Karen’s Korner
According to AARP there are three major scams ongoing now of which we need to be aware.
AI-Powered Scams: “Criminals are using artificial intelligence to create alarmingly convincing fake pitches.” They use pictures of people you know, famous names or celebrities, to sell products and get your information! Watermarks, an over and above a “normal” picture, and odd lighting and shadows are also giveaways! You may want to google the celebrity; and see what they really think instead of relying on what an ad says. These images may seem real, but they are not. If you are in doubt…don’t!
Social Security Scams: “These schemes are spiking, often using current events to make fake messages look official.” When in doubt call Social Security and ask if the messages are true. And if they seem to be too good to be true, they usually are.
Phony Text Messages: From fake bank alerts to toll notices, these texts are everywhere. I was sent a bill from a certain store the other day and I have never been in the store, so I knew it was fake. I reported it to my bank and the store. They had received several complaints about those bills that didn’t even exist. “Do not even open a text message if you do not know who it is from!
You just never really know. Again, as a reminder: Be educated and Be Alert!
Do not open emails from companies, organizations, or people you do not personally know.
Use reputable companies when you have work done in your home or on your property. Door-to-door offers are often bogus.
If it seems too good to be true…it is usually a scam!
Never give out information over the phone unless you know who you are speaking with; or you have initiated the call!
Scams are growing more prevalent each day. Just be aware!