Victims ranged in age from 15 to 91 and the scams ranged from investment scams involving cryptocurrency to phone calls about fake warrants. This emphasizes the need for everyone, regardless of age, to pay attention to common trends, red flags of various scams, and how to protect themselves against scammers. A pop up appears on your computer indicating there is a virus.
Do not attempt to click on any part of the pop-up or follow the instructions contained within it such as to call a phone number. Close your browser and run a full scan with your legitimate antivirus software to check for actual infections.
Never provide personal information, call numbers or click links in a suspicious pop-up, or allow anyone remote access to your device. Scammers pose as both fake sellers and fake buyers on online resale commerce platforms to steal your money. Scammers pretend to make fake payments, sell fake items, ask for deposits, and request personal information. Many cases have been reported of money being sent and then the buyer is blocked. Someone calls saying they are from a government agency, threatens you or demands money to satisfy a warrant, a fine, or to post bond for a relative in jail.
You get an email, text, or call advising there is a problem with your credit card, bank account, Amazon account or Social Security Number. Never click on any links or give personal information to anyone who contacts you and asks for it. Always independently verify with your own records the contact information for any business or government entity if you think there is an issue. Someone promises a high return on a cryptocurrency investment. Consumers should be cautious of investing in cryptocurrency, which is highly volatile and largely unregulated.
Scammers are showing victims large portfolios to convince them to invest more. If a cryptocurrency investment seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be aware that you will not be able to reverse a cryptocurrency transaction and get your money back. Scammers are always changing their tactics and looking for new victims. However, while scams can take many forms, here are some warning signs and tips on how to protect yourself. Block unwanted calls and text messages. There are various ways to block or cut down on scam calls and texts to cell phones and land lines.
