Introduction to Heartbreaking Mail

You don’t get mail like I do. I bet the mail I get could break your heart. While I was on vacation, my inbox didn’t rest. It filled with messages so depressing that I wanted to scream.

Here’s a sample. Letters have been edited for length and clarity.

Understanding the Issue

The mail I receive is not just any ordinary mail. It’s a collection of heartbreaking stories from people who have been victimized by various scams and fraudulent activities. These stories are a testament to the harsh reality of the world we live in, where people are constantly trying to take advantage of others.

Mystery Unsolved

Dear Watchdog: A few months ago, criminals stole my personal identity and debit card information and used it to buy merchandise from a big-box store. The company did not follow its own rules — show a photo ID at pickup. I didn’t lose my debit card, so I don’t know how the thieves got this information. However, a week before, I bought a printer at the store.

My bank conducted their own fraud investigation and determined that I am responsible for the fraudulent charges due to the large amount of personal information used in the crime. As a certified fraud examiner, I took this all the way to the company CEO. The company says it’s up to the bank to fix this. I’ve lost $844 and exhausted all my options.

Signed, E.P.

Thousands of Emails

Dear Watchdog, I was recently the victim of an email subscription bomb, and I am still reeling from all the emails. It started when I got an email signup for a store in California. I immediately got a code verification, and I was spooked, so I immediately locked all my credit card numbers and froze my credit.

A few hours later, I started getting hundreds of email signups to legitimate companies. Been dealing with it for over a month now. The emails keep coming.

Signed, R.A.

Spoofed Website

Dear Watchdog: I got hosed for $553 by a company from India that spoofed the entire Holiday Inn Nashville website with ‘special weekend rates.’ My bank refused to grant a fraud refund.

Signed, B.C.

Home Title Theft

Dear Watchdog: My family’s home was stolen from us through deed fraud. Someone using our name filed paperwork with the county of Dallas, claiming to be my brother and saying I am deceased.

He then went to eviction court and filed, and got all our things thrown out on the curb. A judge and police are aware of this, but will not help. They say this is a civil matter when this is clearly a criminal case of theft.

I am the owner of the home. The house is paid off (no mortgage, no liens). This is absolutely devastating as my kids and I are homeless.

Signed, J.L.

Health Savings Account

Dear Watchdog: I needed surgery, but the doctor would only accept credit cards. I did not have $10,000 in available credit, and complained to my Medicare advisor. She told me to open a health matching account. So, like a fool, I did.

I put the maximum in — $725 a month — because I was rapidly going blind. I suspected this was a Ponzi scheme, but my advisor vouched for the company. I trusted her. She was a friend.

They stopped making full payments. I told my lawyer, who scolded me, saying “When something is too good to be true, it probably is.” My lawyer contacted them, but they told him I would not get my money back. I lost $60,000.

Signed, M.K.

Fake Banker

Dear Watchdog: I received a call from a man who identified himself as Glenn from my bank. Glenn told me about a 60-day CD that paid 4.25% interest, minimum deposit $2,500.

I asked how much interest that would accrue in 60 days? He said $300. It doesn’t take a genius to see that $300 would not accrue in 60 days. I said I would think about it and ended the call.

That afternoon, I went to my bank. I asked if they could help me with a possible fraud. A banker listened to my story. Then I asked if he would report it. He said no.

I am 89, and my husband is 93. We frequently get scam calls.

Signed, A.G.

Mortgage Company

Dear Watchdog: I am a loan holder with a mortgage company that has attempted to scam me. I paid on time for years. Then my monthly statement didn’t arrive.

Not to worry. I had scheduled the bill for autopay. I started getting late notices and late fees. Without my knowledge, the company changed my bill due date from the 12th of every month to the first. I was told nothing.

I kept trying to speak to a live person, but instead kept being connected to a robot. The robot said it could help me, but never connected to a live person.

I was forced to pay double my typical payment to fix this.

Signed, A.C.

Heartbreaking

See what I mean by heartbreaking? From mortgage companies to banks to big box stores, it’s not just that life is getting more complex. It’s that the day-to-day humanity for transactions makes the world feel colder and harder every day.

Conclusion

The stories mentioned above are just a few examples of the many heartbreaking mails I receive every day. They are a reminder that there are people out there who are trying to take advantage of others, and it’s up to us to be vigilant and protect ourselves.

It’s also important to remember that these stories are not just about the victims, but also about the impact that these scams and fraudulent activities have on their lives. They are a reminder that we need to be kind and compassionate towards others, and to always be willing to lend a helping hand.

FAQs

Q: What can I do to protect myself from scams and fraudulent activities?

A: To protect yourself from scams and fraudulent activities, it’s essential to be vigilant and cautious when dealing with unknown individuals or companies. Always research the company or individual before giving out any personal or financial information, and never give out sensitive information over the phone or online.

Q: What should I do if I think I’ve been a victim of a scam or fraudulent activity?

A: If you think you’ve been a victim of a scam or fraudulent activity, it’s essential to act quickly. Contact your bank or credit card company immediately to report the incident and request their assistance in resolving the issue. You should also file a report with the relevant authorities, such as the police or the Federal Trade Commission.

Q: How can I avoid falling victim to email subscription bombs?

A: To avoid falling victim to email subscription bombs, it’s essential to be cautious when signing up for online services or newsletters. Always read the terms and conditions carefully, and make sure you understand what you’re signing up for. You should also be wary of unsolicited emails or requests for personal or financial information.

Q: What can I do to prevent home title theft?

A: To prevent home title theft, it’s essential to be vigilant and monitor your credit report regularly. You should also keep your personal and financial information secure, and never give out sensitive information to unknown individuals or companies. Additionally, consider investing in a title insurance policy to protect your home and property.

Q: How can I avoid falling victim to fake bankers or investment scams?

A: To avoid falling victim to fake bankers or investment scams, it’s essential to be cautious when dealing with unknown individuals or companies. Always research the company or individual before investing any money, and never give out sensitive information over