This episode of “Let’s Talk About Scams,” host Joyce Petrowski, founder of R.O.S.E. Resources/Outreach to Safeguard the Elderly, takes us through a harrowing impersonation scam story shared by Sonny, whose wife became a victim of scammers skillfully posing as various government officials. From Customs, Border Patrol, and the U.S. Marshals, the scammers' used an elaborate scheme to scam! Together, Joyce and Sunny dissect the step-by-step manipulation process, from the initial fraudulent call under the guise of a customs official to the eventual demand for a Bitcoin ATM deposit. Join Joyce as she unpacks this real-life situation to equip and educate listeners on safeguarding themselves against such sophisticated scams.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Impersonation scams can involve sophisticated stories with scammers posing as officials from multiple government agencies.
• Emotional manipulation is a key tactic used by scammers to prevent victims from thinking clearly and questioning the scam.
• The importance of having a trusted person to consult with before making any decisions under pressure.
• Continuous education and awareness are crucial for protecting oneself against scams.
• Scammers exploit victims' fears of legal trouble and tarnished reputations to coerce them into compliance.

Remember, knowledge is power—subscribe to "Let's Talk About Scams" podcast to stay updated on ways to safeguard your well-being against scams. Share what you've learned with your loved ones and stay vigilant. Stay safe and informed! Visit https://www.roseadvocacy.org/ for additional resources and newsletters to safeguard against scams.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for individual professional/legal advice. The podcast information was carefully compiled from vetted sources and references; however, R.O.S.E. Resources/Outreach to Safeguard the Elderly cannot guarantee that you will not fall victim to a scam.