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APRIL IS FRAUD PREVENTION MONTH
Let’s take this opportunity to revisit the “4 P’s” of scams: Scammers often pretend to be reputable sources such as banks or government agencies, present you with a phony problem or prize, pressure you to act quickly, and require a specific pay method like gift cards. Understanding these strategies is essential for safeguarding yourself against fraud.
- Pretend to be a Trusted Source: Criminals may impersonate organizations like the IRS, Social Security Administration, or banks to appear legitimate.
- Present a Problem or Prize: They might say you owe money, your account is compromised, or you’ve won something that demands immediate attention.
- Pressure to Act Immediately: Their messages often heighten anxiety with threats of legal action or rapid financial loss, hoping you’ll make rushed decisions.
- Pay via Unconventional Means: Scammers typically push for payments through hard-to-trace avenues like cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or gift cards.
LET’S SLAM THE SCAM
- Verify independently: If someone claims to represent the IRS or your bank, don’t engage – call the official number listed on the organization’s verified website.
- Don’t click links: Scammers use “Pretend” tactics in emails or texts. Avoid clicking links; instead, access your account through the company’s official app or website.
- Keep your info private: Genuine agencies never request your full Social Security number or passwords over phone calls or texts.
- Talk it out: Since isolation helps scammers succeed, if you feel pressured, pause and discuss the situation with a friend or family member – they may spot the fake “problem” more easily than you can when under stress.
[Watch] our Lincoln Police Department’s presentation to learn how to spot scams – together, we can #SlamTheScam2026