Every “profession” has its own terminology. We speak in acronyms (abbreviations formed by the first letters of the words, such as NASCAR, SCUBA, and FOMO) or we have workplace language (such as client or lede).
The scamming business is no different. Just as we have learned a whole new language for our texting interactions (LOL, TTYL, BTW, and IMO), there are terms to learn for the business of scamming. They have words for their “victims” and there are words for the scams.
AARPs “Glossary of Scam and Fraud Terminology” lists terms that are common in the scamming world. Here are a few.
“Artificial Intelligence” or AI is frightening and amazing. Deep-fake videos, images, and text are created that appear to be very real. Find out how to spot AI in text and in images. As technology advances, AI gets more sophisticated.
“Catfishing” is when someone creates a fake online profile to lure targets, often for romance scams. Be aware that scammers can be anyone they want to be. People are “hooked” and “reeled in” with fake pictures and fake biographies so scammers get scammee’s money and personal information. Do a reverse image search. Learn about catfishing and how to avoid being scammed.
“Hackers” is a term in the world of cybersecurity and computer crimes for those who use the Internet to break into computers.
“Malware”, short for malicious software, is the term for computer viruses or software used to access your computer or disrupt functions to steal information which can also be used to access your accounts. Make sure your virus protection is up-to-date.
“Money mules” transfer money or packages to someone else helping scammers steal from others. There is often a commission or payment to the mule for this service.
“Phishing” happens when authentic-looking emails encourage scammees to provide sensitive information for the purpose of theft. The emails look real and may appear to come from a bank or government agency. Check for slightly changed logos or web addresses.
“Ransomware” is malicious software that disables your computer and can capture encrypted files or sensitive data. Scammers will ask for money to release the computer. Business, government, and healthcare are frequent victims of ransomware attacks.
“Spoofing” occurs frequently with the scammer manipulating caller ID to show a fake name or number. If you answer the phone thinking it’s Aunt Em and it’s really Scammer Jane, hang up. Do not engage and do not worry about being rude.
“Skimming” is when devices are placed on credit card readers (often at gas stations, ATMs, or grocery stores) and capture your credit card information when you pay for a purchase. Check the credit card reader. Does it appear to have been tampered with?
Learn about scams. Scammers are sophisticated and smart. They do not care about you. They want your money and your personal information. Don’t hand it to them.
Stay safe.
