20 Types of Scams Explained
From Nigerian Prince emails to crypto pig butchering — know every major scam type, its red flags, and exactly how to protect yourself.
Advance Fee / 419 Scams
The original internet scam. A wealthy foreign official promises you millions if you help transfer money — then takes yours instead.
Romance Scams
Scammers build fake emotional relationships online to eventually steal money. Victims lose more per person than almost any other scam.
Phishing Email Scams
Fraudulent emails mimicking banks, PayPal, Amazon, or the IRS to steal your credentials and financial information.
Tech Support Scams
Fake Microsoft, Apple, or Google agents claim your computer has a virus and demand remote access or payment to "fix" it.
Cryptocurrency Investment Scams
Fake crypto platforms and "pig butchering" schemes promise massive returns then disappear with your investment.
Lottery & Prize Scams
You've won a lottery you never entered! Just pay the "taxes" or "processing fees" to claim your prize.
Fake Job Offer Scams
Fake recruiters offer high-paying work-from-home jobs, then steal your personal info or money through "training" fees.
IRS & Tax Scams
Fraudsters impersonate the IRS claiming you owe back taxes and face arrest unless you pay immediately in gift cards or wire transfer.
Social Security Scams
Callers claiming to be the SSA say your Social Security number has been suspended due to criminal activity — pay now or face arrest.
Fake Charity Scams
Fraudsters exploit disasters and emotional events by creating fake charities that steal donations meant for victims.
Online Shopping Scams
Fake online stores take your money and deliver counterfeit goods, nothing at all, or steal your payment information.
Rental Scams
Fake landlords advertise properties they don't own, collect deposits and first month's rent, then disappear.
Business Email Compromise (BEC)
Sophisticated attacks where criminals impersonate executives or vendors to trick businesses into wire transferring funds.
Grandparent Scams
Callers pretend to be a grandchild in trouble (arrested, injured) and beg for bail money before parents find out.
Puppy & Pet Scams
Fake pet breeders post adorable photos of puppies, collect deposits, then demand more money for nonexistent shipping or vet fees.
Fake Check & Overpayment Scams
Scammers send real-looking checks, ask you to deposit them and wire back the "overpayment" — then the check bounces and you owe the bank.
Gift Card Scams
Scammers demand payment in gift cards (Google Play, iTunes, Amazon) because they are nearly impossible to trace or recover.
SMS Phishing (Smishing)
Fraudulent text messages impersonating USPS, FedEx, banks, or the IRS to steal credentials or install malware.
Investment & Ponzi Schemes
Fraudulent investment opportunities promising guaranteed above-market returns, funded by new investors instead of actual profits.
Social Media Impersonation Scams
Fake accounts impersonate celebrities, brands, or your friends to promote scams, steal credentials, or solicit money.
Think You Know Your Scams?
Put your knowledge to the test with our 15-question Scam IQ Quiz.