How Can I Get Scammed Today?

Posted: April 14, 2021, 9:10AM

Oh, there are so many flavors to choose from!

Here are a few scams highlighted in AARP's Bulletin April 2021 issue:

Fake shopping sites have been around for awhile but like all other scams, they're getting more sophisticated. The site may use pics from real businesses which makes it look legit. However, if you if find a product at a real deal and enter your credit card info you may never get your purchase or you may get an inferior product. Regardless, the scammer has your credit card info. If you are considering buying from a new site, check reviews and the company's record on the Better Business Bureau's online directory at bbb.org.

COVID vaccine card scams are ramping up. A lot of people are taking selfies holding their vaccination cards. Oh myyyyy. Vaccine cards containg personal information that can be used for fraudulent purposes. Use a 'Got My Vaccine' profile pic or use a generic sticker. ALWAYS be careful posting anything with personal information. (Drivers license, ID cards, etc)

You need to remember that the people that perpetrate the scams are making a lot of money. A LOT OF MONEY. To them, it's a business. They don't care that you are ill or older or unemployed or isolated or lonely. They don't care that they are conning you, taking your life savings, or worrying you about a grandchild. (Well....they DO care because these things can make you a better target.) They want your money, your personal information. They want anything they can use to scam you.

You aren't being paranoid if they ARE out to get you. And these scammers ARE out to get you!

[Source: "Today's Hot Frauds", AARP Bulletin, April 2021]