Learn About Scams

A scammer calls pretending to be your grandchild or a police officer/lawyer representing them. They claim your grandchild is in trouble — arrested, in an accident, or in the hospital — and urgently needs money. They beg you not to tell other family members.

Scammers call, text, or email pretending to be your bank. They claim there is suspicious activity on your account and ask you to verify your identity by providing your account number, PIN, or password. Sometimes they ask you to transfer money to a 'safe account.'

Scammers pose as Medicare representatives and offer free medical equipment, tests, or services in exchange for your Medicare number. They use your number to bill Medicare for services never provided, and may steal your identity.

A pop-up appears on your computer warning of a virus, or someone calls claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, or your internet provider. They say your computer is infected and ask for remote access to 'fix' it. They then charge hundreds of dollars for fake repairs or steal your information.

You receive a text or email claiming a package could not be delivered and asking you to click a link to reschedule. The link takes you to a fake website that steals your personal information or installs malware on your device.

You receive a message saying you've won a lottery, sweepstakes, or prize — but you must pay a fee to claim it. Or someone offers an investment opportunity with guaranteed high returns. Both are designed to steal your money.

Scammers call pretending to be IRS agents, Social Security Administration, or other government agencies. They claim you owe back taxes or your Social Security number has been suspended. They threaten arrest, deportation, or legal action if you don't pay immediately.

A scammer creates a fake online profile and builds a romantic relationship with you over weeks or months. Once they've gained your trust, they invent a crisis and ask for money. They may claim to be a soldier, doctor, or engineer working abroad.