What these scams look like?
These scams can take many forms, but most often it comes down to individuals or organizations that promote the end of the world asking for donations or entities that sell overpriced supplies to help you survive the apocalypse. More recently, televangelist Jim Bakker drew national attention to the promotion of survival kits of the Apocalypse overpriced, many of whom come in giant buckets containing shelf stable foods and other survival items like shovels and light sticks. Some of the kits cost over $ 3000, and while the buyer allegedly receives a good deal on food that will be good for 20 years, in fact, people who buy these things are essentially being scammed .
Although it could be argued that the people buying items like Apocalypse food buckets are at least getting something for their money (although how it tastes good is debatable), others are scams more insidious and designed to separate people with their hard earned money in exchange for peace of mind. As for charity scams, these often revolve around a religious or other group masquerading as a religious group that uses its influence to extract money from vulnerable people. Most people are unlikely to simply give money to someone who says the world ends, but the groups that couch around things like faith could be quite persuasive.
How can I protect myself?
Prepare intelligently disaster. Sorry, "Walking Dead" fans, but a zombie uprising is an unlikely scenario. However, there are things that could you and your family harm caused - natural disasters, terrorist attacks and other unforeseen events. There is certainly nothing wrong with being prepared for an emergency, and you can learn about what your risks are depending on where you live, and how to set up a effective emergency kit on ready.gov site. Rather than spending your money buying products or protection against websites that may or may not be to rip you in the name of the preparation, create a basic supply list and a smart shop in stores you know and trust. Want to be more self-sustainable? Plant a garden to start growing your own food with seeds of your nursery store or home improvement local - No special seeds or food buckets necessary mystery
Know that the elderly are often the targets. Although anyone can be the target of a scam end of the world because of their nature to appeal to the worst fears of the people, as with most types of scams, people in their 50 and over are more likely to be targeted. If an older friend or relative mentions something about sending donations to an organization linked to the Apocalypse or the purchase of supplies preparation, take the time to talk to them who got the money and whether it is really a wise choice. If you can, find the name or website they use and do research on your own. Some scammers can approach e-mail, which is almost always an indication that something is wrong. Read this blog to learn more about how to avoid email scams.
Be suspicious and think rationally. It can be easy to let your fears outweigh your rational mind, but it is important to keep a level head and do as much critical thinking as possible when you are presented with disturbing reports. The old adage that you can not trust everything you read on the Internet holds much truth. Know that almost all groups of doomsday predict the end of the world either has had to back down or change their prediction when the day of the Apocalypse supposedly came and went without fanfare. Depending on your beliefs, you can prepare yourself for a theoretical catastrophe - just realize that no one can really know when or if something bad happens. You can be ready in an emergency without spending an arm and a leg in the process.
For more information on the different types of scams lurking in the world, follow our blog on the subject.