Recognizing Scams

What is a Scam?

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Online scams are often designed to steal personal information or money. Have you ever gotten a realistic email asking to click their link? Scammers may pose as trusted companies, send urgent messages, or offer deals that seem too good to be true. Common types include phishing emails, fake websites, social media scams, and online shopping fraud.
Telephone
Scammers use phone calls to trick people, sometimes even using AI to mimic real voices. They might pretend to be from the government, tech support, or a contest you “won,” all to pressure you into giving up personal information or money. If a call feels off, trust your gut—hang up and verify!

Common Scam Types

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Phishing

Phishing is when scammers pretend to be someone you trust—like a bank, company, or even a friend—to steal your personal information. Their messages may look real but often have small red flags, like urgent language, strange sender addresses, or links that don’t match the real website. Further down, we'll show you how to spot those flags and stay safe.
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Imposter

Imposter scams happen when a scammer pretends to be a loved one in trouble, urgently asking for money or personal information. They might contact you through a call, text, or email, sometimes using AI to mimic real voices. Watch for unusual requests, pressure to act fast, or demands for untraceable payments like gift cards or wire transfers. If something feels off, pause and verify before responding!
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Tech Support

Tech support scams trick people into thinking their computer or device has a virus or security issue. Scammers may call pretending to be from a well-known company or use pop-ups that warn of a serious problem. Their goal is to get remote access to your device or convince you to pay for fake repairs.
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Investment

Investment opportunity scams promise high returns with little risk, often targeting people looking to grow their savings. Scammers may pressure you into investing in fake stocks, cryptocurrency, or other financial schemes, claiming they’re exclusive or time-sensitive. They often use persuasive tactics to make the offer seem too good to pass up.