THIS IS NOT ME! Hosts Leigh and Angie dive into financial scams, sharing Thelma’s story to uncover how scammers use psychology to target even the most cautious people.
#elderfraud #giftcardscam #Thelma #38%prepared #38pctprepared #38percentprepared
Key Points:
- A $5 software add-on led to an elaborate scam.
- Scammers use psychology to manipulate victims.
- Politeness makes it hard to stop scams.
- Victims often feel too ashamed to report them.
Alarming Stats:
- FBI reports $3.5B lost to scams in 2023.
- Elder fraud victims lose $33,915 on average.
- 81% of victims feel anger, 36% feel shame.
- 24% never tell anyone about their experience.
Safety Tips:
- Avoid email links; go directly to bank websites.
- Hang up on suspicious calls, then call your bank.
- Set family consultation requirements for large transactions.
- Don’t be afraid to be “rude” to protect yourself.
- Talk fraud prevention with family.
- Set transaction limits on accounts.
- Check local consumer resources through the police.
Resources/Credits:
Gift Card Scams
Gift Card Scams/Federal Trade Commission Consumer advice
Elder Fraud Conversation We Need
