Fraud – Don’t get caught in the net!

There has been a popular email scam going around for some time  in which the scammer pretends that they are stranded in a foreign country and need their friends to transfer some money to their account.

The email provided a few details such as the passport or luggage was stolen with all their money and so they need help.

Of course this scam was easily dismissed by most persons but it got me thinking about those who might have sent money transfers.

Money is easily transferred to various locations all around the world and this is a relatively quick process.  So how would those scammed be able to get back their funds?

Refunds

Victims of these types of scams can call and report the issue to the money transfer company. If this is done before the money has been collected then there will be a stop order placed on the account.

In fact, some companies offer customers a full refund, including the transaction fee after the stop order has been issued and the receiver had not yet collected the money.

Unfortunately, if the money has already been collected there are limitations on how the company can assist the customer. The customer should immediately contact law enforcement and report the matter.

A number of persons might feel embarrassed about admitting
admitting that they were the victims of a scam but it is essential that this is done in order for investigations to be done.

Tips to protect you from scams

Never send money to a stranger using a money transfer service.

Use caution when receiving an unsolicited offer that sounds too good to be true. While it’s tempting to accept an offer that allows you to make good money for limited effort, such offers are usually fraudulent.

Beware of deals or opportunities that seem too good to be true.

Don’t use money transfer services to pay for things like online auction purchases.

Never send money to pay for taxes or fees on foreign lottery winnings.

Never send a money transfer, in the name of a friend or relative, with the intention of changing the name to someone you have not met personally.

Never send a money transfer, in the name of a friend or relative, in order to delay payment of the transaction to someone you have not met personally.

So protect yourself and beware of scams!

Teri Ann Renee Paisley

Tags: scams