AARP Massachusetts Monthly Fraud Watch update for July 2018

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:

Summer is a time for vacation, but as you book a rental property for your trip, be sure to use trusted websites. A rental owner may offer a discount if you pay outside of the official website to avoid certain fees, but it is not worth it! Scammers can send links to fake websites for payment, and only on check-in day do renters discover they’ve been scammed. Official rental websites can ensure your rental agreement and protect your money in these cases, but only if communication and payment happen through the official website. Exercise caution when booking your trips to ensure that you have the fun and relaxing experience you deserve.

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:

As you travel this summer, it may be tempting to search out free Wi-Fi to access the internet. Please remember that free or public Wi-Fi does not guarantee a secure internet connection. On an open and unprotected network, online actions are not secure and can be tracked by hackers to steal personal information, login credentials, and even credit card information. In an effort to trick you scammers may also create fake networks that appear authentic. If you are at a location that offers free Wi-Fi, verify with an employee that you are on the correct network, especially if there are multiple network options that look legitimate. Please don’t share sensitive information while using these unprotected connections!

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:

Summer can be a great time to tackle home repair jobs, but be wary of uninvited repairmen and women who stop by without an appointment. They may claim to have just finished work at a neighbor’s house and offer you a discount while they are in the area with leftover materials. Once a deposit is paid, the work may never begin! If you want work done at your house, seek out repair companies yourself or ask for recommendations from friends and neighbors directly. Check with state authorities to be sure they are properly licensed and to learn about your rights. Do thorough research to ensure the company or individual is trustworthy and will deliver high quality work before you pay for any services.

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.