Scam Squad: Recent Episodes
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This week Scam Squad looks at a couple of types of bank scams. Very sophisticated tech support scams on local customers bank accounts have recently been happening . Local bank customers recently had a received phone call scams in the form of a fake tech support scam. Some customers are receiving the scam in the form of a popup. Scammers tell the customers that all their bank funds are in jeopardy and they had to be transferred to a special account for protection, which of course are phony accounts of the scammers. A second scam hitting banks recently is the FBI Imposter Scam. The bank customers receive calls from scammers saying that are the FBI and are monitoring ATM use at local branches and that one of the tellers inside the bank is potentially committing fraudulent activity and is being investigated. The scammers con the bank customers into participating in phoney sting operations that steals the customers money. Learn more about these types of scams and how to avoid them.
This week, Patti and Chief Investigator Kristina Perkins of the Santa Barbara County District Attorney's office nterview criminologist, Judy Christman Yates about hacking and related online crimes currently affecting us. Learn all about hacking, what it is, how to detect it, guard against it, and what to do if it happens to you. Other issues such as the liklihood of being scammed when you receive invitations from old friends you haven't been in contact with for years are also addressed. Don't miss this informative Scam Squad episode!
Trust Fraud Specialist reports that one of their customers was taken in by a complicated scam. It started as the familiar Tech Support Scam. The victim believes she is speaking to Microsoft Tech Support. She is told her identity has been compromised and that she needs to take out $25,000, which she eventually was able to do. She meets a courier and gives the crook her money. She also has money at an investment brokerage. She followed the scammers directive and withdrew more cash- before handing it over to the crooks.
This week, Scam Squad has a special Scam Fighter guest who has brilliant ideas for very unique and very promising anti-scam prevention methods. This type of prevention is the best hope against A.I. scams.
The latest ICE report revealed that the number one complaint had to do with phishing or spoofing. The number of complaints was up almot 40% and the dollar losses were up almost 60%. The number one scam reported had to do with phishing and spoofing, number two was tech support scams.
This week, Scam Squad discusses further and in detail this New Sneaky and Dangerous Courier Scam, where the crooks send a courier to your house to pick up cash or gold. Very new and exciting scam.
WARNING: There is an all new International bank scam trying to drain your bank accounts. It is done by phone, but is extremely sophisticated. You need to listen to this Scam Squad to help protect and alert yourself to this all new scam. It is very dangerous.
This week, Scam Squad has a bank fraud expert explain the latest big wave of bank scams. Fraudsters are calling bank customers and pretending to be from the bank and asking customers for all of their banking information in order to drain their accounts. Learn how to protect yourself from this type of scam.
This week Scam Squad discusses the results of the three major A.I. software tools as to their resistance to creating scamware and scams to defraud us.
Most recently, there has been a surge in fake and phony government emails and postal mail, containing invoices for all kinds of fake scams saying the recipient owes the government money. The invoices look very real nowdays, so be sure to listen to this weeks Scam Squad. Also, there has been a lot of A.I. fake search engines fooling people into calling fake numbers of agencies and companies and being scammed. Lots of good stuff in this week's Scam Squad so be sure to listen and subscribe for more alerts.
This week's guest is the Fraud Expert from Montecito Bank to update you on all the latest bank scams as well as holicay theft tricks. Listen and stay updated and informed.
This week Scam Squad talks about more Christmas scams as well as the Phantom tech scams that are sure to happen this Holiday Season., how to spot them and how to avoid them. Also, we have some success stories of scammers getting arrested and prosecuted.
THIS WEEK ON SCAM SQUAD, WE REVIEW THE YEARLY D.O.J. ANUAL STATISTICS ON SCAMS AFFECTING SENIORS AND THE ELDRLY AS WELL AS THE LATEST METHODS AND TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THESE TYPES OF SCAMS AS WELL AS HOW TO RECOVER MONEY ONE MAY HAVE LOST DUE TO DOMESTIC SCAMS.
Today Scam Squad talks about the world of Banking Fraud, specifically as it relates to tech support scams. There are several types of tech support scams that can easily go after your money, so be sure to listen to this informative podcast.
This week Scam Squad explores Polictical Solicitation Scams and other related scams such a Charity Scams and Crowd Funding
This week, Scam Squad explores three major scams affecting our County right now. One is a new type of Solar Pannell Scam. The second is a Real Estate Scam using Facebook and a wire transfer that defrauds a couple out of $98,000.00 , preventing them from ever retiring and most likely dying in poverty. The final scam is an impersonation scam where the scammer pretends to be the famous actor Bfad Pitt and amazingly able to defraud the victim out of $850,000.00 their entire life's savings and condemning the victim to die alone in poverty.
This week Scam Squad reviews the new twists in old scams such as the Warrant Scam where you get a phone call or message saying that you owe money for a ticket or a fine. Also Scam Squad warns us about phony calls saying it's time to renew your cable, internet, wi-fi, or phone, or other contract and that you contract is about to expire and you will be fined a huge amount of money if you allow it to expire. The last scam is a bank account scam where they try to get you to withdraw cash and wait at home for a courier to come and pickup. These scams are happing now all over the USA.
This week Scam Squad explores the new area of ACH Scams. This is a very clever and sophisticated imposter scam, often involving hundreds of thousands of dollars and even several millions of dollars. It is most often used in business transfers involving funds from bank accounts at the bank.
This week Patti and Kristina talk about A.I. scams that have been plaguing the Nation. An A.I. scam is where an imposter steals the voice print and/or image of an individual and then pretends to be them. Because they can make audio and video sound and look very much like the person from whom they stole the voice print and image from and then starts to impersonate them in a variety of illegal ways and situations, mostly to scam or defraud other individuals out of money. Learn ways to help spot A.I. phone calls and videos.
TRAVEL SCAMS - This week, Scam Squad host Patti Teel and Chief D.A. Investigator Kristina Perkins, discuss the latest travel scams, in particular airline ticket booking scams. Investigator Perkins also discusses other scams that are currently attacking Santa Barbara County and the Nation. Be sure to listen to this episode if you are planning to travel or fly soon.
This week, our guest is Montecito Bank, who recently detected a romance scam being perpetrated on one of it's bank customers. Learn about romances scams, as well as about other types of impersonationist scams, by listening to Scam Squad each week.
Commander Bryan Millard, in Grover Beach CA, has spearheaded an all-new Scam Fighting Organization to protect senior citizens from scammers. The local police and several other diverse members of the community have come together to create a strong anti-scam community outreach program called Silver Shield. For more information about this group, be sure to listen to this podcast!
Today we look at the Courier Scams that had been surging in Santa Barbara County, the State, and the Nation. Courier Scams are when a Grandparents Scam, Kidnapping Scam, Extortion Scam, or similar scams where the crooks have remotely pressured the victims into agreeing to hand over large amounts of money in the form of cash, gift cards, gold coins, etc to a courier that shows up at the victims location, receives the money, packages it, and sends it off by mail, ups, fed-x or other means.
This week, host Patti Teel and Greg from the District Attorney's Office, tells us about the huge consequences of Identity Theft and then guides us step by step as to how to very simply and easily, totally guard yourself from Identity Theft.
Deputy District Attorney Kirstina Perkins and Senior Fraud Specialist Shawn Dyer from Montecito Bank and Trust, explain how to protect yourselves from being scammed by two of the worst Bank Imposter Scams, the first being the Bank Imposter Scam and the second as the Pay Pal Imposter Scam. These are very highly sophisticated scams that most victims easily fall for. Listen to Shawn Dyer and Deputy District Attroney Kristina Perkins explain in detail how to spot and protect yourselves from these scams.
An all new scam that Dept D.A. Christina Perkins has recently discovered is what she terms as THE SOCIAL MEDIA COMMENTS SCAM. Within the “COMENTS” portion of the You Tube videos, there will be comments with a link saying here is a video of what’s happening, but it will just direct you fo a Phishing Scam to defraud you. So avoid being suckered into the Socila Mecia Comments Scams. Christina also covers a rising problem of Investment Scams that are adopting the use of payments by Cripto Currency. As most of us know, the most dangerous threats to losing your money is by not knowing about the consequences of Cripto Currency.
When hs is told he missed jury duty, an eperienced juror almost gets taken in by the 'Warrant Scam.' Just in the knick of time, when he was ready to deposit money through a kiosk, a warning came up on the kiosk with a warning that if someone claiming to be from law enforcement asks for money to be deposited, IT'S A SCAM!
Shawn Dyer, Fraud Specialist at Montecito Bank & Trust discusses phishing, followed by an important discussion about Check Fraud, which is on the rise. Learn how to spot and stop check fraud by diligently monitoring your account. And if you are a victim of check fraud, learn how altered checks and counterfeit checks are handled differently by banks.
Investigator Greg Hons from the Santa Barbara County DA's office reports that there has been a drastic increase in theft that's taking place inside mail sorting facilities. While we understand that most postal workers are honest, a small percentage are stealing--and they're stealing a lot. Criminal syndicates are recruiting postal workers to move narcotics, and to steal checks, credit cards and gift cards from the mail. Be sure to listen to this episode and incorporate the valuable tips to reduce the likelihood of having your mail stolen. If you ever do suspect that your mail has been stolen, contact the US Postal Inspector at 877-876-2455.
Criminologist, Judy Christman Yates, delivers a serious warning about uploading medical records on AI apps. She also reviews Red Flags that indicate you're dealing with a scammer. Then, in the wake of the Los Angeles wildfires, Inspector Greg Hons talks about giving wisely and how to ensure you're not contributing to a scam.
Inverstigator, Greg Hons, gives tips to avoid being scammed in the New Year. Tip One:Leave your valuables in the trunk of your car when you go to work out. When you are done working out, look through your purse or wallet to make sure everything is there. Tip Two: Get your free credit report at https://www.annualcreditreport.comYou don't have to get all three at once. Greg recommends getting one in Jan, another in in June, and the third one in December. (The three main credit bureaus are Experian, Equifax and Trans Union.)Tip Three: Consider getting rid of your debit card in favor of an old-fashioned ATM card.
Host Patti Teel and Deputy D.A. Krinstina Perkins inform us about digital pickpocketing and other current scams affecting the nation and how to spot and avoid them.
This week Patti and Kristina tell you about a tricky vintage car scam, followed by some recent new scams as well as anti-scam methods you can use.
This week, Patti and Kristina have special guest, Crimnologist Judy Yates who will explain some very clever computer scams.
The Holidays are here and Patti and Kristina are here to tell you all about the latest Christmas Shopping scams, as well as the old standard ones, that you're likely to encounter this holiday season.
This week hosts Patti Teel and Deputy District Attorney Kristina Perkins interview a recent victim of a credit card scam during her wedding brunch. Learn how to protect yourself from being scammed by phony travel agencies you find on internet searches.
Patti and Kristina discuss a reoccurrence of the Process Warrant Scam in Santa Barbara. Learn how to detect and deal with it.
This week, hosts Patti Teel and Deputy District Attorney Kristiana Perkins tells us about two old scams that are making the rounds again. The IRS Scam and the Magazine Subscription Scam. It can be very easy to be taken by either of these scams, so please do not miss this episode.
This week Patti and Kristina interview a person who had the old Summons Scam tried on them, with some interesting new twists. Fortunately, she didn't fall for it. Find out exactly what saved the person from becoming a victim of the scammer. Very interesting show.
This week, hosts Patti Teel and Deputy District Attorney Christina Perkins interview Shawn Dyer, Chief Fraud Specialist at Montecito Bank and Trust, about Check Fraud and how to spot and prevent it.
This week, Host Patti Teel and Deputy District Attorney Christina Perkins introduce us to the D.A.'s County Consumer Protection Unit. The local County Consumer Protection Unit mostly deals with consumer complaints from local businesses that falsely advertise or defraud customers. This type of consumer protection is different from most of the typical online, phone, text, and email scams that Scam Squad talks about. You won't want to miss hearing about this great consumer complaint resource.
This week, Patti and Christina tell us all about FTC Scams and Jury Duty Scams, how to spot them and what to do with them.
This week, Patti and Christina explore the dangerous world of QRC Scams. QRC scanning is so new and is so rapidly coming on everywhere and changing so much that Patti and Christiana want to warn you as much as they can about them. It is so easy nowdays to lose your personal information and get scammed out of thousands of dollars, so don't miss this QRC episode of Scam Squad.
This week, host Patti Teel and Deputy District Attorney Christina Jenkins discuss unsolicited text messages that try to get you to do something, such as go to a link or download software. Learn how to avoid these scams and more in this episode of Scam Squad
This week, Host Patti Teel and Deputy District Attorney Christina Perkins review Political Election Scams. They will discuss the three major election scams attacking voters this election cycle which are Voter Registration Scams, Political Donation Scams, and Fake Surveys and Polls. Learn how to avoid falling victim to these scams and stay safe.
This week on Scam Squad, hosts Patti Teel and Christina Perkins discuss the latest Fake Social Media Scams currently happening in Santa Barbara County and the nation, as well as how to guard yourself from being taken in by them.
Today, Host Patti Teel introduces Scam Squad’s newest co-host, Chief Investigator, Christina Perkins , from the Bureau of Investigations at the Santa Barbara District Attorney’s Office. Together, Patti and Inspector Perkin discuss the duties of the Investigators, as well as the latest scams currently affecting the Santa Barbara area and the nation in general. This week, Inspector Perkins alerts us to a recent scam called the, Hacking Scam, which has just started to plague our area. You won’t want to miss this episode.
To begin with, we meet Patti Teel's new co-host, Christina Perkins, from the District Attorney's Office. This week's Scam Squad's guest is Montecito Bank's Senior Securites Expert, Doris M. Roof, who will tell us about the latest ways we might get scammed at the bank. Recently, there has been a rise in the Altered Paper Check scams as well as a a brand new, rather sophisticated version of the standard P to P bank scam. Doris explains how these new twists on old scams work so well and how to try to protect ourselves from them as well as attempt to recover funds from the bank if you are scammed by them.
This week, Patti Teel and Deputy D.A. Vicki Johnson, host their favorite Criminologist, Judy Yates, who will update us on the major scams currently afflicting us now. She will also explain how many of these scams have been altered or evolved into much more sophisticated and complex scams that are making it much more difficult for all of us to spot and determine whether or not they are scams or whether they are legitimate contacts. Yates will also tells us how to avoid them.
This week, Patti and Vicki interview Deputy DA, Casey Nelson about his recent court case prosecuting an affinity scammer. Affinity fraud is an investment fraud in which a scammer targets members of a common identifiable group based on things such as attending the same church or country club and other groups where people have things in common. The scammer pretends to be, a member or leader of a church or other group, seeks out victims, often the elderly, and usually runs a Ponzi or similar investment scam on them, often draining out the victim's entire life savings and putting them on welfare and food stamps. This is a very, very exciting episode you definitely can't miss.
This week, host Patti Teel and co-host Deputy District Attorney, Vicki Johnson, discuss the latest new weight loss drugs that have been all the rage of the world. due to their very, highly effective results. Unfortunately, there is a huge problem with floods of scammers advertising and selling fake, phony, and dangerous imposters of these very popular weight loss drugs, that can cause great sickness, hospitalizations, and even death. Learn how to avoid purchasing these scam fake weight loss drugs. You won't want to miss this episode if you are interested in the latest news about these highly effective weight loss medications.
Impersonation Scams have become the most lucrative scam for scammers. The most impersonated company that scammers impersonate is Best Buy and often say they are from Best Buy's tech support experts the Geek Squad. The second most impersonate company scammers use is Amazon. Patti and Vicki will tell you all about it on this weeks episode of Scam Squad. Don't miss it.
This week, Patti and Vicki are warning all of us about new scams to especially watch out for this year. As we know, scammers are getting more resourceful and convincing every day for three basic reasons. Patti and Vicki with explore in depth these three basic reasons and tell us how to guard ourselves against being scammed with these new scammer tricks and methods.
This is one of Scam Squad's most exciting and best episodes ever. The Fake Vince Gill Romance Scam. Patti and Viki interview the daughter of a Romance Scam Victim who thought she was in an online romance with famous Country singer songwriter, Vince Gill. It turned out to be a Nigerian Romance Scam that scammed this 72 year old woman out of her life's saving of around $450.000.00, nearly a half million dollars. Runtime: aprox 21 mins
This week hosts Patti Teel and Vicki Johnson have special guest Criminologist Judy Yates tell us all about the latest technology that is causing huge increases in imposter scams with Social Security, Medicare, Banks, fake employers, and many common agencies and services. The gals will tell you how to protect yourself from these scams as well as what to do if you have been scammed by a fake employer or imposters pretending to be from Social Security, Medicare, Sherriff's Office, and other agencies and businesses. You won't want to miss this episode.
Scam Squad's guest this week is Fraud Expert, Shawn Dyer from Montecito Bank in Santa Barbara who, along with Senior Retired Deputy D.A. Vicki Johnson and host Patti Teel. These gals will tell you all about the major Tech Support Scam that is used to manipulate your computer all steal all your money or life savings from your own bank accounts. The gals will tell you all about the Altered Check Scam. Learn how the scam is pulled off and what you can do to safeguard yourself against this form of Tech Support Scams and Altered Chuck Scams and why the banks and law enforcement usually cannot do too much to stop it, unless you know today's information. Runtime 21 mins
Summer is approaching and soon it will be time to go on vacations. The Scammers are out in full force, especially with the phony B&B booking scams. Learn how to avoid these scams and others in this week's episode of Scam Squad. Don't let a scammer ruin your summer vacation. Learn how to get you money back if you have been scammed by booking your B&B.
This week, Retried Senior Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson tells us about how many of the old scams that sort of died out awhile ago which are now making a comeback resurgence in a huge way. You won't want to miss this episode about these tricky Resurrected Scams.
This week's guest is Criminologist Dr. Judy Yates who tells us the ten most common lies that scammers tell their victims in order to drain out their entire life savings accounts and perform other devastating and heart wrenching scams. This is a super packed anti-scam episode you will not want to miss nor can afford to miss. Learn what the government is doing to stop scams and a clue as to why more victims are needed to report scams to law enforcement to help make a difference.
This week, Doris Roof from Montecito Bank and Trust tells us all about the Tech Support Scam, the latest scam terrorizing and affecting the bank's customers, . Patti, Vicki, and Doris all join in to provide you with all you need to know about this very tricky and sneaky scam. Also, Vicki tell us how to get monetary restitution through the FBI if you've been scammed by a scammers that got caught. Don't miss it.
This week, Vicki and Patti focus on the Scam Victims. We need to realize that people who have been scammed are "VICTIMS." All too often, American society treats Scam Victims as Idiots, Old Fools, Airheads, and Morons. The facts are that Scammers are generally highly skilled, trained and well experience professional thieves that prey upon honest, innocent victims. Too many Americans will blame and criticize the poor Victim for being scammed. They will say things like, "How could you ever be so stupid to fall for a scam like that," or "You Idiot, you moron, how could you believe and be taken in by a scammer." or boast, "I'd never ever fall for an obvious scam like that. Victims need to be treated like Victims and not be lectured to by critical family members and friends.
Criminologist Judy Yates is back this week with a whole load of dangerous new scams to tell us about such as the all new Apple products scam that is affecting all types of Apple devices and products. If you have Apple, you definitely should not miss this episode. Judy Yate is one of the best Criminologists in the USA.
This week Vicki talks about the Virtual Kidnapping Scam, which seems to be on the rise in our area. Essentially, a scammer calls you on your phone, claiming to have kidnapped a loved one of yours. They try to get you to pay ransom, but most often, the call is fake and your love one has not bee kidnapped. However, of course you don't want to take the chance of risking. Listen for full details.
This week, Vicki tells us all about the horrible destruction that Romance Scams play on entire families. It's not just the victims of Romance Scans that get their lives totally ruined. Even the most intelligent of people get sucked into these cruel scams and lose all their money, sometimes becoming homeless on the streets.
A.I., or Artificial Intelligence, is seriously increasing the success rate of many types of fraud and scams this year. Most people, especially seniors, do not know how Artificial Intelligence can easily fool them into being scammed out of thousands of dollars by a variety of old and new scams. In today’s episode, host Patti Teel and Senior Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson ask special guest scam fighter Shawn Dyer from Montecito Bank about how A.I. scams and frauds can fool you into losing huge amounts of money and how to help prevent it. RUNTIME aprox 14 mins
TAX SEASON SCAMS - This week we have one of our most popular returning Scam Squad guest, Criminologist Judy Yates. Because tax season is here, criminologist Judy Yates will focus on all of the latest new tax scams, as well as new changes in the old standard types of ruthless Tax Scams and frauds the scammers and fraudsters are throwing at us now. She will also give us sound tips on how to discover, prevent, and resolve these frauds.
CONFESSIONS OF A NIGERIAN ROMANCE SCAMMAR. You really don’t want to miss this episode about a Reformed Nigerian Romance Scammer who once scammed fifty women out of more than $85,000.00 by using a 40 page bible especially for Nigerian Scammers titled “How to Make a White Women Fall in Love with You from Online Chat.” He spent five years as a romance scammer posing as an American Army man with rippling biceps, short blond hair, and a military uniform. He now works as a consultant at a fraud busting group called, Social Catfish. He tells the whole shocking story about his exploits and adventures as a Nigerian romance scammer in South Africa.
This week, Patti and Vicki explore the latest Scam Statistics and explain why these alarming numbers indicate we are so much more likely to be scammed this year, especially on Social Media, than in anytime in previous history. Deputy District Attorney Vicki Jonson will tell us why scammers are so much more sophisticated now because of technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence. She will alert us as to why it is almost impossible to tell whether a person is a scammer or a family member, friend, or the person they claim to be. What are the chances you will be scammed this year? Is there anything you can do to protect yourself? Have police and law enforcement totally lost the War on Scams? Find out this week on Scam Squad’s Latest Scam Statistics episode.
With Special Guest--Shawn Dyer, Montecito Bank & Trust Fraud SpecialistRental scams have been around for a long time. However, as college lets out for the summer, they are on the rise. Here's how the Scam Works:You see a great rental listing on Craigs List. The price is likely to be better than other similar properties. When you respond to the ad, the person who posted it tries to get you off the Craigslist platform as soon as possible to continue a conversation. They send you photos of the property, but will make up some reason why they can't show it to you in person. However, they promise they'll send you keys to the property after you fill out an application and give them a deposit--often by Zelle or Venmo. Now the scammer has your personal information and a deposit and/or first and last rental payments. DON'T BE FOOLED! It's likely that they sent you photos of a property that is for sale. (The scammer can easily find photos on Zillow or other real estate sites.) Remember, if a rental property sounds too good to be true, it probably is!Another old scam that's on the rise is wallet and billfold thefts, stolen from people who are out shopping. Rings from other cities sweep into town. One of the thieves distracts the shopper, while the other one quickly steals their billfold or wallet. Often, the thief is already using stolen credit cards before the victim even realizes they're gone. The thieves are hard to catch because they travel from city to city. In a similar scam, Vicki reports that thieves run up to a car as men get in them, saying they accidentally dropped their keys and that they fell underneath the person's car. Usually the gentleman will offer to help and as he crouches down to help find the missing keys, the crook will quickly take the wallet out of the victim's back pant's pocket. Lastly, Vicki shares some Good News. The Dept of Justice formed a task force to prosecute and sentence a Texas man for his role in romance scams using the images of two United Stated generals. If you'd like to talk to Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson about a scam, or would like to tell your story on Scam Squad to warn others, call the FRAUD HOTLINE at 805-568-2442.
It's sometimes easy for us to think that we would never fall for a scam. But in today's episode, a woman who has worked in the IT departments of many large companies ALMOST gets taken in by a complicated scam. Hear her story on this week's Scam Squad episode. And be sure to subscribe to Scam Squad today so you don't miss any important warnings!
It’s Medicare Open Enrollment from now until December 7! In this episode, HICAP (Health Insurance and Advocacy Program) manager, Julie Posada, guides listeners through the maze of choosing the best Medicare program for your individual needs. HICAP is run through the California Department on Aging, which also manages their 1-800-434-0222 hotline. HICAP counselors will meet with you remotely or in person—providing you with the pieces of the puzzle so that you can make a good decision. This is a free service! HICAP has recently partnered with SMP (Senior Medicare Patrol), which helps prevent Medicare fraud.
If you live outside of CA, you can contact SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program), instead of HICAP. SHIP establishes community-based networks of counselors who also provide assistance in-person and by phone, make group presentations, and use a variety of media sources to educate people about Medicare.
If you live in the Santa Barbara area, you can call today’s guest, Julie Posada at 805-928-5663 or email julie.posada@centralcoastseniors.org
Today's special guest is Dayton Aldrich, a colleague of Vicki's and the Restitution Specialist for the District Attorney's Office in Santa Barbara. He shows real-life footage of a woman having second thoughts about stealing from a carport. When she notices that she's being filmed on a security camera, she quickly puts her loot back. The topic then turns to mail fraud. Dayton recommends that unless your mailbox is locked or behind a gate, you should get a PO Box. Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson and Dayton remind us that much of our information is already available on the dark web and that often the fraudster only needs one more piece of information to steal your identity. Don't let them get it from your mailbox! Once again, they urge us not to put outgoing checks in your own mailbox with the flag up as this is a signal to the crook to come and get it!
Other mail recommendations include:
- Picking up your mail promptly.
- If you are depositig mail in your own mailbox for pick-up, do it close to the time your mailperson comes.
- Limit the amount of mail you receive. Contact banks and credit card companies and ask them to stop sending pre-approved offers, which crooks love to get their hands on!
- If you expected mail and didn't receive it, inquire about it. (It may have been stolen.)
- Make arrangements for your mail to be picked up when you're out of town.
- And of course, never send cash in the mail.
Special guest, criminologist Dr Judy Christman Yates, gives advice on the legitimate way to find out if you have unclaimed money just waiting for you! But don't be fooled! Scammers are contacting people, telling them that they are a claimant in a class action lawsuit that was settled for $4,800,000. To get your share, you need to send $30 - $50 to a processing center within five days. While this is a scam, many people are legitimately owed money. To find out if that includes you, go to https://www.usa.gov/unclaimed-money
Dr Yates says that unclaimed money could be owed to you from many sources, including: bank accounts, the contents of safetly deposit boxes, stocks, mutual funds, uncashed checks or money orders, certificates of deposit, insurance policies that have matured or terminated, mineral rights, royalty payments, unclaimed property, escrow accounts and utility accounts.
Dr Yates also reviews the most common scams and shares advice on how we can protect ourselves. She invites you to send her an email at yatesjc805@gmail.com if you'd like to subscribe to her financial exploitation newsletter.
To report a cam or share your story on Scam Squad, contact Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson on her FRAUD HOTLINE at 805-568-2442.
Shawn Dyer, Senior Fraud Specialist from Montecito Bank & Trust, shares the scams they're seeing more often. Here is a brief description of them:
You are asked to verify a purchase. (Often, the purchase in question is said to be from Amazon or Paypal. People often panic when they think that they've been charged for a large purchase they didn't make. But BEWARE! Instead of corresponding with Amazon or Pay Pal, you may be speaking to a scammer who is trying to get your banking information.
Shawn reports that the Utility Scam is still rearing its ugly heard. Someone will contact you, pretending to be from your utiility copany, threatening to shut off your services unless you immediately pay up! While scammers previously asked for payment by Gift Cards, (always a scam), more recently the scammer is likely to request payment with a p to p app such as Zelle of Venmo. (That's because the money is transferred to the scammer quickly!) Don't Fall For It! Companies are NOT going to ask you to pay this way.
Lastly, people are getting calls from scammers who say you were overcharged and they want to give you a refund. Then they say that they mistakenly sent too much money, eliciting sympathy from the victim by telling them they're afraid they'll be fired if they don't get the overpayment back. (For example, the scammer said they were sending $350, but accidentally sent $35,000.) The scammer begs the victim to wire back the overpayment. Many people would not fall for this scam. But the particular woman that Shawn spoke of was elderly and very vulnerable. Even though the bank refused to make the wire transfer because they were suspicious, this elderly woman is now on the Scammer's Sucker List and it's likely they will continue to harass her with other scams. If you are caring for an elderly person who is vulnerable to these types of scams, ask them to use an answering machine or voice mail and to NEVER answer calls if they don't recognize the name on the caller ID.
If you'd like to report a scam, please call the Santa Barbara District Attorney's Office Fraud Hotline at 805-568-2442.
Workers are drawn to Cambodia through social media advertisements promising high-paying jobs. As soon as they arrive in the country, their travel documents are seized and they are held and forced by racketeers to make scam calls in their own languages. Those who refuse are subject to various forms of abuse and mistreatment. They are assaulted, whipped, and electrocuted. Some get beaten up and others get locked in dark rooms without food.
In mid-March, 35 civil society groups urged the Cambodian government to address “a crisis of forced labor, slavery, and torture” in facilities that it described as “slave compounds.” Since October, more than 800 Thai men and women have been rescued from scam call centers in Cambodia. It's estimated that more than 1,000 Thais are still working in scam call centers in cities like Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Poipet.
There is mounting evidence that these are regionally coordinated, and linked to other illicit activity, such as the massive drug trafficking syndicates that operate in eastern Myanmar. If the criminals continue to outpace regional law enforcement capacities, it is likely that we will see many more such stories in the months to come.
Don’t miss this special episode with dynamo, Debbie Deem, who formerly worked as an FBI Victim Specialist. Rather than calling herself retired, Debbie prefers the term UNLEASHED, as she continues to tirelessly advocate for fraud victims, who are often shamed and treated differently than violent crime victims. Debbie wants to break the stigma that fraud victims face. These are NOT victimless crimes. Often people lose their life savings, face bankruptcy, or are extorted. Debbie points out that the words we use are important. Rather than calling perpetrators scammers, she prefers words that call them out for what they are—perpetrators, criminals, and fraudsters. We need to stop blaming the victims and stop making them feel foolish. Often, they are so embarrassed and ashamed that they don’t report what happened to them. She reminds us of something that Deputy District Attorney often says, “There is a scam for everyone.”
Two scams that former FBI Victim advocate Debbie Deem talks about in this episode are the Sim Swap, where scammers get your personal information and are able to get your mobile phone carrier to transfer your phone to them and scams that involve artificial intelligence (AI).
It may seem like science fiction, but more and more, scammers are able to produce audio and video recordings that sound and look like someone you know personally or a famous person. It is getting to the point where we can’t believe our own eyes and ears! Debbie feels that this type of scam will be more common in the near future and wants people to be on the lookout for it.
Shawn Dyer from Montecito Bank & Trust says that several of their customers have been scammed out of money just when they needed it the most. They went online searching for fast cash and unfortunately, applied for loans on fraudulent sites, giving thieves access to their banking information on the loan applicataion. Usually, they also provided the crooks with personal information that could lead to identity theft. She advises people to read reviews and to call loan companies before applying for a fast cash loan. Shawn reported that check fraud is on the rise, especially for businesses. Companies are mailing checks to their vendors but their mail gets stolen by crooks who change the payee on the check. She explains the lengthy process to try and get your money refunded after the forged check is cashed by the fraudster. Once again, we're reminded not to drop checks in a public mailbox and to NEVER leave it in your own mailbox with the flag up. If you feel as if you or someone you care about has been the victim of a scam, call Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson on the FRAUD HOTLINE at 805-568-2442.
Don't miss this episode! A brave college student, (who we'll call Mary), shares her story to help others. Mary had just moved out of her family home when she received a phone call from a woman who claimed to be from Border Control and Customs. The officer told Mary that they had a package addressed to her. Inside the package, they claimed they'd found $70,000 in cash, illegal drugs, and fake IDs. Mary spoke to two other people who claimed to be law enforcement officials. Each time she spoke to someone, they gave their names and Badge Numbers--making them seem legitimate. Mary had the presence of mind to look up their names online and found that they were the real names of law enforcement officers in her area. The scammers told Mary they'd found six bank accounts under her name containing hundreds of thousands of dollars. They threatened her with prison and fines and said that if she didn't comply with their demands, they'd immediately issue a warrant for her arrest. The crooks said that all the bank accounts would be closed (including Mary's legitimate account) and demanded that Mary withdraw all her money and use it to purchase a financial bond. The scammers scared Mary and wore her down. She withdrew the money from her bank account and continued to follow their directions to purchase the financial bonds, which turned out to be Gift Cards. Mary was in the middle of giving the scammers the numbers on the Gift Cards when she realized that this was an elaborate scam. She called 911 and went to the San Luis Obispo Police Station. The police officer who met Mary told her that there was no warrant for her arrest and confirmed that it was a scam.
Follow Up: Mary said that a friend of hers recently received the same threatening phone call. Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson pointed out that people from all walks of life are targeted by scammers and as a follow up to Mary's story, shared information on how scammers purchase data that allows them to obtain personal information to contact their victims.
In this insightful episode, we'll gain an understanding of why young people become scammers in Jamaica. A woman (who called herself Candance) told her story in the Jamaica Gleaner. She describes how she followed in her brother's footsteps and quit high school to begin working as a lottery scammer. Candance said, "I left school because while it could prepare me for the future--I needed a way out NOW! My now situation was hunger, discrimination and the many distractions that come from living in the garrison." She went from living in poverty to making $90,000 in her first three days. By the second week, she'd made nearly $500,000. She has been able to purchase homes and has invested in several money making ventures. Candance says she feels bad for her victims and would like to quit. However, it's not so easy... The Lottery Scam is run by criminal gangs who demand a percentage of what the scammer brings in. If you don't pay them--you could be killed. Eighty per cent of the murders and shootings in Jamaica are related to Lottery Scams. Candance says, "We have police, teachers, politicians and even doctors who are scamming. The current law was hastily established but it is just another basket given to carry water so there is very little that the police can do about lotto scamming." The scams target the elderly, especially those living in the United States. Victims are told that they've won the lottery or are a finalist for a grand prize worth millions. There's only one catch; they have to send money to pay the taxes before they can collect their winnings. This leads them down a rabbit hole as they continually are asked to send more and more money in hopes of receiving the Grand Prize. Often, the scammer becomes best friends with the elderly victim, all the while increasing the pressure on them to send more and more money until finally, it's all gone.
Charity Scams have been around for quite a while. Unfortunately, because of the heartbreaking situation in Ukraine, many scam artists are trying to take advantage of the situation by pretending to be legitimate charities when they're not. Beware of charities that use copy-cat names that are similar to a well-known charity. Don't click on unknown links or give out your personal information. If a charity asks you to give with a gift card, peer to peer app or wire transfer, it's a scam! Make your donation through a check or credit card.
Some charities may not be out and out scams, but can they effectively deliver aid in war-torn regions? Do they have experience getting into impacted areas? Do your research before you give!
Here are some sites where you can research charities: https://www.give.org
https://www.charitynavigator.org
https://www.charitynavigator.org
BBB also has an article on tips to help Ukraine Relief Activities: https://www.bbb.org/article/news-rele...
In this episode an older man is targeted by a young woman from the Philippines who claimed to be a victim of health issues and a devastating typhoon. Rather than being a young woman who was having a string of bad luck, this was a scammer who came up with one sad story after another, convincing the big-hearted gentleman to send money. Remember, NEVER send money to someone you have not met in person. If you suspect you are being conned by someone who is perpetrating the romance scam, talk to someone you are close to for their input and advice. You can also call AARP’s Fraud Watch Network Hotline and speak to a Fraud Specialist at 877-908-3360. Or, call the Santa Barbara Fraud Hotline at 805-568-2442. The episode ends with a Good News Story. Two brothers in Maryland were convicted and sentenced to three years in Federal Prison after laundering money for Romance Scammers in Ghana to the tune of more than six million dollars!
Doris Roof, Senior Fraud Specialist from Montecito Bank & Trust, warns listeners to only use Zelle to pay people you know! Scammers are pretending to be from companies who are requesting payments through Zelle. Don't fall for it! A legitimate company will not request a payment through Zelle. The scammers are talking people into letting them access their computers remotely, pretending that they want to help them set up a Zelle account to make an instant payment. Once the money has been sent through Zelle, there is very little chance that it can be recovered! Call Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson on the Santa Barbara County Fraud Hotline at 805-568-2442, to report a scam.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, there has been an 80% increase in 'Romance Scams' in the last year. In one common scenario, scammers target lonely widows. (This typically takes place on social media sites such as Facebook or Instagram.) Often, the scammers say they have also been heartbroken by the loss of a spouse and send a warm and empathetic message. Gradually, the scammer wins the trust of their victim--and they chat frequently. Eventually the scammer asks for money. Rather than asking for money for themselves, they may pretend to be giving their victim information on an investment opportunity, which often involves cryptocurrency. This is a particularly cruel scam because in addition to losing money, the victim is heartbroken and humiliated to have fallen for the scammer's lies. The victim may unknowingly break the law by becoming a 'money mule', following the scammers instructions to transfer money into other accounts--inadvertantly helping the scammer to 'launder' money. To avoid falling for this cruel scam, the FTC shares the following tips: - Don't send money to someone you haven't met in person. - Don't buy gift cards or wire money to someone you haven't met in person. - Don't follow the financial advice of someone you haven't met in person and be especially wary of requests to purchase cryptocurrency or to wire money. - Talk to friends and family about the online relationship. - If your new friend has sent you a photograph, do a reverse image search. - Google their name. - Report suspicious profiles or messages to dating apps and social media platforms. - Report the scam to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov - If you live in the Santa Barbara area, call Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson on the Santa Barbara County Fraud Hotline at 805-563-2442
Shawn Dyer, Senior Fraud specialist from Montecito Bank & Trust, warns listeners about QR Scams. They have received a warning from the FBI about cyber criminals who tamper with QR codes which redirect victims to malicious sites. When scanning QR codes, be sure they have not been tampered with, (such as having a sticker placed over them), and that the URL address you are taken to is legitimate. Also, do not download an app from a QR code and if a person you know sends you a QR code, confirm it's really from them.
Investment Scams take people in most often followed by romance scams. Oftentimes, scammers are able to trick their victims by using information found on social media sites such as Facebook and Instagram. While it's often assumed that seniors are scammed most often, people between the ages of 18 and 39 are twice as likey to report losing money to scammers. The phony kiidnapping scam, (where a scammer demands ransom money in exchange for the release of a loved one), continues to terrorize victims. In reality, no one is kidnapped but once again the scammer uses information found on social media, giving them convincing details to make the kidnapping believable so that their ransom will be paid.
Sometimes you may end up on a scammer's list no matter how careful you are. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk: 1. Don't fill out consumer/marketing surveys. 2. Don't fill out surveys attached to warranty registration cards. 3. Don't fill out sweepstakes forms. 4. Exercise 'opt out' rights whenever you have the chance. 5. When giving money to a charity, enclose a note instructing them not to share, sell, or rent your name to any other organization. 6. Donate to established charities. Give by check or credit card, not through wires, gift cards or cash.
In this special interview with Deputy District Attorney Casey Nelson, you'll learn how the Santa Barbara District Attorney's office worked together with the Santa Barbara Police Department in an intensive investigation that lasted for more than two years, leading to the apprehension of crooks who made off with BILLIONS in California unemployment benefits. Learn how the crooks breached a property management company's data base to gain access to people's identity, and how they were finally CAUGHT!
Senior Fraud Specialist from Montecito Bank & Trust, Doris Roof, sounds the alarm about the dangers of real estate fraud. Currently, home buyers are often closing very quickly and it's vitally important to be sure to verify that the escrow instructions emailed to you are coming from your realtor and escrow company--and not a fraudster.. Once the wire is sent, your money could be lost forever. Pick up the phone to verify the wire instructions before sending the money!
As we start a new year, many of us are determined to get in shape and lose weight. Beware of companies advertising quick weight loss with their 'special formulas'! In this episode, special guest and ciminologist, Dr. Judy Christman Yates, shares tips to help us recognize unreputable companies and scams! Then, Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson, issues a warning about phony Covid-19 tests and testing sites. Don't miss this timely episode!
Criminologist, Dr Judy Christman Yates, gives great advice on shredding or burning personal information, making sure your online passwords are safe, two-step login authentication and even your car’s GPS system. Don’t miss this important episode and be sure your personal information stays safe!
Does your purse or wallet feel like a filing cabinet? Crooks want wallets for MORE than the cash they contain. With the information they may find, fraudsters often steal our identity to open bank accounts and credit cards in OUR NAMES! Stay safe by taking the time to clean out your wallet or purse today!
Shawn Dyer, Senior Fraud Specialist at Montecito Bank & Trust shares the following warnings: 1. Don't unsubscribe to an unwanted email by clicking on a link you receive in an email or text. It can be another way for scammers to install malware on your computer. Instead, go to the company's legitimate website and safely unsubscribe. 2. If you are a business owner, or work at a business and receive an invoice via email, asking you to send payments to a new account, be very, very cautious. The email may look like it came from the person you usually do business with but look closely at who it's from. A very small email address variation from the sender is a RED FLAG! Pick up the phone and call your contact to confirm the email really came from them.
Supply chain issues have made some items, such as popular toys, hard to find. Scammers have been taking advantage of this problem by creating phony websites and links featuring these hard-to-find items. In this episode of Scam Squad, learn how to recognize phony websites and links that can cause BIG problems!
With the holidays upon up, porch pirates are once again stealing our packages. Be sure to listen to these tips to keep your precious packages safe from thieves!
No one is immune from being targeted by scammers; not even a judge! In this episode of Scam Squad, Retired Superior Court Judge, George Eskin, shares his story of how scammers targeted him--and how they hacked into private email correspondence, giving them private details/information that made them seem very believable. Luckily, the Judge didn't fall for the scam. Learn what tipped him off so that you don't fall for it either.
When a woman believes she is corresponding with her friend (who has really hacked her friend's account), she is led down a primrose path with promises of a $90,000 grant--but first, she needs to pay a few fees, to the tune of $12,000. Beware of this vicious scam!
Montecito Bank & Trust warns that scammers may call to question an Amazon transaction. They may pretend to be confirming a transaction which they feel may be fraudulent but they're really trying to get your person/financial information. Another scam involves logging into your Amazon account or convincing you to allow them to access it remotely. Don't fall for it!
Special guest, Carol Baizer, from the Independent Living Resource Center of the Tri-Counties, shares a threatening voice mail from a fraudulant bill collector. While it sounds official, Baizer points out that the caller omitted vital information such as what the bill was for and what agency they were with. The caller did, however, ask for a call-back where they most certainly would have tried to get the intended victim to pay them. The Independent Living Resource Center assists individuals with disabilitie s and among other things, helps them to navigate social security, medicare and medicaid. They are a national organization. The Independent Living Resource Center of the Tri-Counties serves San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura. https://ilrc-trico.org/
Senior Fraud Specialist Shawn Dyer, from Montecito Bank & Trust, reminds us to only use P to P apps to pay friends or family. She warns us that fraudsters are requesting payments via P to P apps such as Venmor or Zelle and then don't provide the goods. Also, caller ID can be spoofed so don't be fooled! If you receive a call that says it's from your bank, call them back instead of trusting that it's really from them! Subscribe to Scam Squad today so you don't miss an important Scam Alert!
Beware of emails which appear to come from friends, but aren't what you'd expect to receive from them. In this special edition of Scam Scam, a retired defense attorney shares the red flags he recognized when a board member from an organization he's a member of asked for gift cards for what seemed to be a 'good cause.' Then, the County of Santa Barbara's restitution specialist, Dayton Aldrich, shares great tips which include: changing your password, having a computer specialist check for malware or ransomware, using a VPN server, and changing your social media settings to make them as private as possible. He also recommends using passphrases rather than passwords, and to have a different password for every single site. If this seems overwhelming, there are password apps that can do it for you, such as Lastpass. Dayton also reccommended the useful site, haveIbeenpwned.com, where you can put in your email address or password and be shown where your accounts may have exposed and/or breached.
Doris Roof, Fraud Manager at Montecito Bank & Trust, shares a warning from processors of debit and credit cards. Fraudsters have found a way to trigger an alert about a suspicious transaction (which they instigated). After you receive a two-step verification code, the crooks call you and pretend to be your bank. They may request the two-step verification code that you were sent, pretending to try to help you. Don't fall for it! It's a ruse to gain access to your account so they can reset your password and gain access to your account. Remember, the caller ID may LOOK like it's coming from your own financial institution! Always call your bank directly after researching their legitimate phone number! Be sure to subscribe to Scam Squad so you don't miss any important Scam Alerts!
Santa Barbara Police Officers, together with the Secret Service, work quickly and recover 50 K to a ninety-year old gentleman who was scammed by ruthless con-artists who used the Social Security Scam.
Shawn Dyer, Senior Fraud Specialist at Montecito Bank & Trust, reports on the Craigslist Overpayment Scam and Tech Support Scams. Beware of fraudsters who overpay or try to get you off the Craigslist platform for your communications. Don’t click on links that pop up on your computer or phone, telling you that you’re having a technical problem. And once again, we’re reminded that gift cards should NEVER be used as a form of payment
Deputy District Attorney, Vicki Johnson, speaks to criminologist, Dr Judy Christman Yates, who walks listeners through steps that can be taken to stop unsolicited junk mail and 'junk phone calls.' Together, they also review the guidelines that legitimate telemarketers MUST follow. If they don't, you're urged to file a complaint with the FTC. Telemarketers who are violating the guidelines face serious fines and the FTC means business! If you live in the Santa Barbara area and would like to report a scam, call the FRAUD HOTLINE at 805-568-2442.
Dayton Aldrich, restitution specialist for the County of Santa Barbara shares tips on how to choose a financial advisor. Then, Jeannie West, from Hospice of Santa Barbara, shares a personal story of sending money to a scammer through Western Union. The story has a happy ending because Western Union has been ordered to pay back victims who sent money through Western Union and after more than ten years, Jeanne received her money back!
Scam Squad features Dooris Roof, Senior Fraud Specialist at Montecito Bank and Trust. Host Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson and Co-Host Patti Teel follow the latest scams involving P2P and Other Money Transfer Scams. Watch out for suspicious e-mails and text-messages from fraudsters trying to steal your sensitive personal and financial information.
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Tune in to the most recent episodes of Scam Squad, now streaming on Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts!
Stream Scam Squad on our website and more!
Watch the full video interview on our YouTube Channel @ Scam Squad
Watch out for scams when booking your next vacation through a third party website. Look for red flags when booking with an alternative booking site such as price reductions. When booking your next trip, be sure to pay with a credit card, that way you are protected by fraud as a consumer.
Tune in to the most recent episodes of Scam Squad, now streaming on Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts!
Stream Scam Squad on our website and more!
hubforpodcasting.com/scam-squad/
Watch the full video interview on our YouTube Channel @ Scam Squad
https://youtu.be/tfUv-Bz-b2M
Our guest host today Anthony Giannini interviews Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson about the latest scams happening in our communities. Today, Vicki highlights a recent Medicare Scam that involves fraudsters who pose as AARP or similar 'official' organizations.
Watch this week's episode to learn more about how to identify suspicious phone calls and identify scammers before they take your valuable personal information.
Tune in to the most recent episodes of Scam Squad, now streaming on Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts!
Stream Scam Squad on our website and more!
https://hubforpodcasting.com/scam-squad/
Watch the full video interview on our YouTube Channel @ Scam Squad
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZjOPR4bCRyo
Are business fraud alerts a part of the scam? Sometimes consumers receive texts or emails from what appear to be legitimate organizations, but in fact are fraudsters trying to bait your personal information! Remember that businesses like banks who call directly asking to provide sensitive information, like your social security number, are often scammers! Consumers can be reassured, however, that large corporations like Amazon are taking action to prevent fraud.
To report a scam in Santa Barbara County, call the DA's fraud hotline at 805-568-2442.
Follow our channel on YouTube @ Scamsquad
Tune in to this podcast and more on our website! https://hubforpodcasting.com/scam-squad/
Join Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson and host Patti Teel Feature Senior Fraud Specialist Shawn Dyer. Shawn talks about the latest scams, including fraudsters who lure unsuspecting victims by impersonating banks and other institutions.
To report a scam in Santa Barbara County, call the DA's fraud hotline at 805-568-2442.
Follow our channel on YouTube @ Scamsquad
This week's episode of Scam Squad features Dayton Aldrich, who gives us a review of what he calls 'classical scams'. Classical scams are scams that the DA sees regularly; these scams just won't go away!
Dayton discusses how valuable your privacy is to tech companies and talks about the security of payment services such as Zelle and Venmo.
To report a scam in Santa Barbara County, call the DA's fraud hotline at 805-568-2442.
Follow our channel on YouTube @ Scamsquad
This week's special guest is restitution specialist, Dayton Aldrich, who shares his latest scam alerts with us.
As the State of California makes the last push for its residents to become vaccinated before CA once again fully reopens, the State of California is offering cash prizes to its residents who choose to become vaccinated. As the governor's office begins to make calls to residents announcing them as winners of a cash prize, scammers are also making calls to CA residents, announcing them as winners.
As always, be careful about who you share your personal information with over the computer and telephone.
To report a scam in Santa Barbara County, call the DA's fraud hotline at 805-568-2442.
Follow our channel on YouTube @ Scamsquad
Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson interviews senior fraud specialist Dr. Judy Christman Yates, who warns us about computer hackers and their associated scams. Dr. Yates explains to our audience what is computer ‘hacking’ and what can you do if your computer gets hacked!
To report a scam in Santa Barbara County, call the DA's fraud hotline at 805-568-2442.
This week’s episode of Scam Squad features Senior Fraud Specialist at Montecito Bank and Trust, Doris Roof. Doris updates our listeners about what is happening at the bank in the world of scams. Called ‘smishing’, it is very common to see scammers reach out to anyone via text message or email, claiming to be an official merchant or organization. Even if you receive a text message to your personal cell-phone, it can be a scammer attempting to phish personal information. When accessing the internet, especially when providing sensitive information, be aware of your online security.
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Patti and Vicki talk about current scam updates that are happening now! AARP has issued a warning to watch out for calls, texts, or emails, supposedly from government agencies, that ask for you to provide sensitive information in order to receive the recent stimulus check. Also be aware of scams related to vaccines and tech support companies. You won’t want to miss the story of the mystery man, ‘The Scam Rescuer!
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
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It starts with a call or a text from a tech support company that claims you are entitled to a refund. Watch out for Tech Support Scams!
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Follow Scam Squad and other great podcasts on our website! hubforpodcasting.com/scam-squad/
Our guest, Richard, talks about recent Craigslist Scams he has encountered.
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Follow Scam Squad and other great podcasts on our website! hubforpodcasting.com/scam-squad/
Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson interviews Dr. Judy Christman Yates, who shares about identity theft scams and how to avoid being a victim.
To report a scam in Santa Barbara County, call the DA's fraud hotline at 805-568-2442.
Follow our channel on YouTube @ Scamsquad
Doris Roof, Senior Fraud Specialist at Montecito Bank and Trust warns about mailers that appear to be medical bills, but are really subscriptions tricking people into sending the scammers a check, and tech scams. She also talks about how the bank can often identify fraudulant wire scams and warn their customers.
Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson shares two scams which use Pay Pal to dupe people. In one scam, a person who claims to be from 'Edison' insists that the victim MUST pay for a new meter via Pay Pal, or lose electricity for close to a week. In a second scam, the victim googles Pay Pal to learn how to send money but reaches a phony site. A scammer proceeds to guide the victim on how to send money directly to them. Google is doing its best to crack down on phony websites but you can't be too careful! Scammers are becoming more and more sophisticated. Don't miss a single Scam Squad episode so we can stay a step ahead of the scammers. Subscribe today!
Restitution specialist, Dayton Aldrich, shows real-life footage of crooks who are peering in car windows for valuables to steal. He also gives great tips on protecting your purse from thieves and warns us not to engage with strangers in parking lots. These thieves often work in teams--and while one person distracts you, the other member of the team will steal your valuables. Stay safe! Don't miss a single epiode of Scam Squad. Subscirbe today!
A Montecito Bank & Trust Branch Manager becomes suspicious when her customer makes an uncharacteristically large cash withdrawal. With quick thinking and a pursuasive line of questioning, she saves her customer from turning over $13,000 to an unscrupulous scammer.
Fraud Specialist, Dr. Judy Christman Yates, reports on a plethora of IRS and tax scams and gives useful tips on how to avoid them. Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson ends the show with good news about members of the Nigerian "Black Axe Gang," many of whom recently faced justice for perpetrating romance scams and conning unsuspecting men and women out of large sums of money. Be sure to subscribe to Scam Squad today so you don't miss a single episode!
Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson interviews Dr Judy Christman Yates, who shares timely advice on many topics including how to do a safe internet search and how to look for legitimate organizations that may provide rent relief. She also delivers an important message about the economic impact payment cards--some people have been throwing them out, thinking the envelope it came in looked like junk mail! To report a scam in Santa Barbara County, call the DA's fraud hotline at 805-568=2442.
Join this special episode of Scam Squad where Co-host Patti Teel describes her experience being scammed to Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson. Patti describes her experience being scammed by RX Advocate. Beware of ordering prescription medications online. Fraudsters often appear to be non-profits or charity organizations.
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Watch the full video interview on YouTube and follow our channel @Hub For Broadcasting
https://youtu.be/ZG5JpMZ0sTI
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Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson is back with Scam Squad this week to talk about mail theft. In this episode, Vicki's special guest is Dayton Aldrich, a victim's witness advocate in the District Attorney's office. Dayton talks about how his group helps victims of mail theft and gives us some good tips on how to prevent it.
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
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This episode of Scam Squad features Montecito Bank and Trust Senior Fraud Specialist, Doris Roof. Montecito Bank and Trust is on the front-lines combating scammers and alerting consumers not to be tricked by fraudsters! This week Doris Roof discusses puppy adoption scams, while reminding consumers not to send money in the mail or provide sensitive personal information to anyone whom you cannot identify!
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
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Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson is back with Scam Squad once again to talk about scams that involve Amazon.com. Over the last few weeks, Vicki Johnson’s scam alert team has been notified of various scams that involve online e-commerce. Specifically, Vicki details recent elaborate scams where consumers were notified by what appeared to be amazon.com customer service.
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
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In this week’s episode of Scam Squad, Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson interviews our special guest Sarah. Sarah got in touch with Vicki Johnson through the Scam Squad Fraud Hotline. Sarah has a rental property in Santa Barbara County. It turns out that Sarah was renting her home through a property manager which may have allowed opportunity for a fraudster to infiltrate her beautiful property.
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
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See the video and subscribe to our YouTube Channel @Hubforbroadcasting https://youtu.be/uA4WBIaSj1g
This week highlights what Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson calls the ‘Amazon scam’. There are multiple ways that fraudsters impersonate Amazon or other online retail stores. Pay attention if you receive an email notice from any of these companies, as it could be an imposter! Since online shopping is so common these days, watch out for scammers trying to phish your information.
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
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Everyone dreams of winning the lottery. But don't be fooled! If you receive an email, text message, phone call, or social media notification that you won a sweepstakes that you did not enter, chances are it is a scam!
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
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With quarantine measures in place during the Covid-19 pandemic, people are finding new ways to meet and socialize online. As a result, online dating and social media websites are increasingly popular. But not everyone browsing social media sites is looking for innocent relationships. Professional scammers and fraudsters are stalking online social media and dating sites in order to steal valuable personal information. Professional scammers target vulnerable people to toy with their emotions in order to steal their identity or finances. Be aware that not everyone is who they appear to be online!
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Follow Scam Squad and other great podcasts on our website! https://hubforpodcasting.com/scam-squad/
See the video and subscribe to our YouTube Channel @Hubforbroadcasting https://youtu.be/bVEm6zSinGM
Scam Squad welcomes Criminologist and Financial Crime Expert, Dr. Judy Christman Yates. Dr. Yates discusses upcoming scams to look for as the new COVID-19 vaccine continues to roll-out. Dr. Yates reminds listeners to seek official information from legitimate sources. Do not answer anonymous calls from strange phone numbers. Be sure to identify who exactly you are communicating with, especially if you provide personal or financial information. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
As you get older, it is normal to check the obituary to see if you know someone who passed on. Obituaries sometimes contain personal information about the deceased to tell a story of their life. Sometimes obituaries contain the full name of the deceased, as well as their residential address. Unfortunately, scammers take advantage of any situation in order to capitalize. Beware of obituary scams, bereavement scams, and phony psychics who want to make a quick dollar on the grieving process. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Happy New Year to all of our listeners, from our heart to yours! Unfortunately, scammers don’t take breaks for the holidays. With COVID-19 vaccines now available, it is predicted that there will be large scale scams related to COVID-19 testing kits and vaccines. Not only is it a financial danger to get scammed with fake products, but fake testing kits and vaccines could negatively affect your health.
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
This episode of Scam Squad features Senior Fraud Specialist at Montecito Bank and Trust, Shawn Dyer. Shawn talks about a few reoccurring scams that seem to recirculate regularly. These common scams include, tech-support scams and scams where fraudsters impersonate official organizations like the FTC. Shawn reminds us that scams can happen to anybody! Be aware when giving out your personal information, especially when sending money. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
This episode of Scam Squad features Judy Christman Yates, a senior financial fraud expert with over 13 years’ experience working in the Financial Fraud department as a volunteer with the Port Hueneme Police Department. She is also the author of a monthly financial exploitation newsletter. As online shopping during the holidays is increasingly popular, there are more ways for scammers to phish your personal information.
If you have questions about return policy abuse: https://www.theretailequation.com/
Before donating to a charity, do some research: https://www.charitynavigator.org/
This episode of Scam Squad features Judy Christman Yates, a senior financial fraud expert with over 13 years’ experience working in the Financial Fraud department as a volunteer with the Port Hueneme Police Department. She is also the author of a monthly financial exploitation newsletter. Judy talks about how to protect your identity and credit card information.
The holiday season is here! Especially this year, many people are shopping and buying gifts online. As we know, scammers are trying to take advantage of people in any way possible. When shopping online, be aware that fraudulent websites do exist. Only make purchases from secure websites and reputable sources. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
This week’s episode features Victim Witness Advocate Dayton Aldrich. Dayton talks about the importance of secure digital passwords and provides tools that can help you protect your identity when shopping or browsing online. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Thank you to Montecito Bank and Trust for making Scam Squad possible. This episode features Montecito Bank and Trust’s very own Senior Fraud Specialist, Shawn Dyer. When mailing checks at the big blue post office boxes, it is important for people to be aware that these mailboxes are targets of theft. Fraudsters also steal account information, write themselves counterfeit checks, and try to pass it through personal accounts. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Online shopping scams and tech support scams are the two scams most likely to trap seniors. Shopping scams also often happen to people who are actively searching for a particular product on the internet. Online shoppers can be enticed by a reduced price on a specific item or shoppers can stumble upon items that are otherwise difficult to find.
The most risky items to buy online are pets and pet supplies. 25% of all online purchase scams are related to pets, while other common scams are related to vehicles and medical/nutritional supplies. When shopping online, be sure to buy from a reputable source or do your research before making a purchase.
This week on Scam Squad, Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson shares a warning that she received from the FBI, regarding potential charity fraud associated with the COVID-19 Pandemic. If you feel called to donate to charity, listen to this episode to get tips about what to look for when donating. If you want to learn more about a particular charity, you can learn more by searching about that charity on Charitynavigator.org. Vicki also shares statistics about the most common scams and the most vulnerable demographics. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Our guest, Sue, called in on our fraud hotline to report that her purse was stolen at the grocery store! Believe it or not, there are groups of people who go into grocery stores for the sole reason of stealing people's purses! Shoppers beware of strangers starting suspicious, 'random' conversations and do not leave your purse or valuables unattended! To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
This episode of Scam Squad welcomes Senior Fraud Specialist from Montecito Bank and Trust, Shawn Dyer. In this episode Shawn discusses Utility Scams, Tech Support Scams, and she warns about automatic “robo-calls”. Tech Support scams occur when you are on your computer and you see an internet pop-up claiming that you need to fix your computer. Or the pop-up says you have a virus etc. It is true that pop-ups like this most definitely have scammers on the other side who want your money! They may even try to convince you to send them funds in the form of gift cards for the tentative tech support they supposedly offer. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
This episode of Scam Squad features Dr. Judy Christman Yates a criminologist, specializing in financial exploitation. Judy shares the latest news on financial crimes and discusses how scammers use fear tactics to take advantage of unsuspecting people. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
This week’s special guest, Susan, contacted Vicki via the fraud hotline. Susan found out that she was lured into a scam by receiving a phone call allegedly from Amazon. The scammers offered to send Susan money as a rebate, as long as Susan provided sensitive information like bank account information. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Scam Squad welcomes this week’s special guest, who contacted Vicki Johnson via the fraud hotline. One day, our guest received a phone call from El Paso, Texas, allegedly from the Social Security Administration and the DEA, notifying her that she is being monitored because her social security number is involved in various crimes. Even scammers will wrongfully impersonate authority figures! To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Scam Squad would like to welcome this week’s special guest Doris Roof. Doris Roof is the Senior Fraud Specialist for Montecito Bank and Trust. She is on the show today to tell us about some scams that are all too commonplace. One common scam is a sweepstakes scam; where scammers claim that you are the winner of a large sum of money – but you won’t go claiming that prize unless you send them money first! To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
This week’s episode of Scam squad features special guest, Joni Maiden. Joni is now the director of Santa Barbara County’s Department of Child Support Services and Co-chair of SB County’s Census 2020 Complete Count Committee. Joni shares information about the census, which is conducted every 10 years. Anyone can go online to complete the census at www.my2020census.gov or English Speakers can call 844.344.2020, while Spanish speakers can call 844.468.2020. The U.S. Census is offered in 16 languages! The deadline for this year’s census is September 30th, 2020. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Special guest Marie called the fraud hotline because her 83 year old mother had gotten involved in a scam and lost a considerable amount of money. Marie’s mother was called by a man who claimed to be from Apple Computers. The fake Apple representative insisted that her system was hacked and the only solution was to purchase and send gift cards to the perpetrators. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
According to new data from the federal trade commission, the most common scam during the pandemic is Identity Theft. Particularly, fraudsters are filing fraudulent unemployment claims with a false identity. It is rumored that certain identity thieves have multiple government checks, addressed to different names, coming to one address. If you believe that you have been victim of identity theft, and someone has made a claim for government assistance using your identity, call the Employment Development Department, 1-800-229-6297. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
This episode tells the story of a friendly stranger who suddenly enters the life of a lonely senior. In this particular instance, a young woman befriended an older gentlemen and ended up stealing millions! Countless stories similar to this continue to play out and we are warning others to not be fooled. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
On this episode of Scam Squad we are proud to welcome back senior fraud specialist at Montecito bank and trust, Shawn Dyer. Shawn reports on some reoccurring scams that target elders, specifically because the scammers use the US mail. Elders are more likely to be scammed via the USPS because young people most frequently use digital mail. People are receiving letters, addressed to them according to their last names. The letters appear to be from a legitimate bank or financial institution. Specifically letters are sent from Los Angeles and marked with the insignia of the Bank of Singapore. It is evident that this is a phony letter because, although it is labeled Bank of Singapore, the letter provides a personal gmail email address as the customer service contact information. Any time you are sent a letter by an official organization, a legitimate notice will provide email addresses or contact phone numbers connected to the official organization itself. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Join Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson and host Patti Teel as Vicki shares some important social media scams that are too frequently reoccurring. Social media potentially houses sensitive personal information. This lures fraudsters to phish unsuspecting browsers with fraudulent messages by making false claims or fake friend requests. In our last episode we talked about fraudulent friend requests and romance scams.
This week we talk about scams that involve financial documents, such as your bank or credit report. Scammers can often appear to send legitimate messages from your bank, but if you are aware of potential scams you will know what to recognize as legitimate and phony.
To report a scam, call the District Attorney’s Fraud Hotline at 805-568-2442. The Better Business Bureau urges you to visit their Scam Tracker site at www.bbb.org/scamtracker/santa-barbara/reportscam or call them directly at 805-963-8657.
A special thanks to Montecito Bank and Trust for sponsoring our show.
The week’s episode of Scam Squad features Santa Barbara community member Jeanne West. Jeanne has been a long-time advocate for senior wellness in the Santa Barbara community, serving as a member of the Santa Barbara County Elder Dependent Adult Abuse Prevention Counsel for 25 years. Now Jeanne works as a Community Engagement Manager at Hospice of Santa Barbara.
Jeanne is here to talk to us about various social media scams that she recently noticed, including an increase in her social media friend requests from suspicious or rather exotic profile names. Other individuals that experience suspicious friend requests may be lured to communicate with unknown profiles under the guise of a romantic relationship. Please be aware of who you are friends with on social media and do not accept or open unidentified messages or invitations.
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
This episode of Scam Squad features Montecito Bank and Trust Fraud Manager, Doris Roof. Doris sees many different types of scams at the bank. With social distancing in place, there are many fraudulent offers for ‘work at home’ job opportunities. Beware of offers that ask you to buy gift cards as a ‘mystery shopper’. Also fraudsters ask for personal information via text message. Scammers often pose as famous brands such as Nike and Amazon. If you receive a notice from a company and are unsure about its legitimacy, look up that company’s listing online and contact that company’s customer service directly. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
We know that scams tend to recirculate. Some scams are seasonal, and even predictable, leaving us to wonder if scammers still think they can get away with old tricks. One scam we cover today is an example of a reemerging classic style scam, involving a phony letter from the Bank of Singapore, Hong Kong. We also provide our listeners with up to date Covid-19 scams. To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Through our show, we hope that our listeners are up to date about current scams going around in the market. It is not surprising that we see increased scams related to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson continually receives notices and warnings from the FBI and Department of Justice about COVID-19 scams. Scammers are posing as COVID-19 ‘contact tracing’ agents and asking for personal financial information over the phone. A legitimate COVID ‘contact tracer’ will not ask for any finances or financial information. During these challenging times, it is unfortunate that scammers will take advantage of people who are afraid. Perhaps equally sad, scammers are now taking advantage of people who are looking to buy a pet online. Pet adoptions are on the rise as people look for a furry animal companion during times that require social distancing. We want to warn our listeners not to buy pets online or send money to an unknown person.
To report a scam or if you believe you have been scammed, call Vicki Johnson at 805.568.2442
Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson reminds our listeners about the many different forms of scams that take place. In a scam, what separates victims from non-victims? A recent study suggests that out of 1400 people who reported a scam, about half did not engage the scammer at all. Around 30% of people engaged the scammer but did not lose money. 23% of people engaged the scammer and lost money. Above all else, if something ‘just doesn’t feel right’ about an email or letter you received – especially if you are being asked to send money somewhere – trust your instinct and do not engage with the message. Even Social Media platforms are full of potential scams, so practice mindful browsing. The victim of a scam will frequently lose money if they believe they are being contacted by a legitimate agency, such as the IRS. Remember, legitimate government agencies will not ask you to provide personal, sensitive information over the phone.
Deputy district Attorney Vicki Johnson interviews a guest, Paulie, about an Amazon Credit Card Fraud Scam. Paulie, received an ‘order confirmation’ email from what appeared to be an Amazon Order. Paulie and her husband never placed the reported order from Amazon and proceeded to contact the listed phone number for the fraud department. This was an elaborate scam that our professional fraud investigator Vicki Johnson had never heard of and is quite a story!
This episode of Scam Squad features Senior Fraud Specialist at Montecito Bank and Trust, Shawn Dyer. Shawn talks about a few familiar scams that seem to continuously reoccur. E-mail compromise and tech-support scams continuously plague the market. Luckily for consumers, scams are easily recognized and avoided when proper precautions are taken. E-mail compromise happens when a scammer sends an email to a person, posing as a familiar contact. We see perpetrators posing as church pastors or charity organizations, in an attempt to obtain money or gift cards. If you receive an email from what appears to be a trusted contact asking for monetary compensation, be aware, it could be a scam!
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was launched at the United Nations on June 15th, 2006. This is an international effort to raise awareness within the global community about elder abuse. WEAAD serves as a call to action for our communities to educate people about abuse, neglect, and the exploitation of seniors. Elder abuse is a crime in the United States that is largely unrecognized or unreported. It is estimated that 1 in 10 seniors, ages 60+, has been victimized by some form of elder abuse. As many as 1 in 5 seniors have been the victims of financial exploitation. Elder abuse can take many forms, including neglect, and is not always easy to recognize. On Scam Squad, we often talk about scams that involve the financial exploitation of seniors. To report a case of elder abuse, please contact Adult Protective Services; reports can be made anonymously. Please due your part to prevent elder abuse.
Special guest Dayton Aldridge shares with us the reality of ‘voice cloning’ and ‘artificial intelligence’. As artificial intelligence becomes more common-place, computers are talking among themselves to provide better search results to human users. With each passing day, A.I. is gathering more data from the general population in order to become more advanced. As A.I. application becomes more widespread, people should be more aware of its capabilities; including, but not limited to, scams and fraudulent activity that involve A.I. Dayton shares about various scams and frauds that involve A.I., including the capabilities of A.I. to mimic and copy any individual’s unique voice.
We have all heard that phrase, "there is no such thing as a free ride" - This saying is more true than ever today. In the digital age, there are so many 'free' offers and product trials online that turn out to be fraudulent! Marketers of cosmetics and supplements alone recently defrauded customers out of 74.5 million dollars. Beware of 'free trial' offers - be sure that you are clear about what you are signing up for as a consumer. It is unlawful for businesses to lie to customers in order to lure them into a reoccurring monthly payment. We also know that the Corona Virus has fraudsters scamming at an unprecedented rate. In order to protect yourself more thoroughly , credit reports are now available for free until April 2021 from annualcreditreport.com
One topic that we have discussed repeatedly is check fraud. Check fraud is a topic that keeps coming up, and it is no surprise that there are increased incidents of fraud during tax season and the arrival of Covid-19 stimulus checks. Crooks and fraudsters are fishing through the mail, looking for checks and sensitive information. With increased social distancing restrictions, less people are on the streets, providing a prime opportunity for crooks to fish in the mail. The big blue public mailboxes are especially vulnerable to this kind of theft and criminal activity. Fraudsters are looking for utility checks and other bills because these envelopes almost always have checks in them. Crooks are able to ‘wash’ and alter the information on the checks. Perpetrators can even deposit the checks via mobile banking app.
A special thanks to Doris Roof, Senior Fraud specialist from Montecito Bank and Trust. To report a scam, call the District Attorney’s Fraud Hotline at 805-568-2442. The Better Business Bureau urges you to visit their Scam Tracker site at https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker/santa-barbara/reportscam or call them directly at 805-963-8657.
May is elder abuse awareness month. In the United States, we estimate that 1 out of every 10 seniors, ages 65+, are victims of abuse. As many as 1 in 5 seniors are exploited financially. Surprisingly, even family members and caregivers are sometimes the abusers. During the Corona Virus Pandemic, many elders are more vulnerable than usual. Please honor and respect the seniors in your community. To report a case of emergency elder abuse directly to law enforcement, please call 805-683-2724
Beware of dropping off payments in mailboxes as scammers are literally fishing them out--and altering the payee and/or amount. Also, a warning about being contacted through emails and texts by scammers, who are pretending to verify your login information so they can gain access to your Pay to Pay (P2P) accounts (such as Venmo or Zelle). Once they have your banking login information they can set up a new P2P account and steal money directly from your bank account!
As more people are sheltering in place, crooks are actually stealing mail from private and public mailboxes. They look for mail containing checks that they can alter and cash themselves. Don't miss this timely episode!
A gentleman who thought he had purchased horses from a legitimate seller was scammed by a crook who didn't deliver. But you'll be inspired when you hear how he managed to turn the tables on the scammer! This is SURE to be one of your favorite episodes!!
March 7, 2020. Corona Virus Scams. Many Scams are now out there about the Corona Virus.
Debit Card Compromise is more common than you'd think! Shawn Dyer, Senior Fraud Specialist at Montecito Bank and Trust, explains how crooks are getting hold of your card number, and processing a small transaction as a test that you might not even notice. Don't miss this important warning!!!
February 15th, 2020. There is a phone scam going around that tries to get your Social Security information and even credit card information. Beware of these phone scam conmen.
February 1st, 2020. Montecito Bank and Trust fraud specialist, Doris Roof, warns listeners about emails and texts from fraudsters claiming to be Fed-X or Amazon, asking you to confirm a package delivery. Once you click on the link, they'll ask you for your credit card information. If you're not expecting a package, don't click the link! It's very likely a Smishing scam to get your information and fraudulently charge your card! She also warns consumers on steps to take when a credit or debit card is stolen. And on how crooks insert card readers in debit machines to get your card's pin. Lastly, we're reminded once again, that it's a huge RED FLAG if you're asked to pay for something with a gift card. And lastly, Deputy District Attorney Vicki Johnson shares some good news!!! Sometimes people can get refunds when scammers are caught which is why it's important to report them. If you've been scammed, contact https://www.ftc.gov
Jan 18, 2020. CRAIG'S LIST SCAMS AGAIN & AGAIN. Hear another pmr of millions of Craig's List scams, this time $10,000 Craig's List Scam. When are people ever going to learn to stay away from this sesspool.
December 28th, 2918. The Facebook 2 Scams in 1. Beware of all kinds of scams on Facebook. Crooks and scammers may try to make friends with you through Facebook and run a romance scam and other scams on you.
December 21st, 2019. Beware of the Fake Rental Scam and other scams that are prevalent during the Holiday Season
December 14, 2019. ROBO CALLS, WEIGHT LOSS SCAMS, & MORE. Expert Vicki Johnson updates us on the latest scams in our area.
Scam Expert Vicki Johnson explains the dangers of Gift Card scams around the Holidays. Much, much more money needs to be spent to educated everyone on scams as well as catching these scammers worldwide by every means possible. Write and complain to your government State, federal, and local officials such as your Congressman, Senators, President, Governor, etc. Instead of seriously fighting scams, the US wastes so much money on unnecessary defense spending nearly two trillion dollars a year, thirty times more money than Russia and China combined spend , just to have over a thousand military bases in over 140 countries and territories around the world that make us less safe. as well as giving away hundreds of billions of dollars to crooked and corrupt governments like Ukraine, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Chile, and various crooks and dictators the US supports, instead of spending money on fighting scams. Write your representatives now, for more money to be spent on fighting Scams.
November 30, 2019. `A fraud specialist from Montecito Bank and Trust gives advice on protecting yourself--especially during the holiday season. They discuss the benefits of apps such as Card-Valet and share valuable tips to help you protect your accounts during the Holidays
November 23, 2019. The FAILED TO APPEAR IN COURT SCAM is a new version of the old Jury Duty Scam. A phony police officer calls to tell you that you are in violation for Failure to Appear in Court for a law suit. Listen how to avoid this new kind of scam and what to do if this scam is tried on you.
November 16th, 2019. Fake Products Online. Now that the holidays are here, we need to watch out for thousands of dangerous counterfeit and banned items for sale on the internet, especially from Amazon. Listen to Vicki explain the details so that you will be prepared to safeguard you and your family from buying these dangerous items online.
Nov 9, 2019. The Lottery Scams. Hear how a senior couple got cheated out of $30,000 in a Lottery Scam and what you can do to protect yourself from this scam that's been around for many decaces.
October 26th, 2019. SOCIAL SECURITY SCAM. Another woman was swindled out of all her life savings, over $30,000.00 in an elaborate Social Security fraud and scam. Listen to Patti and Vicki retell all the frightening details of the latest scam on Scam Squad.
October 19, 2019. INTERNET DATING ROMANCE SCAMS. Learn how to spot the crooks who take advantage of those looking for love on dating and romance websites. There are a lot of impostors calling from out of the U.S., that are very skilled are romancing people out of there money. Learn all about it in this week's episode.
October 5th, 2019. Yes, even highly intelligent and cautions people fall victims of scams, especially the Grandparents Scam. Hear how a very smart and cautious woman got taken for over $4,000 by a group of con-artists acting out the drama known as The Grandparents Scam.
September 28, 2019. Doris, the Chief Risk Officer, from Montecito Bank and Trust, goes over the recent bank scams being played now, such as the ACH Scam.
September 21st, 2019. SPECIAL BBB INTERVIEW. This week on Scam Squad, we have a special 28 minute interview with The Better Business Bureau as well as an example of the BBB's new radio and podcast show. Scam Squad and the BBB is a one - two punch against scams and scammers. Both provide information and action against scams and consumer fraud as well as prosecuting those who scam and defraud our citizens. Hope you enjoy this rare interview which will help to empower you and your family to be scam-proof.
September 12, 2019, Affinity fraud is a form of investment fraud in which the fraudster preys upon members of identifiable groups, such as religious or ethnic communities, language minorities, the elderly, or professional groups. The fraudsters who promote affinity scams frequently are – or successfully pretend to be – members of the group. They often enlist respected community or religious leaders from within the group to spread the word about the scheme, by convincing those people that a fraudulent investment is legitimate and worthwhile. Many times, those leaders become unwitting victims of the fraudster's ruse.
September 10th, 2019, ACH Scams are on the rise. Crooks look for and often times steal checks from mailboxes inorder to get the account and routing numbers of your checks inorder to scam you with phony ACH accounts on your checking account. Learn how to avoid being so very easily scammed by the ACH Scam.
September 7th, 2019. The Fertilizer Scam is the latest version on the door to door Home Improvement Scam. As in most of these door to door scams, the crooks offer the homeowner a very low or very reasonable price to fertilize and aureate the from lawn. However, when the job is done, the homeowner is presented with an outrageous bill because the crooks claim they had to perform extra work. The crooks will demand payment and refuse to leave and even threaten to call the police on the homeowner unless they get paid for the inflated bill. Learn how to deal with or avoid this scam all together.
August 31, 2019. Secret Shopper Scam has been around a long time. There are agencies and employers who legitimately advertise for people to work as Secret Shoppers. However, there are also some crooks that set up phony agencies and advertise to reel in and defraud unsuspecting job hunters that want to work as secret shoppers.
August 24th, 2019. Even though your bank will credit your account from a check you deposited or cashed, be aware that the check may still bounce up to a month or more latter if it turns out to be fraudulent or phony. Listen and learn how to protect yourself from the misconception or false notion that the check you cashed or deposited must be good simply because it cleared the bank and credited your account or gave you cash back. Too many bank customers have been surprised when a month later the check turns out to be a fake and the bank expects you to refund them the amount of the phony check.
August 17, 2019. Beware of using those big blue US Post Office mailing bins to mail out your checks. Crooks are increasingly fishing out mail from those big blue US mailboxes and later searching for mailed checks. They will alter the checks so that they are the payee and cash them. Listen how they do it as well as how to protect yourself when mailing out your checks.
August 10, 2019. The phony email from your church is a new low for scammers and crooks. They send out a phone email to church members, asking for donations to help an emergency situation at church. Learn what the Red Flags are for this and other kinds of phony email requests for money for phony emergencies.
August 03, 2019 The Sweepstakes Scam is an old scam that remains quite prevalent even today.
July 27, 2019 - Vicki & Patti have a guest on the show who witnessed up close an attempted CAR WASH SCAM at a senior trailer park. The crooks easily obtain a list of seniors who may be vulnerable to falling for scams. They go to the victims residence and act as if a Car Washing and Auto Detailing session was set up by the victim. When the victim says they didn't not schedule such a cleaning, the crooks try to high pressure sell the senior into agreeing go it, but if the owner says no, the crooks become pushy, mean and threatening in order to scare the victim into doing the car wash and detailing. Listen for all the details on this episode of Scam Squad.
Two Fraud Specialists from Montecito Bank tell us how to detect, prevent, and resolve all types of fraud that can happen with bank customers. This also includes fraud scams such as the ever popular Romance Scams. Learn how to recognize the Big Red Flags of the various scams.
Beware of people trying to get you to do a FREE Genetic Screening test that is supposed to be covered by Medicare. Listen to this episode about this latest scam cooked up by crooks and scammers in our neighborhood and cities.
Watch out for misleading ads on Vacation Packages that offer to good to be true prices. Learn how to have a successful vacation without the scams.
A victim loses $11,000 by scammer posing as a Social Security investigator. Learn important tips on how not to be a victim of this type of scam.
The new Scam Tracker Risk Report is out and gives everything you'd want to know about Scam Risk Statistics. Very interesting results this year.
May 25, 2019 - BEWARE OF PEOPLE YOU MEET ON THE INTERNET AND ESPECIALLY FACEBOOK who try to get you interested in applying for a free GOVERNMENT GRANTS. There are many scams out there right now where people you meet on social media sites will try to get you to apply for grant money. They say it's free, but then end up charging you hundreds or thousands of dollars up front for fees such as shipping and handling fees, processing fees, IRS fees, etc. Vicki says that if you have to pay out money for things like that up front in order to get grant money, then it is a scam. Listen to this amazing interview with the poor, broken hearted victim of this horrible scam.
Learn how to protect against your bank accounts from being drained out by crooks who obtain your personal information.
Beware of fake police and sheriff's department calls about owing for back traffic fines where the caller keeps you on your cell phone the entire time while having you get green dot cards or similar money vouchers. The crooks know how to spoof their telephone numbers to show up on your cell phone as law enforcement agencies. Listen to the podcast to learn how to detect and prevent scams.
Beware of door-to-door contractors knocking on your door trying to talk you into repair or cleanup jobs. Also, beware of out of town contractors that call you at home with too good to be true low cost repairs and cleanup work. There is a high risk of them being a crook.
Two different incidents last week where crooks stole social security numbers from private medical records and were able to steal two different people out of their entire life's savings bank accounts.
Be on guard against Robo Calls that are Impostor Scams that pretend to be the IRS, police, utilities, and other entities trying to pressure you into acting too quickly to resolve some threat they make up such as threat they will arrest you, or cut off your water, or take you to court unless you send them green dot cards or cash immediately.
There are so many IRS scams today, mostly because it is so easy to hack into tax preparation services computers and steal sensitive data on you. Expert Laurel Sykes tells Patti and the rest of us about the leading types of IRS scams now being thrown at us at the peak and frenzy time of the tax season.
Telephone scammer picks the wrong victim, a former CIA and FBI dept head, and gets extradited and a lengthy prison sentence
Beware of calls from fake utility collections reps. Crooks saying that you haven't paid your utility bill will try to get you to send them money asap under the threat of cutting off your utilities. Learn what to do.
Beware of unrealistic low priced rental ads you see on Craigslist and other scam plagued housing rental sites. Chances are a crook who are not the real landlords are trying to get you to send money to them instead of the real property owner.
We have been seeing an increase in tax return theft where the crooks steal your identity to file early in your name and steal your tax return money before you probably have a chance to file your return. Learn how to prevent this.
Crooks are always looking to make friends with goodhearted, innocent people so that they can trick them into being a money mule who will unknowingly launder thousands of dollars of illegally obtained money for them. Learn how to avoid being tricked into being used by crooks who need to launder their illegal money.
Well selected and trained scammers operating out of India were arrested for running a phony Social Security office scam. The scammers were selected and trained to have little or no foreign accents and called threatening prosecution unless you pay out up to $3,400 to fix the problem.
Beware of anything to do with receiving packages from the Ukraine on behalf of a friend or relative or anyone. Since US involvement in overthrowing the democratically elected government in Ukraine and replacing it with a facist neo-nazi regime, you cannot trust anyone who has anything to do with Ukraine. Be very suspicious of anything Ukrainian or anything from Ukraine. Don't get involved, it is very dangerous.
While Vicki is on vacation, Patti and Laurel discuss talk online scams that happen while you are paying onlline. There are many fake websites out there that have url names which are similar to real businesses, but people accidentally misspell the url slightly and are sometimes fooled into thinking the fake business they are on is real and thus give out personal information. When their package doesn't arrive, they then discover they misspelled the business url and got scammed into giving out their credit card information to crooks that plundered their accounts.
What are the risks and safeguards when we depend on family, friends, and others to help us manage our money as we become weaker, more forgetful, and frail. Laurel Sykes, Vice President of Montecito Bank and Trust tells hosts Patti Teel and Vicki Johnson all about it in this week's episode of Scam Squad.
Many modern families do not visit their elderly relatives as often as they would like or should in order to see if they are being treated well by their caretakers. With massive budget cuts and deregulation, corporate greed and computer automation, elder abuse is rapidly rising as more and more elderly relatives become isolated and forgotten about except for the quick drop-by during the Holiday Season. Vicki and Patti have a huge list of big red flags to look for when dropping by to visit elderly relatives.
The Phony Debt Collector Scam has been hitting us hard the past few weeks. Crooks will call and claim that you owe money for all kinds of things. and then threaten to wreck your credit standing and even threaten to have the police put you in jail. Patti and Vicki tell us how to know real debt collectors from fraudulent ones and give out phone numbers of agencies that fight against scams like this.
Beware of people who approach you in parking lots that offer to fix the dents in your car right there in the parking lot for a cut rate price. Almost all of them are cons and scammers that will quote you a low price, but will find ways and excuses for jacking the price up really high. When they're done, changes are they fixed more dents that were agreed upon and will insist that you pay a small fortune for the work they did. They will also often say that you had agreed to pay a much higher price that you really did. When you complain, they become very aggressive and threatening and always pick people they know they can beat up if you don't agree to pay them what they are now demanding. Listen to our elderly guest who went through a very, very scary ordeal with one of these scumbag cons that extorted her out of hundreds of dollars.
The Grandparents Scam is an old scam that just keeps hanging on, mostly because so many of us post a lot of information about us and often our whole families on social media sites such as Facebook. This information is used by crooks in order to be so successful at pulling off the old Grandparents Scam again and again. Find out how crooks take information off your Facebook and other social media sites in order to easily con your family members into losing their entire life's savings.
Warning, the Phony Tech Support Scam has been running out of control lately in Santa Barbara County, costing business and individuals tens of millions of dollars. This is a very DANGEROUS SCAM because it allows crooks to get your credit card and personal information as well as wreck your computer. This week, Patti Teel and D.A. Vicki Johnson get the latest info on this scam from Laurel Sykes the Chief Risk Operator for Montecito Bank and Trust. It is very, very important that you do not miss this episode if you own or operate a computer.
This week Vicki and Patti talk over the most common scams currently being called into our local Sherriff's Dept. Shockingly, according to the FBI, most of the fake kidnapping calls are coming from inmates inside the Mexican prisons and jails while an accomplist in the U.S. collects the ransom money and sends it to the Mexican mafia. Learn more by listening to this podcast.
Patti Teel and Deputy D.A. Vicki Johnson interview a new guest who had a near miss with a romance scam. Listen to all the horrible details of how these crooks romance women out of their entire life's savings.
This week, Patti and Vicki ask Sheriff's receptionists what it is like being first responders to phone calls from victims of all kinds of heartless and mean spirited scams and swindles such as the Sweetheart Swindles that have cheated so many senior aged women out of their entire life's savings.
Laurel Sykes explains the basic types of scams that are being used to defraud the public.
Laurel Sykes, Chief Risk Officer at Montecito Bank and Trust, shows us all of the most recent new angles crooks are using to swindle and cheat us out of money through the use of Phone Scams. Be sure to listen and learn about the most evil and heartless phone scams sweeping the nation and how you can protect yourselves from the possibility of losing your life savings to crooks. Don't miss this one.
Beware of phony vacation tours and cruises that offer very low prices to get you to sign up quick and very early way in advance of the start of the vacation or cruise. , When it's time for your vacation cruise, the boat and the crooks have left the port long, long time ago with your money and a very, very cold trail that's probably too hard to probably catch up and jail the crooks .
Learn how to avoid common scams. This week Patti and Vicki tell you how to avoid getting taken by crooks that use the Phone Vacation Rental Scam.
Today's guest on Scam Squad tells how an extortion emailer tried to blackmailer her. However, our guest was to wise to fall for the blackmail internet extortion scam. Listen to the details from today's guest on Scam Squad.
Crooks are sending fake bank text messages to victims who fall for them and lose money and personal information.
Watch out for phony Medicare phone calls from crooks pretending to be Medicare agents asking you for all of your personal information
Laurel Sykes, from Montecito Bank and Trust explains how the Mystery Shopper Scam works.
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!
Join the Scam Squad movement. Learn how to avoid being scammed, and share what you learn with others. Together, we can stop scammers in their tracks!