Scam alerts: the latest scams and how to spot them
Fake texts, emails and calls going around now: the red flags, what to do if you got one, and where to report it.
No scam by that name yet.
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Based on official alerts and guidance from the FBI (IC3), FTC and FCC, and the companies scammers pretend to be. New FBI alerts are added daily.
Latest scam alerts
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Facebook verification code scam Added 22 Oct 2026 - Fake tech support renewal email Added 22 Oct 2026
- Military impersonation scam Added 22 Oct 2026
- Australian scam phone call Added 22 Oct 2026
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Ally Bank fraud call scam Added 22 Oct 2026 - Craigslist fake check scam Added 22 Oct 2026
- Fake military profile photo scam Added 22 Oct 2026
- Instagram scams Added 22 Oct 2026
Scams by channel
All scams A to Z
- 'Scam Likely' calls 'Scam Likely' is a caller ID label, not a scam itself: your phone company flags calls it suspects are scams. Let it go to voicemail. The FCC says a flagged number may even be spoofed, and the FTC says not every scam call gets flagged.
- 1-855 toll-free number scams A 1-855 number is a toll-free number. Real companies use them and so do scammers, so the prefix alone proves nothing. Be wary if a pop-up, text or caller tells you to call one about a virus, a charge or your account. Look up the company's own number instead.
- 1-877 scam call A call from a 1-877 number can be a real business or a scammer, because caller ID can be faked. Don't give details or pay on an unexpected call. Hang up, look up the company's real number yourself and report scam calls to the FTC and FCC.
- 1-888 toll-free number scam A toll-free number such as 888 is not a scam by itself: businesses and agencies use these prefixes. But scammers can fake any caller ID, so don't trust the number. Don't press buttons or call back. Look up the company's number yourself and report the call at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- 2026 midterm election scams The FBI warns scammers are using the 2026 midterms for fraud: fake campaign 'investment pools', scam PACs, merchandise that never ships and fake voter registration alerts. Donations aren't investments. Don't click links in unexpected messages and report it at ic3.gov.
- 209 area code scam calls and texts A 209 number isn't a scam by itself: it's an ordinary area code, and scammers can fake any number on caller ID. Judge the message, not the area code. If it asks for money or account details, don't click, don't call back, and report it.
- 518 area code call scam A missed call from an unfamiliar number isn't automatically a scam, and 518 is a real New York area code, so a 518 number alone proves nothing. But if a number rings once and stops, don't call back. The FTC and FCC say callbacks can cost you money.
- 747 area code scam calls and texts A 747 number isn't a scam by itself: it's an ordinary area code, and scammers can fake any number on caller ID. Judge the message, not the area code. If it asks for money or account details, don't click, don't call back, and report it.
- 855 toll-free number scam A toll-free number such as 855 is not a scam by itself: businesses and agencies use these prefixes. But scammers can fake any caller ID, so don't trust the number. Don't press buttons or call back. Look up the company's number yourself and report the call at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- 877 toll-free number scam call An 877 number is a toll-free number, and real businesses use it, so the prefix alone doesn't make a call a scam. Scammers can also fake caller ID. If a call asks for money or codes, hang up and call the company on a number you look up.
- 888 toll-free scam call A call from an 888 number isn't a scam by itself, since businesses use toll-free numbers. But scammers spoof numbers. Never pay or share details with an unexpected caller. Hang up and call the company using a number you look up yourself.
- 929 area code scam calls and texts A 929 number isn't a scam by itself: it's an ordinary area code, and scammers can fake any number on caller ID. Judge the message, not the area code. If it asks for money or account details, don't click, don't call back, and report it.
- Account services robocall A recorded call from 'account services' or 'card services' offering to lower your credit card interest rate is a scam. Hang up, don't press any key and don't give card or Social Security numbers. Report the number at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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AFP impersonation scam A call, email or message from someone claiming to be the Australian Federal Police who says there is suspicious activity on your accounts or a warrant for you is a scam. The AFP says it never threatens arrest, demands money or asks for personal details this way. Hang up and report it to Scamwatch. -
Afterpay text scam Afterpay's own help page says you can safely ignore unexpected texts that appear to be from Afterpay. Don't click the link or reply. Check your account in the Afterpay app or on its website instead. Forward the text to 7726 and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. - AI voice cloning scam A panicked call from a relative asking for money may be a scammer using a cloned voice. Hang up and ring the person back on a number you know. The FTC says scammers can clone a voice from a short audio clip, so don't trust the voice alone, even if it sounds exactly like them.
- Air duct cleaning scam An unsolicited call or knock offering very cheap air duct cleaning is a common scam in Canada. Don't give out bills or personal details, ask for ID and a written quote, and know that you may be able to cancel a contract signed at home.
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Airbnb payment scam If a host, or someone claiming to be Airbnb, asks you to pay outside the Airbnb platform, treat it as a scam. Airbnb says the cost of your reservation is collected on Airbnb, with few exceptions. Keep messaging and paying inside Airbnb and report the message. - Airline customer service impersonation scam If someone from an "airline" contacts you first on social media, or asks for your booking number, phone number or bank details, treat it as a scam. Contact the airline only through its official app, website, chat or phone line, and report imposters at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Ally Bank fraud call scam Scammers pretend to be a bank's fraud department, including Ally's. If a caller says your account is at risk and asks you to move money or read out a code, hang up. Call the number on your card or in your Ally account instead, never one the caller or a search result gives you.
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Ally Bank impersonation scam Scammers pretend to be Ally Bank's fraud department. If a call, email or text claims to be Ally and asks for a security code or login, hang up and call Ally yourself on the number on its website or your card. Never read out a code that was just sent to you. -
Amazon account scam call A call saying your Amazon account is suspended, hacked or charged for something is a scam. Amazon says it never asks for your password or payment details by phone. Hang up and open the Amazon app yourself to check your account. - Amazon brushing scam A parcel you didn't order may be a "brushing" scam: sellers send packages to publicly available names and addresses. Check it isn't a gift, then report it to Amazon. Amazon says it investigates and can suspend sellers who break its rules.
- Amazon delivery call scam A call about an Amazon order or delivery you didn't expect is a red flag. Amazon says it never asks for personal details, payment, gift card codes or remote access this way. Hang up, check Your Orders in the Amazon app or website, and report it.
- Amazon fraud call scam A call or recording that says Amazon spotted a suspicious charge and tells you to press 1 is a scam. Hang up. Don't press 1 or call a number they give you. Check your Amazon account yourself and report the call at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Amazon gift card scam Anyone who tells you to pay with Amazon gift cards is a scammer. No real business or agency takes payment that way. Stop, keep the cards and receipts, and report it to the card company and the FTC.
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Amazon impersonation fraud Scammers pretend to be Amazon with fake order emails and automated calls about a Prime charge. Action Fraud says Amazon never asks for personal information by email. Don't click, don't install anything, and check your order in the Amazon app. - Amazon impersonation scam A call, text or email saying there's a problem with your Amazon account, a suspicious purchase or a refund you're owed is a known scam. Don't call back or click. Check your orders in the Amazon app or website, and never pay with gift cards.
- Amazon order scam call A call, recording or message saying Amazon saw a big charge on an order you didn't place is a scam. The aim is to get you to call back and hand over passwords or card details. Hang up, check your order history in the Amazon app or site yourself, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Amazon phone call scam A call, voicemail or text saying Amazon found a suspicious purchase, a hacked account or an expiring Prime plan is a scam, even if caller ID says Amazon. Amazon says real staff never ask for one-time codes. Hang up, check your orders in the Amazon app or website, and report it.
- Amazon rewards text scam A text that says Amazon owes you a reward, prize or refund and asks you to click a link is a scam. Amazon says it won't text you to ask for personal information, payment details, gift card codes or to call a number. Don't click. Forward it to 7726 and report it to Amazon.
- Amazon scam call A call, text or email about an Amazon order you didn't place is almost always a scammer pretending to be Amazon. Amazon doesn't ask for payment details by phone. Hang up, check Your Orders in the real Amazon app or site, and report it.
- Amazon voucher call scam A call or text claiming to be Amazon that offers a voucher or free prize, or says your account was hacked, is a scam. Amazon is the company being impersonated. Never buy gift cards or share their codes, never give remote access, and don't call back a number from the message.
- AnyDesk remote access scam If someone who contacted you asks you to install AnyDesk or any remote access tool, it's a scam. AnyDesk is real software, and scammers misuse it. Don't give access to anyone you don't know. If you did, disconnect, scan your computer and call your bank. Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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ANZ know your customer scam A text or email saying ANZ needs to verify or update your details, with a link to click, is a scam. ANZ is the bank scammers pretend to be. ANZ says it never asks for passwords, PINs or codes by email or SMS. Don't click, and contact ANZ through its app. - ANZ phishing email and text scam Scammers pretend to be ANZ in texts, emails and calls to steal your login or money. ANZ says it will never ask for your password, PIN or one-time codes, and it doesn't use links in texts. Don't click, and contact ANZ through its app or website.
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Apple Account email scam An unexpected email claiming your Apple Account is locked or at risk, and asking for your password or a code, is a scam. Apple says to treat unexpected requests for your details as scams and never to share your password or verification codes. Don't click; go to Apple directly. - Apple Card scam Apple says Apple and Goldman Sachs will never call you to ask for sensitive details such as your Card number or passwords. A message or call that does is a scam. Hang up, don't click, and contact Apple Support yourself. Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Apple Cash scam Apple Cash scams ask you to send money to a stranger, or to "test" your device or "fix" a problem by paying. Apple says it never asks for payment by Apple Cash or for your Apple Account password or codes. Stop, and don't send the money.
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Apple email and text scam An unexpected email, text or call that claims to be Apple Support and asks for your password, a verification code, money or gift cards is a scam. Apple says it never asks for your password or codes to give support. Don't reply or click. Go to apple.com yourself. - Apple gift card scam Apple gift cards pay only for Apple products and services. If someone tells you to use them for a bill, tax, fine or fee, it's a scam. Don't share the numbers on the back. If you did, contact Apple Support right away and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Apple ID scam A text, email or call saying your Apple Account is locked, hacked or has an unauthorized charge is a common scam. Apple says it will never ask for your password or verification code. Don't tap the link or call back: open Settings or apple.com yourself.
- Apple Pay scam Texts, emails and calls that say Apple Pay was misused or your account is compromised are usually scams. Apple says it will never ask for your password, verification codes or passcode, or ask you to pay by Apple Cash. Don't tap links or call back; contact Apple directly.
- Apple security text scam A text, email or pop-up saying your Apple Account is locked or your device has a security problem is a scam if it asks for a password, code or payment. Apple never asks for your password or verification codes. Don't tap the link. Change your Apple Account password if you did.
- Apple Store email scam An email, text or call that says it's from Apple about a purchase you didn't make, a locked account or full iCloud storage is often a scam. Apple doesn't ask for sensitive data by phone. Don't click or call back. Check your account in Settings and forward the message to reportphishing@apple.com.
- Area code 323 scam calls and texts The area code alone doesn't tell you if a call or text is a scam: scammers can show any number. Don't call back a missed call you don't recognize, never click a link in an unexpected text, and report it by forwarding the text to 7726 or at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Area code 332 scam call An area code alone doesn't make a call a scam, but scammers fake caller ID and use one-ring calls to get you to call back. Don't answer or return calls from numbers you don't know. If you answered, don't share details. Report it to the FTC or FCC.
- Area code 347 scam call An area code alone doesn't make a call a scam, but scammers fake caller ID and use one-ring calls to get you to call back. Don't answer or return calls from numbers you don't know. If you answered, don't share details. Report it to the FTC or FCC.
- Area code 628 scam call An area code alone doesn't make a call a scam, but scammers fake caller ID and use one-ring calls to get you to call back. Don't answer or return calls from numbers you don't know. If you answered, don't share details. Report it to the FTC or FCC.
- ATO and myGov impersonation scam Scammers pretend to be the ATO or myGov to steal your login and tax file number. The ATO says it never sends a link by SMS or email to log in, and won't ask for your TFN or bank details by email. Don't click; type ato.gov.au or my.gov.au yourself.
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Australia Post delivery scam A message that claims to be Australia Post and says a parcel couldn't be delivered, an address is incomplete or a fee is due is a scam. Australia Post says it won't text, email or call to ask for payment or personal details. Don't reply or click. Track parcels in the AusPost app instead. - Australian phone scam A call that asks for payments, passwords, one-time codes or remote access is probably a scam, and the number can be faked. Hang up, look up the organisation's number yourself and call back, then report it to Scamwatch.
- Australian scam phone call There is no reliable way to tell a scammer from a phone number alone, because numbers can be faked. If an unexpected caller claims to be a bank, business or government agency, hang up and call the number on the organisation's own website. Report it to Scamwatch.
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Bank of America fraud alert scam Scammers pretend to be Bank of America's fraud department. Real contact won't ask for your password, a verification code or for you to send money. If a text, call or email worries you, hang up and call the number on the back of your card. -
Betterment impersonation scam Scammers pretend to be Betterment, the investing company, to get your password or login code. Betterment says it will never call, text or email to ask for your password or other sensitive details. If a message asks, ignore it and log in through the app or a site you typed yourself. -
Brightspeed impersonation scam Brightspeed says scammers pose as its agents and ask for personal or financial details. Brightspeed will never ask for your password, bank account or Social Security number by call, text or email. Hang up and contact Brightspeed yourself. - Brushing scam A package you never ordered is likely a brushing scam: a seller ships you cheap items so they can post fake reviews under your name. Per the FTC, you don't have to pay or return it. Don't scan any QR code inside, change your shopping passwords and report it.
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BT scam call A call, recorded message or email that claims to be BT and says your broadband will be cut off or your computer has a problem is a scam. BT says it won't call about computer faults or ask for your PIN. Hang up and report it. -
Canada Post text and email scam A text or email saying your Canada Post parcel is on hold until you pay a fee or click a link is a scam. Canada Post says it will never message you to ask for card details, logins or payment to release a delivery. Delete it and track the parcel on the real Canada Post site. -
Canada scam calls and texts There's no reliable public list that tells you whether a number is a scammer. Check the claim instead. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) never threatens arrest, never texts, and never asks for payment in gift cards, prepaid cards or cryptocurrency. Verify through your CRA account. - Card member services robocall scam A robocall from "card member services" or "cardholder services" that offers to lower your card's interest rate is almost always a scam. The FTC's advice is to hang up. Real card issuers don't cold-call to charge a fee for a lower rate. Don't press 1. Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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Cash App scam Common Cash App scams include fake support asking for your sign-in code, fake payment screenshots, and "cash flip" offers. Cash App says real support never asks for your code or PIN and never asks you to send money. Payments are hard to reverse. - Cash App scam: what to do If you sent money to a scammer on Cash App, act today: report the payment to Cash App in the app, tell your bank if a linked card or account was involved, and report to the FTC. Payments you authorized are harder to reverse, so speed matters.
- Cash App screenshot scam A screenshot of a Cash App payment proves nothing: anyone can fake one. Check your own balance and activity in the app before you hand over goods or send money back. Cash App's own guidance warns about fake payment screenshots used as "proof" in money flip scams.
- Census Bureau scam Census Bureau surveys are real, but scammers pose as census takers to collect your details. A real census taker shows a photo ID with the Commerce Department seal and never asks for your full Social Security number, bank account or card number, or money.
- Census Bureau scam Real Census Bureau survey contacts never ask for your full Social Security number, bank account numbers, passwords, or money. If someone claims to be from the Census Bureau, verify them with the Bureau's staff directory or regional office before you share anything.
- Census scam Real Census Bureau surveys exist, so check before you answer. Scammers pose as the Bureau to get your Social Security number or bank details. The Bureau won't ask for money, your full SSN, or card or bank numbers. Verify through census.gov, not the contact info you were sent.
- Census survey scam Scammers pose as census takers to get your personal information. The Census Bureau never asks for your full Social Security number, bank or credit card numbers, or money or donations. Check the photo ID, and if unsure, verify with the Bureau using details you look up yourself.
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Chase bank impersonation scam Scammers pretend to be Chase's fraud team and say your account is at risk. A real bank won't ask you to move money to fix fraud. Hang up, then call the number on the back of your card. Caller ID can be faked, so don't trust the number on screen. - Chase credit card scam Scammers pretend to be Chase's fraud department with a fake alert about a charge. Chase says it won't ask for your password, PIN or account details by text, email or phone unless you called. Hang up and call the number on the back of your card.
- Chase Credit Journey email scam Credit Journey is a real Chase feature, so scammers copy its alerts. An email that says your data was found on the dark web or in a breach and asks you to click and sign in may be fake. Don't use its link. Open the Chase app yourself, and forward the email to phishing@chase.com.
- Chase fraud alert scam Scammers pretend to be Chase's fraud department by text, call or email. The tell is urgency plus a link, a code request or a demand to move money. Don't reply or click. Hang up and call the number on the back of your Chase card.
- Chase fraud alert text scam Chase says its fraud alert texts come from 5 or 6 digit short codes, and 72166 is one it lists. Fake Chase texts copy that look. Chase won't ask for your login or tell you to move money. Don't tap links: call the number on the back of your card.
- Chase fraud department call scam A caller who says they're Chase's fraud department and asks you to move money, share a code or give remote access is a scammer. Caller ID can be faked. Hang up and call the number on the back of your card.
- Chase fraud email scam Forward a suspicious email that claims to be from Chase to phishing@chase.com, then delete it. Chase is the bank scammers pretend to be. Don't click links or call numbers in the email. If you already acted on it, call Chase using the number on your card.
- Chase no-reply alert email scam An email or text that looks like a Chase alert, even from a no-reply address, can be fake. A display name proves nothing. Check the full sender address, don't use the links, and open the Chase app or type the website yourself. Chase says it won't ask for your password or PIN by email or text.
- Chase phishing scam If an email or text that says it's from Chase asks you to click a link, confirm your login or fix a payment problem, treat it as phishing. Don't click. Open Chase from the app or a number on your card, and report the message at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Chase phishing scam Emails, texts or calls that claim to be Chase and ask you to confirm account details or click a link are phishing. Chase says to reach it only through its mobile app or chase.com. Don't click, call the number on your card, and report it to the FTC.
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Citibank fraud call scam A call, text or email saying it's Citibank's fraud department is fake if you didn't expect it and it asks for codes, card numbers or a money transfer. Hang up and call the number on the back of your card. A bank won't ask you to move money. - Citibank fraud department impersonation A call, text or email that says it's Citibank's fraud department and asks for a code, password or card details is a scam. Hang up, then call the number on the back of your card. Citi says it won't ask for confidential details by text or email.
- Clicked phishing link If you clicked a phishing link but entered nothing, you're probably fine: close it and update your security software. If you typed a password, card or Social Security number, change passwords, call your bank, and follow the FTC's steps at IdentityTheft.gov.
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Coinbase impersonation scam Coinbase itself isn't a scam. Scammers pretend to be Coinbase by email, text or phone and claim your account is at risk. Coinbase says it will never ask for your password or 2FA codes, or tell you to move funds to a "safe" wallet. Hang up and log in the usual way. -
Comcast discount call scam A call or text saying your Comcast bill is about to jump, or offering 50% off cable or streaming if you pay now by gift card, is a scam. Don't call back or buy gift cards. Contact Comcast using the number on your bill or in your account. - Comcast Xfinity phishing scam Yes, fake Comcast and Xfinity messages are common. The tell: an urgent email or text with a link to update billing, a password or account details. Don't click. Open xfinity.com or the Xfinity app yourself, and forward suspicious texts to 7726.
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Costco impersonation scam Messages offering a Costco gift card or travel credit for a survey are scams. Costco says these offers aren't from Costco Wholesale. Don't click links or share details, and report the message at reportfraud.ftc.gov. - Costco survey scam A text or email that offers a free prize, gift card or appliance for answering a Costco survey is a scam. Costco says it has seen fake surveys from people pretending to be Costco and that it doesn't ask for personal information by text. Don't click. Delete it and report it.
- CRA scam call A call, text or email that says it's the CRA and threatens arrest or demands payment in gift cards, Bitcoin or prepaid cards is a scam. The CRA doesn't do that. Hang up, then check the number with the CRA's own verification page and report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
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Craigslist email scam A Craigslist buyer or seller who won't meet in person, sends a check for too much or asks for a code, gift card or wire is a scammer. Craigslist says dealing locally and face to face avoids most scams. Stop replying, don't click links, and report it to the FTC. - Craigslist fake check scam A Craigslist buyer who sends a check for more than your asking price and asks you to send the difference back is a scammer. The check is fake, even if it shows up in your balance. Don't deposit it, don't send anything back, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Craigslist verification code scam A Craigslist buyer who asks you to read back a code sent to your phone is a scammer. The FTC says it's a way to set up a Google Voice number linked to your number. Craigslist says it only asks for a phone code when you post. Never share a code you didn't request.
- Credit bureau impersonation scam A fraud alert on your credit report is real and free, but a call, text or email that says it's from a credit bureau and pushes you to click or pay may be a scam. Look up the bureau's number yourself, or go to IdentityTheft.gov.
- Crypto scam Two scams dominate: a new online contact who steers you to a fake crypto investment site, and anyone who demands payment in crypto. The FTC says only scammers demand crypto, and the FBI says never pay fees to withdraw. Stop sending money, and report it at ic3.gov and ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Dating app romance scam (Bumble) A match on Bumble or any dating app who asks you for money is a scammer. The FTC says gift cards, wire transfers and crypto are the clearest sign. Stop contact, report the profile to the app, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Dating app scam A match who professes love fast, can't meet or video call, and then asks for money is likely a scammer. The FTC says never wire money, load gift cards or send cash to someone you met online. Stop contact, report the profile to the app and file at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Dating site scam A match who professes love fast, can never meet and soon needs money is almost certainly a scammer. Never send money, gift cards or crypto to someone you've only met online. Stop contact, keep the messages and report it to the dating site and ic3.gov.
- Dating site scam Fake profiles on dating sites and apps build a romance, then ask for money. If someone you haven't met in person asks you for money, the FTC says it's always a scam. Stop sending money, tell the site, and report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
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Depop scam Most Depop scams steer you off the app: a request to pay or chat elsewhere, or a buyer who overpays and asks for a refund. Depop says to keep payments inside the app and never share personal details. Report suspicious messages to Depop Support. - DHL delivery text scam A text that says a DHL package is held and asks you to click a link is probably a scam. Don't tap it. Check the shipment on the site or account where you ordered, forward the text to 7726, and report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
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Discord scams Discord scams use private messages, fake giveaways and look-alike login pages to get your account, crypto or money. Don't click links or scan QR codes from strangers, even from a friend's account. Report it to Discord and the FTC. - DMV text scam A text that claims to be from your state DMV about an overdue traffic ticket, with a link to pay, is probably a scam. Don't click or reply. Contact the DMV through a phone number or website you already know is real, and report the text to the FTC.
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DoorDash impersonation scam DoorDash will never call and ask for your password or a one-time verification code. If a caller claiming to be DoorDash asks you to read out a code, hang up, then contact DoorDash through the app. Change your password if you gave anything away. - eBay buyer scam A buyer who pays with a fake payment notice, a check for too much or an "accidental double payment" wants your item or your refund. Don't ship or refund until the money is really in your account, and never send back an overpayment.
- eBay impersonation scam eBay itself isn't a scam, but scammers pretend to be eBay to steal logins and card details. A message that creates urgency, asks for your password or card number, or links to a look-alike site is fake. Don't click. Check your eBay Messages, and report it to eBay and the FTC.
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Etsy scam Scammers target Etsy buyers and sellers with fake buyers, fake "Etsy" emails and requests to pay or chat outside Etsy. Etsy says a buyer never needs your email address to complete a purchase. Don't reply, report the message in Etsy Messages, and pay only inside Etsy. -
Evite phishing email A fake Evite email or text asks you to sign in with your email password, or enter a phone number and code, to see an invitation. Real Evite emails come only from evite.com. Don't click. Report the message, and change your email password if you entered it. - Facebook Marketplace buyer scam A buyer who sends a check you must deposit before shipping, pushes you to be paid off-platform, or asks for a code or your details is a scammer. Don't deposit a check and send money back, and don't give out codes. Report the buyer to Facebook and the FTC.
- Facebook Marketplace scam Act fast. How you paid decides your options: call your bank or card issuer for a card payment, contact the payment app, and file a claim if you used Facebook checkout. Report it to the FTC and Facebook. Anyone offering to recover your money for a fee is running a second scam.
- Facebook Marketplace scam On Facebook Marketplace, scammers pose as buyers who send fake payment notices or ask for a refund of an "overpayment", and as sellers with too-good prices who want payment outside the platform. Meet locally, don't share verification codes, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Facebook Messenger code scam If a Facebook friend messages you asking for a code, they're probably not your friend. The FTC says anyone who asks for your verification code is a scammer. Don't send it, call your friend another way, report the message and block the sender.
- Facebook Messenger scam A Messenger message asking for money, a code, your password or a click on a link is likely a scam, even if it comes from a friend's account. Don't reply or click. Check with the friend another way, report the chat in Messenger, and file at ReportFraud.ftc.gov if you lost money.
- Facebook money scam Anyone on Facebook who asks you to pay a fee to get a prize, or a friend who suddenly posts a way to make quick money with no risk, is almost certainly a scammer or a hijacked account. Don't pay. Call the friend, report the post, and report fraud at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Facebook scam recovery If you got scammed on Facebook, act in this order: contact the bank or app you paid with, secure your account if it was hacked, then report the scam to Facebook and to the FTC (US) or Action Fraud (UK). The sooner you ask, the better the chance of getting money back.
- Facebook scams Facebook scams include fake friend requests, hacked-friend messages, Marketplace buyers and sellers who want payment outside Facebook, and warnings that your account will be disabled. Don't click or pay. Check with the person another way, and report it in Facebook and at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Facebook verification code scam Anyone who asks you for a verification code is a scammer. The code is only for you to log in. Don't share it, don't click links in messages claiming to be from Facebook, and report the message.
- Fake Apple Support scam Apple Support doesn't call you out of the blue, and a pop-up that tells you to call a number about a virus is a scam. Close the page, hang up and contact Apple through its official support site or app. Report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Fake bank fraud call A call or text saying your bank has spotted fraud and asking you to confirm details, share a code or move money is likely a scam. Hang up, then contact your bank using the official app or the number on your card. A real fraud department won't tell you to keep it secret.
- Fake debt collection scam A collector who threatens arrest, won't give a mailing address and wants payment for a debt you don't recognize is likely a scammer. Ask for written validation of the debt. Don't share personal details or pay until you get it, and report fakes to the FTC.
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Fake debt collector scam (TrueAccord) TrueAccord is a real, licensed debt collection company, and scammers can copy any collector's name. A real collector gives you the company name, address and debt details. Don't pay or click until you've verified the debt through the CFPB's steps. - Fake Facebook email scam A Facebook email that threatens to disable your account unless you click a link is likely phishing. Facebook says it won't ask for your password by email. Don't click, check the sender domain and report it to phish@fb.com.
- Fake fraud alert center call A call or text from a "fraud alert center" saying someone tried to use your account is a common scam. Real fraud teams never ask for a verification code or tell you to move money to "protect" it. Hang up and call the number on your card or statement.
- Fake military profile photo scam If an online love interest in a uniform photo asks you for money, it's a scam. Scammers steal photos of real service members. Try a reverse image search of the profile pictures, stop contact, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Fake military profile scam If a soldier you met online asks you for money, for any reason, they're a scammer. Scammers copy real servicemembers' names and photos for fake profiles. Check the photo with a reverse image search, stop contact and report the profile.
- Fake QR code scam A fake QR code hides a link to a spoofed website or malware. Scammers stick codes over real ones, such as on parking meters, or send them by text or email. Check the web address before you open it, and never scan a code in a message you didn't expect.
- Fake tech support renewal email An email or text saying you were charged hundreds of dollars to renew a tech support plan, with a number to call within 24 hours, is a scam. Don't call it. Check your bank or card statement: if there's no charge, delete the message.
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FedEx text scam A text or email that says it's from FedEx and asks you to click, pay a fee or confirm details may be a scam. FedEx says it doesn't send unsolicited messages asking for payment or personal information. Don't click. Check your parcel on fedex.com. -
Fiverr scams The most common Fiverr scam is a request to talk or pay outside Fiverr. Fiverr says off-platform deals expose you to scams it can't protect against, and that it will never send a QR code or payment link. Keep payments and chat on the platform. - Fund recovery scam Anyone who contacts you offering to get your lost money back for an upfront fee is probably running a second scam. The FBI says law enforcement doesn't charge victims to investigate and private firms can't issue seizure orders. Don't pay, and report it at ic3.gov.
- Geek Squad automatic renewal scam A message saying you were charged hundreds of dollars to auto-renew Geek Squad, with a number to call within 24 hours, is a scam. Don't call it. Check your card or bank account, and contact Best Buy at a number you look up yourself. Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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Geek Squad email scam Scammers pretend to be Geek Squad with emails or texts saying you were charged for a renewal and must call within 24 hours to dispute it. Don't call the number. Check your bank statement, and report the message to Best Buy at abuse@BestBuy.com. - Geek Squad invoice scam An email or text saying your Geek Squad membership renewed for hundreds of dollars, with a number to call, is a scam. Don't call it. Check your card or bank statement, and contact Best Buy through its own site or app. Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Geek Squad renewal scam An email saying your Geek Squad plan renewed for hundreds of dollars, with a number to call and dispute it, is a scam. Don't call it. Check your bank or card statement, and contact Geek Squad only through a number you look up yourself. Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Geek Squad subscription renewal scam An email saying your Geek Squad subscription renewed for hundreds of dollars, with a number to call within 24 hours, is a scam. Scammers pretend to be Geek Squad. Don't call it. Check your own account and report the email at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Geek Squad subscription scam An email or text saying your Geek Squad subscription renewed for hundreds of dollars, and you must call within 24 hours to cancel, is a scam. The number reaches a scammer who asks for remote access to your computer. Don't call. Check your card statement and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Gift card scam Anyone who asks you to pay with gift cards is a scammer. No genuine organisation takes tax, bills or fees by voucher. Don't read out the codes. If you've already paid, contact the card company and your bank, then report it to Action Fraud.
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Google Chat scam A stranger on Google Chat who moves you to another app, asks for money, or says they're from Google, a bank or a recruiter is likely a scammer. Block and report them, and never share verification codes or payment details in a chat. - Google Play gift card scam If someone tells you to buy Google Play gift cards and read out the codes, it's a scam. No real business or government agency demands payment in gift cards. Stop, keep the cards and receipt, and report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Google Voice verification code scam If someone you've never met asks you to read back a Google Voice code, it's a scam. They want to open a Google Voice number in your name to run other scams. Google says its staff will never ask for the code. Don't share it, and disconnect the number if you did.
- Grandparent scam A call or message from a grandchild or relative in trouble who needs money right now, and asks you to keep it secret, is a scam. Don't trust the voice alone. Hang up and call the person on a number you already know, then report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Hinge romance scam Scammers on Hinge move you off the app fast, avoid calls, and eventually ask for money or push an investment. Never send money to a match, and report any match who tells you where to invest. You can report a profile from the app.
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HMRC scam call A call, voicemail, text or email that claims to be HMRC and demands personal details or threatens legal action is a scam. Hang up and contact HMRC yourself using the number on gov.uk, not the one the caller gives you. Report it through GOV.UK. - Home equity and mortgage relief scam A company that charges you upfront to "save your home", asks you to sign over your deed or tells you to stop talking to your lender is a scam. The FTC says it's illegal to charge a penny before delivering a written offer from your lender that you accept.
- Identity theft Identity theft is when someone uses your personal or financial information without permission, for example to open credit cards, take out phone accounts or claim your tax refund. Freeze your credit, check your reports and bills, and report it at IdentityTheft.gov to get a recovery plan.
- Instagram scam accounts Scam Instagram accounts pretend to be a company, a public figure, a friend or Instagram itself, then push you to pay a fee, move to another app or log in somewhere else. Don't reply or pay. Report the account in Instagram and at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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Instagram scam post A post, ad or DM on Instagram that offers a prize, a too-cheap item, a loan or a sure-fire way to make money is a common scam setup. The tell: it asks for a fee, card details or a login. Don't engage. Report the post in the app, and report fraud at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. - Instagram scams Yes. Scammers use social media, Instagram included, to send fake prize offers, romance approaches and requests for money. Anyone in your feed saying they have money to give you is a scammer. Don't pay, stop contact, report it and tell the FTC.
- Instagram scams Instagram scams include fake DMs, ads for products that never arrive, investment 'coaches', romance and fake account warnings. Instagram says it never sends DMs about your account. Don't reply or click: report the message in the app and secure your account.
- Instagram scams Common Instagram scams are fake shops with cheap ads, romance scams and messages from hacked friends asking for money. The FTC says to check a company before buying and to call a friend directly if they ask for money. Report to Instagram and ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- IRS impersonation scam The IRS says it doesn't start contact by email, text or social media, and it usually mails a notice first. A message that threatens arrest or demands payment now is a scam. Don't click or call back. Report it to phishing@irs.gov or TIGTA.
- iTunes gift card scam If someone tells you to pay with iTunes or Apple gift cards, it's a scam. Real businesses and agencies don't take gift cards as payment. Don't read out the card number and PIN. If you already did, call the card issuer now and report it to the FTC.
- Job scam A job offer that asks you to pay for equipment or training, deposit a check and send some back, or do online "tasks" for pay is a scam. Real employers never ask you to pay to get a job. Check the company yourself and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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Kroll impersonation scam Kroll is a real company that handles bankruptcy claims and breach notifications. Scammers send emails pretending to be Kroll or the FTX bankruptcy team. Kroll says it will never ask for your wallet, seed phrase, password or Social Security number. Don't click. Go to Kroll's site yourself. -
Lazada impersonation scams Messages that claim to be from Lazada and offer jobs, prizes or refunds are scams. Lazada says it doesn't recruit by SMS, WhatsApp or Telegram, and won't send you to third-party sites. Don't click or pay. Check your orders in the official Lazada app, and report the message to ScamShield. -
LexisNexis email scam An unexpected email that says it's from LexisNexis and pushes you to open an attachment, click a link or pay an invoice is phishing. LexisNexis has warned that fake invoice emails don't come from its systems. Don't open it, report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov, then delete it. -
LinkedIn fake profile scam Yes. Fake profiles and messages on LinkedIn ask for money or sensitive information, push you off the platform, or offer unrealistic jobs. LinkedIn says to look for the signals below, then report the profile from the More menu. - LinkedIn job scam A recruiter on LinkedIn who messages you out of the blue, flatters you, then asks you to pay for equipment or training, or for your Social Security number or bank details early, is likely a scammer. Contact the company directly and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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LinkedIn scam Yes, scammers use LinkedIn. The common one is a fake recruiter who messages you, sets up a "virtual interview" and later asks for money or your Social Security or bank details. A real employer never charges you to get hired. Verify the company yourself and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. - LinkedIn scams Scammers use LinkedIn messages and fake job posts to push task jobs, phishing links and requests for money or personal data. A real employer won't ask you to pay to get a job or to deposit money. Don't click, report it to LinkedIn and at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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Linkt toll scam Emails and texts that claim to be from Linkt about an unpaid toll, a suspended account or an account on hold are scams. Linkt says its payment reminders always ask you to log in to your account. Don't click the link. Check your balance in the Linkt app or on linkt.com.au instead. - Lottery and prize scam If someone says you've won a lottery or prize you never entered, and asks you to pay fees or taxes first, it's a scam. The FTC says a real prize never costs you anything. Don't pay or share bank details. Report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Marketplace shipping scam A Marketplace buyer who pushes you to ship before payment shows up in your own account, sends a payment screenshot, or says they overpaid is likely a scammer. Never ship on a screenshot or email. Confirm the money in your bank or payment app first, and report the buyer.
- McAfee renewal email scam A McAfee email saying you were charged hundreds of dollars and must call within 24 hours is a scam. Don't call the number. Check your bank or card statement, and if you want to confirm a subscription, contact McAfee using a number you look up yourself.
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Medicare scam calls A caller who says they're from Medicare and asks for your Social Security, bank or card number is a scammer. The FTC says Medicare won't ask for personal information to give you a new card, and cards are free. Hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE yourself. - Mega Millions lottery scam If someone says you won the Mega Millions and asks you to pay anything first, it's a scam. The FBI describes it as an advance fee scam: you wire money to "secure" a prize that doesn't exist. Don't pay, don't share bank details, and report it at ic3.gov.
- Mega Millions sweepstakes scam A message that says you won Mega Millions or a sweepstakes you never entered is a scam, especially if it asks for a fee, bank details or a gift card. The FTC says if you have to pay to get a prize, it's a scam. Real sweepstakes are free. Don't reply, don't click, and report it.
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Mercari scam Mercari scams include fake "Mercari" emails and chat messages that push you to log in on a lookalike site, and buyers or sellers who want to pay or be paid outside the app. Mercari is the platform being imitated. Keep every deal inside Mercari and report scams. - Messenger scam A Messenger message from a friend asking for money, or with a link to claim money, may come from a hacked account. Don't click or pay. Call your friend on a number you know, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Microsoft tech support scam A call from someone claiming to be Microsoft about a virus on your computer is a scam. Microsoft doesn't call you and ask for access to your computer. Hang up, don't give anyone control of your device, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Military dating scam Someone you met online who says they're a soldier and asks for money, for leave, packages, food or medical care, is a scammer. Servicemembers never have to pay for those. Stop contact, don't send money, and report it to the app and ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Military impersonation scam If someone you met online says they're in the military and asks you for money for any reason, they're a scammer. Scammers steal real servicemembers' names and photos. Cut off contact, report the profile and tell the FTC.
- Military romance scam Someone you met online who says they're a deployed soldier and asks for money is almost certainly a scammer using stolen photos. The FTC says service members never have to pay for packages, food, medical care or leave. Stop contact and report it.
- Military romance scam If someone you met online says they're a deployed soldier and asks you for money, they're a scammer. Real servicemembers never need you to pay for leave, food, medical care or packages. Stop contact, report the profile and file a report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Military romance scam photos Romance scammers pose as service members using photos that belong to someone else. If a person you haven't met in person asks for money, it's a scam. Reverse image search the profile photo, stop contact, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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myGov email scam If an email from "myGov" has a link, button or icon to click, Services Australia says it's a scam. That covers locked-account warnings, suspicious sign-in alerts, refunds and tax return problems. Don't click or call the number in it. Sign in with the myGov app or by typing my.gov.au. - NAB fraud team scam A call or text that says it's from NAB's fraud team and asks you to move money, share a one-time code or install an app is a scam. Don't call back any number it gives you. Hang up and call NAB on the number on your card or in the app, then report it to Scamwatch.
- NatWest scam Scammers pretend to be NatWest by text, email and phone. NatWest says it will never ask for your full PIN, full password or card reader codes. Don't click or call back. Forward suspect emails to phishing@natwest.com and texts to 88355.
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Netflix scam An email or text saying your Netflix account is locked or your payment failed, with a link to fix it, is a phishing scam. Netflix says it won't ask for your password or card details by text or email. Don't click. Forward it to phishing@netflix.com. -
Netspend impersonation scam A call, text or email that claims to be Netspend and asks for your card number, PIN, Social Security number or login is a scam. Netspend says it won't ask for those by email or text. Hang up and call the number on the back of your card. - Nigerian prince (advance-fee) scam An email, letter or message from a stranger who offers you a share of millions if you help move money is an advance-fee scam. The money doesn't exist. Don't reply, don't send fees or bank details, and report it at ic3.gov.
- Nigerian prince scam An email from a "prince", lawyer or banker promising you a share of a huge sum if you pay a fee first is an advance-fee scam, also called a 419 scam. The money doesn't exist. Don't reply or pay. Delete it, and report it to the FBI, FTC or Action Fraud, depending on where you live.
- Norton email scam An email saying your Norton subscription was renewed and charged to your card, with a phone number to call if it was a mistake, is a scam. Norton is the company being imitated. Don't call the number. Check your card statement, and report the email.
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O2 scam text Scammers send texts pretending to be O2, often with a link and a threat of suspension. O2 says it won't ask for one-time codes or bank details. Don't tap the link: forward the text to 7726, which is free, then delete it. -
OfferUp scams OfferUp scams usually involve a buyer or seller who wants money before you meet or a payment sent off the app. OfferUp says deals happen in person, it doesn't send payment instructions in chat, and cash after inspecting the item is safest. - Online dating scam A match who professes love fast, says they're overseas, wants to leave the dating app and then needs money is a romance scammer. Never send money, gift cards or crypto to someone you haven't met. Report them to the dating site, the FTC and IC3.
- Online quiz scam Some online quizzes are built to collect answers that double as security questions, like your first car or your school. Some are shared from hacked accounts and carry malware links. If you can't tell who runs a quiz, skip it, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Online seller scam If you sell online and a buyer sends a check for more than the price, a fake payment notice or a link to set up a PayPal account, it's a scam. Don't deposit the check, don't ship until payment is confirmed in your own account, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- OnTrac delivery text scam A text saying an OnTrac package is stuck and asking for a fee or your details is a common delivery scam. Don't click. Check tracking with the store you ordered from, or OnTrac through a site you type in yourself. Forward the text to 7726 and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Opening a phishing email Opening a phishing email isn't usually the problem. Clicking a link, opening an attachment or typing details is. If you only opened it, delete it. If you did more, update your security software, change passwords and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Package delivery text scam A text about a package, unpaid postage or a redelivery fee that includes a link is probably a scam. Don't click or pay. Check the tracking on the retailer's site or account you ordered from, and forward the text to 7726 (SPAM).
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Parking fine text scam A text saying you owe an unpaid parking fine, with a link to pay, is a scam. UK councils say they don't text fines. Don't click. Delete it, forward it to 7726, and contact your council directly if you think a fine is real. -
PayPal impersonation scam A message from "PayPal Inc" that says your account is suspended or you have an unfamiliar charge, and tells you to click a link or call a number, is a scam. Log in to PayPal by typing the address yourself, and forward the email to phishing@paypal.com. - PayPal payment email scam A fake PayPal email saying a buyer has paid is a scam. Fraudsters push sellers to post the item before checking. Log in to PayPal yourself, check the payment, and forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk.
- PayPal phishing email scam Fake PayPal emails and invoices try to get you to log in on a copy of the site or call a number. Don't click links or call numbers in the message. Log in to PayPal directly, and forward suspicious emails to phishing@paypal.com.
- PayPal phishing scam A PayPal email that threatens to suspend your account, greets you with "Dear user" or sends you to log in through a link is phishing. Don't click. Log in to PayPal by typing the address yourself and check the Resolution Center.
- PayPal refund scam If someone "overpays" you on PayPal and asks you to wire back the difference, or an email tells you to call a number about a refund or invoice, it's a scam. Check your PayPal account directly before you ship or send anything.
- Phishing email on iPhone Opening a phishing email on your phone is usually not the danger. Clicking a link, opening an attachment or typing in details is. If you only opened it, delete it and report it. If you clicked or replied, update your phone's software and follow the steps below.
- Phishing link clicked on iPhone Clicking a phishing link on your iPhone doesn't mean you're hacked, but stop using the page. If you typed in a password or card number, change it and call your bank now. Report the message at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and forward texts to 7726.
- Phishing scam It's spelled phishing, with a ph. Scammers send emails or texts that look like they're from a company you trust to trick you into sharing passwords, card numbers or other personal details. Don't click. Contact the company using a number or site you know is real.
- Phone number and verification code scam A stranger who wants your phone number or a code sent to your phone is likely after your number. The FTC warns that scammers posing as buyers ask for a Google Voice verification code. Never share any verification code with someone you don't know.
- Phone number spoofing scam If people say your number called them, it was almost certainly spoofed: a scammer faked your number on caller ID. Your phone wasn't hacked. Don't answer unknown calls, and report it at fcc.gov/complaints and reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Phone phishing Phone phishing is a call or voicemail that pretends to be a bank, a government agency or a company to get your money or details. The tells are urgency, a demand for payment by gift card, wire, crypto or app, and a request for sensitive information. Hang up and call back on a number you look up.
- Police and government impersonation scam A caller who says they're police, a court or a federal agency and threatens arrest unless you pay right now is a scammer. Real agencies don't demand payment by phone, gift card, crypto or courier. Hang up, call the agency at a number you look up yourself, and report it at ic3.gov.
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Poshmark scam Poshmark scams come as fake Poshmark emails and texts, or as buyers who want to move the deal off the app. Poshmark says to keep everything on Poshmark.com and never click links in unexpected messages. Forward phishing emails to the company instead. - Poshmark verification scam A message that says Poshmark needs to verify your account, update your payout details or confirm your card through a link is a scam. Poshmark says its real emails come from its own address and never ask for passwords or card details. Don't click, and contact Poshmark Support yourself.
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Publishers Clearing House prize scam If someone says you won Publishers Clearing House and asks you to pay a fee, tax or shipping charge first, it's a scam. PCH says it never calls and never charges to enter or claim a prize. Hang up and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. -
Punchbowl invitation scam A "Punchbowl" invitation that asks you to sign in with your email and password, comes with an attachment, or links anywhere other than punchbowl.com is fake. Don't open it. Forward it to help@punchbowl.com, mark it as spam and change your email password if you clicked. - Qantas impersonation scam Scammers pretend to be Qantas in emails and texts offering refunds, gifts or expiring points. Qantas says it doesn't ask for PINs or passwords, including one-time passwords, by text or email. Don't click the link; check in the Qantas app or on its website, and report it to Scamwatch.
- Recovery and refund scam Anyone who contacts you offering to recover your lost money for a fee is a scammer. Real help is free: contact the bank, app or card company you paid with right away and ask for a reversal, then report the scam to the FTC and your state attorney general.
- Rental scam A rental listing with rent far below the local market, a landlord who can't show you the place and a request to pay a deposit by wire, gift card or crypto is a scam. Never pay to hold a place you haven't seen. Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Reverse mortgage scam Reverse mortgages are legal loans, but pushy calls, ads and contractors use them to rush older homeowners. Real lenders give you time. The VA offers no reverse mortgages. Don't sign anything under pressure: talk to a HUD-approved housing counselor first.
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Robinhood phishing email Scammers send fake Robinhood emails and texts to steal your login. Robinhood says its support will never ask for your password, 2FA code or recovery phrase. Don't click the link. Open the app or type the address yourself, and report phishing to Robinhood. - Romance scam If someone you only know online asks for money, gift cards, a transfer or crypto, it's a romance scam, however real the relationship feels. The FTC says that's true every time. Stop sending money, cut contact, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Scam caller You can't tell a scam caller by the number: caller ID can be faked. If a call asks for personal or payment details, hang up and call the organisation back on a number you look up yourself. In the UK, report it to your mobile provider by texting 7726.
- Scam phone call numbers A list of scam phone numbers won't keep you safe, because scammers spoof caller ID and change numbers constantly. Don't call back a number you don't know. Hang up, look up the real organization yourself and report the call at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Scammers have your phone number If scammers have your number, you're not alone: they spoof caller ID and buy contact lists. Don't answer unknown calls or reply to texts, never give out account numbers or codes, and add a PIN to your phone account to block port-out fraud.
- Sextortion scam Sextortion is blackmail: someone threatens to share intimate images or video unless you pay. Don't pay and stop replying. It's a crime, and you did nothing wrong. Save the evidence, block them, and report to ic3.gov or tips.fbi.gov.
- Snapchat money scam If someone on Snapchat, often a friend's hacked account, says they'll turn your Cash App or Venmo payment into much more money, it's a scam. You'll get fake screenshots, then a request for more. Stop paying, report the account, and contact the payment app.
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Snapchat phishing link scam A Snapchat message, text or email with a link that asks you to log in, "verify" your account or claim something is a phishing attempt. Snapchat says its staff will never ask for your password. Don't tap it. If you did, change your password, check your sessions and turn on two-factor authentication. - Snapchat premium scam Accounts that tease explicit photos and ask you to pay for "premium" Snapchat content are a scam: the Massachusetts attorney general says nothing is delivered however much you pay. Don't pay, block and report the account, and never send explicit images to strangers.
- Snapchat scam The most serious Snapchat scam is sextortion: someone gets you to share intimate images, then threatens to leak them unless you pay. Don't pay. Stop replying, keep the evidence, report the account in Snapchat and tell the FTC or police.
- Social media ticket scam A stranger or account selling tickets on social media who wants a bank transfer is a red flag. UK government figures show almost half of gig ticket fraud reports involved social media offers. Buy only from official sellers and pay by credit card.
- Social Security number scam Report it at IdentityTheft.gov to get a recovery plan, freeze your credit with the three credit bureaus, and report the scam to the FTC. Watch for a tax return filed in your name. Replacing a Social Security number is rare, so the goal is to catch and fix misuse early.
- Social Security scam call A call saying your Social Security number is blocked, tied to a crime or needs fixing is a scam. The SSA won't call to ask for your number or demand payment. Hang up, then call the SSA at a number you look up yourself, and report it to the FTC.
- Spear phishing Spear phishing is a phishing message written for you in particular, using details like your name, employer or a recent purchase. The tells are an unexpected request, pressure to act, a sender or link that doesn't quite match, and a push to skip your normal process. Verify through a number or site you already know.
- Spectrum impersonation scam A call, recording or text that says it's from Spectrum and offers a big discount if you pay part of it up front, especially by gift card, is a scam. Hang up, contact Spectrum through the number on your bill, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Steam gift card scam Anyone who tells you to pay with a Steam gift card is a scammer. The FTC says no real business or government agency will ever ask you to pay with a gift card. Don't share the card number or a photo of it. If you already did, contact Steam Support and report it.
- Steam gift card scam Anyone who tells you to buy a Steam gift card and read out the numbers is a scammer. The FTC says no real business or government agency will ever ask you to pay with a gift card. Stop, keep the card and receipt, and report it to Steam Support.
- Strip search phone call scam A caller posing as police who says you have a warrant or fine and tells you to undress or record yourself is a scammer. Real officers don't demand this or payment by phone. Hang up, don't call back, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or ic3.gov.
- Student loan forgiveness scam A company that charges upfront fees, asks for your FSA ID, or says it's tied to the Department of Education and can get your loans forgiven is a scam. Only scammers charge before they help. Use your loan servicer listed on the Department of Education's website and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Sublease and rental listing scam A too-good-to-be-true sublease or rental where the owner can't show the place and wants a deposit by wire, gift card or crypto is a scam. Check who owns the property, see it before you pay, and never send money you can't get back.
- Suspicious phone number check You can't prove a number is safe, but you can spot a scam. Don't reply or call back. Search the number, then contact the organisation on a number from its own website or your statement. In the UK, forward scam texts to 7726, which is free.
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Target gift card scam Anyone who tells you to pay with a Target gift card is a scammer. No real business or government agency demands gift cards. Stop, don't read out the card number and PIN, and if you already did, contact Target at once using the number on the card and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. - Telegram app scam Telegram itself isn't the scam: scammers use it because strangers can message you or add you to groups. Be wary of anyone who moves you to Telegram to invest, take a job or recover lost money. Don't send money, and report it at ic3.gov.
- Telegram scammer There's no reliable way to tell from a profile alone. Judge what they ask. A stranger on Telegram who offers easy work, a guaranteed investment return or wants payment in crypto is almost certainly a scammer. Stop replying, don't send money, and report it.
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Telegram scams Telegram is a messaging app, and scammers use it, mostly for crypto and investment pitches in group chats. Regulators advise not to reply, to delete the messages or group, block the sender and tighten your privacy settings. Never send money to someone who messaged you first. -
Telstra impersonation scam Scammers pretend to be Telstra, often saying your internet or computer has been hacked. Telstra says it never calls unprompted to ask for remote access or your sensitive details. Hang up, forward scam texts to 7226 and report calls to Scamwatch. -
Ticketmaster scam Fake tickets and sites that look like Ticketmaster are the main risks. Buy only through ticketmaster.com or the official app, never pay a stranger by gift card, wire or cashier's check, and forward suspect emails to Ticketmaster. Report losses to the FTC. - Tinder scammer A Tinder match who asks for money, pushes you to move to text or another app fast, or can't video call is likely a scammer. Never send money. Report the profile in the app and file at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Tinder is where they find you, not who they are.
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Uber text scam Uber says it will never call, text or email to ask for your password, verification code or banking details. A message that does is a scam. End the call, don't click, and check your account through the Uber app or help.uber.com. Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. - Uber verification code scam If someone texts or calls you, even claiming to be Uber, and asks for the verification code you just received, it's a scam. Uber says it never asks for your password, verification code or banking details. Don't share the code, and change your password if you did.
- UK romance scam If someone you've only met online asks for money, it's a romance scam, however real the relationship feels. Never send money to someone you haven't met. Tell your bank straight away and report it to Action Fraud.
- Unpaid toll text scam A text saying you owe an unpaid toll and must pay a small amount through a link to avoid a late fee is almost always a scam. Don't click. Check your account on the toll agency's real website or call the number you already know, then report the text to IC3 and the FTC.
- UPS delivery scam A text or email that says UPS has a package for you and asks you to click a link to update delivery details is a scam if you weren't expecting a delivery. The FTC says there is no package. Don't click. Check tracking on UPS's own website or app.
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UPS delivery scam A text or email from 'UPS' with a link to reschedule delivery, pay a fee or confirm your address is a common scam. UPS says it doesn't ask for payments or personal details this way. Don't click. Check your package at ups.com yourself and forward the message to fraud@ups.com. - UPS redelivery scam A text or email that says UPS couldn't deliver and asks you to pay a fee or confirm personal details is a scam. UPS says it doesn't ask for payment or personal information that way. Don't tap the link: track the package at ups.com.
- UPS reschedule delivery scam A text or email saying your UPS delivery failed and asking you to click to reschedule, or to pay a small fee, is a scam. Don't click. Track your package from the retailer's site or UPS directly, then report the message and delete it.
- UPS tracking scam A text or email saying your UPS package is held and asking you to click a tracking link may be phishing. UPS is the company being impersonated. Don't click: track the package by going to UPS's site or app yourself, and report the message.
- UPS urgent notice text scam A text that claims an urgent UPS notice, a package waiting or an account about to be suspended is a scam. UPS says fake messages ask for personal details or a payment and may carry malware links. Don't tap the link. Check tracking on UPS's own site and report it.
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USPS package text scam A text about a USPS package that you didn't ask USPS to track, and that has a link, is a scam called smishing. USPS says it only texts you after you request tracking with a tracking number, and those texts have no link. Don't tap it. Report it and track the parcel on usps.com. -
Venmo business account scam If someone says a Venmo payment is waiting until you send shipping details, or a seller wants you to pay outside Venmo's purchase protection, it's a scam. Venmo is the platform scammers pretend to be. Check the transaction in your own app, never in a screenshot or email. - Venmo Facebook Marketplace scam If a Marketplace buyer says they paid you on Venmo, check your Venmo balance before you hand over the item. Never send money back to a stranger who "overpaid" or "paid by mistake". Venmo says to contact its support instead. Payment app transfers are very hard to get back.
- Venmo fraud prevention scam A call or text from "Venmo fraud prevention" that asks for the code sent to your phone, or tells you to send money to "secure" your account, is a scam. Venmo says it never asks for that code. Hang up, open the Venmo app yourself and use its chat to check.
- Venmo payment scam If someone says they've paid you on Venmo but you can't see the payment in the app, it's a scam. Venmo only emails from an address ending in venmo.com. Check your balance in the app, never ship or refund based on an email or screenshot.
- Venmo scam If someone calls, texts or emails as 'Venmo fraud', or a stranger sends you money and asks for it back, it's a scam. Venmo says its agents never ask for your verification code. Don't send money back yourself: contact Venmo Support in the app.
- Verizon text message scam A text or email that claims to be from Verizon and asks for account details or pushes you to click a link is likely phishing. Verizon says it never asks for personal or account information by text or email. Forward the text to 7726, then delete it.
- Verizon text scam A text or email that claims to be Verizon and asks for account or personal details is likely phishing. Verizon says it will never ask for personal or account information by email or text. Don't reply or click, forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) and delete it.
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Visa Click to Pay email scam An email that uses the Visa or Click to Pay name to ask for card details or a one-time code is a scam. Visa says it doesn't ask for card details by email. Don't click. Open your bank or card app yourself, and report the email to Visa. - Walmart delivery text scam A text or email that says a Walmart order or delivery has a problem and tells you to tap a link is a phishing attempt. Scammers pretend to be Walmart. Don't click. Check your order in the Walmart app or on walmart.com, and report the message to 7726 (SPAM) and the FTC.
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Walmart gift card email scam An email that says you won a Walmart gift card, or that asks you to buy Walmart gift cards and send the numbers, is a scam. The FTC says no real business or agency will ever tell you to pay with a gift card. Don't click, and report the email. - Walmart money card email scam An email, text or call that says it's from Walmart and tells you to load money onto a prepaid or gift card is a scam. Walmart says never to give prepaid or gift card details to someone you don't know. Don't reply, don't click, and report it.
- Walmart order verification scam An email or text saying a Walmart order needs "verification" or was placed in your name is a likely scam. Don't click or call. Check your orders in your Walmart account, forward phishing emails to Walmart as an attachment, and report to the FTC.
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Walmart text and email scam Texts, emails or calls that claim to be Walmart and push you to click a link, claim a prize or fix an order you never placed are scams. Walmart says it doesn't announce contest winners by text. Don't click. Check your orders by going to walmart.com yourself. -
Wells Fargo credit card scam Texts, emails and calls that claim to be Wells Fargo and warn about your credit card are usually scammers pretending to be the bank. Wells Fargo says it won't ask for your PIN, password or one-time codes. Don't click or call back. Use the number on the back of your card. - Wells Fargo fraud alert scam A message that says Wells Fargo detected fraud on your account and asks you to click a link or confirm details is a common phishing trick. Wells Fargo is the one being impersonated. Don't click: contact the bank using the number on your card or its official site.
- Wells Fargo fraud alert scam Scammers pretend to be Wells Fargo by text, email or phone. Wells Fargo says it never asks for your password, PIN or one-time access code by email or text. Forward suspicious messages to reportphish@wellsfargo.com, then delete them.
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Westpac email scam Emails and texts that say they're from Westpac and ask you to verify your details, redeem rewards or call about a "new login" are scams. Westpac says it never asks you to move money to a "safe" account. Don't click or call, open the Westpac app instead, and forward the message to Westpac before deleting. - WhatsApp scam The WhatsApp scams people report most are a message or call from someone pretending to be a friend or family member, an unexpected job offer, and requests for your six-digit verification code. Never share the code. Call the person outside WhatsApp, then report and block.
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WhatsApp scams Anyone who asks for your WhatsApp 6-digit verification code is a scammer. The FTC says so, and WhatsApp says never share it. Turn on two-step verification, and if a contact asks for money or a code, check with them by phone first. - WhatsApp scams A WhatsApp message from a stranger, or from a "friend" on a new number, asking for money, a 6-digit code or a link click is almost always a scam. Never share a verification code, not even with family. Block and report the sender, and call the real friend on a number you already have.
- WhatsApp update scam A message telling you to "update WhatsApp" through a link, or to share a code to keep your account, is a scam. WhatsApp says to use only the official app, and no real service asks for your verification code. Don't tap the link, never share the code, and report it.
- Winter Fuel Payment text scam A text telling you to claim or confirm your Winter Fuel Payment through a link is a scam. The DWP says it won't text you for bank details. Don't click. Forward the text to 7726 and check gov.uk for the real position.
- Work-from-home job scam A work-from-home job that asks you to pay a fee first, or sends you a check and tells you to forward part of it, is a scam. The FTC says no honest employer will send a check and ask you to send on some of the money or buy gift cards. Report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Wrong number text scam A text from a stranger who says "sorry, wrong number" is often the first step of a scam. The FTC says these chats can turn romantic and lead to investment fraud. Don't reply or click anything. Delete it, forward it to 7726 (SPAM) and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Xfinity scam Scammers pretend to be Xfinity to steal logins, card details and personal data. Xfinity says it won't ask you to pay by gift card, wire, PayPal, Venmo or Zelle. Don't click or call back: log in directly or call Xfinity from its official site.
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Zelle scam If someone claiming to be your bank's fraud department tells you to send money through Zelle to "protect" your account, it's a scam. Your bank won't ask you to move money. Hang up, call the number on your card, and report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Questions about scams
How do scammers get your information?
Mostly from places that are legal and public. People-search sites and data brokers sell names, phone numbers, home addresses, relatives and past addresses in one profile. Data breaches leak emails, passwords and phone numbers that end up on criminal forums. Social media fills in the rest: where you work, your kids' names, when you're away. Scammers combine these to make a message sound like it comes from someone who knows you.
How can you spot a scam?
Watch for pressure and an unusual way to pay. A scam usually wants you to act right now, keep it secret, or pay by gift card, crypto, wire transfer or a payment app. It often arrives out of the blue, from a number or address that isn't the company's own. When in doubt, stop, and contact the company or agency through a number or website you look up yourself.
What should you do if you've been scammed?
Act fast. Call your bank or card issuer to stop or reverse the payment, change any password you shared and turn on two-step verification. If you gave out your Social Security number, freeze your credit with the three bureaus. Keep every message and receipt, then report it.
Where do you report a scam?
In the US, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, and to the FBI at ic3.gov if you lost money online. Forward scam texts to 7726 (SPAM) so your carrier can block the sender. Report fake profiles and messages in the app where you got them.
Check if your details are exposed with Serus
Scammers find your number and address on data brokers and people-search sites. Serus removes them.