AARP Massachusetts Monthly Fraud Watch Update for October 2017

Background:
Did you know that someone’s identity gets stolen every two seconds? The AARP Fraud Watch Network provides you with tips and resources to help you spot and avoid identity theft and fraud so you can protect yourself and your family. Our watchdog alerts will keep you up to date on con artists’ latest tricks. It’s free of charge for everyone: AARP members, non-members, and people of all ages.
The AARP Fraud Watch Network is:
 An Educator: Get real-time alerts about the latest scams, tips on how to spot them, and the inside scoop on how con artists think so you can outsmart them before they strike.
 A Watchdog: Our nationwide scam tracking map gives you access to a network of people who've spotted scams and the opportunity to pass along your own experiences, so together we can beat con artists at their own game.
A Resource: Get connected to a real live person trained in how to avoid fraud and advise you if you or a loved one has been scammed by calling our fraud hotline or attending a forum in your community.
 Free for Everyone: Anyone, of any age, can access our resources at no cost.
Scam Alert #1:
In the aftermath of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, and Maria, charity scams are coming at us by text, email, phone and social media. Scammers look to take advantage of our desire to help victims. If you plan to donate, make sure your money is going to the right place. Check Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator.org), Charity Watch (www.charitywatch.org) and Give.org to verify names and organizations before opening your heart – and wallet.
Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.
Report scams to local law enforcement. Contact the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork for more information on fraud prevention.
Scam Alert #2:
The Equifax data breach is scary stuff, with half of the U.S. population affected. You can take steps to protect against identity theft. Consider putting a freeze on your credit reports by contacting Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. You’ll have to lift the freeze when applying for credit, however. Closely monitor all statements from current bank accounts and credit cards and research whether credit monitoring is right for you.
Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.
Report scams to local law enforcement. Contact the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork for more information on fraud prevention.
Scam Alert #3:
A new scam in the name of the Make-A-Wish Foundation is cropping up across the country. Someone from the “Consumer Protection Agency” (which does not exist) will call to inform you you’ve won $450,000 as a second place winner in the Make-A-Wish Foundation Sweepstakes (which also does not exist). Guess what else doesn’t exist? The money! You’ll be asked to pay an upfront processing fee of $4,500. If you don’t have the cash, the caller will offer to loan it to you – you just need to supply your bank routing information for a wire transfer. A similar scam raked in $20 million when it was pulled seven years ago. If you get a call like this, hang up!
Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.
Report scams to local law enforcement. Contact the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork for more information on fraud prevention.
Scam Alert #4:
If you get an email from the IRS or FBI saying that you are “required” to complete a questionnaire regarding a new tax compliance law, click delete. It’s a fake and is intended to get you to click a link to said questionnaire. Once you do, you download “ransomware” which will hold the data on your computer hostage until you pay the thieves to unlock it. Report any ransomware attempt or attack to www.IC3.gov and forward any IRS-themed scams to phishing@irs.gov.
Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.
Report scams to local law enforcement. Contact the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork for more information on fraud prevention.