Today’s fraudsters have many tricks up their sleeve. Their methods rely on deception and

frequently entail manipulating strong human emotions, like fear and love.

Scammers make extensive use of all types of technology tools, including false email messages,

fake pop-up windows, malicious website links and fraudulent phone calls on both landlines and

mobile devices.

Whether they’re hoping to score a little quick cash or are engaged in a bigger scheme, like

stealing your medical identity, it’s essential to realize that most scams involve a sense of

urgency.

Urgent situations that require financial solutions should raise suspicion.

If a phone call, text or email message requires you to “act now” to collect a rize, avoid a fine or

jail, or save someone from a dire situation-always step back before taking action. If a pressing

need involves money, chances are it’s a scam.

Follow these tips to fight back against fraudsters:

Do register your phone number with the Do Not Call Registry at donotcall.gov. This service

will not block scammers, but legitimate telemarketers will stop calling within a month.

Don’t answer unrecognized calls unless you’re expecting a call from an unknown

number. Let the call go to voicemail, then review the message. Most con artists will hang up

before leaving a message.



Do independently verify facts from any callers asking for money or sensitive personal

information.

Don't share private information in social media posts that may be useful for imposter

scams, including phone numbers, home addresses, and names of relatives. (Also, don’t accept

unknown friend requests and keep your account settings private.)

Do be wary of government imposters. Officials from the IRS, the Social Security

Administration, Medicare and other government agencies will never call you unless you contact

them first or they’ve sent mail correspondence explaining a situation that requires your attention.

Don’t say “yes” to an unknown caller. Scammers may be trying to obtain a recording of your

voice which can be used to verify approval of charges to your phone, cable or internet bill or a

credit card. If you sense something sketchy, hang up quickly.

-Allison McMillan is a licensed PA Realtor with Keller Williams in Wyomissing and a designated

Seniors Real Estate Specialist. Email: AllisonMcMillan@kw.com