Watch Out! Common Scams That Can Steal Your Money
Scammers are always coming up with sneaky ways to trick people and steal money Below are some of the most common scams and how you can stay safe.
PHISHING SCAMS
What it is: Scammers send fake emails or texts that look like they’re from your bank or a trusted company. They try to get you to click a link and enter your personal info.
How to avoid it
- Don’t click on links from unknown senders.
- Check the email address carefully.
- Call your bank directly if you’re unsure.
Additional Guidance
IMPOSTER SCAMS
What it is: Someone pretends to be a government worker, police officer, or even a family member. They say you owe money or need to send money fast.
How to avoid it
- Government agencies won’t ask for money over the phone.
- Hang up and call the real agency to check.
- Don’t send money or gift cards to strangers.
Additional Guidance
FAKE JOB SCAMS
What it is: You see a job ad online that sounds great. But they ask you to pay for training or send money first.
How to avoid it
- Real jobs don’t ask for money up front.
- Research the company before applying.
- Talk to someone you trust before sending money.
Additional Guidance
ROMANCE SCAMS
How to avoid it
- Don’t send money to someone you’ve never met in person.
- Be cautious if someone you meet online moves fast in the relationship.
- Talk to friends or family before making big decisions.
Additional Guidance
MONEY MULE SCAMS
What it is: A scammer asks you to move money for them—maybe as a favor, a job, or part of a romance. You could unknowingly help them commit a crime.
How to avoid it
- Never agree to move money or packages for someone you don’t know.
- Don’t share your bank account with anyone.
- If it feels suspicious, it probably is.
DEEPFAKE SCAMS
What it is: Scammers use fake videos, audio, or images that look and sound real—like a boss, family member, or celebrity—asking you to send money or share private information. These are created using AI and can be very convincing.
How to avoid it
- Be skeptical of urgent requests, even if they look or sound familiar.
- Double-check by calling the person directly using a known number.
- Don’t send money or information unless you’re 100% sure it’s real.
Additional Guidance
INVESTMENT SCAMS
What it is: Someone promises you’ll make a lot of money fast if you invest. But it’s a trick to steal your money.
How to avoid it
- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Don’t rush into investments.
- Talk to a financial advisor first.
Additional Guidance
TECH SUPPORT SCAMS
What it is: You get a pop-up or call saying your computer has a virus. They ask for remote access or payment to “fix” it.
How to avoid it
- Don’t trust pop-ups or calls from strangers.
- Never give control of your computer to someone you don’t know.
- Call your real tech support if you’re unsure.
ELDER FINANCIAL EXPLOITATION
What it is: Scammers target older adults to steal money through lies, tricks, or pressure. They may pretend to be a family member, a caregiver, or even a romantic partner. Some scams include fake tech support, lottery winnings, or urgent calls from a “grandchild in trouble.”
Why it matters: Older adults are often targeted because they may have savings, be more trusting, or feel embarrassed to report scams.
How to avoid it
- Talk regularly with trusted family or friends about financial decisions.
- Be cautious of anyone asking for money or personal info.
- Don’t rush—scammers often create fake emergencies to pressure you.
Additional Guidance
WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE SCAMMED
- Tell your bank so they can help protect your account.
- Report the scam to IC3, the FBI's Internet Crimes Complaint Center.
- Talk to someone you trust. You’re not alone.
