This Element is an excerpt from The Truth About Avoiding Scams (9780132333856) by Steve Weisman. Available in print and digital formats. Don’t be the easiest victim! Simple, practical ways to significantly reduce the chances that you’ll be scammed. There are things that you can do to lessen your chances of becoming a victim. Some are simple. Some require a little work. Many people are lazy and don’t want to take these steps. They’re the easiest victims. So, first, do you really want to receive those unsolicited offers of credit cards and insurance that provide opportunities for identity thieves....

Are you at risk of being scammed? Former con artist and bestselling author of Catch Me If You Can Frank Abagnale shows you how to stop scammers in their tracks. Maybe you're wondering how to make the scam phone calls stop. Perhaps someone has stolen your credit card number. Or you've been a victim of identity theft. Even if you haven't yet been the target of a crime, con artists are always out there, waiting for the right moment to steal your information, your money, and your life. As one of the world's most respected authorities on the subjects of fraud, forgery, and cyber security, Frank Abagnale knows how scammers work. In Scam Me If You Can, he reveals the latest tricks that today's scammers, hackers, and con artists use to steal your money and personal information--often online and over the phone. Using plain language and vivid examples, Abagnale reveals hundreds of tips, including: • The best way to protect your phone from being hacked • The only time you should ever use a debit card • The one type of photo you should never post on social media • The only conditions under which you should use WiFi networks at the airport • The safest way to use an ATM With his simple but counterintuitive rules, Abagnale also makes use of his insider intel to paint a picture of cybercrimes that haven't become widespread yet.

The Canadian edition of The Little Black Book of Scams is a compact and easy to use reference guide filled with information Canadians can use to protect themselves against a variety of common scams. It debunks common myths about scams, provides contact information for reporting a scam to the correct authority, and offers a step-by-step guide for scam victims to reduce their losses and avoid becoming repeat victims. Consumers and businesses can consult The Little Black Book of Scams to avoid falling victim to social media and mobile phone scams, fake charities and lotteries, dating and romance scams, and many other schemes used to defraud Canadians of their money and personal information.

Scams are everywhere, but armed with knowledge and vigilance, you can avoid falling prey to them. In "Scam: How to Avoid Being Scammed," author Robert Utrin delves deep into the world of scams, from their history to their common structures and techniques. He presents real-world examples of scams in various contexts, offering comprehensive strategies on how to spot them, avoid them, and protect yourself and your loved ones. Packed with insights from scam survivors and fraud investigators, this essential guide will equip you with the tools to outsmart scammers at their own game. "A must-read for the digital age. Robert Utrin's 'Scam' is a wake-up call for everyone." - Emily Rodriguez "'Scam' provides an eye-opening journey into the world of scamming, coupled with practical advice that everyone should heed." - Mark Thompson "This book arms you with the tools you need to navigate our modern world with confidence and security. An essential read." - Janet L. Simmons "'Scam' will have you rethink the way you interact online. Utrin's insights are invaluable in this day and age." - Paul Kim "Robert Utrin turns complex security concepts into relatable, understandable lessons. 'Scam' is a must-have resource." - Aisha Patel "'Scam' is eye-opening and disturbingly enlightening. A truly valuable read in the internet era." - Trevor J. Martin "Utrin provides essential guidance for anyone navigating the digital world. I can't recommend 'Scam' highly enough!" - Laura Diaz "From cover to cover, 'Scam' is filled with practical advice, profound insights, and invaluable knowledge." - Kenneth Choi "'Scam' is a wake-up call to the harsh realities of the digital world. Every page is a treasure of crucial knowledge." - Rebecca Chen "A captivating and practical guide to protecting yourself in the modern world. I cannot recommend 'Scam' enough." - George Walker

In today's interconnected world, scams and frauds have become increasingly sophisticated, exploiting our trust and vulnerabilities. "How to Avoid Being Scammed: A Comprehensive Guide to Fraud Prevention and Recovery" is your essential resource for navigating this treacherous landscape. Whether you're looking to protect yourself, educate others, or recover from a past experience, this book provides the knowledge and tools you need to stay safe and resilient. Inside This Comprehensive Guide: Understanding Scams: Gain insights into the various types of scams, from phishing and ransomware to cryptocurrency fraud and deepfake technology. Learn how scammers operate and the psychology behind their tactics. Interactive Elements: Engage with practical quizzes, scenario analyses, and exercises designed to sharpen your ability to identify red flags and implement prevention strategies. Building Resilience: Discover techniques to strengthen mental fortitude, cope with shame and guilt, and find emotional support through counseling and support groups. Protecting Yourself Online: Learn safe internet practices, recognize phishing emails, secure your personal information, and spot fake profiles and websites. Dealing with Scammers: Understand what to do if you become a target, how to report scams, and explore legal recourse options. Educating the Next Generation: Equip children and teenagers with the knowledge to navigate the digital world safely, including age-appropriate advice and digital literacy programs. Future Trends and Predictions: Stay ahead of emerging scam trends with expert insights and strategies for adapting to evolving threats. Why You Need This Book: Scams can have devastating emotional and financial impacts. This book is not just about prevention; it's about recovery and empowerment. By arming yourself with the knowledge contained in these pages, you can transform from a potential victim into a vigilant defender of your security. About the Author: Angelo Di Benedetto is a passionate advocate for cybersecurity and fraud prevention, drawing on extensive experience and research to provide practical and actionable advice. His dedication to educating others about the dangers of scams and empowering them with the tools for prevention and recovery is evident throughout this comprehensive guide. Whether you're an individual seeking to protect yourself and your loved ones or an educator looking to inform and empower others, "How to Avoid Being Scammed" is your ultimate guide to fraud prevention and recovery. Take control of your safety today. Dive into "How to Avoid Being Scammed" and equip yourself with the knowledge to navigate the digital world securely and confidently.

How could a smart, professional, savvy woman in her 50's become brainwashed by a young cyber criminal on the other side of the planet, who persuades her to send him her life savings? This shocking yet true story will have you on the edge of your seat as you learn the story of Linda Young's online love affair that nearly destroyed her life and the relationships she held dear. When Linda's sister Shelley recruited "the squad" they launched a full-fledged investigation intent on unmasking the con artist Linda referred to as her 'King.' As Shelley delved into the world of online romance scams, it was nearly impossible to find advice or expertise that she could use to break the hold the King had on her sister. After a three-month investigation, hiring two private investigators, hacking into email accounts, visiting the FBI, and speaking with psychological experts, what Shelley and the Squad uncovered can now help your loved ones who may be in denial that their online romance could be putting them at grave risk. Linda has since described her ordeal as "the worst thing that ever happened to me." She hopes to help others who've been targeted by scammers to know that strength, forgiveness, and hope exist in the aftermath. Shelley Frost and Linda Young are sisters, whose already rocky relationship was put to the test during the months that the King had his grips on Linda and her bank account. The nightmare they experienced through opposite viewpoints ended up strengthening their sisterhood and their love for each other. But it was a final piece of irrefutable evidence uncovered by the squad that finally lifted Linda from the fog of manipulation, causing a body blow to the King who was hell-bent on keeping his gold-mine Queen.