Consumer Alerts
Here are the top Consumer Alerts from March you should be aware of:
Disaster Relief and Charity Scams
By posing as charities, scammers may attempt to steal donations and financial information. Donate safely by researching charities and avoiding pressure tactics. Never give using unknown links or unusual payment methods. Always verify legitimacy and donate directly through trusted organizations.
Scammers exploit disasters with imposter scams, price gouging, and fraudulent contractors. Beware of fake FEMA workers, flood-damaged cars, and charity scams. Always verify credentials, get contracts in writing, and research charities before donating.
Government imposter scams use calls, texts, or emails to trick victims into providing personal information or money. Real agencies won’t demand payment or request details this way. Protect yourself: don’t click links, block scammers, and report fraud to authorities. When in doubt, ignore and verify directly with the agency.
Phishing scams use fake emails or texts (smishing) to steal personal data or install malware. A rising smishing scam mimics package delivery notifications to trick users into revealing sensitive information. Protect yourself by avoiding suspicious links, not sharing personal details via text, and reporting scam messages to 7726 (SPAM) or the FCC.
Free Credit Reports: What Consumers Should Know
Your credit report impacts loans, interest rates, and even job prospects. Regularly reviewing reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion helps detect errors and identity theft. Access free weekly reports at AnnualCreditReport.com. Understanding your credit report and score can improve financial health and prevent surprises when applying for credit.
Cryptocurrency Scam – Pig Butchering
A new cryptocurrency scam, “pig butchering,” combines romance scams with fake investments to steal victims’ money. Scammers build trust before urging targets to invest in fraudulent platforms. Protect yourself—avoid sharing financial info online, beware of unsolicited messages, and report scams immediately to authorities.
Data Breaches: What to do Next
Scammers are stealing personal data, leading to rising identity theft cases. If you get a data breach notice, act fast to protect yourself. Change passwords, monitor credit reports, and report fraud. Use two-factor authentication and consider a credit freeze.
