Like everything else in our world today, scammers are quickly evolving, sharpening their skills to the point where it is commonplace even for the most wary of us to be hacked. So how can we protect ourselves against scammers? First, we need to be vigilant in identifying scams and then we need to know what to do if we think we are being scammed. Here are some things to watch for and some ways to protect yourself…
As wonderful as artificial intelligence (AI) can be for us, it is just as amazing for boosting the efforts of scammers. Did you know that, with AI, scammers can use one tiny soundbite to create an entire voice message that sounds like it is coming from you, a friend or family member? If you buy into this horrifying scam, providing them with access to your finances, you can say goodbye to your money. So, what should you do instead? If you are contacted by “someone you know” requesting money urgently, you should call back that person at a number you trust to make certain it is really them.
We also need to be on the lookout for email scams that come in the form of correspondence that is unexpected and/or includes an urgent deadline, the promise of financial gain or the threat of a fine or incarceration. Scammers may pretend to be a trusted entity such as your financial institution, law enforcement, government agencies including the IRS or Medicare or even Amazon. Be very careful with these because they can appear very real. Just remember that any legitimate institution will never ask you for personal data such as a password, social security number or credit card information (and Amazon already has all your credit card and account information). Nor will they request payment via gift card. If anyone contacts you claiming they need your personal information or money, reach out to them through the contact information you have and trust for them to see what’s what. No doubt you will find out it was a scam.
Finally, never let scammers prey on your good will or emotions with a false sense of urgency. Take a breath. Then always check IRLs to distinguish between a legitimate source and a scammer’s missive. Be careful though. They can be very similar! Additionally, never allow anyone you are not absolutely sure of to have remote access to your computer and never download documents or open links or attachments from unknown senders. Also, keep in mind that an officer of the law would come to your home if they had a warrant and if the IRS wanted to reach you, they would send you a letter.