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Top 10 Consumer/Internet Scams of 2014
Here are 10 consumer/internet scams that we should keep an eye out for in 2014:
10. Ebay / Auction Reseller Scam:
We start our list of 10 consumer scams with ebay/auction reseller scam. Here, the scammers pose as buyers and attempt to convince sellers into shipping goods prior to receiving payment. Usually the fake buyer claims it’s an ‘emergency’ like a child’s birthday and asks the seller to ship the goods within hours of notice. The seller receives an email that appears as though it came from PayPal for the payment, but e-mails like that are easy for scammers to spoof.
9. Do Not Call Scams
The National Do Not Call Registry (U.S.) and the National Do Not Call List (Canada) both offer consumers an interesting way to reduce telemarketing calls to their homes. Scammers call anyway, of course, and they’ve even found a way to scam consumers by pretending to be a government official calling to sign you up or confirming your previous participation on the Dot Not call list!
8. Arrest Warrant Scam
Scammers create a fake Caller ID, which allows them to call you and appear to be calling from a local police, sheriff or other law enforcement agency. They say there is a warrant out for your arrest, but that you can pay a fine in order to avoid criminal charges. Of course, these scammers don’t take credit cards; only a Western Union Moneygram, other wire transfer or pre-paid debit card will do.
7. Invisible Home Improvements
In addition to email, mail and phone, scammers now just show up at your door. Scammers posing as home improvement contractors come door-to-door sale and target seniors, those who live alone, and victims of weather-related disasters are common targets.
6. Survey Scam
This common email scam looks innocent enough. You’ve expressed interest in social issues, such as global warming or the war in the Middle East, and you’ve been sent a survey that requests your input. Why not participate? Unless you’ve specifically requested to be on a survey mailing list, what you’re getting is nothing but spam.
When you click on the link to take the survey, malicious spyware or malware is installed on your computer. Once this occurs, cybercriminals can spy on every move you make on your computer, collecting passwords, bank account information, and more. Suddenly, you may see thousands of dollars worth of charges on your credit card bill for purchases you never made. This is result of identity theft, and it can ruin your life.
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