"They want your money or personal information:" Quick tips for a scam-free 2016

MADISON -- The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) hopes consumers resolve to be scam-free in 2016.

Start the year with an awareness of the many scams that target your finances and identity and learn what tools are available to help protect you.

“Government impostor, computer tech support, and sweepstakes scams were among the major threats for consumers in 2015, and there is no reason to assume they won’t continue to target us this year,” said Frank Frassetto, Division Administrator for Trade and Consumer Protection.  “Remember that regardless of the narrative or pitch con artists throw your way, the operations tend to have the same goal: they want your money or personal information.”

Spot the vast majority of rip-offs by following these simple tips:

There are also some tips and tools you can use to combat scam artists and protect yourself:

The scams from 2015 will not suddenly disappear in 2016 – if anything, new variations will pop up.  Fight back by arming yourself with an awareness of the major red flags and the tools available to help protect you from being scammed.