How to Spot and Avoid Scams

Why Scams Are So Common

Scammers target everyone, but they especially target people who are newer to technology. They count on you not knowing the warning signs. The good news is that once you learn what to look for, scams become easy to spot.

Remember this rule: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. And if someone is rushing you to act fast, that's a major warning sign.

The Most Common Scams

1. Phishing Emails

"Phishing" is when scammers pretend to be a company you trust (like your bank, Amazon, or Apple) to trick you into giving them your information.

Red flags to look for:

• Urgency - "Act now!" or "Only 24 hours!"
• Threats - "Your account will be closed"
• Strange email address - Like "amazon-security@gmail.com" instead of "@amazon.com"
• Spelling mistakes - Real companies proofread their emails
• Asking for passwords - Legitimate companies NEVER ask for your password via email

What to do:

Don't click links in the email. Instead, open a new browser window and go directly to the real website (type amazon.com yourself). If there's really a problem, you'll see it when you log in.

2. Phone Call Scams

Scammers call pretending to be from Microsoft, the IRS, Social Security, or even your bank.

The truth:

• Microsoft will NEVER call you about a virus
• The IRS will NEVER call demanding immediate payment
• Your bank will NEVER call asking for your full password
• Social Security will NEVER threaten to arrest you over the phone

What to do:

Hang up. If you're worried it might be real, call the company back using a number from their official website or your statement - NOT a number the caller gives you.

3. Crypto and Investment Scams

These scams promise huge returns with little or no risk. They're especially common on social media.

Red flags:

• Guaranteed returns - No investment is guaranteed
• "Send money to receive more money" - This is ALWAYS a scam
• Celebrity endorsements - Usually fake or stolen
• Pressure to act fast - "Only 50 spots left!"
• Can't explain how it works - Real investments have clear explanations

4. Romance Scams

Scammers create fake profiles on dating sites or social media, build a relationship with you, then eventually ask for money.

Warning signs:

• They can never video chat (always have an excuse)
• They claim to be overseas (military, oil rig worker, doctor abroad)
• The relationship moves very fast ("I love you" within days)
• Eventually they have an "emergency" and need money

What to do:

Never send money to someone you haven't met in person. Real romantic interests won't ask you for money.

5. Tech Support Scams

Pop-ups appear on your screen saying your computer is infected and to call a number for help.

The truth: Real virus warnings don't include phone numbers. Microsoft doesn't monitor your personal computer.

What to do:

• Don't call the number
• Don't click anything on the pop-up
• Press and hold the power button to turn off your computer
• Wait 30 seconds, turn it back on - the pop-up will be gone

General Rules to Stay Safe

What to Do If You've Been Scammed

If you think you've fallen for a scam:

1. Don't be embarrassed - Scammers are professionals who trick millions of people
2. Contact your bank immediately if you shared financial information
3. Change your passwords for any accounts that may be compromised
4. Report the scam to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
5. Tell family and friends so they don't fall for the same scam