The Seven Deadly Scams: AARP Warns of Con Artist Frauds
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2004-09-02 17:16:00-04:00
AARP is offering a new free brochure listing seven common frauds and scams, providing tips to consumers on how they can avoid becoming a victim of fraud.
"Consumers need to be aware that these common scams pop up regularly, like mushrooms after a storm," said
According to AARP, the seven deadly scams are:
Internet Auctions
Though thousands of legitimate transactions take place online each day, sometimes goods purchased never arrive or are less valuable than promised.
"Phishing"
Con artists look to gather personal information by asking consumers to "update" or "validate" their billing information, including credit card and Social Security numbers.
Foreign Money Offers
A "foreign government official" offers an opportunity to split a huge sum of money if he can just transfer funds to your bank account - and naturally, he needs your account information.
Sweepstakes
Very common, this scam tells consumers they have won something, and they need only pay a fee for processing, taxes or delivery to claim their prize.
Charity Fraud
This scam preys on the public's generosity in giving to reputable charities by soliciting funds for disreputable or fraudulent ones.
Foreign Lotteries
A call or letter tells consumers that they may have already won a big prize in a foreign lottery, obtainable merely by providing bank account or credit card information.
Work at Home
This scam offers great payouts for little work at home, telling consumers they need only pay up-front supply, training or materials charges - charges they rarely recoup.
The brochure, "The Top Frauds and Scams," is available at no charge by calling 1-888-OUR-AARP (1-888-687-2277), along with "Consumer Protection: A Guide to your Rights and Choices."
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