I Was Scammed features an overview of different types of scams, focusing on digital and internet scams. After an introduction to how the scam investigation began after experiencing a scam targeting book authors in The Big Con, the book discusses personality identity fraud, which is the root of so many scams.
The book describes the growing identity theft problem, the many data breaches that have occurred, the ways scammers use your personal information, how to protect your identity from theft, and how to repair the damage after a scam. Then, the book describes these major types of scams:
Merchant and customer scams
Real estate frauds, including rental scams, moving scams, home improvement and repair scams, and real estate investment scams
Email, phone, and social media scams
Gift card scams
Couponing scams
Phony contest and prize scams
Podcast participation scams
Conference participation scams
Publishing and marketing services scams
The book review scam
Besides describing the scams, the book provides tips on how to avoid becoming a victim, and what to do if you are.
GINI GRAHAM SCOTT, PhD, JD, is a nationally known writer, consultant, speaker, and seminar leader, specializing in business and work relationships, professional and personal development, social trends, popular culture, science, and crime. She has published over 50 books with major publishers. She is the founder of Changemakers Publishing, featuring 150+ books on work, business, psychology, self-help, and social trends. She has worked with dozens of clients on self-help, business books, memoirs, and film scripts.
