What to do if you were scammed

At some point, most of us will rely on financing to buy the things we need or want. But what happens when financing terms aren’t clear? Or you’re told to expect a monthly payment amount, but end up paying more? That’s not only illegal, but it costs you money and can hurt your credit.

This month, we join the nation to celebrate Older Americans Month. It’s also the 10th anniversary of Pass It On, the FTC’s fraud education campaign for older adults. As Older Americans Month recognizes the power of social connections, we recognize the many thousands of people who’ve connected through Pass It On, starting conversations to help others avoid scams.

Just as people in Nebraska, Iowa, Oklahoma, and other Midwestern states are reeling from the catastrophic damage caused by tornadoes and other severe weather, scammers are rolling in. They use all kinds of stories to try to trick not just those doing their best to recover, but also anyone who tries to help. The best way to steer clear of these disaster-chasing scammers? Know what their tactics have in common.