While we all have been busy adjusting to the ever-changing COVID world its important to remember that con artists are still preying on vulnerable consumers who rely more and more on alternative ways to do business in an increasingly techno world. From grocery deliveries to clothing it has become easier to deal with a few buttons on a keyboard than to try to shop in brick and mortar stores. We all need to remain vigilant and aware that even seemingly innocent phone calls regarding car warranties and computer repairs are actually stepping stones to gather personal information for laying a foundation for future scams. Be cautious, be diligent in your dealings, and above all be safe!

As soon as it became apparent that Coronavirus was a potential problem for citizens worldwide, scammers got to work devising ways to capitalize on other’s misfortunes. As always, they are using the same tactics I covered in my book Scammunition – online, on the phone, and in-person. Here are some examples:

Fake online retailers are hawking test kits guaranteed to keep you and loved ones safe. There are NO test kits available online and don’t click on any links that promise otherwise.

Robocalls and fake promoters are offering to ship free test kits to Medicare beneficiaries who may be homebound or self-isolating. They are looking for your Medicare identification numbers to use illegally for other scams. Do NOT give our your info!

New charities have popped up all over looking for donations. Be especially wary of any that require gift cards, cash, or wire transfers. Go to http://www.charitynavigator.org for more information on how and what to do if you wish to make a donation.

Because more and more people are at home, dishonest individuals are scouting neighborhoods offering everything from toilet paper to hand sanitizer in an effort to get your personal information. Don’t open the door and engage with strangers. Protect yourself from being taken advantage of and remain vigilant.

As time goes on more scams will crisscross the nation. I will try to stay updated on potential problems and will pass them on. Stay healthy and well in all areas of your life.

It’s a New Month, a New Year, and a New Decade. As we remind ourselves to use the new year on paperwork and other materials, law enforcement officials and others are cautioning consumers to be sure they write out the whole year – 2020 – rather than just 20. Eliminating the 20 at the beginning of an entry invites scammers to take advantage of the omission by adding any number to the end and using that to their advantage. For example, modifying a document can make it appear to be post- dated or pre-dated depending on the situation and that can cause issues further down the line.20 can suddenly become 2021 or 2018 and everything changes without consumers ever knowing. Let’s make  2020 – A New Scam-Free Year for all!

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