Are you prepared to handle a case of fraud or identity theft? There are scammers out there who will do whatever they can to steal your identity and access your funds. Protect yourself by learning how to recognize when a scammer is contacting you.
Common Scams
Medicare and IRS Phone Scams:
This scam involves a caller pretending to work for Medicare, the IRS, or any other government agency. The caller will say they need to verify your bank account number to provide additional benefits or demand a payment. They will make it sound urgent, but no federal agency will ever contact you for your bank account information.
Phishing and Vishing Scams:
You may be advised to call a customer service number or visit a webpage that will request your bank or credit card account information. If you believe that a financial institution needs information from you, contact them directly with their phone number.
Charity Scams:
This scam will often happen after major natural disasters, and involves the scammer requesting donations for fake charities. Never make donations over the phone. No charity will run a phone-only fundraiser, so ask the caller to send you more information.
Fraud Assistance Resources
Ohio Attorney General’s Complaint hotline: -1-800-282-0515
Robocall information – To report robocalls Text “Robo” to 888111 or go to www.ohioprotects.org
Free Annual Credit Report: www.annualcreditreport.gov or 887-322-8228
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
A non-investigative federal agency that collects information about on-going scams.
FTC Consumer Response Center
1-877-387-4357
www.ftc.gov
FTC Identity Theft Hotline
1-877-438-4338
www.consumer.ftc.gov
Reportfraud.ftc.gov
Identity Theft
Identitytheft.gov
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
1-855-411-2372 or https://www.consumerfinance.gov/data-research/consumer-complaints/
Reporting: Consumerfinance.gov/complaint
Resources for older adults: Consumerfinance.gov/olderamericans
Fraud prevention resources: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/educator-tools/resources-for-older-adults/protecting-against-fraud/
Money Smart for Older Adults: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/educator-tools/resources-for-older-adults/money-smart-for-older-adults/
FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center
To report internet fraud, file a complaint, or read the latest warnings.
www.ic3.gov
U.S. Postal Inspection Service
To report ID theft that involves the U.S. mail.
1-800-275-8777
www.postalinspectors.uspis.gov
Social Security Administration Fraud Hotline
To report a theft or fraudulent use of your Social Security Number
1-800-269-0271
www.ssa.gov
Romance Scams
Dating or Defrauding? Protect Yourself Against Romance Scams With Help From the Government (usa.gov)
Tips to avoid fraud
- Don't give out your personal information
- Never share bank account information or credit card numbers
- Federal agencies, like the IRS, will never ask for payment over the phone
- Call your local law enforcement if someone is threatening or harassing you
