Latest news with #RobynHouseholder
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Tennesseans losing millions of dollars through investment scams
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Tennesseans lost more than $23 million to investment scams during the first quarter of 2025, according to the Federal Trade Commission. The Better Business Bureau said this trend has increased drastically over the last year. Plenty of scams are common knowledge, like imposter scams and romance scams. 'Folks are still looking for love in all the wrong places,' Robyn Householder, president and CEO of the BBB of Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky, said. However, scammers are finding new ways to access wallets. Report: Tennesseans lost millions in cryptocurrency scams last year, per FBI 'Investment scams, and specific to cryptocurrency scams, have really grown dramatically over the last 12 months,' Householder said. According to Householder, while older adults are more likely to be victims of scams in general, the BBB is seeing more younger adults fall victim to investment scams. 'They have a little less to invest, so they're not going to lose as much money, but they lose more often,' Householder said. She said people who are contacted by scammers are often lured in with the promise of quick and large returns on a low investment of a couple thousand dollars. ⏩ 'Unfortunately, not enough people know how it works, and so they're investing in schemes with fraudsters. Their average loss is about $5,000,' Householder said. According to Householder, while folks most likely won't get their money back, it's important to report these scams to the BBB to help others avoid becoming victims. 'It's not just shared with us but it's shared not only throughout the country with other BBBs, but also other government agencies, like the Attorney General's office, the Federal Trade Commission, so that they can hopefully continue to work on putting a stop to some of this craziness,' Householder said. If you want to look up a scam or report a scam to the BBB, follow this link. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
20-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Got a call from ‘Jessica'? BBB warns of loan scam call targeting consumers
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning of a 'surge in fraudulent phone calls' reported by individuals. According to the BBB, the calls come from a person claiming to be 'Jessica' from a 'loan processing team.' The calls are designed to deceive recipients into providing personal information under the guise of completing a loan application. TVA requests 'voluntary reduction in power use' amid bitter cold The scam involves pre-recorded messages where the caller identifies as 'Jessica' and requests recipients to verify income and other details to finalize a supposed loan application. Many consumers report receiving these calls multiple times per week from varying phone numbers, though the callback number is consistently provided as 877-867-5139. According to the BBB, common elements of the scam include: A voicemail claiming the need to verify details related to an alleged loan applications Mentions of an 'application ID' to expedite the process—e.g., 'A as in Apple, H as in Hotel, Z as in Zebra 34578' Instructions to call back before 5 p.m. Pacific Time Consumers have stated they never applied for any loans and attempts to request the end of these calls have proven ineffective, the BBB said. ⏩ 'These types of scams are unfortunately becoming more sophisticated and relentless. It is essential for consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity,' said Robyn Householder, CEO & President of BBB of Middle TN & Southern KY. 'By sharing information and reporting scams, we can help protect others from falling victim.' Should you receive one of these scam calls, the BBB recommends the following: Do not return the call. If you receive a voicemail from 'Jessica' or anyone claiming to finalize a loan application you never initiated, do not call back. Block the number. Although scammers often use different numbers to call you, blocking reported numbers may reduce call frequency. Report the calls. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission as well as the BBB. Protect your information. Never provide personal or financial information over the phone unless you are certain of the caller's legitimacy. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
08-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
BBB shares red flags for romance scams ahead of Valentine's Day
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — With Valentine's Day quickly approaching, plenty of people are wearing their hearts on their sleeves while seeking genuine relationships, but there are also fraudsters seeking to exploit them, which is why the Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky issued a warning about romance scams. According to the BBB, romance scams usually start on dating platforms with scammers creating fake profiles, often claiming to be in the military or working overseas to justify why they can't meet in person. Over time, they build trust and emotional connections through messages, photos, and phone calls. From Galentine's to date nights: 15 Valentine's Day events in Nashville Once the victims are emotionally invested, officials said the scammers will make up a crisis — like a health emergency, family issue, or travel plans to visit — and ask for money. The victims may end up sending funds repeatedly or suddenly losing contact when the scammers vanish. The BBB shared the following warning signs for romance scams: Too good to be true: Scammers often present themselves as highly attractive and financially successful individuals, but if someone seems 'perfect,' proceed with caution. Quick move to off-site communication: Be wary if someone asks early on to communicate outside the dating platform, like through email or text. Rapid relationship progression: Fraudsters frequently profess their love or deep affection quickly. Isolation: Scammers often encourage victims to avoid sharing their budding relationship with family or friends. Excuses to avoid meeting in person: Common claims used by fraudsters to avoid face-to-face interactions include being stationed abroad, military service, or constant travel. Hard luck stories: Before asking for money, scammers may share sob stories about financial struggles, family emergencies, or personal tragedies. These are the most romantic restaurants in Tennessee, other states: OpenTable 'Romance scams can shatter both hearts and finances,' said Robyn Householder, president and CEO of the BBB of Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky. 'We encourage everyone to be cautious and informed, especially during this season when emotions run high. Taking a step back and verifying information can make all the difference.' Here are some tips from the BBB for protecting yourself from potential fraudsters: Don't share personal information or money with someone you haven't met in person. Scammers may struggle to maintain a consistent story, so verify their background by asking specific questions. Conduct reverse-image searches on their profile photos through sites like or You should also check their name, email, and phone number for any inconsistencies. Take your time; avoid making quick decisions; and consult with trusted friends, family, or financial advisors. ⏩ If you met someone online recently and they're already requesting money, the BBB described that as a major red flag. In order to safeguard your heart and your finances, you need to stay cautious and informed. The BBB urges you to report any suspected fraud by filing a complaint, visiting and contacting the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) by going to or calling 877-FTC-Help. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
