Don't Forget Your SPF (Scam Protection Facts) This Spring Break!
Consumer Tips to Avoid Getting "Burned" on Vacation
A Wisconsin Bureau of Consumer Protection Release Package
Students and families statewide are packing their bags and digging out their passports in anticipation of some fun in the sun. But they are not the only ones looking to party — scammers and identity thieves can have a field day as well over spring break.
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) asks students and their families to remember their SPF (Scam Protection Facts) when they are planning their getaway in order to minimize identity theft and ripoff risks when traveling.
The attached releases address a number of the threats that could make an appearance over break. Each release is listed with a link to review it on the DATCP website or to download a PDF version, and all are ready for immediate publication.
Pre-Trip Tips
After a long winter, spring break's siren song draws college students and families to sunny beaches and exciting foreign locales. But as travelers let off steam they may also be letting down their guard, opening up opportunities to get ripped off by scammers and identity thieves. DATCP offers some pre-trip tips to mitigate your risk and help you travel more securely.
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During and After
There is nothing fun or relaxing about finding out that your personal or financial information has been ripped off and misused while you are on spring break. To protect from identity and financial theft, the DATCP offers simple tips for students and families to follow both during and after their vacations.
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Grandparent Scams
If you are preparing for a spring break vacation, you have a lot to worry about with packing, finalizing travel arrangements and tying up loose ends at work or school. But it's not just yourself you need to think about. While on break, scammers could be working the phones, trying to rip off your relatives through family emergency scams – better known as "grandparent scams."
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