Recognizing and avoiding common scams

Scammers are getting smarter every day, disguising themselves as businesses, police departments, IRS, Social Security, court officials, or even loved ones. Follow these tips to learn how to spot a scam.

Look for red flags!

Scammers often use urgency and fear to manipulate you. Beware of unexpected calls, texts, emails, or pieces of mail that demand immediate action or threatening consequences. They may pressure you to make hasty decisions without giving you time to think. Always take a step back, try to calmly assess the situation, and take your time learning more about whether this is a legitimate issue or just a scammer trying to take advantage of you.

Verify, verify, verify

Do your due diligence to confirm the legitimacy of the issue this potential scammer is confronting you with. Use a verified phone number, website, or address to directly contact wherever this issue is supposedly coming from to inquire about its authenticity. Be wary of any discrepancies between contact info, any instructions not to contact a specific number or office, and any excuses or pressure to quickly act.

Never share personal information

Never share personal information or financial details with anyone who contacts you unsolicited. Legitimate businesses or government agencies will never ask for sensitive data through social media or emails. When in doubt, independently verify their identity through official channels, like calling an office number listed on a website or an email address listed in their contact information.

Stay informed

Stay updated on the latest scams circulating in your area or online. Follow trusted news sources, government agencies, and organizations dedicated to consumer protection. Awareness is always your best defense against scams, helping you recognize suspicious behavior and avoid potential traps.

Report and spread awareness

If you encounter a scam or suspect fraudulent activity, report it immediately to your local authorities and relevant agencies. By doing so, you not only protect yourself but also help prevent others from falling victim to the same type of scam. Raise awareness by sharing your experiences with friends and family and encourage openness about this type of helpful dialogue.

Awareness is the best defense

Scams are a part of life today, and scammers are always trying to disguise themselves as a person or agency in serious need of your personal and financial information. By spotting red flags, verifying the source of this issue, and being cautious about where and to whom you share your personal information, you can protect yourself from scams like these. If you ever fall victim to a scammer, take immediate action and spread the word to friends and family to minimize the damage these scammers can do to you and others.