Episode 15: Scams Are Getting Smarter—Are You?

From fake IRS calls and toll ticket texts to AI voice clones—scammers are evolving, and fast. In 2024, U.S. consumers lost over $16.6 billion to scams. Globally, it’s more than $1 trillion.

We’re breaking down the latest scams, how they work, who they target—and how to protect yourself before your money (or identity) disappears.

Why Should We Care About Scams?

💸 $1 trillion lost globally to scams and fraud in 2024

🔐 The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau was gutted, just when we need it most

👵 Older adults lose the most money, but Gen Z is the most frequent target

⚖️ Fewer legal protections mean less help if you get scammed

What Can You Do?

🔒 Use VPNs on public Wi-Fi

🚫 Don’t click on sketchy texts, links, or emails

🧾 Freeze or lock your Social Security number

👀 Check the Better Business Bureau before buying from unknown sites

📣 Report fraud at ic3.gov or reportfraud.ftc.gov

💬 What In Your World? We want to hear from you!

• Have you ever fallen for a scam? What happened?
• Are there new scams we didn’t mention that people need to know about?
• Should financial institutions do more to help victims recover stolen money?

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