Reader Celeste G. recently needed help upgrading an Apple device. She wrote, “I couldn't get into my contacts list because they were in my device and it was closed until I upgraded. I thought AHA! My laptop! I'll look up Apple on there.” Celeste had the right idea, but this is where she got anxious and called one of the first numbers she found.“I called it and there were so … [Read more...] about Technical foul—when the technician is the hacker
fraud
12 Scams of Christmas could drive a Santa to drink
The 12 Scams of Christmas are enough to drive a Santa to drink. With everything from viruses and malware being distributed via email and websites to good old fashioned liars and and cheats, the Naughty List is huge. I hope my list will keep you entertained and informed and above all, safe, this holiday season. You’ll find all of these topics covered on Criminal Element. Just … [Read more...] about 12 Scams of Christmas could drive a Santa to drink
Tips to avoid online shopping scams
What’s the most risky gift you can give during the holidays? If you chose the cell phone, you’d be correct. According to GetSafeOnline.org, a consumer awareness group in the UK, there are several items that are most-often used to scam online buyers. The iPhone and Samsung Galaxy rank at the top of that list. Other items on the list included PlayStation 4 and Xbox One game … [Read more...] about Tips to avoid online shopping scams
5 tips to avoid the package delivery email notification scam
Package delivery email scams run in cycles. Watch for fake shipping notifications during the holidays because that’s when this email scam is at its highest level of the year. As email consumers have become more savvy, the scammers have also reverted to telemarketing. Don’t be surprised if this scam begins with a phone call. The major shipping and package delivery services such … [Read more...] about 5 tips to avoid the package delivery email notification scam
Seller, beware—the Craig’s List scam
One of the things about covering the subject of scams and cons is that everyone has at least one story of how they were almost taken. Immediately after last week’s newsletter, The Snitch, went out, my friend Michael Varma contacted me with this description of how he almost got taken on Craig’s List."I recently was a potential victim and happy I didn't follow through. I … [Read more...] about Seller, beware—the Craig’s List scam