How to Avoid Phone Scams
Over 75% of adults 50-80 years old have reported experiencing a phone scam in the last few years. It happens to even the most sophisticated, tech-savvy people. But there are some important things to look out for to try and avoid becoming a victim.
Phone scammers will often pose as a representative from a government agency or corporation including:
The IRS
The Social Security Administration
The Police
A relative (especially grandchildren)
A charity you have donated to.
A well known company like Microsoft, Amazon or Apple.
Some tips on how to recognize a phone scam:
The caller is offering a prize
The caller is threatening that you will be arrested.
The caller is putting pressure on you to make an immediate decision or take an immediate action.
There’s NEVER a good reason to send cash or pay with a gift card.
Governments agencies NEVER call to confirm sensitive information.
What to do if you think you have received a suspicious call:
Hang up immediately.
Do NOT give personal information over the phone. This includes address, banking info, social security or a password.
NEVER allow access to your computer unless it’s from a known source like your family or a trusted tech support service which you have called or you have a confirmed appointment.
If you think you have been a victim of phone fraud, reach out to a trusted family member or advisor to help.
Contact your financial institutions, file a police report and file a report with the FTC. https://reportfraud.ftc.gov.