How fraud perpetrators target military personnel and veterans

Military veterans, active-duty personnel and their families are being actively targeted for fraud. In 2020, military consumers lost a median $600, compared with $311 for nonmilitary consumers. “Imposter” scams are the major culprit. Perpetrators claim to represent government agencies such as the Veterans Administration or pose as financial advisors to con military members to provide personal information or pay fees to access benefits. They may tout “special” programs, job opportunities and other offers that seem “too good to be true.” Be sure to verify the identities of callers or senders before agreeing to talk to them.