Common Tricks Used By Scammers

What it is: Scammers send emails or texts that appear to be from trusted sources like banks, online retailers, or government agencies.
How it works: These messages often contain links to fake websites that look identical to the real ones. The goal is to trick you into entering sensitive information like login credentials, credit card details, or personal identification information.

What it is: Scammers pose as government agents, tech support, or representatives of well-known companies.
How it works: They may claim there’s an issue with your bank account, credit card, taxes, or that your computer has a virus that needs immediate attention. They often try to create a sense of urgency, pressuring you to provide information or send money.

What it is: You receive an unexpected message claiming you’ve won a lottery or prize.
How it works: To “claim” your prize, the scammer will ask for a processing fee, your bank details, or other personal information. In reality, there is no prize, and they are just looking to take your money.

What it is: Fake online stores or listings for products that seem too good to be true.
How it works: Scammers offer items at prices significantly lower than usual or advertise products in high demand (like electronics or concert tickets). Once you make the payment, the goods never arrive, and the website disappears.

What it is: A scammer builds an online relationship, often on dating sites or social media.
How it works: After establishing trust, the scammer may fabricate an emergency or crisis (such as a medical situation, a financial emergency, or a trip) and ask for money or gifts. The scammer may also pose as a soldier or someone overseas needing assistance.

What it is: Scammers pretend to be tech support agents from reputable companies.
How it works: They may contact you and claim there’s a problem with your computer or that it’s infected with malware. They will often ask you to give remote access to your computer, install software, or pay for a fake service or subscription.

What it is: Scammers promise high returns on investments with little risk.
How it works: They often offer to invest in a “sure thing,” like cryptocurrency, stocks, or real estate, convincing you that it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. In reality, these are just ways to take your money without providing any return.

What it is: Scammers pose as representatives of charities or disaster relief efforts.
How it works: They may use emotional appeals to encourage donations for causes like natural disasters, disease research, or helping children. The scammer pockets the money instead of donating it.

What it is: A scammer claims you owe money to a company or agency.
How it works: They may threaten legal action, arrest, or damage to your credit score unless you immediately pay the debt. Often, these scams are for debts you don’t owe or are inflated amounts.

What it is: A type of malicious software that locks your files or computer until you pay a ransom.
How it works: Scammers send you an email or direct you to a website that infects your system. They then demand a ransom (often in cryptocurrency) to unlock your files or computer.

What it is: Scammers offer fake job opportunities, often online.
How it works: They may ask for a “processing fee” or personal details, including your Social Security number, to complete a job application. Once they get the money or data, the job offer vanishes.

 What it is: Fake event or concert tickets sold online or through social media.
How it works: Scammers advertise tickets for sold-out events at a lower price, but once you send the money, the tickets never arrive, or they are counterfeit.

What it is: Scammers offer services to help manage debt or secure loans.
How it works: They promise to reduce your debt, but they ask for an upfront fee or access to your financial details, leading to more financial problems.

What it is: Fake rental listings for apartments or vacation properties.
How it works: Scammers post fake ads with attractive prices, often for properties that don’t exist or are already rented. Once you send money for a deposit or rent, the scammer disappears.

 What it is: Scammers create fake accounts or pages on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
How it works: They may ask for donations, promote fake contests, or try to get you to click on malicious links. They often play on your emotions, creating fake profiles of people in need.

What it is: Scammers hijack your phone number to gain access to your accounts.
How it works: They contact your phone provider, pretending to be you, and get your phone number transferred to a new SIM card. Once they have control, they can reset your passwords and steal sensitive information.

What it is: Scammers send fake invoices for services you didn’t use or products you didn’t purchase.
How it works: The invoice may appear legitimate, with your name, a correct address, or even a fake phone number. Scammers hope you’ll pay the bill without questioning it.

What it is: Scammers claim to be technical support agents from well-known companies like Microsoft, Apple, or Amazon.
How it works: They call and claim that your computer or account has been compromised, urging you to install software that gives them access to your device or asking for payment to fix the issue.

What it is: A form of cybercrime targeting businesses, where scammers impersonate high-level executives.
How it works: Using email, the scammer poses as an executive or supplier and asks employees to transfer money or sensitive data, often under the guise of an urgent or confidential matter.

What it is: Scammers impersonate government tax authorities (e.g., IRS, HMRC) to demand money.
How it works: They may threaten you with legal action, arrest, or fines unless you pay an outstanding tax bill immediately. Some even claim that the authorities will freeze your bank accounts or seize your property if you don’t comply.

What it is: Scammers set up fake Wi-Fi networks that appear legitimate (e.g., “Free Airport Wi-Fi”).
How it works: Once you connect to the fake network, the scammer can intercept and steal your personal data, passwords, or financial information.

What it is: Scammers offer “free trials” or “exclusive offers” that come with hidden charges.
How it works: After a seemingly free trial, the scammer continues to charge your credit card without your consent or without properly disclosing the terms. The “free trial” may also automatically renew into a costly subscription if you forget to cancel in time.

What it is: Scammers offer you a job that seems perfect, often with high pay and no experience required.
How it works: After you apply and pass an interview, the scammer will ask for personal information, or they may require an upfront payment for training or equipment that never materializes.

What it is: Scammers impersonate bank representatives, often through phone calls, text messages, or emails.
How it works: They might claim to be calling about suspicious activity on your account or ask you to verify your identity, leading you to provide login credentials, PINs, or even money to resolve a fake issue.

What it is: Scammers pretend to be your friend or relative in distress.
How it works: You may receive a message (often via social media or email) from someone you know claiming to be in urgent need of money (for medical bills, legal trouble, etc.). They may ask you to send money via wire transfer or a gift card.

 What it is: Scammers promise high returns with little risk, often through dubious investment opportunities.
How it works: They recruit others to invest, and the early investors are paid returns using the money from new investors. The scam eventually collapses when the flow of new investments slows down, and most participants lose their money.

 What it is: Scammers ask for payment in the form of gift cards.
How it works: They may claim you’ve won a prize or need to settle a debt, and they ask you to buy gift cards (Apple iTunes, Google Play, Amazon) and send the codes. Gift cards are untraceable, and once the scammer has the codes, the money is gone.

What it is: Scammers trick people into downloading fake antivirus software.
How it works: They often use pop-up ads or unsolicited emails claiming that your computer is infected with malware, then offer a free scan. If you agree, they might install malicious software or charge you for fake protection.

What it is: Exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic, scammers create fake health alerts or financial relief scams.
How it works: They may offer fake vaccines, cures, or personal protective equipment (PPE) for sale. Some scammers also impersonate government agencies offering fake COVID-19 relief funds or emergency grants, asking for sensitive personal information.

What it is: Scammers offer loans or lines of credit, often targeting people with bad credit.
How it works: They claim to approve loans for individuals who may have trouble obtaining credit, but in exchange, they ask for an upfront “processing fee” or for you to pay a “guaranteed” amount before the loan is disbursed.

What it is: Scammers create fake charity campaigns or petitions.
How it works: They prey on people’s empathy, especially in the wake of natural disasters, accidents, or high-profile tragedies. These fake campaigns often promise to help those in need, but the scammer pockets the donations.

What it is: Fake listings for homes or rental properties.
How it works: Scammers may use legitimate property photos to create listings for properties that don’t exist or are already occupied. They ask for deposits upfront, often insisting that you wire the money for a “guaranteed” deal, only for the listing to disappear once the money is sent.

What it is: Scammers send fake shipping confirmation or delivery attempt notices.
How it works: These emails often contain a link that leads to a phishing website or downloads malware to your device. They may claim your package is on its way or that there’s an issue with delivery, prompting you to click on malicious links.

What it is: Scammers create fake profiles on dating apps or social media to lure in victims.
How it works: They develop long-term relationships with victims, gaining trust and affection. Eventually, they claim to be in a crisis (e.g., medical emergency, financial issue) and ask for money to cover the problem.

 What it is: Scammers promote high-return cryptocurrency investment schemes.
How it works: They encourage people to invest in fake cryptocurrencies or wallet schemes with the promise of big returns. Often, the scammers disappear once they’ve collected enough investment, or the “currency” has no real value.

What it is: Scammers offer fake scholarships or grants.
How it works: They claim to have exclusive opportunities for free scholarships, grants, or funding, but require a fee for application processing or require you to share personal information.

What it is: Scammers claim you have an outstanding court case or legal obligation.
How it works: They threaten you with arrest or legal consequences if you don’t pay a fine or provide personal information right away.

What it is: Scammers advertise fake cars for sale or lease.
How it works: They often offer cars at prices far below market value and may ask for a down payment or deposit in advance. After receiving the money, they either disappear or provide a stolen vehicle with fake paperwork.

What it is: Scammers offer seemingly legitimate work-from-home opportunities.
How it works: They might promise high earnings with little work, such as taking surveys, processing payments, or doing data entry. They often ask for upfront payments for “training” or for you to purchase software or materials that are not actually needed for the job.

 What it is: Scammers post fake rental listings for properties they do not own.
How it works: The scammer asks for a deposit to “secure” the rental, often claiming they’re out of town or unavailable to show the property in person. After payment, the scammer disappears, and you’re left without a place to rent.

What it is: Scammers offer fake health insurance plans or treatments.
How it works: They may target people who are uninsured or looking for coverage and offer low-cost health insurance, often requiring upfront payments for coverage that doesn’t exist. Alternatively, they may claim to offer miracle cures or treatments, asking for money in exchange for access to fake drugs or therapies.

What it is: Scammers create fake profiles on dating apps or social media.
How it works: After building trust with the victim, the scammer pretends to fall in love or be interested, then fabricates a situation (e.g., emergency, medical need, or financial issue) and asks for money. The person may also request to meet in person but always comes up with excuses to delay.

What it is: Scammers offer free downloads of digital products like e-books, software, or movies.
How it works: These fake download sites often require you to provide personal details, download malicious software, or pay a “small” fee for access to the product, which may never arrive. In some cases, the downloaded files may contain malware or ransomware.

What it is: Scammers pretend to be from companies where you’ve made purchases or used services.
How it works: They call to inform you that you’re eligible for a refund (e.g., overcharges, subscriptions, or product returns). To process the refund, they ask for sensitive information like your bank account details, credit card number, or Social Security number.

What it is: Scammers claim to offer government grants, financial aid, or relief.
How it works: They contact you via email, text, or phone call, saying you’re eligible for a government grant or assistance. To claim the funds, they might ask for an upfront processing fee, or request your personal and banking details.

 What it is: Scammers target players of mobile games or app users.
How it works: After you reach a certain level in a game or app, they claim you’ve won a prize or a reward, but require you to provide personal information or pay a “fee” to collect the prize.

 What it is: Scammers offer fake health insurance plans or treatments.
How it works: They may target people who are uninsured or looking for coverage and offer low-cost health insurance, often requiring upfront payments for coverage that doesn’t exist. Alternatively, they may claim to offer miracle cures or treatments, asking for money in exchange for access to fake drugs or therapies.

What it is: Scammers prey on people looking to adopt pets or children.
How it works: They advertise free or low-cost pets for adoption, or a child available for adoption, often through online ads or social media. They ask for payment upfront for shipping fees, vetting, or paperwork, and the scammer vanishes once money is sent.

What it is: Scammers offer fake educational services, such as application assistance or fake diplomas.
How it works: They offer services to help you gain admission to universities or claim to sell fake diplomas or degrees. Often, they ask for large fees for “guaranteed” acceptance or to issue false academic credentials.

 What it is: Scammers offer miracle health supplements or diet pills.
How it works: They promise weight loss, cures for diseases, or other health benefits with their product, often through misleading before-and-after photos or testimonials. After purchasing, the product may be ineffective or even harmful, and the scammer disappears with your money.

 What it is: Scammers inform you that you’ve won a sweepstakes or contest.
How it works: They ask you to provide sensitive information, such as your Social Security number, bank details, or credit card information, in order to claim your “prize.” You may also be asked to pay a fee to claim your winnings, which is never delivered.

What it is: Fake reviews posted online for products or apps.
How it works: Scammers may create fake reviews to promote a product or app that doesn’t work or isn’t as advertised. These fake reviews can convince you to make a purchase or download an app, which is actually harmful, overpriced, or a scam.

 What it is: Scammers offer fake vacation or holiday packages at deep discounts.
How it works: They advertise unbeatable travel deals or “free” vacations, often through emails, social media, or pop-up ads. In exchange for the offer, they ask for personal details or require upfront payments for reservations or fees, but the travel package or deal is fake.

What it is: Scammers create fake events or fundraisers in the name of a cause.
How it works: They may claim to be raising funds for victims of a disaster, local community programs, or for people in need of medical treatment. Scammers often create fake social media pages or crowdfunding campaigns to mislead well-meaning donors.

What it is: Scammers pose as a relative or friend in urgent need.
How it works: They claim to be a family member (such as a grandchild or niece/nephew) who is in trouble, has been arrested, or is stranded abroad and needs immediate financial assistance. The scammer may ask you to wire money or send gift cards.

What it is: Scammers create fake apps that mimic legitimate banking or payment apps.
How it works: They may offer a “better” or “more secure” version of a popular banking or payment app, luring you to install it. Once downloaded, the app steals your banking credentials, or it may simply trick you into transferring money to the scammer.

 What it is: Scammers invite you to complete online surveys with the promise of rewards or a prize.
How it works: Once you fill out the survey with personal details, the scammer may ask for a payment to collect your prize or simply steal your information for malicious purposes. Some surveys may install malware on your device.

What it is: Scammers impersonate celebrities or influencers on social media.
How it works: They may contact you, offering to collaborate, share a prize, or give exclusive access to content. To gain your trust, they might ask for personal details or direct you to a fraudulent website.

What it is: Scammers offer help with tax preparation or filing.
How it works: They claim to offer low-cost tax services or promises of refunds, but they ask for personal information or a fee upfront. In some cases, they may file false information with the IRS and pocket the refund.

What it is: Scammers install devices on ATMs to steal card information.
How it works: These devices capture the data from your ATM or debit card when you swipe it at the machine. The scammer then uses this data to make unauthorized transactions or withdrawals.

What it is: Scammers set up fake recruitment agencies to lure job seekers.
How it works: They ask for a fee to process applications or offer you a job that doesn’t exist. Often, they may claim to offer exclusive positions with high pay but require upfront payments for “background checks” or “training.”

What it is: Scammers sell counterfeit or non-existent event tickets.
How it works: They advertise tickets for high-demand events (concerts, sports, theater) at discounted prices. After payment is made, you either receive fake tickets or no tickets at all.

 What it is: Scammers create fake online charity auctions.
How it works: They list valuable items like artwork, vacations, or experiences, and encourage people to bid. Once you pay, the item doesn’t exist, or you never receive it.

 What it is: Scammers send fake renewal notices for subscriptions or services.
How it works: They claim that you need to renew a subscription, such as for antivirus software or a streaming service, and ask for your payment details to continue access. The service may not exist, or they may continue to charge you.

What it is: Scammers impersonate utility companies (gas, electricity, water).
How it works: They send fake bills claiming that your account is overdue and that you need to pay immediately. Often, they include fake payment links or contact details to make you feel urgent pressure.

What it is: Scammers offer DNA testing services for ancestry or health.
How it works: They advertise discounts for DNA tests that promise to reveal your heritage or health risks, but after payment, the test results are either inaccurate or never delivered, and your personal data is sold.

What it is: Scammers offer cheap home repair services.
How it works: They claim to be contractors offering a great deal on home repairs, such as roof fixing or plumbing, but after receiving a deposit, they either do subpar work, overcharge, or disappear altogether.

 What it is: Scammers claim that your shipment is being held due to unpaid fees.
How it works: They send you a fake email or text message claiming there are outstanding customs fees or shipping charges for a package you’re expecting. They then ask you to pay via an untraceable method, like gift cards or wire transfers.

What it is: Scammers offer fake cloud storage services.
How it works: They advertise free or low-cost storage solutions, asking for personal information or credit card details. After signing up, the service doesn’t exist, or your data is stolen.

What it is: Scammers claim your computer has viruses and offer fake software to fix it.
How it works: They show you fake warnings or error messages and then ask you to install software that promises to fix the problem. This software may be malicious itself or may ask for payment for a non-existent fix.

 What it is: Scammers charge a fee for job placement services.
How it works: They advertise job opportunities, then request an upfront fee to apply or “guarantee” a job offer. Legitimate employers never ask for money to apply for a position.

What it is: Scammers impersonate insurance agents or claims adjusters.
How it works: They may call or email you claiming that you’re owed a payout or refund, often asking for personal information or payment for processing fees before you can receive the supposed claim.

What it is: Scammers offer fake acting or modeling jobs.
How it works: They may claim to be casting agents for movies, commercials, or TV shows, asking for a fee to audition or promising big pay for easy work. In reality, the opportunity is non-existent, and you lose money.

 What it is: Scammers claim you’ve won a lottery or sweepstakes.
How it works: They often say you’ve won a prize, but you need to pay taxes, handling fees, or claim the prize with sensitive information (such as your Social Security number, credit card number, or bank details).

 What it is: Scammers claim they need money transferred.
How it works: They often say they are in an emergency situation and need money sent through wire transfer services like Western Union or MoneyGram. Once the money is sent, the scammer disappears, and you have no recourse.

 What it is: Scammers offer non-existent properties for rent or sale.
How it works: They advertise homes or apartments that are already rented or sold and ask for a deposit to secure the deal. After payment is made, the scammer vanishes, and the listing disappears.

What it is: Fake car rental or sale offers.
How it works: Scammers post ads for cars at attractive prices and ask for payment upfront or a deposit. After you send the money, they either disappear or provide false information, such as a stolen or non-existent car.

What it is: Scammers ask for donations or investments for a supposed business idea.
How it works: They claim to be looking for investors or backers for their business, offering high returns or “guaranteed” profits, but the money is simply pocketed, and the business doesn’t exist.

What it is: Scammers send fake package delivery notifications.
What it is: They claim that a package could not be delivered, and you need to click on a link to reschedule. The link may lead to a phishing site or install malware on your device.

 What it is: Scammers create fake websites for booking flights or vacations.
How it works: They offer flights or vacation packages at unbelievably low prices. After you book, they either don’t send you the tickets or you find out the airline is not affiliated with the site. In some cases, they use the credit card information for fraudulent charges.

What it is: Scammers impersonate potential employers to verify your information.
How it works: They claim to verify your employment details, asking for personal or financial data that can be used for identity theft or other scams.

What it is: Scammers offer data recovery services for corrupted or lost files.
How it works: They offer to recover important files from your hard drive or device for a fee, but once you pay, they either don’t provide the service or install malware.

What it is: Scammers promise to reduce or eliminate debt.
How it works: They claim they can reduce your credit card debt, student loans, or other financial obligations. They often charge high fees upfront and do little or nothing to actually help with your debt.

 What it is: Scammers use fake auction sites to steal money.
How it works: They set up an auction for high-demand items (e.g., electronics, designer goods) and get people to bid. Once payment is received, the item is never delivered, and the website disappears.

What it is: Scammers request payments through apps like Venmo or Zelle.
How it works: They may claim to need money urgently for an emergency or some other reason. Once you send the payment, you cannot reverse the transaction, and the scammer disappears.

What it is: Scammers pose as airline representatives or travel agents.
How it works: They offer discounted flights or vacation packages, often requiring immediate payment. After payment, the flight or package either doesn’t exist, or they take your money and never issue the ticket.

 What it is: Scammers offer free trials or sample products.
How it works: You might be lured in with the promise of a free sample, often requiring only shipping costs. However, once you provide your payment details, you may be charged recurring fees or receive substandard products.

 What it is: Scammers offer cheap website development or SEO optimization services.
How it works: They offer to create a website or improve your online presence at a low cost but require an upfront payment. After the payment, they either do nothing or provide substandard work, and you are left with a non-functioning website.

 What it is: Scammers write fake reviews or testimonials to mislead consumers.
How it works: Fake reviews appear on websites or e-commerce platforms to make products or services look better than they are. Scammers may even offer money or free products in exchange for glowing reviews that influence potential buyers.

 What it is: Scammers offer fake or fraudulent document services.
How it works: They offer services to help you obtain fake visas, passports, or identification cards. After paying for the service, you either receive counterfeit documents or the scammer vanishes.

 What it is: Scammers offer fake wellness or health retreats.
How it works: They advertise luxury wellness retreats or spas with promises of healing, rejuvenation, or weight loss. However, the retreat doesn’t exist, or they may steal your personal information once you sign up.

What it is: Scammers pose as a family member or friend in financial distress.
How it works: They contact you urgently, claiming they are in need of money for an emergency, such as being in a car accident or locked out of the country. They often ask for money to be wired or sent via gift cards.

 What it is: Scammers promote fake “get-rich-quick” schemes.
How it works: They entice you with promises of high returns on investment through network marketing, cryptocurrency, or real estate ventures. They often ask for an initial investment or charge fees for “exclusive” access to these supposed opportunities, but the entire scheme is a scam.

 What it is: Scammers offer to cancel subscriptions or memberships for a fee.
How it works: They claim to be able to cancel unwanted subscriptions or memberships, such as for gyms or online services, but ask for an upfront fee. After receiving the payment, they either fail to cancel anything or don’t follow through on the promise.

What it is: Scammers impersonate delivery companies (e.g., FedEx, UPS, USPS).
How it works: You receive a fake delivery attempt notice via email or text, asking you to click a link to schedule a redelivery. The link could lead to a phishing site, which steals your personal information or infects your device with malware.

What it is: Scammers create fake Wi-Fi hotspots.
How it works: When you’re in a public area like a coffee shop or airport, scammers create a Wi-Fi network that looks like the legitimate one (e.g., “Free Airport Wi-Fi”). Once you connect, they can intercept your data, including personal information or login credentials.

 What it is: Scammers ask for donations for fake causes.
How it works: They may claim that a natural disaster or urgent emergency requires funds, asking for donations through social media or fake crowdfunding sites. These donations go directly to the scammer, not to any legitimate cause.

 What it is: Scammers claim to help reduce or eliminate debt.
How it works: They promise to negotiate with creditors on your behalf and charge a large upfront fee for services. Often, they either do nothing, take your money, or worsen your financial situation.

 What it is: Scammers claim to offer early access to new tech products.
How it works: They may offer the opportunity to pre-order high-demand tech products (like phones, gaming consoles, or smart gadgets) at a discount, but after you make the payment, you never receive the product.

 What it is: Scammers sell fake DIY or home improvement guides.
How it works: They promise to send you step-by-step guides or tutorials for home repairs or improvements (e.g., home-based businesses, car repairs), but after you pay, the guides are generic, unhelpful, or never arrive.

What it is: Scammers hijack your phone number by exploiting a vulnerability in the number porting process.
How it works: They impersonate you when transferring your phone number to another carrier. Once successful, they can use your phone number to gain access to two-factor authentication for your accounts, stealing your identity and financial information.

What it is: Scammers offer to file your taxes or provide fraudulent refunds.
How it works: They promise to file your tax return for free or offer to help you claim refunds you weren’t expecting. They may either file a fraudulent return, steal your personal information, or charge you for nonexistent services.

 What it is: Scammers post fake vacation rental listings.
How it works: They create fake listings for properties at attractive vacation destinations. After you pay a deposit, the property either doesn’t exist, or the scammer disappears with your money.

 What it is: Scammers recruit people for fake “mystery shopper” roles.
How it works: They offer you a job as a mystery shopper, asking you to evaluate services or products. After sending you a check, they ask you to purchase goods or services and send money back, but the check is fake and bounces.

 What it is: Scammers claim to be from your bank or a service you use, reporting a “technical error.”
How it works: They tell you that there’s a problem with your account, often asking you to confirm personal information, reset passwords, or give access to your account to “fix” the issue. Once they have your details, they can steal from your account.

 What it is: Scammers send fake shipping or tracking notifications.
How it works: You receive an email or message claiming that a product you ordered is being shipped. They may include a link to track the order, which leads to a phishing site, or request payment for an additional fee.

What it is: Scammers pose as professional cleaning or sanitization companies.
How it works: They claim to offer expert cleaning services, especially in high-demand areas like COVID-19 sanitization or post-construction cleaning. After taking a deposit, they either do a poor job or disappear without completing any work.

 What it is: Scammers advertise fake government jobs or grants.
How it works: They claim to offer opportunities for government jobs or funding, but in exchange for a fee or personal information. After you pay or provide sensitive details, they vanish or exploit the information for fraud.

What it is: Scammers claim to repair your credit score.
How it works: They promise to fix your credit or remove negative items from your report for a fee. After paying, you either receive no service, or they provide fraudulent services that worsen your credit score.