Phone Scamming

Pt. 2 of April 2024 Newsletter

4/16/20241 min read

Recently, two friends of mine fell victim to a disturbing scheme, losing thousands from their retirement funds to phone scammers. These individuals masqueraded as reputable entities such as banks, and well-known corporations like Microsoft and Norton. More despicable still, some of these charlatans assumed the identities of grandchildren or other family members in urgent need of financial assistance.

In my journey to combat this issue, I've learned that these fraudsters also act like authorities, posing as government officials with threats of incarceration or legal retribution to manipulate their targets. Alarmingly, their strategies have grown more sophisticated, incorporating artificial intelligence to enhance their deceit.

The urgency to shield people from these predators cannot be overstated. It is important to be suspicious of unexpected calls, particularly those demanding immediate financial action or personal details. These scammers have the ability to strike fear in their victims in conversation, overwhelming their capacity for critical thought.

In the unfortunate event you or someone you care about encounters such a scenario; the immediate course of action is to disconnect and seek verification of the caller's claims through independent means. Sadly, the stigma of falling prey to these scams often silences victims, preventing them from seeking help or warning others.

I implore anyone affected to break this cycle of silence. Alerting those around you fortifies your community's defense against these threats. It is through awareness, education, and vigilance that we stand a chance to protect the most vulnerable among us from the clutches of exploitation.

As always please reach out if you have any questions at (440) 289-7284

Thanks! -- Dennis