April is Financial Literacy Month, and a great time to take advantage of free advice at ftc.gov/Money Matters. Federal Trade Commission data show people reported losing $8.8 billion to scams in 2022, up more than 30 percent from 2021. Money Matters has the tools we can all use to spot, avoid, and report scams, and help those we care about protect their bottom line. Read on to learn more.
The financial impact of the pandemic is far-reaching. Many of us are still feeling it in many ways: in finding work, buying or renting a home, getting loans, and simply making ends meet. And, just as we’re working to regain our financial footing, scammers are trying to take advantage by stealing both money and personal information. The information at Money Matters is here when and where you need it, on your phone or computer, and includes articles, videos, graphics to share on social media, and PowerPoint presentations on these topics:
- Credit Reports
- Buying or Renting a Home
- Avoiding a Scam When You’re Looking for a Job
- Borrowing and Debt
- Education and Training
- Your Rights When Shopping
- Buying and Owning a Car
- Prizes and Grants
Share this video using the links in the player above or use the YouTube version.
Please share what you learn with family, friends, and members of your community. Share the graphics and videos on social media. Even use the presentation slides to talk with groups you might be part of — say, at a neighborhood PTA or club meeting. And stay connected by subscribing to get consumer alerts on the latest scams.
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My bank statements have been stolen out of my mailbox, and I’ve been broken into several times by construction workers who are trying to intimidate me and are working to take my assets. I am a senior citizen. Phones have been hacked, and I am afraid for my life. I am looking for help. I live in the Nashville, TN area. Hard to get help, law enforcement ridicules me.