ID Fraud Schemes & Scams to Watch for this Summer

Things are finally getting back to normal this summer and folks around the country are on the move. Whether it’s summer vacations, moving to a new home or getting a new job, there’s a lot to look forward to—but at the same time, ID thieves and scammers are also on the move, which means we all have to be cautious to prevent becoming a victim. Here’s what to watch for this summer:

Travel Scams

After more than a year of staying at home, so many of us are ready to get out there and travel again. But as you plan your summer vacation, be sure to remain aware of what experts are warning is an uptick in travel-related scams for this summer, including:

• Fraudulent travel agencies—fake agencies that pretend to book your trip and take your money
• Illegitimate online booking sites
• Robo calls offering too good to be true travel deals
• Emails that offer special deals—never click on a link if you don’t recognize the company

Employment Scams

The pandemic brought, among other things, the loss of employment to many people. Now that things are moving again, millions of Americans are in search of new opportunities. Businesses are looking for new employees, but ID thieves are on the hunt for their newest victims. Gaining your personal information, including just your name, address, birthdate, etc. can be all scammers need to steal your identity. When it comes to job searches, there are several scams to be aware of, including:

• Job opportunities that ask you to pay for your own equipment or background check
• Positions that offer a cashiers check upfront
• Robo calls or emails that make offers that are too good to be true—including high paying positions touting no experience necessary or making a lot of money upfront, working from home, etc.
• Spoof job listing sites that look legit but contain spelling errors or typos
• Immediate job offers via text or email, no zoom or in-person contact or interviews

Moving Scams

Many people, especially families and college students, move over the summer. It’s a great time to get settled before a new school year and get to know the neighborhood, etc. But before booking your moving truck, be sure to check references, reviews and even check to see if the company you’re looking at is listed with the Better Business Bureau. Moving companies can steal belongings (which they later sell), damage your furniture and belongings or simply take your deposit and then not show up for the job.

As things slowly begin to improve all across the country, it’s important to stay vigilant and protect your identity. Enjoy your summer without the worry that you or your family may become a victim to any of these scams.

All Points Mobile Shredding is a family owned business in Stuart, Florida. We offer full-service shredding and destruction throughout South Florida to protect your ID and your business against security breaches. Give us a call today or fill out this form to learn more.