What are the common scam methods?

Scams come in many forms, and scammers constantly adapt, but most follow a few common methods. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:

1. Phishing

• Method: Fake emails, messages, or websites that look legitimate to steal login credentials, personal info, or payment details.

• Examples: Emails claiming to be from your bank asking you to “verify your account,” or fake PayPal login pages.

2. Impersonation Scams

• Method: Scammer pretends to be someone trustworthy.

• Examples:

  • Government officials claiming you owe taxes.

  • Tech support calling you about a “virus” on your computer.

  • Family/friends in distress asking for urgent money via messaging apps.

3. Investment & Financial Scams

• Method: Promises of high returns with little risk.

• Examples:

  • Ponzi schemes.

  • Cryptocurrency or stock trading “guarantees.”

  • Fake real estate or business investment opportunities.

4. Online Shopping & E-commerce Scams

• Method: Selling fake, counterfeit, or non-existent products online.

• Examples:

  • Fake websites or social media shops.

  • Overpayment scams with “refund” tricks.

5. Romance & Dating Scams

• Method: Scammer builds a relationship online and asks for money.

• Examples:

  • Claims of personal crisis, medical bills, or travel expenses.

  • “Emergency” situations that require sending money quickly.

6. Lottery & Prize Scams

• Method: Claiming you’ve won a prize but need to pay fees or taxes first.

• Examples:

  • Emails or calls saying you won a foreign lottery.

  • Prize scams where you provide bank info for “processing.”

7. Tech Support & Malware Scams

• Method: Claiming your computer or phone is infected.

• Examples:

  • Fake virus warnings prompting you to install software.

  • Asking for remote access or credit card info.

8. Job & Employment Scams

• Method: Fake job offers asking for personal information or upfront payments.

• Examples:

  • “Work from home” offers requiring purchase of equipment or training.

  • Payroll scams asking for your bank account info.

9. Charity & Donation Scams

• Method: Pretending to be a charity to exploit generosity.

• Examples:

  • Disasters or crisis events.

  • Online fundraising platforms with fake campaigns.

10. Rental & Real Estate Scams

• Method: Fake property listings to collect deposits or rent.

• Examples:

  • Listings with prices too good to be true.

  • Requests for money before viewing or signing a lease.

💡 Tips to Protect Yourself:

1. Never share personal info or banking details with unknown contacts.

2. Verify identities through official channels.

3. Look for spelling errors, suspicious URLs, and unusual urgency.

4. Avoid sending money to strangers or through untraceable methods (gift cards, cryptocurrency).