Steering Clear of Scams - Knowledge is Power
Fall 2024 Issue
By Kristina Perkins, Chief Investigator
Here at the District Attorney’s Office of Santa Barbara County, we place a high value on knowledge and information as essential tools protecting individuals from falling victim to scams. The old adage “knowledge is power” rings particularly true in this context.
It is imperative to recognize that no one is immune to scams. Scammers are highly skilled at what they do and invest significant time and creativity into their schemes, driven by the potential for substantial financial gain and facing minimal deterrents.
They are adept at exploiting vulnerabilities and time often works in their favor. Therefore, staying well-informed about current scams in our community is crucial for prevention.
Scams of this type generally share a common framework: a perceived threat, urgency, and a request for payment or personal information. Scammers exploit emotions by presenting a problem requiring immediate action, leaving little time for reasoned judgment. Whether through phone calls, texts, or emails, if any interaction includes these elements, it is likely a scam, necessitating immediate disengagement.
Several prevalent scams significantly impact our community. One notable example is the romance scam, which remains alarmingly pervasive. In this scheme, scammers befriend individuals online under false pretenses, gradually cultivating a romantic relationship. Often posing as overseas military personnel or busy celebrities to avoid face-to-face meetings, scammers gain the victim’s trust before fabricating financial crises or health emergencies. Victims, believing they’ve found love, willingly send money or personal information as instructed.
Tragically, when funds are exhausted the relationship abruptly ends, leaving victims emotionally and financially devastated. During the Covid-19 pandemic, this scam surged as isolated individuals sought connection, leading to heartbreaking losses. In one local case, a victim lost $200,000 of retirement savings over eight months.
In many cases, apprehending and prosecuting scammers proves challenging due to their remote operations in foreign jurisdictions. Thus, community awareness and proactive measures are our best defense against fraudsters. By enhancing public awareness and understanding of these scams, we empower individuals to protect themselves and their loved ones from falling victim to financial exploitation.
By staying informed, we can collectively combat financial scams and protect our community from the devastating consequences. Together, let us strive to build a safer community where individuals can thrive without the fear of falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
If you suspect you or a loved one is being targeted by a scam, we urge you to contact our office immediately. Our team is prepared to discuss your situation and provide guidance on how to prevent further harm. Please reach out to our fraud hotline at 805-568-2442 or for assistance in Spanish, call 805-346-7454. Also please contact our office if you are interested in a training presentation.
Our Scam Squad podcast on YouTube provides information on the latest scams affecting our community. Whether you’re a business, community group, or an organization that serves a vulnerable population, please contact our team to insure that you receive up-to- date insights and practical tips recognizing and avoiding common scams. Together, let’s strengthen our defenses against fraud and promote a safer environment for everyone in Santa Barbara County.
Chief Investigator Kristina Perkins of the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office is dedicated to safeguarding the innocent and preventing crime, with a special emphasis on educating and protecting vulnerable populations from financial exploitation.