Now that Aretha Franklin is humming in your brain, please do what Ms. Franklin said – THINK. We’re talking about scams. THINK. Scammers get revved up during the holidays. People are busy and distracted. (They may not pay attention to charges.) They are shopping online. (Problem delivery notices prompt people to click on unsafe links.) They tend to be more generous. (Many people fall for fake charity scams.)
The advice to THINK is valuable when you’re trying to avoid getting scammed. Scammers push you to make decisions quickly. They don’t want you to stop and THINK about their pitch.
THINK when scammers are trying to get you to send money to “save” a loved one. Families are on vacation. Schools are on break. This means more opportunity for scammers to try to play with your emotions. Check on your family member before acting if you get a call saying they are in trouble. Scammers count on the emotional impact of “bad news” and the knee-jerk reaction to help your loved one.
THINK when scammers are posing as a government representative who wants your personal information. The Social Security Administration will not ask for your Social Security number. They will not demand money. They will not threaten you. If you think there is a problem with your Social Security, call the Social Security Administration directly at 1 800 772-1213.
THINK when scammers are sending you texts about a delayed package delivery. Make sure you have a delivery scheduled. Contact the carrier directly and have the tracking number available to check on your package.
THINK when ordering products online. Where can you have them delivered if you will not be home? Porch pirates will try to steal your packages when they are delivered. Video door bells may help deter porch pirates.
THINK when you see a deal that seems too good to be true. It probably isn’t true and you risk losing money and giving scammers your personal information.
THINK when scammers are showering you with compliments and promises of being together….but they need money to get them out of a tax situation or someone needs surgery or they need a new phone. The list goes on. Romance scammers prey on vulnerable people. Don’t send money. Be careful about the information you share.
Scammers don’t want you to THINK. They try to pressure you into acting. They “appeal” to the emotional side – fear of missing out (FOMO), fear for the safety of a loved one, generosity for others, loneliness. They are good at what they do. Scammers will be bold. They may even threaten you.
What they want you to do is share your personal information. They want your money. You have read the Scam Alert Lady’s warnings for some time. Don’t be a scammee. THINK.
Stay safe!
