Sheriff Warning Teens About Online Scams Targeting Them

(KNSI) – Law enforcement is warning teens to be on the lookout for scams targeting them.

Benton County Sheriff Troy Heck says many people think of senior citizens as the victims of online scams because they aren’t as familiar with the technology. “When they’re targeting teens, on the other hand, they’re counting on that familiarity with technology. Teens are so accustomed to being online and having their interactions online, banking online, and buying things online. That comfort creates a situation where they’re a little bit too comfortable with doing that.”

Experts say that makes teens vulnerable to phishing scams. These scams are often sophisticated attacks designed to appear like they are coming from real businesses or organizations. The attacks might contain a text message with a link that looks like it’s from a bank or an email containing a link. The link leads to a website disguised as a message from the victim’s school or online gaming account.

Heck says more and more young people are getting tricked. “It does happen in Benton County. I believe is happening regularly. I was just at one of our local banks and the teller reminded me about this. And it is something our banks are seeing regularly. It’s a problem that happens to everybody all across the country.”

Heck says to talk with kids about being safe from internet fraud. “Parents will be doing a favor if they just take a few moments and tell them, hey, be suspicious when you get stuff sent to about credentials and passwords and that type of thing. And take a moment to verify for yourself.”

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