Cyber Sages STL

06/02/2026

Discover today's most common scams, how they operate, and practical ways to help avoid becoming a victim.

cyber sages STL is not affiliated with AARP or any other organization that we use as a source for stories

Older adults face rising fraud losses. Discover today’s most common scams, how they operate, and practical ways to avoid becoming a victim.

06/02/2026

Here's how it plays out: A pop-up appears on your screen. It looks urgent. There's a phone number to call for help.

So you call — and within minutes, a hacker is inside your computer and draining your life savings.

06/02/2026

The Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind residents to use caution when using Bitcoin ATMs, especially if you are being instructed by someone else to send money through one. Scams involving Bitcoin machines continue to rise, and once funds are sent, they cannot be recovered.

Scammers may claim you owe money for jury duty, a warrant, bond payment, an emergency involving a loved one, or even an investment opportunity. In many cases, they will pressure victims to act quickly and direct them to a Bitcoin ATM to send payment.

In an effort to increase awareness and help protect our community, the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office has placed warning labels on Bitcoin ATMs throughout Cabarrus County encouraging users to stop, think, and verify before sending money.

If someone is demanding payment through a Bitcoin ATM, take a moment to pause and make sure the request is legitimate.

If you believe you may be the victim of a scam, please contact the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office at (704) 920-3000.

06/02/2026

Scammers are heavily reviving old McAfee expiration emails and pop-ups to exploit user fear: https://cnews.link/fake-mcafee-email-renewal-scam-2026/

05/31/2026

05/31/2026

05/27/2026

05/27/2026

Five minute video to show the reality of scam call centers

05/25/2026

🔒 Someone can open a mySocialSecurity account in your name right now using only your SSN and basic personal details.

All five steps in this post are free.

A credit freeze blocks new credit accounts but does nothing to stop SSA benefits fraud or fraudulent tax returns filed under your number.

The IRS Identity Protection PIN adds a required 6-digit code to your federal return each year. Without it, a return filed under your SSN can go through before you file your own.

For the credit freeze, Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion are the three required by law. Innovis is a 4th bureau used by some lenders and worth adding.

The E-Verify Self Lock is relevant even if you are retired. Fraudulent income reported under your SSN can affect your tax liability and your Social Security record.

Steps 4 and 5 limit your own access as well, which is why they are listed separately.



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The content shared here is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not personalized investment, tax, legal, or financial advice. Consult a licensed professional before making decisions based on your specific situation.