We are only a few days into the new year and we are already hearing from consumers who are being targeted by phone scams telling people they won a sweepstakes, fake links to click on bogus videos in social media, contractors who take money for a job and do not do the work, and fake census forms that ask for you to send money.
There will be no backing off by scam artists who will try to trick you in to releasing personal information and taking your money in 2020.
With this being an election year, consumers should also be on the lookout for suspicious posts, mail, and phone calls relating to politics or voter registration.
If you fall victim to a scam, most important, trust your gut instinct and question anything that seems suspicious or that you do not understand.
Do not click, post, or provide personal information or money until you can check things out with legitimate sources. To avoid getting hacked, update security settings, software, and passwords on a regular basis.
If you come across something suspicious or you think you have been scammed, contact consumer organizations like our Call4Action office, Better Business Bureau, state consumer protection offices and the Federal Trade Commission. Never be too scared, embarrassed, or ashamed to reach out for help. Your information could help others from being scammed.
