This presentation provides information and tips on how to identify and avoid possible scams. Scam artists often target vulnerable people such as senior citizens or those in declining health who are usually available and have money. Scam artists are gifted at getting people to believe them and are experts at using your emotions against you. Stay alert to some of the red flags highlighted in this presentation to avoid being ripped off.

1. How to Recognize a Scam Consumer Affairs Branch Fairfax County Department of Cable and Consumer Services fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer

2. Scam artists seek out people who are not informed about fraud If you suspect you’re involved in a scam, be alert and recognize the “red flags” SCAMS fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer

3. AVAILABILITY Calls from telemarketers Fax advertisements Visits from door to door solicitors Emails offering services, gifts, products, or opportunities MONEY Bank account Credit or debit cards Under a mattress Valuable property, such as a home with equity How Do Scam Artists Select a Target? fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer

4. DECLINING HEALTH Unable to perform household repairs Suffer from ailments such as dementia or Alzheimer's VULNERABILITY Spend hours talking to prospective victims to gain their trust Initially ask for a small contribution Gradually ask for more and more money How Do Scam Artists Select a Target? fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer

5. “Free gifts” “Act now, limited time only” “High profit, no risks” “Get rich quick investment” “Guaranteed price protected” “Increase your income” “Send fees to cover taxes” “This is your lucky day” “Verify your credit card number to claim your prize” RED FLAGS: Common Words and Phrases fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer

6. Written information or basic details about the company A mailing address – they might give you a post office box What Scam Artists Won’t Give You fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer

7. The TRUTH What Scam Artists Won’t Tell You fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer

8. Start with a friendly, reassuring voice Make flattering comments Gifted at getting people to believe them Provide believable answers to tough questions Ability to impersonate legitimate businesses, charities and causes Expertly use your emotions against you Entertain and befriend you before asking for money Make “too good to be true” claims Scam Artist: How Do They Do That? fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer

9. JUST SAY NO! AVOID SCAMS fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer

10. Contact the Fairfax County Consumer Affairs Branch for more information: 12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 433 Fairfax, Virginia 22035 703-222-8435 TTY 711 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer consumer@fairfaxcounty.gov fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer Contact Consumer Affairs