Consumer Scams
There are many fraudsters who con unsuspecting people into their scams and causing them to loose their money. Coming up with new scams constantly, it becomes almost too easy for scam artists to trick you into giving them your money. Here are some common, and recent scams to be aware of:
Working at Home Opportunities
These companies usually advertise opportunities to work on your own from home, usually with an enticing selling pitch. Because many people dream of working from home and becoming their own boss, offers such as ‘huge earnings’, ‘no selling involved’, ‘no experience required’, are very appealing to many. However, don’t fall into the trap. If they require you to pay an upfront fee for administration, expenses or materials, do not pay the fee. This is a scam. A legitimate employer would not ask for an upfront fee. Typically these scams are for stuffing envelopes, making cards or sewing clothes or fabrics.
Prize draw winnings
Often times these work when you receive a phone call or a letter, informing you that you just wan a prize in a prize drawing. You are then required to claim your prize by paying an administration fee or to call a premium rate phone number. If you call the number, they usually have you waiting on the line for several minutes while you rack up a large sum on your phone. If ever you receive a correspondence of this kind, you should disregard it, especially if you know that you never entered a prize draw or a lottery. If it is unsolicited, be suspicious.
Phishing
Phishing is the term used when fraudulent emails appear in your account, believed to be legitimate companies requesting person information from you. These emails can appear to be from your bank requesting information from you to update their company records, or to remain registered online. They will ask you to reply with your full details, such as your name and password. Never respond to these emails. Legitimate companies never ask for personal information by email, so be aware of these scams.
With the number of scams rising, you should be extremely cautious when a selling pitch seems too good to be true. Never agree to purchase or release information, especially if you are not familiar with the company.