In an age where cybercrime is rampant, the most vulnerable among us are often the hardest hit. Unfortunately, our military heroes are not exempt from this disturbing trend. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), in the past year alone, scammers pilfered a staggering $477 million from veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their families. This alarming statistic marks a $63 million increase from the previous year, highlighting the military community as a prime target for unscrupulous criminals. The number of servicemembers reporting financial losses has surged by 7%, reaching nearly 30,948 cases, as per the latest FTC data.

## Understanding the Scams

Cybercriminals employ a variety of tactics to deceive veterans into divulging sensitive information or parting with their hard-earned money. Among the most prevalent scams are those involving veterans’ benefits and tax fraud. Below, we outline the top five scams targeting our military heroes and offer strategies for staying safe.

### 1. Heartbreaking Romance Scams

Romance scams have become increasingly prevalent, exploiting the emotions of veterans seeking companionship. Scammers often create fake profiles on dating apps, social media, or veteran support forums, portraying themselves as caring and attractive individuals. Over weeks or even months, they build a relationship, using flattery and concocted stories to create an emotional bond.

Once trust is established, these fraudsters may concoct urgent financial crises, such as claiming they need money for a medical emergency or travel expenses. Tragically, this scheme has cost veterans and their families over $40 million in 2020 alone. Vulnerable individuals aged 50-69 have been particularly affected, losing an estimated $179.65 million within the first three quarters of 2022, a figure that likely continues to rise.

### 2. Veterans’ Benefits Scams

Another common scam involves con artists posing as representatives offering assistance with veterans’ benefits. They may promise to expedite claims or increase benefits, all while attempting to extract personal data or fees. Typically, these scammers reach out via phone, email, or text, making unsolicited offers that seem too good to be true. Always remember: if an offer appears overly generous, it probably is.

### 3. Phishing Scams: A Digital Trap

Phishing scams are a deceitful tactic where scammers send emails designed to resemble communications from official sources, such as government agencies or banks. These emails often contain links or attachments that, when clicked, may install malware or steal sensitive information.

Among the most notorious phishing scams is the IRS scam, which targets a broad audience but particularly focuses on military personnel. Scammers impersonate IRS agents, using intimidation tactics such as threats of jail time or hefty fines to demand immediate payment. They even spoof caller IDs to lend credibility to their schemes.

### 4. Rental Property Scams

As many veterans search for housing, rental property scams have become a prevalent concern. Fraudsters post fake listings for attractive properties on popular rental websites or social media, often at prices that seem too good to be true. When potential renters express interest, the scammer may claim to be unavailable for an in-person meeting, urging them to send a deposit or rent payment upfront to “secure” the property.

Victims may receive fake lease agreements, only to find out the property was never for rent or is already occupied. Always verify listings and be wary of requests for upfront payments.

### 5. Car Sales and Financing Scams

Veterans are also prime targets for car sales and financing scams. Unscrupulous individuals exploit their limited experience with certain financial transactions, presenting unrealistic offers that can lead to significant financial losses. It’s crucial to approach such deals with skepticism and conduct thorough research before making any commitments.

## How to Protect Yourself from Scams

To safeguard against these heartless scams, here are essential tips to keep in mind:

• Be Cautious with Unsolicited Offers: Verify the legitimacy of any unsolicited communications regarding veterans’ benefits by contacting official agencies directly.
• Watch for Emotional Manipulation: Be wary of online relationships that seem rushed or too perfect. Avoid sharing personal or financial information with individuals you meet online.
• Verify Government Communications: If you receive a threatening message from a supposed government agency, do not respond. Instead, reach out to the agency directly to confirm its authenticity.
• Be Skeptical of Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals: Whether it’s a rental listing or a car sale, always conduct in-person visits and avoid sending money without a signed agreement.
• Protect Your Personal Information: Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown sources. Employ updated security software on your devices to safeguard against phishing attempts.
• Invest in Data Removal Services: Consider using services that help remove your personal information from public databases, minimizing the risk of identity theft.