In this month’s scam, you receive an unexpected text message from an unknown number. The text seems harmless at first, with a message like “Hey, how are you?” or “Are you coming to the BBQ later?” If you reply to the message, the sender will start a friendly conversation.
But this “friend” is actually a cybercriminal! After some casual conversation, they’ll start talking about a great investment opportunity in cryptocurrency or gold, and promise you can make big profits with no risk. They’ll tell you to invest in a specific website or app. But this opportunity isn’t real, and any money you send will go directly to the scammer. If you send your money through the website or app, the cybercriminal “friend” will disappear, and your money will be gone forever!
Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to this smishing, or SMS phishing, scam:
- If you receive a text from a number you don’t know, don’t reply. Replying to the message lets cybercriminals know that your phone number is active.
- Be cautious of any promises of guaranteed profits or zero-risk returns. These are major red flags for scams.
- Never send money, cryptocurrency, or gift cards to someone you haven’t met in person.
Source: Alphastar Capital Management Security Team
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Megan Jones joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as marketing director. Megan and her husband live in Fredericksburg, VA with their German Short Haired Pointer, Gus. Megan is a graduate of Longwood University and holds a degree in communications. Megan is the oldest of Dave Lopez’s three children and not only enjoys working alongside her father, but also with her cousin, Chase, who joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as an advisor. Megan is also a fully licensed Life, Health, and Annuity agent. When not at work, Megan enjoys sitting on the back porch with family and friends enjoying food and music.
Amy Anderson joined the ILG Financial team in 2023 as the client relations coordinator. Her responsibilities include scheduling of appointments, annual check-up notifications, and annuity and required minimum distribution assistance. She is a graduate of Harding University with a degree in Computer Information Systems. Amy and her husband have two children and she enjoys reading, crocheting, music and spending time with her family.
Terri Center joined the ILG Financial team in 2019 as client services manager. She handles client records, application processing, and gathering information to provide a professional and friendly experience with all of our clients. Terri is a graduate of Oakland University. She is married and has two children. She enjoys hiking, family time, and puzzle challenging video games. She also likes to share her creativity in her canvas paintings and sewing projects.
Jessica Carson joined the ILG Financial team in 2018 as an agent. Jessica and her husband have four children, two dogs, 3 barn cats, 5 chickens, and three parakeets. She indeed loves her children and pets! When not at work, Jessica enjoys playing the piano and cello as well as traveling and spending time outside with her family, hiking, fishing, and boating.
Chase Lopez joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as an advisor. Chase is a 2016 James Madison University graduate with a degree in management. Chase has been trained under the tutelage of Dave Lopez, who is not only the founder and managing member of ILG Financial, but also is Chase’s uncle and godfather. He also enjoys working alongside his cousin, Megan, who is Dave’s daughter.