Getting defrauded is common. It happens everywhere but it’s underreported because of embarrassment. If you’re a victim of fraud the sooner you report the more likely you are to get a better outcome.

To learn more about fraud I’m pleased to welcome Marc Evans, a seasoned financial crimes detective and co-founder of Fraud Hero, who has spent over a decade investigating fraud schemes that affect everyday people. With expertise in social engineering, money laundering and credit card scams he has spent his career uncovering the ways criminals use to exploit victims. His passion for fraud prevention comes not only from his investigative experience but also from his personal experience of identity theft which almost derailed his entry into law enforcement. Through his work Marc has recovered millions of dollars for victims and trained thousands of people on how to recognize and prevent fraud before it happens.

In this episode Marc lifts the lid on the evolving world of financial fraud, revealing the most common scams and the sophisticated tactics criminals use to stay one step ahead of their victims. From bank imposters to phishing scams and CEO fraud he breaks down how these crimes work, why they are so effective and how law enforcement is trying to disrupt them. He also shares practical steps individuals and businesses can take to protect themselves including monitoring of financial accounts, reporting fraud quickly and using digital security tools.

Beyond his law enforcement career Marc’s passion for fraud prevention extends into his entrepreneurial venture Fraud Hero where he educates the public on how to protect themselves from financial deception. He believes knowledge is power and has developed resources to help individuals secure themselves personally and financially. As fraud continues to rise with criminals getting more resourceful and brazen, Marc's mission remains the same – to empower people to be their own first line of defence.

Show Notes:

• [01:10] Marc is a fraud and financial crimes detective.  He's worked with law enforcement and is a certified fraud examiner and training coordinator. He also started Fraud Hero to help stop fraud and prevent people from becoming victims.
• [02:14] He's always been passionate about preventing fraud.
• [04:25] Marc was still learning when he began his fraud fighting career.
• [05:52] He sees all types of fraud. He's also seen a lot of social engineering tactics and imposter scams.
• [07:15] Marc has recently seen a lot of bank imposters. This includes a lot of email and message phishing attacks.
• [08:30] Scammers are being more specific now. When they call they even know the victims financial institution.
• [09:49] When it comes to getting your money back from the bank it depends on how long before you file your report.
• [11:44] Tricky scammers not using the sense of urgency tactic.
• [15:25] Marc talks about how quickly money can be withdrawn by scammers,
• [18:40] If a bank calls with a fraud situation, they can respond quickly.
• [21:12] Fraud has been increasing as criminals way risk versus reward. 
• [22:11] Prosecutors are beginning to understand better how fraud works and increasing charges.
• [24:03] How stealing mail is the tool of the fraudsters.
• [26:35] Benefits of informed delivery.
• [31:26] The number of victims reporting crime is really low.
• [33:34] Phone number and email spoofing are starting to look more legitimate with AI.
• [35:39] Educating people is the main goal.
• [41:13] Using digital wallets and keeping your cards safe.
• [43:43] Banks want you to show the police report when reporting fraud. 
• [45:18] Don't be afraid to learn, reach out, and share what's happened to you.

Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave a nice review. 

Links and Resources:

• Podcast Web Page
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• Easy Prey on Pinterest
• Marc Evans on Fraud Hero
• Marc Evans on LinkedIn
• Fraud Hero Academy