Common Scams to Avoid

In our day to day lives, scams are all around us, with scammers ready to pounce on unsuspecting victims. Scams happen in a variety of ways, from receiving letters, texts, calls, or emails, and always with an intent to steal something from us, including our hard earned money.

More often than not, it can be easy to fall for a scam, but taking a simple step back to reevaluate what’s being asked of you can protect you from falling headfirst into a scam. When it comes to noticing what a scam is and what is legitimate, there are many warning signs that you can spot. Each and every person should be aware of the signs to ensure you don’t fall victim, and at Morgan & Morgan, we’re here to warn you, so you aren’t the next unfortunate sufferer.

They pretend to be an official organization

If you have received scam communication previously, you’ll likely recognize that the majority of the time, they pretend to be from an already established and trusted organization in hopes you don't realize that what they’re asking of you is an attempt to steal your money. 

Some ways in which they do this is by using the organization’s real name or even a name that many would presume is an official name of an organization. In addition, many scam emails attempt to copy the organization’s format and style in the content that is sent to targets. They might attach a link demanding you to click on it. This is often how many targets become victims. Never click on a link to something that doesn’t look or feel quite right.

You can often tell the difference by double-checking the email address, which won’t match with the organization’s actual email.

There is always a problem or prize at stake

When it comes to scams, the perpetrators always make it known that there is a problem or prize at stake if you carry out their requests.

An example of where the scammer will act as if there is a problem is by convincing you that you’ve done something illegal, such as owing unpaid taxes, and that if you don’t follow their instructions there will be severe consequences, such as being in trouble. They could also try and manipulate you into sending money and falling for their tricks by expressing how a loved one has fallen ill or had an emergency.

When scammers say there is a prize at stake, it is often in concern with winning the lottery or a contest, but to claim the prize money, you will need to pay a "small" fee. 

They’ll want you to act fast

When scammers target victims, there will be no hesitation in trying to get your money or important sensitive details. Instead, you can expect the scammer’s communication to be extremely pressurizing, wanting you to take immediate action, and this is a big red flag.

They may even threaten you if you hesitate or are questioning their antics by saying that you’ll be arrested, sued, or any other type of intimidating action.  

You’ll be asked to pay in a specific way

One reason why scams can be quite obvious is that many organizations will never ask you to pay in certain ways, whereas scammers will, and this can be a clear sign that something is not quite right.

The scam might require you to pay them through a gift card and provide the long number on the back, crypto currency, or money transfer company. Other scammers will send you a fake check, asking you to deposit the money and transfer it back.

What should you do if you are targeted by a scammer?

If you have been targeted by a scam, whether you fell for it or not, it’s important to take immediate action to prevent them from manipulating other individuals, especially those who are vulnerable, such as elderly people.

Actions you can take include reporting them to the law enforcement in your local area, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Trade Commission. They will be able to carry out a full investigation in hopes to discover precisely who they are and put a stop to it.

Contact our specialists at Morgan & Morgan today

Have you been a victim of a scam that has left you out of pocket? We recognize the severe consequences this can have on every aspect of your life, from your finances being affected to the mental stress it can have on you and your family.

Our Morgan & Morgan attorneys have many years of collective expertise, and we’re ready to fight your case to reobtain your stolen money. Contact us today for free, no-obligation case evaluation to get started.