Learn how common scams work, how to recognize warning signs, where to report suspicious activity, and what steps to take if you believe you have been targeted by a scammer.
Expand each section to learn how scams work and how to avoid them.
Phone scammers often pretend to be banks, government agencies, utilities, or technical support representatives. They may pressure victims into immediate payment or sensitive disclosures.
Warning SignsPhishing emails try to trick you into clicking malicious links, downloading malware, or entering passwords on fake websites.
Watch for:Romance scammers build emotional trust online before requesting money, gift cards, or financial assistance.
Red Flags:Fake technical support popups and calls attempt to scare users into granting remote access or paying fake repair fees.
Important:Custom information, updates, warnings, and educational content.
Every scam starts with the first outreach.
Unknown call: Ask to call back and the name of the person to speak with. Take your time to verify caller identity via official sources (bank, insurance, FBI, etc). You call them back and ask what happened.
Unknown email: Right to the Trash folder. Even if you know what it could be, do not rush to hit the link. Use the app or official webpage to check if there is anything you need to update or approve.
Know your environment: Most of these "attempts" are 100% random and it's the game of numbers. If you have no uncle Bill out there, makes no sense to respond to inheritance lawyer emails. Chase bank account being blocked? Too bad, but it’s already blocked. I don’t want to talk about it right now on the phone, I’ll call you back. Aunt Marsha just went to the hospital and needs 300 bucks on her CashApp? Nah, I’ll visit her in person, let me know where she’s at? It’s all about your environment and how you aware of what’s going on in your life.
It's as simple as that.
No rush. Chill. Breathe.
It was just another attempt.
You'll be alright.
Trusted organizations and government reporting tools.
Report scams, fraud, identity theft, and deceptive business practices.
Visit FTC Reporting →File cybercrime and internet fraud complaints with the FBI.
Visit IC3 →Recovery steps and reporting tools for identity theft victims.
Visit IdentityTheft.gov →Scam prevention resources and fraud education materials.
Visit Fraud Watch →