25 common scams, and how to spot each one
How each scam works, its red flags, a realistic example, and what to do. Each page has a short test so you can check yourself.
Unpaid toll texts
A text says you owe a small toll and must pay today through a link, or face fees.
Delivery texts and emails
A message says a package can't be delivered until you confirm your address or pay a small fee.
Fake bank fraud alerts
A text or call from your “bank's fraud team” about a charge, then a request for a code or to move your money.
Government impostors
Someone claiming to be from a government agency says you're in trouble and must pay or “verify” now.
Missed jury duty threats
A caller claiming to be a sheriff's deputy or court officer says you missed jury duty and must pay to avoid arrest.
Family emergencies and voice clones
A panicked call from a “grandchild” or other relative who needs money right now, and asks you to keep it secret.
Tech support pop-ups and calls
A pop-up or call says your computer is infected and you must call a number or allow remote access.
Fake renewal invoices
An invoice for a subscription renewal you didn't order, with a phone number to call to cancel or get a refund.
Gift card, crypto and Bitcoin ATM demands
Whatever the story, they insist you pay with gift cards, crypto, a Bitcoin ATM, a wire transfer or cash.
Romance scams
An online sweetheart you've never met in person needs money, or wants to teach you to invest.
“Wrong number” texts and crypto tips
A friendly text “to the wrong number” turns into a friendship, then an investment tip.
Job offer texts and task scams
An unsolicited job offer for easy online “tasks” that ends with you depositing money to unlock your earnings.
Fake checks and overpayments
A buyer or employer “accidentally” pays too much and asks you to send the difference back.
Payment app scams
A stranger “accidentally” sends you money and asks for it back, or a seller insists on a payment app.
Verification code scams
Someone asks you to share a one-time code that was just sent to you.
Account alert phishing
An email or text says your account is locked, suspended or about to expire, and links to a sign-in page.
QR code scams
A QR code on a parking meter, flyer, letter or unexpected package leads to a fake payment or login page.
Prize and sweepstakes scams
You've won a prize, but you have to pay taxes, fees or shipping before you can collect it.
Utility shutoff threats
A caller or text from your “utility company” says service will be cut off within the hour unless you pay now.
Fake stores and too-good deals
An ad or website with prices that are too good to be true, from a store you've never heard of.
Fake charities
A fundraiser after a disaster or at the holidays, pressing you to give fast, by gift card, crypto or wire.
Boss and vendor impostors at work
A message from your “boss” or a known vendor asks for an urgent payment, gift cards or new bank details.
Rental listing scams
A listing with low rent and an owner who can't show it, asking for a deposit before you see the place.
Health insurance and Medicare scams
A call or ad offering cheap health coverage or Medicare benefits, asking for your Medicare number or a fee.
Refund and recovery scams
After you've lost money, someone offers to recover it, for an upfront fee.