|
Don't get sucked in by the scam
It seems like people will do anything to make a buck these days. Yes, we're going through difficult economic times, but it's just downright wrong for people to try and scam others to make their money. Unfortunately, it's becoming more and more common, a growing trend spreading rampantly at local, state, national and even international levels. Scams tend to be used to bilk someone out of their hard-earned money. People looking to pad their pockets prey on those unsuspecting people in an attempt to make cash in a hurry. There are a number of scams going on, too many to count, probably. But there is a general rule of thumb people can follow to make sure they don't fall victim to one: be suspicious. Law enforcement officers who investigate these scams will tell you if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. That should be a tipoff that something is afoot. A lot of these scams come from people going door to door seeking money for this organization and that agency. While it certainly is a noble gesture to give money for what we think might be a good cause, it's also risky. Therefore, don't be afraid to ask questions about the organization and how the money will be used. Press the issue and don't fall victim to a sales pitch from a smooth-talking, silver-tongued devil. There are a number of scams going on these days through the Internet. It's not uncommon to get an e-mail telling you that you have won an amount of money through a contest, usually one that originates overseas, or by being selected as a winner. Remember that you have to enter said contest to be said winner. If you didn't enter it, you haven't won it. And it's not a normal practice for someone receiving money to be required to give some in order to collect winnings. Be wary of any letter, phone call or e-mail you receive that asks you to give an amount of money to collect a monetary prize. It doesn't work that way. These scammers have no regard for the people they are hurting. They may take from the elderly, deceive the college student with a get-rich scheme or try to pull the wool over the eyes of you or me. Don't let it happen. It's terrible that we have to be so skeptical of people these days, but that is what our society has come to. No longer are we living in a world where honesty is held with high regard. It seems now that we live in a world where people do what they can to get by as easily as possible. And that means creating a rouse to fool us all. Scam artists are out there. They're always on the lookout for their next victim. Don't give in to them. Don't allow yourself to be that next victim on their list. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Nathan Key Managing Editor nathankey@newstopic.net
|
