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SCAMS, FRAUDS, and CONS

Please review this list of common scams that you should be AWARE of and AVOID.

Phishing

Identity thieves try to trick people into providing their Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, passwords, PIN numbers, and other personal information.  Typically, the victim will receive an official looking e-mail from a reputable company.  The recipient is told that there is a problem with their account and they must update or confirm their information.  In fact, the link in the e-mail directs the user to a bogus site which is designed to capture your personal information.

Defense:
Don't respond to e-mails requesting that you confirm your personal information.

ATM Card "Skimming" Scam

Some Automated Teller Machines are actually "skimmers" which collect your account number and PIN.   The thieves then use your information to withdraw money from your bank account.

Defense:
Only use ATM's located at legitimate financial institutions and avoid those found in "convenience stores" and gas stations.   Be careful though... even bank owned ATM's can be compromised!

Call Forwarding Scam

You may receive an automated message on your telephone that says you have won a prize or money. The message directs you to dial a 2-digit code preceded or followed by the * or # key (such as *79 or 72#), and then an 800 number to claim your prize. When you dial the number, you are not connected to anyone. What this procedure has done, though, is program your telephone to forward your calls to a long distance operator. Con artists can then call your number, be forwarded to the long-distance operator and place calls that are billed to your home telephone number.

Defense:
If you receive this type of call, simply hang up. If you receive this message on your answering machine, do not place this call. No legitimate sweepstakes or contest would likely contact you in this manner.

Know the numbers used for Call Forwarding from your local telephone company.

Additional scams, cons, etc. may be found at the following websites:

AT&T - Telephone related scams

Federal Citizen Information Center - U.S. Government website of Scams and Frauds

Federal Bureau of Investigation - Financial Crimes Section

U.S. Department of the Treasury - Discusses financial, securities, and investment scams



 
 
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