How to Recognize Computer, Financial and Telephone Fraud and Scams — and What to Do If It Happens to You

Computer, financial, and telephone scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and anyone can become a target. Criminals may pretend to represent a bank, Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, Social Security, Medicare, a government agency, or even a family member. Their goal is usually to create fear or urgency, so you act before you have time to question what you are being told.

In this presentation, How to Recognize Computer, Financial and Telephone Fraud and Scams, Prevent It, and What to Do If You Get Scammed, participants will learn how to identify common warning signs of fraud, including suspicious emails and text messages, fake computer-security warnings, telephone impersonation scams, requests for gift cards or unusual payments, and attempts to gain remote access to a computer.

The program will also cover practical ways to protect yourself, including using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, keeping computers and smartphones updated, avoiding unexpected links and attachments, and independently verifying requests before providing money or personal information.

Finally, participants will learn what steps to take if they believe they have been scammed, including contacting financial institutions quickly, changing compromised passwords, securing computers and online accounts, monitoring financial activity, and reporting fraud.

The most important lesson is simple: Stop, think, and verify before you act. Legitimate companies will give you time to investigate. Scammers depend on getting you to act quickly.