Scams, Fraud & Consumer Protection
Identify election-season fraud, spot fake tax notices, and avoid deceptive mortgage ads. Recognize red flags, protect your identity, and steer clear of financial traps.
Scam Alert: Thieves Again Targeting Your Personal Info and Money Thanks to Election Season
Have you noticed the phone ringing a bit more than usual lately? It may be thanks to Election Day, which is almost here and giving scammers a way to steal your personal information and hard-earned money. A loophole in the National Do Not Call Registry allows political organizations to call you. Don't let a scammer pull one over on you by asking for a donation or to verify your voter registration.
Don't Fall for Scammers Who Ask for Money Using Notices That Mimic Your County Tax Bills
The next time you get a bill that looks like a county tax bill, take a closer look. If you're like most people, you'd pay the bill without thinking twice. But you might be spending your hard-earned money on worthless services sold by scammers who use mailings that look like official government tax notices. Before paying that bill, take a moment to make sure you know who is trying to get your money.
Deceptive Mortgage Advertisements: What They Say, What They Leave Out, and What They Cost You
If you're looking for a mortgage, you may see ads offering very low rates or payments. Whether they're on the Internet, on television or in the newspaper, or whether they come by fax or mail, some ads look like one thing but end up changing as you come close to closing. Remember that while the offers can be tempting, some are flawed and don't disclose the true terms of the deal as required by law.
Be Wary of Super Bowl Ticket Scams if You Plan to Attend the Big Event in Person This Year
Are you looking for Super Bowl tickets? If so, scammers are watching you! Die-hard football fans want to be there in person while their team pounds the other team into the gridiron to win the coveted trophy. But whether you are a loyal fan desperate for tickets or just wanting to watch the game up close, don't let scammers tackle you by preying upon your desire to be part of the action this year.
Federal Laws Don't Mandate Credit Checks if You Bring Your Own Financing to the Car Dealer
Whether you are the kind of shopper who already has financing in-hand when going to check out new cars or if you just have a sudden urge to stop by the dealer's lot on the way home, there's something you need to know to avoid becoming a victim of an unscrupulous car dealer tactic. Regardless of what the dealer says, the USA PATRIOT Act of 2001 does not require the dealership to check your credit.
Watch Out for Cybercriminals Looking to Scam Eager Online Job Seekers With Empty Promises
Job search websites can be a great tool for finding a job. With a lot of Americans currently out of work, finding a reliable job is now very crucial. But not every job opportunity posted online is legitimate. Scammers, who know that people are eager to work, use their criminal skills to scam unsuspecting victims of the little money they have left. Do you know how to spot an online job search scam?
SCAM ALERT: Distraction Scammers Targeting Unsuspecting Homeowners, Especially the Elderly
Do you answer the door when strangers come knocking? You're probably pretty cautious and make sure they stay outside. Once you allow them to enter your home, however, clever thieves work quickly and seamlessly to distract you in order to steal your valuables. And while this technique is more frequently used to victimize the elderly, anyone can become a victim. So know how to spot the warning signs.
Scammers Continue to Target Utility Customers Threatening Disconnection Unless Payment Made
Consumers from across the state are continuing to report suspicious phone calls from scammers that are seemingly from their utility companies. The callers claim that there is a problem with the victim's utility account, which is usually an overdue bill. The victim is then threatened with that power to their homes or businesses will be shut off within an hour unless a payment is made immediately.
Here's How You Can Determine if the Article You're About to Read or Share Isn't Fake News
Fake news isn't new. It's been around for centuries. It wasn't until technological advances, such as viral emails and social media, that fake news became a real problem. Fake news can spread very quickly and influence people in ways that weren't possible before. Whether it's completely fake or only using misleading headlines, know what to look for to be able to spot fake news before you share it.
Remain Alert for Tax Scams That Target Victims All Year, Not Just During Tax Filing Season
Most people think that they don't have to watch out for scammers once they submit their income tax returns to the government. But scammers never take a vacation and work overtime to cheat you, taking hundreds or even thousands of dollars. So whether it's April or the middle of summer, stay alert for income tax scammers trying to trick you into handing over money or sensitive personal information.
Scammers Still Targeting Unsuspecting Consumers With Fake Missed Package Delivery Notices
If you find a notice in your mailbox or on your front door saying you missed a delivery, would you think twice? If you're like most people, you'll call the number on the notice. But that could be a costly mistake. Scammers use these fake notices to steal your money and personal information or to get you to purchase things you don't want, such as recurring subscriptions for future product deliveries.
Scammers Have Their Sights on Unsuspecting Black Friday and Cyber Monday Holiday Shoppers
Be very careful about answering phone calls from numbers you don't recognize, including 800 numbers. Scammers are using 800 numbers and robocalling victims with recorded messages advising of problems with Social Security numbers and warning of legal consequences. These scammers prey on your curiosity when an 800 number calls, hoping you'll answer thinking it's a legit business or government agency.
Don't Fall for Scammers Calling to Warn You of a Problem With Your Social Security Number
Be very careful about answering phone calls from numbers you don't recognize, including 800 numbers. Scammers are using 800 numbers and robocalling victims with recorded messages advising of problems with Social Security numbers and warning of legal consequences. These scammers prey on your curiosity when an 800 number calls, hoping you'll answer thinking it's a legit business or government agency.
Consumer Alert: Watch Out for Rental Property Scammers Taking You for a Ride on a Property
Are you in the market for a new apartment or want to rent a nice home? You're in luck! Scammers have just the deal for you! They have a wide variety of options for you to consider, each one with everything you could possibly want. Even better, the price is much better than you could have wanted. But while the property might exist, the only problem is that the rentals themselves don't really exist.
Beware of Newspaper and Magazine Subscription Renewal Offers That Come From Third Parties
When you get a subscription renewal notice, do you pay it without question or do you do some checking to make sure it's right? If you're like most people, you pay it and forget about it quickly. Everything turns out just fine most of the time. But sometimes the renewal notice you get isn't from the publisher at all. It could be from a third party trying to turn a profit or even steal your money.
Scam Alert: Don't Be Tempted to Return Calls or Text Messages From These Scammy Area Codes
Scammers are always looking for new ways to steal money from their unsuspecting victims. One scam still bilking its victims involves calling or texting from some kind of premium phone number, or one that will put charges on your phone bill each time you call or text back. It works very similar to how a 900 number works. But in this case, you don't find out about the high costs until it's too late.
Jury Duty Scammers Still Targeting Unsuspecting Victims With Phone Calls Threatening Arrest
What would you do if you got a call from a law enforcement officer who said you that you skipped out on your jury duty and that a warrant had been issued for your arrest? It would probably send you into a panic. But that's what scammers are hoping when they pretend to be law enforcement officers and try getting you to pay a 'fine' to avoid arrest. Real law enforcement officers will never do this.
Beware of 'Can You Hear Me' Telephone Scams That Are Still Targeting Unsuspecting Consumers
If you get a phone call and the caller asks if you can hear her, what would you say? Most people would answer the question. But these kinds recorded calls are still making the rounds, targeting unsuspecting victims who don't know any better and give an answer. That's all the crooks want so they can later use a recording of your response to authorize unwanted charges on one or more of your accounts.
Having Strong Online Passwords is the First Defense for Your Sensitive Personal Information
The biggest mistake people make with an online password is making it far too simple just to be able to remember it. While this used to be acceptable at one time, modern hackers can quickly decode simple passwords for virtually any account. Your life can be turned upside down from only one person gaining access to your personal information, so make it difficult for them by using stronger passwords.
Your Computer Probably Doesn't Have a Security Problem if You Get a Pop-Up Warning Message
If you're on your computer and you get a warning message, stop for a moment. Common tech support scams use pup up messages that claim you have a security problem. The warning messages vary a little bit, but they usually give you some kind of dire warning that you will lose access to your data unless you contact the tech support number displayed or click a tech support link. Don't fall for the scam.
Income Tax Pros Beware: Tax Scammers Are Targeting Your Network and Your Customers Data
Income tax time is when identity thieves and scammers go into overdrive aiming to steal sensitive data from taxpayers and tax professionals alike. Tax professionals must be very mindful of scams intended to take personal and professional information or to allow remote control of computer systems, letting cybercriminals complete and file client tax returns and redirect tax refunds to other accounts.
Scammers Try to Break Your Heart and Empty Your Bank Account as Valentine's Day Approaches
If you miss your special someone, it's easy to feel lonely and left out of love as Valentine's Day draws closer. He might be busy in graduate school. She may have found someone else. Whatever the reason, scammers target lonely and heartbroken people who let down their guards, especially at this time of year. Dating websites and apps can help you find love, but not everyone has the best intentions.
Watch Out for Scholarship Scammers Who Promote Exclusive Access or Expertise for a Small Fee
College tuition has risen by more than twice the national inflation rate over the past twenty years. With the cards stacked against them, it's no wonder that college students are scrambling to find free money that will pay for as much of their education as possible. Scammers know just how important scholarships are and use the promise of this free money to scam students of what little they have left.
You Can Protect Yourself From Identity Theft by Keeping Your Private Information Private
The Internet is so prevalent in our day-to-day lives that we often give little thought to our privacy as we browse our social media feeds or reorder dog food. But it's more important than ever in our connected world to safeguard our information from identity thieves. Thankfully, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of having your identity stolen, whether online or offline.
Some Student Loan Debt Relief Companies Want to Steal Your Money, Not Help You Save Money
If you have continued your education, the odds are pretty good that you have had a student loan at one time or another. Whether you have just signed for your first student loan or if you are trying to pay off several, it can be tempting to jump on any opportunity that promises to wipe away some or all of your student debts. Scammers want you to forget that there is no easy way to wipe out your debt.
Top Tips for Spotting the Red Flags of a Scam and Keeping Your Money and Information Safe
Scammers are constantly coming up with new ways to fool their victims in an effort to steal money or sensitive personal information. While there are many different ploys and tactics used by these con artists, most scams will typically have one or more things in common. If you are able to recognize some of the red flags of scams, you'll be in a much better position to stop scammers in their tracks.
Watch Out for Strange Text Messages Trying to Steal Your Personal and Financial Information
If you get a text message from an email address or number you don't recognize, it's probably best to ignore it. Responding or clicking links can cause problems, even if you think you're unsubscribing. You may get unwanted charges on your phone bill or become the victim of identity theft. In any case, you're confirming that your number is good, opening the door to even more text messages or calls.
Avoid Travel Scams With These Tips When You Make Plans for Your Next Getaway or Quick Trip
The summer travel season is almost here, meaning many families are gearing up to hit the road for the unofficial start of summer. But not much can ruin your great vacation faster than falling for a scam or realizing that you're on the wrong end of a bad deal. Before you find yourself trying to salvage your summer vacation plans, check out these tips about scam prevention and protecting your money.
College Test Prep Scammers Claiming to Be From the College Board Again Targeting Families
Is there a high school student in your life that will soon be preparing for the college? Scammers are at it again. They're pretending to be from the College Board and target unsuspecting families in order to take advantage of your desire to help that student get admitted to the best schools. You want to do your part to help out, but do you know what to look for in order to spot one of these scams?
IRS Scam Again Targeting Consumers With Recorded Messages Threatening Arrest Unless You Pay
The IRS scam is again and targeting unsuspecting people who have fear of being arrested for unpaid taxes. It's just another variation of common scams already making the rounds that threaten arrest in exchange for iTunes gift cards. The goal is to feed on your fears and get you to make hasty payments through means that offer you no possibility of getting your money back. Just hang up on these scams.
Here's How You Can Avoid Credit Card Fraud and Identity Theft When Traveling Away From Home
Do you have an upcoming trip? Your identity is your most important asset. So whether you're traveling across the state or around the world, don't forget to take the necessary precautions to protect it. Thousands of people each year become victims of fraud and identity theft while traveling. Not only can it ruin a trip, it can require a lot of work to remedy and cause a lot of stress in the process.
Tip-Offs to Rip-Offs: Don't Fall for Health Care Product Fraud Scams
It's a shame that you don't see scam warnings on health products. Then you wouldn't need to be on your toes to spot scams. To keep yourself from being scammed, stay on the lookout for the false claims touting revolutionary scientific breakthroughs, miracle cures, or alternatives to drugs or surgery. This language is used by scammers trying to prey on people who want easy fixes for health problems.
Scammers Will Call Posing as Government Officials, Wanting You to Pay Them With Gift Cards
Imagine getting a phone call from a government official saying that a loved one was arrested or that you owe back taxes. Then imagine that the caller says some kind of enforcement action will happen unless you pay a fine or other amount owed immediately via some ind of gift card. Would you pay up? Hopefully you'd realize that scammers are the only ones who call and want you to pay with gift cards.
Scam Alert: Con Artists Are Targeting Consumers Going Through Bankruptcy Court Proceedings
People going through bankruptcy proceedings are already hard-pressed for money, but that doesn't stop unscrupulous scammers from using them for a quick payday. Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of good people who fell on hard times and use fear to steal whatever money they have left. If you or anyone you know is going through bankruptcy proceedings, watch out for these signs of a scam.
Phony Grandchild Scam Continues to Target Senior Citizens Nationwide
Scam artists are continuing to target senior citizens all across the country with modified versions of a familiar scheme. The con artist uses a common technique—playing on the emotions of a potential victim.
Watch Out for These Red Flags of Credit Repair Scams and Avoid Companies That Display Them
A financial setback is devastating, especially to your credit rating. Repairing the damage to your credit afterwards can seem impossible. During these times of anxiety, it can be easy to fall victim to scammers wanting to take your money with promises of repairing your credit history. Before you fall victim to credit repair scams, look out for these red flags and avoid companies that display them.
If You Lose Your Credit or Debit Card Only to Find It a Short Time Later, Cancel It Anyway
Have you ever lost your wallet or purse? Or maybe you've given your credit or debit card to a cashier only to walk away without it? Well, you're not alone. It's happened to pretty much everyone at one time or another. If you lose your credit or debit card only to find it a short time later, you may think nothing more of it. But you really should consider canceling the card and requesting a new one.
Scam Alert: Law Enforcement Agents Don't Call to Collect Fines From Using Online Pharmacies
Purchasing your medications online is a quick and convenient alternative to driving to the drug store. But many consumers who need medications and who have purchased them online or by phone have unwittingly exposed themselves to extortion by individuals posing as Food and Drug Administration (FDA) agents. Here's what you need to know right now about how this scam works and how to protect yourself.
SCAM ALERT: Beware of Phony Credit and Debit Card Cancellation Phone Calls
Have you received an automated phone call advising that your credit or debit card has been deactivated or even cancelled? If you, so are not alone. People answer these phone calls every day and mistakenly believe them to be coming from their banks. While it may sound quite alarming at first, it's just a scammer trying to scare you into giving up your sensitive information and your account numbers.
Yo-Yo Auto Scams: Your Financing 'Fell Through' So You Have to Return the Car or Pay More
You've finally filled out the lengthy paperwork for your new or used car and drive it home in triumph. Everything is done, right? But you may get a phone call a few hours, days or even weeks later from your dealer saying that your financing fell through and that you have to return the car or agree to different financing terms. That's illegal. If a dealer tells you this, it's time to get help.
Be on the Lookout for Home Repair Scams and Shady Contractors Following Natural Disasters
Preparing for an approaching hurricane or other weather disaster is stressful enough without worrying about scammers who want to take advantage of the situation and steal your money in your time of need. If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of needing repairs after a storm, know what to look for to help you separate good contractors from scammers and cheats looking for a quick payday.
Watch Out for Scammers Targeting You at Closing if You're in the Market for Your New Home
Are you thinking about buying a new home? The most popular time of the year for home sales is coming and you wouldn't be alone if you're thinking about jumping into the housing market. If you are looking, you should also be looking for scammers that want to steal your closing cost funds by pretending to be your real estate agent, closing attorney, title company, escrow company, or mortgage company.
Scam Alert: Don't Fall for Fake Heavily Discounted Phone, Internet or Cable Service Offer
Who doesn't want to save money? You probably pay a lot of money for your monthly phone, cable or Internet bill. So it's good news when the company calls you with an offer to significantly lower those bills. But not so fast! Scammers are taking advantage of your desire to save money. So if you receive a call from someone who claims to be able to drastically lower your bill, it's probably a scam.
If You Are Searching for Love, Don't Fall for Online Dating Scams That Prey on Your Heart
Have you used online dating in an attempt to find true love? If so, you aren't alone. According to Pew research studies, about thirty percent of Americans have used online dating to find compatible partners since the days of the first dating sites. That's a lot of people wanting love, but also a lot of people who are potential victims of scammers taking advantage of the desire to find love at last.
Puppy Scams Take Advantage of Your Desire for an Adorable New Puppy at a Really Good Price
With big eyes, wagging tails, and enthusiastic kisses, who doesn't love puppies? If you're looking for a new puppy, it can be very easy to get caught up in the excitement. But while you're looking for the next new member of the family, you should also be watching out for a scam that aims to take advantage of the excitement while emptying your wallet and leaving you without a puppy at the same time.
Online Security: Tips to Protect Yourself and From Fraud When You Make Online Purchases
It can be a nearly impossible task to know exactly who you're dealing with when conducting any business online. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are still working hard to take advantage of you, and the tactics and technology they use is constantly evolving. While it's not possible to stop using the Internet these days, it is possible to protect yourself from becoming a victim of online fraud.
Fraudulent Tax Emails Are Again Making the Rounds Trying to Steal Your Money and Information
It's not even tax time, but criminals have already started targeting unsuspecting taxpayers with phishing emails intended to download malware onto their computers. The latest emails appear to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), are signed 'Department of Treasure,' and have a Microsoft Word document attached that appears to be a tax transcript. Don't fall for it. The IRS doesn't work this way.
Mortgage Assistance and Foreclosure Relief Scams Prey on Those Who Are Struggling the Most
While you may not have a lot of extra cash, you probably have enough to pay the bills. But many people struggle to make ends meet, sometimes resorting to extremes to pay their mortgages. Scammers know this and target these struggling homeowners. So take a moment to be able to recognize mortgage assistance and foreclosure relief scams and the tactics thieves use to victimize you and your loved ones.
Most Online Pharmacies Are Really Fake Sites Selling Illegal, Tainted or Counterfeit Drugs
Thanks to the Internet, you can buy practically anything online today from the ordinary to the truly exotic. Buying medications is no exception. You can find nearly any medication you want with a quick web search. Unfortunately, nearly all online web pharmacies are illegal, selling not only controlled substances that can't be purchased online but also dangerous counterfeit and tainted medications.
Yellow Pages Business Directory Invoice Scam Still Continues to Claim Unsuspecting Victims
Businesses of all sizes should be on alert for fake invoices for supposed listings in the Yellow Pages or other business directories, which are once again increasing in frequency. While it can be very easy to fall for this particular scam, it can also be easy to spot if you know what to do. Knowing what this scam is all about before you fall victim and lose your hard-earned money is your the first step.
Preventing Identity Theft and What to Do if You Become the Next Victim of Identity Thieves
Identity theft is a serious crime. Once identity thieves have your personal information, they can drain your bank account, run up charges on your credit, open new utility accounts, or get medical treatment on your health insurance. An identity thief can file a tax return in your name and get your refund. In some cases, they might even use your identity when arrested, giving you a criminal record.
Working From Home Can Be Tempting, but Many Job Opportunities to Work From Home Are Scams
Most people would jump at the chance to work from home permanently. The temptation to save money and stay in pajamas all day is high, made even better when the job promises to pay thousands of dollars each week with little or no experience at all. Does it sound too good to be true? It probably is. If you see any offer like this, you should know the keys signs of a scam before you quit your day job.