Don’t Fall for the Glimmer: Spot and Avoid Advance Fee Fraud

Introduction

Think you’ve won a million bucks online? Offered a dream investment with guaranteed returns?  

When you get great news, it can propel you to jump on it!

If you’ve ever received  an email claiming you’ve won a lottery you never entered, or a phone call offering a guaranteed high-return investment, or another enticing offer, then you might already know the dangers that can follow.

Unfortunately, these are telltale signs of advanced fee fraud. 

The Bait and Switch

Advance fee scams lure victims with the promise of significant rewards – a dream job, a hefty inheritance, a life-changing investment. They create a sense of urgency and excitement, making you want to jump on the opportunity. However, there’s always a catch. Before you can claim your prize, they’ll demand a small upfront fee – for “processing,” “taxes,” or some fabricated reason. This is the scammer’s bait and switch.

Once you pay that initial fee, consider your money gone. The scammer vanishes, leaving you with nothing but disappointment and a lighter wallet.

What happened to the windfall you were promised? That disappears into thin air.

Arming Yourself With Knowledge

Here’s how to avoid becoming a victim of advance fee fraud:

• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be skeptical, and don’t let the promise of easy money cloud your judgment.

• Never send money upfront for anything you haven’t verified. Legitimate offers won’t require pre-payments. Always verify the company or offer before sending any money.

• Be wary of unsolicited emails, calls, or messages. Scammers often reach out through unsolicited contact. Be wary of these communications, especially if they sound too good to be true.

• Do your research! Verify the company or offer before sending any money. Look for online reviews, check with trusted sources, and see if the offer is legitimate.

• Trust your gut. If something feels fishy, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to walk away and investigate further. 

Reputable services won’t ask for money from you in order to send money to you. Always do your research before ever sending money or banking information, and only ever send fees to people you know and trust.  

Think about it this way: 

Are you paying for a service? If you’re hiring someone for a service, like a plumber or a mechanic, it’s reasonable to pay them after the job is done. Remember, though, to choose reputable businesses and use secure payment methods.

Being Paid for a Service? If you’ve earned money through a job, won a contest, or are owed a refund, the other party should be sending you money—not the other way around.

Any message asking you to send money upfront for a supposed financial gain requires extreme caution. Investigate thoroughly before parting with your hard-earned cash.

Conclusion

Remember, knowledge is power! By being aware of advanced fee fraud and taking precautions, you can protect yourself from financial loss and the emotional toll of being scammed.

Stay vigilant, stay informed, and don’t let scammers win!