Common Scams: How They Work, Warning Signs, and What to Do
This page lists online scams that are most commonly known to affect people. This section helps you determine whether something you’re seeing is a known scam, how it typically works, and what warning signs to look out for. It provides guidance on what to do if you’ve already been affected.
Phone, Text & Impersonation Scams
Scams that use phone calls or text messages to impersonate trusted organizations, businesses, or people and create pressure to act quickly.
Email & Phishing Scams
Scams that use fake emails or login pages to steal passwords, security codes, or personal information by appearing legitimate.
Financial & Payment Scams
Scams designed to steal money through fake payments, refunds, invoices, or urgent financial requests.
Subscription & Billing Scams
Scams that use fake renewal notices, unexpected charges, or misleading cancellation processes to pressure people into paying unnecessary or fraudulent fees.
Online Shopping & Marketplace Scams
Scams involving fake online listings, counterfeit stores, or deceptive sellers that take payment for items that never arrive or are misrepresented.
Identity Theft & Account Takeover Scams
Scams that steal personal or login information to take control of online accounts, financial services, or identities without the victim’s knowledge.
Tech Support & Software Scams
Scams that claim there is a serious problem with a device or account and trick people into granting access, installing malware, or paying for fake support.
Employment, Job & Gig Scams
Scams that use fake job postings or hiring messages to collect money or personal information.
Investment, Crypto & Get-Rich-Quick Scams
Scams that promise easy or guaranteed returns to lure people into sending money or financial details.
Romance & Relationship Scams
Scams that build emotional relationships online and gradually pressure victims into sending money or gifts.