The Internet has opened up a world of convenience for people to conduct business online, pay bills, and check on their various accounts. It’s also provided an avenue for scam artists to fool people into falling for online schemes. The Federal Trade Commission warns consumers of three popular scams commonly defrauding people. Here are the ones to avoid and not fall for:
- Fake Fraud Alerts
- Fake Investment Opportunities
- Fake Invoices
Seniors, in particular, are often the target of scammers. They can easily get alarmed by a fake alert from a bank or other company they might do business with. In that event, always contact the company directly to see if the alert is valid. Never respond or provide information. Scammers love to promote get-rich schemes, such as investing in cryptocurrency. Never respond to an email that tries to direct you to a phony website.
Also, disregard unexpected invoices for services you’ve never requested, such as a bogus membership renewal. Again, contact the company directly to let them know about this scam. Be wary of online solicitations that seem dubious.
You Deserve the Money You Were Promised
Seniors get the cushion they need with additional retirement income. That’s why here at Council of Seniors, we’re working tirelessly to get Congress to pass The SAVE Benefits Act. This legislation is necessary because the annual Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) has short-changed seniors in recent years. The amount of $581 was withheld from benefits, and it’s time for it to be returned.
Signing our petition now is a great way to get on board with helping. Because of the growing number of Americans expecting action, Congress must reorder its priorities.
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