How to Spot a Scammer YouTube: Mistakes I made when Applying for a job and other life events
2It's important you're aware of the many new scams around at the moment because of coronavirus. Scams to look out for include:
Advertising face masks or medical equipment at high prices.
Emails or texts pretending to be from the government.
Emails offering life insurance against coronavirus.
People knocking at your door and asking for money for charity.
If you see emails or texts about coronavirus from someone you don't know, or from an unusual email address, don't click on any links or buy anything.
Don't give money or personal details to anyone you don't know or trust - for example someone who knocks on the door and offers to help.
It might be a scam if:
it seems too good to be true – for example, a holiday that’s much cheaper than you’d expect
someone you don’t know contacts you unexpectedly.
you suspect you’re not dealing with a real company – for example, if there’s no postal address
you’ve been asked to transfer money quickly.
you've been asked to pay in an unusual way – for example, by iTunes vouchers or through a transfer service like MoneyGram or Western Union.
you’ve been asked to give away personal information like passwords or PINs
you haven't had written confirmation of what's been agreed.
5 Tips to Spot a Scammer
Spelling and Grammar. I think the best and easiest way to identify if you're working with a scammer. Broken or improper English. During my research this was the common denominator that connected all of the criminals.
The second most common is the method of communication.
Yes, scammers can commit in person acts. My research has led me to the conclusion these people always communicate via email or electronic communications including the telephone.
The use of third party applications for communications, payments, or platforms to transfer information. This includes payment for services rendered or other transactions in GIFT CARDS.
Taking offense when baiting the victim to the next step. There is always another step in the process that requires you to do something else, one usually involving your personal information. The thought is so preposterous that they are not who they say they are and that they want your money.
Honesty. The ability to answer the questions you have is what determines how you proceed when dealing with online marketers. If they have trouble answering simple questions that protect you--red flags should appear.
Questions to ask yourself:
Are you purchasing this item because someone is telling you a loved one is in danger?
Has someone threatened you or a family member with legal action or physical harm if you don’t purchase this product?
Do you feel afraid?
Do you feel time pressured to make this purchase right now?
Common Scams:
Child/grandchild hospitalized or in trouble
Unconfirmed emergency situation
Utility bill is due behind in payment
IRS or police stating there is a warrant issued for your arrest
You are a lottery prize winner you just have to pay the taxes before collecting
Online love scams, need money to visit
Immigration matters
Rental property payments or deposits
Antivirus protection
Online purchases that seem too good to be true
These are only some of the different types of scams.