Losing money to a scammer causes trauma for the victim. Not only have they lost money, but victims also lose self-esteem. Scammers know how to manipulate people even when they know signs of a scam. Scammers try to get their victims emotional to get them to act without thinking, or to act even when they know better.
A recent episode of AARP’s “The Perfect Scam” discusses some of
the psychology of scams and makes recommendations on how to treat a family
member or friend who has been victimized.
Bottom line is don’t blame the victim. Listen to your loved one
and be supportive, they already feel bad about what has happened. Also, encourage
them to report the scam. Reporting the scam to authorities can help with the
victim’s recovery, even if they cannot recover any funds.
Places to
report include,
·
Your local police department
·
The FBI’s Internet Crime
Complaint Center- www.ic3.gov
·
Federal Trade Commission- https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/
Sometimes victims
or families of potential victims may not know what actions to take. AARP has its
Fraud Watch Network that gives information about scams and how they work. It also
has a Fraud Watch helpline that you can call to talk to a trained and
experienced volunteer who can talk to you about your situation. You do not have
to be old or a member to call. The phone number is 877-908-3360.
To listen to
the 40 minute episode go to https://www.aarp.org/podcasts/the-perfect-scam/info-2023/victim-blaming.html.
AARP Fraud
Watch Network:
https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/?Intcmp=AE-FRDSC-ABT-FRC#01/
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