Pretexting Scams Explained: How to Protect Your Personal Information

Pretexting is a type of fraud where scammers create a false scenario or identity to trick you into revealing personal information. This information can then be used for identity theft, financial fraud, or other malicious purposes.

How Does Pretexting Work?

Scammers often employ a variety of tactics to gain your trust. Here are some common examples of pretexting:

• Impersonation: Scammers may pretend to be government officials, law enforcement officers, bank employees, or even family members to gain your confidence.
• Phishing: This involves sending fraudulent emails or text messages that appear to be from legitimate companies, urging you to click on links or provide personal information.
• Social engineering: Scammers use psychological manipulation techniques to exploit your emotions or curiosity.

Common Pretexting Scams

• Government Imposter Scams: Scammers posing as IRS or Social Security Administration agents may threaten legal action if you don’t provide personal information or make immediate payments.
• Tech Support Scams: Fraudsters claim to be from tech companies and offer to fix non-existent computer problems for a fee.
• Grandparent Scams: Scammers pretend to be grandchildren in distress, requesting money urgently.
• Romance Scams: These involve building fake online relationships to gain trust and then requesting financial assistance.
  

Protecting Yourself from Pretexting Scams

• Be Wary of Unsolicited Contact: Avoid sharing personal information with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
• Verify Information: If you receive a suspicious call or email, independently verify the sender’s identity before providing any information.
• Protect Your Personal Information: Be cautious about sharing sensitive details online or over the phone.
• Use Strong Passwords: Create complex passwords for your online accounts and consider using a password manager.
• Monitor Your Financial Accounts: Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized activity.

Remember, legitimate businesses and government agencies will never ask for personal information through unsolicited calls, emails, or texts. If you suspect a scam, hang up or delete the message, and report it to the appropriate authorities. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of pretexting.