Scam callers will rush you into handing over personal data; FBI says: First, 'take a beat'

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The FBI has launched a nationwide campaign in hopes of quelling the rise of identity theft throughout the country. It’s called “Take a Beat,” and its goal is to get potential victims to take a breath, take a moment, and think critically about what’s happening.

Officials say the cost of scammers has risen nationwide. The FBI cites data indicating at least $1.6 billion in losses from January to May this year — which is nearly $300 million more than losses from the same period of time last year.

Scammers are getting better at what they do, using more sophisticated ways to lure victims. Federal authorities warn scammers will commonly use urgency, threats or fear to entice people to act quickly and do what they say. Or they may show empathy and offer false promises to gain trust.

If someone is calling from a cell phone, or claims to be representing a bank, credit card or utility company, the FBI encourages consumers to resist pressure to act quickly and, instead, to pause and assess the situation. And never give away personal information or passwords without first verifying the identity of the person asking for it. Get their name. Look up their phone number. Verify their address.

While fraud, scams and identity theft can happen to anyone, everyone is empowered to protect their information. The FBI recommends these simple steps:

— Take precautionary measures to protect your identity should a criminal gain access to your device or account. Immediately contact your financial institutions to place protections on your accounts and monitor for suspicious activity.

— Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, mailings, and door-to-door service offers.

— Search online for the contact information (name, phone number, email, mailing address) of any unknown source that reaches out to you, as well as the proposed offer. Verify the legitimacy of businesses on websites such as Better Business Bureau. Other people have likely posted information online about businesses and individuals attempting to run scams.

— Never give or send to unverified people or businesses any personally identifiable information, money, checks, gift cards, or wire information.

If you believe you or someone you know may have been a victim of a fraud or scam, contact your  local FBI office or submit a complaint to the Internet Crime Complaint Center . Note the name of the scammer, their methods of contact, the dates of contact, requested methods of payment, the recipient of any payments, and a description of any interactions.

For more information on the common frauds an