WATCH OUT: The TOP SCAMS That Are Sweeping Utah, California and Nevada!
As long as people exist, so do scammers. It’s a harsh truth, but one that’s unavoidable. The best thing we can do? Arm ourselves with knowledge, so we can dodge their traps. Lucky for us, the FBI has stepped up with some handy info on scams that are particularly hot in Utah, California, and Nevada right now. So, let’s dive in and get ahead of these sketchy schemes before they get to us or our loved ones.
The "Check Washing" Scam
Let’s start with the check-washing scam, where your good old-fashioned paper checks are being stolen and tampered with. Scammers swipe checks from your mailbox, “wash” the ink off using chemicals, and then rewrite them to pay whoever they want! This is why mailing checks is becoming a big no-no. So, unless you want your hard-earned money rerouted, it’s time to consider other payment options.
Phishing
Phishing scams are probably the most familiar of the bunch, but that doesn’t mean they’re any less dangerous. If you ever get an email from what looks like your bank or any official organization asking for personal details? Be smart—don’t click that link! Double-check by contacting the actual company. Scammers have gotten great at making fake emails look legit, so always be suspicious of unsolicited requests for personal info.
Swatting and Doxxing
These two take scamming to a terrifying new level. Swatting is when someone falsely reports a major threat (think hostage situation or bomb threat), leading to a full-blown SWAT team showing up at your house. Doxxing, on the other hand, involves stealing personal info and threatening to post it online unless you comply with some scammer’s demands. It’s ugly and getting more common, especially among teens.
More Scams to Watch Out For:
- Elder Fraud: Scammers love to target older folks with everything from fake romances to tech support and government impersonations.
- Election Fraud: Fair elections are a big deal, and messing with them is a federal crime. Report anything suspicious to the authorities.
- Cryptocurrency Fraud: The “pig butchering” scheme (yep, that’s what it’s called) involves fake investment opportunities and is currently wreaking havoc.
- Holiday Scams: Don’t fall for those “too good to be true” online deals, especially during the holidays.
- Charity Scams: Before donating after a disaster, always double-check if the charity is legit.
There you have it—a cheat sheet to avoid falling for the rising scams in Utah, California, and Nevada. Stay alert, stay smart, and protect your hard-earned cash!