Fraud and Identity Theft. Fraud and Identity theft are on the rise. It’s no surprise that more and more Americans are using the world wide web, therefore making them subject to Identity theft and fraud.
Seniors are especially vulnerable and there are plenty of avenues these days to take advantage of just about anyone. If you commonly use the internet for purchases, bill paying, and even social media, you are among the many that can become easy targets.
Putting out ANY personal information about yourself can be dangerous. Predators prey on you, reading up about your life, your childhood, your PETS names, and where you bank.
Even online dating sites are reporting “Fraud and scams” often. It doesn’t take a genius to realize that “Online dating” is a really good way to “meet” someone and get some personal information, so be aware.
The IRS has been under attack the past few years, trying to crack down on “Fake agents” calling and attempting to get information.
The best way to stay safe is to keep on top of your identity and your credit. Report anything suspicious and never give out personal information.
If a bill collector is contacting you, make sure it’s upfront. Most will not even accept payments over the phone anymore.
They will simply call and ask you to call them back, making it so that you, the consumer, can verify it’s real. But there are plenty of other scams to worry about.
Housing scams. Rental scams. Craigslist.org is a breeding ground for such activity, so please do your homework. Visit such sites as http://www.fraud.org/ and even government sites that focus solely on trying to stop online predators.
Check into companies that are contacting you regarding your home, your finances, etc. Real and true companies can be verified online or by simply visiting the Better Business Bureau.
