These scams often rely on trust or emotional connection, whether through online relationships, job opportunities, or investment offers that appear promising. Scammers use personal stories, urgency, and false credentials to build confidence before asking for money or information. Understanding their tactics can help you avoid becoming a target and safeguard your financial well-being.
A scammer pretends to be a grandchild or family member in urgent trouble. They may say they were arrested, injured, or stranded and need money immediately. They often beg you not to tell anyone else, which helps keep the scam secret. The emotional pressure can make the situation feel real.
Always verify with another family member before acting.
Scammers mail or email fake checks as part of job offers, online sales, or prizes. They ask you to deposit the check and return part of the money. After a few days, the bank discovers the check is fake, and the entire amount is removed from your account. These scams take advantage of delays in the check-clearing process.
Never send money based on a check from someone you don’t know well.
Scammers build fake relationships online to gain trust and affection. After forming a connection, they ask for money to cover emergencies, travel costs, or personal crises. They often claim they cannot meet in person due to work or military service. These stories are designed to create sympathy and urgency.
If someone you haven’t met asks for money, it’s most likely a scam.
Fake job scams promise quick hiring, high pay, or flexible work-from-home opportunities. Scammers may ask for personal information, upfront payments, or request you to deposit checks as part of “training.” The checks are fake, leaving you responsible for the loss.
Real employers do not charge fees or send money before you start work.
Investment scams promise guaranteed returns, special opportunities, or insider information. Scammers convince victims to send money to fake platforms or cryptocurrency wallets. These schemes appear professional and may even show fake “earnings.” Once money is sent, it’s rarely recoverable.
Real investments carry risk and are never guaranteed.
These scams promise high returns but rely on new participants’ money to pay earlier ones. They often involve recruitment, with bonuses for bringing in friends or family. The schemes collapse when they run out of new participants, leaving most people with losses. Scammers may use complex language to hide the truth.
If profit depends on recruiting others, it’s probably a scam.