WilmingtonBiz Insights (May 11, 2020) — Scammers are on the prowl with Americans’ increased anxiety over COVID-19. As we commemorate Military Appreciation Month in May, a warning goes out to veterans and military families since they are twice as likely as civilians to be targeted by con artists.
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), there have been over 20,300 COVID-19 complaints carrying an estimated $15.6 million in losses since the start of 2020. U.S. service members and veterans should take particular notice because these fraudsters have tailored their fake pitches to mix the pandemic with top concerns of those who have worn a military uniform. Suzanne Black, AARP’s North Carolina Associate Director of Advocacy and Community Outreach, offers words of caution and wise advice.