Tag: Avoiding and Reporting Scams

Excitement is reaching a fever pitch as the United States, Mexico, and Canada get ready to welcome thousands of fans for one of the most-watched sporting events on the planet — the FIFA World Cup! While die-hard fans are preparing to support their countrymen, scammers are looking to take advantage of the rush for tickets. Learn how to make your World Cup experience scam free.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hosts free events like the National Veterans Golden Age Games to encourage older adults in the veteran community to get active for better health and wellness. But veterans are reporting finding websites or pages on social media that charge a fee to register for the games. These are fakes. Whether you’re looking to compete or just want to watch the games, here’s how to cross the finish line without running into a scam.

Does it feel like the holidays come around faster and faster every year? If you’re looking to save time by avoiding the crowds and doing some holiday shopping online, know that scammers camp out online all year long. So if you’re planning to shop online for holiday gifts, how can you avoid accidentally running into a scam?

You get an unexpected call with some bad news: your name is linked to serious crimes, and your money is at risk, says the voice on the line. The next thing you know, he connects you with an “agent” who can supposedly help you resolve the issue. Your heart and mind are racing. But your gut is telling you to talk to someone you trust — or to get off the phone and search the internet for advice. So why would a helpful “agent” warn you not to talk to anyone or tell you to stay off the internet until he can fix the problem? Probably because that “agent” is really a scammer.

Every year, scammers get more active around Medicare Open Enrollment Period, trying to get your money, information, or both. As you consider your health coverage and prescription options during this period (October 15-December 7), learn to spot the scams.

See an eye-catching “deal” on your social for a brand-name product at a big discount? Don’t click — it could be a scam. Here’s what to know.

Do you know someone who might need to brush up on their money management skills? Or learn to spot and avoid scams? Back-to-school season is a good time to get to work on learning. Whether you're a student, a parent, or just looking to sharpen your skills, you can learn how to protect your money and personal information. The FTC’s consumer.gov has free, reliable information in plain language to help you get started.

If someone contacts you unexpectedly and tells you to buy gold bars and hand them to someone (anyone!) to “protect your money,” you’ve spotted a scam. Instead of doing what they say, stop. Want to know how these scams work and how to avoid them? Read on.

Hoping to take a trip in the warmer weather? Before you start planning, know that some scammers set up websites advertising free or cheap travel deals. Learn to spot these scammy sites and other schemes designed to steal your money and personal information.

Are you the parent of a fur baby? Then you know how tough it is when your cat, dog, or other adorable pet is sick, in pain, or injured. You’d do anything for them. Scammers are using that feeling to steal your hard-earned money.