Even during National Consumer Protection Week, scammers continue targeting residents with fraudulent schemes.
On Wednesday, the Houghton County Prosecutor posted a warning to alert residents and visitors of a recent toll scam Prosecutor Dan Helmer received via text. The office says courts will never contact people through text messages, nor will law enforcement or prosecutor offices.
Today marks “Slam the Scam” day during National Consumer Protection Week with the Social Security Administration. Fraudsters will impersonate anyone to separate victims from their money or steal important personal information. Many scammers contact people through electronic means such as texts, emails or phone calls. Paper and mail scams also remain popular methods.
The Social Security Administration says there are four key characteristics to look for if you think you have been contacted by a scammer:
The scam will often involve an individual impersonating someone from an agency or organization and will notify a victim there has been a problem that needs immediate attention. Another characteristic is the immediacy used to pressure a victim into acting on the scam. Scammers will also require a victim pay in a specific way, such as using gift cards.
Another factor officials want consumers to consider is the rise of artificial intelligence used by scammers. These scams can be harder to spot and may attempt to persuade individuals using pressure tactics.
More details about “Slam the Scam” during National Consumer Protection Week are available here.
Find Houghton County Prosecutor Dan Helmer’s post about toll scams here.
