Showing posts with label scam alert. Show all posts
Showing posts with label scam alert. Show all posts

Thursday, October 31, 2024

Email or social media hacked? Here’s what to do



Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Alvaro Puig

Hackers target your email and social media accounts to steal your personal information. Like your username and password, bank or credit card account numbers, or Social Security number. 

If they get it, they use it to commit identity theft, spread malware, or scam other people. 

So, what are signs that someone hacked your account, and how can you recover a stolen account?

Saturday, October 26, 2024

Three ways scammers try to steal your money





Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Alvaro Puig

We recently shared advice to help you safeguard the personal information in your accounts, on your computer, and on your phone to protect it from identity theft. But scammers aren't just after your data. They want your hard-earned cash, too. Here are some common scams to watch out for.

Read more -> https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/10/three-ways-scammers-try-steal-your-money?





Three ways scammers try to steal your money
Three ways scammers try to steal your money

Thursday, October 24, 2024

How to avoid TSA PreCheck scams




Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Eunice Kim

No one likes waiting in airport security lines. To speed things up, some people opt to get TSA PreCheck. Scammers know this and send emails that look like they're from TSA PreCheck — but they're not. 

The emails want you to click a link that takes you to a scam website that only looks like the official site — but it's not. If you pay to "enroll" or "renew" your TSA PreCheck, you may not even realize you've paid a scammer until you get to the airport for your next trip. 

But there are ways to spot these scams.

Read more ->  https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/10/how-avoid-tsa-precheck-scams?





How to avoid TSA PreCheck scams
How to avoid TSA PreCheck scams

Thursday, October 17, 2024

The case of the shrinking packaging


Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Jennifer Leach

If you've been grocery shopping lately, you might have noticed that the box, can, or bag you usually buy might feel a little lighter. Sure, sometimes brands repackage and freshen their designs — but sometimes everything is exactly as it was. Just maybe a little smaller with less inside.

Read more ->  https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/10/case-shrinking-packaging?






 

Saturday, October 12, 2024

After a disaster make your donations count


Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Jim Kreidler

Many communities are experiencing devastating losses from recent hurricanes, and no one knows how long it will take to recover. Maybe you're considering donating to help people in those communities. But how can you avoid charity scams and make sure your donations go to the people who need them and not to a scammer?

Here's how to avoid charity scams:

Read more  ->   https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/10/after-disaster-make-your-donations-count?





After a disaster make your donations count
After a disaster make your donations count

Monday, October 7, 2024

Only scammers tell you to buy a gift card to pay them


Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Yajie Mu

Did someone tell you to buy a gift card to pay a fine or bill? 
Stop. It's a scam. 
No real business or government agency will ever tell you to buy a gift card to pay them. Here's how to spot and avoid gift card scams.

Read more ->  https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/10/only-scammers-tell-you-buy-gift-card-pay-them?





 
Only scammers tell you to buy a gift card to pay them
Only scammers tell you to buy a gift card to pay them

Wednesday, September 25, 2024

Hang up on unwanted calls about loans


Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Bridget Small

People are reporting getting calls (and calls) (and more calls) about their supposed "loan application." 
Only they hadn't applied for a loan. So what's going on?

Read more ->  https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/08/hang-unwanted-calls-about-loans?



Hang up on unwanted calls about loans
Hang up on unwanted calls about loans

Sunday, September 15, 2024

Did you get a call or email saying you missed jury duty and need to pay? It’s a scam



Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Yajie Mu

Missing jury duty can come with real consequences. You could face a fine, go to court, or even get arrested. 
Scammers take advantage of that to get your money or sensitive information. But their story is a lie.

Read more -> https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/09/did-you-get-call-or-email-saying-you-missed-jury-duty-and-need-pay-its-scam?




Did you get a call or email saying you missed jury duty and need to pay? It’s a scam
Did you get a call or email saying you missed jury duty and need to pay? It’s a scam

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

Home title lock insurance? Not a lock at all


Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Larissa Bungo

If you've seen ads for home title lock insurance, they might have you worried. After all, the ads say thieves can steal the title to your home. 

But then the ads tell you to buy title lock insurance to supposedly prevent home title theft. 

Stop. Take a breath. It's just a ploy to scare you.

Read more - > https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/08/home-title-lock-insurance-not-lock-all?



Home title lock insurance? Not a lock at all
Home title lock insurance? Not a lock at all

Another option would be to check out the Homestead protection with Norfolk Registry of Deeds ->   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/04/register-odonnell-promotes.html


Tuesday, August 27, 2024

Voices of Franklin: A Call to Protect Our Seniors from Identity Theft and Online Fraud

From the desk of KP Sompally

Awareness on Identity Theft and Online Fraud, the importance of awareness and vigilance in protecting our seniors from identity theft and online fraud.

After watching the gripping movie "The Beekeeper," starring Jason Statham, I felt compelled to reach out to our community with a message. The film, though fiction, reminded me of a very real and growing threat that affects our most vulnerable—our seniors. Identity theft and online fraud are on the rise, and it's our responsibility to ensure that our loved ones are informed and protected.

The tactics used by scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often targeting innocent seniors through phone calls and online schemes. It's crucial that we empower our seniors with the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe.

Here are some key tips to protect against these threats:
1. Verify the Caller: Always question who is calling and why. If the call involves money, it's best to hang up and independently verify the information by calling the company or individual directly. Never provide personal information over the phone unless you are certain of the caller's identity.

2 .Beware of Online Links: If you receive a suspicious link via email or text, do not click it. Instead, use online tools to verify the ownership of the link. There are many resources available that can help you determine whether a link is legitimate.

3. Technology as a Double-Edged Sword  While technology offers countless benefits, it also provides a platform for criminals to exploit. We must stay vigilant and educate ourselves and our seniors about the potential dangers.
By being cautious and informed, we can prevent these criminals from taking advantage of our community. Let’s work together to ensure that our seniors are protected from identity theft and online fraud.

For more information on how to protect yourself and your loved ones from these threats, please visit https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-scam


Sincerely,
KP Sompally
Franklin MA 02038

Sunday, August 25, 2024

FTC Reveals "Five ways to keep scammers and hackers away"


Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Alvaro Puig

We're living in the data age. The things we do on our phones and computers, on our internet-enabled smart devices, and on websites leave a trail of our activities and our personal information. 

That personal information has value — not just to us, but to scammers and hackers who want to steal our identities. Here are five things you can do to keep scammers and hackers at bay.

Read more >  https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/08/five-ways-keep-scammers-and-hackers-away


FTC Reveals "Five ways to keep scammers and hackers away"
FTC Reveals "Five ways to keep scammers and hackers away"

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

“When are you free for coffee?” Long lost friend or a scammer trying to get you to respond?


Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Terri Miller

You get a text message from a number you don't know, asking when you're free to catch up over a cup of coffee. 

Don't perk up just yet. That invitation for a coffee date might sound like it's from a friend you've lost touch with, but it's probably just a scammer looking to start a conversation with you. 

Not sure how to respond? The short answer is: Don't. 


“When are you free for coffee?” Long lost friend or a scammer trying to get you to respond?
“When are you free for coffee?” Long lost friend or a scammer trying to get you to respond?

Tuesday, July 16, 2024

FTC: Can you spot an investment scam?


Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Terri Miller

Investment scammers claim you'll get big returns investing in a hot new money-making "opportunity" — maybe something like cryptocurrency. 

Some scammers say you'll likely make a lot of money if you follow their proven system or method. But will you?

Read more >




FTC: Can you spot an investment scam?
FTC: Can you spot an investment scam?

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Got a call about fraud activity on your bank account? It could be a scammer




Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Terri Miller

Did someone supposedly spot fraud or criminal activity on one of your accounts? Did they offer to help "protect" your money by moving it from your bank, investment, or retirement account? 

Maybe they even asked you to share a verification code? If anyone did any of those things, it's always a scam. 





Got a call about fraud activity on your bank account? It could be a scammer
Got a call about fraud activity on your bank account? It could be a scammer

 

Sunday, June 30, 2024

Unexpected messages on social media about investing are almost always scams


Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Andrew Rayo

With so many people on social media, it's no surprise that scammers are there, too. A scammer might, for example, send you a message on Facebook, LinkedIn, or WhatsApp offering a chance to invest in cryptocurrency. 

But there's no investment opportunity — just a scammer trying to take your money.

Read more ->  https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/06/unexpected-messages-social-media-about-investing-are-almost-always-scams







Unexpected messages on social media about investing are almost always scams
Unexpected messages on social media about investing are almost always scams

 

Monday, June 24, 2024

Register O'Donnell Warns Homeowners About Deed Scams

Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell today reminded Norfolk County residents to disregard a direct mail solicitation offering them a certified copy of their property deed for an outrageous fee of anywhere from $60-$112. 

Register O’Donnell stated, “For the past several years, a California company has been preying on unsuspecting homeowners by sending a direct mail solicitation asking them to send a check for $112 in order to receive a copy of their deed. If a consumer knew that they could print a non-certified copy of their deed for free from our website www.norfolkdeeds.org or obtain a certified copy of their deed for a charge of only $1.00 per page plus an additional $1.00 for postage, they would never agree to pay such an outrageous fee for service. The average price for a mailed homeowner’s certified deed copy by the Registry (usually two pages) is $3.00.”

Warning About Deed Scams
Warning About Deed Scams
Consumers should always be cautious of unsolicited requests for payment, especially when it comes to official documents like property deeds. It's important to research and verify the legitimacy of any requests before sending money.

“These solicitations,” noted O’Donnell, “are labeled Recorded Deed Notice and request that the homeowner forward a check in the amount of $112 for a copy of their deed. The Registry has been contacted by multiple individuals who have received this solicitation. Please do not fall for this scam.”

Always verify the source of any request for payment for official documents, as scammers often target homeowners with deceptive tactics. It's advisable to contact the appropriate authorities, such as the Registry, to confirm the legitimacy of any such requests before taking any action. If you receive such a deed solicitation notice, please contact the Registry’s Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or by email at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

Register O’Donnell concluded, “While the deed direct mail solicitation may be legal, it is unconscionable as it takes needless advantage of individuals. Clearly, this is a scam being perpetrated against hard working Norfolk County residents, many of whom are first-time homeowners or elderly. Consumers are interpreting these notices as a bill, since they are affixed with a due date. I once again urge in the strongest terms that Norfolk County citizens not let themselves fall victim to these types of misleading deed scam advertisements.”

Additionally, if you desire a certified copy of your own deed, also contact the Customer Service Center and they will be glad to provide you with one for a nominal fee of usually $2.00-$3.00. 

If you would like to stay up-to-date on upcoming Registry of Deeds events, programs, and real estate information, you can sign up for our Registry email updates at www.norfolkdeeds.org, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/norfolkdeeds, or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/norfolkdeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry’s website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

Friday, June 21, 2024

Is that person you met online really a military servicemember…or a scammer?


Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Cristina Miranda

If you meet someone on social media or a dating website or app, how can you tell if their profile is real? 

They say they're in the military — but scammers especially like to pose as military servicemembers stationed overseas. 



Is that person you met online really a military servicemember…or a scammer?
Is that person you met online really a military servicemember…or a scammer?

Monday, June 10, 2024

The Guardian: Beware QR code scams

"Look before you scan – the QR code scammers are phishing for business"
Here’s a familiar scenario. You’re going to a meeting in an unfamiliar part of town. You’re running late and it’s raining. And there isn’t a car park in sight. Ah, but here’s some on-street parking and you gratefully pull into the empty bay. Now all you have to do is pay for a couple of hours and then scuttle along to your meeting. But the parking meter (of course) no longer takes coins. This is the 21st century, after all.

No worries – you can pay by phone. There are notices plastered all over the meter on how to pay using an app that – of course – you have not yet downloaded. The rain is getting heavier and there’s no mobile signal. You’re getting increasingly flustered. And then you spot that there’s a Quick Response (QR) code – a nice (if incomprehensible) square with lots of funny squares and spaces – on one side of the meter. Phew! All you have to do is scan it and you’ll be through to a website in no time. So you do and you are. Job done. Relax.

Continue reading the article online ->  https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/article/2024/jun/08/qr-code-scammers-phishing-quick-response-cybersecurity

The Guardian: Beware QR code scams
The Guardian: Beware QR code scams

Wednesday, June 5, 2024

Why it’s not rude to ignore “hi, how are you?” text messages from strangers


Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By Gema de las Heras

A text message from an unknown number that simply says: hi, how are you? seems harmless. 
 
Your first instinct might be to respond to see if it's someone you know. Or maybe tell them they made a mistake. But it's best to ignore these type of text messages. 
 
Scammers are using this tactic as a conversation starter, so don't text back. If you do, here's what happens next.

Read more ->  https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/05/why-its-not-rude-ignore-hi-how-are-you-text-messages-strangers?utm_source=govdelivery




Why it’s not rude to ignore “hi, how are you?” text messages from strangers
Why it’s not rude to ignore “hi, how are you?” text messages from strangers