Voice of the patron: Cryptocurrency scammers zero in on seniors – KKTV

Our 11 Information Name For Motion workforce pens a weekly column for our information accomplice The Gazette. Earlier columns could be discovered here.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KKTV) – KKTV 11 Information is as soon as once more teaming up with AARP ElderWatch Colorado and the Colorado Lawyer Normal’s Workplace to carry you “Fraud Friday.”

You might have seen the weekly section on 11 Information at midday on Fridays. Each week, I test in with the specialists to seek out out which scams are making the rounds and methods to defend your self from changing into a sufferer. This time, we’re specializing in cryptocurrency scams.

“The Federal Commerce Fee (FTC) has stated that cryptocurrency is among the commonest strategies of cost that scammers are asking for proper now and we’re listening to the very same factor, as a part of the ElderWatch helpline from Coloradans all around the state,” stated Mark Fetterhoff, AARP ElderWatch.

AARP ElderWatch handles shopper complaints as a part of the lawyer basic’s statewide shopper helpline, which you’ll be able to attain by calling 800-222-4444. Press Choice 2 to talk with AARP. One of many largest complaints the helpline has acquired recently is scams associated to digital forex. In the event you switch cash by way of cryptocurrency, it’s practically not possible to get it again.

“It’s very very similar to reward playing cards and cash transfers — as soon as that cash is gone, (it) is gone,” stated Fetterhoff. “I believe it’s actually vital to know that some of the widespread scams that we’re seeing in regard to this cryptocurrency fad is that when scammers are pretending to be specialists in cryptocurrency or bitcoin, they usually would possibly strategy you on a web site like Fb and Instagram saying that they’re an professional within the discipline they usually may also help you make investments cash. It’s a purple flag of a rip-off.

“I’d undoubtedly suggest not following the recommendation of a stranger on social media.”

Solely scammers will demand cost by way of cryptocurrency. Respectable companies and businesses won’t ask you to pay a invoice that manner. The FTC additionally stated you shouldn’t belief individuals who promise they will shortly and simply make you cash. Scammers may even promise they will get you free cash.

“Simply do not forget that it’s a purple flag if somebody asks you to pay with bitcoin or cryptocurrency,” stated Fetterhoff. “In the event you don’t know what you’re doing and also you don’t perceive the way you’re paying, simply disengage with the particular person and in the long run you received’t be shedding cash.”

You’ll be able to report scams and fraud to the statewide helpline or discover extra info at StopFraudColorado.gov. Be sure that to tune into 11 Information at midday every Friday for our “Fraud Friday” section.

Click on here to learn the unique column on gazette.com.

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