Current Consumer Scams in Texas (According to the Attorney General!)
Top Consumer Scams in Texas
The Office of the Attorney General for the State of Texas has made it a priority to track the top scams. These are the scams that are plaguing the citizens of the State of Texas. The purpose is to bring attention to these scams so that citizens will be on high alert and take action. In order to help Texas Citizens, the Attorney General has posted the Common Scams on their web page web page. So, please take a moment and familiarize yourself with the top scams:
- Advance Fee Scams
- Tech Support Scams
- Phishing Scams
- Emergency Scams
- IRS or Government Imposter Scams
- Foreign Money Exchange Scams
- Counterfeit Cashier’s Checks Scams
- Bogus Debt Scams
- Home Repair Scams
- Business Opportunities or Employment Scams
- Shopping Spree Scams
Five Signs You are Dealing with a Scammer
The Attorney General lists 5 signs that you are dealing with a scammer so you can protect yourself:
- They contacted you: In contrast to you contacting a business that you know–here, you do not know who is on the other end of the line and what their intent really is in contacting you!
- They dangle bait–usually money: As the saying goes, nothing in life is free. So, if you are getting promised money for nothing or the deal sounds to good to be true, then it probably is a scam!
- They want your personal information: the Attorney General recommends high alert anytime requests your personal information. Don’t give out your personal information (including contact information, drivers license number, social security, credit/debit card numbers, bank account information, etc…) without thoroughly vetting the party requesting this information–or you could become a victim of identity theft!
- You have to pay them first: Examples listed here are prizes or job opportunities that require you to pay them first before you receive a benefit!
- You have to wire money or send gift cards: Here the scammer require that you wire or send gift cards to pay off a debt or collect a prize–don’t do this!
Be Aware
The main point is that if you do not know who is on the other end of the line or the why they are calling you then be on high alert!
Take Action
Remember, you can also file a complaint with the Attorney General if you feel you have been the victim of a scam here: Texas Attorney General Consumer Complaint.
