Monday, April 1, 2013

Avoiding Scams


Avoiding Scams

Scams are becoming increasingly common. It is my personal belief that a good deal of responsibility in the increase is due to the difficulties in prosecuting these types of crimes. The responsibility therefore to protect ourselves against con artists, who appear to have no conscience, falls back on each of us individually. Based on my experience, these are my recommendations:

1) First comes the obvious, which most of you have heard before, yet people continue to make these mistakes despite repeated warnings; most likely due to the different tactics of the con artists. Personal information (driver's license number, social security number, date of birth, password/login information online, health insurance information, etc.) should NEVER be given out to someone you don't know who calls or emails you. I recently received emails from what appeared to be the internet carrier that I use asking for log-in/password information for changes to their system. A quick call verified my suspicion that is was a scam most likely trying to access stored credit card information on my internet account.

2) Say "No" or just walk away from high pressure salesman. Anyone who makes you feel like you have to buy this product or make this decision right now is most likely a con artist. People train thoroughly to do high pressure sales. They know if you have a chance to think about it, research it or ask someone else about it, you'll most likely turn down the offer. You deserve the right to think about your decisions. Train yourself to be aware of this situation and if you start to feel pressure that sounds like, "I have to do this right now or..." that should be your clue to walk away. More than likely, it isn't the "last" one.

3) Always carefully read contracts or have them reviewed by an attorney. Con artists are good at hiding details in small print or there may be laws you're unfamiliar with. A good example of this would be a recent client who signed a renter's agreement and initialed that they were responsible for the cost of pest control services. The renter was unaware that in Florida, the landlord is usually responsible for the cost of pest control services.

4) Never respond to emails advising you to transfer/wire money or deposit those fake checks claiming you're the winner of money. A new scam that is sweeping the country involves sending people a check for a high amount like $2,000 for example and then they request a check for $250 from you in exchange for processing fees, supplies, etc. The check they sent you will most likely be returned by the banking institution within a few day, while your check has already been cashed and your account number is now in the con artists hands.

5) Avoid buying from unfamiliar companies. If you think it's legit, check it out first by doing some research online. Be sure to get a company name, salesperson’s name (phone orders), telephone number, street address/mailing address, and business license number. This will give you more information to research before conducting business with unfamiliar companies One such resource for verification is the Better Business Bureau.  

6) Check your banking/financial accounts daily and call the financial institution if anything seems wrong or suspicious.

7) Obtain credit reports regularly. You are allowed to get one free credit report per year from the reporting agencies. Credit protection is not a bad idea either if you have the extra funds.

8) When you do any type of transaction in person (i.e. payment for food, services, merchandise, etc.), make sure the correct amount is charged to your credit card or that you receive the proper amount of change at the register if paying with cash. Don't be embarrassed to stand there and recount your money if you are unsure. You'll most likely never see that person again and trust me they won't be embarrassed to spend your stolen money.

9) If for any reason, you have to hand over your credit card, driver's license, social security card, etc. make sure you get it back. I've seen some games going on with this lately. It's easy to conceal a rewards card in a wrapped up receipt and hand it back to a busy parent or someone with their hands full who quickly places it in a purse or pocket. Take the time to check that it's your card right away.

10) If you would like to donate to a charity, research the company first. If the charity is real, they're not going anywhere and they'll most likely need the donation just as much tomorrow as they do today. Research the charity for legitimacy, reviews and see how much of your donation actually goes toward the cause. You'll be shocked at some very popular charities...

Lastly, don't be afraid to speak up if you are a victim of fraud. Con artists are good at what they do and are usually likable, intelligent people. Anyone can become a victim. You have lots of options for reporting these crimes such as filing a police report at your local police department, contacting your local FBI office, filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau, etc. You may be able to recover funds or save someone else from falling prey to the scam.