Recognizing a Scam.
Most scam attempts involve one or more of the following:
- An email or text from someone that is not in your local area.
- A vague initial inquiry (Example: asking about "the item").
- Poor grammar and spelling.
- A transfer of money through Western Union, Money Gram, Cashier's Check, Money Order, PayPal, iTunes, purchasing a gift card or an escrow service.
- You are sent a cashier's check or money order and are asked to keep part of the funds and wire a partial amount of the funds back to them.
- You are not able to meet with the person face-to-face to complete the transaction.
Tips to Avoiding a Scam.
- Deal locally and face-to-face
- Never give out your financial information (bank account numbers, social security number, online banking credentials, PayPal account information, etc...)
- Beware of offers involving shipping
- Don't wire funds to someone asking you to wire a partial amount of the money they paid you thru a check.
|