HOW TO AVOID GETTING SCAMMED

A Few Helpful Suggestions

This feels really weird sharing, because who am I to tell anyone How To Avoid Getting Scammed when I am a victim to this heinous crime myself, as well as so many of my family members and friends.

But, I am writing to share in hopes that my experience can help others avoid the same mistakes myself and others have made in the past.

           1)When purchasing ANY Insurance or Investment  Products make sure that the Agent that is selling it to you is the same Agent on the Contract and Paperwork, that they are the SELLING AGENT.

Absolutely NO IF’s AND’s or BUT’s about it!!!

If the Agent selling it to you gives you a very legitimate reason as to why their name is not on it (and it’s their wife, daughter or business partner) and that the person’s name that is on the contract or paperwork (as the selling agent) is aware of the transaction KINDLY REFUSE to move forward until that person is there in person with you!

           2)  Make sure that you are getting statements and/or contracts mailed directly to you! Not to the Agent who will bring them to you!

           3)  Call the Company that you are purchasing your Investment or Insurance Product from and verify your current information and the email and mailing address they have on file.

            4)  Ask the Company to put a password or security question on your account, which needs to be provided every time a call is made in regards to your accounts. Remember, your financial professional has your social security number, address, phone numbers, email address etc. Provide a password/security question that is NOT common!

             5)  When you receive your Statements REVIEW THEM!! If something seems ODD, contact your Agent and THEN CONTACT the company to verify what you were told by your Agent.

             6)  NEVER EVER allow them to have you sign blank paperwork and tell you that they will fill all the necessary information in while back at their office or after you leave, so they aren’t wasting your time. Any and all paperwork should be completed for your review, then signed!

            7)  Finally, if you feel pressured or worn out from their persistence STOP ANSWERING THEIR CALLS! Reach out and tell someone near to you in confidence your concern and listen to their advice. You may be too close or emotionally involved to make an accurate decision or to properly convey to the Financial Professional your lack of interest or concerns in their suggestions.

Hindsight is 20/20, and I know that each and every victim I have spoken with was completely convinced by the kind, funny and generous personality of the sales person. Or they were WORN OUT from the consistent badgering of their persistence.

Trusting and believing the good in a person is a HUGE flaw of so many. I know I find it easier to think good of someone than to try and think of any evil that someone may have out for me.

BUT there are warning signs and being aware and alert is possible.

Slow down, take the time to read carefully your statements and periodically check with your investment companies on the information that is currently on file.

Set a reminder on a device as to when you should be expecting your statements (some will come quarterly or annually) and if they are late or you haven't received a current one, immediately get an old statement and call the company and verify your Email or Mailing Addresses. If they have been changed by someone other than you, immediately take action to protect yourself and let the company be aware that you did NOT request the changes.

All of this information may sound silly and total common sense, but it is all very important information that I feel we need to be reminded of, to help protect ourselves and our loved ones.