1: Phishing
What is Phishing?
Phishing is when someone sends fake emails, texts, or calls pretending to be a trusted company or person. Their goal is to trick you into sharing personal or financial information, like your passwords, Social Security number, or bank details.
How to Spot Phishing:
- The message may sound urgent or threatening (“Your account will be locked!”).
- The sender’s email address or phone number looks odd or unfamiliar.
- There are spelling or grammar mistakes.
- You’re asked to click a link or download an attachment.
How to Stay Safe:
- Don’t click on links or open attachments from unknown senders.
- Double-check the sender’s information.
- If you’re unsure, contact the company directly using a phone number or website you trust.
- Never share personal information through email or text.
2: Advance Fee Scams
What are Advance Fee Scams?
In these scams, someone promises you a big reward—like a lottery win, inheritance, or loan—if you pay a fee upfront. After you pay, the reward never arrives, and the scammer disappears.
How to Spot Advance Fee Scams:
- You’re told you’ve won something you never entered.
- You must pay a fee or provide personal information to claim your prize.
- The offer sounds too good to be true.
How to Stay Safe:
- Never pay money to receive a prize or reward.
- Be suspicious of anyone asking for payment by wire transfer, gift card, or cryptocurrency.
- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
3: Investment Scams
What are Investment Scams?
Investment scams promise big returns with little or no risk. Common examples include “get rich quick” schemes, pyramid schemes, or fake investment opportunities.
How to Spot Investment Scams:
- Promises of high returns with no risk.
- Pressure to invest quickly or keep the opportunity secret.
- Unregistered or unlicensed sellers.
How to Stay Safe:
- Research any investment and the person offering it.
- Don’t let anyone rush you into making a decision.
- If you’re unsure, talk to a trusted financial advisor.
4: Romance Scams
What are Romance Scams?
Romance scams happen when someone pretends to be interested in a relationship to gain your trust and affection. Once they have your trust, they ask for money or personal information.
How to Spot Romance Scams:
- The person wants to move the relationship quickly.
- They avoid meeting in person or making video calls.
- They ask for money for emergencies, travel, or other reasons.
How to Stay Safe:
- Be cautious with people you meet online, especially if they ask for money.
- Never send money or share financial information with someone you haven’t met in person.
- Talk to friends or family if you’re unsure about someone you’ve met online.
5: Employment Scams
What are Employment Scams?
Employment scams trick people into thinking they’ve been offered a job. Scammers may post fake job listings or contact you directly, asking for personal information or money for “training” or “supplies.”
How to Spot Employment Scams:
- The job offer comes without an interview or is for a job you didn’t apply for.
- You’re asked to pay for training, equipment, or background checks.
- The company’s website or contact information seems suspicious or unprofessional.
How to Stay Safe:
- Research the company and job offer.
- Never pay money to get a job.
- Be wary of job offers that seem too good to be true or require you to provide personal information right away.
If you are ever unsure or concerned you or a loved one maybe be affected by these or any other possible scam, please contact us at 541-928-4536 or click the link to learn more about Holiday Scams.