RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK – Google is teaming with the Cybercrime Support Network in an effort to crack down on internet and phone fraud – which has surged during COVID-19 – with a new initiative called “Scam Spotter.”

Unveiled today, the program provides advice to help people identify and protect themselves from scams. At its heart are three rules:

  1. Slow it down: Are they telling you it’s urgent? Take your time and ask questions to avoid being rushed into a bad situation.
  2. Spot check: Are they claiming to be from a specific institution? Do your own research to double check the details you’re getting.
  3. Stop! Don’t send: Are they asking you to go to the store and get gift cards? If you think a payment feels fishy, it probably is.

Vint Cerf, Chief Internet Evangelist at Google who is also one of the original internet designers, spelled out the rules in a blog post and explained the timing of the program’s launch.

“Just because COVID-19 has disrupted everyone’s life, it doesn’t mean the scammers have taken a break. In fact, scammers have exploited the pandemic with alarming speed, taking advantage of fear and uncertainty,” he writes.

“More than $40 million in fraud losses have been reported to the [Federal Trade Commission] related to a myriad of COVID-19 complaints.”

Cerf noted that some $1.9 billion was “lost to scams” last year, according to the FTC.

“Every minute, more than $3,600 disappeared from wallets and bank accounts in response to made-up stories of urgently overdue tax payments, bogus contest winnings, or a smooth-talking online suitor who suddenly needs some gift cards,” he adds.  “A high-pressure phone call or exciting message can overcome many people’s judgment, especially if they are caught  at a vulnerable moment.”

Cerf notes that “people ages 25-40 are most likely to be scammed,” but adds “research shows it’s seniors who stand to lose the most, with their median losses more than double the average.”

Read more about the program online.

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