Kansas investigator highlights how to recognize and respond to common scams during K-State webinar
Scams are becoming more advanced and widespread, targeting Kansans through phone calls, emails, text messages, and even artificial intelligence (AI).
During a recent Living Well Wednesday webinar hosted by Kansas State University, Ed Burr, investigator with the Kansas Attorney General’s Office, shared tips on how to identify fraudulent activity, protect personal information and respond safely if targeted.
Burr emphasized that scams can happen to anyone, regardless of age or experience.
“These scammers are highly trained and very good at what they do,” he said. “Their goal is to make you act quickly and emotionally before you have time to think.”
Listen to a portion of the Living Well Wednesday presentation by Ed Burr, as heard on the weekly K-State podcast, Sound Living
Common Scams and How to Stay Safe
One of the newest and most alarming tactics involves AI-generated voice cloning. Burr shared the story of a woman who answered a call she believed was from her grandson — only to discover the voice was a scammer using AI technology.
His advice: families should establish a code word to verify a loved one’s identity in unexpected calls.
He also warned against falling for computer lock or tech support scams. Victims may receive a message claiming their computer has been hacked or locked and that they must call a provided number or speak with a supposed FBI agent.
“The best thing you can do is hang up, shut down your computer and unplug it,” Burr said. “Never click links, download attachments, or sign into bank accounts when prompted.”
If you believe you’ve been targeted, contact law enforcement and your bank immediately. Burr noted that once money is transferred to scammers, recovery is extremely difficult.
Online and Social Media Risks
Burr said scammers are increasingly using social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and dating sites to lure victims into conversations that eventually move to other, less secure platforms.
He also urged people to be cautious when buying from online marketplaces and to verify who they’re communicating with.
Burr highlighted the prevalence of romance scams, in which fraudsters build emotional connections over time to gain trust and eventually request money. These scams, he said, are often orchestrated by organized groups in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Cambodia and India.
“These operations are highly organized, and they thrive on emotional manipulation,” Burr said.
Protecting Yourself
Burr encouraged Kansans to:
- Be skeptical of unsolicited messages or “wrong number” texts that quickly become personal.
- Verify credentials before investing money or sharing information; check with the Kansas Securities Commission or the FBI’s consumer resources.
- Avoid making decisions under pressure or through emotional appeals.
- Stay educated about emerging scams and talk openly with friends and family to reduce stigma or embarrassment.
“Scammers prey on trust and emotion,” Burr said. “Education and awareness are the best tools we have to stop them.”
For more information or to report a scam, visit the Kansas Attorney General’s Office website or contact local law enforcement.
PHOTO: Shocked concerned mature woman in glasses holding credit card, staring at smartphone in bad surprise. (Photo: iStock – fizkes)
