Scam Types & Guides
Browse scams by category. Each guide explains what the scam looks like, the red flags to watch for, and exactly what to do. We currently have 600 detailed guides, with more added regularly.
Scam texts (also called smishing) try to push you into clicking a link, calling a number, or sending money using urgency and fake alerts.
Wrong Number Text Scam
This scam starts with a friendly 'wrong number' text, builds a casual conversation over time, and eventually steers you toward a fake investment.
Fake Toll Road Text Scam
This scam texts you about a small unpaid toll and threatens late fees, linking to a fake page that collects your card and personal details.
Fake Voicemail Text Scam
This scam sends a text or email claiming you have a new voicemail or missed call, with a link to 'listen' that leads to a phishing page or prompts you to install an app.
Two-Factor Code Text Scam
In this scam a fraudster triggers a genuine two-factor or one-time code to your phone, then poses as support staff or a contact to pressure you into reading it back so they can take over your account.
Amazon Prime Text Scam
This scam sends a text claiming your Amazon Prime membership has auto-renewed or that a payment failed, with a number to call or a link to 'cancel' that is used to harvest your login and card details.
SIM Swap Scam
In a SIM swap scam, a fraudster persuades your mobile carrier to move your number to their SIM, then intercepts your calls and one-time codes to break into your accounts.
Utility Disconnection Scam
This scam uses a text or call posing as your electricity, gas, or water company, threatening to cut off service within the hour unless you pay immediately by an unusual method.
Family Emergency Text Scam
This scam sends a text from an unknown number claiming to be your child or relative who lost their phone, then urgently asks you to pay a bill or send money.
QR Code Scam
This scam uses a malicious QR code, often a sticker over a real one or sent by text, that leads to a fake payment or login page or prompts a harmful app install.
Lottery Winner Scam
This scam tells you that you have won a lottery or prize draw you never entered, then asks for an upfront fee, tax payment, or personal details to release the supposed winnings.
Text From Your Own Number Scam
This scam sends a text that appears to come from your own phone number, often posing as your mobile carrier with a reward or account-issue link, using the spoofed sender to seem trustworthy.
Fake Phone Carrier Text Scam
This scam sends a text posing as your mobile network, claiming a loyalty reward, overdue bill, or account problem, and links to a fake login or payment page that harvests your details.
Customer Survey Scam
This scam invites you to complete a short customer satisfaction survey for a reward from a known brand, then asks for card details to cover 'shipping' on the prize or harvests your personal data.
Energy Rebate Scam
This scam claims you are owed an energy bill rebate, refund, or cost-of-living payment from your supplier or government, then links to a fake claim page that harvests your bank or card details.
New Login Alert Scam
This scam sends a fake security warning claiming a new device or unfamiliar location signed into your account, urging you to 'secure' it through a link that leads to a fake login page built to steal your password.
One Ring Call Scam
In this scam, also called Wangiri, a single ring comes from an international or premium-rate number hoping curiosity makes you call back, connecting you to a costly premium line that charges by the minute.
Appointment Reminder Scam
This scam sends a fake appointment reminder for a doctor, dentist, licensing office, or service and asks you to confirm, reschedule, or pay a small fee through a link that quietly harvests your personal or card details.
Loyalty Points Scam
This scam claims your loyalty points, reward balance, or air miles are about to expire and pushes you to redeem them through a link, which leads to a phishing page built to steal your account login or card details.
DVLA Text Scam
This scam sends a text posing as the DVLA, claiming your vehicle tax failed, a refund is owed, or your details need updating, then links to a fake page that collects your bank and card details.
School Fees Text Scam
This scam sends a text or email posing as your child's school, nursery, or club, asking you to pay fees, a trip, or set up a 'new payment system' through a link that quietly harvests your card or bank details.
Fake Insurance Renewal Scam
This scam uses a text or call posing as your car, home, or health insurer, claiming your policy is due, has lapsed, or is owed a refund, then pushes you to a fake payment or login page or to pay by unusual methods.
Parking Fine Text Scam
This scam sends a text claiming you have an unpaid parking charge or penalty that must be paid quickly through a link to avoid extra fees, leading to a fake payment page built to steal your card details.
Loan Offer Text Scam
This scam sends an unsolicited text offering a pre-approved loan or payday advance with 'guaranteed approval', then either harvests your bank and ID details on a fake lender page or demands an upfront 'release' or 'insurance' fee for a loan that never arrives.
Fake Boss Text Scam
This scam sends a text claiming to be your manager or CEO from a new or personal number, urgently and discreetly asking you to buy gift cards, make a payment or share information, relying on your respect for authority to skip the usual checks.
Account Suspended Text Scam
This scam texts that an account has been suspended, limited, or locked for 'security reasons' and links to a fake login page that captures your username, password, and other details.
Streaming Payment Text Scam
This scam texts that your streaming subscription payment failed and the account will be suspended, linking to a fake page that captures your login and card details to 'update billing'.
Tech Support Text Scam
This scam texts that your device is infected, hacked, or compromised and urges you to call a 'support' number, where a fake agent seeks remote access, payment, or your account details.
Political Donation Text Scam
This scam texts urgent appeals pretending to be a political campaign or cause, using deadlines and matching-donation claims to push you to a fake page that takes your card and personal details.
Disaster Relief Donation Text Scam
This scam sends texts after a disaster or crisis, posing as a relief charity and using emotional urgency to push you to a fake donation page that collects your card and personal details.
Subscription Cancellation Text Scam
This scam texts that a subscription or trial will auto-charge a large amount unless you cancel now, linking to a fake page that harvests your login and card details under the pressure to stop the charge.
Refund Failed Text Scam
This scam texts that a refund you are owed 'could not be processed' and asks you to confirm or re-enter your bank or card details through a link that captures them for fraud.
Mobile Wallet Charge Text Scam
This scam texts that a payment was made from your mobile wallet, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, and tells you to tap a link or call a number to 'dispute' it, leading to a fake page or a scammer posing as support.
Reservation Confirmation Text Scam
This scam texts a fake reservation confirmation for a restaurant, hotel, or appointment and asks you to confirm, modify, or pay a deposit through a link that captures your card and personal details.
Prescription Ready Text Scam
This scam texts that your prescription is ready and needs a small delivery fee or confirmation of your details, linking to a fake page that collects your card and personal or health information.
Compensation Claim Text Scam
This scam texts that you are owed compensation for an accident, a mis-sold product, or a data breach, and asks you to claim through a link that harvests your personal and bank details or sets up bogus claims in your name.
Data Breach Alert Text Scam
This scam texts that your data or account was exposed in a breach and urges you to 'secure' or 'verify' it through a link, leading to a fake login page that steals the very credentials it claims to protect.
New Payee Text Scam
This scam texts that a new payee or recipient has been added to your bank account and tells you to call a number or tap a link to cancel it, leading to a fake page or a scammer posing as your bank's fraud team.
Roaming Charge Text Scam
This scam texts travellers that they must activate roaming or pay a data fee through a link, leading to a fake page that collects card and account details while you are abroad and less able to verify.
Premium SMS Subscription Text Scam
This scam signs you up to a premium-rate SMS service, often after a quiz, competition, or app, then charges you for each message received, with vague opt-out instructions that are hard to act on.
Bank Statement Text Scam
This scam texts that your bank statement or account summary is ready to view and links to a fake login page that captures your online banking credentials.
Secure Message Text Scam
This scam texts that you have a new secure message from your bank, government, or service provider and links you to log in to read it, leading to a fake page that steals your credentials.
Card Deactivated Text Scam
This scam texts that your debit or credit card has been deactivated or blocked and links you to a fake page to 'reactivate' it, capturing your card number, PIN, and online banking details.
Direct Debit Cancelled Text Scam
This scam texts that a direct debit or standing payment has been cancelled or failed and links you to 'reinstate' it, leading to a fake page that captures your bank login and payment details.
Pet Microchip Renewal Text Scam
This scam texts pet owners that their pet's microchip registration has expired or needs updating for a fee, linking to a fake page that collects card and personal details.
MOT Reminder Text Scam
This scam texts that your vehicle's MOT or service is due or overdue and links you to 'book' or 'pay' through a fake page that collects your card and personal details.
Betting Bonus Text Scam
This scam texts a free bet, casino bonus, or 'winnings' to claim, linking to a fake page that collects your card, ID, and account details, or signs you up to charges.
Flight Cancellation Text Scam
This scam texts that your flight is cancelled or changed and tells you to rebook or claim a refund through a link or number, leading to a fake page or a scammer posing as airline support who takes payment and details.
Phone Bill Overdue Text Scam
This scam texts that your mobile bill is overdue and your service will be suspended unless you pay immediately through a link, leading to a fake page that captures your card and account details.
Speeding Fine Text Scam
This scam texts that you have an outstanding speeding or traffic fine and must pay immediately to avoid penalties, court, or points, linking to a fake page that collects your card and personal details.
Broadband Provider Text Scam
This scam texts that your broadband bill failed, a refund is due, or your service will be cut, impersonating your internet provider and linking to a fake page that collects your card and account details.
Vehicle Recall Text Scam
This scam texts that your vehicle has an urgent safety recall and links you to 'book a repair' or confirm details, leading to a fake page that collects your personal and payment information.
Funeral Notice Text Scam
This scam texts a fake funeral or memorial notice for a friend or relative, urging you to click a link to view details, a live-stream, or donate, leading to a phishing page or a fake donation collector.
Water Bill Text Scam
This scam texts that your water bill is overdue, a refund is due, or supply will be cut, impersonating your water company and linking to a fake page that collects your card and account details.
Gas Safety Inspection Text Scam
This scam texts that your annual gas safety check or boiler service is overdue or legally required, urging you to book or pay through a link that collects your card and personal details, or sends an unqualified caller.
Email scams (phishing) imitate companies you trust to trick you into logging in on a fake page, paying a fake invoice, or downloading an attachment.
Fake Invoice Email Scam
This scam emails an invoice or receipt for something you did not buy, hoping you call a fake 'support' number or click a link to dispute it.
Fake Amazon Order Email
This scam emails a fake order confirmation for an expensive item, hoping you click a link or call a number to dispute a charge you never made.
Fake Netflix Payment Email
This scam warns that your Netflix payment failed and your account is on hold, linking to a fake page that steals your login and card details.
Fake Apple ID Locked Email
This scam claims your Apple ID has been locked for security reasons and links to a fake sign-in page that captures your Apple ID and password.
Fake Refund Email Scam
This scam emails that you are owed a refund and asks you to confirm bank or card details, or to accept a refund that is really designed to steal your money.
Fake Subscription Renewal Email
This scam emails that a subscription is renewing for a large amount, hoping you call a fake support number or click a link to cancel and hand over details.
Fake PayPal Email Scam
This scam sends an email claiming your PayPal account is limited or shows unusual activity, urging you to 'confirm' your details through a link that leads to a fake login page designed to steal your password.
Microsoft Account Email Scam
This scam sends a fake Microsoft or Outlook email about an unusual sign-in or an account about to be closed, linking to a fake Microsoft login page that captures your email and password.
Fake DocuSign Email Scam
This scam sends a fake 'you have a document to review and sign' email with a 'View Document' link that leads to a credential-harvesting page or to malware instead of a genuine document.
Fake LinkedIn Email Scam
This scam sends fake LinkedIn notification emails, such as a new message, appearing in searches or a job offer, with links to phishing pages that steal your login or push you toward fake recruiters.
Inheritance Scam
This scam emails you out of the blue claiming you are the beneficiary of a large inheritance or unclaimed estate, often from a distant relative or stranger, then asks for fees, bank details, or documents to 'release' the money that never exists.
Fake Tech Support Scam
This scam uses a pop-up, email, or phone call warning that your computer is infected or your account is compromised, urging you to call a number or allow remote access, after which the fake 'technician' charges fees, installs software, or takes your data.
Google Docs Sharing Scam
This scam sends an email saying someone shared a Google Doc or file with you, with an 'Open' link that leads to a fake Google login page or asks you to grant risky account permissions, aiming to capture your password or access your account.
Spotify Payment Scam
This scam sends a fake Spotify email claiming your payment failed or your subscription is on hold, linking to a fake login or billing page that harvests your account and card details.
Dropbox Shared File Scam
This scam sends an email claiming someone shared a Dropbox file or folder with you. The 'View file' link leads to a fake login page designed to capture your email address and Dropbox or work password.
Email Storage Full Scam
This scam warns that your mailbox or storage is full and that you will stop receiving messages unless you 'verify' or 'upgrade' through a link. The link leads to a fake webmail login page that captures your email password.
Fake Zoom Invite Scam
This scam sends a fake Zoom, Teams, or video meeting invite by email and urges you to join or review a missed meeting through a link that leads to a fake login page built to capture your work or email credentials.
WeTransfer File Scam
This scam imitates WeTransfer or a similar file-sharing service. You receive an email saying a contact has sent you files, with a prominent Download button. Instead of delivering a file, the link opens a fake login page designed to capture your email address and password, often your work account. Because file transfers feel routine at work, many people click without checking. Treating an unexpected transfer with caution and verifying the sender first are the safest responses.
CEO Fraud Scam
CEO fraud, a form of business email compromise, involves a scammer pretending to be a senior leader and pressuring an employee to move money or buy gift cards quickly and quietly. The email often mimics the executive's name and writing style, claims they are busy or travelling, and stresses secrecy. Because it exploits authority and urgency, even careful staff can be caught out. Slowing down and verifying any unusual payment request through a known channel is the most reliable defence.
Domain Renewal Scam
Domain renewal scams target website and small business owners with urgent emails or invoices claiming a domain is about to expire. The message often poses as your registrar or a vague "domain services" provider and pushes you to renew through a link. The aim is usually to charge inflated fees, capture your card details, or steal the login to your registrar account so the domain can be taken over.
PayPal Invoice Scam
In a PayPal invoice scam, a fraudster uses PayPal's own invoicing or money request feature to send you a genuine-looking bill for a purchase you never made. The message often includes a "call this number to dispute" note that connects you to a fake support line, where you may be pressured to pay, share account access, or move money. Because the email can come from PayPal's real systems, it can look very convincing.
iCloud Storage Scam
An iCloud storage scam arrives as an email or text pretending to be from Apple, warning that your storage is full or a payment for extra storage has failed. It claims your photos, files, or backups will be deleted unless you update your details through a link. That link leads to a fake Apple sign-in page built to capture your Apple Account email, password, and sometimes payment details.
SharePoint Phishing Scam
This scam sends a fake Microsoft SharePoint or OneDrive email saying a document has been shared with you, linking to a counterfeit Microsoft login page designed to steal your work email credentials. It is commonly aimed at businesses.
Email Thread Hijacking Scam
This scam happens when attackers who have compromised a contact's mailbox reply within a real, existing email thread, using the genuine history to make a malicious link or attachment look trustworthy because it continues a conversation you recognise.
Malware Attachment Scam
In a malware attachment scam, an email arrives with a file posing as an invoice, receipt, CV, statement or delivery note. Opening the attachment, or clicking a prompt to 'enable content' or 'enable macros', can quietly install malware that steals passwords, banking logins or files. The message is often crafted to feel urgent or routine so you act before thinking. Treating every unexpected attachment with caution, and verifying it through a separate channel, is one of the most effective defences.
Geek Squad Renewal Email Scam
This scam emails a fake Geek Squad or tech-support 'renewal invoice' for a subscription you do not have, urging you to call a number where a fake agent talks you into refunds, remote access, or payments.
Sextortion Email Scam
This scam emails a threatening claim that the sender has recorded you through your webcam or has compromising material, and demands payment in cryptocurrency to stay silent, even though they almost always have nothing.
Voicemail Notification Email Scam
This scam emails a fake 'new voicemail' or 'missed call' notification with a link or attachment to 'listen', which leads to a phishing login page or downloads malware.
Fake Unsubscribe Email Scam
This scam relies on the 'unsubscribe' link in spam emails, which can confirm your address is active, lead to a phishing page, or trigger a malware download rather than stopping the messages.
Quarantined Email Scam
This scam emails a warning that several messages are 'held in quarantine' or 'pending delivery' and asks you to log in to 'release' them, leading to a fake page that steals your email password.
Survey Reward Email Scam
This scam emails an offer of a gift, gift card, or cash reward for completing a short survey, often impersonating a known brand, then asks for a small shipping fee and card details or enrols you in recurring charges.
Bank Statement Email Scam
This scam emails a fake 'your e-statement is ready' or 'review your statement' notice impersonating your bank, linking to a fake login page that captures your online banking credentials.
Calendar Invite Phishing Scam
This scam sends unsolicited calendar invites that auto-add events to your schedule, with notifications containing phishing links or fake alerts that lure you to malicious sites or scam pages.
Google Security Alert Email Scam
This scam emails a fake Google 'security alert' or 'new sign-in detected' notice and links to a fake page that captures your Google account password and two-factor codes.
Google Business Profile Email Scam
This scam emails small business owners claiming their online business profile or map listing will be suspended or unverified unless they confirm details or pay a fee through a link, stealing logins or money.
Tax Document Email Scam
This scam emails that a tax document, payslip, or important form is ready to download or view, linking to a fake login page or a malicious attachment that steals credentials or installs malware.
HR Portal Email Scam
This scam emails employees pretending to be the HR or staff portal, asking them to log in to review a policy, payslip, or benefits update, leading to a fake page that captures work credentials for further fraud.
Account Closure Email Scam
This scam emails that your account will be permanently closed or deleted for inactivity unless you log in to confirm it, leading to a fake login page that steals your credentials.
Payment Confirmation Email Scam
This scam emails a fake payment or order confirmation for something you did not buy, prompting you to call a number or click a link to 'cancel' or 'dispute' it, leading to a scammer or a phishing page.
Utility Bill Email Scam
This scam emails a fake utility bill or overdue-payment notice, warning of disconnection unless you pay or log in through a link that collects your card details and account credentials.
Charity Appeal Email Scam
This scam emails an urgent appeal impersonating a charity or disaster relief effort, using emotional language to direct you to a fake donation page that collects your card and personal details.
eFax Document Email Scam
This scam emails a fake notification that a fax or scanned document has arrived for you, with a link or attachment to 'view' it that leads to a phishing login page or downloads malware.
Seller Account Suspension Email Scam
This scam emails online sellers claiming their marketplace account is suspended, limited, or needs verification, linking to a fake login page that captures seller credentials and, in turn, their payouts.
Insurance Renewal Email Scam
This scam emails a fake insurance renewal notice, claim update, or refund, impersonating your insurer and linking to a page that collects your card, policy, and personal details.
Tax Software Account Email Scam
This scam emails users of tax-preparation software around filing season, claiming an account issue, refund, or required verification, linking to a fake login page that captures credentials and financial data.
Teams Notification Email Scam
This scam emails a fake notification that you have a new Microsoft Teams or Slack message or missed call, linking to a fake login page that captures your work credentials.
Airline Miles Expiry Email Scam
This scam emails that your airline miles, hotel points, or loyalty rewards are about to expire unless you log in to claim or redeem them, leading to a fake page that captures your account and card details.
Freelance Platform Email Scam
This scam emails freelancers posing as a platform message, client, or job offer, linking to a fake login page or pushing you off-platform to be paid by fake cheque, advance-fee, or overpayment tricks.
Data Download Ready Email Scam
This scam emails that your requested data download or account export is ready, urging you to log in to retrieve it before it expires, leading to a fake login page that captures your credentials.
Conference Invitation Email Scam
This scam emails a flattering invitation to speak, exhibit, or attend a conference, then charges bogus registration, travel, or visa fees, or collects your personal and payment details for an event that is fake or misrepresented.
Ad Account Suspended Email Scam
This scam emails advertisers claiming their Google Ads or Meta Ads account is suspended or has a billing problem, linking to a fake login page that captures account access and, in turn, ad spend and linked cards.
Card Verification Email Scam
This scam emails that your card needs 'verification' for online payments, impersonating 3-D Secure schemes like Verified by Visa or Mastercard SecureCode, linking to a fake page that captures your card and banking details.
Class Action Settlement Email Scam
This scam emails that you are owed money from a class action settlement and must verify details or pay a fee to claim it, harvesting your bank and personal details or taking a bogus processing fee.
App Store Receipt Email Scam
This scam emails a fake App Store or Google Play receipt for an app or subscription you did not buy, urging you to click or call to 'cancel' or 'refund', leading to a phishing page or a scammer posing as support.
Student Portal Email Scam
This scam emails students claiming a tuition issue, refund, grant, or portal verification, linking to a fake university login page that captures credentials and, in turn, financial aid or personal data.
Patient Portal Email Scam
This scam emails that you have new test results, a medical bill, or a required portal verification, linking to a fake patient-portal login that captures your health, identity, and payment details.
Mortgage Statement Email Scam
This scam emails a fake mortgage statement, payment issue, or rate-change notice from your lender, linking to a fake login page that captures your mortgage account and banking credentials.
Marketplace scams target buyers and sellers on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, using fake payments, overpayment tricks, and pressure to move off-platform.
Facebook Marketplace Buyer Email Scam
A fake buyer claims to have paid through an email service and asks you to confirm a fee or send the 'difference' before any real money arrives.
Google Voice Verification Code Scam
On a marketplace, a supposed buyer or seller asks you to share a verification code texted to your phone to 'prove you are real'. The code is actually used to set up a Google Voice number linked to you, which the scammer then uses for further fraud.
Concert Ticket Scam
Scammers advertise resale tickets for sold-out or popular events on social media and marketplaces. After you pay, often by a method that is hard to reverse, you receive no valid ticket, or a duplicate that will not scan at the door.
Puppy Sale Scam
This scam advertises pets at attractive prices, then asks for a deposit before you can meet the animal and keeps adding fees for shipping, crates, or insurance, while the pet does not actually exist.
Car Deposit Scam
This scam uses an underpriced vehicle listing where the seller claims to be away and asks for a deposit or full payment through gift cards, wire transfer, or a fake escrow service before you can inspect the car.
Fake Escrow Scam
In a high-value marketplace deal, the other party insists on a specific 'escrow' or 'secure payment' website to hold the funds, but the site is fake and simply collects your money or card details.
Vehicle History Report Scam
When buying or selling a vehicle, the other party insists you first get a history report from one specific website, which is set up to harvest your card details or charge hidden fees.
Electronics Deposit Scam
This scam advertises a cheap phone, games console, or laptop, then asks you to send a deposit to 'hold' or 'reserve' the item before you can meet or before it ships. After you pay, the seller disappears.
Marketplace Gift Card Payment Scam
This scam involves a buyer or seller on a marketplace insisting on paying or being paid with gift card codes. Once the codes are shared they are drained almost instantly and are extremely difficult to recover.
Fake Shipping Label Scam
This scam targets sellers when a 'buyer' sends a prepaid shipping label or claims to have overpaid for shipping and asks for the difference back, or sends a fake label so the parcel is redirected. The underlying payment is usually fake or later reversed.
Bait and Switch Listing Scam
This scam uses an attractive, underpriced listing as bait. Once you enquire, the seller says the item is gone and pressures you toward a different, inferior or overpriced item, or to pay a deposit on a 'similar' one.
Online Car Shipping Scam
This scam advertises an underpriced vehicle from a seller who claims to be out of state or abroad. They arrange payment through a fake shipping or escrow service that supposedly holds your money and delivers the car, but the vehicle never arrives and the money is gone.
Liquidation Pallet Scam
This scam advertises cheap pallets of returned, overstock or electronics goods for resale. Buyers pay upfront through a fake liquidation website, but the pallets never arrive or contain near-worthless items rather than the valuable stock that was promised.
Moving Company Scam
This scam uses a low quote to win your booking, then demands a large deposit or sharply raises the price once your belongings are loaded. Some movers hold your items hostage until you pay sudden extra fees that were never mentioned at the start.
eBay Second Chance Offer Scam
After an online auction ends, scammers send a fake second chance offer claiming the winning bidder backed out and that you can now buy the item. The email looks official but pushes you to pay off-platform by bank transfer or another irreversible method, bypassing the marketplace's buyer protection. The item usually does not exist, and once the money is sent it is very hard to recover. Genuine offers stay within the platform's own checkout and messaging.
Fake Supplier Scam
A fake wholesale or B2B supplier advertises bulk goods at prices that beat the market, then asks for payment by bank transfer. Some vanish after the first order, while others build trust with small, genuine deliveries before disappearing on a large one. Because bank transfers offer little recourse, recovering the money is often very difficult.
Penny Auction Scam
A penny or bidding-fee auction site charges a fee for each bid placed, regardless of whether you win. Prices rise in tiny increments, and timers reset with every new bid, so auctions can run far longer than expected. Bots or shill bidders may extend the action, and most users spend far more on non-refundable bids than the item is worth, often winning nothing.
Land Sale Scam
A fake listing offers cheap land or a plot at a tempting price. The seller is often 'abroad' or relies on a fake agent or escrow service, and pushes for a deposit or full payment before you can verify ownership. The land may not exist, may belong to someone else, or may not be for sale at all, leaving buyers with nothing.
Timeshare Resale Scam
Timeshare owners are often contacted out of the blue by a company claiming it already has a buyer lined up, or that it can sell or rent the timeshare quickly. The catch is an upfront payment dressed up as a 'listing fee', 'transfer fee', 'closing cost', or even foreign 'taxes'. Once the money is paid the promised sale stalls, and the buyer turns out not to exist. This pattern is commonly used to target people who already feel stuck with ongoing maintenance fees and are keen to offload the property.
Wedding Vendor Scam
Planning a wedding often means booking several vendors months ahead, which is exactly what makes this scam work. A fake or fraudulent photographer, venue, planner, or caterer advertises online with an attractive portfolio and a competitive price. They ask for a deposit by bank transfer to 'secure the date', then go quiet, never deliver, or disappear entirely. Some use stolen portfolio photos and fabricated reviews to look established, and the loss is often only noticed close to the wedding.
Rogue Trader Scam
A rogue trader is a doorstep or online 'tradesperson' offering driveway, roofing, gardening or repair work at a tempting price. They press for a large cash deposit upfront, then carry out poor or unfinished work, 'discover' extra problems that were never there, and inflate the final bill. Older homeowners are often targeted. Taking time to get the offer in writing and to compare quotes can reveal the pressure tactics for what they are.
Blocked Phone Sale Scam
A blocked phone sale scam involves a second-hand handset that looks fine but is stolen, blocklisted by its IMEI, or still tied to the previous owner's account. After you pay, the phone may lose network service, refuse to activate, or stay locked behind someone else's login. Checking the IMEI status and confirming any account lock is removed before handing over money is the key protection.
Car Leasing Scam
A car leasing scam advertises a brand-new lease or a 'lease takeover' with eye-catching low monthly payments. Once you are interested, the bogus dealer or broker asks for an upfront deposit or an 'admin', 'processing' or 'reservation' fee by bank transfer. After the money is sent, no vehicle and no proper contract ever arrive, and the contact goes quiet. Verifying that the dealer or broker is genuinely registered is the most reliable safeguard.
Counterfeit Cash Pickup Scam
In this scam, a buyer meets a marketplace seller for a local cash pickup and pays with counterfeit notes or a folded 'cash stack', taking the item before the seller notices the money is fake.
Counterfeit Designer Goods Scam
In this scam, a seller lists counterfeit designer items as authentic at tempting prices, often with stock photos, and ships a fake, a lower-quality copy, or nothing at all.
Free Pet Rehoming Scam
In this scam, a 'free' or low-cost pet is advertised for adoption, but once you are attached the scammer demands escalating fees for shipping, a special crate, or insurance for a pet that does not exist.
Item Not Received Chargeback Scam
In this scam, a buyer receives an item but falsely claims it never arrived or was empty, then files a dispute or chargeback to get their money back while keeping the goods.
Sneaker Resale Scam
In this scam, a seller advertises sought-after or sold-out sneakers at a good price, takes payment by an irreversible method, and then sends a counterfeit pair or disappears entirely.
Marketplace Shipping Insurance Scam
In this scam, a marketplace 'buyer' insists on using their own courier and asks the seller to pay a refundable shipping insurance or handling fee upfront, promising reimbursement that never arrives.
Test Drive Theft Scam
In this scam, someone responding to a private car listing takes the vehicle for a test drive and never returns, or swaps keys for a fake set, driving off with your car.
Damaged Item Refund Scam
In this scam, a buyer falsely claims an item arrived damaged, broken, or not as described, demanding a partial or full refund while keeping the item, sometimes using photos of a different product.
Trade-In Swap Scam
In this scam, someone offers to trade goods, such as phones or electronics, then swaps the agreed item for a fake, broken, or lower-value one during the exchange, leaving you with something worthless.
Discounted Gift Card Resale Scam
In this scam, a seller offers gift cards at a discount, but the cards are empty, already spent, or fake, so the balance is gone by the time you try to use them.
Storage Unit Auction Scam
In this scam, fake online listings advertise abandoned storage units full of valuables up for auction, then take a deposit or full payment for a unit and facility that do not exist or are not theirs to sell.
Copycat Listing Scam
In this scam, a fraudster copies a real seller's photos and details to create a duplicate listing or profile, intercepts buyers, and takes payment off-platform for an item they do not have.
Trading Card Scam
In this scam, a seller offers valuable trading cards or graded slabs at tempting prices, then sends counterfeits, resealed or altered cards, or nothing at all, often using stock photos and irreversible payment.
Memorabilia Forgery Scam
In this scam, a seller offers signed memorabilia, such as sports or music items, with forged autographs and fake certificates of authenticity, selling worthless items as genuine collectibles.
Jewellery Sale Scam
In this scam, a seller advertises gold, diamond, or gemstone jewellery as genuine and valuable, but the items are fake, plated, or far lower grade than claimed, sold at prices that seem like a bargain.
Cash for Gold Scam
In this scam, a 'cash for gold' mail-in or pop-up service offers to buy your gold, then underpays drastically, undervalues items, or fails to return them, exploiting that you have already sent your valuables.
Equipment Hire Scam
In this scam, tools, machinery, or event equipment are advertised for hire at low rates, but the lister demands a deposit before collection for items that do not exist or are not theirs to rent.
Appraisal Fee Scam
In this scam, a buyer or 'specialist' offers to purchase or sell your valuable item but first requires an upfront appraisal, certification, or listing fee, then takes the fee and disappears.
Stolen Goods Sale Scam
In this scam, a seller offers goods, often electronics, bikes, or tools, at suspiciously low prices because they are stolen; if traced, the items can be seized and you lose both the goods and your money.
Refurbished Electronics Scam
In this scam, a seller advertises phones, laptops, or consoles as 'refurbished' or 'certified', but the devices are faulty, counterfeit, locked, or far lower grade than claimed, with no real warranty.
Car Clocking Scam
In this scam, a seller winds back or alters a used car's odometer to show lower mileage, making the vehicle seem less worn and worth more, hiding wear and inflating the price.
Write-Off Car Scam
In this scam, a car that was written off, salvaged, or rebuilt from damaged vehicles is sold as a clean, accident-free car, hiding structural damage and safety risks to inflate the price.
Rare Coin Scam
In this scam, a seller offers 'rare' or collectible coins as valuable investments, but the coins are counterfeit, altered, common, or wildly overpriced, sometimes with fake grading certificates.
Art Sale Scam
In this scam, a seller offers paintings or prints as valuable originals or limited editions, but the art is forged, misattributed, mass-produced, or never delivered, often with fake provenance documents.
Vending Machine Business Scam
In this scam, a 'business opportunity' sells vending machines or an ATM route promising passive income and prime locations, but the machines are overpriced, locations never materialise, and support disappears after you pay.
Franchise Opportunity Scam
In this scam, a fake or misrepresented franchise or 'business in a box' charges upfront franchise and setup fees with promises of proven systems and support, then provides little of value and no real business.
Website Sale Scam
In this scam, a seller offers a website, domain, or online business claiming strong traffic and revenue, but the figures are faked, the assets are not theirs to sell, or nothing is transferred after payment.
Horse and Livestock Sale Scam
In this scam, a horse, pony, or other livestock is advertised at a good price, but the 'seller' demands a deposit, vetting, or transport fee before any viewing for an animal that does not exist or is not theirs.
Counterfeit Parts Scam
In this scam, counterfeit or substandard spare parts, such as car components, phone batteries, or appliance parts, are sold as genuine at low prices, risking safety and failure as well as wasted money.
Seized Goods Auction Scam
In this scam, fake listings advertise 'police, customs, or government seized' goods, cars, or electronics at bargain prices, then take a deposit or full payment for items and auctions that are not genuine.
Device Buyback Scam
In this scam, a device buyback or trade-in service offers a great price for your phone or laptop, but after you post it they slash the offer citing 'faults', underpay drastically, or keep the device entirely.
We Buy Any Car Scam
In this scam, an online 'instant car valuation' or buyer lures you with a high quote, then drastically cuts the price at inspection over minor 'faults', or harvests your vehicle and personal details for fraud.
Counterfeit Toy Scam
In this scam, counterfeit or unsafe toys, often popular branded or in-demand items, are sold as genuine at low prices, risking safety and disappointment as well as wasted money.
Shipping Container Sale Scam
In this scam, shipping or storage containers are advertised at attractive prices, but the seller demands a deposit or full payment before viewing or delivery for containers that do not exist or are not theirs.
Mobility Equipment Scam
In this scam, mobility scooters, wheelchairs, or disability aids are advertised cheaply to target older or disabled buyers, taking a deposit or full payment for equipment that never arrives or is faulty.
Caravan Sale Scam
In this scam, a caravan or motorhome is advertised at a good price, but the seller demands a deposit before viewing, often claiming to be away, for a vehicle that does not exist or is not theirs.
Job scams offer easy, high-paying or remote work to collect your personal details, charge fake fees, or recruit you into moving money.
Fake Job Offer Scam
This scam offers a job with little or no interview, then asks for upfront fees, personal documents, or bank details to 'set you up.'
WhatsApp Job Scam
This scam contacts you on WhatsApp with an easy paid-task job, shows small early 'earnings,' then asks you to deposit money to unlock bigger payouts.
Fake Remote Data Entry Job Scam
This scam advertises easy remote data entry work, then asks for upfront fees, personal documents, or bank details, or routes you into money handling.
Mystery Shopper Scam
This scam offers a fake secret or mystery shopper job, sends you a cheque to deposit, and asks you to 'evaluate' a money-transfer service by wiring most of it back or buying gift cards, after which the cheque bounces and you are left owing the money.
Reshipping Job Scam
This scam advertises a work-from-home 'package processing' or 'quality control' role where you receive parcels and reship them abroad, but the goods were bought with stolen cards, making you an unwitting money mule with real legal risk.
Car Wrap Scam
This scam offers to pay you for wrapping your car in advertising, then sends a check for more than agreed and asks you to forward part of it to a 'wrap installer'. The check later bounces, leaving you responsible for the money you sent on.
Envelope Stuffing Scam
This long-running scam promises easy money for stuffing envelopes at home, charges an upfront fee for a 'starter kit', then reveals the only way to earn is by recruiting others into the same scheme.
Virtual Assistant Job Scam
In this scam, a remote 'personal or virtual assistant' role offers good pay for simple tasks, then sends a fake cheque to buy supplies or gift cards and forward money, or asks for upfront fees or bank details, leaving you out of pocket.
Modeling Agency Scam
In this scam a 'scout' or agency contacts an aspiring model promising big opportunities, then asks for upfront payment for a portfolio, classes, registration, or a 'starter package'. The promised work rarely appears.
Pyramid Scheme Scam
This scam is pitched as a business opportunity, but income comes mainly from recruiting new members who each pay to join rather than from selling a real product, so most people near the bottom lose money.
Nanny Job Scam
This scam offers a well-paid nanny or caregiver role, then sends a cheque for more than agreed and asks you to forward the extra for 'supplies'; the cheque later bounces and you lose the money you sent.
Fake Internship Scam
Fake internship scams advertise training placements, often aimed at students, that require an upfront fee for 'registration', 'training materials', or a 'placement guarantee'. Some instead collect personal documents and ID up front. After payment or document handover, the promised opportunity rarely materialises or has little real value.
Government Job Scam
Government job scams advertise guaranteed government or public-sector positions and charge fees for fake application processing, exams, or 'confirmed appointments'. Some instead collect ID documents for roles that do not exist. Genuine public-sector recruitment is advertised through official channels and never requires paying a middleman to secure a job.
Fake Recruitment Agency Scam
A fake recruitment or staffing agency promises to place you in a job in exchange for an upfront registration, training or 'placement guarantee' fee. Some instead collect copies of your ID and bank details under the guise of onboarding. The roles are often non-existent or never materialise once payment is made. Legitimate recruiters are typically paid by the employer, not the candidate, and use official channels rather than demanding fees to apply.
Product Tester Scam
A product tester scam offers easy money or free products in return for testing and reviewing items. In reality, scammers may send a fake cheque and ask you to forward part of the funds, request that you buy goods and wire money back, or simply harvest your personal and bank details during 'sign-up'. The promised pay or free products usually never properly materialise, and you can be left covering bounced cheques or unauthorised charges.
Translation Job Scam
The translation job scam offers well-paid remote translation or transcription work for surprisingly simple tasks. Once you are interested, the role turns out to be a front for fraud. You may be sent a fake cheque to deposit and forward on, asked to pay for certification or special software, or pressured to hand over your ID and bank details for a job that does not exist. Genuine translation work pays you for your skills and never asks you to pay or move money first.
Assembly Job Scam
The assembly job scam promises easy money for assembling crafts, jewellery, or small products at home. To begin, you are asked to buy a starter kit or materials upfront. After you complete and return your work, the company claims it does not meet their quality standards and refuses to pay. The standards are often impossible to meet by design, so the real product being sold is the kit itself. Legitimate employers pay you for your work rather than charging you to start.
Online Task Job Scam
In this scam, you are offered easy paid 'tasks' like liking videos or rating products, shown small early earnings, then pressured to deposit your own money to unlock bigger commissions that you can never withdraw.
Money Mule Job Scam
This scam hires you as a 'payment processor', 'financial agent', or 'transfer assistant' to receive money into your account and forward it on, making you a money mule who launders the proceeds of fraud.
Background Check Fee Scam
This scam offers a job conditional on paying for a 'mandatory background check', 'screening', or 'credentialing' through a specific link or service, taking your fee and personal details for a role that does not exist.
Job Training Course Scam
This scam promises a guaranteed or high-paying job once you pay for a 'required' training course, certification, or starter kit, then provides little of value and no real job at the end.
Overseas Job Visa Scam
This scam offers attractive jobs abroad and demands fees for visas, work permits, flights, or placement, sometimes leaving victims out of pocket or stranded with no real job waiting.
Pet Sitting Job Scam
In this scam, you are hired as a pet sitter or dog walker without a real interview, sent a check for more than agreed to cover 'supplies' or the pet's transport, and asked to send the difference back before the check bounces.
Online Tutoring Job Scam
In this scam, a tutoring 'platform' or student recruiter offers easy online teaching work, then charges for required software, training, or registration, or sends a fake check for equipment and asks for money back.
Medical Billing Job Scam
In this scam, a 'medical billing from home' opportunity sells you expensive software, training, or certification with the promise of ready clients and high income, but the clients and support never materialise.
Ad Posting Job Scam
In this scam, you are promised easy income for posting ads or links online, but you must first buy a 'starter kit' or membership, and the promised commissions never arrive or require recruiting others.
Social Media Manager Job Scam
In this scam, you are hired to manage a company's social media without a real interview, sent a check to cover 'ad spend' or tools, and asked to forward most of it to a vendor before the check bounces.
Remote Customer Service Job Scam
In this scam, you are hired for a remote customer service role and sent a check to buy a laptop and equipment from the employer's 'approved vendor', who is the scammer; the check bounces after you pay.
Airline Job Scam
In this scam, a fake airline or recruiter offers glamorous cabin crew or ground roles, then charges upfront for 'mandatory' training, uniforms, medicals, or visas for jobs that do not exist.
Oil Rig Job Scam
In this scam, a fake offshore or oil rig employer offers high-paying remote work, then demands upfront fees for travel, equipment, medicals, or 'contract processing' for jobs that do not exist, sometimes alongside romance manipulation.
Job Placement Service Scam
In this scam, a 'placement agency' or career service charges an upfront fee promising guaranteed job placement, exclusive openings, or interviews, then provides little of value and no real job.
Chat Operator Job Scam
In this scam, an online 'chat operator' or messaging job promises easy pay for chatting on dating or fan platforms, then withholds earnings behind targets, charges sign-up or software fees, or harvests your personal data.
Cleaning Job Scam
In this scam, you are hired as a cleaner or housekeeper without a real interview, sent a check to buy 'supplies' or covering more than agreed, and asked to send the difference to a supplier before the check bounces.
Focus Group Job Scam
In this scam, you are invited to a well-paid focus group or research panel, then either sent an overpayment check to buy 'materials' and asked to return the difference, or charged a registration fee for studies that never happen.
Notary Signing Agent Job Scam
In this scam, a notary or loan signing agent 'opportunity' charges upfront for certification, supplies, or background checks, or sends a fake check to buy equipment, with promised assignments that never come.
Truck Driver Job Scam
In this scam, a trucking or delivery-driver job offers high pay, then charges upfront for training, a licence, or 'orientation', or sends a fake check for equipment, for work that does not exist.
UGC Creator Job Scam
In this scam, a 'brand' offers paid user-generated content work, then requires you to buy a starter pack or product upfront, or has you create content and never pays, sometimes harvesting your details.
Au Pair Scam
In this scam, a fake host family or agency offers an au pair placement abroad, then demands fees for visas, flights, or 'insurance', or sends an overpayment check, for a placement that does not exist.
Charity Fundraiser Job Scam
In this scam, a 'charity' recruits fundraisers to collect donations on its behalf, but the cause is fake or the operator pockets the money, charging recruits for materials or never paying promised commission.
Cruise Ship Job Scam
In this scam, a fake cruise line or recruiter offers well-paid shipboard jobs, then charges upfront for placement, medicals, visas, or training for roles that do not exist.
Nursing Recruitment Scam
In this scam, a fake healthcare recruiter offers nursing or care roles, often abroad, then charges upfront for registration, training, credential verification, or visas for jobs that do not exist.
Voiceover Gig Scam
In this scam, a fake client offers a paid voiceover or acting gig, then requires you to buy specific equipment or software, or sends an overpayment cheque and asks for the difference back before it bounces.
Bookkeeping Job Scam
In this scam, a remote bookkeeping or accounts role charges upfront for software or certification, or has you receive and forward client payments through your account, making you a money mule.
Mock Juror Job Scam
In this scam, you are 'hired' as a paid mock juror or online jury participant, sent a cheque for more than agreed to cover 'equipment' or fees, and asked to send the difference back before the cheque bounces.
Personal Driver Job Scam
In this scam, you are hired as a personal driver or chauffeur for a wealthy 'employer', sent a cheque to buy a vehicle, insurance, or supplies, and asked to forward most of it before the cheque bounces.
Photography Gig Scam
In this scam, a fake client books you for a photography or videography gig, sends a cheque for more than agreed to cover a venue, equipment, or a second vendor, and asks you to forward the difference before it bounces.
Personal Chef Job Scam
In this scam, a wealthy 'employer' hires you as a personal chef, sends a cheque for ingredients, equipment, or a deposit larger than agreed, and asks you to send the difference to a supplier before the cheque bounces.
Seasonal Retail Job Scam
In this scam, a fake seasonal or holiday temp job offers quick hiring, then charges for training, a uniform, or a background check, or sends an overpayment cheque for 'equipment' that you must partly send back.
Bank and payment scams impersonate your bank or a payment service to trigger panic, then push you to share codes, move money, or log in on a fake page.
PayPal Payment Pending Scam
This scam shows a fake 'payment on hold' message claiming funds will be released once you ship an item or confirm details, but no real payment exists.
Fake Bank Alert Text Scam
This scam sends a text claiming suspicious activity on your account, then steers you to a fake login page or a 'fraud agent' who pressures you to move money.
Fake E-Transfer Scam
This scam sends a fake e-transfer notification linking to a phishing page that imitates your bank's login to steal your online banking details.
Zelle Payment Scam
In this scam someone posing as your bank's fraud team contacts you about 'suspicious activity' and pressures you to send money through Zelle to 'reverse' a charge or 'protect' your account. Zelle transfers are usually instant and hard to recover.
Cash App Scam
These scams use fake Cash App 'giveaways' or 'blessings', people pretending to be Cash App support who ask for your PIN or sign-in code, and 'accidental payment' refund tricks to take your money or take over your account.
Overpayment Scam
A buyer, employer, or 'client' sends you a payment or cheque for more than they owe, then asks you to send the extra back. The original payment is fake or is later reversed, leaving you out of pocket for the refund you sent.
Venmo Scam
Venmo scams take several forms, including fake 'accidental payment' refund tricks, people posing as Venmo support to get your codes, stranger payments that later reverse, and prize or giveaway messages.
Payroll Direct Deposit Scam
In this scam, a fraudster emails an employer's HR or payroll team while pretending to be an employee and asks to update their direct-deposit bank details, diverting the next paycheck to the scammer's account.
Bank Impersonation Phone Scam
In this scam a caller pretends to be your bank's fraud team, claims your account is under attack, and pressures you to move money to a 'safe account', read out one-time codes, or grant remote access so they can steal your funds.
Card Skimming Scam
In a card skimming scam, criminals attach hidden devices to ATMs, fuel pumps, or shop card readers, often with a tiny camera or fake keypad, to copy your card details and PIN and later make fraudulent transactions or card clones.
Fake Cheque Scam
A buyer, employer, or prize giver sends a cheque for more than you are owed and asks you to deposit it and send back the difference. The cheque later bounces, the bank reclaims the full amount, and you are left owing the money you sent on.
Advance Fee Loan Scam
A lender guarantees approval for a loan regardless of your credit, then asks for an upfront 'insurance', 'processing', or 'first payment' fee before releasing the money. Once the fee is paid, the promised funds never arrive.
Fake Debt Collector Scam
A caller claims you owe a debt and demands immediate payment, often threatening arrest, court action or wage garnishment. The supposed debt may be entirely invented, or it may be a real one details have been bought or leaked from data breaches to make the call sound convincing. The pressure to pay quickly by card, transfer or gift card is the core tactic.
Fake Banking App Scam
A counterfeit banking or finance app, often spread through an unofficial app store, an advert or a link, mimics a real bank to capture your login and one-time codes. Some fakes are designed to harvest credentials directly, while others install malware that intercepts your genuine banking. Once attackers have your login and codes, they may attempt to access your real account.
Courier Card Collection Scam
A caller claiming to be from your bank says your card has been compromised and that, for safety, a courier will come to collect your old card. They ask you to confirm your PIN or hand the card over to the courier. In reality the courier is part of the scam, and once they have your genuine card and PIN, the account can be drained.
Real Estate Wire Fraud Scam
During a property purchase, criminals who have gained access to a hacked estate agent, solicitor or title company email account send fake or 'updated' wiring instructions. The aim is to divert your deposit or closing funds into an account they control. Because the email appears to come from a trusted party at exactly the right moment in the transaction, these messages can be very convincing. Always verify any payment details by phone using a number you already know.
Cheque Washing Scam
In a cheque washing scam, criminals steal cheques, often from post boxes or unsecured mail, then use chemicals to erase the original ink. They rewrite the payee name and amount and cash the altered cheque. Because the cheque is technically genuine, the fraud may only surface when it clears or when an expected cheque never arrives. Writing cheques carefully and tracking expected post can reduce your exposure.
ATM Distraction Scam
The ATM distraction scam happens at a cash machine when a stranger interrupts you at the moment you are entering your PIN or collecting your card and money. While your attention is pulled away, an accomplice may watch your PIN, swap your card for a similar-looking one, or grab cash from the tray. It relies on good timing and a friendly or urgent excuse, so staying focused at the machine is your strongest defence.
Unauthorised Direct Debit Scam
The unauthorised direct debit scam involves payments being set up or taken from your account without your genuine agreement. Fraudsters may use leaked bank details to create recurring payments in your name, or a dishonest company may keep taking money after you have cancelled. Charges are often small or irregular so they slip past unnoticed for months. Reviewing your statements regularly and knowing your dispute rights are the best ways to catch and reverse these payments.
Contactless Card Theft Scam
This scam misuses contactless cards and mobile wallets, through theft, lost cards, or relayed taps, to make quick low-value payments or add a stolen card to a wallet before you notice and block it.
Cardless ATM Scam
This scam exploits cardless ATM features, where a fraudster who has phished your login or one-time code generates a withdrawal code in your banking app and takes cash from an ATM without your physical card.
Bitcoin ATM Payment Scam
This scam, often by impersonators claiming to be your bank, a government agency, or tech support, directs you to withdraw cash and deposit it into a Bitcoin ATM using a QR code they provide, sending the money irreversibly to the scammer.
Accidental Transfer Scam
In this scam, money arrives in your account 'by mistake' and the sender urgently asks you to return it; the original funds were stolen or are later reversed, so any money you send back comes from your own balance.
Invoice Redirection Scam
In this scam, fraudsters posing as a supplier or contractor email that their bank details have changed, so your next invoice payment is diverted to the scammer's account instead of the genuine business.
Refund Recovery Scam
In this scam, a caller claims you are owed a refund, gains remote access to your device, moves money between your own accounts to fake an overpayment, then pressures you to 'return' the difference to them.
ATM Card Trapping Scam
In this scam, a device hidden in the ATM traps your card so it appears stuck, while a nearby 'helpful' stranger watches your PIN or suggests re-entering it, then retrieves the trapped card after you leave.
Mortgage Broker Scam
In this scam, a fake mortgage broker or lender promises guaranteed approval or unusually low rates regardless of your credit, then charges upfront 'arrangement', 'insurance', or 'lock-in' fees for a loan that never materialises.
Money Transfer Service Scam
In this scam, you are pressured to send money through a cash wire-transfer service for a prize, emergency, purchase, or 'fee', because such transfers are fast, often anonymous, and very hard to reverse once collected.
Safe Account Scam
In this scam, a caller posing as your bank or the police says your account is compromised and instructs you to move your money to a new 'safe account' for protection, which is actually controlled by the scammer.
Loan App Scam
In this scam, an instant-loan app offers quick cash with no checks, then demands excessive access to your contacts and photos, charges hidden fees and extreme interest, and harasses or blackmails you over repayments.
Fund Recovery Scam
In this scam, fraudsters target people who have already lost money, posing as recovery agents, lawyers, or authorities who can get the funds back for an upfront fee or your account details, then take more money.
Money Order Scam
In this scam, you are paid with a counterfeit money order, or one for more than agreed with a request to refund the difference; the money order is fake or reversed, leaving you out of pocket for any funds you released.
Card Not Present Fraud Scam
In this scam, criminals use stolen card details, obtained through phishing, skimming, or data breaches, to make online or phone purchases where the physical card is not needed, often testing with small charges first.
APP Purchase Scam
In this scam, you are persuaded to pay by bank transfer for goods, services, tickets, or a deposit that never materialise; because you authorised the payment yourself, it is hard to recover.
Bank KYC Verification Scam
In this scam, a message or call impersonating your bank says your account will be frozen unless you complete 'KYC' or identity verification, linking to a fake page that captures your login, card, and personal details.
Bank Switch Bonus Scam
In this scam, a fake offer of a cash bonus for switching banks or opening an account links you to a phishing page that collects your existing banking login, card, and identity details.
Payment Request Scam
In this scam, a fraudster sends a payment request through a banking app or payment service, disguised as a refund, credit, or shared cost, so that approving it actually sends your money to them.
Dormant Account Scam
In this scam, you are told you have dormant, unclaimed, or forgotten funds in an account, estate, or scheme, and must pay a release fee or share bank details to claim money that does not exist.
Card Rewards Redemption Scam
In this scam, a call or message claims your credit card reward points are expiring and must be redeemed now, then asks for your card number, OTP, or login to 'process' the redemption and drains your account.
Callback Phishing Scam
In this scam, an email or text about a charge, order, or security issue urges you to call a number, where a fake agent talks you into sharing details, installing remote access, or moving money.
Mobile Cheque Deposit Scam
In this scam, you are paid to deposit cheques using your mobile banking app and forward most of the funds, but the cheques are fake; when they bounce, the money is reversed and you are left liable, and you may be muling fraud.
Buy Now Pay Later Fraud Scam
In this scam, fraudsters use your stolen details to open buy now pay later accounts or hijack existing ones, making purchases in your name and leaving you with the debt and collection notices.
Cheque Cashing Service Scam
In this scam, a fake or predatory cheque-cashing service offers to cash your cheque quickly, then charges extortionate hidden fees, underpays you, or takes the cheque and disappears.
Open Banking Consent Scam
In this scam, a fake app or service asks you to connect your bank via open banking for a 'budget', 'refund', or 'loan check', then uses the granted access to view your data or initiate payments.
Credit Repair Scam
In this scam, a service guarantees to fix or boost your credit score for an upfront fee, using illegal tactics, false disputes, or doing nothing, leaving you worse off and out of pocket.
Debt Consolidation Scam
In this scam, a debt consolidation or management service promises to slash your debts for an upfront or monthly fee, then takes your payments without paying creditors, worsening your situation.
Bank Reimbursement Scam
In this scam, fraudsters pose as your bank's fraud or reimbursement team, claiming they can refund money you lost to a previous scam, then ask for verification details, a fee, or remote access to steal more.
Wallet Provisioning Scam
In this scam, a fraudster who has your card details triggers a request to add your card to their mobile wallet, then calls or messages posing as your bank to get you to share the one-time code that authorises it.
Wage Advance App Scam
In this scam, a wage advance or earned-wage-access app offers instant cash before payday, then charges hidden fees or 'tips', demands intrusive access to your accounts and contacts, or harvests your data.
Micro-Deposit Verification Scam
In this scam, a fraudster sends or references small 'verification' deposits, then uses them to link your bank account to a service, or tricks you into confirming details that grant access for theft.
Delivery scams impersonate couriers and postal services with fake 'missed delivery' or 'customs fee' messages that lead to phishing pages.
Canada Post Text Scam
This scam sends a fake Canada Post delivery notice asking you to click a link or pay a small redelivery fee, then collects your card and personal details on a fake page.
Fake Delivery Text Scam
This scam impersonates a courier with a missed-delivery text and a link to a fake page that asks for a fee or your personal and card details.
Fake Customs Fee Text
This scam texts that a parcel is held in customs and a fee is due, linking to a fake page that collects your card and personal details.
USPS Text Scam
This scam sends a fake USPS message about a missed delivery or an address that needs confirming, with a link to a phishing page that collects your card and personal details, sometimes after a small redelivery fee.
UPS Text Scam
This scam sends a fake UPS message claiming a delivery failed or that your address is needed, with a link to pay a small fee or confirm details on a fake page that harvests your card and personal information.
DHL Text Scam
This scam sends a fake DHL message about a held parcel or unpaid customs fee, pushing you to a phishing page that collects your card and personal details.
FedEx Text Scam
This scam sends a fake FedEx text about a held or undeliverable parcel, asking you to pay a small fee or confirm details through a link that leads to a phishing page.
Evri Text Scam
This scam sends a fake Evri courier text about a missed delivery or a needed address or small fee, with a link to a phishing page that collects your card and personal details under the guise of rescheduling your parcel.
Royal Mail Text Scam
This scam sends a fake Royal Mail text claiming a parcel is held over an unpaid shipping or customs fee, linking to a phishing page that collects your card and personal details.
DPD Text Scam
This scam sends a fake DPD courier text about a missed delivery or a redelivery fee and links to a phishing page that collects your card and personal details.
AusPost Text Scam
This scam sends a fake Australia Post text about a held parcel or unpaid fee, linking to a phishing page that collects your card and personal details under the guise of releasing or redelivering your package.
Purolator Text Scam
This scam sends a fake Purolator courier text about a missed delivery or redelivery fee, linking to a phishing page that collects your card and personal details while posing as a parcel rescheduling page.
An Post Text Scam
This scam sends a fake An Post text about a held parcel or an unpaid customs or redelivery fee, linking to a phishing page that collects your card and personal details under the guise of releasing your delivery.
Address Confirmation Delivery Scam
This scam claims a parcel cannot be delivered until you 'confirm' or 'update' your address through a link, which leads to a page that collects your personal details and sometimes a small card payment.
Amazon Delivery Text Scam
This scam texts a fake Amazon delivery notice about a missed parcel, address problem, or fee, linking to a page that harvests your Amazon login, card, and personal details.
Parcel Locker Scam
This scam sends fake parcel-locker notifications with a link or 'pickup code', aiming to phish your details, or tries to obtain your genuine locker code so a scammer can collect your parcel.
Delivery Tip Scam
This scam sends a message inviting you to 'tip your delivery driver' through a link, leading to a fake payment page that captures your card details rather than sending any gratuity.
Missed Delivery Card Scam
In this scam, a fake 'sorry we missed you' card is left at your door asking you to call a premium-rate number or visit a website to arrange redelivery, charging high call fees or phishing your details.
Yodel Text Scam
This scam sends a fake Yodel text about a missed delivery, address issue, or small fee, linking to a page that collects your card and personal details.
GLS Text Scam
This scam sends a fake GLS text about a held parcel, address problem, or small fee, linking to a page that harvests your card and personal information.
Cash on Delivery Parcel Scam
In this scam, a parcel you never ordered arrives marked cash on delivery, and you or a family member pays for it before discovering it is junk, empty, or far less than the amount charged.
Customs Duty Email Scam
This scam emails a fake customs or import duty notice claiming a parcel is held until you pay a fee, linking to a page that collects your card and personal details.
Parcel Insurance Claim Scam
This scam messages that your parcel was lost or damaged and you can claim insurance compensation, linking to a page that collects your bank, card, and personal details to 'process the payout'.
PostNL Text Scam
This scam sends a fake PostNL text about a missed delivery, address issue, or small fee, linking to a page that collects your card and personal details.
Poste Italiane Text Scam
This scam sends a fake Poste Italiane text about a held parcel, address problem, or small fee, linking to a page that harvests your card and personal information.
India Post Text Scam
This scam sends a fake India Post text about a missed delivery, incomplete address, or small fee, linking to a page that collects your card and personal details.
Delivery App Account Phishing Scam
This scam phishes your courier or delivery app login through fake 'verify your account' or 'delivery preference' messages, letting the scammer redirect parcels, change addresses, or misuse saved payment details.
Correos Text Scam
This scam sends a fake Correos text about a missed delivery, customs charge, or small fee, linking to a page that collects your card and personal details.
NZ Post Text Scam
This scam sends a fake NZ Post text about a missed delivery, address problem, or small fee, linking to a page that harvests your card and personal information.
Chronopost Text Scam
This scam sends a fake Chronopost text about a missed delivery, address issue, or small fee, linking to a page that collects your card and personal details.
Return Label Scam
This scam offers a fake return label or return-shipping service for an online order, charging a bogus fee or collecting your card and account details through a page that is not the genuine retailer or courier.
Delivery Survey Scam
This scam messages you after a delivery to 'rate your experience' and claim a reward, linking to a fake page that asks for a small fee and your card details, or harvests personal information.
PostNord Text Scam
This scam sends a fake PostNord text about a missed delivery, customs charge, or small fee, linking to a page that collects your card and personal details.
Singapore Post Text Scam
This scam sends a fake Singapore Post (SingPost) text about a held parcel, address problem, or small fee, linking to a page that harvests your card and personal information.
Japan Post Text Scam
This scam sends a fake Japan Post text about a missed delivery, address issue, or small fee, linking to a page that collects your card and personal details.
Fake Tracking App Scam
This scam texts or emails you to install a 'parcel tracking app' to follow a delivery, but the app is malware that steals your data, intercepts codes, or takes over your device.
China Post Text Scam
This scam sends a fake China Post text about a missed delivery, customs charge, or small fee, linking to a page that collects your card and personal details.
Aramex Text Scam
This scam sends a fake Aramex text about a held parcel, address problem, or small fee, linking to a page that harvests your card and personal information.
Colissimo Text Scam
This scam sends a fake Colissimo text about a missed delivery, address issue, or small fee, linking to a page that collects your card and personal details.
SF Express Text Scam
This scam sends a fake SF Express text about a missed delivery, address problem, or small fee, linking to a page that harvests your card and personal information.
Rental scams advertise homes that are not available, then pressure you to pay a deposit or holding fee before you can view the property.
Rental Deposit Scam
This scam advertises a desirable rental at a low price and demands a deposit before any viewing, then disappears once you pay.
Rental Application Fee Scam
This scam uses a fake landlord or agent who asks for an upfront application, holding, or background-check fee, often by e-transfer or gift card, before any viewing, then disappears once the money is sent.
Vacation Rental Scam
This scam uses a fake or hijacked holiday rental listing, often with copied photos and a below-market price, to pressure you into paying a deposit off-platform by bank transfer for a property that is not actually available.
Cloned Rental Listing Scam
In this scam, someone copies a genuine rental listing's photos and description and reposts it at a lower price under their own contact details. They then ask for a deposit or first month's rent before any viewing, then disappear once paid.
Rent-to-Own Scam
In this scam a fake or deceptive rent-to-own offer collects an upfront option fee or deposit and inflated rent toward a 'future purchase' that never happens, often for a property the scammer does not own or cannot sell.
Student Accommodation Scam
This scam uses fake student housing listings, often near term start, asking for a holding deposit or first month's rent before any viewing, sometimes targeting international students, for a room that is unavailable or does not exist.
Guarantor Service Scam
Guarantor service scams target renters who lack a guarantor by offering a 'rent guarantor' or 'rent-now-pay-later' service. They charge upfront fees or collect bank and ID details for a guarantee that is never actually provided, or that proves worthless when a landlord tries to rely on it. The renter is left out of pocket and exposed to identity risk.
Sublet Scam
In a sublet scam, someone advertises a sublet or short-term lease takeover for a property they do not actually control. They collect a deposit and rent upfront from a tenant who cannot view or move in, sometimes for a home they are simultaneously scamming several other people on. By the time the tenant arrives, the lister has disappeared and the legitimate occupant or landlord knows nothing about the arrangement. Verifying the property and the lister's right to sublet before paying is key.
Fake Letting Agent Scam
A fake letting agent or 'property manager' posts convincing rental adverts, sometimes copied from real listings, then collects holding deposits, referencing fees or a first month's rent from several hopeful applicants at once. Once the money is in, the agent disappears and the property is never let. Verifying the agent is genuine and refusing to pay before viewing the property and seeing proper contracts are the strongest protections.
Airbnb Off-Platform Payment Scam
In this scam, a 'host' on a holiday-rental platform asks you to pay by bank transfer or another off-platform method for a discount or to 'avoid fees', removing the platform's protection for a property that may not exist.
Roommate Deposit Scam
In this scam, a supposed roommate or subletter either takes your deposit for a room they do not control, or overpays you with a fake check or transfer as an incoming tenant and asks for the difference back.
Housing Voucher Scam
This scam targets people seeking affordable housing by promising guaranteed housing vouchers, rental assistance, or priority placement in exchange for a fee or personal and bank details, none of which deliver real help.
Military Housing Scam
In this scam, fake listings target military members relocating on short notice, offering discounts for service and demanding a deposit before any viewing for homes that are not available.
Parking Space Rental Scam
In this scam, a parking space, driveway, or garage is advertised for rent in a busy area, but the lister demands a deposit or first month before viewing for a spot that does not exist or is not theirs to rent.
Storage Unit Rental Scam
In this scam, a cheap self-storage unit is advertised online, but the 'operator' demands a deposit or first month before any visit for a unit or facility that does not exist or is not theirs.
Commercial Rental Scam
In this scam, office, retail, or warehouse space is advertised at attractive rates, but the 'landlord' or 'agent' demands a deposit or first month before any viewing or proper paperwork for premises they do not control.
Cleaning Deposit Scam
In this scam, a holiday or rental host falsely claims you caused damage or extra cleaning after your stay, charging your card or withholding your deposit using fabricated photos or vague claims.
Home Swap Scam
In this scam, a home-exchange or house-swap 'partner' uses a fake or copied listing, then asks for a deposit, membership fee, or off-platform arrangement for a home that does not exist or is not theirs.
Mobile Home Lot Rental Scam
In this scam, a mobile home, trailer, or park lot is advertised cheaply, but the 'owner' or 'manager' demands a deposit or first month before any viewing for a lot or home that is not theirs or does not exist.
Rent Payment Portal Scam
In this scam, tenants receive a fake rent payment portal link or 'updated landlord bank details', diverting their rent to a scammer instead of the genuine landlord or letting agent.
Deposit Replacement Loan Scam
In this scam, a fake deposit replacement or deposit loan scheme offers to cover your rental deposit for a fee, then takes the fee and your details without providing any genuine cover or loan.
Lease Takeover Scam
In this scam, someone offers to transfer their apartment lease to you, often citing a sudden move, then demands a deposit or first month before any viewing or verification for a tenancy they cannot transfer or do not hold.
Serviced Apartment Scam
In this scam, a serviced apartment or aparthotel is advertised for a short stay, but the 'host' pushes off-platform payment or uses a fake listing, taking your money for accommodation that does not exist or is not theirs.
Eviction Threat Scam
In this scam, a message impersonating your landlord or letting agent claims you are in arrears and threatens eviction unless you pay immediately to a new account, diverting your rent to a scammer.
Caravan Pitch Fee Scam
In this scam, a holiday park pitch, static caravan plot, or siting agreement is offered cheaply, but the 'operator' demands upfront pitch fees or deposits for a plot that does not exist or is not theirs to let.
Property Viewing Fee Scam
In this scam, a 'landlord' or 'agent' demands a fee simply to arrange a viewing of a rental property, taking the money for a viewing that never happens or a property that is not available.
Shared Ownership Scam
In this scam, a fake shared ownership or part-buy part-rent housing scheme offers an affordable route onto the property ladder, then takes deposits, reservation, or 'eligibility' fees for homes and schemes that do not exist.
Social media scams use DMs, fake giveaways, verification offers, and romance messages to steal logins, money, or personal information.
Instagram Verification Scam
This scam offers a blue verification badge or warns your account is at risk, then links to a fake login page that steals your password.
Fake Giveaway Scam
This scam tells you that you won a prize or giveaway, then asks for a fee, your login, or personal details to 'claim' it.
Facebook Account Recovery Scam
This scam uses a hacked friend's account to ask you to be a 'recovery contact' or share a code, which actually hands your own account to the scammer.
Romance Scam DM
This scam builds an online romantic relationship through messages, then invents an emergency or investment to ask for money, while always avoiding meeting in person.
Facebook Copyright Violation Scam
This scam sends a message or email claiming your Facebook page broke copyright or community rules and will be deleted within 24 hours unless you 'appeal' through a link, which leads to a fake login page built to steal your password.
Hacked Friend Help Scam
A message arrives from a friend's account asking for money, a verification code, or to click a link. In reality the friend's account has been taken over, and the scammer is using your trust in them to reach you.
Cloned Account Friend Request Scam
A scammer copies a real person's name and profile photo, then sends friend requests to that person's contacts and messages them asking for money, verification codes, or to click a link.
Instagram Collab Scam
A DM posing as a brand offers a paid collaboration or ambassador deal, then steers you toward a phishing link, an upfront 'starter kit' fee, or a request for your login or banking details.
Fake Charity Donation Scam
Fake charity appeals, often tied to disasters or medical causes, spread through social posts and DMs and push donations via untraceable methods to a cause that does not exist or never receives the money.
Is This You Video Scam
This scam sends a message from a friend's hacked account asking 'is this you in this video?' with a link that leads to a fake login page; if you enter your details, your account is taken over and used to send the same message to your contacts.
Celebrity Impersonation DM Scam
This scam uses a direct message from an account posing as a celebrity or public figure to build a personal connection with a fan, then asks for money, gift cards, a 'membership fee', or details for a fake meet-and-greet or giveaway.
Social Media Quiz Scam
This scam uses fun-looking quizzes and 'which X are you' posts to collect answers that double as security-question information, such as your first pet or the street you grew up on, which can later be used to guess passwords or account recovery answers.
Facebook Business Page Scam
This scam targets page owners with a message or email posing as Facebook or Meta, claiming a policy violation or that the page will be unpublished. A fake 'appeal' or 'verify business' link steals the admin's login.
TikTok Coins Scam
This scam advertises cheap or free TikTok Coins through an unofficial website or direct message, asking you to log in or pay there. The fake site then collects your TikTok login or card details and usually delivers no coins at all.
Buy Followers Scam
This scam promises thousands of cheap followers, likes or views, then takes your payment and delivers fake or no followers. Some ask for your account password directly, and the bought engagement can get your account flagged or banned by the platform.
Discord Nitro Scam
This scam spreads through Discord direct messages, often from a friend whose account has already been taken over. The message offers free Discord Nitro and includes a link to a page that looks like the Discord login. Entering your details hands over your password and account token, letting attackers take control and send the same message to your contacts. Treating unexpected free offers with caution and signing in only through the official app are the best ways to stay safe.
Account Recovery Service Scam
When someone loses access to a hacked Instagram, Facebook or other social account, scammers often appear in comments or direct messages claiming to be a recovery expert or ethical hacker who can restore the account fast. They ask for an upfront payment, usually by gift card, bank transfer or cryptocurrency, then either vanish or string victims along with excuses. Real platforms recover accounts through their own official help pages and do not charge a private fee.
Fake Fundraiser Scam
Fake fundraiser scams use heart-tugging stories about medical bills, a family tragedy or an animal in distress to collect donations that never reach a real cause. The appeals spread quickly on social media because people share them in good faith. Scammers often reuse stolen photos, invent urgent deadlines and route money through personal payment links rather than a verified charity or platform. Checking the source before donating helps make sure your money reaches genuine help.
X Verification Scam
An X verification scam reaches you through a direct message or email pretending to be from X, formerly Twitter. It either offers a verification badge or warns that your account will lose verification or be suspended unless you confirm your details. The link leads to a fake login page designed to steal your username and password, which can then be used to take over or impersonate your account.
Online Contest Vote Scam
A message, often from a friend's account, asks you to vote for their child, pet, or photo in an online contest. The link leads to a fake login page or a page that harvests your details, then quietly sends the same request to your own contacts. The emotional, low-stakes framing ('it only takes a second') is designed to lower your guard.
Money Flip Scam
A post or direct message promises to 'flip' your money, claiming an insider method that turns a small payment into a much larger one, such as sending $100 to get $1,000 back. Victims send money through a payment app and receive nothing. Fake screenshots of 'happy clients' and a sense of limited slots are used to rush you into paying.
Google Review Extortion Scam
A Google review extortion scam targets small business owners. Scammers post, or threaten to post, a flood of fake one-star reviews on a business's Google listing, then demand payment to make them stop or to remove the ones already there. The aim is to frighten owners into paying quickly to protect their reputation. Paying rarely helps and often marks you as a target for repeat demands. Reporting fake reviews and responding calmly is usually more effective than handing over money.
YouTube Creator Scam
The YouTube creator scam targets channel owners with what looks like a brand sponsorship offer. The email or direct message proposes a paid partnership, then asks you to download a 'contract', 'media kit' or piece of software to review. The file is actually an info-stealer that can grab your saved passwords and session cookies, letting attackers take over your channel and bypass two-factor authentication. Verifying sponsors carefully and never downloading unknown files are the key defences.
Dating Safety Verification Scam
In the dating safety verification scam, a match on a dating app insists you 'get verified' or 'prove you are safe' through an outside link before they will meet or chat further. The link leads to a fake verification site that either signs you up to a costly recurring subscription or harvests your card and personal details. The request is framed as caution or safety, which lowers your guard. Genuine safety checks do not work this way, and a link pushed by a stranger is a strong warning sign.
Sugar Daddy DM Scam
In this scam, a stranger offers to be your 'sugar daddy' or 'sugar momma' with a generous weekly allowance, then asks for an activation fee, gift cards, or your bank details, or sends a fake payment to lure a refund.
TikTok Shop Scam
In this scam, a short-video shop or DM advertises cheap products or a 'special deal' but pushes you to pay through an outside link, sending counterfeits, nothing at all, or stealing your card details.
Sextortion Catfish Scam
In this scam, an attractive stranger befriends you on social media, moves to private chat, encourages intimate images or video, then threatens to send them to your contacts unless you pay.
Meta Support DM Scam
In this scam, a message claims to be from Facebook or Instagram 'support' about a policy issue, appeal, or security alert, and links to a fake login or 'appeal form' that steals your account credentials.
Live Stream Donation Scam
This scam runs fake or hijacked live streams, often impersonating a celebrity, brand, or charity, urging viewers to 'donate' crypto or gift cards with promises of doubled returns or prizes that never come.
Group Admin Impersonation Scam
This scam impersonates the admin or moderator of a group, community, or server, messaging members with fake 'verification', rule warnings, or prizes that lead to phishing pages or payment requests.
Comment Tagging Bot Scam
In this scam, bot accounts tag you and many others in comments or posts with links promising free products, prizes, or shocking videos, leading to phishing pages, fake shops, or malware.
Giveaway Winner DM Scam
In this scam, a message impersonating an influencer or brand says you have won their giveaway, then asks for a delivery fee, your details, or a card to 'claim' the prize that does not exist.
Deepfake Endorsement Scam
In this scam, AI-generated deepfake videos make a celebrity, official, or brand appear to endorse a product, giveaway, or money-making scheme, lending false credibility to fraud that takes your money or details.
Get-Rich Coaching Scam
In this scam, a self-styled mentor messages you promising fast wealth from trading, crypto, or e-commerce, selling expensive courses, 'mentorship', or signal groups built on fake screenshots and lifestyle images.
Fake Brand Support Reply Scam
In this scam, fake accounts monitor public complaints to a bank, airline, or telecom and quickly reply pretending to be official support, then move you to DMs to phish your login, card, or a 'verification' payment.
Account Ransom Scam
In this scam, an attacker takes over your social media account, locks you out by changing the details, and demands payment, often in crypto or gift cards, to return access, which they rarely honour.
Psychic Scam
In this scam, a self-styled psychic or spiritual healer messages you with a 'free reading', then claims you are cursed or in danger and demands escalating payments to remove the curse or grant blessings.
LinkedIn DM Scam
In this scam, a connection or message on a professional network poses as a recruiter, investor, or business contact, then steers you to a phishing link, a fake job, an investment, or a request for personal details.
Gift Exchange Pyramid Scam
In this scam, a festive 'gift exchange' or 'secret sister' post promises you many gifts for sending one, but it is a pyramid scheme where most participants send a gift or money and receive nothing.
Paid Promotion Scam
In this scam, an account messages small businesses or creators offering paid promotion, shoutouts, or 'guaranteed' followers and sales, takes the fee, and delivers nothing or fake engagement.
Adult Content Verification Scam
In this scam, a profile or link promises adult content but requires 'age or identity verification' with your card or personal details, which are then used for charges, subscriptions, or identity theft.
Hire a Hacker Scam
In this scam, accounts advertise 'ethical hacking' services to recover lost accounts, change grades, or spy on a partner, then take upfront payment and deliver nothing, often demanding more.
Money Circle Scam
In this scam, a 'money circle', 'blessing loom', or 'sou-sou' invites you to pay in to receive a larger payout later, but it is a pyramid scheme that collapses, leaving most participants with losses.
Live Shopping Scam
In this scam, a live-stream seller showcases products and pressures viewers to pay quickly by comment or off-platform, then ships counterfeits, nothing at all, or items unlike those shown.
Group Buy Scam
In this scam, an organiser invites a community to pool money for a bulk discount or group order, collects everyone's payments upfront, then disappears or never delivers the goods.
Fake Petition Scam
In this scam, an emotive viral 'petition' or pledge asks you to sign with personal details or click a link, harvesting your data, spreading malware, or selling your information, rather than supporting any real cause.
Page Purchase Offer Scam
In this scam, someone offers to buy your social media page, account, or username, then uses the 'transfer' or 'verification' process to gain access and hijack it without paying.
Fan Event Ticket Scam
In this scam, accounts impersonating a celebrity, team, or fan club offer meet-and-greets, VIP experiences, or exclusive event tickets through social DMs, taking payment for access that does not exist.
Loop Giveaway Scam
In this scam, a 'loop' giveaway requires you to follow a long list of accounts and sometimes pay an entry fee for a big prize, but the draw is rigged or fake, used to inflate followers or take entry money.
Chain Message Hoax Scam
In this scam, a chain message urges you to forward it to avoid bad luck, save your account, or claim a reward, spreading hoaxes, misinformation, or phishing links and sometimes harvesting engagement or data.
Cameo Video Scam
In this scam, an account impersonating a celebrity or a fake personalized-video service offers custom shout-out clips for a fee, takes payment off-platform, and delivers nothing or a recycled clip.
Talent Manager Scam
In this scam, someone posing as a talent, collab, or influencer manager offers to represent you and land paid deals, then charges upfront fees for a portfolio, contract, or onboarding and delivers nothing.
Sob Story Donation DM Scam
In this scam, a stranger or impersonator messages you with an emotional personal hardship story, asking for money, gift cards, or crypto directly, often escalating with new crises to keep you paying.
Lost Pet Reunion Scam
In this scam, someone responds to your lost-pet post claiming to have found your pet, then demands a transport fee, vet bill, or deposit before 'returning' the animal, which they do not have.
Fan Subscription Scam
In this scam, an account impersonates a creator or sets up a fake fan-subscription page, taking recurring payments or a sign-up fee for exclusive content that is recycled, stolen, or never delivered.
Pump and Dump Group Scam
In this scam, a social media or chat group coordinates to hype a low-value stock or crypto coin, driving up the price, then organisers sell at the top and the price collapses, leaving followers with losses.
Fake CAPTCHA Scam
In this scam, a fake CAPTCHA or 'verify you're human' page, often reached via social links or videos, instructs you to press keys or paste a command that secretly installs malware on your device.
MFA Fatigue Scam
In this scam, an attacker who has your password repeatedly triggers multi-factor approval prompts or codes, hoping you approve one out of annoyance or confusion, granting them access to your account.
Online shopping scams use fake stores, too-good-to-be-true deals, and fake order emails to take your money or card details.
Fake Online Store Scam
This scam sets up a convincing but fake store with very low prices, takes payment, and delivers nothing, a counterfeit, or a cheap substitute.
Social Media Shopping Ad Scam
This scam uses eye-catching, heavily discounted product ads in social media feeds to lure you to fake or dishonest online stores that take your payment and deliver nothing, or send a cheap counterfeit instead.
Fake Coupon Scam
This scam uses fake discount codes, 'spin to win' wheels, or coupon sites that look like a deal but exist to collect your personal and card details, push survey traps, or spread links across social media.
Free Trial Subscription Trap Scam
This scam offers a 'free trial' for skincare, supplements, or similar products where you 'just pay shipping', then quietly enrols you in costly recurring charges that are difficult to cancel.
Knockoff Brand Store Scam
This scam runs a website posing as an official brand outlet or 'clearance' store. It sells counterfeit goods, or takes your payment for heavily discounted items and never ships anything genuine.
Fake Review Scam
In this scam, fake or paid five-star reviews and fake review websites make a dishonest seller, product, or store look trustworthy, leading shoppers to buy items that are poor quality, counterfeit, or never arrive at all.
Gift Card Balance Scam
In this scam, a fake 'check your gift card balance' website or message asks you to enter your gift card number and PIN, which the scammer then uses to drain the card's value before you get the chance to spend it.
Dropshipping Scam
A store, often advertised on social media, sells cheap overseas goods at a large markup and ships them slowly from a low-cost supplier. Items can arrive late, look nothing like the photos, or be poor quality, with refunds made difficult.
Order Cancellation Scam
After or even without a real purchase, you get an email or text saying there was a problem and your order was cancelled or needs payment re-confirmation. A link leads to a fake page built to capture your account login and card details.
Extended Warranty Scam
Calls, robocalls, texts, or mailers claim your product or vehicle warranty is expiring and pressure you to buy an overpriced or worthless 'extended warranty', using urgency to collect card and personal details.
Fake Flight Booking Scam
Fake flight booking scams use lookalike travel sites or fake 'agents' to advertise unusually cheap flights. They take payment by bank transfer or card for a ticket that is never issued or is quietly cancelled, and often follow up with a fake 'your flight is cancelled, call to rebook' message designed to harvest card and passport details.
Hotel Booking Scam
Hotel booking scams use fake listings or phishing messages that pose as a booking platform or the hotel itself. They ask you to 'reconfirm' payment off-platform, pay a deposit by transfer, or update card details for a room that may not really be available. Some come from hacked hotel chat or email accounts, making the request look genuine.
In-Game Currency Scam
Offers of cheap or free in-game currency, coins, skins, points, or items appear on unofficial websites, adverts, and direct messages, often promising a fraction of the normal price. To 'deliver' the items, the site asks you to log in with your game account or pay through an unofficial checkout. This can hand over your account credentials or card details, leading to a hijacked account or a charge for items that never arrive. These offers frequently target younger players who may be less wary.
Fake Tracking Update Scam
After placing an order, or sometimes out of nowhere, you receive an email or text styled as a retailer's own order-tracking update, often flagging a 'delivery exception' or 'parcel on hold'. A link leads to a page that mimics the shop's tracking area and asks for a small fee or your account login to 'release' the parcel. Unlike generic courier-impersonation texts, this version copies the retailer's branding and order flow, which can make a fake update look convincing if you are expecting a delivery.
Cheap Software Key Scam
Some sites and listings sell software licence keys or activation codes at prices far below the official rate. The codes may be fake, stolen, generated in bulk, region-locked, or genuine keys that get deactivated soon after activation. Buyers can end up with software that stops working, fails to activate, or breaches the licence terms, and some checkout pages also exist mainly to harvest card details. The financial loss per key is often small, but the disruption and data risk can be larger.
Product Recall Scam
In a product recall scam, a fake safety-recall notice claims a product you may own is dangerous and asks you to 'register for a refund or replacement' through a link. The page then harvests your personal and bank details. The notice borrows the look of a real manufacturer or regulator and uses safety fears to make you act quickly. Genuine recalls are published through official manufacturer and regulator channels, so checking there first is the safest way to confirm whether a recall is real.
Unclaimed Parcel Scam
This scam plays on the idea of bargains hidden inside parcels nobody collected. You might see an advert offering boxes or whole pallets of cheap unclaimed or undelivered goods to buy in bulk for resale, or you might get a notice saying a parcel is waiting for you and a small fee is needed to release it. In reality the goods often never arrive, turn out to be near-worthless, or the only goal is to take your payment and card details. Genuine couriers and retailers do not sell off mystery parcels to the public this way, so offers like these deserve a careful second look.
Buy Now Pay Later Scam
Buy now pay later (BNPL) services let people split a purchase into instalments, and scammers exploit how familiar they have become. A typical scam arrives as a text or email claiming to be from a BNPL provider, warning of a missed payment, an account problem, or a refund waiting to be claimed. The message links to a convincing but fake login or payment page designed to capture your account details, card, or bank information. In some cases criminals who already have access use a victim's BNPL account to buy goods. Genuine providers contact you through their app and do not pressure you to confirm details through an unexpected link.
Liquidation Sale Scam
In this scam, ads promote a well-known shop supposedly 'closing down' with huge liquidation discounts, leading to a fake site that takes your payment and ships nothing or a cheap substitute.
Mystery Box Scam
In this scam, ads or DMs sell a cheap 'mystery box' promising electronics or luxury items worth far more, but buyers receive worthless items, nothing at all, or get signed up to recurring charges.
Pre-Order Scam
In this scam, a seller takes pre-orders and full payment for an upcoming or hard-to-get product, then endlessly delays, makes excuses, and never ships, often disappearing once enough orders are collected.
Brushing Scam
In this scam, you receive parcels you never ordered, sent by a seller using your name and address to post fake 'verified' reviews; while the items are free, it can signal your personal details are being misused.
Fake Customer Support Number Scam
In this scam, fake customer-service numbers appear in search results, ads, or pop-ups, so when you call for help with an order or account, a scammer poses as support and seeks payment, remote access, or your details.
Online Pharmacy Scam
In this scam, a rogue online pharmacy advertises cheap prescription medicine with no prescription required, then takes your money and card details and ships nothing, counterfeit pills, or unsafe products.
Car Rental Booking Scam
In this scam, fake car rental websites or 'customer service' numbers offer cheap deals and take a prepayment or deposit for a vehicle, then provide no car and no refund, or harvest your card details.
Custom Product Scam
In this scam, a seller advertises custom or personalised products, such as engraved gifts, art, or made-to-order items, takes full payment citing the bespoke nature, then ships nothing or a poor imitation and resists refunds.
Grocery Delivery Voucher Scam
In this scam, fake grocery delivery vouchers, coupons, or apps promise free or cheap groceries, then phish your card and personal details or take payment for deliveries that never arrive.
Travel Money Exchange Scam
In this scam, a fake online currency exchange or 'travel money' service offers unbeatable rates, takes your payment for foreign cash or a prepaid travel card, then delivers nothing or disappears.
Ticket Website Scam
In this scam, a professional-looking ticket website advertises sold-out or discounted event tickets, takes your payment, then sends fake tickets, nothing at all, or duplicates that fail at the gate.
Repair Service Scam
In this scam, an online or mail-in repair service for phones, appliances, or computers lures you with low quotes, then overcharges, fits cheap or fake parts, holds your device hostage, or returns it unrepaired.
Solar Panel Scam
In this scam, solar panel or home energy sellers use door-to-door or online pitches with inflated savings claims, fake grants, and high pressure, taking deposits for systems that underperform or are never installed.
Fleeceware App Scam
In this scam, an app offers a short free trial for simple features, then charges large recurring subscription fees that are easy to start and hard to cancel, relying on you forgetting to cancel in time.
Christmas Club Scam
In this scam, an unregulated 'Christmas club' or hamper scheme takes regular payments through the year promising holiday goods or vouchers, then collapses or disappears with your savings before payout.
Cashback App Scam
In this scam, a cashback or rewards app promises money back on purchases or tasks, shows a growing balance, then blocks withdrawals behind minimums and fees, or harvests your shopping and personal data.
Subscription Cancellation Service Scam
In this scam, an app or service offers to find and cancel your unwanted subscriptions, but to do so it asks for your bank or account logins, which it uses to access your finances, or it charges fees and does little.
IPTV Subscription Scam
In this scam, a cheap IPTV or streaming subscription promises thousands of channels for a low fee, then takes your card details and money, providing a service that stops working, vanishes, or steals your data.
Holiday Package Scam
In this scam, a too-good-to-be-true all-inclusive holiday or travel package is advertised cheaply, then the seller takes a deposit or full payment by transfer and provides no booking, fake confirmations, or nothing at all.
Online Casino Scam
In this scam, an unlicensed online casino lures players with big bonuses, lets them 'win' on screen, then blocks withdrawals behind endless verification, fees, or wagering rules, keeping their deposits.
Betting Tipster Scam
In this scam, a tipster sells access to 'guaranteed' or 'inside' betting or trading tips for a fee or subscription, using faked results and testimonials, while most subscribers lose money.
Pet Insurance Scam
In this scam, a fake or unlicensed pet insurer offers cheap, comprehensive cover, takes your premiums and card details, then denies all claims, disappears, or never provided real cover at all.
Fuel Card Scam
In this scam, a fake fuel card or fuel-discount scheme promises big savings at the pump, then takes your payment and details for a card that does not work, never arrives, or enrols you in hidden charges.
DNA Test Kit Scam
In this scam, a fake DNA, ancestry, or health test kit is offered cheaply or 'free', taking your payment and sensitive personal and health data, then sending no kit, no real results, or misusing your information.
Home Security System Scam
In this scam, door-to-door or online home security sellers use scare tactics, fake 'free' systems, or impersonate your current provider to lock you into expensive monitoring contracts or take deposits for equipment that underperforms.
Cause Merchandise Scam
In this scam, an online store sells merchandise claiming proceeds support a charity, veteran, or cause, but the goods are poor or never arrive, and no money reaches the cause; it exists to harvest payments and details.
Ghost Broking Scam
In this scam, a 'broker' sells cheap car insurance that is fake, forged, or taken out with false details, so the policy is invalid; you are uninsured, lose your premium, and risk penalties if you drive.
Pet Boarding Scam
In this scam, a fake pet boarding service, kennel, or sitter advertises great care at low prices, takes a deposit or full payment upfront, then provides no service and disappears.
Energy-Saving Device Scam
In this scam, a cheap plug-in 'energy saving' or 'power saver' device is advertised with claims it slashes electricity bills, but it does nothing useful and may be unsafe, taking your money and card details.
Miracle Supplement Scam
In this scam, a supplement is marketed with miracle weight-loss or health-cure claims and a 'free trial', then traps you in costly recurring charges and ships products that do not work and may be unsafe.
Cosmetic Surgery Deposit Scam
In this scam, a clinic or 'coordinator' advertises cheap cosmetic surgery or medical tourism packages, taking deposits or full payment upfront for procedures that are unsafe, misrepresented, or never happen.
VPN Subscription Scam
In this scam, a 'lifetime' or ultra-cheap VPN deal takes your payment and details for a service that stops working, never existed, or actually logs and sells your data, undermining the privacy you paid for.
Crypto and investment scams promise high or guaranteed returns to lure you into fake platforms, then block withdrawals once you deposit.
Crypto Investment Scam
This scam promises high or guaranteed crypto returns through a fake platform, shows paper profits to encourage bigger deposits, then blocks withdrawals.
Crypto Recovery Scam
This scam targets people who already lost money, promising to recover lost crypto or funds for an upfront fee. The recovery is never delivered, and the victim loses even more money to the second scammer.
Celebrity Crypto Giveaway Scam
This scam uses fake posts, videos, or live streams that impersonate a celebrity or company and promise to 'double' any crypto you send to a wallet address, but anything sent is simply taken.
Fake Crypto Exchange Scam
A fake crypto exchange or trading app shows convincing balances and profits to encourage more deposits, then blocks withdrawals and demands 'fees' or 'taxes' before you can take any money out.
Rug Pull Scam
In a rug pull, developers heavily promote a new crypto token or project to attract investment and push the price up, then suddenly sell their holdings and abandon it, leaving investors with tokens they cannot sell.
Pig Butchering Scam
In this scam, someone builds a friendship or romance over weeks, often after a wrong-number text or dating app, then steers you into a fake crypto platform that shows fake gains before the money disappears.
Crypto Airdrop Scam
This scam offers a free 'airdrop' of tokens, but to claim them you are told to connect your crypto wallet to a site or approve a transaction, which can grant access that drains your wallet.
Telegram Investment Group Scam
Telegram and WhatsApp investment groups present a charismatic trading mentor, screenshots of huge profits and a stream of members claiming they cashed out big. Behind the scenes the testimonials are often fake accounts, and the group exists to coordinate buys that pump a token before insiders sell, or to funnel members onto a fake trading platform. Most ordinary members end up losing money. Real regulated investing does not work through hyped group chats and signals.
NFT Mint Scam
NFT mint scams ride the hype around a new collection or surprise drop. A link, usually shared on social media or in a Discord or Telegram, leads to a fake mint site or a malicious smart contract. When you connect your wallet and approve the transaction, instead of minting an NFT you may sign away access that lets the attacker drain your tokens or transfer your existing NFTs. The hype and a ticking countdown are designed to make you approve quickly without checking.
Deepfake Investment Scam
Scammers use AI-generated deepfake videos of celebrities, business figures, or news anchors who appear to endorse a crypto or trading platform. The clips are spread as ads or social posts and drive viewers to a fake investment site. A familiar face in a convincing video is not proof an opportunity is genuine, as the audio and visuals can be fully fabricated.
Cloud Mining Scam
A fake cloud mining or staking platform promises daily crypto returns in exchange for buying a 'mining contract' or making a deposit. A dashboard shows growing earnings to build confidence, but when you try to withdraw, the platform blocks the request or demands extra fees, taxes, or a bigger deposit to release your funds.
Fake Crypto Wallet Scam
The fake crypto wallet scam uses a counterfeit wallet app or browser extension that looks just like a trusted one. Downloaded from an unofficial store, an advert, or a link, it is built to capture your seed phrase or private key. Once you enter that information, the criminals behind it can drain every asset in your wallet, often within minutes and with no way to reverse the transactions. Your seed phrase is the master key to your funds, so it must never be entered into anything but a genuine wallet you trust.
P2P Crypto Trade Scam
Peer-to-peer crypto trades let two strangers swap cash for coins directly, often through an exchange's P2P marketplace or a private chat. Scammers exploit the trust gap: a fake buyer sends a doctored payment screenshot or a reversible transfer to pressure you into releasing crypto, or a fake seller takes your money and never sends the coins. The safest trades use the platform's escrow and wait until funds have genuinely cleared.
Forex Trading Scam
In this scam, a fake forex broker, 'account manager', or signal group promises high returns, shows fake gains on a slick dashboard, and pressures you to deposit more, then blocks withdrawals or disappears.
DeFi Yield Farming Scam
This scam promotes a DeFi 'yield farming' or liquidity-mining pool with high guaranteed returns, but connecting your wallet and approving its contract grants access that drains your tokens.
Seed Phrase Phishing Scam
This scam tricks you into entering or sharing your crypto wallet's seed phrase or recovery words, through fake support, 'wallet validation', or migration prompts, giving the scammer full control of your funds.
Pension Scam
In this scam, you are offered early access to your pension or a transfer to a 'high-return' scheme, but the advice is bogus, fees and tax charges are huge, and your retirement savings are lost in fake or risky investments.
Boiler Room Stock Scam
In this scam, high-pressure salespeople cold-call or email you to buy shares, often in obscure or worthless companies, using urgency and false promises, then make it impossible to sell or disappear with your money.
Gold Investment Scam
In this scam, a salesperson or firm promotes gold or precious metals as a safe, high-return investment, then sells overpriced, fake, or non-existent bullion, or charges for 'secure storage' that does not exist.
Ponzi Scheme Scam
In this scam, a scheme promises high, steady returns and pays early investors using money from new investors rather than real profit, collapsing when recruitment slows and leaving most participants with losses.
Binary Options Scam
In this scam, a binary options platform or 'broker' promises quick, high returns from simple yes/no trades, shows fake gains to lure bigger deposits, then rigs outcomes and blocks withdrawals.
Whisky Investment Scam
In this scam, a firm sells whisky or wine casks or rare bottles as a 'can't-lose' investment, but the casks are overpriced, non-existent, or never owned by you, with storage and returns that cannot be verified.
Carbon Credit Investment Scam
In this scam, a firm sells carbon credits or 'green' investments as a fast-growing, ethical opportunity, but the credits are overpriced, illiquid, or worthless, with guaranteed returns that never materialise.
Property Investment Scam
In this scam, a firm sells off-plan, overseas, or 'hands-off' property investments promising guaranteed rental returns or appreciation, but the developments stall or never exist, and your money is lost.
Diamond Investment Scam
In this scam, a firm sells diamonds or coloured gemstones as a stable, high-return investment, but the stones are overpriced, low grade, or non-existent, with storage, certificates, and resale that cannot be verified.
Land Banking Scam
In this scam, a firm sells small plots of land as an investment, claiming values will soar once it gets planning permission or development, but permission is unlikely or impossible and the land is near-worthless.
Funded Trader Challenge Scam
In this scam, a fake proprietary trading firm offers a 'funded account' if you pass a paid challenge, but the rules are designed so you fail, the firm withholds payouts, or it disappears with your fees.
Copy Trading Scam
In this scam, you are urged to copy a 'master trader' or join a social/copy trading platform promising easy profits, but the results are faked, the platform is rigged, and your deposits are lost or blocked.
ICO Presale Scam
In this scam, a new token presale or ICO promises huge gains at launch, taking your crypto for tokens that are worthless, never delivered, or part of a project that vanishes after raising funds.
Government and tax scams impersonate agencies to threaten fines, arrest, or deportation, then demand urgent payment by unusual methods.
IRS Tax Scam
This scam uses a call, voicemail, text, or email pretending to be the IRS or another tax agency, claiming you owe back taxes and threatening arrest, lawsuit, or deportation unless you pay at once by gift card, wire, or crypto.
Social Security Scam
This scam uses a call, robocall, or voicemail claiming your Social Security number has been 'suspended' over suspicious activity, then pressures you to confirm your number or pay to 'reactivate' it.
Jury Duty Scam
This scam involves a call, voicemail, or text claiming you missed jury duty and now face a fine or arrest unless you pay immediately, often by gift card or prepaid card. The caller uses fear and urgency to push you into paying before you can check.
CRA Tax Scam
This scam uses a call, text, or email posing as the Canada Revenue Agency to claim you owe tax or are due a refund, then threatens arrest or demands payment by e-transfer, gift card, or crypto. The goal is to frighten you into paying or handing over personal details.
Immigration Scam
This scam involves a caller or message posing as an immigration or border agency that threatens deportation, visa cancellation, or arrest over a supposed problem with your status. The aim is to frighten you into making an immediate payment or handing over passport and personal details.
Government Grant Scam
This scam uses a message, call, or social media post claiming you qualify for a free government grant, then asks for a processing fee or your bank details to 'release' money that does not actually exist.
Medicare Scam
In this scam a caller or message poses as Medicare or a health insurer, offering a new card, refund, or free equipment, then asks you to confirm your Medicare or personal ID number, which is later used for fraud.
Fake HMRC Tax Scam
This scam uses a text, call, or email posing as HMRC. It claims you owe tax and face arrest, or are due a refund, then pressures you to pay or hand over bank details through a link or over the phone.
Benefits Payment Scam
This scam claims you qualify for a benefit, grant, or cost-of-living payment and asks you to 'apply' by entering personal and bank details on a fake government-looking site that harvests the information.
Passport Renewal Scam
This scam uses copycat websites that imitate official passport renewal, visa, or travel authorisation services. They often appear in search results and adverts, look professional, and charge inflated fees for help with an application you could complete yourself. Some collect your card and personal details and never properly submit the application. Reaching the genuine government service directly, rather than through an advert or search link, is the safest way to renew a passport or apply for a visa.
Fake Court Fine Scam
In this scam, a call, email, text, or letter claims you have an unpaid court fine, parking penalty, or speeding fine, and demands immediate payment to avoid arrest or extra charges. The contact often uses official-sounding language, threats, and unusual payment methods such as gift cards, bank transfers, or cryptocurrency. Real courts and enforcement bodies follow formal processes and do not threaten instant arrest over the phone. Pausing to verify any fine through official channels is the safest response.
TV Licence Scam
A TV licence scam is an email or text pretending to be from the TV licensing body. It typically claims your licence could not be renewed, a payment failed, or that you are owed a refund, and links to a fake page asking for your bank and card details. The genuine licensing body contacts people through official channels and does not ask you to confirm bank or card details by following a link in a text or email.
Council Tax Scam
This scam impersonates your local council to get at your bank and card details. A text, email, or phone call claims you are due a council tax refund or rebate, or that you owe arrears that must be settled at once. It then directs you to a fake page that looks official and asks for bank or card information to process the supposed refund or payment. The wording often mixes the appeal of money owed to you with the pressure of a threat. Real councils use official channels, send letters about genuine accounts, and do not ask you to hand over full bank or card details through a link in an unexpected message.
Census Scam
Around the times a census is run, scammers pose as census workers to gather sensitive personal and financial information. The approach can come by phone, at your door, or through email or text, and the impersonator may ask for payment, full bank or card details, or a national identification number such as a Social Security number. Genuine census operations collect household and demographic information for statistical purposes, but they do not ask for payment and do not need your full financial details. Knowing what a real census does and does not ask makes it much easier to spot an impostor and protect your information.
National Insurance Scam
This scam usually arrives as an automated phone call or a message claiming your National Insurance number has been compromised or suspended because of suspected fraud. It pressures you to press a button to speak to an operator or to call a number back, then tries to get personal details or a payment to fix the supposed problem. The threat is designed to frighten you into acting fast. In reality a National Insurance number is a permanent reference that cannot simply be suspended or cancelled by a phone call, and genuine bodies do not deal with such matters through automated threats demanding immediate payment or personal information.
Student Loan Forgiveness Scam
This scam promises student loan forgiveness, cancellation, or reduced payments in exchange for an upfront fee or your loan account login, taking your money or hijacking your account while real programs remain free.
Voter Registration Scam
This scam impersonates election or government officials, claiming you must re-register, verify, or pay to vote, in order to harvest personal data like ID numbers or to charge a bogus fee.
Police Impersonation Scam
In this scam, callers pose as police or law enforcement, claim you are linked to a crime or have a warrant, and demand immediate payment or personal details to 'clear your name' or avoid arrest.
DMV License Renewal Scam
This scam impersonates the DMV or driver licensing authority with a text or email claiming your license or registration needs urgent renewal or verification, linking to a fake page that collects your fees and personal details.
Health Insurance Marketplace Scam
In this scam, callers or websites impersonate official health insurance marketplaces or agents, offering low-cost plans or 'enrollment help' to collect your personal and payment details or sell worthless coverage.
Vital Records Scam
In this scam, third-party websites pose as official vital records services for birth, marriage, or death certificates, charging inflated fees, adding hidden subscriptions, or harvesting personal data without delivering documents.
Visa Application Scam
In this scam, third-party websites pose as official visa or travel authorisation services (such as ESTA, ETA, or eTA), charging inflated fees, adding bogus services, or harvesting your passport and payment details.
Business Registration Scam
In this scam, third-party services or official-looking letters pose as business registration, tax ID (EIN), or compliance filing authorities, charging inflated or bogus fees for filings that are free or low-cost officially.
Voting Fine Scam
This scam, common where voting is compulsory, claims you have been fined for failing to vote and must pay immediately through a link, leading to a fake page that collects your card and personal details.
Child Benefit Scam
This scam impersonates a child benefit or child support agency, claiming you must update details, verify eligibility, or that a payment is pending, to collect your bank and personal details or a bogus fee.
Driving Test Booking Scam
This scam uses third-party websites posing as the official driving test booking service, charging inflated fees, reselling cancellation slots, or harvesting your licence and payment details.
Speed Awareness Course Scam
This scam offers a fake speed awareness course as an alternative to penalty points, demanding payment and personal details through a link, or claims you must book one for an offence that may not exist.
Tax Credits Renewal Scam
This scam impersonates a tax authority about tax credits, claiming you must renew, verify, or that a payment is pending, to collect your bank and personal details or a bogus fee.
Phone scams (vishing) use live calls, robocalls, and voicemails to impersonate banks, agencies, and companies and pressure you into payments, codes, or remote access.
Auto Warranty Robocall Scam
This scam uses robocalls claiming your car's warranty is expiring, pressuring you to 'renew' bogus or overpriced vehicle cover and hand over card and personal details.
Voicemail Callback Scam
This scam leaves a voicemail urging you to call back urgently about a parcel, account, or prize, but the callback number is premium-rate or connects you to a scammer who extracts details or money.
Caller ID Spoofing Scam
In this scam, fraudsters fake the caller ID so a call appears to come from your bank, a local number, or a real agency, making their impersonation far more convincing.
Grandparent Phone Scam
In this scam, a caller poses as a grandchild or relative in urgent trouble, such as an accident, arrest, or hospital, and begs for money to be sent quickly and kept secret.
Fake Amazon Call Scam
In this scam, an automated or live call claims to be from Amazon about a suspicious order, charge, or account problem, pressuring you to press a key or share details, then leads to remote access or payment fraud.
Prize Robocall Scam
In this scam, a robocall or live call says you have won a prize, holiday, or cash, then asks for a fee, card details, or personal information to 'release' winnings that do not exist.
Charity Phone Call Scam
In this scam, callers pose as a charity or disaster-relief appeal, using emotional pressure to get an immediate donation by card or transfer, often impersonating a real, well-known cause.
Survey & Research Call Scam
In this scam, a caller claims to be conducting a survey or market research, then asks probing questions to harvest personal and financial details, or offers a 'prize' that needs a fee or card details.
Accident Claim Call Scam
In this scam, callers claim you were recently in an accident and could be owed compensation, pressuring you to share details or start a claim, harvesting personal data or drawing you into fraudulent or fee-laden claims.
Final Expense Robocall Scam
In this scam, robocalls and live calls push 'final expense' or funeral insurance to seniors, using fear and pressure to harvest personal and financial details or sell worthless or unsuitable cover.
Number Harvesting Robocall Scam
In this scam, robocalls with silence, a simple question, or a generic recording aim to confirm your number is active and reachable, marking it for more scam calls or recording responses for misuse.
Interest Rate Reduction Call Scam
In this scam, robocalls promise to dramatically lower your credit card interest rate, then charge an upfront fee and harvest card and personal details, delivering no real or lasting reduction.
Romance scams build a fake relationship online to gain trust, then ask for money, gifts, or investment, or use intimate images for blackmail.
Military Romance Scam
In this scam, a fraudster poses as a deployed soldier on a dating app or social media, builds a romance, then asks for money for leave requests, travel, phones, or emergencies that never resolve.
Widow Romance Scam
In this scam, a fraudster adopts a grieving widow or widower persona to win sympathy and trust, then asks for money for hardship, debts, or to access a late spouse's funds.
Inheritance Romance Scam
In this scam, an online partner claims to have a large inheritance or fortune they will share with you, but needs your help paying fees, taxes, or transfer costs to unlock it, which never ends.
Marriage Visa Romance Scam
In this scam, an online partner promises marriage or to relocate to be with you, then asks for money for visas, flights, documents, or fees, often disappearing once payments stop.
Travel Money Romance Scam
In this scam, an online partner promises to finally visit you, then asks for money for flights, a stranded emergency, or a customs or travel fee, but the trip never happens and requests continue.
Romance Money Mule Scam
In this scam, an online partner asks you to receive money into your account and forward it on, framing it as helping with their business or family, which makes you a money mule laundering the proceeds of fraud.
Romance Reshipping Scam
In this scam, an online partner asks you to receive parcels and reship them abroad, framing it as helping their business, but the goods are bought with stolen cards, making you part of the fraud.
Romance Loan Scam
In this scam, an online partner persuades you to take out a loan, credit, or new card 'for the two of you' or to help their crisis, leaving you with the debt while they take the money and disappear.
Marriage Agency Scam
In this scam, a fake international marriage or introduction agency charges ongoing fees for matches, translations, gifts, and travel or visa costs, often coordinating with fake 'matches' to keep you paying.
Romance Gift Parcel Customs Scam
In this scam, an online partner says they have sent you an expensive gift or a parcel of money, but it is held in customs and needs fees, taxes, or bribes that you must pay, for a parcel that does not exist.
Doctor Romance Scam
In this scam, a fraudster poses as a doctor, surgeon, or aid worker on an overseas mission, building a romance, then requests money for emergencies, equipment, travel, or to access their funds.
Fake Dating Site Bot Scam
In this scam, a dating site or app uses bots and fake profiles to send flirty messages and keep you subscribing or paying per message, with 'matches' who never meet and conversations that go nowhere.
Tech support scams use fake virus warnings, pop-ups, and cold calls to gain remote access to your device, steal data, or trick you into bogus payments and refunds.
Fake Virus Pop-up Scam
In this scam, a full-screen pop-up or alarming web page claims your device is infected and urges you to call a 'support' number or download a fix, leading to remote access or bogus payments.
Remote Access Scam
In this scam, a caller or pop-up convinces you to install remote-access software so 'support' can fix an issue, then uses the control to view your screen, steal data, and move money.
Printer & Router Support Scam
In this scam, fake support sites and numbers for printers, routers, or smart devices appear in search results and ads, then charge bogus setup fees or take remote access when you call for help.
Microsoft Support Call Scam
In this scam, a caller claims to be from Microsoft or Windows support about detected errors, expired licences, or security issues, pressuring you to install remote-access software or pay to 'fix' your PC.
PC Optimizer Scam
In this scam, free 'PC cleaner' or optimizer software runs a fake scan, reports alarming problems, then pressures you to pay for the full version to 'fix' issues that may not exist or that it created.
Fake Apple Support Scam
In this scam, fraudsters impersonate Apple support through calls, emails, or pop-ups, claiming your iCloud, Apple ID, or device is compromised, to get remote access, your Apple ID password, or payment.
Router Hacked Scam
In this scam, callers or pop-ups claim your router or Wi-Fi has been hacked and your internet provider must fix it, seeking remote access, router logins, or payment to 'secure' your network.
Fake Antivirus Scareware Scam
In this scam, fake antivirus warnings or bogus renewal emails claim your device is infected or your subscription is charging you, pushing you to install malware, pay, or call a fake support line.
Fake Browser Update Scam
In this scam, a website shows a fake browser, Flash, or plugin update prompt, urging you to download a file that is actually malware or a remote-access tool rather than a genuine update.
Data Recovery Scam
In this scam, fake or dishonest data recovery services promise to rescue lost files or photos, then demand escalating fees, hold your device hostage, or take payment without recovering anything.
Fake Live Chat Support Scam
In this scam, fake live chat widgets or search-ad 'help desks' pose as a real company's support, steering you to share logins, grant remote access, or pay, while impersonating brands you trust.
Windows Activation Scam
In this scam, fake activation pop-ups or cheap license-key sites claim your operating system is unlicensed, pushing you to call a fake line, pay, or buy stolen keys that stop working or carry malware.
Travel scams use fake flights, accommodation, packages, and visa services to take deposits and payments for trips that do not exist.
Vacation Club Scam
In this scam, a vacation or holiday club uses free-prize lures and high-pressure presentations to sell expensive memberships promising cheap holidays that are restricted, unavailable, or worthless.
Fake Travel Agency Scam
In this scam, a fake travel agency offers cheap flights, hotels, or packages, takes your payment, then provides fake confirmations or nothing at all, leaving you with no booking and no refund.
Airport Taxi & Transfer Scam
In this scam, unlicensed drivers or fake transfer services approach arriving travellers, then charge inflated fares, demand extra fees, or take prepayment for transfers that never arrive.
Travel Insurance Scam
In this scam, fake or unlicensed travel insurance is sold cheaply with broad promises, but the policy is worthless or invalid, so claims are denied and you are left uninsured abroad.
Free Holiday Prize Scam
In this scam, you are told you have won a free holiday or cruise, then asked for booking fees, taxes, or card details, or pressured into a high-pressure timeshare or club presentation, for a trip that is restricted or never happens.
Global Entry Renewal Scam
In this scam, fake websites and ads offer to process or renew Global Entry or trusted traveller memberships, charging extra fees and harvesting passport and personal details while posing as official services.
Fake Cruise Booking Scam
In this scam, fake cruise deals and lookalike booking sites advertise heavily discounted voyages, take deposits or full payment by transfer, then deliver no booking or a worthless reservation.
Fake Embassy & Visa Scam
In this scam, fraudsters impersonate an embassy, consulate, or immigration office by phone, email, or fake website, demanding visa, passport, or 'processing' fees and personal documents that they steal or misuse.
Travel eSIM & Data Plan Scam
In this scam, fake travel eSIM or roaming data sites and ads sell cheap international data plans, take your payment and details, then provide a non-working code or nothing at all while harvesting card data.
Flight Compensation Scam
In this scam, emails, calls, or ads claim you are owed compensation for a delayed or cancelled flight, charging upfront fees or harvesting personal and payment details for claims that are fake or free to make yourself.
Healthcare scams exploit health worries with fake insurance, pharmacies, miracle cures, and medical-device offers, or phish your health and identity data.
Dental Plan Scam
In this scam, a cheap 'dental plan' or discount card is sold with broad promises, but it is worthless or not accepted anywhere, taking your payment and personal details.
Medical Alert Device Scam
In this scam, robocalls or ads offer a 'free' medical alert device to seniors, often claiming a relative ordered it, then trap you in costly monitoring contracts or harvest payment and personal details.
Clinical Trial Scam
In this scam, a fake paid clinical trial or medical study offers generous compensation, then charges a registration or screening fee, sends an overpayment cheque, or harvests sensitive health and identity data.
Hearing Aid Scam
In this scam, cheap or 'free trial' hearing aids and fake free hearing tests are advertised to seniors, then deliver faulty or useless devices, hidden charges, or high-pressure upsells.
Telehealth Prescription Scam
In this scam, a fake telehealth or online doctor service offers quick prescriptions or consultations, takes payment and sensitive health data, then provides no real care, unsafe medication, or nothing at all.
Fake Online Pharmacy Scam
In this scam, fake online pharmacies advertise cheap prescription medicines without a prescription, then deliver counterfeit or unsafe drugs, nothing at all, or simply harvest card and health details.
Miracle Weight-Loss Scam
In this scam, miracle weight-loss pills, teas, or devices promise dramatic results, often using fake celebrity endorsements and 'free trials' that lock you into costly recurring charges for products that do not work.
Fake COVID Test & Kit Scam
In this scam, fraudsters sell fake or non-existent COVID test kits, or send phishing messages about results, certificates, or free kits, to harvest payment, personal, and health details.
Prescription Refill Phishing Scam
In this scam, texts, calls, or emails pose as your pharmacy about a prescription refill, asking you to confirm payment, personal, or health details through a link or caller, to harvest data or take payment.
Fake Genetic Testing Scam
In this scam, callers or ads offer free genetic or DNA testing for health risks, collecting your insurance, identity, and a DNA sample to bill fraudulently or harvest sensitive data, often targeting seniors.
Identity theft scams steal your personal data and credentials to take over accounts, open credit, or impersonate you, often after phishing or data breaches.
Account Takeover Scam
In this scam, a fraudster gains access to your email, bank, or shopping accounts, often after phishing or a data breach, then changes details, makes purchases, or uses the account to attack others.
Synthetic Identity Scam
In this scam, criminals combine real stolen details, such as your Social Security or ID number, with fake information to create a synthetic identity used to open accounts and credit that can affect you.
Mail Theft & Redirection Scam
In this scam, criminals steal your post or fraudulently redirect your mail to capture statements, cards, and documents used for identity theft and account takeover.
New Account Fraud Scam
In this scam, criminals use your stolen details to open new bank, credit, phone, or utility accounts in your name, running up debts and bills that appear under your identity.
Tax Identity Theft Scam
In this scam, criminals use your stolen identity to file a fraudulent tax return and claim your refund, or to misuse your tax records, leaving you to untangle the fraud with the tax authority.
Data Broker Removal Scam
In this scam, fake or dishonest services promise to remove your personal data from data brokers and people-search sites, charging fees or harvesting even more personal information while doing little or nothing.
Fake Breach Notification Scam
In this scam, fake data breach or 'your account was leaked' alerts urge you to click a link to secure your account or pay for protection, stealing your login, payment, and personal details instead.
Fake Credit Freeze Scam
In this scam, fraudsters pose as credit bureaus or offer paid 'credit freeze' or lock services, charging fees and harvesting identity details for a process you can do yourself for free with the credit agencies.
Social Security Suspension Scam
In this scam, callers or recordings claim your Social Security or national insurance number is suspended over alleged crimes, demanding you confirm it, pay, or move money to 'protect' yourself, to steal identity and funds.
Child Identity Theft Scam
In this scam, fraudsters use a child's Social Security or identity details, often stolen via phishing or breaches, to open accounts, credit, or benefits in the child's name, undetected for years until they apply for credit.
Business scams target companies and employees with fake invoices, CEO and supplier fraud, bogus directory and domain bills, and payroll diversion.
Directory Listing Scam
In this scam, businesses receive official-looking invoices or 'renewal' notices for online or print directory listings they never ordered, hoping a busy team pays without checking.
Office Supplies & Toner Scam
In this scam, 'toner pirates' or supply firms ship unordered printer toner or office supplies, then invoice the business at inflated prices, often after a call 'confirming' details to seem legitimate.
Trademark Registration Scam
In this scam, businesses receive official-looking notices to register, renew, or 'protect' a trademark, charging high fees for unnecessary services or registrations that are not official.
SEO Services Scam
In this scam, cold callers or emails offer guaranteed top Google rankings, claim to be 'from Google', or threaten that your listing will be removed, charging for SEO services that are useless or harmful.
Merchant Services Scam
In this scam, a merchant services or card-reader provider promises big savings, then locks businesses into long contracts and leases with hidden fees, early-termination penalties, and equipment that is overpriced or unnecessary.
Payroll Diversion Scam
In this scam, fraudsters pose as an employee emailing HR or payroll to change their bank details, diverting the next salary payment to an account they control before the real worker notices.
Recruitment Agency Fee Scam
In this scam, a fake or dishonest recruitment agency promises jobs or placements, then charges jobseekers upfront fees for registration, training, checks, or equipment, for roles that do not exist.
Fake Business Grant Scam
In this scam, fraudsters offer fake government or foundation business grants, charging application or release fees and harvesting company and bank details for funding that does not exist.
Fake VAT & Tax Registration Scam
In this scam, third-party sites and callers pose as official tax bodies or agents, charging businesses inflated fees to register for VAT or tax, harvesting company details for a process that is free or low-cost officially.
Fake Data Protection Fee Scam
In this scam, official-looking letters, emails, or calls demand that a business pay a data protection or GDPR 'registration' fee, threatening fines, while impersonating the regulator to collect inflated or bogus payments.
Fake Purchase Order Scam
In this scam, fraudsters impersonate a university, large company, or government body, sending a convincing purchase order to obtain goods on credit, then redirect or collect the goods and never pay.
Gaming scams target players with fake free-currency offers, account trades, phishing links, and in-game item fraud that steal logins, money, or accounts.
Game Currency Generator Scam
In this scam, a website or video promises free in-game currency, coins, or gems from a 'generator', but it steals your login, pushes endless surveys, or installs malware, and never delivers anything.
Game Account Trading Scam
In this scam, buyers, sellers, or traders of game accounts and items take payment or the account, then disappear, reclaim the account, or hijack it, since trading usually breaks the game's rules and offers no protection.
Steam & Discord Phishing Scam
In this scam, DMs and links on Steam, Discord, or game chats lead to fake login pages or trade offers, often claiming you have been reported, won an item, or need to vote, to steal your account and items.
Game Boosting Scam
In this scam, a 'boosting' service offers to raise your rank or complete challenges for a fee or your login, then takes payment and disappears, or hijacks the account and its items.
Game Beta & Early Access Scam
In this scam, fake beta or early-access invites for a hyped game ask you to download a 'client' or log in to claim a key, delivering malware or stealing your account and crypto wallet instead.
Twitch Giveaway Scam
In this scam, fraudsters impersonate streamers or run fake giveaways in chat and DMs, telling viewers they have won and must log in, pay a fee, or verify details on a fake site to claim a non-existent prize.
Malicious Game Mod & Cheat Scam
In this scam, downloads advertised as game mods, cheats, hacks, or trainers hide malware or account-stealing tools, compromising your device and gaming accounts once you install and run them.
Skin Gambling & Trade Scam
In this scam, skin gambling and trading sites lure players to deposit valuable in-game items or money, using rigged odds, fake winnings, or phishing trade links to take their skins and never pay out.
AI scams use cloned voices, deepfake videos, and synthetic identities to impersonate people you trust and lend false credibility to fraud.
Voice Cloning Emergency Scam
In this scam, AI clones a relative's or colleague's voice from a short audio clip, then calls claiming an emergency, such as an accident, arrest, or kidnapping, to pressure you into sending money urgently.
AI Companion Scam
In this scam, an AI companion or chatbot app builds an emotional 'relationship', then manipulates users into costly subscriptions, in-app purchases, or sharing personal data and intimate content.
AI Trading Bot Scam
In this scam, an 'AI trading bot' promises guaranteed, automated profits from crypto or forex, showing fake gains to attract deposits, then blocks withdrawals or disappears with your money.
Deepfake CEO Video Call Scam
In this scam, fraudsters use deepfake video or audio of a company executive on a call to authorise an urgent, confidential payment or transfer, bypassing an employee's normal checks.
Deepfake Celebrity Endorsement Scam
In this scam, AI-generated deepfake videos make celebrities or public figures appear to endorse crypto schemes, products, or giveaways, luring viewers to fake investment platforms or purchases that steal money.
Fake AI Chatbot App Scam
In this scam, fake AI chatbot or assistant apps imitate popular AI tools, then hide malware, harvest data, or trap users in expensive 'fleeceware' subscriptions after a short free trial, while delivering little real function.
Utility scams impersonate energy, water, and broadband providers with fake bills, refunds, disconnection threats, and grant or meter cons.
Energy Supplier Switch Scam
In this scam, doorstep or phone sellers pose as energy 'switching' agents or your supplier, pressuring you to sign up to a fake or worse deal, or to hand over bank and account details.
Smart Meter Installation Scam
In this scam, callers or doorstep visitors claim you must pay for or urgently book a smart meter installation, charging bogus fees, seeking bank details, or gaining access to your home.
Prepaid Meter Top-Up Scam
In this scam, fraudsters sell prepaid energy meter top-ups at a discount, often door to door or online, but the credit is illegitimate, so your supplier later reclaims it and you lose both the energy and your money.
Water Company Doorstep Scam
In this scam, callers at your door pose as water company staff offering testing, meter checks, or 'quality' inspections to gain entry, charge bogus fees, or distract you while an accomplice enters.
Boiler Grant Scam
In this scam, calls, ads, or doorstep visits offer free boilers, insulation, or energy grants, then harvest your personal and bank details, charge bogus assessment fees, or push costly, unnecessary work.
Energy Disconnection Threat Scam
In this scam, callers or texts pose as your energy provider, threatening to disconnect your power or gas within hours unless you pay an overdue bill immediately, usually by unusual methods like gift cards or transfer.
Green Energy Grant Scam
In this scam, callers, ads, or doorstep agents offer fake government green energy grants for insulation, solar panels, or heat pumps, harvesting personal details, taking deposits, or signing you up for poor-value work.
Doorstep Meter Reading Scam
In this scam, someone posing as a meter reader or utility inspector arrives at your door seeking entry, account details, or payment, to gain access to your home, steal information, or charge for bogus issues.
Energy Refund Phishing Scam
In this scam, texts, emails, or calls claim your energy supplier owes you a refund or rebate, urging you to click a link and enter bank or card details to receive money, which are stolen instead.