PHOENIX — There are many scammers looking to take advantage of you or take your money, but three types of scams stand out right now: fake rentals, fake computer/tech help, and fake jobs.
Fake rentals
Jay posted on Craigslist asking if anyone has a hard-to-find Section 8 rental.
“Sure, I do,” someone responded.
It is a one-bedroom house in Tempe and pets are welcome.
The person wants $1,000 a month and a $1,000 upfront deposit. But he says he cannot show the unit to Jay.
The man says he is in West Africa doing “Bible translation” and wants the deposit sent to him directly.
Jay now thinks it’s a scam — and he’s right.
Being out of the country and mentioning the Bible are big warning signs. Add to that the big money he wanted to be sent to him blindly upfront.
Make sure you research who owns the property you want to rent.
You can do an online property look-up by county.
Also, demand the person show you the unit and only then give them a minimal deposit.
Fake computer virus/tech help
The second biggest scam right now involves Microsoft pop-ups on your computer.
Phyllis let me know she got a notice on her computer about a serious virus issue and a phone number she must call.
Donna also got a pop-up Microsoft message saying to “not turn off the computer. It has been locked up due to malware installed by hackers.”
Both women called the phone number and were told techs could remove the viruses — for a price.
Phyllis gave up her bank information but didn’t trigger payment.
Donna says she…
