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Tomlinson: Skip politics during holidays, let’s talk internet scams

2 12
25.12.2024

Young people should ensure their elders are not replying to scam text messages.

More than 880,000 Americans reported losing $12.5 billion to Internet scams in 2023, the FBI reported.

The holidays bring together friends and family of all ages, which presents a perfect opportunity to talk about financial scams.

Seriously, it’s better than talking about politics.

Every day, I receive emails promising steep discounts, amazing investments and fraudulent fraud alerts. For example, through PayPal, Fernandez sent me “an invoice for $699.99 USD Due on Receipt.” Luckily, there is a toll-free number for me to call and sort out the confusion.

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Calling that number or clicking any of the links would be a mistake.

More than 880,000 Americans reported losing $12.5 billion to internet scams in 2023, the FBI reported. Let’s try to bring those numbers down. People of all ages can contribute to a conversation about scams and money.

For example, older folks have long known about so-called Nigerian prince scams, in which scammers try to access your financial information. Yet, they are still commonplace.

Mrs. Elizabeth Patton sent an email with the subject line: Dear Beloved .Her mind tells her I am “a good person and also have a heart for charity.” Mr. Claes contacted me about “a financial........

© Houston Chronicle


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