I Was Scammed features an overview of different types of scams, focusing on digital and internet scams.
After an introduction to how the scam investigation began after experiencing a scam targeting book authors in The Big Con, the book discusses personality identity fraud, which is the root of so many scams.
The book describes the growing identity theft problem, the many data breaches that have occurred, the ways scammers use your personal information, how to protect your identity from theft, and how to repair the damage after a scam.
Then, the book describes these major types of scams:
- Merchant and customer scams
- Real estate frauds, including rental scams, moving scams, home improvement and repair scams, and real estate investment scams
- Email, phone, and social media scams
- Gift card scams
- Couponing scams
- Phony contest and prize scams
- Podcast participation scams
- Conference participation scams
- Publishing and marketing services scams
- The book review scam
Besides describing the scams, the book provides tips on how to avoid becoming a victim, and what to do if you become one.