Archives - Scam Alert


Don’t give away information a caller should already have — how to spot phone impersonation scams

If your bank calls you, they already know your account number. If your insurance company calls, they already have your policy details on file. So why would they ask you to verify that information over the phone? The short answer: they wouldn’t. If a caller is asking you for details they should already have, you’re […]

How the “fake refund” tech support scam works and how to protect yourself

Imagine getting a call or email from what appears to be a tech support company offering you a refund for services you previously paid for. Sounds like a nice surprise, right? Don’t fall for it. The “fake refund” scam is one of the most devious tricks in a cybercriminal’s playbook—and it’s costing victims billions. How […]

What to ask before giving out your Social Security number to protect yourself from identity theft

Your Social Security number is the master key to your identity. It unlocks access to your credit, bank accounts, tax filings, medical records, and more. So why do so many organizations ask for it so casually—and why do so many of us hand it over without a second thought? Here’s the truth: most of the […]

How to spot prepaid debit card and gift card scams before you lose money

That “amazing deal” on a prepaid debit card or gift card that just landed in your inbox or voicemail? There’s a very good chance it’s a scam. Gift card fraud has exploded in recent years, and criminals are getting more creative with how they reel people in. Here’s what you need to know to protect […]

Enable a PIN or fingerprint on Venmo to help stop unauthorized payments

Venmo makes it incredibly easy to send money fast, which is exactly why it deserves an extra layer of protection. If someone gets hold of your phone while you are still logged into Venmo, that person may be able to open the app and try to move money before you notice. Venmo’s own help guidance […]

How to avoid small business scams and protect your money, data, and reputation

Running a small business means juggling payments, vendors, customers, and nonstop messages. That busy pace is exactly what scammers count on. They do not need to break into your office to cause damage. Often, they just need one rushed click, one fake invoice, or one employee who believes a spoofed email is real. That is […]