Tech Tips
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Tip of the Month - Scams Calls
To avoid falling victim to scams involving fake customer service numbers, it's essential to exercise caution when seeking assistance online.
• Spoofing: Don’t trust caller ID. Scammers can spoof legitimate phone numbers to make it appear as though their fake customer service number is associated with a reputable company. They use technology to manipulate caller ID systems, making it difficult for individuals to discern the authenticity of the call.
• Phishing Websites: Scammers create fake websites that mimic the appearance of legitimate companies. These websites often feature counterfeit customer service numbers, which unsuspecting individuals may call for assistance. The scammers then pose as representatives of the company and attempt to trick callers into providing sensitive information or making payments.
• Search Engine Manipulation: Scammers exploit search engine optimization techniques to ensure that their fake customer service numbers appear prominently in search results. They may use keywords related to customer service or technical support to attract individuals seeking assistance with a particular product or service.
• Online Ads: Scammers place deceptive online advertisements that promote their fake customer service numbers. These ads may appear on search engines, social media platforms, or other websites frequented by potential victims. Unsuspecting individuals may click on these ads and inadvertently contact the scammers for assistance.
• Fake Reviews: Scammers may create fake online reviews to lend credibility to their fake customer service numbers. These reviews may falsely claim that the scammers provided excellent assistance, further deceiving individuals into believing that the number is legitimate.
• Social Engineering: Scammers use social engineering tactics to manipulate individuals into calling their fake customer service numbers. They may create fake customer service accounts on social media platforms and respond to legitimate customer inquiries with their fraudulent contact information.
What steps can you take to make it more difficult for the bad actors
• Official Websites: Start by visiting the company's official website. Legitimate companies usually provide their contact information, including phone numbers, on their official sites.
• Verify Contact Information: Cross-check the phone number you found on the website with other reliable sources, such as business directories, to ensure consistency.
• Use Trusted Sources: If you're searching for a company's contact information online, use reputable sources like official business directories, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or industry-specific directories.
• Check Reviews and Ratings: Look for reviews and ratings of the company to see if there are any complaints about fraudulent activities or scams. Websites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the BBB can provide insights from other customers.
• Avoid Suspicious Calls or Emails: Be cautious of unsolicited calls or emails claiming to be from a company, especially if they ask for personal information or payment details. Legitimate companies typically do not request sensitive information over the phone or via email without prior arrangement.
• Verify Identity: If you receive a call from someone claiming to represent a company, ask for their name, title, and contact information. Then, independently verify their identity by calling the company's official number or contacting them through their verified email address.
• Be Skeptical of Urgency or Pressure: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure victims into making quick decisions. Take your time to research and verify before providing any sensitive information or making payments. Ask a trusted family member or friend for advice.
• Use Payment Methods with Protection: When making payments or transactions, use secure payment methods that offer buyer protection, such as credit cards or reputable online payment platforms. Do not purchase gift cards!
• Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a suspicious company or believe you've been targeted by a scam, report it to relevant authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or local consumer protection agencies.
• Add your number to the Do Not Call Registry - https://www.donotcall.gov This won't stop all scam calls but should reduce the volume of telemarketing calls.
AARP
AARP is a great resource - they have a comprehensive area covering scams and phishing activity - currently listing examples of around 70 different types of scams https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud.html#frc. Additionally, check out their podcast - The Perfect Scam https://www.aarp.org/podcasts/the-perfect-scam/ which is very educational and great for those who enjoy true crime stories. (transcripts are available on the site). Plus if you want some video “entertainment” the site lists 12 movies about con-artists https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2022/tv-shows-movies-documentaries-about-scams.html
https://www.aarp.org/podcasts/the-perfect-scam/
AARP Fraud Watch
https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/about-fraud-watch-network/
1-877-908-3360 – for reporting scams and obtaining help and advice.
How to recognize and avoid phishing scams:
https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams
https://www.idtheftcenter.org
https://www.idtheftcenter.org/post/preventative-tips-on-how-to-protect-your-identity
https://www.ic3.gov
https://www.ic3.gov/Media/PDF/AnnualReport/2022_IC3ElderFraudReport.pdf
https://ovc.ojp.gov/program/elder-fraud-abuse/overview
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2024/02/17/scam-tips-columnist-50k/
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