The American Human Rights Council (AHRC-USA) extends its best wishes to everyone for a safe and pleasant holiday season. Covid-19 will not stop us from celebrating responsibly.
Thieves, unfortunately, consider holidays a prime time to scam others. The list of scams is too long. While recent immigrants and the elderly are the most vulnerable, criminals have been able to scam people from all backgrounds.
Law enforcement agencies at all levels have been working tirelessly to fight these crimes. However, fighting these crimes effectively requires citizens who are aware of the threat and are vigilant. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Criminals have pretended to be from the IRS, Social security, banks, service companies and others. AHRC urges all not to provide any personal information on the phone without verifying the identity of the caller. If you have suspicions, simply hang up. Do not be afraid or intimidated.
If you are victimized, you should report the crime. Don’t feel embarrassed because you have been victimized. You are the victim and the thieves are the bad people that should be ashamed and face the consequences of their actions.
“It is sad that criminals use the holidays to prey on people, to steal their hard-earned money,” said Imad Hamad, AHRC Executive Director. “When in doubt, err on the side of caution,” added Hamad. “Don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted friends and family when you have suspicions,” concluded Hamad.
Additional information and reporting for being a victim of a scam can be found on WWW.IC3.GOV
Information on Financial Frauds are found in our Cornerstone Outreach program: https://www.ice.gov/cornerstone
Money Mules https://www.ic3.gov/Media/Y2019/PSA191204
Money Mules https://www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch/money-mule-initiative
Press Release https://www.fbi.gov/news/pressrel/press-releases/us-law-enforcement-takes-action-against-approximately-2300-money-mules-in-global-crackdown-on-money-laundering
Romance Fraud https://www.ic3.gov/Media/Y2019/PSA190805
COVID Schemes https://www.ic3.gov/Media/Y2020/PSA200320
Elder Scams https://www.ic3.gov/Media/Y2019/PSA19091
If anyone wanted to report a financial fraud scam or any type of crime to HSI, they would just need to email or phone through the general tip line:
(866) 347-2423 (U.S. and Canada)
(802) 872-6199 (Other Countries Across the Globe)
(802) 872-6196 TTY for hearing impaired only || TTY para personas con discapacidad auditiva solamente
Online Tip Form: www.ice.gov/webform/ice-tip-form
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