According to the FBI, 2020 has seen a spike in extortion scams. These are typically email messages that include a password you’ve used in the past. The sender claims they have installed malicious software on your computer and have proof you’ve been frequenting adult websites. They warn they will share that proof with all of your email and social media contacts unless you send money - typically in the form of hundreds of dollars of Bitcoin.

True or not, this fear tactic works. But this is really just a phishing expedition using data obtained from a prior data breach. The hope is you’ll see an old (or current) password and believe the message must be true and pay up. Don’t click on any links or respond to the scam message. But do report it to authorities at ftc.gov/complaint.

Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

Visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork or call the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline at 1-877-908-3360 to report a scam or get help if you’ve fallen victim.