Greg's Corner

Updates from Geebo Toggle Comment Threads | Keyboard Shortcuts

• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on April 24, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: recovery scam ( 5 ), recovery service ( 7 ), romance scam ( 67 ), Scams ( 1,222 )   

  Romance scam victim falls victim to second scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The quest for love has transcended physical boundaries, with countless individuals turning to the internet in hopes of finding their soulmate. However, this modern-day fairytale is not without its dark side.

  A widow from Long Island, who sought companionship during the isolating times of the pandemic, found herself ensnared in a romance scam that cost her a staggering $468,000.

  The scam began with a seemingly charming engineer from the Philippines, who, over six months, gained the widow’s trust and affection. But as their relationship progressed, so did his requests for money, under the guise of protecting them both from harm. It was only after nearly half a million dollars had vanished that the widow realized the bitter truth of the deception.

  However, the ordeal didn’t end there. In a desperate attempt to recover her losses, the widow turned to online support groups, only to fall victim to another layer of fraudsters posing as FBI agents promising to retrieve her funds. These individuals purported to be agents affiliated with the Internet Crime Complaint Center, an entity known for investigating online scams. Despite their assurances of no upfront fees for their assistance, the victim soon found herself sending money to these deceitful impostors posing as investigators.

  Regrettably, this scenario is all too familiar. Scammers actively target individuals who share their scam experiences on social media platforms. They often exploit these posts by leaving comments suggesting that they successfully retrieved their lost funds with the help of a supposed recovery service. However, these purported recovery services are nothing more than additional scams in disguise. Similar to other scam tactics, they manipulate victims by continuously demanding money under the guise of securing the promised recovery. Despite assurances of results, they never deliver on their promises, leaving victims further deceived and financially exploited.

  Scam recovery services should be approached with extreme caution, as they are typically illegitimate operations. The reality is that the only credible entity with a chance of potentially recovering funds for scam victims is law enforcement. However, even this prospect is often slim and contingent upon various factors. It’s crucial to recognize that legitimate law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, will never initiate contact with a scam victim via social media without prior solicitation. Furthermore, they will never request money from a victim. Awareness of these red flags can help individuals avoid falling deeper into the clutches of scammers posing as saviors.

  As a general rule, never send money to someone you’ve met online, especially if they pressure you or concoct elaborate tales to justify their request. If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a scammer, reach out to trusted friends, family members, or authorities for guidance and assistance.

   

  Leave a ReplyCancel reply
• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on April 23, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: bank robbery ( 2 ), scam victims ( 3 ), Scams ( 1,222 )   

  Elderly scam victim accused of robbing bank 

  

  By Greg Collier

  While technology connects us in unprecedented ways, it also exposes vulnerable populations to new risks. The recent case of a 74-year-old woman suspected of robbing a bank in Ohio, sheds light on the dark reality of online scams targeting the elderly.

  Prior to her alleged crime, the woman might have fallen victim to an online scam. According to police, she had been in communication with individuals online who may have been deceiving her. The circumstances surrounding the victim’s involvement in the scam remain ambiguous. It’s uncertain whether the victim was coerced by the scammers to rob the bank or if she did so by her own volition. Scammers often employ tactics such as threats to force victims into giving them money, prompting them to sell assets or take out loans. Alternatively, the victim may have resorted to desperate measures to survive after losing money to scammers.

  The victim’s story took a dramatic turn when she allegedly entered a local credit union, brandishing a gun and demanding money from employees. Walking away with $500, she was later apprehended at her residence. Her admission to the crime, captured on body camera footage, left little doubt about her involvement.

  What makes this case particularly poignant is the potential exploitation of an elderly individual who may have been manipulated into criminal behavior. The intersection of age-related vulnerabilities and sophisticated online scams highlights the urgent need for increased awareness, vigilance, and support systems for seniors.

  Elderly individuals are often targeted by scammers due to factors such as social isolation, cognitive decline, and limited familiarity with modern technology. Fraudulent schemes, ranging from fake lottery winnings to phony investment opportunities, can quickly ensnare unsuspecting seniors, leading to devastating financial losses and, in extreme cases, legal repercussions.

  It’s worth considering whether the victim hesitated to confide in her family about falling prey to the scam out of embarrassment. Often, scam victims are reluctant to seek help due to the fear of ridicule from their loved ones or community. This sense of isolation can exacerbate financial losses, potentially leading to desperate measures. While resorting to bank robbery represents an extreme manifestation of such behavior, it’s a scenario that shouldn’t be dismissed outright.

  Additionally, there’s the unsettling possibility that the bank robbery itself could have spiraled into a tragic outcome. In any crime involving firearms, the potential for violence is omnipresent, posing risks to the victim, the perpetrator, and innocent bystanders alike. A single misstep could have drastically altered the narrative, resembling incidents like the case where a man, suspecting an Uber driver of involvement in a scam, allegedly shot the driver. Such volatile situations underscore the precarious nature of criminal acts and their potential repercussions.

  This narrative underscores the importance of destigmatizing the experience of scam victims and promoting an environment where they feel empowered to seek assistance. Early disclosure by scam victims has the potential to mitigate financial losses and prevent incidents like the one that unfolded at the bank in Ohio. By encouraging victims to come forward without fear of judgment or ridicule, we can create pathways to intervention and support that ultimately safeguard individuals and communities from further harm.

   
• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on April 22, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Facebook Marketplace ( 58 ), rental car ( 6 ), Scams ( 1,222 ), vandalism ( 3 )   

  Is your car being listed for rent on Marketplace? 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Most of us are no strangers to the home rental scams that infest online classifieds. These scams involve fraudsters listing properties they don’t own, aiming to deceive unsuspecting renters into paying upfront fees like deposits or first month’s rent. Now, imagine that same scheme, but with cars as the target. That’s the crux of today’s narrative.

  In Broward County, Florida, several families have experienced unsettling encounters as strangers unexpectedly appeared at their doorsteps. These individuals believed they had rented cars from the residents, as advertised on Facebook Marketplace. However, upon the residents’ investigation, they discovered their vehicles listed for rent on the platform, unbeknownst to them. Similar to the notorious home rental scam, it’s suspected that the scammers have duped renters into paying upfront deposits under false pretenses.

  Unfortunately, in certain cases, when prospective renters are refused access, their frustration boils over and manifests in destructive acts directed towards the vehicles. Numerous residents have recounted instances where their cars fell victim to severe vandalism after they rejected individuals who had fallen prey to the scam. One family shared the distressing account of vandals wielding a monkey wrench against their car shortly after they turned away two men.

  Adding to the complexity is the allegation that Facebook/Meta is sluggish in addressing the fraudulent listings, if they address them at all. Despite the concerted efforts of affected residents to flag and remove these deceptive postings, many persist, exacerbating the cycle of victimization.

  If this scam is allowed to continue, how long will it be before someone turns their ire to the car’s owner? To effectively combat fraudulent listings like those plaguing Broward County, platforms like Facebook Marketplace should implement more stringent verification processes for users posting listings, particularly for high-value items like cars. This could include requiring additional forms of identification or proof of ownership before allowing listings to go live.

  They must also prioritize the swift removal of fraudulent listings once they are reported. Timely action is crucial to mitigate the impact on affected users and prevent further victimization.

  By implementing these measures, Marketplace can significantly reduce the prevalence of fraudulent listings and enhance the safety and trustworthiness of its platform.

   
• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on April 19, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: military ( 11 ), military romance scam ( 9 ), romance scam ( 67 ), Scams ( 1,222 )   

  Military man charged in romance scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Romance scammers frequently adopt the identities of military personnel, ranging from newly enlisted recruits to high-ranking officers. This impersonation offers scammers a convenient excuse for avoiding face-to-face meetings with their victims, claiming they are stationed abroad and unable to return to the US for extended periods. But what unfolds when the perpetrator behind the deception is actually a member of the military themselves?

  The recent case of a soldier, stationed at Fort Liberty, underscores the pervasive threat of romance scams and the devastating impact they can have on victims. The story unfolds with the 33-year-old active-duty service member, pleading guilty to three counts of money laundering in September after being accused of orchestrating a sophisticated romance scam operation. Operating under various aliases and personas, the soldier allegedly preyed upon the trust of unsuspecting individuals by impersonating love interests, diplomats, customs personnel, and fellow military members.

  Romance scams like this often involve building a false sense of intimacy and trust with their victims before exploiting them financially. In this case, the soldier is accused of manipulating victims into divulging personal information and gaining access to their inheritance and property. The funds obtained were then laundered through personal bank accounts across state lines and through contacts overseas, leaving a trail of financial devastation in his wake.

  What makes this case particularly egregious is the fact that the soldier carried out these fraudulent activities while serving as an active-duty soldier at Fort Liberty, formerly known as Fort Bragg. This betrayal of trust not only tarnishes the reputation of the military but also highlights the vulnerability of individuals, including seniors and military veterans, to such nefarious schemes.

  A US Attorney even commented that the fact that an Army service member was involved in romance scams while serving as a soldier is appalling.

  If someone claiming to be a service member approaches you romantically, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself from a potential romance scam. Request their official military email address, and do a reverse image search of any photos they use in their communications.

  Watch out for inconsistencies in their story, such as frequent excuses for not being able to meet in person or reluctance to provide specific details about their military service. Be cautious if they quickly profess love or ask for money or personal information.

  Engage in conversation about their military experience, unit, or deployment. Legitimate service members are often proud to discuss their service and can provide details about their duties, base, or deployment history.

  If something feels off or too good to be true, it’s important to listen to your intuition. Take a step back and reassess the situation before proceeding further.

  If you suspect that you’re being targeted by a romance scammer impersonating a service member, report the individual to the relevant authorities. This may include contacting the military branch they claim to belong to or reporting the incident to online platforms where you encountered them.

  By asking questions, and verifying information, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to a romance scam perpetrated by someone claiming to be a service member. It’s essential to prioritize your safety and well-being in any online interaction.

   
• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on April 18, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: moving money ( 3 ), police impersonation scam ( 49 ), Scams ( 1,222 )   

  How a phone call scam robbed a man of his dreams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the pursuit of the American dream, many immigrants come to the United States with aspirations of success and prosperity. However, for a software engineer residing in Ohio, his dreams turned into a nightmare when he fell victim to a sophisticated scam that robbed him of his life savings and shattered his hopes of financial security.

  Having worked tirelessly for years, saving nearly $180,000 with the goal of returning to his family in India as a successful and affluent individual, the victim was blindsided when he received a call on that fateful afternoon.

  The voice on the other end purported to be from his local police department, escalating the charade by transferring him to supposed FBI agents and representatives from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. What followed was a chilling narrative of false accusations, including drug distribution and involvement in terrorist activities, designed to instill fear and coerce compliance.

  In a state of panic and desperation, the victim was led to believe that his only recourse was to cooperate with the scammers’ demands. Faced with threats of imminent arrest and promises of protection, he was instructed to fill out fabricated paperwork and transfer his entire savings, which included stocks, cash, and company shares, into designated bank accounts under the guise of government oversight.

  The aftermath of the ordeal was devastating. Despite his frantic efforts to seek help from local authorities, financial institutions, and even political representatives, the victim was powerless to halt the irreversible transfer of his hard-earned money. The dream he had worked so diligently to achieve was mercilessly shattered, leaving him emotionally shattered and financially destitute.

  Hindsight reveals the telltale signs of a scam—coercive tactics, urgency, and isolation, yet in the moment, the allure of hope or the specter of fear can cloud judgment and lead individuals down a perilous path.

  As the victim grapples with the harsh reality of his situation, his story serves as a stark reminder to us all. In an age where technology enables deception to masquerade as legitimacy, caution must be exercised, and skepticism must be embraced. The promise of a brighter future should never come at the expense of one’s hard-earned security and peace of mind.

  As highlighted in earlier discussions, transferring your funds to another person’s bank account for purported protection is never a valid protocol under any circumstance. Similarly, legitimate law enforcement agencies do not engage in demanding money over the phone under the threat of arrest. In the event of any potential legal involvement, law enforcement typically opts for a personal visit rather than resorting to coercive phone calls.

  If individuals find themselves on the receiving end of such suspicious calls, the best course of action is to immediately terminate the call and independently contact the agency the caller claims to represent or reach out to local law enforcement for verification and guidance.

   
• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on April 17, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: gold bars ( 4 ), malware ( 25 ), moving money ( 3 ), police impersonation scam ( 49 ), pop-ups ( 20 ), Scams ( 1,222 )   

  Another gold scam claims $115,000 from elderly couple 

  

  By Greg Collier

  An elderly Nebraska couple recently fell victim to a particularly elaborate and harrowing fraud scheme, losing a staggering $115,000 in the process. The couple’s computer abruptly shut down, signaling the beginning of their descent into a web of deceit. Upon rebooting, a distressing message purportedly warning of a malware issue flashed on their screen, accompanied by a phone number. Little did they know, this was the first step in an intricate ploy orchestrated by heartless scammers.

  The voice on the other end of the line spun a tale of theft and false accusations, claiming that the FBI was investigating the couple for heinous crimes they hadn’t committed. Fueled by fear and confusion, the couple was coerced into believing they were facing imminent legal repercussions and that their bank accounts were in jeopardy.

  As the days passed, the manipulative tactics intensified, culminating in the demand to purchase gold bars purportedly for safekeeping. Entrusted with a significant sum of $115,000, the couple obediently complied, only to hand over their life savings to a stranger who promised to safeguard their wealth in a distant bank. Men showed up at their door in official looking vehicles claiming to be government agents.

  Tragically, their trust was misplaced, and the promised security was nothing more than an illusion. Days later, when reality came crashing down, it was too late. The realization that they had been duped dawned upon them, leaving them not only financially devastated but also emotionally shattered.

  This story sheds light on two troubling patterns in the realm of scams. Firstly, scammers are exhibiting a growing audacity by dispatching individuals to the residences of their victims. These individuals may either be complicit in the scam or unwittingly drawn into it. Regardless, such occurrences pose a significant risk to the safety and well-being of many.

  The rationale behind sending scammers to victims’ homes lies in the increasing preference for gold as a form of payment. Unlike gift cards or cryptocurrency, which can be transacted electronically, gold necessitates physical retrieval from the victims. Consequently, scammers exploit this requirement, manipulating victims into surrendering their valuables in person.

  Regrettably, gold, much like other forms of payment demanded by scammers, remains largely untraceable. This exacerbates the difficulty of apprehending and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.

  Should your computer or any internet-connected device display a virus or malware warning prompting you to call a phone number, refrain from doing so. Most prominent tech companies eschew traditional customer service phone lines, with some even dissuading phone inquiries altogether. Thus, if you encounter such a phone number on your device, avoid calling it, as it’s highly likely to be a scam.

  Transferring your funds from one financial institution to another as a means of safeguarding them from hackers, thieves, or any other threat is not a viable strategy. Legitimate law enforcement agencies never solicit money from individuals over the phone, and reputable banks never advise customers to relocate their funds to a supposedly “protected” account.

   
• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on April 16, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: advance fee scam ( 42 ), lottery scam ( 12 ), Scams ( 1,222 )   

  Scam targets victims with false prize winnings 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The advance fee scam is a type of fraud that involves enticing victims with the promise of a large sum of money in exchange for a relatively small upfront payment or fee. This scheme operates under various guises and narratives, but the underlying premise remains consistent. The victim is led to believe that they will receive a substantial financial reward, typically through inheritance, lottery winnings, or a business opportunity.

  The Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office has issued a warning about this scam that preys on the hopes and dreams of unsuspecting individuals, promising them large sums of money that simply do not exist.

  The scheme unfolds with a phone call from someone claiming to represent the state office, informing the recipient that they have won a substantial cash prize. However, as one unfortunate Oklahoma resident discovered, these promises are nothing more than a cruel hoax designed to part victims from their hard-earned money.

  One Oklahoma woman, whose mother fell victim to this scam, shared her family’s ordeal. Her elderly mother, eagerly anticipating a windfall of nearly a million dollars, was instead left devastated when the promised winnings failed to materialize. The scammers, using sophisticated tactics, convinced her mother that she needed to pay a fee to claim her prize. They even went so far as to fabricate a story involving law enforcement confiscating a supposed prize check, adding a layer of deceit to their ploy.

  What makes this scam particularly nefarious is the manipulation of caller ID information, with the calls appearing as either “unknown” or originating from a local area code. In some instances, the fraudsters have gone as far as spoofing the official telephone number of the Attorney General’s Office itself, adding an air of legitimacy to their deceit.

  Tragically, the elderly victim, like many others, succumbed to the pressure and parted with her money, leaving her not only financially depleted but also deeply embarrassed by her unwitting participation in the scam. As the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office rightly emphasizes, the Attorney General’s office is committed to protecting consumers, not exploiting them for financial gain.

  To avoid falling victim to advance fee scams, it’s essential to exercise caution and skepticism when approached with unsolicited offers of financial gain. Be wary of requests for upfront payments or personal information from unknown parties, and always verify the legitimacy of any offers or claims independently. Additionally, familiarize yourself with common scam tactics and educate yourself on how to recognize and avoid fraudulent schemes.

  Scammers often demand payment via wire transfers, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or payment apps, making it difficult to trace or recover funds. Be wary of any demands for payment made over the phone.

  Never divulge sensitive financial or personal details to unsolicited callers claiming to represent government agencies. If in doubt, hang up and contact the agency directly using a verified phone number.

  Caller ID can be manipulated to display false information, including legitimate government agency numbers. Treat unexpected calls with skepticism and verify their authenticity independently.

  By remaining informed and adopting proactive measures to protect personal and financial information, anyone can safeguard themselves against the predatory tactics of scammers seeking to exploit their trust and vulnerability. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

   
• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on April 15, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: grandparent scam ( 65 ), rideshare ( 4 ), Scams ( 1,222 ), shooting ( 4 ), Uber ( 24 )   

  Uber driver killed during scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the Columbus, Ohio, vicinity, a recent scam turned deadly for one victim, while another is now behind bars. Meanwhile, the perpetrators remain at large.

  The incident began with what appeared to be a grandparent scam. A group of scammers targeted an 81-year-old man, claiming that a relative was in jail and in need of bail money. Simultaneously, they arranged for an Uber to collect the demanded funds from the man’s residence.

  Utilizing Uber drivers as unwitting accomplices is not a novel strategy among scammers. On multiple occasions, we’ve witnessed rideshare drivers unknowingly entangled in such schemes. When this trend initially emerged, there were warnings of potentially dire consequences for rideshare drivers. Tragically, those warnings seem to have materialized.

  Upon the 61-year-old woman, who served as the Uber driver, arriving at the man’s home, she inquired about a package she was supposed to retrieve. Allegedly, the man suspected her involvement in the scam and initially held her at gunpoint.

  Reportedly, the man confiscated the Uber driver’s phone while demanding information about the scammers. When the driver attempted to depart in her vehicle, the man opened fire, resulting in her being shot. A struggle ensued, during which the man fired two more shots at the driver. It wasn’t until after the shooting ceased that the man decided to contact 911.

  Subsequently, the man faces murder charges, with dashcam footage revealing that the driver posed no immediate threat.

  If you receive a call from scammers demanding money, it’s crucial not to handle the situation yourself. Instead, promptly contact the police. They possess the expertise and training to manage these situations more effectively.

  This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in scams and the unforeseen consequences they can unleash. It underscores the need for vigilance and caution, not only among potential victims but also within our communities as a whole. As we mourn the loss of life and contemplate the implications of this heartbreaking incident, let us also strive to raise awareness and foster a sense of solidarity in combating such criminal endeavors.

   
• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on April 12, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: bank fraud ( 19 ), bank scam ( 64 ), citibank ( 2 ), Scams ( 1,222 )   

  State sues banks over scam victims 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Before, we’ve recounted numerous instances in which banks pointed fingers at scam victims, alleging they were the culprits. These allegations seemed to stem from a single bank, as per anecdotal evidence. Yet, a lawsuit filed by the state of New York reveals that this bank wasn’t the sole entity engaging in such dubious treatment of its clientele.

  The narrative is familiar, a seemingly innocuous text message, purportedly from Citibank, prompts recipients to verify personal information. It’s a trap, swiftly leading to unauthorized access to bank accounts and significant financial losses.

  What’s more troubling is the response from Citibank. Despite the bank’s customers falling victim to fraudulent schemes, Citibank washes its hands of responsibility for recovering stolen funds. This stance highlights a glaring gap in consumer protection laws, leaving victims vulnerable to the predatory tactics of identity thieves.

  The lawsuit, filed by the New York Attorney General’s Office, exposes the inadequacies of existing regulations in safeguarding consumers against the evolving landscape of online fraud. While measures exist to limit losses from traditional payment methods like credit cards and checks, the same level of protection doesn’t extend to bank account transfers, which can constitute a significant portion of an individual’s savings. Identity thieves are capitalizing on this vulnerability, with imposter scams involving bank transfers skyrocketing in recent years.

  The implications of this legal dispute extend far beyond the courtroom. Victims of identity theft find themselves caught in a bureaucratic labyrinth, where the onus falls on them to prove the bank’s negligence in safeguarding their accounts.

  In the face of mounting losses and regulatory ambiguity, one thing remains clear: the need for comprehensive reforms to strengthen consumer safeguards in an increasingly digitized banking landscape. Whether through legislative action or judicial precedent, the onus is on policymakers and industry stakeholders to prioritize the security and financial well-being of consumers.

  As New York’s legal saga continues, it serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes involved in the battle against identity theft. The outcome will not only shape the fate of individual victims but also set a precedent for banks’ accountability in combating online fraud. In an age where a single click can lead to financial ruin, the pursuit of justice takes on renewed urgency.

   
• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on April 11, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: debt forgiveness ( 13 ), Scams ( 1,222 ), student debt ( 15 ), student loans ( 15 )   

  After White House announcement, student loan forgiveness scams are on the rise 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the realm of student loans and debt relief, hope can often be overshadowed by the looming burden of repayment. So, when news breaks of potential relief programs, it’s no wonder that many eagerly await updates. However, amidst this anticipation, lurks another group who is tuned into student loan debt forgiveness news, scammers.

  Recently, the White House announced plans for potential student debt relief for millions of borrowers. While this news offers a glimmer of hope, it also opens the door for scammers seeking to prey on vulnerable individuals. For example, fraudulent emails have emerged offering debt forgiveness under the guise of new guidelines.

  Some have received emails purportedly from the “Student-Loan Debt Department,” informing them of eligibility for forgiveness. Alarmingly, the emails state that their cases would be closed within a day if they didn’t respond promptly. Upon closer examination, several red flags emerged, indicating a scam in progress.

  First and foremost, the term “Student-Loan Debt Department” raised suspicion. A quick search revealed its absence from official government channels, with accusations labeling it a scam.

  Further investigation exposed other telltale signs of a scam. The email originated from suspicious addresses, lacking affiliation with the U.S. Department of Education or its authorized partners. Additionally, the inclusion of a mailing address in Albuquerque, NM, raised eyebrows, as the Department of Education has no presence there.

  Typos and grammatical errors within the email also hinted at its fraudulent nature. The misuse of phrases like “Student-Loan Debt Department” and “StudentLoans” instead of proper terms underscored the scam’s amateurish nature. Moreover, the email’s urgent tone, pressuring recipients to act swiftly, mirrored common tactics employed by scammers.

  This also disregards the fact that the White House has merely announced its intentions regarding student debt relief. There is no official plan in place, let alone one that has been implemented or finalized.

  Legitimate communications regarding student loan forgiveness will typically come from recognized addresses associated with government agencies or authorized partners. When in doubt, verify the information provided in the email through official channels. Government websites or loan servicers can confirm the legitimacy of forgiveness programs and communications.

  Also, please keep in mind, legitimate avenues for debt relief do not require payment. Avoid falling prey to scams that demand fees or payments for accessing forgiveness programs.