We have donut bits. We have bits of information for our computers. There are bits for drills and bits for horses. We might eat just a little bit. You may find that enduring something is just a bit too much.
Now we have SCAM BITS! Instead of an article focusing on one scam, here are several tidBITS of information that will provide education and information to help protect you from scammers.
What is FOMO? Fear of Missing Out is a very real thing, and is linked with loneliness and lower self-esteem. We want to be included. We want to have that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for money or romance. We don’t want to be seen as a loser who – Misses Out. Don’t fall for the fake testimonials or the message that ‘everyone is doing it’. Scammers get you in an emotional stronghold and use that to make you a scammee. Turn off the emotions. Think it through.
Phishing is when scammers use email or text messages to hook you into providing personal information. The communication may look legit and may say they are from a bank, credit card company, or an online store. They will give you a story that compels you to click on a link – one that will allow access to your personal information. They will say you owe money, there’s a problem with your account, your service has been suspended, or that you need to verify account numbers. Delete the email. Do not click on any links!
Romance scams have been growing by leaps and bounds. Social media has increased the Moments of Opportunity for scammers to take advantage of people who are isolated or lonely. A social media profile can portray someone in any light. They will tailor their story to match whatever you want to hear. And they will take you to the cleaners. Don’t send money. Don’t provide cell phone information. Don’t believe their stories. Don’t fall for this scam.
Income Tax Calls are the calls that really get our attention. It’s tax season and here is the scammer’s Moment of Opportunity. If you owe money, the IRS will mail a bill. They won’t call. They won’t threaten. If you have a question, contact the IRS at 800-829-1040 or go to their website.
Car Warranty Robo Calls are so annoying. They come on our land lines, they come on our cell phones. All tell us that our car warranty is expiring, and they want to offer us a great deal to save us money on car repairs. Do not press 1 to talk to a representative. Do not press 2 to end these calls. If you’ve answered the call – hang up. If a message is left, just delete it. USA Today tells us that car warranty calls made up 51% of the scam calls in 2021.
Be cautious. Don’t be pressured into making decisions. Take a deep breath, think about it, and move on. Talk to a trusted friend or family member. Don’t become a scammee!
Stay safe!
