New consumer alert warns about scams targeting previously defrauded individuals
The FTC says scammers buy victim lists and demand upfront fees or financial information before promising to recover lost money or prizes.
- The FTC issued a consumer alert on Tuesday warning about "refund and recovery" scams targeting individuals who were already victimized by fraud.
- Scammers purchase lists of previous victims containing names, addresses, and details about past scams, then pose as government agencies or law firms to build credibility.
- Michelle Reinen, administrator of The Wisconsin Division of Trade and Consumer Protection, said fraudsters use emotional bait: "This is just that enticement to throw people off their emotional, rational thought process."
- Before victims can recover funds, perpetrators demand upfront payments labeled as a "retainer fee", "processing fee", "administrative charge", or "tax", along with sensitive financial information.
- Legitimate organizations never charge fees to recover refunds; those who lost money should report activity to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or their state attorney general.
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