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May 6, 2024
Let’s talk about spam texts and emails
Another day, another round of spam texts and emails trying to sell you things. At best, spam is annoying. At worst, it’s pushing scams or trying to install malware on your device. If you’re tired of getting spam, there are some ways to help.
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April 24, 2024
Did a celebrity really endorse THAT? Maybe not.
Before you spend money on that celebrity-endorsed premium cookware, weight loss product, or can’t-miss money-making opportunity, pause. Take a breath. Are you sure a celebrity or influencer is really endorsing that product or program? Maybe a scammer is behind that online ad.
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April 18, 2024
Do you really own the digital items you paid for?
Have you ever bought a video game, e-book, song, or movie to enjoy on one of your devices, whether it be a gaming console, tablet, or phone? If so, you might think that you’ll always have access to these things. But you might not — here’s why.
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April 1, 2024
Did you get a call or text about a suspicious purchase on Amazon? It’s a scam
One way to spot a scam is to understand its mechanics. A new and complicated scam starts with a call or text message about a suspicious charge on your Amazon account. But it’s not really Amazon. It’s a scammer with an elaborate story about fraud using your identity that ends with you draining your bank or retirement accounts.
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March 13, 2024
Sure ways to spot a scammer
Scammers say and do things that can tell us they’re lying — and they’re not who they pretend to be. Of course, to hear or see those clues, we have to get past the panic scammers make us feel, thanks to the so-called emergencies they try to create. And since scammers are convincing, that can be hard to do. But recent scams are costing people their life savings, so here are some sure ways to spot the scammer.
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March 5, 2024
Never move your money to “protect it.” That’s a scam
People are losing big money to scammers running complicated scams. The scams usually involve someone supposedly spotting fraud or criminal activity on one of your accounts, offering to help “protect” your money, sometimes asking you to share verification codes, and always telling you to move money from your bank, investment, or retirement account. And every bit of it is a scam.
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February 15, 2024
Government impersonators mail fake notices to business owners
You’ve heard about scammers who pose as government workers, calling to demand your money or information. But imposters are running scams by mail too. They’re sending fake forms and letters from made-up agencies to small business owners and demanding payment ASAP. Here’s what to know and do if you get a letter like this.
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January 30, 2024
San Joaquin District Attorney's Office Raises Awareness During Identity Theft Awareness Week
In observance of Identity Theft Awareness Week, the San Joaquin District Attorney's Office urges the community to stay informed and vigilant against the threat of identity theft.
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January 23, 2024
The IRS doesn't send tax refunds by email or text
Got an email or text message about a tax refund? It’s a scam.
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January 3, 2024
New year, new weight loss scams
Scammers follow the headlines — and the seasons. As the new year rolls around, we’re sure to hear lots of “new year, new you” advertising around health and fitness products. But some of those promotions are just scams out to get your money. Here’s how to spot them.