Who's Scamming You?

A few days ago we told you Shelburne RCMP were investigating complaints of internet fraud. A phone scam is making the rounds in which a would-be victim is told by phone they've won a huge Publishers Clearing House prize. The victims are told to provide personal information and wire cash to a bank account in order to retrieve the 2.5 million dollar prize. Jill Atkinson of the Better Business Bureau says thats a new one to her but the BBB is looking into it. The Bureau has also released its list of top 10 scams making the rounds these days. Leading the way are phishing scams, like the one which involves the Better Business Bureau with a nasty twist to it. Atkinson tells us: "Scammers from, they believe eastern Europe, are using the BBB's name to send out fake emails to businesses that actually ask the business that they have a complaint and/or want information updated. Its not actually from us and we're very concerned because some of these scammers have attached viruses to the links." Other scams making the list are door-to-door sales, vacation scams, group coupon buying and disability tax reduction services. Here's the Top Ten List:

1. Phishing Scams.
2. Debt Settlement Services.
3. Computer Virus Fixing Scam.
4. Door-to-door Sales.
5. Vacation Scams.
6. Mystery Shopping.
7. Advertising Trolls.
8. Disability Tax Reduction Services.
9. Advance Fee Loans.
10. Group Coupon Buying.

Atkinson reminds consumers to check with the BBB before doing business with any firm.
She also gives the following advise:

Do not provide your credit card or bank account number to any unknown firm.
Do not open email attachments or click on links from any unknown person or company.
If you have won a prize, do not send money to the promoter for taxes or other fees.
Never agree to provide any upfront fee for a “guaranteed” loan.
Never agree to wire money back to a firm or individual if they have overpaid you for a good or service or have hired you to perform a mystery shop.
Limit what personal information that you put on social networking sites.
Always shred any unwanted documentation, unsolicited mail or credit card applications that contain personal information.
Carry only the identification that you need. Put other identification such as SIN, birth certificate and passport in a safe place.
Never let your debit card or credit card out of your site when conducting a transaction at point of sale.