Latest Scams You Need to Be Aware in 2024

Scammers use everything from tech-driven technology to emergency events to gain access to your information and finances.
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Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics to exploit new technologies and current events.

Here are some of the latest scams that have become more prevalent in 2024, impacting consumers across various areas:

Tech-Driven Scams

AI-powered scams:

Scammers utilize AI to create more convincing phishing emails, generate deepfakes for impersonation scams, and even automate personalized scam messages.

QR Codes scams:

QR code scams exploit the convenience and widespread use of QR codes to trick people into giving up personal information or downloading malware. Scammers replace legitimate QR codes with their own malicious versions in public places like restaurants, stores, or transportation hubs.

Phishing Emails/Texts:

These types of scams are never-ending. Scammers send emails or text messages often with urgent or enticing messages to lure you clicking a link. These messages might claim a problem with your account, a package delivery issue, or a special offer.

According to the Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book 2023, Americans lost over $372 million to text scams and $430 million to email scams in 2023.

Fake Wi-Fi Networks:

Hackers set up rogue Wi-Fi hotspots with names that mimic legitimate networks, often in public places like coffee shops, airports, and hotels.

Once connected hackers can intercept all your internet traffic including login credentials, credit card details, and browsing history.

“Card declined” scams:

Scammers send messages claiming your card was declined for an online purchase and provide a link to update your information, leading to a phishing site.

Romance scams

Pig Butchering:

This scam involves building trust with victims online, often through dating apps or social media, and then luring them into fraudulent investment schemes, particularly with cryptocurrency.

Inheritance Scams:

Scammers pose as someone with a large inheritance or a valuable asset they need help accessing. They may claim to be royalty, a long-lost relative, or a lawyer representing a deceased person.

Scammers will concoct elaborate stories about needing money to pay legal fees, taxes, or bribes to release the inheritance. They often promise to share the wealth with the victim once they receive it.

Military Romance Scams:

Scammers create fake profiles of military personnel, often using stolen photos and identities to build relationships and manipulate victims for money.

They then weave stories about needing money for emergency leave, medical expenses, or to ship belongings and promise to visit or build a future together once they return from deployment.

Finance Scams

Bitcoin ATM:

Scammers may claim your computer or bank accounts have been hacked and they can help if you follow their instructions. They will instruct victims to withdraw cash from their bank and direct you to a nearby Bitcoin ATM, where they text you a QR code to scan at the machine. That zips the money directly to the thieves’ crypto wallet.

Credit Privacy Numbers (CPN):

CPN promoters claim these numbers can help you establish a new credit history, separate from your SSN, allowing you to hide past credit mistakes. Don’t fall for it. Using a CPN instead of your SSN on credit applications is a form of fraud.

It’s illegal to misrepresent your identity to lenders. Plus, often CPNs are actually stolen Social Security numbers, belonging to children, the elderly, deceased individuals or simply made up out of thin air.

Investment scams:

Fraudsters promote fake investment opportunities, often promising high returns with little risk, especially in trending areas like cryptocurrency and AI.

Debt relief scams:

Companies offer to help reduce or eliminate debt for a fee but often provide little or no actual assistance.

Student loan forgiveness scams:

Scammers target borrowers with promises of quick and easy student loan forgiveness, often charging upfront fees for services that are free through the government.

Emergency scams:

Scammers exploit current events or natural disasters to solicit donations for fake charities or impersonate government officials offering assistance.

Job scams:

Fraudsters post fake job listings to collect personal information or charge fees for non-existent employment opportunities.

Check out LifeLock Identity Theft Services to see the services offered.

Top 10 Companies Most Impersonated

Tips to Protect Your Information

Unfortunately there’s no way to scam-proof your information. But there are several actions you can take to help deter scammers:

  • Be Skeptical: Never trust unsolicited calls or messages demanding immediate payment or threatening legal action.
  • Verify Identities: Independently verify the identity of anyone claiming to represent a government agency or company.
  • Never Send Money to Strangers: Do not send money via Bitcoin ATM or any other method to someone you don’t know and trust.
  • Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect you have been targeted by this scam, report it to the authorities immediately.
  • Strong Passwords and Unique Security Questions: Use strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts and avoid using easily guessable security questions.
  • Two-Factor Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
  • Enhanced Security Measures: Consider using app-based two-factor authentication or a physical security key instead of SMS-based authentication.
  • Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank statements and credit reports for any suspicious activity.
  • Be Wary of Phishing Attempts: Don’t click on links or open attachments in emails from unknown senders.
  • Limit Personal Information Online: Be mindful of the personal information you share on social media and other online platforms.
  • Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic, making it difficult for hackers to intercept your data even on a fake Wi-Fi network. 
  • Verify Network Names: Double-check the exact name and spelling of the Wi-Fi network before connecting. If in doubt, ask an employee for the correct network name.      
  • Do your research: Before investing in any opportunity or making a donation, thoroughly research the company or organization.
  • Verify Network Names: Double-check the exact name and spelling of the Wi-Fi network before connecting. If in doubt, ask an employee for the correct network name.
  • Avoid Sensitive Activities: Refrain from accessing sensitive information like online banking or making online purchases while on public Wi-Fi.
  • Keep Your Software Updated: Ensure your operating system and security software are up to date to protect against malware.
  • Turn Off Automatic Connections: Disable the feature that automatically connects your device to available Wi-Fi networks.
 

Staying informed about the latest scams is crucial for protecting yourself and your finances. Remember to be cautious, verify information, and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.

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