Don't Fall for a Line
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2006-09-14 15:48:21.961011-04:00
It can be hard to detect a scam. Con artists by definition are well practiced in the art of persuasion. They have an arsenal of skills to lead you into making the wrong decision. However, there are clear warning signs. Paying attention to these cues can help you identify a potential scam before it's too late.
Some Top Warning Signs:
- You're told that you've won a prize—but must pay to receive it. The scammer may say that there are administrative fees or taxes. It is illegal for sweepstakes to ask for payment.
- If you don't pay right away, you'll lose the deal. Often scam artists will try to make a payment "convenient" by offering courier services or wire transfers.
- There's no written information available. Scammers want to keep you from making an informed decision, so will often claim that there's no time to send written material.
- Requests for donations fail to tell you where the money will go. Legitimate charities disclose how much of your donation goes to administrative costs and overhead.
- The offer is secret. Legitimate organizations and charities want as much business as they can drum up, while scam artists want to keep you from questioning their scheme with your family and friends.
Bottom line: the old adage is true. If something seems too good to be true, it most likely is.
Is Your Loved One a Victim of a Scam?
Scam artists are very good at what they do. Consumers of all economic and educational backgrounds lose $40 billion a year to scams. Here are some ways to tell if a family member has fallen victim to a scam.
- The phone rings off the hook with calls seeking charitable donations or offering money-making opportunities.
- You see lots of cheap new stuff around the house. Items like watches, pens, and small appliances are often part of "order to win" scams.
- Payments to unfamiliar companies or frequent withdrawals. These can show up as checks or wire transfers.
- Secretive behavior regarding mail and phone calls.
- Financial troubles. Watch for a sudden inability to pay for basic necessities or bills.
Consumer Resources
If you suspect that your family member has been the victim of a scam, there are some resources to help:
Massachusetts Do Not Call List Registry
This free service for residential phone customers in the Bay State helps reduce unwanted telemarketing calls.
Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation
Learn about new scams, file a complaint, and find resources and information about your rights as a consumer.
Direct Marketing Association
Forms and information to help consumers opt out of lists used by telemarketers and direct mail companies.
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