How Scammers Bilked $10 Billion from Americans in 2023

Ten billion dollars. That is the reported amount Americans lost in 2023 to fraudulent activity. Remember this is the reported figure, think of the amounts stolen that went unreported. Technology has opened the flood gates to scammers. Consider 2.6 million Americans (roughly the population size of Chicago) reported losing the $10 billion to scammers last year. These probably were smart, honest and hardworking people. They were hoodwinked and bamboozled by thieves that hide in the shadows and steal your hard-earned dollars. Fraud has never been so pervasive. Law enforcement and private businesses have never been so engaged in the fight against scams like they are now. The real key to fighting this fast-growing crime is you. Understanding what is happening and knowing the red flags when dubious offers come your way are the very best weapons to end this crime spree. Criminals are taking advantage of technology, coupled with a lot of creativity, to identify fresh new ways to steal your money. Our next safety series will explore scammers’ tools, lairs, new techniques and ways you can defend yourselves. This week will begin with some newly minted frauds on the rise now. Check cooking is one of the new frauds....