Scams: Keep you eyes open and guard up

It’s sad but true. Since I have been at the Ledger there have been some scams that have happened. People can be dishonest, and some people make a living at it. They may sell you something you never receive, or try to steal your personal information over the phone. Scams do happen, and you need to be on the lookout for them. Here are some general types of scams:

IRS/Tax

These types of scams are scary. You may get a phone call with someone claiming you owe money on your Federal or State taxes. They will claim you need to send money right away or there will be severe consequences, like jail time. Rest assured if you actually owe taxes you will receive a letter long before they would ever call you.

Check Scams

These can occur in a number of ways but always involve a phony check. A person might buy an item from you, hire you to work at home, hire you as an employee or congratulate you on having won a prize. They will present you with a check and request you deposit it and possibly wire a portion of it for processing fees or taxes right away. You deposit the check into your account and wire the money requested. Later, you receive notice from the bank that the check is not good. You lose the money you wired, plus any charges now owed to the bank.

Family Scams

These tend to tug at the heartstrings. A person calls claiming that your grandchild or someone else you love is in trouble and needs money right away. You wire the money only to discover later that your loved one is fine and you are out some dough.

Lost Scams

These arise out of lost ads. A person calls you about an ad you placed regarding a missing pet or item. They claim to have found the pet or item but live far away and need money for shipping fees. You wire them some money but never hear from them again. A person may also claim to be a police officer that has located your pet or property and needs your personal information to file a report. You assume the person is legitimate, give them your personal information, and open yourself up to identity theft.

Mail Theft

Mail theft may take place at any point during the day. A person removes mail from your mailbox; opens it. They are looking for money making opportunities and personal information. They steal your checks. They steal all credit card numbers listed, and use them to purchase items. They alter all loan or credit card applications so they will receive the payment or the card.

Merchandise Scams

These occur mainly online. You find a great deal, order it and receive a call about accessories available for the item, or don’t read the fine print on the website. You pass on the accessories and receive notice the item is no longer available or you never receive it at all. If it does arrive, you are charged for extras listed in the fine print you failed to read on the website. Either way, you’re out some money.

Sweepstakes Scams

These occur in a couple of ways and appeal to individuals who like to win. A person calls stating you have won a sweepstakes but must pay the taxes on the winnings before claiming them. You wire the money only to never receive any winnings. In another variation, you might be told you’re a finalist and will increase your chances of winning if you buy something. You purchase the item but never receive it or any prizes.

These are just some of the scams. There are probably hundreds more types out there. It pays to be on your guard. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Trust your instincts and take the time to check out every offer that comes your way. Act with caution, and should you ever fall prey to a scam, report it and help protect others.