Phone scams and scam calls

Examples of scam calls

• Scam phone call numbers Scam example

  “This is the fraud department. We've seen suspicious charges on your account. Press 1 now or call us back at [phone number] to stop them. Do not share this message.”

  Tell: A caller who creates urgency or threatens arrest, fines or a frozen account

  Read about the Scam phone call numbers
• Publishers Clearing House prize scam Scam example

  “Congratulations, you have won the Publishers Clearing House sweepstakes. To release your prize, pay the $[amount] processing fee with gift cards, then call [phone number] with the numbers.”

  Tell: A call, text or email saying you won a prize you didn't enter

  Read about the Publishers Clearing House prize scam
• Amazon impersonation scam Scam example

  “Amazon: We noticed a charge of $[amount] for an order you may not have placed. If this wasn't you, call [phone number] now to cancel it.”

  Tell: A call or text about a purchase you didn't make, with a number to call to cancel it

  Read about the Amazon impersonation scam
• Venmo scam Scam example

  “Venmo Security: unusual activity was detected on your account. To keep it from being limited, verify your identity at [link] or call [phone number].”

  Tell: Anyone asking for the code Venmo texted you

  Read about the Venmo scam
• Citibank fraud call scam Scam example

  “This is the Citibank fraud department. We've seen a suspicious charge of $[amount] on your card. To stop it, call [phone number] now or reply YES to confirm it was you.”

  Tell: An unexpected call or text about "fraud" on your account

  Read about the Citibank fraud call scam
• Zelle scam Scam example

  “Zelle fraud alert: a payment of $[amount] was requested from your account. If this wasn't you, call [phone number] now to cancel it.”

  Tell: A call or text about "fraud on your account" that you didn't expect

  Read about the Zelle scam

Phone scams going around now

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• '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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 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.
• 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 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 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 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 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 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.
• 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.
• 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 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 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 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.
• 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 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 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 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 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 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.
• 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 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

No scam matches that yet.