How to Avoid Scams

Scammers continue to refine their tactics. To avoid scams we have to be very alert, even paranoid. The use of AI is growing by leaps and bounds almost on a daily basis. The bad guys are using it to refine the wording in these message scams. AI is giving cyber criminals the ability to easily create more personalized and convincing emails and messages that look like they’re from trusted sources, such as banks, employers or even family members. Awareness and caution are key to protecting yourself and your loved ones from these prevalent fraud schemes. Text messages will lead the assault.

Fake IRS Communications

With tax season approaching, fraudsters posing as IRS representatives may attempt to contact you through phone calls, emails, or text messages. These deceptive messages often include links to counterfeit websites aimed at stealing your personal or financial information. Phishing attempts can usually be identified by their poor grammar, odd requests, or suspicious links. It’s important to remember that the IRS communicates with taxpayers via official letters only and never uses phone calls or electronic messages for initial contact.

Credit Card Fraud

Credit card fraud remains a persistent issue as these payment methods dominate in the United States. Criminals use a variety of schemes, from placing skimming devices on ATMs and gas pumps to launching phishing campaigns and exploiting database breaches. To protect your financial information, it’s crucial to monitor your account statements frequently, stay informed about data breaches, and understand how to spot devices designed to steal your card details.

Avoid Scams of Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency fraud continues to thrive, particularly during market booms. Following the surge of interest in Bitcoin in late 2024, scammers have intensified their efforts to trick unsuspecting victims. These scams often include fake giveaways or fraudulent promotions that lure individuals into providing personal or financial details. Even those who don’t actively trade cryptocurrencies should remain alert to avoid falling prey to these schemes. Nobody is giving anything away.

Avoid Scams of Employment

Employment fraud is an increasingly common problem, with reports of job scams rising significantly in recent years. Scammers often post fake job listings to deceive job seekers, collecting personal information during the application or interview process. Vigilance is critical, thoroughly researching job postings and learning how to recognize signs of employment fraud can help protect against these schemes. If contacted by email verify the sender is using an official company email account. Gmail or other generic accounts are dead giveaways it is a scam. Initial contact by text is guaranteed to be a scam.

Avoid the Scams Post-Holiday Prizes

The aftermath of the holiday season is a prime time for scammers to target consumers with fraudulent prize notifications. These scams often appear convincing, particularly if you’ve recently participated in sweepstakes or promotions. A common warning sign is any request for fees or personal information to claim a prize, as legitimate contests do not impose such requirements.

Package Delivery Fraud

The convenience of online shopping also brings risks, including package delivery scams. Fraudsters often send messages claiming there’s an issue with your delivery, urging you to click on a link to resolve it. These links can lead to malware or data theft. Always verify the sender’s identity and avoid engaging with unsolicited messages, especially if you’re not expecting a delivery. If you are expecting a package go directly to the carrier’s site. Do not click on any links or call any phone numbers listed in the notification message whether it’s a text or email.

Avoid Scams: Rx Red Flags to Watch For

The rising demand for weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and other expensive or hard-to-find health treatments has opened the door for scammers to sell counterfeit or unsafe products. With more people turning to online pharmacies and social media ads for convenience, scammers are exploiting this trend.

Only purchase medication only from verified pharmacies, consulting healthcare professionals before buying treatments online, and steer clear of deals that seem too good to be true.

Fake invoices and customer service scams catch consumers off guard

Scammers are increasingly sending fake invoices or impersonating customer service representatives to steal payments or personal information.

If you receive an invoice or payment request, verify it through the official platform or website. Avoid calling phone numbers or clicking links provided in unsolicited messages and never act on unexpected payment requests without confirming that they’re legitimate.

Avoid Scams Hiding in your Pocket: Your Phone

Scammers are increasingly embedding harmful software into apps that appear legitimate, often targeting apps downloaded from unofficial sources. The malicious apps can disguise themselves as harmless tools, games, or even productivity aids, making it easier for hackers to trick unsuspecting consumers.

To protect yourself, always stick to official app stores, review app permissions carefully before installing, and use trusted anti-malware protection to identify and block malicious apps before they can cause harm.

Protect Yourself From Scams in 2025

As scammers adopt advanced technology and artificial intelligence to refine their methods, staying informed is more important than ever. If you fall victim to a scam, act quickly to minimize the damage by reporting the incident and securing your personal information. By remaining vigilant, you can protect yourself and your finances from fraud in the year ahead. Before you hit enter, ask yourself, Is this a scam?”