Audience page
Scams targeting families
Families are targeted through the chaos of daily logistics: school fees, subscriptions, home services, and charity donations. Scammers exploit the fact that family members often act on behalf of each other, creating openings for impersonation and misdirected payments.
Common searches
Why this audience gets targeted
- Families manage many recurring payments, making it easier for a fake invoice or subscription to slip through.
- Household members often authorize payments on behalf of each other, which scammers exploit through impersonation.
- Emotional appeals involving children, pets, or community causes lower skepticism for charity and donation scams.
What to check first
- Verify any new or changed payment request through the original provider, not through a link or call you received.
- Review recurring subscriptions and household service charges monthly to catch unauthorized additions.
- Confirm charity legitimacy through a verified site like Charity Navigator before donating.
Marketplace payment reversal scam
A buyer on a marketplace uses fake payment confirmation, overpayment stories, or refund pressure to get goods without completing a legitimate payment.
Only trust the actual payment app or bank balance, not screenshots.
Casual sellers
U.S.
Travel booking message hijack scam
A traveler receives a realistic property or booking message that requests off-platform payment, identity verification, or a new deposit.
Keep all communication and payment inside the booking platform.
Travelers
Europe
Medical billing identity fraud
Stolen identity details are used for medical claims or treatments, leading to fraudulent bills and corrupted records for the victim.
Review insurance explanations of benefits regularly.
Families
U.S.
AI school injury parent call scam
A caller with a child's cloned voice says there has been a school injury and demands immediate payment before the parent verifies the story.
Call the school or student directly using a known number before taking any action.
Parents
U.S.
AI hospital billing emergency call scam
A caller claiming to be hospital staff uses synthetic voice cues and background noise to pressure a family into paying for urgent treatment.
Contact the hospital through its official number and verify the patient before paying.
Families
U.S.
Cloned voice kidnapping message scam
A victim receives a voice note and chat messages claiming a loved one has been kidnapped and must not be contacted.
Contact the loved one through a separate channel and alert local police if needed.
Families
Global
Package redelivery text scam
A delivery text says a parcel cannot be delivered until you confirm address details and pay a small redelivery fee.
Open the courier site manually and check tracking there.
Online shoppers
Global
Mobile carrier plan upgrade text scam
A text claims a free device or plan upgrade is waiting and asks the victim to sign in through a promotional link.
Ignore promotional login links and check offers in the carrier app.
Mobile users
Global
Utility disconnection warning text scam
A text says electricity or gas will be disconnected within hours unless a payment is made through a mobile link.
Contact the utility using the number on your statement.
Households
U.S.
Zelle business account upgrade scam
A buyer sends a fake payment email claiming the seller must upgrade to a business account by refunding extra money first.
Trust only the balance shown inside your actual bank or payment app.
Casual sellers
U.S.
Overpayment refund marketplace scam
A buyer says they sent too much by mistake and pressures the seller to return the difference before the original payment settles.
Do not send money back until the original payment is final and visible.
Casual sellers
Global
Fake shipping insurance buyer scam
A buyer says a courier requires insurance or verification fees before pickup and asks the seller to pay first.
Decline third-party shipping payments arranged entirely by the buyer.
Casual sellers
Global
Porch pickup gift card scam
A buyer claims a relative will pick up the item and asks the seller to include gift cards or cash for reimbursement.
Keep local sales simple and refuse add-on financial errands.
Casual sellers
Global
Pet adoption deposit scam
A listing for a rare pet asks for transport, vaccination, or hold fees before the animal can be seen.
Avoid deposits for pets that cannot be verified in person or through trusted rescues.
Families
Global
Airline rebooking payment call scam
A traveler searching for support reaches a fake airline agent who charges rebooking or seat-protection fees over the phone.
Use the airline app or official number from your itinerary.
Travelers
Global
Vacation rental clone site scam
A scam site copies a legitimate property listing and captures direct payment outside the real booking platform.
Cross-check the property on the official platform before paying.
Vacation renters
Global
Military deployment romance scam
A fake service member says military rules block access to money or leave, so the victim needs to send funds or gift cards.
Do not send money to anyone who cannot verify identity outside the romance narrative.
Online daters
Global
Apple ID security alert takeover scam
A polished alert page claims your Apple ID is locked and captures credentials plus device passcodes or MFA approvals.
Open device settings directly and review security alerts there.
iPhone users
Global
Census or survey data harvest scam
A fake government survey or census call collects identity, household, or banking data under the banner of compliance.
Verify the survey through the agency website before participating.
Households
Global
Child identity theft scam
A child's identity is used to open accounts or benefits, often going unnoticed until the family applies for legitimate services later.
Freeze the child's credit profile and dispute suspicious accounts immediately.
Families
U.S.
Healthcare portal credential theft scam
A fake healthcare portal update captures login details, insurance numbers, and sensitive medical identifiers.
Log into the patient portal through the provider site directly.
Patients
U.S.
Utility account identity fraud
Identity details are used to open power, gas, or telecom accounts that generate bills in the victim's name.
Report fraudulent accounts and place a fraud alert or freeze with bureaus.
Renters
Global
Zelle fraud alert text scam
A text claims a suspicious Zelle payment was blocked and asks the victim to confirm identity or cancel the payment through a link.
Open your bank app manually and review the transfer there instead of using the text.
Mobile users
Global
Hospital balance due text scam
A text claims a recent hospital visit left a small unpaid balance and directs the victim to a payment page that steals card or identity data.
Call the provider from your bill or patient portal instead of the text message.
Patients
Global
Puppy rehoming deposit scam
A buyer sees a believable pet listing and is asked to send a deposit for transport, paperwork, or holding the animal before any verified handoff exists.
Never pay for a pet you cannot verify in person or through a legitimate adoption organization.
Families
Global
Airport transfer prepay scam
A transport provider or host pushes for advance payment for an airport pickup that either never happens or routes through a fake payment page.
Book transport through the official platform or pay in person only after verification.
Tourists
Global
Vacation rental key deposit scam
A traveler is told a last-minute key release or cleaning deposit must be paid separately before check-in, outside the booking platform.
Treat off-platform check-in payments as suspicious until the provider confirms them inside the official system.
Families
Global
Tax warrant crypto payment scam
A caller says a tax warrant or filing violation will trigger arrest unless the victim pays immediately in crypto or gift cards.
End the call and contact the tax authority from its official website or mailed notice.
Households
U.S.
Biometric ID update scam
A fake public-service message says your national ID, passport, or residence record needs a biometric refresh and asks for payment or identity uploads.
Check document-renewal requirements from the official government website, not the message.
Immigrants
Global
email lottery winner notification scam
Victims receive an official-looking email claiming they won a lottery they never entered, then are asked to pay taxes or processing fees to claim the prize.
Legitimate lotteries never require upfront payment to claim winnings
Older adults
Global
Publishers Clearing House impersonator scam
Scammers impersonate Publishers Clearing House, telling victims they have won a major prize but must pay fees or buy gift cards to receive it.
Publishers Clearing House never requires payment to claim a prize and their prize patrol visits without prior notice
Older adults
U.S.
foreign lottery advance fee scam
Victims are told they won a foreign lottery, often claiming to be from Spain, the Netherlands, or the UK, and must pay customs, taxes, or legal fees to collect.
It is illegal for US residents to participate in foreign lotteries, so any notification is fraudulent by definition
Older adults
Global
sweepstakes processing fee scam
Victims receive official-looking letters or emails claiming they won a sweepstakes but must pay a processing fee to receive their prize check.
Never pay any fee to claim a sweepstakes prize as legitimate sweepstakes cover all costs
Older adults
U.S.
scratch card guaranteed winner scam
Scammers distribute fake scratch cards through mail or in person that always show a winning prize, then direct victims to call a number and pay fees to collect.
Be suspicious of any scratch card received unsolicited that shows you as a winner
Older adults
U.S.
free vacation prize scam
Victims are told they won a free vacation but must attend a high-pressure timeshare presentation or pay resort fees, taxes, and hidden charges that negate any value.
Research the company thoroughly through the BBB and consumer review sites before agreeing to anything
Older adults
U.S.
car winner notification scam
Victims receive a call, email, or letter claiming they won a new car but must pay taxes, registration fees, or delivery charges before receiving it.
Legitimate car giveaways handle tax obligations as part of the prize and never require upfront payment
Older adults
U.S.
inheritance from unknown relative scam
Scammers pose as attorneys or bank officials claiming the victim has inherited money from a distant or unknown relative, requiring fees to release the funds.
Verify any inheritance claim through an independent attorney, not through contacts provided in the email
Older adults
Global
fake debt collector call scam
A caller impersonates a debt collector and pressures the victim to pay a debt that either does not exist or is not legitimately owed to the caller.
Request a written debt validation letter — legitimate collectors are required to provide one under the FDCPA.
People with debt
U.S.
jail threat debt collection scam
A scammer threatens the victim with arrest and imprisonment for an unpaid debt, a practice that is illegal under federal law.
Know that you cannot be jailed for unpaid consumer debt in the United States.
People with debt
U.S.
spousal debt claim scam
A scammer contacts someone claiming they are legally responsible for their spouse's or partner's debt, demanding payment under false pretenses.
Know your state's community property vs. common law rules for marital debt.
Married couples
U.S.
fake health insurance plan scam
Scammers sell fraudulent health insurance plans that collect premiums but deny or fail to pay claims when the policyholder needs coverage.
Verify any health plan through your state's Department of Insurance.
Uninsured adults
U.S.
ACA marketplace impersonator scam
Scammers impersonate healthcare.gov or state marketplace representatives during open enrollment to harvest personal and financial information.
The official marketplace will never cold-call asking for payment or SSN.
Uninsured adults
U.S.
life insurance scam
Scammers sell fake life insurance policies, often targeting seniors, collecting premiums for coverage that does not exist with any legitimate insurer.
Verify the agent's license and the insurance company through your state insurance department.
Seniors
U.S.
dental plan scam
A company sells a dental discount plan disguised as dental insurance, leading buyers to discover they have no real coverage when they visit a dentist.
Ask specifically whether the product is insurance or a discount plan — they are legally different.
Families
U.S.
pet insurance scam
A company sells pet insurance with attractive premiums but denies claims using broad pre-existing condition exclusions or turns out to be an unlicensed entity.
Verify the pet insurance company through your state's insurance department.
Pet owners
U.S.
vacation rental clone scam
Scammers clone legitimate vacation rental listings from Airbnb or Vrbo and offer them on third-party sites, collecting payment for properties they do not control.
Book and pay only through official platforms that offer payment protection.
Travelers
U.S.
rental deposit wire fraud scam
A supposed landlord insists that the security deposit and first month's rent be wired before move-in, then disappears after receiving the funds.
Never wire money to a landlord you have not met — wire transfers cannot be reversed.
Relocating workers
U.S.
sight-unseen rental scam
A scammer targets people relocating to a new city by offering a rental that cannot be viewed in person, then collecting payment for a property that is not available.
Ask a trusted local contact to visit the property on your behalf or arrange a live video walkthrough.
Relocating workers
U.S.
housing list fee scam
A service charges a fee for access to rental listings that are freely available on public sites, outdated, or already rented.
Search free listing sites first — most legitimate rentals are listed publicly.
Renters
U.S.
puppy deposit scam
A seller advertises puppies online, collects a deposit, then either never delivers the puppy or demands additional fees for shipping, insurance, and crates.
Visit the breeder in person or request a live video call with the specific puppy.
Pet seekers
U.S.
fake breeder website scam
A professional-looking website poses as a licensed breeder, complete with fake reviews and registrations, to collect payments for puppies or kittens that do not exist.
Verify registration numbers directly with the breed registry (AKC, CKC, TICA).
Pet seekers
U.S.
pet shipping fee scam
After a puppy or kitten purchase, the buyer is told the pet requires a special climate-controlled crate, insurance, or customs fees that escalate indefinitely.
Legitimate pet shipping companies provide all-inclusive quotes upfront.
Pet seekers
U.S.
online vet bill scam
A scammer contacts a pet buyer claiming the animal needs emergency veterinary care during transit and demands immediate payment to save the pet's life.
Ask for the specific vet clinic name, address, and phone number — then call directly.
Pet seekers
U.S.
purebred papers scam
A seller charges extra for registration papers proving a pet's pedigree, but the papers are forged or from a fraudulent registry.
Verify registration numbers directly with the AKC, UKC, or CKC before purchasing.
Pet seekers
U.S.
pet adoption fee scam
A fake rescue or individual advertises pets for adoption, charges an adoption fee, then never delivers the animal or provides a different pet than shown.
Meet the animal in person before paying any adoption fee.
Animal lovers
U.S.
missing pet reward scam
A scammer contacts someone who has lost a pet, claims to have found the animal, and demands a reward or ransom payment before returning it — but they do not have the pet.
Ask the caller to describe the pet in detail — including features not shown in the lost poster.
Pet owners
U.S.
gas company impersonator scam
Criminals pose as gas company employees, either by phone or at your door, claiming there is a gas leak or billing issue to gain access to your home or steal payment information.
Never let anyone into your home without verifying their identity — call the gas company directly to confirm any scheduled visits
Homeowners
U.S.
solar panel door-to-door scam
High-pressure door-to-door salespeople misrepresent solar panel costs, savings, and government incentive programs to lock homeowners into predatory contracts or collect large upfront deposits.
Never sign a contract on the same day — take time to get competing quotes from licensed solar installers
Homeowners
U.S.
winterization home protection scam
Scammers target homeowners before winter, offering bogus pipe insulation, furnace inspections, or weatherproofing services at inflated prices for work that is never completed or done poorly.
Check your utility company for legitimate weatherization assistance programs, especially LIHEAP for low-income households
Homeowners
U.S.
income-driven repayment plan enrollment scam
Scammers charge fees to enroll borrowers in income-driven repayment plans that are freely available through federal loan servicers, and may collect personal data for identity theft.
Apply for income-driven repayment plans for free through your federal loan servicer or at StudentAid.gov
Borrowers
U.S.
health insurance marketplace phishing scam
Phishing emails and fake websites impersonate Healthcare.gov or state marketplace sites to steal personal information and financial data during enrollment periods.
Always navigate directly to Healthcare.gov or your state marketplace — never click enrollment links in emails
Patients
U.S.
Medicaid eligibility check scam
Scammers contact people claiming to verify Medicaid eligibility, collect personal and financial data, and use it to commit identity theft or file fraudulent Medicaid claims.
Contact your state Medicaid office directly using the number on your Medicaid card or Medicaid.gov to verify eligibility
Patients
U.S.
lowball moving estimate scam
A moving company quotes an unrealistically low price to win the job, then dramatically increases the cost on moving day when belongings are already loaded.
Get at least three in-home or detailed video estimates and be wary of any quote far below the others.
Relocating workers
U.S.
hostage furniture moving scam
A moving company loads belongings onto a truck, then refuses to deliver unless the customer pays a dramatically inflated price.
Under federal law, movers must deliver for no more than 110 percent of a binding estimate — know this before moving day.
Relocating workers
U.S.
fake moving company scam
A company that exists only on paper takes deposits for moves it never intends to complete, then disappears or demands more money.
Verify the company's USDOT number and complaint history at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov before hiring.
Relocating workers
U.S.
moving deposit-and-vanish scam
A moving company collects a large upfront deposit and then becomes unreachable before the scheduled moving date.
Avoid paying large deposits — reputable movers typically charge upon delivery or require minimal deposits.
Relocating workers
U.S.
weight bump moving scam
The moving company inflates the recorded weight of a shipment to justify charging a higher price than originally quoted.
Request to be present at the weigh-in or ask for the reweigh option, which is your legal right under FMCSA regulations.
Relocating workers
U.S.
bait-and-switch moving truck scam
A moving company promises a full-size truck but arrives with a smaller vehicle, forcing a second trip at additional cost or leaving items behind.
Insist on an in-home or detailed video survey before accepting any estimate.
Families
U.S.
last-minute moving price hike scam
On moving day or mid-move, the company adds unexpected fees for stairs, long carries, bulky items, or other charges not in the original quote.
Read the entire contract and ask about every possible surcharge before signing.
Relocating workers
U.S.
storage facility moving scam
Movers place belongings in an undisclosed storage facility and charge escalating fees before releasing them to the owner.
Confirm delivery timelines and storage terms in writing before the move begins.
Relocating workers
U.S.
cross-country moving fraud
Long-distance movers exploit the complexity of interstate moves to pad charges, delay delivery for weeks, or damage belongings without accountability.
Ask whether the company is a broker or an actual carrier — brokers must disclose this under FMCSA rules.
Relocating workers
U.S.
military PCS move scam
Scammers target military families during permanent change of station relocations with fraudulent moving companies that exploit tight PCS timelines.
Use only movers registered in the Defense Personal Property System or recommended by your installation's Transportation Office.
Military families
U.S.
all-inclusive bait-and-switch vacation scam
A vacation package advertised as all-inclusive turns out to exclude key amenities, meals, or activities that are then charged as expensive extras.
Request a detailed written list of exactly what is included before booking.
Vacationers
U.S.
military romance impersonation scam
Scammers steal photos and identities of real service members to create fake dating profiles, building romantic relationships to eventually request money for supposed deployment needs.
Reverse image search the profile photos — stolen military photos are commonly reused across scam accounts.
Military families
U.S.
deployment leave fee scam
A scammer posing as a deployed service member asks a romantic interest to pay for leave paperwork or travel costs so they can come home — fees that do not exist in any military branch.
Understand that no branch of the U.S. military charges service members or their families for leave.
Military families
U.S.
military benefits fraud scam
Scammers contact veterans or active-duty personnel claiming to help them access unclaimed military benefits, then steal personal information or charge fraudulent processing fees.
Access all military benefits directly through VA.gov or your local VA office — never through a third party.
Veterans
U.S.
VA loan scam
Scammers pose as VA-approved lenders offering exclusive mortgage deals to veterans, then collect application fees and personal financial information without providing any actual loan.
Verify any VA lender through the VA's official lender search at va.gov before providing information.
Veterans
U.S.
fake military charity scam
Fraudulent charities use names and imagery similar to legitimate veterans organizations to solicit donations that never reach service members or their families.
Verify any charity through Charity Navigator, GuideStar, or the BBB Wise Giving Alliance before donating.
Military families
U.S.
PCS military moving scam
Fraudulent moving companies target military families during permanent change of station relocations, giving low estimates then holding belongings hostage for inflated fees.
Verify any moving company through the FMCSA database at protectyourmove.gov and check for active licensing.
Active duty
U.S.
military spouse job scam
Scammers target military spouses with fake work-from-home job offers that require upfront fees for training materials or equipment, exploiting the challenges of frequent relocations.
Never pay upfront for a job — legitimate employers cover training and equipment costs.
Military spouses
U.S.
fake military equipment sale scam
Scammers list military surplus gear, vehicles, or equipment on auction sites at attractive prices, collect payment, and never deliver the items.
Purchase legitimate military surplus only through GovPlanet, GovSales.gov, or other authorized government liquidation platforms.
Veterans
U.S.
veteran grant scam
Scammers contact veterans claiming they qualify for a special government grant but must pay a processing or tax fee upfront to receive the funds.
Know that the government never calls to offer grants or asks for fees to release government funds.
Veterans
U.S.
fake amusement park ticket scam
Fraudsters sell fake or already-used amusement park tickets through social media and third-party websites, targeting families looking for deals.
Buy directly from the amusement park website or authorized resellers listed on the park official site
Families
U.S.
fake lottery ticket scam
Scammers contact victims claiming they have won a lottery or sweepstakes and must pay taxes or fees upfront to collect their winnings.
Remember that legitimate lotteries never require upfront payment to collect winnings and taxes are deducted from the prize
Older adults
U.S.
forex trading pool scam
Scammers recruit investors into unregistered forex trading pools promising consistent monthly profits, but use new deposits to pay existing members while pocketing the majority.
Verify any forex fund manager or trading pool is registered with the CFTC and NFA at nfa.futures.org/basicnet
Investors
U.S.
gifting circle scam
Participants are told to give a cash gift to join a circle with the promise of receiving a larger payout when they recruit enough new members, which is an illegal pyramid scheme.
Understand that gifting circles are illegal pyramid schemes regardless of what they are called
Low-income households
U.S.
social media cash gifting scam
Cash gifting schemes promoted through Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook promise that sending money to a stranger will result in receiving a larger amount back from future participants.
Never send money to strangers online in exchange for a promise of a larger return
Young adults
U.S.
blessing loom scam
The blessing loom is a pyramid scheme presented as a board or flower diagram where participants pay to enter and are promised a large payout when enough new members join below them.
Recognize that the blessing loom is an illegal pyramid scheme regardless of the language used to describe it
Low-income households
U.S.
power of attorney abuse scam
A trusted person granted power of attorney over an elderly individual's finances uses that authority to drain accounts, sell assets, or redirect funds for personal gain.
Contact Adult Protective Services (APS) in your state to report suspected financial exploitation.
Seniors
U.S.
caregiver theft from elderly
A paid or volunteer caregiver steals money, valuables, or personal information from an elderly person in their care, exploiting the trust and access their role provides.
Document missing items and suspicious transactions with dates and amounts.
Seniors
U.S.
sweetheart swindle in care home
A person befriends or feigns romantic interest in an elderly care home resident to gain access to their finances, manipulating them into gifting money or changing their will.
Alert the care facility administration and request a review of visitor logs and resident interactions.
Seniors
U.S.
reverse mortgage scam targeting elderly
Scammers or unscrupulous lenders push elderly homeowners into unfavorable reverse mortgage products, often using deceptive terms to strip home equity.
Consult a HUD-approved housing counselor before signing any reverse mortgage agreement.
Seniors
U.S.
annuity churning targeting elderly
A financial advisor repeatedly switches an elderly client's annuity products to generate commissions, often locking the client into long surrender periods with each new sale.
Request a full history of all annuity transactions and compare each replacement against the original terms.
Seniors
U.S.
Medicare fraud targeting elderly
Scammers pose as Medicare representatives to steal personal information or bill Medicare for services and equipment never provided to the beneficiary.
Never share your Medicare number with unsolicited callers — Medicare will not call to ask for your number.
Seniors
U.S.
trusted person financial exploitation
A family member, neighbor, or friend exploits their relationship with an elderly person to gain control of finances, often through manipulation, coercion, or undue influence.
Contact Adult Protective Services to report suspected financial exploitation.
Seniors
U.S.
guardianship fraud against elderly
A court-appointed guardian abuses their legal authority over an incapacitated elderly person, mismanaging or stealing assets while the ward has no legal recourse.
Request a full accounting from the court and review all guardian-submitted financial reports.
Seniors
U.S.
joint account manipulation targeting elderly
A family member or associate convinces an elderly person to add them to a bank account for convenience, then uses that access to drain funds without the elder's consent.
Set up account alerts and spending thresholds with the bank to monitor joint account activity.
Seniors
U.S.
inheritance advance scam targeting elderly
Scammers contact elderly individuals claiming they are entitled to a large inheritance or unclaimed estate, but must pay upfront fees for taxes, legal costs, or processing.
Never pay upfront fees to receive an inheritance — legitimate estates do not require beneficiaries to pay processing costs out of pocket.
Seniors
U.S.
free money from government scam
Scammers claim the government is giving away free grants to individuals, requiring only a small processing fee — no such program exists, and the fee is the scam.
The government does not contact people to offer free money — any such contact is a scam.
Low-income households
U.S.
small business grant application fee scam
A fake organization offers small business grants but requires an application fee, using professional websites and fake testimonials to appear legitimate.
Legitimate government grants are listed on grants.gov and never require application fees.
Low-income households
U.S.
pandemic relief grant scam
Scammers exploit public awareness of pandemic relief programs by offering fake COVID-19 recovery grants, collecting personal information and fees from applicants.
Verify any relief program through official government websites — usa.gov, sba.gov, or your country's equivalent.
Low-income households
U.S.
HUD housing grant scam
Scammers impersonate HUD or local housing authorities, offering grants for home purchases or repairs in exchange for upfront fees or personal information.
HUD does not call individuals to offer grants — contact your local HUD office directly at hud.gov for legitimate programs.
Low-income households
U.S.
minority business grant scam
Scammers target minority business owners with fake grants designed specifically for underrepresented entrepreneurs, collecting fees and personal data.
Research any grant opportunity through the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) at mbda.gov.
Low-income households
U.S.
research grant impersonation scam
Scammers impersonate research funding agencies like the NSF or NIH, sending fake award notifications that require fees or personal information to claim.
Verify any grant notification directly through the funding agency's official website and your institution's grants office.
Low-income households
U.S.
FEMA grant advance fee scam
After a natural disaster, scammers pose as FEMA representatives offering disaster relief grants that require an upfront fee to process.
FEMA never charges application fees for disaster assistance — apply directly at disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-FEMA.
Low-income households
U.S.
state grant phishing scam
Phishing emails impersonate state government agencies, directing recipients to fake portals that harvest credentials and personal information under the guise of a grant application.
Access state grant programs only through official .gov websites — never through links in unsolicited emails.
Low-income households
U.S.
education grant scam
Scammers contact students or parents claiming they qualify for an education grant or scholarship that requires a fee to apply or a tax payment to receive.
Search for legitimate scholarships through your school's financial aid office, the Department of Education, or studentaid.gov.
Low-income households
U.S.
women-owned business grant scam
Fake grant programs claim to offer funding exclusively for women-owned businesses, collecting application fees and personal information from female entrepreneurs.
Research women-owned business programs through the SBA's Office of Women's Business Ownership at sba.gov.
Low-income households
U.S.
ancestry subscription trap scam
Websites offer free ancestry searches that require credit card information for verification, then quietly enroll users in expensive recurring subscriptions that are difficult to cancel.
Read all terms and conditions before entering payment information for any free trial.
Genealogy enthusiasts
U.S.
fake heritage discovery scam
Scammers contact people claiming their DNA results reveal a connection to royalty, a wealthy family, or an unclaimed inheritance, then charge fees to pursue the claim.
Treat any unsolicited claim of wealthy or royal ancestry as a scam — legitimate genealogists do not cold-contact people.
Genealogy enthusiasts
U.S.
DNA data selling scam
Unscrupulous DNA testing companies or data brokers harvest and sell consumers' genetic data to third parties — including insurers and advertisers — without informed consent.
Read the full privacy policy and data-sharing terms before submitting DNA to any testing service.
Genealogy enthusiasts
U.S.
relative matching phishing scam
Scammers send emails posing as DNA testing services claiming a new relative match has been found, directing victims to fake login pages that steal their credentials.
Never click login links in emails — go directly to the testing company's website by typing the URL in your browser.
Genealogy enthusiasts
U.S.
ethnic heritage award scam
Victims receive notices claiming they have been selected for a prestigious ethnic or cultural heritage award, requiring fees for the ceremony, plaque, or certificate.
Research any organization offering unsolicited awards by checking with established cultural institutions.
Genealogy enthusiasts
U.S.
genealogy research service scam
Fraudulent genealogy researchers charge hundreds or thousands of dollars for family history research that produces fabricated, plagiarized, or freely available public records.
Hire genealogists credentialed through recognized bodies like the Board for Certification of Genealogists.
Genealogy enthusiasts
U.S.
fake adoption search scam
Scammers target adopted individuals by claiming to have found their birth parents through DNA matching, charging large fees for fabricated search results.
Work with licensed adoption search agencies or your state's adoption registry for legitimate searches.
Adopted individuals
U.S.
DNA diet plan scam
Companies sell expensive personalized diet and nutrition plans claiming to be based on DNA analysis, but the recommendations are generic and not scientifically supported by the test results.
Consult a registered dietitian before following any DNA-based diet plan.
Health-conscious consumers
U.S.
Craigslist fake rental listing scam
Scammers post fake rental listings using photos stolen from legitimate real estate sites, collecting deposits and first month's rent from multiple victims for properties they do not own.
Never send money for a rental you have not physically visited — verify the property exists and the 'landlord' owns it.
Renters
U.S.
Craigslist moving service bait-and-switch scam
A moving company on Craigslist offers a low quote, then holds belongings hostage on the truck and demands a much higher payment on moving day.
Only hire movers with a valid USDOT number (verify at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov) and positive reviews on multiple platforms.
Renters
U.S.
Craigslist pet sale deposit scam
Scammers post listings for puppies or kittens on Craigslist, collect a deposit for the animal, and then disappear without delivering the pet.
Always meet the pet and the seller in person before paying anything.
Pet buyers
U.S.
Airbnb off-platform payment request scam
Hosts convince guests to pay outside the Airbnb platform to avoid service fees, leaving travelers with no payment protection and often no actual reservation.
Never pay for an Airbnb stay outside the Airbnb platform — the platform's payment system includes guest protection and dispute resolution.
Travelers
U.S.
Airbnb fake listing photos scam
Scammers use stolen or heavily edited photos to advertise properties on Airbnb that either do not exist, are significantly different from what is shown, or belong to someone else.
Use reverse image search on listing photos to check if they appear elsewhere online.
Travelers
U.S.
Airbnb bait-and-switch property scam
Guests book an appealing property on Airbnb but upon arrival, the host claims an issue and moves them to a significantly inferior property with no refund option.
Contact Airbnb support immediately if a host tries to relocate you — do not accept a switch without Airbnb's involvement.
Travelers
U.S.
Airbnb early check-in fee scam
Hosts charge guests an additional off-platform fee for early check-in that was not part of the original listing agreement, taking advantage of travel fatigue and urgency.
Get any early check-in agreements in writing through Airbnb's messaging system before booking — this creates a documented record.
Travelers
U.S.
Airbnb hidden camera privacy scam
Some Airbnb hosts install hidden cameras in their properties to record guests in private spaces, violating privacy laws and potentially using footage for extortion or voyeurism.
Scan the property upon arrival — check for unusual objects with tiny holes, use your phone camera to detect infrared lights, and scan the Wi-Fi network for unknown devices.
Travelers
U.S.
Airbnb last-minute cancellation scam
Hosts cancel confirmed bookings at the last minute when they find they can charge a higher price to another guest, leaving the original traveler stranded without accommodation.
Report the cancellation to Airbnb and request rebooking assistance — Airbnb's AirCover may help find comparable accommodation.
Travelers
U.S.
fake charity holiday drive scam
Scammers create fraudulent charities or impersonate legitimate ones during the holiday season, soliciting donations through emotional appeals that go directly to the scammer's pockets.
Verify charities at give.org, charitynavigator.org, or your state's charity registration database before donating.
Donors
U.S.
fake holiday travel deal scam
Scammers advertise deeply discounted holiday travel packages via social media and email, collecting full payment for flights and hotels that are never booked.
Book travel through established platforms and verify any deal by calling the airline or hotel directly with the confirmation number.
Travelers
U.S.
fake vacation rental scam
Scammers post fake vacation rental listings using photos stolen from legitimate properties, collect full payment or deposits, then leave travelers with no accommodation upon arrival.
Book and pay only through the official platform (Airbnb, Vrbo) and never send money outside the platform.
Travelers
U.S.
fake travel agency scam
Fraudulent travel agencies advertise all-inclusive summer packages at unbeatable prices, collect full payment, and then provide no services, leaving travelers stranded.
Verify travel agencies through the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) directory and check for state seller of travel registration.
Travelers
U.S.
rental car bait-and-switch scam
Third-party booking sites advertise rental cars at prices far below market, then add hidden fees at pickup or provide a lower-class vehicle while charging for the reserved one.
Book rental cars directly from established companies (Hertz, Enterprise, Avis) or through well-known platforms like Kayak or Google Flights.
Travelers
U.S.
travel insurance scam
Fraudulent companies sell fake travel insurance policies that provide no actual coverage, leaving travelers without protection when they need to file claims for cancellations or emergencies.
Purchase travel insurance only from providers rated by AM Best or listed on your state's insurance department website.
Travelers
U.S.
fake FEMA aid application scam
Scammers impersonate FEMA agents or create fake FEMA application websites after natural disasters, stealing personal information and diverting disaster relief funds from real victims.
Apply for FEMA assistance only at disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 — FEMA never charges fees.
Disaster victims
U.S.
emergency supply price gouging scam
Sellers dramatically inflate prices on essential supplies like water, generators, fuel, and building materials in disaster-affected areas, exploiting victims' desperate need.
Document the inflated prices with photos and receipts and report to your state attorney general, as price gouging is illegal in most states during declared emergencies.
Disaster victims
U.S.
immigration bond scam
Scammers contact families of detained immigrants and demand fraudulent bond payments to secure the detainee's release, impersonating ICE officials or bondsmen.
Contact the detention facility directly or use the ICE detainee locator at locator.ice.gov to verify bond amounts and payment procedures.
Immigrants
U.S.
fake school emergency call scam
Scammers call parents claiming their child has been injured or is in trouble at school and demand immediate payment for medical treatment or bail before the parent can verify the situation.
Hang up and call your child's school directly using the number you have on file to verify any emergency.
Parents
U.S.
child identity theft scam
Criminals use children's Social Security numbers to open credit accounts, file tax returns, or commit other fraud, often going undetected for years until the child applies for credit.
Check if your child has a credit file by contacting all three credit bureaus — if one exists and you did not create it, fraud has likely occurred.
Parents
U.S.
fake baby product recall scam
Scammers send emails or social media messages about fake baby product recalls, directing parents to phishing websites that collect personal and financial information under the pretense of processing a refund.
Verify any product recall at cpsc.gov before clicking any links or providing information.
Parents
U.S.
parental control app scam
Fake parental control apps advertised to concerned parents actually contain spyware that monitors the parent's device instead, stealing banking credentials and personal data.
Only install parental control apps from established developers available in the official app stores, such as Bark, Qustodio, or Google Family Link.
Parents
U.S.
fake childcare background check scam
Scammers posing as childcare providers or nanny agencies require parents to pay for a background check through a specific website that steals payment information and personal data.
Use established background check services like Checkr, GoodHire, or your state's official background check system.
Parents
U.S.
kids game in-app purchase trap
Children's mobile games use deceptive design patterns to trick children into making repeated in-app purchases, sometimes accumulating hundreds or thousands of dollars on parents' payment accounts.
Enable purchase authentication in your device settings so every in-app purchase requires a password or biometric confirmation.
Parents
U.S.
fake family GPS tracker app scam
Scammers sell fake family GPS tracking apps or devices that either do not work, send location data to the scammer, or subscribe families to expensive recurring charges.
Use established family tracking apps from known developers like Life360, Apple Find My, or Google Family Link.
Parents
U.S.
school fundraiser fraud scam
Scammers create fake school fundraising campaigns online or go door to door impersonating students or parents, collecting donations that never reach any school or student organization.
Verify any fundraiser by contacting the school's front office or PTA directly before donating.
Parents
U.S.
fake pediatrician office call scam
Scammers call parents impersonating their child's pediatrician's office, claiming overdue payments or insurance issues and collecting payment or insurance information over the phone.
Hang up and call your pediatrician's office directly using the number from their website or your contacts to verify any billing issues.
Parents
U.S.
child modeling agency scam
Fake talent agencies approach parents claiming their child has been scouted for modeling or acting, then charge thousands in upfront fees for portfolios, classes, and registration that lead to no real opportunities.
Legitimate talent agencies never charge upfront fees — they earn commissions only when your child books paid work.
Parents
U.S.
deepfake kidnapping ransom video scam
Criminals create AI deepfake videos of a victim's family member appearing to be in distress or captivity, then demand ransom payment for their safe release.
Hang up and immediately try to contact the supposedly kidnapped family member directly.
Parents
U.S.
real estate listing QR code scam
Fraudulent QR codes on real estate signs or flyers redirect prospective buyers and renters to fake listing sites that collect personal information and application fees for properties the scammer does not own.
Verify property listings through official platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, or your local MLS.
Home buyers
U.S.
fake stimulus check update scam
Fraudulent messages claim a new stimulus payment is available and direct recipients to a fake IRS portal to verify their identity and banking details, stealing personal and financial information.
Know that the IRS never initiates contact via text, email, or social media about stimulus payments.
Low-income households
U.S.
fake rent relief program scam
Scammers create fake rent assistance programs with professional-looking websites, collecting application fees and personal data from tenants struggling to pay rent.
Apply for rent assistance only through official government channels at your state or county housing authority.
Renters
U.S.
utility bill assistance scam
Fraudulent calls and messages offer fake utility bill assistance programs, collecting personal data and upfront fees from people struggling to pay their energy or water bills.
Contact your utility company directly or apply for LIHEAP through your state's official program at liheapch.acf.hhs.gov.
Low-income households
U.S.
child tax credit advance payment scam
Fraudulent messages claim parents can receive an advance child tax credit payment by providing personal and banking information, exploiting confusion about eligibility and payment timelines.
Check your child tax credit status only at irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit.
Parents
U.S.
food assistance program expansion scam
Scammers promote fake expansions to SNAP or food assistance programs on social media, collecting personal information and fees from people seeking help with food costs.
Apply for SNAP only through your state's official Department of Social Services or at fns.usda.gov/snap.
Low-income households
U.S.
MLM health supplement recruitment scheme
A health supplement company requires participants to buy inventory upfront and earn primarily through recruiting new sellers rather than product sales, leaving most participants with unsold stock and financial losses.
Research the company's income disclosure statement — if available, it will show that most participants earn little or nothing.
Parents
U.S.
Essential oils MLM recruitment scam
Essential oil companies use wellness claims and community-building tactics to recruit sellers who must purchase inventory, with the real money flowing from recruitment rather than retail sales.
Ask to see the company's income disclosure statement and calculate typical annual earnings after expenses.
Parents
U.S.
MLM travel club recruitment scheme
A travel company sells memberships through an MLM structure where the real product is the recruitment opportunity, not discounted travel, and most members never recoup their membership fees.
Compare the travel deals offered to prices on public booking sites like Kayak, Google Flights, or Booking.com.
Travelers
U.S.
Energy and utility MLM scheme
An energy company uses MLM recruitment to sell electricity or gas plans, with agents earning more from signing up new agents than from providing competitive energy rates.
Compare the offered rate, including all fees, to your current utility rate before switching.
Homeowners
U.S.
Fashion and clothing MLM scheme
A fashion company sells clothing through an MLM structure where sellers buy inventory upfront, face no-return policies, and earn primarily through recruiting new sellers.
Never invest in inventory you cannot return — check the return policy before purchasing.
Women
U.S.
Legal services MLM scheme
A company sells prepaid legal service plans through MLM recruitment, where agents earn more from signing up new agents than from the legal plans providing value to members.
Compare the monthly plan cost to simply paying for legal consultations as needed.
Adults
U.S.
MLM schemes targeting immigrant communities
MLM companies target immigrant communities through cultural trust networks, church groups, and diaspora gatherings, exploiting language barriers and the desire for financial independence.
Research the company name in English — many MLM warning sites and FTC actions are only available in English.
Immigrants
U.S.
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