Scams & Schemes

This weeks curriculum focused on scams and schemes. Scams and schemes are tricks to steal something personal of yours. It is crucial to know what theses are so you can stay protected. You can even get your identity stolen by clicking on the wrong thing. I'm sorry to inform you that your at risk, actually everyone is. I hope my information below will help you understand what this growing issue is and how it will effect you.

 Scam: An attempt to trick someone with the intention of stealing money or private information.
Identity theft: A type of crime in which your private information is stolen and used for criminal activity.
Vulnerable: In a position that makes it easier for you to be harmed or attacked.
Phishing: When people send you phony emails, pop-ups, or fake websites in order to hook you into giving out your personal and financial information.


Have you ever had your identity stolen? Many Americans would say yes because they fell for a scheme. You have to realize once your identity is stolen, its gone forever. Once you are born you're given one social security number that can't be replaced.

                                              4/3/2007 Stop stealing Link

 The big question is, how do they steal it? Well, experienced criminal's in this field have tons of methods they can use. You could get it stolen by just simply opening an email, or clicking on a pop-up. A popular way is for them to send you an email saying ' We lost your bank account information, mind sending it to us again?'. The best thing to do is just put it in the spam folder and ignore it.

 The criminal can even max out credit cards that are listed under your name. All the debt not payed off will be your fault because you gave the information away. The only way to be reimbursed is to prove they committed the crime of stealing it. There is only a small chance that you'll find enough evidence to prove it, so think before you click!
                                         3/16/11 Mastercard Link

  I have searched for some ways to avoid being scammed. You should avoid opening it in the first place so it doesn't cause you to have anything stolen.  If they send you a scam through email just don't reply and mark it as spam.   Clicking on link is also risky because they can send out a virus in your computer. This virus will collect anything personal such as passwords, emails, and pin numbers. Basically whatever can be used to hurt you will be collected.

                                          12/19/2005 Caution tape Link

I really enjoyed this weeks curriculum. It has really  taught me how to be safe and smart online. Know I know how to protect myself and family from scams and schemes. I hope you enjoyed my blog, have a nice Turkey Day!

                                                    11/15/08 Turkey cupcake Link