Scam Me If You Can: Simple Strategies to Outsmart Today's Ripoff Artists

Description

Frank Abagnale reveals the methods used by the world's most skillful con artists to steal billions of dollars each year from unsuspecting Americans-and teaches five simple rules that will help us protect our money. Former con artist Frank Abagnale became famous when his early life was chronicled in the hit movie Catch Me If You Can. For the past four decades he's been working for the good guys, helping the FBI, financial institutions, corporations, and law enforcement avoid the kinds of scams that target Americans today. His new book is about the very latest tricks that today's scammers, hackers, and con-artists use to steal your money and personal information - often online and over the phone. Using plain language and vivid examples, Abagnale reveals, for example . . . - The one type of photo you should never post on Facebook. - The only conditions under which you should use WiFi networks at the airport. - The best way to protect your phone from being hacked. - The only type of ATM you should use. Explaining his simple but counterintuitive rules to protect yourself, Abagnale also makes use of his insider intel to paint a picture of cybercrimes that haven't become widespread yet.

A former professional impostor and the author of the bestselling memoir, Catch Me If You Can, as well as The Art of the Steal and Stealing Your Life, Frank Abagnale is one of the world's most respected authorities on the subjects of fraud, forgery, and cyber security. A world-renowned consultant for more than four decades, he lectures at the FBI's Academy and field offices. More than 14,000 financial institutions, corporations, and law enforcement agencies use his fraud prevention programs. He consults with major corporate clients such as AARP, Experian, Intuit, and LexisNexis.

"They say you can't con a con man. But what if you're not a con man? Frank Abagnale once was, and now he's on the other side, helping law enforcement and regular citizens spot the newest cons out there. Nobody can explain how to avoid the current epidemic of financial fraud as well Frank Abagnale. He is the ultimate authority. If you value your financial security, listen to this man." --William Bratton, former Police Commissioner, NYPD and LAPD "For years, Frank Abagnale has been my first call in the event of any scam. His on-target, insightful advice has helped me and my audience protect itself. I'm so glad he's finally put this important information into a book we all can -- and should -- read." --Jean Chatzky, Host of the HerMoney Podcast, Today Show financial editor, AARP financial ambassador "A must-own for every American to arm themselves against the fastest growing crimes in our nation. Frank is a Jedi Master, and all of us in law enforcement are grateful students. Young or old, rich or not, whatever your background, Frank will empower you to protect yourself and your loved ones." --Sean D. Reyes, Attorney General of the State of Utah "Well written and thought provoking! This great book offers practical, sound advice on how to avoid getting scammed in many areas of your life, from identity theft to IRS scams to bank account fraud. With so many scams prevalent in today's high technology world, everyone should read this book - even those individuals who strongly believe they are not likely to ever be scammed." --Ernie J. Zelinski, author of How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free "Scam Me If You Can is a timely, profoundly useful book about how to take action against identity theft scams. Only someone with Abagnale's unique background could precisely lay out a blueprint for recognizing and mitigating these insidious crimes, including both real life scenarios and hands-on solutions." --Brian L. Stafford, Director, United States Secret Service (ret) "In spite of his unusual beginning--or more likely because of it--Frank Abagnale's abilities to teach us how to avoid fraud are second to none. He's been there, he's done that, so if you want to know how the criminals will come at you, and how to protect yourself from them, buy this book." --John Miller, Former Assistant Director for Public Affairs, FBI