Avoid Five Big Scams with Legal Shield guidance

Scams today can come at you from all directions – the internet, mail, even face-to-face contact. Scammers change tactics constantly in order to lure victims into their schemes. 

Guidance from Legal Shield

In the face of these potential scams, Legal Shield offers the following guidance. Understanding these scams will help you avoid them.

Easy money

The promise of easy money is still the oldest and best hook scammers use. “International Lottery Winner”, “Money Escrow”, “Check Cashing”, “Nigerian Scams” are all classic “easy money” scams that lure thousands of victims each year. The promise of quick and easy money is hard to pass up, especially in these economic times. But remember, there is no such thing as easy money. Run, do not walk, away from plans that promise you a lot of money for only a little work.

Fear

Scammers also understand the power of fear. Fear drives victims to make fast and disastrous decisions. This has been especially effective against senior citizens who may feel insecure about their financial future. A common claim is that your bank account has been “hacked.” The scammer then demands your account information in order to “save” it. These false threats can appear to be legitimate, with your bank’s letterhead or service mark. If you receive mail, email or a phone call claiming your account has been hacked, contact your bank immediately and inquire about your account. Do not use a claim’s provided reply envelope, email, website or telephone number to contact your bank. 

Confusion

Confusion goes hand in hand with fear as an effective tool. Again, scammers often target the elderly who may be easily confused or manipulated. When contacted by an unknown person or unusual demand, protect yourself by immediately breaking contact. Call a trusted friend to discuss the matter before taking any action.

Manipulating faith and charity

Faith and charity are the best human traits, but they are also the ones that scammers seek to manipulate. Do not make donations or offer assistance to “churches” or “charities” that are unknown to you, even those with a compelling story.  

Promise of employment

Scammers promise jobs in a slow economy. This takes advantage of individuals desperate for employment. Do not pay money to apply for a job. Do not give personal information to a “prospective employer” over the phone, mail or online. Identity thieves steal information this way. When you are contacted about an employment opportunity, meet with the prospective employer in person at their place of business and do some research on the employer before providing any personal information.

Protect yourself and your family against these scams with Legal Shield guidance, a 40-year old company that is protecting 1.4 million families throughout North America.