I get a scam message almost every day. I try not to fall for them… but I’m 71 now, and as time goes on (hopefully for a long time), I might not be as sharp at avoiding them.
So, what’s the solution… or is there one? I know people who should’ve known better and have been scammed out of thousands of dollars. They should have known better, but somehow got taken. I’m talking about scams like the fake Microsoft or fake Apple ones, not the more extreme ones like fake movie stars.
Is law enforcement doing anything about this? Or are they already involved? Is there anything that can be done to help protect people from these scams?
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Sadly, there’s not much that can be done to stop them. When a scam gets shut down, it usually comes right back.
The only thing law enforcement can do is help educate people, but even with all the warnings, people still fall for scams. I’ve seen a lot of people post about getting scammed and then argue with the advice they get, so it doesn’t work for everyone.
If someone figured out a way to block scam emails and texts without missing important messages, they’d be one of the richest people in the world. It’s not as simple as just calling a number or clicking a link. A lot has to happen for someone to fall for a scam. You can learn to spot the patterns to protect yourself. Scams often rely on fear or greed. If you feel like someone is playing on those emotions, take a step back and think it through before doing anything.
If it’s an option for you, you might think about putting your money in a revocable trust managed by a family member you trust.
A revocable trust gives you some protection, and you’re still safe from scams. Plus, it’s easier on your family than if they had to prove you’re not capable of handling your own finances.
Also, don’t forget to set up a financial power of attorney.
@TransparentTalk2
I’ve already put my assets in a revocable trust. I still have my mental clarity, but my nephew is ready if needed. All the important documents are in place.
To avoid scam calls and texts, set your phone to only let calls from your contacts through. On iPhones, this is a simple setting, and Androids can do something similar with the Do Not Disturb function. Make sure anyone who needs to reach you is in your contacts list. With this setting, anyone not in your contacts will go straight to voicemail. If you’re worried about missing calls from someone important, rest assured that anyone with a real issue will leave a voicemail. Unknown texts will go to your spam folder or come in silently. If you see a text from a number not in your contacts, just delete it without opening it.
Your phone carrier might also block some spam calls before they reach your phone, so you never see them.
Be aware though, this doesn’t work for calls that use number spoofing, where the caller ID looks like someone you know. In those cases, the best thing to do is recognize the feeling of panic rising in you, and take a step back to think critically. If you have any doubts, say you’re busy and will call them back—then hang up and do it. Scammers will often try to stop you from hanging up, but real callers won’t mind.
@MarieCampbell
I’ve had my iPhone set to only let calls from my contacts come through for a while now, just to avoid the annoyance. I’m not worried about myself right now, but I’m thinking ahead about what could be done to protect others who might not be as aware.
A lot of law enforcement officers are working hard to help victims and fight scams every day. But because scams can come from anywhere in the world, it’s a tough battle. Even the best efforts can feel like fighting against a never-ending wave.
I’m sure there will be more technical ways to stop scams in the future, but scammers always find new tricks. Education is the best defense.
Be proactive: Keep track of your bills and know when you’re being billed by new vendors. If you’re buying a house or doing something big with money, research the process and any hidden fees.
Manage your finances: Use good software to track who you’ve paid and when. You can’t be told you didn’t pay something if you’ve already reconciled it.
Rely on your own data: Check your accounts to see if there are any issues and keep important communications like bank notifications.
Use email aliases: Create separate email addresses for different categories like financial and shopping. This helps when emails get breached, and you won’t see spam or scams right away.
Avoid interactive business by text: Use text for 2FA and things like “your dry cleaning is ready,” not for any business deals. Email is better because you have more control.
Never pay for something you don’t walk away with unless you have documentation, and always pay in a way that can be traced back to you.
Don’t be available all the time: Many scams happen when you’re distracted or tired.
Remember, urgent means something serious. Everything else can wait.
In any transaction, reverse the roles: Would you keep going if you were on the other side?