Scam artists use robocalls and other tactics prohibited by the Telephone Consumer Protection Act to rip off unsuspecting consumers, and millennials are among their prime targets. As scammers make the switch from land lines to mobile devices, they exploit millennials’ trust in technology and their willingness to answer their phones to employ tactics that, while a clear violation of the TCPA code, end up costing consumers billions of dollars each year.

Robocall Scams Successful in Ripping Off Millions 

TrueCaller, an antispam app conducts a yearly study on the impact of phone scams which identifies losses and those most at risk. Their latest report indicates more than two million people fell victim to robocall scams in 2016, with losses of roughly $9.5 billion. Here is what they found about those most susceptible to these scams:

• While older adults were previously thought to be among the most susceptible targets, the largest group of robocall scam victims was those within the 18 to 34 year age group.
• Young men, in particular, are among those most susceptible, representing roughly 33 percent of all victims, compared to 11 percent of their female counterparts.
• Older adults are actually least susceptible to mobile device robocall scam than any other age group, with those aged 55 and over representing less than five percent of victims.

Increase In Robocall Scams on Mobile Devices

According to a June 2017 CNBC news report, robocall scams have continued to soar in numbers, despite do not call lists and potential penalties imposed under the TCPA. Scammers increasingly target mobile devices and mimic the person’s area code to make them think the call originates locally and could be from a neighbor or friend.

With millennials increasingly falling victim to these scams, they may need to rethink their tendency to answer every call or to make purchases and allow financial account access via their phones. As the government attempts to crack down on robocalls in general, it is important for all consumers to take the necessary steps to protect themselves:

• If you receive a call from an unfamiliar number, do not answer it.
• If you do answer and it is a robocall, do not say anything and hang up immediately.
• If you have been a victim of a robocall scam, contact an attorney to discuss your rights to compensation.

Depending on the situation, you may be entitled to damages, including up to $1,500 for each call received. Call or contact Keogh Law, LTD online and speak with one of our experienced Chicago consumer protection attorneys today.