You’ll read about it every day. Another person has fallen victim to a scam or their identity has been stolen. It can take years to remove inaccurate information from creditor reports. Even worse, someone may steal your hard-earned nest egg. Understanding identity theft and other scams can help you avoid becoming a victim.
Be Careful With Your Online Activity
Sometimes the very convenience of the Internet can leave us vulnerable. And it’s not just hackers we have to worry about. We need to be wary of any unsolicited contacts, especially things like emails from financial entities asking for your account information or any other personal information. Giving sensitive information to someone you don’t know is never a good idea.
You can also protect your online information by:
- Using secure passwords and never sharing them.
- Deleting suspicious emails, especially those telling you to click on links contained in the emails.
- Not sharing sensitive personal information on social media. For example, don’t post public messages on Facebook telling people when you are going on vacation. You may return home to an empty house.
- Not clicking on ads and sponsored content. Often, ads contain malware that can leave your computer open to cyber-attacks.
- Installing and updating security software.
Phone Calls & Knocks At The Door
Scammers sometimes impersonate IRS agents, public officials, or representatives from financial institutions. Never give out your social security number, driver’s license number, and other sensitive information on the phone.
Even worse, crooks will knock at your door and persuade you to buy something or have them perform services around your house. Only deal with people you know or who have been recommended by friends and family.
It’s Not Always Strangers
Sadly, our senior citizens are sometimes at risk from their own family members. This is especially true for elderly people who need assistance with their day-to-day activities.
Don’t sign any legal documents without having an attorney review them first. If you feel pressured by a family member, get help. Arizona Adult Protective Services is one place where you can report fraud or abuse.
Have You Been A Victim?
Help is available. Check out the Arizona Attorney General for more information about scams.
We Offer Legal Assistance
Keystone Law Firm attorneys are experienced and skilled in analyzing circumstances and in helping our clients make thoughtful decisions. Call us at (480) 418-8448 to set up an appointment. We offer services for clients throughout Arizona, including Chandler, Gilbert, Sun Lakes, Tempe, Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale, and Apache Junction.
