Latest scam alerts from the FTC, CISA and FBI
The newest public warnings about scams, each linked to the original and to our lesson on that scam.
Checked Oct 25, 2026. This page updates itself every week from the FTC's consumer alerts, CISA's alerts and the FBI's IC3 public service announcements; only alerts about scams are listed.
- FTC ·The FTC is not calling to deactivate your phone number
Here’s the latest twist on FTC impersonators: someone claiming to be an FTC official (who’s really a scammer) calls to say a phone was registered under your name and number and is being used to commit scams in another country. The “FTC official” even reads off their badge ID (it’s a fake badge). If you don’t cooperate, they threaten to deactivate your phone number.
- FBI ·Scammers Exploit 2026 U.S. Midterm Election to Perpetrate Multiple Fraud Schemes
- FTC ·How to avoid deceptive sextortion assistance services and find real help
Sextortion — when someone threatens to share your intimate images unless you pay — can be stressful and upsetting. And figuring out what to do can be overwhelming. While searching for help, you might find companies that offer quick fixes (for a price) but don’t deliver on their promises.
- FTC ·Talking with parents and kids about deepfakes, online safety, and the Take It Down Act
Kids face a lot of challenges online: from cyberbullying and scams to digitally altered deepfakes, like nudify apps that create fake nude photos and videos of real people.
- FTC ·What to know ahead of Open Enrollment to avoid health insurance scams
Health insurance scams happen year-round, but they pick up during Open Enrollment for Medicare and the Marketplace. If you’re looking to find a new plan, you might search online. But before you click on a search result, remember: scammers and dishonest businesses sometimes pay to appear at the top.
- FTC ·Scammers are impersonating farm equipment businesses
The FTC is hearing about a scam targeting some of the hardest working people out there: farmers. Scammers posing as farm equipment businesses are selling (fake) equipment to farmers, who end up empty-handed.
- FTC ·This National Preparedness Month, plan ahead to avoid scams
Recent violent storms, tornadoes, wildfires, heat waves, and extreme flooding are a reminder that severe weather and natural disasters can happen anytime, anywhere, and with little warning.
- FTC ·See a QR code parked somewhere? Don’t scan it…yet!
Ever tried to pay for parking and discovered you need to scan a QR code to pay? It seems like a convenient way to pay, but it turns out scammers like using QR codes, too.
- FTC ·Scammers are spoofing car dealership websites: What you need to know
While the car-buying process can be stressful, whether you’re shopping online or in person, scammers are copying car dealership websites to take buyers’ money.
- FTC ·Did you spot a scam? Here’s what to do next
Many people experience fraud but never report it, and scammers count on you staying silent. Your story — especially when you share it with friends, family, and the FTC — is a powerful tool.
- FTC ·When donating, support those in need, not a scammer
It seems like every day, a major weather emergency or natural disaster happens somewhere in the world. Before you donate to help people affected by disasters, make sure your money goes to a real charity.
- FTC ·How to spot a postcard scam targeting veterans
Veterans across the country have reported getting postcards in the mail saying they (or their spouse) might qualify for extra monthly veterans benefits. But the “Veterans Savings Program” mentioned in them isn’t what it seems.
- FTC ·That unexpected package you got could be a brushing scam
Did you get a package you didn’t order? It could be a brushing scam where a scammer uses your name to leave a fake review for that package you didn’t order.
- FTC ·Searching online: bill pay impersonators
Planning to pay a bill online? Before you start searching for a company’s payment site, know that dishonest companies sometimes use paid search ads to trick you into paying them instead of the company.
- FTC ·Are ads on social media vetted or checked for scams? Here’s what to know
You’re browsing your social media feed when an ad grabs your attention mid-swipe: that designer bag you’ve been dreaming of is 50% off for a limited time only!
- FTC ·How to spot investment training scams on social media
Learn to trade online! Get rich! Quit your job! Social media is flooded with people flashing fancy cars and exotic trips, claiming you can have the same lifestyle just by “learning to trade.”
- FTC ·Have you lost money to a scam? Watch for scammers who say they can help
They’re the worst of the absolute worst: scams that target people who have already lost money to a scam. If you or someone you know paid a scammer, watch for scammers who pretend they can help get the money back.
- FTC ·Talk to your friends and family to fight fraud
One of the best ways to fight fraud is to talk about it. When you know scammers’ tactics, they’re easier to spot and avoid.
- FTC ·Veterans: Don’t pay to apply for VA benefits
Scammers know that applying for veterans benefits is at the top of the to-do list when you’re getting ready to leave the military. That’s why they pretend to be with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- FTC ·A way to spot scams: how someone asks you to pay
Let’s say someone contacts you unexpectedly and says you have to pay to fix a problem, get a prize, or something else. But then they say the only way to pay is by bank transfer, wire transfer, gift card or crypto.
- FTC ·How to spot fake rental listings during a military move
Whether you’ve been planning a move for months or you’re dealing with last-minute orders, military moves can be both exciting and stressful. The last thing you need is a rental scam.
- FTC ·Unclaimed life insurance money? It’s a scam
People are telling the FTC they’ve gotten letters in the mail from law firms about unclaimed life insurance money. It’s a scam.
- FTC ·Can you spot debt relief scams that target the military?
Scammers promise to solve your debt problems to trick you into paying them instead of your actual lender. If a caller offers to help you enroll in a special “military debt forgiveness” program, pause.
- FTC ·Animal lovers: learn to spot and avoid this breed of pet scams
Scammers have been taking advantage of how much people love animals. They’ll steal and manipulate pet images, videos, and even use AI-generated deepfakes to help them trick you into giving them your money.
- FTC ·How to avoid a travel scam this summer
If you haven't made your vacation plans yet, you might be looking for a deal. While you look for bargains, scammers are looking for ways to reach you…and your money.
- FTC ·Help fight imposter scams this World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day gives all of us a chance to raise awareness about elder financial abuse, neglect, and exploitation, including imposter scams.
- FTC ·Ignore calls, texts, and emails threatening to arrest you for missing jury duty
Did you get a call claiming you missed jury duty and need to pay? Followed by a text or email with official-looking documents saying there’s a warrant out for your arrest? As alarming as these things sound, they’re a scam designed to steal your money.
- FTC ·Searching for health insurance? Keep scrolling to avoid government impersonators
When you search online, do you click the first result you see? That habit could cost you — especially if you’re searching for health insurance or government healthcare programs.