Articles - Archived Money Matters
(Copy and paste the text into your document)Sweepstakes, Lottery and Check Scams
Every so often, you hear about one of these scams making the rounds…and these days it's happening more than ever. Either someone just won a sweepstakes, the lottery or just learned of a wealthy long lost relative who wished to leave them everything. Unfortunately, most of these scenarios are scams, and they involve hundreds of people working long hours to contact victims, build trust and steal money or valuable information. Following are some of the most common scenarios scammers use to prey on unsuspecting victims…
Lottery/Advance Fee Scam
This is one of the most common unsolicited types of emails hitting inboxes today. It informs victims they've won a large sum of money in an international lottery. Unfortunately, the lottery or prize does not exist. Additionally, when victims reply, they are asked for advanced fees to cover the delivery of their supposed "winnings." In most cases, these victims often face identify theft issues, as well as other expenses.
Nigerian 419/Inheritance Scam
The victim receives a letter, fax or email from a foreign country with news that a long lost relative has died. Scammers then pose as legitimate companies or government officials requesting personal and financial information.
Lonely Heart Scam
Scammers surf personal ads or matchmaking websites for victims to befriend through cyber relationships. This makes victims more vulnerable and willing to share personal and financial information.
Rent Scam
Scammers re-advertise legitimate rental homes online and/or in newspaper ads for a much lower price. They then request an upfront payment or deposit from the potential renter who is desiring to get approved.If you receive a letter or email requesting personal financial information, and it appears you are getting something for little or nothing, you may be looking at a scam…beware!
