PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SCAMMERS

A deception technique where scammers use fraudulent emails or websites to solicit personal, financial, or security information by impersonating trustworthy organizations.
Learn more about phishing.

Malware that locks users out of their devices or encrypts files, demanding a ransom to restore access. It is often spread through phishing emails or visiting infected websites.

This scam involves tricking the victim into believing their computer is infected with malware, prompting them to install software that is either useless or actually malicious.

Similar to phishing but carried out through SMS text messages. These messages often contain links to malicious websites or request personal information under false pretenses.

This involves the falsification of emails, phone calls, or websites to deceive individuals into thinking they are interacting with a trusted source, such as a bank or a known company, to steal personal information or money.

A form of phishing where the scammer uses phone calls to lure individuals into divulging personal, financial, or security information.

A type of investment scam that targets people who share a common membership in a group, such as religious or ethnic communities, professional groups, churches, etc. Affinity fraud often involves fake investments, Ponzi or pyramid schemes, or investments where the fraudster lies about important details and convinces group leaders to spread the word.

Involve scammers pretending to be from organizations like the IRS, the Social Security Administration, law enforcement, or some other group with wide authority. These scams are all about creating fear by confronting people with an unexpected arrest or fine. The most common is the IRS scam. The Senate Aging Committee receives almost twice as many calls about the IRS scam than any other scam. Fraudulent emails often include convincing letterhead or the IRS logo to make them seem authentic.

When people create fake online profiles to trick and control others. After starting a relationship with someone online, the scammer will ask for money, usually starting with small amounts for emergencies or to travel to visit the victim. Over time, the money requests increase until the victim realizes what is happening and stops the relationship.

Involve scammers sending you a receipt or unpaid charge that looks like it was sent from a real online seller, like Amazon or eBay. The message often includes a link or phone number in which victims will share their financial information for payment with the scammer.

Targets seniors, but variations can work on anyone. Scammers call or email claiming a relative is in trouble and needs money, usually for something like bail or medical expenses. Parent scams often include awareness that your child is away at college and needs your help.

Asks you to pay for shipping or taxes upfront in order to receive your prize. Once you pay, you’re left waiting for a prize that never arrives. No legitimate contest will ever ask you to pay the taxes upfront. If you win the lottery, any applicable taxes will come from your winnings. Likewise, if you don’t remember signing up for the contest, it is most likely a scam. Real lotteries require winners to claim their prizes.

Often targets senior computer users. A con-artist pretends to be from a well-known company, like Apple or Microsoft, and claims your computer has been infected with a computer virus. The scammer offers to fix the virus and can then charge you for fake service, take control of your computer, and/or request personal information to steal your identity. These scammers also advertise on Google using certain search terms like “virus removal” or “how to get rid of a computer virus.” Victims click on these sponsored results and do not realize the company they contact is fraudulent.

Persuade you into authorizing a payment for a good or service the scammer said they were going to provide, but never actually provides. Because you authorize the payment in this type of scam, you may not be able to get your money back.