Written By Scammers are always looking for new ways to steal your money or personal information. Here are some of the latest scams you need to be aware of:
- Government imposter scams: Scammers pose as government officials, such as the IRS or Social Security Administration, and demand payment for taxes, benefits, or other fees.
- Tech support scams: Scammers call or email claiming to be from a well-known tech company, such as Microsoft or Apple, and say that your computer has a virus. They then offer to fix the problem for a fee.
- Shipping scams: Scammers send you a fake shipping notification email that looks like it’s from a legitimate company. The email will ask you to click on a link to track your package, but the link will actually take you to a fake website where you’re asked to enter your personal information.
- Romance scams: Scammers create fake profiles on dating websites and apps to prey on lonely people. They will often send messages that are very flattering and romantic, and they may even ask for money to help them with a “crisis.”
- Sweepstakes scams: Scammers send you emails or letters claiming that you’ve won a prize in a sweepstakes or lottery that you never entered. They will often ask you to pay a fee to claim your prize, but the prize is never real.
If you receive a phone call, email, or text message that seems suspicious, don’t reply. Instead, hang up the phone, delete the email, or block the text message. You can also report scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Here are some tips to help you avoid scams:
- Be careful what information you share online. Don’t give out your Social Security number, bank account number, or other personal information unless you’re sure the person you’re giving it to is legitimate.
- Be skeptical of unsolicited emails and phone calls. If you receive an email or phone call from someone you don’t know, don’t reply. Instead, hang up the phone or delete the email.
- Be careful about clicking on links in emails and text messages. Scammers often use links in emails and text messages to take you to fake websites where they can steal your personal information.
- Use strong passwords and change them regularly. A strong password is at least 12 characters long and includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Be aware of the latest scams. The FTC has a website where you can learn about the latest scams.
By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from scam.
