floridabar.org
· 2026-03-21
Judge Lori Vaughan: 'As you can imagine, a big portion of our presentation is how to recognize and avoid financial scams; they’re everywhere now. I feel like every time we identify...
wyomingnews.com
· 2026-03-21
A large “beware of scams” sign on display at a gift card aisle in a store.
SARATOGA — In 2024, Wyoming residents lost $43 million to scams, Bank of Commerce and CEO Copper France ...
buffalobulletin.com
· 2026-03-21
SARATOGA — In 2024, Wyoming residents lost $43 million to scams, Bank of Commerce and CEO Copper France told Saratoga seniors last week.
“You’re not alone,” he said. “Just unders...
henricocitizen.com
· 2026-03-18
Dear Savvy Senior,My adult kids keep warning me about scams, but it’s hard to know which calls and messages are dangerous. What scams are most commonly aimed at seniors right now?-...
cybersecurityventures.com
· 2026-03-18
Sausalito, Calif. – Mar. 17, 2026
– Read the full story in Eureka Street
Mark Gaetani, National President of the St Vincent de Paul Society in Australia, recently read in Cybercr...
nationaltoday.com
· 2026-03-17
By the People, for the People
News
Older adults are often targeted by fraudsters, but awareness and caution can help protect against financial losses.
Mar. 16, 2026 at 12:00am
...
mynbc5.com
· 2026-03-14
After a phishing scheme tricked a Vermont municipal district into wiring $3 million to scammers, a cybersecurity expert says the case should be a wake-up call to organizations ever...
welch.senate.gov
· 2026-03-14
Mar 13, 2026
Vermonters lose millions of dollars to online fraud schemes every year
The SCAM Act is supported by The Vermont Country Store
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter ...
shorelinemedia.net
· 2026-03-12
Dear Savvy Senior,
My adult kids keep warning me about scams, but it’s hard to know which calls and messages are dangerous. What scams are most commonly aimed at seniors right now...
newsroom.paypal-corp.com
· 2026-03-10
PayPal and Venmo take our commitment to protect our customers very seriously, and we want to arm you with the information you need to stay safe. Scammers are getting smarter, but s...
lakecountyexam.com
· 2026-03-10
Dear Savvy Senior,
My adult kids keep warning me about scams, but it’s hard to know which calls and messages are dangerous. What scams are most commonly aimed at seniors right now...
wcax.com
· 2026-03-07
This report contains AI-generated images and videos created to show you the best ways to identify real versus AI.
EAST TAWAS, Mich. (Aging Untold) — An 84-year-old TikTok creator ...
rstreet.org
· 2026-02-27
On a normal summer day in June, Manny Guerrero, a soft-spoken Vietnam War veteran living in Las Vegas, picked up the phone and was told he had beaten the odds and won. The voice on...
patch.com
· 2026-02-27
MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP, PA — The Middletown Township Police Department is reporting a concerning trend in elder fraud cases within the community.
Recently, there have been numerous i...
boothbayregister.com
· 2026-02-21
People over 50 are particularly vulnerable to fraud, with over $11 million reported in scams during just a nine-month period in 2025, according to a presentation by Coastal Maine Regional Broadband and local police. Most scams involve impostors contacting victims through email, text, or phone with urgent messages designed to cloud judgment, sometimes building fake relationships over time to gain trust. To protect yourself, experts recommend verifying unexpected contacts directly with the person, avoiding clicking links or sharing passwords, watching for language errors and mismatched email addresses, and declining friend requests from people already in your network.
fauquier.com
· 2026-02-18
# Romance Scam Summary
Fauquier County authorities are warning of an increase in romance scams after a local man reported being defrauded by someone claiming to be "Angela BillieJo Arnold" in December. Detective Richard Hudson and Captain Kristi Kiernan have been educating seniors on how to recognize and avoid these scams, which typically involve criminals building fake romantic relationships to steal money. People should be cautious of online romantic interests who ask for money, verify identities through video calls, and report suspicious activity to local law enforcement.
alachuachronicle.com
· 2026-02-14
# Romance and Confidence Scams Warning
As Valentine's Day approaches, Operation Senior Shield warns of romance and confidence scams where fraudsters build trust with victims through online relationships or social networks, then manipulate them into sending money or sharing personal information over weeks or months. These scams often involve urgent requests for financial help, overly sympathetic stories, and pressure to act quickly without verification. To protect yourself, verify any financial requests independently, be cautious of people who quickly ask for money, and discuss suspicious requests with trusted friends or family before responding—if you suspect a scam, report it to the Florida Abuse Hotline (1-800-962-2873), the National Elder Fraud Hotline (833-372-8311), or the IC3 at complaint.ic3.gov.
gillettenewsrecord.com
· 2026-02-01
# Scams Cost Americans Billions in 2024
Scams and internet fraud have reached record levels, with the FBI reporting $16.6 billion in losses in 2024, and about 73% of U.S. adults experiencing some form of online scam or attack. Common schemes include counterfeit websites selling fake merchandise, fraudulent charities that exploit disasters, cryptocurrency investment scams, and fake debt collection demands. To protect yourself, verify charities before donating, avoid clicking suspicious links, be skeptical of unsolicited investment offers, and never pay on debts you don't recognize.
dailynorthwestern.com
· 2026-01-28
# Tap-to-Pay Scams Target Evanston Residents
Since early November, scammers in Evanston have conducted at least 14 tap-to-pay fraud schemes, costing individual residents thousands of dollars by posing as charity workers and requesting contactless card payments to access victims' financial information. Four suspects were arrested in December after police identified them engaging with victims on Chicago Avenue, though another incident occurred in January. To protect themselves, residents should avoid handing payment devices to strangers, verify charities before donating, monitor bank statements closely, and enable fraud alerts on their accounts.
thescottishsun.co.uk
· 2026-01-23
Rachel Munro, owner of The Rebel Baker in Scotland, lost £8,000 in a sophisticated phone scam where fraudsters impersonated her bank's fraud prevention team and gained access to her account. Although her bank Revolut initially refused to reimburse her because the payments were classified as "authorized," she launched a GoFundMe campaign to save her business. To protect yourself, be suspicious of unsolicited calls claiming to be from your bank, never provide account access over the phone, and hang up and call your bank directly using a number on your official bank card if you're unsure.
wrdw.com
· 2026-01-19
# Scams Rising Across the U.S.
Americans receive approximately 2.5 million scam and robocalls monthly, with scammers increasingly impersonating law enforcement to threaten arrest or demand payment via gift cards and wire transfers. In the Augusta area alone, ten of 22 counties have reported rising scam activity since November, including impersonations of local agencies like North Augusta Public Safety and major companies like Amazon and Georgia Power. To protect yourself, never provide personal information or payment to callers claiming to be law enforcement, verify suspicious calls by contacting the agency directly, and register your phone number on the Federal Trade Commission's Do Not Call list to reduce scam call volume.
ucalgary.ca
· 2026-01-14
Canadian seniors lost $38 million to fraud in 2021, with common scams including phishing, tech support scams, investment fraud, and charity fraud, according to research by University of Calgary graduate students Harshad Krishnaraj and Shah Zaib. The researchers found that seniors face increasing vulnerability as digital systems replace in-person services, and identified a critical gap in cybersecurity education and awareness programs specifically designed for older adults. Their award-winning research recommends developing targeted education programs and policy solutions to better protect seniors from these growing threats.
ashleycountyledger.com
· 2026-01-13
A man named Portier Guytan was convicted in January 2026 for running a financial scam that targeted an elderly Crossett resident, who was defrauded of $50,000 after being told he had won an $11 million Jamaican lottery. The scam began in May 2025 when the 76-year-old victim received a call from someone claiming he had won the lottery and needed to send money to claim his prize. To protect yourself from similar scams, be skeptical of unexpected lottery winnings or prize notifications, never send money upfront to claim prizes, and verify claims by contacting official authorities directly.
pbs.org
· 2026-01-09
Southeast Asia's online scam industry has stolen tens of billions of dollars worldwide by forcing hundreds of thousands of trafficked workers into labor camps where they're compelled to run "pig butchering" investment scams—starting with innocent messages to potential victims. While Cambodia's recent arrest and extradition of alleged kingpin Chen Zhi marks a rare victory, the industry remains extremely difficult to dismantle because scam operations quickly relocate or continue uninterrupted after raids, and victims are often trapped across multiple countries. To protect yourself, be suspicious of unsolicited job offers via text or social media, never click links from unknown contacts, and report suspicious messages to authorities rather than engaging with them.
yahoo.com
· 2026-01-02
# Holiday Scam Summary
During the 2024 holiday season, thousands of Americans fell victim to scams including fake shipping alerts, bogus discount sites, and non-delivery hoaxes that collectively resulted in over $785 million in losses. If you were scammed, the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center urges you to report it now, as victims often unknowingly hand over sensitive personal information or money that becomes difficult to recover. To protect yourself going forward, be cautious when clicking on shipping notifications, verify websites before making purchases, and carefully review your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges.
krmg.com
· 2025-12-29
Scammers are increasingly targeting businesses through tactics like impersonating bosses via spoofed emails to trick employees into purchasing gift cards, and by pitching fake AI business solutions to company leaders. The Better Business Bureau warns that these scams are particularly prevalent during the holiday season and as AI adoption grows. To protect your business, verify unusual requests directly with your boss in person and thoroughly research any new service providers or AI companies on the BBB website before signing contracts or making purchases.
americascreditunions.org
· 2025-12-29
This article highlights the most-read posts from America's Credit Unions Blog in 2025, covering how credit unions support members during crises, the importance of strategic planning, and community banking practices. Key takeaway: Members 1st Federal Credit Union demonstrated crisis preparedness during the federal shutdown by offering payment skips, deferred loans, and financial counseling—services that proved critical since previous shutdowns caused 27% of federal workers to miss mortgage/rent payments. For members facing financial hardship, the actionable advice is to proactively contact your credit union about flexible payment options and seek free financial counseling services rather than waiting until you fall behind.
safety.wechat.com
· 2025-12-28
# Fraud and Scams Summary
WeChat has outlined its policies against fraud and scams, which involve criminals using deception and false promises to steal money, personal information, or property from victims. The platform prohibits various types of scams including financial schemes (investment and loan scams, Ponzi schemes), dating and impersonation scams, fake job offers, identity fraud, and professional services fraud. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited offers, verify identities before sharing personal or financial information, and report suspicious content to WeChat.
vermontpublic.org
· 2025-12-25
# Holiday Season Fraud Alert
Nearly 9 out of 10 Americans were targeted by or fell victim to scams during the past holiday season, with common schemes including fake online stores selling counterfeit branded goods, fraudulent shipping notifications, stolen packages, and fake charity requests. To protect yourself, verify unfamiliar vendors by searching their name along with words like "scam" and "fraud," always pay with credit cards for better consumer protection, and be cautious about gift cards since scammers can steal numbers and PINs from store displays before they're purchased.
times-advocate.com
· 2025-12-25
# Charity Scams Summary
Scammers exploit people's generosity by impersonating legitimate charities through emails, texts, social media, phone calls, and fake websites, particularly during holidays and after disasters. To protect yourself while still giving, verify that charities are registered with the California Attorney General and have 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status with the IRS, avoid organizations that pressure you to donate immediately, and research unfamiliar charities through trusted resources like Charity Navigator before giving.
abc7ny.com
· 2025-12-24
During the holiday season, scammers impersonate charities through unsolicited calls, texts, and emails to steal money from generous donors, using high-pressure tactics and emotional appeals while requesting payment through untraceable methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency. To protect yourself, donate only to local organizations you know personally or verify charities through trusted sites like Charity Navigator and give.org, and remember that reputable charities will never ask for payment via gift cards, CashApp, or cryptocurrency. If you can't donate money, consider volunteering your time instead, which provides meaningful support without financial risk.
wmar2news.com
· 2025-12-23
During the holiday season, scammers exploit consumers' generosity, increased online shopping, and decision-making urgency by using tactics like AI-generated fake ads, phishing emails, drained gift cards, and fraudulent job or loan offers. People of all backgrounds are vulnerable, particularly those under financial pressure or seeking holiday deals and charitable giving opportunities. To protect yourself, avoid clicking links in emails or ads—instead go directly to official websites or contact companies using verified contact information, and be skeptical of unsolicited offers promising easy money or prizes.
pandasecurity.com
· 2025-12-23
Telegram scams have surged as the messaging app's user base has grown to over 1 billion, with scammers exploiting the platform's privacy features and anonymity to conduct various frauds—including crypto pump-and-dump schemes, fake investment projects, phishing attacks, and customer service impersonations. Users are particularly vulnerable because scammers use urgent language, exclusive opportunities, and technical-looking websites to appear legitimate. To protect yourself, verify identities independently, avoid clicking suspicious links, never send money upfront for guaranteed returns, and report fraudulent accounts immediately.
yahoo.com
· 2025-12-23
During the holiday season, scammers increasingly target shoppers through fraudulent emails, texts, and websites disguised as legitimate communications. Consumers can use AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Gemini as free tools to verify suspicious messages by analyzing them for red flags such as urgent language, requests for secrecy, grammar errors, and illegitimate sender details. If you receive any questionable communication about purchases, donations, or tech insurance, simply copy and paste it into a chatbot to check its legitimacy before responding or providing any personal information.
katc.com
· 2025-12-22
# Holiday Scam Summary
As holiday shopping rushes intensify, scammers are targeting shoppers—particularly seniors—with fake online storefronts that mimic legitimate brand websites and offer deals that seem too good to be true. Research shows 62% of people 65 and older have fallen victim to these schemes, with seniors losing an estimated $1.5 billion to fraud in just the first half of the year. To stay safe, shoppers should verify website addresses carefully, be skeptical of unusually steep discounts, and avoid clicking on ads or links from unfamiliar sources, especially during the holiday season.
laist.com
· 2025-12-21
During the holiday season, nearly 9 out of 10 U.S. adults have been targeted by scams, with common schemes including fake shipping notifications, stolen packages, and fraudulent charity requests. Scammers exploit the stress and distraction of holiday shopping by creating fake social media stores selling counterfeit branded items that disappear after purchase. To protect yourself, research unfamiliar vendors by searching for "scam" or "fraud" alongside their name, always pay with a credit card for better consumer protections, and be cautious when purchasing gift cards that scammers may have already compromised.
spectrumlocalnews.com
· 2025-12-17
Throughout 2025, Hawaii residents fell victim to increasingly sophisticated scams, including phone impersonations of police officers and sheriffs who falsely claimed victims had legal issues and demanded payment via gift cards or other methods. Law enforcement agencies warned the public that legitimate police officers never request payments over the phone and urged residents to be skeptical of unsolicited calls claiming to be from authorities. To protect yourself, hang up on unexpected calls from law enforcement, independently verify any legal claims by contacting your local police department directly, and never purchase gift cards or send money in response to phone calls.
zdnet.com
· 2025-12-17
# Holiday Scams Summary
The US Treasury warns that cybercriminals are increasingly exploiting the holiday season through three main scams: business impersonation (fake emails and websites spoofing trusted companies), gift card draining, and fraudulent social media ads promoting discounted products that are never delivered. These scams are becoming more sophisticated as criminals use AI to impersonate trusted brands and companies, making them harder to detect. To protect yourself, verify websites directly before entering payment information, be skeptical of unusually low prices, avoid clicking links in unsolicited emails, and purchase gift cards only from authorized retailers.
spectrumnews1.com
· 2025-12-17
During the 2024 holiday season, Ohio residents and people nationwide face a surge of sophisticated scams that have cost Americans over $50 billion between 2020 and 2024, with the most common schemes including fake shipping alerts, fake urgent requests from authority figures for gift cards, convincing charity impersonations, phishing for loyalty points, and dangerous public Wi-Fi networks. Consumers of all ages are vulnerable during the busy holiday period when scammers exploit the seasonal chaos to catch people off guard. To protect yourself, take a few seconds to verify shipping notifications directly through official retailer websites, never respond to unexpected urgent requests for gift cards, donate only through official charity channels you've verified independently, avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages, and avoid conducting sensitive transactions on public Wi-Fi networks.
infosecurity-magazine.com
· 2025-12-17
During the Christmas shopping season, internet users face a surge of sophisticated AI-powered scams, with security experts detecting over 33,500 phishing emails and 10,000 fraudulent social media ads in just two weeks. Scammers are using AI to create convincing fake delivery notices, e-commerce websites, and charity appeals in flawless local languages, with fake delivery scams increasing 100% compared to last year. To protect yourself, remain skeptical of unsolicited messages and deals, verify websites before entering payment information, avoid clicking links in unexpected delivery notifications, and be wary of social media giveaway claims—especially from newly created accounts.
tradingview.com
· 2025-12-17
During the holiday season, cryptocurrency users face increased scam risks as cybercriminals exploit increased online activity, heightened emotions, and distraction to trick people into fraudulent schemes like phishing emails, fake wallet apps, and bogus investment opportunities. Crypto users are particularly vulnerable because cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible, making it difficult or impossible to recover stolen funds. To stay protected, users should avoid clicking suspicious links, verify wallet addresses carefully, and take time to authenticate requests before conducting any crypto transactions, especially during busy holiday periods.
okmagazine.com
· 2025-12-16
During the holiday season, when scams spike, many fraud victims are discovering that their stolen funds may be recoverable through professional recovery services rather than accepting their loss in silence. Common scams include cryptocurrency fraud, romance schemes, and fake charities, which prey on people's heightened emotions and vulnerability between November and January. Victims should overcome shame and embarrassment by seeking help from legitimate recovery specialists who use forensic analysis and legal action to trace stolen assets, as experts emphasize that recovery attempts are constructive steps rather than admissions of defeat.
bitdefender.com
· 2025-12-14
During the holiday season, scammers target families—especially seniors—through fake shopping sites, delivery scams, charity fraud, and impersonation schemes, taking advantage of increased online shopping and emotional vulnerability. Grandparents are particularly at risk when searching for gifts or receiving urgent messages claiming a relative needs help. To protect your family, use free verification tools like Link Checker to verify suspicious URLs and Scamio to review questionable messages or charity requests before engaging with them.
postandcourier.com
· 2025-12-14
The Better Business Bureau warns consumers about multiple holiday scams targeting shoppers and generous donors, including fake websites, phishing emails with malware, fraudulent charity solicitations, and impersonation scams claiming family members need emergency money. Those affected include online shoppers, parents receiving fake Santa letters, job seekers, and anyone approached for charitable donations. To stay safe, use credit cards on secure websites (look for https and lock symbols), verify charity legitimacy at give.org before donating, confirm emergency requests with family members before sending money, and be skeptical of unsolicited emails and shipping notifications.
victoriaadvocate.com
· 2025-12-14
The Better Business Bureau warns consumers about 12 common holiday scams, including fake online purchases, fraudulent gift exchanges, malicious apps, phishing emails, and employment scams that exploit increased holiday shopping, travel, and job searching. To protect themselves, consumers should avoid clicking unsolicited links, paying via wire transfer or gift cards, downloading unfamiliar apps, and should verify requests directly with official sources rather than through provided contact information. Being cautious with social media ads, unsolicited messages, and requests for personal information can help avoid falling victim to these schemes during the holiday season.
cobbcountycourier.com
· 2025-12-13
Georgia's Secretary of State's Office has launched efforts to protect residents from holiday scams, particularly through the SPEAR Act program targeting seniors, but evidence suggests younger adults may actually be more vulnerable to scams than older Georgians despite their presumed tech-savviness. Common holiday scams include gift card fraud and compromised charity emails where scammers impersonate legitimate organizations. The article advises consumers to research before donating and highlights that scammers remain active year-round, suggesting people of all ages need protection and awareness regardless of their technological skills.
pcmag.com
· 2025-12-13
# Holiday Shopping Scam Summary
During the holiday season, scammers target shoppers at an alarming rate—one in five Americans reports being scammed, losing an average of $840 per person. Security experts recommend avoiding online shopping when possible by shopping in-store instead, and if you must shop online, turn off notifications and set aside dedicated, distraction-free time to make purchases carefully. Using security tools like shopping tracker browser extensions can also help verify that websites are legitimate before you enter payment information.
wfxg.com
· 2025-12-12
# Holiday Scam Summary
An FBI Special Agent warned consumers that holiday scams are particularly prevalent during the festive season, targeting vulnerable populations including the elderly through charity donation schemes, romance scams, and fraudulent shopping transactions. Scammers take advantage of the holiday spirit and increased loneliness to lower people's guards and extract money or personal information. To protect yourself, talk to vulnerable family members about potential scams, be cautious of unsolicited calls or online connections, and report any suspected fraud immediately to your bank and at ic3.gov, as quick reporting significantly increases the chances of stopping fraudulent transactions.
fox21online.com
· 2025-12-11
The Better Business Bureau warns consumers about 12 common holiday scams, including fraudulent social media ads, fake job postings, misleading donation requests, and pyramid schemes like "Secret Santa" exchanges that trick people into sending money to strangers and sharing personal information. Consumers are frequently victimized through online purchase scams, counterfeit goods, unauthorized subscription charges, and payment methods like wire transfers and gift cards that are difficult to reverse. To protect yourself, research businesses and read reviews on BBB.org before making purchases or donations, avoid clicking suspicious social media ads, never pay strangers through untraceable methods, and be skeptical of unsolicited messages and "too good to be true" holiday deals.
wataugademocrat.com
· 2025-12-11
During the holiday season, scammers target shoppers and donors through misleading social media ads, fake gift exchange schemes, and deceptive holiday apps that steal personal information or charge unauthorized fees. Consumers affected include online shoppers, social media users, and charitable donors who may unknowingly participate in pyramid schemes or receive counterfeit items. To protect yourself, research before buying anything online, avoid suspicious social media ads and direct messages from strangers, and never send payments via wire transfer, prepaid cards, or gift cards—especially to unknown recipients.
abc7chicago.com
· 2025-12-11
# Holiday Scam Summary
This holiday season, scammers are using artificial intelligence to create convincing fake websites, social media ads, and celebrity endorsements that trick shoppers—with one in five Americans falling victim and losing an average of $900. To protect yourself, experts recommend verifying websites by typing addresses directly into your browser, being skeptical of deeply discounted prices and urgent "buy now" offers, avoiding payments through money apps, and not clicking links in suspicious delivery emails or texts. Remember that if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
wvnews.com
· 2025-12-11
During the holiday season, scammers increasingly target senior citizens through charity fraud, fake online shopping websites, and phone impersonation schemes, exploiting the elderly's trust and less familiarity with modern technology while people are distracted by festivities and shopping. West Virginia's Secretary of State warns that fraudsters use emotional appeals and urgency to manipulate victims into donating to fake charities or providing credit card information for nonexistent purchases. To protect yourself, verify charities using the official list at erls.wvsos.gov, be cautious of unsolicited donation requests, avoid clicking suspicious links, and never share payment information without independently confirming the legitimacy of the organization or seller.
azfamily.com
· 2025-12-11
# Holiday Scam Summary
The FBI is warning holiday shoppers about a surge in scams two weeks before Christmas, including fake shopping emails with malicious links, fraudulent charity donation requests, and romance scams that exploit seasonal generosity. Scammers use increasingly sophisticated AI-generated emails and texts that look legitimate to steal personal and financial information from victims. To protect yourself, avoid clicking links in promotional emails, go directly to official websites to verify sales, research charities before donating, and take time to pause and verify suspicious messages rather than acting out of urgency.
wtoc.com
· 2025-12-11
# Holiday Shopping Scam Warning
The FBI is warning online shoppers about increasingly sophisticated holiday scams that use artificial intelligence to deceive victims, with cybercriminals targeting everyone regardless of age or tech-savviness. To protect yourself, avoid clicking suspicious ads or links, verify deals directly on official websites, inspect sender details in emails and texts, use password managers, and never share multi-factor authentication codes. If you fall victim to a scam, report it immediately to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) within the first few hours, as authorities can sometimes stop transactions before money leaves the country.
abc15.com
· 2025-12-10
# Fraud Surge Targets Arizona Seniors
Arizona experienced a 20% surge in senior fraud reports in 2025, with over 7,000 victims losing nearly $67 million to holiday scammers who exploit increased online shopping and charitable giving. The most common schemes include fake online shopping websites, phishing messages about delayed packages, and bogus charity donation requests. Experts advise seniors to verify suspicious communications with trusted friends or family members before taking action, and emphasize that victims shouldn't feel ashamed as scammers are highly sophisticated and specifically target vulnerable populations.
aol.com
· 2025-12-10
Seniors are increasingly targeted by scammers who exploit their savings, home ownership, and relative unfamiliarity with technology to commit fraud. Common scams include unsolicited calls selling unnecessary products like medical-alert devices, lottery/prize schemes requiring upfront fees, and fake mobile health clinics that bill insurance and Medicare using stolen personal information. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited calls and emails, never pay upfront fees for prizes you've won, verify any medical services through official channels, and report suspicious activity to the FTC.
kpbs.org
· 2025-12-10
Elder scams cost San Diego County seniors $149 million in a single year, with scammers becoming increasingly sophisticated and targeting vulnerable populations during the holiday season and year-round. The San Diego District Attorney's Office is working to raise awareness about common scams and encourage reporting by removing the stigma and shame that often prevents seniors from coming forward, emphasizing that anyone—regardless of education or intelligence—can fall victim to these crimes. To protect yourself, stay vigilant about unsolicited contacts, verify requests through official channels before sharing personal information or money, and report suspected scams to local authorities rather than suffering in silence.
psychologytoday.com
· 2025-12-10
Political scams are surging, with scammers impersonating politicians and campaigns to trick voters into donating money, particularly targeting seniors like Susan J., whose grandmother nearly fell for a call from a cloned campaign phone number. Adults over 60 lost an estimated $1.9 billion to fraud in 2023 (possibly much more), with political scams representing a growing portion of that total as elections become more polarized and digitized. To protect yourself, pause before giving financial information over the phone, verify requests by contacting campaigns directly through official websites, and discuss suspicious calls with trusted friends or family before taking action.
psychologytoday.com
· 2025-12-09
Political scams are surging as scammers impersonate politicians and campaigns to trick voters into donating money or sharing personal information, with seniors being particularly vulnerable targets. One example involved a scammer cloning a real campaign's phone number to solicit donations, affecting millions including a politically engaged grandmother in Virginia. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited political calls asking for credit card information over the phone, verify requests through official campaign websites, and discuss suspicious messages with trusted neighbors or family members before responding.
wvva.com
· 2025-12-09
During the holiday season, scammers intensify their fraud schemes, targeting seniors who are often more trusting and polite, making them vulnerable to losing their retirement savings and pensions. West Virginia officials warn families to protect older loved ones by verifying charities through the official state registry before donating and being cautious of unsolicited phone and internet contacts. Anyone who suspects fraud should immediately report it to the Secretary of State's Investigations Division at 877-FRAUD-WV to help protect other seniors.
wnegradio.com
· 2025-12-09
Georgia's Secretary of State reports that holiday scams remain widespread, with 1,140 cases of senior exploitation reported since the SPEAR Act took effect, including 81 victims in November 2025 alone. Common scams targeting holiday shoppers and donors include gift card fraud, impersonation scams posing as family members requesting money, fake online shopping sites that don't deliver goods, and document fraud. Consumers are urged to stay vigilant by verifying requests for money or gift cards through direct contact, shopping only on secure websites, and reporting suspected fraud to authorities.
goldrushcam.com
· 2025-12-08
The Amador County Sheriff's Office warned the public of an ongoing telephone scam in which callers impersonate the Sheriff and demand payment for alleged missed federal grand jury duty. The Sheriff's Office clarified that they do not request payments over the phone for jury duty or any other matter, and urged recipients of such calls to hang up and contact the Sheriff's Office at 209-223-6500 rather than providing personal information or making payments.
wifr.com
· 2025-12-08
The Better Business Bureau warns consumers to remain vigilant against seasonal scams during the Labor Day weekend, noting that scammers exploit holiday distractions and increased spending activity. Common Labor Day scams include fake vacation rental listings, counterfeit event tickets, fraudulent websites mimicking legitimate sales, phishing emails and texts, door-to-door contractor schemes, and fake charities. The BBB recommends verifying vendors and websites, booking through trusted platforms, using official ticket vendors, researching charities before donating, and avoiding unsolicited ads and links.
escalontimes.com
· 2025-12-08
This educational article reports that online scams caused a record $16.6 billion in losses in 2024, with 73% of U.S. adults experiencing some form of online scam or attack. The article outlines common scam tactics (unsolicited contact, promises of easy money, requests for personal information or upfront payments) and describes six prevalent scam types including counterfeit merchandise, charity fraud, cryptocurrency investment fraud, bogus debts, home repair scams, and emergency/grandparent scams that specifically target seniors. Awareness of these warning signs can help individuals avoid becoming victims.
theriverbanknews.com
· 2025-12-08
This educational article reports that scams cost Americans $16.6 billion in 2024, with 73 percent of U.S. adults experiencing online scams or attacks. The piece outlines common red flags—unsolicited contact, promises of easy money, requests for personal information or upfront payments—and describes prominent scam types including counterfeit merchandise, charity fraud, cryptocurrency investment schemes, bogus debts, home repair scams, and emergency/grandparent scams that particularly target elderly individuals.
goldrushcam.com
· 2025-12-08
The Placer County Sheriff's Office warns of increasing fake tech support scams targeting seniors, where scammers impersonate Microsoft, Apple, and other legitimate companies by calling with claims of computer problems and requesting remote access to demand payment for unnecessary repairs. The advisory emphasizes that legitimate companies never initiate unsolicited calls about viruses and advises residents to hang up on unexpected tech support calls, avoid clicking suspicious pop-ups, never grant remote access to unknown parties, and consult trusted family members or local police when uncertain.
cbsnews.com
· 2025-12-08
The Better Business Bureau warned consumers to be vigilant against scams during Labor Day weekend, when scammers exploit increased holiday activity and consumer distraction. Common scams to watch for include vacation rental fraud, counterfeit event tickets, online shopping and charity scams, phishing communications, and home improvement fraud featuring artificially low prices and pressure for quick payment. The bureau recommends consumers take extra time to verify offers before making purchases and visit BBB.org for additional fraud prevention information.
staysafeonline.org
· 2025-12-08
This educational article outlines five common charity scams that exploit people's generosity, particularly following disasters: fake FEMA websites impersonating government relief agencies, fraudulent charities mimicking legitimate organizations, phony crowdfunding campaigns using false stories, scam contractors demanding upfront payment, and sketchy peer-to-peer payment requests. The article provides safety guidance including donating only through official charity websites verified on CharityNavigator.org, avoiding unsolicited links and payment methods like gift cards or wire transfers, and verifying contractor credentials before hiring.
newsbreak.com
· 2025-12-08
The article discusses a surge in impersonation scams targeting seniors, where scammers pose as government agencies or trusted businesses (like Amazon) to convince victims to transfer money for "protection," ultimately stealing it. The FTC reports a nearly 200% increase in reports of older Americans losing up to $10,000 since 2020, with a 400% increase in losses exceeding $100,000, and younger Americans are increasingly affected. The piece provides protective advice including being wary of money transfer requests, refusing demands for gift cards or cryptocurrency transfers, and hanging up to independently verify caller claims.
myfoxzone.com
· 2025-12-08
Texas seniors lost over $480 million to scams in 2024, ranking second nationally according to FBI data, with common schemes including charity fraud, romance scams, and jury duty threats targeting vulnerable older adults. Local organizations like San Angelo's Better Business Bureau and retirement communities are addressing the surge through education programs that teach seniors to recognize red flags, avoid panic-driven decisions, and report crimes without shame. Experts note that official complaint numbers likely underrepresent the true scope, as many victims fail to report due to embarrassment.
cleveland19.com
· 2025-12-08
Scammers impersonate legitimate charities and create fake donation sites following natural disasters like hurricanes, exploiting people's desire to help during high-emotion situations. In 2024, disaster relief scams cost Americans $3 billion overall, with the FBI receiving over 4,500 complaints totaling $96 million in losses. People should watch for red flags including unexpected contact combined with pressure to act quickly or requests for unusual payment methods, and should verify organizations through trusted sources before donating.
hackread.com
· 2025-12-08
Three Ghanaian men—Isaac Oduro Boateng, Inusah Ahmed, and Derrick Van Yeboah—were extradited to the United States in August 2025 to face charges for their roles in a $100 million fraud scheme involving romance scams targeting vulnerable elderly individuals and business email compromise attacks on companies. The criminals created fake online identities to gain victims' trust and convince them to send money, while also impersonating business executives to trick employees into wiring funds to fraudulent accounts; the stolen money was then laundered through West Africa. A fourth suspect, Patrick Kwame Asare, remains at large, and the defendants face multiple charges including wire frau
express.co.uk
· 2025-12-08
Lloyds Bank warned of a surge in football ticket scams ahead of the Premier League season, reporting over 2,400 fraud cases among its customers in the past two years with losses exceeding £500,000, and estimating at least 12,000 nationwide victims have lost over £2.5 million since the 2023/24 season. The scams, primarily targeting fans aged 25-34, involve fraudsters posting fake ticket listings on social media offering discounted or sold-out game tickets, then disappearing after victims pay via bank transfer without delivering tickets. The UK government joined Lloyds' "Stop! Think Fraud" campaign to advise supporters to purchase
goldrushcam.com
· 2025-12-08
**Military Consumer Fraud Alert** - California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a consumer protection alert warning service members, veterans, and their families about targeted scams, noting that military consumers nationwide reported over 99,400 fraud complaints last year, including 44,587 imposter scams costing victims and families over $199 million. The alert identifies common threats including charity scams (fake veteran organizations), predatory schools using high-pressure tactics to exploit GI Bill benefits, and home loan scams impersonating government agencies, advising consumers to pause on seemingly too-good-to-be-true offers and verify legitimacy before engaging.
unfilteredwithkiran.com
· 2025-12-08
Louisiana residents are warned of a summer surge in scams including vacation rental fraud, AI voice cloning impersonations, toll violation/DMV phishing texts, and jury duty scams. Scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics—from fake travel listings requiring upfront wire transfers to AI-generated voices claiming relatives are in emergencies—to steal identities and drain bank accounts. Authorities recommend victims verify requests through official channels, resist immediate action, and never provide personal information to unsolicited contacts.
oag.ca.gov
· 2025-12-08
California's Attorney General issued a consumer alert during Military Consumer Month warning service members, veterans, and their families about targeted scams, noting that military consumers reported over 99,400 fraud complaints nationwide last year, including 44,587 imposter scams costing over $199 million. The alert identifies key fraud tactics targeting the military community—including charity scams using deceptive veteran-related names, predatory for-profit schools using high-pressure tactics, and home loan scams impersonating government agencies—and advises victims to verify charities through the Registry of Charitable Trusts and to pause before accepting offers that seem too good to be true.
azag.gov
· 2025-12-08
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes and the Better Business Bureau launched an educational campaign warning consumers about AI voice cloning scams, where fraudsters use synthesized voices to impersonate loved ones, celebrities, or officials to extort money or solicit fake donations. Common targets include grandparents receiving calls about grandchildren in distress and parents receiving calls about injured children needing bail money. The agencies recommend verifying unexpected emergency calls by hanging up and calling the person directly through a trusted number, establishing code words with loved ones, avoiding unknown callers, and refusing requests for gift card or app-based payments.
griceconnect.com
· 2025-12-08
The Statesboro Police Department warned of three escalating phone scams targeting senior citizens in the area: Social Security fraud (claiming false benefits issues to extract personal information or payments), the "Grandparent" scam (impersonating grandchildren claiming emergencies to request wire transfers), and fake charity solicitations (posing as legitimate organizations to collect donations). The department advised seniors to never share personal or financial information over the phone, verify callers by contacting organizations directly, and report suspicious calls to local police.
gilmermirror.com
· 2025-12-08
Romance scams are among the costliest fraud schemes, with victims reporting over $1.3 billion in losses in 2022, targeting people seeking relationships online through fake profiles and emotional manipulation to solicit money, gift cards, or personal information. Scammers typically establish trust quickly, claim emergencies or hardships, avoid in-person meetings, and pressure victims to keep the relationship secret. Protection strategies include moving slowly in relationships, verifying identities through reverse image searches, refusing money requests, consulting trusted friends or family, and reporting suspicious profiles to the FTC and BBB Scam Tracker.
patch.com
· 2025-12-08
North Branford police conducted an elder fraud awareness presentation at Evergreen Woods Community to educate seniors on prevention strategies. The presentation highlighted that seniors lose more than $3 billion annually to various fraud schemes including romance scams, tech support scams, grandparent scams, and government impersonation scams, with tips provided on how to recognize and protect against these threats.
kiplinger.com
· 2025-12-08
A 2025 bipartisan report highlights that fraud and scams cost seniors $4.8 billion in 2024, with investment, cryptocurrency, and romance scams posing the greatest risks to older adults who are often targeted due to politeness, trust, and unfamiliarity with digital technologies. Common scams include Medicare fraud ($80.5 million in losses), imposter scams ($789 million in losses), phishing, and deepfakes, which cause not only financial devastation but also significant emotional and physical health impacts on victims.
tillamookheadlightherald.com
· 2025-12-08
An Eastern Oregon woman lost $600,000 in life savings to a "gold bar scam" in which scammers impersonated federal agents, claimed her accounts were at risk, and convinced her to purchase gold bars for "safekeeping"; local law enforcement prevented an additional $300,000 loss after her sister reported the scheme to the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Hotline. The scam typically involves fraudsters creating false urgency about compromised finances, instructing victims to convert assets into gold, and dispatching couriers to collect the valuables before disappearing. The Oregon DOJ warns that no legitimate government agency requests gold purchases or home visits for money collection, and urges victims to hang up
texasattorneygeneral.gov
· 2025-12-08
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton launched an investigation into fraudulent charity scams where bad actors impersonated payment processors to collect flood relief donations intended for the Center Point Volunteer Fire Department under false pretenses. The scammers exploited the Texas Hill Country flooding tragedy to deceive donors, diverting money for personal gain while the fire department itself suffered significant losses. The Attorney General's office advises donors to verify charities through resources like CharityWatch and GuideStar, avoid wiring money or sharing personal information, and report suspected fraud to the Texas Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division.
nypost.com
· 2025-12-08
Yuriana Julia Pelaez Calderon, a 41-year-old illegal immigrant, was arrested for staging a fake ICE "kidnapping" at a Los Angeles fast-food restaurant and creating a fraudulent GoFundMe campaign claiming her family needed $4,500 to help her. Surveillance footage and phone records exposed the hoax, revealing that Calderon voluntarily left the restaurant and that fabricated photos of her alleged "rescue" were created to support the false narrative. She faces up to five years in federal prison on charges of conspiracy and making false statements to federal officers, while the fundraiser collected only $80 before being shut down.
crescentavalleyweekly.com
· 2025-12-08
The FBI and FTC are warning the public about evolving scams that exploit advancing technology, including AI-generated voice impersonations of law enforcement and government officials. Elderly Americans are particularly vulnerable to romance scams, tech support scams, grandparent scams, government impersonation scams, sweepstakes scams, and home repair scams, with millions falling victim annually. The agencies also warn against business email compromise, charity fraud (especially after disasters), cryptocurrency job scams, VA benefits overpayment scams, and card skimmers, recommending victims verify charitable organizations through trusted databases and use credit cards rather than cash, gift cards, or wire transfers for donations.
dallasnews.com
· 2025-12-08
In 2024, seniors aged 65 and older reported nearly $4.9 billion in losses to financial scams—a 43% increase from the previous year—with Texas seniors alone filing over 9,473 complaints averaging $489,000 in losses each. Seniors are targeted because they control significant national wealth and often struggle to keep pace with technology, making them vulnerable to romance scams, tech support scams, grandparent scams, government impersonation, and investment fraud. Family members and caregivers can help protect seniors by monitoring account activity, maintaining open communication about financial matters, and encouraging consultation before large transactions, while laws like the 2017 Elder Abuse Prevention
texasstandard.org
· 2025-12-08
Following catastrophic flooding in Central Texas, federal and state officials warned of a surge in disaster-related scams targeting both flood victims and charitable donors. Scammers posed as government agencies, law enforcement, insurance companies, and contractors to trick victims into paying for free federal assistance or hiring fraudulent contractors, while also creating fake social media profiles to solicit donations from well-intentioned helpers. Officials advised victims to initiate their own contact with legitimate government agencies (using .gov websites), remember that FEMA assistance is free, and donors to verify charities directly through official websites or platforms like GoFundMe that offer fraud detection and refund guarantees.
wsoctv.com
· 2025-12-08
A Chime user, who works for a bank, lost $600 to an imposter scam after receiving a text appearing to be from Chime asking about a withdrawal attempt. The scammer called posing as a Chime representative, used personal information to build credibility, and convinced the victim to transfer money to another account under the pretense of protecting her funds from criminals—a variation of the "me to me" scam. Chime did not reimburse the victim, and the Financial Technology Association advises consumers to pause before sending money and contact companies only through verified channels on official apps or websites.
consumerbankers.com
· 2025-12-08
Consumer Bankers Association Vice President Brian Fritzsche argues that while banks invest in fraud prevention technologies and coordinate with law enforcement, combating financial fraud and scams requires a broader, coordinated national response involving government agencies, telecommunications providers, social media platforms, and fintech companies. Fritzsche emphasizes that modern fraud schemes are sophisticated criminal enterprises using AI voice cloning, phishing emails, and social media manipulation that extend beyond traditional banking channels, affecting hundreds of thousands of Americans annually with significant financial and psychological impacts, including reported suicidal ideation among identity crime victims.
ainvest.com
· 2025-12-08
The U.S. Department of Justice, with assistance from Tether, recovered $40,300 in cryptocurrency from a scam impersonating the Trump inauguration committee, in which victims were deceived by spoofed email addresses with subtle character differences into sending crypto donations they believed were legitimate political contributions. The scammers used phishing messages sent on December 24, 2024, to trick victims into depositing funds into fraudulent wallets, which were then laundered through multiple addresses within hours. Law enforcement officials warn that such impersonation scams cost Americans billions annually and recommend victims verify email addresses, URLs, and official channels before sending any cryptocurrency or assets.
malwarebytes.com
· 2025-12-08
This article promotes a podcast episode featuring romance scam expert Becky Holmes, who combats scammers through counter-tactics while coordinating with law enforcement. Romance scams ensnare victims through prolonged campaigns of affection on social media, often impersonating celebrities or targeting vulnerable populations like widows and divorcees, with recent research showing 10% of the public have been victims and some losing over $10,000. The episode discusses how AI and video manipulation technology are evolving romance scam tactics, requiring updated protection strategies.
amac.us
· 2025-12-08
This educational resource presents a chart detailing common scams targeting consumers, including AI scams (deepfake impersonations), bank text scams (phishing for account information), billing/invoice scams (fake invoices demanding payment), brushing scams (unsolicited items to boost reviews), and charity scams. The guide identifies shared scammer tactics such as impersonation, creating urgency, and pressuring victims to share personal information, while offering specific identification and prevention strategies for each scam type. The material encourages sharing this information with friends and family as a primary defense against fraud.
wdrb.com
· 2025-12-08
A Louisville woman lost $9,000 to a "grandparent scam" in which a caller impersonated her grandson claiming he needed bail money, leading to the identification of a delivery person via doorbell camera footage. The arrest of the suspect at a local hotel within 36 hours initiated a nationwide investigation that ultimately resulted in six federal convictions and exposed an international call center network operating from Canada, Colombia, and Panama that had stolen over $3 million from elderly victims across the U.S. The victim has since recovered approximately half of her lost money and now recognizes such scams.
hindustantimes.com
· 2025-12-08
This educational article identifies eight prevalent online scams in 2025, including phishing, verification malware, impersonation, fake job offers, holiday delivery fraud, donation scams, romance scams, and fake police calls. The article advises readers to watch for red flags such as urgency in messaging, requests for sensitive information (OTPs, passwords), unsolicited job offers asking for upfront payment, suspicious links, and emotional manipulation tactics. Key protection strategies include verifying sender identity through official channels, avoiding clicking links in unsolicited messages, never running commands from unknown websites, and being skeptical of legitimate-seeming requests from companies or government agencies.
theguardian.com
· 2025-12-08
Scammers are creating fake Facebook profiles posing as family members to share fraudulent links to virtual funeral livestreams or donation pages, charging victims £10 or requesting donations that never provide access to genuine services. The Chartered Trading Standards Institute reports this scam has circulated for two years across the UK and Ireland, targeting high-profile deaths and exploiting grieving individuals who often don't report the fraud due to embarrassment or concern for the bereaved family. Legitimate funeral directors never charge for livestreaming, and victims should verify any links directly with the funeral director or family before providing payment or personal information.
malwarebytes.com
· 2025-12-08
Malwarebytes research surveying 1,300 people across the US and Europe found that 78% encounter scams on their smartphones at least weekly, with 44% encountering them daily, primarily through email (65%), phone calls/voicemails (53%), text messages (50%), malicious websites (49%), and social media (47%). Despite the high frequency of scam encounters, only 15% of respondents strongly agreed they could confidently identify a scam, highlighting the need for caution when receiving messages from unknown senders or urgent requests for money or personal information.
ago.mo.gov
· 2025-12-08
Attorney General Bailey provides consumer protection guidance for post-disaster fraud prevention, identifying construction fraud, price gouging, and charity fraud as the most common schemes. Key recommendations include obtaining written contracts and multiple bids before hiring contractors, avoiding prepayment, reporting price increases on essential goods to authorities, and verifying charity legitimacy before donating. Consumers can contact the Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-392-8222 for additional assistance.
metro.co.uk
· 2025-12-08
Jenny's 68-year-old mother, a recent widow, appears to have fallen victim to a romance scammer posing as a US military veteran named "Don" on Facebook; Jenny suspects money may have been sent but faces resistance when trying to warn her mother about the scam. Financial adviser Sarah Davidson explains that romance scammers exploit vulnerable people through emotional manipulation and gradually request money, with victims aged 61+ losing an average of £19,000 each, and emphasizes that confrontation often backfires as victims are psychologically invested in the false relationship.
express.co.uk
· 2025-12-08
UK victims lost over £106 million to romance fraud in the 2024/25 financial year, with 9,449 reported cases representing a 9% increase, according to City of London Police data. The average loss per victim was £11,222, with the 50-59 age group suffering the highest financial impact (£22.1 million total), though male victims slightly outnumbered female victims for the second consecutive year. Police believe the actual figure is significantly higher due to underreporting caused by victim shame and embarrassment, and they have launched a public awareness campaign to educate people about the emotional manipulation and financial exploitation tactics used by romance scammers.
aol.com
· 2025-12-08
An Evanston, Illinois woman lost $62,000 in a cryptocurrency investment scam after spending six months communicating with someone impersonating Yellowstone actor Kevin Costner on Telegram, who convinced her that gift card purchases would generate cryptocurrency profits. The scam was confirmed to be part of a long-running cryptocurrency ring active since at least 2018, with police stating that arrest and fund recovery are unlikely. The FTC advises verifying celebrity identities through research, consulting trusted sources before sending money, and reporting fraud to both financial institutions and authorities.
justice.gov
· 2025-12-08
The U.S. Attorney's Office co-hosted the 3rd Annual Walk for Awareness in Charlotte, North Carolina on June 11, 2025, ahead of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, to raise awareness about financial, physical, and emotional abuse affecting seniors. According to the FBI's 2024 Internet Crimes Report, adults over 60 suffered $4.8 billion in financial losses and filed 147,127 complaints, with investment fraud, tech support scams, romance scams, and government impersonation being the most common schemes. The U.S. Attorney's Office has prosecuted multiple elder fraud cases involving millions of dollars and continues partnering with community organizations to
dailydodge.com
· 2025-12-08
A Wisconsin consumer fell victim to a door-to-door charity scam where fraudsters convinced him to donate $40 but fraudulently charged his credit card $4,000 after scanning it. The state's Division of Trade and Consumer Protection recommends donating through familiar charities' official websites, paying by credit card for fraud protection, and verifying solicitors' credentials before contributing.
silversurfers.com
· 2025-12-08
This article describes seven prevalent scams on social media targeting users: fake shop accounts, phishing scams with malicious links, fake giveaways, investment scams promising high returns, romance scams, impersonation scams, and charity scams exploiting crises. The article advises users to verify sources, avoid clicking unsolicited links, use strong passwords with two-factor authentication, and stay educated about evolving fraud tactics to protect themselves and report suspicious activity to platforms.
wisbusiness.com
· 2025-12-08
Investment and cryptocurrency scams remain the riskiest threat for adults 55+, followed by online purchase scams and romance scams for specific age groups, according to the BBB Scam Tracker Risk Report. The article provides practical prevention strategies including: avoiding unsolicited callers (especially those claiming to be government agents or bank employees), recognizing red flags like pressure to act or unusual payment requests, hiring only licensed contractors through verified sources, remaining alert to emergency/grandchild scams, and hanging up on calls about "free" medical equipment or government impersonations. Key advice emphasizes registering with the National Do-Not-Call Registry, verifying unexpected claims through official sources, and maintaining healthy
hccommunityjournal.com
· 2025-12-08
A Kerrville Police Department sergeant conducted an internet safety presentation outlining major threats including identity theft, phishing, and romance/grandchild scams, which criminals use to steal sensitive information and money from victims. Key safety recommendations include verifying secure websites (https and lock icons), using strong passwords, enabling stricter social media settings, installing malware protection, and never responding to unsolicited requests for personal information from official agencies.
toledocitypaper.com
· 2025-12-08
The Better Business Bureau of Northwest and West Central Ohio and Southeast Michigan operates ScamGuard, an educational program launched three years ago to protect seniors from increasingly sophisticated fraud schemes. The program warns older adults about common scams including telephone/tech support scams, gift card tampering, fake charities, grandparent scams, sweepstakes fraud, and online dating schemes, providing practical advice such as verifying unfamiliar callers, researching charities before donating, and never sending money to individuals met only online.
morningstar.com
· 2025-12-08
An elderly family member with moderate dementia was deceived by charity solicitation letters designed to resemble overdue bills in large red font, sending thousands of dollars monthly to charities and relatives before family discovered the fraud. The situation was compounded by vulnerability to additional scams, including a nearly-executed deed scheme that would have resulted in homelessness, prompting the family to implement protective measures including removing access to checkbooks, switching to direct deposit for Social Security, and using postal informed delivery to monitor incoming mail.
cbsnews.com
· 2025-12-08
The Better Business Bureau warns that veterans and military personnel face increased fraud risk around Memorial Day from scammers using fake charities, bogus benefit programs, and phishing schemes that exploit patriotic appeals and emotional triggers. Veterans reported over $419 million in fraud losses in 2024, a significant increase from $350 million in 2023, with scammers impersonating VA officials or using military-sounding names to solicit donations. The BBB recommends verifying charities through sites like give.org, avoiding wire transfers, using credit cards for donations, and reporting suspicious activity to combat these scams.
liherald.com
· 2025-12-08
Over 80 seniors attended an educational seminar in West Hempstead to learn scam prevention strategies, as the FBI reported that people aged 60 and older suffered the largest losses in 2024's $16 billion in online scams and cybercrimes. Nassau County Police Officer Eugene Messmer presented the SCAM framework (Stop, Check, Alert, Mention) and detailed common scams including phone/email fraud, IRS imposters, sweepstakes schemes, and identity theft, emphasizing that scammers use professional tactics and recommending verification steps like calling back through official numbers. Key prevention advice includes never clicking suspicious links, refusing to pay via wire transfer or gift cards, protecting personal
wisbusiness.com
· 2025-12-08
College students face multiple scams during back-to-school season, including phishing emails impersonating school financial departments that trick students into revealing login credentials and personal information. The Better Business Bureau warns students to be vigilant against common schemes such as fake credit card offers, fraudulent apartment rentals, scholarship scams, ID theft, online shopping fraud, and test preparation blackmail scams that exploit their vulnerability as they prepare for the new academic year.
nasdaq.com
· 2025-12-08
This educational article explains why retirees are targeted for financial fraud and describes common scams affecting older adults. Americans over 60 lost more than $3.4 billion to scams in 2023, with victims aged 80+ reporting average losses of $1,450—nearly three times higher than younger victims. The piece identifies key vulnerabilities (accumulated wealth, lower tech familiarity, trusting nature, social isolation) and provides warning signs and protection strategies for imposter scams (posing as IRS, Medicare, Social Security) and tech support scams, emphasizing awareness as the primary defense against financial fraud.
floridapolitics.com
· 2025-12-08
Two Florida congressional members introduced the "Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams and Disasters Act," which would expand tax deductions for victims of fraud, cybercrime, theft, and natural disasters—particularly benefiting seniors who have suffered financial losses. The measure, supported by AARP and the Elder Justice Coalition, seeks to reinstate personal casualty loss deductions and extend filing deadlines for affected taxpayers to help them recover from their losses.
thepress.net
· 2025-12-08
The county issued a public awareness warning about ten common phone and internet scams targeting residents, including grandparent scams, government imposter schemes, technology support fraud, romance scams, charity fraud, lottery scams, investment schemes, home repair fraud, phishing emails and texts, and utility payment scams. The advisory educates the public on how to identify and recognize these fraudulent tactics to protect themselves from financial loss and identity theft.
ksl.com
· 2025-12-08
A Utah woman received a phishing text claiming she owed a fine to the Utah Department of Transportation, with a URL designed to mimic an official state website. The scam directs victims to a fake UDOT site requesting login credentials or payment information, using a fraudulent domain that closely resembles the legitimate .gov address. The FBI advises verifying domain names carefully, as scammers can create convincing lookalike websites, and legitimate government sites only use official .gov domains.
mk.co.kr
· 2025-12-08
Scammers impersonating South Korean celebrities and their agencies have conducted increasingly sophisticated fraud schemes targeting small business owners and companies, requesting advance payments for restaurant bills, expensive alcohol, and event expenses. Agencies for celebrities including Song Ga-in, Byun Woo-seok, Jungwoo Ha, and Nam Goong-min issued official statements warning the public that their employees never request financial payments from outside parties, and advised victims to verify identities through official channels and report suspicious calls to police and the relevant agencies.
northpennnow.com
· 2025-12-08
A 69-year-old Philadelphia woman narrowly avoided losing money to a sophisticated tech support scam that impersonated Norton antivirus, Microsoft, and her bank to pressure her into purchasing cryptocurrency, claiming she faced arrest due to child pornography on her computer. The Federal Trade Commission reported Americans lost between $23.7 billion and $158.3 billion to financial scams in the 2023-2024 fiscal year, with experts citing artificial intelligence, dark web data access, and lack of federal oversight as enabling factors that make scams increasingly convincing and difficult to report or recover from.
hometownnewsbrevard.com
· 2025-12-08
Helping Seniors of Brevard partnered with AARP Florida to present a free educational event called "Scam Jam" on May 16 in Melbourne designed to help seniors recognize and protect themselves from common fraud schemes. The event features workshops on prevalent scams including Nigerian lottery schemes, romance scams, government impersonation, tech support fraud, grandparent scams, and identity theft, with experts emphasizing warning signs such as pressure tactics, requests for gift cards or wire transfers, and poor grammar. The organization stresses that seniors should slow down, verify requests with others, and report suspicious activity to local law enforcement to help prevent victimization.
nujournal.com
· 2025-12-08
Six New Ulm financial institutions have formed a collaboration to combat the growing problem of financial fraud and scams in their area, which local law enforcement reports receive daily. The banks plan to share information about detected scams and educate the public through initiatives like a free "Let's Talk About Fraud" seminar scheduled for May 28, designed to help victims understand common schemes and encourage them to report fraud without shame or fear of judgment.
10tv.com
· 2025-12-08
As artificial intelligence advances, scams targeting seniors have become increasingly sophisticated, with Americans aged 60 and older losing $3.4 billion to fraud in 2023. Attorney Carlos Crawford led a free cybersecurity training at a Columbus community center to educate seniors on recognizing common scams including phishing, tech support fraud, fake charities, and romance scams, advising them to watch for red flags like misspelled emails, suspicious sender addresses, and unusual payment requests (cash, cryptocurrency, gift cards). Experts recommend trusting instincts when something feels off and consulting trusted contacts before responding to suspicious communications.
myupnow.com
· 2025-12-08
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel released a scam awareness roundup highlighting major fraud schemes targeting state residents, including disaster relief and charity scams, government imposter fraud, phishing/smishing attacks, cryptocurrency "pig butchering" romance scams, and data breach identity theft. The advisory recommends consumers verify charity legitimacy before donating, never click suspicious links or provide personal information to unsolicited contacts, monitor credit reports regularly through AnnualCreditReport.com, and implement security measures like two-factor authentication and password changes following data breaches.
goldrushcam.com
· 2025-12-08
The Modesto Police Department issued a scam alert warning residents about fraudsters impersonating police officers and calling community members to solicit donations for youth programs. The department emphasized that legitimate law enforcement does not solicit donations over the phone and advised residents to hang up on suspicious calls, never share personal or banking information, and report such incidents to non-emergency dispatch.
bucks.crimewatchpa.com
· 2025-12-08
This educational article outlines common scams targeting seniors—including phone scams, phishing, romance fraud, investment schemes, charity scams, home repair fraud, identity theft, and grandparent scams—and provides practical prevention strategies. Key protective measures include being skeptical of unsolicited contact, safeguarding personal information, avoiding rushed decisions, recognizing communication red flags, verifying identities before trusting, staying informed about technology, and building a support network. The article emphasizes that seniors can protect themselves and their finances through knowledge and vigilance, offering resources like the AARP Fraud Watch Network and National Elder Fraud Hotline for additional support.
fernandinaobserver.org
· 2025-12-08
**Financial Scams on the Rise; Community Education Efforts Expand**
U.S. consumers lost over $12.5 billion to fraud in 2023—a 25% increase from the previous year—with email and phone calls being the most common scam methods and imposter scams most frequently reported. Pineland Bank, the Nassau County Sheriff's Office, and the Nassau County Council on Aging are partnering to offer free fraud awareness seminars to educate the public on recognizing and avoiding financial scams, noting that fewer than half of victims report incidents due to embarrassment and fear of losing independence. Experts advise consumers to become informed about evolving scam
goldrushcam.com
· 2025-12-08
The Fresno Police Department reports a rising surge in impersonation scams targeting elderly residents, wherein fraudsters pose as legal representatives or government officials claiming a family member is in legal trouble and demanding immediate payment via cash pickups or gift cards. Victims are instructed to wire money or purchase gift cards and provide card numbers over the phone, with scammers sometimes arranging in-person cash collection from homes. Authorities advise that legitimate government agencies never demand payment in this manner and recommend verifying claims by contacting family members directly, never using provided phone numbers, and reporting suspected scams to local law enforcement immediately.
mashable.com
· 2025-12-08
This educational article identifies six common online scams and their warning signs: phishing scams (impersonating trusted companies via email/text to steal credentials), investment scams (promising unrealistic returns through unregulated platforms), job offer scams (requesting upfront payments or personal information for fraudulent positions), and tech support scams (using fake alerts to trick users into paying for unnecessary services or granting device access). Key prevention strategies include verifying sender information directly with companies, researching investment opportunities with licensed professionals, being skeptical of unsolicited offers, and avoiding clicking links or granting remote access to unknown parties.
states.aarp.org
· 2025-12-08
**Fraud Prevention Efforts in Virginia**
Fraud losses among Virginia adults 60 and over surged from $25 million in 2020 to $94 million in 2023, prompting AARP Virginia to launch widespread fraud prevention workshops throughout the state. Common scams targeting seniors include tech-support impostor schemes, utility bill fraud, identity theft, and impostor scams, with veterans being 40 percent more likely to lose money when targeted. AARP Virginia is combating this rising threat through community presentations, online workshops, and trained volunteer speakers who educate residents on recognizing and avoiding the latest fraud schemes.
michigan.gov
· 2025-12-08
**Summary:**
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel warned residents to watch out for post-storm scams following severe weather that swept across Michigan in late March 2025. Common fraud schemes include contractors overcharging for repairs, imposters claiming to offer government funding for disaster relief, and fraudulent charity solicitations; residents are advised to verify contractor credentials, obtain multiple written estimates, research charities before donating, and avoid unsolicited payment requests via wire transfer or gift cards.
finance.yahoo.com
· 2025-12-08
**Title:** The more money you have, the more you have for scammers to steal
Wealthy individuals are targeted by sophisticated fraudsters through multiple schemes including whaling (personalized phishing), impersonation of trusted advisors, investment scams, tax-related fraud, fake seller websites, and charity scams, with single transactions potentially resulting in losses of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Scammers use open-source intelligence and social engineering to build trust, create convincing impersonations (including deepfake videos and AI-generated communications), and exploit high-net-worth individuals' busy schedules and trust in established relationships. The article advises victims to verify identities directly
wvnews.com
· 2025-12-08
West Virginians reported over $27 million in fraud losses in 2024, according to the Federal Trade Commission, as scams continue to rise across the state through phone calls, emails, and text messages. The article outlines common scam tactics including IRS/Social Security impersonation, romance scams, tech support scams, and phishing emails, and advises consumers to watch for red flags such as urgent language, requests for payment via gift cards or wire transfers, and unfamiliar contact information. Key protective measures include not answering unknown numbers, never clicking suspicious links, verifying charities before donating, and reporting suspected scams to authorities.
goldrushcam.com
· 2025-12-08
On March 21, 2025, the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office arrested suspects in an ongoing phone scam targeting an elderly male customer who was instructed to withdraw $50,000 from Wells Fargo in Oakdale. A vigilant bank teller alerted law enforcement after the victim attempted a second large withdrawal, prompting detectives to coordinate an undercover operation that successfully apprehended the scammers at a pre-arranged collection point. The case highlights the importance of reporting suspicious requests for large cash withdrawals to authorities immediately.
wvnews.com
· 2025-12-08
The Pleasant Community Education Outreach Service (CEOS) in Point Pleasant, West Virginia held a meeting on March 13 where member Elaine Matheny presented an educational lesson on scams targeting senior citizens, covering ten types of fraud including telephone scams, IRS scams, romance scams, tech support scams, and lottery scams, along with prevention tips. The lesson, written by Gina Taylor and Carter Taylor, was designed to educate the community on how to recognize and avoid common elder fraud schemes.
richmondobserver.com
· 2025-12-08
Local law enforcement agencies in Hamlet, North Carolina are warning residents about persistent financial scams, including gift card scams, prize scams, and imposter schemes involving government agencies, tech support, and family members. One resident lost $16,000 in a relative-in-trouble scam in January 2024 when a suspect posing as the victim's grandson claimed to be in jail and arranged a cash pickup at a restaurant; the suspect, Bryan Buonjiovanni, 19, of Canada, was later arrested and charged with obtaining property by false pretenses. Police recommend residents verify requests through independent contact with family members, never purchase gift cards for payments, and create secret family passwords to prevent
miamitimesonline.com
· 2025-12-08
This educational article outlines major scam trends for 2025, including AI-enhanced scams (phishing, deepfakes, voice cloning), imposter scams where fraudsters pose as trusted contacts or companies with a median loss of $800 per victim, sextortion schemes involving explicit content extortion, romance scams using fake profiles and deepfake video calls, and phone-based scams using robocalls and malware. The article emphasizes that scammers primarily seek personal information or money, and recommends skepticism when contacted unexpectedly, especially regarding urgent requests or investment opportunities.
digitalreviews.net
· 2025-12-08
Following Cyclone Alfred, cyber security experts warn of a surge in disaster-related scams targeting vulnerable victims, including unannounced contractor fraud, phishing emails impersonating insurers, fake donation campaigns, and imposters posing as government and relief agencies. AUCyber recommends victims file insurance claims through official channels, verify contractor credentials, avoid upfront payments, check email sender addresses, and report suspicious activity to ScamWatch to protect themselves during cleanup and recovery efforts.
yahoo.com
· 2025-12-08
Multiple Chicago residents fell victim to a street-based charity donation scam between June 2024 and November 2024, where con artists used emotional stories (such as raising funeral funds or awareness for causes) to gain trust, then charged victims thousands of dollars through Apple Pay and other digital payment methods when they believed they were donating only small amounts. The Illinois attorney general's office received approximately 10 complaints about this scheme, though one victim, Eliazar Rodriguez, was charged $3,000 for a carpet purchase after believing he donated $15, and he eventually recovered his funds after disputing the charge with his bank.
aol.com
· 2025-12-08
The article outlines 11 common tax scams expected in 2025, including phishing emails, IRS impersonation phone calls, fake tax preparation services, social media fraud, and stimulus payment scams. Key protective measures include verifying sender authenticity before clicking links, never providing personal information to unsolicited callers, confirming tax preparers are IRS-registered, and remembering that legitimate government agencies never demand immediate payment or charge fees for assistance. Scammers increasingly use sophisticated tactics targeting vulnerable taxpayers, making awareness and verification critical during tax-filing season.
states.aarp.org
· 2025-12-08
This article highlights AARP Arizona's fraud prevention efforts in response to a significant crisis: people over 60 reported $3.4 billion in fraud losses nationwide in 2023, with $128 million in Arizona alone. The article details common scams targeting older Arizonans—including romance scams, Bitcoin/cryptocurrency schemes, identity theft, and tech-support fraud—and emphasizes that prevention through awareness of red flags (unsolicited contact, high-pressure tactics, requests for personal information) is essential, as scam methods continually evolve with changing technology.
local.aarp.org
· 2025-12-08
Fraud targeting older adults in Arizona and nationwide represents a significant crisis, with those 60 and over reporting $3.4 billion in losses nationally in 2023, including $128 million in Arizona, according to FBI data. AARP volunteer Jerry Watterworth and Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes are leading prevention efforts by educating seniors about evolving scams including romance frauds, Bitcoin schemes, identity theft, and tech-support scams, emphasizing that fraudsters continuously adapt their methods and prevention through awareness of red flags is key. The article stresses that because scammers exploit human nature—the desire to trust and connect—older residents must remain vigilant across all communication
loveballymena.online
· 2025-12-08
Mid & East Antrim Agewell Partnership is hosting "Challenging the Scamdemic," a free scam awareness conference on March 19, 2025, at The Braid Arts Centre in Ballymena to educate the public about recognizing, preventing, and reporting financial fraud. The event will feature industry experts, government representatives, and scam victims sharing insights, with a particular focus on protecting older and vulnerable individuals in the community who have been increasingly targeted by fraudsters.
finance.yahoo.com
· 2025-12-08
**Tax Scams and Prevention Strategies**
The IRS reported $9.1 billion in fraud from financial and tax crimes in 2024, with scammers targeting stressed taxpayers during tax season through schemes including inflated refund offers, ghost tax preparers who disappear after payment, and fake charities. Key protective measures include filing early, using strong passwords and two-factor authentication, verifying tax preparer credentials through official IRS registries, avoiding unsolicited emails and links, and remaining skeptical of pressure to act quickly, as legitimate tax authorities do not demand immediate payment via phone or text.
euronews.com
· 2025-12-08
As tax filing season approaches, phishing, smishing, and other tax scams are expected to increase, with the US IRS reporting $9.1 billion in fraud from financial and tax crimes in 2024. Common scams include fake refund offers requesting upfront fees, "ghost" tax preparers who inflate deductions and disappear after payment, and fake tax advisors who steal personal information and refunds. Taxpayers can protect themselves by filing early, using strong passwords and two-factor authentication, verifying tax preparer credentials through official IRS directories, and avoiding suspicious emails or pressure to act quickly.
prnewswire.com
· 2025-12-08
As AI-driven scams surge during tax season 2025, taxpayers face three major threats: W-2 phishing scams using AI-generated emails and deepfakes to steal employee tax documents, disaster relief fund scams exploiting tax extensions for disaster victims, and fake Offer in Compromise scams promising debt relief through robocalls and deepfake videos. According to LifeLock research, 56% of individuals have encountered AI-powered tax scams with realistic voices, and the IRS Criminal Investigation unit uncovered over $9.1 billion in tax fraud in 2024, with 81% of scam victims reporting financial losses. Taxpayers are advised to verify
barchart.com
· 2025-12-08
Scammers impersonate the IRS through phishing emails and smishing texts, directing victims to fake links or requesting personal information by claiming urgent account updates are needed. Tax season presents a prime opportunity for fraudsters, who exploited emotional tactics around penalties and refunds to steal $5.7 billion from U.S. taxpayers in 2022. The IRS recommends avoiding these scams by remembering that legitimate IRS contact occurs through regular mail, not email or text, unless you specifically requested a callback.
wtap.com
· 2025-12-08
West Virginia Attorney General J.B. McCuskey issued a consumer warning about scammers impersonating charities and disaster relief organizations to solicit donations following severe flooding in southern West Virginia. The office provided guidance to consumers on identifying legitimate charities, including verifying established organizations, avoiding cash or wire transfer payments, using credit cards, and checking for secure website connections (https://). Consumers can report suspected fraud to the Attorney General's consumer protection division at 800-368-8808 or file complaints online at www.ago.wv.gov.
islandpacket.com
· 2025-12-08
**Article:** "What can I do about all these scams? Tips and tricks to keep you and your loved ones safe"
Beaufort County, South Carolina residents—particularly older adults—face a high risk of scams, with the state ranking seventh nationally for fraud cases. Common schemes targeting seniors include cryptocurrency scams (up 900% since 2020), contractor fraud, phone solicitation, and religious impersonation scams. The FTC advises identifying scams by recognizing when scammers impersonate legitimate organizations, create false urgency or prize claims, and pressure immediate action or unusual payment methods.
truthout.org
· 2025-12-08
This article concerns a federal government appointment rather than elder fraud, so it falls outside Elderus's scope of elder abuse and scams targeting seniors. The piece details how Frank Schuler IV, co-founder of a real estate firm that profited from "syndicated conservation easement" tax schemes condemned by the Senate and IRS, was appointed as a senior adviser to the GSA administrator—a position critics argue is inappropriate given Schuler's history exploiting tax provisions and costing the government billions in lost revenue.
regtechtimes.com
· 2025-12-08
Romance scams, where fraudsters create fake profiles on dating apps and social media to manipulate victims emotionally and extract money, have increased 14% globally in 2024 with over 1,193 new scam profiles detected. The United States (38%), Nigeria (14%), and India (12%) are the most affected countries, with scammers employing tactics like "love bombing," fake personas, and blackmail to exploit victims over weeks or months. Tech companies including Meta, Tinder, Bumble, and Google are implementing AI-powered detection systems, safety notices, and content filters to identify and remove fraudulent accounts and warn users of suspicious activity.
pandasecurity.com
· 2025-12-08
Tax season 2025 brings increased fraud risk as over 160 million Americans file returns by April 15th, with scammers exploiting the confusion through multiple tactics including fake charities, dishonest tax preparers, and IRS impersonation calls and phishing emails. The IRS warns taxpayers to verify non-profit status before donating, use honest tax preparers, hang up on unsolicited IRS calls requesting banking information or gift cards, and avoid clicking links in suspicious emails or following unqualified social media tax advice. Installing antivirus software and being cautious of tax debt relief services can help prevent personal information theft and fraudulent refund claims filed in victims' names.
cnet.com
· 2025-12-08
In 2023, Americans lost $10 billion to fraud, with scammers employing increasingly sophisticated tactics to steal money and personal information. The article outlines 10 common banking scams—including check fraud, phishing, fake websites, advance fee schemes, and government imposter scams—and provides protective measures such as verifying bank URLs, never clicking unsolicited links, and avoiding upfront payments for promised services.
sentinelone.com
· 2025-12-08
Cybercriminals exploit Valentine's Day by launching romance baiting scams, phishing attacks, and fraudulent gift card promotions to manipulate victims through emotional appeals and false investment opportunities. Romance baiting schemes have caused significant financial damage, with investment fraud losses increasing from $3.31 billion in 2022 to $4.57 billion in 2023, often resulting in severe psychological trauma for victims beyond monetary losses. The article advises individuals to recognize common scams such as fake dating profiles, malicious e-cards, and spoofed promotions, and emphasizes that awareness, education, and timely reporting are essential to prevent victimization and aid law enforcement.
lewistownnews.com
· 2025-12-08
Central Montana seniors face increasingly sophisticated scams at a rate of 5-10 reports weekly to the Council on Aging, with Montana experiencing disproportionately high fraud rates due to its elderly population (sixth-highest percentage age 65+ nationally) and rural vulnerabilities. Common scams include healthcare-related fraud, Medicare enrollment threats, grandparent impersonations using AI technology, fake donation solicitations, and mail-based schemes involving insurance lapses and fraudulent medical equipment billing to Medicare. The Council on Aging recommends seniors speak up about suspicious communications, verify caller identity through independent contact, and avoid providing personal information unsolicited.
wilmingtonbiz.com
· 2025-12-08
This educational article outlines common financial scams targeting seniors and the general public, including phishing, investment fraud, imposter scams (grandparent and IRS varieties), computer scams, romance scams, lottery schemes, charity fraud, and fake debt relief services. The article provides red flags and warning signs for each scam type, such as urgent requests, unsolicited offers, promises of guaranteed returns, and requests for upfront payments. Key protective measures include awareness of common scam tactics, verification of organizations before sharing information, and skepticism toward unsolicited offers or high-pressure requests.
cnet.com
· 2025-12-08
In 2023, people lost $10 billion to fraud according to FTC data, but consumers can protect themselves by recognizing common banking scams. The article outlines ten prevalent scam tactics—including check-cashing schemes, phishing, fake websites, advance fee fraud, and government imposter scams—and provides specific protective strategies such as verifying bank URLs, never clicking unsolicited links, using secure checks, and contacting official customer service lines to confirm requests.
wisbusiness.com
· 2025-12-08
Tax scams reappear seasonally with scammers impersonating the IRS through phone calls, emails, and mail to pressure victims into paying fake debts or divulging personal information for identity theft. Common schemes include threatening arrest for unpaid taxes, claiming refunds are owed, using fake IRS logos and spoofed caller IDs, and sending phishing emails directing victims to bogus websites. To protect yourself, file taxes early, remember that the IRS initiates contact by mail only, never accepts prepaid debit cards or wire transfers for payment, and verify any IRS communication directly with the agency.
carolinanewsandreporter.cic.sc.edu
· 2025-12-08
Final Victory Animal Rescue fell victim to a fake Venmo account impersonating the charity in December 2024, resulting in lost donations and adoption fees that were redirected to scammers. The incident highlights the increasing sophistication of online scams, with scammers creating legitimate-looking websites and payment accounts; the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs reports that 33% of 2024 scam reports involved online contact, with purchase scams being the most common type. The charity emphasized the importance of verifying official charity accounts and recommended donating only to well-known registered organizations.
wisbusiness.com
· 2025-12-08
With Valentine's Day spending projected to reach nearly $26 billion, the Better Business Bureau warns consumers about four common scams: impostor websites offering counterfeit jewelry and fake dating platforms, romance scams targeting vulnerable individuals who can lose thousands of dollars, wrong number text scams designed to harvest personal information, and fake florist schemes that deliver nothing or substandard arrangements. Consumers should watch for red flags such as extreme discounts, requests for cash transfers or cryptocurrency, fast-moving relationships, and unverifiable business credentials, and should report suspected scams to BBB.org/ScamTracker.
theguardian.com
· 2025-12-08
This educational article outlines common fraud tactics and prevention strategies, emphasizing that scammers use urgency and panic to manipulate victims into sharing financial or personal information quickly. Key advice includes: taking time to verify requests before acting, being cautious of online shopping deals and "Hi Mum" impersonation scams on social media, scrutinizing emails for subtle fraudulent indicators, and hanging up on unexpected calls to verify identities independently.
forbes.com
· 2025-12-08
The Federal Trade Commission reported that fraud losses exceeded $10 billion nationally in 2023, with 2024 showing alarming trends in scam types including online job scams, government impersonation, gift card fraud, and business investment schemes. Student loan scams have proliferated due to confusion over federal loan forgiveness programs, with criminals using phishing, upfront fee schemes, and identity theft tactics to prey on borrowers seeking debt relief. The FTC warns that legitimate assistance is available free through student loan servicers and the Department of Education, and that private companies cannot deliver forgiveness benefits that aren't already available through government programs.
newsroom.paypal-corp.com
· 2025-12-08
PayPal and Venmo warn that fraudsters exploit charitable giving by impersonating legitimate charities and relief organizations through phishing, high-pressure tactics, fake websites, and account spoofing to steal money and personal information from well-intentioned donors. The platforms recommend donating only through verified channels like PayPal Cause Hub and Venmo Charity Profiles, and provide guidance on spotting red flags including lack of transparency, unverified credentials, aggressive messaging, and inconsistent communication methods.
atg.wa.gov
· 2025-12-08
Washington's Attorney General's Office warned residents to watch for charity scams exploiting donations for California wildfire relief efforts. The advisory urged donors to research charities before giving, verify tax-exempt status, avoid high-pressure tactics, and report suspicious solicitations to protect themselves from fraudulent organizations using deceptive names and websites.
boston25news.com
· 2025-12-08
Scams and fraud losses reached over $1.03 trillion globally in 2024, with scammers increasingly leveraging new technology to evolve their tactics. Key emerging threats for 2025 include AI-powered scams (using deepfakes, AI-generated images, and synthetic voices to enhance phishing and imposter schemes), traditional imposter scams (including grandparent and romance scams, with median losses of $800 in 2023 and $14,740 for government imposter scams), and a shift toward email and text-based contact methods rather than phone calls. Learning about these developments helps potential victims stay ahead of scammers who aim to steal personal information
wsoctv.com
· 2025-12-08
Over $1.03 trillion was lost to scams globally in 2024, with scammers increasingly using artificial intelligence, imposter tactics, and evolving technology to deceive victims. Key emerging threats include AI-powered phishing, deepfake videos, and voice cloning, alongside traditional imposter scams (including grandparent and romance scams) where median losses reached $800-$14,740 depending on the scam type. Scammers are shifting from phone calls to email and text messages as their primary contact method, making it essential for people to remain skeptical of unsolicited communications.
wydaily.com
· 2025-12-08
This educational article provides fraud prevention guidance covering five key areas: strengthening online security through strong passwords and multi-factor authentication while avoiding public Wi-Fi; donating safely by verifying charities and using credit cards; utilizing wireless provider scam protection features like robocall blocking; monitoring package deliveries with tracking and smart cameras; and staying informed through resources like the FTC and reporting suspicious activity. The article emphasizes that scammers operate continuously and offers practical steps individuals can take to protect themselves from phishing, identity theft, charitable fraud, robocalls, and package theft.
weku.org
· 2025-12-08
Members of Versailles Presbyterian Church in central Kentucky received fraudulent emails impersonating interim Pastor Katherine Redmond requesting gift cards for hospice patients. The scam targeted church congregants' charitable impulses, but the pastor quickly alerted attendees to block the scammer's email address, and no victims were reported. The Better Business Bureau warned that gift card requests—particularly those claiming emergency situations—are a common scam tactic because gift cards are non-recoverable.
newsbug.info
· 2025-12-08
Oak Grove Christian Retirement Village hosted an educational program featuring DeMotte police officials who presented information on elder financial abuse, which affects over 13% of American seniors annually and costs victims more than $3 billion yearly. The presentation covered eleven common scam types targeting seniors—including grandparent scams, charity fraud, phishing, and tax scams—while noting that victims aged 80-89, particularly women and those living alone, are most vulnerable, and that only 1 in 44 incidents are reported due to embarrassment and fear of losing independence. Attendees learned protective strategies such as verifying requests before sending money, monitoring financial statements, and reporting scams to the FTC or calling
dutchnews.nl
· 2025-12-08
In 2024, reports of fake policeman scams targeting elderly people in the Netherlands surged dramatically to over 8,000 incidents (compared to 544 in 2023), with approximately 1,600 victims losing valuables including money and jewelry. Scammers call victims claiming to protect their assets from burglars, use personal information obtained from dark web data trades to build trust, and send operatives to collect items; 357 arrests were made, though the organized scheme operates from call centers coordinating multiple robberies across different cities nightly.
mainlinemedianews.com
· 2025-12-08
State Rep. Chris Pielli and the Housing Authority of Chester County hosted a "Scam Jam" educational program featuring experts from state and local law enforcement to help residents identify and avoid fraud targeting vulnerable populations, particularly seniors. The program covered multiple scam types including grandparent scams using emotional triggers, caregiver fraud involving isolated victims, romance scams, and impersonation schemes that exploit technology and social media information.
wcpo.com
· 2025-12-08
Following California wildfires, the Better Business Bureau warns of donation scams targeting well-meaning donors who want to help disaster victims. To protect themselves, donors should research charities for specific details about their aid efforts, verify organizations through official websites, and watch for red flags such as vague language and AI-generated images on charity sites.
newsbug.info
· 2025-12-08
Oak Grove Christian Retirement Village hosted an educational presentation by DeMotte police on January 8 covering elder financial abuse, which costs seniors over $3 billion annually with more than 13% of American elders victimized yearly. The presentation outlined eleven common scam types targeting seniors (including grandparent scams, charity fraud, identity theft, and tech support scams), noting that victims aged 80-89, particularly women living alone, face the highest risk and that underreporting remains severe due to embarrassment and fear of losing independence. Key protective measures include monthly financial monitoring, verifying requests by calling contacts directly, reporting fraud to the FTC, and consulting trusted advisors before financial decisions.
govtech.com
· 2025-12-08
State Rep. Chris Pielli and the Housing Authority of Chester County hosted an educational "Scam Jam" program featuring experts from law enforcement and banking agencies to inform residents about common fraud schemes targeting seniors. The program highlighted various scams including grandparent scams using emotional manipulation and AI voice mimicry, elder financial abuse by caregivers, romance scams, and phishing schemes like fake EZ Pass notifications, emphasizing that scammers exploit social media information and that even intelligent people can be deceived.
latimes.com
· 2025-12-08
During natural disasters, scammers exploit vulnerable victims by impersonating utility companies, FEMA, and contractors to steal personal information or money through pressure tactics and upfront fees. Protection measures include verifying identities by contacting organizations directly, never paying upfront fees for disaster aid or repairs, researching contractors thoroughly, and getting multiple estimates before hiring. If identity theft occurs, victims should immediately report it to the FTC, credit bureaus, and financial institutions to prevent further damage.
sierradailynews.com
· 2025-12-08
**Summary:**
This article describes charitable donation scams in which fraudsters call with urgent appeals for donations to disaster relief or causes, using emotional manipulation and high-pressure tactics to rush victims into giving money. Red flags include demands for immediate payment via cash, gift cards, or wire transfers; refusal to provide written information; caller ID names similar to legitimate charities; and threats or guilt-based pressure. The FBI recommends donating only to established, verified charities through secure methods like checks or credit cards, researching organizations via the FTC website or Charity Navigator, and reporting suspected fraud to local authorities or ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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cnet.com
· 2025-12-08
"Brushing" scams involve criminals sending unexpected packages containing inexpensive items and QR codes to victims' addresses; when scanned, these codes direct recipients to fake websites designed to steal sensitive information like credit card numbers and Social Security numbers, or the packages are used to generate fake positive reviews for third-party sellers. Victims should avoid scanning QR codes, file fraud reports with retailers, monitor their credit reports, and update passwords if compromised. The scam puts recipients at risk of identity theft and reveals their personal information to criminals, even if they keep the free items.
oag.dc.gov
· 2025-12-08
**Summary:**
Washington D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb issued a consumer alert warning residents about charity scams targeting donations for California wildfire relief efforts. The alert provides guidance on verifying charities through independent sources (IRS, BBB, Charity Navigator, etc.), confirming proper licensing, and identifying red flags such as requests for immediate payment via non-refundable methods, demands for personal information, or pressure tactics. Donors are advised to research organizations before giving, request written documentation, and donate only to trusted charities with transparent information about how funds will be used.
ein.az.gov
· 2025-12-08
The FBI warned that scammers exploit disasters and mass casualty events—such as the New Orleans terrorist attack and Los Angeles wildfires—by impersonating charitable organizations and celebrities to solicit fraudulent donations, sometimes using AI to increase legitimacy. In 2024, the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center received over 4,500 complaints reporting approximately $96 million in losses to fraudulent charities, crowdfunding accounts, and disaster relief campaigns. The FBI advises verifying charity legitimacy through official registries, being suspicious of urgent payment requests from unknown individuals, and avoiding unsolicited communications claiming to represent disaster victims.
postindependent.com
· 2025-12-08
This piece contains two separate letters: the first urges donations to California wildfire relief efforts through organizations like the California Community Foundation and American Red Cross; the second outlines characteristics of grandparent scams targeting elderly people, including frequent calls, fabricated emergencies, urgency tactics, and requests for wire transfers or gift cards, and recommends verifying claims directly with family members, reporting to law enforcement and the FTC, and establishing family code words as prevention.
huffpost.com
· 2025-12-08
During the Los Angeles wildfires, scammers exploited disaster victims and donors through fake relief fundraisers impersonating celebrities like Kim Kardashian, fraudulent crowdfunding campaigns using stolen photos, fake charity websites, phishing emails posing as FEMA and the Red Cross, fake contractor services, and animal rescue scams. Security experts note that disaster scams proliferate because they combine vulnerability, urgency, and the public's desire to help, with perpetrators ranging from local individuals to organized crime syndicates. Potential victims should verify charities through official channels, avoid clicking unsolicited donation links, and be wary of upfront payment requests or overly urgent appeals
apnews.com
· 2025-12-08
After natural disasters like wildfires and floods, scammers exploit vulnerable victims by impersonating government agencies (FEMA, utilities) and contractors to steal personal information or demand upfront payments for aid and repair services. People in heightened emotional states should verify callers directly with organizations, be skeptical of urgency tactics, and confirm contractor licenses and insurance before paying anything. The FTC advises that legitimate FEMA aid is always free, and recommends getting multiple estimates, reviewing online complaints, and monitoring credit reports for signs of identity theft or fraud.
foxbusiness.com
· 2025-12-08
California Attorney General Rob Bonta warned wildfire victims and residents to be vigilant against price gouging and fraudulent scams following deadly wildfires that destroyed over 12,300 homes and buildings and killed at least 24 people. Bonta advised residents to verify licenses for contractors and charities, avoid paying large upfront sums, monitor financial accounts, and research organizations before donating by confirming their registration with the Attorney General's Registry of Charities. He emphasized that fraudsters often exploit disasters by creating fake charities and crowdfunding pages, and urged victims to report suspected scams to local law enforcement.
citizensvoice.com
· 2025-12-08
During natural disasters like wildfires and floods, scammers impersonate FEMA officials, utility companies, and contractors to prey on vulnerable victims by requesting personal information, charging fraudulent fees for disaster aid, or demanding upfront cash payments for repairs. The FTC warns disaster victims to verify contact through official channels, avoid anyone creating urgency or requesting immediate payment, and conduct background checks on contractors before hiring. In 2023 alone, the FTC received reports of approximately 1 million identity theft cases, 2.6 million fraud cases, and 1.9 million other scam reports.
desertsun.com
· 2025-12-08
Los Angeles officials are warning residents affected by recent wildfires that scammers are actively targeting vulnerable victims through false job postings, impersonation of government employees and FEMA agents, phone/text phishing attempts, unsolicited in-person solicitations, and fraudulent donation schemes. Law enforcement recommends verifying credentials through official channels, avoiding sharing personal information via social media or unsolicited contacts, never paying through gift cards or cryptocurrency, and trusting your instincts if something feels suspicious. County Sheriff Robert Luna pledged that perpetrators—including those impersonating firefighters to commit burglaries—will face prosecution.
goldrushcam.com
· 2025-12-08
The Kern County Sheriff's Office warned residents of a phone scam in which callers impersonate law enforcement (claiming to be "Sergeant Youngblood") and demand electronic payments via gift cards or bitcoin to resolve alleged warrants, missed court appearances, or jury duty violations, threatening arrest if payment is not made. The scammers use spoofing technology to display the Sheriff's Office callback number and may pressure victims to visit the Sheriff's Office afterward. The Sheriff's Office clarified that legitimate law enforcement never requests payment over the phone and that warrant arrests are made in person, not via phone calls.
ksby.com
· 2025-12-08
The Better Business Bureau warned of donation scams targeting both disaster relief donors and Southern California wildfire victims, noting that fraudulent charities typically emerge after major disasters and often initiate contact rather than waiting for donors to find them. To avoid scams, donors should verify charities through trustworthy resources like Give.org, avoid clicking suspicious links, look for specific program descriptions, and check state charity registration records. Reporting suspected scams to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center is recommended, though recovering money from fake charities—often operating outside the United States—is unlikely.
usatoday.com
· 2025-12-08
Scammers are exploiting the California wildfires by creating fake donation pages and impersonating charities and government agencies to steal money from people wanting to help and to target disaster victims seeking assistance. People should verify organizations through legitimate channels (such as Give.org), watch for red flags like misspelled URLs and phishing emails, and avoid clicking links from unverified social media ads or unsolicited contacts, as AI-enhanced scams are becoming increasingly difficult to detect.
timesleader.com
· 2025-12-08
A woman from Wilkes-Barre was scammed out of $58,400 after receiving a fake Microsoft security alert on her computer; she granted the scammer remote access to her device, which allowed them to view her bank balance and convince her to transfer funds to a Bitcoin account. Wilkes-Barre Police used the incident to issue public awareness about common scams including phishing, romance, job offer, and tech support schemes, advising residents to verify the legitimacy of contacts before sharing personal information or clicking links.
forbes.com
· 2025-12-08
Scammers are exploiting generosity during the California Wildfires (which began January 7th and displaced 200,000 people with $135 billion in damages) by posing as legitimate charities and FEMA officials to steal donations and charge fees for disaster assistance. Fraudsters use techniques including caller ID spoofing, AI-generated content, deepfakes, and fake charity websites to appear legitimate, making it difficult for donors to verify authenticity through phone, email, text, or social media contact. To protect themselves, donors should verify charities through Charity Navigator before giving, never provide payment information to unsolicited contacts, and avoid charities that use more than 25
psychologytoday.com
· 2025-12-08
Rural Americans face unique vulnerabilities to fraud due to geographic isolation, limited access to resources, and higher concentrations of older adults who report larger financial losses to scams. Rural residents are more reliant on online services for shopping, may turn to online dating platforms due to limited in-person social opportunities, and often encounter barriers to reporting scams including decreased government trust, lack of support services, and social stigma. Scammers exploit these vulnerabilities through various schemes including online shopping fraud, romance scams, and disaster relief impersonation, yet rural fraud trends remain largely undocumented because most consumer protection agencies do not differentiate data by population density.
foxnews.com
· 2025-12-08
The FBI warns that criminals are increasingly using generative AI and deepfakes to exploit victims through 17 common techniques, including voice cloning, fake video calls impersonating authority figures, and phishing emails designed to manipulate people into revealing personal information or transferring funds. These tactics exploit emotional manipulation during crises and use AI-generated content that mimics trusted individuals and public figures. Individuals should remain vigilant by verifying identities through independent contact methods and remaining skeptical of unsolicited urgent requests for money or sensitive information.
patch.com
· 2025-12-08
A Cary woman was approached by a young man outside a Schaumburg retail store who posed as a high school basketball team fundraiser and used a portable card machine to attempt charging $4,000 to her credit card in two separate $2,000 transactions, though both were declined. A similar donation scam occurred in Elmhurst in October, where suspects charged a large unauthorized amount to a victim's credit card before fleeing; those suspects were later found and taken into custody pending investigation.
rotary.org
· 2025-12-08
Americans lost a record $10 billion to fraud in 2023, with impostor scams and email impersonations being increasingly common threats to individuals and organizations like Rotary clubs. Scammers are leveraging artificial intelligence tools and multiple communication channels (text, email, social media) to impersonate trusted contacts and request money, making fraud harder to detect and investigate. To protect yourself and your network, verify suspicious requests through alternative contact methods, report fraud promptly, and share alerts with your community, as most fraud goes unpunished and victims rarely recover their money.
toronto.citynews.ca
· 2025-12-08
During the holiday season, common scams include fake merchandise, phishing emails and texts, charity fraud, romance scams, and gift card scams where fraudsters place stolen barcodes on unpurchased cards. As of October 2024, Canada reported over 40,000 fraud incidents totaling $500 million in losses, with experts recommending shoppers verify merchants, check gift card barcodes, and avoid sharing personal information with unverified sources. Recovery of fraudulent funds is difficult, particularly when cryptocurrency is involved, and authorities estimate only 5-10% of fraud victims report incidents.
publicnewsservice.org
· 2025-12-08
During the holiday season, Mainers face increasingly sophisticated scams including phishing emails impersonating UPS or PayPal, "brushing" scams with fake QR codes on unexpected Amazon packages, and tampered gift cards that scammers drain before they're given as gifts. AARP Maine recommends checking with companies directly before clicking links, placing credit freezes if data is compromised, verifying charities through the IRS or Charity Navigator, and contacting the AARP Fraud Watch Network if targeted, noting that over 80% of Americans have experienced or been targeted by holiday-related fraud.
mshale.com
· 2025-12-08
The Minnesota Department of Commerce is urging residents to become "scam spotters" in 2025 as the state reports an increase in fraudsters tricking people into sharing financial information and losing money. The department provides key prevention tips including verifying requests directly with the source, resisting emotional manipulation and urgency tactics, avoiding upfront payment demands, and not clicking suspicious links—and offers resources for reporting scams and checking business licenses.
aol.com
· 2025-12-08
This article provides six free strategies for protecting finances from fraud, particularly during high-risk periods like the holiday season. The recommended safeguards include staying informed about trending scams (adoption, romance, grandparent, and elder fraud), freezing credit with major bureaus when not applying for loans, enabling multi-factor authentication on accounts, using password managers to create strong unique passwords, avoiding clicking links or calling numbers in unsolicited communications, and monitoring accounts regularly for suspicious activity. These preventive measures require no financial investment but can significantly reduce vulnerability to identity theft and fraud year-round.
southernstar.ie
· 2025-12-08
This educational guide defines scams as illegal schemes designed to steal money or personal information, and describes current fraud methods including "quishing" (fake QR codes at parking meters), fraudulent text messages impersonating government energy credit schemes, and spoofed business emails requesting payment. The article provides protective measures such as avoiding QR code payments, using multi-factor authentication, verifying websites through cybersecurity tools, recognizing warning signs (unsolicited contacts, pressure to act quickly, grammatical errors), and safeguarding personal information by only sharing details in initiated communications and checking website security features.
12newsnow.com
· 2025-12-08
This article outlines common holiday scams targeting consumers during the Christmas season, including gift card fraud (via tampered barcodes), fake package delivery notifications that trick users into clicking malicious links, dangerous "free" Santa tracker apps containing malware, and fraudulent charity websites. The Better Business Bureau and FBI advise consumers to inspect gift cards for tampering, verify package tracking directly through official carrier websites rather than clicking text links, avoid free Santa tracker apps, and research charities before donating. Victims should report suspected scams to the BBB Scam Tracker.
deseret.com
· 2025-12-08
Holiday shopping scams cost Americans over $309 million in non-payment and non-delivery fraud last year, with nearly 80% of consumers falling victim to scams—a 10% increase from the prior year. The FBI warned consumers against unrealistic deals during peak shopping periods, as scammers exploit holiday distractions and increased transaction volumes through tactics including counterfeit in-demand items, fake charities (affecting nearly 1 in 3 people), phishing emails and texts, fraudulent gift card offers, and fake employment opportunities. Common advice includes avoiding unsolicited links, verifying charity legitimacy, and purchasing only from authorized retailers.
wave3.com
· 2025-12-08
The Better Business Bureau identifies twelve common holiday scams that increase during the festive season, including advent calendar fraud, fake charities, imposter emails/texts mimicking legitimate companies, fake shipping notifications, misleading social media ads, gift exchange schemes, puppy scams, and fake toll collection texts. The BBB advises consumers to verify charities through official evaluators, avoid unsolicited links and texts, use credit cards for social media purchases for protection, and contact companies directly through official channels if suspicious activity occurs. These scams particularly harm consumers with tight budgets who are trying to purchase gifts and prepare holiday meals.
kbtx.com
· 2025-12-08
The Better Business Bureau identifies 12 holiday-season scams targeting consumers, including misleading social media ads, fake charities, puppy scams, and employment fraud schemes that exploit seasonal shopping and giving. Experts advise consumers to avoid wire transfers, gift card payments, and unsolicited links; research businesses and organizations before engaging; and report scams to law enforcement even if embarrassed, as scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated.
wgxa.tv
· 2025-12-08
During the holiday season, scammers exploit charitable giving through phone solicitations impersonating legitimate charities or operating as fraudulent organizations. Experts advise verifying any charity through CharityNavigator.org before donating and choosing to donate online directly through the charity's official website using a credit card rather than responding to unsolicited phone calls, which cannot be verified as legitimate.