(Storm Lake)– Area residents are reminded that scammers are out in full force during the holidays. Carol Ehlers, a Human Sciences Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, says a big focus is watching for fake websites or apps…
“Please double check the URL. You’re looking for the start of https:. Also be looking for a lock icon that you’ll see on that website as well. When purchasing and using your credit card, always re-assess the network that you’re on. If it’s a public wi-fi, you’re really increasing your chances of falling victim to a scam. And this is a great time to check out email or text alerts that can be set up with a credit card company or with your bank.”
Ehlers says gift card scams can also be problematic for consumers…
“There’s no recourse for you as a consumer if that gift card might be stolen or used without your authorization. And what they’re looking for in terms of scams is that they’re going to call, text you, email, or even use a social media message to persuade you to purchase that gift card. And what they’re trying to acquire is once you have the card number and the pin code. So when working with the Iowa Attorney General’s Office and on mitigation, we better understand these gift cards are really to be seen just like cash. So if they’re misused it’s very difficult to trace.”
Ehlers also encourages citizens to be on the lookout for phishing emails…
“And it can be in the form of text message as well, pretending to be a delivery company. And we’ve heard of many of these in terms of those being reported. They’ll claim to be a national delivery company but really they’re trying to seek out information from you through this web that they’ve contacted you. So always check that parcel that’s to be delivered, that status, against the original delivery company website that you purchased it.”
One-on-one coaching and support is available for scam and fraud victims through a collaboration between ISU Extension and the Iowa Attorney General’s Office. The Iowa Concern Hotline number is 800-447-1985. A workshop from ISU Extension called “Stay Independent : Spot, Stop, and Avoid Fraud” is also available. Participants learn about common scams and warning signs and how to take action to protect against theft of money, property, or belongings. More information can be found on the ISU Extension or Iowa Attorney General website.
(Courtesy Community First Broadcasting station KAYL in Storm Lake)
