Table of Contents WHY SENIORS
1
The CHARITY Scam
2
The EMERGENCY Scam
5
The GARBAGE Scam
8
The HOME REPAIR Scam
10
The INVESTMENT Scam
13
The IRS Scam
16
The LOTTERY Scam
19
The MEDICARE Scam
21
The OBITUARY Scam
23
The PRESCRIPTION Scam
25
The SWEETHEART Scam
27
The VIRUS Scam
30
AVOIDING SCAMS
32
Why Seniors
Page 1
The CHARITY Scam The CHARITY scam centers on deceiving people who wish to make donations to charities, with scammers often misrepresenting false ties to a (legitimate) charity or creating an entirely non-existent charity. Props: Two phones and “The CHARITY Scam” slides
(SETTING: ON THE PHONE) (PHONE BEGINS TO RING) (VICTIM ANSWERS THE PHONE) SCAMMER:
Hello, this the Organization to Support Military Veterans, or OSMV. According to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, almost 40,000 veterans are homeless on any given night. These veterans have risked their own lives to protect innocent civilians of the United States of America, but now need your protection.
VICTIM:
Oh my, that’s horrible! I never realized it was that bad!
SCAMMER:
Even worse, many of these veterans have significant debts from medical bills but lack any financial support. However, you can support them and their impoverished families, just like they supported us.
VICTIM:
Yes, I would love to help these people! You know, I was once in the army myself, so I truly understand how important this cause is.
SCAMMER:
Your money will be a tremendous help to these people; by donating just 50$ to our organization, a veteran family that would be starving tonight will now be well-fed and happy. Page 2
VICTIM:
Sure, I can spare $50! How can I send a donation to you?
SCAMMER:
Unfortunately, we do not have an actual facility for collection, so these transactions are done electronically.
VICTIM:
Okay! What do you need from me?
SCAMMER:
To properly record your donation, we would need to confirm your legal name and address.
VICTIM:
Sure. My name is Annabelle Smith, and I live at 1236 Livingston Avenue, Livingston, New Jersey.
SCAMMER:
Thanks for that. And now, our organization would also like to submit tax information so you can take advantage of your tax deduction. To do these things, we need your social security number. Would you please provide it to us?
VICTIM:
How are you going to send the tax deduction information? That doesn’t sound right.
SCAMMER:
Your bank should quickly contact you with information on the tax deduction. Remember, by doing this, you are helping a family that would not have a home on a stormy night.
VICTIM:
Alright then. My social security number is 312225567.
SCAMMER:
Finally, we just need your bank account information to process the transaction. Can you provide your account and routing numbers?
VICTIM:
No problem. The account number is 1291316730505 and the routing number is 0114684906.
SCAMMER:
Great! All the information has been settled, and we will make your transaction shortly! In the following weeks, you will receive even more information regarding your support for OSVM. Page 3
VICTIM:
Thank you!
(SHOW “TWO WEEKS LATER” SLIDE) (VICTIM CHECKS BANK ACCOUNT/EMAIL ONLINE) VICTIM:
What? Someone took $5,000 dollars from my account!
Page 4
The EMERGENCY Scam The EMERGENCY scam involves a phone call or e-mail from a “grandchild” in some kind of emergency, who needs money urgently. Props: Two phones, “The EMERGENCY Scam” slides, a computer, fake money, and a blank money order
(SETTING: ON THE PHONE) (PHONE BEGINS TO RING) (VICTIM ANSWERS THE PHONE) SCAMMER:
Grandma, it’s me, I’m in trouble and I need your help.
VICTIM:
Is that you Mike?
SCAMMER:
Yes, yes it is, and I really need your help!
VICTIM:
Oh my, what is wrong?
SCAMMER:
I am in big trouble, as things have not been going too well at work, and I’m financially struggling. They tell me that I am going to be evicted tonight if I can’t pay my rent.
VICTIM:
Wait! Wait! Say it again, what will they do to you?
SCAMMER:
I don’t have enough money to pay my rent for the month, so I’m going to get evicted!
VICTIM:
Why don’t you just call your parents?
SCAMMER:
I’m too embarrassed! It’s my first month living in the apartment and I really wanted to show them that I could live on my own. Please don’t tell them. Page 5
VICTIM:
I understand; how much do you need to pay your rent?
SCAMMER:
I know it’s a lot but I need $1000, but please don’t tell anyone else. I promise to pay you back!
VICTIM:
Don’t worry about it, this is what family is for. How can I get you the money?
SCAMMER:
I think a money order would be the quickest, I really need the money now.
VICTIM:
Ok, I will go pick one up right now, but this is the last time I’m going to help you like this. You really need to take responsibility Mike. Where should I send you the money order?
SCAMMER:
Thank you so much Grandma, just send it to 101 Livingston Avenue in East Orange, New Jersey. I love you so much and I’m so grateful you could help me stay off the streets!
(HANGS UP) (SETTING: AT THE STORE) VICTIM:
Hello there, I need to buy a money order immediately.
CASHIER:
At this hour of the day, must be important?
VICTIM:
My grandson is in serious trouble. He is going to get evicted because he missed rent, and I don’t want him to be homeless.
CASHIER:
I’ll get that for you quickly ma’am.
VICTIM:
Thank you so much.
(SETTING: AT THE HOUSE) MIKE:
Hi Grandma, I haven't seen you in a while. Page 6
VICTIM:
Hi Mike, how is the apartment going? Is the rent okay?
MIKE:
What apartment? I live in a house.
Page 7
The GARBAGE Scam In the GARBAGE scam, scammers use personal information gleamed from an insecure source (like a discarded bank statement or a hacked bank database). Props: Two phones, “The GARBAGE Scam” slides, and a bank statement that appears to be taken from the garbage
(SETTING: ON THE PHONE) (PHONE BEGINS TO RING) (VICTIM ANSWERS THE PHONE) SCAMMER:
Hello, is this Dolores?
VICTIM:
Yes.
SCAMMER:
I am calling from Bank of America regarding your bank account.
VICTIM:
Is anything the matter?
SCAMMER:
Oh, we just need to confirm some information regarding your bank account. We need to verify the last four digits of your social security number as well as your birthday for security purposes first. The account number is 5638399177, correct, and you are Dolores Goldberg?
VICTIM:
Yes, that’s correct. The last four digits are 6634. My birthday is October 30, 1958.
SCAMMER:
Thank you, your account information has been affirmed and your response matched up. There is an issue regarding your bank account and the FDIC. Do you have any other accounts in Page 8
any other banks? If so, please state any other account number and which bank they are associated with. VICTIM:
4342561128 is an account number for an account under my name at the Valley National Bank in Livingston NJ.
SCAMMER:
Okay, this information has been verified.
VICTIM:
Thank you.
SCAMMER:
There was one last issue about a bank statement sent two months ago. One transaction was left unpaid and the amount due is $300.00. This must be paid by within one business day or you will be charged for that amount with interest.
VICTIM:
Oh no! Okay. I will write a check out right now. Where should I send it to?
SCAMMER:
It says here that the amount goes to a Mr. Collins from a company that you bought certain products from. Please send it to the following address on behalf of the wishes of Mr. Collins. 300 Grand Avenue, Livingston NJ.
VICTIM:
Okay.
SCAMMER:
Thank you for your time and have a great day.
Page 9
The HOME REPAIR Scam In a typical HOME REPAIR scam, a “contractor” will show up out of the blue— perhaps claiming to be from a legitimate organization like the energy provider— and ultimately force the victim to pay for an expensive “fix.” Props: “The HOME REPAIR Scam” slides, tools, a clipboard, and fake money
(SETTING: ON THE PORCH) SCAMMER:
Hello, I'm from PSE&G and we noticed that you were having some trouble with your home utilities.
VICTIM:
I didn't realize there were any problems.
SCAMMER:
Well, we keep track of all your information online to ensure your safety and do daily checks. All we need to do is check your central air conditioning because there may be a potential problem.
VICTIM:
Okay, that's down in the basement. Will I have to pay a fee for this?
SCAMMER:
There will be a small fee unless there is a serious issue, in which case you will need to pay more to get it fixed. However, the payments must be paid in cash.
VICTIM:
Hmm. Here, let me show you to the basement.
(SCAMMER PRETENDS TO WORK ON THE UNIT) SCAMMER:
This looks like a serious situation. Your heating and cooling system seem to not be working correctly. We will have to replace the central air conditioning systems.
Page 10
VICTIM:
Is this absolutely necessary? I haven't noticed anything unusual.
SCAMMER:
Thankfully, we caught the problem before it could turn into a disaster but you need to get this fixed immediately for your own safety.
VICTIM:
Well, if I have to I will. How much will this cost?
SCAMMER:
Today’s initial visit has a fee of $150 and there will be an additional fee of $500 to replace it for the next visit.
VICTIM:
Okay, when is the soonest you could fix it?
SCAMMER:
For your convenience, the next scheduling window we have open is Thursday somewhere between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
VICTIM:
I will see you then. So will it be $150 today? *hand over money*
SCAMMER:
The total will be $650 today, since we require the replacement fee to guarantee parts and your appointment.
(VICTIM HANDS OVER MONEY) VICTIM:
I'll see you Thursday then. Thank you for coming to check up on this.
(SETTING: ON THURSDAY, ON PHONE CALLING PSE&G) VICTIM:
Hello, I’m calling because I have an appointment today but the repairman has not showed up yet. It’s almost 7 PM and I need to watch the Wheel of Fortune.
PSE&G:
Thank you for your question. Let me assist you in verifying your appointment. What is your home address?
VICTIM:
33 Essex Avenue in Livingston, New Jersey. Page 11
PSE&G:
Unfortunately, we have no record of any recent service or appointments at that address.
Page 12
The INVESTMENT Scam Victims in the INVESTMENT scam will give money to a con artist under the guise of an “investment.” Investments will almost always promise high and guaranteed returns, and often may initially reward the victim like in a Ponzi scheme. Props: “The INVESTMENT Scam” slides, fake money, and manila envelopes
(SETTING: AT SHOPRITE) FRIEND:
Oh my, is that you Harriet?
VICTIM:
Dorothy, how nice to see you! How have you been? I heard that you went on a trip to Hawaii with a group recently…
FRIEND:
Yes, dear, I had so much fun! I have a little secret though. I’ve been investing some money in this business of an old Mahjong friend of mine.
VICTIM:
Oh, really? How has that been going?
FRIEND:
It’s been great! You know how I’m super cautious about these things, I wouldn’t have trusted it at first. But Harold, you know Harold, another Mahjong player.
VICTIM:
I do know Harold! Is he investing as well?
FRIEND:
He was the first one to invest! You should see him right now. He’s able to treat his grandchildren to dinner every week at a fancy restaurant. Every 6 weeks, he gets a manila envelope with so many hundred dollar bills.
VICTIM:
Hm, I need a little extra money too...my grandkids will be going to college soon.
Page 13
FRIEND:
You know what, Harriet, since you were my friend for so long, I’ll try to set you up with this friend. Why don’t we have lunch together? It’ll be on him.
(SETTING: AT RESTAURANT) SCAMMER:
Why hello Harriet, how are you?
FRIEND:
I’m great, Jim! I brought a friend who wanted to talk to you about your business…
SCAMMER:
Hi, I’m Jim and I run a startup called “Tool Surge”. We salvage cargo from overturned trains and crashes. It’s a really good business and we just need more capital to seal big deals. Investors get 120% their investment back every 6 weeks.
FRIEND:
It’s true, I’ve been doing this for half a year already!
SCAMMER:
We’ve been having great business, and I’d love to help out people.
VICTIM:
I see, I really need money for my grandchildren. I’d like to make an investment, Jim. Is $2,500 okay?
SCAMMER:
Perfect, you can write the check to “Tool Surge”.
(SETTING: AT RESTAURANT, 6 WEEKS LATER) (SCAMMER HANDS MANILA ENVELOPE BULGING WITH CASH TO VICTIM) SCAMMER:
Thanks for your business. If you want, you can reinvest that money and wait another 6 weeks for a bigger profit.
VICTIM:
Oh my! That’s a lot more than I invested. Okay then, let’s do another week! In fact, let me write an extra check for $1000…
Page 14
(SETTING: AT RESTAURANT, 6 MORE WEEKS LATER) (SCAMMER HANDS TWO MANILA ENVELOPES WITH CASH TO VICTIM) SCAMMER:
Are there any friends you know who might be interested?
VICTIM:
Um…
SCAMMER:
Any people who would like to make some easy money?
VICTIM:
I’ll tell some of my friends. For now, I’d also like to reinvest that money and add another $1,000….
(SETTING: ON THE PHONE, TWO WEEKS LATER) FRIEND:
Dorothy! I think we have a problem.
VICTIM:
Oh dear, what’s wrong Harriet? Hurry! You’re scaring me.
FRIEND:
Harold was a little suspicious of Jim’s business, so he tried testing him by asking if he could have all his money back this week instead of in 3 weeks. And now Jim has disappeared! He ran! His car is gone and we’ve called the police already but they said the money is all gone! Gone!
VICTIM:
But...all my money! All the money for my grandchildren!
Page 15
The IRS Scam The IRS scam involves scammers pretending to be from the IRS, who threaten arrest or prosecution if a made-up tax bill is not paid or if personal information (like a social security number) is not confirmed. Props: Two phones, “The IRS Scam” slides, a prepaid debit card, fake money, and a fake envelope (IRS)
(SETTING: ON THE PORCH) (VICTIM FINDS A LETTER IN MAILBOX AND BEGINS TO PANIC) (VICTIM CALLS SCAMMER ON THE PHONE) PLAY RECORD:
Welcome to Internal Revenue Service. This is an emergency message. Please hold while you are transferred to a supervisor. Your latest tax return was never received by the federal government and is long overdue. Failing to send in tax returns will cause arrest, deportation and loss of driver's license.
SCAMMER:
Hello, Internal Revenue Service, how can I help you?
VICTIM:
I received a letter claiming my last tax return failed, and it said I need to pay the tax immediately. if I don’t I will be arrested and lose my license. What should I do?
SCAMMER:
First, stay calm. You just need to pay the tax within 12 hours.
VICTIM:
But I paid my taxes! I don't want to pay again.
SCAMMER:
I'm sorry but there is no record of you paying the tax.
VICTIM:
Can you check the record again? I clearly remembered I paid the tax. Page 16
SCAMMER:
Please confirm your full name and the last four digits of your social security number.
VICTIM:
Jane Walker and 6945.
SCAMMER:
I’m sorry, but there is no record of it. We did not receive any money from you to pay off the taxes. There is nothing more I can do, you need to pay it now through prepaid debit card or Western Union wire transfer unless you want to lose your license and be arrested.
(SETTING: AT THE STORE) VICTIM:
Hi, I need to buy a prepaid debit card, where can I find it.
CASHIER:
Ok, I can check you out right here. How much money would you like to put on the card?
VICTIM:
$500 please.
CASHIER:
Oh wow, that’s a lot of money.
VICTIM:
Yes I know, but unfortunately I received a letter from the IRS explaining to me that my tax returns were never received and I need to pay them again.
CASHIER:
Oh, are you sure it is not a scam?
VICTIM:
Yes, of course, there was an official letter!
CASHIER:
How did they ask you to pay the tax?
VICTIM:
By prepaid debit cards or money transfer, that’s why I am here! Please give me the card quickly before the IRS prosecutes me.
CASHIER:
Hold on one second, that can be a scam. I recently had a customer with the same exact problem as you. He ended up paying his tax returns twice and getting scammed. I don’t Page 17
think you should buy this prepaid debit card and send it to these scammers. VICTIM:
I don’t care! I don’t want to risk it. I only have 4 hours, and I don’t think it is a scam. I will just buy the prepaid debit card. Just give me the card, and I will pay it.
CASHIER:
Are you sure, most of the time scammers ask for a wire transfer or prepaid debit cards, while the real IRS doesn’t.
VICTIM:
I don’t know; I am really scared. I will just buy it.
CASHIER:
Okay then, I hope everything goes well.
Page 18
The LOTTERY Scam In the LOTTERY scam, a scammer will promise a large reward in exchange for an initial fee, only to never deliver after receiving the payment. Props: Two phones, “The LOTTERY Scam” slides, and a credit card
(SETTING: ON THE PHONE) (PHONE BEGINS TO RING) (VICTIM ANSWERS THE PHONE) SCAMMER:
Hello, is this Betty Berliner?
VICTIM:
Yes, it is, and may I ask who’s calling?
SCAMMER:
I’m from the Livingston Bingo Hall calling to congratulate you again on your win at bingo last Friday, Betty.
VICTIM:
Thank you so much.
SCAMMER:
Well Betty, I have even better news for you! Our organization has noticed that you come here pretty often, and since all of our frequent players are entered into a monthly raffle, you won the grand prize in our most recent raffle!
VICTIM:
Wow, that’s amazing! I didn’t even know that you guys do something like that.
SCAMMER:
Well, it’s a new promotion we implemented this year to give back to the community and reward our members.
VICTIM:
Wow, I’m still in shock. That’s really nice of you guys. What do I get? Page 19
SCAMMER:
You've won $20,000! All you have to do is pay the transaction fee which goes to the charity of your choice. We don’t keep any of the money, since the fee is our gift back to the community.
VICTIM:
That sounds great! How much is the fee?
SCAMMER:
The fee is 5% of the money you won. We can process it with a credit card.
VICTIM:
Is MasterCard okay?
SCAMMER:
Yes, that perfect; just give us the number and pick a charity of your choice.
VICTIM:
Great! It’s 5132 0949 7608 0013 and the expiration date is September 2019. I think I want to donate to Livingston HCHY.
SCAMMER:
We will give you a call back to confirm everything soon. Congratulations again Betty!
VICTIM:
Wow, this must really be my lucky day!
Page 20
The MEDICARE Scam MEDICARE scams range from traditional phone affairs to false billing by doctors. In this example, a scammer takes advantage of confusing changes in the Medicare program to steal personal and financial information. Props: “The MEDICARE Scam” slides, a clipboard, and brochures for Medicare
(SETTING: AT THE DOOR) SCAMMER:
Hi, my name is Mark and I am the Medicare representative in your area. New Medicare supplemental insurance benefits cards are now being used. You are eligible for these new and improved cards but first your beneficiary’s file must be updated. I'm just going to need your Medicare number, birthdate and some financial account numbers if that is okay. And just to make sure, your name is Sarah and the last four digits of your social security number are 4162?
VICTIM:
Yes, that is me. New card? I never got a call about this? Was there something wrong with the old one?
SCAMMER:
No, no. Just updating our systems. With this new card you also might be eligible for new benefits. The more information you can give us the better.
VICTIM:
Wouldn’t all that information be on my last card? Nothing from my last card has changed. I’ll just use that.
SCAMMER:
Even though nothing has changed, it is protocol to ask again. We just want to make sure that is all up to date so you can get all the benefits that you are entitled to. The new card is in the mail; we just need to set up the direct deposit for any out-ofpocket expenses that need to be reimbursed. If you can provide your bank account information, I’ll take care of the rest. Page 21
VICTIM:
You can just call my bank. If you need any information for my Medicare plan, I’m sure my bank will give it to you.
SCAMMER:
We are not supposed to deal directly with the banks as we need your direct consent. If you don’t give us this information, you may face difficulties with Medicare expenses soon. Furthermore, your new Medicare cards will not be validated. If you could just give us some of your information, it will truly help us.
VICTIM:
Can’t I just use my old card if the new card is invalid? You said there is nothing wrong with that one.
SCAMMER:
If you don’t get this new card, we will cancel the other one. We are trying to implement these new cards to help our customers since the old one is not up to new federal standards. You need this new card.
VICTIM:
Hmm, the new benefits on this brochure will really help me. I guess I could give you some information. I don't have all of it though.
SCAMMER:
Anything you can give us will help. Your card will be arriving in the mail soon. Once I verify this information I can carry on with this bank processing and you should be good to go.
VICTIM:
Thank you!
Page 22
The OBITUARY Scam Criminals who pursue the OBITUARY scam will contact family members of recently deceased persons and ask for a non-existent “debt” to be repaid. Props: Two phones, “The OBITUARY Scam” slides, a computer, and printed fake obituaries
(SETTING: ON THE PHONE) (PHONE BEGINS TO RING) (VICTIM ANSWERS THE PHONE) SCAMMER:
Hello, is this Nancy Goldberg?
VICTIM:
Yes, who is this?
SCAMMER:
My name is Mark Robertson and I’m calling from Sallie Mae about a student loan taken out by your grandson Andrew for college at Pennsylvania State University.
(VICTIM BEGINS SOBBING) (VICTIM TAKES A DEEP BREATH AFTER A MOMENT OF SILENCE) VICTIM:
Unfortunately, Andrew passed away last weekend in a tragic car accident.
SCAMMER:
I’m very sorry for your loss. As you may know, however, private student loans are not forgiven after death so there is still an outstanding balance on the debt.
VICTIM:
How do you expect us to pay this loan, our grandson just passed away! Page 23
SCAMMER:
I'm so sorry but this is an urgent matter. If this isn't paid, we will have to repossess Andrew’s parents…Jacob and Stacey's house.
(VICTIM SNIFFLES IN DISTRESS) VICTIM:
So why aren’t the parents the ones responsible for this loan?
SCAMMER:
You are correct—they are, but we were trying to get in touch with a family member and we noticed your name was also on the loan.
VICTIM:
I understand; Jacob and Stacey are grieving. How can I help?
SCAMMER:
I am here to help you, Nancy. In the future it will be easiest for you to have paid this now due to late fees and interest. And since your son was born on December 5, 1995, the interest rate is higher than it would be if he were born in the 2000’s.
VICTIM:
Okay, I understand; how can I get the money to you as fast as possible?
SCAMMER:
The only way to send the money in a quick enough form would be to mail a money order to 5801 Pulaski Hwy, Suite 1, Baltimore, MD.
VICTIM:
Is that address even in connection with the company?
SCAMMER:
That is our emergency address for student loans dealing with the deceased. Ma’am, if you do not comply then your family's credit history will suffer and you will also have to pay a lot more in the future.
VICTIM:
If that is what I have to do, I will be sending it tonight with overnight mail.
Page 24
The PRESCRIPTION Scam Online PRESCRIPTION scams often result in a delivery of fake, counterfeit, or no medication. Props: Two phones, “The PRESCRIPTION Scam” slides, prescription drug bottles (filled with candy), a computer, and props for a doctor (stethoscope, white coat, etc.)
(SETTING: VICTIM USING THE COMPUTER) VICTIM:
These medications are so expensive! Let me see if I can find some at a discounted price. […] This website looks good— wow, everything is half price and I don’t even need to send in the prescription! I’m going to order these right away.
(TWO WEEKS LATER) (VICTIM RECEIVES MEDICATIONS) VICTIM:
Hmm, I can’t sleep and the joint pain is getting worse. I don’t feel well, but it must just be me getting used to the new medication.
(SETTING: AT THE DOCTOR) VICTIM:
Hey Doc, my pain is really picking up, I don’t think the oxycodone is enough anymore, but there is no way I can afford more drugs.
DOCTOR:
I just checked your prescription, and it looks like you haven’t ordered the medicine from the pharmacy for weeks.
VICTIM:
Yah, I got really lucky and found this website with the drug half off. Page 25
DOCTOR:
Are you sure that what you are being given is oxycodone? Can I see the pill?
(VICTIM HANDS PRESCRIPTION DRUGS TO DOCTOR) DOCTOR:
Looks like this is just a sugar pill, we need to get you on the real stuff right away!
Page 26
The SWEETHEART Scam Though the SWEETHEART scam targets people of all ages, the elderly are most susceptible to tricksters preying on loneliness and emotions. A “sweetheart” met online will typically ask for money in some sort of urgent situation, only to never repay the victim (in love or money). Props: Two phones and “The SWEETHEART Scam” slides
(SETTING: ON THE PHONE) VICTIM:
Hi, honey. How are you today?
VICTIM’S CHILD: Good; how are you doing today? VICTIM:
I’m doing well actually, very well actually. You won’t believe this nice man I’ve been talking to on JDate.
VICTIM’S CHILD: Really! Thats amazing what's his name? VICTIM:
Yes, he’s so sweet. His name is Albert Ben David, and can you actually believe that we grew up in the same town?
VICTIM’S CHILD: That's great, how is it between you guys? Do you like him? VICTIM:
Oh absolutely! We are actually going on a lunch date tomorrow.
VICTIM’S CHILD: Have fun, call me or anyone else if you need anything. (SETTING: AT THE RESTAURANT, ONE DAY LATER) (VICTIM IS WAITING AT A TABLE BY HERSELF; KEEPS CHECKING TIME) (VICTIM CALLS SCAMMER ON THE PHONE) Page 27
VICTIM:
Hi, Albert, I’m just wondering if we are still on for lunch today?
SCAMMER:
I’m so sorry, I got into a car crash on my way to meet you. I'm a little dizzy, but besides that I’m fine.
VICTIM:
Oy oy oy, that’s terrible! I hope you are doing okay! (Quietly) Phew, I knew he wouldn’t stand me up!
SCAMMER:
I'm so sorry I couldn't make it; I feel so bad. I was so happy to finally meet you.
VICTIM:
Yes, I’ve been thinking of our date all the time for the past few days.
SCAMMER:
I have too! I was so looking forward to meeting you for the first time, and I could only think about how amazing you must be in person. I even bought a bouquet of red roses, because I remembered they were your favorite.
VICTIM:
Aw, you remembered? That is so sweet!
SCAMMER:
Of course I did! I wouldn’t forget any detail about you. I'm sorry to bring this up, but I’m in a bit of a problem.
VICTIM:
Oy, what’s wrong?
SCAMMER:
The man is making me pay for his hospital bill and damages on his car. The crash was my fault and he’s threatening to call the police and later sue me.
VICTIM:
Oh no! That’s horrible! How much money are they asking for?
SCAMMER:
I know! They’re asking for $25,000.00. I already have $500 dollars in my wallet but I can’t arrange for the other $24,500 right this instant and the man wants the money now otherwise he’ll sue me. Page 28
(MAN SCREAMS IN BACKGROUND OF SCAMMER) VICTIM:
Oh dear, who’s screaming?
SCAMMER:
That was the man who wants to press charges and sue me. I didn’t want to call my family because if I did, they would want to take away my license since they believe that I can’t drive. You were the only one I could turn to for help.
VICTIM:
I’m so touched; thank you for thinking of me so highly and trusting me enough to call me first. I understand completely. My children are also always on my back and lecturing me. They seem to forget sometimes that I’m the one who raised them! Would you like me to loan you the money?
SCAMMER:
Oh no, I couldn’t possibly ask you to do that for me. We just met.
VICTIM:
No, but I feel like we have a connection! Plus, I’m sure if I were in this situation you would help me as well. Please, let me do this for you.
SCAMMER:
Thank you so much! But how are you going to send me the money?
VICTIM:
I’ll go to a nearby Western Union and send you a money transfer.
SCAMMER:
I promise to pay you back.
VICTIM:
I know, dear. No worries. We can have a lunch date after you get everything settled.
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The VIRUS Scam The VIRUS scam involves messages displayed on a user’s computer directing the user to call “technical support” because of a non-existent issue. Once on the phone, scammers posing as “technical support” will demand payment for various reasons. Props: Two phones, “The VIRUS Scam” slides, and a computer
(SETTING: VICTIM USING THE COMPUTER) (VICTIM SEES A POP-UP AND BEGINS TO PANIC) VICTIM:
Oh no, there is a virus on my computer. I should call them right away!
(VICTIM CALLS SCAMMER ON THE PHONE) SCAMMER:
Hello, you have reached Security Plus Tech Support. I see that there is a virus on your computer. I can fix it for you, but first I need some preliminary data. The maximum capacity of your installed firewall can block around 65% of malware; however, this virus is a phishing virus designed to bypass the firewall and mess with your computer’s central processing unit, triggering multiple runtime errors. To access your computer through an analogue port, we need some personal information.
VICTIM:
Okay, sure! What do you need?
SCAMMER:
Thank you for your cooperation. What is your first and last name?
VICTIM:
My name’s Bethany Anderson.
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SCAMMER:
Okay, thank you. For me to fix your virus, I need your home address so I can wirelessly disable it. It seems like the Norton Antivirus Firewall needs certain key identification information such as your address and your credit card information.
VICTIM:
Alright then! My address is 1234 Livingston Avenue, Livingston, New Jersey.
SCAMMER:
Great. Now can I have your credit card number, please, as well as your email so I can verify your Internet connection?
VICTIM:
Sure. 9359 2936 9124 9123, and my email is beth.anderson99@gmail.com.
SCAMMER:
Thank you for your information. Please, I just need one more piece of data. According to my data, there are two duplicates of a person named Bethany Anderson. May you please provide me with your social security number so I am able to get the record of the right one?
VICTIM:
Are you sure you need my social security number?
SCAMMER:
Yes. The database is often confusing, featuring countless profiles that may often resemble each other. Since the virus is encrypted using a Cesarian shift, I need this key information to get rid of the virus.
VICTIM:
Okay‌ my social security number is 312-22-5566.
SCAMMER:
Okay, your computer is safe! I have fixed the virus now. You are free to use your computer. Thank you for your cooperation.
VICTIM:
The popup’s gone! Thank you so much!
SCAMMER:
No problem, miss. Have a nice day.
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Avoiding Scams
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