We make resolutions to lose weight. We resolve to be more conscientious with our spending. We put “a new job” at the top of our New Year’s goals.
We need to add one more resolution to the list and stick to it. I resolve to do my best not to get scammed in the coming year. Sounds good, doesn’t it?
We are more at risk with technological advances. (Think about Artificial Intelligence.) Privacy is an obsolete concept. We share everything about our lives on social media.
The latest first-day-of-school pics have information on the school, class, age, activities and more. Depending on your privacy settings on social media, we may learn a lot about your relationship status, where you live, and other personal information.
All this information potentially exposes us to financial and safety risks. Because of this over-sharing, it’s much like the Santa song: They know when we’re sleeping. They know when we’re awake. They know if we’ve been bad or good. They know everything! And they (scammers) will take advantage of it.
So with that in mind (and the song winding its way through every waking moment), think about what you CAN do.
In the article “Top Resolutions for a Fraud Free New Year”, the Better Business Bureau offers ways consumers can be proactive in avoiding getting scammed. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
My resolutions are:
- To be more careful with my email. I will avoid clicking on links from unfamiliar sources. I will not open unknown attachments. I will be aware of addresses that don’t look quite right. I will delete suspicious emails.
- To not send money or gift cards or cryptocurrency to strangers. I will not be duped by someone pretending to be my grandchild. I will not buy gift cards as payment for missed jury duty fees. I will not be fooled by someone who offers “conditional” relationships (usually romance scams).
- To review and improve my passwords. I will not use 12345, my cat’s birthday, or ‘password’. I will review and vary my passwords.
- To be more social media smart. I will adjust my privacy settings to only connect with people I know. I will not offer TMI (too much information such as home address or other). I will avoid posting information or pictures that may be compromising.
- To stay informed about scams. I will read The Scam Alert Lady’s articles on LEDE News. I will be aware of scams that target older adults, veterans and their families, and other groups so I can help them avoid being scammed. I will learn about scams or report a scam to the Better Business Bureau’s ScamTracker. I will read the Better Business Bureau article for more tips on how to make the resolution a reality!
There are so many ways scammers can hook us. If you’re scammed, report it. Don’t be embarrassed – you are not alone!
Have a Happy New Year!
Stay safe.
