In the modern age, the world offers immense conveniences and connections, but it also brings its share of challenges, particularly the risk of scams. Women are frequently targeted by scammers who assume they might be less tech-savvy, more trusting, or financially secure. Knowing about these common scams and recognizing their red flags can greatly enhance your safety. The scam savvy will know the game in the situations below, and avoid falling into the trap.

Romance Scams- It’s not Keanu Reeves

One of the most heart-wrenching frauds aimed at women are romance scams. Scammers create fake profiles on dating sites or social media platforms, build relationships with their targets, and eventually ask for money, often citing a personal crisis or a business opportunity.

Scammers will impersonate your favorite celebrities or content creators.  Keanu Reeves, Johnny Depp, and Saudi Princes are not giving you likes, shares, or follows.  Katt Williams is not trying to hit you up in your DM’s.  Scotty the Psychic Medium is not hitting you up to do a Tarot Reading.  He’ll only get your money if you subscribe to him, like all Tik Tok content creators.  

Be savvy Syberites, this isn’t how it happens.  

Red Flags:

• Professions of love or deep affection unusually quickly.
• Refusal or repeated excuses to meet in person or video chat.
• Requests for money, often due to an emergency, like a health issue or legal problem.

Phishing Scams

Phishing scams involve sending messages that attempt to trick you into providing personal information, such as bank account numbers, passwords, or Social Security numbers. These messages might look as if they are from a legitimate company or a trusted individual.  They may come in the form of an email, a text message, or even a telephone call.  

According to According to Seton Hall ¹ some common scams include:

IRS Imposter – Demands payment for some alleged tax issue.  

Verification Scams – Links from companies you do have accounts with, asking you to update your information.  These often lead to a fake web page where your personal data is collected. These can look like your bank, a utility company, or even a FedEx or UPS package delivery. Do not click the links or call the number attached.

Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams – Scammers claim you have won money or prizes for contests you have never even entered. The catch is that you have to share some of your personal information so that they can award you the prize.

Fake Discounts and Refunds – Don’t fall for emails promising too good to be true discounts, and refunds.

Phishing can be really tricky. Watch this video of a Golden Couple’s struggle that started with a text message.

¹ Sandella, C. (2024, January 18). New Year, New Phishing Scams. Seton Hall University. Retrieved April 28, 2024, from https://www.shu.edu/technology/news/new-year-phishing-2024.html

Tech Support Scams and Scareware

Scammers pose as tech support from well-known companies to convince you that your computer has a virus or a serious technical issue, which they can fix for a fee.

Red Flags:

• Unsolicited phone calls or pop-ups claiming your computer is infected.
• Requests for remote access to your computer.
• Demands for payment by gift cards or wire transfer for tech support services

Tips to Protect Yourself

• Verify independently. Whether it’s a romantic interest, an investment opportunity, or a distress call from a relative, take steps to verify the authenticity of the person or the situation through other means.
• Be cautious with your information. Never share personal information online or over the phone unless you are absolutely sure about the recipient’s identity.
• Use strong, unique passwords for different sites, and consider using two-factor authentication for added security.
• Educate yourself about online risks. Awareness is your first line of defense against scams.

By understanding these common scams and their warning signs, women can enjoy the vast resources of the internet without falling victim to fraud. Remember, if something online sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always trust your instincts and seek advice if unsure about any online interaction or transaction. Stay safe!

Ingredients:

• 1 gallon (about 4 liters) apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 10-12 whole cloves
• 4-6 cinnamon sticks
• 1-2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1-2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1-2 cups dark rum or brandy (optional)
• Sliced oranges and cinnamon sticks for garnish

Instructions:

• Prepare the Spices:
  • In a small cheesecloth or a spice bag, tie up the whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. This will make it easier to remove the spices later.
• Combine Ingredients:
  • In a large pot or slow cooker, combine the apple cider, orange juice, pineapple juice, and lemon juice.
• Add Spices:
  • Place the spice bundle into the pot, and add brown sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
• Warm the Wassail:
  • Heat the mixture over medium heat on the stove or set the slow cooker to low. Allow it to warm through, but avoid boiling.
• Infuse Flavors:
  • Let the wassail simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
• Add Alcohol (Optional):
  • If you’re adding alcohol, stir in the rum or brandy a few minutes before serving. Be cautious not to boil the mixture if adding alcohol.
• Serve:
  • Remove the spice bundle.
  • Ladle the wassail into mugs or cups.
  • Garnish with sliced oranges and additional cinnamon sticks.
• Enjoy:
  • Serve the wassail warm and enjoy the festive flavors.

Wassail is a versatile beverage, and you can adjust the sweetness and spice levels to suit your taste. It’s a delightful drink to share during holiday gatherings or cold winter evenings.

Do you believe in Ghosts or Spirit?