Audience page
Scams targeting older adults
Older adults are often targeted with authority, urgency, and family-pressure scams because scammers assume they are more likely to trust phone calls, act quickly in an emergency, or manage larger savings and benefits.
Common searches
Why this audience gets targeted
- Scammers use family emergencies and fake authority because they know older adults may act quickly to protect loved ones.
- Benefit, healthcare, and identity information can be monetized long after the first contact.
- Phone-based and tech-support scams still work because they create panic before independent verification happens.
What to check first
- Slow the interaction down and verify with a known phone number or official account.
- Do not let a caller keep you on the line while they pressure you into payment or secrecy.
- Review benefits, bills, and account alerts regularly so fraud is caught faster.
AI voice clone family emergency scam
A caller sounds exactly like a family member in distress and pressures the victim to send money immediately before verifying the story.
Hang up and call the family member back directly using a known number.
Parents
U.S.
Bank verification text phishing scam
A text message claims a suspicious bank event happened and pushes the victim to a fake login page before they stop to verify the sender.
Do not tap the link from the text.
Mobile banking users
Global
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.
Fake lawyer court date payment call
A caller pretending to be a lawyer uses cloned voices and legal jargon to say you missed a court date and need to pay immediately to avoid arrest.
End the call and contact the court through its public website or number.
Older adults
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.
AI police bail demand scam
A victim hears a distressed relative followed by a fake officer who demands bail money through wire transfer or gift cards.
Call the relative or local precinct directly using a public number.
Grandparents
U.S.
Mystery shopper training check scam
A mystery shopper role sends a large check and instructs the new hire to buy gift cards or evaluate money transfer services.
Void the check and stop communicating if a job asks you to purchase gift cards.
Part-time workers
U.S.
Refund specialist recovery scam
A victim of bank transfer fraud is told a refund specialist can reverse the payment for a consultancy fee.
Work with your bank and official complaint channels, not unsolicited specialists.
Fraud victims
Global
Lawsuit settlement recovery scam
A fake legal team says your prior scam loss is part of a settlement, but court taxes or release fees are needed before payment.
Independently verify any legal claim before sending release fees.
Prior fraud victims
Global
Cruise upgrade payment scam
A caller says your cruise cabin upgrade or onboard credit is ready but must be paid or confirmed immediately.
Call the cruise line using the number on your booking documents.
Cruise travelers
Global
Widowed doctor romance scam
A scammer claims to be a widowed doctor working abroad and builds trust before asking for emergency money.
Reverse image search the profile and pause before sending anything.
Online daters
Global
Romance customs package scam
A romantic contact says they sent a valuable package, but customs, courier, or anti-terror fees must be paid before delivery.
Do not pay package release fees for gifts from online-only partners.
Online daters
Global
Romance hospital bill scam
A romantic partner claims to be in the hospital or detained after an accident and asks for urgent treatment money.
Verify through an independent hospital number before believing any emergency.
Online daters
Global
Gold mining club investment scam
An investment club says pooled money is being used in gold or commodity extraction projects with fast fixed returns.
Check licenses and filings before sending funds to private clubs.
Retirees
Global
Jury duty arrest payment scam
A caller says you missed jury duty and must pay a fine immediately to avoid arrest.
Call the court using its official public number before doing anything.
Older adults
U.S.
Social security freeze scam
A caller or message says your identity or benefits are frozen and must be reactivated through immediate verification.
Do not share identity data until you contact the agency directly.
Retirees
U.S.
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.
SSN update call scam
A caller claims your national ID needs urgent re-validation because it was linked to suspicious activity.
Hang up and contact the official agency yourself.
Older adults
U.S.
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
Romance loss recovery lawyer scam
A victim of a romance scam is approached by a supposed lawyer or investigator who says the case can be reopened for a fee and document package.
Treat unsolicited legal recovery outreach as suspicious and verify the firm through public registries.
Romance scam victims
Global
Oil rig romance scam
A romantic contact claims to be working offshore on an oil rig and asks for help with satellite calls, medical clearances, or emergency travel money.
Treat offshore contractor money stories as suspicious until the identity is independently proven.
Online daters
Global
Inheritance release romance scam
A romantic contact says money is tied up in inheritance, customs, or attorney fees and asks the victim to help unlock it so they can be together.
Do not send funds to unlock inheritance, estates, or cross-border transfers for a romantic contact.
Older adults
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.
fake refund overpayment shopping scam
Scammers posing as sellers or customer support claim they accidentally refunded too much and ask victims to return the difference, but the original refund was fake.
Never send money to anyone claiming an accidental overpayment without verifying through your bank directly
Online shoppers
U.S.
fake virus popup alert scam
Alarming browser popups claim your computer is infected and urge you to call a fake tech support number, leading to remote access exploitation and payment demands.
Force-close the browser using Task Manager or Activity Monitor without calling any number
Older adults
U.S.
cold call tech support scam
Scammers call victims unprompted, claiming to be from a major tech company, and warn of a fictitious security issue to gain remote access or extract payment.
Hang up immediately as legitimate tech companies never make unsolicited support calls
Older adults
U.S.
remote access exploitation tech support scam
Scammers convince victims to install remote access software under the guise of tech support, then use it to steal banking credentials, files, and personal data.
Never install remote access software at the request of someone who contacted you unsolicited
Older adults
Global
fake antivirus software scam
Scammers distribute fake antivirus programs through deceptive ads or downloads that either do nothing, display fake threats to demand payment, or contain actual malware.
Only download antivirus software from well-known, reputable vendors directly from their official websites
Non-technical users
Global
Microsoft impersonator tech support scam
Scammers impersonate Microsoft support via calls, emails, or popups, claiming your Windows license or account is compromised and demanding payment or remote access.
Microsoft never makes unsolicited tech support calls or sends unsolicited security warnings with phone numbers
Windows users
U.S.
Apple impersonator tech support scam
Scammers pose as Apple Support via calls or emails, claiming your Apple ID is compromised or your iCloud account has been breached, to steal credentials or money.
Apple never calls you unsolicited to ask for your password or verification codes
Apple users
U.S.
tech support refund overpayment scam
Scammers claim you are owed a refund for a tech support subscription, then pretend to accidentally deposit too much and ask you to return the difference.
Never allow remote access to process a refund as legitimate companies do not operate this way
Older adults
U.S.
screen-sharing bank access trap scam
Scammers use screen-sharing during fake tech support sessions to watch victims log into bank accounts, then take control to transfer money.
Never log into financial accounts during any screen-sharing session initiated by an incoming caller
Older adults
U.S.
fake blue screen of death scam
Malicious websites or software trigger a fake Windows blue screen error with a tech support phone number, tricking victims into calling scammers.
Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete or force-restart the computer as real blue screens never include phone numbers
Windows users
U.S.
fake subscription renewal notification scam
Scammers send fake emails or calls claiming your antivirus, software, or tech support subscription is about to auto-renew for a large amount, urging you to call to cancel.
Check your actual subscriptions through the software company's official website or your bank statements
Non-technical users
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
SMS prize alert text message scam
Scam text messages claim you have won a prize or gift card and include a link to a phishing website designed to steal personal information.
Never click links in unsolicited text messages claiming you have won a prize
Smartphone users
U.S.
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
veteran and military charity scam
Fraudulent organizations use names similar to legitimate veteran charities to solicit donations, with most or all funds going to the operators rather than veterans.
Verify veteran charities on Charity Navigator or the BBB Wise Giving Alliance before donating
Donors
U.S.
holiday season giving scam
Scammers exploit the generosity of the holiday season with fake charitable appeals, pop-up organizations, and impersonation of well-known charities to steal donations.
Take time to research any charity before donating, even during the holidays
Donors
U.S.
fake political donation scam
Scammers create fake political action committees or impersonate real campaigns to collect donations that go to personal enrichment instead of political causes.
Verify political organizations through the FEC's database at fec.gov before donating
Donors
U.S.
phantom subscription charge scam
Unauthorized recurring charges appear on a credit card for a service the cardholder never signed up for or has never used.
Review bank and credit card statements monthly for unrecognized charges.
Online subscribers
U.S.
hidden cancel button subscription scam
A service makes it easy to sign up but deliberately hides or complicates the cancellation process to keep billing active.
Document every step of the cancellation attempt with screenshots.
Online subscribers
U.S.
fake streaming service subscription scam
Scammers impersonate popular streaming platforms and collect payment for subscriptions that never grant access to any content.
Always navigate to streaming services directly by typing the URL — never click email links.
Online subscribers
U.S.
magazine subscription scam
Callers claim to represent a publisher and sign victims up for magazine subscriptions they never ordered, then send aggressive collection notices.
Never provide payment information to unsolicited callers.
Older adults
U.S.
cloud storage upsell scam
A pop-up or email warns that cloud storage is full and directs the user to a fake upgrade page that charges for storage never delivered.
Check storage usage directly in your device settings — not through email links.
App users
U.S.
membership fee scam
A service requires an upfront membership fee to access exclusive deals or content, but the promised benefits are nonexistent or freely available elsewhere.
Search for reviews of the membership service before paying.
Online subscribers
U.S.
phantom debt collection scam
A scammer demands payment for a debt that never existed, often citing fabricated account numbers and threatening legal consequences.
Pull your free credit reports from annualcreditreport.com to verify any claimed debt.
People with debt
U.S.
lawsuit threat debt collection scam
A scammer claims to be a lawyer or process server and says a lawsuit has been filed over an unpaid debt, demanding immediate payment to avoid court.
Ask for the attorney's bar number and verify it with your state bar association.
People with debt
U.S.
medical debt collection scam
A scammer calls claiming to collect on a medical bill and pressures quick payment, exploiting the complexity and confusion of real medical billing.
Contact the healthcare provider's billing department directly to verify any outstanding balance.
People with debt
U.S.
zombie debt collection scam
A collector attempts to revive and collect on an old debt that has passed the statute of limitations, tricking the victim into restarting the clock.
Check your state's statute of limitations on debt before acknowledging any claim.
People with debt
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.
home warranty scam
A telemarketer sells a home warranty that charges premiums but routinely denies claims, has extensive hidden exclusions, or disappears when service is needed.
Research the company's complaint history on the BBB and your state attorney general's website.
Homeowners
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.
identity theft protection scam
A company sells an identity theft protection plan that provides little or no actual monitoring, while collecting sensitive personal data that increases the customer's risk.
Use the free credit monitoring offered by breached companies or annualcreditreport.com.
Data breach victims
U.S.
disaster insurance upsell scam
After a natural disaster, scammers approach homeowners with high-pressure sales for overpriced or unnecessary supplemental insurance coverage.
Contact your existing insurer before purchasing any supplemental disaster coverage.
Homeowners
U.S.
power company disconnection threat scam
Scammers call or text pretending to be your electric utility, claiming your power will be shut off within hours unless you pay immediately via gift card or wire transfer.
Hang up and call your utility company directly using the number on your bill or their official website
Homeowners
U.S.
water bill overdue scam
Fraudsters send official-looking texts or emails claiming your water bill is overdue and your service will be suspended unless you click a link and pay immediately.
Do not click links in unexpected texts or emails about utility bills — log in to your account directly through the official website
Homeowners
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.
smart meter upgrade scam
Scammers contact homeowners claiming they need to pay for a mandatory smart meter upgrade or risk losing service, when in reality utility-provided meter upgrades are free.
Contact your utility directly to ask about any meter upgrade programs — legitimate upgrades are provided and installed at no cost
Homeowners
U.S.
utility rebate phishing scam
Scammers send emails or texts posing as your utility, claiming you qualify for an energy rebate or refund, then steal your bank details through a fake claim form.
Do not click links in unsolicited rebate offers — visit your utility company website directly to check for legitimate programs
Homeowners
U.S.
energy audit scam
Fraudulent contractors offer free or low-cost home energy audits, then pressure homeowners into overpriced and unnecessary repairs or equipment installations.
Only schedule energy audits through your utility company or certified programs like ENERGY STAR Home Advisor
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.
utility overpayment refund scam
Scammers call claiming you overpaid your utility bill and need to provide bank details or remote computer access so they can process your refund, then drain your account.
Hang up and call your utility company directly — legitimate overpayments are credited to your next bill automatically
Homeowners
U.S.
broadband internet service scam
Fraudsters impersonate internet service providers, calling to offer fake discounts, upgrades, or to fix non-existent connection problems, then steal payment or personal information.
Hang up on unsolicited ISP calls and contact your provider directly using the number on your bill
Homeowners
U.S.
Medicare card replacement scam
Scammers call Medicare beneficiaries claiming they need a new Medicare card and requesting their Medicare number, Social Security number, or bank details to process the replacement.
Know that Medicare will never call you unsolicited to ask for your Medicare number or personal information
Seniors
U.S.
Medicare open enrollment impersonator scam
During Medicare open enrollment periods, scammers pose as insurance agents or Medicare representatives to switch beneficiaries to plans that pay the scammer higher commissions but offer worse coverage.
Compare plans yourself using the Medicare Plan Finder at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE for free help
Seniors
U.S.
genetic testing kit Medicare scam
Scammers offer free genetic or cancer screening tests at events, by phone, or door-to-door, then bill Medicare for expensive tests the beneficiary did not need or consent to.
Never provide your Medicare number to someone offering unsolicited genetic testing
Seniors
U.S.
durable medical equipment Medicare scam
Scammers contact Medicare beneficiaries offering free back braces, knee braces, or wheelchairs, then bill Medicare for expensive equipment the patient does not need.
Only obtain durable medical equipment through a prescription from your treating physician
Seniors
U.S.
prescription discount card scam
Scammers market fake prescription discount cards that charge fees, collect personal health data, and provide no real savings at the pharmacy counter.
Use legitimate free prescription comparison tools like Medicare.gov Plan Finder or GoodRx
Seniors
U.S.
Medicare Advantage unauthorized switch scam
Scammers enroll Medicare beneficiaries into Medicare Advantage plans without their knowledge or consent by using personal information obtained through deceptive calls.
Review your Medicare Summary Notices regularly and report any unfamiliar plan enrollments immediately
Seniors
U.S.
fake nurse home visit scam
Scammers posing as home health nurses show up at seniors' homes claiming Medicare sent them, then steal personal information, medications, or valuables.
Never let anyone into your home for a medical visit unless your doctor arranged it and you received advance notice
Seniors
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.
telehealth prescription scam
Fraudulent telehealth operations prescribe unnecessary medications or treatments after sham consultations, then bill insurance for inflated costs or sell patient data.
Use only telehealth services affiliated with licensed healthcare systems or recommended by your physician
Patients
U.S.
timeshare resale scam
A company contacts timeshare owners claiming to have a buyer ready to purchase their timeshare but requires upfront fees that are never recovered.
Never pay upfront fees to sell a timeshare — legitimate resale companies charge commissions only after a sale closes.
Timeshare owners
U.S.
timeshare exit company fraud
A company charges thousands of dollars upfront promising to legally cancel a timeshare contract, then fails to deliver or uses ineffective methods.
Contact your timeshare resort's exit or deedback program directly first — many resorts now offer voluntary exit options.
Timeshare owners
U.S.
vacation club membership scam
A travel club sells expensive memberships promising exclusive discounted vacations, but the deals are no better than publicly available rates.
Compare any claimed exclusive deals against prices on Kayak, Google Flights, and Booking.com before purchasing a membership.
Vacationers
U.S.
free vacation presentation scam
Consumers are lured with a free vacation or gift in exchange for attending a timeshare presentation that uses extreme high-pressure sales tactics.
Know your state's rescission period before attending — most states allow cancellation within 3 to 15 days of signing.
Vacationers
U.S.
travel voucher scam
Victims receive travel vouchers promising free or deeply discounted trips, but the vouchers come with hidden fees, blackout dates, and unusable restrictions.
Read all terms and conditions of any travel voucher before paying any activation or processing fees.
Vacationers
U.S.
timeshare cancellation fee scam
Scammers posing as law firms or title companies charge large fees claiming they can legally cancel a timeshare, but provide no legitimate legal service.
Verify any attorney's license through their state bar association's online directory.
Timeshare owners
U.S.
vacation rental timeshare conversion scam
A company promises to convert a timeshare into a vacation rental property that will generate income, but the conversion is a fiction and fees are pocketed.
Verify that any rental management company is a licensed real estate broker in the state where the timeshare property is located.
Timeshare owners
U.S.
resort prize trip scam
A notification claims you won a free resort stay, but the trip is a cover for a high-pressure timeshare sales pitch with hidden costs.
Remember that legitimate sweepstakes do not require payment or attendance at a sales event to claim a prize.
Vacationers
U.S.
storm chaser roofer scam
After a major storm, out-of-town contractors go door to door offering cheap roof repairs, collect deposits, and do shoddy work or disappear.
Verify the contractor's license, insurance, and local business registration before signing any contract.
Homeowners
U.S.
driveway repaving scam
A crew claims to have leftover asphalt from a nearby job and offers a cheap driveway seal or repave that uses watered-down sealant or thin asphalt.
Never hire a contractor who solicits door to door — reputable paving companies have established customer pipelines.
Homeowners
U.S.
tree removal scam
Unlicensed operators offer cheap tree removal but leave stumps, damage property, or abandon debris, and have no insurance to cover the damage.
Verify the company carries both liability insurance and workers' compensation — ask for a certificate of insurance and call the insurer to confirm.
Homeowners
U.S.
plumbing emergency scam
A plumber responding to an emergency call inflates the scope of work, claims additional problems exist, or charges extreme markups for parts.
Unless water is actively flooding, get at least two estimates before authorizing major plumbing work.
Homeowners
U.S.
HVAC inspection scam
A company offers a cheap HVAC inspection and then claims the system has dangerous defects requiring thousands in immediate repairs or replacement.
Get a second opinion from another licensed HVAC contractor before agreeing to any major repair or replacement.
Homeowners
U.S.
foundation crack repair scam
A contractor exaggerates the severity of cosmetic foundation cracks, claiming the home is at risk of structural failure to sell unnecessary repairs.
Hire a licensed structural engineer — not a contractor — for an independent foundation assessment.
Homeowners
U.S.
mold remediation scam
A company performs a mold inspection and fabricates or exaggerates results to sell expensive and unnecessary mold removal services.
Use a company that only does testing, not remediation — to avoid a conflict of interest.
Homeowners
U.S.
disaster repair advance fee scam
After a natural disaster, a contractor demands a large advance payment for emergency repairs and then performs little or no work.
Check your state's limits on contractor advance payments — many states cap deposits at one-third of the total contract.
Homeowners
U.S.
IRS impersonator phone call scam
A caller claims to be from the IRS and threatens arrest, deportation, or license revocation unless you pay an alleged tax debt immediately over the phone.
Hang up immediately — the IRS never calls to demand immediate payment or threaten arrest.
Taxpayers
U.S.
property tax lien scam
Scammers send official-looking letters or make calls claiming there is a lien on your property due to unpaid taxes and demand immediate payment to remove it.
Contact your county tax assessor's office directly to verify any claims about liens on your property.
Taxpayers
U.S.
IRS audit threat robocall scam
An automated robocall claims the IRS is filing a lawsuit or audit against you and instructs you to call back immediately or face arrest.
Do not call back — the IRS does not leave pre-recorded messages threatening lawsuits or arrest.
Taxpayers
U.S.
payment by gift card demand scam
A scammer posing as a government agent, utility company, or other authority demands you pay a debt, fine, or fee by purchasing gift cards and reading the numbers over the phone.
Hang up immediately — gift cards are for gifts, not payments. No real organization demands gift card payment.
Older adults
U.S.
gift card activation fee scam
A fake website or phone call claims your gift card requires an activation fee before it can be used, tricking you into providing payment information.
Activate gift cards only through the official website or phone number listed on the card issuer's official site.
Gift card buyers
U.S.
retail store impersonator gift card scam
Scammers call or email pretending to be from a major retailer, claiming there is a problem with your recent gift card purchase and requesting the card numbers to 'verify' or 'replace' it.
Never share gift card numbers or PINs with anyone who contacts you — retailers will not call asking for this information.
Gift card buyers
U.S.
tech support gift card payment scam
A fake tech support agent claims your computer is infected or your account is compromised and demands payment in gift cards to fix the issue.
Legitimate tech companies never demand payment in gift cards — hang up or close the pop-up.
Older adults
U.S.
IRS gift card payment scam
A caller impersonating an IRS agent threatens arrest or legal action unless you pay a supposed tax debt immediately with gift cards purchased from a retail store.
Hang up — the IRS never demands payment by gift card. This is always a scam.
Taxpayers
U.S.
romance scam gift card request
An online romantic interest builds a relationship over weeks or months, then asks for gift cards as a way to help with an emergency, travel expenses, or proof of love.
Never send gift cards or gift card photos to someone you have not met in person.
Older adults
U.S.
tampered gift card rack scam
Criminals physically tamper with gift cards on retail display racks by exposing and recording PINs or replacing barcodes, then drain the funds once an unsuspecting customer activates the card.
Inspect gift cards carefully before purchasing — look for scratched PIN covers, extra stickers, or damaged packaging.
Gift card buyers
U.S.
bank fraud department impersonation scam
A caller or texter claims to be from your bank's fraud department, warns about suspicious transactions, and convinces you to share account details or transfer money to a 'safe' account.
Hang up and call your bank directly using the number on the back of your card or on your bank's official website.
Account holders
U.S.
utility company shutoff scam
A caller impersonating your electric, gas, or water company threatens to disconnect your service within hours unless you make an immediate payment, often by gift card or wire transfer.
Hang up and call the number on your utility bill or the company's official website.
Online consumers
U.S.
government benefits impersonation scam
A call, text, or email impersonates a government benefits agency — such as Social Security, Medicare, or unemployment — and asks for personal information to 'process your benefits' or 'protect your account.'
Hang up and contact the agency directly — SSA at 1-800-772-1213, Medicare at 1-800-633-4227.
Older adults
U.S.
antivirus subscription renewal scam
A fake email or pop-up claims your antivirus subscription is expiring or has been auto-renewed for a large amount and directs you to call a number or click a link to cancel or get a refund.
Check your actual antivirus subscription status by logging into the official vendor's website directly.
Online consumers
U.S.
Social Security number suspended robocall scam
An automated call claims your Social Security number has been suspended due to suspicious activity and threatens legal action unless you call back and provide personal information.
Hang up — the SSA does not suspend Social Security numbers, and this message is always a scam.
Phone users
U.S.
health insurance enrollment robocall scam
A robocall claims to be from a health insurance marketplace and pressures you to enroll in a plan immediately, collecting your personal and financial data for identity theft.
Enroll in health insurance only through healthcare.gov or your state's official marketplace.
Consumers
U.S.
free medical brace robocall scam
A robocall offers a free knee brace, back brace, or other medical device covered by Medicare, then collects your Medicare number and personal information for fraudulent billing.
Never give your Medicare number to unsolicited callers.
Older adults
U.S.
AI voice bot conversation scam
An advanced AI-powered voice bot conducts a natural-sounding phone conversation to extract personal information, verify your identity, or trick you into confirming fraudulent transactions.
Be cautious about confirming personal information or saying 'yes' to unknown callers.
Phone users
U.S.
grandchild arrested bail scam
A caller pretends to be a grandchild who has been arrested and urgently needs bail money, often with a second caller posing as a lawyer or police officer to add credibility.
Hang up and call your grandchild directly on their known phone number to verify the story.
Grandparents
U.S.
grandchild in car accident scam
A frantic caller claims to be your grandchild involved in a serious car accident, saying they need money immediately for hospital bills or to settle with the other driver before police arrive.
Hang up and independently contact your grandchild or their parents to verify.
Grandparents
U.S.
grandchild stuck abroad scam
A caller claims to be your grandchild stranded in a foreign country — passport stolen, wallet gone — and needs money wired urgently to get home safely.
Hang up and contact your grandchild through their normal phone number, email, or social media.
Grandparents
U.S.
grandchild hospital emergency scam
A caller claims your grandchild is in the hospital after an accident or illness and needs money immediately for surgery or medical treatment.
Call the grandchild's phone directly or contact their parents to verify the situation.
Grandparents
U.S.
grandchild kidnapped ransom scam
A caller claims your grandchild has been kidnapped and demands an immediate ransom, sometimes playing recordings of a person screaming in the background.
Try to contact your grandchild independently — use another phone or ask someone nearby to call them.
Grandparents
U.S.
AI voice clone grandchild scam
Scammers use AI voice cloning to replicate a grandchild's voice from social media videos, making the impersonation call nearly indistinguishable from the real person.
Establish a family code word that only family members know, to verify identity during emergency calls.
Grandparents
U.S.
grandchild needs a lawyer scam
A caller claiming to be a lawyer says your grandchild has been arrested and needs an immediate retainer fee to avoid jail time.
Ask for the attorney's full name, bar number, and firm — then verify independently through your state bar's lawyer search.
Grandparents
U.S.
grandchild DUI arrest scam
A caller claims your grandchild was arrested for drunk driving and needs immediate bail money to avoid being held overnight or having their license suspended.
Call your grandchild's phone directly — if they answer, the scam is confirmed.
Grandparents
U.S.
grandchild lost wallet overseas scam
A caller pretending to be your grandchild says they lost their wallet while traveling abroad and need money wired for a hotel, food, and a replacement passport.
Hang up and contact your grandchild through their normal phone or social media to confirm their location.
Grandparents
U.S.
fake police follow-up call scam
After a grandparent scam attempt — whether successful or not — a second caller poses as a police officer investigating the case, extracting more money or personal information.
Real police never call to request money or banking information — hang up if asked.
Grandparents
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.
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.
extended car warranty robocall scam
Robocallers claim your vehicle warranty is about to expire and pressure you into purchasing an expensive extended warranty from a fraudulent third-party company.
Hang up on unsolicited warranty calls and add your number to the National Do Not Call Registry at DoNotCall.gov
Car owners
U.S.
appliance warranty extension scam
Scammers call or email homeowners claiming their appliance warranties are expiring and offering costly extended coverage that provides little to no actual protection.
Verify your actual warranty status by contacting the appliance manufacturer directly using the number in your owner manual
Homeowners
U.S.
warranty registration fee scam
Scammers charge a fee to register a product warranty that is actually free, targeting consumers who are unfamiliar with standard warranty registration processes.
Know that most manufacturer warranties activate automatically at purchase and registration is free if required at all
Consumers
U.S.
App Store imposter app scam
Fraudulent apps mimic popular legitimate apps in the Apple App Store using similar names, icons, and screenshots to trick users into downloading malware or paying for useless subscriptions.
Verify the developer name before downloading and follow links from the official company website to the correct App Store listing
Smartphone users
U.S.
fake banking app scam
Fraudsters create counterfeit banking apps that mimic real banks to steal login credentials, account numbers, and personal information from unsuspecting users.
Download banking apps only from links on your bank official website or by searching the official app store directly
Smartphone users
U.S.
fake QR scanner app scam
Malicious QR code scanner apps request excessive permissions and display aggressive ads or install malware, despite smartphones having built-in QR scanning capability.
Use your phone built-in camera QR scanning feature rather than downloading a third-party scanner app
Smartphone users
U.S.
fleeceware subscription trap scam
Fleeceware apps offer minimal functionality for extreme subscription prices, often enrolling users during a deceptively short free trial that auto-converts to charges of up to 200 USD per year.
Always cancel subscriptions through your phone settings rather than just deleting the app
Smartphone users
U.S.
fake antivirus app scam
Bogus antivirus apps display fake threat warnings to scare users into purchasing premium versions or granting device administrator permissions that enable data theft.
Use antivirus apps only from established security companies such as Norton, Bitdefender, Malwarebytes, or Kaspersky
Smartphone users
U.S.
real estate investment club scam
Fraudulent real estate investment clubs collect member funds for supposed property deals that never materialize, using new member contributions to pay returns to earlier members.
Verify any real estate investment through independent title searches and property records
Investors
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.
miracle weight loss pill scam
Ads promote a pill that guarantees dramatic weight loss without diet or exercise changes, using fake before-and-after photos and fabricated clinical study claims.
Be skeptical of any weight loss product that promises results without diet or exercise — the FDA has not approved any pill that does this.
Health-conscious consumers
U.S.
fake Ozempic scam
Scammers sell counterfeit or diluted Ozempic (semaglutide) online at discount prices, often through unlicensed pharmacies or social media sellers, posing serious health risks.
Only obtain Ozempic or semaglutide through a licensed pharmacy with a valid prescription from your healthcare provider.
Health-conscious consumers
U.S.
celebrity-endorsed supplement scam
Fraudulent ads use deepfakes or fabricated quotes from celebrities to promote unproven health supplements, creating a false sense of credibility.
Verify celebrity endorsements through the celebrity's official social media accounts or website.
Health-conscious consumers
U.S.
detox cleanse scam
Products marketed as detox or cleanse programs claim to remove toxins from the body, but contain unproven or potentially harmful ingredients and no scientific evidence of efficacy.
Consult your healthcare provider before starting any detox program — healthy kidneys and liver already detoxify your body.
Health-conscious consumers
U.S.
fake FDA-approved product scam
A health product falsely claims FDA approval to appear legitimate, when the FDA has never evaluated or approved it — dietary supplements do not require FDA approval before sale.
Understand that the FDA does not approve dietary supplements — only drugs and medical devices go through FDA approval.
Health-conscious consumers
U.S.
keto pill scam
Pills marketed as putting your body into ketosis without following a ketogenic diet use misleading claims and fake before-and-after results to sell ineffective supplements.
Research any supplement through independent review sites and verify claimed celebrity or TV show endorsements.
Health-conscious consumers
U.S.
anti-aging cream scam
Skin care products make exaggerated anti-aging claims — erasing wrinkles, reversing aging — using doctored photos and fake dermatologist endorsements to sell overpriced, ineffective creams.
Be skeptical of any skin care product claiming to reverse aging — consult a board-certified dermatologist for proven treatments.
Health-conscious consumers
U.S.
muscle building supplement scam
Supplements claiming to dramatically increase muscle mass or boost testosterone use fabricated before-and-after photos and fake pro athlete endorsements to sell ineffective or unsafe products.
Look for supplements that disclose exact ingredient amounts rather than hiding behind proprietary blends.
Health-conscious consumers
U.S.
fake clinical trial results scam
Health products cite fabricated or misrepresented clinical studies to claim scientific backing, using invented journal names or distorted findings from real studies.
Search for the cited study on PubMed (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) or ClinicalTrials.gov to verify it exists.
Health-conscious consumers
U.S.
subscription vitamin trap scam
A personalized vitamin quiz funnels consumers into an expensive monthly subscription that is nearly impossible to cancel, with auto-ship charges that escalate over time.
Read the full subscription terms before providing payment information, especially the renewal price and cancellation policy.
Health-conscious consumers
U.S.
browser popup virus alert scam
A full-screen browser popup mimics a Windows or macOS system alert, claiming your computer is infected and urging you to call a phone number or download software immediately.
Force-close the browser using Task Manager (Ctrl+Alt+Delete) or Force Quit (Cmd+Option+Esc) — do not call the number.
Non-technical users
U.S.
fake Windows Defender alert scam
A webpage or popup imitates a Windows Defender notification, warning of detected threats and directing the user to call a support number or download a removal tool.
Close the browser tab or force-quit the browser — real Windows Defender alerts never appear in a browser.
Non-technical users
U.S.
tech support popup scam
A persistent browser popup warns of a critical security issue and instructs you to call a toll-free number, where scammers charge for unnecessary remote support services.
Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc (Windows) or Cmd+Option+Esc (Mac) to force-quit the browser without calling the number.
Non-technical users
U.S.
fake malware scan results scam
A website runs an animated fake scan of your computer, displaying fabricated threats to trick you into downloading software or paying for a premium cleanup service.
Close the tab immediately — no legitimate website can scan your local files through a browser.
Non-technical users
U.S.
antivirus subscription auto-renew scam
An email or popup claims your antivirus subscription has auto-renewed for a large amount, urging you to call to cancel — the goal is to gain remote access or steal payment info.
Check your bank or credit card statement directly — do not use the phone number in the email.
Non-technical users
U.S.
fake Norton renewal email scam
A phishing email impersonates Norton LifeLock with a fake invoice for annual renewal, directing you to call a number where scammers attempt to gain remote access to your computer.
Do not call the number — go to norton.com directly and check your account for any active subscriptions.
Non-technical users
U.S.
McAfee impersonator popup scam
A browser notification or popup mimics McAfee branding, claiming your subscription has expired or threats have been detected, and pushes you to renew through a fake payment page.
Revoke notification permissions in your browser settings for any site you do not recognize.
Non-technical users
U.S.
system cleaner scam
Software marketed as a PC optimizer or system cleaner claims your computer has hundreds of errors, then charges a fee to fix fabricated issues while potentially installing additional unwanted programs.
Uninstall the system cleaner using Windows Add/Remove Programs and run a legitimate malware scan.
Non-technical users
U.S.
mobile security app scam
A fake mobile security app on an unofficial app store or sideloaded APK claims to protect your phone but actually collects personal data, displays intrusive ads, or subscribes you to premium services.
Uninstall the app immediately and review all app permissions in your phone's settings.
Non-technical users
U.S.
fake Social Security portal scam
A fraudulent website mimics the Social Security Administration's online portal, tricking users into entering their SSN, date of birth, and other sensitive information.
Access Social Security services only by typing ssa.gov directly into your browser.
Citizens
U.S.
fake unemployment benefits website scam
Fraudulent websites impersonate state unemployment offices, collecting personal and financial information from people seeking to file or manage unemployment claims.
File unemployment claims only through your state's official labor department website.
Citizens
U.S.
voicemail then text scam
Scammers leave an urgent voicemail and follow up with a text containing a malicious link, using the voicemail to make the text appear legitimate.
Never click links in text messages prompted by unsolicited voicemails.
Older adults
U.S.
mail then phone call scam
Scammers send an official-looking letter by postal mail, then call to follow up, using the physical letter as proof of legitimacy to extract payment or personal information.
Verify any letter by contacting the organization directly using contact information from their official website — not from the letter.
Older adults
U.S.
Amazon fake customer service number scam
Scammers post fake Amazon customer service phone numbers on search engines and social media. When victims call, the fake agents request remote access to their computer or demand payment via gift cards.
Only contact Amazon support through the official app or website — never search for phone numbers online.
Older adults
U.S.
Amazon gift card payment scam
Scammers impersonate authority figures — government agents, employers, or Amazon itself — and demand victims purchase Amazon gift cards and share the redemption codes as a form of payment.
No legitimate organization or government agency will ever demand payment in gift cards — hang up immediately.
Older adults
U.S.
Amazon order confirmation phishing scam
You receive an email or text confirming a large purchase you never made, with a link to 'cancel' the order that leads to a phishing site designed to steal your Amazon credentials and payment information.
Do not click any links — log into your Amazon account directly at amazon.com and check 'Your Orders' for the supposed purchase.
Online shoppers
U.S.
Amazon delivery driver impersonator scam
Scammers pose as Amazon delivery drivers, approaching homes to steal packages, gather personal information, or gain access to residences under the pretense of delivering or verifying an order.
Amazon drivers never ask for payment at the door or request personal identification to complete a delivery.
Homeowners
U.S.
PayPal invoice scam
Scammers send real PayPal invoices for products or services you never ordered — such as cryptocurrency purchases or tech support — hoping you will call the embedded phone number and hand over personal information or remote access.
If you receive an invoice for something you did not buy, do not call the phone number — log into PayPal directly and decline the invoice.
PayPal users
U.S.
PayPal unauthorized transaction email scam
A fake email alerts you to a large unauthorized PayPal transaction, urging you to click a link or call a number to dispute it — leading to credential theft or remote access fraud.
Check your PayPal account directly at paypal.com — if there is no matching transaction, the email is fake.
PayPal users
U.S.
PayPal money request scam
Scammers send PayPal money requests with urgent messages in the memo field, claiming you owe money, need to pay a fee, or must act immediately — hoping recipients will pay without questioning the request.
Decline any money request from someone you do not recognize — you are never obligated to pay an unsolicited PayPal request.
PayPal users
U.S.
Zelle bank impersonator transfer scam
Scammers call or text pretending to be your bank's fraud department, warn of a suspicious Zelle transaction, then guide you through sending money to yourself at a number they control — actually transferring funds to the scammer.
Hang up and call your bank directly using the number on the back of your debit card — never trust the number on an incoming call.
Bank customers
U.S.
fake Zelle notification scam
Scammers send fake Zelle payment notifications via email or text claiming someone sent you money, with a phishing link to 'accept' the payment that leads to a credential-stealing website.
Zelle payments are deposited automatically if you are enrolled — there is no need to click a link to accept payments.
Zelle users
U.S.
Zelle unauthorized transfer alert scam
A fake fraud alert warns of an unauthorized Zelle transfer from your account, directing you to call a number or click a link that connects you to a scammer posing as bank support.
Do not respond to fraud alert texts — call your bank directly using the official number on your card or bank statement.
Bank customers
U.S.
Cash App clearance fee scam
A scammer claims you have a large incoming Cash App payment that requires a clearance fee or tax payment before it can be deposited to your account — the incoming payment does not exist.
You never need to pay a fee to receive money on Cash App — this is always a scam.
Cash App users
U.S.
iCloud storage upgrade scam
A fake notification warns that your iCloud storage is full and offers a discounted upgrade, leading to a phishing page that harvests payment information.
Check your actual iCloud storage through Settings on your Apple device, not through email links.
iPhone users
U.S.
fake AppleCare warranty scam
Scammers call or email claiming your AppleCare warranty is expiring, pressuring you to renew immediately through a fraudulent payment process.
Hang up on unsolicited calls about AppleCare — Apple does not make outbound warranty renewal calls.
iPhone users
U.S.
Apple gift card payment demand scam
Scammers posing as government agencies, utilities, or law enforcement demand payment via Apple gift cards, claiming it is the only way to resolve a fine, debt, or legal issue.
No legitimate organization ever demands payment in gift cards — hang up immediately.
Older adults
U.S.
fake Apple support call scam
Robocalls or live callers impersonate Apple Support, claiming your iCloud account has been breached and requesting remote access to your device or payment to fix the issue.
Hang up immediately — Apple never makes unsolicited phone calls about account problems.
Older adults
U.S.
iMessage phishing link scam
A text message sent via iMessage impersonates Apple, a delivery service, or a toll agency, containing a malicious link designed to steal login credentials or install malware.
Never reply to texts from unknown senders — replying enables malicious links in iMessage.
iPhone users
U.S.
Windows license expired popup scam
A fake browser popup claims your Windows license has expired and you must call a support number or pay immediately to reactivate, leading to tech support fraud.
Close the browser using Task Manager (Ctrl+Alt+Delete) if the popup cannot be dismissed normally.
Windows users
U.S.
Outlook account suspended phishing scam
A phishing email warns that your Outlook or Hotmail account has been suspended for violating terms of service, urging you to verify your identity on a fake page.
Sign in to your Outlook account directly at outlook.com to verify its status — if you can log in, it is not suspended.
Email users
U.S.
fake Microsoft support call scam
A caller claiming to be from Microsoft says they have detected a virus or security problem on your computer and requests remote access to fix it for a fee.
Hang up immediately — Microsoft will never call you unsolicited about your computer.
Older adults
U.S.
Windows Defender alert popup scam
A fake browser popup mimics a Windows Defender alert claiming your computer is infected, urging you to call a fraudulent support number immediately.
Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete and use Task Manager to force-close the browser — do not call the number.
Windows users
U.S.
Google Maps business listing scam
Scammers create or hijack Google Maps business listings with fake phone numbers, intercepting calls meant for legitimate businesses to redirect customers or steal information.
Always verify a business phone number by checking their official website before calling a number from Google Maps.
Consumers
U.S.
Craigslist romance through personal ads scam
Scammers use Craigslist personal ads or community sections to initiate fake romantic relationships, eventually requesting money for emergencies, travel, or medical bills.
Never send money to someone you have not met in person, regardless of how strong the emotional connection feels.
Older adults
U.S.
Coinbase customer support impersonator scam
Scammers pose as Coinbase support agents via phone calls, social media, or fake support websites to trick users into sharing login credentials or granting remote access to their devices.
Coinbase support will never call you first, ask for your password, or request remote access to your device.
Cryptocurrency investors
U.S.
Coinbase seed phrase harvest scam
Scammers pose as Coinbase staff and convince users to reveal their wallet seed phrases through fake security procedures, gaining full access to all cryptocurrency in the wallet.
No legitimate company, including Coinbase, will ever ask for your seed phrase — this is the single most important rule in crypto security.
New crypto users
U.S.
Uber gift card payment for ride scam
Fake Uber drivers or scammers posing as Uber support demand payment via gift cards instead of the app, often targeting elderly passengers or those unfamiliar with the platform.
Uber never requests payment through gift cards — all ride payments are processed through the app.
Older adults
U.S.
USPS redelivery fee text scam
Fake text messages claim a USPS package could not be delivered and a small redelivery fee must be paid, leading victims to a phishing site that steals credit card information.
USPS does not charge redelivery fees and does not request payment via text message — delete the message immediately.
Online shoppers
U.S.
USPS address verification text scam
Fake texts claim USPS cannot deliver a package because the address is incomplete, asking victims to click a link and 'verify' their address, which collects personal information for identity theft.
USPS does not contact recipients via text to verify addresses — if there is an address issue, USPS returns the package to the sender.
Online shoppers
U.S.
USPS package held at facility scam
Fake notifications claim a USPS package is being held at a distribution facility and will be destroyed unless the recipient takes action through a phishing link.
USPS does not threaten to destroy packages via text or email — they send official written notices through the mail.
Online shoppers
U.S.
USPS undeliverable mail notification scam
Fake emails or letters claim that important mail could not be delivered and direct recipients to a phishing website to schedule redelivery by entering personal information.
USPS leaves physical delivery attempt notices (PS Form 3849) in your mailbox — they do not send email notifications about undeliverable regular mail.
General consumers
U.S.
USPS missing package claim scam
Fake websites impersonating USPS promise to help locate missing packages if users fill out a claim form that collects extensive personal and financial information.
File missing package claims only through the official USPS website at usps.com/help or at your local post office.
Online shoppers
U.S.
UPS delivery notification text scam
A text message impersonating UPS claims a package cannot be delivered and asks the recipient to click a link to update delivery preferences, leading to a credential-harvesting phishing site.
Do not click any links — go directly to ups.com and enter your tracking number manually.
Online shoppers
U.S.
UPS failed delivery attempt notice scam
A door tag, email, or text claims UPS attempted delivery and failed, asking you to call a fake number or visit a fake site to reschedule — leading to a phone scam or phishing page.
Verify any delivery attempt by entering the InfoNotice number at ups.com or calling 1-800-742-5877.
Homeowners
U.S.
The UPS Store impersonator scam
Scammers impersonate The UPS Store via email or phone, offering fake notary, printing, or mailbox services to collect personal documents and payment information.
Verify any UPS Store communication by calling the specific store location directly using the number listed on theupsstore.com.
Small business owners
U.S.
UPS driver impersonation scam
A person wearing a UPS-like uniform arrives at a home or business claiming a COD payment is required, additional fees are owed, or requesting a signature on a device that captures personal information.
Verify any COD shipment by calling UPS at 1-800-742-5877 before making any payment.
Homeowners
U.S.
FedEx shipment on hold text scam
A text message claims your FedEx shipment is on hold due to an incomplete address, directing you to a phishing link to update delivery details and pay a redelivery fee.
Do not click links in text messages — check shipment status directly at fedex.com.
Online shoppers
U.S.
FedEx failed delivery voicemail scam
An automated voicemail claims FedEx attempted delivery and instructs you to press a number or call back a fake number, connecting you to a scammer who extracts personal and payment information.
Do not call back numbers from suspicious voicemails — use the official FedEx number 1-800-463-3339.
Seniors
U.S.
Zillow Offers impersonator scam
Scammers impersonate the discontinued Zillow Offers program, contacting homeowners with unsolicited purchase offers and requesting personal financial details or upfront fees to proceed.
Be aware that Zillow Offers was shut down in November 2021 — any offer claiming to be from this program is fraudulent.
Homeowners
U.S.
Zillow home valuation data harvest scam
A phishing ad or email offers a free home valuation through Zillow, but the form collects extensive personal information used for identity theft and targeted real estate scams.
Check your home's Zestimate for free directly at zillow.com — no additional personal data is required.
Homeowners
U.S.
fake eBay invoice email scam
A phishing email mimics an eBay invoice for a purchase you never made, prompting you to click a link to dispute or cancel the charge, which leads to a credential-harvesting page.
Check your eBay purchase history by logging in directly at ebay.com — do not click email links.
eBay users
U.S.
eBay gift card payment scam
A seller or a separate scammer requests eBay gift cards as payment for goods, services, or to resolve a fake problem — once the codes are shared, the money is gone.
eBay gift cards can only be used on ebay.com — they are never a valid payment method for anything else.
eBay buyers
U.S.
fake IRS refund deposit scam
Scammers send emails or texts claiming an IRS tax refund has been deposited into the wrong account and ask victims to provide banking details to redirect the funds.
Never provide banking details in response to unsolicited messages — the IRS initiates refunds based on the return you filed.
Taxpayers
U.S.
early filing identity theft scam
Identity thieves file fraudulent tax returns using stolen personal information early in the filing season, claiming the victim's refund before the real taxpayer files.
File your tax return as early as possible to reduce the window for fraud.
Taxpayers
U.S.
amended return scam
Scammers contact taxpayers claiming they qualify for a larger refund by filing an amended return, then charge fees and steal personal information in the process.
The IRS does not call to tell you about unclaimed refunds — hang up immediately on such calls.
Taxpayers
U.S.
gift card balance check scam
Fraudulent websites pose as gift card balance checkers for popular retailers, capturing card numbers and PINs to drain the balance before the legitimate cardholder can use them.
Check gift card balances only on the issuing retailer's official website or by calling the number on the back of the card.
Gift card holders
U.S.
fake shipping notification scam
Scammers send fake shipping notifications via text or email impersonating carriers like USPS, FedEx, or UPS during the holidays, leading victims to phishing sites or malware downloads.
Do not click links in unexpected shipping notifications — track packages directly on the carrier's official website.
Online shoppers
U.S.
counterfeit toy scam
Fake online stores and marketplace sellers offer popular toys at steep discounts during the holiday season, delivering counterfeit products that may contain hazardous materials like lead paint or choking hazards.
Purchase toys only from authorized retailers and check the Consumer Product Safety Commission at cpsc.gov for recalls.
Parents
U.S.
fake student discount card scam
Scammers sell worthless student discount cards or memberships that promise savings at major retailers and restaurants but provide no legitimate discounts.
Use free, legitimate student discount platforms like UNiDAYS, Student Beans, or your school's official discount programs.
College students
U.S.
fake scholarship deadline scam
Scammers contact students claiming they have won or been selected for a scholarship but must pay processing fees or provide personal information by an urgent deadline to claim it.
Legitimate scholarships never require application or processing fees — any request for payment is a scam.
High school seniors
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.
timeshare presentation lure scam
Travelers are lured to high-pressure timeshare sales presentations with promises of free gifts, cheap vacations, or prize money, then subjected to aggressive tactics to sign expensive contracts.
Never sign a timeshare contract on the same day — take the documents home and review them with a lawyer.
Travelers
U.S.
fake cruise deal scam
Scammers advertise free or deeply discounted cruise vacations through robocalls and social media, collecting payment and personal information for cruises that are never booked.
Hang up on unsolicited calls about free cruises — legitimate cruise lines do not cold-call with free offers.
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.
storm chaser contractor scam
Unlicensed contractors travel to disaster-affected areas, demand large upfront payments for emergency repairs, then perform shoddy work or disappear without completing the job.
Verify any contractor's license, insurance, and references through your state's contractor licensing board before signing anything.
Homeowners
U.S.
fake insurance adjuster scam
Scammers pose as insurance adjusters after disasters, requesting personal and policy information from homeowners, then filing fraudulent claims or stealing identity data.
Contact your insurance company directly to confirm any adjuster visit, and ask for the adjuster's license number to verify with your state insurance department.
Homeowners
U.S.
fake evacuation notice scam
Scammers send fake emergency evacuation alerts via text, email, or social media to create panic, then use the opportunity to burglarize evacuated homes or phish for personal information.
Verify evacuation orders through official sources: local emergency management, NOAA Weather Radio, or your county's emergency alert system.
Residents
U.S.
fake utility restoration scam
Scammers impersonate utility companies after disasters, calling or texting residents to demand payment for expedited power, water, or gas restoration that would otherwise happen through normal recovery operations.
Utility companies never charge fees to prioritize restoration — call your utility directly using the number on your bill to verify any communication.
Homeowners
U.S.
medicare supplement telemarketing scam
Callers impersonate Medicare representatives and pressure seniors into purchasing unnecessary or nonexistent supplemental insurance plans, collecting personal health information and payment details.
Hang up immediately — Medicare will never call you unsolicited to sell supplemental plans.
Seniors
U.S.
funeral insurance scam targeting seniors
Scammers sell fake or grossly overpriced funeral insurance policies to seniors by exploiting fears about burdening their families with burial costs.
Verify any insurance company's license with your state's Department of Insurance before paying anything.
Seniors
U.S.
reverse mortgage pitch scam
Fraudulent advisors pressure seniors into taking out reverse mortgages with hidden fees and unfavorable terms, sometimes redirecting loan proceeds to themselves.
Only work with FHA-approved reverse mortgage lenders and always attend HUD-required counseling before signing.
Seniors
U.S.
computer repair door-to-door scam
Individuals go door to door offering computer repair or virus removal services to seniors, then install malware, steal data, or charge exorbitant fees for unnecessary work.
Never allow unsolicited visitors access to your computer — legitimate tech companies do not make door-to-door service calls.
Seniors
U.S.
sweepstakes phone call scam targeting seniors
Callers tell seniors they have won a sweepstakes or lottery and must pay taxes or fees upfront to claim the prize, which does not exist.
Remember that legitimate sweepstakes never require upfront payment — it is illegal under US and Canadian law.
Seniors
U.S.
fake grandchild social media message scam
Scammers hack or impersonate a grandchild's social media account and message grandparents with an urgent request for money, claiming an emergency.
Always verify by calling your grandchild directly on their known phone number before sending any money.
Seniors
U.S.
romance scam on senior dating site
Scammers create fake profiles on dating sites popular with seniors, build emotional relationships over weeks or months, then request money for fabricated emergencies.
Never send money to someone you have only met online, regardless of how strong the connection feels.
Seniors
U.S.
home security pushy sales scam targeting seniors
Aggressive door-to-door salespeople pressure seniors into signing long-term home security contracts with hidden fees, equipment charges, and difficult cancellation terms.
Never sign a contract at the door — take the materials, read everything, and consult family or a lawyer first.
Seniors
U.S.
fake pharmacy discount card scam
Scammers offer seniors free or low-cost pharmacy discount cards that either do not work, charge hidden membership fees, or are used to harvest personal health and financial information.
Use only verified discount programs like Medicare Extra Help or GoodRx, and verify any card with your pharmacist before providing personal information.
Seniors
U.S.
retirement account advisor impersonation scam
Scammers impersonate financial advisors or representatives from brokerage firms and convince seniors to transfer retirement savings into fraudulent investment accounts.
Never transfer retirement funds based on an unsolicited call — hang up and call your brokerage directly using the number on your account statement.
Seniors
U.S.
AI-generated news anchor scam
Scammers create fake news broadcasts using AI-generated anchors who report fabricated stories designed to promote fraudulent products, investments, or political disinformation.
Cross-reference any news clip with the official website of the network it claims to represent.
Seniors
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.
political deepfake robocall scam
AI-cloned voices of political figures are used in robocalls to spread disinformation, suppress voter turnout, or solicit fraudulent donations during election periods.
Verify any election information through your state or local election board's official website.
Voters
U.S.
AI-generated fake customer testimonials scam
Fraudulent businesses use AI-generated deepfake videos of fake customers providing glowing testimonials to build false trust and sell counterfeit or nonexistent products.
Reverse-image search testimonial faces to check if they are AI-generated or stolen from other sources.
Online shoppers
U.S.
deepfake romantic partner scam
Scammers use AI-generated deepfake video and voice to create a convincing fake romantic partner for video calls, building emotional bonds before requesting money for fabricated emergencies.
Insist on meeting in person or conduct a live video call where you ask them to perform spontaneous actions.
Singles
U.S.
AI voice clone customer service scam
Criminals use AI voice cloning to impersonate customer service representatives from banks and tech companies, tricking victims into revealing account credentials or authorizing fraudulent transactions.
Hang up and call your bank directly using the number on the back of your card or on their official website.
Bank customers
U.S.
fake DMV toll fine text scam
Text messages falsely claim to be from the DMV, stating the recipient has unpaid toll fines that will result in license suspension unless paid immediately through a provided link.
Know that the DMV does not collect toll payments — any text claiming otherwise is a scam.
All drivers
U.S.
package delivery QR code scam
Fake delivery notices left on doors or in mailboxes contain QR codes that victims scan to reschedule delivery, leading to phishing sites that steal personal and financial data.
Do not scan QR codes on unexpected delivery notices — check your tracking directly with the retailer or carrier.
Online shoppers
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.
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.
fake unemployment benefits extension scam
Scammers contact unemployed individuals claiming they qualify for a benefits extension and need to verify their identity through a fake state workforce portal that steals their personal information.
Access your unemployment account only through your state workforce agency's official website.
Unemployed workers
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.
mortgage forbearance extension scam
Scammers contact homeowners offering to extend mortgage forbearance programs or modify loans for a fee, collecting personal financial data and payment while providing no actual assistance.
Contact your mortgage servicer directly to discuss forbearance or modification options — they are required to help you for free.
Homeowners
U.S.
AI-generated fake news site scam
Entire news websites are created using AI-generated content to look like legitimate local or national news outlets, publishing fabricated stories to drive traffic to ad-fraud pages or promote scam products.
Check whether the news site has an About page with real editorial staff and contact information.
News readers
U.S.
fake government announcement scam
Fabricated government announcements about policy changes, new benefits, or emergency orders are spread on social media to drive traffic to phishing sites or generate disinformation-fueled engagement.
Verify any government announcement through official .gov websites or official social media accounts with verified badges.
General public
U.S.
fake bank failure news scam
False news reports claim that a major bank is failing or freezing accounts, causing panic and driving victims to phishing sites where they enter banking credentials trying to check their accounts.
Check financial news from reputable sources like Reuters, Bloomberg, or the FDIC at fdic.gov before reacting.
Bank customers
U.S.
viral health misinformation product scam
Fabricated health claims and fake medical studies are spread on social media to sell unregulated supplements, cures, or medical devices that are ineffective or dangerous.
Verify health claims through PubMed, the FDA, or by asking your healthcare provider.
Health-conscious consumers
U.S.
wrong number text pig butchering scam
A seemingly accidental text message from a stranger initiates a friendly conversation that gradually builds into a romantic or financial relationship, ultimately steering the victim toward a fake investment platform.
Do not engage with wrong number texts from strangers — block the number immediately.
Lonely individuals
U.S.
forex profit sharing pig butchering scam
Scammers recruit victims into fake forex trading partnerships where the scammer claims to manage trades and share profits, using a fraudulent platform to show fabricated gains before stealing deposits.
Verify any forex platform's regulatory status with the NFA at nfa.futures.org or the FCA at register.fca.org.uk.
Aspiring traders
U.S.
gold trading platform pig butchering scam
Scammers lure victims into investing in gold through fraudulent online trading platforms, using fake market data and fabricated profits to extract increasingly large deposits before disappearing.
Invest in gold only through established and regulated dealers listed on the CFTC or your country's financial regulator.
Retirees
U.S.
CBD and hemp product MLM scheme
A company sells CBD or hemp products through an MLM structure, combining unverified health claims with aggressive recruitment, leaving most sellers with unsold inventory.
Compare CBD product pricing and third-party lab testing to non-MLM brands available in stores.
Adults
U.S.
Related audiences