Author Archives: virginiasmp

Social media is used as a fun distraction for some people, and taking a Facebook quiz may seem like a harmless way to pass the time. But are you giving away more information than you think? How the scam works: A fun quiz pops up on your Facebook feed or another social media platform. AContinue reading “Bored? Think twice before taking that Facebook quiz”

When U.S. Air Force veteran Amanda Pelletier, 49, set out to decorate the new home in Spring Branch, Texas, that she and her husband, Michael, 52, had purchased after their retirement from the military, she needed some side tables and other pieces of furniture. Like many people these days, she searched online and connected withContinue reading “Everything You Need to Know About Facebook Marketplace Scams”

Alan Swiss has been charged with health care fraud and conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute. According to statements made in court and publicly filed documents, Swiss operated Tropical Medical Marketing Inc., a call center that cold-called Medicare beneficiaries and used their personal and medical information without the beneficiaries’ knowledge or consent to prepare ordersContinue reading “Man Arrested for Role in Fraudulent Billing for DME”

February is Black History Month — a great time to help raise awareness in Black communities, and among your family and friends, by staying on top of the latest scams that might affect them. We know that talking about a scam helps you avoid it — and it helps people you care about avoid them,Continue reading “Be scam free for Black History Month”

This Valentine’s Day is shaping up to be big, according to projections by the National Retail Federation, which suggests that consumer spending will reach nearly $26 billion.  As you prepare to celebrate, there are a few common scams that you need to be aware of. Whether hoping to spark a new relationship or buying gifts forContinue reading “Top Valentine’s Day scams”

Country superstar Blake Shelton is tall, tousle-haired and so ruggedly handsome that People magazine once proclaimed him the “Sexiest Man Alive.” When J.R., a woman in her 60s in Alabama, heard she could enter a $1 million contest to be chosen the Grammy-winning singer’s fan of the year a few years ago, she decided to enter. ToContinue reading “Scammers and Celebrity Impostors Defraud Fans of Millions”

Elan Yaish, a former president of pharmacy Apogee Bio-Pharm LLC, was sentenced to three years in prison and ordered to pay $32 million in restitution for his role in a $32 million health care kickback conspiracy. According to documents filed and statements made in court, Yaish and others agreed to engage in a scheme toContinue reading “Former Pharmacy President Sentenced to Three Years”

Playing cupid? A quick online shopping scroll shows tons of exciting Valentine’s gifts for those you love. If you order now, many sellers guarantee delivery on or before Valentine’s Day. But what happens when your order doesn’t arrive by that guaranteed date? As a customer, you have rights. Here’s what to know.  (Read More)

Scammers follow the headlines — and the seasons. As the new year rolls around, we’re sure to hear lots of “new year, new you” advertising around health and fitness products. But some of those promotions are just scams out to get your money. Here’s how to spot them. (Read More)

As your social media and mailboxes fill up with New Year’s greetings, you might see some unfamiliar names. Are the messages from long-lost friends or romance scammers trying to get close? Here are some things to watch for. (Read More)