Protecting Your Home and Finances: Insights from the Better Business Bureau
The Ray Stevens Show · Ray Stevens | CMLS Chicago
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Show Notes
Steve Barnas from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) joins The Ray Stevens Show. With tax season underway, the BBB and IRS have noted an increase in AI-driven scams. These involve imposter calls or messages using fear tactics, such as claims of unpaid taxes or legal threats. Barnas warns against "storm chasers"—contractors who appear immediately after severe weather, often offering repairs "at no cost" but failing to deliver quality work or vanishing with the money.
Ray and Steve highlight the use of urgency and emotion to trick victims, including "grandparent scams" where callers pose as a relative in immediate need of financial help. The organization is celebrating its centennial on April 22nd at Navy Pier, reflecting on its history of promoting business integrity and consumer protection. Listeners are encouraged to use BBB.org to research contractors, access risk calculators, and take educational tests to better identify fishing and phishing attempts.
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