Knowledge is power: learn about these scams
Bank impersonation scams
In bank impersonation scams, fraudsters pretend to be representatives from your financial institution. They may contact you by phone, email, or text, claiming there’s suspicious activity on your account or that urgent action is needed. These scammers often use official-sounding language and may spoof caller IDs or email addresses to appear legitimate. They’ll ask for sensitive information like your account number, login credentials, or one-time passcodes to gain access to your account.
Elder schemes
Elder scams are fraudulent schemes that specifically target individuals aged 60 or older. Scammers may use a variety of tactics to exploit victims for financial gain, including unsolicited contact, urgency and fear tactics, requests for money or personal information, and “too good to be true” solicitations. You should never provide any personal or sensitive information over the phone or email, and if you think you’re being targeted, cease contact immediately and call a trusted friend or family member, or law enforcement.
Investment schemes
Investment scams trick people by promising large investment returns that seem too good to be true, because they are. Scammers will tell you that you’ll likely make a lot of money quickly or easily with little to no risk — usually by investing in the financial markets, cryptocurrency, real estate, or precious metals and coins. Instead, they take your money for themselves.
Tax season schemes
Victims can be especially vulnerable during tax season. A scammer could send you messages about your tax refund or e-statement that seem legitimate but aim to steal your personal information. Don’t click any links as they may lead to identity theft or malware.
Romance fraud schemes
In romance scams, a criminal uses a fake online identity to gain a victim's affection and trust. The scammer then uses the illusion of a romantic relationship to manipulate and steal money from their victim.
Employment fraud schemes
When looking for a new job, you may encounter posts or communications advertising fake jobs or career opportunities that could potentially be used to steal your personal information or money. You could also be contacted with a criminal offering a job opportunity by opening new bank accounts and being compensated for doing that. Once you open the accounts using your personal information, they could take over the account and you could be a victim of financial fraud.
See more common schemes.
