SCAMS...

We hate them! Why do people want to steal someone's identity? Well it looks like a lot want to! In fact, I just got a call this week that was SO fishy! I mean $9,200 sounds AMAZING! So, don't get my hopes up about it acting like a professional! The minute you said the government was giving me money with no strings attached, I knew it wasn't real! Here are a few things you need to remember in order to keep yourself safe..

1. The IRS/Government NEVER calls you personally

They will send you a letter by mail, never call or e-mail.

2. You never have to pay money to get money

...unless your at a casino, you don't have to give money away to get it!

3. Never give out super personal information

In fact don't give out any at all over the phone to someone you don't know! Especially your driver's license number, social security number, credit card number, bank account numbers, or physical address.

4. Have secret codes established within your family

This is because people have been called by someone pretending be a family member needing money wired to them because of an emergency such as, in jail, an accident, on vacation and lost their wallet, etc. Ask for that code before proceeding with helping them out!

5. Don't answer blocked, unavailable, or out-of-state unknown calls

If you aren't expecting an out-of-state call from someone then they can always leave a message!

6. Always remember the old saying, "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!"

If you are offered something and it seems like it is too good to be true... hunnie, it IS! Nothing in life is free...

7. Ignore ALL mail and solicited phone calls for Foreign Lottery promotions.

First of all, if you DO play a Foreign Lottery, you are breaking a federal law!

8. Do NOT pay to be a Mystery Shopper!

Companies pay YOU to work for THEM. NOT the other way around darling!

9. NEVER sign documents without reading them first!

You never know what you are signing when you just go for it like Ariel did.....

10. BEWARE! Work at home scams are out there!

Being scammed is NOT something you want to add to your resume! You can end up paying for starter kits or certifications that are useless or you find your credit card is charged without notification! You can also end up receiving fake paychecks! SO MAKE SURE THAT BUSINESS HIRING YOU IS REAL BEFORE ACCEPTING THE POSITION!!

11. If you don't know them, don't let them come work for you!

Be aware of people coming up to your house or business offering to do work for you (building a driveway, yardwork, painting, roofing, etc.) They won't do it unless you pay first and then they don't finish the job! Just make sure you check them out first!

12. If you feel like you have been a victim of scamming, contact your local law enforcement or report it to the Federal Trade Commission or Better Business Bureau!

Don't let them get away! You know your rights, protect others too!

Now that you have at least 12 recommendations on handling scams from me, just be sure to always be aware! Nobody's got time for all that mess! STAY SECURED! ;)