Happy Holiday Scam – son (Season)

Unfortunately, scammers to do not take off for the holiday season.  In fact, it appears the scams increase!  Last week a scam surfaced around the country.  A number of bomb scares were reported requesting a bit coin payment.  Since none of the “bomb” were detonated, this appears to have been just a scam.
Bomb scares are not the only scams during the season.  Just in the last few days I received a phone call from someone that reported they were receiving information about my business computer having problems.  I was too busy to play with them, so I did the right thing and just hung up.  Other companies that you have no relationship with are not getting information about your computer.
Also, with tax season being just around the corner, the IRS does not notify you of any tax problems with a phone call.  They ALWAYS send a letter in the US mail.
The only institutions that may call, email or text you are your bank and credit card companies.  Normally you will only receive these notifications if you sign up for them.  Just to be extra cautious, do not reply to the notification, but call your bank or credit card company via the number on your statement or their website.  If it is a legitimate concern, they will forward you to the correct person to resolve your issue.
Again, if you get an unsolicited phone call about any computer issues, just hang up.  The same goes for tax issues.  If you get a strange pop up on your computer, shut it down immediately.  If it will not let up shut down your computer, unplug it! and contact your IT department or a computer professional.
Unfortunately, the holiday season is a busy time for scammers.  Don’t let the business of the season allow you to let down your guard.  Happy Holidays and be careful!