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  • Geebo 9:00 am on November 7, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Utility Scam Calls Are Back 

    Utility Scam Calls Are Back

    By Greg Collier

    You might think you’d never fall for a phone scam until someone calls claiming to be your power company. They know your name, your area, and even display the right company on caller ID. Then they hit you with a chilling threat: “Your electricity will be shut off in 30 minutes unless you pay now.”

    That’s exactly what’s happening to customers across Wisconsin, and it’s spreading nationwide. Scammers are using fear, urgency, and technology to drain wallets faster than ever. Here’s how the con works and what you can do to stop it.

    What’s Going On:

    Utility customers are being targeted again, this time by scammers posing as power companies like We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service (WPS). In just one month, We Energies customers lost over $20,000, and WPS reported another $10,000 stolen in a single week. The calls sound convincing, the threats sound urgent, and the goal is always the same: to get you to pay immediately.

    But here’s the truth. Legitimate utility companies never demand instant payment over the phone or through apps like Zelle or Venmo.

    How the Scam Works:

    The scammers use real company names and tech tricks to look legitimate.

    • The caller ID might even display your local power company.
    • A recorded voice may sound professional or automated, just like the real thing.
    • Then comes the pressure: “Your power will be shut off in 30 minutes unless you pay right now.”

    They’ll ask for payment through prepaid debit cards, Zelle, Venmo, or even cryptocurrency, anything that can’t be easily traced or refunded. Some victims have even reported scammers showing up at their doors, refusing to show ID, and insisting on payment in person.

    Why It’s Effective:

    This scam works because it hits two pressure points: fear and urgency.
    The thought of losing power — especially for a business, a church, or a family — makes people panic. Scammers know that panic overrides logic. By impersonating a trusted local utility and using technology to spoof caller IDs, they sound completely legitimate until it’s too late.

    And while this warning started in Wisconsin, these scams are nationwide. Every major energy provider has reported similar tactics. Whether your bill comes from PG&E, Duke Energy, or your local co-op, you’re a potential target.

    Red Flags:

    • Caller ID shows your utility’s name, but the caller demands immediate payment.
    • Requests for unusual payment methods like gift cards, Zelle, Venmo, or crypto.
    • Threats to cut off service within an hour if you don’t comply.
    • Refusal to let you hang up and call back using the company’s published number.
    • A so-called “technician” at your door without proper identification.

    If You’ve Been Targeted:

    If you get one of these calls — or if someone shows up pretending to be from your utility — here’s what to do immediately:

    1. Don’t engage. Hang up or close the door. The longer you stay on the line, the more likely they are to manipulate you.
    2. Take notes. Write down the phone number, what was said, and any payment methods they mentioned.
    3. Verify through official channels. Contact your utility directly using the number on your bill — not the one from the caller.
    4. Alert your local police or sheriff’s office to report the attempt.
    5. Notify your utility company so they can warn others in your area.
    6. Warn others — especially small businesses, churches, and elderly relatives who might be more vulnerable.

    If you did send money, call your bank or payment provider immediately to report the fraud. Quick action can sometimes help stop or reverse the transfer. You should also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov

    Final Thoughts:

    Utility scams thrive on panic and confusion. Slow down, double-check, and trust your instincts — no legitimate company will threaten you over the phone or demand crypto payments. Whether you’re in Wisconsin or anywhere else in the country, knowing the signs can keep your lights on and your money in your pocket.

    Further Reading:

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on November 6, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: disaster, , plane crash, , UPS   

    Scammers Exploit UPS Crash Victims 

    By Greg Collier

    Every time tragedy makes headlines, scammers swoop in like vultures. They exploit heartbreak, confusion, and fear—turning moments of grief into opportunities for greed. The deadly UPS plane crash in Louisville is no exception.

    What’s Going On:

    Just days after the crash, Louisville Metro Police warned that fraudsters are contacting victims’ families, pretending to have information about their loved ones. Then they demand thousands of dollars in exchange for those supposed details.

    It’s an unconscionable tactic, but not a new one. From natural disasters to violent crimes, scammers know that shock and sorrow make people vulnerable.

    How the Scam Works:

    The con is simple and cruel. Someone calls, emails, or messages a family member claiming to be from the police, airline, or another “official” source. They say they can provide critical information—but only after payment.

    They may pressure victims to act fast, threaten to withhold information, or claim, “This is your only chance.” They’ll often request payment through untraceable means like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.

    But here’s the truth: law enforcement and government officials will never ask for money for information. Ever.

    Why It’s Effective:

    Scammers understand human emotion. In times of tragedy, people want answers, not logic. These criminals prey on grief, spinning believable stories and false hope to extract money. It’s psychological manipulation at its worst—calculated, cold, and heartless.

    Red Flags:

    • Calls or texts from unfamiliar numbers claiming insider information.
    • Demands for immediate payment or “processing fees.”
    • Urgent or emotional language meant to force quick decisions.
    • Vague credentials or refusal to provide verifiable identification.

    If You’ve Been Targeted:

    If you receive one of these messages, do not respond, do not pay, and do not panic.
    Instead:

    1. Report the message to the Louisville Metro Police Department.
    2. File a complaint with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
    3. Alert your bank if you’ve already made a payment.

    Even one report could help prevent someone else from becoming a victim.

    Final Thoughts:

    This scam is proof that no tragedy is too sacred for con artists. They’ll exploit anything—from plane crashes to pandemics—to make a profit. Staying skeptical, verifying sources, and pausing before you pay can keep heartbreak from becoming financial ruin.

    Further Reading:

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on November 5, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Fake Traffic Ticket Text Scam Alert! 

    Fake Traffic Ticket Text Scam Alert!

    By Greg Collier

    If your phone buzzed with a text claiming you owe an “outstanding traffic ticket” and need to pay immediately—stop right there. This isn’t a real notice from the state. It’s a phishing scam designed to steal your money and personal information, and it’s making another round through Illinois after spreading nationwide earlier this year.

    These messages pretend to come from the “Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles” (which doesn’t actually exist) and try to scare you with words like “final notice,” “enforcement,” and “credit score impact.” In reality, they’re just digital bait—complete with typos like “November 5rd” and “November 4nd.”

    What’s Going On:

    The scam follows a familiar pattern: a fake text threatens registration suspension, prosecution, or fines if you don’t pay within 24 hours. It urges you to click a link to resolve your “ticket.” Officials across Illinois have confirmed these messages are not legitimate, and similar versions have hit phones across the U.S. in recent months.

    Why It Works:

    Scammers know that fear makes people act fast. A sudden threat to your license or credit score can make even cautious people click before they think. That single tap can lead to a spoofed site that captures your driver’s license number, banking details, or other private information.

    Red Flags:

    • References to the “Illinois DMV”—a department that doesn’t exist.
    • Typos and awkward grammar, like “5rd” or “4nd.”
    • Urgent threats of suspension or legal action within 24 hours.
    • Links to unknown websites asking for payment or verification.

    Quick Tip: Traffic tickets are handled through local courts, not through the state’s DMV or Secretary of State. You’ll always receive legitimate notices by mail, not by text message.

    What You Can Do:

    • Do not click any links.
    • Delete the message immediately.
    • Report it to the FTC (reportfraud.ftc.gov) or FBI’s IC3 (ic3.gov).
    • If you’re unsure, check your record through your state’s Secretary of State website.

    If You’ve Been Targeted:

    If you already clicked the link or entered personal information, act fast:

    • Contact your bank or credit card company to freeze or monitor your accounts.
    • Change any passwords that might have been compromised.
    • Run a malware scan on your phone or computer.
    • Report the scam to the FTC and FBI so others don’t fall for it. Even if you didn’t enter any information, deleting and reporting the message helps prevent scammers from targeting others.

    Final Thoughts:

    These scammers are recycling an old nationwide con—now dressed up with bad grammar and fake urgency. Don’t take the bait. The government won’t text you demanding money, and “November 5rd” isn’t a real date.

    Stay smart, stay skeptical, and keep your personal info out of scammers’ hands.

    Further Reading:

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on November 4, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Scammers Exploit SNAP Delays Amid Shutdown Confusion 

    Scammers Exploit SNAP Delays Amid Shutdown Confusion

    By Greg Collier

    A new scam warning out of Abilene, Texas, could soon spread nationwide. With the ongoing federal government shutdown disrupting SNAP benefits, scammers are using the moment to strike vulnerable families from coast to coast. What started as a local warning has the potential to become a nationwide scam targeting anyone who depends on SNAP to feed their family.

    What’s Going On:

    As the shutdown continues, millions of households relying on SNAP benefits are facing uncertainty about when their assistance will arrive. Scammers are jumping at the opportunity, posing as SNAP representatives to “verify” personal information—but their real goal is identity theft.

    The Better Business Bureau in Abilene says families are getting phone calls, emails, or texts from imposters pretending to be from the government. They claim they need details like your Social Security number or driver’s license to “restore” benefits. Once they get that data, they can open credit accounts, drain funds, or steal your identity entirely.

    Why It’s Effective:

    When food benefits are on the line, fear makes people act fast. Scammers know this. They tailor their calls and emails to sound official, even citing real headlines about SNAP delays caused by the shutdown. BBB President John Riggins says these “government imposters” rely on trust and confusion—making victims believe they’re helping fix a problem when, really, they’re creating one.

    Red Flags:

    • Unsolicited calls, texts, or emails claiming to be from SNAP or any government office.
    • Requests for personal data such as SSNs, bank info, or driver’s license numbers.
    • Threats or urgency, saying your benefits will be cut off if you don’t comply.
    • Refusal to provide proof by mail or official documentation.

    No government agency will ever call or text to request your personal information.

    How to Protect Yourself:

    • Never share personal data unless you initiated the contact.
    • Ask for proof by mail and verify it directly with your local SNAP office.
    • Hang up immediately if the caller becomes aggressive or demands sensitive information.
    • Block unknown numbers through your carrier or phone settings.
    • Report scams to the BBB’s Scam Tracker so others can be warned.

    Each report helps build a bigger picture—allowing investigators to connect dots across state lines and stop similar scams before they spread.

    If You’ve Been Targeted:

    • If you think you’ve already shared information with a scammer, act fast:
    • Contact your bank or credit union immediately. Explain that you may have been a victim of a scam and ask them to monitor or freeze your accounts if needed.
    • Report identity theft at IdentityTheft.gov
      to get a recovery plan and official documentation.
    • Change passwords and PINs on any accounts you believe may be compromised.
    • Alert your state SNAP office so they can note your account and prevent fraudulent activity.
    • Keep records of any calls, texts, or emails from the scammer—they could help investigators track the operation.

    Even if you didn’t lose money, reporting the attempt helps others stay safe. Scammers often hit multiple people in the same area, so your report could be the missing puzzle piece.

    Final Thoughts:

    Scammers are exploiting fear and confusion at a time when millions are simply trying to put food on the table. Whether you live in Texas or anywhere else in the country, stay alert and don’t share your information. If someone claims to be from SNAP, hang up, verify, and report it.

    Further Reading:

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on November 3, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Fraudsters Hijack Zillow Photos for Facebook Rental Scam 

    By Greg Collier

    If you just bought a home or you’re hunting for a rental, watch out—scammers are getting bolder. A new online con is targeting recently sold homes, using stolen listing photos to trick people into paying fake deposits. One home buyer learned that the hard way when his brand-new property showed up on Facebook as a bargain rental.

    What’s Going On:

    A new online scam is preying on homeowners and renters in Bay County, Florida—and this one targets homes that have just been sold. The scheme recently blindsided an out-of-state buyer who purchased a home in Panama City for a family member. Before he could even celebrate the closing, someone hijacked the home’s Zillow photos and posted it on Facebook as a rental—complete with fake contact info and a too-good-to-be-true price.

    The bogus listing advertised the two-bedroom, two-bathroom home for just $850 a month, roughly a thousand dollars below the going rate in the area. The fake landlord then urged would-be tenants to send a few hundred dollars upfront to “hold” the property.

    How They Do It:

    Scammers typically scrape real estate photos from legitimate listings, then repost them on Facebook Marketplace or similar platforms. They pose as the property owner—often claiming to be overseas or out of state—and pressure potential renters to send deposits quickly before someone else “takes it.”

    In this case, when the homeowner reported the post to Facebook, the company initially claimed it didn’t violate policy. It took over a month of back-and-forth before the platform finally removed the fake listing. Meanwhile, the imposter profile kept luring renters with that suspiciously low rent and a sense of urgency—two classic red flags in the rental scam playbook.

    Why It’s Effective:

    This scam works because it preys on both trust and timing. The homes are brand new to the market, often still appearing in online searches from their legitimate listings, which makes the scam post look credible.

    Renters desperate for affordable housing see an unbelievable deal and rush to secure it. By the time they realize the “landlord” is fake, their deposit has already been wired—often overseas, where recovery is nearly impossible.

    Many of these scams originate from outside the U.S., making prosecution difficult. If the suspect is local, however, and money has changed hands, investigators can pursue charges and attempt to recover stolen funds.

    Red Flags:

    • The rent is hundreds below market value.
    • The “owner” claims to be out of the country or unable to meet in person.
    • You’re asked to wire money or pay via apps before seeing the home.
    • The listing appears only on social media, not verified platforms.

    How to Stay Safe:

    • Search the address across multiple sites (Zillow, Realtor, Apartments.com) to spot duplicates.
    • Contact the real estate agent or title company directly if something seems off.
    • Never send deposits or application fees without confirming ownership.
    • Stick to verified platforms with renter protections—not random Facebook posts.

    If You’ve Been Targeted:

    For Renters:

    If you already sent money or personal information to a fake landlord:

    • Contact your bank or payment app immediately and explain it was a scam—they may be able to freeze or reverse the transaction.
    • File a police report with your local law enforcement and include all usernames, messages, and receipts.
    • Report the fake listing to the platform (Facebook, Craigslist, Zillow, etc.) so others aren’t victimized.
    • Submit complaints to both the FTC’s Fraud Report Portal and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
    • If you wired funds internationally, contact Western Union or MoneyGram fraud departments immediately to request a reversal.

    For Homeowners

    If someone has cloned your property listing:

    • Take screenshots of the fraudulent post, messages, and profile.
    • Report the listing to the hosting platform and provide proof of ownership, such as closing documents or official listings.
    • Notify local law enforcement—if the scammer is targeting local renters, officers can issue warnings or open an investigation.
    • Let nearby neighbors or caretakers know to watch for suspicious visitors showing up expecting to rent your home.
    • If you live out of state, consider hiring a local property manager or friend to keep an eye on the home and flag new scams quickly.

    Acting fast—whether you’re a renter or an owner—helps shut down the scam before more victims get caught in the same trap.

    Final Thoughts:

    If a rental deal looks too good to be true, it almost always is. Scammers know how to make listings look legitimate—but a quick reverse search and a healthy dose of skepticism can save you hundreds or even thousands.

    Further Reading:

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on October 31, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Hang Up on the Jury Duty Hoax 

    By Greg Collier

    That tense moment when your phone lights up with a “law enforcement” caller ID—and they say you’ve missed jury duty. Your heart drops, they mention a warrant, and you’re suddenly calculating bail money. But it’s all a lie. The jury duty scam is spreading across the country, and most recently it’s hit Nueces County, Texas.

    What’s Going On:

    Scammers are targeting residents nationwide with fake phone calls claiming they missed jury duty, owe fines, or face arrest. Nueces County is just the latest hotspot in this long-running con.

    According to the local Sheriff’s Office, about a dozen residents recently reported receiving these calls. The scammers sound convincing—they even use real deputy names lifted from public Facebook pages. Sheriff J.C. Hooper made it clear:

    “We’re not going to call you. We’re going to come and visit you at your home or place of employment if there is a warrant out for you.”

    In other words, real law enforcement doesn’t handle warrants over the phone—and they definitely don’t ask for payments.

    Why It’s Effective:

    This scam weaponizes fear and urgency. The caller insists the matter must be handled today, threatening bigger trouble tomorrow. They’ll even text or email forged credentials—fake badges, stolen photos, and edited names—to “prove” their authority.

    The Better Business Bureau says this isn’t just a Texas problem. It’s a nationwide trend that resurfaces every few months with local twists designed to fool residents who think it couldn’t happen in their area.

    Red Flags:

    • Immediate payment requests. No government agency takes fines over the phone.
    • Threats of arrest or warrants. Fear is their pressure tool, not a real policy.
    • Borrowed deputy names. Scammers scrape them from social media and websites.
    • Fake “proof.” Any emailed or texted badge is fraudulent—and worthless.

    How to Stay Safe:

    If someone calls claiming you missed jury duty, hang up immediately. Then contact your sheriff’s office or courthouse using the number on their official website—not the one that called you. Never send money, never meet in person, and never share personal information.

    Remember: real jury duty notifications come through official mail, not phone calls, texts, or emails.

    Final Thoughts:

    This con works because it feels personal—and scary. But knowledge breaks the spell. Take a breath, verify before reacting, and talk to your parents or grandparents about it. A calm, skeptical mind is your best protection.

    Have you received one of these fake jury duty calls? Share your story below or send this post to someone who might be at risk. Awareness travels faster than scams—if we spread it.

    Further Reading:

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on October 30, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    The AI Lottery Scam Sweeping America 

    By Greg Collier

    A cheerful voice calls to say you’ve won millions. It sounds real—too real. But the “agent” on the line isn’t human at all. It’s an AI-generated voice, part of a nationwide surge in lottery scams that have cost Americans tens of millions of dollars.

    What’s Going On:

    Across the U.S., a dangerous new lottery scam is spreading—and it’s powered by artificial intelligence. According to a new study from Vegas Insider, Americans have lost tens of millions of dollars to fake lottery and sweepstakes winnings since 2020, with some of the highest losses reported in Ohio, California, Florida, and Texas. The scam’s secret weapon? AI-generated voices that sound shockingly real.

    How the Scam Works:

    Scammers are using AI voice cloning tools to call or message unsuspecting people, claiming they’ve won a massive jackpot. The calls often appear to come from a legitimate or local number, making them hard to ignore. Victims are told to pay small “processing fees” or taxes to collect their winnings—but there’s no prize waiting, only financial loss and stolen personal data.

    Las Vegas insiders say AI-driven scams jumped 148% in just one year, as fraudsters adopted synthetic voices to impersonate officials, relatives, or even well-known lottery representatives. They’re also hitting inboxes and social media, sending fake “winner” messages that look and sound alarmingly authentic.

    Why It’s Effective:

    AI has taken the classic “you’ve won the lottery” scam and given it a terrifying upgrade. These cloned voices mimic accents, tones, and phrases that sound local and trustworthy. When caller ID shows your area code—or even your friend’s number—it’s easy to drop your guard. Scammers know that emotion and urgency can override reason, especially when “winning” is on the line.

    Red Flags:

    • No legitimate lottery will call, text, or email to tell you you’ve won.
    • You’ll never be asked to pay money or share banking details to collect a prize.
    • All real winnings must be claimed in person or through official state channels with a verified ticket.

    Lottery officials nationwide stress one simple truth: if you didn’t enter a drawing, you didn’t win.

    What to Do:

    If you get a call, email, or social message claiming you’ve hit the jackpot:

    • Hang up or delete it immediately.
    • Report it to your state lottery office, your Attorney General’s consumer protection division, or the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
    • Warn family members—especially older relatives—who are most often targeted.

    Final Thoughts:

    AI technology has made scams smarter, faster, and harder to detect—but it hasn’t changed one truth: if it sounds too good to be true, it is. The same tools that can create lifelike voices and deepfake videos are now being weaponized to exploit trust. Staying informed is your best defense. Stay skeptical, stay alert, and remember—the only people winning in these scams are the ones running them.

    Have you been contacted by a fake lottery or prize scam? Share your story below—or send this post to someone who loves to play the lottery. Awareness is the jackpot that scammers can’t steal.

    Further Reading:

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on October 29, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Double-Billed and Deceived: A Travel Scam 

    By Greg Collier

    A Tennessee man thought he was booking a dream trip to Prague through Expedia. Instead, he was talking to a scammer pretending to be from the travel site and ended up paying $722 twice for the same flight.

    What’s Going On:

    David, who asked that his last name not be used, booked his trip online and even signed up for a new “One Key” credit card offer to get a travel bonus. Everything looked legitimate until he received an email claiming his payment was denied. The sender? Supposedly Expedia.

    When he called the number in the email, a woman claiming to be an Expedia representative told him he needed to repay the $722 to secure his flight. To avoid losing his vacation, he complied. What she didn’t say: he was paying PCM Travels, a company later flagged for deceptive practices and scam alerts.

    Why It’s Effective:

    This scam works because it piggybacks on real bookings. Victims like David have already made a legitimate purchase, so follow-up emails referencing the same dollar amounts appear trustworthy. The scammers add pressure by implying your booking is at risk unless you act immediately, a classic manipulation tactic.

    By the time the second payment is made, the money is gone. To make matters worse, scammers often insert legal-sounding language like “non-refundable” and “non-disputable” to discourage victims from contacting their credit card companies.

    Red Flags:

    • Emails claiming payment failure right after a successful booking
    • Customer service numbers in emails instead of on the company’s official website
    • Requests for payment by phone or through a new company name (like PCM Travels)
    • Statements that charges are “non-refundable” or “can’t be disputed”

    How to Protect Yourself:

    • Always verify contact info. Don’t use numbers or links from emails; instead, go directly to the airline or booking site’s official page.
    • Check your billing statements closely after booking. If you see double charges or unfamiliar company names, dispute them immediately.
    • Avoid offers that sound too generous. Legitimate travel rewards don’t require on-the-spot payments or new credit cards to redeem.
    • Freeze your card the moment you suspect a scam.

    The Aftermath:

    David is still fighting to get his $722 back. Despite showing his credit card company the proof, the scammers had documentation showing he “agreed” to the charge, technically true, but under false pretenses. He’s now submitting a letter of intent in hopes the dispute can be reopened.

    Final Thoughts:

    Travel scams like this are growing more sophisticated, exploiting real company names, official-looking emails, and victims’ excitement about upcoming trips. Always book directly through official airline or hotel websites, and never let urgency override your instincts.

    Have you been targeted by a fake travel agent or booking site? Share your experience below or send this post to someone planning their next vacation. Awareness is the best passport against scams.

    Further Reading:

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on October 28, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Don’t Fall for These Holiday Shopping Email Scams 

    Don’t Fall for These Holiday Shopping Email Scams

    By Greg Collier

    It starts with an innocent email in your inbox—maybe from “PayPal,” maybe from “Geek Squad.” It says you’ve just spent hundreds or even thousands of dollars on something you never bought. A cosmic-orange iPhone. A renewal you don’t remember approving.

    Panic hits first. Logic comes later. And that’s exactly what scammers are counting on.

    What’s Going On:

    Two holiday phishing emails are making the rounds this season, each designed to trigger fear and force you into acting fast.

    The first pretends to be from PayPal, claiming you purchased an iPhone 17 for $1,399. It’s riddled with red flags—missing punctuation, “PAYPALACCOUNT” in all caps, and a fake contact number with an 808 area code (Hawaii, not PayPal headquarters). The outrageous price is the bait, meant to shock you into calling before thinking.

    The second email impersonates Best Buy’s Geek Squad, warning your “Geek Squad Care” plan will auto-renew for $399.84 unless you cancel immediately. Again, that same Hawaii area code appears—an obvious mismatch for a national company.

    Even though these errors seem obvious on a desktop screen, they’re harder to spot on a phone, which is where most people read their email—and where scammers thrive.

    Why It’s Effective:

    The holiday rush is prime hunting season. People are distracted, busy, and shopping online more than ever. The scammers weaponize your anxiety about unauthorized purchases. Fear of fraud makes even savvy users slip.

    According to Atlanta News First, PayPal has seen so many of these scams that it now maintains a dedicated page explaining how to verify and report fake messages.

    Red Flags:

    • Emails claiming you bought an item you didn’t order.
    • Urgent language about “auto-renewals” or “account verification.”
    • Typos, awkward grammar, or missing “.com” in official logos.
    • Phone numbers that don’t match the company’s location (like 808 = Hawaii).
    • Demands for quick action to avoid a charge.

    Remember: real companies do not pressure you to call, click, or pay immediately.

    What You Can Do:

    • Don’t panic. Delete the email without clicking any links.
    • Verify independently. Go to the company’s official website or app to check your account.
    • Don’t call numbers listed in suspicious messages.
    • Report phishing directly to the company (PayPal, Best Buy, etc.) and to the FTC.
    • Educate friends and family—especially those who shop online frequently.

    If You’ve Been Targeted:

    Disconnect any device you interacted with the scam on, run antivirus scans, and change your passwords. If you entered payment info, contact your bank immediately to freeze or dispute fraudulent charges.

    Final Thoughts:

    This year’s scammers are getting smarter—and even using AI to make fake emails and phone numbers look more convincing. But that same technology can help you fight back. When Atlanta News First tested one of these emails with an AI detector, it correctly flagged it as a scam and explained why.

    The lesson? Stay skeptical, slow down, and verify before you react.

    Because in the season of giving, scammers are counting on you to give them exactly what they want: your trust.

    Received a suspicious holiday email or “purchase confirmation”? Share your experience below or forward this post to someone who shops online often. Staying alert saves money—and peace of mind.

    Further Reading:

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on October 27, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: error message, , , ,   

    How to Outsmart the 2025 Tech Support Scam 

    How to Outsmart the 2025 Tech Support Scam

    By Greg Collier

    It starts with a sudden pop-up on your screen, warning you that your computer is infected with viruses and your personal data is at risk. Then a phone call or chat window appears, claiming to be from “Microsoft” or another tech giant offering urgent help—for a fee.

    This is not a drill. Fake tech support scams have exploded in 2025, causing billions in losses worldwide and costing victims their peace of mind and sensitive information.

    What’s Going On:

    These scams typically begin with malicious pop-ups, cold calls, or phishing emails that trick victims into believing their device is compromised. The scammers impersonate legitimate tech companies, pushing victims to grant remote access or provide payment info.

    Once inside, they may steal personal data, install harmful software, or charge for unnecessary “repairs.”

    Scammers deploy AI-enhanced scripts and spoof phone numbers to sound credible and manipulate victims into compliance.​

    Why It’s Effective:

    The fear of losing data and the trust placed in well-known brands like Apple or Microsoft make these scams particularly successful. The pressure to act immediately triggers anxiety and impulsive decisions.

    Elderly people and less tech-savvy users are frequent targets, though anyone can fall victim.

    Red Flags:

    • Unsolicited calls warning about urgent computer problems.
    • Pop-ups or alerts with poor grammar or spelling mistakes.
    • Demands for remote access to your device.
    • Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
    • Insistence on immediate action or threats of shutdown.

    Quick tip: Legitimate tech companies do not make unsolicited calls asking for payments or remote access.

    What You Can Do:

    • Don’t panic. Close suspicious pop-ups without clicking links or calling numbers provided.
    • Verify independently. Contact your tech provider using official phone numbers or websites.
    • Never give remote access to unknown callers.
    • Use reputable antivirus software and keep your systems updated.
    • Educate loved ones, especially the elderly, about these scam tactics.

    If You’ve Been Targeted:

    • Disconnect your device from the internet immediately.
    • Run antivirus and malware scans through trusted security software.
    • Change passwords for key accounts.
    • Contact your bank to dispute fraudulent charges.
    • Report the scam to the FTC and local authorities to aid investigations.

     Final Thoughts:

    Fake tech support scams are evolving with new technology—including AI-generated caller voices—to trick even vigilant users. Staying calm, verifying independently, and understanding the tactics scammers use are your best defenses.

    Everyone is vulnerable, but knowledge turns fear into power.

    Received a suspicious tech support call or message? Share your experience below or forward this post to someone at risk. Staying informed saves data—and sanity.

    Further Reading:

     

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