We’re constantly being reminded to not fall for scams but it’s difficult. Those scams become more sophisticated every day — especially with AI now in play. It’s increasingly hard to distinguish between what’s real and what’s not.
AARP has a new tool that can help you stay ahead of the scams. It’s a Fraud Watch Network Scam-Tracking Map — you can enter your zip code and see scams that have been reported in your area. You can also select to see what scams law enforcement has reported or you can report a scam if you’ve been a victim.
Have You or a Loved One Been Scammed? Here are some recommendations of what to do next:
DO
Report the fraud. Let people who can help you know about the scam. Reporting the deception can stop more individuals from being victimized. Start by contacting your bank and the Federal Trade Commission at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/ You may also want to report losses to local police or your State Consumer Protection Office at https://www.usa.gov/ state-consumer.
Work with your bank to recover lost funds. Contact your financial service provider to let them know what happened. Although there is no guarantee, they may be able to help recover your funds if you get in touch quickly.
Change passwords and ignore unknown calls. After a scam, change your passwords, replace any compromised credit cards, and block calls from unknown numbers to avoid getting scammed again.
DON’T
Be embarrassed. Fraudsters are convincing, and millions of people fall victim to their tactics every year. Although it is unsettling to be taken in by a scam, don’t let those uncomfortable feelings stop you from taking action.
Stay silent. Talking to family and friends that you trust about your experience can help you move on. Remember–they encounter scams too. Sharing your story can raise awareness and keep your loved ones safe.
Stop using all devices. Getting scammed can shake you up, but don’t let it shut you down. Devices are still safe and useful if you take precautions.
In the United States, several government agencies investigate complaints. Report your experience to one of the following:
>Medicare-related fraud: U.S. Department of Health 800-HHS-TIPS • (800-447-8477) • oig.hhs.gov/fraud/report-fraud
>IRS Impersonators: Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). 800-366-4484 • treasury.gov/tigta/reportcrime_misconduct.shtml
>Social Security scams: Social Security Administration 1-800-269-0271• https://oig.ssa.gov/
>General scams: The Federal Trade Commission 877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) • ftccomplaintassistant.go
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