How do Fraudsters Find Me?

Fraudsters target people in a number of different ways. Some of the most common methods are:

  • Internet:
    • Emails – Fraudsters use bogus and hijacked addresses all the time. An email from a friend that doesn’t sound like your friend, or that makes outlandish requests like asking you to wire money overseas, is almost certainly a scam. An email from an unfamiliar address should always be treated with caution. An email from a friend that doesn’t sound like your friend, or that makes outlandish requests like asking you to wire money overseas, is almost certainly a scam.
    • Pop-Ups – Another one of the criminals’ favorite tools, popup boxes suddenly appear on your computer screen while you’re online. Clicking on the link or button can trigger a download of malicious software.
  • U.S. Mail – While it’s a little old fashioned, fraudulent letters, including chain letters, still exist. If a letter looks or sounds fishy, it probably is.
  • Telephone – Fraudsters often pose as market researchers or pollsters in order to gain personal information. They may make cold calls and also may ask you to place calls or return calls from those you don’t know.
  • Face-to-face – Some crooks specialize in more traditional methods that require personal contact, such as ATM and check cashing scams.

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