LET ABC15 KNOW SCAMBUSTER ALERTS

June 2025

Here are some of the issues we've been working on and how to protect yourself:

1. “THEY SOUNDED SO REAL!” — Robby Jacobs, a dedicated soccer coach, learned a hard lesson about scams that cost him over $30,000. Convinced by a call that seemed so real, Robby followed instructions to withdraw his life savings, only to realize too late that he had fallen victim to a sophisticated fraud scheme. Robby said they even knew the last transactions he made on his debit card that validated he was speaking with a bank professional. As he navigates the emotional aftermath, Robby finds hope and support from the families of his young players, who rally together to create an online fundraiser to help him rebuild. He wanted to share his story to help others recognize to the signs of an Apple Wallet bank scam.

2. RIGHT TO COOL AIR! — As Arizona temperatures rise during our summer months, reliable air conditioning can be the difference between life and death. So, what happens if your air conditioning breaks? How long does a landlord have to fix it? What can you legally do if there is not a timely fix? Know your rights and legal requirements before you're in a position where you're trying to find answers while sweating it out!

3. PASSWORDS ARE LIKE TOOTHBRUSHES! — May 1st was World Password Day; it’s time to take a serious look at your online security! How strong are your passwords, and when was the last time you updated them? We got a chance to sit down cybersecurity expert Kim Jones, Chief Information Security Officer at High Wire Networks who reveals that most hackers don’t break in — they simply log in. We discovered key tips to protect your accounts, including the importance of using unique passwords for each account and enabling multi-factor authentication. Worried about forgetting passwords? Kim shares clever strategies to keep them safe, whether through password management apps or even a good old-fashioned password book. Also, we share the revelation between why you treat your passwords like your toothbrush!

CHRISTEL'S CORNER: It can feel overwhelming. We can feel small in this big world. Sometimes, others can make you feel like your "little" problem doesn’t matter. I’ve even heard some viewers say they’ve felt small or unheard when trying to resolve their consumer issues. The odds can sometimes be stacked against you when you're trying to get a company or business to do the right thing. I’ve had the opportunity to serve as the Let ABC15 Know Consumer Reporter for over a year now. I remember when I decided to join the team and thought, “How am I ever going to fill Joe Ducey’s shoes?” I discovered it’s not about filling a person’s shoes. I made it my mission to maintain the same standard and compassion in helping people who need it. So, remember: your problem is not small. You matter, and the Let ABC15 Know team is committed to standing up for what’s right. We’re dedicated to listening to our community, and we are your voice. High fives to the Let ABC15 Know/Better Business Bureau volunteers who advocate for and listen to our viewers daily! A big thanks for all you do!

PRODUCER KJ'S TOP PICK: Are rising prices forcing you to change how or where you spend your money just to keep a roof over your head? Housing affordability continues to be difficult for many Arizonans to reach, and new data reveals Arizonans must work 70+ hours a week on minimum wage to afford the average priced apartment. Arizona renters tell us a common concern is the extra fees - valet trash, internet charges, luxury mail delivery options - without a way to opt out of services they don't want or need. If you're facing housing or rental difficulties, we want to hear about it! Let us know what you're experiencing by emailing consumer@abc15.com.

CHECK THIS OUT: Let ABC15 Know went On the Road to Glendale Community College. Our team of Better Business Bureau volunteers and more than a dozen attorneys and consumer experts gathered to bring in-person, one-on-one help to our West Valley community. If you couldn't make it, don't worry! We're bringing the event on an even bigger scale to Tempe in the Fall!

If you're a problem solver, we could use your help to help others. Please go to abc15.com/letabc15know, fill out the volunteer form and help us solve problems in the community!

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