Every year on March 7th, the United States observes National Slam the Scam Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the various scams that target unsuspecting individuals and to educate people on how to protect themselves from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.
The Birth of a National Anti-Scam Movement
In 2020, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) established National Slam the Scam Day as part of their ongoing efforts to combat the growing problem of scams in the country. The FTC recognized the need for a nationwide campaign to inform and empower consumers to fight back against scammers.
FTC’s Director of the Bureau of Consumer Protection, Andrew Smith, stated, “National Slam the Scam Day is about empowering people to spot, avoid, and report scams. It’s a day to celebrate the power of knowledge and the strength of community in the fight against fraud.”
Scams: A Costly Menace to Society
Scams come in many forms, from phishing emails and fake lottery schemes to romance scams and identity theft. These fraudulent activities cost Americans billions of dollars each year and can have devastating consequences for individuals and families.
Some of the most common scams include:
- Phishing emails that attempt to steal personal information
- Fake charity scams that exploit people’s generosity
- Tech support scams that trick people into granting access to their computers
- Romance scams that prey on people’s emotions and desire for companionship
Tales from the Trenches
One of the most notorious scams in recent years was the “Grandparent Scam,” where scammers would call elderly individuals, pretending to be their grandchildren in need of urgent financial assistance. The scammers would often claim to be in jail or in the hospital, pressuring the grandparents to send money quickly.
As one victim, 78-year-old Martha, shared her experience, “I got a call from someone claiming to be my grandson, saying he needed $5,000 for bail money. I was so worried that I didn’t stop to think it might be a scam. I sent the money, only to find out later that my real grandson was safe at home the whole time.”
Slamming Scams: Tips and Tricks
National Slam the Scam Day serves as a reminder for all Americans to stay vigilant and informed about the latest scams. The FTC and other organizations provide resources and tips on how to recognize and avoid scams, such as:
- Never giving out personal information over the phone or email
- Verifying the legitimacy of charities before donating
- Hanging up on unsolicited calls and reporting them to the authorities
- Regularly monitoring credit reports for suspicious activity
As the FTC’s Andrew Smith advised, “Trust your instincts. If something seems too good to be true or just doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Take the time to do your research and protect yourself and your loved ones from scams.”
Conclusion
National Slam the Scam Day is a vital initiative in the ongoing fight against fraud in the United States. By raising awareness, educating the public, and encouraging individuals to take proactive steps to protect themselves, we can all play a role in slamming the scams and creating a safer, more secure society for everyone.
National Slam the Scam Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day of the Week |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | March 7 | Monday |
| 2023 | March 7 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | March 7 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | March 7 | Friday |
| 2026 | March 7 | Saturday |
| 2027 | March 7 | Sunday |
| 2028 | March 7 | Tuesday |