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BEWARE! Phone and Internet Fraud Reminders
By DaveM | November 30, 2007
Unfortunately, it’s that time of the year when phone fraud and Internet scams are on the rise.
As the holidays approach, the scumbag shysters are even more intent on ripping you off.
Sadly, the scammers get more clever every year, and innocent people keep getting fleeced out of their hard-earned money.
Follow these simple tips and you shouldn’t have any problems:
- DO NOT give your credit card number, bank account number, or social security number over the phone unless YOU initiated the call and you KNOW who you’re dealing with. Even if you did initiate the conversation, ask why they need your social security number. You’ll find that very often they really don’t need it, and can substitute another number, or not use it altogether.
- NEVER send your credit card number, bank account number, or social security number by email — PERIOD! Email is NOT secure and the contents of your messages can be easily intercepted and read by anyone with a modicum of computer skill.
- If someone wants to interest you in a “deal” or product, insist that he or she send you written information for your leisurely perusal and research. Never allow callers to force you into making an immediate decision - EVER!
- If something sounds too good to be true…9 times out of 10 - IT IS! Avoid “once-in-a-lifetime” deals and “something-for-nothing” prizes. You’ll end up disappointed and with less money in your pocket.
- Do your homework. Call your local Better Business Bureau, Consumer Protection Agency, and/or your State Attorney General to check on the company you’re about to deal with. They can tell you if any complaints (especially unresolved ones) have been filed against the company.
Now that buying and selling online (e-commerce) has become a way of life for most people, you have to be ESPECIALLY diligent. eBay, Craigslist, and other online services have become giant online “garage/yard sales” for everything from pez dispensers to real estate.
You have to be on your toes because people will try to jerk the item your selling, and your money, right out from under you.
Sound impossible? You’d be surprised how many unsuspecting (and gullible) people get ripped-off every day!
If you buy or sell online, check out the information that Craigslist and eBay provide on how to avoid scams and frauds.
Some of the information on their site(s) will be a repeat of what I’ve already listed above, but it doesn’t hurt to read it twice!
If you happen to be one of the unfortunate folks who has been scammed recently, either online or offline, please post a comment here and share your story. I know it can be embarrassing to admit, but your experience could help someone else avoid the same misfortune.
Sources:
U.S. Federal Trade Commission
Securities and Exchange Commission
Craigslist
eBay