Scam Directory

Your comprehensive guide to understanding and identifying various types of online and offline fraud.

Popular Scams

Phishing Scams

Impersonation

Scammers impersonate legitimate organizations like banks, tech companies, or government agencies to trick you into revealing sensitive information.

Tech Support Scams

Technical Fraud

Fraudsters pose as technical support representatives from well-known companies to gain access to your computer and financial information.

Romance Scams

Impersonation

Criminals create fake profiles on dating sites and social media to form relationships with people, building trust before asking for money.

All Scams

Phishing Scams

Impersonation

Scammers impersonate legitimate organizations like banks, tech companies, or government agencies to trick you into revealing sensitive information.

Tech Support Scams

Technical Fraud

Fraudsters pose as technical support representatives from well-known companies to gain access to your computer and financial information.

Romance Scams

Impersonation

Criminals create fake profiles on dating sites and social media to form relationships with people, building trust before asking for money.

Investment Scams

Financial Fraud

These scams promise high returns with little to no risk, often involving cryptocurrencies, foreign exchange, or "secret" investment techniques.

Grandparent Scams

Impersonation

Scammers call or email elderly people, pretending to be their grandchild in serious trouble and in urgent need of money.

Lottery & Prize Scams

Financial Fraud

You are contacted and told you have won a large prize, but you must first pay a fee to cover taxes, shipping, or processing.

Government Impersonation Scams

Impersonation

Fraudsters pose as officials from government agencies like the IRS, Social Security Administration, or local law enforcement to extort money or information.

Fake Check Scams

Financial Fraud

You receive a realistic-looking check for an amount larger than expected and are instructed to deposit it and wire back the "overpayment".

Employment Scams

Financial Fraud

Scammers post fake job listings or send unsolicited job offers to trick applicants into sending money or personal information.

Help the Community

Encountered a new scam or want to know how to report one? Use the options below to help keep everyone safe.