Scams targeting service members

2013-10-31T13:41:27-04:00

There are a number of scams currently circulating that target members of the military and veterans, such as fake military charities, identity theft targeting active service members, and veteran pension scams.

In general, all of these scams try to take advantage of military members by offering to provide a service and then taking your money, while you get nothing in return.

You can learn more about specific scams by visiting the Scams Targeting Service Members or Veterans section of StopFraud.gov....

If you've been the victim of a scam, there are a few ways to file a complaint:
•File a complaint online with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or call them at 1-877-FTC-HELP ( [login to see] ) or [login to see] .
•File a complaint about Internet-related fraud issues with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

StopFraud.gov offers information about how to report financial fraud.

Response by CW3(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2013 1:31 PM

2013-11-01T13:31:38-04:00

I am absolutely stunned by companies that try to provide services or goods to military members just to make money. They usually feed off of those that are in a money or financial situation, or lower ranking. I know a good NCO that would not allow his soldiers to use a company without him looking into it. He would give his advice and let the soldier make the decision, usually the sided with the NCO.

Response by SFC James Baber made Dec 24 at 2013 9:38 PM

2013-12-24T21:38:07-05:00

This is nothing new as it has been going on ever since the military has existed pretty much, I can remember all the sham businesses that used to be able to get on installations back in the 80s and 90s that would even go to the barracks and try and hustle Soldiers out of their money.

And look at all the so-called helpful businesses just outside any gate of any military installation, the check cashing places, pawn shops, car dealerships, strip clubs, etc., it is nothing that will continue long past all of us being gone and dust.

It is horrible and will always be a way to scam young and unknowing SMs and sometimes even those seasoned vets who believe in helping out other vets they think they are helping sometimes.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Apr 1 at 2014 8:05 AM

2014-04-01T08:05:11-04:00

MSgt Suber, Have you ever seen something on FB where a spouse or an associate of a widow solicits funds for a fallen service member? Sometimes they will say the SM was a Navy Seal, Ranger, or a Marine to play on your patriot side and your heart strings. The person wants you to send the money to a Paypal account. I once in a tactful manner told a solicitor who was requesting funds for a family of a fallen Navy Seal that folks have to be careful because of fruads. I then got banned from that FB site. What I found to be fishy is that SMs have SGLI which is worth at least $250 and with that sort of money, it should be enough to get affairs inline. I also said something about that too. I also said I wasn't going to send funds to some random Paypal account.

Response by Cpl Brett Wagner made Jun 11 at 2014 9:15 PM

2014-06-11T21:15:56-04:00

My only comment is this it is not just "service members" I have found all through life there are those that pray on the innocent and trusting. You have to always be on guard in life. Maybe growing up in the city where you are taught not to trust anyone especially those trying to give you a great deal has helped me avoid this kind of thing.

Here is some hard earned wisdom - If you are ever in the position of buying a new home perform multiple inspections before closing. Bring as many people with you as you can get. Mothers, fathers, in laws, brothers, sisters & friends tell them "As we walk through this house there WILL be many problems and issues place help us find them and write them down." Do not be afraid to write down the smallest issue because the builder will try to convince you the house is perfect as is. I have purchased 3 new homes and each and every time it has been the same. My best experience was in SA Texas but the absolute worst experience was in Virginia and after 4 years I am still battling over issues with this builder. Their name might rhyme with K. Govninian, they are slicker than snot on a brass door knob. Another area you must go in with a warriors attitude is buying a new automobile.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 2:53 PM

2015-04-08T14:53:46-04:00

This is one scam I think they fell for. I just don't see it.

'Military mistress' who conned 15 soldiers is again wanted for fraud

Bobbi Ann House, 39, who hit headlines in 2010 for marrying at least 14 servicemen and then draining their bank accounts, is now on the run for check fraud with her new husband.

Response by SGT Michelle Griffin-Franks made Apr 22 at 2015 1:59 PM

2015-04-22T13:59:48-04:00

There are a lot of civilian organizations in Phila Pa trying to piggy back on veterans groups that are really trying to make a difference Greedy money hungry it pisses me off. If your not a veteran personally I don't think you can help a veteran. If they cared about is the V.A.M.C and regional offices wouldn't be in such turmoil Anerican Greed

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Jul 23 at 2015 10:32 PM

2015-07-23T22:32:13-04:00

SMSgt Kevin Suber
Thank You for this heads up. No calls or suspicious emails yet but I am consistently bombarded by telemarketers even though I put my name on the "Do Not Call List". Thanks for your service. I was ARMY for 6 years. Half as a 24K and the other as a 31D. Hawk Missile System and CID Field Officer. Wish I had stayed at least 13 more as I made E-5 in 5 years.
Again, Thanks!
Rick