Scams are becoming more clever every day — and anyone can be targeted. The good news? Once you know the warning signs, you can protect yourself and your money.
Common Scams to Watch For – Click here for printable notes to use
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Phishing Scams: Fake emails or texts from “trusted companies.” Always go to the company’s real website instead of clicking links.
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Tech Support Scams: Pop-ups or calls claiming your device is infected. Real tech companies won’t contact you this way.
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Romance Scams: Online “relationships” asking for money. Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
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Cryptocurrency Scams: Fake investment offers promising high returns. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
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Impersonation Scams: Calls or messages from “family,” “IRS agents,” or company reps. Verify by calling the official number yourself.
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AI Voice Cloning Scams: A caller sounds like your loved one and asks for help. Confirm with another family member before acting.
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Job Scams: Fake job ads that require you to pay upfront for supplies or training.
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Payment App Scams: Someone claims they “sent you money by mistake” on Zelle, Venmo, or CashApp. Confirm with the bank or app before refunding.
Tips to Stay Safe
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Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
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Keep personal details off social media.
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Update your devices regularly.
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Check websites for HTTPS and the padlock symbol.
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Monitor your bank accounts and credit reports often.
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Shred important papers before throwing them out.
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Let unknown calls go to voicemail.
If You Suspect a Scam
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Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
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Check the BBB Scam Tracker at bbb.org/scamtracker.
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Notify your bank or credit card company immediately.
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If your identity is stolen, visit IdentityTheft.gov.
Remember: Pause before you click, call, or send money. Scammers rely on pressure and fear — your best defense is to slow down and verify.
