WEATHER ALERT
3 recent cases in Bunnell highlight need to protect your holiday season from scammers' tricks
Read full article: 3 recent cases in Bunnell highlight need to protect your holiday season from scammers' tricksThe holiday season is time for joy and generosity, but it’s also when scammers try to exploit unsuspecting victims. The Bunnell Police Department is urging residents to stay vigilant and protect themselves from becoming targets of fraud.
FTC squelches scheme that bilked millions out of student loan borrowers
Read full article: FTC squelches scheme that bilked millions out of student loan borrowersA scheme that scammed millions of dollars out of consumers burdened with student loan debt has been stopped in its tracks, the Federal Trade Commission says.
Protecting your donations from scammers on Giving Tuesday
Read full article: Protecting your donations from scammers on Giving TuesdayGiving Tuesday is a day dedicated to generosity, as people worldwide contribute to causes they care about. However, it’s also a prime opportunity for scammers to take advantage of charitable intentions.
Season’s cheatings: Holiday scams to avoid
Read full article: Season’s cheatings: Holiday scams to avoidSeventy-five percent of Americans fell victim to holiday scams last year, with online shopping and non-delivery scams accounting for a significant portion of the over $281 million lost, or should we say stolen.
2024 Holiday Consumer Protection Guide for Floridians: Things you should know to enjoy a scam-free holiday
Read full article: 2024 Holiday Consumer Protection Guide for Floridians: Things you should know to enjoy a scam-free holidayAttorney General Moody released the 2024 Holiday Consumer Protection Guide for Floridians which contains information about scammers, shopping schemes, and cyber scams.
Did someone tell you to pay a fine or bill with a gift card? Don’t do it! It’s a scam, the FTC warns
Read full article: Did someone tell you to pay a fine or bill with a gift card? Don’t do it! It’s a scam, the FTC warnsNo real business or government agency will ever tell you to buy a gift card to pay them. Here’s how to spot and avoid gift card scams.
BBB warns to watch for storm-chasing contractors to avoid scams after the storm
Read full article: BBB warns to watch for storm-chasing contractors to avoid scams after the stormAs Helene is approaching, the Better Business Bureau is reminding Floridians to be on alert for scammers looking to cash in after the storm is over.
What to do after a data breach -- and how to protect yourself from one
Read full article: What to do after a data breach -- and how to protect yourself from oneWhether you’ve been a victim or want to proactively protect your personal information, Consumer Reports explains what you can do now before the hackers strike.
‘I’ve got video of you’: New blackmail scam targeting Gmail users, Florida Sheriffs Association warns
Read full article: ‘I’ve got video of you’: New blackmail scam targeting Gmail users, Florida Sheriffs Association warnsThe Florida Sheriff’s Association recently warned the public of a new online scam that threatens email users with releasing their search history if they don’t pay a large amount of money.
If someone says you missed jury duty and need to pay a fine now over the phone, it’s a scam!
Read full article: If someone says you missed jury duty and need to pay a fine now over the phone, it’s a scam!Missing jury duty can come with real consequences. You could face a fine, go to court, or even get arrested. Scammers take advantage of that to get your money or sensitive information. But their story is a lie.
Beware of scammers impersonating airline customer service representatives, FTC warns
Read full article: Beware of scammers impersonating airline customer service representatives, FTC warnsMost people can probably agree that there are few things more frustrating than airline delays or cancellations that leave you stranded at the airport.
That call about fraud activity on your bank card might be a scam, FTC warns
Read full article: That call about fraud activity on your bank card might be a scam, FTC warnsDid someone supposedly spot fraud or criminal activity on one of your accounts? Did they offer to help “protect” your money by moving it from your bank, investment, or retirement account? It's a scam, warned the FTC.
BBB Scam Alert: How to spot an out-of-stock scam before it’s too late
Read full article: BBB Scam Alert: How to spot an out-of-stock scam before it’s too lateOne shopper told BBB Scam Tracker, “I placed an order and received a confirmation and was charged $15.98. A few days later, I received an email saying due to low stock I was being refunded. I never received a refund, so I emailed, but the email continuously failed to deliver. I have disputed the charge with my bank.”
St. Johns County deputies warn of scam after victim paid $5,000 to alleged defense attorney
Read full article: St. Johns County deputies warn of scam after victim paid $5,000 to alleged defense attorneyThe St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office is warning the community of a scam after a resident fell victim and ended up giving thousands of dollars to a person alleging to be a defense attorney.
Columbia County deputies warn community of new scam involving families of inmates being contacted
Read full article: Columbia County deputies warn community of new scam involving families of inmates being contactedThe Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is warning the community about a new scam where families of inmates are being contacted by people pretending to be bail bondsmen.
Looking for a job? Scammers might be looking for you
Read full article: Looking for a job? Scammers might be looking for youRecent layoffs in industries like the tech sector have scammers fine-tuning their approaches to take advantage. They may advertise jobs online, sometimes setting up fake websites, or look for targets on social media — all to try to steal your money and personal information.
‘My mind was spinning:’ Orlando couple warns others after close call with phone scam
Read full article: ‘My mind was spinning:’ Orlando couple warns others after close call with phone scamAn Orlando man who said he and his wife were recently targeted by phone scammers reached out to News4JAX sister site Click Orlando to inform others and help them avoid being swindled.
Burglars still looking to score before and after Christmas
Read full article: Burglars still looking to score before and after ChristmasHowever, the Christmas season can allow thieves to window shop and find homes with big-ticket items they want. News4Jax crime and safety expert, Ken Jefferson, says little do homeowners know, thieves regularly scope-out houses and peep through windows looking for items they may want while no one is home. “People will look into your window and come break into your house when you’re not there.”It’s not just what is inside your house. “Or take it away from your home.”As always, enjoy your Christmas goodies, but continue smart, easy safety practices. Jefferson also reminds people not to leave valuables, including Christmas presents, inside cars for any period of time.
Don’t let good will go to waste; look out for holiday scams
Read full article: Don’t let good will go to waste; look out for holiday scamsWith the holiday season fast approaching, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody is warning of holiday scams and launching new resources to help protect yourself and your family. It’s called Scams at a Glance: 'Tis the Season. The brochure provides resources and information on emerging frauds and schemes associated with the holidays and charitable donations. For a Spanish version of the Tis the Season edition, click here. Moody said knowing what to look for is the first step to keep yourself from becoming a victim.