Slam the Scam

Scammers use different tactics to get victims to fall for their schemes. Often times, they are friendly, sympathetic, and seem willing to help. Other times, they use fear tactics to persuade a victim. Here are some common scams to look out for: 

Debt Consolidation Scam

Scammers may pose as legitimate companies promising to help consolidate debts but instead, exploit victims with deceptive practices such as getting charged with excessive fees or giving false promises. These practices will lead to worsening your financial situation. Always verify the legitimacy of the company. Check for reviews, complaints, and ratings. Be very cautious of unsolicited calls and unrealistic promises. If you need a debt consolidation solution reach out to your credit union that you know and trust. Click here to see StagePoint's debt consolidation solutions. 

Online Shopping Scam

Websites and social media ads can deceive consumers with eye-catching sales but fail to deliver the promised goods or they may deliver counterfeit products. They may even use images of celebrities without the celebrity's permission. If you click and buy, this may involve a fake checkout process, leading to identity theft. Beware of unrealistic deals that sound too good to be true, especially when found on lesser-known or new sites. Shop at reputable online retailers with a history of secure transactions, positive customer reviews, and fair return policies.

Tech Support Scam

Pop-up messages, cold calls, or emails are tactics used by scammers posing as legitimate tech support. They deceive users into believing their computer has a virus or has been hacked, which leads to victims providing control of their devices and disclosing personal information. Be cautious of unsolicited contact—if called unexpectedly, hang up and call the company directly on a verified phone number. Avoid clicking on suspicious messages and don’t grant remote access to your device.

Great tools to use:

BBB Scam Tracker is a free tool to report suspected scams. Your reports warn others so they can avoid similar cons. 

Social Security Scam Alert Fact Sheet will educate you on how to protect yourself. 

Check out this video on Social Security Scams. 

Red Flags:

Scams often use fake emails, text messages, voice calls, letters, or someone who shows up at your front door unexpectedly. Scams start with someone you don't know. 

Scammers give urgency to the matter. They pressure their victims to send money quickly (like limited-time offers) or use threatening tactics of law enforcement action. 

They ask for complicated payment methods like purchasing a gift card or depositing a check and they will return the overpayment. 

Lastly, if you are a victim of a scam, don't be embarrassed to report it if you shared personal information or suffered a financial loss. It is important to report the scam as quickly as possible. To report Social Security Scams click here. Report financial loss scams to your local police or financial institution that the loss came from.