Federal Trade Commission gives tips on how to spot scams targeting veterans
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- In recognition of Veterans Day, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is sharing how family and friends can spot and avoid scams that target veterans and servicemembers. The commission said that last year, servicemembers and veterans reported losing more than $350 million to fraud. FTC said common scams can include someone claiming to help veterans file for benefits, though they are actually trying to steal personal information or military benefits. Another major red flag is if and when a caller tells you to withdraw cash and deposit it into a specific Bitcoin ATM to protect it. To help protect loved ones against these scams, you can follow Military Consumer, a tool that gives updates on scams. Another resource suggested by FTC is Veteran Service Member Family Fraud Evasion (VSAFE), as well as the National Veterans Financial Resource Center. If you or someone you know paid a scammer, FTC said you should contact the company or bank used to pay the scammer and report the payment or transfer. If you or someone you know gave personal information to a scammer, like your Social Security number, the commission said to got to its identity theft website. Another step you can take is reporting a scam to FTC.
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RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- In recognition of Veterans Day, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is sharing how family and friends can spot and avoid scams that target veterans and servicemembers.
The commission said that last year, servicemembers and veterans reported losing more than $350 million to fraud.
FTC said common scams can include someone claiming to help veterans file for benefits, though they are actually trying to steal personal information or military benefits.
Another major red flag is if and when a caller tells you to withdraw cash and deposit it into a specific Bitcoin ATM to protect it.
To help protect loved ones against these scams, you can follow Military Consumer, a tool that gives updates on scams. Another resource suggested by FTC is Veteran Service Member Family Fraud Evasion (VSAFE), as well as the National Veterans Financial Resource Center.
If you or someone you know paid a scammer, FTC said you should contact the company or bank used to pay the scammer and report the payment or transfer.
If you or someone you know gave personal information to a scammer, like your Social Security number, the commission said to got to its identity theft website.
Another step you can take is reporting a scam to FTC.
