Looking for some life hacks or advice about managing money? There’s no shortage of online influencers ready to help. But not all advice is good advice (or truthful). And in some cases, what they’re telling you might be more than a bad idea — it might be illegal. CONTINUE
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What to Know About Cryptocurrency Scams
Cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin, ethereum, solana and hundreds may be touted as an exciting, new commodity. But many people have experienced dramatic losses, some through bogus investment platforms touted by scammers as sure moneymakers. CONTINUE
How to spot an out-of-stock scam before losing money
With the holiday shopping season nearing its close and buyers wanting to get gifts delivered on time, there’s a crafty online shopping con being reported to BBB Scam Tracker. Scammers claim a product you purchased is out of stock, but they never process your promised refund. CONTINUE
Update: Doctor Sentenced for Health Care Fraud
In an update to a November 1, 2024, story, Dr. Kenneth Fishberger was sentenced to two years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay fines, forfeiture, and restitution totaling more than $440,000. Read a Department of Justice press release.
Spot the scams when fixing your credit
If there’s information on your credit report that’s correct but not so great, it can make it harder to get credit with good terms. But there are things you can do yourself for free to help fix your credit. Credit repair companies also charge to do the same things. Before you consider paying, though, knowContinue reading “Spot the scams when fixing your credit”
In ‘Do Me a Favor’ Scams, a Criminal Pretends to Be Your Pal
Last year, Sonia Nofziger received an email that appeared to be from the new CEO of the small tech company in Philadelphia where she works: “Hi, Could you possibly complete a task for me before I leave for a meeting? Send me your mobile num. Thanks. Kevin.” She didn’t think twice about emailing him her number,Continue reading “In ‘Do Me a Favor’ Scams, a Criminal Pretends to Be Your Pal “
What to know before purchasing a gift card
Gift cards are a popular and convenient gift-giving option, but they are also a target for scammers. Stay one step ahead and shop carefully to avoid a scam known as “gift card draining.” CONTINUE
Man Pleads in Telemedicine Scheme
Eric Van Vleet, who operated Hype Med LLC, pleaded guilty to conspiring to bill Medicare for medically unnecessary prescriptions. He and his company identified Medicare beneficiaries to target for expensive drugs. Call center employees contacted beneficiaries to pressure them to agree to try expensive medications, such as pain creams, scar creams, eczema creams, migraine medication,Continue reading “Man Pleads in Telemedicine Scheme”
Traveling to the Olympics in Italy? Here’s how to avoid a scam
With the winter Olympics in Italy fast approaching, athletes around the world are fine-tuning their routines, sharpening their skates, and finalizing their travel itineraries. If you’re planning to go to the Olympics, having a sound game plan is a key to success, just as it is for the competitors. Here’s what to know about travel,Continue reading “Traveling to the Olympics in Italy? Here’s how to avoid a scam”
How to Steer Clear of Customer Service Scams
Whenever we have a problem with a charge or a purchase, it’s comforting to talk to a real person on the phone to resolve the issue. Unfortunately, criminals know that, too, and are eager to take advantage of it. In customer service scams, criminals lure their targets into calling phony customer support numbers for payment apps andContinue reading “How to Steer Clear of Customer Service Scams”
The Virginia SMP 