People are reporting getting calls (and calls) (and more calls) about their supposed “loan application.” Only they hadn’t applied for a loan. So what’s going on? When people don’t pick up, the callers leave messages saying the imaginary “loan application” is on hold because the business needs more information, so please call back. The callsContinue reading “Hang up on unwanted calls about loans”
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Operation AI Comply: Detecting AI-infused frauds and deceptions
There’s been a lot of hype and excitement about artificial intelligence and all the amazing things it can, or one day might, do. Some companies are developing and selling AI tools, while others are flaunting the benefits of incorporating it into their existing business models. And some businesses aren’t being truthful when it comes toContinue reading “Operation AI Comply: Detecting AI-infused frauds and deceptions”
Solar energy is rising in popularity. So are the scams
Did a salesperson knock on your door and promise free rooftop solar panels at no cost to you? Or say you’ll never have to pay another electricity bill because government programs, grants, or rebates cover your solar installation? It’s likely a scam. While there are some government-funded solar programs for households that qualify, “going solar”Continue reading “Solar energy is rising in popularity. So are the scams”
Marriott data breach settlement: What it means for consumers
Marriott settled charges related to a data breach that exposed the information of millions of guests. The company will take steps to better protect customers’ personal information. And it will give customers more control over their information. If you’re a Marriott customer, here’s what the settlement means for you: (Read More)
After a disaster make your donations count
Many communities are experiencing devastating losses from recent hurricanes, and no one knows how long it will take to recover. Maybe you’re considering donating to help people in those communities. But how can you avoid charity scams and make sure your donations go to the people who need them and not to a scammer? (ReadContinue reading “After a disaster make your donations count”
Don’t take the bait on phishing scams
Have you ever gotten a text or email warning you that something is wrong with an account online? Maybe it says your streaming account is about to be suspended unless you respond quickly. It might even have a link that will supposedly fix your account’s problems. The message looks real. But is it? (Read More)
Beware: ‘Card declined’ message for online purchase could be sign of a scam
Rob Gilbert recently thought he was buying some items online for himself and some gifts for his mom’s upcoming birthday after clicking on an ad for a major retailer. But when Gilbert went to check out, he got a “card declined” message. He didn’t think much of it. It was a new card and he had forgottenContinue reading “Beware: ‘Card declined’ message for online purchase could be sign of a scam”
Selling on the internet? Beware of sneaky tactics scammers use to trick you
Selling stuff online can be tempting. You don’t have to go out and hunt for buyers. Instead, you can just post an ad on platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace and wait for people to reach out to you. But along with the ease of online selling comes the risk of getting scammed. (Read More)
Woman loses life savings of almost $10,000 to bank scam
A call that showed up as her bank ended up draining a woman’s savings.Scammers are getting more sophisticated than ever before, and will now use your bank’s name in an email or text message to try to get your attention. But they may also use a spoofed number to get you on the phone. A callContinue reading “Woman loses life savings of almost $10,000 to bank scam”
U.S. Attorney Announces Charges Against 18 Defendants In Scheme To Manufacture And Distribute Millions Of Deadly Counterfeit Pharmaceuticals Through Fake Online Pharmacies
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York; Katrina W. Berger, the Executive Associate Director of Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”); Anne Milgram, the Administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”); William S. Walker, the Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of HSI; Frank A. Tarentino III,Continue reading “U.S. Attorney Announces Charges Against 18 Defendants In Scheme To Manufacture And Distribute Millions Of Deadly Counterfeit Pharmaceuticals Through Fake Online Pharmacies”
The Virginia SMP 