But there are ways that you can identify scammers on the other end of unknown numbers. Here are telltale signs, as well as what you should do if you’re confronted with one. Common Phone Scams One of the best ways to identify a phone scam is by becoming well-versed in the ...
DeLiema says explaining specific scams — such as a stranger reaching out over social media saying they want to be friends then asking for money, or fake text messages claiming to be a grandchild who needs immediate help — can greatly reduce the chances that someone will fall for them. "If...
Also remember that true tech support will never ask you to pay in gift cards, via bank transfer, or with cryptocurrency. Example 1: Telephone-based scams Telephone scammers research vulnerable targets and call them using cheap robocalling services. Typical victims include less tech-savvy elderly ...
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) reports that the average consumer loses $700 in this type of scam, with elderly victims losing the most [*]. Each scammer has a preferred target with the most common gift card scams going after cards fromGoogle Play,eBay,Amazon, Apple,Steam, Visa, andTarge...
To choose their victims, they may cast a wide net and see who responds. They may also pick individuals that meet certain parameters — such as being single and emotionally vulnerable — particularly among the elderly. When a New Jersey couple conned a 74-year-old-man, they posed as a ...
How to avoid the scam: You should never have to pay money to claim a prize you won legitimately, especially with a gift card. Pay attention to the sweepstakes or contests you’re entering, and read the rules carefully. Giveaway scams work on people — especially the elderly — who sometim...
Scammers are nonstop. They never let up. Their goal is to catch us with our guard down. They prey on the elderly, the lonely, the naive, the desperate, the greedy, the innocent…and otherwise decent and honest people. You can count on it. Fraudsters will eventually get around to targe...
PUTTING YOUR HEART AND WALLET ON THE LINE: HOW TO COMBAT ROMANCE SCAMS TARGETING THE ELDERLYAndonellis, MiltevaElder Law Journal
Verify the site you’re shopping on is secured with an SSL certificate. Don’t let websites “remember” your credit card or payment details. Keep your cards safe in your wallet, and report stolen or lost cards immediately. Try not to keep too many credit cards other than ones you ...
2. Tax Counseling for the Elderly Program The TCE, which is also managed by the IRS and staffed by volunteers, provides free tax help primarily for taxpayers who are 60 and older. Volunteers are trained to help with questions about pensions, Social Security, disability and other government prog...