Plain-language guides to the scams that reach people by phone, text, email, and pop-up, with simple steps to protect yourself and the older adults in your life. Each guide explains how the scam works, the warning signs, and what to do if you have already paid or shared information.
If you think you have been targeted, call your bank or card company first, then report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. For identity theft, use IdentityTheft.gov.
Tech Support Scams: How They Work and How to Stop Them
A pop-up or phone call says your computer is infected and you must pay for a fix. Here is how tech support scams work, how to shut one down, and what to do if you already paid.
How to Get the Real Price at a Car Dealership
The advertised price and the price on the contract should match, apart from taxes and government fees. Here is how to get the out-the-door price in writing and spot add-ons before you sign.
Hidden Fees: How to Spot Charges You Never Agreed To
Hidden fees often start small, show up months later, and hide in reports instead of the bill. Here is where to look on statements and what to do about a charge you never agreed to.
Credit Repair Scheme Halted: Red Flags to Watch For
A court halted a network of companies accused of taking nearly $200 million with false credit repair promises and surprise recurring fees.
Impersonation Scams Cost Americans Billions: How to Spot Them
Imposter scams topped FTC fraud reports in 2025, and many start with a social media ad or message. Here is how to spot one.
Refund and Settlement Scams: Never Pay to Get Your Money
Real refunds from a settlement or government case never require a fee, a gift card, or your bank password. Here is how to tell a real refund notice from a fake one.
Gift Cards Are Only for Gifts
If someone tells you to buy a gift card to pay a tax, a fine, or a family emergency, that is a scam. Gift cards are for gifts, not payments.
Stop Scam Calls on a Parent’s Phone
What to turn on so a parent gets fewer scam calls, and what not to do when the phone still rings. Checked September 24, 2026.
How to Spot a Fake Tech-Support Pop-Up
A real security warning does not ask you to call a phone number on the screen. Fake tech-support pop-ups want remote access and a payment that is hard to reverse.