Did you know that every year there are thousands of new
shams added to the previous years shams and the year before that!
What I mean is that when we consider the number of new
schemes this year, an uncertain number well into the thousands, the total is
added to all of the previous years all added together, the years new shams
don't disappear at the end of the year but continue on into the next year, etc.
So there are way more shams online and off than we could
ever possibly count accurately. The best way to stop schemers is to be aware of
their tactics.
However, there are 10 things to keep in mind, memorize them
if you can, so that you can avoid the many sham traps that are set online and
offline and keep yourself, family and loved ones safe and well aware of the
criminal schemes set to victimize them.
Stay Alert and remember these things to stop schemes:
1. If someone that you've never met face to face wants you
to send money to them don't do it! It doesn't matter the method, whether it be
in a wire transfer, a prepaid debit card, or a gift card which is as good as
cash and can't be traced.
2. When you get unsolicited emails don't open the
attachments or click on any links. Links can download malware onto your
computer and steal all of your info, you could even become a victim of identity
theft.
3. Criminals can create official looking seals, fonts, and
every other detail and they can send emails, texts, or popups online and fool
almost anybody that's not paying attention.
4. When you're making online purchases make sure that the
transaction is secure.
The website should have "https" in the URL and a
small lock icon on the address bar and even with that the site can still be
setting you up to overcharge or take advantage of it's unsuspecting visitors.
5. Be very cautious of any one that you deal with online
because schemers and opportunists really are everywhere.
They use dating sites, Craigslist, all social media, forums
and many other sites and avenues to reach their targets, or catch their prey
for each day.
If only they spent their time doing something honest that
benefited society instead of lying, deceiving and stealing from unsuspecting
people.
Beware because they can quickly make you feel comfortable
and maybe even become a romantic or business partner.
6. If someone contacts you unsolicited whether it's over the
phone or online through email or any of the social medias like Twitter,
Facebook, etc., or even at your front door.Never share your personal
information, things like banking and credit card information, social security
number, your birth date, or insurance policy number.
7. Schemers will very often try to pressure you to act
immediately or they'll place a deadline or a sense of urgency on you to cut
through your reasoning powers.
They do this so you don't have time to talk with a trusted
friend, family member or financial advisor. Beware, don't be pressured to act
immediately.
8. Make sure that you always use a secure traceable
transaction when you pay for everything from goods, services, taxes and debts.
9. Always work with businesses that have proper
identification.
You can always check them out and see reviews of what other
customers have to say about them.
If there are no or only a couple few reviews ask yourself
why... and why choose someone with few reviews when you can feel more secure
with another that has many more positive reviews?
10. Be aware and cautious about what you post and share on
all of the different social medias like Facebook and Instagram, etc.
Don't get to cozy or friendly with anyone too quickly as many
times you won't see warning signs until after a while and if you're already
hooked you might have a hard time getting away with your finances still in your
possession.
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