Almost $50 billion was stolen in 2024 through ID fraud and scams. Thus, we all have to use stronger passwords and multifactor authentication… and, of course, diligently review credit reports. Updating your antivirus software is essential, especially when new systems come out. When possible, set up your device to update automatically.
We all get unsolicited contacts, calls, texts, emails, and social media messages. Scammers look for the most vulnerable; our CV “elderly” demographic is the ideal “Petrie Dish” for criminals. Many of us get sucked in by clicking on one of these emails from someone we don’t know. Sometimes the alleged message is from someone or some entity we DO know, but it is a phishing attempt.
I personally receive these, too. Last year, I was notified that I owed money to THE FAS TRACK TOLL AGENCY. A few years ago, I received a notification that I hadn’t appeared for jury duty and that the sheriff was coming to arrest me. The phone number said Riverside County Sheriff, but fortunately, I had the cell phone number for our sheriff, so I called him. He laughed at me and said it was a major scam going around Riverside County.
I am an experienced Trial Lawyer, and I was nervous. I can only imagine how challenging this would be for the average person. Don’t respond to these emails. When you get a letter, it will likely be the truth. Criminals fear using the US Mail and getting arrested for a Federal Mail Fraud Offense.
The best advice is to let your answering machine handle the calls and then call back. I also set up a system to avoid Robocalls, where the caller has to input 1,2,3 before being able to leave a message. Some of the calls are sexually suggestive, and once you click on one, you are on a list to get more.
In December, I wrote about digital scanning machines, which cost about $50, being used during the holidays. They can pull the information off your credit cards when it is placed close to your wallet or purse. I purchased a Safe Card Protector. It is a thin, card-sized device that creates an impenetrable electromagnetic shield that blocks your cards. It is a Star Wars-like “invisible force field” that blocks and protects your information. It has been documented that one crook with this machine, in a busy mall, picked up almost 50 people’s info.
My .02
When you receive an email, look at the following:
1. The email address (name and internet carrier).
2. Date
3. Your email address
4. Subject
5. At the bottom, it will read “details”.
Click on details, and it will show you. The email address (the real name) and the IP address (for example: 208.22.212.22)
Write the IP addresses on paper and go to this link: http://www.geobytes.com/IpLocator.htm?Getlocation. Then press “enter”. This program will tell you exactly from which location the email originated. For example, if the sender tells you he is in the UK, and the IP locator tells you it came from Nigeria…Run!
3 RULES TO PROTECT AGAINST MEDICARE FRAUD AND SCAMS:
1. If you get a call, text, or email asking for your Medicare Number, don’t respond. Please don’t give your Medicare card or Medicare Number to anyone except your doctor or people you know should have it.
2. Carefully check your Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) or claims statements. If you see a charge for a service you didn’t get or a product you didn’t order, it may be fraud. If you suspect fraud, report it at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
3. Guard your Medicare card like it’s your credit card.
DON’T DRINK & DRIVE. Impaired Driving = Drunk Driving and Uber is cheaper than me! After a FREE 360 PI/DUI Case Analysis Consultation (760-837-7500, dale@dalegribowlaw.com), you may not need a Lawyer! “If not retained, I will direct you to a more budget-friendly lawyer…honestly”. Remain Silent! It’s not what you said. It’s what the police/insurance company…thought you said!
They are Not on your side; you are Not in good hands and your friendly neighbor will Not give you a piece of the rock.
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Dale Gribow is a multi-award-winning INJURY AND CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER | DUI ATTORNEY with career awards: 35 Top Lawyer | 5-Star | 10.0. He is experienced and recognized for excellence and trustworthiness, with the highest possible ratings from the most respected national legal rating publications, reflecting the confidential opinions of Judges and Attorneys…Martindale/Avvo; Google, Justia, Expertise.com.
These validated, 9 Man of the Year | 4 Dale Gribow Days | Mr. Charity- recognizing dozens of philanthropic awards. Cases are limited. Dale personally answers calls.
