KKTV 11 Information is as soon as once more teaming up with AARP ElderWatch Colorado and the Colorado Legal professional Normal’s Workplace to deliver you “Fraud Friday.”
You could have seen the weekly section on 11 Information at midday on Fridays. Each week, I test in with the consultants to seek out out which scams are making the rounds and tips on how to defend your self from changing into a sufferer. This time, we’re specializing in cryptocurrency scams.
“The Federal Commerce Fee (FTC) has stated that cryptocurrency is likely one of the commonest strategies of cost that scammers are asking for proper now and we’re listening to the very same factor, as a part of the ElderWatch helpline from Coloradans everywhere in the state,” stated Mark Fetterhoff, AARP ElderWatch.
AARP ElderWatch handles client complaints as a part of the legal professional normal’s statewide client helpline, which you’ll attain by calling 800-222-4444. Press Possibility 2 to talk with AARP. One of many greatest complaints the helpline has acquired these days is scams associated to digital foreign money. In the event you switch cash by means of cryptocurrency, it’s almost unattainable to get it again.
“It’s very very similar to reward playing cards and cash transfers — as soon as that cash is gone, (it) is gone,” stated Fetterhoff. “I believe it’s actually essential to know that one of the crucial frequent scams that we’re seeing in regard to this cryptocurrency fad is that when scammers are pretending to be consultants in cryptocurrency or bitcoin, they usually would possibly strategy you on a web site like Fb and Instagram saying that they’re an skilled within the area they usually may also help you make investments cash. It’s a pink flag of a rip-off.
“I might positively advocate not following the recommendation of a stranger on social media.”
Solely scammers will demand cost by means of cryptocurrency. Professional companies and companies is not going to ask you to pay a invoice that approach. The FTC additionally stated you shouldn’t belief individuals who promise they’ll shortly and simply make you cash. Scammers can even promise they’ll get you free cash.
“Simply do not forget that it’s a pink flag if somebody asks you to pay with bitcoin or cryptocurrency,” stated Fetterhoff. “In the event you don’t know what you’re doing and also you don’t perceive the way you’re paying, simply disengage with the individual and in the long run you received’t be dropping cash.”
You may report scams and fraud to the statewide helpline or discover extra info at StopFraudColorado.gov. Be sure that to tune into 11 Information at midday every Friday for our “Fraud Friday” section.