Scams

We've partnered with IdentityIQ services to offer $1 million in identity theft insurance, dark web monitoring, real-time fraud, Social Security alerts, and much more. Rates begin at only $4.99 per month for StagePoint members Click for more info. 

1. Phishing Emails: How to Spot and Avoid Fake Messages  

Phishing emails are one of the most common and effective financial scams. These messages are designed to look like they come from trusted organizations—such as banks, credit unions, online retailers, or government agencies—but their real goal is to steal your personal or financial information.  

How the Scam Works: Scammers send emails that appear legitimate, often using logos, branding, and language that closely resemble real organizations. The email may claim there is a problem with your account, suspicious activity, or an urgent request that requires immediate action. The message typically includes a link or attachment that leads to a fake website or installs malware.  

Common Red Flags  

• Generic greetings like “Dear Customer”
• Urgent or threatening
• Misspellings or awkward phrasing
• Links that don’t match the sender’s website
• Requests for passwords, PINs, or full account numbers

How to Protect Yourself  

• Never click links or download attachments from unexpected emails
• Hover over links to verify the destination before clicking
• Access your financial accounts by typing the official website directly into your browser
• Enable multi-factor authentication on all financial accounts

What to Do If You’re Targeted  - If you believe you’ve clicked a phishing link or provided information, contact your financial institution immediately, change your passwords, and monitor your accounts closely.  

 2. Smishing: When Scam Messages Arrive by Text  

Smishing is a form of phishing that occurs through text messages. These scams rely on urgency and convenience, catching people off guard when they least expect it.  

How the Scam Works: You may receive a text claiming to be from your bank, a delivery service, or a government agency. The message often includes a link and urges you to act quickly—such as verifying an account or preventing a transaction.  

Common Red Flags  

• Messages from unknown or shortened phone numbers
• Links that look suspicious or shortened
• Requests for personal or account information
• Pressure to act immediately

How to Protect Yourself  

• Do not click links in unsolicited text messages
• Contact your financial institution using a known phone number
• Block and report suspicious messages through your mobile provider

What to Do If You’re Targeted  - Delete the message and notify your financial institution if you believe the message impersonated them. If you clicked a link, review your account activity immediately.  

3. Vishing: Phone Call Scams Explained  

Vishing scams occur over the phone and often involve scammers posing as bank employees, government officials, or technical support representatives.  

How the Scam Works: The caller may claim there is fraud on your account, unpaid taxes, or a legal issue that requires immediate resolution. They often sound professional and may use spoofed phone numbers to appear legitimate.  

Common Red Flags  

• Requests for sensitive information over the phone
• Threats of arrest or account closure
• Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or peer-to-peer apps

How to Protect Yourself  

• Hang up and call the organization directly using a verified number
• Never share passwords or one-time codes
• Remember that legitimate institutions will not pressure you for immediate payment

What to Do If You’re Targeted  - Report the call to your financial institution and consider reporting it to consumer protection agencies.  

 4. Fake Bank Fraud Alerts  

Scammers frequently impersonate financial institutions by sending fake fraud alerts designed to trigger fear and urgency.  

How the Scam Works: You may receive an email, text, or phone call claiming suspicious activity has occurred on your account. The scammer instructs you to verify your identity or reverse a transaction by clicking a link or providing information.  

Common Red Flags  

• Alerts that ask for full account details
• Messages directing you to unfamiliar websites
• Requests for verification codes

How to Protect Yourself  

• Verify alerts by contacting your financial institution directly
• Avoid clicking links in alerts you weren’t expecting
• Use your institution’s official mobile app to check activity

What to Do If You’re Targeted  - Contact your financial institution immediately and review recent transactions.  

 5. Account Takeover Scams  

Account takeover scams occur when criminals gain unauthorized access to your online financial accounts.  

How the Scam Works: Scammers obtain login credentials through phishing, malware, or data breaches. Once inside your account, they may transfer funds, change contact information, or open new products in your name.  

Common Red Flags  

• Login alerts from unfamiliar devices
• Changes you didn’t authorize
• Missing funds or new transactions

How to Protect Yourself  

• Use strong, unique passwords
• Enable multi-factor authentication
• Monitor your accounts regularly

What to Do If You’re Targeted  - Report suspicious activity immediately and reset your credentials.  

6. Identity Theft: A Long-Term Financial Threat  

Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information to commit fraud.  

How the Scam Works: Criminals may open credit accounts, file tax returns, or take out loans using your identity. Victims often don’t realize it until damage has already occurred.  

Common Red Flags  

• Unrecognized accounts on your credit report
• Bills or collection notices you don’t recognize
• Tax filing rejections

How to Protect Yourself  

• Review credit reports regularly
• Protect personal documents and data
• Use identity monitoring services if available

What to Do If You’re Targeted  - Place a fraud alert on your credit file and report the theft immediately.  

 7. Romance Scams: When Trust Is Exploited  

Romance scams prey on emotional vulnerability and trust.  

How the Scam Works: Scammers build online relationships, often over weeks or months, before requesting money for emergencies, investments, or travel.  

Common Red Flags  

• Requests to move conversations off legitimate platforms
• Reluctance to meet in person
• Financial emergencies requiring secrecy

How to Protect Yourself  

• Never send money to someone you haven’t met
• Be cautious with online relationships that escalate quickly
• Talk to trusted friends or family

What to Do If You’re Targeted  - Stop communication immediately and report the profile.  

8. Investment Scams  

Investment scams promise high returns with little or no risk.  

How the Scam Works: Fraudsters promote fake opportunities through phone calls, social media, or email. They often pressure victims to act quickly.  

Common Red Flags  

• Guaranteed returns
• Limited-time offers
• Requests for payment outside traditional channels

How to Protect Yourself  

• Research all investments thoroughly
• Verify licenses and registrations
• Consult trusted financial professionals

What to Do If You’re Targeted  - Stop sending money and report the scam.  

9. Cryptocurrency Scams  

As digital currency grows, so do crypto-related scams.  

How the Scam Works: Scammers impersonate platforms, create fake wallets, or promote fraudulent investments.  

Common Red Flags  

• Requests for private keys
• Guaranteed crypto profits
• Pressure to act quickly

How to Protect Yourself 

• Use reputable exchanges
• Never share private keys
• Be skeptical of unsolicited offers 

What to Do If You’re Targeted  - Contact the platform and report the incident.  

10. Fake Check Scams  

Fake check scams continue to cause significant financial losses.  

How the Scam Works: Victims receive a check and are instructed to deposit it and return part of the funds. The check later bounces, leaving the victim responsible.  

Common Red Flags  

• Requests to return funds quickly
• Overpayments or refunds
• Pressure to act before the check clears

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify checks before depositing
• Never send money from deposited funds until cleared

What to Do if You're Targeted - Notify your financial institution immediately. 

11. Employment Scams: Fake Job Offers That Cost You Money

Employment scams target job seekers by posing as legitimate employers offering attractive opportunities. These scams often exploit urgency and financial stress. 

How the Scam Works: Scammers advertise fake jobs online or reach out directly with an unsolicited offer. After gaining trust, they may ask for upfront fees, personal information, or banking details for "payroll setup". 

Common Red Flags:

• Job offers without interviews
• Requests for payment for training or equipment
• Pressure to act quickly
• Emails from non-company domains

How to Protect Yourself

• Research the employer independently
• Never pay to apply for or start a job
• Verify offers through official company websites

What to Do If You're Targeted - Stop communication immediately and report the scam to job platforms and your financial institution if information was shared. 

12. Work-from-home Scams

Victims are asked to deposit checks, reship packages, or pay startup fees. The promised income never materializes. 

Common Red Flags

• Guaranteed earnings
• Vague job descriptions
• Requests to use your own bank account

How to Protect Yourself

• Be cautious of unsolicited offers
• Avoid roles that require handling money for others
• Research companies thoroughly

What to do If You're Targeted - Notify your financial institution and report the scam to consumer protection agencies. 

13. Government Impersonation Scams 

Scammers pose as government agencies to intimidate victims into paying money or providing information. 

How the Scam Works: Fraudsters claim to represent the IRS, Social Security Administration, or law enforcement and threaten legal action or loss of benefits. 

Common Red Flags

• Demands for immediate payment
• Requests for gift cards or wire transfers
• Threats of arrest

How to Protect Yourself

• Remember that government agencies do not demand payment over the phone
• Verify communications through official government websites

What to Do If You're Targeted - Report the scam and do not provide any information. 

14. Tax Refund Scams 

Tax-related scams increase during filing season and after major tax changes. 

How the Scam Works: Victims receive messages claiming they are owed a refund or that their tax return has an issue requiring immediate action. 

Common Red Flags 

• Unexpected refund notifications
• Requests for personal or banking information
• Links to unfamiliar websites

How to Protect Yourself

• File taxes through reputable services
• Verify IRS communications independently

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Contact your tax preparer or the IRS directly using official contact information. 

15. Charity Scams 

Charity scams exploit goodwill, especially during disasters or crises. 

How the Scam Works - Scammers solicit donations through phone calls, emails, or social media, claiming to support urgent causes. 

Common Red Flags 

• Pressure to donate immediately
• Requests for payment, Visa gift cards, or P2P apps
• Lack of verifiable information

How to Protect Yourself

• Research charities before donating
• Give through established organizations

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Report suspicious charities to consumer protection agencies. 

16. Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams 

These scams claim you’ve won a prize you have never entered. 

How the Scam Works: Victims are told they must pay fees or taxes to claim winnings. 

Common Red Flags

• Requests for payment to receive a prize
• Notifications from unknown lotteries

How to Protect Yourself

• Remember that legitimate lotteries do not require payment to claim winnings

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Do not respond or send money.

17. Utility Shutoff Scams 

Utility shutoff scams rely on fear of losing essential services. 

How the Scam Works -Scammers impersonate utility companies and demand immediate payment to avoid service interruption. 

Common Red Flags 

• Urgent payment demands
• Requests for unusual payment methods

How to Protect Yourself

• Contact your utility provider directly using known contact information

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Report the incident to your utility provider and financial institution. 

18. Tech Support Scams 

Tech support scams claim your device is infected or compromised. 

How the Scam Works: Victims receive pop-ups or calls urging them to contact “support,” where scammers request access or payment. 

Common Red Flags

• Unsolicited tech support calls
• Requests for remote access
• Demands for payment

How to Protect Yourself

• Close pop-ups without clicking
• Contact trusted tech providers directly

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Disconnect your device and seek legitimate technical assistance. 

19. QR Code Scams 

QR code scams hide malicious links behind convenience. 

How the Scam Works - Fraudulent QR codes lead to fake websites or download malware. 

Common Red Flags 

• QR Codes in unexpected locations
• Links asking for login information

How to Protect Yourself

• Avoid scanning unknown QR Codes
• Verify websites before entering information

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Change passwords and monitor accounts immediately. 

20. Peer-to-Peer Payment Scams (Zelle®, Venmo®, and Similar Apps) 

P2P scams exploit instant payment features. 

How the Scam Works - Scammers trick victims into sending money or impersonate support staff to steal funds. 

Common Red Flags 

• Requests to reverse transactions
• Urgent payment demands

How to Protect Yourself

• Send money only to people you know
• Verify requests independently

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Contact the payment platform and your financial institution immediately.

21. Overpayment Scams: When “Too Much Money” Is a Warning Sign 

Overpayment scams are a common form of fraud that often target individuals selling items online, small businesses, or people receiving unexpected payments. The scam relies on confusion around payment processing and timing. 

How the Scam Works: A scammer sends a payment—often by check, wire, or electronic transfer—for more than the agreed amount. They then contact the victim and ask that the excess funds be returned quickly, usually through a different payment method. The original payment later proves to be fraudulent or is reversed, leaving the victim responsible for the full amount sent back. 

Common Red Flags 

• Payments that exceed the agreed-upon amount
• Requests to return funds immediately
• Pressure to send money before the original payment clears
• Instructions to send refunds via gift cards, wire transfers, or P2P apps

How to Protect Yourself

• Never return funds until a payment has fully cleared
• Verify the legitimacy of any overpayment with your financial institution
• Be cautious of buyers or clients who create urgency

What to Do If You're Targeted - Contact your financial institution immediately and do not send any funds until the payment is verified.

22. Rental Scams: Protecting Yourself in a Competitive Housing Market 

Rental scams take advantage of high demand and limited housing availability, particularly in competitive rental markets. 

How the Scam Works: Scammers post fake listings using photos and descriptions copied from real properties. They may claim to be out of town and request a deposit or first month’s rent before showing the property. 

Common Red Flags 

• Requests for deposits before viewing the property
• Prices significantly below market value
• Landlords unwilling to meet in person or show the unit

How to Protect Yourself

• Tour the property in person whenever possible
• Verify ownership through public records
• Never send money before signing a legitimate lease

What to Do If You're Targeted - Report the listing to the platform and notify your financial institution if funds were sent.

23. Real Estate Wire Fraud: A High-Dollar, High-Risk Scam 

Real estate wire fraud is one of the most financially devastating scams due to the large sums involved. 

How the Scam Works: Criminals intercept email communications between buyers, sellers, real estate agents, and title companies. They send fraudulent wiring instructions that appear legitimate, redirecting closing funds to the scammer’s account. 

Common Red Flags 

• Last-minute changes to wiring instructions
• Requests for secrecy or urgency
• Emails with slight changes in sender addresses

How to Protect Yourself

• Confirm wiring instructions verbally using a trusted phone number
• Be skeptical of last-minute changes
• Work only with verified professionals

What to Do If You're Targeted - Contact your bank immediately—time is critical in attempting to recover wired funds. 

24. Mortgage Relief Scams 

Mortgage relief scams target homeowners experiencing financial stress. 

How the Scam Works: Scammers promise to reduce payments, stop foreclosure, or renegotiate loans in exchange for upfront fees. They may instruct homeowners to stop communicating with their lender. 

Common Red Flags 

• Requests for upfront fees
• Guarantees of loan modification approval
• Instructions to avoid contacting your lender

What to Do If You're Targeted - Report the scam and contact your lender immediately. 

25. Debt Relief Scams: False Promises and Real Consequences 

Debt relief scams prey on individuals overwhelmed by financial obligations. 

How the Scam Works: Fraudsters promise to eliminate or dramatically reduce debt quickly. Victims are charged fees while little or no legitimate service is provided. 

Common Red Flags 

• Guarantees to erase debt
• Requests for large upfront payments
• Pressure to stop paying creditors

How to Protect Yourself 

• Research debt relief companies thoroughly
• Understand your rights and alternatives

What to Do If You Are Targeted - Stop payments and report the company to consumer protection agencies. 

26. Credit Repair Scams: There Are No Instant Fixes 

Credit repair scams promise quick improvements to credit scores that are unrealistic or illegal. 

How the Scam Works: Scammers claim they can remove accurate negative information or create new credit identities. 

Common Red Flags

• Promises of instant credit improvement
• Requests for payment before services are provided
• Suggestions to dispute accurate information

How to Protect Yourself

• Know that accurate information cannot be removed
• Improve credit through legitimate financial habits

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Report the company and monitor your credit reports. 

27. Fake Invoice Scams 

Fake invoices are often sent to businesses or individuals who regularly process payments. 

How the Scam Works: Scammers send invoices for services never rendered, hoping the payment will be processed without review. 

Common Red Flags 

• Unexpected invoices
• Vague service descriptions
• Slight changes to vendor payment details

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify all invoices against contracts and purchase orders
• Implement internal approval processes

What to Do If You're Targeted - Do not pay and alert internal teams or vendors. 

28. Subscription Renewal Scams 

Subscription renewal scams exploit familiarity and routine payments. 

How the Scam Works: Victims receive notices claiming a subscription is expiring and must be renewed immediately. 

Common Red Flags 

• Unrecognized subscriptions
• Pressure to renew immediately
• Requests for payment via unusual methods

How to Protect Yourself

• Review subscription lists regularly
• Contact companies directly to confirm renewals

What to Do If You're Targeted - Avoid payment and report the scam. 

29. Business Email Compromise (BEC) 

BEC scams target organizations by impersonating trusted contacts. 

How the Scam Works: Scammers gain access to or spoof business email accounts and request payments or sensitive information. 

Common Red Flags

• Unusual payment requests
• Changes in payment instructions
• Requests for secrecy

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify requests through secondary channels
• Train staff on email security

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Report immediately to your financial institution and IT team.

30. Payroll Diversion Scams 

Payroll diversion scams target employees and payroll departments. 

How the Scam Works: Scammers impersonate employees and request changes to direct deposit information. 

Common Red Flags

• Last-minute change requests
• Requests sent outside normal processes

How to Protect Yourself

• Require verification for payroll changes
• Use secure HR portals

What to Do If You're Targeted -Freeze changes immediately and notify affected parties.  

31. ATM Skimming: Protect Your Card From Hidden Devices 

ATM skimming occurs when criminals attach small devices to ATMs or point-of-sale terminals to steal card information. 

How the Scam Works: Skimmers capture card numbers and PINs when a card is inserted. Fraudsters then create counterfeit cards or access accounts to steal funds. 

Common Red Flags

• Loose or bulky card slots
• Cameras positioned near the keypad
• ATMs in poorly lit or isolated locations

How to Protect Yourself

• Inspect the ATM before use
• Cover your PIN when typing
• Use ATMs in secure, well-monitored locations
• Monitor account activity regularly

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Report the fraud to your financial institution immediately and request a card replacement. 

32. Fake Mobile Banking Apps 

Fraudsters create counterfeit banking apps to steal login credentials and personal data. 

How the Scam Works: Victims download apps from unofficial sources or click links in phishing messages. The app mimics the real bank, capturing usernames, passwords, and sometimes even multi-factor codes. 

Common Red Flags 

• Apps not listed in official app stores
• Requests for unusual personal information
• Poor grammar or design inconsistencies

How to Protect Yourself

• Only download apps from verified app stores
• Compare app details with the official financial institution's website
• Enable multi-factor authentication

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Delete the app immediately, change passwords, and contact your financial institution.

33. Social Media Marketplace Scams 

Buying or selling items on social media platforms can expose you to fraud. 

How the Scam Works - Scammers post fake items for sale or pose as buyers. They may request payment upfront and never deliver goods, or provide counterfeit products. 

Common Red Flags 

• Offers that seem too good to be true
• Requests for payment outside the platform (wire transfer, gift card)
• Reluctance to provide verifiable details

How to Protect Yourself

• Conduct transactions in person or via secure platforms
• Research sellers and buyers thoroughly
• Avoid sending money to unknown parties

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Report the account to the platform and notify your financial institution if funds were sent.

34. Impersonation of Family or Friends 

Scammers often pose as loved ones in distress to exploit your trust. 

How the Scam Works: You may receive emails, calls, or messages claiming a family member is in an emergency and needs money quickly. Scammers pressure victims to act without verification. 

Common Red Flags 

• Urgent requests for money
• Requests for secrecy
• Unusual payment methods (gift cards, wire transfers, P2P apps)

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify the situation through direct contact with the family member
• Be cautious with unexpected financial requests

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Do not send money and report the incident to local authorities or your financial institution. 

35. Emergency Scams 

Emergency scams exploit fear and urgency to coerce immediate action. 

How the Scam Works: Scammers create fictitious crises—accidents, arrests, or sudden financial problems—and demand immediate payment to resolve them. 

Common Red Flags 

• High-pressure, time-sensitive requests
• Threats of legal action or loss of property
• Unusual payment methods

How to Protect Yourself

• Take time to verify claims
• Contact relevant authorities or institutions directly
• Avoid sending money in panic

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Stop communication and report the incident to authorities and your financial institution.

36. Military Romance Scams 

These scams specifically target those who develop relationships with people claiming to be deployed service members. 

How the Scam Works - Fraudsters create elaborate stories, including military jargon and personal hardships, to gain trust. They eventually request money for “travel,” “medical emergencies,” or “equipment.” 

Common Red Flags 

• Requests for financial help from someone you've never met
• Claims of deployment preventing in-person meetings
• Requests for secrecy

How to Protect Yourself

• Be cautious with online relationships that escalate quickly
• Verify any claims independently
• Avoid sending money to strangers

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Stop communication immediately and report the account to the platform and law enforcement. 

37. Fake Online Stores 

Online shopping scams involve fake e-commerce websites designed to steal money or personal information. 

How the Scam Works: Victims may pay for goods that are never delivered or provide personal information that is later used for fraud. 

Common Red Flags 

• Extremely low prices compared to market value
• Unsecured websites (no HTTPS)
• Limited or suspicious contact information

How to Protect Yourself

• Shop on reputable websites
• Check reviews and verify contact information
• Use secure payment methods (credit cards or trusted platforms)

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Report the website to consumer protection agencies and monitor your accounts for unauthorized transactions. 

38. Counterfeit Goods Scams 

These scams involve selling fake branded merchandise as authentic. 

How the Scam Works - Scammers advertise products from popular brands at unusually low prices. Buyers receive counterfeit items or nothing at all. 

Common Red Flags

• Prices far below retail
• No official retailer verification
• Poor quality product images or descriptions

How to Protect Yourself

• Purchase from authorized retailers
• Research the brand's official website for approved sellers
• Avoid deals that seem too good to be true

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Report the seller and request a chargeback if payment was made. 

39. Travel Scams 

Travel scams target people seeking vacations, flights, or accommodations. 

How the Scam Works: Fraudsters advertise fake travel deals, rentals, or tours, often requiring upfront payment. Victims may discover the deal does not exist upon arrival or after payment. 

Common Red Flags

• Deals significantly below market rates
• Pressure to pay immediately
• Requests for unusual payment methods

How to Protect Yourself

• Book travel through reputable agencies or platforms
• Research reviews and contact providers directly
• Use secure payment methods

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Report the scam to consumer protection agencies and request a refund if possible. 

40. Fake Refund Scams 

These scams involve fraudsters claiming you are owed a refund to steal money or personal information. 

How the Scam Works: Victims receive messages claiming a refund is due, prompting them to enter payment or banking information. Scammers may also request payment to “process” the refund. 

Common Red Flags

• Unexpected refund notifications
• Requests for personal or financial information
• Instructions to pay a fee to receive a refund

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify refunds directly with the retailer or institution
• Avoid providing sensitive information to unsolicited contacts

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Do not respond, and report the scam to the institution and consumer protection authorities. 

41. Loan Scams: When Offers Are Too Good to Be True 

Loan scams target individuals seeking quick financing. 

How the Scam Works: Scammers advertise loans with low interest rates or guaranteed approval. They often request upfront fees for processing or “insurance,” but the loan never materializes. 

Common Red Flags

• Requests for payment before loan approval
• Guaranteed loans regardless of credit history
• Pressure to act immediately

How to Protect Yourself

• Work with reputable lenders
• Never pay upfront fees for a loan
• Research the lender's credentials

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Stop all payments and report the scam to your bank and consumer protection agencies. 

42. Payday Loan Scams 

Payday loan scams prey on individuals in urgent need of cash. 

How the Scam Works: Fraudsters promise fast cash, often with minimal requirements. Victims may be charged excessive fees or never receive the loan. 

Common Red Flags 

• Promises of guaranteed approval
• Requests for advance fees
• No formal application process

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify lender licensing
• Read terms carefully before borrowing
• Consider alternatives like credit unions or local assistance programs

What to Do If You’re Targeted -  Discontinue communication and report the lender to regulatory authorities. 

43. Student Loan Forgiveness Scams 

Student loan forgiveness scams target borrowers seeking debt relief. 

How the Scam Works: Scammers claim they can guarantee loan forgiveness or expedite applications for a fee. 

Common Red Flags 

• Upfront payments for guaranteed results
• Requests for personal information
• Pressure to act quickly

How to Protect Yourself

• Work directly with the Department of Education or your loan servicer
• Never pay fees for information freely available

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Stop payments and report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). 

44. Medical Billing Scams 

Medical billing scams exploit the complexity of healthcare billing. 

How the Scam Works: Victims receive bills for services they never received or inflated charges. Scammers may impersonate insurance companies or healthcare providers. 

Common Red Flags 

• Unexpected medical bills
• Request for immediate payment
• Requests for payment through an unusual method

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify charges with the provider
• Compare bills with insurance statements
• Monitor your Explanation of Benefits (EOB)

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Do not pay until verified and report suspicious activity. 

45. Insurance Scams 

Insurance scams involve fraudulent policies or claims manipulation. 

How the Scam Works: Scammers may offer fake policies or submit claims in your name. Victims may pay premiums for nonexistent coverage or have claims denied due to fraud. 

Common Red Flags

• Unlicensed agents or companies
• Unsolicited offers
• Requests for personal information

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify agent licensing
• Confirm policies directly with reputable insurers

What to Do If You're Targeted - Report the fraud to your insurer and state insurance regulator.

46. Fake Debt Collection Calls 

Fraudulent debt collectors use fear to coerce payment. 

How the Scam Works: Scammers claim you owe money and threaten legal action. They may provide false account information or demand payment via unconventional methods. 

Common Red Flags 

• Threats of immediate legal consequences
• Requests for payment via gift cards or wire transfers
• Inability to provide verifiable account information

How to Protect Yourself

• Request written validation of the debt
• Contact the legitimate creditor directly

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Do not pay until verified. Report fraudulent collectors to the FTC. 

47. Elder Financial Exploitation 

Scammers often target older adults who may be more trusting or isolated. 

How the Scam Works: Criminals use phone, mail, online, or in-person tactics to gain access to money or assets. 

Common Red Flags 

• Urgent financial requests from strangers
• Pressure to sign documents quickly
• New "advisors" offering help with finances

How to Protect Yourself

• Discuss financial matters with trusted family members
• Be cautious with unsolicited advice or offers
• Monitro accounts for unusual activity

What to Do If You're Targeted - Report abuse to Adult Protective Services and financial institutions immediately. 

48. Child Identity Theft 

Children are vulnerable targets for identity theft because their credit is often unused and unmonitored. 

How the Scam Works: Criminals use children’s personal information to open accounts or commit fraud, which can go undetected for years. 

Common Red Flags

• Bills or accounts appearing in a child's name
• Denials for benefits due to an unknown credit history

How to Protect Yourself

• Monitor children's credit reports annually
• Protect Social Security numbers and personal documents
• Consider identity monitoring services for minors

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Report suspected theft to credit bureaus and law enforcement

49. Fake Financial Advisors 

Fraudulent financial advisors offer advice or investment opportunities with hidden risks. 

How the Scam Works: Scammers claim expertise, promise high returns, or sell unregistered securities. They may pressure you into quick investment decisions. 

Common Red Flags 

• Guaranteed returns
• Requests for secrecy
• Lack of verifiable credentials

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify licenses with FINRA or the SEC
• Research their track record
• Avoid high-pressure sales tactics

What to Do If You’re Targeted - Stop all payments and report to regulatory authorities.

50. How to Report a Scam 

Knowing how and where to report scams helps protect you and others. 

Key Steps

1. Contact your financial institution immediately if money or personal information is involved.
2. File a report with the FTC at ftc.gov or call 1-877-FTC-HELP.
3. Notify local law enforcement of fraud involving substantial financial loss.
4.  Report online scams to the platform or social networks.

Tips for Reporting

• Gather all relevant documentation, including emails, messages and screenshots.
• Provide details about dates, amounts, and the scammer's contact information.
• Acting quickly improves the chance of recovery. 

We've partnered with IdentityIQ services to offer $1 million in identity theft insurance, dark web monitoring, real-time fraud, Social Security alerts, and much more. Rates begin at only $4.99 per month for StagePoint members. Click for more info.