Technology
How to avoid becoming a moving scam victim
![How to avoid becoming a moving scam victim How to avoid becoming a moving scam victim](https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1-How-to-avoid-becoming-a-moving-scam-victim.jpg)
Moving to a new home can be an exciting yet stressful experience. As you prepare for this significant life change, it’s crucial to be aware of potential pitfalls, particularly when it comes to choosing a moving company.
Unfortunately, moving scams are more common than you might think, and they can turn your exciting relocation into a nightmare. Understanding the risks and taking precautions can protect yourself and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
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Man taping a moving box (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
The alarming reality of moving scams
Moving scams remain a significant problem, particularly during the peak moving season from May to August. In 2023, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) received 5,918 complaints against moving companies. Consumers who fell victim to moving scams and reported them to BBB Scam Tracker in 2023 lost a median of $350.
![How to avoid becoming a moving scam victim](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1200/675/2-How-to-avoid-becoming-a-moving-scam-victim.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
A mover lifting a moving box (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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6 types of moving scams
Scammers have developed various tactics to take advantage of unsuspecting movers. Being aware of these common scams can help you stay vigilant and protect yourself:
1) Stolen belongings: Movers disappear with your property after loading the truck.
2) False quote: Movers demand more money on moving day, claiming unexpected circumstances.
3) Non-refundable deposit: Scammers take a deposit and never show up.
4) No-shows: Movers fail to appear after taking a large up-front payment.
5) Last-minute changes and charges: Unexpected fees for additional labor or supplies
6) Hostage load: Movers demand more money after loading your belongings, refusing to unload until paid.
![How to avoid becoming a moving scam victim](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1200/675/3-How-to-avoid-becoming-a-moving-scam-victim.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
A mover loading a moving truck (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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Warning signs of a moving scam
Recognizing red flags early can save you from falling victim to a moving scam. Here are some key warning signs to watch out for:
- There is no physical address on the website
- No U.S. DOT number. A U.S. DOT number is a unique identifier assigned by the Department of Transportation to commercial vehicles and moving companies. It helps track safety records and ensures the company is registered and follows regulations. If a moving company doesn’t have a U.S. DOT number, it could be a sign that they are not legitimate or properly regulated, which is a red flag for a potential scam.
- Estimates are given over the phone instead of in person or via video walk-through.
- Movers arrive in rented trucks instead of company-branded vehicles.
- Requests to sign blank or incomplete forms
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![How to avoid becoming a moving scam victim](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1200/675/4-How-to-avoid-becoming-a-moving-scam-victim.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
A mover moving boxes (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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How to protect yourself
Taking proactive steps to safeguard your move is essential. Here are some strategies to help you avoid becoming a victim of a moving scam:
Research thoroughly: Use resources like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) database, ATA MSC’s ProMover directory and BBB profiles
Get multiple in-home estimates: Obtain at least three estimates and be wary of significantly lower quotes
Keep a paper trail: Get everything in writing, including estimates, inventory, order of service and the bill of lading
Inventory your belongings: Make a detailed list and take time-stamped photos or videos
Use a credit card for payment: Avoid cash, gift cards or cash transfer apps
Supervise the move: Be present during loading and unloading or have a trusted representative
Use tracking devices: Consider using Apple AirTags or similar Bluetooth trackers to monitor your property during the move
Understand your rights: Review the FMCSA’s booklet on estimates, invoices and liability for loss or damage.
Verify the company: Ensure they have a physical address, U.S. DOT number and proper licensing.
Be cautious of large up-front payments: While deposits are standard, be wary of requests for large sums before moving day.
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![How to avoid becoming a moving scam victim](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1200/675/5-How-to-avoid-becoming-a-moving-scam-victim.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
A mover taping a moving box (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
If you’ve been scammed
You may still fall victim to a moving scam despite your best efforts. If this happens, it’s important to act quickly and know your options for recourse:
1) File a complaint with the FMCSA online or via their hotline (888-368-7238)
2) Report to the U.S. DOT Office of Inspector General online or via hotline (800-424-9071)
3) Submit a report to the BBB’s Scam Tracker
4) Notify your state’s attorney general or consumer protection office
5) Contact local police if items or money have been stolen
![How to avoid becoming a moving scam victim](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1200/675/6-How-to-avoid-becoming-a-moving-scam-victim.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
A couple carrying moving boxes (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Kurt’s key takeaways
Moving can be a stressful experience, and the threat of scams adds an extra layer of concern. However, staying informed and taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to moving fraud. Following the guidelines outlined in this article and maintaining a cautious approach can ensure a smoother, safer moving experience. Remember, investing time in selecting a reputable mover is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and your belongings during this significant life transition.
What additional precautions or resources do you think are necessary to further protect people from moving scams? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.
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Technology
Apple’s iPhone 16 launch event is set for September
![Apple’s iPhone 16 launch event is set for September Apple’s iPhone 16 launch event is set for September](https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GFBOModOaaI-W_A71amm02Xyn6c=/0x0:2040x1360/1200x628/filters:focal(1020x680:1021x681)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24931352/236792_iPhone_15_Pro_and_15_Pro_Max_product_photos_AJohnson_0008.jpg)
Apple has announced the date of its next big event: September 9th, 2024, at 1PM ET / 10AM PT. The event will take place at the Steve Jobs Theater at Apple Park.
During the show, the company is expected to launch the iPhone 16 lineup. The big change to the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus is expected to be a switch to a vertically aligned camera system on the back. (If the final phones look like what we’ve seen on iPhone 16 dummy units, I’m already a big fan of this change.) The iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max phones might get bigger screens but are rumored to keep Apple’s familiar three-camera layout. Those phones could also come in a new bronze color.
All four iPhone 16 models are expected to have the Action Button, which was exclusive to the Pro line with the iPhone 15. Apple’s new iPhones may also have a new button dedicated to capturing photos and videos, but it’s unclear if that will be a Pro-exclusive feature or will be available on the regular iPhone 16 models as well.
AI and the company’s Apple Intelligence features will likely be a big part of Apple’s event, too. Right now, the only iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence are the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, but the full iPhone 16 lineup is rumored to be able to use Apple Intelligence. (Well, when Apple Intelligence is actually available, that is.)
Technology
Telegram says CEO has ‘nothing to hide’ after being arrested in France
![Telegram says CEO has ‘nothing to hide’ after being arrested in France Telegram says CEO has ‘nothing to hide’ after being arrested in France](https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/eFyhnFpkOk9MRhW4BMoVN2Hg5mw=/0x0:4000x2667/1200x628/filters:focal(2000x1334:2001x1335)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25588987/511820410.jpg)
“It is absurd to claim that a platform or its owner are responsible for abuse of that platform,” the company says in an unnamed statement posted to its official channel in the Telegram app on Sunday. French officials have confirmed to multiple outlets that Durov was arrested as part of a police investigation into criminal activity taking place on the social network.
While not encrypted by default, Telegram’s largely hands-off approach to moderation means that the app is seen by many as a private, censorship-free alternative to other social networks. “Almost a billion users globally use Telegram as means of communication and as a source of vital information,” reads the company’s statement. “We’re awaiting a prompt resolution of this situation.”
Telegram has also been a critical source of information for the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia, the latter of which appears to be quite interested in what happens to Durov. The Russian Embassy in Paris says that the French government has so far not granted it access to Durov, who was born in Russia and holds citizenship in both France and the United Arab Emirates, where Telegram is headquartered.
In a rare interview with Tucker Carlson in April, Durov said Telegram’s goal is to be a “neutral” platform and resist requests from governments to moderate. He said he mostly avoids traveling to “big, geopolitical” countries where there’s “too much attention” on the company. “I travel to places where I have confidence that those places are consistent with what we do and our values.”
Technology
Formula 1’s new gyro camera adds a Dutch angle to the Dutch Grand Prix
![Formula 1’s new gyro camera adds a Dutch angle to the Dutch Grand Prix Formula 1’s new gyro camera adds a Dutch angle to the Dutch Grand Prix](https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/hzMms_8j2fesAkoWlAOCTk_bB1I=/0x0:3000x2000/1200x628/filters:focal(1500x1000:1501x1001)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25588723/1239071128.jpg)
Formula 1 broadcast footage from the Dutch Grand Prix qualifiers at Circuit Zandvoort this weekend that was captured by a gyro camera system mounted above the helmet of the weekend’s race winner, Lando Norris.
The camera, which F1 has been testing since 2022, was conceived with an eye particularly toward accentuating exaggerated angles of banked turns at Zandvoort, but despite using it there last year, F1 wasn’t able to broadcast it, according to AutoSport.
Dino Leone, Formula 1’s head of onboard camera operations, explained in a recent video that the camera allows for on-the-fly adjustments to increase or decrease the gyroscopic effect. Formula 1 used the camera in some 2023 races, such as in Brazil and Japan, and plans to use it more often this year.
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