Check Fraud, Dating Scams: National Fraud Awareness Week is 8/6-8/10

As my life sees a half century of existence on the horizon, I’ve come to the conclusion that not a day goes by when someone, somewhere isn’t trying to get money out of my pocket. Often it’s legitimate companies I do business with that double bill or tack on some fee. Other times its scammers who try to take what I’ve worked for.  

Just yesterday I got scammed for $5 by a seller on a legitimate website and when I brought it to the attention of the company, they refunded my cash. Fraud is inevitable like death and taxes so it is in your best interest to learn about internet safety, financial crimes and romance scams.  

Beware of: 

Identity theft:  identity theft as we know it is not getting any better, it is getting worse. The best way to protect yourself is by getting a credit freeze.  

Check fraud: Check fraud victims include banks, businesses and consumers themselves. Our current system for cashing checks is somewhat flawed. Checks can be cashed and merchandise can be purchased even when there is no money in the checking account. The key is to pay close attention you your bank statements and refute unauthorized withdrawals ASAP. 

Auction Fraud: Auction fraud refers to fraudulent transactions on online auctions. Either a product advertised for sale is misrepresented, or purchases are never delivered at all. Always buy from sellers with a long established track record.  

Craigslist Scams: A scammer responds to a seller, claiming he wishes to purchase an item. He mails the seller a fake check for an amount in excess of the purchase price, with extra money included for shipping, and requests that the buyer deposit the check and then wire the payment to the shippers from the buyer’s own account. By the time the check bounces, the scammer has already received the seller’s money. Only buy in person. Never over the phone and never through the mail.  

Dating Scams: Criminals pose as lovesick Romeos or Juliets, looking to sweep their victims off their feet while emptying their bank accounts. Marriage is often discussed within the first week of communications, and the word love is used as frequently as the victims’ names, which coincidently are two of the most important words a person can hear. Trust your gut, never give out personal information, and always meet in a public place.  

Robert Siciliano personal and home security specialist to Home Security Source discussing ADT Pulse on Fox News. Disclosures 

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