First Posted: 1/23/2015
The BBB was again busy last year with the different scams and schemes hitting our region. Whether by computer, calling on the phone or knocking at the door, scammers try to steal unsuspecting victims’ money or even their identities.
Here is a list of the region’s top 10 scams for 2014:
10. Vishing and phishing. Scammers send emails which appear to be from a bank or credit card company, stating there is a problem and request victims click on a link to verify information. They ask for personal information and bank account numbers. Their goal is to steal the victim’s identity.
9. Phony utility statements. Scammers send “Account Past Due” notices via email using a utility company’s name. Victims are instructed to pay immediately by clicking on a link and giving their credit card number.
8. Debt collections. Victims receive a call from someone claiming to be a debt collector. They use threats and scare tactics to coerce victims into paying the bogus debt, demand a credit card number and threaten victims that a bench warrant for their arrest will be issued.
7. Government grants. Victims receive a call stating that, because they are a good citizen, they have been given a grant which they do not need to pay back. However victims must pay a processing fee to complete the grant. Victims are instructed to purchase a Green Dot Card and call the scammer back once the purchase is made.
6. Publishers Clearing House. Victims receive a call saying they have won the Publisher’s Clearing House sweepstakes. But, as in Scam No. 7, victims must send money via Western Union or purchase a Green Dot Card to “pay taxes and processing fees” before the winnings can be issued.
5. Lottery and sweepstakes winners. Very similar to above, victims receive a call stating they have won a sweepstakes or a lottery. They will also receive a new car as well. Again, scammers claim victim must pay taxes on the winnings before they can release the car and winnings. Victims are instructed to purchase a Green Dot Card, and the scammer will call you back to get the number off the back of the card. The scammers tell the victim the money and a car will be delivered within an hour of receiving the number.
4. Ebola. Scam artists prey on public fears by “selling stocks” of companies claiming to have a cure or magic potion that prevents the disease. They also send emails containing a link to the latest Ebola news and stock info. If opened, the link has malware attached, infecting the victim’s computer.
3. Grandparent scam. Victims receive a call from someone claiming to be a grandchild. The bogus grandchildren says they are in trouble and need money for bond or bail, and they don’t want their parents to find out. Scammers again use Western Union or Green Dot Cards as method of payment.
2. Microsoft/computer. Victims get a call or email from someone claiming to be a Microsoft technician. The “tech” claims to have received a notification of a problem with the victim’s computer and wants access so they can fix the problem. Cost of repair is $200.. Once the money is paid and access gained, scammers often load a virus on the computer, shutting it down.
1. IRS. Victims receive a threatening call from someone claiming to be from the IRS. The caller states victims owe back taxes, which must to be paid immediately or the victim will be arrested and thrown in jail.
All scams have something in common: The scammers want to steal your money and/or your identity. Protect your identity and money by being aware!
