming calls, except for calls from people on your contact list.

It’s also important to be aware of the signs of a scam call. These signs include:

• The caller is asking for personal information. This could include your bank account number, credit card number, or Social Security number.
• The caller is pressuring you to act quickly. They may say that you have to act now or you’ll lose out on a great deal.
• The caller is making you feel scared or threatened. They may say that you’re in trouble with the law or that your account will be closed if you don’t cooperate.

If you think you’ve received a scam call, you should hang up immediately. You should also report the call 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.

Install a Virtual Private Network (VPN) When Using Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is convenient, but it can also be a security risk. When you connect to a public Wi-Fi network, your data is not encrypted, which means that anyone who is also connected to the network could potentially see what you’re doing online. This includes your passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive information.

A VPN can help protect your privacy and security when using public Wi-Fi. A VPN encrypts your data so that it cannot be read by anyone else on the network. This means that even if someone is trying to snoop on your traffic, they will only see gibberish.

In addition to protecting your privacy, a VPN can also help you access blocked websites and content. For example, if you’re traveling to a country with censorship, you can use a VPN to connect to a server in another country and bypass the censorship.

There are many different VPN providers available, so it’s important to choose one that is reputable and has a strong security track record. Some popular VPN providers include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark. You should do your own research before making your decision.

Once you’ve chosen a VPN provider, you can download the VPN app and install it on your device. Once the app is installed, you can connect to a VPN server and start browsing the web securely.

Here are some of the benefits of using a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi:

• Protects your privacy: A VPN encrypts your data so that it cannot be read by anyone else on the network. This includes your passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive information.
• Protects your security: A VPN can help protect you from cyberattacks, such as man-in-the-middle attacks.
• Allows you to access blocked websites and content: A VPN can help you access websites and content that are blocked in your region.
• Improves your online security: A VPN can help protect you from malware and other online threats.

If you’re concerned about your privacy and security when using public Wi-Fi, then I recommend using a VPN. A VPN is a simple way to protect your data and keep your online activities safe.

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

How to Setup Your Phone and Computer to Automatically Install Security Updates

Keeping your phone and computer up to date with the latest security updates is essential for protecting your devices from malware and other threats. However, it can be easy to forget to manually check for updates, especially if you’re busy or not tech-savvy.

That’s why it’s a good idea to set up your devices to automatically install updates. This way, you can be sure that your devices are always protected, without having to lift a finger.

How to Set Up Automatic Updates on Your Phone

The steps for setting up automatic updates on your phone will vary depending on the make and model of your device. However, the general process is similar for most phones.

Here are the basic steps for setting up automatic updates on an Android phone:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap on System.
3. Tap on Advanced.
4. Tap on System update.
5. Toggle the Automatic updates switch to On.

You can also choose to have your phone only install updates over Wi-Fi, which can help to save data.

Here are the basic steps for setting up automatic updates on an iPhone:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap on General.
3. Tap on Software Update.
4. Toggle the Automatic updates switch to On.

You can also choose to have your iPhone only install updates over Wi-Fi, which can help to save data.

How to Set Up Automatic Updates on Your Computer

The steps for setting up automatic updates on your computer will also vary depending on the operating system you’re using.

Here are the basic steps for setting up automatic updates on a Windows computer:

1. Open the Start menu.
2. Type Windows Update and press Enter.
3. Click on the Check for updates button.
4. Click on the Change settings link.
5. Under Automatic updates, select the Install updates automatically (recommended) option.

You can also choose to have your computer only install updates during certain times of the day or week.

Here are the basic steps for setting up automatic updates on a Mac computer:

1. Click on the Apple menu.
2. Select System Preferences.
3. Click on Software Update.
4. Click on the Advanced tab.
5. Under Automatic Updates, select the Automatically keep my Mac up to date option.

You can also choose to have your Mac only install updates over Wi-Fi, which can help to save data.

Conclusion

Setting up automatic updates on your phone and computer is a simple way to protect your devices from malware and other threats. By following the steps in this article, you can be sure that your devices are always up to date with the latest security fixes.

Additional Tips

• In addition to setting up automatic updates, you should also make sure to install security updates as soon as they are available. This is especially important if you use your devices for work or school.
• You should also be aware of the security risks associated with using outdated software. Outdated software can be more vulnerable to malware attacks, so it’s important to keep your devices up to date.
• If you have any questions about setting up automatic updates, you can consult the documentation for your phone or computer. You can also contact the manufacturer of your device for support.

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

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.

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 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

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