Common Warning Signs
Scammers use the same tricks over and over. Learn to spot them.
🚨 Top Red Flags
"Act Now or Lose Everything"
Scammers create false urgency to prevent you from thinking clearly or consulting someone you trust. If anyone pressures you to decide immediately, it's a scam.
Unusual Payment Methods
Gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or Zelle are requested. No legitimate government agency, utility, or business accepts gift cards as payment.
"You've Won a Prize — Just Pay the Fee"
Real prizes never require upfront payment. If you have to pay to claim a prize, it's not a prize.
Government Impersonation
Callers claiming to be from the IRS, Social Security, or Medicare threatening arrest or benefit suspension. These agencies contact you by mail first, never threatening phone calls.
Unsolicited Contact
You receive an unexpected call, email, or text about an account problem, package, or prize you didn't initiate.
Requests for Secrecy
"Don't tell your family about this." A legitimate caller will never ask you to keep a transaction secret from loved ones.
📋 By Scam Type
Romance Scams
Never wants to meet in person; asks for money after building emotional connection online.
Tech Support Scams
Unsolicited pop-up or call claiming your computer is infected; asks for remote access.
Grandparent Scams
Caller claims to be grandchild in trouble needing money immediately; asks for secrecy.
Medicare/Insurance Scams
Offers free equipment or tests in exchange for your Medicare number.
Lottery/Sweepstakes Scams
You "won" a contest you never entered; must pay taxes or fees upfront.
Charity Scams
High-pressure requests after a news disaster; vague about how donations are used.
Now that you know the warning signs, learn what to do about it.
Take Action — Protect Yourself →