You Can Stay Away from Fraud!

Posted: February 28, 2019

“If you didn’t enter a sweepstakes, you cannot win”

Someren Glen recently had a presentation about fraud, scams and identity theft. Barbara Martin-Worley, the Arapahoe County Director of Consumer Fraud Protection presented on several common areas of fraudulent attacks. It was a very well attended event with residents and visitors who learned tips and tricks to avoid scams and frauds, and revealed some of the common scams/frauds to be on the lookout for.

Some of the highlights included:

• Computer scams: “Microsoft” calls you to let you know that you are having issues with your computer, and that they would like to fix it. You provide them access to your entire computer which has personal information on it. Note: Microsoft does not keep track of its computers, and they will not call you to fix it.
• Sweepstakes scams: Someone calls you to tell you that you’ve just won $100,000 in a sweepstakes! In order to receive the money, you have to provide them with some information like social security number or a payment upfront. Note: If you did not enter a sweepstakes, you cannot win.
• Kidnapping scams: A young sounding individual calls you in a panic saying they have been kidnapped in Mexico. They say “Grandma, it’s me. I have been kidnapped and I need you to send money in order for me to return home.” They further explain why they are not able to call their parents, and you feel obligated to help them out. Note: Speak with family first before you wire any money. Confirm that it is actually your grandchild, and not someone pretending to be your grandchild.

These are just of the few of the topics that were covered. If you believe you are a victim of fraud, or if you have additional questions there are resources available online. Here’s a link to important consumer resources.