The Federal Trade Commission found that people lost $8.8 billion to fraud last year, up more than 30% from 2021. Anyone can become a victim of fraud, but learning how scammers work and taking a few preventative actions can help you avoid common scams.
Scam Awareness: Understanding Scam Tactics and Protecting Yourself
Scam Awareness: You probably already know not to answer suspicious phone calls, but scammers have more tricks up their sleeves. In addition to posing as tech support or the IRS over the phone, they are committing fraud by using texts, social media, and fake websites.
Phishing: Phishing, a type of social engineering, is an example of a common strategy for scammers. You receive a message that takes you to a site that looks like it's from a trusted entity, like your bank, but it is actually a sophisticated way to trick you into entering your personal information.
Scam Prevention Tips: Thwarting Scammers
Take time to think before reacting: Scammers try to make their victims panic and give them the information that they need. They use threatening language that makes it seem like you have limited time to act. Avoid immediately reacting to a phone call, email, text, or social media.
Do your due diligence: If you think you might be dealing with a genuine concern, contact the institution in question directly. If someone claims to be from the IRS or your bank, opt to reach out via their publicly available information.
Limit access to your financial information: Saving your credit card information with your online shopping accounts is convenient, but it does mean bad actors can make fraudulent charges with just your login information. Consider removing saved banking and credit card information from sites like Amazon.
Remember, scammers are always looking for opportunities, so it's crucial not to overlook the basics of keeping your devices secure and choosing strong passwords.
Spread the word and forward these scam prevention tips to your family and friends to help protect them from falling victim to scams. By staying informed and adopting preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a target of fraudulent activities.
Staying informed about scams and implementing effective scam prevention tips is crucial in safeguarding yourself against fraudsters. Maintaining scam awareness and being cautious of suspicious communications can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim. Remember to think before reacting, do your due diligence by verifying the legitimacy of requests or claims, and consider limiting access to your financial information. By taking these proactive measures, you empower yourself with the knowledge and awareness necessary to stay one step ahead of scammers and protect your personal and financial well-being. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and stay safe from scams.