You get a call from a panicked grandchild or other family member. They say they're in a time-sensitive crisis—hospitalized after a car accident or jailed for example—and beg for immediate financial help.
All charity scams are deplorable, but those pretending to raise funds to support our nation’s veterans are particularly shameful. Last week, the Federal Trade Commission, along with state charities regulators, announced a major takedown of fake veteran charities.
In 2016, there were over 3,600 reported complaints of interstate moving fraud. The offenses include taking goods hostage, overcharges, loss and damage, and insurance issues. The average loss claim was a jaw-dropping $8,000.
There are plenty of reputable contests and sweepstakes out there (including some from AARP), and let’s be honest, winning feels great! But there are questionable characters out there too, who are trying to hook you on winning and reel in the profits for themselves.
Hail, wind, fire and tornadoes can make the summer months a dangerous time to live in South Dakota. Unfortunately for many of us, when it comes to natural disasters it may not be a matter of ‘if’ but ‘when’.
With the tech support scam, you get an online popup or a call from a well-known tech company (like Microsoft or Apple) saying that a virus has been identified on your computer. The scammer convinces you that he can fix the problem for a fee. Victims who catch on and stop payment are now getting hit with an associated scam.
It’s home improvement season, and to help members age in place, AARP South Dakota is offering information on how to make a home safe and comfortable at any age.