Other scams
Social Media Scams
Social media scams come in many forms. You might see a post claiming you’ve won a gift card or prize, asking you to click a link and enter personal or banking details. Once you do, scammers can steal your identity or access your accounts.
Another common trick is the “clickbait” scam, where a fake ad teases an exciting story. When you click, you’re asked to download something like Adobe Flash Player, but doing so installs malware that can steal sensitive data, including bank or credit card information.
Also, be wary of ads offering government services—like replacing a Social Security card or providing Medicare help. These often look official, using logos and language that mimic real agencies, but the services are usually free from the government and heavily marked up by these shady companies.
Charity Scams
Charity scams exploit your goodwill. Scammers pose as legitimate charities through cold calls, emails, or online ads, asking for donations. These scams are especially common around the holidays when people are more willing to give.
Red flags include:
Pressure to donate immediately
Requests for cash, gift cards, or wire transfers
Messages thanking you for a donation you don’t remember making, prompting you to send more
Always verify the charity through trusted platforms before donating.