Sympathy scams come in all shapes and sizes such as grandparent scams, gas scams, illness and disability scams, etc. For instance, scammers target grandparents hoping to catch them off guard by playing with their emotions to separate them from their cash. The scammer poses as the grandchild in trouble whether its claims they’re in jail, having car trouble, are hospitalized, etc. Scam artists then trick the grandparents into sending money to get them out of trouble that was never a reality.
Another common type of distress scam involves the con artist claiming either to be sick (often supposedly suffering from cancer or another terminal illness) and unable to pay for treatment, or is to be raising money for another person similarly afflicted or perhaps for a disabled child. The story is simply a ploy to get you to give him or her money. No one’s ill.
It’s often very difficult to question these scam artists without appearing heartless or distrustful. A few simple questions to a scammer can make them feel uneasy and change their behavior, forcing them to move on.
When dealing with sympathy scams, your Better Business Bureau offers these tips:
• Don’t disclose any information before you have confirmed the callers are really who they claim to be. If a caller says, “It’s me, grandma!” don’t respond with a name, but instead let the caller explain who or she is. Ask a simple question that only your grandchild would know such as what school he or she goes to or their middle name.
• Call another family member to check out what you’re being told. You may learn that the person allegedly in trouble is perfectly safe.
• Be wary if you’re urged to keep the transaction secret.
• Never provide personal information such as Social Security numbers or financial information to strangers.
• Avoid anyone using high-pressure tactics or doesn’t give you enough time to make a decision.
• Never wire money.
• Cut off all communication if you’re in doubt.
• Remember, if it sounds too-good-to-be true, it most likely is.
Remember, if you feel you've been scammed, call the police or you can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, visit www.ftc.gov. Also, if you have any questions regarding scams, you can always get help from your Better Business Bureau, visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.
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