Greg's Corner

Updates from October, 2024 Toggle Comment Threads | Keyboard Shortcuts

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  Geebo 8:09 am on October 9, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: flood cars ( 3 ), floods ( 3 ), hurricane ( 8 ), Scams ( 1,386 ), used car ( 34 )   

  Beware of Flood-Damaged Cars After Hurricanes 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As hurricane season wreaks havoc on communities, the aftermath often brings unexpected consequences for car buyers. Among the hidden dangers are flood-damaged vehicles making their way into the used car market. Once the floodwaters recede, many of these cars are cleaned up and sold at auctions, with some landing in the driveways of unsuspecting buyers across the country. Even if you live far from the storm-affected areas, these cars can end up in your local market, as flood-damaged vehicles are often transported and resold nationwide.

  Flood damage can cause severe problems for vehicles, affecting everything from electronics to mechanical components. Unfortunately, these issues aren’t always immediately apparent. In some cases, flood-damaged vehicles are sold before damage reports surface, leaving buyers with little protection. While popular tools like vehicle history reports are helpful, they are not foolproof. Buyers should understand that flood damage may not always be flagged right away, or even at all.

  To avoid purchasing a car that’s been through a flood, it’s essential to take proactive steps. One of the best ways to protect yourself is by getting an independent mechanical inspection before buying any used vehicle. This extra precaution can help identify hidden damage that a quick cleanup or a vehicle history report might not reveal.

  When shopping online for a vehicle, be especially cautious. Sellers posing as private individuals may actually be dealers flipping cars, making it harder to track the vehicle’s true history. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as they may involve flood-damaged cars.

  Although it’s legal to resell flood-damaged vehicles, they should carry a rebuilt title to indicate that the necessary repairs have been made. However, the hidden damage, such as rust under carpets or water in electrical components, can still lead to long-term issues. Rusted metal, malfunctioning electronics, and waterlogged parts can significantly shorten a car’s lifespan and increase the chances of costly repairs.

  In summary, if you’re in the market for a used car following hurricane season, take the time to research and inspect before committing to a purchase. Flood-damaged vehicles can show up anywhere in the country, so protecting yourself involves diligence, skepticism, and securing an independent inspection to ensure you’re not buying a car with hidden water damage.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 8, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: extortion ( 16 ), ICAC, police impersonation scam ( 65 ), Scams ( 1,386 ), sextortion ( 3 )   

  ICAC Task Force Impersonation Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The Attorney General’s Office in South Dakota is issuing another warning about a scam, this time involving impersonators claiming to be from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. The scammer calls individuals, accusing them of inappropriate online behavior with a minor and, in a disturbing twist, claims the child has attempted suicide. The victim is then told they face arrest unless they agree to pay the supposed medical expenses of the child. The demands for payment typically range from $1,000 to $8,000 and come with the added pressure of requiring immediate action.

  In some cases, scammers make their story seem even more credible by sending text messages with photos of the victim’s property. These images make it appear as though the victim has been under investigation by the ICAC Task Force, heightening fear and urgency. However, authorities have made it clear that the ICAC Task Force does not operate by contacting citizens to demand money. The inclusion of property photos is also a known scare tactic, often pulled from readily available sources like Google Street View. This method of intimidation has been used in other extortion schemes, where scammers manipulate publicly accessible data to make their threats appear more real.

  It’s important to recognize that this kind of scam can happen anywhere. Scammers exploit technology and public information to create a sense of danger and immediacy. They rely on fear to push individuals into paying quickly, hoping the urgency will prevent victims from questioning the situation. These extortion attempts can happen to anyone, using familiar tactics designed to make the victim feel isolated and vulnerable.

  If a call or message seems suspicious, it’s essential to step back and avoid acting out of fear. Taking time to verify the claims, consulting trusted sources, and reaching out to law enforcement can prevent falling into a scammer’s trap. Avoid providing financial or personal information over the phone or online without careful consideration.

  For those who think they may have been targeted, contacting the proper authorities is critical. Staying informed and cautious is the best defense against these types of fraudulent schemes that prey on fear and manipulation.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 7, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: land scam ( 2 ), real estate ( 128 ), real estate fraud ( 2 ), Scams ( 1,386 )   

  How Homes and Land are Stolen 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Recently, two alarming cases have come to light, revealing how easily real estate fraud can target homeowners and landowners across the country. These incidents, involving stolen properties in different Massachusetts towns, underscore the growing threat of fraudulent schemes in the real estate sector, a problem that can affect anyone, anywhere.

  In one case, a couple who had owned a piece of vacant land for decades discovered that it had been sold without their knowledge. Despite their long-term plans to build a home there, thieves impersonated the owners, forged identification documents, and initiated a sale. By the time the true owners found out, the property had been sold at a price far below market value, and new buyers were already building on it.

  In another case, a homeowner was nearly defrauded when a purchase agreement was drawn up for his home without his consent. A potential buyer from out of the country had supposedly agreed to buy the house in an all-cash transaction. Fortunately, the homeowner was warned by an attorney before the sale could go through, but the fraudsters didn’t give up easily, continuing their attempts to seize the property.

  These scams highlight a critical point, real estate fraud can happen anywhere, in any community. Both urban and rural areas are vulnerable, whether the target is a vacant lot or a family home. Fraudsters exploit the anonymity of property ownership, especially when the owners are not physically present or have limited oversight of the property.

  The methods used are often shockingly simple. Criminals forge documents, create counterfeit IDs, and manipulate digital records to push fraudulent transactions through. With the rise of electronic documentation and remote transactions, it’s easier than ever for scammers to exploit gaps in the system. Owners may only discover what has happened when it’s too late, as in the case of the couple who lost their land.

  These cases also show how scammers are becoming bolder, even sending professionals like engineers or real estate agents to the property, lending credibility to their schemes. Without constant vigilance, homeowners and landowners are left vulnerable to losing their assets without realizing it.

  Preventing these kinds of scams requires a proactive approach. Monitoring property records is essential, and many registries of deeds now offer notification systems that alert owners to any changes made to their property records. Additionally, staying in contact with legal professionals when engaging in real estate transactions can help catch red flags early.

  Ultimately, the increasing number of these fraud cases highlights the need for greater awareness and caution in real estate dealings. Whether it’s vacant land or a home in a quiet neighborhood, no property is immune to these sophisticated scams. As these cases show, what happened in Massachusetts could happen anywhere.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 4, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Facebook Marketplace ( 63 ), healthcare ( 39 ), Mounjaro, online pharmacies ( 2 ), Ozempic ( 3 ), prescription drugs ( 5 ), Scams ( 1,386 ), Trulicity   

  Dangers of Buying Ozempic Online 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The rise of social media marketplaces has brought convenience to millions, allowing users to buy and sell just about anything from their mobile devices. But beneath the surface of these platforms lurks a troubling and dangerous trend. People are illegally reselling prescription medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro through places like Facebook Marketplace. This black-market trade isn’t just risky for your health, it’s outright illegal.

  Here’s why buying prescription drugs through platforms like Facebook is not only illegal but also potentially life-threatening.

  Let’s be clear, reselling or buying prescription medications without proper authorization is illegal. In New York, those caught selling prescription medications like Ozempic can face up to 15 years in prison. Buyers, although typically subject to lighter penalties, can still be slapped with misdemeanors, fines, and potentially jail time.

  So, why would people take such risks? Desperation and the lure of lower prices fuel this underground market. A legitimate month’s supply of Mounjaro can run between $1,000 and $1,200, but some sellers on Facebook Marketplace offer it for less than half the price. For many people struggling to afford their medications, it may seem like a shortcut, but it’s a dangerous one that could cost far more than the money saved.

  The dangers go far beyond the legal risks. Prescription medications like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Trulicity are intended for specific medical conditions like Type 2 diabetes and must be closely monitored by healthcare professionals. These medications are not meant to be used casually for weight loss without proper oversight.

  Here’s where things get hazardous. The medications you’re buying online could be counterfeit or tampered with. Sellers can alter doses, repackage medications, or store them improperly, resulting in a product that might not only be ineffective but harmful.

  Even if you are lucky enough to get the real thing, buying from an unregulated source means you’re missing out on the critical medical supervision that should accompany these drugs. Weight loss medications like Ozempic can lead to serious side effects, including gallstones, muscle loss, and osteoporosis. Short-term issues like nausea and dehydration are also common. More importantly, patients on these drugs need regular monitoring to ensure that the treatment is effective and not causing harm.

  Another crucial consideration is that these medications are not meant for short-term use. They require ongoing treatment and supervision. Once you stop using them, there’s a good chance you’ll regain most, if not all, of the weight lost. Patients need to be monitored for side effects and require a doctor’s guidance to manage the complexities of these treatments.

  When you’re buying prescription medications from an unknown seller online, you forfeit this safety net. The seller isn’t going to care about your long-term health or whether you’re experiencing side effects. You’re on your own, with your wallet and potentially your health at risk.

  Even more worrying is the rise of bad actors on platforms like Facebook who use tactics like misspelling drug names or using nicknames to bypass automated compliance checks. While Facebook and other platforms actively remove illegal listings, sellers are constantly finding ways to stay one step ahead.

  These platforms might seem reputable, but buying prescription drugs on social media is no different from buying them off the street. There’s no way to guarantee what you’re getting, and you may not even know the correct dosage or volume of the medication you receive. It’s a dangerous gamble, with your health hanging in the balance.

  While the appeal of a cheaper supply of prescription drugs may be tempting, the risks are far too great. Buying medications like Ozempic through platforms like Facebook Marketplace exposes you to severe legal penalties and puts your health at serious risk. From counterfeit drugs to a lack of medical supervision, the consequences of such a decision could be life-altering.

  Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any prescription drug. There’s no shortcut to good health, and when it comes to your well-being, cutting corners can lead to devastating consequences.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 3, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam ( 148 ), phantom hacker scam ( 3 ), pop-ups ( 26 ), Scams ( 1,386 ), tech support scam ( 51 )   

  Phantom Hacker Scam is a Threat to Your Finances 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the ever-evolving world of online crime, a new scam has emerged, targeting unsuspecting individuals under the guise of helping them. The FBI has recently highlighted the Phantom Hacker scam, a sophisticated three-pronged attack designed to trick people into handing over their money voluntarily.

  It all begins with a simple email or pop-up ad. The message alerts you to an issue with your computer and provides a phone number for tech support. When you call, a scammer on the other end will ask you to download a remote access program so they can ‘assist’ with the issue.

  Once you’ve allowed remote access, the scammer doesn’t address any problems. Instead, they create new ones. They claim your bank account has been compromised and instruct you to take steps to safeguard your money. This is where the scam shifts into its second phase. You receive a second phone call from someone posing as your bank’s security department, urging you to move your funds into a ‘crypto wallet’ for safekeeping.

  In the final phase, a third call comes from someone claiming to represent the government. This imposter will tell you that your crypto wallet is also compromised, but they can help by transferring your funds into a ‘safe wallet’. In reality, this so-called safe wallet belongs to the scammer, and your money is now gone.

  The name Phantom Hacker fits because victims believe they’ve been hacked, when in fact, they’ve been manipulated into transferring their money to the scammers. The scam doesn’t rely on advanced hacking techniques, just deception and social engineering.

  Unfortunately, this scam disproportionately targets older individuals, particularly those over 60. If you encounter unexpected pop-ups or emails, avoid engaging with them. Instead, contact your bank or tech support directly using verified phone numbers. Awareness is your best defense against falling victim to these tactics.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 2, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: charity ( 17 ), charity scam ( 36 ), hurricane ( 8 ), Hurricane Helene ( 4 ), natural disasters ( 20 ), Scams ( 1,386 )   

  Ensure Your Donations Reach Hurricane Victims 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the wake of any major hurricane, such as Hurricane Helene, communities come together, eager to offer help. It’s during these critical times that victims rely on charitable donations for essentials like food, water, shelter, and medical aid. Unfortunately, natural disasters also create opportunities for scammers to exploit that goodwill. Before opening your wallet, it’s important to take extra precautions to ensure your donation is truly helping those affected.

  The Rise of Donation Scams During Disasters

  Every time a disaster strikes, fraudulent fundraising efforts spike. Scammers will go to great lengths, posing as legitimate organizations or setting up fake crowdfunding campaigns to deceive generous individuals. The FBI has noted a significant increase in phishing scams after hurricanes, often involving impersonation of trusted organizations like the Red Cross. These fake appeals can come via email, social media, or even text messages.

  To protect yourself and ensure your contribution goes where it’s needed, follow these steps before making a donation.

  Verify the Charity’s Legitimacy

  One of the easiest ways to protect yourself from fraud is to verify the charity you’re donating to. Scammers often send fake emails or text messages with slight variations in the names of well-known organizations, like “Red Cros” instead of “Red Cross.” They may also direct you to private payment platforms like PayPal, Zelle, or Venmo, which legitimate charities rarely use.

  Before donating, check if the charity is recognized and reputable by visiting websites such as Give.org or Charity Navigator. These platforms provide ratings and reviews of charitable organizations, helping you confirm that your donation will reach those in need.

  Be Skeptical of Email and Text Requests

  Legitimate charities will not cold-email or text you asking for donations. If you receive such requests, especially if they ask for quick payment through private platforms or cryptocurrency, consider it a red flag. It’s best to donate directly through the charity’s official website.

  If you’re unsure about a donation request, go directly to the charity’s website by typing the URL into your browser instead of clicking on links in unsolicited emails or messages. This ensures you’re visiting the correct site and not a phishing attempt.

  Check Crowdfunding Campaigns Carefully

  Crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe light up with requests for help after hurricanes. While many are legitimate, it’s essential to ensure you’re contributing to verified campaigns. GoFundMe has a “verified” feature for campaigns that have been confirmed to reach the intended recipients, but even with verification, be cautious if you don’t know the person running the campaign.

  If you’re moved to help an individual, research their story carefully. Look for details, follow-up posts, and proof that the campaign is legitimate. Whenever possible, it’s better to give to well-established organizations that specialize in disaster relief and have a track record of success.

  Avoid Door-to-Door or Phone Solicitation

  Scammers often take advantage of disaster situations by going door-to-door, claiming to be from a legitimate charity. While this might seem like a direct way to contribute, it’s also one of the most common methods used by fraudsters.

  If someone approaches you with a solicitation, ask for identification and any materials related to the organization they claim to represent. It’s always safer to donate through the organization’s website rather than handing over cash or personal information to a stranger.

  Donate Directly to Major Organizations

  To avoid the risk of fraud entirely, it’s always a good idea to donate directly to major, well-known organizations that have a long history of hurricane and disaster relief. Organizations like the Red Cross are transparent about where your dollars go and have extensive systems in place to ensure donations reach those who need them most.

  Give Generously, But Wisely

  The desire to help in the aftermath of a hurricane is natural, and your generosity can make a real difference in the lives of victims. However, taking a few extra steps to verify where your money is going can prevent scammers from capitalizing on your good intentions. By carefully vetting the charities you support, avoiding unsolicited emails or texts, and sticking to trusted organizations, you can ensure that your donation is reaching those who need it the most.

  Hurricanes can bring out the best in people, but they also attract those looking to exploit. Stay alert, do your research, and give wisely.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 1, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: child identity theft ( 2 ), child safety ( 8 ), identity theft ( 108 ), Scams ( 1,386 ), text messaging ( 36 ), text scam ( 23 )   

  Are Text Message Scams Targeting Children? 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Text message scams are evolving, and children are now becoming unintended targets. One recent incident in Lafayette, Louisiana, highlights how scammers send random texts, often addressing the recipient by the wrong name, in hopes of starting a conversation. For example, a teenager received a message intended for ‘Rose’, a name that was unfamiliar to her. While this might seem like a simple mistake, responding with something like “Sorry, wrong number” is precisely what scammers want. Once engaged, they can continue the conversation, pretending to befriend the child by asking casual questions like their name or school.

  Although these scams don’t specifically target children, the random nature of the messages means kids are just as likely to receive them. It’s crucial for parents to stay aware of who is contacting their children. In this case, the teen was able to block the number, but it serves as a reminder for parents to monitor their children’s messages and have open conversations about the dangers of engaging with unknown contacts.

  Identity thieves are increasingly drawn to a child’s personal information because it is often untapped and unmonitored. Since children haven’t established credit yet, their Social Security numbers and other identifying details provide a blank slate for criminals to exploit. Scammers can use this clean credit history to open fraudulent accounts, apply for loans, or commit other forms of financial fraud, all while the child, and their parents, remain unaware for years. By the time the child becomes old enough to establish their own credit, they may discover a damaged credit history. This is why scammers, who might initially seem harmless or casual in their approach, can pose a serious risk if they gain access to personal details through seemingly innocent interactions like text messages. Parents must remain vigilant to protect their child’s identity from being compromised in these scams.

  Children may not always recognize the risks, which is why it’s essential to teach them to be cautious about sharing any personal information with strangers, especially through text. Adjusting phone settings to block unknown numbers and being vigilant about their online interactions can help reduce the chances of children falling victim to these scams. While this may seem like a harmless exchange at first, the underlying goal of scammers is to extract personal or family information, and early intervention can prevent any further risks.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 30, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Coinstar ( 2 ), cryptocurrency ( 52 ), grandparent scam ( 69 ), Scams ( 1,386 )   

  Grandparent Scam: One Woman’s $50,000 Loss 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In Rossmoor, California, an 83-year-old woman found herself the victim of a devastating scam, losing nearly $50,000. It all started with a late-night phone call she believed was from her distraught grandson, setting off a chain of events that would drain her savings. Now, she shares her story to warn others about the dangers of emotional manipulation and the irreversible nature of cryptocurrency transactions.

  The woman was at home when her phone rang. On the other end, a man claiming to be her grandson was crying and distressed. He told her he had been arrested after driving the wrong way on a one-way street and hitting another car. He begged her not to tell anyone and to help with his bail. Caught up in the emotion and urgency of the call, she promised to help.

  What followed were multiple trips to Coinstar machines at local supermarkets. Coinstar machines, once limited to exchanging loose change for cash or store credit, now also allow customers to purchase various cryptocurrencies. The woman withdrew cash from her bank and fed thousands of dollars into the machines, following instructions from the person on the phone, who guided her through the process of converting the cash into cryptocurrency. Over several days, she was manipulated into sending nearly $50,000.

  Scammers rely on emotional manipulation, and this case was no different. The initial call wasn’t enough. Each time the woman thought she had done enough to help, she received another call demanding more money, first for bail, then for additional charges related to the accident, and finally for attorney’s fees and court costs.

  At each step, she ignored warnings from well-meaning bank managers, a shopper, and even the Coinstar machine itself, which prompted her to stop if she thought she was being defrauded. The fear of abandoning her grandson and the emotional manipulation kept her going.

  It wasn’t until the woman finally texted her actual grandson that the truth hit her. He responded casually, unaware of any accident, and she realized she had been scammed. By then, it was too late. The funds had already been transferred, and because cryptocurrency transactions are virtually irreversible, there was no way to recover the money.

  As more scams involve cryptocurrency, it’s important to understand the risks associated with these transactions. Companies like Coinstar have safeguards in place, such as multiple warnings during the transaction process, but once funds are sent, they can’t be retrieved. The irreversible nature of cryptocurrency is one of its defining features, and it’s why extreme caution is necessary when sending money this way.

  In situations where a loved one is supposedly in legal trouble, always verify the information through official channels. Rather than acting on the word of the caller, contact the family member directly, or speak with local authorities to confirm the story. If someone claims bail or legal fees must be paid in an unusual manner, like cryptocurrency or through a Coinstar machine, it’s almost certainly a scam. Legitimate legal processes don’t involve such methods of payment.

  Being cautious of unknown phone numbers is another key step. If a call comes in from an unfamiliar number, especially one claiming urgency, consider hanging up and calling the loved one directly to verify their safety.

  For anyone who finds themselves in a situation where they believe they’ve been contacted by a scammer, it’s crucial to report the incident to authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the FBI. Quick reporting can assist in preventing further losses and help authorities track these criminal activities.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 27, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: hurricane ( 8 ), Hurricane Helene ( 4 ), natural disasters ( 20 ), Scams ( 1,386 ), storm chasers, storm damage ( 2 )   

  Beware of Scammers After Severe Weather Strikes 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As Hurricane Helene approaches or makes landfall, the safety of those in the affected areas remains the top priority. This Category 4 storm is expected to bring significant damage to the Florida Panhandle and Southern Georgia. Amid the focus on recovery and well-being, it’s important to also be mindful of potential scams that often surface in the aftermath of natural disasters. Unfortunately, some individuals will exploit these vulnerable times, posing as helpful contractors or service providers. We want to take this opportunity to remind storm victims on how to protect themselves from these con artists.

  After severe weather strikes, it’s not just the damage to homes and properties that residents need to worry about, scammers often take advantage of the chaos, looking to make a quick profit. These opportunists, often referred to as ‘storm chasers’, are not local contractors but individuals who travel from out of state to target areas affected by storms. With legitimate contractors overwhelmed by the sudden demand for repairs, these scammers see a chance to prey on vulnerable homeowners.

  Storm chasers typically present themselves as roofers, tree trimmers, or public adjusters, going door to door in damaged neighborhoods offering their services. While their offers might seem convenient in the wake of a storm, it’s crucial to take a few precautionary steps to ensure you’re dealing with a legitimate professional.

  First, always ask for identification and proof of a business license before agreeing to any work. It’s essential to verify their credentials to ensure they are who they claim to be. Additionally, it’s important to contact your insurance company before proceeding with any repairs. Familiarize yourself with your policy to understand what is covered, so you can avoid any unnecessary expenses or scams.

  While it may seem like a relief to hear someone offer quick fixes, it’s vital to get any agreements in writing. Be extremely cautious when signing anything, especially documents related to your insurance coverage. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to convince homeowners to sign on the spot, claiming that immediate action is needed. This is often a red flag, as reputable contractors will not rush you into a decision.

  It’s also important to take the time to research the company offering repairs. A great starting point is the Better Business Bureau, which can provide information on the credibility and reliability of the contractor. Doing your due diligence now can save you from much larger headaches down the road.

  In preparation for future storms, one proactive step you can take is to document the current state of your property. Walking around your home or business and taking photos or videos of your windows, roof, and other key areas can help you compare conditions after a storm, making it easier to spot genuine damage and avoid being misled by fraudulent contractors.

  In times of disaster, it’s natural to want to restore normalcy as quickly as possible. However, taking these precautions can prevent you from falling victim to the scammers who look to exploit these situations for personal gain.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 26, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: debt collectors ( 11 ), impersonation scam ( 148 ), medical bills ( 3 ), Scams ( 1,386 )   

  Protect Yourself From Medical Billing Scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  An Indiana resident recently faced an all-too-common frustration, scam calls disguised as legitimate business interactions. It began with what appeared to be a call from a collection agency regarding an unpaid medical bill. The call seemed convincing at first, especially considering recent blood work, but doubts surfaced when the agent refused to provide specific details, such as the doctor’s name or the date of service. Instead, the agent demanded immediate payment, threatening legal action if the bill wasn’t settled.

  Despite the pressure, the man and his wife took the right steps. They paused and double-checked with their insurance company and doctors, only to find no record of an outstanding bill. The situation escalated when the collection agency asked for a credit card number or check, to be mailed to a post office box in Florida. This raised significant red flags, as it became increasingly clear that the situation was a scam.

  Scammers are growing more sophisticated, often adopting the names of legitimate businesses. In this case, a reputable diagnostics company had its name misused by fraudsters. Medical billing scams are designed to exploit the complexity of healthcare systems, preying on people who are understandably confused by their bills. These fraudsters often apply pressure by threatening legal action, hoping to catch their victims off guard.

  Thankfully, the family never sent the payment. Instead, they did their research, verifying with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and finding that this was a known medical billing scam. Scammers can use tactics like spoofing phone numbers and mimicking local area codes to make their calls seem more legitimate.

  If you receive a call about an unfamiliar medical bill, take time to verify the details. Contact your doctor, insurance company, or hospital directly, rather than engaging with the caller. Legitimate collection agencies will provide clear information about the debt, and you should never be rushed into making a payment without confirmation. Debt collectors are required to provide what’s known as a debt verification letter. These letters are supposed to detail exactly where the supposed debt originated.

  As scammers continue to evolve, so must our defenses. Verifying claims, not giving in to scare tactics, and guarding personal information remain key to protecting yourself from fraud. Keep in mind that even though these scams can be frustrating and concerning, staying informed and cautious can make all the difference in avoiding financial loss.