Beware of Recent Scams: What You Need to Know

As technology evolves, so do the methods scammers use to exploit unsuspecting individuals. Recently, there has been an increase in scams that prey on people's fears, vulnerabilities, and goodwill. From fraudulent calls posing as law enforcement to elaborate online schemes, it's crucial to stay informed and vigilant.

Remember financial institutions like banks and credit unions will never ask for:

  • Your Full Social Security Number: They may ask for the last four digits for verification, but never the full number.
  • PIN or Password: A legitimate institution will never ask for your ATM PIN, online banking password, or security code.
  • One-Time Passwords (OTPs): If you receive a one-time password for a transaction you didn’t initiate, do not share it. Financial institutions won’t ask you to verify this code over the phone or via email.
  • Credit Card CVV/CVC: While your credit card number may be requested for verification, the three-digit security code on the back should not be asked for unless you are making a transaction.
  • Funds Transfers: They will never ask you to transfer money to a “safe” account or another account for any reason.

Here’s a summary of some of the most prevalent scams currently circulating, including a particularly troubling one involving calls from the Maui Police Department.

1. Impersonation of Law Enforcement

One of the most alarming scams involves fraudsters posing as officers from the Maui Police Department (MPD). Calls may even be from a spoofed legitimate MDP phone number, including their non urgent number 808-244-6400. These scammers typically call victims, claiming that they owe fines, have warrants out for their arrest, or are involved in some legal trouble. The caller often pressures the victim to make an immediate payment over the phone to avoid arrest or further legal action.

What to Do:

  • Verify the Call: If you receive such a call, do not panic. Hang up and contact the police department directly using a known, official number.
  • Never Pay Over the Phone: Law enforcement agencies do not demand payments over the phone or threaten arrest in this manner.

2. Phishing Emails and Text Messages

Phishing scams remain a significant threat, with scammers sending emails or texts that appear to be from legitimate organizations, such as banks, online retailers, or even government agencies. These messages often contain links to fake websites designed to steal your personal information or infect your device with malware.

What to Do:

  • Check the Sender: Scrutinize the sender’s email address or phone number for slight misspellings or unusual domain names.
  • Avoid Clicking on Links: Do not click on links in unsolicited messages. Instead, go directly to the official website by typing the URL into your browser.

3. Fake Charities and Disaster Relief Scams

In the wake of natural disasters or other crises, scammers exploit the goodwill of people wanting to help those in need. They set up fake charity websites or crowdfunding pages to collect donations, which they then pocket instead of directing to the intended cause.

What to Do:

  • Research Charities: Before donating, research the organization through trusted platforms like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau.
  • Donate Directly: Whenever possible, donate directly through the official website of a well-known and established charity.

4. Social Media Scams

Social media platforms are fertile ground for various scams, from fraudulent giveaways to fake investment opportunities. Scammers often use these platforms to impersonate celebrities or companies, promising huge returns or exclusive deals in exchange for personal information or money.

What to Do:

  • Be Skeptical: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always verify the legitimacy of an offer before engaging.
  • Report Scams: Report any suspicious activity to the platform to help protect others from falling victim.

5. Romance Scams

Romance scams involve fraudsters creating fake profiles on dating apps or social media to build relationships with their targets. Once trust is established, the scammer will fabricate a personal crisis and ask for money. These scams can be emotionally and financially devastating.

What to Do:

  • Be Cautious: Be wary of anyone who professes love quickly or asks for money without meeting in person.
  • Verify Identities: Use reverse image searches and other online tools to check if the person’s photos or stories are linked to other known scams.

Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

Staying informed is your best defense against these and other scams. Always take the time to verify any suspicious calls, messages, or requests for money or personal information. Share this information with friends and family, especially those who may be more vulnerable, such as the elderly. If you believe you've been targeted by a scam, report it to the relevant authorities immediately.

Remember, when in doubt, it's always better to double-check than to fall victim to a scam. Stay safe!