Scams on the rise in Seal Beach; how to avoid them

Social Security Administration imposter scams

Social Security imposters may tell victims that their SSN has been linked to criminal activity and/or suspended. The scammer will claim they can reactivate the number once the victim confirms their SSN. Other Social Security scams may tell victims their benefits are eligible for an increase and request that they confirm their name, date of birth and SSN.

Both approaches are ploys to gain access to personal information that can be used to access private accounts and personal finances.

Actual representatives from the Social Security Administration won’t ask for your SSN over the phone. Warnings of arrest, the suspension of your Social Security number or the loss of benefits are also signs that the notice is a scam.

Internal Revenue Service imposter scams Another one of the most prominent government scams is IRS impersonation. This type of scam usually involves calling victims directly and telling them they owe taxes that, if not paid, could lead to their arrest or other legal action. The scammer’s goal is to intimidate victims into immediately sending the requested money or providing personal information, like bank account or Social Security numbers.

The Department of the Treasury recommends immediately hanging up if you receive a phone call matching these characteristics.

If there’s an issue with your taxes, the IRS will typically send a notice in the mail first. It will never ask for personal financial information like PINs, passwords, or credit card numbers.

Computer Tech Support/ Virus Imposter Scams Tech support scammers tell victims their computers have problems or viruses that they can help resolve. They then make money by asking victims to pay for services that aren’t needed. In 2019, tech support scammers stole $24 million from victims over 60. The most common way tech support scammers connect with victims is online.

On certain websites, pop-up warnings may appear, warning users of a virus or security issue on their computers. Though the message sounds urgent and may use official- looking logos, it’s just a way to trick the user into making contact and sending money. Often, tech scammers claim they are from a well-known company like Microsoft or Apple. When these pop-ups appear, simply close out the tab and ignore the warning.

Scammers may also ask for remote access to your computer. While legitimate computer care companies may do this to resolve technical issues, you shouldn’t grant remote access to your computer to anyone that you haven’t vetted. Whether or not the method is listed here, it’s important to be skeptical of anyone who is asking for advance or immediate payment. Resist the pressure to act quickly.

Scammers create a sense of urgency to produce fear and lure victims into immediate action. Call the police immediately if you feel there is a danger to yourself or a loved one.

When in doubt, don’t send any of the requested money, and talk to someone you trust about the potential scammer.

For more information about scams, go to the Federal Trade Commission website at https:// www.consumer.ftc.gov/. Report any suspected telephone scams to the Seal Beach Police Department at 562-799-4100.