Everyone here at Stiles has been affected by these scams aimed at our elderly, family, friends and neighbors. It’s an epidemic that is continuing to grow and improve with technology. And the amount of damages has topped $3.4 BILLION DOLLARS, with the average loss per person at $34,000. Thankfully Tina helps to identify some of the scams out there and discusses ways that Stiles Financial helps to head them off to keep our clients safer. This is one of those videos you’ll want to pass along to loved ones because the more we all know, the better prepared we are to protect our financial futures.
If you suspect you’ve been compromised or fallen victim to a scam, consult the following resources:
1. Financial & Credit Protection
Your Bank or Credit Card Provider – Immediately report any fraudulent transactions and ask about placing holds or freezing your accounts.
Credit Bureaus (to freeze or monitor credit reports):
• Equifax – www.equifax.com | 1-800-525-6285
• Experian – www.experian.com | 1-888-397-3742
• TransUnion – www.transunion.com | 1-800-680-7289
2. Government Agencies for Reporting Scams
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) – www.reportfraud.ftc.gov | 1-877-382-4357
• The FTC collects fraud reports and provides guidance on next steps.
FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) – www.ic3.gov
• For reporting cyber scams, including phone and email fraud.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) – www.consumerfinance.gov | 1-855-411-2372
• If you’ve been tricked into financial fraud, the CFPB can help with banking and loan-related issues.
Social Security Administration (SSA) Fraud Hotline – secure.ssa.gov | 1-800-269-0271
• Report Social Security scams or fraudulent activity related to benefits.
3. Identity Theft & Cybersecurity Support
Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) – www.idtheftcenter.org | 1-888-400-5530
• Provides free advice for recovering from identity theft.
National Cybersecurity Alliance – www.staysafeonline.org
• A great resource for cybersecurity tips and scam prevention.
AARP Fraud Watch Network (for senior-focused scams) – www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork | 1-877-908-3360
• AARP provides free scam alerts and a helpline specifically for older adults.
4. Local Authorities & Support
Your State Attorney General’s Office – Many states have dedicated fraud divisions that help victims. Find yours at www.naag.org.
Local Police Department – If you’ve lost money, report it as soon as possible for documentation.
What to Do Right Now If You’ve Been Scammed
1️⃣ Stop all transactions – Contact your bank or credit card provider to reverse or freeze any fraudulent payments.
2️⃣ Change your passwords – Update your banking, email, and important online account passwords.
3️⃣ Freeze your credit – Prevent further fraud by placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
4️⃣ Report the scam – Notify the FTC, IC3, or your local authorities to prevent further victims.
5️⃣ Be on high alert – Scammers often target victims again, pretending to “help” recover lost money. If someone calls saying they can fix the issue for a fee, it’s another scam!
Did you know that Stiles Financial Services was recognized as a 2025 Newsweek® Top Financial Advisory Firm in the United States?! And we have you, our clients, to thank!
