{ "site": { "name": "ScamEncyclopedia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org", "tagline": "The world's scam warning library", "description": "ScamEncyclopedia is the global public scam warning library. Identify scams, understand red flags, protect family members, preserve evidence, report fraud, and recover safely without falling into recovery scams." }, "total": 8366, "counts": { "category": 38, "scam_type": 959, "country_guide": 211, "script": 117, "recovery_guide": 49, "comparison": 148, "question": 1609, "family_safety": 63, "glossary": 868, "platform": 25, "payment": 23, "statistics": 52, "impersonation": 73, "alert": 37, "guide": 4021, "resource": 46, "warning_list": 8, "target_facet": 12, "risk_level": 4, "dataset": 2, "tool": 1 }, "items": [ { "type": "category", "title": "Gambling & Betting Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams", "summary": "Rigged casinos, fake sportsbooks, tipster cons and betting-recovery scams that take stakes and winnings.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Bereavement & Inheritance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams", "summary": "Fake inheritances, funeral-cost cons, obituary phishing and estate-fee scams that exploit grief and loss.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Benefits & Welfare Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams", "summary": "Fake benefit applications, grant approvals, rebate texts and reactivation cons that harvest data and fees.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Faith & Religious Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams", "summary": "Prosperity-gospel investments, fake tithing portals, pilgrimage cons and clergy-impersonation scams.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Ticket & Event Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams", "summary": "Fake concert, festival and sports tickets, duplicate barcodes and resale cons that leave you locked out.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Adult & Creator-Platform Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams", "summary": "Creator-economy and adult-platform cons: fake subscriptions, payout-verification fees and management scams.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Finance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams", "summary": "Investment, crypto, loan, pension and recovery scams designed to take your money and then take it again.", "riskLevel": "critical" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Online Shopping Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams", "summary": "Fake stores, fake delivery texts, counterfeit goods and non-delivery scams that take payment and vanish.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Romance & Relationship Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams", "summary": "Emotional manipulation used to extract money, often blended with crypto investment grooming.", "riskLevel": "critical" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Job & Income Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams", "summary": "Fake recruiters, task scams, work-from-home traps and pay-to-get-paid schemes targeting job seekers.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Travel Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams", "summary": "Fake booking sites, hotel phishing, fake visa services and rental scams aimed at travellers.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Government Impersonation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams", "summary": "Fake tax, police, immigration and court demands using fear and urgency to force payment.", "riskLevel": "critical" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Tech Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams", "summary": "Fake support calls, phishing, malware popups, QR-code and remote-access scams.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "AI-Era Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams", "summary": "Deepfake voices, cloned websites, AI trading bots and synthetic endorsements raising the stakes.", "riskLevel": "critical" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Business Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams", "summary": "Invoice redirection, CEO fraud, business email compromise and fake suppliers targeting organisations.", "riskLevel": "critical" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Health & Medical Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams", "summary": "Fake pharmacies, miracle cures, bogus health insurance and medical identity theft that risk your money and health.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Housing & Rental Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams", "summary": "Fake rental listings, deposit theft, foreclosure-relief fraud, moving-company scams and real-estate wire fraud.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Crypto & Web3 Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams", "summary": "Rug pulls, wallet drainers, fake airdrops, seed-phrase phishing and bogus staking that exploit irreversible crypto.", "riskLevel": "critical" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Lottery & Prize Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams", "summary": "Fake lottery wins, prize notifications and sweepstakes that demand an upfront fee for a prize that doesn't exist.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Charity & Disaster Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams", "summary": "Fake charities, disaster-relief appeals and bogus crowdfunding that exploit generosity, especially after tragedies.", "riskLevel": "medium" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Utility & Energy Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams", "summary": "Fake shut-off threats, bogus energy brokers, solar and rebate scams that impersonate your utility company.", "riskLevel": "medium" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Auto & Vehicle Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams", "summary": "Fake vehicle listings, escrow and shipping fraud, VIN cloning, title washing and bogus extended warranties.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Telecom & Account Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams", "summary": "SIM swapping, number porting, account takeover and hacked-friend scams that hijack your phone and logins.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Insurance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams", "summary": "Fake health, auto, life and travel insurance, ghost brokers, and bogus claims-settlement schemes.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Education & Student Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams", "summary": "Student-loan-forgiveness, scholarship, diploma-mill, tuition-payment and study-abroad scams.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Gaming Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams", "summary": "Free-currency generators, account takeovers, fake marketplaces and item-trading scams targeting players.", "riskLevel": "medium" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Identity Theft & Data Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams", "summary": "Synthetic identity, account-opening fraud, credential theft and data-breach exploitation that hijack who you are.", "riskLevel": "critical" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Mail & Courier Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams", "summary": "Courier 'card collection' fraud, mail theft, check washing and parcel-redelivery scams that exploit post and deliveries.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Legal & Immigration Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams", "summary": "Fake visa, green-card and legal services, deportation-threat extortion and bogus settlement or lawsuit claims.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Subscription & Billing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams", "summary": "Negative-option billing, free-trial traps, cramming and hard-to-cancel subscriptions that drain accounts quietly.", "riskLevel": "medium" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Pet & Animal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams", "summary": "Puppy-deposit and fake-breeder scams, escalating pet-shipping fees, and bogus adoption or lost-pet schemes.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "MLM, Pyramid & Hustle Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams", "summary": "Recruitment-only pyramid schemes, product-based MLM traps, gifting circles and 'passive income' hustle schemes.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Social Media & Account Takeover", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams", "summary": "Verification-badge phishing, hacked-friend impersonation, account-recovery cons and content-monetization traps.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Home Services & Contractor Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams", "summary": "Door-to-door and contractor cons — driveway paving, storm-chaser roofing, fake locksmiths, and disappearing-deposit handymen.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Extortion & Blackmail Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams", "summary": "Sextortion-spam emails, intimate-image blackmail, ransom-DDoS and doxxing threats that demand payment for silence.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Imposter & Emergency Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams", "summary": "Grandparent and family-emergency cons, fake-boss gift-card requests, and 'your relative is in trouble' calls that manufacture panic.", "riskLevel": "critical" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Street & In-Person Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams", "summary": "Classic confidence tricks and street cons run face to face — three-card monte, the pigeon drop, change-raising, distraction theft, and tourist-targeted scams.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "category", "title": "Payment Card & ATM Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud", "summary": "Physical and digital theft of card data — ATM and gas-pump skimmers, chip shimmers, card cloning, and web-skimming (Magecart) checkout attacks.", "riskLevel": "high" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Investment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/investment-scams", "summary": "Fake or manipulated investment opportunities that promise high, guaranteed returns and pressure you to deposit quickly.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Crypto Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/crypto-scams", "summary": "Fraud built around cryptocurrency — fake exchanges, wallet-draining links, giveaway scams and bogus trading platforms.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Forex Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/forex-scams", "summary": "Fake foreign-exchange trading schemes and 'account managers' that promise steady FX profits and block withdrawals.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/fake-trading-platforms", "summary": "Slick websites and apps that simulate trading and show fake profits to keep you depositing.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/pig-butchering-scams", "summary": "Long-con investment fraud that blends romance or friendship with a fake crypto trading platform.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Loan Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/loan-scams", "summary": "Fake lenders that demand upfront 'fees', insurance or deposits before releasing a loan that never arrives.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Pension Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/pension-scams", "summary": "Schemes that pressure you to transfer or unlock your pension into high-risk or fake investments.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Recovery Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/recovery-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters who target people who were already scammed, charging upfront fees to 'recover' lost money.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Broker Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/fake-broker-scams", "summary": "Impersonation of regulated brokers, or entirely invented firms, to take deposits for trading or investing.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Ponzi Schemes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/ponzi-schemes", "summary": "Investment frauds that pay 'returns' to early investors using new investors' money until they collapse.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Pump-and-Dump Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/pump-and-dump-scams", "summary": "Coordinated hype that inflates a stock or token's price so insiders can sell at the top, crashing it.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Advance Fee Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/advance-fee-scams", "summary": "Promises of a large payout — inheritance, prize, contract or fund — that require fees paid upfront first.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Tax Refund Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/fake-tax-refund-scams", "summary": "Messages claiming you're owed a tax refund to harvest bank details or trick you into 'fees'.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/fake-debt-relief-scams", "summary": "Bogus debt-settlement or consolidation services that charge fees and leave debts unpaid.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Bank Transfer App Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/bank-transfer-app-fraud", "summary": "Scammers trick you into authorising a bank transfer or mobile payment to an account they control, using social engineering, fake emergencies, or impersonation.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Safe Account Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/safe-account-scam", "summary": "Someone posing as your bank tells you your account is compromised and instructs you to move your money to a 'safe' account — which they control.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Boiler Room Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/boiler-room-scams", "summary": "High-pressure sales operations that cold-call investors to push worthless, overpriced, or non-existent shares and investments.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Binary Options Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/binary-options-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent 'all-or-nothing' trading platforms that manipulate outcomes to ensure you lose and block withdrawals.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Precious Metal Investment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/precious-metal-investment-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent gold, silver, and platinum schemes that sell overpriced, non-existent, or unallocated metals and block redemption.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Carbon Credit Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/carbon-credit-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes that sell worthless, non-existent, or unregistered carbon credits as a high-return alternative investment.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fractional Property Investment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/fractional-property-investment-scams", "summary": "Fake property crowdfunding schemes that sell fractions of non-existent or unregistered real estate and then block withdrawals behind endless fees.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Credit Repair Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/credit-repair-scams", "summary": "Companies charging upfront fees to 'fix' your credit file using methods that are illegal, ineffective, or things you can do yourself for free.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Inheritance Fee Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/fake-inheritance-fee-scams", "summary": "Strangers claim you are entitled to a large unclaimed inheritance but demand fees, taxes, and legal costs before the windfall can be released.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Buy Now Pay Later Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/buy-now-pay-later-fraud", "summary": "Fraudsters exploit buy now pay later services to make purchases with stolen identity data, leaving victims liable for debt they never incurred.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Debt Consolidation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/fake-debt-consolidation", "summary": "Fraudulent debt consolidation companies charge large upfront fees, collect personal financial data, and then disappear — leaving victims in worse debt and potentially exposed to identity theft.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Money Flipping Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/money-flipping-scam", "summary": "Scammers on social media claim they can multiply your money through a special banking exploit or contact, take the payment, and send nothing back.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Mortgage Application Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/mortgage-application-fraud", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as mortgage brokers or lenders, collect large upfront fees and sensitive personal data, then disappear — leaving victims with no mortgage, empty bank accounts, and compromised identity documents.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Reverse Mortgage Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/reverse-mortgage-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters target older homeowners with fake or misrepresented reverse mortgage products, collecting fees for loans that never materialise or steering victims into predatory terms that risk their home.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "HELOC and Home Equity Line Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/heloc-equity-line-fraud", "summary": "Criminals apply for home equity lines of credit using stolen homeowner identities, or pose as lenders collecting fees for HELOC products that never materialise.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "MTIC VAT Carousel Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/mtic-vat-carousel-fraud", "summary": "Organised criminal networks exploit VAT refund systems by rapidly cycling the same goods through multiple businesses across borders, claiming tax refunds that were never actually paid.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Finfluencer Unlicensed Investment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/finfluencer-unlicensed-investment-scams", "summary": "Social media 'financial influencers' promote investments, trading courses, or platforms without holding any regulatory licence, often receiving undisclosed payments and exposing followers to serious financial harm.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Debt Collection Impersonation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/debt-collection-impersonation-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate legitimate debt collectors or court officers, threatening legal action or arrest to pressure victims into paying debts they do not owe — or overpaying real debts to fake collection accounts.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Online Stores", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-stores", "summary": "Convincing but bogus shops that take payment for goods that never arrive or are worthless.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-delivery-texts", "summary": "Smishing messages posing as couriers asking for a small fee or login to 'reschedule' delivery.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Counterfeit Goods", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/counterfeit-goods", "summary": "Fake or knock-off products sold as genuine, often unsafe and with no real warranty or returns.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/marketplace-seller-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent sellers on classifieds and marketplaces who take payment off-platform and never deliver.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Chargeback Traps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/chargeback-traps", "summary": "Scams targeting sellers, where buyers exploit chargebacks to get goods for free after paying.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Tracking Number Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-tracking-number-scams", "summary": "Sellers provide bogus or recycled tracking numbers to delay disputes until protection windows close.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Social Media Shop Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/social-media-shop-scams", "summary": "Pop-up shops on social platforms that advertise heavily, take payment, then disappear.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Discount Codes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-discount-codes", "summary": "Bogus voucher and coupon offers used to harvest data or lure shoppers to fake checkout pages.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Brand Outlet Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-brand-outlet-scams", "summary": "Sites posing as official brand 'outlet' or 'clearance' stores selling fakes or nothing at all.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/non-delivery-scams", "summary": "Payment is taken for goods or tickets that are simply never sent.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Customer Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-customer-support-scams", "summary": "Imposters posing as retailer or platform support to steal logins, payments or remote access.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Dropshipping Markup Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/dropshipping-markup-scams", "summary": "Stores that secretly source cheap goods from wholesale suppliers at enormous markups, misrepresenting the product's origin and true value.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Review Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-review-scams", "summary": "Manipulated or entirely fabricated product reviews used to steer shoppers toward low-quality, counterfeit, or non-existent products.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Triangulation Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/triangulation-fraud", "summary": "A complex scam where criminals use stolen card details to fulfil marketplace orders, leaving buyers unaware they funded fraud.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Empty Box Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/empty-box-scams", "summary": "Sellers dispatch empty packaging or worthless filler to defeat non-delivery disputes while keeping payment.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Subscription Trap Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/subscription-trap-scams", "summary": "Free trials or low-cost offers that silently enrol buyers in recurring charges that are difficult to cancel.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Browser Coupon Extension Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-browser-coupon-extension-scams", "summary": "Malicious or deceptive browser extensions that claim to find discount codes but harvest data, inject ads, or hijack purchases.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Flash Sale Countdown Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-flash-sale-countdown-scams", "summary": "Artificial urgency tactics — countdown timers and fake limited stock warnings — used to pressure buyers into fast decisions on fraudulent or overpriced offers.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Wholesale & Liquidation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-wholesale-liquidation-scams", "summary": "Bogus bulk-buy and stocklot offers that take payment for pallets or lots of goods that never arrive or are worthless.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Pre-Order Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-pre-order-scams", "summary": "Sellers collect payment for upcoming or anticipated products that never ship and never existed as real stock.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Product Recall Refund Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-product-recall-refund-scams", "summary": "Criminals impersonate brands or regulators to claim a product you own has been recalled, harvesting card details via a fake refund process.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Warranty Registration Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-warranty-registration-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent warranty registration sites that harvest personal and payment data under the guise of activating a product guarantee.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Social Commerce Livestream Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/social-commerce-livestream-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent sellers using live video shopping events to collect real-time payments for goods that are never delivered or are misrepresented.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Event Ticket Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-event-ticket-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent sellers offer concert, sports, or festival tickets that are counterfeit, already used, or simply never delivered.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gift Card Balance-Draining Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/gift-card-balance-draining-scams", "summary": "Tampered or compromised gift cards sold online or in shops where the balance has already been secretly emptied by the fraudster.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Extended Warranty and Service Plan Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-warranty-claims-scams", "summary": "Unsolicited calls or messages claiming your product warranty is expiring and pressuring you to buy a worthless extended plan.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Marketplace Counterfeit Luxury Goods Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/marketplace-counterfeit-luxury-scam", "summary": "Third-party sellers on major online marketplaces who list luxury, designer, or branded goods as genuine but ship sophisticated counterfeits with convincing packaging.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Puppy and Pet Seller Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-puppy-pet-seller-scam", "summary": "Online pet sellers who advertise non-existent puppies or kittens, then collect deposits and escalating fees without ever delivering any animal.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Charity-Product Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-charity-product-scam", "summary": "Products sold with a promise to donate a portion of proceeds to a named cause, where no meaningful donation is made and the charitable claim is used purely to justify the purchase.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Instagram Boutique Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-instagram-boutique", "summary": "Fraudulent fashion boutiques operate entirely through Instagram, taking orders and payments for clothing and accessories that never arrive or are cheap counterfeits.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Concert Merchandise Store Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-concert-merch-store", "summary": "Fraudulent sites selling official band or artist merchandise collect payments and either deliver counterfeits or nothing at all, trading on fan loyalty and event excitement.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Brushing: Unsolicited Parcel Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/brushing-unsolicited-parcel-scams", "summary": "Receiving a parcel you never ordered sounds harmless, but it signals that scammers have your personal data and may be fraudulently boosting product reviews in your name.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Loyalty Points Redemption Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-loyalty-points-redemption-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake alerts claiming your retail or shopping loyalty points are about to expire, directing you to phishing pages that harvest account credentials or card details.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Group Buy and Social Commerce Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/group-buy-social-commerce-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent group-buy deals promise steep discounts when enough buyers join, but the required threshold is never reached honestly, no goods are delivered, and the organiser vanishes with all deposits.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Order Confirmation Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/fake-order-confirmation-phishing-scams", "summary": "Emails mimicking legitimate retailers send fake order confirmations for large purchases you did not make, prompting you to click a cancellation link that harvests your credentials or card details.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Online Partners", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/fake-online-partners", "summary": "Invented romantic identities built to win trust and then request money.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Emergency Money Requests", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/emergency-money-requests", "summary": "Sudden 'crisis' stories — accidents, arrests, stranded abroad — engineered to rush money out of you.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Military Romance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/fake-military-romance-scams", "summary": "Scammers posing as deployed service members who cite duty rules to avoid meeting and then ask for money.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Dating-App Crypto Grooming", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/dating-app-crypto-grooming", "summary": "Romantic interest used to draw you into a fake crypto trading platform (a form of pig butchering).", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Long-Distance Romance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/long-distance-romance-scams", "summary": "Relationships kept permanently remote, with endless reasons a meeting or video call can't happen.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Sextortion-Style Romance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/sextortion-style-romance-scams", "summary": "Intimate images obtained or faked, then used to threaten and extort the victim.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Medical Emergency Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/fake-medical-emergency-scams", "summary": "Invented illnesses or accidents used to extract money for treatment that doesn't exist.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake 'Travel to Meet You' Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/fake-travel-to-meet-you-scams", "summary": "Plans to finally meet that always require you to fund tickets, visas or fees — then collapse.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Romance Recovery Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/romance-recovery-scams", "summary": "Follow-up scams targeting romance fraud victims with promises to recover lost money for a fee.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gift Card Romance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/gift-card-romance-scams", "summary": "Requests for gift card codes as 'help' or 'gifts' — an untraceable way to drain money from victims.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Catfishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/catfishing-scams", "summary": "False identities built using stolen photos and invented lives to manipulate emotions and extract money or information.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Sugar Daddy / Allowance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/sugar-daddy-allowance-scams", "summary": "Fake offers of a generous weekly allowance that require an upfront payment before anything is ever received.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Inheritance Romance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/inheritance-romance-scams", "summary": "A romantic partner reveals a large inheritance but needs your help with fees to unlock it — fees you will never see again.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Celebrity Romance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/fake-celebrity-romance-scams", "summary": "Scammers posing as famous people who build emotional relationships with fans before requesting money.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Widow and Widower Romance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/widow-widower-romance-scams", "summary": "Scammers targeting bereaved people with manufactured empathy, exploiting grief to build trust and then request money.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/romance-blackmail-scams", "summary": "Threats to expose a relationship, real or fabricated, unless payment is made to keep it secret.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Online Matchmaking Agency Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/online-matchmaking-agency-scams", "summary": "Fake or exploitative matchmaking services that charge high upfront fees for curated introductions that never materialise or are performed by paid actors.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Visa Sponsorship Romance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/visa-sponsorship-romance-scams", "summary": "Online partners who request money for visa fees, flight costs, or migration paperwork as part of a plan to supposedly come and live with you.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Psychic and Clairvoyant Romance Guidance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/psychic-romance-guidance-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent psychics who exploit loneliness and romantic hope to extract repeated payments for rituals, readings, and 'curse removals' promising to bring a partner closer.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Sugar Momma Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/fake-sugar-momma-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as wealthy older women offering a generous allowance to younger people, then request fees, gift cards, or personal information before the promised money is ever sent.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Military Deployment Leave Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/military-deployment-leave-fee-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as deployed military personnel claim they need financial help to secure leave to visit the victim, then disappear after payment is made.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Online Marriage Visa Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/romance-relationship-scams/online-marriage-visa-fee-scam", "summary": "After building a long-distance romantic relationship, scammers claim they need money for visa or immigration fees to come and marry the victim — then disappear once paid.", "category": "romance-relationship-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Recruiters", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-recruiters", "summary": "Imposters posing as recruiters or HR to harvest personal data, fees, or to enlist money mules.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Task Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/task-scams", "summary": "Game-like 'task' or 'commission' jobs that pay small amounts early, then demand escalating deposits.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Work-From-Home Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/work-from-home-scams", "summary": "Bogus remote-work offers built around upfront fees, useless 'kits', or unpaid 'training'.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Cheque Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-cheque-scams", "summary": "You're sent a cheque, asked to deposit it and forward part of the funds — then the cheque bounces.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Pay-to-Get-Paid Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/pay-to-get-paid-scams", "summary": "Any 'job' that requires you to pay first — for access, processing, or release of your earnings.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Reshipping & Money Mule Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/reshipping-mule-scams", "summary": "'Jobs' that use you to reship goods bought with stolen cards or move criminal money.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Interview Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-interview-scams", "summary": "Bogus interviews via chat used to collect personal data or push equipment/onboarding fees.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Employment Contract Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-employment-contract-scams", "summary": "Official-looking contracts and offer letters used to legitimise fees, data theft, or mule activity.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Telegram Job Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/telegram-job-scams", "summary": "Unsolicited Telegram messages offering easy paid tasks that lead into deposit-based task scams.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/whatsapp-job-scams", "summary": "Random WhatsApp messages offering remote work that funnel victims into task or fee scams.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Data-Entry Job Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/data-entry-job-scams", "summary": "Classic 'easy data entry from home' offers built around upfront fees or impossible accuracy clauses.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "App Review Job Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/app-review-job-scams", "summary": "'Get paid to review apps' offers that mirror task scams, requiring deposits to unlock earnings.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Mystery Shopper Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/mystery-shopper-scams", "summary": "Fake mystery-shopping jobs that send bogus cheques and instruct you to buy gift cards or wire funds — a classic fake-cheque variant.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "MLM Recruitment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/mlm-recruitment-scams", "summary": "Multi-level marketing pitches that generate income primarily from recruiting fees rather than selling real products.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Government Job Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-government-job-scams", "summary": "Imposters impersonating official government recruitment agencies to charge fees for civil service or public-sector roles.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Modeling & Acting Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/modeling-acting-scams", "summary": "Bogus talent agencies that charge upfront fees for portfolios, headshots, or training with no genuine industry access.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Envelope Stuffing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/envelope-stuffing-scams", "summary": "One of the oldest work-from-home frauds — pay a fee, get instructions on how to run the same scam on others.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Caregiver & Nanny Job Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-caregiver-nanny-job-scams", "summary": "Bogus childcare and elder-care job ads used for fake-cheque fraud, money muling, or identity theft from vulnerable carers.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Remote Assistant Jobs", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-remote-assistant-jobs", "summary": "Bogus 'personal' or 'virtual assistant' roles used for fake-cheque, errand, or mule schemes.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Internship Fee Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-internship-fee-scams", "summary": "Bogus internship offers that harvest personal data or charge upfront training and placement fees in exchange for experience that never materialises.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Influencer Brand Deal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-influencer-brand-deal-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent brand partnership offers that require social media creators to pay upfront fees, buy products, or share personal bank details before receiving payment.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Certification and Training Job Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-certification-training-job-scams", "summary": "Job offers made conditional on purchasing a mandatory certification, training programme, or licence that is worthless or non-existent.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Data Annotation Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-data-annotation-job", "summary": "Fraudulent data annotation platforms promise pay-per-task income but withhold accumulated earnings until a minimum threshold that resets or is unachievable, or require fee payments before withdrawal.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Package Reshipping Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-package-reshipping-job", "summary": "Scammers recruit 'parcel processors' to receive and forward packages at home — using them unknowingly as money mules to move goods purchased with stolen payment cards.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Commission-Only Bait Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/commission-only-bait-job", "summary": "Fake employers advertise salaried positions but switch candidates to an unpaid commission-only model after hiring, often after the candidate has already resigned from a previous role.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Booking Sites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-booking-sites", "summary": "Bogus flight, hotel and package sites that take payment for reservations that don't exist.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Hotel Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/hotel-phishing", "summary": "Messages posing as your hotel asking to 're-verify' card details, sometimes using real booking data.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Visa Services", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-visa-services", "summary": "Sites and agents charging inflated or bogus fees for visas, ETAs and travel authorisations.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Holiday Rental Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/rental-scams", "summary": "Fake apartment, villa and car rentals that take a deposit for a property that isn't available.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Airline Support", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-airline-support", "summary": "Imposter 'airline help' numbers and social accounts that steal payments and booking details.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Travel Insurance", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-travel-insurance", "summary": "Bogus policies that take premiums for cover that doesn't exist or won't pay valid claims.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Tour Guides & Operators", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-tour-guides", "summary": "Unlicensed guides and bogus tour operators who take payment for tours that don't happen as promised.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Airport Transfer Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-airport-transfer-scams", "summary": "Unofficial 'taxi' and transfer touts who overcharge, reroute, or take prepayment and vanish.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Ticket Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-ticket-scams", "summary": "Bogus event, attraction and transport tickets sold online that don't work at the gate.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Hotel Payment Verification Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-hotel-payment-verification-scams", "summary": "Messages demanding card 're-verification' to 'secure' a booking, capturing full card details.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Cancellation & Refund Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-cancellation-refund-scams", "summary": "Bogus 'your trip is cancelled, claim a refund' messages that steal card and banking details.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Timeshare & Vacation Club Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/timeshare-vacation-club-scams", "summary": "High-pressure sales for worthless timeshare contracts and vacation clubs — plus fake 'exit' services that charge upfront to escape them.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Travel Points & Miles Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-travel-points-miles-scams", "summary": "Phishing attacks and fake platforms that steal loyalty account credentials to drain hard-earned travel miles and points.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake eSIM & Roaming Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-esim-roaming-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent eSIM activation sites and fake roaming packages that charge for data connectivity that never works.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Passport Renewal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-passport-renewal-scams", "summary": "Third-party sites charging inflated fees to 'assist' with passport renewals — a process done directly through the official government service.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Cruise Deal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-cruise-deal-scams", "summary": "Bogus cruise booking sites and imposter agents selling non-existent cabins at prices designed to attract first-time cruise shoppers.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Travel Agency Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-travel-agency-scams", "summary": "Bogus travel agencies — online and street-based — that take full holiday payments for trips that never materialise.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Vacation Rental Host Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-vacation-rental-host-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent short-term rental hosts who impersonate legitimate listings, collect deposits, and leave guests without accommodation.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Global Entry & TSA PreCheck Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-global-entry-tsa-precheck-scams", "summary": "Third-party sites charging unnecessary fees to apply for trusted traveller programmes enrollable only through the official government Trusted Traveler Programs portal.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Travel Health Certificate Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-travel-health-cert-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent sites selling counterfeit health certificates, vaccination records, and travel medical clearances that carry legal and health risks.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Lost Luggage Compensation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-lost-luggage-compensation-scams", "summary": "Bogus claims handlers and imposter airline services that charge processing fees to access compensation that either doesn't exist or is freely available through official channels.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Car Rental Deposit Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-car-rental-deposit-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent car hire sites and listings that take deposits for vehicles that aren't available — or add hidden charges at pickup.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Event Travel Package Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-event-travel-package-scams", "summary": "Bogus packages bundling event tickets with travel and accommodation for high-demand events — collecting payment for tickets and bookings that don't exist.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Visa and ETA Application Site Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-visa-eta-application-site", "summary": "Unofficial websites that charge inflated fees to submit visa or Electronic Travel Authorisation applications that travellers could file directly with the government for free or a fraction of the cost.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Holiday Club and Timeshare Presentation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/holiday-club-timeshare-presentation-scam", "summary": "High-pressure holiday resort presentations that use prizes and free gifts to lure attendees into signing expensive long-term holiday club or timeshare contracts.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Airline Refund and Compensation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-airline-refund-compensation-scam", "summary": "Unofficial websites and callers that charge fees to process airline refunds or flight compensation claims that passengers could pursue free of charge directly with the airline.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Airbnb Host Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-airbnb-host-deposit", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as Airbnb hosts direct guests off the platform to pay a security deposit via bank transfer, then collect the payment and disappear.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Travel Loyalty Points Transfer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-travel-loyalty-points-transfer", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as loyalty scheme support or third-party brokers steal frequent flyer and hotel points by requesting account credentials or directing victims to fake transfer sites.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Flight Upgrade Offer Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/flight-upgrade-offer-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent emails and texts pose as airline upgrade offers, harvesting card details or account credentials from passengers willing to pay a fee to move to business or premium class.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Travel Document Courier Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/travel-document-courier-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as courier companies or embassy agents demand payment for 'customs fees' or 'release charges' on supposed travel documents being delivered, then collect the fee and deliver nothing.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Travel Review Extortion Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-travel-review-extortion-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters threaten to post fabricated negative reviews about a traveller's business or personal travel unless a fee is paid, or demand payments from hospitality businesses in exchange for removing damaging fake reviews.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Airport Fast Track Service Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/fake-airport-fast-track-service-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent websites and touts sell pre-booked airport fast-track security, immigration, or check-in services that either do not exist or are available free, charging for something the passenger never receives.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-tax-office-scams", "summary": "Callers and messages posing as the tax authority demanding urgent payment to avoid penalties or arrest.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Police Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-police-scams", "summary": "Imposters posing as police who claim your identity or accounts are compromised and demand action.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Immigration Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-immigration-scams", "summary": "Threats of deportation or visa problems used to extort payment from migrants and visitors.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Court Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-court-scams", "summary": "Bogus court notices and 'missed jury duty' or 'lawsuit' threats demanding immediate payment.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Customs Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-customs-scams", "summary": "Claims that a parcel is held by customs pending fees, or that you're linked to a seized shipment.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Social Security Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-social-security-scams", "summary": "Threats that your social security or national insurance number is 'suspended' over alleged crimes.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Benefits & Grant Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-benefits-scams", "summary": "Bogus 'you qualify for a benefit/grant' messages that harvest data or charge access fees.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Visa Enforcement Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-visa-enforcement-scams", "summary": "Threats of visa cancellation or fines unless you pay or share details with a fake 'enforcement' unit.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Arrest Warrant Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-arrest-warrant-scams", "summary": "Calls claiming a warrant is out for your arrest unless you pay a 'fine' immediately.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-government-grant-scams", "summary": "Promises of free government grant money that require fees or bank details to 'release'.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Jury Duty Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-jury-duty-scams", "summary": "Callers claiming you failed to report for jury duty and that a warrant is now active unless you pay a fine immediately.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Census Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-census-scams", "summary": "Imposters posing as census officials who harvest identity data or charge fake 'participation fees'.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Stimulus Payment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-stimulus-payment-scams", "summary": "Messages claiming a government stimulus payment is waiting but requires fees or banking details to release.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Child Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-child-support-scams", "summary": "Callers posing as child support enforcement agencies threatening arrest or licence suspension to force payment or data.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Toll Violation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-toll-violation-scams", "summary": "Smishing texts claiming an unpaid toll fee is due, with a fake link that harvests card details.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake DMV / Licence Renewal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-dmv-license-renewal-scams", "summary": "Texts and emails impersonating the DMV or DVLA claiming your licence is due for renewal or suspended, with a fake payment link.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Passport and ID Renewal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-passport-renewal-fee-scams", "summary": "Websites and services impersonating official passport or national ID authorities that charge inflated fees, harvest identity data, or deliver nothing.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Government Healthcare Enrollment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-healthcare-enrollment-scams", "summary": "Callers and websites posing as health insurance or government health programme enrolment agents who collect premiums, personal data, or fees for non-existent coverage.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Vehicle Registration and Tax Renewal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-vehicle-registration-scams", "summary": "Unofficial websites or texts charging inflated fees for vehicle registration, road tax renewal, or MOT reminders that duplicate official free services.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Electoral Registration Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-electoral-registration-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters send official-looking messages claiming voter registration has lapsed and directing recipients to fake sites that harvest identity data or charge unnecessary fees.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Court Fine Email Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-court-fine-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails impersonating courts or law enforcement claim the recipient has an outstanding fine that must be paid immediately to avoid arrest or escalating penalties.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Disaster Relief and FEMA Aid Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-disaster-fema-aid-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate disaster relief agencies to steal personal data, advance fees, or direct genuine aid applicants to fraudulent portals that capture sensitive information.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Deportation Threat Impersonation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/deportation-threat-impersonation-scams", "summary": "Callers posing as immigration enforcement officers threaten imminent deportation or detention to coerce migrants and visa holders into making urgent payments or surrendering identity documents.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Benefit Reverification Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/benefit-reverification-phishing-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent messages impersonating benefits agencies demand recipients re-verify eligibility or update payment details to continue receiving payments, harvesting personal and banking data.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Court E-Summons Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-court-e-summons-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent emails and messages impersonate courts or legal authorities by delivering official-looking digital summons documents designed to harvest personal details or extract payments under legal threat.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Government App Download Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-government-app-download-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent messages and websites direct citizens to install counterfeit government apps that steal personal data, harvest banking credentials, or provide attackers with remote device access.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Antivirus Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-antivirus-scams", "summary": "Bogus 'your device is infected' warnings pushing paid 'security' software or support fees.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Tech Support Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-support-calls", "summary": "Callers posing as Microsoft, Apple or your ISP who claim a problem and request remote access.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/phishing", "summary": "Deceptive emails, texts and sites that trick you into revealing passwords, codes or card details.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake App Downloads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-app-downloads", "summary": "Malicious apps that mimic real ones to steal logins, intercept codes, or drain accounts.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Malware Popups", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/malware-popups", "summary": "Aggressive popups and fake alerts that push malware downloads or fake support numbers.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "QR-Code Scams (Quishing)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/qr-code-scams", "summary": "Malicious QR codes on stickers, emails or posters that lead to phishing or payment fraud.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Browser Lock Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/browser-lock-scams", "summary": "Pages that fake a 'locked' or 'frozen' computer to force a call to fake support.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Remote Access Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/remote-access-scams", "summary": "Any scam that persuades you to install screen-sharing or remote-control software to seize your device.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Software Update Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-software-update-scams", "summary": "Bogus 'update required' prompts that install malware instead of genuine updates.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Cloud Storage Alerts", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-cloud-storage-alerts", "summary": "'Your storage is full' or 'shared file' messages that phish your cloud or email login.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Password Reset Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-password-reset-scams", "summary": "Bogus 'reset your password' or 'unusual login' messages that capture credentials and codes.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Two-Factor Authentication Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-two-factor-authentication-scams", "summary": "Tricks and 'MFA fatigue' attacks designed to capture or approve your second authentication factor.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Juice Jacking Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/juice-jacking-scams", "summary": "Tampered public USB charging ports that steal data or install malware while your device charges.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Evil Twin Wi-Fi Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/evil-twin-wifi-scams", "summary": "Fake Wi-Fi hotspots mimicking real ones to intercept logins, steal data, and serve phishing pages.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Malicious Browser Extension Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/malicious-browser-extension-scams", "summary": "Fake or hijacked browser extensions that steal passwords, inject ads, and monitor everything you type.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake VPN App Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-vpn-app-scams", "summary": "Bogus VPN apps that spy on your traffic, harvest credentials, or install malware instead of protecting you.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "USB Baiting Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/usb-baiting-scams", "summary": "Planted USB drives loaded with malware that exploit curiosity to compromise devices.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake CAPTCHA Malware Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-captcha-malware-scams", "summary": "'Verify you are human' pages that trick you into running malware by pasting a command from your clipboard.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "MFA Push-Bombing and Account-Recovery Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/mfa-push-bombing-scams", "summary": "Attackers flood your phone with authentication-approval requests until you accept one by mistake, then impersonate support staff to confirm the 'error'.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "SIM Swap Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/sim-swap-account-takeover-scams", "summary": "Attackers convince your mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to a SIM they control, then use it to bypass SMS-based authentication and take over your accounts.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake IT Helpdesk Credential Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-it-helpdesk-credential-scams", "summary": "Attackers impersonate internal IT support to trick employees into resetting passwords, sharing credentials, or installing remote-access tools.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Browser Update Malware Popups", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-browser-update-malware-popup", "summary": "Malicious pages that display convincing browser update prompts to trick users into downloading malware disguised as a Chrome, Edge, or Firefox installer.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Cloud Storage Full Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/cloud-storage-full-phishing-scam", "summary": "Phishing emails and texts claiming your iCloud, Google Drive, or OneDrive storage is full, tricking you into entering credentials on a fake login page or paying for fake storage upgrades.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Quishing: Physical Payment Point QR Code Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/quishing-physical-payment-point-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent QR code stickers placed over legitimate payment or information codes at parking meters, tables, and public points, directing victims to fake payment pages.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Data Removal Service", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-data-removal-service", "summary": "Fraudulent services charge recurring fees to remove personal information from data broker sites but perform no work or provide a service anyone can do for free.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Parental Control App Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-parental-control-app", "summary": "Fraudulent parental monitoring apps charge subscription fees, harvest children's data, or install malware while providing no genuine monitoring capability.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Wi-Fi Captive Portal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/fake-wifi-captive-portal", "summary": "Fraudsters set up rogue Wi-Fi hotspots with legitimate-looking login pages to harvest credentials, card details, or install malware on connecting devices.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Credential Stuffing Attacks", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/credential-stuffing-attacks", "summary": "Automated tools test billions of username-and-password pairs stolen from data breaches across hundreds of services simultaneously, silently taking over accounts where victims reused passwords.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Phishing-as-a-Service Kit Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/phishing-as-a-service-kit-scams", "summary": "Ready-made criminal toolkits sold to low-skilled fraudsters enable highly convincing phishing campaigns at scale, complete with real-time credential relay, anti-detection, and automated victim management.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Banking Trojan and Infostealer Malware Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/banking-trojan-infostealer-scams", "summary": "Malicious software secretly installed on a device intercepts banking sessions, captures saved passwords, steals cryptocurrency wallet files, and exfiltrates personal data — often without any visible symptoms.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Malicious APK Sideloading Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/malicious-apk-sideload-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters trick Android users into installing malware-laced app files from outside the official store, granting attackers remote access, banking interception, or surveillance capabilities.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Adversary-in-the-Middle Session Theft Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/adversary-in-the-middle-session-theft-scams", "summary": "Attackers position themselves between you and a legitimate website to harvest authenticated session tokens in real time, bypassing two-factor authentication without needing your password.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Deepfake Voice Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/deepfake-voice-scams", "summary": "Cloned voices of family members or executives used to authorise urgent payments or 'rescues'.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake AI Investment Bots", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/fake-ai-investment-bots", "summary": "'AI trading bots' promising automated, guaranteed profits — a wrapper for investment fraud.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI-Generated Celebrity Endorsements", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-generated-celebrity-endorsements", "summary": "Deepfake videos and images of celebrities 'endorsing' investments or giveaways.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Customer-Service Chatbots", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/fake-customer-service-chatbots", "summary": "AI chatbots posing as brand support to extract logins, payments or remote access.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Cloned Company Websites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/cloned-company-websites", "summary": "Pixel-perfect copies of real company sites used for phishing, fake sales, or fake support.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI-Generated Fake News Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-generated-fake-news-scams", "summary": "Fabricated 'news articles' promoting scams, often using deepfakes and trusted-outlet branding.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Deepfake Video Call Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/deepfake-video-call-scams", "summary": "Live deepfake video used to impersonate executives or loved ones and authorise transfers.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI Romance Bot Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-romance-bot-scams", "summary": "AI chatbots that simulate a romantic partner at scale to groom victims toward payments.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake AI Trading Platform Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/fake-ai-trading-platform-scams", "summary": "Entire platforms branded around 'AI trading' that are fake from end to end.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake AI Legal or Tax Advice Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/fake-ai-legal-or-tax-advice-scams", "summary": "Bogus 'AI advisor' services that give harmful advice or harvest sensitive financial data.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI Virtual Kidnapping Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-virtual-kidnapping-scams", "summary": "Scammers use AI voice cloning to simulate a panicked loved one and demand ransom before the 'victim' can be reached.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI CV Applicant Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-cv-applicant-fraud", "summary": "AI-generated CVs and deepfake interview candidates used to infiltrate jobs, steal data, or receive salaries fraudulently.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI-Generated Fake Online Store Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-generated-fake-store-scams", "summary": "AI builds entire fake e-commerce stores at scale — products, reviews, and policies — to take payment for goods that never arrive.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Deepfake Sextortion Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/deepfake-sextortion-scams", "summary": "AI-generated intimate images created without consent and used to extort payment or compliance through threats of exposure.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI Companion and Grief Bot Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-companion-grief-bot-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent AI services that simulate deceased loved ones or long-term companionship to extract recurring payments from vulnerable users.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI-Generated Fake Charity Appeal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-fake-charity-appeal-scams", "summary": "AI-generated disaster imagery, fabricated victim stories, and cloned charity branding used to divert donations to criminals.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-hyper-personalised-phishing-scams", "summary": "AI tools that scrape your public data to generate personalised, convincing phishing messages that reference real details from your life.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI Trading Signal Subscription Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-trading-signal-subscription-scams", "summary": "Subscription services claiming AI algorithms generate profitable trading signals, backed by fabricated performance records and paid testimonials.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Synthetic Identity Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/synthetic-identity-fraud-scams", "summary": "Criminals combine real and AI-generated identity details to create new credit profiles that are used to take out loans, cards, and credit in a name that is partly or wholly fictitious.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Invoice Redirection Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/invoice-redirection", "summary": "Fraudsters change supplier bank details so legitimate payments are diverted to them.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Supplier Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-suppliers", "summary": "Bogus suppliers that take payment or deposits for goods and services never delivered.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "CEO Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/ceo-fraud", "summary": "Impersonation of senior executives to pressure staff into urgent, confidential payments.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake B2B Leads & Directory Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-b2b-leads", "summary": "Bogus business leads, directory listings and 'renewal' invoices that charge for nothing of value.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Domain Renewal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/domain-renewal-scams", "summary": "Fake 'your domain is expiring' notices that trick you into paying a bogus registrar or transferring your domain.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Trademark & IP Invoices", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-trademark-invoices", "summary": "Official-looking invoices for trademark 'registration', 'renewal' or 'publication' from bogus bodies.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Business Email Compromise (BEC)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/business-email-compromise", "summary": "Compromised or spoofed business email accounts used to redirect payments and steal data.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Procurement Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-procurement-scams", "summary": "Bogus purchase orders, often impersonating large firms or institutions, that lead to unpaid goods.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Investor Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-investor-scams", "summary": "Bogus 'investors' who target startups with due-diligence fees, advance costs, or data theft.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Partnership Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-partnership-scams", "summary": "Bogus business partnerships or distribution deals used to extract fees, stock, or sensitive data.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Legal Threat Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-legal-threat-scams", "summary": "Bogus legal demands — copyright, debt, or lawsuits — pressuring businesses to pay or click.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Unpaid Invoice Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-unpaid-invoice-scams", "summary": "Invoices for goods or services never ordered, or duplicate 'overdue' demands, hoping you'll just pay.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Vendor Email Compromise (BEC) Invoice Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/vendor-bec-invoice-compromise-scams", "summary": "Attackers infiltrate or impersonate a supplier's email account to intercept and redirect legitimate invoice payments to accounts they control.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Business Listing Update Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-business-listing-update", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as directory or map service representatives charge businesses to update or correct their online listings on platforms that offer this at no cost.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Office Supplies Invoice Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-office-supplies-invoice", "summary": "Fraudsters send invoices for office supplies or services never ordered, hoping that busy accounts payable departments will pay without verifying the underlying transaction.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Payroll Update Email Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-payroll-update-email", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate employees or HR systems to redirect salary payments to accounts they control, often by submitting fake direct deposit change requests.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-online-pharmacy", "summary": "Websites posing as licensed pharmacies that sell counterfeit, substandard, or entirely absent medications — and harvest payment details.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Miracle Cure Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/miracle-cure-scams", "summary": "Products falsely claiming to cure, prevent, or treat serious medical conditions — exploiting people seeking hope or alternatives to conventional treatment.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Health Insurance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-health-insurance", "summary": "Fraudulent policies that collect premiums but provide no real coverage, leaving victims with large medical bills.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Medical Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/medical-identity-theft", "summary": "Criminals use your identity to obtain medical treatment, prescriptions, or insurance benefits — leaving you with fraudulent records and unexpected bills.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Weight-Loss Product Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-weight-loss-products", "summary": "Products claiming to cause significant weight loss without diet or exercise changes — often sold via aggressive subscription traps.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Clinical Trial Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-clinical-trials", "summary": "Fraudulent 'research' opportunities that extract fees, personal information, or expose participants to harm under the guise of medical studies.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Medical Equipment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-medical-equipment", "summary": "Counterfeit, substandard, or never-delivered medical devices sold online — from PPE to oxygen concentrators and diagnostic devices.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Mental Health App Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-mental-health-apps", "summary": "Apps and platforms claiming to provide professional therapy or mental health support that harvest sensitive data, impose hidden subscription fees, or provide no qualified support.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Addiction Treatment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-addiction-treatment-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent rehabilitation centres and programmes that exploit people seeking help for substance use — taking payment without providing proper care.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Dental and Vision Plan Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-dental-vision-plans", "summary": "Plans marketed as dental or vision insurance that provide minimal or no real coverage, often structured as unregulated discount schemes.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Counterfeit Medicine Supply Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/counterfeit-medicine-supply-scam", "summary": "Criminal supply chains that distribute counterfeit, adulterated, or substandard branded medicines through unofficial channels, causing direct health harm alongside financial loss.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Supplement Subscription Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-supplement-subscription-scam", "summary": "Heavily marketed health supplements sold through deceptive free-trial offers that hide recurring high-cost subscription charges in difficult-to-cancel billing arrangements.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Medical Crowdfunding Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-medical-crowdfunding-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent fundraising campaigns that fabricate or exaggerate medical emergencies to collect donations from generous individuals, with funds going to the scammer rather than any genuine patient.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Weight Loss Program Subscription Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-weight-loss-program-subscription-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent diet and weight loss programs that charge recurring subscription fees for coaching, meal plans, or supplements that are never delivered or have no meaningful effect.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Online Therapy and Counselling Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-online-therapy-counselling-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent therapy platforms or individuals posing as qualified counsellors who collect payments for sessions with unqualified or non-existent practitioners.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Clinical Trial Recruitment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-clinical-trial-recruitment-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent notices recruiting participants for fake medical trials, collecting fees or personal information under the guise of legitimate research.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Telemedicine Platform Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/telemedicine-platform-fraud", "summary": "Fake or unregistered online consultation services that charge patients for worthless or dangerous medical advice, collect sensitive health data, and issue illegitimate prescriptions.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Healthcare Billing Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/healthcare-billing-fraud", "summary": "Patients are charged for services never rendered, billed for more expensive treatments than received, or enrolled in programmes without consent — leaving them with inflated medical bills.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Prescription Discount Card Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/prescription-discount-card-scams", "summary": "Fake or misleading pharmacy discount cards that charge membership fees for minimal savings, harvest personal health data, or misrepresent themselves as insurance.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Medical Alert Device Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/fake-medical-alert-device-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent personal emergency response devices sold to older adults or people with health conditions that do not work, charge hidden subscription fees, or are never delivered.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Rental Listing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/rental-listing-scams", "summary": "Fake or hijacked property listings that collect deposits and application fees for homes that are unavailable or non-existent.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/rental-deposit-scams", "summary": "Landlords or agents who collect large security deposits and vanish — or invent reasons to withhold them — leaving tenants out of pocket.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Foreclosure Relief Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/foreclosure-relief-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters who target homeowners facing foreclosure with fake 'rescue' services that take fees and accelerate financial ruin.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Mortgage Modification Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/mortgage-modification-scams", "summary": "Fake services that charge fees to negotiate lower mortgage payments — then deliver nothing while your arrears grow.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Moving Company Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/moving-company-scams", "summary": "Rogue movers who quote low prices then hold belongings hostage for inflated final payments.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Timeshare Resale Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/timeshare-resale-scams", "summary": "Fake resale companies that charge upfront fees to sell your timeshare — and never deliver a buyer.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Landlord Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/fake-landlord-scams", "summary": "Impostors posing as property owners who have no right to rent the property, leaving tenants homeless and out of pocket.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Rent-to-Own Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/rent-to-own-scams", "summary": "Fake or misleading arrangements that promise a path to homeownership but deliver nothing except lost rent.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Real Estate Wire Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/real-estate-wire-fraud", "summary": "Scammers intercept property sale communications and substitute fake wiring instructions to divert closing funds.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Property Listing Deposit Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/fake-property-listing-deposit-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent property-for-sale listings that collect reservation deposits from multiple interested buyers for a property the scammer does not own and has no authority to sell.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Equity-Stripping Foreclosure Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/equity-stripping-foreclosure-scam", "summary": "Scammers persuade homeowners facing foreclosure to sign over their property under a sale-leaseback or rescue scheme, then strip the equity and evict the family.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Rogue Moving Company Quote Inflation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/rogue-mover-quote-inflation-scam", "summary": "Unlicensed removal companies provide an artificially low estimate, then present a dramatically higher bill on moving day and refuse to unload until paid.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Rent-to-Own Property Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/rent-to-own-property-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent rent-to-own schemes that collect large option fees and inflated monthly payments for property that the operator has no authority to sell or transfer.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Estate Agent Holding Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/fake-estate-agent-holding-deposit-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as estate agents or property managers to collect holding deposits on properties they have no authority to let, leaving tenants without a property or their money.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Shared House and Roommate Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/shared-house-roommate-deposit-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as landlords or existing tenants in a shared house to collect deposits and first month's rent for rooms that are already occupied, do not exist, or belong to someone else.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Rug Pull Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/rug-pull-scams", "summary": "Developers launch a token or NFT project, attract investor funds, then abandon it and vanish with the liquidity.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Wallet Drainer Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/wallet-drainer-scams", "summary": "Malicious smart contracts trick you into signing a transaction that transfers all your tokens and NFTs to a scammer.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Airdrop Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/fake-airdrop-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent token distribution announcements that lead to phishing sites or wallet-draining approval requests.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "NFT Mint Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/nft-mint-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent NFT collections take mint payments and deliver nothing, or use fake mints to drain wallets.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Staking and Yield Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/fake-staking-yield-scams", "summary": "Platforms promising unrealistically high staking or yield returns that are either exit scams or Ponzi schemes.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Address Poisoning Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/address-poisoning-scams", "summary": "Scammers send tiny transactions from addresses that look identical to your regular contacts, hoping you will copy the wrong address for future transfers.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Seed Phrase Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/seed-phrase-phishing", "summary": "Scammers use fake support, fake wallets, or alarming prompts to trick you into revealing your wallet's recovery phrase.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Crypto Giveaway Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/crypto-giveaway-scams", "summary": "Fake celebrity or exchange giveaways that promise to double your crypto if you send it first — and keep everything sent.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Crypto Exchange Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/fake-exchange-support-scams", "summary": "Imposters posing as exchange customer support trick you into revealing credentials, seed phrases, or approving withdrawals.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Liquidity Mining Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/liquidity-mining-scams", "summary": "Fake DeFi protocols promise high yields for providing liquidity, then drain your wallet when you connect and approve.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Token Presale Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/fake-token-presale-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent token launches collect presale funds then abandon the project, leaving investors with worthless or non-existent tokens.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Memecoin Pump Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/memecoin-pump-scams", "summary": "Coordinated groups artificially inflate a low-value token's price, then dump their holdings on retail buyers who bought in during the hype.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Hardware Wallet Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/fake-hardware-wallet-scams", "summary": "Counterfeit or tampered hardware wallets — or phishing via fake manufacturer sites — that steal seed phrases and drain funds.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Crypto Tax Software Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/fake-crypto-tax-software-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent tools that ask you to connect your wallets or enter your seed phrase under the guise of calculating your crypto tax liability.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Clipboard Hijacker Crypto Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/clipboard-hijacker-crypto-scams", "summary": "Malware that silently replaces a cryptocurrency address you have copied with the attacker's address, redirecting your transfer.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Crypto Job Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/fake-crypto-job-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers in the crypto industry that steal funds, harvest credentials, or install malware through the hiring process.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Mining Rig Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/fake-mining-rig-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent hardware sales or cloud mining contracts that collect payment for mining equipment or capacity that is never delivered or does not generate the promised returns.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Crypto Copy-Trading Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/copy-trading-crypto-scams", "summary": "Platforms claiming to let you automatically mirror the trades of expert crypto traders, where the 'expert' returns and the platform itself are entirely fabricated.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Crypto Recovery Service Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/fake-crypto-recovery-service-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent services targeting people who have already lost money in crypto scams, promising to trace and recover funds in exchange for upfront fees.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "DeFi Flash Loan and Protocol Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/defi-flash-loan-phishing-scams", "summary": "Phishing sites mimicking DeFi protocols or wallet interfaces that steal connected wallet funds through malicious contract approvals during 'flash loan' or yield interactions.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Yield Farming APY Trap Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/yield-farming-apy-trap-scam", "summary": "Fake yield farming platforms advertise impossibly high annual percentage yields to attract deposits, then prevent withdrawals until victims have deposited substantially more funds.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Celebrity NFT Collection Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/fake-celebrity-nft-collection-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent NFT projects that use a celebrity's name, image, or fabricated endorsement to attract buyers to a mint that either delivers worthless tokens or drains wallets.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Crypto Exchange Giveaway Impersonation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/crypto-exchange-giveaway-impersonation-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent accounts impersonating major cryptocurrency exchanges or wallets announce giveaways requiring users to send crypto first to receive double back — and keep everything sent.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Crypto Bridge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/fake-bridge-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent cross-chain bridge sites mimic legitimate bridging protocols to drain wallets the moment a user approves a transaction.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Romance Crypto Mining Pool Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/romance-crypto-mining-scam", "summary": "Scammers build romantic or friendly relationships online before introducing a supposedly exclusive crypto mining pool that generates consistent returns until the victim tries to withdraw.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Token Airdrop Claim Site", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/fake-token-airdrop-claim-site", "summary": "Fraudulent airdrop sites mimic real token distributions to trick users into approving wallet-draining transactions or submitting seed phrases to claim non-existent tokens.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "MEV Sandwich Attack Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/mev-sandwich-attack-scams", "summary": "Bots and bad actors exploit Ethereum's transaction ordering to front-run and back-run user trades, extracting value by sandwiching legitimate swaps and delivering worse prices than expected.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Oracle Price Manipulation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/oracle-price-manipulation-scams", "summary": "Attackers exploit weaknesses in DeFi price oracles to manipulate the prices that smart contracts rely on, enabling theft from lending protocols, synthetic assets, and prediction markets.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Ice Phishing and EIP-712 Signature Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/ice-phishing-eip712-signature-scams", "summary": "Attackers trick users into signing off-chain permission messages that authorise a malicious contract to spend or transfer their tokens — without any transaction gas or obvious on-chain action.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Dusting and Deanonymisation Attacks", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/dusting-deanonymization-attacks", "summary": "Attackers send tiny amounts of cryptocurrency to target wallets to link pseudonymous addresses to real identities, enabling targeted phishing, extortion, or further wallet attacks.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "DAO Governance Takeover Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/dao-governance-takeover-scams", "summary": "Attackers accumulate or flash-loan governance tokens to pass malicious proposals that drain a protocol's treasury, alter fee structures, or mint new tokens to an attacker-controlled wallet.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/foreign-lottery-scams", "summary": "Unsolicited notices claiming you have won a foreign lottery you never entered — with fees required to release the prize.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Prize Notification Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/prize-notification-scams", "summary": "Fake congratulatory messages claiming you have won a prize, used to harvest personal details or extract upfront fees.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Sweepstakes Advance-Fee Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/sweepstakes-advance-fee-scams", "summary": "Fake sweepstakes notifications demanding processing fees, taxes, or charges before delivering a prize that never arrives.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Competition Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/fake-competition-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent competitions designed to harvest personal data, charge entry fees, or deliver worthless prizes instead of the advertised ones.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Social Media Giveaway Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/social-media-giveaway-scams", "summary": "Fake giveaways promoted on social platforms to collect personal information, extract fees, or push victims to phishing sites.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Inheritance Lottery Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/inheritance-lottery-scams", "summary": "Fake inheritance or estate-claim notices combined with lottery fraud elements, demanding fees to release large sums.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Mystery Shopper Prize Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/fake-mystery-shopper-prize-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent mystery shopper job offers that use a prize or lottery element to justify sending fake cheques or requesting advance payments.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Raffle Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/raffle-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent raffles that collect ticket sales without conducting a fair draw, delivering no prize to any genuine participant.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Publishers Sweepstakes-Style Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/publishers-sweepstakes-style-scams", "summary": "Fake prize mailers styled as publisher prize draws that demand purchase orders or fees to secure a non-existent grand prize.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Social Media Lottery Winner Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/social-media-lottery-winner-scams", "summary": "Fake lottery winner announcements on social platforms that contact users directly to extract fees or personal details under the pretence of prize delivery.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Premium Bond Prize Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/premium-bond-prize-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent messages claiming you have won a premium bond prize, used to collect personal details or advance fees under a government-institution pretext.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Second-Chance Lottery Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/second-chance-lottery-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent second-chance draw promotions that collect non-winning ticket numbers and personal details to charge fees or commit identity fraud.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Winner Notification Call Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/winner-notification-call-scams", "summary": "Unsolicited phone calls claiming you have won a prize, used to extract fees, personal information, or payment card details over the phone.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Raffle Text Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/fake-raffle-text-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent SMS and messaging app notifications claiming you have won a raffle, used to harvest personal data or extract fees via links.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "International Sweepstakes Advance-Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/international-sweepstakes-advance-fee-scam", "summary": "Notifications claiming you have won an overseas sweepstakes entry you never submitted, with escalating fees required to release a prize that does not exist.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Prize Claim Processing Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/prize-claim-processing-fee-scam", "summary": "Scammers inform you that a prize or cash reward is waiting but require an upfront processing, admin, or tax payment before it can be released.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Charity Raffle and Prize Draw Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/fake-charity-raffle-prize-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent charity raffles and prize draws that collect ticket payments without running a real draw, donating to charity, or awarding prizes.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Charity Prize Draw Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/fake-charity-prize-draw-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent prize draws that use charitable branding to sell tickets but never run a genuine draw and keep all proceeds without donating anything.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Premium-Rate Competition Entry Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/premium-rate-competition-entry-scam", "summary": "Competitions that require entry via premium-rate phone numbers, texts, or websites — charging far more per entry than disclosed and generating revenue with no genuine prize.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Social Media Giveaway Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/lottery-prize-scams/social-media-giveaway-impersonation-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters create fake accounts impersonating celebrities, brands, or influencers to run fake giveaways that harvest personal data, cryptocurrency, or upfront fees.", "category": "lottery-prize-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Charity Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-charity-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent 'charities' with convincing names and websites that collect donations and pass nothing to any genuine cause.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/disaster-relief-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent appeals exploiting floods, earthquakes, conflicts, and other crises to divert emergency donations away from genuine relief efforts.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Crowdfunding Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-crowdfunding-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent campaigns on legitimate fundraising platforms that fabricate personal hardship stories to collect donations for non-existent causes.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Veteran Charity Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-veteran-charity-scams", "summary": "Bogus organisations claiming to support military veterans or their families that pocket donated funds rather than delivering any services.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Animal Rescue Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-animal-rescue-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent organisations claiming to rescue, rehome, or protect animals that collect donations or rehoming fees without ever helping any animal.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Religious Cause Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/religious-cause-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent appeals exploiting religious faith and community trust to solicit donations for fake missions, churches, or humanitarian work.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Children's Charity Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-childrens-charity-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent organisations that use images and stories of children in need to solicit donations that never reach any child welfare cause.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Doorstep Charity Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/doorstep-charity-scams", "summary": "Bogus collectors who visit homes with fake ID badges and collection materials to solicit cash donations for non-existent charities.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Medical Crowdfunding Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-crowdfunding-medical-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent crowdfunding campaigns that fabricate or grossly exaggerate serious medical conditions to collect donations from compassionate supporters.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Religious Tithe and Donation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/religious-tithe-donation-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent religious leaders and fake ministries that exploit tithing obligations and faith-based generosity to collect money for personal gain rather than any genuine religious or charitable purpose.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Disaster Text and Message Appeal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-disaster-text-appeal-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent text messages and app-based appeals that impersonate legitimate disaster relief organisations to divert emergency donations seconds after a crisis makes headlines.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Volunteer Fee Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/volunteer-fee-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent overseas volunteering organisations that charge placement or programme fees for positions that do not exist or for experiences grossly misrepresented from reality.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Foundation Grant Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-foundation-grant-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent organisations and individuals impersonating charitable foundations or grant-making bodies to collect upfront fees from people falsely told they have been awarded funding.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Charity Lottery Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-charity-lottery-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent lottery or prize draw schemes that falsely claim a charitable purpose, collecting ticket payments that are not applied to any genuine cause and often never running a legitimate prize draw.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Disaster Crowdfunding Appeal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-disaster-crowdfunding-appeal-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent social media fundraising campaigns created within hours of a disaster, impersonating affected communities or relief organisations to collect donations that reach no victims.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Religious Collection Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-religious-collection-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent door-to-door or street collections that use religious imagery and charitable language to solicit cash donations that reach no genuine faith organisation or cause.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Working Dog and Service Animal Charity Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-working-dog-charity-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent organisations claiming to train guide dogs, assistance animals, or working dogs that collect donations without funding any genuine animal welfare or training programme.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Medical Treatment Appeal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-medical-treatment-appeal-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent fundraising campaigns presenting a fabricated or exaggerated medical case to solicit donations that never reach any patient or treatment.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Veterans and Military Charity Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-veterans-military-charity-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent organisations using military or veterans' imagery to collect donations that never reach serving personnel, veterans, or their families.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Environmental and Wildlife Appeal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/fake-environmental-wildlife-appeal-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent campaigns using powerful wildlife and environmental imagery to collect donations that reach no conservation project, animal welfare programme, or environmental cause.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Utility Shutoff Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/utility-shutoff-scams", "summary": "Callers and texts claiming your electricity, gas, or water is about to be cut off unless you pay immediately.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Energy Broker Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-energy-broker-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent brokers offering 'better energy rates' who collect switching fees or personal data and disappear.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Solar Panel Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/solar-panel-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent installers taking deposits for solar systems that are never installed, substandard, or unsafe.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Utility Rebate Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-utility-rebate-scams", "summary": "Bogus notifications claiming you are owed a refund or rebate from your energy or water provider.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Smart Meter Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/smart-meter-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as meter engineers to gain entry, steal data, or charge fees for free government schemes.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Water Quality Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-water-quality-scams", "summary": "Callers claiming your tap water is contaminated and selling unnecessary or useless filtration equipment.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Green Grant Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/green-grant-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as government-backed green energy schemes to charge fees or harvest personal data.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Broadband and ISP Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-broadband-isp-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating internet providers to charge fake upgrade fees, harvest account credentials, or gain remote computer access.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Boiler Cover Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-boiler-cover-scams", "summary": "Callers selling worthless or non-existent boiler and home emergency cover, or impersonating legitimate cover providers to harvest payments.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Energy Rebate Text Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-energy-rebate-text-scams", "summary": "SMS messages claiming you are owed a government or supplier energy rebate, designed to steal banking details or account credentials.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Meter Reading Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-meter-reading-scams", "summary": "Callers or doorstep visitors using a bogus meter reading pretext to gain home access, steal personal data, or charge for unnecessary services.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Tree Removal and Doorstep Landscaping Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-tree-removal-doorstep-scams", "summary": "Rogue traders demanding upfront payment for tree removal or garden work they never complete, or using utility-risk framing to pressure quick decisions.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Insulation Grant Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-insulation-grant-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as government-backed insulation scheme representatives to charge fees, harvest data, or arrange substandard or non-existent installation.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Utility Disconnection Threat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/utility-disconnection-threat-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate electricity, gas, or water companies and threaten imminent service disconnection unless you pay immediately by gift card or transfer.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Solar Panel and Green Energy Scheme Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-solar-green-energy-scheme-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent door-to-door sellers and fake companies that take deposits for solar or green energy installations that are never completed or are grossly substandard.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Energy Switching and Broker Overcharge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/energy-switching-overcharge-scam", "summary": "Fake or unscrupulous energy brokers and switching services that pocket commissions without finding the best deal, or sign businesses up to long contracts with hidden fees.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Water Company Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-water-company-refund-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate water companies offering an overpayment refund, then harvest bank details or charge an 'administration fee' to release funds that do not exist.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Broadband Router Upgrade Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/broadband-router-upgrade-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as broadband providers offering a free or heavily subsidised router upgrade, then use the visit or call to install malware, steal credentials, or charge hidden fees.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Energy Prepayment Meter Top-Up Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/energy-prepayment-meter-topup-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters sell discounted prepayment energy codes that are stolen, duplicated, or fraudulent — leaving buyers without credit and potentially liable for theft.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/fake-vehicle-listing-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent car and vehicle listings on classifieds sites designed to collect deposits or full payment for vehicles that don't exist or aren't for sale.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Vehicle Escrow Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/vehicle-escrow-scams", "summary": "Fake escrow or payment-protection services used in online vehicle sales to collect full payment for a vehicle that is never delivered.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "VIN Cloning Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/vin-cloning-scams", "summary": "A stolen or salvaged vehicle is given the identity of a legitimate vehicle by copying its VIN, making it appear to have a clean history.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Extended Warranty Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/fake-extended-warranty-scams", "summary": "Unsolicited calls or mailers pushing worthless 'vehicle protection' policies that cover almost nothing and are nearly impossible to claim on.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Title Washing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/title-washing-scams", "summary": "A vehicle with a salvage, flood, or lemon title is re-registered in a different state or country to obtain a clean title, hiding serious damage history.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Car Buyer Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/fake-car-buyer-scams", "summary": "Scammers posing as vehicle buyers who overpay by cheque, then request a refund of the excess — leaving the seller out of pocket when the cheque bounces.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Curbstoning Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/curbstoning-scams", "summary": "Unlicensed dealers posing as private sellers to flip problem vehicles without dealer regulations, warranties, or consumer protections.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Vehicle Shipping Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/fake-vehicle-shipping-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent logistics or transport companies used in remote vehicle sales to collect delivery fees for vehicles that are never shipped or collected.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Online Vehicle Deposit and Fake Escrow Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/online-vehicle-deposit-escrow-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent vehicle listings that request a holding deposit or direct you through a fake escrow service to collect payment for cars that do not exist or are not for sale.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "VIN Cloning and Title Washing Vehicle Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/vin-cloning-title-washing-vehicle-fraud", "summary": "Vehicles with a concealed accident history, stolen identity, or fraudulently cleared title sold as clean cars to unsuspecting buyers.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Mechanic and Repair Overcharge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/fake-mechanic-repair-overcharge-scam", "summary": "Dishonest repair shops and mobile mechanics who invent faults, perform unnecessary work, or massively overcharge for simple repairs on vehicles brought in for service.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Car Shipping and Transport Fee Extraction Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/fake-car-shipping-fee-extraction-scam", "summary": "Online vehicle sellers who are actually scammers introduce a fake transport or shipping company to extract additional fees after an initial deposit has been paid for a vehicle that does not exist.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Vehicle Service Contract Robocall Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/vehicle-service-contract-robocall-scam", "summary": "Unsolicited robocalls claiming your vehicle warranty is expiring and pressuring you to purchase a worthless extended service contract from an unregulated third party.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Vehicle History Report Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/fake-vehicle-history-report-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters sell counterfeit or manipulated vehicle history reports that conceal written-off, stolen, or finance-encumbered vehicles, leaving buyers exposed after purchase.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Deposit to View a Car Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/deposit-to-view-car-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters request a small deposit before allowing a buyer to view a vehicle, then disappear with the money and the viewing never takes place.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Breakdown Cover and Roadside Assistance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/fake-breakdown-cover-roadside-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent breakdown cover policies or opportunist roadside operators that charge for non-existent or overpriced recovery services, leaving motorists without genuine cover or out of pocket.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Odometer Rollback (Clocking) Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/odometer-rollback-clocking-scams", "summary": "The recorded mileage on a used vehicle is fraudulently reduced to inflate its apparent value and conceal accelerated wear — leaving buyers with a vehicle worth far less than they paid.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Salvage Rebuild Title Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/salvage-rebuild-title-fraud", "summary": "Vehicles written off as total losses are cosmetically repaired and sold without disclosure of their salvage status — exposing buyers to structural safety risks and insurance complications.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Yo-Yo Financing and Spot Delivery Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/yo-yo-financing-spot-delivery-scams", "summary": "A car dealer lets a buyer drive away with a vehicle on provisional financing, then contacts them days later to demand higher payments or the return of the vehicle — exploiting a financing shortfall that may never have existed.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "SIM Swap Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/sim-swap-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters hijack your phone number by convincing your carrier to transfer it to a SIM they control, bypassing SMS-based two-factor authentication.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Number Porting Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/number-porting-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters transfer your mobile number to a different carrier without your consent, redirecting your calls and texts to intercept security codes.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Phone Upgrade Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/phone-upgrade-scams", "summary": "Fake carrier upgrade offers or impersonators trick you into handing over personal details, paying fees, or giving up your device in exchange for a promised upgrade that never arrives.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Carrier Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/fake-carrier-support-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate your mobile carrier's customer support team to harvest account credentials, authorise fraudulent changes, or extract payment.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Account Takeover Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/account-takeover-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters gain unauthorised access to your existing accounts — email, banking, social media — using stolen credentials, phishing, or SIM swaps, then exploit or sell the access.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Verification Badge Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/verification-badge-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters promise — or impersonate the process of obtaining — official social media or platform verification badges, charging fees or stealing credentials in the process.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Hacked Friend Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/hacked-friend-scams", "summary": "Attackers use a compromised account to message the victim's contacts, exploiting established trust to request money, personal details, or account access.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Data Breach Extortion Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/data-breach-extortion-scams", "summary": "Scammers claim to have obtained your personal data, passwords, or compromising material from a breach and threaten to share it unless you pay — often in cryptocurrency.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "SIM Hijacking and Mobile Account Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/sim-hijacking-account-takeover-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters take over your mobile account by impersonating you to your carrier, then use your phone number to bypass two-factor authentication on banking and other accounts.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Phone Upgrade and Contract Renewal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/phone-upgrade-contract-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent calls and texts impersonating your mobile carrier to trick you into handing over account details, authorising transfers, or paying non-existent upgrade fees.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Roaming and Data Top-Up Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/roaming-data-topup-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate mobile carriers offering roaming bundles or data add-ons, collecting payment for credits that are never applied to the account.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Telecom Rebate Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/fake-telecom-rebate-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate mobile or broadband providers to claim you are owed a rebate, harvesting bank details or charging a fee to 'release' money that does not exist.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Lost Phone Insurance Claim Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/lost-phone-insurance-claim-fraud", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as mobile insurance providers or third-party claim handlers, collecting personal details and fees from people trying to claim for a lost or damaged phone — and delivering nothing.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Telecom Cramming Charges Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/telecom-cramming-charges-scams", "summary": "Unauthorised third-party charges are added to your phone bill without your consent, often disguised as service subscriptions or premium content fees you never signed up for.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Carrier SMS Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/fake-carrier-sms-phishing-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent text messages impersonating your mobile carrier warn of account problems, unpaid bills, or security alerts to steal credentials or payment details through convincing fake portals.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "eSIM Swap Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/esim-swap-fraud", "summary": "Attackers exploit carrier eSIM provisioning processes to transfer your phone number to a digital SIM they control, achieving the same account-takeover outcome as a physical SIM swap without needing a SIM card.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "One-Ring (Wangiri) Callback Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/one-ring-wangiri-callback-scams", "summary": "Your phone rings once from an unfamiliar international number and disconnects, enticing you to call back — connecting you to a premium-rate line that charges by the minute.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Health Insurance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-health-insurance-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent policies that look like comprehensive health cover but pay out nothing — or far less than promised — when you need care.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters who sell cheap car insurance policies that are forged, cancelled after purchase, or taken out in your name with false details — leaving you uninsured and potentially liable.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Life Insurance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-life-insurance-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters collect life insurance premiums for policies that have never been issued, are unregulated, or will deny every claim through hidden exclusions.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Insurance Claims Settlement Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-claims-settlement-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as insurers or claims handlers, offering fast settlements in exchange for upfront fees or personal details — then vanish.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Travel Medical Insurance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-travel-medical-insurance-scams", "summary": "Bogus travel insurance policies that look comprehensive but exclude the medical events most likely to occur, or are sold by unregulated operators with no claims-paying ability.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Warranty and Insurance Renewal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/warranty-insurance-renewal-scams", "summary": "Unsolicited calls and letters claiming your warranty or insurance is about to expire — pressuring you into paying for a renewal or product you do not need.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Pet Insurance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-pet-insurance-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent or near-worthless pet insurance policies that collect premiums but deny almost every vet claim through hidden exclusions or outright non-existence.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Disaster Insurance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/disaster-insurance-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters who target people after floods, fires, or storms — posing as insurers, public adjusters, or contractors to steal claim payouts or personal data.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Car Insurance Broker Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-car-insurance-ghost-broker-scam", "summary": "Unregulated 'brokers' who sell fabricated, voided, or cancelled motor insurance policies — leaving drivers unknowingly uninsured at serious legal and financial risk.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Health Plan and Membership Scheme Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-health-plan-membership-scam", "summary": "Unregulated 'health benefit' memberships sold as insurance that have no obligation to pay claims — leaving members unprotected when they need care.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Extended Warranty and Product Insurance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-extended-warranty-insurance-scam", "summary": "Unsolicited offers of extended warranties or product protection that take regular premiums but deny every claim through narrow exclusions or fabricated policy documents.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Travel Insurance Policy Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-travel-insurance-policy-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters sell travel insurance policies that look genuine but provide no real cover, leaving travellers stranded with unpaid medical bills or lost trip costs.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Pet Insurance Policy Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-pet-insurance-policy-scam", "summary": "Bogus pet insurance policies that collect monthly premiums but deny every claim through hidden exclusions or by never existing at all.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Crop and Farm Insurance Fraud Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/crop-farm-insurance-fraud-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as agricultural insurance agents to collect premiums for farming cover that is never placed with a real insurer, or manipulate farmers into policies with exclusions that make every claim ineligible.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Crash-for-Cash Staged Accident Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/crash-for-cash-staged-accident-scams", "summary": "Organised fraudsters deliberately cause road collisions or fabricate accidents to make exaggerated or entirely false insurance claims — raising premiums for all honest drivers.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Insurance Premium Diversion Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/insurance-premium-diversion-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent or rogue brokers collect insurance premiums from clients but never pass them to the insurer — leaving clients uninsured while believing they are covered.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Claim Reprocessing Fee Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/claim-reprocessing-fee-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters charge upfront fees to resubmit, reprocess, or escalate an insurance or benefits claim — then disappear without delivering any service.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Disability Benefit Fraud Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/disability-benefit-fraud-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters charge vulnerable disabled individuals fees for government benefit applications, make false promises about entitlement, or commit identity fraud using their personal details.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Student Loan Forgiveness Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/student-loan-forgiveness-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent services that charge upfront fees to 'forgive', reduce, or manage student loan debt — help that is free through official channels.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Scholarship and Grant Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/scholarship-grant-scams", "summary": "Fake awards that charge application or processing fees for scholarships or grants that either do not exist or were never open to the target.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Diploma and Degree Mills", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-diploma-degree-mills", "summary": "Operations that sell worthless or fabricated academic credentials without genuine coursework, accreditation, or educational value.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Tuition Payment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/tuition-payment-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent payment portals, impersonated institutions, and misdirected wire transfers targeting students paying tuition or accommodation fees.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Student Tax Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-student-tax-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent messages impersonating tax authorities to demand payments or personal information from students over non-existent tax debts or refunds.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Study Abroad Agent Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/study-abroad-agent-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent education consultants and visa agents who take fees for overseas study placements, visa processing, or accommodation that never materialise.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Online Course Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-online-course-scams", "summary": "Non-existent or vastly misrepresented online courses that take payment and deliver little or no educational content.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Education Debt Relief Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/education-debt-relief-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent services promising to reduce, settle, or manage private student debt or tuition arrears in exchange for upfront fees.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Student Loan Forgiveness Advance-Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/student-loan-forgiveness-advance-fee-scam", "summary": "Companies that charge large upfront fees promising guaranteed federal loan cancellation — money that cannot be recovered once paid and services that are either free or impossible.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Scholarship Application Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-scholarship-application-fee-scam", "summary": "Fake scholarship programmes that charge an application or processing fee to students for awards that do not exist or were never available to applicants.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Diploma and Certificate Mill Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-diploma-certificate-mill-scam", "summary": "Operations that sell worthless academic or professional credentials without genuine coursework, recognised accreditation, or any educational value.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Online Course and Bootcamp Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-online-course-bootcamp-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent online courses and coding bootcamps that collect large tuition fees but deliver little or no real education, and disappear before students can access support or refunds.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Exam and Certification Bribery Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/exam-certification-bribery-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as exam invigilators, test administrators, or insiders offering to guarantee pass results for an upfront payment — and take the money without delivering anything.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "International Student Tuition Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/international-student-tuition-deposit-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate universities or education agents to intercept large international tuition deposits from overseas students, leaving them without a university place or their money.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Free In-Game Currency Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/free-in-game-currency-scams", "summary": "Fake generators and surveys promising free premium currency that steal credentials or install malware.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Game Account Takeover Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/game-account-takeover-scams", "summary": "Scammers steal gaming accounts via phishing, fake login pages, or social engineering to sell them or drain their value.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Game Marketplace Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/fake-game-marketplace-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent websites pretending to sell in-game items, accounts, or currency that never arrive.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Game Key Reseller Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/fake-game-key-reseller-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent or grey-market game key sellers delivering invalid, region-locked, or already-used activation keys.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Twitch & Discord Giveaway Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/twitch-discord-giveaway-scams", "summary": "Fake giveaways on streaming platforms and community servers that steal credentials or harvest personal data.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "In-Game Item Trading Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/in-game-item-trading-scams", "summary": "Deceptive trades within or around games that trick players into exchanging valuable items for nothing or far less than agreed.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Beta Access Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/fake-beta-access-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent offers of early or exclusive game access used to steal payment details or account credentials.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Child Gaming Purchase Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/child-gaming-purchase-scams", "summary": "Scams and manipulative practices targeting children into making real-money purchases in or around games without parental awareness.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "In-Game Skins and Currency Seller Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/in-game-skins-currency-scam", "summary": "Fake peer-to-peer sellers and informal storefronts that take payment for skins, currency, or items and deliver nothing — or deliver items that are quickly reversed.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Account Recovery and Boosting Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/account-recovery-boosting-scam", "summary": "Services that promise to recover a locked account or improve a player's rank by accessing their credentials — then steal the account or extort payment.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Free Robux and V-Bucks Generator Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/free-robux-vbucks-generator-scam", "summary": "Websites and social media posts claiming to generate free Robux, V-Bucks, or similar platform currencies that steal credentials, install malware, or run survey fraud.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Grey-Market Game Key Chargeback Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/grey-market-game-key-chargeback-scam", "summary": "Third-party key resellers sell game activation keys purchased with stolen payment cards, causing the key to be revoked by the publisher when the original fraud is discovered — leaving buyers without their game.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Game Mod Loader Malware Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/fake-game-mod-loader-malware-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent mod loaders, cheat engines, or game enhancement tools distributed through unofficial channels that install malware alongside or instead of any claimed functionality.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Esports Betting and Tournament Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/fake-esports-betting-tournament-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent esports betting platforms and fake tournament organisers that collect entry fees or deposits and never pay winnings or run genuine competitions.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "In-Game Marketplace Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/in-game-marketplace-fee-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as buyers or brokers in in-game item marketplaces charge fees, taxes, or escrow deposits before an item transfer and then disappear with the payment.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Game Beta Invitation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/fake-game-beta-invitation-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake invitations to exclusive game beta tests, collecting credentials or payment in exchange for access that does not exist.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Synthetic Identity Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/synthetic-identity-fraud", "summary": "Fraudsters combine real and fabricated personal data to create a new 'synthetic' identity, then build credit before vanishing with borrowed funds. Victims often do not realise until a debt collector calls years later.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Account Opening Fraud (New Accounts in Your Name)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/account-opening-fraud", "summary": "Criminals use stolen personal data to open bank accounts, credit cards, loans, or utility services in your name — spending freely before the debt lands on your credit file. You may have no idea until a lender or debt collector contacts you.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "New Account Takeover", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/new-account-takeover", "summary": "Fraudsters create a brand-new online account on a platform you use — exploiting weak identity verification — and then claim ownership of your profile, rewards, or payment methods. Unlike standard account takeover, no password reset is needed because the account never existed before the fraud.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Child Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/child-identity-theft", "summary": "A child's Social Security Number or national identifier is used to open credit accounts, take out loans, or commit tax fraud — sometimes going undetected for years until the child applies for a student loan or their first credit card as an adult.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Elder Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/elder-identity-theft", "summary": "Older adults are disproportionately targeted for identity theft due to stronger credit histories, consistent income streams, and the assumption that they check financial accounts less frequently. Fraudsters open credit lines, redirect benefits, and drain retirement accounts.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Medical Identity Theft (Data-Focused)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/medical-identity-theft-data", "summary": "Criminals use your health insurance details, Medicare number, or NHS number to fraudulently receive medical care, prescription drugs, or insurance payouts — leaving you with corrupted medical records that can endanger your health.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Tax Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/tax-identity-theft", "summary": "A fraudster files a tax return using your Social Security Number or national identifier before you do, claiming your refund. You only discover the fraud when your legitimate return is rejected as a duplicate — and reclaiming the refund can take months.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Change-of-Address Redirect Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/change-of-address-redirect-fraud", "summary": "A fraudster submits a change-of-address request in your name to your postal service, redirecting your mail — including bank statements, replacement cards, and government correspondence — to an address they control.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Data Broker Exposure Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/data-broker-exposure-scams", "summary": "Scammers pose as data-removal services or privacy companies, claiming they have found your personal data on broker sites and offering to remove it — for a fee. In reality, your data may not be removed, and the scammer collects payment and further personal information.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Credential Stuffing Account Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/credential-stuffing-account-fraud", "summary": "Criminals take username and password pairs leaked in data breaches and automatically try them across hundreds of websites, exploiting the widespread habit of password reuse to gain access to bank accounts, e-commerce wallets, and loyalty programmes.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Mail Rerouting Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/mail-rerouting-identity-theft", "summary": "Fraudsters intercept or redirect physical mail containing sensitive identity documents — bank cards, NIN letters, passports, or HMRC correspondence — to gather everything needed to impersonate you and open accounts in your name.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Deceased Identity Theft (Ghosting)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/deceased-identity-theft", "summary": "Fraudsters use the identity of a recently deceased person to open credit accounts, file tax returns, or claim benefits before the death is formally recorded in financial and government databases — a practice known as 'ghosting'.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Employment Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/employment-identity-theft", "summary": "A fraudster uses your name and national identifier to obtain employment, earning income under your identity — leaving you with unexpected tax liabilities, social security discrepancies, and potential criminal record entries you did not generate.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Courier Fraud — Bank Card Collection", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/courier-fraud-bank-card-collection", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate police or bank fraud teams by phone, claim your card is compromised, and send a fake courier to your door to collect your card and PIN.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Mail Theft Identity Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/mail-theft-identity", "summary": "Criminals steal physical mail from letterboxes or communal areas to harvest personal data — account statements, cards, and official letters — and commit identity fraud.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Check Washing Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/check-washing-fraud", "summary": "Criminals intercept mailed checks, chemically erase the ink, and rewrite the payee name and amount before cashing or depositing them fraudulently.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Check Interception and Diversion Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/check-interception-diversion", "summary": "Fraudsters intercept checks in transit — often by compromising postal workers, mail facilities, or using fraudulent mail-forwarding requests — and divert them for cashing.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Parcel Locker Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/parcel-locker-phishing", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake notifications claiming a parcel is waiting in a locker, directing victims to fake websites that harvest credentials or payment card details.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Redelivery Card Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/fake-redelivery-card-scams", "summary": "Criminals place counterfeit 'we missed you' delivery cards through letterboxes, directing victims to phishing sites or premium-rate phone lines to 'rebook' a delivery.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Package Redirection Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/package-redirection-fraud", "summary": "Fraudsters redirect parcels in transit to a different address — by hacking delivery accounts, contacting courier support, or intercepting tracking notifications — to steal goods.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Mail Forwarding Abuse Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/mail-forwarding-abuse-scams", "summary": "Criminals file fraudulent mail-forwarding requests in a victim's name, redirecting all their post to an address the fraudster controls to harvest identity documents and financial mail.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Counterfeit Postage Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/counterfeit-postage-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters sell fake postage stamps or postage labels online at discounted prices; items sent with counterfeit postage are returned to senders or attract surcharge fees.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake PO Box Rental Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/fake-po-box-rental-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters advertise non-existent PO boxes or mail-handling addresses, collect rental fees, and never provide any postal service — leaving victims without mail access.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Stolen Package (Porch Piracy) Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/stolen-package-porch-scams", "summary": "Opportunistic thieves monitor delivery drivers and steal unattended parcels from doorsteps, porches, and communal entrance areas shortly after delivery.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Courier Job Reshipping Scams (Parcel Mules)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/fake-courier-job-reshipping", "summary": "Criminals recruit victims as 'package managers' or home-based couriers, using them to receive, repackage, and reship fraudulently purchased goods to conceal the crime trail.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Visa & Green Card Services", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-visa-green-card-services", "summary": "Fraudulent companies and individuals who charge fees to prepare visa or green card applications but provide worthless or non-existent services.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Deportation Threat Extortion", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/deportation-threat-extortion", "summary": "Criminals who threaten to report someone to immigration authorities unless a payment is made, exploiting fear of deportation as leverage.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Notario & Immigration Consultant Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/notario-immigration-consultant-fraud", "summary": "Unqualified 'notarios' and immigration consultants who charge for legal advice they are not permitted to give, often harming clients' cases.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Immigration Lawyer Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-immigration-lawyer-scams", "summary": "Individuals posing as qualified immigration attorneys who take fees, provide incompetent or fraudulent services, and disappear before clients realise the harm done.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Visa Lottery Fee Scams (DV Lottery)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/visa-lottery-fee-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent notifications claiming you have won the Diversity Visa lottery that demand fees before a visa is issued — or fake application services that charge to submit the free official form.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Citizenship Test Services", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-citizenship-test-services", "summary": "Services that charge for citizenship test preparation claiming to be official or to improve pass rates through back channels, but provide nothing beyond free public materials.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Work Permit Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-work-permit-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers, agencies, or services that charge for work permits or visas that are never obtained, or that are forgeries.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Legal Settlement Payout Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-legal-settlement-payout-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters who contact individuals claiming they are owed money from a legal settlement, then charge upfront fees to release the non-existent payout.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Class Action Claim Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-class-action-claim-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent websites or operators who collect a fee to file a class action claim on your behalf, when no genuine class action exists or no service is provided.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Debt Lawsuit Threat Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-debt-lawsuit-threat-scams", "summary": "Callers posing as lawyers or debt collectors who threaten immediate lawsuits or arrest over fabricated or unverifiable debts unless payment is made at once.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Notarization & Apostille Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-notarization-apostille-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent services that charge for notarization or apostille certification but produce invalid or forged documents that fail when submitted to official authorities.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Asylum Application Fee Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-asylum-application-fee-scams", "summary": "Operators who charge fees to file asylum applications, promising to expedite or guarantee the outcome of a process that is free when filed directly.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Negative-Option Billing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/negative-option-billing-scams", "summary": "Sellers enrol you in paid subscriptions automatically unless you actively opt out, often burying the negative-option clause in fine print so most people never notice the charge.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Free-Trial Credit Card Trap Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/free-trial-credit-card-trap-scams", "summary": "Sellers offer a 'free' trial that requires your card details, then charge a full subscription fee if you do not cancel within a short window — which is deliberately hard to find.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Hard-to-Cancel Subscription Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/hard-to-cancel-subscription-scams", "summary": "Sellers make cancellation deliberately difficult — burying the option, requiring calls during limited hours, or ignoring requests — to keep billing active as long as possible.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Telecom Cramming Billing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/telecom-cramming-billing-scams", "summary": "Unauthorised third-party charges are added to your phone bill — often for services you never ordered — exploiting the billing relationship between you and your carrier.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Grey Charge Recurring Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/grey-charge-recurring-scams", "summary": "Recurring charges that were technically authorised but never consciously intended — from forgotten trials, confusing sign-ups, or buried renewal terms — drain accounts over months or years.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Subscription Renewal Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/fake-subscription-renewal-phishing", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake renewal notices for popular services — streaming platforms, antivirus software, cloud storage — to trick you into handing over card details or making payments.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Auto-Renewal Surprise Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/auto-renewal-surprise-scams", "summary": "Services charge a large annual renewal without adequate warning, catching subscribers unaware and making it difficult to obtain a refund for an unwanted renewal.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Mobile Premium SMS Subscription Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/mobile-premium-sms-subscription-scams", "summary": "Clicking a link, entering a phone number, or replying to a message subscribes your mobile number to a premium-rate SMS service that charges per message or per week directly to your phone bill.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "App Store Subscription Trap Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/app-store-subscription-trap-scams", "summary": "Deceptive apps on official app stores charge disproportionately high subscription fees after short free trials, relying on users not noticing the cost before the trial ends.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Antivirus Auto-Renewal Overcharge Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/antivirus-auto-renewal-overcharge-scams", "summary": "Security software companies or scammers impersonating them charge far above market rate at renewal, use alarming pop-ups to prevent cancellation, or bill for licences on devices you no longer use.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Unsubscribe Link Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/fake-unsubscribe-link-scams", "summary": "Clicking an 'unsubscribe' link in a spam or scam email confirms your address is active, leading to more spam, credential phishing, or malware download rather than stopping messages.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Membership Club Billing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/membership-club-billing-scams", "summary": "Fake or deceptive membership clubs charge ongoing fees for benefits that are non-existent, minimal, or freely available, often enrolling members without clear consent.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Puppy Deposit Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/puppy-deposit-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent sellers take a non-refundable deposit for a puppy that does not exist, then disappear or invent reasons to demand more money before the animal is never delivered.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Pet Breeder Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/fake-pet-breeder-scams", "summary": "Scammers pose as professional breeders with polished websites and fake credentials, collecting full or partial payment for pets that do not exist.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Pet Shipping Fee Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/fake-pet-shipping-fee-scams", "summary": "Scammers advertise pets at low or no cost then demand escalating fees for crates, veterinary certificates, insurance, and customs clearance, collecting payment at each stage before disappearing.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Lost Pet Reward Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/lost-pet-reward-scams", "summary": "Scammers contact owners of genuinely missing pets, claim to have found the animal, and demand a reward or 'recovery fee' before a pet that was never in their possession is handed over.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Pet Adoption Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/fake-pet-adoption-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate animal rescue organisations or private rehomers, collecting adoption fees and transport costs for pets that do not exist or are never delivered.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Exotic Pet Sale Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/exotic-pet-sale-scams", "summary": "Sellers advertise rare or exotic animals — parrots, reptiles, big cats, primates — that do not exist, collecting deposits and escalating fees before disappearing.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Stud Service Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/fake-stud-service-scams", "summary": "Fraudsters advertise pedigree stud dogs or cats with fabricated credentials, collecting stud fees or deposits for services never rendered.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Pet Insurance Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/pet-insurance-scams-pet", "summary": "Fraudulent insurers collect premiums for pet health policies that provide no coverage, leaving owners with worthless documentation and large veterinary bills.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Veterinary Crowdfunding Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/fake-veterinary-crowdfunding-scams", "summary": "Individuals create false crowdfunding campaigns claiming a pet needs urgent, expensive veterinary treatment, collecting donations that are used for personal gain rather than any animal's care.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Emotional Support Animal Registration Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/fake-emotional-support-animal-registration-scams", "summary": "Websites sell worthless ESA registration certificates, ID cards, and vests that have no legal standing, misleading buyers into believing their pet has official status.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Pet Microchip Registry Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/fake-pet-microchip-registry-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent websites charge fees to 'register' a pet's microchip on unofficial databases that are not checked by vets or shelters, providing false security to pet owners.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "low", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Recruitment-Only Pyramid Schemes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/recruitment-only-pyramid-schemes", "summary": "Schemes where participants earn money solely by recruiting new members, with no real product or service — mathematically guaranteed to collapse, leaving the vast majority of participants at a loss.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Product-Based Pyramid MLM Schemes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/product-based-pyramid-mlm", "summary": "Multi-level marketing structures where products exist but income depends overwhelmingly on recruitment, not retail sales — leaving most participants with unsellable stock and net losses.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gifting Circle & Cash Gifting Schemes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/gifting-circle-cash-gifting-schemes", "summary": "Schemes framed as community gifting or mutual aid where participants pay cash to those above them in a chain, with the promise of receiving larger payouts when they recruit enough new members — a pyramid structure dressed as generosity.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Crypto MLM & Matrix Schemes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/crypto-mlm-matrix-schemes", "summary": "Schemes combining cryptocurrency with multi-level or matrix recruitment structures, where participants buy in with crypto and are paid only when they recruit others — obscuring money flows and complicating recovery.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Forex MLM Recruitment Schemes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/forex-mlm-recruitment-schemes", "summary": "Schemes presenting foreign exchange trading as a wealth-building opportunity while deriving income primarily from recruiting new members rather than from actual profitable trading.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Online Course Guru Schemes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/fake-online-course-guru-schemes", "summary": "High-priced online courses and mentorship programmes sold through lifestyle marketing that promise life-changing income skills but deliver recycled, low-value content — often with a secondary recruitment income layer.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Travel Club MLM Schemes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/travel-club-mlm-schemes", "summary": "Schemes selling expensive travel club memberships with the promise of discounted holidays and a multi-level income from recruiting new members — where the travel discounts rarely justify the cost and income depends on perpetual recruitment.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Inventory Loading MLM Traps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/inventory-loading-mlm-traps", "summary": "MLM structures that pressure distributors to purchase large quantities of product to qualify for commissions or advance rank — resulting in garages full of unsellable stock and financial losses disguised as business investment.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Social Media Hustle Recruitment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/social-media-hustle-recruitment-scams", "summary": "Schemes operating through social media lifestyle content that recruit followers into paid programmes, teams, or communities where the real income model is perpetual recruitment, not the advertised income skill.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Passive Income System Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/fake-passive-income-system-scams", "summary": "Schemes selling 'done-for-you' or automated passive income systems that promise money earned while you sleep — the systems rarely work as advertised and often include a recruitment income layer.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Chain Letter & Money Chain Schemes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/chain-letter-money-schemes", "summary": "Schemes where participants send money to names on a list, add their own name, and forward the message with the promise of receiving money from future participants — mathematically unsustainable and illegal in most jurisdictions.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Affiliate Network Pyramid Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/fake-affiliate-network-pyramid-scams", "summary": "Schemes structured as affiliate marketing networks where meaningful income requires recruiting new affiliates rather than generating genuine product sales — a pyramid disguised with marketing terminology.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Verification Badge Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/verification-badge-phishing-scams", "summary": "Fake 'apply for your blue tick' messages that harvest account credentials or charge fees for a badge that never arrives.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Copyright Strike & Takedown Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/copyright-strike-takedown-phishing", "summary": "Fake copyright or community-standards notices that panic creators into handing over account credentials or paying to 'resolve' the strike.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Hacked Friend Impersonation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/hacked-friend-impersonation-scams", "summary": "Messages that appear to come from a trusted contact whose account has been compromised, used to request money, gift cards, or personal information.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Account Recovery Help Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/account-recovery-help-scams", "summary": "Fake 'recovery specialists' who charge fees or steal credentials while pretending to help restore a locked or hacked account.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Content Monetisation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/fake-content-monetization-scams", "summary": "Fraudulent offers to enrol creators in monetisation programmes, ad revenue sharing, or brand fund access — all requiring upfront fees or credential submission.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Influencer Brand Collaboration Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/influencer-brand-collab-phishing", "summary": "Counterfeit brand partnership offers that harvest credentials, extract fees, or obtain personal data under the guise of a paid sponsorship deal.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Follower & Engagement Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/fake-follower-engagement-scams", "summary": "Services selling artificial followers, likes, or comments that deliver bot accounts, steal credentials, or enable ongoing billing fraud.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Social Login & OAuth Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/social-login-oauth-phishing", "summary": "Fake 'Sign in with [Platform]' buttons and malicious OAuth app authorisations that harvest tokens granting persistent access to your account.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Profile Cloning & Impersonation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/profile-cloning-impersonation-scams", "summary": "Duplicate profiles built using your public photos and name to scam your contacts or tarnish your reputation.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Suspended Account Appeal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/fake-suspended-account-appeal-scams", "summary": "Notices claiming your account has been suspended, directing you to external appeal pages that steal credentials or charge fees.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Giveaway DM Takeover Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/giveaway-dm-takeover-scams", "summary": "Fake prize notifications sent by DM that lead to credential-phishing pages or trick winners into authorising malicious apps.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Session Cookie Theft Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/session-cookie-theft-scams", "summary": "Malware and malicious browser extensions that steal active session cookies, bypassing passwords and two-factor authentication entirely.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Two-Factor Reset & Social Takeover Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/two-factor-reset-social-takeover-scams", "summary": "Multi-step attacks that manipulate victims into disabling or handing over their two-factor authentication to complete an account takeover.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Driveway Paving & Sealcoating Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/driveway-paving-sealcoating-scam", "summary": "Traveling contractors offer cheap driveway paving or sealcoating using leftover materials, collect a large deposit or full payment, then deliver shoddy work or vanish entirely.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Storm Chaser Roofing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/storm-chaser-roofing-scam", "summary": "After a hailstorm or severe weather event, traveling roofing crews descend on affected neighborhoods offering quick repairs, inflating insurance claims or pocketing large deposits before disappearing.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Locksmith Overcharge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/fake-locksmith-overcharge-scam", "summary": "A locksmith advertises a low service call fee online, then drills out the lock unnecessarily and charges many times the advertised price once the homeowner is locked out and vulnerable.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Handyman Disappearing Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/handyman-disappearing-deposit-scam", "summary": "A handyman or general contractor takes a large upfront deposit for home repair or renovation work, then fails to appear, does minimal work, or disappears entirely with the funds.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gutter Cleaning Doorstep Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/gutter-cleaning-doorstep-scam", "summary": "Door-to-door solicitors offer cheap gutter cleaning, collect a cash payment, spend minutes on the roof doing little or no work, and leave before the homeowner can verify the result.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Pressure Washing Doorstep Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/pressure-washing-doorstep-scam", "summary": "Workers offer on-the-spot pressure washing at a low price, collect payment upfront, and use insufficient equipment or technique that leaves surfaces dirty or causes damage.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Pest Control Scare Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/pest-control-scare-scam", "summary": "A door-to-door pest control salesperson fabricates or exaggerates an infestation, uses alarming language to pressure the homeowner into an expensive contract, and delivers minimal or useless treatment.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "HVAC Scare & Overcharge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/hvac-scare-overcharge-scam", "summary": "A technician performing a low-cost or free inspection fabricates or exaggerates HVAC faults, presents alarming safety claims, and pressures the homeowner into expensive repairs or replacement that are not needed.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Chimney & Duct Cleaning Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/chimney-duct-cleaning-scam", "summary": "Door-to-door or coupon-based chimney and air duct cleaners charge a low initial fee, then cite false safety violations or excessive buildup to demand hundreds more, performing little or no actual cleaning.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Arborist Tree Service Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/fake-arborist-tree-service-scam", "summary": "Workers posing as tree care professionals solicit urgent tree removal or trimming, collect large upfront payments, and either do poor work, damage the property, or disappear without completing the job.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Water Treatment Doorstep Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/water-treatment-doorstep-scam", "summary": "Door-to-door sales agents conduct a dramatic water quality demonstration, exaggerate health risks, and pressure homeowners into expensive water filtration systems they do not need.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Home Security Alarm Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/fake-home-security-alarm-scam", "summary": "Aggressive door-to-door sales agents misrepresent home security products, forge credit checks, use deceptive contract terms, and lock homeowners into multi-year agreements for overpriced or non-functional systems.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Energy Audit Upsell Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/fake-energy-audit-upsell-scam", "summary": "Salespeople posing as energy auditors offer free home energy assessments, fabricate findings about insulation or window efficiency, and pressure homeowners into expensive upgrades that may qualify for nonexistent rebates.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Garage Door Repair Overcharge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/garage-door-repair-overcharge-scam", "summary": "Garage door technicians advertising low service call fees diagnose minor or non-existent problems as requiring expensive part replacements, completing shoddy work or replacing functional components unnecessarily.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Mold & Asbestos Remediation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/fake-mold-asbestos-remediation-scam", "summary": "Contractors fabricate or greatly exaggerate mold or asbestos findings to sell expensive remediation services that are unnecessary, inadequate, or both.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Meter Upgrade Doorstep Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/fake-meter-upgrade-doorstep-scam", "summary": "Imposters claiming to be from the utility company arrive to inspect or upgrade a meter, gain access to the home, and commit theft, identity fraud, or charge for false electrical work.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Webcam Blackmail / Sextortion Email Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/webcam-blackmail-sextortion-email-scam", "summary": "Mass-spam emails falsely claim the sender hacked your webcam and recorded you watching adult content, then demand payment to suppress the footage. The footage does not exist.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Intimate Image Blackmail Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/intimate-image-blackmail-scam", "summary": "Someone who holds real intimate images of a victim — obtained through a relationship, deception, or hacking — threatens to share them publicly unless demands for money, more images, or continued contact are met.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Ransom DDoS Extortion Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/ransom-ddos-extortion-scam", "summary": "Criminals send threatening emails claiming they will flood a business's servers with junk traffic (a DDoS attack) and take them offline unless a ransom is paid, usually in cryptocurrency.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Doxxing Extortion Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/doxxing-extortion-scam", "summary": "A scammer threatens to publish a victim's private personal information — home address, workplace, phone number, family details — unless a ransom is paid or demands are met.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Review Removal Extortion Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/fake-review-removal-extortion-scam", "summary": "Criminals post false negative reviews on a business listing and then offer to remove them for a fee, or threaten to flood the listing with further fake reviews unless money is paid.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Hitman Email Extortion Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/hitman-email-extortion-scam", "summary": "A scammer sends an email claiming to be a hired assassin contracted to kill the recipient, but offers to call off the hit in exchange for payment. The entire scenario is a fabrication.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Bomb Threat Extortion Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/bomb-threat-extortion-scam", "summary": "Mass-distributed emails or messages claim a bomb has been planted in the recipient's building and will be detonated unless a payment is made within hours. These are fabricated threats with no explosive device.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Data Breach Ransom Extortion Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/data-breach-ransom-extortion-scam", "summary": "Criminals claim to have stolen an organisation's or individual's sensitive data and threaten to publish it unless a ransom is paid. The threat may be genuine or fabricated.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Copyright Takedown Extortion Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/fake-copyright-takedown-extortion-scam", "summary": "Scammers send false copyright infringement notices threatening to have a website, social media account, or content removed unless a licensing fee or settlement is paid, often to a fraudulent entity.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Deepfake Nude Extortion Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/deepfake-nude-extortion-scam", "summary": "Scammers generate AI-fabricated intimate images using the victim's real photographs and threaten to distribute them unless money is paid, despite the images being entirely artificial.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Recorded Call Debt Extortion Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/recorded-call-debt-extortion-scam", "summary": "Callers claim to have a recording of the victim agreeing to a debt or contract, and threaten legal action, arrest, or exposure unless immediate payment is made, often for a debt the victim does not owe.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Social Media Account Ransom Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/social-media-account-ransom-scam", "summary": "A scammer who gains access to — or convincingly claims to have access to — a social media account demands payment to return it or threatens to lock out, delete, or expose its contents.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gift Card Blackmail Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/gift-card-blackmail-scam", "summary": "Scammers delivering any type of blackmail or extortion threat specifically demand payment in gift cards, directing victims to buy cards and read the codes over the phone or via message.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Law Enforcement Leak Threat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/fake-law-enforcement-leak-threat-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate police, federal agents, or government officials and claim they possess evidence of illegal activity by the victim, threatening to arrest or publicly expose them unless a bribe or settlement is paid.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Grandparent Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/grandparent-scam", "summary": "A caller pretends to be a grandchild or other close relative in serious trouble, begging for urgent cash before the family finds out. The urgency and shame angle stop victims from pausing to verify.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Family Emergency Money Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/family-emergency-money-scam", "summary": "A fraudster contacts a victim claiming a family member is in immediate danger or financial crisis and needs urgent funds transferred right away. Unlike the grandparent scam, this variant targets people of all ages.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Boss Gift Card Request Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-boss-gift-card-request-scam", "summary": "An employee receives an urgent message appearing to come from their manager or company executive asking them to purchase gift cards on the company's behalf and share the codes. The request is fraudulent.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake CEO Text Employee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-ceo-text-employee-scam", "summary": "An employee receives a text message appearing to be from the company CEO asking for a confidential wire transfer or sensitive action. The message is fraudulent and exploits corporate authority.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Bank Fraud Department Call Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-bank-fraud-department-call-scam", "summary": "A caller claiming to be from your bank's fraud department says your account has been compromised and you must take urgent action — usually moving money to a 'safe account' or providing security credentials. Both requests are fraudulent.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Bail Money Relative Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/bail-money-relative-scam", "summary": "A caller claims a family member has been arrested and needs bail money sent urgently before they can be released. The arrest is entirely fabricated.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Accident Emergency Relative Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/accident-emergency-relative-scam", "summary": "A caller claims a family member has been seriously injured in an accident and that the victim must send money immediately to cover medical treatment or transport. The accident is invented.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Virtual Kidnapping Ransom Hoax Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/virtual-kidnapping-ransom-hoax-scam", "summary": "A caller claims to have kidnapped a family member and demands an immediate ransom, but no one has actually been taken. The scam relies entirely on fear and the brief window before the victim can verify their relative is safe.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Lawyer Relative Arrest Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-lawyer-relative-arrest-scam", "summary": "A caller posing as a lawyer contacts a family member claiming to represent a relative who has been arrested, and requests an urgent fee for legal representation or bail assistance. No arrest has occurred.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Stranded Relative Abroad Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/stranded-relative-abroad-scam", "summary": "A message or call claims a family member travelling overseas has been robbed, lost their documents, or is otherwise stranded and needs emergency funds wired immediately. The situation is fabricated.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Embassy Emergency Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-embassy-emergency-scam", "summary": "A caller posing as a consular or embassy official contacts a family member claiming their relative is being detained abroad and requires urgent payment for fees or fines before they can be released.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Neighbor Spoofing Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/neighbor-spoofing-impersonation-scam", "summary": "A scammer calls using a phone number with the same area code or prefix as the victim's own number, making the call appear to come from a nearby or familiar source. The familiar number makes the victim more likely to answer and comply.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Friend New Number Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-friend-new-number-scam", "summary": "A message arrives claiming to be from a known contact who has a new phone number, quickly followed by a request for money or personal information. The sender is a scammer, not the friend.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Utility Emergency Caller Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-utility-emergency-caller-scam", "summary": "A caller claiming to be from a utility company says there is an urgent problem with the victim's account or service — an overdue bill, a technical fault, or an emergency situation — and demands immediate payment or personal details.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Affinity Fraud Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/affinity-fraud-scam", "summary": "Scammers infiltrate a close-knit community — religious, ethnic, professional, or social — and exploit the trust members share to sell fraudulent investments.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "High-Yield Investment Program (HYIP) Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/high-yield-investment-program-hyip-scam", "summary": "HYIPs promise extraordinary daily or weekly returns — often hundreds of percent per year — through vague 'trading' or 'arbitrage' strategies, but are structured as Ponzi schemes that always collapse.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Prime Bank Guarantee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/prime-bank-guarantee-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters claim access to secret 'prime bank' instruments — standby letters of credit, bank guarantees, or medium-term notes — supposedly traded by the world's top banks, promising huge risk-free profits.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Investment Seminar / Free Lunch Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/investment-seminar-free-lunch-scam", "summary": "Scammers invite people to a free meal or seminar, then use high-pressure sales tactics to push unsuitable or fraudulent financial products — often targeting retirees with pension savings.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Sports Betting Tipster Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/sports-betting-tipster-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters sell supposedly expert sports betting tips or access to insider information, collecting subscription fees while providing picks that perform no better than chance.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Matched Betting / Arbitrage Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/matched-betting-arbitrage-scam", "summary": "Scammers charge for matched betting software or arbitrage alerts that do not work as advertised, steal account credentials, or expose victims to money-laundering risks.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Get-Rich-Quick Course Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/get-rich-quick-course-scam", "summary": "Influencers and online marketers sell expensive courses, mentorship programmes, or masterclasses promising rapid wealth through trading, dropshipping, or passive income strategies, delivering little of practical value.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gold IRA / Precious Metals Rollover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/gold-ira-precious-metals-rollover-scam", "summary": "Promoters persuade retirement savers to roll over pension or IRA funds into precious metals accounts, charging excessive fees, marking up metal prices, and storing assets in ways that reduce or eliminate their value.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Promissory Note Fraud Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/promissory-note-fraud-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters sell fake or misrepresented short-term debt instruments — promissory notes — promising high fixed returns backed by corporate issuers that do not exist or cannot honour the obligation.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "KYC Update / Account Suspension Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/kyc-update-account-suspension-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate banks, exchanges, or financial platforms and claim the victim must immediately update their KYC details or face account suspension — leading to credential theft or direct fraud.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Predatory Loan App / Harassment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/predatory-loan-app-harassment-scam", "summary": "Unregulated mobile loan apps offer fast, small loans then use aggressive harassment, threats, and contact-list abuse to extract repayments many times the original principal.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Dividend Recovery / Advance Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/dividend-recovery-advance-fee-scam", "summary": "Scammers contact investors who have lost money in collapsed companies or unpaid dividends and claim they can recover the funds — for an advance fee that is itself the fraud.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Digital Arrest Video Call Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/digital-arrest-video-call-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate law-enforcement officers on a live video call, tell the victim they are under a fictitious 'digital arrest', and demand immediate payment to avoid prosecution.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake CBI / Federal Police Interrogation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-cbi-police-interrogation-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as senior investigators from elite law-enforcement agencies such as the CBI, FBI, or NCA and conduct fake 'interrogations' to coerce victims into paying bribes or providing personal data.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Social Security Number Suspension Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/social-security-number-suspension-scam", "summary": "Scammers pose as Social Security Administration officials and falsely claim the victim's Social Security Number has been suspended due to suspicious activity, demanding payment or personal information to reactivate it.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Traffic Camera Fine Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-traffic-camera-fine-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters send convincing fake traffic-fine notices claiming a speed camera or red-light camera captured the victim's vehicle, then direct victims to fraudulent payment portals that steal money and card details.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Medicare Card Activation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-medicare-card-activation-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Medicare or social-healthcare officials and tell beneficiaries their new card or updated plan requires immediate activation, using the process to steal Medicare numbers, personal details, and payment information.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Passport Seizure Threat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-passport-seizure-threat-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as immigration or customs officials and claim the victim's passport has been flagged for seizure due to criminal activity, threatening deportation or arrest unless an immediate payment is made.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Tax Refund OTP Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-tax-refund-otp-verification-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate tax-authority staff and tell victims they have an unclaimed tax refund ready to transfer, but first need the victim to share a one-time password to verify their bank account — which actually authorises a transfer out of that account.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Interpol Red Notice Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-interpol-red-notice-scam", "summary": "Criminals impersonate Interpol officers and claim the victim is the subject of a Red Notice — an international wanted alert — for serious crimes, demanding payment or information to have the notice withdrawn.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Pension Reverification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-pension-reverification-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate pension administrators or government retirement offices and tell recipients they must reverify their identity to continue receiving pension payments, using the process to steal personal and financial information.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Conscription / Military Call-Up Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/fake-conscription-military-call-up-scam", "summary": "Scammers send fraudulent military draft or conscription notices and demand payment of exemption fees, medical assessment fees, or replacement costs — exploiting fear of mandatory military service to extract money.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Car Wrap Vehicle Advertising Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/car-wrap-vehicle-advertising-scam", "summary": "Scammers pose as companies offering to pay drivers to wrap their cars with brand advertising, then send an overpayment cheque and ask the victim to forward money to a 'vehicle wrap installer.'", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Online Survey and Paid Panel Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/online-survey-paid-panel-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent survey and market-research panel sites promise significant pay-per-survey income but pocket sign-up fees, sell personal data, or keep earnings locked behind impossible cashout thresholds.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Get-Paid-to-Click App Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/get-paid-to-click-app-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent apps and websites promise earnings for clicking ads or completing simple digital tasks, but never pay out — they harvest personal data, generate ad revenue for the operator, or require fees that exceed any payout.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Freelance Client Overpayment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-freelance-client-overpayment-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent 'clients' hire freelancers, overpay via a cheque or payment transfer, then ask for a refund of the surplus — leaving the freelancer liable when the original payment reverses.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Content Writing Upfront Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/content-writing-upfront-fee-scam", "summary": "Fake content agencies or clients post writing jobs, then charge applicants a registration, training, or 'style guide' fee before any work begins — after which they disappear or provide no actual assignments.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Proofreading Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-proofreading-job-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent proofreading employers recruit applicants and charge them for a certification course or training material as a condition of employment — no actual proofreading work ever follows.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Product Tester Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-product-tester-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent 'product testing' schemes promise free products and payment to consumers but charge upfront fees, harvest personal data, or deliver counterfeit goods while collecting real payment details.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Transcription Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-transcription-job-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent transcription employers advertise easy home-based audio transcription work, then charge applicants for training or certification before providing any work — after which they disappear.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Social Media Evaluator Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-social-media-evaluator-job-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate legitimate search and social media quality evaluation programmes, charging fake application or certification fees or collecting identity documents without ever providing paid work.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Translation Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/fake-translation-job-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent translation agencies recruit linguists with attractive per-word rates, then charge upfront fees for software, certification, or testing before vanishing or providing no actual work.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-11" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Pet Food & Supplement Store Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/fake-pet-food-supplement-store-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent online stores advertise heavily discounted premium pet food, treats, or supplements, take payment, and either ship nothing, ship counterfeit or expired product, or disappear entirely.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Pet Cloning Service Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/pet-cloning-service-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent companies claim to offer genetic cloning of a deceased or dying pet, collecting substantial fees for sample preservation and 'laboratory stages' that never produce a cloned animal.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Lost Pet Recovery Service Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/fake-lost-pet-recovery-service-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent 'professional pet recovery' operators charge upfront fees for specialist tracking services, provide vague updates on fabricated leads, and conduct little or no genuine search effort.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Service Dog Training & Certification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/fake-service-dog-training-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent operators sell official-looking service dog certificates, ID cards, and vests with little or no genuine training, exploiting the lack of a universal legal certification requirement.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Horse & Livestock Sale Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/horse-livestock-sale-deposit-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent sellers advertise horses or other livestock at attractive prices, collect a deposit to 'hold' the animal ahead of viewing or vetting, then delay indefinitely or vanish before any sale completes.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Pet Rehoming & Transport Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/fake-pet-rehoming-transport-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent 'adopters' respond to free or low-cost pet rehoming ads, using invented transport arrangements or courier fees to take possession of a pet under false pretences, sometimes for resale or worse.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Pet Sitting & Boarding Prepayment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/pet-sitting-boarding-prepayment-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent or unreliable pet sitters and boarding providers collect full prepayment, often steered outside a platform's protected payment system, then fail to appear or provide the promised care.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Purebred Registration Papers Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/fake-purebred-registration-papers-scam", "summary": "Sellers provide counterfeit pedigree or breed-registration documents to make a mixed-breed or unregistered animal appear to be a verifiable purebred, inflating the price and misleading the buyer.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Rare Bird & Reptile Import Permit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/rare-bird-reptile-import-permit-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate customs brokers, wildlife authorities, or CITES processing agents to charge buyers fake import permit, quarantine, or clearance fees for an exotic animal supposedly held at the border.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Pet Rescue Charity Donation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/fake-pet-rescue-charity-donation-scam", "summary": "Unregistered pages and organisations solicit ongoing donations for animal shelters or disaster relief using distressing imagery, but provide no verifiable accounting or evidence funds reach any real animals.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Pet DNA & Health Test Kit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/pet-animal-scams/pet-dna-health-test-kit-scam", "summary": "Unaccredited or fraudulent companies sell pet DNA breed and health test kits that are never genuinely processed, delivering no results, generic fabricated reports, or demanding extra fees before disappearing.", "category": "pet-animal-scams", "riskLevel": "low", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Customs Duty / Parcel Release Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/fake-customs-duty-parcel-release-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent texts or emails claim a parcel is stuck in customs and demand a small 'release fee' by card, harvesting full payment details for later fraud.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Shipping Label Generator Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/fake-shipping-label-generator-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters offer heavily discounted or 'buyer-paid' shipping labels generated through fake or stolen-account platforms that later get voided, leaving sellers out of pocket or their parcels undelivered.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Undelivered Package Fee Smishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/undelivered-package-fee-smishing-scam", "summary": "Text messages falsely claim a courier attempted delivery and failed, demanding a small redelivery fee that is actually used to steal full card details.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Package Tracking Update Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/fake-package-tracking-update-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent tracking notification emails or texts mimic real courier updates and lead to fake 'address correction' or 'delivery exception' pages designed to steal payment details.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Freight Forwarding Invoice Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/freight-forwarding-invoice-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate a business's genuine freight forwarder, sending fake or altered invoices with changed bank details to redirect real shipping payments into criminal accounts.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Courier Insurance Claim Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/fake-courier-insurance-claim-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as a courier's insurance or claims department after a real or claimed lost/damaged shipment, harvesting bank details and ID or charging a fake processing fee for a payout that never arrives.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Certified Mail / Legal Notice Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/certified-mail-legal-notice-scam", "summary": "Fake certified mail or legal notices claim a pending court case, debt, or tax matter, pressuring recipients to pay an urgent 'settlement' by phone or online before the issue supposedly escalates.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Delivery Driver Tip Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/fake-delivery-driver-tip-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent texts claiming to be from a delivery driver ask recipients to send a small 'tip' through a payment link, which is actually used to capture payment details or account credentials.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Overpayment / Shipping Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/overpayment-shipping-refund-scam", "summary": "A buyer 'accidentally' overpays for an item and asks for the difference to be refunded before shipping, but the original payment is later reversed as fraudulent, leaving the seller out of pocket.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Mailbox Relocation / USPS Update Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mail-courier-scams/fake-mailbox-relocation-usps-scam", "summary": "Fake notices claim a local mailbox is being relocated or decommissioned and ask residents to pay a fee or confirm personal details to update delivery preferences, actually harvesting data or redirecting mail.", "category": "mail-courier-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake USCIS Case Status Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-uscis-case-status-fee-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate immigration authorities by phone, email, or text, claiming a pending application has a problem that requires an urgent 'processing fee,' 'reactivation fee,' or 'correction fee' paid outside official channels.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake ETA/eVisa Travel Authorization Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-eta-evisa-travel-authorization-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent websites mimic official electronic travel authorization or eVisa application portals, charging travelers inflated or entirely fake fees for a document that is either never delivered or freely available at low cost from the real government site.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Immigration Bond Payment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-immigration-bond-payment-scam", "summary": "Scammers contact families of detained immigrants claiming a bond payment must be sent immediately through an unofficial channel to secure release, exploiting the urgency and fear surrounding detention.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Job Sponsorship Visa Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-job-sponsorship-visa-scam", "summary": "Scammers pose as overseas employers or recruitment agencies offering a job with visa sponsorship, then charge upfront fees for processing, training, or documents before disappearing with no job ever materializing.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Marriage Green Card Broker Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-marriage-green-card-broker-scam", "summary": "Brokers offer to arrange a marriage to a citizen or resident for immigration purposes in exchange for a large fee, often disappearing with the money, leaving victims with no marriage, no status, and potential legal exposure.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Refugee Resettlement Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-refugee-resettlement-fee-scam", "summary": "Scammers target refugees and asylum seekers awaiting resettlement, claiming a fee is required to speed up processing, secure a resettlement slot, or release travel documents that legitimate resettlement programs never charge for.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Court Interpreter Certification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-court-interpreter-certification-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent training and certification programs charge aspiring court interpreters for credentials that are not recognized by any court system, leaving them unable to work in the role they paid to qualify for.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Power of Attorney Document Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-power-of-attorney-document-scam", "summary": "Scammers create or misuse a power of attorney document to gain control over someone's finances, property, or legal decisions, often targeting elderly or vulnerable individuals who are pressured or deceived into signing.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Inheritance Probate Lawyer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-inheritance-probate-lawyer-scam", "summary": "Scammers pose as attorneys or estate administrators contacting people about a supposed inheritance from a distant or unknown relative, requesting fees to release funds that do not actually exist.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake DNA Immigration Test Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-dna-immigration-test-scam", "summary": "Scammers offer DNA testing services claiming results will prove family relationships needed for an immigration or family reunification case, charging high fees for tests that are not accepted by the actual immigration authority or are never properly conducted.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Streaming Service Renewal Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/streaming-service-renewal-phishing-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent emails and texts impersonate popular streaming platforms, warning that a renewal payment has failed, to trick recipients into entering card details or login credentials on a fake billing page.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Subscription Refund Callback Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/fake-subscription-refund-callback-scam", "summary": "Scammers claim a subscription was overcharged and offer a refund, then use a remote-access session or a fake overpayment to trick the target into sending money back.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gym Membership Cancellation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/gym-membership-cancellation-scam", "summary": "Some gyms and fitness chains design cancellation processes to be so slow, restrictive, or unreliable that members continue paying for memberships they no longer use.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Meal Kit Box Subscription Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/meal-kit-box-subscription-trap-scam", "summary": "Meal-kit delivery services often default every future box to 'active and billing' unless the customer manually skips or pauses it before an early cutoff, leading to unwanted boxes and charges that are hard to reverse.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Loyalty Rewards Renewal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/fake-loyalty-rewards-renewal-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent texts and emails claim a loyalty or rewards programme is expiring and demand a small renewal fee, using the threat of losing accumulated points to harvest card details and set up recurring charges.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Subscription Bundle Hidden Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/subscription-bundle-hidden-fee-scam", "summary": "Bundled subscription deals advertise one simple price but often consist of multiple independent subscriptions with separate renewal dates, price increases, and cancellation processes that are not clearly disclosed at sign-up.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Cloud Storage Billing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/fake-cloud-storage-billing-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent emails and pop-ups impersonate cloud storage providers, warning that storage is full or a payment has failed, to trick users into entering card details on a fake upgrade or billing page.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Charity Recurring Donation Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/charity-recurring-donation-trap-scam", "summary": "Some fundraisers, both for genuine and fraudulent causes, sign donors up for open-ended monthly giving with the ongoing, indefinite nature and cancellation process left unclear or actively glossed over.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Domain Hosting Renewal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/fake-domain-hosting-renewal-scam", "summary": "Unofficial companies send invoice-style notices mimicking a domain registrar, warning that a domain or hosting plan is about to expire, to trick owners into paying inflated fees to the wrong company or handing over control of the domain.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Dating App Premium Auto-Renew Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/subscription-billing-scams/dating-app-premium-auto-renew-scam", "summary": "Dating apps often advertise a discounted introductory price for premium features while the subscription actually renews at a much higher rate, with cancellation only possible through a separate app-store menu that sign-up never mentions.", "category": "subscription-billing-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Health & Wellness Supplement MLM Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/health-wellness-supplement-mlm-scam", "summary": "Multi-level marketing operations selling vitamins, weight-loss products, or wellness supplements where most participants lose money on mandatory monthly stock purchases while unproven health claims are used to recruit both customers and sellers.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Essential Oils MLM Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/essential-oils-mlm-scam", "summary": "Direct-selling schemes built around essential oils that combine home-party recruitment tactics with exaggerated therapeutic claims, leaving most 'wellness advocates' with unsold stock and little income after mandatory monthly orders.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Beauty & Cosmetics MLM Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/beauty-cosmetics-mlm-scam", "summary": "Multi-level marketing schemes selling skincare, makeup, or beauty products through 'independent consultants' who are pushed toward recruitment and inventory purchases over genuine retail sales, resulting in losses for the majority of participants.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Real Estate Investment Club Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/fake-real-estate-investment-club-scam", "summary": "Paid membership clubs that promise access to exclusive property deals, mentorship, or 'no money down' investing systems, but generate most of their revenue from membership fees and member recruitment rather than genuine real estate transactions.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "NFT / Web3 Referral Pyramid Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/nft-web3-referral-pyramid-scam", "summary": "NFT or Web3 platforms that pay existing holders a referral commission for recruiting new buyers, creating a pyramid-like structure disguised as blockchain innovation, where early recruiters profit at the expense of later participants.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI Trading Bot Referral Scheme Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/ai-trading-bot-referral-scheme-scam", "summary": "Platforms claiming an AI-powered bot generates automatic, consistent trading profits, paired with a referral commission for recruiting new depositors — in reality funded by new deposits rather than real trading, collapsing when recruitment slows.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Stock Tip / Signal Group MLM Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/stock-tip-signal-group-mlm-scam", "summary": "Paid trading 'signal' or stock-tip groups that combine unverifiable performance claims with a referral commission for recruiting new subscribers, functioning more as a subscription-recruitment scheme than a genuine trading-education service.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Dropshipping Mentorship Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/fake-dropshipping-mentorship-scam", "summary": "Paid dropshipping courses and mentorship programs that showcase inflated revenue claims and pay a referral commission for recruiting new students, generating most of the mentor's real income from course sales rather than genuine e-commerce success.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Ticket Reselling MLM Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/ticket-reselling-mlm-scam", "summary": "Paid membership programs promising exclusive ticket pre-sale access and bulk-buying software for reselling profit, which pay a referral commission for recruiting new members and generate most revenue from membership fees rather than genuine ticket arbitrage.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Energy & Utility MLM Recruitment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/mlm-pyramid-scams/energy-utility-mlm-recruitment-scam", "summary": "Multi-level marketing schemes built around reselling household energy or utility contracts in deregulated markets, where independent 'consultants' earn most of their income from recruiting other consultants rather than genuine long-term customer retention.", "category": "mlm-pyramid-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Driver's License Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/driver-license-identity-theft-scam", "summary": "A stolen or cloned driver's license lets a criminal pass as you at check-cashing counters, car rental desks, and traffic stops, leaving you with someone else's tickets, warrants, and a corrupted driving record.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Passport Identity Cloning", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/passport-identity-cloning-scam", "summary": "Criminals copy or photograph a passport's biodata page and combine it with a forged or substituted photo to create a usable fake, enabling travel, account opening, or border crossings under the victim's identity.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "SIM-Based Identity Verification Bypass", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/sim-based-identity-verification-bypass-scam", "summary": "Criminals hijack your phone number through a fraudulent SIM swap or eSIM transfer, intercepting the SMS codes and calls your accounts rely on for identity verification, then use that access to break into email, banking, and crypto accounts.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Identity Monitoring Service", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/fake-identity-monitoring-service-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent 'identity theft protection' services trick people worried about a breach into handing over their most sensitive data — the exact information real monitoring is supposed to protect — while charging a recurring fee for nothing.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Loan Stacking Identity Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/loan-stacking-identity-fraud-scam", "summary": "Criminals use a stolen identity to apply to many lenders simultaneously before any single one reports the new debt, collecting multiple loan payouts before the fraud is detected and leaving the victim with a stack of unfamiliar debts.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Rental Application Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/rental-application-identity-theft-scam", "summary": "Scammers harvest the sensitive personal and financial data submitted on rental applications, either through fake listings or stolen genuine applications, then use it to rent property or pass tenant screening under someone else's name.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Benefits and Unemployment Identity Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/benefits-unemployment-identity-fraud-scam", "summary": "Criminals file fraudulent unemployment or government benefit claims using stolen identities, collecting payments on prepaid cards while the real identity owner — often still employed — is left to untangle tax forms and agency records showing benefits they never received.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Biometric Face and Voice Spoofing Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/biometric-face-voice-spoofing-fraud-scam", "summary": "AI-generated voice clones and face-swapped video are used to defeat voice and facial recognition authentication, impersonate victims to banks and contacts, and authorize fraudulent transactions that sound and look convincingly like the real person.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Background Check Service", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/fake-background-check-service-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent background check websites promise instant tenant, employee, or personal screening reports, but exist solely to harvest the Social Security numbers and payment details submitted by users and the people they are checking on.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Meta Business Suite Alert Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/fake-meta-business-suite-alert-scam", "summary": "Emails and in-app notices spoofing Meta Business Suite warn that a Page or ad account will be disabled unless the owner 'confirms' their identity on a phishing page that steals login credentials and ad-account access.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "LinkedIn Recruiter Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/linkedin-recruiter-phishing-scam", "summary": "Fake recruiters contact job seekers on LinkedIn with attractive roles, then move the conversation off-platform to harvest personal data, charge fake onboarding fees, or deliver malware disguised as job documents.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "TikTok Creator Fund Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/tiktok-creator-fund-phishing-scam", "summary": "Messages posing as TikTok's Creator Fund or Creativity Program invite creators to 'claim' earnings or bonus payouts, directing them to a phishing page that steals login credentials or payment information.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "YouTube Channel Strike Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/youtube-channel-strike-phishing-scam", "summary": "Emails impersonating YouTube warn that a channel received a copyright or community-guidelines strike and will be terminated unless the creator logs in through a fake link, handing over credentials that lead to full channel takeover.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Paid Verification Badge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/fake-paid-verification-badge-scam", "summary": "Scammers exploit the existence of genuine paid verification subscriptions by offering to sell badges through unofficial channels or fake discounted bundles, collecting payment or credentials without ever delivering real verification.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Reels/Shorts Monetization Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/reels-shorts-monetization-scam", "summary": "Fake 'monetization team' messages target short-form video creators with promises of instant Reels or Shorts bonus payouts, using look-alike dashboards or upfront 'activation fees' to steal credentials and money.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "DM Crypto Giveaway Hijack Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/dm-crypto-giveaway-hijack-scam", "summary": "Compromised or spoofed accounts direct message followers claiming a limited-time cryptocurrency giveaway that requires sending a small deposit first to 'unlock' a much larger return, which never arrives.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Brand Ambassador Application Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/fake-brand-ambassador-application-scam", "summary": "Unsolicited messages invite users to become a 'brand ambassador', requesting an upfront kit fee, personal identification, or bank details in exchange for free products and commission that never materialise.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Comment Tag Malware Link Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/social-media-account-scams/comment-tag-malware-link-scam", "summary": "Compromised accounts mass-tag friends in comments with a shocking or curiosity-driven link that installs malware or steals credentials, then uses the newly infected account to repeat the cycle against its own contacts.", "category": "social-media-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake FAFSA / Financial Aid Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-fafsa-financial-aid-fee-scam", "summary": "Scammers charge students and parents a fee to 'complete' or 'fast-track' the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), a form that is genuinely free to file directly with the government.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake University Acceptance / Enrollment Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-university-acceptance-deposit-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake or spoofed acceptance letters demanding an urgent enrollment deposit to secure a place, targeting students and parents excited about a college offer.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Textbook Rental / Marketplace Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-textbook-rental-marketplace-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent textbook rental sites and marketplace listings take payment for course materials that are never shipped, are counterfeit, or are never returned at the promised refund.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Tutoring / Subscription Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-tutoring-subscription-scam", "summary": "Online tutoring platforms and 'homework help' services lock students and parents into recurring subscriptions that are hard to cancel, deliver little or no real tutoring, or use unqualified tutors while billing premium rates.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Education Government Grant Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-education-government-grant-scam", "summary": "Scammers claim students or parents qualify for a government education grant and charge a processing or 'release' fee to access money that does not exist or was never available through the impersonated agency.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Student Housing Abroad Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-student-housing-abroad-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent landlords and fake letting agents advertise student rooms or apartments near foreign universities, taking a deposit or several months' rent before the student arrives to find the property does not exist or was never available.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Internship Placement Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-internship-placement-fee-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent agencies and 'placement companies' charge students an upfront fee to guarantee an internship with a well-known employer, delivering little or nothing in return.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Professional Certification Renewal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-professional-certification-renewal-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate certification or licensing bodies, warning that a professional credential is about to lapse and demanding an urgent renewal fee, often through a fake portal that also harvests personal data.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Housing Voucher Assistance Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/housing-voucher-assistance-scam", "summary": "Scammers posing as housing authority staff, caseworkers, or 'voucher assistance' services charge desperate voucher holders illegal fees to find, guarantee, or speed up approval for a rental unit.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Apartment Tour / Application Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/fake-apartment-tour-application-fee-scam", "summary": "Scammers charge prospective renters an upfront 'application' or 'tour scheduling' fee for a unit viewing that never happens, often using photos of a real property they do not control.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Vacation Rental Booking Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/vacation-rental-booking-scam", "summary": "Scammers advertise vacation rentals that do not exist or are not theirs to rent, collecting upfront payment through off-platform channels before travelers discover there is no real booking.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Mortgage Preapproval / Lender Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/fake-mortgage-preapproval-lender-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent lenders issue fake mortgage preapproval letters or collect sensitive financial information under the guise of preapproval, costing victims fees, lost offers, or identity theft.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Property Management Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/property-management-fee-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent or dishonest property manager charges owners for fabricated repairs, inflated maintenance costs, or phantom vacancies while withholding rent collected from real tenants.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Home Inspection / Appraisal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/fake-home-inspection-appraisal-scam", "summary": "An unlicensed or dishonest inspector or appraiser produces a fabricated or superficial report, hiding property defects or misstating value to help a sale close quickly at the buyer's expense.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Squatter Fake Lease Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/squatter-fake-lease-scam", "summary": "A squatter occupies a vacant property without authorization and uses a forged or fabricated lease agreement to claim tenancy rights, delaying legal removal for weeks or months.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Google Business Profile Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-google-business-verification-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Google support to demand payment, personal codes, or account access in order to 'verify' or 'protect' a business's Google Business Profile listing.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Merchant Payment Processor Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/merchant-payment-processor-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent or misleading payment processing companies lure businesses with unbeatable card-processing rates, then trap them with hidden fees, frozen funds, or outright fake equipment and accounts.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Business Loan / Grant Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-business-loan-grant-scam", "summary": "Scammers advertise guaranteed business loans or free government grants, then charge upfront 'processing fees' or steal banking information without ever delivering funding.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Directory Listing Subscription Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/directory-listing-subscription-scam", "summary": "Businesses are tricked into signing what looks like a free or one-time directory listing form that is actually a multi-year paid subscription with steep cancellation penalties.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Tax Registration / Compliance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-tax-registration-compliance-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate tax authorities or business registration bodies, demanding urgent payment or sensitive business data to 'complete' registration, licensing, or compliance filings that are either unnecessary or entirely fabricated.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Business Overpayment / Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/business-overpayment-refund-scam", "summary": "A scammer posing as a customer or client deliberately 'overpays' a business by cheque or transfer, then requests a refund of the difference before the original payment bounces or is reversed.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Game Gift Card Code Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/fake-game-gift-card-code-scam", "summary": "Sellers on marketplaces and social media offer discounted game store gift cards or redeem codes that are invalid, already redeemed, or region-locked, leaving the buyer with nothing after payment.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Steam Trade Link Hijack Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/steam-trade-link-hijack-scam", "summary": "Scammers trick players into sharing or approving a manipulated trade offer or trade URL, redirecting valuable in-game items or an entire inventory to an account they control.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Game Refund Support Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/fake-game-refund-support-scam", "summary": "Impostors posing as a game publisher's refund or billing support team contact players about a supposed accidental charge, then use the 'refund' process to extract payment or remote access instead.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gacha Top-Up Discount Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/gacha-top-up-discount-scam", "summary": "Third-party sellers offer discounted top-ups of premium currency for gacha and live-service games, collecting payment or account credentials without ever delivering the currency.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Game Tester Paid Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/fake-game-tester-paid-job-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent 'paid game tester' job offers ask applicants to pay for equipment, software, or registration fees, or to complete tasks that harvest personal and financial information, with no real job behind the offer.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Console Preorder Marketplace Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gaming-scams/console-preorder-marketplace-scam", "summary": "Sellers on marketplaces and social media take payment for preorders of highly anticipated consoles or limited hardware bundles that are never delivered, exploiting scarcity around launch periods.", "category": "gaming-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Appliance Repair Technician Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/fake-appliance-repair-technician-scam", "summary": "Unlicensed or fraudulent 'technicians' dispatched through search ads or flyer numbers diagnose fake or exaggerated problems, charge for parts never installed, and disappear once paid.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Solar Panel Installation Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/solar-panel-installation-deposit-scam", "summary": "High-pressure solar sales pitches convince homeowners to pay large deposits for installations that are delayed indefinitely or never happen, often through fly-by-night or unlicensed installers.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Leftover Asphalt/Paving Material Doorstep Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/leftover-asphalt-material-doorstep-scam", "summary": "Traveling paving crews claim to have leftover asphalt from a nearby job and pressure homeowners into an immediate cash deal for a driveway resurfacing that uses substandard material and fails quickly.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Bait-and-Switch Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/carpet-upholstery-cleaning-bait-scam", "summary": "Rock-bottom advertised carpet cleaning prices are used to get a technician into the home, who then upsells mandatory add-ons at the door, often followed by rushed or damaging work.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Window Replacement Grant Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/fake-window-replacement-grant-scam", "summary": "Sales reps posing as representatives of a government energy grant program lure homeowners into signing loan agreements or paying fees for window upgrades misrepresented as free or subsidized.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Plumbing Emergency Overcharge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/home-services-scams/fake-plumbing-emergency-overcharge-scam", "summary": "Emergency plumbing calls booked through search ads are met with inflated, invented diagnoses and pressure to pay large upfront sums for rushed or unnecessary work.", "category": "home-services-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Carrier Bill Overdue / Disconnect Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/fake-carrier-bill-overdue-disconnect-scam", "summary": "Scammers send urgent texts, emails, or calls claiming your mobile or broadband bill is overdue and your service will be cut off within hours unless you pay immediately through a link or over the phone.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Phone Unlocking Service Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/phone-unlocking-service-scam", "summary": "Third-party 'unlocking services' advertised online charge upfront fees to remove a carrier lock from a phone, then deliver nothing, an invalid code, or a service that bricks or blacklists the device.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Cell Tower Lease Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/fake-cell-tower-lease-scam", "summary": "Scammers posing as telecom or tower-company representatives approach landowners with offers to lease their property for a new cell tower, collecting upfront 'processing fees' or pressuring an early buyout of an existing lease for far less than it's worth.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Number Neighbor Spoofing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/number-neighbor-spoofing-scam", "summary": "Scammers spoof caller ID to display a phone number with the same area code and first few digits as the person being called, exploiting the assumption that a 'neighbor' number is a local, trustworthy caller.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Do Not Call Registry Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/fake-do-not-call-registry-scam", "summary": "Scammers call or message claiming to represent the official Do Not Call registry, saying a fee, personal details, or 'verification' is needed to keep or add a number on the list — a service that is actually free and requires no such payment.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Rigged Online Casino Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/rigged-online-casino-scam", "summary": "Unlicensed casino websites and apps that manipulate game outcomes, block or delay withdrawals, and vanish once players have deposited significant money.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Sports Betting Site Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/fake-sports-betting-site-scam", "summary": "Unlicensed sportsbook websites and apps that accept real-money bets on genuine sporting fixtures but never pay out winnings, often vanishing after a major tournament.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Betting Tipster Guaranteed Wins Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/betting-tipster-guaranteed-wins-scam", "summary": "Paid tipping services that promise guaranteed or near-guaranteed winning bets through a subscription fee, using cherry-picked results and vanishing accounts to hide a losing track record.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Matched Betting Course Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/matched-betting-course-scam", "summary": "Paid courses and software claiming to teach a 'risk-free' method of profiting from bookmaker bonuses, charging high upfront fees for outdated, ineffective, or misrepresented techniques.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fixed Match Tip Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/fixed-match-tip-scam", "summary": "Sellers claiming access to genuinely fixed sporting matches or 'insider' results, charging escalating fees for information that does not exist and offering victims no legal recourse.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Casino Bonus Clawback Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/casino-bonus-clawback-scam", "summary": "Online casinos that use deliberately vague or impossible bonus terms to confiscate deposits and winnings after the fact, citing 'bonus abuse' regardless of how the player actually played.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Crypto Casino Rug Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/crypto-casino-rug-scam", "summary": "Cryptocurrency-only casinos, often tied to their own native token, that suddenly shut down or empty their reserves once deposits reach a peak, leaving player balances worthless.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fantasy Sports Entry Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/fantasy-sports-entry-fee-scam", "summary": "Fake or unlicensed daily fantasy sports platforms that collect real-money entry fees for contests but never pay out advertised prizes.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Betting Arbitrage Software Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/betting-arbitrage-software-scam", "summary": "Paid software and subscriptions claiming to automatically find risk-free 'surebet' arbitrage opportunities across bookmakers, often nonfunctional or designed to drain accounts the scammer controls.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gambling Loss Recovery Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/gambling-loss-recovery-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent 'recovery agents' who target people who already lost money to a gambling or casino scam, charging an upfront fee to recover funds that is never returned.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Poker App Bot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/fake-poker-app-bot-scam", "summary": "Online poker apps and platforms where house-controlled bots, collusion rings, or entirely fabricated game engines ensure real-money players lose over time.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Bookmaker Account Verification Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/bookmaker-account-verification-phishing-scam", "summary": "Phishing messages impersonating a genuine, licensed bookmaker's account verification or KYC process to steal login credentials and identity documents.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Esports Skin Betting Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/esports-skin-betting-scam", "summary": "Unregulated third-party sites that let users bet virtual game skins on esports matches or games of chance, often with rigged odds and phishing schemes designed to steal skin inventories.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Horse Racing Tipster Syndicate Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/horse-racing-tipster-syndicate-scam", "summary": "Paid 'syndicate' services claiming insider connections to jockeys, trainers, or stable staff for guaranteed winning horse racing tips, charging subscription or profit-share fees for advice that performs no better than chance.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Casino Withdrawal Tax Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/casino-withdrawal-tax-fee-scam", "summary": "Casinos, real or entirely fabricated, that demand an upfront 'tax', 'customs', or 'processing' fee before releasing a player's winnings — a fee that, once paid, never results in payment.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Betting Affiliate Signup Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/fake-betting-affiliate-signup-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent betting 'affiliate' or 'agent' programs that promise commission for referring new bettors but require an upfront bond or deposit, and never pay out earned commission.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "In-Play Betting Bot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/in-play-betting-bot-scam", "summary": "Automated bots and software sold as capable of placing profitable live, in-play sports bets faster than a human, often nonfunctional and sometimes used to gain direct access to a victim's bookmaker account.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Responsible Gambling Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/responsible-gambling-refund-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonating gambling regulators, charities, or claims firms who offer 'compensation' or 'refunds' for problem gambling losses, requiring an upfront fee or sensitive personal and banking details.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Spread Betting Margin Call Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/spread-betting-margin-call-scam", "summary": "Unregulated or dishonest leveraged spread betting platforms that manufacture sudden margin calls, requote prices against the client, and block withdrawals unless further 'top-up' payments are made.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fixed Odds Terminal Rigging Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/gambling-betting-scams/fixed-odds-terminal-rigging-scam", "summary": "Unlicensed gaming venues and tampered in-shop betting terminals that manipulate machine outcomes or invoke fake 'malfunction' clauses to deny players large wins.", "category": "gambling-betting-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Inheritance Notification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/fake-inheritance-notification-scam", "summary": "An unsolicited email or letter claims the recipient is heir to a large, unclaimed estate from a distant or unknown relative, then demands fees to 'release' funds that do not exist.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Unclaimed Estate Heir Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/unclaimed-estate-heir-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate 'heir hunter' investigators claiming to have located an unclaimed estate belonging to the target's family, charging fees or taking a cut of a payout that never materializes.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Will Executor Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/fake-will-executor-fee-scam", "summary": "A scammer poses as the executor or estate lawyer for a deceased person's will and asks a supposed beneficiary to pay fees or taxes before an inheritance can be distributed.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Funeral Home Overcharge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/funeral-home-overcharge-scam", "summary": "Grieving families are pressured into overpriced funeral packages, hidden fees, or unnecessary add-ons at the moment they are least likely to compare prices or push back.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Prepaid Funeral Plan Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/prepaid-funeral-plan-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent or poorly regulated prepaid funeral plans take upfront payments for future funeral services that are never delivered, underfunded, or impossible to redeem when needed.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Obituary and Death Notice Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/obituary-death-notice-phishing-scam", "summary": "Scammers scan published obituaries and death notices to identify grieving families, then target them with tailored phishing calls, emails, or fake delivery and debt scams built around known details of the deceased.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Grief Medium and Psychic Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/grief-medium-psychic-scam", "summary": "Self-described psychics or mediums exploit bereaved people's desire to reconnect with a deceased loved one, using cold-reading techniques to justify escalating, often ongoing payments.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Deceased Debt Collection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/deceased-debt-collection-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters contact surviving family members claiming the deceased owed a debt that must be paid immediately, exploiting confusion about what obligations, if any, actually transfer after death.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Memorial Crowdfunding Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/memorial-crowdfunding-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters set up fake fundraising pages 'in memory of' a deceased person, sometimes using a real death from local news, to collect donations that never reach the family.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Tombstone and Headstone Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/tombstone-headstone-deposit-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent or fly-by-night memorial masonry sellers take a deposit for a custom headstone or grave marker, then deliver nothing, deliver a substandard product, or disappear entirely.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Repatriation and Body Transport Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/repatriation-body-transport-scam", "summary": "Families arranging to bring a loved one's remains home from abroad are charged inflated or entirely fabricated fees by intermediaries exploiting the complexity and urgency of international repatriation.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Estate Account Unlock Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/estate-account-unlock-fee-scam", "summary": "Scammers claim a deceased person's bank or investment account is 'frozen' or 'locked' and demand a fee from the family to release funds — a step no genuine bank ever requires.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "'In Memory Of' Charity Donation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/in-memory-charity-donation-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters solicit 'in lieu of flowers' donations to a named charity following a death, but the charity is fake, unrelated to the family's wishes, or the donation link is fraudulent.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Next-of-Kin Banking Inheritance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/next-of-kin-banking-inheritance-scam", "summary": "A scammer, often posing as a bank insider, claims a large dormant account belonging to a deceased foreign national with no heirs can be released to the target if they pose as the 'next of kin'.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Probate Advance Loan Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/probate-advance-loan-scam", "summary": "Companies offer beneficiaries a quick cash advance against an inheritance still in probate, but bury predatory fees and interest in the contract that consume much of the eventual payout.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Digital Legacy Account Access Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/digital-legacy-account-access-scam", "summary": "Scammers pose as tech support, platform 'legacy contact' services, or account recovery agents offering to unlock a deceased person's email, social media, or cloud accounts for a fee.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Genealogy Heir Hunter Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/genealogy-heir-hunter-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent genealogy researchers claim to have uncovered a valuable family connection or unclaimed inheritance through ancestry research, charging fees for fabricated or worthless findings.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Life Insurance Payout Release Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/life-policy-payout-release-fee-scam", "summary": "Scammers contact beneficiaries claiming a life insurance payout is ready but 'stuck' pending a fee, tax, or administrative charge that no genuine insurer ever requires.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Cremation and Repatriation Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/fake-cremation-repatriation-fee-scam", "summary": "Families of migrant workers or expatriates who die abroad are told by a supposed employer, recruitment agency, or 'cremation liaison' that cremation cannot proceed and ashes cannot be sent home until extra fees are paid.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Deceased Estate Account Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/deceased-estate-account-takeover-scam", "summary": "Scammers exploit the window between a death and a financial institution being notified to gain unauthorized access to the deceased's real bank, investment, or trading accounts and drain them directly.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Benefit Application Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/fake-benefit-application-fee-scam", "summary": "Scammers pose as benefit agencies or 'application assistants' and charge upfront fees to file or fast-track a welfare claim that is actually free.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Unemployment Benefit Identity Fraud Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/unemployment-benefit-identity-fraud-scam", "summary": "Criminals use stolen personal information to file fraudulent unemployment claims in a victim's name, diverting payments to themselves.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Disability Benefit Grant Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/disability-benefit-grant-scam", "summary": "Scammers target people with disabilities using fake 'grant approval' messages and upfront fee demands tied to disability benefit programs.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "EBT Food Assistance Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/ebt-food-assistance-phishing-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent texts and calls impersonate food assistance programs to trick recipients into revealing their EBT card number and PIN, which are then used to drain benefits.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Child Benefit Update Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/child-benefit-update-phishing-scam", "summary": "Phishing messages impersonate the child benefit agency, claiming payments are paused unless parents 'update' their bank or personal details through a fake link.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Energy Bill Rebate Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/energy-bill-rebate-phishing-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent messages claim recipients qualify for a government energy rebate and request bank details or an upfront fee to release the payment.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Cost of Living Payment Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/cost-of-living-payment-phishing-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate government cost-of-living support schemes, sending fake eligibility messages that harvest bank details or charge a fee to 'release' a payment.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Pension Credit Reactivation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/pension-credit-reactivation-scam", "summary": "Scammers tell pensioners their pension credit or state pension has been suspended and must be 'reactivated' by confirming bank and identity details.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Veterans Benefit Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/veterans-benefit-fee-scam", "summary": "Scammers pose as benefit specialists or advocates charging illegal upfront fees to help veterans apply for or increase disability and pension benefits.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Universal Credit Advance Loan Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/universal-credit-advance-loan-scam", "summary": "Scammers pose as benefits caseworkers offering to speed up a universal credit advance payment in exchange for a fee or bank access, exploiting claimants waiting for their first payment.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Benefit Overpayment Threat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/benefit-overpayment-threat-scam", "summary": "Scammers claim a benefit recipient was overpaid and threatens legal action or arrest unless the 'debt' is repaid immediately through an unusual payment method.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Government Grant Approval Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/fake-government-grant-approval-scam", "summary": "Scammers notify targets that they have been approved for a government grant they never applied for, then request a fee or bank details to release the funds.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Housing Benefit Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/housing-benefit-verification-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent messages claim a housing benefit or rental assistance claim needs urgent 'verification', harvesting bank and landlord details from tenants and landlords alike.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Carer Allowance Application Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/carer-allowance-application-scam", "summary": "Scammers offer to help carers apply for or unlock a carer's allowance in exchange for a fee, exploiting unfamiliarity with a free, complex benefit system.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Winter Fuel Payment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/winter-fuel-payment-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate government agencies to tell pensioners their winter fuel payment is at risk unless they confirm bank details or pay a fee.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Stimulus Relief Payment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/stimulus-relief-payment-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent messages claim recipients qualify for a government stimulus or relief payment, harvesting bank details or charging a fee to release funds that do not exist.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Benefit Reactivation SMS Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/benefit-reactivation-sms-scam", "summary": "Text messages claim a recipient's benefits have been suspended and must be 'reactivated' via a link, harvesting login credentials and personal data.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Council Tax Refund Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/council-tax-refund-phishing-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent messages claim a council tax refund or rebate is owed, directing recipients to a fake portal that harvests bank details.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Childcare Subsidy Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/fake-childcare-subsidy-scam", "summary": "Scammers pose as administrators of a childcare subsidy or voucher scheme, telling parents a registration or release fee must be paid before approved funding can be paid out.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Disability Parking Permit Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/benefits-welfare-scams/disability-parking-permit-fee-scam", "summary": "Fake websites and callers charge inflated 'processing' or 'printing' fees to issue a disability parking permit that the real issuing authority provides for free or a small regulated cost.", "category": "benefits-welfare-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Prosperity Gospel 'Seed Money' Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/prosperity-gospel-seed-money-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent appeals that promise donors financial breakthroughs or miracles in direct proportion to a 'seed' payment sent first, with no return ever materialising.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Tithing / Donation Portal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/fake-tithing-donation-portal-scam", "summary": "Look-alike online giving pages that mimic a church or ministry's real tithing portal to redirect regular donations into a scammer's account.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Missionary Support Fraud Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/missionary-support-fraud-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent appeals impersonating missionaries or mission organisations that solicit ongoing financial support for work that does not exist.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Pilgrimage Travel Package Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/pilgrimage-travel-package-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent or non-existent travel packages for religious pilgrimages that take deposits or full payment and fail to deliver promised travel, accommodation, or access.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Church Building Fund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/church-building-fund-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent capital campaigns that solicit donations for a new church building, renovation, or expansion project that is exaggerated, stalled indefinitely, or entirely invented.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Faith Healing Donation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/faith-healing-donation-scam", "summary": "Appeals that solicit payment in exchange for a promised miraculous healing, targeting people or families facing serious illness with no medical outcome ever delivered.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Clergy Emergency Gift Card Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/clergy-emergency-gift-card-scam", "summary": "Impersonation scams where a fraudster poses by text or email as a pastor, priest, or other clergy member urgently needing gift cards purchased on their behalf.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Religious Affinity Investment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/religious-affinity-investment-scam", "summary": "Investment fraud where a scammer uses shared religious identity and community trust to promote fake or misrepresented investment opportunities within a congregation.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Zakat Collection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/fake-zakat-collection-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent appeals that pose as legitimate zakat or sadaqah collection channels during religiously significant periods, diverting obligatory or voluntary charitable giving away from genuine recipients.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Blessing Money Swap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/blessing-money-swap-scam", "summary": "A confidence scam in which victims are persuaded to exchange their own money or valuables for supposedly 'blessed' cash or objects that are later found to be worthless or stolen outright.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Holy Relic Sale Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/holy-relic-sale-scam", "summary": "The sale of fabricated or misrepresented religious relics, artefacts, or blessed items — often at inflated prices — to collectors and devout buyers seeking spiritual or historical significance.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Televangelist Donation Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/televangelist-donation-phishing-scam", "summary": "Phishing campaigns that impersonate well-known televangelists or broadcast ministries to trick viewers into entering payment details or personal information on fraudulent donation pages.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Religious Scholarship Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/religious-scholarship-fee-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent scholarship or seminary funding offers tied to a faith community that require upfront 'processing' or 'registration' fees before any award is released.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Congregation Benevolence Fund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/congregation-benevolence-fund-scam", "summary": "Fraud targeting a congregation's benevolence or emergency assistance fund, either by fabricating hardship claims to receive payouts or by diverting fund donations meant to help members in need.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Spiritual Curse Removal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/spiritual-curse-removal-scam", "summary": "A recurring-payment scam in which a self-described spiritual practitioner convinces a target they are cursed and that only ongoing, escalating payments can remove or hold off the affliction.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Temple / Mosque Donation Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/temple-mosque-donation-phishing-scam", "summary": "Cloned websites and messages impersonating a specific, real temple or mosque's donation channel to intercept congregational and community giving.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Online Ministry Subscription Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/online-ministry-subscription-scam", "summary": "Recurring-billing scams tied to online religious content, courses, or community memberships that are misrepresented, never delivered, or difficult or impossible to cancel.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Interfaith Relief Fund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/interfaith-relief-fund-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent relief campaigns that claim broad, multi-faith or community-wide endorsement to solicit donations for disaster or humanitarian causes that are exaggerated or entirely fictitious.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Online Sermon Donation Skim Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/fake-online-sermon-donation-skim-scam", "summary": "Bot and impersonation accounts that flood a church's live-streamed sermon chat with fake 'official' donation links, skimming giving away from the real broadcast in real time.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Religious Artifact Authentication Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/faith-religious-scams/religious-artifact-authentication-fee-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent appraisal services that charge an upfront fee to authenticate a religious item the victim already owns, then deliver a fabricated verdict or fail to return the item at all.", "category": "faith-religious-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Concert Ticket Resale Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/fake-concert-ticket-resale-scam", "summary": "Sellers on social media, classifieds, or messaging apps take payment for concert tickets that are fake, already used, or never existed.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Sold-Out Event Ticket Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/sold-out-event-ticket-scam", "summary": "Scammers target fans desperate for tickets to a sold-out event by inventing tickets, memberships, or 'guaranteed access' offers that don't exist.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Festival Ticket & Camping Pass Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/festival-ticket-camping-scam", "summary": "Fake or duplicate festival tickets and camping passes sold through unofficial channels leave buyers turned away at the gate with no accommodation.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake VIP Meet & Greet Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/fake-vip-meet-greet-scam", "summary": "Scammers sell fabricated VIP packages promising backstage access or meet-and-greets with performers that were never authorized or arranged.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Sporting Event Ticket Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/sporting-event-ticket-scam", "summary": "Fake or duplicated tickets for major games, finals, and playoffs sold through social media, classifieds, and fan forums leave buyers turned away at the stadium gate.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "QR Code Ticket Transfer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/qr-code-ticket-transfer-scam", "summary": "Scammers exploit digital ticket transfers by sending screenshots, duplicated QR codes, or manipulated transfer links that fail or get scanned by someone else first.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fan-to-Fan Resale Fraud Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/fan-to-fan-resale-fraud-scam", "summary": "Scammers pose as fellow fans in community groups and forums to sell fake or non-existent tickets, exploiting the trust built inside genuine fan communities.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Ticket Marketplace Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/fake-ticket-marketplace-scam", "summary": "Cloned or lookalike ticket marketplace websites mimic well-known resale platforms to take payment for tickets that are never delivered.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Season Ticket Transfer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/season-ticket-transfer-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent transfers of season ticket memberships or single-game seats from season ticket holders leave buyers without valid access after payment.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Theatre & Show Ticket Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/theatre-show-ticket-scam", "summary": "Fake or non-existent tickets for popular theatre and stage shows are sold through unofficial resale channels, often targeting tourists and gift buyers.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Charity Gala Ticket Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/fake-charity-gala-ticket-scam", "summary": "Scammers sell tickets to fabricated charity galas and fundraising dinners, or impersonate a genuine event's ticketing, keeping the money for themselves.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Conference Registration Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/conference-registration-scam", "summary": "Fake or cloned professional conference registration sites collect payment and personal data for events that don't exist or registrations that are never processed.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Theme Park Discount Ticket Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/theme-park-discount-ticket-scam", "summary": "Deeply discounted theme park tickets sold through unofficial resellers turn out to be fake, already used, or restricted in ways buyers weren't told about.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Wristband Upgrade Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/wristband-upgrade-scam", "summary": "Scammers sell fake festival or event wristband upgrades promising better access, viewing areas, or amenities that the upgrade never actually provides.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Last-Minute Ticket Pressure Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/last-minute-ticket-pressure-scam", "summary": "Scammers target buyers in the final hours before an event, using extreme urgency to rush payment for tickets that turn out to be fake or never arrive.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Duplicate Barcode Ticket Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/duplicate-barcode-ticket-scam", "summary": "A single valid ticket is photographed, copied, or forwarded and sold to multiple buyers, with only whoever scans first at the gate actually gaining entry.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Presale Code Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/presale-code-phishing-scam", "summary": "Scammers phish for artist or event presale access codes, then use or resell them before genuine fans can access early ticket sales.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Refunded & Cancelled Event Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/refunded-cancelled-event-scam", "summary": "Scammers exploit event postponements and cancellations by impersonating organizers to phish for payment details under the guise of processing a refund.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Box Office Will-Call Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/fake-box-office-will-call-scam", "summary": "Scammers sell tickets by claiming they've reserved seats under the buyer's name at the venue's will-call or box office window, but no reservation ever exists.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Event Cancellation Refund Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/event-cancellation-refund-phishing-scam", "summary": "Scammers falsely claim a still-happening event has been cancelled to trick genuine ticket holders into handing over their valid ticket or login details for a bogus refund.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Creator Subscription Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/fake-creator-subscription-scam", "summary": "Cloned or invented subscription pages sell access to a creator's paid content that does not exist or is never delivered, often at a suspiciously discounted price.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Cam Site Tip-Bait Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/cam-site-tip-bait-scam", "summary": "A live-cam performer or bot account uses escalating tip goals and moved goalposts to extract repeated payments for a private show or request that never fully materializes.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Adult Content Verification Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/adult-content-verification-fee-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent platforms or impersonated support accounts charge creators upfront 'verification' or 'compliance' fees to activate an account that either doesn't exist or never actually launches.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Creator Manager Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/fake-creator-manager-scam", "summary": "A self-styled talent manager offers to grow a creator's account and earnings in exchange for fees or account access, then extracts money or redirects payouts without delivering real management services.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Sugar Daddy/Sugar Baby Allowance Advance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/sugar-daddy-allowance-advance-scam", "summary": "A supposed benefactor promises a regular allowance for companionship but requires an upfront 'verification' or 'processing' payment first, or sends a fraudulent check that bounces after money has already been sent back.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Modeling/Content Deal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/fake-modeling-content-deal-scam", "summary": "A fake scout or producer offers a paid modeling or content shoot but requires an upfront fee for portfolio, wardrobe, or rights processing before any real work happens.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Creator Collab Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/creator-collab-phishing-scam", "summary": "A fake collaboration proposal from a supposed fellow creator or platform partner leads to a spoofed login page that steals account credentials and hands over full account control.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Adult Dating Site Token/Credit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/adult-dating-site-token-scam", "summary": "A platform's pay-per-message token system is used to keep users paying for engagement with scripted operators or bots who have no intention of ever meeting in person.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Fan Club/Inner Circle Membership Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/fake-fan-club-membership-scam", "summary": "A supposed exclusive fan club or inner-circle membership tied to a creator is sold outside official channels and delivers little or none of the promised access.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "low", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Content Payout Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/content-payout-verification-scam", "summary": "A fake message impersonating a platform's payout team claims a creator's earnings are held pending verification, harvesting banking details or a small fee before the fraud is discovered.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Premium Messaging/Access Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/premium-messaging-access-scam", "summary": "Paid direct-message features are staffed by uncredited chat operators or bots impersonating the creator, extending paid conversation without the subscriber's knowledge.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Agency Content Recruitment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/fake-agency-content-recruitment-scam", "summary": "A fake or exploitative agency recruits new creators with promises of guaranteed income and support, then charges upfront fees for training, equipment, or registration that deliver little value.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Creator Chargeback Blackmail Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/creator-chargeback-blackmail-scam", "summary": "A buyer fraudulently disputes a legitimate purchase, then threatens further chargebacks or platform reports against the creator unless paid again, weaponizing chargeback penalties as leverage.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Tip Menu/Overpayment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/tip-menu-overpayment-scam", "summary": "A buyer 'accidentally' overpays for tipped content or a custom request, then asks the creator to refund the difference to a different account, before reversing the original payment entirely.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Brand Sponsorship Creator Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/fake-brand-sponsorship-creator-scam", "summary": "A fake brand representative offers a paid sponsorship deal that requires the creator to spend their own money upfront on products, promising reimbursement that never comes.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Impersonated Creator Account Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/impersonated-creator-account-scam", "summary": "A fake account copies a real creator's identity to contact their followers directly with fraudulent offers, giveaways, or payment requests, damaging the real creator's reputation in the process.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Verification/Payout Hold Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/fake-verification-payout-hold-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent notice claims a creator's payout is held behind a large security deposit, tax clearance, or verification fee that a legitimate platform would never actually require.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Adult Webcam Studio Recruitment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/adult-webcam-studio-recruitment-scam", "summary": "Recruitment ads for webcam studio work promise high pay and provided equipment but use upfront fees, document collection, or relocation to trap recruits in exploitative conditions.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Brand Deal Platform Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/fake-brand-deal-platform-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent creator-brand marketplace charges an upfront membership or application fee to access sponsorship opportunities that are vague, unresponsive, or never actually lead to paid work.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Creator Payout Tax Form Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/adult-creator-platform-scams/creator-payout-tax-form-phishing-scam", "summary": "A fake tax-form update notice, styled to look like a platform's compliance center, pressures creators into submitting their Social Security or tax ID number and banking details on a phishing page under threat of withheld earnings.", "category": "adult-creator-platform-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Hacked Webcam Bluff Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/fake-hacked-webcam-bluff-scam", "summary": "A caller, texter, or social media contact claims your device's camera has been compromised by malware and demands payment to stop them releasing footage that was never captured.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Personal Device Ransomware Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/personal-device-ransomware-scam", "summary": "Malicious software encrypts a victim's personal phone, tablet, or computer and demands payment for a decryption key to recover photos, documents, and other files.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Business Negative SEO Extortion Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/business-negative-seo-extortion-scam", "summary": "A criminal contacts a small business claiming they will flood the company's website with spammy backlinks, fake reviews, or search-engine penalties unless the owner pays a recurring 'protection' fee.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake OSINT Exposure Threat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/fake-osint-exposure-threat-scam", "summary": "A scammer claims to have compiled a detailed 'open-source intelligence' dossier on the victim — home address, workplace, family members, daily routine — and threatens to publish it unless paid, when in reality the information is ordinary public data dressed up to sound alarming.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Romance / Affair Blackmail Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/romance-affair-blackmail-scam", "summary": "Someone who has learned about a victim's extramarital affair or secret relationship — a former partner, a third party, or a criminal posing as one — threatens to expose it to a spouse, family, or employer unless paid.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gamer Swatting Threat Extortion Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/gamer-swat-threat-extortion-scam", "summary": "During an online gaming dispute or livestream, a rival threatens to send an armed police response ('swat') to a gamer's or streamer's home address unless a payment is made or a demand is met.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Subscription Leak Threat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/subscription-leak-threat-scam", "summary": "A scammer claims to have obtained a victim's private subscription or purchase history on an embarrassing or sensitive platform and threatens to expose the list to contacts, family, or employers unless paid.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Arrest Warrant Payment Threat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/fake-warrant-payment-threat-scam", "summary": "A caller impersonating police, a court, or a government agency claims there is an active arrest warrant against the victim and demands immediate payment to avoid arrest.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Charity Collector Doorstep Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-charity-collector-doorstep-scam", "summary": "A person arrives at the door claiming to collect for a well-known or invented charity, often around disasters or seasonal appeals, and pressures the resident into an on-the-spot cash donation. No genuine charity funds ever reach the cause.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Bank Courier Card Collection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-bank-courier-card-collection-scam", "summary": "A caller posing as a bank fraud investigator convinces a victim their card has been compromised and arranges for a 'courier' to collect the physical card from their home for supposed safekeeping or replacement. The courier is the scammer's accomplice.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Police Doorstep ID Check Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-police-doorstep-id-check-scam", "summary": "A person shows up claiming to be a police officer conducting an identity or safety check, using a fake badge and confident manner to gain entry to a home and either steal valuables or extract personal and financial information.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Council Officer Doorstep Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-council-officer-doorstep-scam", "summary": "Someone poses as a local council or municipal official conducting a required inspection, survey, or benefit review, using official-sounding language and paperwork to gain entry to a home or extract personal and financial details.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Hospital Relative Admitted Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-hospital-relative-admitted-scam", "summary": "A caller claims to be hospital staff informing the victim that a relative has been admitted after an accident or sudden illness, and requests urgent payment for treatment, transport, or paperwork before the family member can be seen or discharged.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Social Worker Child Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-social-worker-child-scam", "summary": "A person claiming to be a social worker or child welfare officer contacts a parent or guardian, alleging a concern about their child that requires an urgent home visit, payment, or disclosure of personal details, exploiting fear over losing custody or facing an investigation.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Debt Collector Doorstep Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-debt-collector-doorstep-scam", "summary": "A person arrives at the door claiming to be a debt collector or bailiff enforcing an unpaid bill or court judgment, demanding immediate cash payment or threatening to seize property, when no genuine debt or enforcement order exists.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Census Official Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/imposter-emergency-scams/fake-census-official-scam", "summary": "A visitor or caller claims to be conducting an official government census or population survey, using the pretext to gather sensitive personal, financial, or household details, or to demand a payment for participation.", "category": "imposter-emergency-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Renters Insurance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-renters-insurance-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent or non-existent renters insurance policies sold to tenants — often bundled into the leasing process — that pay nothing when belongings are stolen, damaged, or destroyed.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Business Liability Insurance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-business-liability-insurance-scam", "summary": "Small business owners are sold liability policies that appear to meet client or contract requirements but are unlicensed, fabricated, or worthless when a claim is made.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Dental & Vision Plan Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-dental-vision-plan-scam", "summary": "Discount 'dental and vision plans' sold as insurance that turn out to be unregulated discount cards or non-existent cover, leaving members to pay full price at the point of treatment.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Gadget & Device Insurance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-gadget-device-insurance-scam", "summary": "Phone, laptop, and electronics protection plans sold at checkout or online that collect monthly premiums but deny or ignore claims when a device is lost, stolen, or damaged.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Insurance Reinstatement Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/insurance-reinstatement-fee-scam", "summary": "Scammers pose as an insurer or agent claiming a policy has lapsed and demand an urgent 'reinstatement fee' to restore coverage, pressuring victims to pay quickly through hard-to-trace methods.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Medicare Supplement Plan Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/insurance-scams/fake-medicare-supplement-plan-scam", "summary": "Scammers sell bogus Medigap or Medicare Advantage-style supplement plans to older adults, collecting premiums for coverage that is never real or does not exist at all.", "category": "insurance-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI Deepfake Job Candidate Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-deepfake-job-candidate-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent job applicants use AI face filters, voice changers, and fabricated credentials to pass video interviews and win remote roles, then exploit the access for pay fraud, data theft, or to launder funds for a hidden third party.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI-Generated Product Review Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-generated-product-review-scam", "summary": "Sellers use AI text generators to mass-produce fake five-star reviews that sound personal and specific, manipulating shoppers into buying poor-quality or non-existent products.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI Face-Swap KYC Bypass Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-face-swap-kyc-bypass-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters use AI face-swap and deepfake tools to defeat remote identity verification checks, opening bank accounts, wallets, or loans in someone else's name or a fabricated identity.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI Chatbot Phishing Assistant Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-chatbot-phishing-assistant-scam", "summary": "Scammers embed convincing AI chatbots into fake websites and messaging apps to answer victims' questions in real time, building false trust and extracting money or personal data far more effectively than a static scam page.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI-Generated Fake Invoice Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-generated-fake-invoice-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters use AI to produce highly convincing fake invoices — matching a real supplier's branding, tone, and billing history — that trick businesses and individuals into paying money to the wrong account.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Gas Safety Inspection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-gas-safety-inspection-scam", "summary": "Someone poses as a gas company inspector or safety engineer to gain entry to your home, then invents a dangerous fault and charges for unnecessary 'emergency' repairs.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Meter Tampering Fine Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/meter-tampering-fine-scam", "summary": "A caller or doorstep visitor accuses you of illegally tampering with your electricity or gas meter and demands an immediate fine or 'settlement fee' to avoid prosecution or disconnection.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Heat Pump Grant Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-heat-pump-grant-scam", "summary": "Scammers offer a government-sounding heat pump grant or subsidy, using it to charge upfront 'processing fees' or to sell overpriced, unnecessary installations.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Utility Autopay Enrollment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/utility-autopay-enrollment-scam", "summary": "A caller or message urges you to 'enroll' in automatic bill payments through a link or third-party portal, actually capturing your bank or card details for unauthorized use.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake EV Home Charger Grant Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/utility-energy-scams/fake-ev-home-charger-grant-scam", "summary": "Scammers offer a government-sounding grant or subsidy for installing an electric vehicle home charger, using it to collect upfront fees or sell overpriced installations that never fully materialize.", "category": "utility-energy-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Parking Fine QR Code Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/fake-parking-fine-qr-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent QR code stickers placed over genuine codes on parking meters, tickets, and signage that redirect drivers to a lookalike payment page designed to steal card details.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "EV Charging App Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/ev-charging-app-phishing-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent QR codes and cloned apps at electric vehicle charging points trick drivers into entering payment details on lookalike sites or installing malicious apps.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Car Auction Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/fake-car-auction-deposit-scam", "summary": "Bogus online vehicle auction sites, including fake government or police 'seized vehicle' auctions, charge buyers a registration or winning-bid deposit for vehicles that don't exist.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Number Plate Cloning Fine Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/number-plate-cloning-fine-scam", "summary": "Criminals fit duplicate registration plates matching a genuine vehicle to another car of similar make, model, and colour, leaving the innocent registered keeper facing fines, tolls, and penalty notices for offences they never committed — often followed by phishing scams that exploit the fear this creates.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake DVLA Vehicle Tax Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/auto-vehicle-scams/fake-dvla-vehicle-tax-refund-scam", "summary": "Phishing texts and emails impersonating a national vehicle licensing authority, such as the UK's DVLA, claim a tax refund is owed or that vehicle tax is overdue, designed to harvest card details or extract fraudulent payment.", "category": "auto-vehicle-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Three-Card Monte / Shell Game", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/three-card-monte-shell-game-scam", "summary": "A rigged street betting game where a dealer invites you to track a card or hidden ball. Planted winners draw you in, sleight of hand guarantees you lose, and pickpockets often work the crowd.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Pigeon Drop (Found Money) Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/pigeon-drop-found-money-scam", "summary": "Strangers claim to have found a bundle of cash and offer to split it with you — but only if you put up good-faith money of your own, which is then switched or stolen.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Change-Raising / Short-Change Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/change-raising-short-change-scam", "summary": "A quick-change artist overloads a cashier with rapid, overlapping cash swaps mid-transaction, walking away with more money than they handed over. Busy tills and new staff are the prime targets.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gold-Brick (Fake Bullion) Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/gold-brick-fake-bullion-scam", "summary": "A seller offers gold bars, nuggets, or jewelry at a bargain price, backed by a sob story or staged tests. The gold is gilded base metal worth almost nothing.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Found-Ring Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/found-ring-scam", "summary": "A stranger 'finds' a gold ring at your feet, insists you keep it, then asks for money in return. The ring is worthless brass, and the moment of inspection can cover pickpocketing.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "low", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Monk Blessing / Donation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/fake-monk-blessing-donation-scam", "summary": "A person dressed as a monk presses a bracelet or amulet on you as a 'gift', then demands a cash donation, often showing a ledger of inflated past gifts.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "low", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Distraction Theft Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/distraction-theft-scam", "summary": "Thieves working in teams stage a spill, question, or commotion to occupy your attention while an accomplice lifts your wallet, phone, or bag.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Clipboard Fake-Charity Street Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/clipboard-fake-charity-street-scam", "summary": "Street collectors with clipboards pose as charity fundraisers for causes like deaf or disabled children, taking cash donations that fund no charity at all.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Friendship-Bracelet Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/friendship-bracelet-scam", "summary": "A street hustler ties a bracelet onto your wrist as a 'free gift', then demands payment for it, often with accomplices adding pressure while your pockets are exposed.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "low", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Petition Signature Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/fake-petition-signature-scam", "summary": "Strangers ask you to sign a petition for a sympathetic cause, then demand a donation — and the clipboard often doubles as cover for pickpocketing.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "ATM Card-Skimming Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/atm-card-skimming-scam", "summary": "Criminals attach hidden reading devices and cameras to cash machines to copy your card data and PIN, then drain your account with a cloned card.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Chip-Shimming Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/chip-shimming-scam", "summary": "A paper-thin device hidden inside a card reader records your chip card's data during a normal transaction, leaving no visible sign of tampering.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gas-Pump / Petrol-Pump Skimmer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/gas-pump-skimmer-scam", "summary": "Criminals hide card-reading devices inside fuel pumps, silently copying card data from every pay-at-pump customer, often for weeks before anyone notices.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Web-Skimming (Magecart) Checkout Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/web-skimming-magecart-scam", "summary": "Malicious code hidden in a genuine online store's checkout silently copies your card details as you type them, even though your order goes through normally.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Card-Cloning Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/card-cloning-fraud", "summary": "Criminals copy stolen card data onto counterfeit cards and spend or withdraw cash as you, while your real card never leaves your wallet.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gem & Jewellery Shop Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/gem-jewellery-shop-scam", "summary": "A staged detour delivers tourists to a 'special' gem shop where near-worthless stones are sold at huge markups, usually on the false promise of resale profit back home.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Taxi / Tuk-Tuk Meter Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/taxi-tuk-tuk-meter-scam", "summary": "Drivers refuse the meter, rig it, or quote inflated flat fares to overcharge tourists, sometimes adding detours to commission-paying shops along the way.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Jet-Ski & Scooter Rental Damage Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/jet-ski-scooter-rental-damage-scam", "summary": "Rental operators accuse returning tourists of causing pre-existing damage and demand large on-the-spot payments, often backed by intimidation and a passport held as deposit.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Currency-Exchange Short-Change Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/currency-exchange-short-change-scam", "summary": "Money changers and cash handlers use sleight of hand, folded notes, confusing rates, and hidden fees to hand tourists less money than they are owed.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Bar-Bill / Clip-Joint Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/travel-scams/bar-bill-clip-joint-scam", "summary": "Venues lure tourists in with cheap drinks or a free show, then present an enormous bill enforced by intimidation, with hostess drinks and hidden charges doing the inflating.", "category": "travel-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Wine & Whisky-Cask Investment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/wine-whisky-cask-investment-scam", "summary": "Sellers pitch casks of whisky or cases of fine wine as guaranteed-growth investments, but the goods are overpriced, misdescribed, or nonexistent — and the unregulated market offers no compensation when the firm vanishes.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Art & Collectibles Investment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/art-collectibles-investment-scam", "summary": "High-pressure sellers market overpriced or fake art, prints, coins, and memorabilia as investments with promised buy-backs; real resale values are a fraction of the price, and no regulator covers the loss.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Luxury Watch Investment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/luxury-watch-investment-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent dealers take deposits for scarce watches that never arrive, sell convincing counterfeits as investments, or run flipping schemes paid from new members' money — recovery after a bank transfer is rare.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Land-Banking Investment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/land-banking-investment-scam", "summary": "Firms sell small plots of cheap rural land at inflated prices, claiming imminent planning permission will multiply their value; the land is rarely developable and the promised uplift never comes.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Ghost Tax-Preparer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/ghost-tax-preparer-scam", "summary": "A paid tax preparer who refuses to sign your return, often inflating the refund with fabricated figures or diverting it entirely, leaving you legally liable when the tax authority investigates.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-22" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Wedding Vendor Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ticket-event-scams/wedding-vendor-scam", "summary": "Fake or vanishing photographers, venues, planners, and entertainers collect wedding deposits — or full payments — and then disappear, cancel at the last minute, or never existed at all.", "category": "ticket-event-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-23" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Adoption Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/legal-immigration-scams/fake-adoption-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as expectant mothers or as adoption agencies collect 'expenses' and fees from hopeful adoptive parents for a placement that was never going to happen.", "category": "legal-immigration-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-23" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Surrogacy Agency Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/surrogacy-agency-scam", "summary": "Fake surrogacy agencies, brokers, and 'surrogates' collect huge upfront fees, fake escrow deposits, and expense payments for journeys that never happen — often across borders.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-23" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Vanity Press & Fake Literary Agent Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/vanity-publishing-scam", "summary": "Fake literary agents charge reading and representation fees, and predatory 'hybrid publishers' sell thousands of dollars of packages — inverting the rule that in publishing, money flows to the author.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-23" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Scam PACs & Political Donation Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/charity-disaster-scams/scam-pac-political-donation-scam", "summary": "Fundraising committees and fake campaign appeals raise political donations that never reach any candidate or cause — the money cycles into the operators' own fundraising vendors and pockets.", "category": "charity-disaster-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-23" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Zelle Payment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/zelle-payment-scams", "summary": "Scammers exploit Zelle's instant, bank-to-bank, near-irreversible transfers by posing as your bank's fraud team, sending fake payment requests, or trapping marketplace buyers and sellers. Once the money moves, it is usually gone for good.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Cash App Flip & Fake Giveaway Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/cash-app-flip-and-giveaway-scam", "summary": "Cash App \"money flip\" offers, fake $Cashtag giveaways, and blessing-loom money circles all promise to multiply the money you send. There is no flip: the money you send is gone instantly and is almost never recoverable.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Cash App Fake Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/cash-app-fake-support-scam", "summary": "Scammers pose as Cash App customer support through search ads, fake numbers, and social replies, then phish your login, card and PIN, or a screen-share session from users trying to fix a locked account or missing payment.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Venmo \"Accidental Payment\" Reversal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/venmo-accidental-payment-reversal-scam", "summary": "A stranger sends you money \"by mistake,\" then urgently asks you to send it back to a different account. When the original charge is reversed as fraud, you are left out the money you forwarded.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "PayPal Friends & Family \"Goods\" Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/paypal-friends-and-family-goods-scam", "summary": "A seller or buyer insists on paying by PayPal Friends & Family \"to avoid fees\" — which strips away PayPal's Purchase Protection, so there is no dispute path when the item never arrives, is fake, or the payment is falsely reversed.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Marketplace \"Business Account Upgrade\" Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/marketplace-business-account-upgrade-scam", "summary": "A marketplace buyer or seller insists the other party must \"upgrade to a business account\" or \"get verified\" by first sending a refundable fee that will supposedly come back with the payment. The unlock fee is pure theft, and it escalates.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Bitcoin ATM & Crypto Kiosk Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/bitcoin-atm-kiosk-scam", "summary": "Scammers running impersonation, tech-support, or romance cons steer victims to feed cash into a Bitcoin ATM and scan a QR code — sending an instant, irreversible payment straight to the fraudster's wallet.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Money-Mule Bank-Account Recruitment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/money-mule-bank-account-recruitment-scam", "summary": "Fake \"payment processor\" jobs, or romance and social contacts, recruit you to receive money into your own bank account and forward it on for a cut — making you the traceable link in a money-laundering chain.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Mobile Wallet Push-Provisioning Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/mobile-wallet-push-provisioning-scam", "summary": "After phishing your card number, scammers pose as your bank's fraud team and get you to read back a one-time code — but that code enrols your card in a digital wallet on their own phone, letting them tap-to-pay with your money.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Payment-App Notification Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/payment-app-fake-notification-phishing-scam", "summary": "A text, email, or DM disguised as a Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App alert lures you to a spoofed login page or a fake support line that harvests your password, 2FA codes, and account access.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "ATM Card Trapping (Lebanese Loop) Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/atm-card-trapping-lebanese-loop-scam", "summary": "A thin sleeve or loop hidden in the card slot physically traps your card inside the ATM so it appears swallowed. A 'helpful' stranger watches you re-enter your PIN, then retrieves the card once you leave.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "ATM Cash-Trapping Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/atm-cash-trapping-scam", "summary": "A device fitted over a cash machine's dispenser traps your banknotes as they are paid out. You see no cash, assume the withdrawal failed, and leave — then the scammer returns to remove the trap and take the money, while your account is still debited.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "NFC-Relay (\"Ghost Tap\") Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/nfc-relay-ghost-tap-scam", "summary": "Criminals relay your card's contactless signal in real time to a mule standing at a payment terminal somewhere else in the world, letting them tap to pay with your card while it never leaves your pocket.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Card-Testing (Carding) Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/card-testing-carding-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters with lists of stolen card numbers run floods of tiny charges through online checkouts to find which cards still work, then sell or spend the live ones. Cardholders see small mystery charges; merchants absorb the flood.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "EBT / Benefits-Card Skimming & Cloning", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/ebt-card-skimming-cloning-scam", "summary": "Criminals hide skimmers on checkout terminals and ATMs to copy the magnetic stripe and PIN from EBT and benefit cards, clone them onto blank cards, and drain food or cash benefits — often within hours of the funds loading.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "POS Terminal Tampering & Swap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/pos-terminal-tampering-scam", "summary": "A payment terminal at a shop, restaurant, or fuel station is overlaid, tampered with, or swapped for a look-alike that captures your card data and PIN. Sometimes a dishonest employee runs your card through a second, hidden skimming device out of sight.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "DocuSign & E-Signature Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/docusign-esignature-phishing-scam", "summary": "A fake \"you have a document to review and sign\" email or text impersonates DocuSign, Adobe Sign, or a similar service. Urgency and a spoofed brand steer you toward a lookalike login page or a malicious file, where the real target is your password, your 2FA code, or a foothold in your inbox.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Google Voice Verification Code Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/telecom-account-scams/google-voice-verification-code-scam", "summary": "A \"buyer\" or new contact asks to verify you are real by having a code texted to your phone, then read back to them. That code links a Google Voice number to yours, quietly handing the scammer control of your number.", "category": "telecom-account-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "OTP Bot & One-Time-Passcode Interception Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/identity-theft-data-scams/otp-bot-one-time-code-scam", "summary": "Automated bots place spoofed calls or texts posing as your bank's anti-fraud line and trick you into reading out a one-time passcode — the very code the scammer just triggered by logging into your account, instantly defeating two-factor authentication.", "category": "identity-theft-data-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "REAL ID Application-Fee & Appointment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/government-impersonation-scams/real-id-application-fee-scam", "summary": "Fake DMV websites, texts, and ads impersonate a state motor-vehicle agency or a bogus \"REAL ID processing\" service, charging fake application or expedited-processing fees and harvesting the personal and ID-document data used for identity theft.", "category": "government-impersonation-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fictitious-Regulator & Fake Financial-Authority Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/fictitious-regulator-fake-authority-scam", "summary": "Scammers invent official-sounding financial authorities — or clone real regulators — to vouch for a bogus investment, demand a \"release fee\" to unlock your funds, or pose as the regulator recovering an earlier loss. Real regulators never charge to release your money.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Facebook Marketplace Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-shopping-scams/facebook-marketplace-scams", "summary": "Facebook Marketplace's buy-and-sell hub attracts a whole ecosystem of cons — fake listings, \"is this still available\" bait, off-platform payment demands, shipping tricks, deposit scams, and code-harvesting — hitting buyers and sellers alike.", "category": "online-shopping-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Compound Job-Trafficking Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/job-income-scams/scam-compound-job-trafficking-scam", "summary": "Overseas job offers for customer service, crypto, translation, or data-entry work that lure applicants abroad and traffic them into fortified compounds, where passports are seized and people are forced under violence to run online scams on victims worldwide.", "category": "job-income-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Search Ad Impersonation & Malvertising Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/tech-scams/search-ad-impersonation-malvertising-scam", "summary": "Scammers buy sponsored search ads that sit above the genuine result for a bank, brand, or download, routing users to lookalike phishing pages, fake support numbers, or trojanised installers.", "category": "tech-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Savings Account & Bond Comparison Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/fake-savings-account-bond-comparison-scam", "summary": "Slick comparison sites and clone \"providers\" advertise market-beating guaranteed savings and fixed-rate bonds, then take your deposit for an account that never existed — often by impersonating a genuine, regulated firm.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Home Title & Deed Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/housing-rental-scams/home-title-deed-theft-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters forge a deed or use a stolen identity to transfer a homeowner's title into their own name, then borrow against the property or \"sell\" it. Paid-off, vacant, inherited, and elderly-owned homes are the prime targets.", "category": "housing-rental-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Black Money \"Wash-Wash\" Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/black-money-wash-wash-scam", "summary": "A con artist shows a trunk of banknotes dyed black to \"hide\" them from customs, cleans one note with a magic chemical before your eyes, then sells you the chemical or a share of the stash. The notes are blank paper and no chemical exists.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Mobile Money Reversal & Rogue Agent Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/mobile-money-agent-reversal-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters exploit mobile-money wallets with faked \"sent by mistake — please send it back\" texts, rogue or impersonated agents who pocket deposits, and fake PIN prompts, so victims hand over real money against a credit that was never there.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Hawala & Informal Remittance Agent Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/hawala-remittance-agent-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent or absconding informal money-transfer agent takes cash to send abroad — promising a better rate, no paperwork, and faster delivery than a bank — and the money never reaches the family waiting for it.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake AI App & Browser Extension Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/fake-ai-app-extension-scam", "summary": "Counterfeit \"ChatGPT\", \"AI assistant\", and \"AI photo and video generator\" apps and browser extensions impersonate real AI brands. They trap you in fleeceware subscriptions, steal logins and card details, hijack your browser, or quietly record everything you type.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Prompt Injection & AI-Agent Manipulation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/prompt-injection-ai-agent-scam", "summary": "Attackers hide instructions inside web pages, emails, documents, images, or reviews that your AI assistant reads and obeys — quietly leaking your data, approving a payment, or acting against you while you trust the machine.", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Restaking & Liquid-Staking (LST/LRT) Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/restaking-liquid-staking-scam", "summary": "Fake liquid-staking and restaking platforms, look-alike protocol clones, and \"points\" or airdrop-farming sites promise outsized restaked yields — then drain a wallet the moment it connects and approves a token spend.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Funeral Livestream Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/bereavement-inheritance-scams/funeral-livestream-phishing-scam", "summary": "Scammers post fake \"watch the funeral live here\" links under genuine obituary and memorial posts, then demand card \"verification\" or a subscription to view — exploiting grieving relatives and distant friends who cannot attend in person.", "category": "bereavement-inheritance-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Refund & Return Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/refund-return-fraud-scam", "summary": "Buyers — and paid \"refunder\" services sold on messaging apps — abuse merchants' refund, return, and chargeback processes to get their money back while keeping the goods, using false \"not received\" claims, empty-box returns, wardrobing, and chargeback abuse.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Guardianship & Conservatorship Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/guardianship-conservatorship-fraud-scam", "summary": "Abuse of the legal guardianship or conservatorship system to seize control of an elderly or disabled person's money and property — draining the estate under color of a court order while isolating them from the family who would object.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Transit Inspector Fine Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/fake-transit-inspector-fine-scam", "summary": "An impostor in a uniform or with a flashed badge boards a bus, tram, or metro, declares your ticket invalid, and demands an on-the-spot cash \"fine\" — often inflated, cash-only, and with no valid ID or official receipt. Tourists are the prime targets.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Gem Shop & Tour Guide Commission Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/gem-shop-tour-guide-commission-scam", "summary": "A friendly tuk-tuk driver, taxi driver, or \"helpful local\" reroutes tourists to a gem, tailor, or handicraft shop — often with a story that the attraction is closed — where wildly overpriced or fake goods are sold and the guide collects a commission.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "ATM Helper, Card Swap & Shoulder-Surfing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/atm-helper-card-swap-shoulder-surf-scam", "summary": "A stranger 'helps' at a cash machine that seems stuck, watches or films your PIN, then swaps or retains your card through distraction or a tampered slot — walking away with both the card and the code that unlocks it.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Rental Vehicle Fake Damage Extortion Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/rental-vehicle-fake-damage-extortion-scam", "summary": "Scooter, jet-ski, and car rental operators claim you caused damage that was already there — or was inflicted after return — and demand inflated cash payment, with the renter's passport held as leverage. A staple of beach resorts and tourist islands.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Curbside Money Changer & Short-Count Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/street-in-person-scams/curbside-money-changer-shortcount-scam", "summary": "Street currency exchangers lure tourists with above-market rates, then shortchange them through sleight of hand — folded notes, palmed bills, a recount that removes money — often ending with a 'police are coming' rush that stops the victim checking.", "category": "street-in-person-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Refund & Reversal Manipulation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/refund-reversal-to-wrong-card-scam", "summary": "A scammer posing as support staff or a merchant walks the victim through a 'refund' that actually pushes money out — via remote access, a manipulated banking screen, or a card terminal run as a payment — or claims an over-refund and demands the 'excess' back by gift cards or transfer.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) Overcharge Traps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/dynamic-currency-conversion-overcharge-scam", "summary": "At foreign card terminals and ATMs, the offer to 'pay in your home currency' applies a hidden markup of several percent over the real exchange rate — and machines, merchants, and interface design often push or silently make that choice for you.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "low", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fuel Station Pre-Authorisation Hold & Pump Tricks", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/payment-card-fraud/fuel-station-preauthorisation-hold-scam", "summary": "Pay-at-pump terminals place holds far larger than the fuel bought, sometimes freezing hundreds against a card for days — and some stations pair opaque holds with rigged pumps, unreset meters, or attendant sleight-of-card to overcharge drivers outright.", "category": "payment-card-fraud", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Telehealth Prescription Mill Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/telehealth-prescription-mill-scam", "summary": "Sham online 'clinics' charge consultation fees and rubber-stamp prescriptions for weight-loss drugs, stimulants, and other in-demand medicines with no real medical assessment — or take payment and insurance details and deliver nothing, or something unsafe.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Medical Debt Forgiveness & Settlement Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/health-medical-scams/medical-debt-forgiveness-scam", "summary": "Scammers posing as hospitals, charities, or government programs offer to 'erase', 'settle', or 'qualify you for forgiveness of' medical debt — for an upfront fee, monthly payments diverted to themselves, or the personal and insurance data the pitch is built to harvest.", "category": "health-medical-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Predatory Journal Publishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/predatory-journal-publishing-scam", "summary": "Fake or sham open-access journals flatter researchers with solicitation emails, accept almost any manuscript, and charge article-processing fees while providing no genuine peer review — leaving authors out of pocket and their work stranded in a venue that damages their reputation.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Paper Mill & Ghostwritten Thesis Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/paper-mill-ghostwritten-thesis-scam", "summary": "Commercial \"paper mills\" sell ghostwritten essays, theses, fabricated research papers, and even authorship slots on manuscripts. Buyers risk plagiarised or recycled work, academic ruin if caught — and blackmail, because the mill keeps the receipts and knows exactly who paid.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Hijacked & Cloned Journal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/hijacked-journal-clone-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters build a counterfeit website for a real, respected academic journal — copying its exact title, ISSN, and branding — then collect submission and publication fees from authors who believe they are dealing with the genuine journal.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Peer Review & Citation Ring Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/education-student-scams/fake-peer-review-citation-ring-scam", "summary": "Fraud built on the machinery of scholarly credit: forged peer reviews written through fake reviewer identities, paid citation rings that inflate metrics, and bogus editorial-board or reviewer invitations that harvest fees and lend stolen credibility to sham venues.", "category": "education-student-scams", "riskLevel": "medium", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Merchant Cash Advance & Predatory Business Lending Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/merchant-cash-advance-predatory-lending-scam", "summary": "Predatory \"business funding\" outfits target cash-strapped small businesses with fast money priced in confusing factor rates, daily debits that strangle cash flow, undisclosed fees, and aggressive collection devices signed away in the fine print — plus upfront-fee brokers selling approvals that never come.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Business Grant & Loan Broker Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/business-scams/fake-business-grant-loan-broker-scam", "summary": "Scammers posing as government grant programmes, foundations, or loan brokers promise small businesses \"free money\" or guaranteed funding — then charge upfront fees for grants that never arrive, or harvest the business's identity and banking details for fraud committed in its name.", "category": "business-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Annuity & Pension Transfer Rollover Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/finance-scams/annuity-pension-transfer-rollover-scam", "summary": "High-pressure \"free pension review\" and rollover pitches steer savers into moving retirement funds out of sound plans and into unsuitable, high-commission, illiquid, or outright bogus products — a suitability con where the transfer itself is the trap, dressed as advice.", "category": "finance-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-30" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Financial Sextortion of Minors", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/online-extortion-scams/financial-sextortion-of-minors-scam", "summary": "A scammer posing as a friendly peer on social media or a gaming platform tricks a teenager — most often a boy — into sharing an intimate image, then immediately threatens to send it to friends and family unless money is paid. If this is happening to you: it is not your fault, do not pay, do not delete anything, and tell a trusted adult now.", "category": "online-extortion-scams", "riskLevel": "critical", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-06" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Honeypot Token (Unsellable Crypto) Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/honeypot-token-unsellable-crypto-scam", "summary": "A crypto token whose smart contract quietly lets you buy but blocks you from selling — for everyone except the insiders. The chart soars because no holder can take profit, and once enough victims are trapped the insiders drain the liquidity and vanish.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-06" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "Fake Crypto ETF Investment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/crypto-web3-scams/fake-crypto-etf-investment-scam", "summary": "Scammers ride real headlines about spot bitcoin and crypto ETFs, offering \"early access\", \"pre-listing allocations\", or \"tokenised ETF shares\" through cloned broker sites, ads, and messaging groups — and take deposits into fake platforms that never held any ETF at all.", "category": "crypto-web3-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-06" }, { "type": "scam_type", "title": "AI Companion App & Subscription Manipulation Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/ai-era-scams/ai-companion-subscription-manipulation-scam", "summary": "Fake and predatory \"AI girlfriend/boyfriend\" apps monetise loneliness twice over: counterfeit companion apps that phish logins and hide punishing subscription traps, and chatbots engineered to build emotional dependence and then steer users into payments, gifts, and crypto \"investments\".", "category": "ai-era-scams", "riskLevel": "high", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-06" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Thailand Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/thailand-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Thailand, plus how and where to report them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "UK Scams: Bank, Impersonation & Online Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/united-kingdom-scams", "summary": "The most common scams in the UK and how to report them via Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud), your bank, and 159.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "US Scams: IRS, Impersonation & Online Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/united-states-scams", "summary": "Top scams in the United States and how to report to the FTC, FBI IC3, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Australia Scams: Investment, Impersonation & Online Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/australia-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Australia and how to report them to Scamwatch, ReportCyber, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Dubai & UAE Scams: Online, Job & Property Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/dubai-uae-scams", "summary": "Common scams in the UAE and how to report them via the eCrime platform and Dubai Police.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Cambodia Scams: Scam Compounds & Online Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/cambodia-scams", "summary": "Scams associated with Cambodia, including organised 'scam compound' operations, and how to report.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "India Scams: Digital Arrest, UPI & Online Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/india-scams", "summary": "Common scams in India and how to report quickly via the 1930 helpline and cybercrime.gov.in.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Philippines Scams: Online, Job & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/philippines-scams", "summary": "Common scams in the Philippines and how to report to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Canada Scams: Fraud, Impersonation & Online Crime Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/canada-scams", "summary": "Common scams targeting Canadians and how to report them to the CAFC, your bank, and local police.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Ireland Scams: Bank, Online & Impersonation Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/ireland-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Ireland and how to report to An Garda Síochána, the CCPC, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "New Zealand Scams: Online, Investment & Impersonation Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/new-zealand-scams", "summary": "Common scams in New Zealand and how to report to CERT NZ, Netsafe, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Germany Scams: Online, Investment & Phishing Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/germany-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Germany and how to report to the BSI, state police, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "France Scams: Phishing, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/france-scams", "summary": "Common scams in France and how to report via cybermalveillance.gouv.fr, SignalConso, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Spain Scams: Online, Tourist & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/spain-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Spain and how to report to INCIBE, the Policía Nacional, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Singapore Scams: Job, Investment & Online Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/singapore-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Singapore and how to report via ScamShield, the SPF, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Malaysia Scams: Macau Scam, Investment & Online Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/malaysia-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Malaysia and how to report via PDRM, the NSRC hotline 997, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Nigeria Scams: Advance-Fee, Investment & Online Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/nigeria-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Nigeria and how to report to the EFCC, FCCPC, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "South Africa Scams: Banking, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/south-africa-scams", "summary": "Common scams in South Africa and how to report to SAPS, SAFPS, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Mexico Scams: Phone, Banking & Online Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/mexico-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Mexico and how to report to Condusef, the Policía Cibernética, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Japan Scams: Ore Ore, Investment & Online Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/japan-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Japan and how to report to the National Police Agency, NPA @police, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Italy Scams: Online, Tourist & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/italy-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Italy and how to report them via the Polizia Postale, AGCM, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Netherlands Scams: Online, Banking & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/netherlands-scams", "summary": "Common scams in the Netherlands and how to report to the politie, Fraudehelpdesk, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Sweden Scams: Online, Investment & Banking Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/sweden-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Sweden and how to report to the Swedish Police, Konsumentverket, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Poland Scams: Online, Banking & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/poland-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Poland and how to report to CERT Polska, the police, UOKiK, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Portugal Scams: Online, Tourist & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/portugal-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Portugal and how to report via the Cybercrime Office, PSP, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Switzerland Scams: Online, Investment & Phishing Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/switzerland-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Switzerland and how to report to the NCSC, cantonal police, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Indonesia Scams: Online, Job & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/indonesia-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Indonesia and how to report via Patroli Siber, the national police, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Vietnam Scams: Online, Job & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/vietnam-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Vietnam and how to report to the Ministry of Public Security and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "South Korea Scams: Voice Phishing, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/south-korea-scams", "summary": "Common scams in South Korea and how to report via the police ECRM portal, KISA 118, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Brazil Scams: PIX Fraud, Online & Investment Scam Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/brazil-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Brazil and how to report via SaferNet, consumidor.gov.br, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Argentina Scams: Virtual Scams, Banking & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/argentina-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Argentina and how to report via Ciberdelito, Defensa del Consumidor, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Turkey Scams: Online, Banking & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/turkey-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Turkey and how to report to the Cyber Crimes department, BTK, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Belgium Scams: Online, Banking & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/belgium-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Belgium and how to report them to the CCB, Belgian Federal Police, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Denmark Scams: Online, Banking & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/denmark-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Denmark and how to report them to the Danish Police, your bank, and the National Special Crime Unit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Norway Scams: Online, Banking & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/norway-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Norway and how to report them to the Norwegian Police, Forbrukertilsynet, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Austria Scams: Online, Banking & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/austria-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Austria and how to report them to the Bundeskriminalamt, police, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Greece Scams: Online, Tourist & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/greece-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Greece and how to report them to the Hellenic Police Cyber Crime Division, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Czechia Scams: Online, Banking & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/czechia-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Czechia and how to report them to the Czech Police, NÚKIB, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Romania Scams: Online, Banking & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/romania-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Romania and how to report them to DNSC, the Romanian Police, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Hong Kong Scams: Online, Investment & Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/hong-kong-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Hong Kong and how to report them to the HKPF, the ADCC hotline 18222, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Taiwan Scams: Anti-Fraud, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/taiwan-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Taiwan and how to report them via the 165 Anti-Fraud Hotline, NPA, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Saudi Arabia Scams: Online, Banking & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/saudi-arabia-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Saudi Arabia and how to report them via the National Portal, NCA, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Egypt Scams: Online, Banking & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/egypt-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Egypt and how to report them to EG-CERT, the Cybercrime Unit hotline 108, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Kenya Scams: Mobile Money, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/kenya-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Kenya and how to report them to KE-CIRT, the DCI, and your bank or M-Pesa provider.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Finland Scams: Online, Investment & Phishing Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/finland-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Finland and how to report them to the Finnish Police, KKV, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Israel Scams: Online, Investment & Impersonation Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/israel-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Israel and how to report them to the CERT-IL hotline 119, the Consumer Protection Authority, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Qatar Scams: Online, Job & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/qatar-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Qatar and how to report them to the NCSA, Ministry of Interior, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Colombia Scams: Online, Phone & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/colombia-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Colombia and how to report them to the Policía Nacional CAI Virtual, SIC, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Chile Scams: Online, Investment & Consumer Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/chile-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Chile and how to report them to CSIRT Nacional, SERNAC, the PDI, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Pakistan Scams: Online, Financial & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/pakistan-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Pakistan and how to report them to the NCCIA, FIA, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Bangladesh Scams: Online, Financial & Mobile Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/bangladesh-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting people in Bangladesh and how to report them via the CID Cyber Police Centre, DNCRP, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Sri Lanka Scams: Online, Financial & Tourist Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/sri-lanka-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Sri Lanka and how to report them via Sri Lanka CERT, the Consumer Affairs Authority, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Ukraine Scams: Online, Financial & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/ukraine-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Ukraine and how to report them to the Cyber Police, the State Consumer Service, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Hungary Scams: Online, Investment & Tourist Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/hungary-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Hungary and how to report them to the Hungarian Police, the Consumer Protection Authority, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Morocco Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/morocco-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Morocco and how to report them via the DGSN E-Blagh platform, the Ministry of Commerce, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Jordan Scams: Online, Tourist & Financial Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/jordan-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Jordan and how to report them to the Anti-Cybercrime Unit, the Public Security Directorate, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "China Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/china-scams", "summary": "Common scams targeting tourists and residents in China, including online fraud, investment schemes, and counterfeit goods, with guidance on reporting through official channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Peru Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/peru-scams", "summary": "Common scams targeting visitors and residents in Peru, from Machu Picchu tourist traps to online investment fraud, with official reporting channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Ghana Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/ghana-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Ghana including advance-fee fraud, romance schemes, and online investment fraud, with official reporting channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Iceland Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/iceland-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Iceland, including holiday rental fraud and online investment schemes, with official reporting channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Croatia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/croatia-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Croatia, from Dubrovnik overcharging to online investment fraud, with official reporting channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Estonia Scams: Online, Investment & Digital Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/estonia-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Estonia, one of Europe's most digitally advanced countries, from phishing and e-ID fraud to investment schemes, with official reporting channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Lithuania Scams: Online, Investment & Tourist Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/lithuania-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Lithuania from online banking phishing and investment fraud to tourist overcharging, with official reporting channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Bulgaria Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/bulgaria-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Bulgaria including Black Sea resort overcharging, online investment fraud and phishing, with official reporting channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Kuwait Scams: Online, Investment & Consumer Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/kuwait-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Kuwait including cyber fraud, fake payment links, investment schemes, and phone impersonation fraud, with official reporting channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Oman Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/oman-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Oman including cyber fraud, investment schemes, and tourist-area overcharging, with official reporting channels via the Royal Oman Police.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Nepal Scams: Tourist, Trekking & Online Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/nepal-scams", "summary": "Common scams targeting trekkers and tourists in Nepal, from Everest permit fraud to online job and investment scams, with official reporting channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Costa Rica Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/costa-rica-scams", "summary": "Common scams targeting tourists and residents in Costa Rica, from rental car damage claims to rapidly rising digital banking fraud, with official OIJ reporting channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Ecuador Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/ecuador-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Ecuador, plus how to report them through official channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Panama Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/panama-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Panama and how to report them to the National Police, the DIJ, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Guatemala Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/guatemala-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Guatemala and how to report them through official channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Dominican Republic Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/dominican-republic-scams", "summary": "Common scams in the Dominican Republic and how to report them to the National Police, CNCS, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Uruguay Scams: Online, Investment & Tourist Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/uruguay-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Uruguay and how to report them to the Ministry of Interior cybercrime unit and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Tanzania Scams: Tourist, Mobile Money & Online Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/tanzania-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Tanzania and how to report them to the Tanzania Police Force and your bank or mobile money provider.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Uganda Scams: Mobile Money, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/uganda-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Uganda and how to report them to the Uganda Police Force, CID Cybercrime Unit, and your mobile money provider.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Senegal Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/senegal-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Senegal and how to report them to the Police Nationale, gendarmerie, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Bahrain Scams: Online, Investment & Expat Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/bahrain-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Bahrain and how to report them to the NCSC, Police Media Center, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Lebanon Scams: Online, Financial & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/lebanon-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Lebanon and how to report them to the ISF Cybercrime Bureau and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Slovakia Scams: Online, Investment & Phishing Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/slovakia-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Slovakia and how to report them to the Slovak Police, CSIRT.SK, and the Slovak Trade Inspection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Slovenia Scams: Online, Tourist & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/slovenia-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Slovenia and how to report them to the Slovenian Police, consumer protection authorities, and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Latvia Scams: Online, Investment & Phishing Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/latvia-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Latvia and how to report them to the State Police, PTAC, and CERT.LV.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Myanmar Scams: Fraud Compounds, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/myanmar-scams", "summary": "Scams operating in and from Myanmar, including fraud compound operations, and how to protect yourself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Bolivia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/bolivia-scams", "summary": "Common scams targeting tourists and residents in Bolivia, with guidance on how to report fraud through official channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Paraguay Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/paraguay-scams", "summary": "A guide to scams in Paraguay, from street fraud targeting visitors to online investment and job scams, with official reporting steps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Venezuela Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/venezuela-scams", "summary": "A guide to scams affecting people in Venezuela, from street crime and currency fraud to online investment and romance scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Luxembourg Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/luxembourg-scams", "summary": "A guide to scams in Luxembourg, covering online fraud, investment scams and consumer protection resources.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Cyprus Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/cyprus-scams", "summary": "A guide to scams targeting tourists and residents in Cyprus, including online fraud and investment schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Malta Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/malta-scams", "summary": "A guide to scams in Malta, covering tourist fraud, online phishing and investment schemes with official reporting guidance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Serbia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/serbia-scams", "summary": "A guide to scams in Serbia covering tourist fraud, online phishing and investment schemes, with guidance on reporting to Serbian authorities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Georgia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/georgia-scams", "summary": "A guide to scams in Georgia (the Caucasus country), including tourist fraud, online phishing and investment schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Mongolia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/mongolia-scams", "summary": "A guide to scams in Mongolia, from tourist fraud in Ulaanbaatar to online investment and job scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Kazakhstan Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/kazakhstan-scams", "summary": "A guide to scams in Kazakhstan, from Almaty tourist fraud to online investment and telephone scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Laos Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/laos-scams", "summary": "Common scams targeting tourists and residents in Laos, with official reporting routes through LaoCERT and the national police.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Moldova Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/moldova-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting residents and visitors in Moldova, with reporting routes through cybercrime.mai.gov.md and the police.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Jamaica Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/jamaica-scams", "summary": "Common scams targeting tourists and residents in Jamaica, with official reporting routes through the Jamaica Constabulary Force.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Trinidad and Tobago Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/trinidad-and-tobago-scams", "summary": "Common scams in Trinidad and Tobago, with official reporting routes through TT-CSIRT and the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Honduras Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/honduras-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Honduras, with official reporting routes through the Policia Nacional.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "El Salvador Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/el-salvador-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in El Salvador, with official reporting routes through the PNC.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Belize Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/belize-scams", "summary": "Common scams targeting tourists and residents in Belize, with official reporting routes through the Belize Police Department.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Montenegro Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/montenegro-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Montenegro, with official reporting routes through the Ministry of Interior.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Albania Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/albania-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Albania, with official reporting routes through the Albanian State Police.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Botswana Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/botswana-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Botswana, with official reporting routes through the Botswana Police Service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Zimbabwe Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/zimbabwe-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Zimbabwe, with official reporting routes through the Zimbabwe Republic Police.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Zambia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/zambia-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Zambia, with official reporting routes through the Zambia Police Service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Rwanda Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/rwanda-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Rwanda, with official reporting routes through the Rwanda National Police and Rwanda Investigation Bureau.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Ethiopia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/ethiopia-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Ethiopia, with official reporting routes through the Ethiopian Federal Police and EthioCSIRT.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Mozambique Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/mozambique-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Mozambique, with official reporting routes through the PRM and the Attorney General fraud portal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Tunisia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/tunisia-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Tunisia, with official reporting routes through the Ministry of Interior.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Algeria Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/algeria-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Algeria, with official reporting routes through the Ministry of Interior.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Fiji Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/fiji-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Fiji, with official reporting routes through the Fiji Police Force.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Maldives Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/maldives-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in the Maldives, with official reporting routes through the Maldives Police Service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Uzbekistan Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/uzbekistan-scams", "summary": "Common scams affecting tourists and residents in Uzbekistan, with official reporting routes through the Ministry of Internal Affairs and UZCERT.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Afghanistan Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/afghanistan-scams", "summary": "Afghanistan's collapsed banking system, sanctions and lack of functioning consumer-protection institutions make hawala fraud, fake resettlement schemes and job scams the biggest risks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Andorra Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/andorra-scams", "summary": "Andorra's low-crime, high-wealth ski and shopping tourism economy attracts fake chalet rentals, duty-free retail fraud and investment schemes trading on its tax-haven reputation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Angola Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/angola-scams", "summary": "Angola's oil- and diamond-driven economy and growing mobile-money sector fuel resource-investment fraud, customs scams and mobile-money phishing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Antigua and Barbuda Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/antigua-and-barbuda-scams", "summary": "Antigua and Barbuda's tourism and Citizenship-by-Investment programme attract fake resort rentals, unaccredited citizenship agents and offshore investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Armenia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/armenia-scams", "summary": "Armenia's large global diaspora, growing IT/crypto sector and post-Soviet fraud patterns drive diaspora property scams, unlicensed trading platforms and job fraud tied to labor migration.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Azerbaijan Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/azerbaijan-scams", "summary": "Azerbaijan's oil-driven economy and mobile-banking growth fuel fake energy-sector investment pitches, mobile-payment phishing and job fraud targeting migrant workers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Bahamas Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/bahamas-scams", "summary": "As a major cruise and offshore-banking destination, the Bahamas sees timeshare pressure sales, fake excursion bookings and offshore investment schemes trading on its financial-center reputation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Barbados Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/barbados-scams", "summary": "Barbados' high-end tourism and Welcome Stamp remote-worker programme attract fake villa rentals, timeshare pressure sales and fraudulent visa-processing agents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Belarus Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/belarus-scams", "summary": "Belarus combines Soviet-legacy fraud patterns with newer online scams, including bank phishing, classifieds fraud and job schemes luring workers to Russia or Poland.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Benin Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/benin-scams", "summary": "Benin's CFA franc economy and mobile-money growth make advance-fee ('419-style') fraud, mobile-money phishing and fake customs demands the leading threats.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Bhutan Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/bhutan-scams", "summary": "Bhutan's tightly controlled, licensed-operator tourism model means the main risk is fake trekking bookings that bypass official channels, alongside limited online banking phishing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Bosnia and Herzegovina Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/bosnia-and-herzegovina-scams", "summary": "Bosnia and Herzegovina's Balkan tourism boom and diaspora property market attract fake rental listings, unlicensed 'war tour' guides and diaspora real-estate fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Brunei Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/brunei-scams", "summary": "Brunei's small, high-income, tightly regulated economy has low street-crime scam risk, but faces growing online investment fraud, bank-phishing and cross-border job-scam recruitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Burkina Faso Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/burkina-faso-scams", "summary": "Burkina Faso's security and economic challenges, alongside a growing mobile-money economy, drive advance-fee fraud, mobile-money phishing and gold-investment scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Burundi Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/burundi-scams", "summary": "Burundi's limited digital infrastructure and cash-based, coffee-export economy shape a scam landscape built around mobile-money phishing and diaspora-targeted advance-fee fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Cameroon Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/cameroon-scams", "summary": "Cameroon sees a mix of West/Central African advance-fee fraud, mobile-money scams and romance scams targeting foreigners online, alongside overcharging risks for tourists in Douala and Yaoundé.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Cape Verde Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/cape-verde-scams", "summary": "Cape Verde is generally low-risk for violent crime, but tourists face timeshare pressure, taxi overcharging and petty theft, while online users should watch for romance and rental-deposit scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Central African Republic Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/central-african-republic-scams", "summary": "The Central African Republic has serious security risks beyond financial scams, but visitors and online users should also be alert to checkpoint extortion, fake NGO/job schemes and mobile-money fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Chad Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/chad-scams", "summary": "Chad's scam risks are dominated by checkpoint extortion, fake job and visa schemes, and mobile-money fraud rather than tourist-targeted scams, given low visitor numbers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Comoros Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/comoros-scams", "summary": "Comoros sees mostly low-level tourist overcharging and boat-trip safety issues, alongside online romance and diaspora investment scams targeting Comorians abroad.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Congo Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/congo-scams", "summary": "The Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) sees checkpoint extortion, fake oil/timber business deals and mobile-money fraud, with tourist scams concentrated around Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Cuba Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/cuba-scams", "summary": "Cuba is generally safe from violent crime but well known for tourist-targeted scams like the 'jinetero' hustle, cigar and rum counterfeits, and currency exchange tricks, plus growing online romance and remittance fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Djibouti Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/djibouti-scams", "summary": "Djibouti's small tourism sector sees mostly taxi and guide overcharging, while its role as a shipping and military hub creates targeted fake freight, customs and job scams online.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Dominica Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/dominica-scams", "summary": "Dominica has low tourist-crime rates but has seen real-world fraud around its Citizenship by Investment program, alongside common Caribbean-wide romance and lottery scams online.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Equatorial Guinea Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/equatorial-guinea-scams", "summary": "Equatorial Guinea's oil-driven economy attracts fake business and investment scams targeting foreign investors, while visitors face strict visa/paperwork requirements exploited by fixers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Eritrea Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/eritrea-scams", "summary": "Eritrea's isolated, tightly controlled economy limits tourist-scam exposure but creates fertile ground for diaspora-targeted remittance fraud, fake exit-visa 'fixers' and online romance scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Eswatini Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/eswatini-scams", "summary": "Eswatini is a relatively safe tourist destination with occasional overcharging at markets and craft fairs, while online romance scams and Ponzi-style investment clubs pose the bigger financial risks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Gabon Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/gabon-scams", "summary": "Gabon's oil wealth and eco-tourism sector create both fake investment schemes targeting foreign businesspeople and overcharging risks for visitors to national parks like Loango.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Gambia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/gambia-scams", "summary": "The Gambia's beach-resort tourism economy sees persistent 'bumster' hustling and craft-market overcharging, alongside online romance scams targeting foreign visitors and diaspora members.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Grenada Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/grenada-scams", "summary": "Grenada is a low-crime Caribbean destination where the main risks are taxi and excursion overcharging plus Citizenship by Investment fraud from unauthorized agents and online lottery/romance scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Guinea Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/guinea-scams", "summary": "Guinea sees mining- and visa-related investment fraud, mobile money scams, and opportunistic tourist overcharging around Conakry and border crossings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Guinea-Bissau Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/guinea-bissau-scams", "summary": "Guinea-Bissau's limited banking infrastructure and cash economy make it a target for advance-fee, mobile money and cashew-trade investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Guyana Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/guyana-scams", "summary": "Guyana's oil-driven investment boom has brought a surge in fake oil-and-gas investment schemes alongside long-running lottery, romance and land-deal fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Haiti Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/haiti-scams", "summary": "Haiti's severe security and economic instability has fueled remittance fraud, fake NGO/charity schemes, and kidnapping-related extortion targeting families abroad.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Iran Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/iran-scams", "summary": "Sanctions and currency instability in Iran have driven widespread forex and crypto investment fraud, alongside carpet and bazaar overcharging aimed at tourists.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Iraq Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/iraq-scams", "summary": "Iraq's reconstruction-era economy has drawn fake oil, land and reconstruction investment schemes, alongside checkpoint and currency-exchange fraud affecting travelers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Ivory Coast Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/ivory-coast-scams", "summary": "Ivory Coast (Côte d'Ivoire) is a historical hub for advance-fee '419'-style fraud, with cocoa-trade investment scams and mobile money fraud also widespread today.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Kiribati Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/kiribati-scams", "summary": "Kiribati's small, dispersed population and limited banking access make remittance fraud and offshore lottery/inheritance scams the main risks, with tourist scams rare.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Kosovo Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/kosovo-scams", "summary": "Kosovo faces diaspora-targeted remittance and property fraud, online marketplace scams, and rising fake crypto/forex investment schemes among younger residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Kyrgyzstan Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/kyrgyzstan-scams", "summary": "Kyrgyzstan sees widespread mobile phone and card-skimming fraud, labor-migration recruitment scams targeting workers bound for Russia, and Bishkek bazaar overcharging.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Lesotho Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/lesotho-scams", "summary": "Lesotho's close economic ties to South Africa mean cross-border remittance fraud, fake mining/textile investment schemes, and mobile money scams dominate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Liberia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/liberia-scams", "summary": "Liberia sees fake mining and timber investment fraud, mobile money scams, and NGO-impersonation schemes, reflecting its post-conflict aid- and resource-driven economy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Libya Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/libya-scams", "summary": "Libya's fractured governance since 2011 has enabled fake oil-contract fraud, militia-linked extortion, and widespread currency and fuel black-market scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Liechtenstein Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/liechtenstein-scams", "summary": "Liechtenstein's status as a wealth-management and banking hub makes it a target for fake private-banking and shell-company investment fraud rather than street crime.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Madagascar Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/madagascar-scams", "summary": "Madagascar sees fake vanilla and gemstone export deals targeting foreign buyers, mobile money fraud, and tourist overcharging around Antananarivo and national parks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Malawi Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/malawi-scams", "summary": "Malawi sees mobile money fraud, safari and lodge booking scams, and online romance schemes targeting foreigners alongside NGO/volunteer placement fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Mali Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/mali-scams", "summary": "Mali's security situation limits tourism, but online romance fraud, fake gold/mining investment schemes and mobile money scams remain the main risks for residents and the diaspora.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Marshall Islands Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/marshall-islands-scams", "summary": "The Marshall Islands sees relatively few tourist scams due to low visitor numbers, but residents face online romance fraud, fake remittance schemes and offshore company/shell-corporation abuse tied to its corporate registry.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Mauritania Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/mauritania-scams", "summary": "Mauritania's small tourism sector centered on desert tours and Nouakchott sees guide and vehicle-rental scams, while mobile money fraud and fake iron-ore or fishing investment schemes target residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Mauritius Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/mauritius-scams", "summary": "Mauritius's large resort tourism industry sees timeshare and excursion scams, while its offshore financial center attracts forex and crypto investment fraud targeting both locals and international investors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Micronesia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/micronesia-scams", "summary": "The Federated States of Micronesia has minimal tourist scam activity given low visitor numbers, but residents and the diaspora face online romance fraud, phishing and remittance scams tied to close US ties.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Monaco Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/monaco-scams", "summary": "Monaco's wealthy, high-profile setting draws luxury rental fraud, fake casino/VIP ticket scams and sophisticated investment fraud targeting high-net-worth visitors and residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Namibia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/namibia-scams", "summary": "Namibia's self-drive safari tourism sees vehicle rental and fake accommodation scams, alongside mobile banking fraud and fake diamond or mining investment schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Nauru Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/nauru-scams", "summary": "Nauru has almost no organized tourist scam activity given minimal tourism, but residents face online romance fraud, phishing and remittance scams common across the Pacific.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Nicaragua Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/nicaragua-scams", "summary": "Nicaragua's growing tourism to Granada, Leon and the beaches sees taxi overcharging, fake property/real estate scams targeting expats, and online romance and investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Niger Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/niger-scams", "summary": "Niger's limited tourism combined with a challenging security environment means the main risks are mobile money fraud, fake gold/uranium investment schemes and job scams targeting the diaspora.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "North Korea Scams: Travel Risk & Cyber Threat Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/north-korea-scams", "summary": "North Korea is a unique case: independent tourism operates only through tightly state-controlled tour packages, and the country is also globally known as a state actor in cryptocurrency theft and cyber fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "North Macedonia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/north-macedonia-scams", "summary": "North Macedonia's Lake Ohrid tourism sees taxi and excursion overcharging, while the country has drawn international attention as a hub for online call-center and forex/crypto investment fraud operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Palau Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/palau-scams", "summary": "Palau's high-value dive tourism sees fake dive operator and liveaboard booking scams, while residents face phishing and romance fraud common across the Pacific.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Palestine Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/palestine-scams", "summary": "Palestinian territories see religious-tourism related overcharging in Bethlehem and Jerusalem-area sites, alongside online romance fraud, fake charity solicitation and remittance scams targeting the diaspora.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Papua New Guinea Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/papua-new-guinea-scams", "summary": "Papua New Guinea's scam risk centres on street-level cash scams in Port Moresby and Lae, mobile-money fraud, and online job/romance scams targeting the diaspora and NGO/resource-sector workers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Russia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/russia-scams", "summary": "Russia's scam landscape is dominated by phone-based 'bank security' and 'law enforcement' impersonation fraud, online marketplace scams, and investment schemes, with limited recourse for foreign victims given current diplomatic conditions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Saint Kitts and Nevis Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/saint-kitts-and-nevis-scams", "summary": "Saint Kitts and Nevis sees mostly low-level tourist overcharging and online scams, alongside scrutiny of its Citizenship-by-Investment programme, which has attracted fraudulent 'agent' schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Saint Lucia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/saint-lucia-scams", "summary": "Saint Lucia's main scam risks for visitors are taxi and vendor overcharging, timeshare pressure sales, and unlicensed excursion operators, alongside online romance and phishing scams affecting residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/saint-vincent-and-the-grenadines-scams", "summary": "Saint Vincent and the Grenadines sees mostly minor tourist overcharging around water taxis and yacht charters, plus online romance and phishing scams affecting residents and the yachting community.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Samoa Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/samoa-scams", "summary": "Samoa sees low levels of tourist-targeted fraud beyond taxi and tour overcharging, with a growing share of scam reports involving online romance and job-offer fraud aimed at Samoans and the diaspora.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "San Marino Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/san-marino-scams", "summary": "San Marino sees mostly minor tourist overcharging around its historic centre, alongside broader European-style online phishing and investment scams affecting residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Sao Tome and Principe Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/sao-tome-and-principe-scams", "summary": "Sao Tome and Principe sees low-level tourist overcharging around taxis and guides, and a small but growing exposure to online romance and job-offer fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Seychelles Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/seychelles-scams", "summary": "Seychelles' scam risk for visitors is mostly limited to taxi and excursion overcharging, while its status as a financial and offshore-company hub has drawn scrutiny for misuse in international investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Sierra Leone Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/sierra-leone-scams", "summary": "Sierra Leone's scam risk centres on mobile-money fraud, fake diamond/gold and mining investment deals, and online job and romance scams targeting locals and the diaspora.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Solomon Islands Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/solomon-islands-scams", "summary": "Solomon Islands sees low-level tourist overcharging around Honiara and dive sites, with a growing exposure to online job and romance scams targeting residents and NGO/resource-sector workers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Somalia Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/somalia-scams", "summary": "Somalia's fraud risk is dominated by mobile-money scams, fake remittance and diaspora-targeted fraud, and business/customs extortion, against a backdrop of limited formal banking and law enforcement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "South Sudan Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/south-sudan-scams", "summary": "South Sudan's fraud risk centres on mobile-money scams, fake NGO/aid-sector job offers, and fraudulent business, land and oil-related investment deals targeting foreign investors, against a backdrop of minimal formal financial and law-enforcement infrastructure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Sudan Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/sudan-scams", "summary": "Sudan's fraud landscape includes mobile-money and bank-transfer scams, fake gold-trade deals, and fraudulent business or remittance schemes, compounded by disruption to banking and law enforcement from ongoing conflict.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Suriname Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/suriname-scams", "summary": "Suriname's scam risk includes gold-mining investment fraud, taxi and tour overcharging in Paramaribo and the interior, and online phishing and romance scams affecting residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Syria Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/syria-scams", "summary": "Syria's ongoing conflict and reconstruction period have created fertile ground for fake aid, remittance and property fraud targeting both residents and the Syrian diaspora abroad.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Tajikistan Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/tajikistan-scams", "summary": "Tajikistan sees relatively low tourist crime but labor-migration fraud targeting workers heading to Russia is a major and well-documented risk for its citizens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Timor-Leste Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/timor-leste-scams", "summary": "Timor-Leste has low reported tourist crime but its cash-based, dollarized economy and limited digital-fraud infrastructure make online and remittance scams a growing concern.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Togo Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/togo-scams", "summary": "Togo has a long-standing association with West African advance-fee (419-style) internet fraud, alongside everyday tourist overcharging and taxi scams in Lomé.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Tonga Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/tonga-scams", "summary": "Tonga has very low crime overall, with the main scam risks being online fraud reaching Tongans through social media and remittance-related fraud affecting the large diaspora.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Turkmenistan Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/turkmenistan-scams", "summary": "Turkmenistan's tightly controlled economy and restricted internet mean tourist scams are rare, but currency exchange manipulation and visa/tour-booking fraud are notable risks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Tuvalu Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/tuvalu-scams", "summary": "Tuvalu has almost no in-person tourist crime given its tiny visitor numbers, but its distinctive '.tv' domain and offshore-registry history have made it a repeated backdrop for online and registration-related scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Vanuatu Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/vanuatu-scams", "summary": "Vanuatu is generally safe for tourists but has a well-documented history as a hub for offshore forex and investment fraud, plus a Citizenship-by-Investment program that has attracted its own scrutiny.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Vatican City Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/vatican-city-scams", "summary": "Vatican City itself has minimal resident-facing crime, but the huge tourist crowds around St. Peter's Square are a magnet for pickpocketing, fake-guide and ticket scams centered on the Vatican Museums.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Yemen Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/yemen-scams", "summary": "Yemen's ongoing civil war has virtually eliminated tourism and severely damaged its banking system, so scams there mainly target the Yemeni diaspora through fake aid, remittance and recruitment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Curaçao Scams: Online Gambling Licensing & Offshore Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/curacao-scams", "summary": "Curaçao is the world's most prolific online-gambling licensing jurisdiction, and its light-touch e-gaming regime has let countless rogue casinos and betting sites worldwide trade on a \"licensed in Curaçao\" seal that offers players little real protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Cayman Islands Scams: Offshore Fund Licensing & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/cayman-islands-scams", "summary": "The Cayman Islands is a leading offshore financial centre, and its prestige is routinely abused by scammers who claim a Cayman-registered fund, company or crypto venture to lend false credibility to bogus investments targeting victims worldwide.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "British Virgin Islands Scams: Shell-Company & Offshore Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/british-virgin-islands-scams", "summary": "The BVI is the world's leading offshore company-incorporation jurisdiction, and its main scam risk is global: fraudsters wield a \"BVI-registered company\" as a credibility prop for bogus investments, invoice fraud and money laundering.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Gibraltar Scams: Online Gambling, Crypto Licensing & Offshore Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/gibraltar-scams", "summary": "Gibraltar's role as a licensing hub for online gambling and crypto/DLT firms makes its regulated reputation a global target for operators who falsely claim Gibraltar authorization to appear trustworthy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Isle of Man Scams: Offshore Finance, E-Gaming & Crypto Licensing Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/isle-of-man-scams", "summary": "The Isle of Man's respected offshore finance, e-gaming and crypto regulation is routinely impersonated by scammers who claim to be \"Isle of Man licensed\" to lend credibility to funds, casinos and investment schemes targeting victims worldwide.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Macau Scams: Casino Gaming, Junket & Offshore Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/macau-scams", "summary": "Macau is the world's largest casino-gaming hub, and scams there cluster around gambling, illegal money-exchange and junket schemes, alongside telecom-impersonation fraud and cross-border laundering networks that abuse the territory's gaming credibility worldwide.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Bermuda Scams: Offshore Insurance, Fund & Crypto Licensing Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/bermuda-scams", "summary": "Bermuda is a leading offshore insurance, reinsurance and investment-fund domicile now active in digital-asset licensing, and scammers worldwide exploit its \"Bermuda-licensed\" reputation to make bogus insurers, funds and crypto firms look credible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Puerto Rico Scams: Act 60 Investor Incentives & Offshore Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/puerto-rico-scams", "summary": "Puerto Rico's Act 60 (formerly Acts 20/22) tax incentives have drawn crypto and wealth-relocation promoters, some fronting bogus investment and tax schemes, while its US ties expose residents to the full range of US-style impersonation and disaster fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "DR Congo Scams: Mineral, Mining & Advance-Fee Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/dr-congo-scams", "summary": "The Democratic Republic of the Congo — not Congo-Brazzaville — is a global source of mineral advance-fee and fake-investment fraud, from bogus gold, cobalt and coltan deals to fake NGO, asylum and diaspora-remittance schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Jersey Scams: Offshore Finance, Trust & Fund Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/jersey-scams", "summary": "Jersey is a leading offshore finance centre for funds, trusts and private wealth, and scammers worldwide abuse its \"Jersey-regulated\" reputation to make bogus investments look legitimate, alongside bank and police impersonation scams targeting residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Guernsey Scams: Offshore Fund, Fiduciary & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/guernsey-scams", "summary": "Guernsey is a respected British Crown Dependency and offshore finance centre for investment funds, insurance and fiduciary services, and scammers worldwide abuse its \"Guernsey-regulated\" reputation to make bogus funds and brokers look credible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Cook Islands Scams: Asset-Protection Trust & Offshore Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/cook-islands-scams", "summary": "The Cook Islands pioneered the modern asset-protection trust, and that reputation is abused by \"bulletproof wealth protection\" schemes, credibility-borrowing offshore companies, and secrecy exploited to shield fraud proceeds worldwide.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Anguilla Scams: .ai Domain, Offshore Company & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/anguilla-scams", "summary": "Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory whose .ai internet domain has become hugely valuable in the AI boom, and scammers now trade on that .ai association, alongside offshore company incorporation, to lend false credibility to fake AI startups, crypto ventures and bogus investments worldwide.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "country_guide", "title": "Turks and Caicos Islands Scams: Offshore Company, Real-Estate & Investment Fraud Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/countries/turks-and-caicos-scams", "summary": "The Turks and Caicos Islands is a British Overseas Territory and offshore finance and company-incorporation centre, and scammers worldwide exploit its \"TCI-registered\" and offshore-domicile credibility to make bogus investments and real-estate deals look legitimate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake DHL / Delivery Text Message Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-dhl-text-message-scam-examples", "summary": "This scam text impersonates a courier like DHL, claiming a parcel is stuck because of an unpaid customs charge, redelivery fee, or incomplete address, and includes a link to \"resolve\" it. The scammer isn't trying to deliver anything — they're after your card number, expiry, CVV, and billing address on a lookalike payment page, plus enough personal detail to commit further fraud. The lever is the small, plausible amount: a tiny fee feels easier to pay than to question. The single most important step is not tapping the link — check tracking directly through the courier's real app or website instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Booking / Hotel Message Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-booking-hotel-message-scam-examples", "summary": "This message impersonates a hotel or booking platform, warning that a card payment failed or needs \"re-verification,\" sometimes quoting a real reservation date or reference number to look convincing. The scammer wants your full card number, expiry, and CVV, plus any one-time banking code sent to confirm the \"update,\" which lets them make unauthorized charges or drain funds. It works by mixing genuine-looking booking details with manufactured urgency about losing your reservation. The most important step is to never enter payment details through a link in the message — log into the booking platform directly through its official app or site instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Police Call Scam Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-police-call-scam-script", "summary": "In this script, a caller claims to be a police officer, telling you that your identity, bank accounts, or a family member's safety is at risk, and that you must move your savings to a \"safe\" government-held account or hand cash to a courier for \"evidence protection.\" Real police never ask you to transfer money or hand over cash to verify your identity. The scammer relies on the authority of a badge and manufactured urgency to short-circuit your caution, often keeping you on the phone so you can't call anyone to check. The most important step is to hang up and call your local police department directly using a number you look up yourself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Crypto Investment WhatsApp Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-crypto-investment-whatsapp-script", "summary": "This script starts with a friendly stranger or \"mentor\" on WhatsApp who shares screenshots of trading profits and offers to teach you their strategy, gradually building trust before introducing a trading platform they control. The scammer's real goal is to get you depositing real money into a fake dashboard that shows invented gains, then to demand escalating \"tax,\" \"fee,\" or \"unlocking\" payments before you're ever allowed to withdraw. The lever is manufactured trust and greed built slowly over days or weeks, so the eventual money requests feel like a natural next step. The most important step is to never deposit funds into a platform introduced by someone you only know online.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Job Recruiter Telegram Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-job-recruiter-telegram-script", "summary": "An unsolicited message on Telegram offers an easy, flexible job — often \"product reviewing\" or \"app optimization\" — paying quickly for simple tasks, before directing you to a group or bot-run dashboard. Real employers do not recruit through random Telegram messages; the actual goal is to get you completing small paid tasks that build trust, then requiring you to deposit your own money to \"unlock\" larger commissions or withdraw earnings that never materialize. The lever is the appeal of easy income combined with early small payouts that feel like proof it works. The most important step is to never send money into a job platform to access your own earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Bank Fraud Department Call Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-bank-fraud-department-call-script", "summary": "A caller claims to be from your bank's fraud or security team, describing a suspicious transaction and asking you to confirm your identity by reading back a one-time code, moving money to a \"secure\" holding account, or verifying your card number. Banks never ask customers to read back a one-time passcode or transfer funds to protect an account — the scammer wants exactly that code or transfer, which gives them the ability to authorize real transactions on your account. The pressure comes from fear of losing money combined with the appearance of your bank already actively \"helping\" you. The single most important step is to hang up and call your bank using the number on your card or statement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake PayPal Payment Email Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-paypal-payment-email-script", "summary": "This email mimics a payment confirmation or invoice from a PayPal-style service, showing a large unexpected charge and a \"customer support\" phone number to dispute it. The scammer isn't after the fake charge itself — they want you to panic and either call the number, where they'll push you toward remote-access software or gift cards, or click through to a fake login page that steals your username and password. The lever is the shock of an unauthorized-looking payment triggering an immediate, unthinking reaction. The most important step is to check your actual account balance and transaction history by logging in directly through the official app or website, never through the email.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Marketplace Buyer Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-marketplace-buyer-script", "summary": "A \"buyer\" messages about an item you're selling on a marketplace, then insists on using an off-platform shipping or payment link instead of the platform's built-in checkout, claiming it's needed to \"arrange courier pickup\" or release payment. The scammer's real goal is to get you entering card or bank details on a fake payment page, or to trick you into paying a bogus \"shipping label\" or \"release fee\" yourself. The lever is impatience and the appeal of a quick, guaranteed sale outside the platform's usual process. The most important step is to keep every transaction inside the marketplace's own payment and messaging system and refuse any external link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Romance Emergency Message Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-romance-emergency-message-script", "summary": "In this script, someone you've been building an online relationship with — sometimes for weeks or months — suddenly messages that they're facing a medical emergency, stuck at customs, or in legal trouble, and need money urgently, often asking you to keep it secret from friends or family. The scammer is exploiting the emotional bond already built to bypass your normal skepticism, using urgency and secrecy so you send money before pausing to verify anything. The single most important step is to stop and contact someone you trust before sending any money, and to try to verify the person's identity independently of the messaging app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Tech Support Popup Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-tech-support-popup-script", "summary": "A full-screen browser popup claims your computer is infected with viruses, sometimes with fake system alarms or a countdown, and displays a \"Microsoft\" or antivirus support number to call. The popup itself is harmless and cannot detect real problems on your device — the scammer's actual goal is to frighten you into calling, then talking you into installing remote-access software so they can dig through personal files, harvest banking logins, or charge you for fake \"repairs.\" The lever is manufactured panic and time pressure. The most important step is to close the browser, or force-quit it, without calling the number or clicking anything on the popup.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Amazon Refund Call Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-amazon-refund-call-script", "summary": "A caller claims Amazon owes you a refund for a disputed or overcharged order and walks you through \"confirming\" the refund — which actually involves opening your online banking or installing remote-access software, or being told the refund was mistakenly too large and you must send back the difference via gift cards. The scammer's real goal is to gain access to your bank account or extract gift-card codes under the guise of fixing their own \"mistake.\" The lever is the appealing idea of receiving free money, which lowers your guard. The most important step is to never grant remote access to your device or buy gift cards during an unsolicited call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake IRS / Tax Authority Call Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-irs-tax-call-script", "summary": "A caller claims to represent a tax authority, stating you owe back taxes and threatening immediate arrest, license suspension, or asset seizure unless you pay right away, typically by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency. Real tax agencies do not demand instant payment by phone under threat of arrest, and initial contact about a genuine debt is normally made by mail. The scammer relies on fear of legal consequences to prevent you from pausing to check the claim. The single most important step is to hang up and contact the tax authority directly using a number from its official website.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Microsoft / Apple Support Popup & Call Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-microsoft-apple-support-popup-call-script", "summary": "A browser popup imitates an official Windows or macOS security alert, warning of viruses or a hacked account and providing a number to call for \"support.\" Calling connects you to a scammer who talks you into granting remote access to your device, then uses that access to poke through personal files, harvest banking logins, or charge you for a fake repair or unnecessary security subscription. The lever is a convincing visual disguise paired with urgency about an active threat. The most important step is to close the browser without calling the number, since neither Microsoft nor Apple send security warnings this way.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Cash App / Zelle Support DM Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-cash-app-zelle-support-dm-script", "summary": "A message on social media or a text claims to be \"support\" for a payment app, offering to help after you post about a payment issue or reaching out unsolicited, then asks you to share a login code, password, or send a small \"verification\" payment to unlock your account. Real payment app support never asks for your login code or password, since sharing it hands over full control of your account. The lever is the appearance of helpful, responsive customer service exactly when you're frustrated. The most important step is to never share a one-time code and to only get support through the app's official in-app help section.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Crypto Recovery DM Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-crypto-recovery-dm-script", "summary": "After someone has already lost money to a crypto scam, a \"recovery specialist\" or \"hacker\" contacts them claiming they can trace and retrieve the stolen funds for an upfront fee. This is almost always a second scam targeting the same victim, designed to extract further payments — sometimes escalating into a request for your wallet seed phrase, which would let them drain any remaining funds directly. The lever is desperation and hope after a genuine loss. The most important step is to never pay an upfront fee for crypto recovery and never share a seed phrase with anyone, regardless of their claimed credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake USPS / Customs Text Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-usps-customs-text-script", "summary": "A text impersonating a postal service or customs agency claims your package is held due to an unpaid customs charge or incomplete address, with a link to resolve it. The scammer wants your card number, expiry date, and CVV entered on a fake payment page, along with enough personal details to enable further fraud, and the small fee amount is designed to feel like a routine, low-stakes payment. It relies on the plausibility of an actual delivery in progress combined with a tiny dollar amount that discourages careful scrutiny. The most important step is to check any real delivery directly through the courier's official app or website rather than the link in the text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Utility Shut-Off Call Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-utility-shutoff-call-script", "summary": "A call or robocall claims to be from your electric, gas, or water company, warning that service will be disconnected within the hour unless an overdue balance is paid immediately by gift card, prepaid card, or wire transfer. The scammer is exploiting fear of losing an essential utility to rush a payment before you have time to check your actual account, and the demand for gift cards or wire transfer — payment methods real utility companies never require — is the key giveaway. The most important step is to hang up and check your account balance directly through the utility's official app, website, or a number from a past bill.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Grandparent Emergency Call Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/grandparent-emergency-call-script", "summary": "A caller pretends to be a grandchild in trouble — often citing a car accident, arrest, or medical emergency — sometimes handing the phone to a second scammer posing as a lawyer or police officer, and asks for bail money or emergency funds sent quickly and secretly, often via cash courier or wire transfer. The scammer exploits a grandparent's love and instinct to protect family, combined with secrecy and urgency that prevents verification. The single most important step is to hang up and call the grandchild — or another family member — directly using a number you already have, not one given by the caller.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Sextortion Email Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/sextortion-email-script", "summary": "An email claims the sender hacked your webcam and recorded compromising footage while you visited an adult website, often including an old password of yours as \"proof,\" and threatens to send the footage to your contacts unless you pay in cryptocurrency within a deadline. In the vast majority of cases, no such recording exists — the password shown was taken from an old, unrelated data breach, not from live access to your device. The scammer relies on shame and fear of exposure to make you pay quickly without telling anyone. The most important step is to not pay, not reply, and change the password shown if you still use it anywhere.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Invoice Email (Business) Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-invoice-email-business-script", "summary": "This email targets a business, impersonating a known supplier or an internal executive, and either requests urgent payment of an \"invoice\" to a new bank account or instructs finance staff to make a confidential wire transfer immediately, often citing time pressure like a closing deal. The scammer's goal is to redirect a legitimate-looking business payment into an account they control, exploiting trust in existing supplier relationships or workplace hierarchy to bypass normal verification. The most important step is to verify any bank detail change or unusual payment request by phone, using a number you already have on file — never one provided in the email itself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Bank OTP Request Text Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-bank-otp-request-text-script", "summary": "A text or accompanying call claims there's suspicious activity on your account and asks you to reply with, or read back, a one-time code your bank just sent — but that code is actually being used in real time by the scammer to authorize a transaction, log into your account, or add a new payee. The lever is presenting the code request as a security step to protect you, when it's actually the mechanism that hands over control. The single most important thing is to never share a one-time code with anyone, including someone claiming to be your bank, since your bank never needs you to read one back.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Job Task-Platform Message Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-job-task-platform-message-script", "summary": "An unsolicited message offers flexible, well-paid \"micro-task\" work such as rating products or \"optimizing\" app listings, directing you to register on a dashboard that tracks a growing balance for each completed task. Real remote work does not require you to fund your own account, but this dashboard is built entirely by the scammer, and once your balance looks substantial, withdrawal is blocked until you deposit money to complete \"combo tasks\" or unlock the funds — deposits that keep escalating and are never returned. The lever is a visible, growing number that feels like real earned money. The most important step is to never deposit your own money into a job platform to access earnings you supposedly already made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Lottery Win Letter Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-lottery-win-letter-script", "summary": "A letter, email, or text announces that you've won a large lottery or sweepstakes prize — often one you don't recall entering — and asks for an upfront \"processing fee,\" \"tax,\" or \"insurance\" payment before the winnings can be released. No legitimate lottery requires a winner to pay money upfront to receive a prize; taxes, if any, are normally deducted from the winnings themselves. The lever is excitement over unexpected good fortune, which the scammer escalates into a series of fees once the first is paid, always with a new prize-sized amount just out of reach. The most important step is to never send money to claim a prize, no matter how official the paperwork looks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Landlord Rental Listing Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-landlord-rental-listing-script", "summary": "A rental listing — often using photos and details copied from a real, legitimate property — advertises an attractively low price and is posted by someone claiming to be the owner or their agent, who is unavailable to show the unit in person due to being \"out of the country\" or similar. The scammer's goal is to collect a security deposit or first month's rent from multiple prospective tenants for a property they don't own or that isn't actually available, then disappear before anyone discovers the listing was fraudulent. The lever is a below-market price combined with a plausible reason viewing isn't possible. The most important step is to never send a deposit for a property you have not viewed in person or verified through a licensed agent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Delivery 'Address Confirmation' Text Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-delivery-address-confirmation-text-script", "summary": "A text impersonating a courier claims a delivery failed because of an address problem and links to a page asking you to \"confirm\" your address and pay a small redelivery fee. The scammer's actual target is your card number, expiry, CVV, and address details entered on a convincing fake payment page, which can then be used for fraud, plus a small fee collected across a huge number of recipients. It works because a delivery problem is a common, believable everyday event, and the tiny fee feels too small to be worth questioning. The most important step is to check any real delivery status directly through the courier's official app or website rather than the link in the text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Unpaid Toll Text Scam Script (E-ZPass Style)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-unpaid-toll-text-scam-script", "summary": "A text impersonating a toll road or bridge authority claims you have a small unpaid toll balance and warns of late fees, a suspended license, or a referral to collections unless you pay immediately through a link. The scammer wants your card details entered on a fake payment page, and deliberately keeps the claimed amount small so it feels easier to just pay than to investigate, while the threatened penalty feels disproportionately large and urgent. The most important step is to check any real toll account directly through the toll authority's official app or website rather than the link in the text, since toll agencies generally don't threaten immediate license suspension by text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake DMV Licence Renewal Text Scam Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-dmv-license-text-scam-script", "summary": "A text posing as a motor vehicle department warns that your driver's license or vehicle registration is about to expire or has an outstanding fee, with a link to renew or pay immediately. The scammer is exploiting the routine, expected nature of license and registration renewals to lower your guard, then capturing your card number, expiry, and personal details on a fake payment page — sometimes charging a slightly inflated amount on top. The most important step is to renew or check your license and registration status only through your state or region's official motor vehicle website or in-person office, never through a link in a text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Crypto Exchange Support DM Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-crypto-exchange-support-dm-script", "summary": "After you post publicly about a wallet or account issue, an unsolicited \"support agent\" contacts you by DM claiming they can help, then asks for your wallet seed phrase, private key, or remote screen-sharing access to \"diagnose\" the problem. No legitimate exchange or wallet support ever needs your seed phrase or private key, since sharing either gives complete and irreversible control over your wallet's contents to whoever holds it. The lever is genuine frustration with a real technical problem meeting an apparently responsive helper. The most important step is to never share a seed phrase or private key with anyone and to only seek support through the platform's official, verified channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Amazon Order Confirmation Robocall Script ('Press 1 to Dispute')", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-amazon-order-confirmation-press-1-call-script", "summary": "A robocall states that a large, unfamiliar order has just been placed on your Amazon account and instructs you to press a number if you didn't authorize it, connecting you to a live scammer posing as Amazon support. That scammer then works to harvest your Amazon login credentials, banking information, or gift-card codes, sometimes escalating into a remote-access session on the same call. The lever is alarm at an unauthorized-looking large charge prompting an immediate, unthinking reaction. The most important step is to hang up and check your actual order history by logging into Amazon directly through the official app or website.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Norton / Geek Squad Renewal Email Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-norton-geek-squad-renewal-email-script", "summary": "An email impersonating a security software or tech-support brand claims your subscription has automatically renewed for a large, unexpected amount and provides a phone number to call for a refund or cancellation. Calling connects you to a scammer who extracts remote access to your device under the guise of processing the refund, or claims the refund was accidentally sent too high and asks you to send back the difference via gift cards. The lever is alarm over a large surprise charge prompting an immediate call rather than checking your actual account first. The most important step is to verify any real subscription and charge by logging into your account or checking your card statement directly, not by calling the number in the email.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Court Summons Email Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-court-summons-email-script", "summary": "This phishing email mimics an official notice from a court or law enforcement agency, claiming you've been summoned or face arrest, a fine, or a default judgment. Urgent legal language and a tight deadline are meant to unsettle you before you think it through. The scammer wants you to click a malicious link, open an attachment, or call a number and pay by gift card or wire transfer. Real courts never demand instant payment by phone. The most important step is to verify independently — contact the court using a number you look up yourself, never one from the email.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Immigration / Visa Enforcement Call Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-immigration-visa-enforcement-call-script", "summary": "This scam is a phone call or robocall from someone impersonating immigration or visa enforcement, claiming a problem with your status or Social Security number and threatening deportation or arrest unless you act immediately. It preys on fear of losing legal status, especially among immigrants or anyone with an open case, pushing you to pay a fee or share identity details on the spot rather than pause to verify. Real immigration agencies don't resolve cases or demand payment over a surprise call. The most important step is to hang up and contact the agency directly using its official number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake CEO Urgent Wire Transfer Email Script (BEC)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-ceo-urgent-wire-email-script", "summary": "This business email compromise scam impersonates a company executive, often supposedly travelling or unreachable, and emails an employee — usually in finance — requesting an urgent, confidential wire transfer. It leans on hierarchy and secrecy: flattering the target's trust, stressing time pressure, and discouraging verification through normal channels. The scammer's goal is to get money moved to an account they control before anyone questions the request. The single most important action is to always verify unusual payment requests through a separate, known channel — a phone call to the executive's real number — before sending any funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake LinkedIn Recruiter Message Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-linkedin-recruiter-message-script", "summary": "This scam message poses as a recruiter on a professional network, offering an attractive remote job with flexible hours or high pay to draw you into conversation. Once engaged, the scammer asks for personal information for a 'background check,' requests an upfront equipment fee, or steers you toward a task-based or investment platform. It exploits job-seekers' hope and the credibility a polished profile lends. The real goal is to harvest identity information or extract payments never reimbursed. The most important step is to never pay to get a job and verify the company independently first.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Subscription Auto-Renewal Text Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-subscription-auto-renewal-text-script", "summary": "This text message claims a subscription has automatically renewed for a substantial fee and offers a link or number to cancel and get a refund. It creates alarm about an unexpected charge, pushing you to act fast without checking your account or bank statement first. Clicking the link leads to a fake payment or login page designed to steal card details, while calling connects you to a scammer posing as support who may ask for remote device access. The most important step is to check the subscription through the official app, not the text's link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake 'Your Account Is Locked' Bank Email Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-account-locked-bank-email-script", "summary": "This phishing email impersonates your bank, claiming your account has been locked due to suspicious activity and urging you to click a link to verify your identity and restore access. The fake login page looks identical to your real bank's site, capturing your username, password, and sometimes a one-time code as you type. The scammer's goal is full access to your online banking to drain funds or add unauthorized payees, achieved by triggering fear of losing access. The most important step is never to log in through an email link; go directly to your bank's app instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Survey / Prize SMS Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-survey-prize-sms-script", "summary": "This text message congratulates you on winning a prize or being selected for a paid survey reward, then links to a page asking for a small payment to cover shipping on a 'free' gift. The tiny fee feels harmless next to the promised prize, lowering your guard while the payment page actually captures your full card number, expiry date, and security code, and sometimes enrolls you in a recurring charge. No prize ever arrives. The most important thing to remember is that legitimate prizes never require payment to claim a reward; treat any such request as a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake QR Code Parking Payment Sticker Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-qr-parking-payment-sticker-script", "summary": "This scam involves a fraudulent QR code sticker placed over or beside a legitimate parking sign or meter, so scanning it takes you to a convincing fake payment page instead of the real municipal or operator system. Some variants arrive as a text with a similar link. The scammer relies on the routine, low-attention nature of paying for parking to get you to enter full card details, number, expiry, and security code, without a second thought. The most important step is to check for signs of tampering and pay through the official app instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake 'Package Undeliverable' Email Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-package-undeliverable-email-script", "summary": "This phishing email impersonates a courier or postal service, claiming a package could not be delivered and asking you to confirm your address or pay a small redelivery fee through a link. Because so many people are expecting deliveries at any time, the scenario feels plausible and the fee seems too small to worry about, which is exactly the point. It lowers your guard while a fake payment page harvests your card details and address; some emails also carry malicious attachments. The most important step is to check delivery status only through the courier's official app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Zelle / Cash App 'Accidental Payment' Reversal Scam Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/zelle-cash-app-accidental-payment-reversal-script", "summary": "In this scam, someone sends you a small payment through Zelle, Cash App, or a similar service, then messages claiming it was sent by mistake and asks you to send it back, often through a different app. The transfer is typically made with a stolen card, hacked account, or fraudulent funding source, so it later gets reversed or fails, leaving you having sent real money out of your own balance for nothing. The scammer exploits your instinct to be helpful. The most important step is to verify the original payment has genuinely settled before sending anything back.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "IRS / HMRC Tax-Arrest Threat Call Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/irs-hmrc-tax-arrest-threat-call-script", "summary": "This scam call impersonates a tax authority such as the IRS or HMRC, claiming you owe unpaid taxes and face immediate arrest or legal action unless you pay right away, typically demanding gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency. It manufactures panic through legal-sounding threats and a countdown to prevent you from thinking clearly or calling anyone else to check. Real tax authorities never demand instant phone payment in these forms and always provide written notice with an appeals process first. The most important step is to hang up and contact the tax authority using its official published phone number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Microsoft / Apple Tech-Support Popup Scam Call Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/microsoft-apple-tech-support-popup-call-script-v2", "summary": "This scam starts with a full-screen browser popup or a loud audio alarm claiming your device is infected and instructing you to call a toll-free 'support' number immediately. The urgency and technical-sounding warning are designed to override your judgment before you simply close the browser or restart your device, which usually resolves the popup. On the call, a fake technician tries to charge for unnecessary 'repairs' and often requests remote access, which they use to poke around for banking details and files. The most important step is to close the browser or restart your device without calling.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Crypto Wallet Recovery DM Scam Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/crypto-wallet-recovery-dm-script", "summary": "After someone posts publicly about losing money to a crypto scam or a lost wallet, a second scammer messages them directly claiming to be a professional recovery expert who can retrieve the funds. This targets people already emotionally invested and desperate to recoup a loss, making them more willing to pay upfront 'recovery fees' or share sensitive wallet information. In reality no legitimate recovery service asks for your seed phrase, and any fee paid upfront simply disappears with the 'expert.' The most important step is to never share a seed phrase and stay skeptical of unsolicited recovery offers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Package Customs Fee Text Scam Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/package-customs-fee-text-scam-script", "summary": "This text message claims to be from customs or a postal service, stating a parcel is held and a small fee is required to release it for delivery. The small amount is intentional; it feels too minor to question, especially if you're expecting a delivery around that time, but the link leads to a fake payment page that captures your full card number, expiry date, and security code rather than processing a genuine customs charge. The message often adds urgency about the parcel being returned. The most important step is to check any charge through the postal service's official app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Utility Shut-Off Threat Call Scam Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/utility-shutoff-threat-call-script", "summary": "This scam call impersonates an energy or water company, claiming your service will be disconnected within minutes unless you make an immediate payment, usually by gift card or wire transfer. The extremely short deadline is designed to prevent you from hanging up to check your actual account balance or call the utility back through a verified number. Real utility companies send multiple written notices before any disconnection and never demand payment through gift cards. The most important step is to hang up and call your utility provider directly using the number on a past bill to confirm your account status.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Grandparent / Family Emergency Scam Call Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/grandparent-family-emergency-call-script", "summary": "In this scam, a caller pretends to be a distressed grandchild, or someone claiming to represent them such as a lawyer or officer, reporting a sudden emergency, an arrest, accident, or hospital stay, and pleading for urgent cash, often asking you to keep it secret from other family. The manufactured panic and appeal to protecting a loved one are designed to short-circuit careful thinking before you can verify the story elsewhere. The most important step is to pause and independently contact the grandchild or another family member directly, using a number you already have, before sending money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Sextortion Threat Email Scam Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/sextortion-threat-email-script", "summary": "This email claims the sender has secretly recorded you through your webcam while viewing adult content and threatens to send the footage to your contacts unless you pay a ransom in cryptocurrency, often within a tight deadline. To appear credible, the message may include an old password of yours pulled from a previous data breach. In reality, the scammer almost never has any actual footage; they're relying on shame and fear to make you pay quietly without telling anyone. The most important step is to not pay, not reply, and recognize a leaked password is not proof of a hack.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Amazon 'Suspicious Order' Refund Call Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/amazon-suspicious-order-refund-call-script", "summary": "This scam call impersonates Amazon customer service, claiming a large fraudulent purchase has been made on your account and offering to help you get a refund. The 'agent' walks you through steps that actually involve opening your banking app, buying gift cards, or granting remote computer access, framed as necessary for the refund but really designed to move your real money to the scammer while you follow along, believing you're being protected. The false urgency and technical instruction keep you from noticing what's happening. The most important step is to hang up and check your order history independently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Invoice Business Email Scam Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-invoice-business-email-scam-script", "summary": "This scam email impersonates a known supplier or service provider your business regularly pays, sending a convincing invoice that includes changed bank account details, often referencing real project or order information to appear legitimate. It targets accounts-payable staff who process routine payments and may not think to double-check bank details that look plausible. The scammer's goal is to redirect a legitimate business payment, sometimes substantial, into an account they control before the real supplier notices it hasn't been paid. The most important step is to verify any bank detail change by phone, using a number already on file.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Bank 'Fraud Department' Safe-Account Transfer Call Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/bank-fraud-safe-account-transfer-call-script", "summary": "This scam call impersonates your bank's fraud or security department, claiming your account has been compromised and that you need to urgently move your money into a 'safe account' to protect it. The caller sounds authoritative, sometimes citing recent transactions to seem credible, creating fear that your savings are at immediate risk if you don't act now. In reality the 'safe account' belongs to the scammer, and once you transfer your money it is gone. The most important step is to hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your card, never one from the call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Job Task-Scam Onboarding Chat Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/job-task-scam-onboarding-chat-script", "summary": "This scam recruits victims for simple remote work, such as rating products or boosting social media content, through a chat platform. After a few small, genuinely paid tasks build trust, the scam introduces 'combo' tasks requiring the victim to deposit their own money to unlock a larger commission or continue the sequence. Fabricated dashboard balances make it look like large earnings are accumulating and just out of reach, encouraging bigger deposits to recover what's already 'invested.' The most important step is to stop and withdraw as soon as a task asks you to pay your own money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Romance 'Investment Tip' Message Scam Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/romance-investment-tip-message-scam-script", "summary": "After weeks of building an online relationship and emotional trust, this scam has the 'partner' casually mention a crypto or trading platform generating remarkable returns, encouraging the victim to try a small investment. As initial 'profits' appear to grow on a fake dashboard, encouragement to deposit more escalates, using the relationship's intimacy and apparent shared future to override normal financial caution. When the victim eventually tries to withdraw, they meet endless fees, taxes, or excuses, and the money is gone. The most important step is to research any investment platform independently and never invest on advice from an online-only contact.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Lottery / Prize-Win Notification Scam Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/lottery-prize-win-notification-scam-script", "summary": "This message claims you've won a large lottery or prize draw you never entered, whether by email, text, or letter, and asks for upfront payment described as taxes, administrative charges, notary fees, or insurance before the winnings can be released. The promise of a life-changing windfall is designed to override the obvious question of why you'd need to pay to receive money you've won. Each fee paid typically leads to a request for another, since no lottery or prize actually exists. The most important thing to remember is that legitimate prizes never require any fee upfront.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "QR Code Parking / Payment Scam Script", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/qr-code-parking-payment-scam-script", "summary": "This scam combines fake QR code stickers placed over legitimate parking payment signs with text messages sent directly to drivers, both leading to a convincing but fraudulent parking payment page. The urgency of an approaching fine encourages you to enter payment details quickly without checking whether the page belongs to the real parking operator. Rather than paying for parking, you hand over your full card number, expiry date, security code, and billing details directly to a scammer. The most important step is to pay through the official parking app or a trusted number, not by scanning a code on-site.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Bank OTP / One-Time-Code Phone Call Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/bank-otp-one-time-code-phone-call-script", "summary": "This scam call impersonates your bank, claiming your account is under threat from fraud and asking you to read back a one-time passcode your real bank has just sent by text, supposedly to 'verify your identity' or 'cancel' a fraudulent transaction. In reality, sharing that code is what lets the scammer complete their own login or transaction on your account. The caller keeps you on the phone and distracted with urgent, technical language so you don't stop to think about why your bank would need a code you already received. Never share a one-time passcode with anyone, including your 'bank.'", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "PayPal / Venmo 'You've Been Paid' Reversal Scam Message Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/paypal-venmo-overpayment-reversal-message-script", "summary": "This scam sends a fake 'payment received' notification, often for more than an agreed amount for goods or services you're selling, then the scammer claims they overpaid by mistake and asks you to refund the difference, sometimes through a different, harder-to-reverse method like gift cards. The notification is usually forged, or the underlying payment is fraudulent and will later be reversed, leaving you having sent real money for a payment that never actually existed. The urgency to 'fix the mistake' quickly prevents you checking your real balance. The most important step is to confirm the payment has genuinely settled first.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Social Media 'Your Account Will Be Deleted' Verification DM Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/social-media-account-deletion-verification-dm-script", "summary": "This direct message impersonates a platform's support team, claiming your account violates guidelines and will be permanently deleted unless you verify your identity immediately through a linked page. The fear of losing an account, photos, contacts, or a business presence built over years pushes people to act fast without scrutinizing the link. The page is a convincing fake login screen that captures your username and password as you type, handing the scammer full control of your account, which they may use to scam your contacts. The most important step is to check your account status only through the official app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Romance Scam Crisis / Emergency Message Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/romance-scam-crisis-emergency-message-script", "summary": "After weeks or months of an online relationship, the scammer suddenly introduces a crisis, a medical emergency, arrest, stranded travel, or accident, and urgently pleads for money to resolve it, often followed by further 'emergencies' if the first request succeeds. The manufactured distress and guilt are calibrated to exploit the emotional bond already built, making it feel unkind to hesitate or ask questions. Because the relationship exists only online and the person has likely never been met in person, verifying the crisis independently is usually impossible. Get a trusted friend or family member's outside perspective before sending any money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Charity / Disaster Donation Appeal Text Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/charity-disaster-donation-appeal-text-script", "summary": "This text message impersonates a charity or emergency relief fund following a major disaster, appearing quickly to capture the wave of public generosity in the aftermath, and directs recipients to a link to donate. The link leads to a convincing but fake donation page that captures card details without the money ever reaching genuine relief efforts. The emotional urgency of the disaster and the desire to help discourage people from pausing to verify the charity first. The most important step is to donate only through a charity's official website, typed directly into your browser, not a link from a text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Energy Bill Refund Text Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/energy-bill-refund-text-script", "summary": "This text message impersonates your energy supplier, claiming you're owed a refund for overpayment or a billing error and directing you to a link to enter your bank details to receive it. The prospect of unexpected free money makes people less cautious about the information they hand over, but the site is a fake collection page designed to capture your bank account, sort code, name, and sometimes online banking login details. The scammer then uses these to drain your account or commit wider identity fraud. The most important step is to check your account through the supplier's official app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Student Loan Forgiveness Phone Call Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/student-loan-forgiveness-call-script", "summary": "A caller says they can wipe out or fast-track forgiveness of your student loan through a special government programme, but only if you act now and pay an upfront processing or application fee, or hand over your Social Security or National Insurance number and loan login. Genuine forgiveness programmes never charge a fee and never require an inbound call to enrol. The scammer's real goal is your fee payment and enough personal data to open credit or hijack your loan servicing. The most important step is to hang up and contact your loan servicer directly using the number on your statement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Car Warranty Robocall Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/car-warranty-robocall-script", "summary": "An automated final-notice call warns your vehicle's warranty is about to expire and offers to transfer you to an agent selling extended coverage. There is usually no real connection to your car maker or dealer — the caller doesn't even know what vehicle you drive. The scammer wants your card number to either charge you for a policy that pays out little or nothing, or to set up recurring charges deliberately made hard to cancel. The single most important step is to hang up without pressing any button and never provide payment details to an unsolicited robocall.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "WhatsApp 'Hi Mum / Hi Dad' Family Impersonation Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/whatsapp-hi-mum-dad-family-impersonation-script", "summary": "A message arrives claiming to be from your child or close relative texting from a new number after losing or breaking their phone. After friendly back-and-forth to build trust, they suddenly need money urgently — for a broken phone, bail, or an emergency bill — and ask you to transfer it right away. The lever is a parent's or relative's instinct to help family in crisis without stopping to question the story. The scammer wants a fast bank transfer before you can verify the sender's identity. Always call the family member back on their known number before sending anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Jury Duty Warrant Threat Call Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/jury-duty-warrant-threat-call-script", "summary": "A caller claiming to be a court clerk, sheriff, or police officer says you missed jury duty and a warrant is out for your arrest, cancellable only by paying a fine immediately over the phone, often via gift cards or wire transfer. Real courts do not collect fines by phone and never demand gift cards. The scammer's goal is to use fear of arrest to rush you into paying before you can think it through or verify the claim. The most important step is to hang up and call your local courthouse directly using a number you look up yourself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Toll Road Unpaid Fee Text Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/toll-road-unpaid-fee-text-scam-script", "summary": "A text claiming to be from a toll road authority says you have an outstanding toll balance and must pay a small fee immediately to avoid late penalties, with a link to a payment page. The page is a convincing fake designed to capture your card number, expiry date, and security code. The small dollar amount and tight deadline make paying feel easier than questioning it. The scammer's real goal is your full card details for fraudulent charges. Never tap the link — instead check your toll account directly through the official app or website you already use.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Streaming Service Payment Failure Email Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/streaming-service-payment-failure-email-scam-script", "summary": "An email designed to look like it's from a major streaming platform claims your latest payment failed and your account will be suspended unless you update your billing information through a link. The link leads to a fake login and payment page built to capture both your account password and your card details in one step. The urgency around losing access to shows or a subscription is the hook. The scammer wants reusable credentials and a live card number. Do not click the link — log in to your streaming account directly through the app or by typing the website address yourself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Crypto Exchange 'Withdrawal Locked' Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/crypto-exchange-withdrawal-locked-scam-script", "summary": "A message impersonating a cryptocurrency exchange claims a large withdrawal or balance is locked and can only be released after you pay a verification fee, tax, or unlocking charge. This targets the hope of accessing money that feels almost within reach, making a smaller upfront payment seem worth the risk. In reality there is no locked balance — the fee itself is the entire scam, and paying it invites requests for further fees. The scammer's goal is repeated upfront payments. The right move is to stop all contact and never send money to unlock funds you did not deposit yourself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Puppy / Pet Deposit Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/puppy-pet-deposit-scam-script", "summary": "A listing or message offers an appealing purebred puppy or kitten at a reasonable price, complete with photos and a friendly seller who asks for a deposit to hold the pet or cover shipping before you can see it in person. The animal, and often the seller, do not exist — the photos are typically reused across many fake listings. The emotional pull of an eager, needy animal encourages quick payment. The scammer's goal is the deposit and any follow-up fees for fake insurance or crates. Never pay for a pet you have not met or verified in person.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Marketplace 'Send Zelle Deposit' Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/marketplace-zelle-deposit-scam-script", "summary": "A buyer or seller contacted through a local marketplace group or app insists on securing a deal by sending a Zelle payment upfront, before you meet, view the item, or hand anything over, often citing a long line of interested buyers to create urgency. Because Zelle transfers move instantly and have no buyer protection, once the money is sent it is essentially gone if the deal turns out to be fake. The scammer wants a fast, irreversible deposit. Insist on meeting in person and exchanging item and payment together, and avoid instant-transfer apps for any deposit before you have the item in hand.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Antivirus Subscription Renewal Email Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-antivirus-subscription-renewal-email-scam-script", "summary": "An email formatted like an official receipt claims a large charge for antivirus or security software renewal has just gone through on your account, and provides a phone number to call if you did not authorize it. Calling connects you to a fake support agent who either talks you through a refund that actually transfers money out of your account, or asks for remote access to your computer to process the cancellation — during which they install malware or steal saved passwords and banking details. The large unexpected charge creates panic. Never call the number in the email; check your real bank or card statement instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Immigration / Visa Status Threat Call Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/immigration-visa-status-threat-call-scam-script", "summary": "A caller claiming to be from immigration or homeland security authorities says there is a problem with your visa, residency application, or status, and that you face deportation or arrest unless you pay an immediate fine over the phone. This preys on the fear many non-citizens feel around their legal status, discouraging them from questioning the call or seeking advice. Real immigration matters are handled through official written notices and scheduled proceedings, never resolved by an urgent phone payment. The scammer wants fast payment via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency. Hang up and contact an immigration attorney or the official agency directly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Landlord 'Wire the Deposit to Hold It' Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/landlord-wire-deposit-to-hold-scam-script", "summary": "An attractive rental listing, often at a below-market price, comes with a landlord who is conveniently out of the country or unavailable to show the property, and asks you to wire a deposit or first month's rent to hold it before you can view it. The listing photos may be stolen from a real property that is not actually for rent. Competition and fear of losing a good deal push renters to pay quickly. The scammer's goal is an irreversible wire payment. Never send money for a rental you have not viewed in person or confirmed with a verified landlord or agency.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Prize Claim 'Pay Shipping' Text Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/prize-claim-pay-shipping-text-scam-script", "summary": "A text congratulates you on winning a prize — a gift card, gadget, or cash sum — from a company or sweepstakes you may not remember entering, and asks for a small shipping or processing fee before it can be sent. The small requested amount is designed to feel too minor to worry about compared to the prize on offer. There is no prize; the fee, and any card details entered to pay it, are the entire goal. The scammer may also try to collect personal information alongside the payment. Delete the message without clicking any link or replying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "LinkedIn Fake Recruiter Job Offer Message Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/linkedin-fake-job-offer-recruiter-script", "summary": "A message from someone posing as a recruiter offers a high-paying, often remote, job with minimal effort required, moving quickly from a friendly introduction to requesting personal information, a fee for background checks or equipment, or an investment in a cryptocurrency task-based platform as part of onboarding. The promise of easy money and flattery around your qualifications encourages people to skip normal verification steps. The scammer's goal is either your personal data for identity fraud, an upfront payment, or drawing you into a crypto scam disguised as work. Verify the company and recruiter independently before sharing any information or money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Bank 'New Payee Added' Verification Text Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/bank-new-payee-verification-text-scam-script", "summary": "A text claiming to be a fraud alert from your bank says a new payee has just been added to your account and asks you to click a link or call a number immediately to cancel it if you don't recognize it. The link leads to a convincing fake banking login page, and the callback number connects to a fake fraud team that talks you through securing your account by revealing your login, card number, or one-time passcodes. The manufactured panic about your money being at risk is the lever. Ignore the message and check your account only through your bank's official app or a number on your card.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake DVLA / IRS Vehicle Tax Refund Text Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/dvla-irs-vehicle-tax-refund-text-scam-script", "summary": "A text impersonating a vehicle tax authority like the DVLA or IRS claims you are owed a refund for overpaid vehicle tax and provides a link to claim it, leading to a well-made fake government page that asks for your bank details, card number, and personal identification information. The prospect of free money lowers people's guard around entering sensitive details. There is no refund — the page exists solely to capture your financial and personal data for fraud. Never click the link; go to the real government website directly and log in to check any refund status.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Netflix / Streaming 'Update Payment' Email Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/netflix-streaming-update-payment-email-scam-script", "summary": "An email styled to look like an official Netflix or streaming service notice warns that your payment method failed and your account will be suspended unless you update payment details through an included link, which leads to a fake login page designed to capture both your account password and full card information in a single step. The fear of losing access to a subscription you use regularly pushes people to act quickly without checking the sender. The scammer's goal is reusable login credentials plus a working card number. Log in only through the official app or by typing the site address yourself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Coinbase / Binance 'Verify Wallet' Email Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/coinbase-binance-verify-wallet-email-scam-script", "summary": "An email posing as a major cryptocurrency exchange claims your account or wallet needs urgent verification or it will be frozen or lose funds, linking to a fake login page that asks for your exchange password and, critically, your wallet recovery seed phrase. Fear of losing access to cryptocurrency holdings pushes people to act before checking the request carefully. No legitimate exchange or wallet ever needs your seed phrase for verification — anyone who has it can move your funds instantly and irreversibly. Never enter your seed phrase anywhere except your original wallet setup, and verify account issues only by logging in directly through the official app or site.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Facebook Marketplace 'Is This Still Available' + Google Voice Code Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/facebook-marketplace-google-voice-code-scam-script", "summary": "A buyer messages about an item you listed, asks a normal question, then says they need to verify you're a real person by having you read back a code that will be texted to your phone. That code is actually a Google Voice verification code, and sharing it lets the scammer set up a Google Voice number linked to your phone number, which they then use to run further scams while hiding their identity behind your real number. The claimed purpose is fake, and the request is the entire scam. Never share a verification code with anyone, no matter the reason given.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Airbnb / Booking Off-Platform Payment Chat Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/airbnb-off-platform-payment-chat-scam-script", "summary": "A host or guest contacted through Airbnb, Booking.com, or a similar platform suggests moving the conversation and payment outside the official app — often offering a discount for paying directly by bank transfer — which removes you from the platform's fraud protection and dispute process entirely. If the listing is fake or the guest never pays as promised, you have little recourse once the conversation and money have left the platform. The discount or convenience offered is the lever used to justify going off-platform. Keep all communication and payment inside the official app, and treat any request to move off it as a serious warning sign.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake HMRC / IRS Tax Rebate Email Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/hmrc-irs-tax-rebate-email-scam-script", "summary": "An email designed to look like an official notice from HMRC, the IRS, or another tax authority claims you are due a refund and provides a link to a government portal to claim it, which is actually a convincing fake page built to collect your bank account number, card details, and personal identification information. The appeal of unexpected free money lowers people's guard around entering sensitive details. Real tax authorities do not notify refunds by email link and rarely ask for bank details this way. Go directly to the real tax authority's website or your existing online account to check any refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "WhatsApp Account Takeover 'Send Me the Code' Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/whatsapp-account-takeover-send-me-the-code-script", "summary": "A message arrives from a friend or family member's actual WhatsApp account, which has already been hijacked, asking you to forward the 6-digit verification code WhatsApp just texted to your phone, often with an excuse about needing it to confirm something. That code is actually the login code for your own WhatsApp account, and sharing it hands the scammer complete control, locking you out and letting them message all your contacts using your identity to continue the chain. The trust of a familiar contact is the lever, not a stranger. Never share a verification code with anyone, even someone you know well.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "'I Saw a Video of You' Sextortion DM Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/i-saw-a-video-of-you-sextortion-dm-script", "summary": "A message claims the sender has hacked your device or accessed your webcam and recorded a compromising video of you, threatening to send it to your contacts or post it publicly unless you pay immediately, often in cryptocurrency. In the vast majority of cases there is no real video or hack — this is a mass-sent script relying on fear and embarrassment to make a small percentage of recipients panic and pay. The scammer's only real goal is a fast, untraceable payment. Do not pay, do not reply, and do not engage with the sender in any way.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Charity Disaster QR-Poster Appeal Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/charity-disaster-qr-poster-appeal-scam-script", "summary": "Following a disaster, wildfire, flood, or humanitarian crisis, a social media post or a physical poster with a QR code appeals for urgent donations to help victims, sometimes using a name similar to a real, well-known charity. Scanning the code or clicking the link leads to a payment page controlled by the scammer, not the genuine organization, diverting money meant for people in need. Public urgency and goodwill after a crisis make people less likely to check where the code actually leads. Donate directly through a charity's official website that you navigate to yourself, rather than any QR code or social media link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Debt Collection Threat Call Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/debt-collection-threat-call-scam-script", "summary": "A caller claims you owe a debt, often vague or unfamiliar, and threatens legal action, arrest, wage garnishment, or a lawsuit unless you pay immediately, sometimes over the phone with a card or gift card. The pressure to pay before you can check whether the debt is real or even yours is the entire mechanism — real debt collectors are legally required to provide written validation and cannot threaten arrest for civil debt. The scammer's goal is a fast payment extracted through fear. Hang up, do not confirm any personal details, and ask for written validation of any debt before considering payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Delivery 'Reschedule + Fee' Voicemail Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-delivery-reschedule-fee-voicemail-scam-script", "summary": "A voicemail claims a courier attempted to deliver a parcel but could not complete it, and that a small rescheduling or redelivery fee is needed, directing you to call back a number or visit a link to pay. Because many people are genuinely expecting deliveries, the plausible, low-cost request makes it easy to pay without much thought, and the payment page or callback agent is designed to capture full card details. The small amount is deliberately chosen to avoid suspicion. Check any real deliveries directly through the courier's official tracking tool or app rather than the voicemail's link or number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Job 'Pay for Equipment / Onboarding' Chat Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/job-pay-for-equipment-onboarding-chat-scam-script", "summary": "After a fast, informal hiring process, often for a remote job, a new employer tells you that before you can start you need to pay for equipment, training materials, or a background check yourself, sometimes promising reimbursement in your first paycheck. Once payment is sent, often via gift card or wire transfer, the employer stops responding and no job, refund, or reimbursement ever arrives. The promise of a job and future reimbursement is used to justify the unusual upfront cost. Legitimate employers cover their own equipment and background check costs; never pay to start a job.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Romance 'Help Me Pay Customs on a Gift' Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/romance-help-me-pay-customs-on-a-gift-scam-script", "summary": "An online romantic contact you've been messaging, often for weeks or months without meeting in person, says they've sent you a valuable gift or package that is now stuck at customs, and asks you to pay a release or clearance fee to get it delivered. Both the relationship and the gift are fabricated, built specifically to create emotional investment before the money request arrives. Once one fee is paid, further fees for taxes, insurance, or unlocking typically follow. The scammer's goal is a series of payments sustained by emotional attachment. Never send money to someone you have only met online, regardless of the reason given.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Investment 'Limited Allocation Closing Tonight' Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/investment-limited-allocation-closing-tonight-scam-script", "summary": "An unsolicited message, often from a stranger or a barely-known contact, pitches an investment opportunity with unusually high, guaranteed-sounding returns and stresses that only a limited allocation remains, closing tonight or within days. The artificial deadline is designed to push you into transferring money before you have time to research the opportunity, question the returns, or consult anyone you trust. There is no real investment fund behind the message — once money is sent, the scammer disappears or invents further fees to extract more. The right move is to ignore any investment pitch with a manufactured deadline and never invest based on an unsolicited message.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Pension Transfer Cold Call Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/pension-transfer-cold-call-scam-script", "summary": "A cold caller claiming to be a pension adviser or representing a government pension review service offers a free consultation and persuades you to transfer your pension savings into a new scheme, often citing better returns, early access, or a limited-time review. The scheme is unregulated or entirely fictitious, and once the transfer completes, retirement savings built over years can be wiped out with little chance of recovery, alongside a potential tax penalty for improper transfer. The promise of better returns and professional-sounding advice is the lever. Never act on unsolicited pension advice; verify any adviser's credentials independently before transferring anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Council Tax Refund Text Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/council-tax-refund-text-scam-script", "summary": "This text pretends to be your local council saying a council tax refund is waiting, with a link to 'claim' it. The scammer's real goal is your online banking login or card details, captured on a convincing fake council payment page. The lever is an unexpected windfall — people rarely expect a scam to offer money rather than demand it, so guard drops. Councils never ask you to claim a refund via a texted link; refunds are applied automatically or paid by the method you already used. Do not tap the link — contact your council directly using the number on a genuine bill.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Health Insurance Enrollment Call Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/health-insurance-enrollment-call-scam-script", "summary": "This is a cold call from someone posing as a health insurance representative or government enrollment agent, pressuring you to sign up for a plan on the spot. The scammer's real goal is your premium payments and personal data — ID numbers, banking details, date of birth — for coverage that is fake, junk, or cancelled after the first payment. The lever is fear about healthcare costs combined with false urgency around an 'enrollment deadline.' Never buy insurance from an inbound cold call; contact the insurer or official marketplace directly using a number you look up yourself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake App Store Review Request DM Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/fake-app-store-review-request-dm-scam-script", "summary": "A direct message offers pay for writing app store reviews, then funnels you onto a 'task platform' showing your earnings climb with every review — money you can never withdraw. The scammer's real goal is a cryptocurrency deposit, framed as an 'activation' fee needed before payout. The lever is the sunk-cost pull of watching a growing balance you don't want to abandon. There is no job and no real balance; it's a number the scammer controls. Never send money or crypto to unlock earnings you've already 'made' — legitimate work pays you, it never charges you first.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Cloud Storage Full Phishing Email Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/cloud-storage-full-phishing-email-scam-script", "summary": "This email impersonates Google, Apple, Microsoft, or a similar provider, warning your cloud storage is full and files will be deleted unless you 'upgrade' or 'verify' immediately via a link. The scammer's real goal is your account login, captured on a fake sign-in page that looks identical to the real one. The lever is loss aversion — fear of losing years of photos or files pushes people to click without checking the sender. Never log in through an emailed link; open the provider's app or type its address directly into your browser and check your storage there instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Password Reset Phishing Email Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/password-reset-phishing-email-scam-script", "summary": "This email impersonates a well-known service, claiming your password needs an urgent reset due to suspicious activity, and links to a fake login page built to capture your username, password, and sometimes a one-time code. The scammer's real goal is full account takeover, which can cascade into other accounts if you reuse passwords. The lever is manufactured urgency around account security — the very thing meant to protect you gets weaponized to bypass your caution. Never reset a password through an emailed link; go to the service directly through its app or a manually typed address instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Delivery Locker Code Phishing Text Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/delivery-locker-code-phishing-text-scam-script", "summary": "This text impersonates a parcel locker or delivery service, claiming a package is waiting and that you must click a link or pay a small fee to 'activate' your access code. The scammer's real goal is your card details, harvested on a fake payment page disguised as a locker service. The lever is the small, plausible amount requested — a couple of pounds feels too trivial to be a scam, lowering suspicion. Real courier and locker services never charge random small activation fees by text link. Do not click; check any delivery status directly through the courier's official app instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Gig Work Upfront Fee Chat Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/gig-work-upfront-fee-chat-scam-script", "summary": "A chat message recruits you for flexible, high-paying gig work, then moves you onto a platform showing earnings that climb with every task completed. The scammer's real goal is a series of cryptocurrency deposits, framed as required to 'unlock' withdrawals or fix a balance 'error.' The lever is the sunk-cost pull of a visibly growing balance, combined with friendly recruiters who build trust over days. That balance is fictional and entirely controlled by the scammer. Stop depositing money the moment any payout requires you to pay first — legitimate work never charges you to access your own earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Courier 'Card Collection' Doorstep Call Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/courier-card-collection-doorstep-call-scam-script", "summary": "A caller claims to be from your bank's fraud team, says your card has been compromised, and tells you a 'courier' will come to your door shortly to collect it for investigation — sometimes asking for your PIN 'for verification' first. The scammer's real goal is your actual card and PIN, letting them withdraw cash or spend before your bank notices. The lever is manufactured urgency about fraud on your own account, which makes handing a card to a stranger feel responsible. No genuine bank ever sends a courier to collect a card — hang up and call your bank using the number on the card.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Mail Redelivery Card Text Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/royal-mail-redelivery-card-text-scam-script", "summary": "This text mimics a national postal service, claiming a 'calling card' was left because a parcel couldn't be delivered and that a small redelivery fee is needed via a link. The scammer's real goal is your full card details, captured on a convincing fake postal-service payment page, later used for larger unauthorized transactions. The lever is the same small-amount trick that lowers your guard — a couple of pounds feels too minor to verify. Real postal services never charge redelivery fees via text link. Do not click; check any delivery card by visiting the courier's official website directly instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Immigration 'Deportation' Threat Call Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/immigration-deportation-threat-call-scam-script", "summary": "A caller poses as immigration or border enforcement, claims your visa has expired or your paperwork is fraudulent, and threatens immediate arrest or deportation unless you pay a fine right now by wire transfer, gift card, or cryptocurrency. The scammer's real goal is fast, untraceable payment extracted before you have time to verify anything. The lever is fear of arrest or family separation, which overrides normal scepticism about payment methods no real agency ever uses. Genuine immigration authorities never collect fines by phone using gift cards, and communicate through official written correspondence — hang up and call the agency's published number directly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Visa Approval Fee Advance Message Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/visa-approval-fee-advance-message-scam-script", "summary": "This message claims to be from an embassy or visa agency saying your application has been approved but requires an advance administrative or courier fee before the visa can be issued. The scammer's real goal is that upfront fee, sometimes followed by further fees once you've paid the first and feel invested. The lever is relief and excitement at good news after a stressful application, which lowers scepticism about unusual payment requests. Genuine visa fees are paid only through official government portals, never via a link in a message. Verify any approval directly through the embassy's official website before paying anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Subscription Auto-Renewal Warning Email Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/subscription-auto-renewal-warning-email-scam-script", "summary": "This email impersonates a software or streaming company, warning that an expensive subscription is about to auto-renew and inviting you to call a number to cancel and get a refund. The scammer's real goal isn't the fake charge — it's getting you on a live call, where agents fabricate a refund process requiring remote-access software, then use that access to move real money out of your bank account. The lever is loss aversion around an unwanted large charge. Never call a number from an unsolicited renewal email; check your subscription and billing directly through the app or service's official site instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Free Trial 'Confirm Your Card' Message Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/free-trial-confirm-card-sms-scam-script", "summary": "This text claims you have a free trial or gift waiting and asks you to 'confirm your card' purely for identity verification, promising you won't be charged. The scammer's real goal is your complete card details, entered because the message pre-empts your worry by insisting no charge will occur. The lever is that reassurance itself — being told not to worry is what makes people skip their normal caution. Once entered, card details can be charged repeatedly in small, easy-to-miss amounts, or sold on. Never enter full card details for something described as free; go directly to the retailer's official site instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Puppy Breeder WhatsApp Deposit Chat Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/puppy-breeder-whatsapp-deposit-chat-scam-script", "summary": "A fake 'breeder' contacts a buyer via WhatsApp or Messenger using stolen puppy photos, collects a deposit to 'reserve' the animal, then invents a stream of extra charges — crate, insurance, vet certificate, customs — before disappearing with no dog ever delivered. The scammer's real goal is repeated payments, each framed as the final one standing between the buyer and their new pet. The lever is emotional attachment formed through photos and chat before any money changes hands. Never send money for a pet you haven't met in person or via live video call, and treat any second fee request as a certain sign of fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "MLM Recruiter Direct Message Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/mlm-recruiter-dm-scam-script", "summary": "An unsolicited direct message pitches a multi-level marketing 'opportunity' promising passive income through recruiting others, requiring you to first buy a starter kit or initial inventory to join. The structure's real mechanic is your upfront purchase and your own future recruitment of others below you, since most compensation flows from recruiting rather than genuine retail sales. The lever is the appeal of easy income from a friendly peer who presents as having 'made it.' Research the compensation structure and actual product sales before paying anything, and be sceptical of any plan where earning depends mainly on recruiting new members.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "'Verify Your Badge' Instagram DM Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/instagram-verify-badge-dm-scam-script", "summary": "A direct message impersonating Instagram support claims your account has been selected for a verification badge and asks you to complete a form, capturing your username, password, and two-factor code. The scammer's real goal is full account takeover, which they use to lock you out, run further scams on your followers, or hold the account for extortion. The lever is the appeal of status and exclusivity — being 'selected' for verification feels flattering and legitimate. Instagram never requests your password or 2FA codes through DMs to verify accounts; only ever enter login credentials inside the official Instagram app or website.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Account Recovery 'I Can Get It Back' DM Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/account-recovery-hacker-for-hire-dm-scam-script", "summary": "After you post publicly asking for help with a hacked account, someone DMs claiming to be an 'ethical hacker' who can get it back for a fee. The scammer's real goal is to exploit your existing distress by taking an upfront payment, then either vanishing immediately or stringing you along with further 'phase' fees while never recovering anything. The lever is desperation combined with the appearance of a friendly rescuer arriving right when you need one. Legitimate account recovery goes only through the platform's own official support channels, never through a private individual who contacts you unsolicited after seeing your post.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "M-Pesa Reversal Request Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/mpesa-reversal-request-scam-script", "summary": "A scammer sends a text or a doctored screenshot showing they've 'accidentally' sent you mobile money, then asks you to send it back — but no funds were actually deposited into your account. The scammer's real goal is your genuine money, sent voluntarily because the fake confirmation looks convincing and you feel obliged to correct someone else's honest mistake. The lever is manufactured guilt about keeping money that isn't yours. Always check your own balance and transaction history directly through your provider's app or official USSD code before sending anything back — never rely on a screenshot or message someone else shows you.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "UPI 'Collect Request' Payment Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/upi-collect-request-scam-script", "summary": "A scammer sends a UPI 'collect request' or calls claiming they need to send you money and tells you to 'approve' a request or enter your PIN to receive it — but approving a collect request actually authorizes a payment out of your account, not in. The scammer's real goal is your PIN entered in that moment of confusion, immediately debiting your account. The lever is the misleading framing that entering a PIN is required to 'receive' funds, reversing how the system actually works. You never need your UPI PIN to receive money, only to send it — treat any such request as a red flag.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Crypto Wallet 'Validation Fee' DM Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/crypto-wallet-validation-fee-dm-scam-script", "summary": "A direct message claims you have access to a large cryptocurrency balance, but that a 'validation' or 'gas' fee must be paid upfront before the funds can be withdrawn. The scammer's real goal is that advance fee itself — the wallet balance shown is fabricated and no real funds are ever accessible, whatever you pay. The lever is the promise of a large, effortless windfall that feels too good to walk away from once you've engaged. No legitimate crypto withdrawal ever requires a separate advance fee to access your own funds; treat any such request as a certain scam and stop engaging immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Seed Phrase 'Sync Your Wallet' DM Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/seed-phrase-sync-wallet-dm-scam-script", "summary": "A message posing as crypto wallet support instructs you to enter your 12- or 24-word seed phrase into a website to 'sync,' 'validate,' or 'restore' your wallet. The scammer's real goal is that seed phrase itself, which grants total and permanent control over every fund in the wallet — the moment it's entered, funds can be drained within minutes. The lever is manufactured technical urgency dressed as official-sounding wallet maintenance. No legitimate wallet provider or support agent ever asks for your seed phrase under any circumstances; never enter it anywhere except when originally setting up your own wallet.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Data Removal Upsell Call Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/data-removal-upsell-call-scam-script", "summary": "A caller claims your personal information has been found exposed on the dark web or data-broker sites, and offers an urgent paid removal or 'credit monitoring' service to fix a problem they've just described. The scammer's real goal is your payment for a service that may do nothing, duplicate free protections you already have, or simply harvest more of your payment and personal details. The lever is fear about identity theft, amplified by presenting themselves as the solution to a crisis they invented. Verify independently through your bank or official data-broker opt-out tools before paying anyone who cold-calls with this offer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Fake Debt Collector Legal Threat Voicemail Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/debt-collector-legal-threat-voicemail-scam-script", "summary": "A voicemail or call impersonating a debt collection attorney or government agency threatens an imminent lawsuit, wage garnishment, or arrest over an old debt unless it's paid immediately by card, wire transfer, or gift card. The scammer's real goal is fast payment obtained before you can verify whether the debt is real, correctly yours, or inflated from the original amount. The lever is fear of legal consequences, which pressures people to pay rather than risk 'court.' No legitimate collector demands instant payment by gift card or threatens same-day arrest — hang up and verify any debt in writing before paying anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Reverse Mortgage Cold Call Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/reverse-mortgage-cold-call-scam-script", "summary": "A cold caller targets older homeowners with a reverse mortgage pitch, describing it as a government-backed programme offering guaranteed extra income, while downplaying the real fees, interest accumulation, and risk of losing home equity or facing foreclosure under unfavourable terms. The scammer's real goal ranges from harvesting valuable personal and property details to pushing homeowners into a genuinely bad loan that pays large fees and commissions to the seller. The lever is financial anxiety in retirement combined with the trusted framing of a government programme. Never decide on a cold call; consult an independent, non-commission housing counsellor before signing anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Charity Disaster QR Code Street Poster Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/charity-disaster-qr-street-poster-scam-script", "summary": "A poster in a public place, or a social post using real crisis imagery, displays a QR code inviting scans to 'donate' to disaster relief, but the code leads to a payment page controlled by the scammer with no connection to any real charity. The scammer's real goal is to intercept genuine charitable donations by exploiting the urgency people feel after seeing news of a crisis. The lever is compassion combined with the convenience and apparent trustworthiness of a QR code in a public space. Never donate via a QR code from an unverified poster or unfamiliar post; go directly to a known charity's official website instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Job Offer 'Pay for Onboarding' Chat Scam Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/job-onboarding-background-check-fee-chat-scam-script", "summary": "After a brief online interview, this scam sends a convincing offer letter for a remote job, then asks the new 'hire' to pay upfront for a background check, training materials, or software licences before starting work. The scammer's real goal is one or more upfront payments from someone who genuinely believes they've landed a job, often followed by silence once the money is sent. The lever is excitement and relief at securing employment, which suppresses scepticism about an employer asking a new hire to pay for their own onboarding. Legitimate employers cover these costs themselves; never pay an employer to be onboarded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "script", "title": "Romance Scam 'Customs Fee on a Gift' Message Examples", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scripts/romance-gift-customs-clearance-fee-message-scam-script", "summary": "After weeks or months of online courtship, the scammer claims to have sent a valuable gift — jewellery, cash, or a device — now said to be held by customs, requiring an urgent fee to release it. The scammer's real goal is repeated payments framed as the final step before receiving both the gift and continued connection with someone you've grown attached to. The lever is a romantic bond built deliberately over time, which makes refusing to pay feel like betraying someone you trust. No real gift is being held; stop payments immediately and verify the relationship's authenticity with input from someone outside the situation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do in the First 10 Minutes After a Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/what-to-do-in-the-first-10-minutes", "summary": "The fastest actions matter most. Stop, secure your money, and preserve evidence immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do in the First 24 Hours After a Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/what-to-do-in-the-first-24-hours", "summary": "After the immediate steps, lock down accounts, report fully, and protect against follow-on fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "How To Contact Your Bank After a Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/contact-your-bank-after-a-scam", "summary": "Reach your bank safely, report the fraud clearly, and ask the right questions to protect your money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "How To Preserve Scam Evidence", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/how-to-preserve-scam-evidence", "summary": "Good evidence helps your bank, the police, and platforms act — capture it before anything disappears.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "How To Report a Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/how-to-report-a-scam", "summary": "Where and how to report scams to banks, national fraud services, platforms, and regulators.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "How To Avoid Recovery Scammers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/how-to-avoid-recovery-scammers", "summary": "After a scam you may be targeted again by fake 'recovery' agents. Learn how to spot and avoid them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Crypto Scam Recovery Warning", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/crypto-scam-recovery-warning", "summary": "Crypto transfers are usually irreversible, and 'crypto recovery experts' are typically a second scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Romance Scam Recovery Steps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/romance-scam-recovery-steps", "summary": "Practical and emotional recovery after a romance scam — without shame, and safe from recovery scammers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Job Scam Recovery Steps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/job-scam-recovery-steps", "summary": "Recover after a task, recruiter, or fake-job scam — protect your money, data, and from mule liability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Identity Theft After a Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/identity-theft-after-a-scam", "summary": "If you shared ID or personal data, act to prevent and limit identity theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do After a Remote-Access Tech-Support Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/remote-access-scam-cleanup", "summary": "Steps to clean up and secure your device, accounts, and finances after a scammer gained remote access under the pretence of providing technical support.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Chargeback & Card Dispute Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/chargeback-and-card-dispute-guide", "summary": "How card chargebacks and disputes work, when they apply, and how to give yourself the best chance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover Money Sent by Zelle After a Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-money-sent-by-zelle", "summary": "Zelle transfers move instantly and are hard to reverse — but there are steps worth taking immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover Money Sent by Cash App After a Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-money-sent-by-cash-app", "summary": "Cash App payments are instant and often non-refundable — but there are steps that can help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover Money Sent by Wire Transfer After a Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-money-sent-by-wire-transfer", "summary": "Wire transfers move fast and are rarely reversed — but your bank can attempt an urgent recall if you act immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do After Paying a Scammer With Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-money-paid-by-gift-card", "summary": "Gift card payments are almost impossible to reverse — but reporting quickly may limit further losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do After a Data Breach", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/what-to-do-after-a-data-breach", "summary": "If your data was exposed in a breach, act to limit identity theft, secure your accounts, and monitor for misuse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover a Hacked Email Account", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-a-hacked-email-account", "summary": "Regain access to your compromised email and prevent the attacker using it to take over other accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover a Hacked Social Media Account", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-a-hacked-social-media-account", "summary": "Regain control of a compromised social account and protect your identity, contacts, and linked services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "SIM Swap Attack Recovery", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/sim-swap-attack-recovery", "summary": "If your phone number was hijacked, act immediately to restore it and secure every account that used SMS 2FA.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Business Email Compromise Response", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/business-email-compromise-response", "summary": "If a fraudulent email redirected a payment or impersonated your business, act quickly to contain the fraud and protect your reputation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do If You Clicked a Phishing Link", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/what-to-do-if-you-clicked-a-phishing-link", "summary": "Clicking a phishing link does not always mean your accounts are compromised — but act quickly to limit any damage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover After an Investment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-an-investment-scam", "summary": "Steps to take after losing money to a fraudulent investment scheme — report, contain, and protect yourself from follow-on targeting.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do If You Shared Your Card Details", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/what-to-do-if-you-shared-your-card-details", "summary": "If you gave your card number, expiry, or CVV to a scammer, act fast to block the card and monitor for fraudulent charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do If You Shared a One-Time Code", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/what-to-do-if-you-shared-a-one-time-code", "summary": "Sharing an SMS or authenticator code can give fraudsters access to your account. Act immediately to secure it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover After a Fake Toll or Delivery Text Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-a-fake-toll-or-delivery-text", "summary": "Fake toll notices and parcel delivery texts are a common phishing method. Here's what to do if you were caught out.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "How To Report Online Shopping Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/how-to-report-online-shopping-fraud", "summary": "If you paid for goods online that never arrived, were fake, or came from a fraudulent seller, here's how to report and seek a refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Secure Your Phone After a Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/secure-your-phone-after-a-scam", "summary": "If a scam involved your phone — whether you installed an app, gave remote access, or shared codes — here's how to clean up and secure it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do If Someone Has Your Bank Details", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/what-to-do-if-someone-has-your-bank-details", "summary": "If a scammer has your account number, sort code, or banking login details, act quickly to limit exposure and protect your account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "How To Support an Elderly Scam Victim", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/support-an-elderly-scam-victim", "summary": "How to help an older person who has been scammed — practically, emotionally, and safely.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "How To Recover After a Crypto Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/crypto-scam-recovery-steps", "summary": "Practical steps after losing cryptocurrency to a scam, from securing remaining assets to realistic expectations about fund recovery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do After a PayPal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-paypal-scam", "summary": "Practical steps to recover money, secure your account, and report after being scammed through or impersonating PayPal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recovering After a Gift-Card Scam — Including Help for Seniors", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-gift-card-scam-senior", "summary": "Steps to take after you or a relative was tricked into buying gift cards to pay a scammer, including how to support an older person through the process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recovering After a Romance-Investment (Pig-Butchering) Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-romance-investment-pig-butchering", "summary": "Steps to take after losing money to a pig-butchering scam — where a relationship was cultivated online before directing you to a fraudulent investment platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do After a Rental-Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-rental-deposit-scam", "summary": "Steps to recover your deposit and protect yourself after paying rent or a deposit for a property that the advertiser did not own or that did not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do After Identity Theft or a Stolen Personal Data Incident", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-identity-theft-data-breach", "summary": "Comprehensive steps to protect yourself and limit damage after your personal data — name, address, NI/SSN, or documents — has been stolen or misused.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do After a Fake-Invoice or BEC Payment (Small Business)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-fake-invoice-bec-small-business", "summary": "Steps for a small business to take immediately after paying a fraudulent invoice or a business email compromise that redirected a legitimate payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "What To Do If a Phishing Site Captured Your Card Details", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-phishing-site-captured-card", "summary": "Immediate steps to protect your card, reverse any fraudulent charges, and secure your accounts after entering payment details on a phishing website.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover After a Cryptocurrency Wire to a Fake Exchange", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-crypto-wire-to-fake-exchange", "summary": "Steps to take immediately after sending cryptocurrency or a bank wire to a fraudulent exchange or investment platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover After a Western Union or MoneyGram Transfer to a Scammer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-western-union-moneygram-transfer", "summary": "Immediate steps to take if you have sent money via Western Union or MoneyGram to a fraudster, including how to attempt a recall and report the fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover After a Deepfake CEO Authorised Payment (Business)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-deepfake-ceo-authorised-payment", "summary": "Steps a business should take immediately after an employee authorises a fraudulent payment following a deepfake video call or voice impersonation of a senior executive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover After a Stolen Phone Account Takeover", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-stolen-phone-account-takeover", "summary": "What to do immediately after your phone is stolen and a thief uses it to take over your email, banking, or social media accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover After a Fake Marketplace Purchase", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-fake-marketplace-purchase", "summary": "What to do after paying for goods on an online marketplace that turned out to be fraudulent, counterfeit, or that were never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover After a Charity Donation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-charity-donation-scam", "summary": "What to do if you discover that a charity appeal you donated to was fraudulent or that your donation was misappropriated.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover After a Loan-Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-loan-fee-scam", "summary": "Steps to take after paying an upfront fee to a fraudulent loan company that promised a loan but disappeared or demanded further payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover After a Subscription Trap or Unwanted Recurring Charge", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-after-subscription-trap", "summary": "How to identify, cancel, and seek refunds for subscription traps and unwanted recurring charges from services you did not knowingly sign up for.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Sextortion Recovery: What to Do When Someone Threatens to Share Your Images", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/sextortion-recovery", "summary": "Someone threatening to publish your intimate images is committing a crime against you — here is how to stop the threat, preserve evidence, and get help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover Money Sent by Venmo After a Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-money-sent-by-venmo", "summary": "Venmo payments between users settle almost instantly and personal payments carry no purchase protection, so speed and the right dispute route matter most.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "recovery_guide", "title": "Recover Money Sent by Apple Pay or Apple Cash After a Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/recovery/recover-money-sent-by-apple-pay", "summary": "What you can do after paying a scammer with Apple Pay or Apple Cash, and why which of the two you used changes every option available to you.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Romance Scam vs Real Relationship", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/romance-scam-vs-real-relationship", "summary": "How to tell a genuine online relationship from a romance scam, without paranoia or shame.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Legitimate Recruiter vs Fake Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/legitimate-recruiter-vs-fake-job-scam", "summary": "Distinguish genuine recruiters and employers from fake job and task scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Bank Fraud Department vs Bank Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-bank-fraud-department-vs-bank-impersonation-scam", "summary": "How a genuine bank fraud team behaves versus impersonators who want your money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Crypto Exchange vs Fake Trading Platform", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-crypto-exchange-vs-fake-trading-platform", "summary": "Tell a legitimate, regulated exchange from a scammer-controlled fake platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Delivery Message vs Fake Delivery Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-delivery-message-vs-fake-delivery-text", "summary": "Spot the difference between a genuine courier update and a smishing scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Government Contact vs Government Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-government-contact-vs-government-impersonation-scam", "summary": "How genuine agencies contact you versus impersonators using fear and urgency.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Hotel Message vs Hotel Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-hotel-message-vs-hotel-phishing-scam", "summary": "Tell a genuine hotel/booking message from phishing that wants your card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Tech Support vs Fake Tech Support Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-tech-support-vs-fake-tech-support-scam", "summary": "Distinguish genuine support from scammers who want remote access to your device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Charity vs Fake Charity Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-charity-vs-fake-charity", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate registered charity from a fraudulent fundraiser exploiting your generosity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Legitimate Crypto Airdrop vs Wallet-Drainer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/legitimate-crypto-airdrop-vs-wallet-drainer", "summary": "How to tell a genuine token airdrop from a wallet-draining phishing scheme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Landlord vs Rental Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-landlord-vs-rental-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine rental listing from a fraudulent one designed to steal your deposit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Genuine Prize vs Lottery Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/genuine-prize-vs-lottery-scam", "summary": "Tell a real prize notification from a lottery or prize scam that wants fees upfront.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Utility Company vs Utility Shutoff Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-utility-company-vs-utility-shutoff-scam", "summary": "How genuine energy, water, or telecoms providers contact you versus shutoff scammers who demand instant payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Legitimate Car Seller vs Vehicle Escrow Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/legitimate-car-seller-vs-vehicle-escrow-scam", "summary": "How genuine private car sales work versus vehicle escrow and delivery scams that steal your deposit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Online Pharmacy vs Fake Online Pharmacy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-online-pharmacy-vs-fake-pharmacy", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate regulated online pharmacy from a counterfeit medicines site.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Genuine Investment Adviser vs Investment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/genuine-investment-adviser-vs-investment-scam", "summary": "How legitimate regulated advisers operate versus fraudulent investment schemes that promise outsized returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Customer Support vs Fake Support Number", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-customer-support-vs-fake-support-number", "summary": "How to reach genuine customer support versus fake support lines designed to steal money or data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Legitimate Antivirus Warning vs Fake Antivirus Popup", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/legitimate-antivirus-warning-vs-fake-antivirus-popup", "summary": "How to tell a real security alert from a fake popup trying to get your money or remote access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Bank Text vs Smishing (SMS Phishing)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-bank-text-vs-smishing", "summary": "How to tell a genuine text from your bank from an SMS phishing (smishing) scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Genuine QR Code vs Malicious QR Code", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/genuine-qr-code-vs-malicious-qr", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate QR code from a tampered or fake one designed to redirect you to a phishing site.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Account Recovery vs SIM-Swap Takeover", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-account-recovery-vs-sim-swap-takeover", "summary": "How genuine account-recovery processes work versus SIM-swap and account-takeover fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Legitimate Marketplace Buyer vs Fake Buyer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/legitimate-marketplace-buyer-vs-fake-buyer", "summary": "How genuine buyers on online marketplaces behave versus scammers who target sellers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Remote IT Support vs Remote-Access Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-remote-it-support-vs-remote-access-scam", "summary": "How legitimate IT support using remote access tools works versus scammers who use them to steal money and data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Job Offer vs Task Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-job-offer-vs-task-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine employment offer from a task-based scam that traps you in a fake earnings cycle.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Delivery Notice vs Toll-Text Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-delivery-notice-vs-toll-text-scam", "summary": "How to distinguish a genuine courier update or toll notice from a smishing text designed to steal your card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Prize Win vs Advance-Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-prize-win-vs-advance-fee-scam", "summary": "How a genuine prize notification differs from an advance-fee scam that demands payment before you can collect.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Software Update vs Fake Update Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-software-update-vs-fake-update", "summary": "How to tell a genuine operating system or application update from a fake update prompt designed to install malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real 2FA Prompt vs MFA Fatigue Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-2fa-prompt-vs-mfa-fatigue-attack", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate two-factor authentication request from an MFA fatigue attack designed to trick you into approving fraudulent access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Public Wi-Fi vs Evil Twin Network", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-public-wifi-vs-evil-twin-network", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate public Wi-Fi hotspot from a rogue evil twin network set up to intercept your data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Browser Extension vs Malicious Extension", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-browser-extension-vs-malicious-extension", "summary": "How to tell a trustworthy browser extension from a malicious one designed to steal data or hijack your browser.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real NFT Mint vs NFT Mint Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-nft-mint-vs-mint-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine NFT mint from a scam designed to drain your wallet or sell worthless tokens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Recruiter Email vs Phishing Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-recruiter-email-vs-phishing-email", "summary": "How to tell a genuine recruiter outreach from a phishing email using job-offer language to steal credentials or data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real PayPal Email vs Fake PayPal Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-paypal-email-vs-fake-paypal-email", "summary": "How to tell a genuine PayPal notification from a phishing email impersonating the brand.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Amazon Message vs Fake Amazon Message", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-amazon-message-vs-fake-amazon-message", "summary": "How to tell a genuine Amazon notification from a scam impersonating the brand to steal credentials or payment data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Toll Notice vs Toll Smishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-toll-notice-vs-toll-smishing", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate toll authority notice from a smishing text demanding instant payment for a fake toll violation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real HMRC / IRS Letter vs Tax Scam Call", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-tax-letter-vs-tax-scam-call", "summary": "How to tell a genuine tax-authority letter from a threatening phone scam claiming you owe taxes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Invoice vs Business Invoice Fraud (BEC)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-invoice-vs-business-email-compromise", "summary": "How to spot a fraudulent invoice or bank-detail change request versus a legitimate supplier invoice.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Refund vs Refund / Overpayment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-refund-vs-overpayment-scam", "summary": "How to recognise a legitimate refund from a scam that tricks you into sending money back after a fake overpayment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Escrow Service vs Fake Escrow Site", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-escrow-vs-fake-escrow-site", "summary": "How to verify a legitimate escrow service from a fraudulent one created to steal funds during a high-value transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Government Grant vs Grant Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-government-grant-vs-grant-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine government or foundation grant from a fake grant designed to steal personal or financial information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Customer Support DM vs Brand Impersonation DM", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-support-dm-vs-brand-impersonation-dm", "summary": "How to tell a genuine brand reply on social media from an impersonation account designed to steal your account or payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Parcel Notification vs Fake Parcel SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-parcel-notification-vs-fake-parcel-sms", "summary": "How to tell a genuine delivery update from a fraudulent text message designed to harvest your card details or install malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Tech Support Alert vs Scareware Popup", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-tech-support-popup-vs-scareware", "summary": "How to distinguish a genuine operating-system security alert from scareware designed to frighten you into calling a fake support line.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Job Posting vs Advance-Fee Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-job-posting-vs-advance-fee-job-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine job advertisement from a scam that charges fees or harvests personal data under the guise of employment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Crypto Exchange vs Pig Butchering Platform", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-crypto-exchange-vs-pig-butchering-platform", "summary": "How to distinguish a licensed cryptocurrency exchange from a fake trading platform used in pig-butchering investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Disaster Appeal vs Fake Charity Drive", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-disaster-appeal-vs-fake-charity-drive", "summary": "How to verify a genuine emergency charity appeal from a fraudulent fundraiser that exploits public sympathy after a disaster.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Rental Listing vs Advance-Fee Rental Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-rental-listing-vs-advance-fee-rental", "summary": "How to spot a genuine rental property from a fraudulent listing designed to collect a deposit or advance rent for a property the scammer does not own.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Lottery Win vs Lottery Advance-Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-lottery-prize-letter-vs-advance-fee-lottery", "summary": "How to tell a genuine lottery prize notification from a scam letter or email claiming you have won a draw you never entered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real PayPal Security Alert vs PayPal Phishing Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-paypal-security-alert-vs-paypal-phishing", "summary": "How to tell a genuine PayPal notification from a phishing email engineered to steal your account credentials or card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Amazon Order Email vs Amazon Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-amazon-order-email-vs-amazon-phishing", "summary": "How to distinguish a genuine Amazon order confirmation or security notice from a phishing email designed to steal your account or payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Bank Alert vs Account Takeover Impersonation Message", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-bank-statement-vs-account-takeover-alert", "summary": "How to tell a genuine bank security alert from a fake message designed to trick you into handing over your credentials or authorising a payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real LinkedIn Recruiter vs Fake Recruiter Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-recruiter-linkedin-vs-fake-recruiter-scam", "summary": "How to verify a legitimate recruiter approach on LinkedIn from a fake profile designed to steal personal data or recruit money mules.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Utility Bill vs Utility Shut-Off Scam Call", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-utility-bill-vs-utility-scam-call", "summary": "How to tell a genuine utility company contact from a scam call threatening to cut off your electricity, gas, or water unless you pay immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Antivirus Software vs Rogue Security Software", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-antivirus-software-vs-rogue-security-software", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate antivirus installation from rogue security software that pretends to protect your device while charging for fake virus removal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Subscription Renewal vs Fake Subscription Notice", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-subscription-renewal-vs-fake-subscription-notice", "summary": "How to tell a genuine subscription renewal confirmation from a fake invoice designed to prompt a phone call that leads to a remote-access scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Crypto Wallet vs Wallet-Drainer dApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-crypto-wallet-vs-wallet-drainer-dapp", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate decentralised application from a wallet-draining smart contract designed to steal your entire crypto balance in one transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Account Recovery vs Recovery Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-account-recovery-service-vs-recovery-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine platform account-recovery process from a fake recovery service that takes your money or credentials and delivers nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Bank App Notification vs Fake Banking App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-banking-app-alert-vs-fake-banking-app", "summary": "How to tell a genuine push notification from your bank's official app from a fraudulent app or notification designed to harvest your banking credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Two-Factor Prompt vs OTP Bot and Push Bombing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-otp-prompt-vs-otp-bot-push-bombing", "summary": "How to recognise a genuine authentication request from a fraudulent OTP-harvesting bot or push-notification bombing attack attempting to break into your account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Seller Refund vs Overpayment and Fake-Cheque Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-seller-refund-vs-overpayment-check-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine buyer refund from an overpayment scam in which a fake cheque or inflated payment is used to trick you into wiring money back.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Freight Company vs Fake Shipping-Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-freight-company-vs-fake-shipping-fee-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine freight or courier request from a fraudulent message demanding unexpected customs fees or release payments before your package can be delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Debt Collector vs Debt-Collection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-debt-collector-vs-debt-collection-scam", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate debt collector operating within consumer-protection law from a fraudulent caller using threats and urgency to extort money for debts that may not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Tax Refund vs Tax-Refund Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-tax-refund-vs-tax-refund-phishing", "summary": "How to tell a genuine tax authority refund notification from a phishing message designed to steal your bank or identity details under the guise of claiming a refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Giveaway vs Fake Giveaway and Brand Impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-giveaway-vs-fake-giveaway-impersonation", "summary": "How to tell a genuine brand or creator giveaway from a fake contest that impersonates celebrities or companies to harvest personal data or charge entry fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Marketplace Escrow vs Fake-Escrow Page", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-marketplace-escrow-vs-fake-escrow-page", "summary": "How to tell a genuine payment-protection escrow service from a fraudulent cloned page used to steal funds from buyers or sellers in high-value transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Charity Street Fundraiser vs Fake Charity Collector", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-charity-street-collector-vs-fake-charity-collector", "summary": "How to tell a genuine authorised street fundraiser from a fraudster collecting cash under the name of a charity that never receives the money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Solar / Energy Grant vs Green-Energy Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-solar-energy-grant-vs-green-energy-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine government or utility-funded energy-efficiency grant from a fraudulent cold-caller using green energy subsidies as a pretext to steal personal data or charge illegal upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Pension Adviser vs Pension-Liberation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-pension-adviser-vs-pension-liberation-scam", "summary": "How to tell a regulated pension adviser from a pension liberation or pension review scam that transfers your retirement savings into fraudulent or high-risk schemes, often with devastating tax consequences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Licensed Pharmacy vs Counterfeit Medicine Website", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-licensed-pharmacy-vs-counterfeit-medicine-site", "summary": "How to tell a legitimately registered online pharmacy from a rogue website selling counterfeit, substandard, or unregulated medicines that may be harmful.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Flight Booking Site vs Fake Travel Agency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-flight-booking-vs-fake-travel-agency", "summary": "How to tell a genuine airline or authorised travel agent from a fraudulent booking site that takes payment for tickets that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Pet Breeder vs Puppy Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-pet-breeder-vs-puppy-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine dog or cat breeder from a fraudulent seller who takes a deposit for a pet that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Event-Ticket Reseller vs Fake Ticket Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-ticket-reseller-vs-fake-ticket-scam", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate secondary-ticket marketplace from a fraudulent site or individual seller offering counterfeit or nonexistent event tickets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Moving Company vs Moving Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-moving-company-vs-moving-scam", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate removal or moving firm from a fraudulent company that holds your belongings hostage or disappears after a deposit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Timeshare Resale vs Timeshare Exit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-timeshare-resale-vs-timeshare-exit-scam", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate timeshare resale agent from a fraudulent company that charges upfront fees to sell or exit a timeshare and delivers nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Payday Lender vs Advance-Fee Loan Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-payday-lender-vs-advance-fee-loan-scam", "summary": "How to tell a regulated short-term lender from a fraudulent company that collects insurance or processing fees upfront and never actually provides a loan.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Student Loan Servicer vs Loan-Forgiveness Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-student-loan-servicer-vs-loan-forgiveness-scam", "summary": "How to tell your genuine federal student loan servicer from a fraudulent company charging fees to access forgiveness programmes that are free to apply to directly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Survey Platform vs Paid-Survey Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-survey-platform-vs-paid-survey-scam", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate market-research or survey panel from a fraudulent site that collects your personal data or charges a fee with no genuine reward.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Cleaning Platform vs Task-App Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-cleaning-platform-vs-task-app-scam", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate on-demand cleaning or odd-job platform from a fraudulent operation that collects a fee or personal data without ever dispatching a worker.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Influencer Brand Deal vs Fake Brand-Deal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-influencer-brand-deal-vs-fake-brand-deal-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine sponsored partnership offer from a fraudulent approach that harvests your personal or banking details under the guise of a paid collaboration.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Domain Renewal Notice vs Domain-Renewal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-domain-renewal-vs-domain-renewal-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine renewal notice from your actual domain registrar from a fraudulent letter or email designed to switch your registration or extract payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Social Media Verification vs Verification-Badge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-social-verification-vs-verification-badge-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine social media verification process from a scam that charges a fee or harvests account credentials under the pretence of awarding a verified badge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Crypto Airdrop Announcement vs Fake Airdrop Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-crypto-airdrop-announcement-vs-fake-airdrop-phishing", "summary": "How to tell a genuine token distribution event from a fraudulent airdrop promotion designed to drain your wallet or steal your seed phrase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Online Course vs Fake Course or Certificate Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-online-course-vs-fake-certificate-scam", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate online learning platform or course from a fraudulent operation that issues worthless certificates or takes payment for content that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Public Wi-Fi Sign vs Evil-Twin Hotspot Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-public-wifi-sign-vs-evil-twin-hotspot", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate venue Wi-Fi network from a rogue hotspot set up by an attacker to intercept your internet traffic and capture sensitive data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Software Download vs Drive-By Malware Installation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-software-download-vs-drive-by-malware", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate software installer from a malicious download that bundles malware, spyware, or ransomware alongside or instead of the expected application.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Bank Fraud Alert vs Smishing Spoof", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-bank-fraud-alert-vs-smishing-spoof", "summary": "How to tell a genuine bank fraud-detection text from a smishing message designed to steal your credentials or authorise a fraudulent payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Courier Missed-Delivery Card vs Fake Delivery Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-courier-missed-delivery-card-vs-fake-delivery-text", "summary": "How to distinguish a genuine missed-delivery card or notification from a fraudulent message designed to harvest your card details or install malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Insurance Adjuster vs Fake Claim Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-insurance-adjuster-vs-fake-claim-scam", "summary": "How to verify that contact from an insurance adjuster is genuine and not part of a fraudulent scheme to extract money or personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Recruiter Video Interview vs Deepfake Interview Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-recruiter-video-interview-vs-deepfake-interview-scam", "summary": "How to identify a genuine video job interview versus a synthetic or scripted deepfake interview used to steal personal information or collect upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Freelance Client vs Overpayment Gig Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-freelance-client-vs-overpayment-gig-scam", "summary": "How to distinguish a legitimate freelance client from a scammer who overpays by cheque or bank transfer then requests a refund of the difference.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Crypto Exchange Support vs Fake-Support DM", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-crypto-support-ticket-vs-fake-exchange-dm", "summary": "How to tell a genuine exchange support interaction from a fraudulent direct message posing as customer service in order to steal your funds or credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real NFT Marketplace vs Fake-Mint Site", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-nft-marketplace-vs-fake-mint-site", "summary": "How to distinguish a legitimate NFT platform from a fraudulent mint site designed to drain your connected crypto wallet.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Charity Crowdfunding Page vs Fake Crowdfunding Campaign", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-charity-crowdfunding-vs-fake-gofundme", "summary": "How to verify a crowdfunding or charity donation page is genuine before giving, and the signs that distinguish authentic campaigns from fraudulent ones.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Utility Meter Reader vs Doorstep Utility Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-utility-meter-reader-vs-doorstep-utility-scam", "summary": "How to verify that someone claiming to read your meter or represent a utility company at your door is genuine, and how doorstep utility scams operate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Solar Panel Installer vs Solar Grant Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-solar-panel-installer-vs-solar-grant-scam", "summary": "How to verify a solar panel installation company is legitimate and not a fraudulent operator exploiting government grant schemes to charge upfront deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Travel Agent vs Fake Travel Deal Page", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-travel-agent-vs-fake-travel-deal-page", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate travel agency from a fraudulent website or social media page offering deals that do not exist in order to steal payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Airline Customer Service vs Fake Refund Agent", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-airline-customer-service-vs-fake-refund-agent", "summary": "How to identify genuine airline customer service from fraudulent refund agents that charge fees for services they cannot deliver or steal payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Apple or Google Support vs Fake Tech-Support Popup", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-apple-google-support-vs-fake-tech-support-popup", "summary": "How to tell a genuine Apple or Google security notification from a fraudulent tech-support popup designed to frighten you into calling a scammer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Two-Factor Authenticator App vs OTP-Phishing Page", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-authenticator-app-vs-otp-phishing-page", "summary": "How to tell a genuine two-factor authentication prompt from a real-time phishing page designed to relay your one-time code to an attacker.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Loan Provider vs Advance-Fee Loan Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-loan-provider-vs-advance-fee-loan", "summary": "How to distinguish a legitimate lender from a fraudulent loan company that demands an upfront fee before releasing funds that never arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Car Private Sale vs Fake Vehicle Escrow Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-car-private-sale-vs-fake-vehicle-escrow-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine private car sale from a fraudulent listing that uses a fake escrow service to steal your payment before delivering any vehicle.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Letting Agent vs Rental Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-letting-agent-vs-rental-deposit-scam", "summary": "How to verify a letting agent is legitimate and not a fraudster advertising properties they do not control in order to steal tenancy deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Online Marketplace Shipping vs Label or Overpayment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-marketplace-shipping-vs-label-overpayment-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine buyer's shipping request from a scammer using fake payment screenshots or overpaid cheques to steal money from online sellers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Subscription Renewal Email vs Subscription-Renewal Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-saas-billing-email-vs-subscription-phishing", "summary": "How to tell a genuine SaaS or subscription billing notification from a phishing email designed to steal your payment details under a fake renewal alert.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real NHS / Healthcare Text vs Health Scam Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-nhs-healthcare-text-vs-health-scam-text", "summary": "How to tell a genuine NHS or healthcare appointment message from a health-themed phishing text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Council / Local Government Letter vs Council Tax Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-council-letter-vs-council-tax-scam", "summary": "Distinguish a genuine local authority letter about council tax from a scam impersonating it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Energy Supplier vs Energy Broker Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-energy-supplier-vs-energy-broker-scam", "summary": "Tell a genuine energy supplier or switching service apart from an energy broker or doorstep scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Pension Provider vs Pension Liberation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-pension-provider-vs-pension-liberation-scam", "summary": "Identify a genuine pension provider versus a pension liberation or pension review scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Will / Probate Solicitor vs Inheritance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-will-solicitor-vs-inheritance-scam", "summary": "Tell a genuine probate or estate solicitor apart from an inheritance advance-fee scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Car History Check vs Fake Vehicle History Site", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-car-history-check-vs-fake-vehicle-history-site", "summary": "Distinguish a legitimate vehicle history service from a fake site that charges for worthless reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Breakdown Cover vs Fake Roadside Cover", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-breakdown-cover-vs-fake-roadside-cover", "summary": "Tell a genuine breakdown cover policy apart from a fake or worthless roadside assistance scheme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real App Store App vs Fake App Download", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-app-store-app-vs-fake-app-download", "summary": "Distinguish a legitimate app from an official store from a fake app designed to steal data or money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Cloud Storage Alert vs Storage-Full Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-cloud-storage-alert-vs-storage-full-phishing", "summary": "Tell a genuine cloud storage warning from a phishing email exploiting storage anxiety.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Password Reset Email vs Password Reset Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-password-reset-vs-reset-phishing", "summary": "Distinguish a genuine password reset email from a phishing email designed to steal your credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Delivery Locker Code vs Locker Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-delivery-locker-code-vs-locker-phishing", "summary": "Tell a genuine parcel locker access code from a phishing text exploiting the parcel-locker format.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Gig-Work Platform vs Upfront-Fee Gig Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-gig-platform-vs-upfront-fee-gig-scam", "summary": "Distinguish a legitimate gig-economy platform from a scam that charges upfront fees to access work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Tutoring Service vs Fake Course / Certificate Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-tutoring-service-vs-course-certificate-scam", "summary": "Tell a genuine tutoring or education provider apart from a fake course or worthless certificate scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Pet Adoption vs Puppy Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-pet-adoption-vs-puppy-deposit-scam", "summary": "Tell a genuine pet adoption or breeder listing apart from a puppy deposit scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Charity Raffle vs Fake Prize Draw", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-charity-raffle-vs-fake-prize-draw", "summary": "Distinguish a genuine charity raffle or prize draw from a fake draw designed to collect personal data or fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Credit Bureau Alert vs Identity-Theft Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-credit-bureau-alert-vs-identity-theft-phishing", "summary": "How to tell a genuine fraud alert from your credit bureau apart from a phishing message designed to steal your identity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Courier vs Courier-Collection Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-courier-vs-courier-collection-fraud", "summary": "How to spot the difference between a genuine courier collecting a parcel and a scammer posing as one to collect your cash or cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Immigration Lawyer vs Notario Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-immigration-lawyer-vs-notario-fraud", "summary": "How to distinguish a licensed immigration attorney from an unqualified notario or ghost consultant who can devastate your immigration case.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Government Visa Site vs Fake Visa Service", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-visa-site-vs-fake-visa-service", "summary": "How to tell an official government visa portal from a lookalike site that charges inflated fees or steals your personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Subscription vs Negative-Option Billing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-subscription-vs-negative-option-billing", "summary": "How to tell a straightforward subscription from a negative-option scheme that charges you automatically unless you take action to cancel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Free Trial vs Free-Trial Trap", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-free-trial-vs-free-trial-trap", "summary": "How to distinguish a genuine limited-time trial from a free-trial trap that charges you unexpectedly the moment the trial ends.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Side Hustle vs MLM / Pyramid Scheme", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-side-hustle-vs-mlm-pyramid", "summary": "How to tell a genuine part-time income opportunity from a multi-level marketing or pyramid scheme that profits mainly from recruiting.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Passive Income vs Passive-Income Hustle Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-passive-income-vs-hustle-scam", "summary": "How to distinguish a legitimate passive income strategy from a scam that sells the dream of effortless earnings while extracting your money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Verification Badge vs Badge Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-verification-badge-vs-badge-phishing", "summary": "How to tell a genuine platform verification notification from a phishing attempt that uses the badge as bait to steal your account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Account Recovery vs Recovery-Help Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-account-recovery-vs-recovery-help-scam", "summary": "How to tell a platform's genuine account-recovery process from a scammer posing as a recovery service to steal access to your account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real M-Pesa Request vs Mobile-Money Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-mpesa-request-vs-mobile-money-scam", "summary": "How to distinguish a genuine M-Pesa or mobile-money payment prompt from a fraudulent request designed to drain your wallet.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real UPI Collect Request vs UPI Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-upi-collect-request-vs-upi-fraud", "summary": "How to tell a genuine UPI collect request from a fraudulent one that drains your account when you press 'approve'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Crypto Wallet Connect vs Wallet-Drainer dApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-crypto-wallet-connect-vs-wallet-drainer", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate wallet connection to a verified dApp from a wallet-drainer that empties your crypto holdings the moment you approve.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Seed-Phrase Backup vs Seed-Phrase Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-seed-phrase-backup-vs-seed-phrase-phishing", "summary": "How to tell the genuine process of backing up your seed phrase from a phishing attempt that tricks you into revealing it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Data-Broker Opt-Out vs Fake Removal Service", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-data-broker-opt-out-vs-fake-removal-service", "summary": "How to tell a genuine data-broker opt-out process from a fake removal service that collects your personal data under the guise of deleting it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Mail Hold vs Mail-Redirection Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-mail-hold-vs-mail-redirection-fraud", "summary": "How to tell a genuine postal mail-hold or redirection service from a fraudulent redirection that diverts your correspondence to a criminal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Debt Collector vs Debt-Collection Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-debt-collector-vs-debt-collection-impersonation", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate debt collector from a scammer posing as one to pressure you into paying debts you may not owe.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Reverse Mortgage vs Reverse-Mortgage Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-reverse-mortgage-vs-reverse-mortgage-scam", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate reverse mortgage product from a fraudulent scheme that strips equity from older homeowners.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Landlord Reference Check vs Rental Reference Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-landlord-reference-vs-rental-reference-fraud", "summary": "How to tell a genuine rental reference process from a fraudulent one used by fake landlords or dishonest tenants to manipulate rental decisions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Energy Price Comparison vs Energy Broker Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-energy-comparison-vs-energy-broker-scam", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate energy price-comparison service from a broker scam that locks you into a high-cost contract or steals your personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Healthcare Provider Text vs Health Scam SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-healthcare-provider-text-vs-health-scam-sms", "summary": "How to tell a genuine appointment reminder or health alert from your provider from a health scam SMS designed to steal personal or insurance details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Scholarship vs Scholarship Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-scholarship-vs-scholarship-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine educational scholarship from a fake award that charges fees, collects personal data, or promises guaranteed money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Home-Improvement Contractor vs Contractor Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-home-contractor-vs-contractor-scam", "summary": "How to tell a genuine, licensed contractor from a scammer who takes deposits, does shoddy work, or disappears without completing the job.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Crowdfunding Campaign vs Fake Crowdfunding Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-crowdfunding-campaign-vs-fake-crowdfunding", "summary": "How to tell a genuine fundraising campaign from a fraudulent one designed to pocket donations for a non-existent cause or person.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Brand Prize vs Fake Brand Giveaway Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-brand-prize-vs-fake-brand-giveaway", "summary": "How to tell a genuine brand competition or prize from a fake giveaway that impersonates a well-known company to harvest data or fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real IRS / HMRC Contact vs Government-Impersonation Call", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-irs-hmrc-contact-vs-government-impersonation-call", "summary": "How to tell a genuine IRS or HMRC communication from a scam call threatening arrest, fines, or asset seizure to extract immediate payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Pet Rehoming vs Fake Pet Adoption Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-pet-rehoming-vs-fake-pet-adoption", "summary": "How to tell a genuine pet rehoming or adoption from a scam that takes deposits for animals that do not exist or never arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Online Auction vs Fake Auction Site Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-online-auction-vs-fake-auction-site", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate online auction platform from a fake site that collects payment for goods it never ships.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "comparison", "title": "Real Investment Seminar vs Wealth-Seminar Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/compare/real-investment-seminar-vs-wealth-seminar-scam", "summary": "How to tell a legitimate financial education event from a high-pressure wealth seminar designed to sell overpriced courses or dubious investments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a bank ask me to move money to a 'safe account'?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-bank-ask-me-to-move-money-to-a-safe-account", "summary": "No. A genuine bank will never ask you to move your money to a 'safe account'. This is one of the clearest signs of a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a WhatsApp job offer a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-whatsapp-job-offer-a-scam", "summary": "An unsolicited job offer arriving by WhatsApp from an unknown number is almost always a scam, usually a task scam or fee scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can police ask for payment by crypto?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-police-ask-for-payment-by-crypto", "summary": "No. Police and government agencies never demand payment in cryptocurrency, gift cards, or by transfer to a 'safe account'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it normal for a hotel to ask for card verification by WhatsApp?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-normal-for-a-hotel-to-ask-for-card-verification-by-whatsapp", "summary": "No. A genuine hotel won't ask you to 're-verify' full card details or codes via WhatsApp, SMS, or email links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a recruiter ask me to pay before starting work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-recruiter-ask-me-to-pay-before-starting-work", "summary": "No. Legitimate recruiters and employers never require you to pay fees, deposits, or 'equipment' costs to get hired.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I recover crypto sent to a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-recover-crypto-sent-to-a-scammer", "summary": "Usually not. Crypto transactions are typically irreversible, and anyone guaranteeing recovery for an upfront fee is almost certainly a second scammer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What should I do if I gave a scammer remote access?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-should-i-do-if-i-gave-a-scammer-remote-access", "summary": "Disconnect the device from the internet immediately, then secure your banking and passwords from a different, clean device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Should I pay a recovery agent to get my money back?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/should-i-pay-a-recovery-agent", "summary": "No. Legitimate recovery never requires an upfront fee. Unsolicited 'recovery agents' who guarantee results are almost always scammers targeting victims a second time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a guaranteed investment return a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-guaranteed-investment-return-a-scam", "summary": "Almost always. All real investments carry risk. 'Guaranteed' or 'risk-free' high returns are a hallmark of investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What if a scammer has my passport or ID?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-if-a-scammer-has-my-passport-or-id", "summary": "Treat it as potential identity theft: secure your accounts, set up fraud alerts, consider replacing the document, and report it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Cash App payment request a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cash-app-payment-request-a-scam", "summary": "Unsolicited Cash App requests or 'accidental payment' refund requests are very commonly scams. Verify before sending anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Zelle request from my bank a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-zelle-request-from-my-bank-a-scam", "summary": "If a caller urges you to send money via Zelle to 'protect your account', that is a scam — your real bank will never do this.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a PayPal invoice I didn't expect a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-paypal-invoice-i-didnt-expect-a-scam", "summary": "Yes, most likely. Scammers send fake PayPal invoices to trick you into calling a fake support number or into paying for something you didn't buy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a delivery text from USPS, DHL, or Royal Mail a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-delivery-text-from-usps-or-dhl-a-scam", "summary": "Unsolicited delivery texts asking you to pay a fee or click a link to reschedule are very often phishing scams, even if they look official.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why did I get a verification code I didn't request?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-did-i-get-a-verification-code-i-didnt-request", "summary": "Someone is trying to log into your account or reset your password. Do not share the code with anyone — this is how account takeovers happen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job that pays by cheque in advance a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-that-pays-by-cheque-in-advance-a-scam", "summary": "Almost always. The 'overpayment cheque' is a classic fraud — the cheque bounces days later and you've already sent back real money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone hack my phone with a SIM swap?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-hack-my-phone-with-a-sim-swap", "summary": "Yes. SIM swapping moves your number to a scammer's SIM, letting them intercept your calls, texts, and authentication codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto giveaway on social media real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crypto-giveaway-on-social-media-real", "summary": "No. All 'send crypto to receive more back' giveaways are scams, regardless of which celebrity or brand appears to endorse them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are recovery DMs after a scam legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/are-recovery-dms-after-a-scam-legitimate", "summary": "No. Unsolicited direct messages offering to recover your lost money are a second scam targeting people who have already been victimised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a rental that won't let me view it a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-rental-that-wont-let-me-view-it-a-scam", "summary": "This is a major red flag. Landlords who refuse or are unable to let you view a property before paying are a very common scam pattern.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a charity ask for gift cards as donations?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-charity-ask-for-gift-cards-as-donations", "summary": "No. Legitimate charities accept standard payment methods. Any request for gift card donations is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an extended car warranty call a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-extended-car-warranty-call-a-scam", "summary": "Unsolicited calls about your car's warranty — especially claiming it has 'expired' or is 'about to expire' — are very frequently scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is pig butchering?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-pig-butchering", "summary": "Pig butchering is a long-running investment fraud where scammers build a trusting relationship before persuading victims to invest in a fake platform and draining their funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a romance partner who won't video call a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-romance-partner-who-wont-video-call-a-scammer", "summary": "It is a significant red flag. Genuine romantic connections online should be able to video call; repeated excuses are a common scammer pattern.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get my money back after a bank transfer scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-my-money-back-after-a-bank-transfer-scam", "summary": "Sometimes. Report to your bank immediately — speed greatly improves your chances, and in many countries authorised push-payment fraud now has formal reimbursement rules.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text saying my package is held in customs real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-saying-my-package-is-held-in-customs-real", "summary": "Treat it with caution. Unexpected customs-fee texts with payment links are a well-known phishing method — verify through official channels only.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Microsoft or Apple support call about my computer a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-microsoft-or-apple-support-call-about-my-computer-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Microsoft, Apple, and other tech companies do not make unsolicited calls about viruses or problems on your device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Facebook Marketplace buyer who wants to overpay a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-facebook-marketplace-buyer-who-wants-to-overpay-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly. Offering to pay more than the listed price and asking you to refund the difference is a classic overpayment scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a lottery or prize I didn't enter real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-lottery-or-prize-i-didnt-enter-real", "summary": "No. You cannot win a lottery or prize draw you didn't enter. Messages claiming otherwise are scams designed to collect fees or your personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a government grant I automatically qualify for real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-government-grant-i-qualify-for-automatically-real", "summary": "Almost always not. Genuine government grants require an application process — unsolicited messages claiming you've automatically been approved are a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is someone asking me to be a money mule illegal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-someone-asking-me-to-be-a-money-mule-illegal", "summary": "Yes. Allowing your bank account to be used to move criminal money is a serious crime, even if you did not commit the original fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a social media ad for an investment platform safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-social-media-ad-for-an-investment-platform-safe", "summary": "Approach with serious caution. Social media ads for investment platforms are a leading route for investment fraud and are not vetted for legitimacy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a ticket seller outside a venue selling real tickets?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-ticket-seller-outside-a-venue-selling-real-tickets", "summary": "There is a real risk of fake, invalid, or already-used tickets. Buy only from official sources or reputable authorised resellers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online puppy or pet seller a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-puppy-or-pet-seller-a-scam", "summary": "Pet purchase scams are extremely common online. Before paying, always visit and see the animal in person at the seller's premises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text from HMRC or the IRS threatening arrest real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-from-hmrc-or-the-irs-threatening-arrest-real", "summary": "No. Tax authorities do not threaten arrest by text or phone. This is a government-impersonation scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'verify you are human' page that asks me to paste a command safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-fake-captcha-that-asks-me-to-paste-a-command-safe", "summary": "No. Any CAPTCHA or 'human verification' step that asks you to paste something into a Run dialog or terminal is a malware delivery technique, not a real CAPTCHA.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Venmo or Apple Pay request from a stranger a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-venmo-or-apple-pay-request-from-a-stranger-a-scam", "summary": "Almost always. Unsolicited payment requests or transfers from people you don't know are a well-known fraud method — do not send money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a QR code on a parking meter safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-qr-code-on-a-parking-meter-safe", "summary": "Not automatically. Fake QR code stickers placed over legitimate ones are a known fraud — always verify the URL before entering payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'your subscription has auto-renewed' email a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-subscription-auto-renewal-email-a-scam", "summary": "It may be. These emails often impersonate real services to panic you into calling a fake number or clicking a link — check your actual account before doing anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can scammers fake a caller ID?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammers-fake-a-caller-id", "summary": "Yes. Caller ID can be set to display any number or name, so a familiar-looking number on your screen does not confirm who is calling.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a debt-collection call demanding immediate payment a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-debt-collection-call-demanding-immediate-payment-a-scam", "summary": "It may be. Legitimate debt collectors follow rules about verification and acceptable payment methods. Demands for immediate payment by gift card, wire, or crypto are scam signals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'you have a refund waiting' message a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-refund-waiting-message-a-scam", "summary": "Often yes. Unexpected refund notifications are used to trick you into sharing bank details or clicking a link to a phishing page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job that asks me to buy my own equipment a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-that-asks-me-to-buy-my-own-equipment-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely. Legitimate employers supply necessary equipment or reimburse verified costs — paying upfront for equipment to get a job is a well-known scam pattern.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto airdrop that needs my seed phrase real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crypto-airdrop-that-needs-my-seed-phrase-real", "summary": "No. Any airdrop or promotion that requires your seed phrase or private key is a scam — entering it will drain your entire wallet.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a romance partner who only wants gift cards a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-romance-partner-who-only-wants-gift-cards-a-scammer", "summary": "Almost certainly. Requests for gift cards from an online romantic partner — with any explanation — are one of the most reliable signs of romance fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I trust a cheque that clears then bounces later?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-trust-a-check-that-clears-then-bounces", "summary": "No. A cheque appearing to clear is not a guarantee of payment — it can still bounce days later, leaving you responsible for any money you spent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'loan pre-approved, pay a fee' offer a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-loan-pre-approved-pay-a-fee-offer-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Legitimate lenders deduct fees from the loan — they never ask you to pay an upfront fee before releasing funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an 'unpaid toll' text a real notice?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-unpaid-toll-text-real", "summary": "Usually not. Unsolicited texts claiming you owe a toll and asking you to click a link are a widespread phishing scam — verify through the official toll operator only.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'Geek Squad' or 'Norton auto-renewal' email a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-geek-squad-or-norton-auto-renewal-email-a-scam", "summary": "Almost always. These impersonation emails are one of the most common tech-support scam formats — do not call the number or click any link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Should I scan a QR code sent to me by email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/should-i-scan-a-qr-code-sent-to-me-by-email", "summary": "Be cautious. QR codes in unsolicited emails are increasingly used to bypass email security filters and direct you to phishing pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'family member stranded abroad' call real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-family-member-stranded-abroad-call-real", "summary": "Treat it as suspicious. The 'grandparent scam' and variants convince people a relative is in trouble and needs emergency money — verify directly before sending anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a recruiter on LinkedIn be fake?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-recruiter-on-linkedin-be-fake", "summary": "Yes. Fake recruiter profiles on LinkedIn are used to deliver job scams, phishing links, pig-butchering investment fraud, and corporate espionage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a rental that's much cheaper than others and wants a deposit before viewing a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-too-cheap-rental-that-wants-a-deposit-before-viewing-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly. An unusually cheap rental combined with a request for deposit before viewing is the clearest pattern of rental fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'your account will be closed' bank text real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-your-account-will-be-closed-bank-text-real", "summary": "Treat it with caution. These texts are a common phishing method — verify by calling your bank directly using the number on your card, not a number in the text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone steal my money with just my phone number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-steal-my-money-with-just-my-phone-number", "summary": "Not directly — but your phone number is a starting point for SIM-swap attacks, phishing calls, and account-takeover attempts that can lead to financial loss.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an investment group on Telegram or WhatsApp legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-investment-group-on-telegram-or-whatsapp-legitimate", "summary": "Approach with serious caution. Unsolicited invitations to investment groups on messaging apps are one of the most common routes into investment and pig-butchering fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a charity street collector legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-charity-street-collector-legitimate", "summary": "They may be, but it is worth checking. Fraudulent collectors exist alongside legitimate ones — verifying the charity before donating protects you and your money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a winning lottery letter for a lottery I didn't enter real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-winning-lottery-letter-for-a-lottery-i-didnt-enter-real", "summary": "No. You cannot win a lottery you didn't enter. Letters, emails, or calls claiming otherwise are prize-notification scams designed to collect fees or your personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'package undeliverable' text from USPS real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-package-undeliverable-text-from-usps-real", "summary": "Treat it as suspicious. Fake 'undeliverable package' texts are among the most common smishing scams — verify only through USPS's official website.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a mystery shopper job a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-mystery-shopper-job-a-scam", "summary": "Many mystery-shopper offers circulating by email or social media are scams. Genuine mystery-shopping exists but never requires you to send money or wire a portion of your pay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'we tried to deliver your package' voicemail real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-we-tried-to-deliver-your-package-voicemail-real", "summary": "Treat it with caution. Unsolicited voicemails about a missed delivery — especially ones that ask you to call back or pay a fee — are frequently smishing or vishing scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer use my stolen ID to open accounts?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-scammer-use-my-stolen-id-to-open-accounts", "summary": "Yes. Identity documents in the wrong hands can be used to open bank accounts, take loans, or apply for credit in your name — sometimes months after the theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a WhatsApp message from my 'boss' asking for gift cards a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-whatsapp-message-from-my-boss-asking-for-gift-cards-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly. This is the CEO or boss impersonation scam — a scammer pretends to be your manager and asks you to buy gift cards on their behalf.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job interview conducted only over Telegram a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-interview-conducted-only-over-telegram-a-scam", "summary": "It is a strong red flag. Legitimate employers use professional platforms or phone for interviews — Telegram-only hiring processes are associated with job and task scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get scammed by answering 'yes' on a phone call?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-scammed-by-answering-yes-on-a-phone-call", "summary": "Saying 'yes' alone is unlikely to authorise a transaction, but scammers may record your voice to use in fraudulent 'voice signature' claims — it is safer to hang up on suspicious calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'your parcel has a customs fee' email real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-your-parcel-has-a-customs-fee-email-real", "summary": "Treat it with caution. Customs-fee phishing emails are extremely common — verify any duty claim only through the official carrier or customs authority website.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Should I trust a cheque sent before I start a job?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/should-i-trust-a-check-sent-before-i-start-a-job", "summary": "No. A cheque arriving before you have done any work is a classic sign of an overpayment or advance-fee job scam — do not deposit it or spend the funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto 'recovery group' on Telegram legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crypto-recovery-group-on-telegram-legitimate", "summary": "No. Telegram groups offering to recover lost cryptocurrency are almost always a second scam targeting people who have already been defrauded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'verify your account' email from my bank real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-verify-your-account-email-from-my-bank-real", "summary": "Treat it with caution. Banks do sometimes send verification emails, but phishing emails that mimic them perfectly are extremely common — always verify through the bank's official app or website.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a QR code steal my information?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-qr-code-steal-my-information", "summary": "A QR code itself doesn't steal data, but it can direct you to a phishing website or prompt a malicious download — the risk lies in what you do after scanning.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a romance partner asking me to receive and forward money a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-romance-partner-asking-me-to-receive-and-forward-money-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Being asked to receive money and pass it on is money-mule recruitment — it is illegal and you could face criminal liability, regardless of your feelings for the person.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'your Netflix payment failed' text real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-your-netflix-payment-failed-text-real", "summary": "Treat it with caution. Fake payment-failed texts impersonating streaming services are a common phishing method — verify only through the official app or website.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can scammers fake my bank's phone number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammers-fake-my-banks-phone-number", "summary": "Yes. Caller ID spoofing lets scammers display any number they choose, including your bank's official number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a wire transfer request from my CEO a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-wire-transfer-request-from-a-ceo-a-scam", "summary": "Possibly. Urgent wire-transfer emails or messages appearing to come from senior executives are a major fraud category called Business Email Compromise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a gift card payment request ever legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-gift-card-payment-request-ever-legitimate", "summary": "Almost never. Asking someone to pay a debt, fee, tax, or fine with gift cards is a near-universal scam signal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text about a failed delivery attempt a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-about-a-failed-delivery-attempt-a-scam", "summary": "It may be. Smishing texts imitating couriers like UPS, FedEx, DHL, or Royal Mail are extremely common and often lead to credential or card-detail theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can AI voice cloning be used to scam me?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-ai-voice-cloning-be-used-to-scam-me", "summary": "Yes. Fraudsters can clone someone's voice using a short audio sample and then call you pretending to be a family member or colleague in distress.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a too-good-to-be-true online store a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-too-good-to-be-true-online-store-a-scam", "summary": "Often yes. Fake online shops advertise popular products at extreme discounts, take payment, and either send counterfeits or nothing at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone scam me through Zelle?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-scam-me-through-zelle", "summary": "Yes. Zelle payments are nearly instant and generally irreversible, making it a frequent tool in bank-impersonation, marketplace, and romance scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a tax refund text from the IRS real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-tax-refund-text-from-the-irs-real", "summary": "No. The IRS does not initiate contact by text message. Any text claiming to be from the IRS about a refund or penalty is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a deepfake video of a celebrity promoting a cryptocurrency real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-deepfake-video-of-a-celebrity-promoting-crypto-real", "summary": "No. Celebrity-endorsed crypto investment videos circulating on social media are almost always deepfake scams designed to steal money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free trial that requires my card details safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-free-trial-that-requires-my-card-details-safe", "summary": "It depends. Legitimate companies do offer card-backed free trials, but some use them to trap people in expensive subscriptions that are very hard to cancel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is someone asking for crypto payment for a service a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-someone-asking-for-crypto-payment-for-a-service-a-scam", "summary": "Crypto-only payment for a service is a significant red flag. Legitimate service providers rarely require cryptocurrency as the sole payment method.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Telegram investment group showing verified profits a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-telegram-investment-group-with-verified-profits-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Fabricated screenshots of profits are trivially easy to produce and are a standard tool of investment fraud groups on Telegram.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is my elderly parent being targeted by phone scammers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-elderly-parent-being-targeted-by-phone-scammers", "summary": "Quite possibly. Older adults are disproportionately targeted by phone fraud, including grandparent scams, tech-support fraud, and Medicare impersonation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a student visa or scholarship offer sent by email a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-student-visa-or-scholarship-offer-by-email-a-scam", "summary": "It is very likely a scam. Unsolicited scholarship or visa emails asking for fees or personal documents are a well-known category of education fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a utility company calling to warn of immediate disconnection a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-utility-company-calling-to-warn-of-disconnection-a-scam", "summary": "Often yes. Urgent disconnection calls demanding immediate payment by gift card, wire, or crypto are a very common utility impersonation scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer take money from my Venmo account?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-scammer-take-money-from-my-venmo-account", "summary": "Yes, in several ways — including account takeover, fake payment scams, and tricking you into sending money voluntarily.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a romance partner who asks for cryptocurrency a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-romance-partner-who-asks-for-crypto-a-scammer", "summary": "This is a major red flag. Asking for cryptocurrency is one of the clearest signs of a romance scam, often linked to pig-butchering fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a QR code install malware on my phone?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-qr-code-install-malware-on-my-phone", "summary": "A QR code itself cannot run code, but it can direct your phone to a malicious website that tries to download malware or phish your credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Cash App 'flip' investment a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cash-app-flip-investment-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Cash App flipping — where someone claims to multiply your money in minutes — is always a scam. No such investment exists.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can an immigrant be deported if they don't pay a fine over the phone?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-immigrant-be-deported-if-they-dont-pay-a-phone-fine", "summary": "No. Immigration authorities do not call people demanding immediate payment to avoid deportation. These calls are scams targeting immigrant communities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a work-from-home data entry job legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-work-from-home-data-entry-job-legitimate", "summary": "Many are scams. Genuine remote data-entry work exists, but a large proportion of online postings are fee scams, task scams, or money-mule recruitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a PayPal Goods and Services payment always safe for sellers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-paypal-goods-and-services-payment-always-safe", "summary": "Not entirely. While PayPal's buyer protection is strong, sellers face risks from fraudulent chargeback claims and overpayment scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a prize notification that requires a fee to claim real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-prize-notification-that-requires-a-fee-real", "summary": "No. Paying a fee to receive a prize is the defining feature of an advance-fee lottery scam — genuine prizes never work this way.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a charity asking for disaster-relief donations online legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-charity-asking-for-disaster-relief-donations-legitimate", "summary": "It may not be. Fake charity appeals surge after major disasters — always verify a charity's registration before donating.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job offer that needs my bank details before I start a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-offer-that-needs-my-bank-details-before-i-start-a-scam", "summary": "Not always, but it depends heavily on context. A legitimate employer needs bank details to set up payroll — but asking for full account credentials or requesting you receive and forward payments is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Social Security suspension letter or call real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-social-security-suspension-letter-or-call-real", "summary": "If it threatens immediate suspension unless you call a number or pay a fee, it is a scam. Social Security is never suspended by phone call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can scammers use my email address without hacking my account?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammers-use-my-email-address-without-hacking-my-account", "summary": "Yes. Email spoofing lets criminals send messages that appear to come from your address without ever accessing your account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online casino that won't let me withdraw my winnings a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-casino-that-wont-let-me-withdraw-a-scam", "summary": "Quite possibly. Unlicensed online casinos that block withdrawals and demand extra fees or wagering requirements are a recognised form of gambling fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a friend who asks me to invest in a crypto platform trustworthy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-friend-who-asks-me-to-invest-in-a-crypto-platform-trustworthy", "summary": "Be cautious. Your friend may genuinely believe in it, or may themselves be a victim trying to recoup losses, or — rarely — may be an unwitting recruiter for a fraud ring.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I be scammed by sending a photo of my ID?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-be-scammed-by-sending-a-photo-of-my-id", "summary": "Yes. A photo of your ID can be used for identity theft, fraudulent account openings, loan applications, and SIM-swap attacks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a subscription box that is hard to cancel a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-subscription-box-that-is-hard-to-cancel-a-scam", "summary": "It may not be an outright scam, but deliberately difficult cancellation is deceptive practice — and in some jurisdictions, illegal under consumer protection law.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a medical equipment discount offer by phone a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-medical-equipment-discount-offer-by-phone-a-scam", "summary": "Often yes, especially in the US. Medicare and health insurance fraud involving unsolicited calls offering free or discounted equipment is widespread.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a rental deposit paid by bank transfer safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-rental-deposit-paid-by-bank-transfer-safe", "summary": "Only if you have verified the landlord's identity and physically viewed the property. Paying a deposit on an unverified rental is a major scam risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a phone number be spoofed to look like a government agency?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-phone-number-be-spoofed-to-look-like-a-government-agency", "summary": "Yes. Caller ID spoofing allows anyone to display any number, including official government helpline numbers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text from Amazon about a suspended account real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-from-amazon-about-a-suspended-account-real", "summary": "It may not be. Fake Amazon account-suspension texts are a common phishing attack designed to steal your login and payment credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone scam me just by knowing my email address?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-scam-me-just-by-knowing-my-email-address", "summary": "Having your email alone gives scammers limited but real power — including phishing, credential stuffing, and spam — though not direct account access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is someone offering to sell me rare gaming items outside the official marketplace a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-gaming-item-seller-a-scam", "summary": "High risk. Trading valuable in-game items outside official platforms removes all buyer protections and is a common route to theft and fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a payday loan advertisement on social media legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-payday-loan-advertisement-on-social-media-legitimate", "summary": "Treat with caution. Many payday loan ads on social media lead to unlicensed lenders, clone firms, or fee-upfront loan scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer access my bank through remote desktop software?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-scammer-access-my-bank-through-remote-desktop-software", "summary": "Yes. Granting remote access to a scammer is one of the most direct routes to bank account takeover and large financial losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Facebook ad for a designer brand at 90% off real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-facebook-ad-for-a-designer-brand-at-90-percent-off-real", "summary": "Almost certainly not. Steep discount ads for luxury brands on social media almost always lead to fake goods, no delivery, or card theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a binary options trading platform legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-binary-options-trading-platform-legitimate", "summary": "In most jurisdictions, binary options trading platforms targeting retail customers are either banned or heavily restricted, and many are outright scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a TikTok Live crypto giveaway real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-tiktok-live-crypto-giveaway-real", "summary": "No. Crypto giveaways broadcast on TikTok Live or any other platform, whether hosted by a real or impersonated account, are invariably scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone hack my phone by sending a text message?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-hack-my-phone-by-sending-a-text", "summary": "In rare cases yes — through zero-click exploits targeting unpatched OS vulnerabilities — but the far more common risk is phishing links within texts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a car for sale online at a very low price a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-car-for-sale-online-at-a-very-low-price-a-scam", "summary": "Often yes. Vehicles listed well below market value by sellers who insist on deposit or full payment before viewing are a classic advance-payment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a weight-loss product advertised on Instagram real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-weight-loss-product-ad-on-instagram-real", "summary": "Treat with scepticism. Many Instagram weight-loss ads promote unproven products, misleading before-and-after images, or free-trial subscription traps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone use my stolen debit card details without the physical card?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-use-my-stolen-debit-card-details-without-the-physical-card", "summary": "Yes. Card-not-present fraud allows criminals to use your card number, expiry date, and CVV to make online purchases without ever holding the physical card.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a puppy adoption website that requires an air transport fee a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-puppy-adoption-website-that-requires-an-air-transport-fee-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Transport fee requests for pets you have not seen in person are a signature element of online pet fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'we have your browsing history' extortion email real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-we-have-your-browsing-history-extortion-email-real", "summary": "Almost never. These are mass-sent sextortion scripts designed to exploit fear — the sender almost certainly does not have your browsing history or webcam footage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a doorstep energy supplier salesperson a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-doorstep-energy-switcher-a-scam", "summary": "Not always, but doorstep energy sales are a common route for high-pressure selling, slamming (switching without consent), and outright fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a wire transfer request from a known supplier always safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-wire-transfer-request-from-a-supplier-always-safe", "summary": "Not if the bank account details have changed. Invoice fraud and payment diversion scams intercept supplier communications to redirect funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text saying I owe an unpaid customs fee on a parcel real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-saying-i-owe-an-unpaid-customs-fee-real", "summary": "Probably not. Fake customs-fee texts are a widely used phishing method that impersonates national postal services or border agencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone steal from me using a fake contactless card reader?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-steal-from-me-using-a-contactless-card-reader", "summary": "Contactless card skimming is technically possible but rare in practice. The more common fraud risks involve tampered ATMs and point-of-sale terminals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job offer where salary is paid in advance before I start a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-offer-with-salary-paid-in-advance-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Salary paid before any work is completed is a hallmark of money-mule recruitment and cheque fraud — not a genuine employment benefit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a notification saying I've won a free holiday or cruise real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-travel-competition-winner-notification-real", "summary": "Almost never. Unsolicited holiday or cruise prize notifications are a classic advance-fee and timeshare-sales scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text from my phone provider about an account problem real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-from-my-phone-provider-about-an-account-problem-real", "summary": "It may be, but impersonation of mobile carriers is common. Verify through your provider's official app or website before clicking any link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a grant for free home insulation or solar panels a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-grant-for-home-insulation-or-solar-panels-a-scam", "summary": "Government insulation and solar grant schemes are real, but cold calls or door-knockers offering them are frequently used to set up fraud or high-pressure selling.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a new friend on Instagram who mentions cryptocurrency a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-new-friend-on-instagram-who-mentions-crypto-a-scammer", "summary": "Very likely yes. Strangers on Instagram who befriend you then introduce cryptocurrency investments are running a well-documented romance or investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone scam me through a PayPal Friends and Family payment?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-scam-me-through-a-paypal-friends-and-family-payment", "summary": "Yes. PayPal Friends and Family offers no buyer protection, making it a favoured tool for fraudulent sellers who want to prevent chargebacks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free investment seminar offering guaranteed returns legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-investment-seminar-offering-guaranteed-returns-legitimate", "summary": "No investment can legally offer guaranteed returns. Free investment seminars are often high-pressure sales events for dubious or unlicensed products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer use stolen photos of me to pretend to be me online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-scammer-use-stolen-photos-to-pretend-to-be-me-online", "summary": "Yes. Photo theft and profile cloning are used to defraud your contacts, conduct romance scams using your identity, or harass you.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a forex trading signal group on Telegram or WhatsApp legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-forex-trading-signal-group-legitimate", "summary": "Most are not. Paid forex signal groups are frequently either entirely fraudulent, wildly inaccurate, or a funnel into a regulated or unregulated brokerage that pays the operator a commission on your losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job that pays you to review products at home a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-that-pays-to-review-products-at-home-a-scam", "summary": "Many are. Legitimate paid review opportunities exist, but schemes requiring upfront fees, purchases, or personal financial details are scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text claiming my Apple ID is locked real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-claiming-my-apple-id-is-locked-real", "summary": "Probably not. Apple ID lock texts are a widespread phishing tactic designed to steal your Apple credentials and personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get scammed on a legitimate marketplace like eBay?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-scammed-on-a-legitimate-marketplace-like-ebay", "summary": "Yes. Even trusted marketplaces have fraud risks, particularly off-platform payment requests, fake escrow, and SNAD (significantly not as described) fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an NFT project that promises passive income a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-nft-that-promises-passive-income-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely. NFT projects marketed with passive income promises, staking rewards, or guaranteed price appreciation are almost uniformly a rug pull or Ponzi structure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online tutor asking for a deposit before lessons a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-tutor-asking-for-a-deposit-before-lessons-a-scam", "summary": "Small advance booking fees from verified tutors are common practice; large deposits to an unverified contact found via social media are a significant risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone steal money using my bank routing and account number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-use-my-routing-number-to-steal-money", "summary": "Yes, in some cases. Routing and account numbers can be used to initiate ACH transfers or set up fraudulent direct debits if other verification steps are bypassed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a hospital bill collections call a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-hospital-bill-collections-call-a-scam", "summary": "It may be. Medical bill collection scams impersonate hospitals and debt collectors to pressure patients into paying fabricated or inflated debts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a bank text asking me to confirm a payment I didn't make a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-bank-text-asking-me-to-confirm-a-payment-i-didnt-make-a-scam", "summary": "It could be — fraudsters send fake bank alerts to trick you into calling a spoofed number or clicking a phishing link. Always verify through your bank's official app or card-back number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a faster-payments bank transfer refundable if I was scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-faster-payments-bank-transfer-refundable-if-scammed", "summary": "Possibly — many banks now reimburse authorised push-payment fraud, but you must report it quickly. Refund rules and amounts vary by bank and jurisdiction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a contactless payment request sent via a link or NFC tag a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-contactless-payment-request-via-nfc-link-a-scam", "summary": "Treat any unexpected NFC tag or link that launches a payment app with extreme caution — scammers plant these to redirect payments to their own accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cash deposit request from an online seller a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cash-deposit-request-from-an-online-seller-a-scam", "summary": "Asking for a cash deposit — especially into a random bank account — is a major warning sign. Legitimate sellers on established platforms use the platform's payment system.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a payday loan text from a lender I never contacted a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-payday-loan-text-from-a-lender-i-never-contacted-a-scam", "summary": "Unsolicited payday loan texts are almost always either phishing attempts or lead-generator fraud. Never click the link or call the number provided.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Royal Mail or FedEx redelivery fee text a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-royal-mail-or-fedex-redelivery-fee-text-a-scam", "summary": "These texts are almost always phishing scams. Genuine couriers rarely charge a small fee by SMS link for redelivery, and the link leads to a fake payment page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call from an immigration officer threatening arrest real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-call-from-an-immigration-officer-threatening-arrest-real", "summary": "No. Genuine immigration authorities do not call to demand immediate payment or threaten same-day arrest. This is a government impersonation scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a council tax debt letter from a bailiff I don't recognise real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-council-tax-debt-letter-from-a-bailiff-i-dont-recognise-real", "summary": "It may be genuine, but fake debt letters are also used to extort payment. Always verify directly with the council before paying, not by contacting the bailiff listed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a benefits overpayment recovery text from the government real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-benefits-overpayment-recovery-text-from-the-government-real", "summary": "Government benefits agencies almost never contact you about overpayments by SMS with a payment link. Verify any overpayment claim directly through official channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a VAT or sales tax refund email from the tax authority real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-vat-or-sales-tax-refund-email-from-the-tax-authority-real", "summary": "Unsolicited tax refund emails are almost always phishing. Real tax agencies communicate through official post or verified online portals, not by asking you to click a link to claim a refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'Google account suspended' email real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-google-account-suspended-email-real", "summary": "Most 'Google account suspended' emails are phishing. Google communicates through your account's official security centre, not by asking you to click an external link to re-verify.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Windows upgrade pop-up asking for payment a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-windows-11-upgrade-pop-up-asking-for-payment-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Microsoft does not charge for Windows operating system upgrades through browser pop-ups or unexpected calls. Pop-ups asking for payment are scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email saying my domain name is expiring a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-saying-my-domain-is-expiring-a-scam", "summary": "Domain expiry scam emails try to trick website owners into transferring their domain to a new, often expensive registrar. Always renew through your current registrar directly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a password reset email I didn't request a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-password-reset-email-i-didnt-request-a-scam", "summary": "An unsolicited password reset email usually means someone is trying to take over your account or test whether it exists. Do not click the reset link — just ignore it or secure your account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a tech support agent asking for TeamViewer access a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-tech-support-agent-asking-for-teamviewer-access-a-scam", "summary": "If the 'tech support' contacted you — by pop-up, cold call, or email — the request for remote access is almost certainly a scam. Legitimate support only uses remote tools when you have initiated the contact.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online date who needs money for a plane ticket a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-date-who-needs-money-for-a-plane-ticket-a-scammer", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Requesting money for travel to meet you is one of the most common romance scam scripts, regardless of how real and genuine the relationship has seemed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a new Instagram follower who mentions investment a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-new-instagram-follower-who-mentions-investment-a-scammer", "summary": "A stranger who follows you, builds rapport, and then mentions a lucrative investment opportunity is almost certainly running a romance or pig-butchering investment scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a romance scammer use photos they get from me against me?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-romance-scammer-use-photos-they-get-from-me-against-me", "summary": "Yes. Scammers who receive intimate or personal photos often use them to threaten you with exposure (sextortion) unless you pay money. Stop contact and do not pay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a soldier stationed abroad asking for money on Facebook a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-soldier-stationed-abroad-asking-for-money-on-facebook-a-scammer", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Military romance scams are extremely common — scammers use stolen photos of soldiers and claim deployment prevents them from meeting until they receive financial help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Tinder match asking to move to WhatsApp immediately a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-tinder-match-asking-to-move-to-whatsapp-immediately-a-scam", "summary": "It is a major red flag. Scammers want to move off dating platforms quickly to avoid being reported and to use a channel with fewer scam-detection tools.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'rated tasks' or app-review job with a daily quota a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-rated-tasks-or-app-review-job-with-a-daily-quota-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Paid task or app-review jobs requiring daily quotas and deposits to 'unlock' higher earnings are task scams — there is no legitimate employment at the end.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a virtual assistant job that requires a training fee a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-virtual-assistant-job-that-requires-a-training-fee-a-scam", "summary": "Any job offer that requires you to pay a training, registration, or onboarding fee upfront is almost certainly a scam. Legitimate employers pay you, not the other way around.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a social media influencer management job offer a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-social-media-influencer-management-job-offer-a-scam", "summary": "Unsolicited influencer management or 'brand ambassador' offers frequently lead to task scams, upfront-fee fraud, or money-mule recruitment. Research any company carefully before agreeing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a remote bookkeeper job that asks me to handle client funds a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-remote-bookkeeper-job-that-handles-client-funds-a-scam", "summary": "If a bookkeeping job requires you to receive money into your personal account and forward it on, you are being recruited as a money mule — which is a criminal offence even if you did not know the funds were stolen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a grant-writing job that requires me to pay a finder's fee a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-grant-writing-job-that-requires-me-to-pay-a-finder-fee-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Legitimate grant-writing employment or freelance contracts never require the worker to pay a finder's fee to secure the role.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a holiday rental that only accepts bank transfer a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-holiday-rental-that-only-accepts-bank-transfer-a-scam", "summary": "Accepting only bank transfer is a major risk factor for rental scams. Legitimate holiday rentals on established platforms use platform-managed payments with built-in protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a car sold without a clear title or with a duplicate title a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-car-sold-with-a-duplicate-title-a-scam", "summary": "Selling a vehicle with a duplicate, salvage, or unclear title is a serious legal and financial risk for buyers — it may mean the car is stolen, financed, or legally undriveable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an apartment listing on Facebook Marketplace safe to rent?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-apartment-listing-on-facebook-marketplace-safe", "summary": "Facebook Marketplace has no rental protection mechanisms, making it a common venue for fake apartment listings. Always verify the landlord's ownership before paying anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a private landlord asking for six months' rent upfront a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-private-landlord-asking-for-six-months-rent-upfront-a-scam", "summary": "Asking for unusually large upfront payments — particularly from people with poor credit or who cannot view the property first — is a common rental scam tactic.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a used phone being sold online where the seller asks me to pay first a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-used-phone-being-sold-that-asks-me-to-send-money-first-safe", "summary": "Paying before receiving any item from a private seller carries real risk. Use platforms with buyer protection and avoid bank transfers to strangers for high-value items.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto staking platform offering daily percentage returns legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crypto-staking-platform-offering-daily-returns-legitimate", "summary": "Platforms promising fixed daily crypto returns are almost always Ponzi schemes or exit-scam platforms. Genuine staking returns are variable and far lower.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Bitcoin ATM payment request from a government agency a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-bitcoin-atm-payment-request-from-a-government-agency-a-scam", "summary": "Always. No genuine government agency, court, utility company, or law enforcement body requests payment through a Bitcoin ATM. This is a signature scam tactic.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an investment platform that won't let me withdraw my money a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-investment-platform-that-wont-let-me-withdraw-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Legitimate investment platforms allow you to withdraw your funds subject to standard terms. A platform that blocks all withdrawals or demands fees to release money is fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a YouTube livestream with a celebrity promoting a crypto giveaway real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-youtube-livestream-with-a-celebrity-promoting-crypto-real", "summary": "No. Celebrity crypto giveaway livestreams on YouTube are always scams using deepfake or cloned video footage. The celebrity has not endorsed anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer drain my crypto wallet through a 'connect wallet' button on a website?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-scammer-drain-my-crypto-wallet-through-a-connect-button", "summary": "Yes. Malicious 'connect wallet' buttons can prompt you to approve a transaction that grants the scammer unlimited access to your tokens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crowdfunding campaign for a disaster victim legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crowdfunding-campaign-for-a-disaster-victim-legitimate", "summary": "Many are genuine, but fake campaigns exploiting disasters appear within hours of major events. Verify the campaign's connection to a real victim and prefer established organisations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a caller offering a smart meter installation from my energy company real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-smart-meter-installation-caller-from-my-energy-company-real", "summary": "Genuine smart meter schemes exist in many countries, but cold callers asking for access to your home or upfront payment are often scammers impersonating energy companies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a prize draw that asks for my credit card details to claim a prize real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-prize-draw-that-asks-for-my-credit-card-details-real", "summary": "No. Genuine prize draws do not require your credit card details to claim a win. A request for card information is a subscription trap or outright theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a scratch card prize that requires me to buy more cards to claim my prize real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-scratch-card-prize-that-requires-me-to-buy-more-cards-real", "summary": "No. Any scratch card 'prize' requiring further purchases before you can claim is a scam. Legitimate prize redemption never requires buying additional products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a charity cold-calling me for a monthly direct debit legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-charity-cold-calling-me-for-a-monthly-direct-debit-legitimate", "summary": "Legitimate charities do use telephone fundraising, but cold calls requesting direct debit details are also used by fraudulent organisations. Always verify before donating.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can AI clone my voice from a short audio clip to scam my family?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-ai-clone-my-voice-from-a-short-audio-clip", "summary": "Yes. Current AI voice-synthesis tools can create a convincing clone of your voice from a few seconds of audio, which scammers use to call family members and request emergency money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a deepfake video call from a company executive telling employees to transfer funds a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-deepfake-video-call-from-a-company-executive-a-scam", "summary": "This is an emerging, high-impact scam. Deepfake video calls impersonating executives have been used to authorise large fraudulent bank transfers. Always verify payment requests through a separate, confirmed channel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a QR code on a restaurant table safe to scan?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-qr-code-on-a-restaurant-table-safe-to-scan", "summary": "Usually yes, but fraudsters sometimes place fake QR stickers over legitimate menu codes. Check that the sticker looks original and verify the URL before entering any personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a QR code in an email from my bank or payroll provider safe to scan?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-qr-code-email-from-my-bank-or-payroll-safe-to-scan", "summary": "QR codes in unsolicited emails from financial institutions are a growing phishing technique. Banks and payroll providers rarely need you to scan a QR code by email — verify first.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free Wi-Fi QR code at a hotel or airport safe to scan?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-free-wifi-qr-code-at-a-hotel-or-airport-safe", "summary": "Public Wi-Fi QR codes can be cloned or faked by attackers to intercept your traffic. Verify with staff and use a VPN on any public network.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free trial that charged me after seven days a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-free-trial-that-charged-me-after-seven-days-a-scam", "summary": "Some charges are legitimate subscription terms that were disclosed in small print. Others are subscription traps with deliberately hidden terms. Learn how to tell the difference and how to cancel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a grandparent scam call common and how does it work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-grandparent-scam-call-common-and-how-does-it-work", "summary": "Grandparent scams are extremely common. A caller pretends to be a grandchild (or their lawyer) in an emergency and asks for money urgently before the family finds out.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a student loan forgiveness offer by phone or email a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-student-loan-forgiveness-offer-by-phone-or-email-a-scam", "summary": "Unsolicited student loan forgiveness offers are almost always scams. Genuine forgiveness programmes are administered through official government portals — never by cold call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job offer that requires me to pay a visa sponsorship fee a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-offer-that-requires-me-to-pay-a-visa-sponsorship-fee-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly. Legitimate employers sponsoring a work visa bear the sponsorship costs themselves. Any employer asking you to pay a fee to be sponsored is exploiting your immigration aspirations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is rental fraud targeting international students common?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-rental-scam-targeting-international-students-common", "summary": "Yes. International students — often searching for housing remotely from abroad before arriving — are prime targets for fake rental listings and advance-fee property fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free game currency generator website real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-free-game-currency-generator-website-real", "summary": "No. Free V-Bucks, Robux, gems, or other game-currency generators are always scams designed to steal your account credentials, personal data, or money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Steam trade offer that seems too good to be true a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-steam-trade-offer-that-seems-too-good-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Overly generous Steam trade offers are used to trick you into accepting deals that steal your valuable items through API hijacking or social engineering.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is someone offering to boost my gaming account for money legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-someone-offering-to-boost-my-gaming-account-for-money-legitimate", "summary": "Account boosting services are against the terms of service of most games and carry real risks: your account may be banned, and services offering boosts often steal accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a gaming influencer promoting a skin or item giveaway real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-gaming-influencer-promoting-a-skin-giveaway-real", "summary": "Most influencer skin giveaways are genuine promotional activities, but fake giveaways impersonating popular streamers are common and designed to steal your account or personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an in-game romantic relationship where the other person asks for gift cards a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-in-game-romantic-relationship-asking-for-gift-cards-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly. Romance scams frequently begin inside online games, where players build emotional connections before requesting real-world money or gift cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a car insurance quote from a website I don't recognise safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-car-insurance-quote-from-a-website-i-dont-recognise-safe", "summary": "Some comparison sites are legitimate intermediaries, but fake insurance websites sell ghost policies that leave you uninsured. Always verify the insurer is authorised before paying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a health insurance offer with no waiting period and very low premiums legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-health-insurance-offer-with-no-waiting-period-legitimate", "summary": "Offers of health coverage with no waiting periods and prices far below the market should be verified carefully — they may be fake policies or heavily restricted plans that do not provide real coverage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What happens after a SIM swap scam and how do I recover?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-happens-after-a-sim-swap-scam-and-how-do-i-recover", "summary": "After a SIM swap, scammers intercept your SMS codes and access accounts that use your phone number for two-factor authentication. Act immediately to regain control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text saying my phone contract is due for an upgrade a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-saying-my-phone-contract-is-due-for-an-upgrade-a-scam", "summary": "Genuine upgrade notifications do come from carriers, but smishing texts mimicking carrier brands are also common — designed to steal your details or redirect you to a fake upgrade site.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call appearing to come from my own phone number a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-number-spoofing-call-from-my-own-number-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Scammers spoof your own number to try to confuse you or trick you into answering. Never trust any caller simply because the display matches your own number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an SMS from my bank asking me to confirm a new payee real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-sms-from-my-bank-about-a-new-payee-real", "summary": "Genuine new-payee confirmation texts do exist, but fraudulent texts designed to confirm a payee the scammer already set up are also sent. Never use a number or link in the text — call your bank's official number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a supplier who changed their bank details by email legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-supplier-who-changed-their-bank-details-by-email-legitimate", "summary": "Bank detail change requests by email are a top vector for business payment fraud. Always verify any bank detail change by calling your supplier on a known number before making any payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a weight-loss supplement endorsed by a doctor on Facebook real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-weight-loss-supplement-endorsed-by-a-doctor-on-facebook-real", "summary": "Facebook ads featuring doctor endorsements for weight-loss products are frequently fraudulent. The doctor may not exist, the endorsement may be fabricated, and the product rarely delivers its claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a fake invoice using a well-known supplier's name a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-fake-invoice-from-a-well-known-supplier-name-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Invoice fraud involves sending convincing fake invoices using legitimate company names and branding, counting on busy accounts teams to pay without checking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cheap car diagnostic OBD tool sold online a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-car-diagnostic-tool-sold-cheap-online-a-scam", "summary": "Cheap OBD diagnostic tools from unknown sellers may be counterfeit, non-functional, or in rare cases designed to harvest data from your vehicle's systems via a paired app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get my money back after paying a fake online store?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-my-money-back-after-paying-a-fake-online-store", "summary": "You may be able to chargeback the payment if you paid by credit or debit card. Act quickly — contact your card issuer within days of realising the store is fake.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Google Ads result for a financial service always safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-google-ads-result-for-a-financial-service-always-safe", "summary": "No. Fraudsters purchase Google Ads using brand names that closely resemble legitimate banks, investment platforms, or brokers. Always verify the URL before entering any details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cold email offering a business partnership or distribution deal a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cold-email-offering-a-business-partnership-a-scam", "summary": "Unsolicited partnership emails can be advance-fee fraud, a pretext for data harvesting, or fake business opportunity scams. Verify independently before engaging.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text from Amazon about an order I didn't place a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-from-amazon-about-an-order-i-didnt-place-a-scam", "summary": "Yes — texts about Amazon orders you did not place are phishing attempts designed to get you to click a link or call a number and hand over your account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is someone who sent money to me by accident running a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-someone-who-sent-money-to-me-by-accident-running-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. 'Accidental' transfers to strangers are a well-known scam opener: the money comes from a stolen account, and when you refund it, you are out of pocket.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a fake eBay shipping label or payment confirmation email a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-fake-ebay-shipping-label-email-a-scam", "summary": "Fake eBay emails are a major phishing category. They aim to trick sellers into shipping goods before payment is confirmed or buyers into entering credentials on a fake login page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a doorstep solar panel or cavity wall insulation quote a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-doorstep-solar-panel-or-cavity-wall-insulation-quote-a-scam", "summary": "Unsolicited doorstep quotes for home improvements often use high-pressure selling, inflated prices, or upfront deposits that disappear. Always get multiple written quotes and check contractor credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cryptocurrency trading bot that guarantees profit real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cryptocurrency-trading-bot-that-guarantees-profit-real", "summary": "No trading bot can guarantee profit. Any service promising guaranteed positive returns from an automated crypto bot is either lying about its performance or is an outright scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online romantic partner who is always away on work trips or posted overseas a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-romance-partner-who-is-always-away-on-work-trips-a-scammer", "summary": "Permanent absence from in-person meetings is one of the most consistent red flags in romance scams. Legitimate partners find ways to meet or at minimum do live, verifiable video calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a missed call from an unknown number that I called back a premium-rate scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-premium-rate-phone-number-scam-call-real", "summary": "Yes — 'wangiri' or one-ring scams use numbers in premium-rate ranges. Calling back can result in a large charge appearing on your phone bill.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a social media page selling event tickets legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-social-media-page-selling-event-tickets-legitimate", "summary": "Social media ticket sellers are a high-risk category — fake pages proliferate ahead of popular events. Always buy from the official venue, promoter, or a recognised secondary ticketing platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a public records removal service legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-public-records-removal-service-legitimate", "summary": "Some data removal services genuinely submit opt-out requests to data brokers, but many are ineffective, overpriced, or outright scams. Understand what you are buying before paying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online psychic or tarot reading subscription a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-psychic-or-tarot-reading-subscription-a-scam", "summary": "Many online psychic platforms exploit vulnerable people with vague 'personalised' readings, subscription traps, and escalating offers that extract large amounts of money over time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a website charging fees to help me apply for a passport a government scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-fake-government-website-asking-for-fees-to-apply-for-a-passport-a-scam", "summary": "Many unofficial websites charge facilitation fees to process applications you could submit directly to the government for free or at the official fee. Always use your national government's official passport portal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a personal trainer or online coach asking for full payment upfront a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-personal-trainer-or-coach-asking-for-full-payment-upfront-a-scam", "summary": "Full upfront payment for coaching with no contract or trial period is a risk. Ghost coaching scams — where payment is collected and the coach disappears — are increasingly common online.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto wallet seed phrase recovery service legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crypto-wallet-seed-phrase-recovery-service-legitimate", "summary": "Seed phrase recovery services are almost exclusively scams. Anyone asking for your seed phrase will use it to steal your entire wallet — no legitimate service needs it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a toll road fine sent by text with a payment link real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-toll-road-fine-by-text-with-a-link-real", "summary": "Toll authority smishing texts are among the most reported fraud types. Genuine toll agencies send notices by post, not by unsolicited text with a payment link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a low-interest debt consolidation loan offered by phone a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-low-interest-debt-consolidation-loan-by-phone-a-scam", "summary": "Cold call debt consolidation loan offers are a significant fraud risk — advance-fee fraud and phishing for financial details are both common in this category.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a charity text asking for donations after a natural disaster real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-charity-text-after-a-natural-disaster-real", "summary": "Genuine charities do use SMS donation campaigns, but disaster phishing texts impersonating charities appear within hours of major events. Always donate through the charity's verified official channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a negative balance notification on a marketplace or payment account a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-negative-balance-on-a-marketplace-account-a-scam", "summary": "Unexpected negative balance notifications are often phishing attempts. Log in directly to your account to verify any real balance issue — do not act on a text or email link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cashback portal that requires a membership fee legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cashback-portal-that-requires-a-membership-fee-legitimate", "summary": "Most legitimate cashback sites are free to join. Portals charging an upfront membership fee should be researched carefully — some are pyramid-style schemes or simply collect fees with minimal real cashback.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Microsoft 365 email asking me to update my payment details real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-microsoft-365-phishing-email-asking-me-to-update-my-payment-real", "summary": "Microsoft 365 payment and billing emails are heavily cloned by phishers. Always verify billing issues by logging in to your Microsoft account directly — never through a link in an email.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto exchange asking me to re-verify my identity by email a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cryptocurrency-exchange-asking-for-kyc-verification-by-email-a-scam", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating crypto exchanges with KYC (know your customer) verification requests are very common. Always log in to the exchange directly — never upload documents via an email link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a two-factor authentication code request I didn't trigger a sign I am being hacked?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-two-factor-authentication-code-request-i-didnt-trigger-a-scam", "summary": "Yes — receiving an unexpected 2FA code means someone has your username and password and is actively trying to log in to your account. Change your password immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a work-from-home medical billing job offered online legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-work-from-home-medical-billing-job-legitimate", "summary": "Work-from-home medical billing jobs are frequently used as a vehicle for advance-fee fraud or to recruit money mules. Verify any offer through a credentialed healthcare staffing agency.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why did a stranger send me money on Cash App?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-did-a-stranger-send-me-money-on-cash-app", "summary": "A random money transfer from an unknown person is almost always the first step in a scam — usually an overpayment or money-mule scheme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it normal for a landlord to only contact me by text or email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-normal-for-a-landlord-to-only-contact-by-text", "summary": "Legitimate landlords communicate by various means, but a landlord who refuses any phone or video call and pushes for a deposit before you view the property is a major warning sign.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email from DocuSign or Adobe Sign asking me to review a document safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-from-docusign-or-adobe-sign-asking-me-to-sign-safe", "summary": "Fake DocuSign and Adobe Sign emails are a common phishing method. Verify the sender domain and log in directly — do not click the email link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text asking me to rate my recent delivery a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-asking-me-to-rate-my-recent-delivery-a-scam", "summary": "Texts prompting delivery feedback that include a link to claim a reward are often phishing attempts designed to steal card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a caller saying my National Insurance number has been compromised a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-caller-saying-my-national-insurance-number-is-compromised-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. No UK government body will call you to say your National Insurance number is compromised and demand you verify it or make a payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a WhatsApp message from a celebrity offering me a prize real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-whatsapp-message-from-a-celebrity-offering-a-prize-real", "summary": "No. Celebrities do not contact members of the public directly on WhatsApp to give away prizes. This is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text saying I have a pending benefits payment real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-saying-i-have-a-pending-benefits-payment-real", "summary": "Texts claiming a benefits payment is waiting and asking you to click a link or confirm details are phishing scams imitating government benefit agencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a friend request from someone I already follow on Facebook a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-friend-request-from-someone-i-already-follow-on-facebook-a-scam", "summary": "Yes — receiving a second friend request from someone already on your friends list almost always means a scammer has cloned that person's account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an unsolicited email offering me a job as an online English tutor a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-offering-a-job-as-an-online-english-tutor-a-scam", "summary": "Unsolicited tutor job offers via email are frequently scams involving upfront fees, fake cheques, or money-mule recruitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is buying from a ticket resale site other than the official venue safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-ticket-resale-site-other-than-the-official-venue-safe", "summary": "Unofficial ticket resale sites vary widely in legitimacy. Some are licensed secondary marketplaces; others are outright scams that sell fake or non-existent tickets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an Instagram DM saying I won a brand giveaway real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-instagram-dm-saying-i-won-a-brand-giveaway-real", "summary": "Most Instagram DMs claiming you won a brand giveaway are scams run from fake accounts imitating genuine brands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a romance partner who introduces me to their friend's investment platform a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-romance-partner-who-asks-me-to-invest-with-their-friend-a-scammer", "summary": "Yes. This is the classic structure of pig-butchering — a romance relationship engineered to introduce you to a fake investment platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a no-credit-check personal loan offer legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-no-credit-check-personal-loan-offer-legitimate", "summary": "Legitimate lenders always conduct some creditworthiness checks. A 'no credit check' loan offer — especially one requiring an upfront fee — is almost always a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get scammed by scanning a QR code on a flyer or poster?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-scammed-by-scanning-a-qr-code-on-a-flyer", "summary": "Yes. QR codes on printed flyers can point to phishing pages, fake payment portals, or malware downloads just like digital QR codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a pop-up saying my computer is infected and to call a number real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-pop-up-saying-my-computer-is-infected-and-to-call-a-number-real", "summary": "No. Legitimate antivirus software and operating systems never display phone numbers to call. This is a tech-support scam pop-up.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a recruitment agency asking me to pay a fee to find me a job legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-recruitment-agency-asking-for-payment-to-find-me-a-job-legitimate", "summary": "In most countries it is illegal for a recruitment agency to charge job seekers fees. Any agency asking for payment upfront is a major red flag.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What does it mean if a scam email includes my real password?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-does-it-mean-if-an-email-has-my-real-password-in-it", "summary": "The password was obtained from a data breach. It does not mean your device is hacked — but you should change that password immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cold call offering to reduce my energy bill a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-call-offering-to-reduce-my-energy-bill-a-scam", "summary": "Cold calls promising to cut your energy bill are often scams or high-pressure sales for overpriced switching services. Genuine tariff switching is done through regulated comparison sites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a vehicle history check site that charges me before showing results legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-vehicle-history-check-site-that-charges-upfront-legitimate", "summary": "Some vehicle history check sites are legitimate but charge per report. However, fake or misleading sites exist — verify the provider's credentials before paying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call from a known relative's number asking for bail money a real emergency?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-call-from-a-known-relatives-number-asking-for-bail-money-real", "summary": "Probably not. This is a variant of the grandparent scam using spoofed or cloned numbers. Verify directly before sending any money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a new online store with only five-star reviews trustworthy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-new-online-store-with-only-five-star-reviews-trustworthy", "summary": "Not necessarily. An exclusively positive review profile — especially on a newly launched site — is a common feature of fake online stores.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text from my bank with a one-time passcode always safe to use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-from-my-bank-with-a-one-time-code-always-safe", "summary": "Only if you initiated the action it authorises. One-time passcodes you did not trigger indicate someone else is trying to access your account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a door-to-door seller of cleaning products or tools running a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-door-to-door-seller-of-cleaning-products-or-tools-a-scam", "summary": "Not always a fraud, but high-pressure door-to-door sales tactics are common and in some countries heavily regulated. Never feel obliged to buy on the spot.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online course promising to replace my income in 30 days legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-course-that-promises-to-replace-my-income-legitimate", "summary": "Income-replacement claims attached to online courses are almost universally misleading marketing. Genuine education providers do not make financial guarantees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a payment link sent by a seller on Facebook Marketplace safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-payment-link-sent-by-a-seller-on-facebook-marketplace-safe", "summary": "Only use Facebook's built-in checkout for Marketplace purchases. External payment links sent by sellers are a common fraud vector.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text saying I have an unread voicemail and to click a link a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-saying-i-have-an-unread-voicemail-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Texts with voicemail notification links are a widespread phishing method — the link leads to a credential-stealing page or malware download.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email from a law firm saying I am named in a will real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-from-a-law-firm-saying-i-am-named-in-a-will-real", "summary": "Unsolicited emails claiming a distant relative named you in a will are an advance-fee fraud. Legitimate estate solicitors do not contact beneficiaries by cold email.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a stranger asking me to share a Google Voice verification code a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-google-voice-verification-code-request-from-a-stranger-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Sharing that code allows the scammer to create a Google Voice number linked to your phone, which they then use for fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a business email asking me to update a supplier's bank details safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-business-email-asking-me-to-update-supplier-bank-details-safe", "summary": "Not until verified independently. Fraudulent invoice redirection — also called BEC or APP fraud — is one of the most costly scams targeting businesses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a charity collecting donations for sick children on social media legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-charity-on-social-media-collecting-for-sick-children-legitimate", "summary": "Possibly — but charity impersonation and crowdfunding fraud are common. Verify any charity's registration before donating.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a vishing call from my bank about suspected fraud on my account real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-vishing-call-from-my-bank-about-fraud-on-my-account-real", "summary": "It could be real but is more likely a scam. Always hang up and call your bank back using the number on your card — never use a number from the call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cryptocurrency exchange that appeared in a social media ad safe to use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cryptocurrency-exchange-that-appeared-in-an-ad-safe", "summary": "Ads for crypto exchanges deserve extra scrutiny — fake or unregulated exchanges are advertised widely and can disappear with your funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a housing benefit voucher or Section 8 assistance offer I found online legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-housing-benefit-or-section-8-voucher-offer-online-legitimate", "summary": "Legitimate housing assistance is applied for through government agencies — not through social media ads, private websites, or individuals selling 'slots'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What happens if I click a phishing link but don't enter any information?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-happens-if-i-click-a-phishing-link-but-dont-enter-anything", "summary": "Clicking alone is usually low risk if your device is updated, but some links can deliver malware silently. Check your device and monitor your accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online pharmacy selling prescription medicine without a prescription safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-pharmacy-selling-prescription-medicine-without-a-prescription-safe", "summary": "No. Pharmacies that supply prescription medication without a valid prescription are operating illegally and the products may be counterfeit or dangerous.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a fake job posting on LinkedIn common?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-fake-job-posting-on-linkedin-common", "summary": "Yes. LinkedIn job listings are not all verified and fake postings are used to harvest personal data, collect fees, or recruit money mules.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cold call offering me a free home security system a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-call-offering-me-a-free-home-security-system-a-scam", "summary": "Free home security system offers are almost always a high-pressure sales tactic involving long-term monitoring contracts or are outright scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text from HMRC about a council tax rebate real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-from-hmrc-about-a-council-tax-rebate-real", "summary": "No. HMRC does not send texts about council tax. Council tax is administered by local councils, and neither body initiates rebates by text with a link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a pet transport or shipping fee request for a puppy I bought online a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-pet-transport-or-shipping-fee-request-for-a-puppy-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Escalating transport and insurance fee requests for a pet that has not arrived are the signature of an online puppy scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Telegram bot offering automated trading profits legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-telegram-bot-offering-automated-trading-profits-legitimate", "summary": "No legitimate automated trading system is distributed through Telegram bots with profit guarantees. These are almost always investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a mystery prize email from a well-known retailer real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-mystery-prize-email-from-a-well-known-retailer-real", "summary": "Emails claiming you have won a mystery prize from a major retailer are almost always phishing or lead-generation fraud using the brand's name without permission.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a phone call saying my broadband is about to be cut off a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-phone-call-saying-my-broadband-is-about-to-be-cut-off-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes if it was unsolicited. Genuine broadband providers notify you by email or letter, not automated calls threatening immediate disconnection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to give my email address to enter a free competition online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-give-my-email-to-sign-up-for-a-free-competition", "summary": "Free online competitions frequently collect email addresses to sell to marketers, enter you into subscriptions, or send phishing emails — read the terms carefully.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe for a friend or online contact to ask me to hold money in my bank account?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-request-to-use-my-bank-account-to-hold-money-for-someone-safe", "summary": "No. Allowing someone to use your account to receive or hold funds makes you a money mule — which is a criminal offence in most countries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cashier's check from a buyer always safe to deposit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cashiers-check-from-a-buyer-always-safe-to-deposit", "summary": "No. Cashier's checks can be convincing fakes that appear to clear initially but are later reversed, leaving you responsible for any funds you withdrew or forwarded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job that pays me to buy and resell items on Amazon a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-resale-or-arbitrage-job-on-amazon-a-scam", "summary": "Resale and arbitrage job offers that ask you to use your own money and accounts are usually fronts for money laundering or advance-fee schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a WhatsApp group run by a bank employee offering investment tips legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-whatsapp-group-for-investment-tips-from-a-bank-employee-legitimate", "summary": "No. Bank employees are prohibited from sharing investment tips through private messaging groups. This is a common set-up for insider-tip investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email from PayPal saying a large payment was sent to me a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-from-paypal-saying-a-payment-was-sent-to-me-a-scam", "summary": "If you were not expecting a payment, treat it with caution — it may be a phishing email impersonating PayPal, or the start of an overpayment scheme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text about a speed camera fine or driving penalty asking for online payment real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-about-a-speed-camera-fine-or-driving-penalty-real", "summary": "Texts about traffic fines demanding immediate online payment via a link are almost always phishing scams. Genuine fines arrive by post.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a social media ad for a government grant for small businesses real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-social-media-ad-for-a-government-grant-for-small-businesses-real", "summary": "Almost certainly not. Legitimate government grant programmes are not advertised through social media ads and never require upfront fees to apply.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a debt relief company that guarantees to clear my debt legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-debt-relief-company-that-guarantees-to-clear-my-debt-legitimate", "summary": "Guaranteed debt clearance claims are false — no company can legally guarantee debt write-off. Many debt relief companies are scams that take fees while resolving nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a stranger on a dating app who wants to send me money a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-stranger-on-a-dating-app-who-wants-to-send-me-money-a-scammer", "summary": "Almost always yes. Sending money to a new match is a recruitment technique — the money may be stolen and your account used to launder it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a college scholarship offer by email that I didn't apply for real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-college-scholarship-offer-by-email-i-didnt-apply-for-real", "summary": "Unsolicited scholarship offer emails are almost always scams designed to collect personal data or advance fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it normal for a cryptocurrency platform to charge a withdrawal tax before releasing funds?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-normal-for-a-cryptocurrency-platform-to-charge-a-withdrawal-tax", "summary": "No. Legitimate exchanges deduct fees from your balance — they never require you to pay a separate tax or fee from outside the platform before withdrawing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a government text about a COVID payment or health rebate real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-government-text-about-covid-or-health-payments-real", "summary": "Texts about health-related government payments are frequently used as phishing lures. Verify any payment claim through official government portals only.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a new cryptocurrency coin or token launch a good investment?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-new-cryptocurrency-coin-or-token-launch-a-good-investment", "summary": "New coin launches carry extremely high fraud risk — rug pulls and pump-and-dump schemes are common and most new tokens fail or disappear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an AI-generated deepfake of a news anchor promoting crypto real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-ai-generated-deepfake-of-a-news-anchor-promoting-crypto-real", "summary": "No. Deepfake videos of news anchors promoting cryptocurrencies are AI-fabricated fraud — no legitimate investment is marketed this way.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a used car seller asking for a deposit before I can view the car a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-used-car-seller-who-wants-a-deposit-before-i-view-the-car-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. No legitimate private seller or dealer requires a deposit before you view a car. This is a standard vehicle fraud tactic.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call about my student loan from a company I don't recognise a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-call-about-my-student-loan-from-a-company-i-dont-recognise-a-scam", "summary": "Likely yes. Student loan servicers are assigned by your loan authority — calls from unknown companies claiming to manage or refinance your student debt are often fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a rental listing that only accepts cryptocurrency as a deposit a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-rental-listing-that-only-accepts-cryptocurrency-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. No legitimate landlord requires cryptocurrency as a tenancy deposit. This is always a fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a letter or email with a fake invoice for my domain or website renewal a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-fake-invoice-for-a-domain-or-website-renewal-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely yes. Domain renewal scams send invoices mimicking the look of official notices to trick website owners into paying an unknown registrar.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a phone call about a problem with my Amazon account a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-phone-call-about-a-problem-with-my-amazon-account-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Amazon does not make unsolicited calls about account issues. These calls are impersonation scams designed to steal your credentials or payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a sponsored Facebook post from a well-known bank promoting an investment offer safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-sponsored-facebook-post-from-a-well-known-bank-about-investment-safe", "summary": "Not necessarily. Fraudsters run sponsored ads on Facebook using cloned bank branding. Always verify investment offers directly through the bank's official website.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text saying I have unclaimed tax money waiting for me real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-saying-i-have-unclaimed-tax-back-real", "summary": "Unexpected tax refund texts are almost always phishing scams. Tax authorities communicate through your tax account or by post — not via SMS links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call saying my national grid or smart meter needs urgent upgrading a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-call-saying-my-national-grid-or-utility-meter-needs-upgrading-a-scam", "summary": "Cold calls about urgent meter upgrades are often scams using utility company names to gain access to your home or financial details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online gaming tournament that charges an entry fee legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-gaming-tournament-that-charges-an-entry-fee-legitimate", "summary": "Paid tournaments exist on legitimate platforms, but many tournament scams collect fees and cancel the event or disappear with the prize pool.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text from a delivery company asking for card details to redeliver my parcel real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-from-my-delivery-company-asking-for-my-card-details-to-redeliver-real", "summary": "No. Genuine delivery companies do not ask for card details by text. This is a delivery phishing scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a high-yield savings account offered by email from a bank I don't recognise legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-high-yield-savings-account-offered-by-email-legitimate", "summary": "Unsolicited emails advertising above-market savings rates from unfamiliar banks deserve verification before any deposit. Some are fraudulent clone firms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to sell on Vinted or Depop and accept a bank transfer from a buyer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-sell-on-vinted-or-depop-and-accept-a-bank-transfer", "summary": "No — accepting payment outside the platform's checkout removes all seller protection and is against the platforms' terms of service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cold email from a company asking to guest post on my blog a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cold-email-from-a-company-asking-to-guest-post-on-my-blog-a-scam", "summary": "Not always, but many guest post outreach emails are link-buying operations or content spam campaigns that may harm your site's search reputation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an NHS or Medicare contact asking for my personal details to send a new card real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-nhs-or-medicare-contact-asking-for-my-details-to-send-a-card-real", "summary": "No. The NHS and Medicare do not contact patients to gather details for card replacement — this is an impersonation scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Telegram group promising daily percentage returns on a pooled trading fund a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-telegram-group-promising-daily-returns-on-a-trading-fund-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Pooled trading funds promising consistent daily returns on Telegram are unregulated investment fraud or Ponzi schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email asking me to verify my PayPal account by calling a phone number real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-request-to-verify-my-paypal-account-by-calling-a-number-real", "summary": "No. Legitimate PayPal account verification is done inside your PayPal account — not by phone call. This is a vishing set-up.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an offer for a free government-subsidised phone or tablet through an ad real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-free-government-phone-or-tablet-offer-real", "summary": "Legitimate programmes exist (such as the Affordable Connectivity Program in the US), but many ads exploit the programme's name to collect personal data or fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cryptocurrency mining pool that requires a joining fee legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cryptocurrency-mining-pool-that-requires-a-joining-fee-legitimate", "summary": "No. Legitimate mining pools do not charge joining fees — they take a small percentage of mined rewards. Any upfront joining fee is a fraud signal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a love interest on social media who claims to be a doctor working abroad a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-love-interest-on-social-media-who-claims-to-be-a-doctor-abroad-a-scammer", "summary": "This profile description is a very common cover story in romance fraud. Be very cautious before developing trust with someone fitting this description.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a request to pay using Google Play or App Store gift cards ever legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-google-play-or-app-store-gift-card-request-from-anyone-ever-legitimate", "summary": "No. Gift cards are never a legitimate payment method for anything outside their intended app stores. Any request to pay using them is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a social media post asking me to share a lost dog photo to win a prize a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-social-media-post-asking-to-share-a-lost-dog-for-a-prize-a-scam", "summary": "These posts are almost always engagement-farming scams that have nothing to do with a real lost pet or a genuine prize.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a company asking me to sign an NDA before revealing an investment opportunity a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-company-requiring-an-nda-before-an-investment-pitch-a-scam", "summary": "Requiring an NDA before disclosing any investment details is a manipulation tactic, not a standard practice. It creates pressure and discourages you from seeking advice.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an app that pays me to walk or exercise a real way to earn money?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-app-that-pays-me-to-walk-or-exercise-legitimate", "summary": "Move-to-earn apps exist, but many are short-lived crypto schemes that lose value quickly. Verify the app before investing time or money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cold call about mis-sold PPI or car finance a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cold-call-about-mis-sold-ppi-or-car-finance-a-scam", "summary": "Claims management calls about PPI or car finance may be legitimate or may be fee-charging scams. Genuine claims do not require upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job offer asking me to receive and forward parcels from home legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-offer-asking-me-to-receive-and-forward-parcels-legitimate", "summary": "No. Parcel forwarding jobs are one of the most common forms of reshipping fraud, used to launder goods bought with stolen payment cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Bitcoin investment app my relative or friend uses safe for me to join?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-bitcoin-investment-app-my-relative-uses-safe-to-join", "summary": "Not necessarily. Many people unknowingly promote fraudulent platforms after being convinced by fake early returns. Verify independently before depositing anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an immigration consultant asking for cash-only payment legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-immigration-consultant-asking-for-cash-payment-legitimate", "summary": "Legitimate immigration professionals accept traceable payments. Cash-only requests are a significant fraud indicator in immigration services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a fake antivirus scan result that pops up on a website real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-fake-antivirus-scan-result-on-a-website-real", "summary": "No. Websites cannot scan your device. Pop-up scan results showing virus detections are fake alerts designed to frighten you into downloading malware or calling a scam number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it normal for a courier to request a copy of my ID before releasing a parcel?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-courier-delivery-request-for-id-before-releasing-a-parcel-normal", "summary": "Genuine couriers do not request ID copies sent by email or messaging app. Signature confirmation is the standard — anything beyond this is suspicious.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a trading signal group that guarantees forex profits legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-trading-signal-group-that-guarantees-forex-profits-legitimate", "summary": "No. Forex and trading signal groups guaranteeing profits are almost universally fraudulent or deceptive marketing for unregulated brokers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a health supplement advertised as a cure for a disease real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-health-supplement-advertised-as-a-cure-for-a-disease-real", "summary": "No. Supplements are not approved as cures for diseases. Health claims implying a product cures, treats, or prevents a medical condition are illegal in most countries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a mobile app asking for excessive permissions a security risk?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-mobile-app-asking-for-excessive-permissions-a-security-risk", "summary": "Yes. An app requesting permissions beyond what its function requires is a significant privacy and security red flag.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crowdfunded startup on a public platform safe to invest in?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crowdfunded-startup-on-a-public-platform-safe-to-invest-in", "summary": "Equity crowdfunding carries high risk of total loss. Platforms must be regulated, but that does not mean the businesses listed will succeed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a bank draft or money order from a buyer safe to accept?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-bank-draft-or-money-order-from-a-buyer-safe-to-accept", "summary": "Bank drafts and money orders can be counterfeited convincingly. Never spend or forward funds until your bank confirms full and final clearance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email about a package waiting at customs requiring me to pay fees real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-about-a-package-waiting-at-customs-requiring-fees-real", "summary": "Genuine customs charges are possible but are communicated officially. Email links requesting card details for customs fees are almost always phishing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a request to contact an energy company about an overpayment refund real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-refund-for-overpayment-request-from-an-energy-company-a-scam", "summary": "Overpayment refund calls and texts from energy companies are frequently phishing attempts. Verify by logging into your account directly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a gaming account recovery service safe to use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-gaming-account-recovery-service-safe-to-use", "summary": "Third-party account recovery services carry significant risk of account theft. Use only the official account recovery tools provided by the game developer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text from Netflix or Spotify saying there is a problem with my payment real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-from-netflix-or-spotify-about-a-payment-issue-real", "summary": "Streaming service payment failure texts are a very common phishing method. Verify any issue by logging into the service's official app or website.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a website that checks if my data was leaked in a breach safe to use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-website-that-checks-if-my-data-was-leaked-safe-to-use", "summary": "Reputable breach-check tools are safe. Only use well-known, established services — fake equivalents harvest the very credentials you are trying to protect.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a private seller who asks to see my ID before a cash sale a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-private-seller-who-wants-to-see-my-id-before-a-cash-sale-a-scam", "summary": "Reputable private sellers do not need to see your government ID for a standard cash sale. This is an unusual request that warrants caution.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a WhatsApp gift exchange chain message a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-whatsapp-gift-exchange-chain-message-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Gift exchange chain messages on WhatsApp and social media are pyramid schemes. Participants almost always lose their gift and their money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Google search ad for a bank or crypto platform safe to click?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-google-search-ad-for-a-bank-or-crypto-platform-safe-to-click", "summary": "Search ads for financial services are heavily targeted by fraudsters. Always navigate to the financial institution's official website directly rather than via ads.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a person I met at a hotel or airport who offers a business deal trustworthy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-person-i-met-at-a-hotel-or-airport-offering-a-business-deal-trustworthy", "summary": "Use the same caution you would with any stranger. In-person approaches with business proposals are used in confidence tricks and advance-fee fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text message with a parcel locker PIN code I didn't expect a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-parcel-locker-pin-code-text-a-scam", "summary": "It could be. Unsolicited parcel locker codes are sometimes sent by scammers to manipulate you into visiting a location or revealing personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a buy-now-pay-later offer from a brand I have never heard of safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-buy-now-pay-later-offer-from-an-unknown-brand-safe", "summary": "Not necessarily. Fake BNPL services harvest payment details upfront and never deliver goods or credit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a buyer asking me to accept a refund or return outside the marketplace a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-refund-return-request-on-marketplace-a-scam", "summary": "Almost always yes. Requests to handle refunds off-platform remove all the protections the marketplace offers you as a seller.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an investment app recommended by a friend on social media safe to use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-investment-app-recommended-by-a-social-media-friend-safe", "summary": "Be very cautious. Your friend's account may have been hacked, or they may unknowingly be promoting a scam platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free government benefits check offered by phone legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-free-government-benefits-check-by-phone-legitimate", "summary": "Probably not. Cold calls offering to find unclaimed government benefits are usually data-harvesting or advance-fee scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a travel visa agency asking for full payment upfront before submitting my application legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-travel-visa-agency-asking-for-upfront-payment-legitimate", "summary": "Full upfront payment before any service is delivered is a red flag for visa-agency fraud, especially if the agency cannot be independently verified.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a subscription service that is impossible to cancel a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-subscription-that-is-impossible-to-cancel-a-scam", "summary": "Deliberately hard-to-cancel subscriptions may not always be scams, but hiding cancellation routes is deceptive and often illegal under consumer protection law.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online course certificate from a platform I have never heard of valid for employment?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-course-certificate-from-an-unknown-platform-valid", "summary": "Certificates from unaccredited or fake platforms have no recognised value and are sometimes sold purely to extract money from job seekers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free real estate investment seminar that later tries to sell me expensive courses a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-real-estate-investment-seminar-with-no-upfront-cost-a-scam", "summary": "Free seminars used as a funnel to sell high-priced mentorship programmes or courses are a well-documented scam format — the 'free' event is the sales pitch.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job someone found through a Facebook group and is recommending to me trustworthy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-friend-who-got-a-job-through-a-facebook-group-trustworthy", "summary": "Not necessarily. Your friend may have been misled themselves, or their account could be compromised — always verify the employer independently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a dating app match who only messages me late at night and never during daytime a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-dating-app-match-who-only-messages-late-at-night-a-scammer", "summary": "Unusual messaging patterns can indicate someone operating across time zones as part of a scripted romance scam operation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a classified-ad seller who asks me to pay by gift card a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-classified-ad-seller-who-asks-for-payment-by-gift-card-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. No legitimate private seller accepts gift cards as payment for goods. This is a defining sign of a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a social media verification badge a guarantee that an account is legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-social-media-account-verified-badge-a-guarantee-of-legitimacy", "summary": "No. Verification badges confirm identity at the time of approval but do not prevent accounts from being sold, compromised, or used deceptively after verification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a gig work app that requires me to pay a background check fee before I can work legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-gig-work-app-requiring-a-background-check-fee-legitimate", "summary": "Legitimate gig platforms cover background check costs themselves or use trusted third-party services at no charge to workers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call or message saying my social media account will be closed unless I verify immediately a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-caller-saying-my-social-media-account-will-be-closed-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Social media platforms do not phone users to warn of account closure, and legitimate suspension notices never demand immediate action via a call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to make an in-app purchase inside a free app I downloaded from an app store?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-in-app-purchase-from-an-app-i-downloaded-for-free-safe", "summary": "Generally yes if the app is legitimate, but some apps use misleading dark patterns, unexpected recurring charges, or prey on children making accidental purchases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a debt collector asking me to pay by prepaid debit card or wire transfer legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-debt-collector-asking-for-payment-by-prepaid-card-legitimate", "summary": "No legitimate debt collector requires payment by prepaid card or wire transfer. This is a hallmark of phantom debt scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto or NFT project that promises returns backed by real-world assets legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crypto-nft-project-promising-real-world-asset-returns-legitimate", "summary": "Such claims require serious independent verification. Most retail investors cannot check the underlying assets, making these projects highly susceptible to fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a pet insurance policy sold to me by cold call legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-pet-insurance-policy-sold-by-phone-legitimate", "summary": "Cold-call pet insurance sales are rarely from genuine insurers — many are fake policies that take your premium but provide no real cover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a prize competition on social media that requires me to share a post and follow an account real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-prize-competition-that-requires-me-to-share-a-post-first-real", "summary": "Many are fake. Engagement-farming competitions collect followers and shares but never award prizes, or they build audiences for later scam promotions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call from my telecom provider saying I was overcharged and they need me to open my banking app to process a refund a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-telecom-refund-call-asking-me-to-open-my-banking-app-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Unsolicited refund calls that ask you to open your banking app are a well-known fraud format used to steal money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a loan offer that only requires a small processing fee before the funds are released real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-loan-with-a-small-processing-fee-before-funds-are-released-real", "summary": "No. Advance fee loan fraud is one of the most common financial scams — any loan that requires upfront fees before funds are released is fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can scammers use AI voice cloning to impersonate my bank on a phone call?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammers-use-ai-to-clone-a-bank-voice-on-a-phone-call", "summary": "Yes. AI voice synthesis can produce convincing copies of real voices and is increasingly used to impersonate trusted callers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a pay-per-task app that requires me to buy an upgrade before I can withdraw my earnings a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-pay-per-task-app-that-requires-an-upgrade-fee-to-withdraw-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Any earnings platform that requires a fee to unlock withdrawals is a task scam — the displayed balance is fictional.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a ticket resale website with high prices but no independent reviews safe to buy from?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-ticket-resale-website-with-high-prices-but-no-reviews-safe", "summary": "No. Unreviewed ticket resale sites are a major source of counterfeit and non-existent ticket fraud, especially for high-demand events.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a message saying my iCloud or Google storage is full and I must pay immediately to avoid losing data real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-message-saying-my-icloud-storage-is-full-and-i-must-pay-real", "summary": "Be cautious. Genuine storage warnings come through the app's own settings interface, not through unexpected texts or pop-ups with payment links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is my elderly family member at extra risk from scammers and how can I help protect them?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-elderly-family-member-at-extra-risk-from-scammers", "summary": "Older adults are disproportionately targeted by scammers. Protective conversations, call-blocking tools, and clear safe-word agreements are among the most effective defences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a new cryptocurrency exchange offering much higher interest rates than established platforms safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-new-cryptocurrency-exchange-with-high-interest-rates-safe", "summary": "Very unlikely. Abnormally high interest rates on a new or unknown crypto platform are a hallmark of fraud or a platform doomed to collapse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a door-to-door charity collector using a tablet or card reader to take donations legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-door-to-door-charity-collector-with-a-tablet-legitimate", "summary": "Some are genuine, but door-to-door collection fraud is common. Always verify the collector's identity and the charity's registration before donating.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a private car seller who insists on using an escrow service I have never heard of a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-car-seller-who-only-accepts-escrow-payment-a-scammer", "summary": "Very likely. Fake escrow services are one of the most common tools used in online vehicle purchase fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a QR code at a concert or event venue safe to scan?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-qr-code-at-a-concert-or-event-venue-safe-to-scan", "summary": "Usually yes if it is an official sign, but scammers sometimes place fake QR code stickers over legitimate venue codes to redirect you to phishing pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a home rental listing where the landlord says a lease agreement is not necessary a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-home-rental-listing-that-has-no-lease-agreement-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. A landlord who refuses to provide a written lease is either operating illegally or, more commonly, collecting a deposit with no intention of providing a tenancy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a gaming account sold on a third-party website legitimate and safe to buy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-gaming-account-sold-on-a-third-party-site-legitimate", "summary": "Account sales violate the terms of service of most games and platforms, and many third-party sales are fraudulent — the original account holder often reclaims the account after payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a seller on eBay or another marketplace asking me to mark an item as received before it arrives a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-seller-who-asks-me-to-mark-an-ebay-item-received-before-delivery-a-scammer", "summary": "Yes. This request is designed to close your buyer protection window before any problem with the item is discovered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a student discount website asking for my university email address safe to use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-student-discount-website-asking-for-my-university-email-safe", "summary": "Major verified student discount platforms are generally safe, but lesser-known sites may collect university credentials or sell your data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online immigration consultant with a professional-looking website legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-immigration-consultant-online-with-a-professional-website-legitimate", "summary": "A professional website alone is not enough to verify legitimacy — immigration consultants must be registered with a recognised regulatory body in your country.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a tech company calling me or popping up on screen asking for payment to remove a virus from my computer a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-tech-company-asking-for-payment-to-remove-a-virus-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. This is a classic tech-support scam — no legitimate company monitors your computer remotely and calls you unsolicited about a virus.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is someone asking me to send a bank statement or proof of funds before I can book a property viewing a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-someone-asking-me-to-send-my-bank-statement-before-a-property-viewing-a-scammer", "summary": "In competitive rental markets some landlords do request proof of income, but the timing and method matter greatly — asking for full bank statements before any viewing is a major red flag.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cryptocurrency wallet app in the official app store always safe to use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cryptocurrency-wallet-app-in-my-app-store-always-safe", "summary": "Not always. Fake wallet apps do occasionally appear in official stores, and can drain your funds or steal your seed phrase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to buy a cryptocurrency being promoted by a social media influencer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-social-media-influencer-selling-a-crypto-coin-a-scam", "summary": "Extreme caution is warranted. Celebrity and influencer crypto promotions have frequently preceded sudden collapses, leaving investors with near-worthless tokens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a stranger asking me to use my bank account to receive and pass on a business payment a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-stranger-asking-me-to-use-my-bank-account-for-a-business-payment-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. This is money-mule recruitment, which is illegal even if you did not know the underlying source of the funds was criminal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a health app offering personalised cancer screening or genetic risk analysis for a fee legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-health-app-offering-personalised-cancer-screening-for-a-fee-legitimate", "summary": "Only if it is regulated as a medical device and provided by a licensed clinical service. Many commercial health apps overstate their screening capabilities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text or letter saying I have unclaimed pension funds I can access now real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-saying-i-have-unclaimed-pension-funds-real", "summary": "Be very cautious. Unsolicited messages about unclaimed pensions are frequently pension liberation fraud or cold-call pension scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online partner who keeps asking for small amounts of money over time a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-romance-partner-who-keeps-asking-for-small-amounts-a-scammer", "summary": "Possibly yes. Repeated small requests are a deliberate tactic to build financial dependency gradually, making it harder to recognise the overall pattern.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a missed delivery notification I received by email always genuine?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-missed-delivery-notification-by-email-always-genuine", "summary": "No. Fake delivery notifications are one of the most widely distributed phishing methods used to steal card details and login credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an offer to buy my timeshare or holiday club membership a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-offer-to-buy-my-timeshare-or-holiday-club-membership-a-scam", "summary": "Almost always yes. Timeshare resale fraud specifically targets people who are already struggling to exit their contracts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text or email from the government asking me to verify my identity on a new digital ID system real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-government-texting-my-phone-about-a-digital-id-verification-real", "summary": "Be very cautious. Government digital ID communications are issued through official portals and pre-announced — unsolicited texts asking you to verify are almost always phishing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crowdfunding campaign on GoFundMe or a similar site for a stranger I saw shared on social media legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-charity-fundraising-on-gofundme-for-a-stranger-legitimate", "summary": "Some are genuine, but fundraising fraud on crowdfunding platforms is common, and social sharing makes fraudulent campaigns appear more trustworthy than they are.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call from my bank asking me to visit a branch immediately because of fraud on my account genuine?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-bank-asking-me-to-attend-a-branch-because-of-fraud-suspicious", "summary": "Treat it with caution. While genuine bank fraud alerts exist, scammers use the same approach to get you to a branch where a courier awaits to collect your card and PIN.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free credit score check website safe to enter my personal details into?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-free-credit-score-check-website-safe-to-use", "summary": "Only established regulated credit reference agencies are safe. Many lookalike 'free score' sites are data-harvesting tools or funnel you into hidden subscriptions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a sports betting tipster who guarantees consistent profits a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-sports-betting-tipster-who-guarantees-profits-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. No betting tipster can genuinely guarantee consistent profits — this claim is the defining hallmark of subscription fraud in the tipster industry.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a website asking me to submit a selfie holding my ID document as verification safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-website-asking-for-my-selfie-with-my-id-for-verification-safe", "summary": "Only if the site is a regulated, established service. This type of verification is genuine for financial services but is also exploited by fraudsters to steal your identity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a car insurance deal offered by someone I met online or through social media legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-car-insurance-deal-offered-by-someone-i-met-online-legitimate", "summary": "No. Private individuals cannot legally sell or arrange car insurance — this is a regulated activity. Any such offer is either a scam or a form of illegal 'ghost broking'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email from a law firm telling me I am part of a class action settlement and can claim money real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-email-from-a-law-firm-about-a-class-action-settlement-real", "summary": "Sometimes yes, but also a common phishing format. Verify the law firm and case independently before clicking anything or providing information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a message saying my payment details have expired on a streaming service and I must update them real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-message-saying-my-payment-details-are-expired-on-a-streaming-service-real", "summary": "It may be real, but this is also one of the most commonly spoofed phishing messages. Always update payment details by logging in directly, never via the link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Telegram channel offering free access to premium Netflix, Spotify, or other subscription accounts legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-telegram-channel-offering-free-premium-account-access-legitimate", "summary": "No. Shared premium accounts are either stolen, part of a credential-harvesting scam, or will be used to infect your device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a landlord asking for a holding deposit before I have signed any paperwork normal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-landlord-asking-for-a-holding-deposit-before-i-have-signed-anything-normal", "summary": "A small holding deposit to take a property off the market during referencing can be legitimate, but the rules on how much and when vary by country, and fraud is common.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email asking me to complete a short survey for a cash reward a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-asking-me-to-complete-a-survey-for-a-cash-reward-a-scam", "summary": "Many are scams. Fake survey emails harvest personal data, redirect you to subscription sign-ups, or lead to phishing pages disguised as reward claim forms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call saying my broadband router has been hacked and my internet will be cut off a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-call-saying-my-broadband-router-has-been-hacked-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Internet service providers do not call customers to report router hacks and then request remote access — this is a well-known variant of tech-support fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job that sends me equipment in advance and then asks me to forward it to another address a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-that-sends-me-equipment-and-asks-me-to-forward-it-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. This is a reshipping mule scam, which typically involves handling stolen goods and can result in criminal liability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online seller who insists on using their own shipping company a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-seller-who-wants-to-use-their-own-shipping-company-a-scammer", "summary": "Frequently yes. Insisting on a specific shipping company is a classic element of online purchase fraud, particularly for high-value items.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a doorstep canvasser from an energy company offering me a better tariff and asking me to switch legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-energy-company-door-canvasser-offering-a-better-tariff-legitimate", "summary": "Some doorstep energy switching is legitimate, but the sector has a documented history of high-pressure mis-selling, forged consent, and sometimes outright fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a WhatsApp message from a contact asking me to forward them a verification code I just received a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-whatsapp-account-verification-code-request-from-a-friend-real", "summary": "Yes. This is account takeover fraud — your contact's account has already been hijacked and scammers are now targeting yours.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a company asking for my director ID or company registration number to verify a B2B transaction legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-company-asking-for-a-director-id-number-to-verify-a-b2b-transaction-legitimate", "summary": "Requesting a company registration number is normal in B2B transactions, but asking for director personal details or internal login credentials is not.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a browser pop-up offering to fix my slow computer for free a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-popup-offering-to-fix-my-slow-computer-for-free-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Free computer fix pop-ups are tech-support bait — they lead to malware installs, unnecessary software purchases, or remote access fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a new landlord or letting agent asking me to change which bank account I pay rent into a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-new-landlord-asking-me-to-pay-rent-to-a-different-bank-account-a-scam", "summary": "Treat this with great caution. Bank account change requests in rental relationships are a common entry point for payment diversion fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a company promising high daily earnings for completing simple online tasks or surveys legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-survey-company-promising-high-daily-earnings-for-simple-tasks-legitimate", "summary": "No. Genuine paid surveys and micro-tasks pay modest amounts — promises of high daily income are the starting point for task scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Bitcoin or crypto investment my accountant or financial adviser recommended safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-bitcoin-investment-that-my-accountant-or-financial-adviser-recommended-safe", "summary": "Not automatically. Advisers and accountants can themselves be defrauded or may recommend unregulated products that are not suitable or lawful to advise on.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Facebook Marketplace seller who says PayPal is safer than cash and sends me a payment link telling the truth?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-facebook-marketplace-seller-who-says-paypal-is-safer-right", "summary": "Partly misleading and potentially fraudulent. Scammers use fake PayPal payment links to steal credentials or argue that a 'Friends and Family' payment grants no buyer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a voicemail from the IRS or HMRC threatening immediate arrest for unpaid tax real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-voicemail-from-the-irs-or-hmrc-threatening-arrest-real", "summary": "No. Neither the IRS, HMRC, nor any other tax authority leaves threatening arrest voicemails. This is a widely known impersonation scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a discount online pharmacy selling branded prescription medication safe to order from?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-discount-pharmacy-selling-branded-medication-online-safe", "summary": "Only if the pharmacy is licensed by your national medicines regulator. Many discount online pharmacies sell counterfeit, substandard, or incorrectly dosed medication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cold call offering to help me claim compensation for mis-sold products or services legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cold-call-offering-me-a-compensation-claim-service-legitimate", "summary": "Treat with caution. While genuine claims management companies exist, the cold call format is heavily exploited for fee fraud and data harvesting.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a pension pot transfer to a better-performing scheme recommended by a cold caller safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-pension-pot-transfer-to-a-better-scheme-recommended-by-phone-safe", "summary": "No. Unsolicited pension transfer recommendations are one of the most financially devastating scam types. Never transfer a pension based on a cold call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job offer that requires me to buy a starter kit or materials before I can begin working a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-offer-that-requires-me-to-buy-starter-kits-or-materials-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly. Legitimate employers provide tools and training at their own cost — requiring workers to purchase starter kits is a defining sign of a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an app claiming to show me who viewed my Instagram or TikTok profile safe to use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-app-claiming-to-show-who-viewed-my-instagram-profile-safe", "summary": "No. Instagram and TikTok do not provide this data to third-party apps, so such apps are either harvesting your credentials or selling a fictional service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a charity collection tin placed outside a supermarket or shop entrance legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-charity-collection-tin-outside-a-supermarket-legitimate", "summary": "Static charity tins in shops are usually genuine, but loose tins or collectors holding them outside can be fraudulent — always check for official permission.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job where I am paid to test apps and rate them and receive payment by wire transfer legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-where-i-am-paid-to-test-apps-by-wire-transfer-a-scam", "summary": "Be very cautious. Most paid app review jobs found through unsolicited messages are task scams or money-mule operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free antivirus tool offered in a website pop-up safe to install?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-free-antivirus-tool-offered-on-a-website-popup-safe-to-install", "summary": "No. Pop-up antivirus offers are among the most common methods of distributing malware and adware under the guise of protection software.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a lottery syndicate invitation from a workplace colleague or online group a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-lottery-syndicate-invitation-from-a-workplace-colleague-a-scam", "summary": "Genuine workplace syndicates exist, but online or social media syndicate invitations are often advance fee fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job offer in another country that requires me to travel at my own expense before a contract is signed a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-offer-in-another-country-that-requires-me-to-travel-first-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely. Legitimate overseas employers sponsoring foreign workers cover travel costs or sign a contract before any travel is undertaken.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cryptocurrency mixing or tumbling service legal to use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cryptocurrency-mixing-service-legal-to-use", "summary": "In many jurisdictions cryptocurrency mixing is illegal or severely restricted because it is primarily used to obscure the origin of criminally obtained funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text message from a delivery company asking me to pay a small redelivery fee a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-message-from-a-delivery-company-asking-me-to-pay-a-small-redelivery-fee-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely. Delivery fee texts are one of the most widely distributed phishing formats — the small amount makes victims less suspicious.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a hotel booking on a third-party website that is significantly cheaper than the official hotel rate a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-too-cheap-hotel-booking-on-a-third-party-site-a-scam", "summary": "It could be. Fake hotel booking sites take payment and either provide no booking confirmation or generate a reservation that the hotel never received.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online auction where each bid costs money to place legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-auction-where-bids-cost-money-to-place-legitimate", "summary": "These are known as penny auctions. They are legal in some jurisdictions but are designed so that most bidders lose money — and some are outright fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an investment opportunity shared in a private Facebook group by members I do not know safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-investment-opportunity-shared-in-a-private-facebook-group-safe", "summary": "No. Private Facebook groups are a common distribution channel for investment fraud because the closed nature creates false credibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to share my credit card number for a free trial that says there is no charge today?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-credit-card-number-safe-to-share-for-a-free-trial-with-no-charge-today", "summary": "Proceed with caution. Many free trials that require a card automatically charge you after a short period, and some sites use the card details for unauthorised charges immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a message from a friend saying they are in trouble abroad and need money urgently a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-message-from-a-friend-saying-they-are-in-trouble-and-need-money-now-a-scam", "summary": "Possibly. Account compromise and clone account scams use your friend's identity to send convincing emergency messages to their contact list.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a grant for starting a small business offered by email or social media real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-grant-for-starting-a-small-business-offered-by-email-real", "summary": "Legitimate small business grants exist, but they are applied for — they do not arrive unsolicited by email or DM. Unsolicited grant messages are almost always fee fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a gaming skin marketplace that requires me to log in with my Steam account safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-gaming-skin-marketplace-that-requires-my-steam-login-safe", "summary": "Only if the site uses Steam's official OAuth login. Many fake skin trading sites steal your Steam credentials via a convincing fake login page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email from my solicitor asking me to change the bank account details for a house purchase payment safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-from-my-solicitor-asking-me-to-change-payment-details-for-a-house-purchase-safe", "summary": "Do not act on it without calling your solicitor directly first. Conveyancing fraud is a major risk — scammers intercept emails and impersonate solicitors to divert completion funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a service offering to recover my blocked or banned social media account legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-blocked-account-recovery-service-for-social-media-legitimate", "summary": "Almost always no. Account recovery services for social media are typically scams that take payment without delivering results or steal your remaining account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto trading coach who shows screenshots of large profits on social media legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crypto-trading-coach-who-shows-screenshots-of-profits-legitimate", "summary": "Almost certainly not. Profit screenshots are trivially easy to fabricate or cherry-pick, and 'coaching' accounts primarily serve as funnels for investment platform fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call from my energy supplier offering a free smart meter upgrade legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-call-from-my-energy-supplier-about-a-smart-meter-upgrade-a-scam", "summary": "Smart meter rollouts are genuine government-backed programmes, but scammers impersonate energy companies in this context to gain access to homes or collect bank details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a notification that my online banking password was recently changed something I should worry about?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-notification-that-my-online-banking-password-was-changed-a-scam", "summary": "If you did not change it, treat this as an urgent security incident — someone may have accessed your account and changed the credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Craigslist or classifieds buyer who wants to pay by cashier's check and arrange their own shipping a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-buyer-on-craigslist-who-wants-to-pay-by-cashiers-check-and-arrange-their-own-shipping-a-scammer", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. This is one of the oldest and most consistent classifieds fraud patterns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cold email offering to manage my Amazon or eBay store and generate passive income a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cold-email-offering-to-manage-my-amazon-or-ebay-store-a-scam", "summary": "Almost always yes. Ecommerce automation services that promise passive income from managed stores are a well-documented investment fraud format.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a council or government grant for home improvements offered by a cold caller legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-council-grant-for-home-improvement-offered-by-cold-call-legitimate", "summary": "Treat with caution. Government energy efficiency and home improvement grants exist, but the cold call format is heavily exploited by rogue traders and advance fee fraudsters.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to log in to my bank on public WiFi?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-log-in-to-my-bank-on-public-wifi", "summary": "It carries more risk than a secure private connection, but is generally safe if you connect to the bank's official app or HTTPS website — the main danger is connecting to a fake hotspot.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a person who claims to be a US soldier, doctor, or engineer stationed abroad on a dating site likely a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-person-who-claims-to-be-a-us-soldier-stationed-abroad-on-a-dating-site-a-scammer", "summary": "This exact profile — overseas military or professional who cannot video call freely — is one of the most consistent romance scam personas.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a loan shark charging very high interest rates illegal and what should I do if I am being threatened?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-loan-shark-charging-very-high-interest-illegal", "summary": "Illegal lending is a criminal offence in most countries. You have the right to protection and support, and your debt to a loan shark is not legally enforceable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an invoice sent to my business email for services I do not recognise a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-fake-invoice-sent-to-my-business-email-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely. Unsolicited invoices — sometimes called invoice fraud or billing scams — are sent hoping a busy accounts team will pay without checking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email claiming I have won an international lottery I did not enter real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-claiming-i-won-an-international-lottery-i-did-not-enter-real", "summary": "No. You cannot win a lottery you did not enter. This is one of the longest-running advance fee fraud formats.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a discount voucher for a supermarket or well-known brand shared on Facebook real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-discount-voucher-for-a-supermarket-shared-on-facebook-real", "summary": "Rarely. Brand impersonation voucher posts are widely used to harvest personal data, spread malware, or grow fake pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a credit repair service that guarantees to fix my credit score legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-credit-repair-service-that-guarantees-to-fix-my-credit-score-legitimate", "summary": "No legitimate credit repair service can guarantee to improve your score. Services that make this promise are often scams that charge fees for work you can do yourself for free.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a utility company contacting me about an unclaimed rebate or overpayment a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-utility-company-contacting-me-about-an-unclaimed-rebate-a-scam", "summary": "Often yes. Unsolicited rebate contacts are frequently used to harvest bank details or trick you into paying a small fee to receive a fictional refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cryptocurrency investment adviser who connected with me on LinkedIn legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cryptocurrency-investment-advisor-on-linkedin-legitimate", "summary": "Be very sceptical. LinkedIn is increasingly used to run professional-looking romance scams and investment fraud targeting high-earning professionals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call saying my computer has been used for illegal activity and my accounts will be frozen a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-call-saying-my-computer-has-been-used-for-illegal-activity-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. This is a variant of government impersonation and tech-support fraud. No legitimate authority contacts citizens this way.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a stranger who claims to have found cash and wants to share it with me running a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-stranger-who-found-cash-and-wants-to-share-it-running-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. This is a classic street-based confidence fraud known as the pigeon drop or found money scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a rental car company that only accepts cash payment a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-rental-car-company-that-only-accepts-cash-a-scam", "summary": "Treat with serious caution. Cash-only car rental is highly unusual for legitimate operators and removes all your payment protection and fraud recourse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an AI chatbot offering financial or investment advice giving me reliable guidance?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-ai-chatbot-financial-adviser-giving-reliable-advice", "summary": "No. AI chatbots are not regulated financial advisers and should never be relied upon for specific investment or financial decisions — doing so could cause serious harm.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a seller on Depop or Vinted who asks me to communicate and pay outside the app a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-seller-on-depop-or-vinted-who-wants-to-communicate-off-platform-a-scammer", "summary": "Very likely. Requests to move off-platform remove all buyer and seller protections that the app provides.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Bitcoin ATM a safe way to send money to someone I trust?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-bitcoin-atm-a-safe-way-to-send-money-to-someone-i-trust", "summary": "No. Bitcoin ATMs are a leading cash collection tool for scammers. Once money is inserted, it cannot be recovered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cold email from a PR firm asking me to review products for money a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cold-email-from-a-pr-firm-asking-me-to-review-products-for-money-a-scam", "summary": "Treat it carefully. Legitimate product seeding exists, but cold email review-for-cash offers frequently lead to advance-fee or data harvesting scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to share a screenshot of a payment to prove it was sent?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-share-a-screenshot-of-a-payment-to-prove-it-was-sent", "summary": "Only share with the recipient. Screenshots of payments can be edited to show false amounts or statuses, and some contain financial data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a seller on Craigslist or a classifieds site who insists on local cash-only safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-seller-on-craigslist-who-prefers-local-cash-only-legitimate", "summary": "Cash-in-person is actually safer for high-value items — but be alert to robbery setups and counterfeit currency risks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is being added to a WhatsApp group by strangers for investment tips a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-whatsapp-group-added-to-by-strangers-for-investment-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Being added without your consent to a WhatsApp investment group is the setup for a classic group investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a peer-to-peer payment request from a stranger a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-peer-to-peer-payment-request-from-a-stranger-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Unsolicited payment requests from people you don't know on Cash App, Venmo, or PayPal are either direct fraud attempts or money mule setups.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a course certificate I bought online recognised by employers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-course-certificate-i-bought-online-recognised-by-employers", "summary": "Often not. Many online certificate sellers have no accreditation and their qualifications carry no weight with employers or licensing bodies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a message saying my Facebook or Instagram account will be disabled a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-message-that-my-facebook-or-instagram-account-will-be-disabled-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Account-disabling threats sent by message are phishing attacks designed to steal your social media credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a prize notification sent by official-looking letter in the mail real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-prize-notification-sent-by-official-looking-letter-in-the-mail-real", "summary": "No. Printed prize letters that say you have won a car, cash, or holiday are scams that require a fee to claim the non-existent prize.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job ad that shows a known company logo always genuine?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-ad-that-shows-a-known-company-logo-always-genuine", "summary": "No. Scammers routinely copy company branding to make fake job listings look legitimate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a buy-one-get-one-free online offer requiring my card details safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-buy-one-get-one-free-online-offer-requiring-my-card-details-safe", "summary": "Not unless it comes from a verified, well-known retailer. Free offers requiring card entry are frequent subscription traps or data theft operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Telegram channel claiming to sell stolen data or hacking services legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-telegram-channel-run-by-a-hacker-claiming-to-sell-stolen-data-legitimate", "summary": "These channels are almost always scams. They take payment for services they cannot deliver, or the 'service' itself is illegal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a dating app profile that moves very fast emotionally a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-dating-app-profile-that-moves-very-fast-emotionally-a-scammer", "summary": "It is a major warning sign. Rapid emotional bonding — 'love bombing' — is a deliberate technique used in romance scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a university bursary or grant email I didn't apply for real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-university-bursary-or-grant-email-i-didnt-apply-for-real", "summary": "No. Unsolicited bursary or grant emails targeting students are phishing attacks or advance-fee scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a debt collector who can't provide written proof of debt legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-debt-collector-who-cannot-provide-written-proof-of-debt-legitimate", "summary": "No. Legitimate debt collectors must provide written validation of any debt on request — if they refuse, it is likely a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online ticket seller asking for payment by friends and family a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-ticket-seller-asking-for-payment-by-friends-and-family-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Requesting friends-and-family payment for tickets removes all buyer protection and is a classic scam signal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a bank text asking me to approve a new payee a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-bank-text-asking-me-to-approve-a-new-payee-a-scam", "summary": "It could be. Scammers send fake bank texts to trick you into approving a payee they control — your bank will never rush this decision.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job that asks me to rate hotels or restaurants online a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-that-asks-me-to-rate-hotels-or-restaurants-online-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Paid review jobs are a common cover for task scams that eventually demand you deposit money to unlock earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Facebook Marketplace car seller asking for a holding deposit a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-facebook-marketplace-car-seller-asking-for-a-holding-deposit-a-scam", "summary": "Frequently yes. Fake car listings on social marketplaces are designed to extract a deposit before you ever see the vehicle.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to buy concert tickets from a resale platform?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-buy-concert-tickets-from-a-resale-platform", "summary": "It depends on the platform. Authorised fan-to-fan resale sites offer buyer guarantees; unofficial sites and social media resellers frequently deliver invalid or non-existent tickets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cold call offering to write or update my will for free a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cold-call-offering-to-write-or-update-my-will-for-free-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Free will-writing cold calls are lead-generation tools designed to upsell expensive and sometimes unnecessary legal or financial products to older adults.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a subscription box that charged me after a free trial a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-subscription-box-that-charged-me-after-a-free-trial-a-scam", "summary": "It may be a dark pattern. Some subscription boxes make billing terms clear; others bury auto-renewal in hard-to-find small print.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an investment seminar promising guaranteed real estate returns a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-sellers-market-or-buyers-market-real-estate-pitch-hiding-a-scam", "summary": "Yes in the vast majority of cases. Real estate seminars promising guaranteed returns or 'insider' methods charge large fees for generic or worthless information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email saying I owe tax and must pay immediately to avoid prosecution real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-saying-i-owe-tax-and-must-pay-to-avoid-prosecution-real", "summary": "No. Tax authorities send formal written notices by post and do not threaten immediate prosecution in an email with a payment link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a landlord who doesn't have a gas safety certificate running a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-landlord-who-doesnt-have-a-gas-safety-certificate-running-a-scam", "summary": "Not necessarily a scam, but it is a serious legal violation — and in rental fraud, missing documentation is also used to pressure tenants into substandard arrangements.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a utility bill in my name opened without my knowledge a sign of fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-utility-bill-in-my-name-opened-without-my-knowledge-a-sign-of-fraud", "summary": "Yes. An unexpected utility bill in your name is a strong indicator that your identity has been used to open accounts fraudulently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto exchange with a very professional-looking website trustworthy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crypto-exchange-that-has-a-very-professional-website-trustworthy", "summary": "Not necessarily. Professional website design is cheap and easy — it does not verify regulatory compliance or the safety of your funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free government solar panel scheme cold call legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-free-government-solar-panel-scheme-cold-call-legitimate", "summary": "Usually not. Cold calls about free solar panels through a government scheme are frequently sales calls or scams harvesting your personal data and a deposit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a caller from a tech company offering to refund an overcharge a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-caller-from-a-tech-company-offering-to-refund-an-overcharge-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Refund scams impersonate tech companies to trick you into giving remote access and then steal money from your bank account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a rental listing that wants a holding fee via Western Union a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-rental-listing-that-wants-a-holding-fee-via-western-union-a-scam", "summary": "Yes, without exception. Western Union is irreversible and untraceable — requesting it for a rental deposit is a guaranteed red flag.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can AI generate phishing emails that are indistinguishable from real ones?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-ai-generated-email-indistinguishable-from-a-real-one", "summary": "Yes. AI-written phishing emails have no spelling errors, mimic writing styles accurately, and are increasingly hard to distinguish from genuine messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Cash App or Venmo request from my landlord safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cash-app-or-venmo-request-from-my-landlord-safe", "summary": "It depends. Scammers impersonate landlords to intercept rent payments — always verify any change in payment instructions directly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an unsolicited email offering business loan approval a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-unsolicited-email-offering-business-loan-approval-a-scam", "summary": "Yes in most cases. Pre-approved business loan emails sent out of the blue are almost always advance-fee or credential phishing scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text claiming I have an unpaid parking fine real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-claiming-i-have-an-unpaid-parking-fine-real", "summary": "Likely not. Official parking fines arrive by post to the registered keeper — not by text with a payment link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a VoIP call from an overseas number pretending to be a local bank a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-voip-call-from-an-overseas-number-pretending-to-be-a-local-bank-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Scammers use cheap internet calling services to impersonate banks from anywhere in the world.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text from a parcel company asking me to pay a storage fee a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-from-a-parcel-company-asking-me-to-pay-a-storage-fee-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Legitimate couriers do not hold parcels for storage fees payable by text link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a door-to-door roofer or driveway paver offering cheap work a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-door-to-door-roofer-or-driveway-paver-offering-cheap-work-a-scam", "summary": "Very often. Doorstep roofers and pavers who say they have leftover materials and offer a large discount are frequently running cowboy trader scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a romance partner who never asks me for money definitely genuine?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-romance-partner-who-never-asks-me-for-money-definitely-genuine", "summary": "Not necessarily. Some romance scammers operate over months without any financial request, building trust before a large single ask or a more elaborate scheme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an App Store or Google Play listing for a cryptocurrency wallet always genuine?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-app-store-listing-for-a-crypto-wallet-always-genuine", "summary": "No. Fake crypto wallet apps make it through both platforms' review processes and steal funds from users who install them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call saying my computer is sending error reports to Microsoft a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-call-saying-my-computer-is-sending-error-reports-to-microsoft-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. This is the classic Microsoft tech support scam. Microsoft does not monitor individual computers and will never call you about errors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online loan that approves everyone regardless of credit score legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-loan-that-approves-everyone-regardless-of-credit-score-legitimate", "summary": "No. Guaranteed-approval loan advertisements are advance-fee scams that collect upfront fees and never release funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a QR code redirect me to a site that steals my login?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-qr-code-redirect-me-to-a-site-that-steals-my-login", "summary": "Yes. QR codes can link to any URL — including fake login pages designed to steal your credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a new LinkedIn contact who wants to discuss investment opportunities a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-new-contact-on-linkedin-who-wants-to-discuss-investment-a-scammer", "summary": "Treat it as suspicious. LinkedIn is heavily targeted by investment and romance-investment scammers who use professional profiles to build credibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a request to pay an invoice by cryptocurrency instead of bank transfer a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-request-to-pay-an-invoice-by-crypto-instead-of-bank-transfer-a-scam", "summary": "In a business context, a sudden switch to crypto payment is a major red flag and often indicates fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online insurance quote that asks for full payment before sending any documents safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-insurance-quote-that-asks-for-full-payment-before-any-documents-safe", "summary": "No. Legitimate insurers provide a full policy schedule and certificate before or immediately after payment — any that refuse are likely ghost brokers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a limited-time flash sale from an unfamiliar website safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-limited-time-flash-sale-from-an-unfamiliar-website-safe", "summary": "Treat it as suspicious. Flash sale urgency is a common tactic used by fake online stores to rush you into payment before you can verify the site.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a fake invoice sent to a senior parent by mail a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-fake-invoice-sent-to-a-senior-parent-by-mail-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Fraudulent invoices sent by post are common scams targeting older adults, using official-looking formats to demand payment for services never ordered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text saying my driving licence renewal fee is due real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-saying-my-driving-licence-renewal-fee-is-due-real", "summary": "Almost certainly not. Official driving licence renewal notices arrive by post and direct you to the official government website — not a payment link in a text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a work-from-home packing or envelope stuffing job legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-work-from-home-packing-or-stuffing-envelopes-job-legitimate", "summary": "No. Envelope stuffing and parcel packing jobs are classic advance-fee or reshipping scams — there is no legitimate version.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a social media account offering cheap designer goods a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-social-media-account-offering-cheap-designer-goods-a-scam", "summary": "Almost always. Accounts selling luxury brands at a fraction of retail price are selling fakes, or will take your money and send nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email with my home address threatening to expose me a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-with-my-home-address-threatening-to-expose-me-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. This is a sextortion or extortion scam. The threat is a bluff designed to create panic.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a landlord who won't provide a written tenancy agreement a red flag?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-landlord-who-wont-provide-a-written-tenancy-agreement-a-red-flag", "summary": "Yes. A legitimate landlord will always provide a written tenancy agreement before you pay or move in.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cryptocurrency platform that shows growing profits but won't pay out a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cryptocurrency-platform-that-shows-growing-profits-but-wont-pay-out-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. A platform that shows impressive balance growth but blocks withdrawals is a classic investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer open a credit card in my name with stolen personal data?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-scammer-open-a-credit-card-in-my-name-with-stolen-personal-data", "summary": "Yes. With enough personal data, criminals can apply for credit cards, loans, and other financial products in your name.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text saying a family member has been in an accident and needs money a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-saying-a-family-member-has-been-in-an-accident-and-needs-money-a-scam", "summary": "Almost always yes. This is a variant of the grandparent or family emergency scam, now increasingly delivered by text or WhatsApp.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a delivery driver asking for a cash payment on the doorstep a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-delivery-driver-asking-for-a-cash-payment-on-the-doorstep-a-scam", "summary": "Treat it with caution. Doorstep cash payment requests can be legitimate customs charges but are also used in delivery scams and distraction burglaries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an airdrop that asks me to connect my wallet to claim free tokens safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-airdrop-that-asks-me-to-connect-my-wallet-to-claim-tokens-safe", "summary": "No. Connect-to-claim airdrop sites are a common wallet drainer attack that empties your crypto holdings in seconds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a car listing where the seller is abroad and uses an escrow service a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-car-listing-where-the-seller-is-abroad-and-uses-an-escrow-service-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Sellers claiming to be abroad who offer a special escrow service for vehicle payment are running a well-known car scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are immigrant workers at extra risk from job or housing scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-immigrant-worker-at-extra-risk-from-job-or-housing-scams", "summary": "Yes. Scammers deliberately target newly arrived workers with fake job offers and overpriced or non-existent accommodation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text from my water or electric company saying I owe money real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-from-my-water-or-electric-company-saying-i-owe-money-real", "summary": "It may be a scam. Utility companies send formal overdue notices by post — text messages with payment links are frequently phishing attacks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a pet-sitting or dog-walking job found on Craigslist or a classifieds site safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-pet-sitting-or-dog-walking-job-found-on-craigslist-safe", "summary": "Proceed carefully. Pet care jobs on classifieds sites are frequently overpayment scams or personal-data harvesting operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call saying my National Insurance or Social Security number has been used in a crime real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-call-saying-my-national-insurance-or-social-security-number-has-been-used-in-crime-real", "summary": "No. This is a government impersonation scam. Your number has not been suspended, and no agency will call you threatening arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a sponsored post advertising a new crypto token launch a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-sponsored-post-advertising-a-new-crypto-token-launch-a-scam", "summary": "Extremely often yes. New token launches advertised through social media ads are frequently pump-and-dump schemes or outright rug pulls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a game modification or cheat file download safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-game-modification-or-cheat-file-download-safe", "summary": "Often not. Unofficial mod files and cheat tools are a primary delivery method for malware, keyloggers, and account stealers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a request for my Medicare or NHS number over the phone a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-request-for-my-medicare-or-nhs-number-over-the-phone-a-scam", "summary": "Yes if unsolicited. Government health agencies do not cold-call you to request your health number or personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer set up a direct debit from my account with just my bank details?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-scammer-set-up-a-direct-debit-from-my-account-with-just-my-bank-details", "summary": "In some cases yes. With account number and sort code, a fraudster can attempt to set up unauthorised direct debits in the UK.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a phone call saying my broadband contract is ending and I must renew a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-phone-call-saying-my-broadband-contract-is-ending-and-i-must-renew-a-scam", "summary": "It may be. Scammers impersonate telecoms providers to get banking details or remote access under the guise of processing a renewal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free iPhone or prize offered in an online quiz real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-free-iphone-or-prize-offered-in-an-online-quiz-real", "summary": "No. Online quiz prize giveaways are data harvesting tools or subscription traps — the prize is not real.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a charity asking for cryptocurrency donations legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-charity-asking-for-cryptocurrency-donations-legitimate", "summary": "Treat it with extreme caution. Very few registered charities accept crypto, and most such requests are outright fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a WhatsApp message from an unknown number saying 'hello dear' a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-whatsapp-message-from-an-unknown-number-saying-hello-dear-a-scam", "summary": "Almost always yes. This is the opening move of a romance scam, task scam, or investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer steal money through M-Pesa or mobile money?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-scammer-steal-money-through-mpesa-or-mobile-money", "summary": "Yes. Mobile money fraud is widespread across Africa and Asia, with scammers exploiting reversals, SIM swaps, and fake agent networks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a GCash or Maya payment request from a stranger a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-gcash-or-maya-payment-request-from-a-stranger-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely yes. Unsolicited payment requests on Philippine mobile wallets are almost always scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a UPI payment request from a buyer safe to accept?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-upi-payment-request-from-a-buyer-safe-to-accept", "summary": "Requests you receive are payment demands, not incoming money. Accepting a UPI request causes money to leave your account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer reverse a Pix payment and steal my money in Brazil?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-scammer-reverse-a-pix-payment-and-steal-my-money", "summary": "Yes. Scammers exploit Pix's speed by using fake screenshots and social engineering to get victims to send money before they realise the fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a fake immigration lawyer or notario I found online a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-fake-immigration-lawyer-online-a-scam", "summary": "Very often yes. Unlicensed practitioners pose as immigration attorneys and take large fees for applications that are never filed or are filed incorrectly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call from an immigration officer threatening deportation unless I pay real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-deportation-threat-call-from-an-immigration-officer-real", "summary": "No. This is a government impersonation scam. Real immigration agencies do not threaten deportation by phone and demand immediate payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Green Card lottery notification I received by email or phone real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-green-card-lottery-notification-by-email-or-phone-real", "summary": "Almost certainly not. The only official DV Lottery notification is through the government's own website — never by email, phone, or postal mail.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a subscription that charged me without warning after a free trial legal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-subscription-that-charged-me-after-a-free-trial-without-warning-legal", "summary": "In many cases it is, but consumer protection laws in most countries require clear disclosure of post-trial charges. You may have rights to a refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is negative option billing and can I get my money back?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-negative-option-billing-subscription-i-cant-cancel-a-scam", "summary": "Negative option billing assumes your consent to pay unless you actively cancel. In many countries it is heavily regulated and you may be entitled to a refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is the MLM or network marketing opportunity I was invited to a pyramid scheme?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-mlm-opportunity-i-was-invited-to-a-pyramid-scheme", "summary": "Many MLMs operate as de facto pyramid schemes where the majority of participants lose money. Income primarily from recruiting, not retail sales, is the key warning sign.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is someone asking for my crypto wallet seed phrase for support a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crypto-wallet-seed-phrase-asked-for-by-support-a-scam", "summary": "Yes, always. No legitimate wallet provider, exchange, or support agent will ever ask for your seed phrase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a hardware crypto wallet sold by a third party on Amazon or eBay safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-hardware-crypto-wallet-sold-on-amazon-or-ebay-safe", "summary": "No. Hardware wallets must be bought directly from the manufacturer. Third-party resellers may sell pre-seeded or tampered devices that drain your funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is my Instagram account at risk if someone DMs me a suspicious link?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-my-instagram-account-at-risk-from-hackers-if-someone-dms-me-a-link", "summary": "Yes. Phishing links sent via Instagram DM are the most common way accounts are hijacked and sold or used to scam your followers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a Facebook quiz or game hack my account?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-facebook-account-hacked-by-a-phishing-quiz-or-game", "summary": "Quizzes and games that request Facebook login permissions can harvest your personal data. Some are also fronts for phishing credential theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a puppy breeder who only accepts bank transfer and won't let me visit a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-breeder-who-only-accepts-payment-via-bank-transfer-for-a-puppy-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Refusing visits and insisting on bank transfer are the two clearest red flags of a pet scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free pet adoption listing that only needs a transport fee a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-free-pet-adoption-that-needs-a-transport-fee-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. 'Free pet, just pay transport' is the standard opener for a pet shipping scam where no animal exists.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I received a parcel I never ordered — is it a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-parcel-that-arrived-addressed-to-me-but-i-didnt-order-it-a-scam", "summary": "It may be brushing fraud, where sellers send cheap items to real addresses to post fake reviews, or a preparatory step in a package redirection scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a mail redirection taken out in my name without my knowledge identity fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-mail-redirection-order-taken-out-in-my-name-identity-fraud", "summary": "Yes. Fraudsters redirect your mail to intercept bank cards, account statements, and sensitive documents to take over your financial accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone take out a loan in my name using my stolen personal details?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-take-out-a-loan-in-my-name-with-my-stolen-details", "summary": "Yes. With enough personal information, fraudsters can apply for loans, credit cards, and finance agreements in your name.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What do I do if my identity has been stolen and used for fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-do-i-do-if-my-identity-has-been-stolen-and-used-for-fraud", "summary": "Act immediately: alert your bank, place a fraud alert with credit agencies, report to police, and notify any organisations where accounts were opened fraudulently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a TikTok Shop seller with thousands of reviews trustworthy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-tiktok-shop-seller-with-thousands-of-reviews-trustworthy", "summary": "Not necessarily. Review counts on newer marketplaces can be inflated and do not guarantee product quality or genuine fulfilment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a sponsored Instagram shop ad selling real branded products legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-sponsored-instagram-shop-selling-real-products", "summary": "Often not. Sponsored Instagram shop ads frequently lead to counterfeit goods sites that never deliver or deliver poor-quality fakes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Korean or Japanese skincare website I found through a social media ad trustworthy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-korean-or-japanese-skincare-website-from-a-social-media-ad-real", "summary": "Treat with caution. Fake Asian beauty storefronts are a common scam format, selling counterfeit or non-existent products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are investment scams specifically targeting Nigerian, Indian, or Filipino communities abroad common?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-country-specific-investment-scam-targeting-nigerians-or-indians-abroad-common", "summary": "Yes. Scammers specifically target diaspora communities using shared language, cultural trust, and community network access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "If a friend on WhatsApp asks me to forward them a code I just received, is it a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-whatsapp-otp-forwarding-request-from-a-contact-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. This is account takeover fraud — the code belongs to your friend's WhatsApp, and sending it hands their account to a scammer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Telegram channel claiming to sell leaked bank or personal data legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-telegram-channel-claiming-to-sell-leaked-bank-data-real", "summary": "These channels are either criminal operations selling genuine stolen data, or fraud themselves — selling fake data to people trying to use it illegally.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is buying a counterfeit product that looks exactly like the real thing still fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-counterfeit-product-sold-in-a-legitimate-looking-package-fraud", "summary": "Yes. Buying counterfeit goods is illegal in most countries and funds criminal networks. The buyer may also bear legal risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online auction for a car or property where I have to pay before viewing a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-auction-for-a-car-or-property-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Requiring payment before viewing a vehicle or property is the defining characteristic of an auction scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto mining app on my phone that earns real money legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crypto-mining-app-on-my-phone-that-earns-money-real", "summary": "Almost never. Legitimate cryptocurrency mining requires specialised hardware. Phone mining apps are overwhelmingly data-harvesting tools, malware, or misrepresented schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cold call about a data breach compensation claim a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cold-call-about-a-data-breach-compensation-claim-a-scam", "summary": "Very often yes. Unsolicited calls about data breach claims are lead generation for unregulated claims companies or outright fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a secret shopper scam different from a legitimate mystery shopping job?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-secret-shopper-scam-different-from-a-legitimate-mystery-shopper-job", "summary": "Yes. Legitimate mystery shopping pays modest amounts and never involves wire transfers. Scams use the mystery shopper label to recruit money mules.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a high-interest savings account advertised on social media legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-high-interest-savings-account-offered-in-a-social-media-ad-legitimate", "summary": "Only if it is offered by a regulated bank or building society. Unregulated high-yield accounts advertised on social media are frequently fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a work-from-home customer service job that handles client fund transfers a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-work-from-home-customer-service-job-that-handles-transfers-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Jobs that involve receiving and forwarding money are money mule operations, which are illegal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job offer in Dubai or abroad that requires me to pay visa and travel fees upfront a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-in-dubai-or-abroad-requiring-upfront-visa-and-travel-fees-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Legitimate foreign employers bear the cost of visas and relocation. Requiring advance payment from a candidate is a strong scam indicator.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are AI-generated phishing emails harder to spot than traditional scam emails?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-ai-generated-phishing-email-harder-to-spot-than-a-normal-one", "summary": "Yes. AI-generated phishing emails are better written, more personalised, and lack the spelling errors that were once reliable red flags.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can scammers create a deepfake video of my face from my social media photos?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-deepfake-of-my-own-face-being-used-in-a-scam-possible", "summary": "Yes. Publicly available photos and videos can be used to generate convincing deepfake content for fraud, extortion, or impersonation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I be scammed on Airbnb or Vrbo even if the property has real reviews?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-rental-scam-on-airbnb-or-vrbo-possible-even-with-real-reviews", "summary": "Yes. Account takeover fraud on rental platforms allows scammers to hijack established listings with genuine reviews.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a person who claims to be from a wealthy or royal family and wants to share their wealth with me a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-person-who-claims-to-be-from-a-famous-family-offering-to-share-wealth-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. This is a modern variation of the advance fee fraud, one of the oldest and most persistent scam types.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a robocall about my car warranty or insurance expiring a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-car-warranty-or-insurance-offer-by-robocall-a-scam", "summary": "Almost always yes. Unsolicited robocalls about vehicle warranties are a well-documented mass-scam targeting vehicle owners.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Facebook Marketplace buyer who insists on using PayPal Goods and Services safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-buyer-on-facebook-marketplace-who-wants-to-use-paypal-goods-and-services-safe", "summary": "Not automatically. The G&S offer can itself be part of a scam involving fake PayPal emails and overpayment or chargeback fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email saying my iCloud account was logged into from a different country a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-claiming-my-icloud-account-was-logged-into-from-another-country-real", "summary": "It may be a scam phishing email designed to look like an Apple security alert. Check your actual account directly, not through the email link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online will-writing service I found through an ad safe to use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-will-writing-service-that-charges-upfront-safe", "summary": "Some are legitimate, but unregulated will-writing services can produce invalid documents. Verify regulation and use a solicitor for complex estates.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cold call about government solar panel grants available for my home legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cold-call-about-solar-panel-grants-for-my-home-legitimate", "summary": "Almost never. Solar grant cold calls are typically lead generation for pushy salespeople or outright fraud collecting deposits for undelivered installations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto exchange registered in Vanuatu, Seychelles, or another offshore jurisdiction trustworthy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crypto-exchange-registered-in-a-small-country-trustworthy", "summary": "Registration in low-regulation jurisdictions is a significant risk indicator. Many scam exchanges use offshore incorporation to avoid meaningful oversight.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a broker or service promising to recover my lost crypto investments legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-broker-promising-to-recover-my-crypto-losses-legitimate", "summary": "No. Crypto recovery services are themselves scams that re-victimise people who have already lost money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a celebrity-endorsed health or supplement product featured on a news website real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-celebrity-endorsed-health-product-on-a-fake-news-website-real", "summary": "No. Fake news websites with fabricated celebrity endorsements are a standard front for fraudulent supplement and health product sales.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a landlord who only accepts cash rent payments running a scam or breaking the law?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-landlord-who-asks-for-rent-in-cash-only-running-a-scam", "summary": "Not necessarily illegal, but cash-only rent is a significant risk indicator that offers you no payment record or consumer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a binary options broker or Forex robot that trades for me automatically a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-binary-options-or-forex-robot-that-trades-automatically-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Binary options are banned in many countries, and automated Forex robots consistently underperform their marketing claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text from a friend saying they need emergency bail money a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-from-a-friend-saying-they-need-emergency-bail-money-real", "summary": "Very often yes. Account takeover and emergency impersonation scams frequently target contacts of hacked accounts with urgent bail or travel requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are student accommodation scams common, especially for international students?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-student-accommodation-scam-common-for-international-students", "summary": "Yes. International students who need housing before arriving in a country are prime targets for rental fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a discount buying club or members-only savings scheme a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-discount-buying-club-or-membership-scheme-a-scam", "summary": "Often yes. Many discount membership clubs use pyramid-like referral structures, provide illusory savings, and make cancellation deliberately difficult.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email claiming to have a video of me visiting adult websites real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-sextortion-email-saying-it-has-a-video-of-me-real", "summary": "Almost always no. Sextortion emails are mass-sent bluffs. No video exists in the overwhelming majority of cases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a timeshare exit company offering to cancel my timeshare contract a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-timeshare-exit-company-a-scam", "summary": "Often yes. Timeshare exit companies frequently take large upfront fees and fail to cancel contracts, leaving owners in the same or worse position.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text from Royal Mail or USPS asking for my card details to release a package real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-text-from-royal-mail-or-usps-asking-for-card-details-to-release-a-package-real", "summary": "No. This is a delivery phishing text — one of the most commonly reported scam types in the UK and US.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a buy-now-pay-later plan offered by a cosmetic surgery or dental clinic safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-buy-now-pay-later-plan-for-a-surgery-or-medical-procedure-safe", "summary": "The plan itself may be legitimate, but it can be used by unregulated clinics to lock you into debt for procedures that go wrong.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email saying I won a foreign lottery I never entered real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-from-a-foreign-lottery-saying-i-won-real", "summary": "No. You cannot win a lottery you never entered. This is an advance fee fraud using a lottery as cover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a phone scammer record my voice saying 'yes' and use it to authorise transactions?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-phone-scammer-use-my-recorded-voice-to-authorise-transactions", "summary": "Voice authorisation is rarely used for major transactions, but voice cloning from recorded samples is a growing and more serious threat.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to send money to someone I met on a dating app if I have seen them on video call?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-send-money-to-someone-i-met-on-a-dating-app-if-i-verified-by-video-call", "summary": "No. Video call verification is no longer reliable — deepfake and pre-recorded video tools allow scammers to appear on camera convincingly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone is using my company's logo and name to send scam emails — what can I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-business-email-with-my-logo-impersonating-my-company-a-crime", "summary": "This is brand impersonation fraud and is a crime in most jurisdictions. You can report it to email platforms, domain registrars, and law enforcement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can scammers create a fake Google Maps listing to intercept customers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-fake-google-maps-listing-used-to-scam-customers-possible", "summary": "Yes. Fraudulent Google Business Profile listings redirect customers to scammers posing as legitimate businesses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a cryptocurrency wallet app that shows my profits growing without me doing anything real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-cryptocurrency-wallet-app-that-shows-growing-profits-without-me-doing-anything-real", "summary": "No. An app that shows consistent growing profits automatically is a scam display — the numbers are fabricated to encourage larger deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an unexpected call saying my child or grandchild is in trouble and needs money a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-call-saying-my-child-is-in-trouble-and-needs-money-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Family emergency scams exploit fear and urgency to prevent you from verifying before sending money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online service selling weight loss injections or prescription medication without a GP safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-pharmacist-selling-weight-loss-injections-without-a-prescription-safe", "summary": "No. Prescription medication sold without a valid prescription is illegal and potentially dangerous.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an auction site for luxury goods or electronics that requires a joining fee legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-auction-site-for-luxury-goods-that-requires-a-joining-fee-legitimate", "summary": "Almost never. Membership fees for exclusive auction access are a common fraud — the auction is fake or the goods non-existent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a new app that pays you to refer friends and build a team a pyramid scheme?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-new-app-that-pays-you-to-refer-friends-a-pyramid-scheme", "summary": "If income depends primarily on recruiting rather than on the app's genuine product or service, it has pyramid scheme characteristics.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job application that requires me to pay for a skills assessment or background check a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-job-test-or-skills-assessment-that-charges-a-fee-legitimate", "summary": "Yes in almost all cases. Legitimate employers never ask candidates to pay for assessments or background checks — this is standard employer cost.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email from my CEO asking me to urgently buy gift cards and send the codes a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-email-from-my-ceo-asking-me-to-buy-gift-cards-urgently-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. CEO gift card impersonation is one of the most common and consistently effective business email scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a caller saying my car insurance is invalid and I must pay immediately to reactivate it a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-caller-saying-my-car-insurance-is-invalid-and-i-need-to-pay-now-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely yes. Insurance impersonation calls use fear of driving illegally to collect card details or upfront premiums.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call claiming I am registered on a do-not-call list and need to update my details a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-check-my-number-on-the-ncoa-database-call-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Legitimate do-not-call registries do not call you to verify or update your registration. Any such call is data harvesting or fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a private number plate seller I found online safe to buy from?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-private-number-plate-seller-online-a-scam", "summary": "Only use DVLA-authorised resellers. Many unlicensed private plate sellers take payment for registrations that are already sold or do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a clone phishing email and how do I spot one?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-clone-phishing-email-that-looks-identical-to-a-real-one-dangerous", "summary": "Clone phishing exactly copies a real email you may have received before, replacing links or attachments with malicious ones. It is one of the hardest phishing types to spot.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an estate agent or property seller who asks for an upfront retainer fee before listing my home a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-sellers-agent-who-asks-for-a-retainer-before-listing-my-property-a-scam", "summary": "It depends. Some legitimate property services charge upfront fees, but fee-collection without service delivery is a common property fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a payday loan that approved me instantly with no credit check safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-payday-loan-that-approved-me-with-no-credit-check-safe", "summary": "No-credit-check loan offers are either unlicensed lenders or fee advance scams — both cause serious financial harm.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online car history check from a third-party website trustworthy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-online-car-history-check-from-a-third-party-site-trustworthy", "summary": "It depends on the provider. Established vehicle history check services provide accurate DVLA-linked data, but copycat sites sell outdated or fabricated reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I received an unexpected NFT or digital token in my wallet — is it a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-nft-or-digital-collectible-i-was-airdropped-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Unexpected NFT airdrops are a common technique used to drain wallets when recipients try to interact with the assets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a council tax or property tax debt letter from a bailiff company I don't recognise a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-council-tax-or-property-tax-debt-letter-from-an-unknown-bailiff-a-scam", "summary": "It may be genuine but verify carefully. Scammers send fake enforcement notices to collect non-existent debts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a work-from-home transcription or data entry job I found online legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-work-from-home-transcription-job-a-scam", "summary": "Some are legitimate but many work-from-home transcription and data entry jobs are either underpaid labour or outright scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a collection call about an unpaid hospital or medical bill from an agency I don't recognise legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-an-emergency-room-or-hospital-bill-collection-call-from-an-unknown-agency-a-scam", "summary": "It may be genuine or it may be medical bill fraud — verify carefully before making any payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a stranger who claims my phone screen is cracked or broken trying to scam me?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-stranger-who-bumped-into-me-and-says-my-phone-is-broken-trying-to-scam-me", "summary": "Yes. This is a distraction scam where someone creates a false claim to initiate a conversation that ends in theft or a fake repair payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Telegram Premium account sold at a discount by a stranger safe to buy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-telegram-premium-account-sold-at-a-discount-by-a-stranger-safe", "summary": "No. Discounted Telegram Premium accounts are purchased with stolen payment cards and deactivated shortly after sale — you lose your money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can police trace and prosecute a romance scammer operating in another country?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-romance-scammer-in-another-country-traceable-by-police", "summary": "It is difficult but not impossible. Cross-border collaboration between agencies does occur, though prosecutions are rare and depend on jurisdiction and resources.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free credit score app that asks for my bank login details safe to use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-free-credit-score-app-that-asks-for-my-bank-login-safe", "summary": "Only if the app is regulated and uses an FCA-authorised open banking connection. Unregulated apps that store your login credentials pose a serious security risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email from my solicitor saying payment details have changed before a house purchase safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-solicitor-asking-me-to-change-completion-payment-details-by-email-safe", "summary": "Treat with extreme caution. Conveyancing fraud is a devastating scam where criminals intercept emails and redirect completion funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a social media post claiming a company will match my charity donation real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-charity-matching-donation-offer-from-a-social-media-account-real", "summary": "Often not. Fake donation matching posts harvest small payments or click-through data without any real corporate matching scheme behind them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text from what looks like DHL or Amazon asking me to reroute my package real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-package-redirection-scam-text-that-looks-like-dhl-or-amazon-real", "summary": "Almost certainly not. Package rerouting smishing texts lead to credential-theft pages and card detail harvesting.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free government broadband upgrade or affordable connectivity offer by phone or email real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-free-government-broadband-or-phone-upgrade-offer-real", "summary": "Genuine government broadband schemes exist but are not offered through unsolicited cold calls. Cold-call versions are scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a business grant that requires me to pay a processing or administrative fee upfront real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-business-grant-that-requires-a-processing-fee-upfront-real", "summary": "No. Legitimate government and charitable business grants never require an upfront payment to access funding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto arbitrage trading bot offering guaranteed daily profits a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crypto-arbitrage-bot-offering-guaranteed-daily-profits-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. No trading system can guarantee daily profits. Crypto arbitrage bot platforms are almost universally fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a letter in the post saying my domain name is expiring from a company I don't recognise real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-domain-renewal-scam-letter-sent-in-the-post-real", "summary": "Almost certainly not from your real registrar. Domain renewal scam letters collect payment to transfer your domain to an overpriced service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a work-from-home social media manager job requiring no experience that pays very well a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-work-from-home-social-media-manager-job-that-requires-no-experience-a-scam", "summary": "Very often yes. High-paying, no-experience social media jobs are a common cover for task scams, data harvesting, or money mule recruitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a text about a Temu package needing a fee or address confirmation. Is it real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-this-temu-delivery-text-real", "summary": "Almost certainly not. Temu is a real company, but delivery texts asking for a small fee, an address confirmation, or a code are one of the most commonly faked messages there is. Do not tap the link. Check your orders inside the official app instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A Temu seller asked me to pay or take a refund outside the app. Should I do it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/temu-seller-wants-payment-outside-the-app", "summary": "No. Temu is a legitimate marketplace, but anyone messaging you can ask you to step outside it, and that step is where protection disappears. Keep the payment and the refund inside the app, on the original payment method, and report the request.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a text saying my SHEIN parcel could not be delivered and I need to pay a small fee. Is it real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-this-shein-delivery-text-real", "summary": "Almost certainly not. SHEIN is a real company, but it does not text customers asking for a small redelivery or customs fee through a link. Messages like this are sent in bulk to huge lists, hoping the person reading happens to have a parcel in transit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone offered me a paid job reviewing SHEIN products but I have to buy the items first. Is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/shein-reviewer-job-offer-asked-me-to-buy-products-scam", "summary": "Treat it as a scam. SHEIN is a real retailer, but genuine work never requires you to spend your own money on stock and wait to be repaid. The offer is a recruitment pitch from a stranger using a well known brand name to borrow trust.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a call saying my Robinhood account is locked and I need to move my funds to a safe wallet. Is that real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-this-robinhood-account-locked-call-real", "summary": "No. Robinhood is a real, regulated brokerage, but it does not call people and tell them to move money or crypto to a safe account or outside wallet. A caller saying that is impersonating support, and any transfer you make that way is very hard to reverse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone who said they work with Robinhood offered to manage my investments if I move my money to another platform. Is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/robinhood-adviser-told-me-to-move-my-money-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Robinhood is a legitimate brokerage, but people impersonate it to build trust before steering you onto a different site or wallet they control. Once your money leaves the real app, you are dealing with a stranger, not the company.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a text saying my Chime account is locked and I need to verify it - is this real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-this-chime-text-asking-me-to-verify-my-account-real", "summary": "Almost certainly not. Chime is a real company, but messages like this are sent in bulk by people impersonating it, and the link or phone number in them leads to a copy of the real thing. Do not tap it. Open the app yourself and check there.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone replied to my post offering to unlock my Chime account for a fee - is that legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/someone-on-social-media-says-they-can-unlock-my-chime-account", "summary": "No. Chime is a real company, but the person replying to you does not work for it. Accounts under review are handled only through official support inside the app, and no genuine representative will find you on social media or ask for a fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a message saying my Remitly transfer is on hold and I need to pay a fee to release it. Is this real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-this-remitly-transfer-on-hold-fee-message-real", "summary": "Almost certainly not. Remitly does not hold a transfer and then ask you to send an extra fee by gift card, crypto, or a separate transfer to release it. Fees are taken at the time you set up the transfer, inside the app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone I met online asked me to send money through Remitly for an emergency. Should I do it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/someone-asked-me-to-send-money-by-remitly-for-an-emergency", "summary": "Slow down before you send anything. Remitly is a real service, but a request to use it from someone you have only met online, or from a family member reaching out in an unexpected way, is a common setup for romance and emergency scams because the money moves fast and is hard to recall.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got an Instacart shopper job offer asking me to pay for equipment first - is it real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-this-instacart-shopper-job-offer-real", "summary": "That is almost certainly not a real offer. Instacart is a legitimate company, but signing up as a shopper is free and happens inside the official app or website, and a genuine onboarding process does not ask you to pay for a starter kit, a card activation, or training. Any upfront payment request is the scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a text about a problem with my Instacart order and a refund - is it real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-this-instacart-refund-text-real", "summary": "Treat it as fake until you verify it yourself. Instacart is a real company and does send order notifications, but refunds appear as credits in your account and never require you to read out a code, share card details, or move money. The refund framing is the hook.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is this OnlyFans account verification email real or a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-this-onlyfans-account-verification-email-real", "summary": "Treat it as a scam until you prove otherwise. OnlyFans is a real company, but real account and age checks happen inside the app or on the site you navigate to yourself, never through a link in an email or DM that asks for card details to prove you are an adult.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone says they have screenshots from my OnlyFans and will send them to my family unless I pay. What do I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/onlyfans-subscriber-threatening-to-leak-screenshots-unless-i-pay", "summary": "This is sextortion, and it is a crime committed against you. Do not pay and do not send anything more. Paying almost never ends the demand, and in most cases the threat is a pressure tactic aimed at many people at once rather than a targeted plan.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A Turo host is asking me to pay by bank transfer or Zelle instead of through the app. Is that real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-this-turo-host-message-asking-me-to-pay-outside-the-app-real", "summary": "That request is a scam signal, not a normal Turo process. Turo is a real, legitimate company, but anyone can message you claiming to be a host, and payment moved outside the app leaves you with no booking and no protection. Keep every payment inside the official app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a message demanding payment for damage after my Turo trip. Is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-this-turo-damage-claim-demand-a-scam", "summary": "It might be genuine, but a demand that arrives by text or email and asks you to pay a person directly is a common scam shape. Real damage claims are handled inside Turo, which is a legitimate company. Verify by opening the app yourself before paying anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I get my money back after a Zelle scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-get-my-money-back-after-a-zelle-scam", "summary": "Zelle payments are designed to be instant and final, so recovery is difficult — but report to your bank immediately, as authorized-push-payment rules may apply in some cases. Visit /recovery for a step-by-step action plan.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get my money back after paying a scammer with gift cards?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-money-back-after-a-gift-card-scam", "summary": "Gift card payments are almost impossible to reverse — once the PIN is shared, the funds are gone. However, report to the issuer immediately; some retailers can freeze unredeemed cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I reverse a wire transfer I sent to a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-reverse-a-wire-transfer-sent-to-a-scammer", "summary": "Wire transfers can sometimes be recalled within the first few hours if the bank acts quickly — call your bank immediately. After 24 hours the chance drops sharply.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I do a chargeback on a credit card payment made to a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-chargeback-a-credit-card-payment-to-a-scammer", "summary": "Yes — credit card chargebacks are one of the strongest consumer protections available. File a dispute with your card issuer promptly, citing fraud or non-delivery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I recover money lost in a crypto scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-recover-money-lost-in-a-crypto-scam", "summary": "Cryptocurrency payments are largely irreversible once confirmed on-chain. Focus on reporting to the FTC, FBI, and your exchange — and be wary of 'recovery scams' that target crypto victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I gave a scammer my bank login credentials — what should I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-gave-a-scammer-my-bank-login-what-should-i-do", "summary": "Act immediately: call your bank's fraud line right now, change your password, and ask them to lock your account. Every minute counts when your login is compromised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I gave a scammer a one-time passcode (OTP) sent to my phone — what now?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-gave-a-scammer-my-otp-one-time-passcode", "summary": "Contact your bank or the relevant service immediately — the scammer may have just used that code to access or change your account. Change your password right away.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Should I report a scam to my bank or the police first?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/should-i-report-to-my-bank-or-the-police-first", "summary": "Call your bank first if money is still in transit or your account is at risk — the bank can freeze funds while police reports take time. Then file the police report.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I paid a scammer with Cash App — can I get my money back?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-paid-a-scammer-with-cash-app-can-i-get-it-back", "summary": "Cash App payments are generally instant and non-reversible, but you can report the transaction inside the app and contact Cash App Support — some cases qualify for reimbursement under their fraud policy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I gave a scammer remote access to my computer — what should I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-gave-a-scammer-remote-access-to-my-computer", "summary": "Disconnect from the internet immediately, then run antivirus software, change all passwords from a different device, and check your bank accounts for unauthorized activity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I sent money to a romance scammer — what should I do now?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-sent-money-to-a-romance-scammer-what-now", "summary": "Stop all contact immediately, secure your accounts, and report to the FTC and FBI. While financial recovery is difficult, reporting helps investigators and may protect others.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I paid by bank transfer to a scammer — can I get my money back?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-paid-by-bank-transfer-to-a-scammer-can-i-get-it-back", "summary": "Contact your bank immediately and ask for a payment recall — the sooner you act, the better the chance of recovery. Report to the FTC and, if needed, your country's banking regulator.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I shared my ID documents with a scammer — what should I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-shared-my-id-documents-with-a-scammer", "summary": "Report to the FTC's IdentityTheft.gov immediately, place a fraud alert on your credit file, and notify relevant agencies. Document fraud may take months to surface.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I get my money back after an online shopping scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-get-money-back-after-an-online-shopping-scam", "summary": "File a chargeback with your credit or debit card issuer if you paid by card — this is usually your strongest option. If you paid via PayPal or a similar service, open a dispute there first.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I paid money to a fake job scammer — what do I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-paid-a-fake-job-scammer-what-do-i-do", "summary": "Report to the FTC and FBI right away and contact your payment provider immediately to attempt a reversal. Fake job scams often involve upfront fees or equipment scams — recovery depends on how you paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can PayPal reverse a payment to a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-paypal-reverse-a-payment-to-a-scammer", "summary": "Yes — PayPal Buyer Protection covers most goods and services purchases. Open a dispute in the Resolution Center within 180 days of the transaction date.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What actually happens after I report a scam to the FTC?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-happens-after-i-report-a-scam-to-the-ftc", "summary": "Your report is added to the FTC's Consumer Sentinel Network, shared with over 3,000 law enforcement partners, and used to identify scam trends — individual recovery is not guaranteed but reporting is still valuable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I recover money lost in an investment or trading scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-recover-from-an-investment-scam", "summary": "Report to the SEC, CFTC, or your country's financial regulator immediately. Recovery is possible in some cases through regulatory proceedings, but beware of recovery scams targeting investment fraud victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I get my money back after a rental scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-get-money-back-after-a-rental-scam", "summary": "If you paid by credit card or PayPal, file a dispute immediately. For wire or bank transfer, contact your bank for a recall. Report the listing to the platform and local police.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I get my money back after donating to a fake charity?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-get-money-back-after-a-charity-scam", "summary": "Credit card donations can be disputed; bank transfers are harder. Report to your state attorney general and the FTC — fake charities are heavily prosecuted at the state level.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a scam recovery scam, and how do I avoid it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-scam-recovery-scam-and-how-do-i-avoid-it", "summary": "A recovery scam targets people who have already lost money to fraud, promising to get their money back for an upfront fee — and then stealing that fee too. Never pay anyone upfront to recover lost funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How long do I have to dispute a fraudulent charge on my credit or debit card?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-long-do-i-have-to-dispute-a-fraudulent-charge", "summary": "For credit cards in the U.S., you generally have 60 days from the statement date, but many issuers extend this. Debit card windows are narrower — report within 2 business days for the strongest protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I fell for a tech support scam — what should I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-fell-for-a-tech-support-scam-what-do-i-do", "summary": "Disconnect from the internet, run antivirus from a trusted tool, change passwords from a different device, and contact your bank if money was paid. Report to the FTC.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I get my money back after paying fees in a lottery or prize scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-get-money-back-after-a-lottery-scam", "summary": "Lottery and prize fees are almost never recoverable — the scam's design is to collect fees endlessly. Report to the FTC and stop paying immediately to cut your losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "My elderly parent was scammed — how do I help them recover?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-recover-from-an-elderly-parent-being-scammed", "summary": "Report to your bank and Adult Protective Services immediately, then help them through the financial dispute process. Emotional support matters as much as the financial steps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I was scammed on Facebook Marketplace — what do I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-was-scammed-on-facebook-marketplace-what-do-i-do", "summary": "Report the seller directly to Facebook, dispute any card or PayPal payment, and file with the FTC. Facebook Marketplace has limited buyer protection compared to platforms like eBay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get money back if I was scammed using Venmo?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-money-back-if-a-scammer-used-venmo", "summary": "Venmo payments between individuals are generally final. If paid for goods via Venmo's purchase protection, open a dispute. For personal payments, report to Venmo and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What should I do if I lose money to an IRS impersonation scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-should-i-do-if-i-lose-money-to-an-irs-impersonation-scam", "summary": "Report to the IRS's dedicated impersonation reporting portal, file with the FTC, and contact your payment provider about a potential reversal. The IRS never demands immediate payment by gift card or wire.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I recover after falling for a Social Security number scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-recover-after-a-social-security-scam", "summary": "Place a credit freeze and fraud alert with all three bureaus, report to the Social Security Administration OIG, and visit IdentityTheft.gov for a personalized recovery plan.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I stop a subscription scam and get a refund?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-stop-a-subscription-scam-and-get-a-refund", "summary": "Cancel through your bank or card issuer (block future charges), then dispute past charges as unauthorized. Report to the FTC — subscription trap schemes are an enforcement priority.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I was scammed on a dating app — what do I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-was-scammed-on-a-dating-app-what-do-i-do", "summary": "Report the profile to the dating app, stop all contact, and secure any accounts whose credentials were shared. If money was lost, report to the FTC and FBI.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I wired money to a scammer during a fake real estate closing — what do I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-wired-money-for-a-fake-home-closing-what-do-i-do", "summary": "Call your bank immediately and ask for a wire recall — real estate wire fraud has a narrow recovery window. Also contact the FBI, which has a specific rapid-response process for these cases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is the best way to report a scam text message?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-the-best-way-to-report-a-scam-text-message", "summary": "Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) — this is the universal short code for all major carriers. Also report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I recover after falling for a fake health supplement or medical scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-recover-after-a-health-supplement-scam", "summary": "Dispute the charge with your card issuer, report to the FDA and FTC, and monitor your bank for further unauthorized charges if you signed up for a 'free trial.'", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I paid an immigration consultant or notario who turned out to be a scammer — what do I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-paid-an-immigration-consultant-who-was-a-scammer", "summary": "Report to your state attorney general and immigration authorities. If money was paid by card, dispute the charge. You may also need to take corrective legal action on any bad paperwork filed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get my money back from a multi-level marketing or pyramid scheme?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-money-back-from-a-mlm-pyramid-scheme", "summary": "Refunds from MLM schemes are rarely given voluntarily, but many companies have buy-back policies under FTC guidelines. Pyramid scheme victims may receive restitution in regulatory enforcement actions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I was targeted by a grandparent scam and sent money — what should I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-was-targeted-by-a-grandparent-scam-what-do-i-do", "summary": "Stop sending money immediately, verify your grandchild is safe by calling them directly, and report to the FTC and local police. If money was sent recently, contact your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I recover after a business email compromise (BEC) scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-recover-after-a-business-email-compromise-scam", "summary": "Call your bank's wire department immediately to initiate a recall, then report to the FBI's IC3 within the same business day for the best chance of asset recovery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get my money back after being scammed in a fake car sale?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-money-back-from-a-fake-car-sale", "summary": "Recovery depends on how you paid — credit card chargebacks are possible; wire or cash is nearly unrecoverable. Report to the FTC, your state DMV, and the platform where the listing appeared.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I was tricked by an AI deepfake or voice clone scam — what do I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-was-tricked-by-an-ai-deepfake-scam-what-do-i-do", "summary": "Report to the FBI's IC3 and FTC, secure any compromised accounts, and contact your bank if money was transferred. AI-assisted fraud is an enforcement priority.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a phone scam call?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-phone-scam-call", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and to the FCC at fcc.gov. You can also report to the Do Not Call Registry if applicable. Keep notes on the caller's number and what was said.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I recover after falling for a fake travel or vacation scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-recover-from-a-travel-or-vacation-scam", "summary": "Dispute the charge with your credit card or travel platform immediately. Report to the FTC and your state attorney general — travel fraud is a regulated industry in most states.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I was scammed on eBay — what are my options?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-was-scammed-on-ebay-what-are-my-options", "summary": "Open a case through eBay's Resolution Center — eBay Money Back Guarantee covers most transactions if the item was not received or was not as described. Escalate to your payment method if eBay does not resolve it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone hacked my email and used it to scam my contacts — what should I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/someone-hacked-my-email-and-used-it-to-scam-my-contacts", "summary": "Regain control of your account immediately, notify your contacts, and report to the email provider. Change all passwords that used the same credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I get money back after being scammed in an online game or gaming marketplace?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-get-money-back-from-a-gaming-scam", "summary": "Contact the game platform's support team first — most have policies against scamming and may reverse in-game transactions. For real-money purchases, dispute through your card issuer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I was scammed by someone pretending to be my utility company — what do I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-was-scammed-by-a-fake-utility-company", "summary": "Call your real utility company to verify your account status, report the scam to the FTC, and contact your payment provider about a reversal if payment was recent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I sent money via Western Union or MoneyGram to a scammer — can I get it back?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-sent-money-via-western-union-to-a-scammer", "summary": "Once collected by the recipient, Western Union and MoneyGram payments cannot be reversed. If the transfer has not been picked up yet, call immediately to attempt a cancellation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "My debit card was used fraudulently — what are my rights?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/my-debit-card-was-used-fraudulently-what-are-my-rights", "summary": "Report to your bank within 2 business days of discovering the fraud for maximum protection. The Electronic Funds Transfer Act limits your liability based on how quickly you report.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I place a credit freeze after being scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-place-a-credit-freeze-after-being-scammed", "summary": "Contact each of the three major credit bureaus separately — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — to place a free security freeze. This is one of the strongest identity theft protections available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A scammer is threatening to release my information or images — what do I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-deal-with-a-scammer-threatening-to-release-my-info", "summary": "Do not pay. Contact the FBI's IC3, report to the platform where contact occurred, and if sexual images are involved, report to the NCMEC CyberTipline. Payment almost always escalates demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I get my money back after a puppy or pet scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-get-money-back-after-a-puppy-pet-scam", "summary": "Dispute the charge with your credit card immediately. Report to the FTC and the Internet Crime Complaint Center. Puppy scams are a consistently high-volume fraud category.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I was scammed by a fake insurance company or fake insurance agent — what do I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-was-scammed-by-a-fake-insurance-agent", "summary": "Report to your state Department of Insurance immediately. State regulators actively pursue unlicensed insurers. Dispute premium payments with your card issuer and get legitimate coverage right away.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I recover after falling for a student loan forgiveness or debt relief scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-recover-from-a-student-loan-forgiveness-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC and CFPB. Cancel any power of attorney you signed and dispute fees charged by the company with your card issuer. Change your FSA ID credentials immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from being scammed again after being a victim?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-protect-myself-from-being-scammed-again", "summary": "Enable 2FA on key accounts, set up bank transaction alerts, place a fraud alert, and review your digital footprint. Knowledge and concrete security steps are your best protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I file a complaint with the CFPB after a financial scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-file-a-complaint-with-the-cfpb-after-a-scam", "summary": "File at consumerfinance.gov/complaint. The CFPB routes complaints directly to the financial company, which must respond within 15 days — it is most effective when your bank or payment company is not cooperating.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I recover from an advance fee scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-recover-from-an-advance-fee-scam", "summary": "Stop paying immediately — no additional fees will release any promised funds, because they do not exist. Report to the FTC, FBI, and the U.S. Secret Service if significant funds were lost.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What should I do if I accidentally sent money to the wrong person?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-should-i-do-if-i-sent-money-by-mistake-to-wrong-person", "summary": "Contact your bank or payment app immediately — the faster you act, the better the chance of recovery. Accidental transfers are treated differently from scam transfers and some platforms have direct reversal options.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I report a scam anonymously without giving my personal details?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-and-stay-anonymous", "summary": "Yes — the FTC and FBI's IC3 accept anonymous reports. Some detail helps investigators but you are not required to provide your name or contact information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text message saying my parcel is held and I need to pay a fee a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-text-saying-my-parcel-is-held-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Legitimate couriers do not send unsolicited texts demanding payment to release a package, and this is one of the most common smishing (SMS phishing) scams in circulation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a job offer paying $500 a day to work from home a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-job-offer-paying-500-dollars-a-day-from-home-a-scam", "summary": "Most likely yes. Unsolicited job offers promising unusually high daily pay for easy remote work are a classic advance-fee or money-mule recruitment scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto giveaway that promises to double my coins a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-crypto-giveaway-doubling-my-money-a-scam", "summary": "Yes, without exception. No legitimate person or organisation has ever run a crypto giveaway that genuinely doubles coins sent to them. Every single one is a theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a pop-up warning saying my computer is infected and I must call a number a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-tech-support-popup-saying-my-computer-is-infected-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. These are tech support scam pop-ups. No legitimate antivirus or operating system company sends browser pop-ups telling you to call a phone number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an unexpected refund that appeared in my bank account a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-unexpected-refund-deposited-into-my-account-a-scam", "summary": "It could be. Unexpected deposits are a hallmark of the overpayment scam, where the money will later be reclaimed — leaving you out of pocket if you spent it or sent any of it back.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a romance match I met online who is now asking me to send money a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-romance-match-asking-for-money-a-scam", "summary": "Yes, almost certainly. Someone you have never met in person asking for money — regardless of the reason given — is the defining behaviour of a romance scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a website selling designer goods at huge discounts legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-this-website-selling-designer-goods-at-huge-discounts-legit", "summary": "Almost never. Websites offering branded goods at 70-90% off retail are typically selling counterfeits, or will take your money and ship nothing at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text or call saying I owe back taxes and will be arrested if I do not pay immediately a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-government-text-saying-i-owe-taxes-and-face-arrest-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Tax authorities in every country communicate via official post, not surprise phone calls or texts threatening immediate arrest. This is one of the most common government impersonation scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a recruiter on LinkedIn asking for my personal details before scheduling an interview legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-recruiter-on-linkedin-asking-for-personal-details-before-interview-legit", "summary": "Likely not. Legitimate recruiters do not need your Social Security number, passport details, or bank information before an initial interview has even taken place.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a notification saying I won a lottery or prize draw I never entered a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-prize-notification-saying-i-won-a-lottery-i-did-not-enter-a-scam", "summary": "Yes, always. You cannot win a lottery or competition you never entered, and any 'prize' that requires you to pay fees or provide financial details first is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a seller on Facebook Marketplace asking me to pay by direct bank transfer safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-seller-on-facebook-marketplace-asking-for-payment-by-bank-transfer-safe", "summary": "It carries significant risk. Bank transfers to unknown private sellers offer little buyer protection, and Marketplace scams requesting transfers before delivery are common.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an investment opportunity promising guaranteed high returns with no risk legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-investment-opportunity-promising-guaranteed-high-returns-legit", "summary": "No legitimate investment can guarantee high returns with no risk. This promise is the defining characteristic of a Ponzi scheme or investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call claiming to be my bank warning about suspicious activity on my account a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-call-claiming-to-be-my-bank-about-suspicious-activity-a-scam", "summary": "It may be a legitimate bank call or it may be bank impersonation fraud — sometimes called authorised push payment fraud. You should always hang up and call your bank back using the official number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a charity asking for donations after a natural disaster or emergency legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-charity-asking-for-donations-after-disaster-legit", "summary": "It may not be. Fake charity solicitations surge immediately after major disasters, mimicking real organisations to divert donations. Always verify before giving.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a free trial offer that requires my credit card details a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-free-trial-that-requires-my-card-details-a-scam", "summary": "Many are legitimate, but 'free trial' offers that bury subscription charges in fine print or make cancellation difficult are a form of billing scam. Know the terms before you enter your card.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a rental listing with unusually low rent that asks for a deposit before I can view the property a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-rental-listing-with-very-low-rent-asking-for-deposit-before-viewing-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. Requiring a deposit before a viewing is a near-universal signal of rental fraud. You should never pay money to see a property you have not yet inspected in person.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a trading app asking me to deposit more cryptocurrency to unlock my profits a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-app-asking-me-to-deposit-crypto-to-unlock-trading-profits-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. This is a pig-butchering or crypto trading scam. Your displayed profits do not exist, and any further deposit you make will also be stolen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call saying my Social Security number has been suspended due to suspicious activity a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-call-saying-my-social-security-number-has-been-suspended-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Social Security numbers cannot be suspended, and the Social Security Administration does not call people to report criminal activity linked to their SSN.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email from my CEO asking me to urgently buy gift cards on behalf of the company a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-email-from-my-ceo-asking-me-to-buy-gift-cards-urgently-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. This is a business email compromise scam, sometimes called a CEO fraud. No legitimate company uses gift cards for business payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online seller with no reviews and no clear contact details legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-online-seller-with-no-reviews-or-contact-details-legit", "summary": "Treat it with strong caution. Absence of reviews and a missing or vague contact page are among the clearest signals that a shopping site is either brand-new and unproven or actively fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an offer to help me recover money I already lost to a scam legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-offer-to-help-recover-money-i-already-lost-to-a-scam-legit", "summary": "Almost certainly not. Recovery fraud, also called a reload scam, specifically targets people who have already been scammed by offering fake recovery services — and then taking more money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email saying my account will be closed unless I verify my details immediately a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-email-saying-my-account-will-be-closed-unless-i-verify-details-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely. Urgent account-closure threats sent by email are a classic phishing technique designed to make you hand over login credentials or personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a gig app that pays me to like videos, follow accounts, or complete tasks a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-gig-task-app-paying-me-to-like-videos-and-follow-accounts-a-scam", "summary": "Most of these are scams. Legitimate gig work does exist, but apps promising easy money for social media tasks are almost always designed to eventually steal deposits from you.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is someone I met on a dating app asking me to invest in cryptocurrency with them a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-person-on-dating-app-asking-me-to-invest-in-crypto-with-them-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. This is the classic setup for a pig-butchering scam, one of the most lucrative fraud types in operation today. The romantic relationship is entirely manufactured to set up the investment theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email from someone claiming to offer me millions from an overseas fortune in exchange for help a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-email-from-a-nigerian-prince-offering-to-share-millions-a-scam", "summary": "Yes, without exception. This is an advance-fee fraud, one of the oldest scam formats still operating. No fortune exists, and any fees you pay will simply be stolen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a payday loan lender asking for an upfront insurance or processing fee before releasing my loan a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-payday-loan-lender-asking-for-upfront-insurance-fee-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Legitimate lenders deduct fees from loan proceeds — they never require an upfront cash payment before releasing funds. This is a loan fee scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an app or website asking for my crypto wallet seed phrase to connect or verify my wallet a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-unknown-app-asking-for-my-seed-phrase-to-connect-my-crypto-wallet-a-scam", "summary": "Yes, always. Your seed phrase is the master key to your wallet. Any request for it is an attempt to steal all your funds instantly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call threatening to cut off my electricity or gas unless I pay right now a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-utility-company-call-threatening-to-cut-off-my-power-unless-i-pay-now-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely yes. Utility disconnection scams impersonate power and gas companies and demand immediate payment to avoid same-day service termination.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a car listed for sale online at well below market price a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-car-listed-for-sale-online-at-way-below-market-price-a-scam", "summary": "It is a significant warning sign. Below-market vehicle listings are frequently fraudulent, particularly when the seller is unavailable in person or requests payment before delivery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a ticket seller on social media asking me to pay by bank transfer for sold-out event tickets legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-ticket-seller-on-social-media-asking-for-payment-by-bank-transfer-legit", "summary": "Extremely risky. Social media ticket resellers have no accountability, and bank transfer gives you no recourse if the tickets turn out to be fake or never arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a text message from HMRC or the IRS saying I have a tax refund waiting a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-text-from-hmrc-or-irs-saying-i-have-a-tax-refund-waiting-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Tax authorities do not notify refunds via text message with a link to click. These are phishing texts designed to steal your bank or personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online pet seller requiring full payment before I can collect or meet the animal a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-pet-seller-online-requiring-payment-before-i-can-see-the-animal-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely yes. Online pet fraud is widespread, particularly for puppies and kittens. Payment before seeing the animal in person is the single clearest warning sign.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an Instagram DM from a brand account offering me a sponsored post deal legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-instagram-account-dm-offering-me-a-sponsored-post-deal-legit", "summary": "Many are not. Fake brand collaboration offers on Instagram are used to harvest personal details, sell you products at a discount you must buy first, or steal login credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a website offering prescription medication at very low prices without requiring a prescription safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-website-offering-cheap-prescription-medication-without-a-prescription-safe", "summary": "No. Sites selling prescription drugs without a prescription are operating illegally and the products may be counterfeit, contaminated, or entirely different to what is labelled.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a person asking me to cash a cheque for them and wire part of the money back a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-person-asking-me-to-cash-a-cheque-and-wire-part-of-it-back-a-scam", "summary": "Yes, always. This is the classic cheque overpayment or money mule scam. The cheque will bounce after you have already sent real money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a business opportunity that requires me to buy products and recruit others to earn income legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-mlm-opportunity-requiring-me-to-buy-products-and-recruit-others-legit", "summary": "It could be a legal MLM or an illegal pyramid scheme. The key question is whether income comes primarily from real product sales or from recruiting new participants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call from someone claiming to be border force or customs saying a package in my name contains illegal items a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-call-from-border-force-or-customs-saying-a-parcel-in-my-name-contains-drugs-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Border force and customs agencies do not telephone members of the public to warn them about suspicious packages and demand immediate payment or personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a student loan forgiveness offer that requires me to pay a processing fee a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-student-loan-forgiveness-offer-requiring-a-processing-fee-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Legitimate government student loan forgiveness programmes are free to apply for. Any service charging a fee to apply on your behalf is taking your money for something you can do yourself at no cost.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email saying I was caught viewing adult content and must pay to prevent the video being shared a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-email-saying-i-was-caught-viewing-adult-content-and-must-pay-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. This is called sextortion or webcam blackmail email fraud. In the vast majority of cases, the sender has no video and is bluffing entirely.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online travel booking site with extremely low prices for flights or hotels legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-online-travel-booking-site-with-very-low-prices-legit", "summary": "Possibly not. Fraudulent travel booking sites take payment for reservations that do not exist, leaving travellers stranded with no booking and no refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a message saying my Netflix or streaming service payment has failed and my account will be cancelled a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-message-saying-my-netflix-payment-failed-and-account-will-be-cancelled-a-scam", "summary": "It is likely a phishing message. These are sent to millions of people hoping to catch genuine subscribers off guard and steal their payment card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is scanning a QR code in a public place that leads to a payment or login page safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-qr-code-in-a-public-place-leading-to-a-payment-page-safe", "summary": "QR codes can be tampered with to redirect to fraudulent sites. Always verify the URL before entering any credentials or payment details after scanning.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a sponsored ad on social media for a product I like always from the real brand?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-sponsored-ad-on-social-media-for-a-brand-i-like-always-from-the-real-brand", "summary": "No. Social media ad systems can be exploited by fraudulent advertisers using stolen brand imagery. Sponsored ads do not guarantee the seller is the real brand.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a person claiming to be a soldier or aid worker overseas asking me to store valuables or receive a package on their behalf a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-person-claiming-to-be-a-soldier-overseas-asking-to-store-valuables-with-me-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. This is a variant of romance or advance-fee fraud using a military or humanitarian cover story. No genuine soldier or aid worker needs a stranger to receive packages or funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a Facebook profile offering to send me a large sum of money if I send a small amount first a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-facebook-profile-asking-me-to-send-a-small-amount-to-receive-a-much-larger-sum-a-scam", "summary": "Yes, without exception. Sending money to receive more money from a stranger is the core mechanic of advance-fee fraud. No legitimate windfall works this way.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a door-to-door person collecting cash donations for a charity legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-door-to-door-charity-collector-asking-for-cash-legit", "summary": "Treat with caution. Legitimate charities do use door-to-door fundraisers, but so do fraudsters pretending to represent charities. Never give cash — always donate through verified channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a WhatsApp message from an unknown number claiming to be my child who lost their phone and needs money urgently a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-whatsapp-message-from-unknown-number-claiming-to-be-my-child-in-trouble-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. This is a family emergency impersonation scam and it is one of the fastest growing fraud types targeting parents and grandparents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an app offering AI-powered stock trading with guaranteed returns a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-app-or-website-offering-ai-stock-trading-guaranteed-returns-a-scam", "summary": "Almost certainly yes. No algorithm — AI-powered or otherwise — can guarantee stock market returns. This is a fraudulent investment platform using technology buzzwords to add credibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online gaming contact asking me to send Steam gift cards or game credits to continue playing with them a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-profile-asking-for-a-steam-gift-card-to-continue-an-online-game-match-a-scam", "summary": "Yes. Requesting gift cards to continue a gaming interaction is a scam regardless of the cover story. Gift cards are used because they are untraceable and non-refundable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an unsolicited email offering me paid mystery shopping work legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-email-offering-me-work-as-a-mystery-shopper-legit", "summary": "Most unsolicited mystery shopper emails are scams. They lead into cheque overpayment fraud where you deposit a fake cheque, buy gift cards, and send the codes — leaving you with a bounced cheque and lost money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a visa or immigration consultant charging large upfront fees before filing any application legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-visa-or-immigration-consultant-charging-large-fees-before-any-application-filed-legitimate", "summary": "It may be a scam. Immigration fraud involves large upfront payments for services that are never delivered or for applications that are not submitted properly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a health supplement ad claiming to cure or reverse a serious disease like diabetes or cancer legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-health-supplement-ad-claiming-to-cure-or-reverse-a-serious-disease-legit", "summary": "No. Regulated medicines require clinical trial evidence and regulatory approval. Supplements making disease cure claims are either illegal or unproven, and they can be dangerous.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a new cryptocurrency or token offering huge returns to early investors a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-new-cryptocurrency-or-token-offering-big-early-investor-returns-a-scam", "summary": "It has strong scam indicators. Most new token launches targeting retail investors with guaranteed returns are either rug pulls or pump-and-dump schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a LinkedIn message saying I qualify for a business grant or government funding a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-linkedin-message-about-a-grant-or-funding-opportunity-i-qualify-for-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely yes. Unsolicited messages claiming you have been selected for a grant or business fund are a common advance-fee fraud delivered through professional networking platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a video call or video featuring a celebrity recommending a specific investment or crypto platform a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-deepfake-video-call-from-someone-claiming-to-be-a-celebrity-offering-investment-advice-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely yes. AI-generated deepfake videos impersonating celebrities to promote fraudulent investments are a rapidly growing scam type.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an insurance policy being sold to me over the phone at an unusually low price legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-insurance-policy-being-sold-over-the-phone-at-a-very-low-price-legit", "summary": "Treat with serious caution. Ghost insurance scams sell fake policies that provide no coverage, and extremely low prices may indicate stripped-down coverage or outright fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is the phone number on a Google listing for a business always the real business's number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-google-listing-phone-number-for-a-business-always-the-real-number", "summary": "Not always. Google Business listings can be edited by third parties through a process called listing hijacking, replacing real contact details with scammer numbers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a money transfer request from a friend saying they are stuck and need urgent help a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-money-transfer-request-from-a-friend-whose-account-was-hacked-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely yes. Hacked social media and email accounts are used to send convincing emergency money requests to the victim's real contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an online course promising to teach me to make thousands per week through dropshipping or affiliate marketing legit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-online-course-promising-to-make-me-rich-with-dropshipping-or-affiliate-marketing-legit", "summary": "Most high-priced online courses making specific income promises are questionable at best. The business models they teach are real, but the promised earnings are typically not achievable by the vast majority of students.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a call from my internet provider saying my connection will be cut off unless I pay a past-due amount right now a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-call-from-my-internet-provider-saying-my-connection-will-be-cut-unless-i-pay-now-a-scam", "summary": "Very likely a scam. Internet providers follow formal disconnection processes with written notices. Calls demanding immediate payment to prevent same-day disconnection are impersonation fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an email from PayPal saying I have an invoice for a purchase I did not make a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-email-from-paypal-saying-i-have-an-invoice-for-a-purchase-i-did-not-make-a-scam", "summary": "It is likely a PayPal invoice scam. Fraudsters can send real PayPal invoices for purchases you never made, hoping you will call the number in the invoice and be manipulated into sending money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can the IRS demand I pay a tax debt using gift cards?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-the-irs-demand-gift-card-payment", "summary": "No. The IRS and equivalent tax agencies in other countries never accept gift cards as payment and will never call demanding immediate payment this way.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can police ask me to hand over my cash or valuables to protect them from fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-police-ask-me-to-hand-over-cash-to-protect-it", "summary": "No. Police officers do not collect cash or valuables from members of the public as a fraud-protection measure. This request is a scam known as a police impersonation fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a court contact me and demand immediate payment to avoid an arrest warrant?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-court-demand-payment-to-avoid-arrest-warrant", "summary": "No. Courts communicate through formal written summons and due process. Unsolicited calls demanding instant payment to cancel an arrest warrant are always fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a utility company call and demand same-day payment or they will disconnect my service today?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-utility-company-demand-same-day-payment-to-avoid-disconnection", "summary": "No. Legitimate utility providers follow regulated disconnection procedures that require written notice and allow time to dispute or pay. A same-day shutoff threat by phone is a scam tactic.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a legitimate employer ask me to pay a fee before I can start a job?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-employer-ask-me-to-pay-a-fee-before-starting-a-job", "summary": "No. Legitimate employers pay you — they never charge fees for hiring, training materials, background checks, or equipment before you start work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a landlord ask for a deposit or payment before I have viewed the property?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-landlord-charge-a-deposit-before-viewing-a-property", "summary": "No legitimate landlord requires a financial deposit before an in-person viewing. Any request for money before you have seen the property is a strong indicator of a rental scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a delivery company charge me a fee to release a parcel or package?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-delivery-company-charge-a-fee-to-release-a-parcel", "summary": "Legitimate couriers may collect genuine customs duties at the door, but unexpected 'release fees' demanded by text or email — especially when you are not expecting a parcel — are almost always a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can an immigration office contact me and demand an urgent fee to process or save my visa application?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-immigration-office-demand-a-fee-to-process-a-visa", "summary": "No. Immigration authorities communicate through official case portals and written correspondence. Unexpected calls demanding urgent fees to save a visa are always scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can my bank ever ask me to share my one-time passcode (OTP) over the phone?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-bank-ask-me-to-share-my-one-time-passcode", "summary": "No. Banks and financial services never ask you to read back an OTP they sent you. If someone calls asking for your OTP, they are attempting to access your account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a tech support agent legitimately ask me to install remote access software on my computer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-tech-support-agent-ask-me-to-install-remote-access-software", "summary": "Only if you initiated the support call through an official channel. Unsolicited calls claiming to detect viruses on your computer and asking you to install remote-access tools are always scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a bank or financial company ask me to pay a fee to release a refund owed to me?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-bank-ask-me-to-pay-a-fee-to-release-a-refund", "summary": "No. Legitimate refunds from banks or financial institutions are credited directly to your account. Any request to pay a fee to receive money owed to you is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can HMRC threaten me with immediate arrest for unpaid tax the first time they contact me?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-hmrc-threaten-arrest-for-unpaid-tax-on-first-contact", "summary": "No. HMRC does not threaten arrest on a first contact, and certainly not by phone. Immediate arrest threats for tax debt are a hallmark of impersonation scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can the Social Security Administration suspend my Social Security number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-social-security-administration-suspend-my-number", "summary": "No. Social Security numbers cannot be suspended or deactivated. Calls claiming your SSN has been suspended are an impersonation scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a new employer ask for my online banking login to set up payroll direct deposit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-employer-ask-for-bank-login-to-set-up-payroll", "summary": "No. Payroll direct deposit requires only your bank account number and routing number — never your online banking username or password.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a government grant agency charge me a fee to claim a government grant?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-government-grant-agency-charge-a-fee-to-claim-a-grant", "summary": "No. Legitimate government grants are applied for through official portals at no upfront cost to you. Any fee to claim or activate a grant is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a landlord insist I pay rent exclusively by wire transfer or cryptocurrency?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-landlord-ask-me-to-pay-rent-by-wire-transfer-only", "summary": "Legitimate landlords rarely insist on wire transfer or cryptocurrency as the only accepted method. This restriction — especially before you have met in person — is a red flag for rental fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a pension provider contact me and ask me to urgently transfer my pension to a new scheme?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-pension-provider-ask-me-to-move-pension-to-a-new-scheme-urgently", "summary": "Legitimate pension providers do not cold-call you urging immediate transfers. Unsolicited contact pressuring you to move your pension quickly is a pension liberation or pension scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a seller on an online marketplace ask me to pay outside the platform?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-online-marketplace-seller-ask-me-to-pay-outside-the-platform", "summary": "No legitimate seller on a reputable marketplace needs you to pay outside its protected checkout. Off-platform payment requests are a hallmark of marketplace fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a charity legitimately ask me to pay a processing fee before my donation goes through?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-charity-legitimately-demand-an-upfront-donation-fee", "summary": "No. Legitimate charities never require donors to pay a fee before a donation is processed. Processing fees on a real donation platform are deducted from the donation itself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a bank fraud team ask me to test my account by withdrawing cash and handing it to an agent?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-bank-fraud-team-ask-me-to-test-my-account-by-withdrawing-cash", "summary": "No. This is a common courier fraud script. Bank fraud teams do not send agents to collect cash from customers as part of any test or investigation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a debt collector threaten me with immediate arrest if I do not pay right now?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-debt-collector-threaten-immediate-arrest-for-unpaid-debt", "summary": "No. Debt collectors cannot have you arrested for unpaid civil debts. Threats of immediate arrest to pressure payment are illegal in most jurisdictions and a common debt collection scam tactic.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a prize notification legitimately ask me to pay a fee to claim my winnings?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-prize-notification-charge-a-fee-to-claim-winnings", "summary": "No. Legitimate lottery and prize winnings are paid in full with no upfront fee. Any notification that requires payment before you receive your prize is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can my bank ask me to convert my savings to cryptocurrency to protect them from fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-bank-ask-me-to-convert-savings-to-cryptocurrency-to-protect-them", "summary": "No. Banks will never instruct you to convert money to cryptocurrency. This instruction is a fraud tactic used to move your funds into an untraceable form.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a job recruiter legitimately ask for my passport and national ID before an interview?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-job-recruiter-ask-for-national-id-and-passport-before-an-interview", "summary": "Legitimate employers verify identity documents after a job offer is accepted, not before an initial interview. Requests for identity documents at the application stage are a red flag.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a water company call me out of the blue and ask for my bank details to update direct debit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-water-company-ask-for-bank-details-on-an-unsolicited-call", "summary": "No. Legitimate utility companies do not cold-call customers asking for full bank details. If you need to update payment details, call the number on your bill or log into your account online.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can the Medicare office call and charge me a fee to issue a new Medicare card?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-the-medicare-office-demand-a-new-card-fee", "summary": "No. Medicare cards are issued free of charge. Any call asking you to pay for a new card is impersonating Medicare.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can my phone company call and ask for an activation fee to keep my number active?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-phone-company-ask-for-an-activation-fee-to-keep-your-number", "summary": "No. Mobile and phone carriers do not charge spontaneous activation fees to keep existing numbers active. This is a billing scam or impersonation tactic.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can an insurance company demand I pay an additional premium top-up before they will pay my claim?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-insurance-company-demand-a-premium-top-up-before-paying-a-claim", "summary": "No. Legitimate insurers do not require additional premium payments as a condition of paying a valid claim. This demand is a sign of fraud or a disreputable company.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a university contact me and ask for a fee to confirm or secure my enrolment offer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-university-or-college-ask-for-a-fee-to-confirm-enrolment", "summary": "Legitimate universities collect enrolment deposits through verified official portals after an offer is formally issued. Unsolicited calls or emails requesting a fee to secure your place are a student scam tactic.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone I met online legitimately ask for money to buy a flight to come and visit me?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-romance-partner-online-ask-for-money-to-come-visit-you", "summary": "People you genuinely know might ask for help with travel costs, but someone you have only met online who asks for money before you have ever met in person is almost certainly running a romance scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a financial regulator contact me and offer to recover money I lost in a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-financial-regulator-contact-me-to-recover-scam-losses", "summary": "Genuine regulators do not proactively contact scam victims to offer personal recovery services. Unsolicited offers to recover your scam losses are almost always a secondary scam called a recovery or refund scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can HMRC or any tax authority accept payment by retail voucher or gift card?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-hmrc-accept-payment-by-voucher-or-retail-gift-card", "summary": "No. No legitimate tax authority anywhere accepts retail vouchers or gift cards as payment. This demand is universally fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a bank hire me as a mystery shopper to test staff by withdrawing and sending money?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-bank-ask-you-to-act-as-a-mystery-shopper-to-test-staff", "summary": "No. Banks do not recruit mystery shoppers through unsolicited calls or emails to test branches by handling real money. Mystery shopper banking scams are a form of advance-fee and money mule fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a benefits office ask me to pay cash to continue receiving my government benefits?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-government-benefits-office-ask-for-cash-to-continue-payments", "summary": "No. Government benefit payments are never conditional on recipients paying a cash fee. Any such demand is impersonation fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can an energy company call to offer me a refund and ask for my card details to process it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-energy-company-offer-a-refund-by-asking-for-card-details", "summary": "No. Legitimate energy companies credit refunds to your account or send a cheque. Calls asking for card details to process a refund are phishing attempts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a courier company send me a customs PIN by text and ask me to share it to release a parcel?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-courier-company-ask-for-a-customs-pin-by-text-to-release-parcel", "summary": "No. Customs PINs or release codes sent by a courier and then requested back are a form of OTP phishing — the code is designed to give someone else access to your account or payment, not to release a parcel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a legitimate employer ask me to receive client payments into my personal bank account and forward them?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-employer-ask-me-to-use-my-own-account-to-receive-client-payments", "summary": "No. This is the defining feature of a money mule arrangement, which is illegal and can result in your bank account being closed and your facing criminal charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a visa processing agent guarantee my visa will be approved if I pay them a fee?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-visa-processing-agent-guarantee-approval-for-a-fee", "summary": "No visa agent or immigration lawyer can guarantee a visa approval — visa decisions rest solely with the government authority. Any guarantee of approval is either false advertising or a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a bank security team ask me to delete my banking app as part of a security check?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-bank-security-team-ask-you-to-delete-your-banking-app", "summary": "No. A genuine bank security team would never ask you to delete your banking app. This instruction is designed to remove the secure channel you could use to verify the caller's identity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a landlord legitimately ask for both a security deposit and last month's rent before I sign a lease?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-landlord-ask-for-last-months-rent-before-signing-a-lease", "summary": "Collecting a security deposit and first and last month's rent before lease signing is a legitimate and common practice in many markets, but only after an in-person viewing and with a formal, signed agreement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a delivery courier ask me to enter or sign my debit card details on a device to confirm delivery?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-courier-ask-you-to-sign-a-tablet-with-your-card-details", "summary": "No. Couriers confirm delivery through package signatures, photo evidence, or app confirmations — not by collecting card details. Any delivery requiring card data entry at the door is fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a tax authority email me a link to click in order to claim a tax refund?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-tax-authority-email-a-link-to-claim-a-tax-refund", "summary": "No. Tax authorities do not email links to click for refund collection. Refund notification emails containing links are phishing attempts regardless of how official they appear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can an immigration officer contact me and ask for a bribe to fast-track my visa or residency application?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-immigration-officer-ask-for-a-bribe-to-fast-track-my-application", "summary": "No legitimate government official solicits bribes. Any contact requesting an unofficial payment to expedite your application is either corruption or, more commonly, an impersonation scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a health insurer or clinic ask me to pay my co-pay or appointment fee by gift card before I arrive?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-health-insurer-ask-for-a-co-pay-by-gift-card-before-an-appointment", "summary": "No. Medical co-pays and appointment fees are collected at reception or through verified billing portals — never by gift card before the appointment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a landlord ask me to sign a lease and pay a deposit without ever seeing the property?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-landlord-ask-you-to-sign-a-lease-and-pay-before-viewing", "summary": "Signing a lease and paying before any viewing is a serious red flag for rental fraud. No legitimate rental transaction should require financial commitment before you inspect the property.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a tech company pay me to test their payment system by sending and receiving money?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-tech-company-offer-you-money-to-test-their-payment-system", "summary": "No legitimate tech company recruits random members of the public to test payment systems using real money. This is a money mule recruitment tactic.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can an online casino or gaming site charge me a fee to withdraw my winnings?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-online-casino-or-gaming-site-charge-a-fee-to-withdraw-winnings", "summary": "Legitimate regulated casinos do not charge upfront fees to release winnings. Fee demands before withdrawals are a gambling scam tactic and may also indicate the site is unlicensed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a bank employee or security team ever ask for my full online banking password over the phone?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-bank-ask-for-your-full-password-over-the-phone", "summary": "No. Banks never ask for your full password. Legitimate security verification asks for specific characters from a memorable word — not the complete password.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a new employer pay me in advance and ask me to buy equipment or supplies with the money?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-employer-pay-you-in-advance-and-ask-you-to-buy-supplies", "summary": "No legitimate employer sends money in advance and then asks you to purchase and forward equipment or supplies. This is a cheque fraud or money mule pattern.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can an online investment platform require me to pay a tax or fee before I can withdraw my profits?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-online-investment-platform-require-a-tax-payment-before-withdrawal", "summary": "No legitimate investment platform withholds your funds pending an upfront tax payment from you. This is a standard exit barrier used in investment and crypto fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a government agency charge a fee to register my business online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-government-ask-for-a-fee-to-register-a-business-online", "summary": "Governments do charge registration fees, but only through official portals. Unsolicited calls or emails charging for business registration are impersonation scams targeting new entrepreneurs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a crypto exchange freeze my funds and demand I pay taxes before releasing them?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-crypto-exchange-freeze-your-funds-and-demand-taxes-before-release", "summary": "No legitimate crypto exchange withholds your funds pending an upfront tax payment. This is a standard exit barrier in crypto investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a landlord require me to pay rent through a specific wire transfer service to a personal name?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-landlord-ask-you-to-use-a-specific-wire-service-for-rent", "summary": "Legitimate landlords accept standard bank transfers to business or personal accounts associated with the property. Insistence on a specific wire service to a name you cannot verify is a red flag.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a recruiter or employer ask for my Social Security number in their very first message to me?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-employer-ask-for-your-social-security-number-in-a-first-message", "summary": "No. Legitimate employers collect Social Security numbers for payroll and tax purposes after a job offer is accepted and during formal onboarding — not in the first outreach message.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a subscription service legitimately charge me a fee to cancel a free trial?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-subscription-service-charge-you-for-cancelling-your-free-trial", "summary": "No. Legitimate free trials either convert to a paid subscription or end without charge. A fee to cancel a free trial is deceptive billing practice and in many countries is illegal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can police ask me to send cryptocurrency to help them catch a scammer targeting my account?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-police-ask-you-to-help-them-catch-a-scammer-by-sending-crypto", "summary": "No. Police do not ask members of the public to send cryptocurrency to assist law enforcement operations. This is a law enforcement impersonation scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a legitimate multi-level marketing company require me to buy products or pay fees before I can start earning?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-an-mlm-company-charge-you-to-join-before-you-can-earn", "summary": "Legitimate direct sales companies do not require significant upfront purchases or fees as a condition of participation. Mandatory large buy-ins are a hallmark of pyramid schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a bank fraud investigator ask me to lie to the bank teller about why I am making a withdrawal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-bank-ask-you-to-lie-to-the-teller-about-why-you-are-withdrawing", "summary": "No. Any instruction to deceive bank staff is a definitive sign of fraud. Genuine fraud investigations do not require customers to mislead employees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a social media platform or its staff contact me and charge a fee to verify or restore my account?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-social-media-platform-charge-a-fee-to-verify-your-account", "summary": "Official verification badges are applied through the platform's own process — never through a direct payment to someone contacting you. Anyone charging a fee to verify or restore your account is impersonating the platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake bank text message?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-bank-text-message", "summary": "Fake bank texts create false urgency about account problems and ask you to click a link or call a number — your real bank never needs you to verify details by text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake delivery SMS?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-delivery-sms", "summary": "Fake parcel texts claim a delivery failed and ask you to pay a small fee or update your address via a link — real carriers do not charge re-delivery fees by text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake IRS letter?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-irs-letter", "summary": "Fake IRS letters use urgent threats about arrest or immediate payment that the real IRS never makes — the IRS always allows time to question a notice and never demands gift cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake HMRC letter or text?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-hmrc-letter", "summary": "Fake HMRC contacts threaten immediate arrest or promise a surprise tax refund and ask you to click a link or call a number — HMRC never demands same-day payment or sends refunds via text link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake invoice?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-invoice", "summary": "Fake invoices insert fraudulent bank details into legitimate-looking bills or charge for goods and services never ordered — always verify new payment details by phone before paying any invoice.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake login page?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-login-page", "summary": "Fake login pages copy the look of real websites but sit on different domains — always check the full URL in your browser bar before entering any password.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake QR code?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-qr-code", "summary": "Fake QR codes redirect you to phishing sites or prompt app installs — always preview the URL before opening it and be suspicious of QR codes stuck over the top of official ones.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake app in an app store?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-app", "summary": "Fake apps mimic popular ones with near-identical icons and names to steal credentials or charge hidden subscriptions — check the developer name, review count, and publish date before installing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake online store?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-online-store", "summary": "Fake online stores lure you with prices far below market value and either never ship, send counterfeits, or steal your card details — check domain age, returns policy, and contact details before buying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake charity appeal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-charity-appeal", "summary": "Fake charity appeals spring up after disasters and use emotional images and vague names to divert donations — verify the charity's registration number before giving.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake job recruiter?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-job-recruiter", "summary": "Fake recruiters offer jobs with unusually high pay for minimal qualifications and eventually ask for fees or personal documents — legitimate employers never charge candidates to apply or onboard.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake romance profile?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-romance-profile", "summary": "Fake romance profiles use stolen photos, claim to be abroad, quickly move to private messaging, and eventually ask for money — no legitimate partner needs funds before meeting you.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake crypto exchange email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-crypto-exchange-email", "summary": "Fake crypto exchange emails mimic real platforms to steal your login or trick you into sending funds to a 'verification wallet' — legitimate exchanges never ask you to send crypto to prove ownership.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake PayPal email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-paypal-email", "summary": "Fake PayPal emails mimic payment notifications or security alerts to steal your login — check that the sender is @paypal.com and log in directly rather than through any link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake Microsoft email or support call?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-microsoft-email", "summary": "Fake Microsoft contacts claim your computer is infected or your account is blocked and push you to install remote-access software or buy gift cards — Microsoft never contacts you unsolicited about device problems.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake Amazon email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-amazon-email", "summary": "Fake Amazon emails claim your account is suspended or an order was placed in your name — always check your actual Amazon account rather than clicking any link in the email.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake Social Security Administration email or call?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-social-security-email", "summary": "The SSA never suspends your Social Security number by phone or email — any contact claiming your number has been deactivated is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a phishing email in general?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-phishing-email-in-general", "summary": "Phishing emails create false urgency, impersonate trusted brands, and contain links or attachments designed to steal your credentials or install malware — slowing down and checking the sender address protects you.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake utility bill or energy scam email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-utility-bill-scam", "summary": "Fake energy and utility emails threaten supply disconnection unless you pay immediately through a link — real suppliers send paper bills and never cut supply without proper written notice.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake job offer email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-job-offer-email", "summary": "Fake job offer emails promise remote roles with high pay and ask for personal data or fees before employment — a real job offer comes after an interview and never requires an upfront payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake tech support pop-up?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-tech-support-pop-up", "summary": "Fake tech support pop-ups display alarming security warnings with a phone number — legitimate security software never asks you to call a number to resolve a threat.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake lottery or prize notification email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-lottery-email", "summary": "You cannot win a lottery you never entered — any email claiming you have won a prize and asking for fees or bank details to release it is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake investment opportunity online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-investment-opportunity", "summary": "Fake investments promise guaranteed above-market returns with no risk — no legitimate investment can guarantee profits, and any platform demanding secrecy or speed is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake NFT or crypto airdrop?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-nft-or-crypto-airdrop", "summary": "Fake airdrops and NFT giveaways ask you to connect your wallet and sign a transaction that drains your funds — no legitimate airdrop asks you to pay gas fees or approve outgoing transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake rental property listing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-rental-listing", "summary": "Fake rental listings use photos from real properties, offer below-market rents, and ask for a deposit before you have viewed the property in person — never pay before an in-person viewing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake visa or immigration agent?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-visa-or-immigration-agent", "summary": "Fake immigration agents promise guaranteed visas, charge high fees, and either disappear or file applications that were never valid — use only lawyers or advisers registered with the relevant authority.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake health supplement or medical product website?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-health-supplement-store", "summary": "Fake health supplement sites sell counterfeit or unregulated products with exaggerated medical claims — verify that supplements are properly registered and sold by a licensed retailer before buying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake insurance policy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-insurance-policy", "summary": "Fake insurance policies accept your premium but issue worthless documents — verify that your insurer is authorised by the FCA (UK) or state regulator (US) before paying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake pet sale or puppy scam listing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-pet-listing", "summary": "Fake pet listings show adorable photos and low prices but require upfront deposits before you have seen the animal in person — never pay for a pet you have not met.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake student loan relief or forgiveness offer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-student-loan-relief-offer", "summary": "Fake loan relief companies charge upfront fees to access forgiveness programmes that are free to apply for directly — never pay a third party to lower or discharge your federal student loans.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake social media giveaway?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-social-media-giveaway", "summary": "Fake giveaways impersonate celebrities or brands, ask you to share, follow, and enter personal details, then harvest data or charge a 'shipping fee' for the prize — real brand giveaways never require payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake subscription cancellation or renewal email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-subscription-cancellation-email", "summary": "Fake subscription emails claim a large auto-renewal is about to charge and ask you to call or click to cancel — they are phishing for your card details or bank login.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake gaming item or skin store?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-gaming-item-store", "summary": "Fake gaming item stores steal your account credentials or take payment for items that never arrive — only buy in-game items through official in-game stores or verified marketplace platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake travel booking website?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-travel-booking-site", "summary": "Fake travel sites offer extremely cheap flights or hotels, charge your card, and issue worthless or non-existent booking confirmations — use ATOL-protected agencies or book directly with carriers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake ticket seller or event ticket scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-ticket-seller", "summary": "Fake ticket sellers offer sold-out or premium tickets that turn out to be counterfeit, duplicated, or non-existent — only buy from official box offices or verified secondary market platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake MLM or pyramid scheme opportunity?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-mlm-business-opportunity", "summary": "Pyramid and MLM scams promise income primarily through recruiting others rather than selling products — if the money flows from recruitment not sales, it is not a legitimate business.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake tax refund email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-tax-refund-email", "summary": "Governments do not issue tax refunds by asking you to click an email link and enter your bank details — real refunds are credited automatically or by cheque to your registered details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake coupon or discount code website?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-coupon-or-discount-code-site", "summary": "Fake coupon sites harvest your email and personal data, install browser extensions that track your shopping, or charge for 'membership' to access codes that do not work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake government grant or benefit payment email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-government-grant-email", "summary": "Fake government grant emails promise free money you must claim by entering your bank details — governments do not distribute grants or benefits through unsolicited emails requiring a link to claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake crypto wallet recovery service?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-crypto-wallet-recovery-service", "summary": "Fake recovery services ask for your seed phrase to 'recover' lost crypto — sharing your seed phrase gives complete control of your wallet to the fraudster immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake online auction listing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-online-auction-listing", "summary": "Fake auction listings use stock photos, push buyers to pay outside the platform, and then vanish — never pay for an auction item through bank transfer or gift card outside the auction site.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake AI chatbot or AI-powered investment scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-ai-chatbot-investment-scam", "summary": "Fake AI investment tools promise algorithmic profits with no risk — they display fabricated dashboard numbers and prevent withdrawals once you have deposited.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake call from my bank?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-bank-call", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate bank fraud teams and create urgency to move your money to a 'safe account' — your real bank will never ask you to transfer your own money for safety reasons.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake police or law enforcement call?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-police-impersonator-scam", "summary": "Fake police calls demand immediate payment of a fine or threaten arrest — real police do not collect fines by phone and do not demand cryptocurrency or gift cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake payslip or fake employment verification?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-payslip-or-employment-verification", "summary": "Fraudulent payslips and reference letters are used in mortgage and rental applications — verify employment directly with the listed employer using a number you find independently, not one provided by the applicant.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake escrow service in an online transaction?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-escrow-service", "summary": "Fake escrow sites are created by scammers to simulate a neutral third party — they collect your payment and hand nothing to the seller or the buyer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake prize redemption website?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-prize-redemption-website", "summary": "Fake prize sites tell you that you have won through a survey, scratch card, or loyalty programme and ask for a processing fee or card details — real prizes do not require payment to release.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake 'account verification required' email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-account-verified-email", "summary": "Fake account verification emails create urgency about account suspension and link to credential-harvesting pages — verify your account status by typing the site address directly, never via a link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake customs fee demand?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-customs-fees-demand", "summary": "Fake customs notices ask you to pay import duties via a link before a parcel is released — real customs authorities send official paper notices and process fees through official government portals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake WhatsApp verification code request?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-whatsapp-verification-code-request", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as friends or WhatsApp support ask for your six-digit verification code to take over your account — never share a verification code sent to your phone with anyone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake mortgage broker or loan fee fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-mortgage-broker", "summary": "Fake mortgage brokers collect upfront arrangement fees for loans that never materialise — legitimate FCA-authorised brokers take fees at completion, not before a decision in principle.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake used car listing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-car-listing", "summary": "Fake car listings use genuine photos at below-market prices and push for deposit payments before viewing — never pay for a vehicle you have not physically inspected and test driven.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake email from my boss or CEO asking for a transfer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-email-from-my-boss", "summary": "CEO fraud emails impersonate senior executives asking for urgent bank transfers or gift card purchases — verify any financial request by calling the requester directly on a known number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a deepfake video used in a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-deepfake-video-scam", "summary": "AI-generated deepfake videos are used to impersonate celebrities, executives, and family members in investment and emergency scams — unnatural facial movement, audio sync issues, and requests verifiable by other channels are key tells.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake degree or educational credential service?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-educational-credential-service", "summary": "Fake degree mills sell worthless diplomas from invented or unaccredited institutions — verify any qualification by checking the institution's accreditation with the relevant national body.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake cashback or reward points email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-cashback-reward-email", "summary": "Fake cashback emails claim your points are about to expire and ask you to click a link to redeem them — real loyalty programmes show your balance in your account and do not expire points through email links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake recruiter message on LinkedIn?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-linkedin-message-from-a-recruiter", "summary": "Fake LinkedIn recruiters use sparse profiles with stock photos, offer vague well-paid roles, and eventually request personal data or fees — verify recruiter profiles and company listings before sharing any information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake computer virus warning email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-computer-virus-warning", "summary": "Fake virus warning emails claim malware was detected on your device and offer a one-click removal link — real antivirus software never notifies you by email asking you to click an external link to clean your device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake banking app overlay or screen-reading malware?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-banking-app-overlay", "summary": "Banking trojans display a fake login overlay on top of your real banking app to steal credentials — keep your device updated, only install apps from official stores, and use your bank's official app rather than browser login where possible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a fake inheritance or windfall email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-spot-a-fake-inheritance-or-windfall-email", "summary": "Inheritance and windfall emails claim a distant relative or anonymous benefactor left you a large sum and ask for fees to release it — this is the classic advance-fee fraud and no such inheritance exists.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to pay by bank transfer to a marketplace seller?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-pay-by-bank-transfer-to-marketplace-seller", "summary": "Bank transfers offer almost no fraud protection — once the money leaves your account, it is extremely difficult to recover. Use a payment method with buyer protection whenever possible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to click a link in a delivery text message?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-click-a-link-in-a-delivery-text", "summary": "Delivery text scams are among the most common phishing methods in use today. Unless you initiated a tracked delivery and the link matches the carrier's official domain, do not click it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to use public Wi-Fi for banking?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-use-public-wifi-for-banking", "summary": "Using public Wi-Fi for banking carries real risk. An attacker on the same network can potentially intercept your session or redirect your traffic. Use mobile data or a VPN instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to scan a QR code on a parking meter?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-scan-a-qr-code-on-a-parking-meter", "summary": "QR codes on parking meters and other public fixtures are frequently tampered with by fraudsters. Criminals place stickers over the genuine code, redirecting you to a fake payment page that steals your card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to give my ID to an online platform?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-give-my-id-to-an-online-platform", "summary": "Legitimate platforms that require identity verification — such as financial services, regulated marketplaces, and age-gated services — do have lawful reasons to collect ID. However, many fake platforms request ID as a pretext for identity theft. Know the difference before uploading anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to send a deposit before viewing a rental property?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-send-a-deposit-before-viewing-a-rental", "summary": "Sending a deposit before viewing a property in person is one of the clearest warning signs of rental fraud. Legitimate landlords and agents will always allow viewing before taking a financial commitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to buy from a social media advertisement?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-buy-from-a-social-media-ad", "summary": "Social media ads receive minimal vetting on most platforms, making them a common vehicle for fake stores, counterfeit goods, and non-delivery scams. Treat any ad for an unknown retailer with the same caution you would apply to a cold email.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What happens if I clicked a phishing link?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-happens-if-i-clicked-a-phishing-link", "summary": "Clicking a phishing link does not automatically mean your accounts are compromised, but the risk depends on whether the site loaded, whether you entered any information, and whether malware was installed. Act quickly to assess the damage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What happens if I replied to a scam text?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-happens-if-i-replied-to-a-scam-text", "summary": "Replying to a scam text primarily signals that your number is active, which can lead to more contact attempts. It does not in itself cause financial loss, but further engagement increases your risk significantly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What happens if I gave a scammer my phone number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-happens-if-i-gave-a-scammer-my-phone-number", "summary": "Sharing your phone number with a scammer primarily enables follow-up contact and may result in your number being sold to other fraudsters. In some cases it can also be used in SIM-swapping attacks against your accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What happens if I installed a remote-access app a scammer asked me to install?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-happens-if-i-installed-a-remote-access-app", "summary": "Installing a remote-access app at a scammer's request gives them full visibility and control of your device. This is one of the most dangerous outcomes in tech support and banking scams — act immediately to stop access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to pay with gift cards for a service or debt?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-pay-with-gift-cards-for-any-service", "summary": "Gift cards are never a legitimate payment method for any bill, fine, tax, or service from a business or government agency. Any request to pay this way is a scam without exception.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to share my online banking password with someone who calls me?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-share-my-online-banking-password-with-a-caller", "summary": "No bank, regulator, or financial authority will ever ask for your full online banking password over the phone. Any caller requesting it is attempting fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to accept an overpayment from someone buying something I am selling?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-accept-an-overpayment-on-something-i-am-selling", "summary": "Overpayment scams are a well-established fraud. A buyer sends more than the asking price and asks you to refund the difference — but the original payment is fraudulent and will be reversed, leaving you out of pocket.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to use a website that shows 'Not Secure' or no padlock for purchases?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-use-an-unsecured-http-website-for-purchases", "summary": "You should never enter payment details or personal information on a website without HTTPS (indicated by a padlock and 'https://' in the address bar). Your data travels unencrypted and can be intercepted.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to wire money to someone I met online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-wire-money-to-someone-i-met-online", "summary": "Sending money to someone you have only met online — regardless of how close you feel — is extremely high risk. This is the defining action in romance scams and pig-butchering investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to use a VPN I found advertised in a pop-up ad?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-use-a-vpn-i-found-in-a-pop-up-ad", "summary": "VPNs advertised through pop-ups or aggressive ads are frequently fraudulent, privacy-invading, or outright malware. Only use VPNs from reputable providers with independently audited privacy policies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to pay someone through Zelle or Venmo on Facebook Marketplace?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-pay-someone-through-zelle-or-venmo-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Paying via Zelle or Venmo Friends and Family on Facebook Marketplace provides virtually no buyer protection. If you do not receive the goods, recovering your money is very difficult. Use cash in person or a buyer-protected payment method.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to respond to a job offer that asks for my bank account details upfront?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-respond-to-a-job-offer-that-asks-for-my-bank-account", "summary": "Legitimate employers do not ask for full bank account details during initial application stages, and never before you have signed a contract and completed ID verification. Early requests for banking information are a hallmark of employment scams and money mule recruitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What happens if I give my credit card details to a fake website?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-happens-if-i-give-my-credit-card-details-to-a-fake-website", "summary": "Once your credit card details reach a fraudulent site, criminals will typically attempt to use them within hours — for purchases, cash advances, or selling the data to other fraudsters. Immediate card blocking is essential.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to download an app a stranger sends me a link to?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-download-an-app-a-stranger-sends-me-a-link-to", "summary": "You should never install an app from a link sent by someone you do not know. Legitimate apps are distributed through official app stores, and direct installation links almost always lead to malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to enter a competition that asks for my credit card details?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-enter-a-competition-that-asks-for-my-credit-card", "summary": "Genuine competitions do not require a credit card to enter. Any prize draw requesting payment or card details is almost certainly a subscription trap, a fake lottery, or a data-harvesting operation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to give a landlord my National Insurance or Social Security number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-give-a-landlord-my-national-insurance-or-social-security-number", "summary": "Landlords have limited legitimate reasons to request your full National Insurance or Social Security number before a tenancy is agreed. Fraudulent rental listings often use this request as a pretext for identity theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to use a cryptocurrency exchange I found through an online advertisement?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-use-a-crypto-exchange-i-found-through-an-online-ad", "summary": "Cryptocurrency exchanges found through unsolicited ads — particularly on social media — are a major source of investment fraud. Always verify registration with the relevant financial regulator before depositing anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to use a friend or family member's debit card online with their permission?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-use-a-friend-or-familys-debit-card-with-their-permission", "summary": "Using another person's card is technically a breach of most card issuers' terms and conditions, even with permission. It also creates legal exposure if the transaction is later disputed. Always use your own card or request a transfer instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to sell something and accept cryptocurrency as payment?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-sell-something-for-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Cryptocurrency payments are irreversible and carry no buyer or seller protection. As a seller, once you ship an item, the crypto cannot be charged back — but you also cannot easily verify a payment is genuinely confirmed without blockchain knowledge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to share my email address with every website I sign up to?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-share-my-email-address-with-every-website-i-sign-up-to", "summary": "Using your primary email for all sign-ups increases your exposure to data breaches, phishing, and spam significantly. Using a separate or masked email for low-trust services materially reduces your risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to enter my card details on a website I reached by clicking a Google search ad?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-enter-card-details-on-a-site-i-reached-via-a-google-ad", "summary": "Search ads can be purchased by fraudsters to impersonate legitimate businesses. Always verify the URL in the address bar before entering any payment information, even if the ad appeared at the top of search results.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to give personal details to enter a social media giveaway?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-give-personal-details-to-win-a-social-media-giveaway", "summary": "Many social media giveaways are data-harvesting exercises or outright scams. Genuine brand giveaways rarely require more than a follow and a comment. Any request for personal information, card details, or payment is a red flag.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to let someone view my computer screen remotely for tech support?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-let-someone-view-my-computer-screen-for-tech-support", "summary": "Sharing your screen with a verified, trusted IT professional is normal practice. Sharing it with someone who contacted you unsolicited — especially claiming your computer has a problem — is extremely dangerous.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to buy event tickets from a reseller I found on social media?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-buy-event-tickets-from-a-reseller-you-found-on-social-media", "summary": "Ticket fraud via social media is widespread, particularly for sold-out events. There is no guarantee that tickets sold by social media strangers are genuine, transferable, or even real. Always prefer official channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to send money to someone claiming to be a soldier or military contractor overseas?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-send-money-to-someone-claiming-to-be-a-soldier-overseas", "summary": "Military romance scams are one of the most common and emotionally damaging fraud types. People claiming to be military personnel deployed overseas and requesting money are almost never who they claim to be.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to use the same password for multiple online accounts?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-use-the-same-password-for-multiple-accounts", "summary": "Reusing passwords is one of the highest-risk security habits online. When any one service suffers a data breach, criminals test the stolen credentials on hundreds of other services — a technique called credential stuffing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What happens if I fall for a fake tech-support pop-up and called the number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-happens-if-i-fall-for-a-fake-tech-support-pop-up", "summary": "Calling a fake tech-support number typically leads to a remote-access request, payment demand, or data theft. The harm depends on what happened during the call — act quickly to assess and limit damage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to share your precise location with someone you met online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-share-your-location-with-someone-you-met-online", "summary": "Sharing precise real-time location with anyone you have not met in person and do not fully trust carries safety risks beyond financial fraud. Start with general area only and meet in a public place first.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to pay a contractor, tradesperson, or builder in full before the work is done?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-pay-a-contractor-in-full-upfront", "summary": "Full upfront payment to a contractor you have not worked with before is strongly inadvisable. A small deposit to cover materials is common practice, but full payment before completion creates significant risk of non-performance or disappearance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to click the link in an unexpected password-reset email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-click-an-unexpected-password-reset-email", "summary": "An unexpected password-reset email you did not request may indicate someone is trying to access your account. Do not click the link — instead, log in directly through the official site and change your password from there.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to respond to an email asking me to update my billing or payment information?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-respond-to-an-email-asking-to-update-billing-information", "summary": "Billing update requests sent via email are a common phishing technique. Never follow links in such emails — go directly to the service's official website and update payment information from there.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to act on an unsolicited investment advice call?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-accept-an-unsolicited-investment-advice-call", "summary": "Unsolicited investment calls — also known as boiler room fraud — are a significant source of financial loss. Legitimate regulated advisers do not cold-call members of the public with investment opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to open an email attachment from an unknown sender?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-open-an-email-attachment-from-an-unknown-sender", "summary": "Email attachments from unknown senders are one of the primary methods for delivering malware. You should not open them unless you are certain of the sender's identity and were expecting the file.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to click a suspicious link sent on WhatsApp?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-click-a-suspicious-link-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Suspicious links on WhatsApp — even from contacts whose accounts may be compromised — can lead to phishing sites, malware, or account-takeover attempts. Do not click without verifying the sender through another channel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to wire money to pay for immigration services found online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-wire-money-to-pay-for-immigration-services-online", "summary": "Immigration service scams target vulnerable people with fake visa applications, fraudulent legal advice, and fabricated government fees. Only use services from registered immigration lawyers or authorised advisers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to pay a fee to claim an inheritance from a stranger?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-pay-a-fee-to-claim-an-inheritance", "summary": "Inheritance scams are a classic advance-fee fraud pattern. No legitimate inheritance process requires a fee paid to a stranger before the inheritance is released — this is always a fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to buy medication from an unfamiliar online pharmacy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-buy-medication-online-from-an-unfamiliar-pharmacy", "summary": "Unregulated online pharmacies may supply counterfeit, substandard, or incorrectly labelled medicines. Only buy from pharmacies verified by the relevant national regulatory authority.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to send money via Western Union or MoneyGram to someone I met online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-send-money-via-western-union-or-moneygram-to-someone-i-met-online", "summary": "Money transfer services like Western Union and MoneyGram are nearly impossible to reverse once collected. Sending to online contacts you have not met in person is very high risk and is the payment method of choice for many scam operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to agree to a pre-purchase vehicle inspection you did not arrange yourself?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-respond-to-a-vehicle-inspection-scam-request", "summary": "Vehicle inspection scams use fake inspection services or fabricated reports to pressure buyers into purchasing vehicles without a genuine independent check. Always arrange your own inspection independently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to give my utility account number to someone who calls claiming to be from my energy supplier?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-give-my-utility-account-number-to-a-caller", "summary": "Your utility account number alone poses limited risk, but callers claiming to be from your energy supplier may be attempting to switch your service, harvest personal data, or conduct social engineering. Always verify calls independently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to share my card number over the phone?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-share-my-card-number-over-the-phone", "summary": "Sharing card details over the phone is appropriate only when you initiated the call to a verified, trusted business. Giving card details to someone who called you carries significant risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to invest in something a friend is promoting on social media?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-invest-in-something-a-friend-recommends-on-social-media", "summary": "Social media investment promotions from friends often involve hijacked accounts, affiliate incentives, or genuine victims promoting what they do not know is a scam. Verify any investment independently before acting.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to use my mother's maiden name or birthplace as security question answers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-give-my-mother-maiden-name-as-a-security-answer", "summary": "Traditional security questions use information that is often publicly available, guessable from your social media, or shared with other family members. Where possible, use random answers stored in a password manager instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to use my debit card for online purchases instead of a credit card?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-use-my-debit-card-for-online-purchases", "summary": "Debit cards are generally less protected than credit cards for online purchases. Credit cards offer stronger chargeback rights in most jurisdictions, and crucially, fraud comes out of a credit limit rather than your actual bank balance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to work as a mystery shopper for a company I found online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-work-as-a-mystery-shopper-for-a-company-i-found-online", "summary": "Most online mystery shopper job offers are either money mule recruitment or cheque fraud schemes. Legitimate mystery shopping companies are few and typically recruited through established industry bodies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to give my date of birth for age verification on websites?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-give-my-date-of-birth-to-verify-my-age-online", "summary": "Date of birth combined with name is a useful identity data point. Where age verification is genuinely required, the purpose and the site's data handling should be clear. Never provide it to sites you cannot verify or trust.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to buy a pet from an online listing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-buy-a-pet-from-an-online-listing", "summary": "Pet scams are widespread and involve fake listings, deposits paid for animals that do not exist, and additional fees invented after payment. Always see the animal in person before paying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to move my pension savings based on an unsolicited approach?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-invest-pension-savings-based-on-an-unsolicited-approach", "summary": "Pension scams cause catastrophic, often irreversible financial harm. An unsolicited approach about your pension — by any channel — should be treated as a major warning sign. Legitimate pension services do not cold-contact.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to provide my account login details to a price comparison or financial aggregator site?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-provide-my-login-details-to-a-price-comparison-site", "summary": "Screen-scraping financial aggregators require your login credentials, which carries real security risk. Regulated 'open banking' services use a safer, token-based approach instead. Understand the difference before sharing login details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to click a link in a text message that appears to be from my bank?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-click-a-link-in-a-text-from-my-bank", "summary": "Bank impersonation SMS messages are extremely common. Even if the message appears in the same thread as previous genuine bank texts, you should not click the link — navigate to your banking app or official website directly instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to give a stranger access to your email account to help resolve a problem?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-give-a-stranger-access-to-your-email-account", "summary": "Your email account is the master key to your online life. Giving any access to a stranger — including a 'support agent' — is extremely dangerous and is almost certainly a pretext for account takeover or wider fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to use public USB charging stations for your phone?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-use-public-charging-stations-for-your-phone", "summary": "Public USB charging ports carry a small but real risk of 'juice jacking' — malware installation or data theft via the USB connection. Using your own charger with an AC outlet or a USB data blocker is safer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it safe to share screenshots of your bank statement online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-safe-to-share-screenshots-of-your-bank-statement-online", "summary": "Bank statement screenshots contain sensitive financial data. Even a partially redacted statement can reveal account numbers, sort codes, transaction patterns, and merchant names that assist identity fraud or social engineering.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a pig-butchering scam actually work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-pig-butchering-scam-work", "summary": "Pig butchering is a long-con fraud where criminals build a trusting relationship over weeks before steering victims into a fake cryptocurrency investment platform, eventually draining everything they deposit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a romance scam actually work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-romance-scam-work", "summary": "Romance scammers create fake profiles on dating sites or social media, spend weeks or months building emotional intimacy, then manufacture a crisis that requires money — and keep fabricating new ones.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a SIM-swap scam actually work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-sim-swap-scam-work", "summary": "In a SIM swap, a fraudster convinces your mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to a SIM they control, which lets them intercept SMS one-time codes and take over your accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a business email compromise (invoice redirection) scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-bec-invoice-redirection-scam-work", "summary": "In BEC fraud, criminals compromise or impersonate a business email account and intercept payment instructions, swapping real bank details for their own so funds are wired directly to them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a task scam (fake online job) actually work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-task-scam-work", "summary": "Task scams promise easy pay-per-task online work but require victims to make upfront crypto deposits to 'unlock' tasks, resulting in escalating losses with no real income ever paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a tech support scam actually work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-tech-support-scam-work", "summary": "Tech support scams use alarming fake alerts or cold calls to convince victims their device is infected, then gain remote access to steal data or money while charging for nonexistent fixes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does an advance-fee (419) scam actually work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-advance-fee-scam-work", "summary": "Advance-fee scams promise a large payout — an inheritance, lottery win, or business deal — that can only be released after the victim pays a series of ever-growing 'fees', none of which ever unlock real money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does an overpayment scam actually work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-overpayment-scam-work", "summary": "An overpayment scam involves a fraudulent cheque or payment for more than the agreed amount, with a request to refund the difference before the original payment bounces — leaving the victim out of pocket.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does triangulation fraud work in online shopping?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-triangulation-fraud-work", "summary": "Triangulation fraud places victims between a fake online shop and a real retailer: you pay the fraudster, they buy the product for you with a stolen card, and the cardholder disputes the charge — leaving you with a potential fraud investigation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a pump-and-dump scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-pump-and-dump-scam-work", "summary": "Pump-and-dump schemes artificially inflate the price of a cheap asset through coordinated hype, then organise insiders dump their holdings onto retail buyers, causing the price to collapse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a Ponzi scheme actually work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-ponzi-scheme-work", "summary": "A Ponzi scheme pays early investors using money from newer investors rather than genuine returns, creating an illusion of a profitable business that inevitably collapses when new money stops flowing in.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a recovery scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-recovery-scam-work", "summary": "Recovery scams target people who have already lost money to fraud, posing as recovery specialists or law enforcement, then charge upfront fees for a service that never recovers anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a lottery or prize notification scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-lottery-prize-scam-work", "summary": "Lottery scams falsely inform victims they have won a prize in a draw they never entered, then charge escalating fees to claim a payout that never arrives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a charity or disaster relief scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-charity-scam-work", "summary": "Charity scams create fake organisations or impersonate real ones to solicit donations, particularly after disasters, diverting funds away from genuine relief efforts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a rental scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-rental-scam-work", "summary": "Rental scams post attractive properties at below-market prices, collect deposits from multiple victims, and disappear before any viewing takes place — leaving everyone without accommodation or money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a fake job offer scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-job-offer-scam-work", "summary": "Fake job offer scams either charge upfront fees for placement, training, or equipment that never materialises, or use the hire to recruit money mules without their knowledge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a phishing email scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-phishing-email-scam-work", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonate trusted organisations to trick recipients into clicking a malicious link, entering credentials on a fake site, or downloading malware — all to steal accounts or data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a grandparent scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-grandparent-scam-work", "summary": "Grandparent scams involve a fraudster impersonating a grandchild in distress — arrested, in hospital, or abroad — and urgently requesting cash or gift cards before the family can verify the story.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a government impersonation scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-government-impersonation-scam-work", "summary": "Government impersonation scams use fear of arrest, deportation, or legal action to pressure victims into making immediate payments to fake officials via untraceable methods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a deepfake CEO or executive impersonation fraud work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-deepfake-ceo-fraud-work", "summary": "Deepfake CEO fraud uses AI-generated audio or video of an executive to instruct a finance employee to make an urgent wire transfer, bypassing the normal verification that would catch a text-only request.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a high-yield investment fraud work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-investment-fraud-work", "summary": "High-yield investment frauds promise returns far above market rates through exclusive or proprietary strategies, collecting funds into accounts the fraudster controls with no intention of investing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a subscription trap or free-trial scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-subscription-trap-scam-work", "summary": "Subscription traps offer a 'free' trial that automatically converts to a recurring charge — using buried terms, deliberately complicated cancellation, and multiple product tiers to maximise billing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a social media impersonation scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-social-media-impersonation-scam-work", "summary": "Impersonators clone or hack real accounts to request emergency money from friends and followers, or to promote fake giveaways and fraudulent investment schemes using a trusted identity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a parcel delivery or missed delivery scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-parcel-delivery-scam-work", "summary": "Fake parcel notifications impersonate delivery companies to harvest card details or install malware, using the universal expectation of online deliveries to bypass scepticism.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a fake cryptocurrency exchange scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-cryptocurrency-exchange-scam-work", "summary": "Fraudulent crypto exchanges mimic legitimate platforms, let users deposit real funds, show fabricated portfolio growth, and then block all withdrawals once a target amount is reached.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does an MLM pyramid scheme actually work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-mlm-pyramid-scheme-work", "summary": "Pyramid scheme MLMs make most of their money from recruitment fees and inventory purchases by new participants rather than genuine product sales, ensuring the majority of members lose money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a medical or health product scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-medical-health-scam-work", "summary": "Health scams sell unproven treatments, fake cures, or dangerous supplements using fabricated testimonials and pseudo-scientific marketing, targeting people with serious conditions who are desperate for relief.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does an education or student loan scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-education-student-loan-scam-work", "summary": "Student loan scams charge upfront fees to apply for forgiveness or reduced payments — services that are free through official government programmes — or fabricate loan relief that leaves victims deeper in debt.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does an insurance fraud scam target policyholders?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-insurance-scam-work", "summary": "Insurance scams either sell fake policies that pay nothing at claim time, or claim-pad and stage incidents to extract fraudulent payouts — with consumers sometimes victimised and sometimes unknowingly implicated.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a gaming skin or in-game item scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-gaming-skin-scam-work", "summary": "Gaming scams steal high-value skins or in-game items through phishing, fake trading platforms, or hijacked Steam or Discord accounts — often targeting items worth real money on secondary markets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a car buying or selling scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-car-sale-scam-work", "summary": "Car scams either advertise vehicles that do not exist and collect deposits, or use overpayment or stolen-check schemes when selling, leaving buyers without a car or sellers without genuine funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a pet or puppy scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-pet-scam-work", "summary": "Pet scams advertise desirable animals at low prices, collect deposits, then manufacture transport and quarantine fees until the victim has paid far more than the pet would cost from a legitimate source.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a utility company impersonation scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-utility-impersonation-scam-work", "summary": "Utility impersonation scams threaten immediate disconnection unless payment is made within hours by gift card or wire transfer, exploiting fear of losing electricity, gas, or water.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a travel booking scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-travel-scam-work", "summary": "Travel scams sell fake hotels, flights, or holiday packages — collecting full payment before victims discover the booking does not exist or the accommodation bears no resemblance to the advertised property.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a romance-investment hybrid scam (sha zhu pan) work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-romance-investment-hybrid-scam-work", "summary": "Sha zhu pan combines long-term romantic relationship building with a fake investment platform, using the emotional bond to lower financial defences before extracting maximum deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a Social Security number (SSN) scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-social-security-number-scam-work", "summary": "SSN scams claim your Social Security number has been linked to criminal activity and will be suspended — pressuring you into confirming personal details or making payments to fake officials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does an IRS tax impersonation scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-irs-tax-scam-work", "summary": "IRS impersonation scams threaten arrest or asset seizure for alleged unpaid taxes, demanding immediate payment by untraceable method while the victim is kept on the phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does an inheritance notification scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-inheritance-scam-work", "summary": "Inheritance scams inform victims of a large unclaimed estate supposedly linked to their family name, requiring fees to process a claim that will never materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does an immigration or visa scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-immigration-visa-scam-work", "summary": "Immigration scams charge fees to process visas, residency, or work permits that are either fake or obtainable cheaply through official channels — exploiting the complexity of immigration law and the stakes of relocation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does an AI voice cloning scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-ai-voice-clone-scam-work", "summary": "AI voice cloning scams synthesise a convincing imitation of a known person's voice from publicly available audio, then use it to make emergency requests or authorise transactions in calls to family members or colleagues.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a money mule scheme work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-money-mule-scheme-work", "summary": "Money mule schemes recruit ordinary people to receive and forward fraudulent payments through their own bank accounts, unknowingly laundering criminal proceeds and exposing themselves to criminal liability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does an account takeover scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-account-takeover-scam-work", "summary": "Account takeover fraud combines stolen credentials, social engineering, and real-time interception of security codes to permanently seize control of email, banking, or social media accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a funeral or obituary scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-funeral-obituary-scam-work", "summary": "Fraudsters monitor obituaries to target grieving families with fake bills from suppliers, fake debt collectors claiming the deceased owed money, or fraudulent bereavement support services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a QR code scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-qr-code-scam-work", "summary": "QR code scams replace legitimate codes with fraudulent ones that redirect to phishing pages, fake payment portals, or malware downloads — exploiting the user's inability to read a QR code before scanning.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a bank impersonation scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-bank-impersonation-scam-work", "summary": "Bank impersonators use spoofed phone numbers and insider-level personal detail to convince victims their account is under attack, then direct them to move money to a 'safe account' controlled by the fraudsters.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a scholarship or grant scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-scholarship-grant-scam-work", "summary": "Scholarship scams guarantee awards that require an application fee, or notify victims of a grant they won without applying, then charge processing fees that accumulate before the money never arrives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a copycat or lookalike website scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-copycat-website-scam-work", "summary": "Copycat websites mirror legitimate government, banking, or retail sites to harvest login credentials, collect payment for services available free elsewhere, or sell counterfeit goods under a credible brand.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does an energy switching or savings scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-energy-switching-scam-work", "summary": "Energy switching scams collect sign-up fees or personal data under the pretence of switching your utility to a cheaper tariff, without actually completing any switch or using a legitimate comparison service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a survey or reward points scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-survey-reward-scam-work", "summary": "Survey scams promise gift cards or cash for completing questionnaires but require shipping fees, credit card details, or app installations before any reward is delivered — and the reward never arrives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does an NFT or digital collectible scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-nft-scam-work", "summary": "NFT scams create artificial hype around low-value or nonexistent digital assets using fake celebrity endorsements, wash trading, and rug pulls — leaving buyers with worthless tokens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a credit repair scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-credit-repair-scam-work", "summary": "Credit repair scams charge upfront fees to 'fix' credit reports using methods that are either ineffective, illegal, or available for free directly from the credit bureau.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a social media giveaway scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-social-media-giveaway-scam-work", "summary": "Fake giveaway posts impersonate celebrities, brands, or official accounts to collect entry fees, personal data, or platform permissions — with no prize ever awarded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does elder financial abuse through scams work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-elder-financial-abuse-scam-work", "summary": "Elder financial abuse via scams systematically targets older adults using psychological manipulation, isolation, and manufactured urgency — exploiting cognitive vulnerability, loneliness, and greater accumulated wealth.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a charity-romance combination scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-charity-romance-combo-scam-work", "summary": "A charity-romance combo scam uses an emotional relationship to build trust, then requests donations to a fake charitable cause the scammer claims to run — layering the romance and charity fraud mechanics for larger yields.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a payday loan or advance loan scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-payday-loan-scam-work", "summary": "Fake loan companies collect processing fees or insurance payments from people in financial need, then disappear without ever issuing any loan.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a cryptocurrency giveaway scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-cryptocurrency-giveaway-scam-work", "summary": "Crypto giveaway scams impersonate celebrities or platforms promising to double or multiply any amount of crypto sent to a specified address — but send nothing back.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a fake check cashing scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-fake-check-cashing-scam-work", "summary": "Fake check cashing scams exploit the banking system's provisional crediting policy: a fraudulent check appears to clear before your bank confirms it is bogus, and any cash sent against it comes out of your own account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a free investment seminar scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-investment-seminar-scam-work", "summary": "Free investment seminars use high-energy presentations and social pressure to sell expensive courses, software subscriptions, or investment opportunities of dubious value to attendees who arrive expecting free education.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a ticket resale or fake event ticket scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-ticket-resale-scam-work", "summary": "Ticket scams sell counterfeit, invalid, or nonexistent tickets to popular events, collecting payment through channels with limited buyer protection and delivering nothing valid at the venue.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a housing deposit or new-build property scam work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-housing-deposit-scam-work", "summary": "Housing deposit scams collect reservation fees or full deposits for new-build properties or buy-to-let investments that are either nonexistent or never intended for legitimate sale.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Who do romance scammers target and why?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/who-do-romance-scammers-target", "summary": "Romance scammers target anyone seeking connection, but they actively seek out people who appear lonely, recently bereaved, divorced, or who post publicly about wanting a relationship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Who do investment scammers target and why?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/who-do-investment-scammers-target", "summary": "Investment scammers most often target people with accessible savings, those worried about retirement income, and anyone who has recently expressed interest in financial growth online.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Who do grandparent scammers target and why?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/who-do-grandparent-scammers-target", "summary": "Grandparent scammers target older adults, typically over 60, because they are more likely to have accessible savings, answer their phones, and respond instinctively to a family emergency.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do scammers ask to be paid in gift cards?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-scammers-ask-for-gift-cards", "summary": "Gift cards are irreversible, anonymous, and widely available, making them the ideal payment tool for scammers who want to disappear with funds before any report can be made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do scammers ask to be paid in cryptocurrency?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-scammers-ask-for-crypto-payment", "summary": "Cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible, difficult to trace to a real-world identity, and can cross borders instantly, making crypto the preferred payment channel for fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do scammers ask to be paid by wire transfer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-scammers-ask-for-wire-transfer", "summary": "Wire transfers move money quickly between bank accounts with limited ability to recall funds once sent, and scammers can receive them in overseas accounts that are difficult to freeze in time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Where do scammers get my phone number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/where-do-scammers-get-my-phone-number", "summary": "Scammers obtain phone numbers from data breaches, purchased data lists, public directories, social media profiles, and automated diallers that call every number in a sequence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Where do scammers get my email address?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/where-do-scammers-get-my-email", "summary": "Email addresses are harvested from data breaches, scraped from public websites, sold by data brokers, and gathered through phishing sites and compromised mailing lists.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Where do scammers get my bank details?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/where-do-scammers-get-my-bank-details", "summary": "Bank details are most commonly obtained through phishing attacks, data breaches at companies that stored your payment information, and malware installed on devices used for online banking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why is it so hard to get scam money back?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-is-it-hard-to-get-scam-money-back", "summary": "Scam money is hard to recover because it is moved quickly through multiple accounts, often across borders, and payment methods like gift cards and crypto have no reversal mechanism.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are scam call centres real and how do they work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/are-scam-call-centres-real", "summary": "Yes. Organised scam call centres operate in several countries, employing dozens or even hundreds of people who follow scripted approaches to defraud victims, typically in wealthier English-speaking countries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Who do lottery and prize scammers target and why?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/who-do-lottery-scammers-target", "summary": "Lottery scammers target people who have expressed interest in sweepstakes, those who have previously entered competitions, and older adults who are more likely to engage with unsolicited mail or phone calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Who do tech support scammers target and why?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/who-do-tech-support-scammers-target", "summary": "Tech support scammers primarily target older and less tech-confident adults, but anyone can be caught by a convincing browser popup or cold call claiming their device has a serious problem.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do pig-butchering scams work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-pig-butchering-scams-work", "summary": "Pig-butchering scams build a weeks-long false relationship — romantic or friendly — before steering the target into a fake investment platform where deposits grow on screen but cannot actually be withdrawn.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do scammers specifically prefer bank transfer over other payment methods?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-do-scammers-use-bank-transfer", "summary": "Bank transfers are fast, widely trusted, and — once authorised by the account holder — treated as legitimate transactions that banks are not always obligated to reverse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers impersonate government agencies?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-impersonate-government-agencies", "summary": "Scammers use spoofed phone numbers that display real government caller IDs, forged official-looking documents, and scripted calls that mimic real government language and processes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do scammers always want to move the conversation off the original platform?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-do-scammers-want-to-move-off-platform", "summary": "Moving off a platform removes the scammer from oversight, reporting tools, and message monitoring that the original platform can use to detect and shut down fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do employment scams target job seekers and why are they effective?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-employment-scams-target-job-seekers", "summary": "Employment scammers post attractive fake job listings on legitimate job boards, exploiting the hope and financial pressure that often accompanies job searching.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers decide which specific people to contact?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-choose-which-people-to-contact", "summary": "Scammers use a mix of purchased data lists, social media profiling, demographic targeting, and opportunistic scanning of people who have publicly indicated vulnerability or financial availability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do scammers use romance and emotional relationships to extract money?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-do-scammers-use-romance-to-extract-money", "summary": "Emotional bonds override rational financial judgement. A person who believes they are in love will often rationalise payments that they would refuse from a stranger.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a money mule and how are people recruited into the role?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-money-mule-and-how-are-they-recruited", "summary": "A money mule is someone whose bank account is used to receive and forward scam proceeds. They are often recruited through fake job ads, romantic manipulation, or social media promises of easy money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do charity scams peak immediately after disasters and emergencies?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-do-charity-scams-peak-during-disasters", "summary": "Disasters generate widespread emotional urgency and immediate giving intent before verification infrastructure can catch up with the volume of appeals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do subscription and billing scams trap people without them noticing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-subscription-scams-trap-people", "summary": "Subscription scams use free trial sign-ups, obscure terms that auto-charge after the trial ends, and billing amounts small enough to go unnoticed on bank statements for months.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers use artificial intelligence to target victims?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-use-ai-to-target-victims", "summary": "Scammers use AI tools to generate convincing personalised messages at scale, create deepfake voices and images, and automate the early stages of relationship building.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why are older adults targeted by scammers more often than younger people?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-are-older-adults-targeted-more-often", "summary": "Older adults are targeted due to a combination of accessible savings, more trusting telephone habits, potential social isolation, and the fact that age-specific life events create predictable targeting opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers find vulnerable people on social media and dating platforms?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-find-vulnerable-people-online", "summary": "Scammers use keyword searches, profile filters, algorithm-driven discovery, and public post content to identify people showing signs of loneliness, grief, financial need, or recent life disruption.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why is it so difficult to prosecute scammers who operate from overseas?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-is-it-difficult-to-prosecute-overseas-scammers", "summary": "International prosecution requires cooperation between law enforcement agencies across multiple jurisdictions, each with different legal standards, timelines, and practical capabilities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers build fake credibility to make their schemes seem legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-build-fake-credibility", "summary": "Scammers use professional-looking websites, fabricated reviews, fake regulatory logos, social proof via social media, and stolen credentials from real organisations to appear trustworthy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is social engineering and how do scammers use it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-social-engineering-in-scams", "summary": "Social engineering is the use of psychological manipulation to bypass rational thinking and persuade people to take actions they would otherwise refuse, such as sharing sensitive information or sending money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do housing and rental scams target people looking for accommodation?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-housing-rental-scams-target-renters", "summary": "Rental scammers post fake property listings, often using photos taken from real listings, and ask for deposits or rent before any viewing, exploiting the urgency of housing searches.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do scammers ask for copies of your passport, driving licence, or other ID?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-do-scammers-ask-for-personal-identification", "summary": "Personal identification documents enable scammers to commit identity theft, open fraudulent accounts, apply for credit, and sell verified identity packages to other criminal actors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do online shopping scams target bargain hunters?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-online-shopping-scams-target-bargain-hunters", "summary": "Fake online shops offer popular products at dramatically reduced prices, charge real payment, and either ship nothing, ship counterfeit goods, or gather payment details for fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do MLM and pyramid schemes recruit members and why are they hard to leave?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-mlm-pyramid-schemes-recruit-members", "summary": "MLM and pyramid schemes recruit through personal networks, aspirational income promises, and community belonging — making exit feel like social rejection and financial failure simultaneously.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do some scammers specifically ask for payment in cash?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-do-scammers-ask-to-pay-by-cash", "summary": "Cash is untraceable, irreversible, and leaves no digital record — making it the payment method with the fewest mechanisms for recovery or investigation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do insurance scams target policyholders and what forms do they take?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-insurance-scams-target-policyholders", "summary": "Insurance scams target policyholders through fake policies, ghost brokers, and claims manipulation, exploiting the complexity of insurance products and the urgency of renewal deadlines.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers specifically exploit people who are grieving?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-exploit-grief-and-bereavement", "summary": "Bereaved people are targeted because grief creates temporary cognitive overwhelm, financial transition, and social isolation — all conditions that reduce the ability to identify and resist fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do travel scams target tourists and first-time visitors?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-travel-scams-target-tourists", "summary": "Tourists are targeted because they are unfamiliar with local prices, processes, and legitimate services, making them more susceptible to overcharging, fake bookings, and distraction theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do utility and energy scams target households?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-utility-energy-scams-target-households", "summary": "Utility scammers impersonate energy companies at the door or by phone, use price anxiety to create urgency, and either charge for fake services or harvest bank details for direct debit fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do scammers send unsolicited cheques and why are they dangerous?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-do-scammers-send-unsolicited-cheques", "summary": "Fake cheques are sent to create a fabricated obligation to repay part of the stated value, exploiting the delay between a cheque appearing to clear and the bank discovering it is fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do health and medical scams target people with health concerns?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-health-medical-scams-target-patients", "summary": "Medical scams target people managing illness, chronic conditions, or health anxiety by offering unregulated treatments, miracle cures, and fake supplements that prey on the desire for relief and control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do education scams target students and people seeking qualifications?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-education-student-scams-target-learners", "summary": "Education scams offer fake qualifications, diploma mills, and bogus tutoring services, exploiting the pressure to obtain credentials quickly and affordably.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do gaming scams target players and what makes gamers vulnerable?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-gaming-scams-target-players", "summary": "Gaming scams exploit the desire for rare items, in-game currency, account upgrades, and competitive advantage — targeting players through fake trade offers, phishing, and social manipulation within gaming communities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target people through social media account takeovers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-social-media-account-scams-target-users", "summary": "Account takeovers happen through phishing links, credential stuffing, fake support impersonation, and SIM-swap attacks — giving scammers access to a trusted identity they can exploit for fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do pet scams target people looking to buy or adopt animals?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-pet-scams-target-animal-buyers", "summary": "Pet scammers post fake listings for puppies, kittens, or exotic animals, collect a deposit or full payment, and then claim delivery problems requiring more money before the non-existent animal never arrives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do mail and parcel delivery scams target people expecting packages?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-mail-courier-parcel-scams-work", "summary": "Parcel scams send fake delivery notifications claiming a fee or customs charge is needed to release a package, creating a plausible-sounding reason for a small payment or for sharing personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do scammers always create false urgency and time pressure?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-do-scammers-create-false-urgency", "summary": "Urgency bypasses the reflective thinking needed to identify a scam — it shifts a person into reactive mode where the instinct to resolve a threat overrides the impulse to verify it first.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does advance fee fraud work and why do people keep paying?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-advance-fee-fraud-work", "summary": "Advance fee fraud promises a large reward in exchange for a sequence of upfront payments, using sunk cost psychology and maintained hope to keep victims paying long after the red flags are obvious.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do scammers specifically target small businesses?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-do-scammers-target-small-businesses", "summary": "Small businesses handle regular financial transactions, may lack dedicated fraud teams, and must respond quickly to supplier and client communications — all of which create exploitable opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do recovery scams target people who have already been defrauded?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-recovery-scams-target-fraud-victims", "summary": "Recovery scammers contact recent fraud victims offering to retrieve lost funds for a fee — exploiting desperation and the established pattern of paying for a promised result.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do scammers use spoofed phone numbers and how does it work?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-do-scammers-use-spoofed-phone-numbers", "summary": "Caller ID spoofing lets scammers display any phone number they choose, including official government and bank numbers, making their calls appear to come from trusted sources.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do immigration and legal scams target migrants and people seeking visas?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-immigration-legal-scams-target-migrants", "summary": "Immigration scammers impersonate lawyers, visa agents, or government officials, exploiting the complexity of legal processes, language barriers, and the significant consequences of status errors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do vehicle and car buying scams target people looking for a used car?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-auto-vehicle-scams-target-buyers", "summary": "Vehicle scams use fake listings for cars that do not exist, clocked or salvaged vehicles presented as sound, and title fraud — exploiting buyers who conduct limited in-person verification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is spear phishing and how is it different from regular phishing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-spear-phishing-and-how-does-it-differ", "summary": "Spear phishing is a targeted attack using personalised information about the recipient — in contrast to mass phishing which sends the same generic message to millions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers use fake reviews and social proof to appear trustworthy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-use-fake-social-proof", "summary": "Fake reviews, purchased followers, fabricated testimonials, and manufactured endorsements are used to create the appearance of public trust and activity that does not genuinely exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does SIM swapping work as a fraud technique and who does it target?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-sim-swapping-work-as-a-fraud-technique", "summary": "SIM swapping convinces a mobile carrier to transfer a victim's phone number to a SIM the scammer controls, giving them access to SMS-based authentication codes for financial and social media accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do scammers invest weeks or months building trust before asking for money?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-do-scammers-build-trust-before-asking-for-money", "summary": "Trust investment makes the eventual financial request seem out of character for the relationship, lowers the victim's guard, and creates emotional investment that makes saying no psychologically costly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers choose which online platforms to operate on?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-people-on-platforms", "summary": "Scammers gravitate to platforms with large user bases, limited identity verification, easy account creation, and communities whose members are likely to be searching for the type of opportunity being offered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why do scammers insist on secrecy and how does shame prevent victims from reporting?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-do-scammers-use-secrecy-and-shame", "summary": "Secrecy prevents verification and intervention during the scam; shame prevents reporting after it, creating a cycle that protects the scammer and extends the harm to the victim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Facebook Marketplace?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Scammers on Facebook Marketplace typically pose as buyers or sellers to steal money or goods, using fake payment screenshots, overpayment tricks, and pressure tactics to bypass safe transaction practices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Facebook Marketplace safe for buying and selling?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-facebook-marketplace-safe-for-buying-and-selling", "summary": "Facebook Marketplace can be safe if you follow cash-in-person or PayPal Goods and Services transactions, but it carries real risk when buyers or sellers push you toward unprotected payment methods or remote deals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on WhatsApp?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-whatsapp", "summary": "WhatsApp scams exploit the platform's end-to-end encryption and personal-messenger feel to run impersonation, investment, and romance fraud with a false sense of privacy and trust.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Telegram?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram's large anonymous groups and bot ecosystem make it a hotspot for crypto pump-and-dump schemes, fake investment channels, and impersonation of customer-support staff from major brands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Instagram?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram scams center on fake influencer giveaways, impersonation of well-known accounts, counterfeit product shops, and romance profiles designed to eventually solicit money or investment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on TikTok?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok scams exploit viral reach and the platform's young audience through fake giveaways, fraudulent shop links, investment promotion by impersonated creators, and gift-card livestream fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on dating apps?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-dating-apps", "summary": "Dating app scams build romantic trust over days or weeks before pivoting to financial requests — emergency loans, investment platforms, or gift-card payments — exploiting the emotional connection that has been created.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on LinkedIn?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-linkedin", "summary": "LinkedIn scams exploit the professional context to run fake job offers, investment schemes, and phishing attacks that feel credible because the platform is associated with career legitimacy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Zelle?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-zelle", "summary": "Zelle scams exploit the app's instant, bank-linked transfers — which are nearly impossible to reverse — through impersonation of bank fraud departments, fake buyer schemes, and social engineering that rushes victims into sending money before they can think.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Cash App?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-cash-app", "summary": "Cash App scams range from impersonation of Cash App customer support to fake \"Cash App Friday\" giveaways and money-flipping schemes that steal funds through irreversible peer-to-peer transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on PayPal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-paypal", "summary": "PayPal scams typically involve getting victims to use the Friends and Family option (which has no buyer protection) rather than Goods and Services, or to act on fake payment notification emails that mimic PayPal's branding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Venmo?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-venmo", "summary": "Venmo scams exploit the app's social feed and peer-to-peer payment design through fake payment screenshots, accidental-overpayment reversals, and social engineering attacks that leverage the public transaction history.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on crypto exchanges?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-crypto-exchanges", "summary": "Crypto exchange scams range from impersonation of real exchange support staff and phishing to fake exchange platforms designed to trap deposits and fraudulent \"account verification\" fees that steal funds before any trade occurs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is WhatsApp safe for sending money?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-whatsapp-safe-for-sending-money", "summary": "WhatsApp Pay is a real feature in some countries, but using WhatsApp to arrange or request money transfers exposes you to social-engineering scams that exploit the personal trust the platform creates.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is LinkedIn safe for job hunting?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-linkedin-safe-for-job-hunting", "summary": "LinkedIn is a legitimate and widely used job-hunting platform, but fake recruiters, advance-fee employment scams, and phishing attacks require job seekers to verify every opportunity independently before sharing personal data or paying any fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Instagram safe for buying and selling?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-instagram-safe-for-buying-and-selling", "summary": "Instagram shopping has legitimate uses but is also rife with counterfeit goods, fake storefronts, and sellers who take payment and disappear, especially for transactions arranged outside the platform's official checkout.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a dating app safe for meeting people?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-dating-app-safe-for-meeting-people", "summary": "Dating apps can be safe environments for meeting people, but they require you to independently verify a match's identity before meeting in person, and to treat any financial request — however sympathetically framed — as a near-certain fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto exchange safe for investing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-a-crypto-exchange-safe-for-investing", "summary": "Regulated, well-established crypto exchanges are significantly safer than unregulated or newly created platforms, but all cryptocurrency investment carries risk from market volatility, platform failure, phishing attacks, and scams that exploit the ecosystem.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Telegram safe for investing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-telegram-safe-for-investing", "summary": "Telegram is not a safe channel for investment activity — the vast majority of investment groups on Telegram are fraudulent, and the platform's anonymity makes it the preferred channel for pump-and-dump schemes and pig-butchering crypto scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is TikTok safe for job hunting?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-tiktok-safe-for-job-hunting", "summary": "TikTok has become a platform where recruiters share content and some job postings appear, but it carries significant risks from fake remote job schemes and task-based scams that collect money under the guise of employment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work using PayPal Friends and Family?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-paypal-friends-and-family", "summary": "PayPal Friends and Family scams exploit the no-fee, no-protection nature of that payment option to collect money for goods or services that never arrive, leaving victims with no recourse through PayPal's dispute system.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Facebook Dating?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-facebook-dating", "summary": "Facebook Dating scams mirror broader dating-app fraud, but the platform's integration with Facebook profiles gives fake accounts additional false credibility that can make romance scams and investment pitches more convincing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Craigslist?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-craigslist", "summary": "Craigslist scams exploit the platform's anonymous, unverified listings to run fake buyer and seller schemes, rental deposit fraud, and job scams that rely on cash-equivalent payments and the difficulty of verifying anyone's identity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on OfferUp and local selling apps?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-offerup-and-local-selling-apps", "summary": "Local selling apps like OfferUp, Letgo, and similar platforms are targeted by fake payment apps, impersonation of the platform's payment systems, and shipping scams that bypass the safety of in-person cash transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Discord?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-discord", "summary": "Discord scams target gaming communities and crypto enthusiasts through fake NFT and crypto giveaways, malicious bot invites, impersonation of server administrators, and links that deliver credential-stealing malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Twitter / X?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-twitter-x", "summary": "Twitter/X scams exploit the platform's viral reach through fake celebrity giveaways, cryptocurrency promotion by impersonated accounts, and phishing attacks on account credentials via fake verification or suspension notices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on YouTube?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube scams use live-stream hijacking of popular channels, fake investment ads, and comment-section impersonation to reach large audiences with crypto doubling schemes and fraudulent financial platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is PayPal safe for online shopping?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-paypal-safe-for-online-shopping", "summary": "PayPal Goods and Services provides meaningful buyer protection for online purchases, but protection has limits and does not cover all situations — particularly purchases from accounts that are themselves fraudulent or operating against PayPal's terms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Etsy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-etsy", "summary": "Etsy scams range from counterfeit sellers and dropshippers misrepresenting mass-produced goods as handmade to outside-platform payment requests and fake dispute emails targeting sellers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on eBay?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-ebay", "summary": "eBay scams include off-platform payment requests to bypass buyer protection, second-chance offer fraud targeting auction losers, and SNAD (significantly not as described) return fraud exploiting sellers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Amazon Marketplace?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-amazon-marketplace", "summary": "Amazon Marketplace scams involve third-party sellers sending counterfeit goods, brushing schemes that game the review system, and phishing attacks impersonating Amazon order notifications to steal account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Venmo safe for paying strangers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-venmo-safe-for-paying-strangers", "summary": "Venmo is designed for payments between people who know each other and offers no buyer protection for peer-to-peer transactions — paying a stranger for goods or services creates significant risk with no recourse if something goes wrong.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Zelle safe for paying businesses?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-zelle-safe-for-paying-businesses", "summary": "Zelle is not appropriate for paying businesses you do not already have an established, trusted relationship with — it has no buyer protection and transfers are nearly impossible to reverse, making it a high-risk method for any commercial transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Nextdoor?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Nextdoor scams exploit the neighbourhood trust model through fake service provider listings, virtual kidnapping calls that use resident data, and marketplace fraud that benefits from the false sense of local credibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Poshmark and resale apps?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-poshmark-and-resale-apps", "summary": "Poshmark and similar resale platforms are targeted by counterfeit goods sellers, outside-platform payment requests that bypass protections, and account takeover attacks on sellers with established reputations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Airbnb?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-airbnb", "summary": "Airbnb scams involve off-platform payment requests that bypass host guarantees, listings for properties that do not exist or are misrepresented, and phishing attacks impersonating Airbnb communication to steal account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-freelance-platforms", "summary": "Freelance platform scams target both clients and freelancers through fake job posts that harvest personal data, off-platform payment requests, and check-cashing schemes disguised as test assignments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Bumble and Hinge?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-bumble-and-hinge", "summary": "Bumble and Hinge face the same romance fraud patterns as other dating apps, but their user-verification features and profile-quality requirements are exploited by scammers as trust signals to lower victims' defences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work through Cash App's investing and bitcoin features?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-cash-app-investing", "summary": "Cash App's in-app stock and bitcoin buying features are exploited by impersonators who claim to be Cash App support or certified advisors, promising guaranteed returns in exchange for depositing more funds into crypto.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Telegram safe for dating?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-telegram-safe-for-dating", "summary": "Telegram is not a dating platform and using it for romantic communication with strangers carries significant risk — it is the preferred secondary channel for romance scammers who want to move off regulated dating apps where their activity might be monitored.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on WhatsApp Business?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-whatsapp-business", "summary": "WhatsApp Business accounts are exploited by scammers who create fake brand accounts to impersonate real businesses, run phishing attacks, and collect payments from customers who believe they are communicating with a legitimate company.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Cash App safe for receiving payments?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-cash-app-safe-for-receiving-payments", "summary": "Receiving legitimate payments on Cash App is safe, but accepting payments from strangers carries risk because fraudulent payments can be reversed after you have provided goods or services, leaving you at a loss.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Grindr and LGBTQ+ dating apps?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-grindr-and-lgbtq-dating-apps", "summary": "LGBTQ+ dating apps face specific fraud risks including catfishing with fake profiles, hookup blackmail that exploits privacy concerns, robbery set-up attacks, and the same financial romance scams found on mainstream dating platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Facebook Marketplace safe for buying a car?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-facebook-marketplace-safe-for-car-buying", "summary": "Vehicle purchases on Facebook Marketplace carry significant fraud risk — sellers who do not own the car, salvage title concealment, and overseas-owner stories are all common tactics that can cost buyers thousands of dollars.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work in WhatsApp investment groups?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-whatsapp-investment-groups", "summary": "WhatsApp investment groups are almost always fraudulent — they use fabricated profit screenshots, manufactured social proof, and a fraudulent trading platform to collect deposits that can never be withdrawn.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is TikTok safe for financial advice?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-tiktok-safe-for-financial-advice", "summary": "TikTok's financial content ranges from genuinely educational to actively harmful — the platform's algorithm rewards engagement over accuracy, making it easy for misleading investment claims to reach far more people than careful, qualified advice.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work using fake PayPal invoices?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-paypal-invoices", "summary": "Scammers send real PayPal invoices for products or services you never ordered, sometimes including a phone number to call, which connects to a fake support agent who attempts to steal account credentials or guide victims through a fraudulent refund process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Cash App safe for buying bitcoin?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-cash-app-safe-for-buying-bitcoin", "summary": "Cash App's bitcoin feature is a legitimate regulated service for buying and selling bitcoin, but users face significant risk from third-party impersonators, fake investment schemes promoted on social media, and account security threats.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work in Facebook Groups?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-facebook-groups", "summary": "Facebook Groups are exploited for buy-sell fraud, fake contest giveaways, investment scheme recruitment, and impersonation of group admins to collect payments or credentials from trusted community members.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Zelle safe for paying rent or a rental deposit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-zelle-safe-for-renting-an-apartment", "summary": "Zelle can be appropriate for paying rent to a verified, established landlord you already have a lease with, but is completely inappropriate for sending a deposit to someone you have never met or verified, where rental scams routinely collect money and disappear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Snapchat?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-snapchat", "summary": "Snapchat scams exploit the platform's disappearing-message format and young user base through drug offers that facilitate robberies, sextortion after explicit content exchanges, and financial scams targeting teens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work using Google Pay and Apple Pay?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-google-pay-and-apple-pay", "summary": "Google Pay and Apple Pay themselves are secure payment technologies, but scammers misuse them through social engineering — tricking victims into authorising payments to fraudulent accounts using the same convenience that makes the apps popular.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Instagram safe for investing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-instagram-safe-for-investing", "summary": "Instagram is not a safe channel for investing — the vast majority of investment promotions on the platform are either fraudulent or involve unregistered products, and its influencer culture creates an environment where fabricated profit claims spread rapidly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Match.com and paid dating sites?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-match-com-and-paid-dating-sites", "summary": "Paid dating sites face the same romance fraud as free apps, but scammers exploit the belief that a paying membership means greater user quality — leading victims to be less cautious about the same red flags they might notice on a free platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on secondary ticketing platforms?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-ticketing-platforms", "summary": "Secondary ticketing scams range from entirely fake tickets to real tickets that have been sold multiple times, often using PDF or digital ticket codes that look authentic but are either invalid or have been already scanned at entry.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is LinkedIn safe for investment advice and financial decisions?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-linkedin-safe-for-investing", "summary": "LinkedIn investment promotions range from legitimate regulated content to outright fraud — the platform's professional veneer makes fraudulent investment pitches appear more credible than they would on a consumer social network.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Pinterest?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest scams involve fake product pins that link to fraudulent shops, counterfeit goods, phishing pages disguised as login prompts, and pyramid or network marketing recruitment dressed up as lifestyle and income content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on Reddit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-reddit", "summary": "Reddit scams exploit community trust through fake moderator impersonation, subreddit-specific buy-sell fraud, pump-and-dump coordination for low-cap assets, and technical support impersonation in help communities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is WhatsApp safe for business payments in countries where WhatsApp Pay is available?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-whatsapp-safe-for-business-payments", "summary": "WhatsApp Pay in supported countries provides a regulated payment layer, but the messaging platform remains a social engineering vector that scammers exploit to intercept or redirect business payments regardless of the payment mechanism used.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scams work on gaming platforms like Steam and PlayStation Network?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scams-work-on-gaming-platforms", "summary": "Gaming platform scams target players through fake trade offers for in-game items, phishing for account credentials to steal valuable game libraries, and fake tournament entry fees or prize claim requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam to the FTC?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-to-the-ftc", "summary": "Visit ReportFraud.ftc.gov and complete the online form. The FTC does not resolve individual complaints but uses reports to build cases and alert consumers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam to the FBI IC3?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-to-the-fbi-ic3", "summary": "File a complaint at IC3.gov, the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center. IC3 handles internet-facilitated fraud and shares reports with federal and local law enforcement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam to Report Fraud in the UK?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-to-action-fraud-uk", "summary": "Report online at reportfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. Report Fraud is the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam to my bank?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-to-my-bank", "summary": "Call the fraud number on the back of your card or in your banking app immediately. The sooner you call, the better the chance of stopping or reversing a fraudulent payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam to an online platform?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-to-an-online-platform", "summary": "Use the platform's built-in 'Report' button on the profile, listing, or message, then follow up with a written complaint to their support team referencing fraud or impersonation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam to the police?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-to-the-police", "summary": "For non-emergency scams, call your local police non-emergency line or file online. For ongoing crimes or physical danger, call 911 (US) or 999 (UK) immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam to my state attorney general?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-to-my-state-attorney-general", "summary": "Visit your state attorney general's website, find the consumer protection or fraud complaint section, and complete the online form. Most states provide a direct link at naag.org.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam to the ACCC in Australia?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-to-the-accc-australia", "summary": "Report at Scamwatch.gov.au, which is run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). You can also call 1300 795 995 for general consumer inquiries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What happens after I report a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-happens-after-i-report-a-scam", "summary": "Most individual reports are logged and contribute to pattern analysis. Active investigations are rare for single complaints, but your report directly enables larger enforcement actions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Will reporting a scam get my money back?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/will-reporting-a-scam-get-my-money-back", "summary": "Reporting alone rarely recovers money. Your best chance is contacting your bank immediately to request a recall, chargeback, or reimbursement under fraud protection rules.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Should I report a scam if I did not lose any money?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/should-i-report-a-scam-if-i-didnt-lose-money", "summary": "Yes. Reports from people who spotted and avoided a scam help agencies identify active fraud campaigns earlier and warn others before they become victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam text message?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-text-message", "summary": "Forward the scam text to 7726 (SPAM) in the UK, Australia, and the US. Also report to the FTC, Scamwatch, or Report Fraud and block the sender.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-email", "summary": "Forward phishing emails to reportphishing@apwg.org (global), to report@phishing.gov.uk (UK), or to spam@uce.gov (US FTC). Also use your email provider's built-in 'Report phishing' button.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam website?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-website", "summary": "Report to Google Safe Browsing, the NCSC (UK), or the FTC (US) and submit a takedown to the domain registrar. Sites can be removed within hours if you act quickly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam phone number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-phone-number", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov (US), to Ofcom via ofcom.org.uk (UK), or to the ACCC via Scamwatch.gov.au (Australia), and register with the national Do Not Call list.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report investment fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-investment-fraud", "summary": "Report to your national securities regulator: the SEC and CFTC in the US, the FCA in the UK, or ASIC in Australia. Also report to the FTC or Report Fraud and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a crypto scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-crypto-scam", "summary": "Report to the FBI IC3 at ic3.gov, the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, and the CFTC (US) or FCA (UK). Also report to the cryptocurrency exchange if you used one.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a romance scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-romance-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, the FBI IC3 at ic3.gov, and the platform where you met the scammer. Also contact your bank immediately if money was sent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a job scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-job-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, to the job platform where the ad appeared, and to your state attorney general or the UK's Report Fraud if you lost money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report elder financial abuse or a scam targeting older adults?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-an-elder-financial-scam", "summary": "Report to Adult Protective Services (US), your local police, the FTC, and the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11. In the UK, contact Adult Social Care and Report Fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a fake or fraudulent charity?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-charity-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC (US), the Charity Commission (England and Wales), or OSCR (Scotland). Also check whether the charity is legitimately registered before donating.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a rental scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-rental-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC, the rental platform, and your state attorney general or Report Fraud. File a police report for a crime reference number and contact your bank if you paid a deposit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a lottery or prize scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-lottery-prize-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, the FBI IC3, and the US Postal Inspection Service if you were contacted by mail. In the UK, report to the Report Fraud service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a tech support scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-tech-support-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and to the company being impersonated. If you gave remote access, change all passwords immediately and run a full security scan.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a government impersonation scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-government-impersonation-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and to the agency being impersonated. In the UK, report to the Report Fraud service and to HMRC's phishing team at phishing@hmrc.gov.uk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report identity theft?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-identity-theft", "summary": "Report to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov (US), which generates a personalised recovery plan. In the UK, report to the Report Fraud service and contact the fraud teams at affected companies directly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a subscription or billing scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-subscription-billing-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, dispute the charges with your card issuer, and report to your state attorney general or the Competition and Markets Authority (UK).", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a health or medical scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-health-medical-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and to the FDA MedWatch (US) for bogus health products. In the UK, report to the Report Fraud service and to the MHRA's yellow card scheme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report an online shopping scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-an-online-shopping-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, to the marketplace or platform where you bought, and initiate a chargeback with your card issuer as soon as possible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam on social media?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-social-media-scam", "summary": "Use the platform's in-app 'Report' tool on the profile or post, then file with the FTC or Report Fraud if money was lost. Also report fake ads to the ad network.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a travel scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-travel-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC (US) or Report Fraud (UK), to the travel booking platform, and to ABTA or ATOL (UK) or your state attorney general (US). Initiate a chargeback for card payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a pet or puppy scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-pet-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, to the platform where the listing appeared, and to your state attorney general. Initiate a chargeback with your card issuer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report an MLM or pyramid scheme?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-an-mlm-or-pyramid-scheme", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov (US) or Trading Standards via Citizens Advice (UK). Your state attorney general also handles pyramid scheme complaints.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a student loan or education scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-student-loan-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). For UK student finance scams, report to the Report Fraud service and Student Loans Company.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a business email compromise (BEC) scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-business-email-compromise-scam", "summary": "Report to the FBI IC3 at ic3.gov immediately and contact your bank to request an emergency wire recall. BEC fraud is time-sensitive — every hour counts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a fake cheque or overpayment scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-fake-cheque-overpayment-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, the US Postal Inspection Service if the cheque came by mail, and your bank. Never send money back for an overpayment before a deposited cheque fully clears.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a utility or energy scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-utility-energy-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC (US), your state public utilities commission, or Ofgem (UK). Also report to the supplier being impersonated and to Report Fraud if money was lost.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a car or vehicle scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-an-auto-vehicle-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC, your state attorney general, and the platform where the vehicle was listed. Report VIN fraud or clocking to the DVLA (UK) or the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (US).", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report an insurance scam or fraudulent insurer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-an-insurance-scam", "summary": "Report to your state insurance commissioner (US) or the FCA (UK). For organised insurance fraud such as crash-for-cash, also report to the Insurance Fraud Bureau (UK) or the FBI (US).", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam in an online game or gaming platform?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-gaming-scam", "summary": "Report to the game publisher or platform using their in-game or website reporting tool. For real-money losses, also report to the FTC and your card issuer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report an AI deepfake or impersonation scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-an-ai-deepfake-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC, the FBI IC3, and the platform hosting the content. For voice or video cloning of a real person, also notify that person and their legal representatives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a mail or parcel delivery scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-mail-parcel-scam", "summary": "Report smishing parcel scam texts to 7726 and to the courier being impersonated. Report mail fraud in the US to the Postal Inspection Service at postalinspectors.uspis.gov.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a legal or immigration scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-legal-immigration-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC, the state bar association (if a fake lawyer was involved), and USCIS (US) or the Solicitors Regulation Authority (UK). For notario fraud, report to the Department of Justice.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How long do I have to report a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-long-do-i-have-to-report-a-scam", "summary": "There is no time limit for reporting to the FTC, Report Fraud, or Scamwatch. However, chargeback and bank fraud claim windows are typically 60 to 120 days, so act on financial disputes as fast as possible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What information do I need to report a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-information-do-i-need-to-report-a-scam", "summary": "Gather dates, amounts, contact details used by the scammer, screenshots or records of communications, and any transaction references. The more detail you provide, the more useful your report.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can scammers actually be prosecuted after I report them?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammers-be-prosecuted-after-i-report", "summary": "Yes, prosecution is possible, especially when multiple reports point to the same operation. Overseas scammers face practical but not insurmountable obstacles through international cooperation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam if I feel embarrassed or ashamed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-if-i-am-embarrassed", "summary": "Reporting is confidential and your identity is protected. Scammers are professionals exploiting human psychology — falling for a scam says nothing about your intelligence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam on behalf of someone else?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-on-behalf-of-someone-else", "summary": "You can file a report on someone else's behalf with the FTC, Report Fraud, or Scamwatch. Describe your relationship to the victim and what you know about the fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I use a scam risk checker or risk score tool?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-risk-score", "summary": "Use the ScamEncyclopedia risk checker at /risk-score/scam-risk-checker to assess a suspicious message, website, or contact, then report through the appropriate official channel based on the results.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam to Trading Standards in the UK?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-to-trading-standards-uk", "summary": "Report to Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice consumer helpline at 0808 223 1133. Citizens Advice passes reports to Trading Standards and can advise on your consumer rights.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam-related dispute to the Financial Ombudsman in the UK?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-to-the-financial-ombudsman-uk", "summary": "If your bank or financial firm has not resolved your fraud complaint within eight weeks, escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service at financial-ombudsman.org.uk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a financial scam to the CFPB in the US?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-to-the-cfpb", "summary": "File a complaint at consumerfinance.gov/complaint. The CFPB handles complaints about banks, lenders, credit bureaus, and financial services companies — particularly useful for student loan, mortgage, and debt collection fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam to a cryptocurrency exchange?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-involving-cryptocurrency-exchange", "summary": "Contact the exchange's fraud or security team immediately with wallet addresses and transaction IDs. Some exchanges can freeze funds or assist law enforcement if you act within hours.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam that happened while I was abroad?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-scam-that-happened-abroad", "summary": "Report to local police abroad for a crime reference, then file with your home country's agency (FTC, Report Fraud, ACCC) and contact your bank as soon as you return or have connectivity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Does reporting a scam actually help anyone?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/does-reporting-a-scam-help-anyone", "summary": "Yes. Scam reports directly lead to enforcement actions, consumer alerts, platform takedowns, and the statistical data that drives public policy and funding for fraud prevention.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a recovery scam or fake scam recovery service?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-report-a-recovery-scam", "summary": "Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and to the FBI IC3. Recovery scams are secondary frauds that target people who have already been victimised once.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect my elderly parent from scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-elderly-parent-from-scams", "summary": "Establish open communication, set up account alerts, and create a trusted-contact arrangement with their bank so unusual activity triggers a call before money moves.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect my teenager from online scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-teenager-from-online-scams", "summary": "Teenagers are targeted through gaming, social media, and fake job offers — open dialogue about what scams look like in their digital world is more effective than software restrictions alone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect my small business from scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-small-business-from-scams", "summary": "Train staff to verify payment requests by phone before acting, implement dual-approval for wire transfers, and watch for invoice fraud and fake government compliance notices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect my online accounts from being hacked or taken over?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-online-accounts-from-scams", "summary": "Use a unique strong password for every account, enable two-factor authentication (ideally with an authenticator app), and never click password-reset links you did not request.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect my phone number from a SIM-swap scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-phone-number-from-sim-swap", "summary": "Add a SIM-lock PIN or port-freeze to your mobile account, and switch important accounts to app-based two-factor authentication so your phone number is no longer the key to your finances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I check if a website is legitimate before I buy anything?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-check-if-website-is-legitimate", "summary": "Check the domain age, look for verifiable contact details, read third-party reviews, and trust your instincts — sites with prices far below market and no traceable business behind them are almost always fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I check if an online store is legitimate before placing an order?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-check-if-online-store-is-legitimate", "summary": "Beyond the basics of HTTPS and reviews, confirm the store has a traceable business registration, real customer-service contact, and a clear returns policy — and pay by credit card so you can dispute a non-delivery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I check if a charity is legitimate before donating?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-check-if-charity-is-legitimate", "summary": "Search the charity's name on a charity navigator site and confirm its registration number with your country's official charity regulator — legitimate charities welcome this scrutiny.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I check if a company is legitimate before doing business with them?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-check-if-company-is-legitimate", "summary": "Verify the business registration in an official company database, check for a physical address and working phone number, and look for independent reviews before signing a contract or sending money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I check if an investment opportunity is legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-check-if-investment-is-legitimate", "summary": "Verify the firm and any individual adviser are registered with your financial regulator, and be deeply sceptical of any investment promising guaranteed returns or pressure to decide quickly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What should I do immediately after a data breach affecting my accounts?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-to-do-after-a-data-breach", "summary": "Change your password for the breached service immediately, check whether the same password was reused elsewhere, enable two-factor authentication, and monitor your credit for unusual activity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I freeze my credit and why should I do it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-freeze-credit", "summary": "A credit freeze prevents new credit lines from being opened in your name without your permission — it is free in the US, takes about 15 minutes, and is one of the most powerful identity-theft protections available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I set up two-factor authentication (2FA) on my accounts?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-set-up-2fa", "summary": "Go to each account's security settings, choose two-factor authentication, and select an authenticator app rather than SMS — this single step dramatically reduces account-takeover risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I spot a spoofed phone number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-spot-spoofed-phone-number", "summary": "Caller ID is not proof of identity — anyone can spoof any number. Hang up and call back using a number from an official source if you receive an unexpected call claiming to be from a bank, government agency, or utility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect my identity online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-identity-online", "summary": "Minimise public personal information, use strong unique passwords with 2FA on every account, freeze your credit proactively, and monitor for breaches regularly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I check if a landlord or rental listing is legitimate before paying a deposit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-check-if-landlord-is-legitimate", "summary": "Verify ownership of the property through public records, insist on viewing the property in person before paying anything, and never wire a deposit to someone you have only communicated with online.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I check if a job recruiter or employer is legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-check-if-recruiter-is-legitimate", "summary": "Verify the recruiter's LinkedIn profile and the company's official website independently, and reject any 'employer' that asks for upfront fees, personal financial details before a job offer, or payment to access work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from phishing emails?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-phishing-emails", "summary": "Hover over links before clicking, check the sender's full email domain character by character, and go directly to the organisation's website instead of following any link in an email about your account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I verify that a communication from a government agency is real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-verify-government-communication-is-real", "summary": "Real government agencies initiate contact by official mail, not unexpected phone calls demanding immediate payment — hang up and call the agency's official published number to verify any contact.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from a romance scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-avoid-romance-scam", "summary": "Video-call any online connection early and often, never send money or gifts to someone you have not met in person, and treat any request for financial help from an online-only relationship as a strong warning sign.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from cryptocurrency scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-avoid-crypto-scam", "summary": "Verify any crypto platform with your financial regulator before depositing, never invest based on advice from an online contact, and remember that crypto transactions are irreversible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from tech support scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-spot-fake-tech-support-scam", "summary": "Microsoft, Apple, and Google never call you unsolicited about a virus on your computer — close any alarming pop-up by force-quitting your browser, and never give remote access to an unsolicited caller.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from subscription traps and billing scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-subscription-traps", "summary": "Read the full terms before entering card details on any free trial, set a calendar reminder before the trial ends, and use a virtual card number for subscriptions you are uncertain about.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from lottery and prize scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-lottery-prize-scams", "summary": "You cannot win a lottery you did not enter, and legitimate prizes never require an upfront fee to collect — any message saying you have won and must pay first is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from health and medical scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-health-medical-scams", "summary": "Never buy prescription medication from an unverified online pharmacy, be deeply sceptical of any supplement or treatment promising to cure a serious condition, and verify any medical billing claim against your Explanation of Benefits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from utility and energy company scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-utility-energy-scams", "summary": "Real utility companies do not demand same-day payment to avoid disconnection, never require gift cards, and will give you time to verify a bill — hang up and call the number on your statement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from travel and vacation scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-travel-scams", "summary": "Book through established platforms or directly with the accommodation, use a credit card for all travel purchases, and verify every booking confirmation through the supplier's official app or website before your trip.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from car-buying and vehicle scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-auto-vehicle-scams", "summary": "Run a VIN check, have any used vehicle inspected by an independent mechanic, and never pay a deposit for a vehicle you have not seen in person — especially if the seller wants wire transfer or gift cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from pet and puppy scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-pet-scams", "summary": "Never pay for a pet you have not seen in person, meet the animal at the breeder's or seller's location before any money changes hands, and be very cautious of online-only pet listings requiring shipping.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from insurance scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-insurance-scams", "summary": "Verify any insurance agent's licence with your state insurance department, buy only from insurers with an AM Best or similar rating, and be cautious of unusually cheap policies that lack a documented insurer behind them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect my social media accounts from being compromised?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-social-media-scams", "summary": "Use a unique strong password with app-based two-factor authentication on every social account, and recognise that a hijacked account will be used to scam your followers while appearing to be you.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from MLM and pyramid scheme recruitment?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-mlm-pyramid-schemes", "summary": "Evaluate any multi-level marketing opportunity purely on retail product sales to customers outside the organisation — if income primarily comes from recruiting others, it is a pyramid scheme regardless of what products are sold.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from AI-powered scams like voice cloning and deepfakes?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-ai-powered-scams", "summary": "Establish a verbal code word with close family for emergency requests, and treat any call creating urgency around money with scepticism regardless of how authentic the voice sounds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself and my family from gaming and in-game scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-gaming-scams", "summary": "Buy in-game currency and items only through the game's official store, never share your login credentials for boosting services, and set spending controls on your child's gaming account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from fake parcel delivery and courier scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-mail-courier-scams", "summary": "Track any delivery through the carrier's official website using a tracking number you received from the sender — never pay a customs or re-delivery fee by clicking a link in an unexpected text message.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself or my student from education and student loan scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-education-student-scams", "summary": "Federal student aid is managed exclusively through studentaid.gov — any third party charging fees to apply for aid, forgiveness, or scholarships is almost certainly a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from legal and immigration scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-legal-immigration-scams", "summary": "Only use licensed attorneys or accredited representatives for immigration help — notarios and notary publics have no authority to provide immigration advice in the US, regardless of what they claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What steps should a renter take to avoid rental fraud before signing a lease?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-housing-rental-scams-tenant", "summary": "View the property in person, confirm the landlord's ownership in public records, pay the deposit by traceable bank transfer with a signed lease in hand, and never pay in cash or via wire transfer before signing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I avoid charity scams after a natural disaster or major news event?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-charity-disaster-fraud", "summary": "Give only to established organisations you can verify in a charity register, donate directly on their official website, and wait a few days after a disaster for vetted relief organisations to be publicised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I quickly check whether a link or website is safe before clicking?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-use-risk-checker-before-clicking-link", "summary": "Use a combination of Google's Safe Browsing checker, your browser's built-in warnings, and the /risk-score/scam-risk-checker to assess unfamiliar URLs before you enter any personal or payment information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect my family against the grandparent scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-against-grandparent-scam", "summary": "Establish a family code word for genuine emergencies, and remind older relatives that no real grandchild or lawyer will ask them to keep an emergency secret from other family members.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from pig-butchering investment fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-against-romance-investment-fraud-pig-butchering", "summary": "Be deeply suspicious of any new online contact who eventually steers conversation toward investments, especially crypto platforms — the relationship is the setup, and the investment pitch is the scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I recognise and avoid advance-fee fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-recognise-and-avoid-advance-fee-fraud", "summary": "If receiving money, an inheritance, a prize, or a business deal requires you to pay fees first, it is advance-fee fraud — there is no money, and every payment leads to a request for another.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I avoid paying fake fees to get a remote job or freelance contract?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-employment-advance-fee-scam", "summary": "Legitimate employers never charge fees for hiring, equipment, or training — any 'job' requiring upfront payment is a scam, and any cheque sent before you start work will bounce.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is business email compromise and how do I prevent it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-against-business-email-compromise", "summary": "Business email compromise uses spoofed or hacked email accounts to impersonate executives and trick employees into wiring money — a verbal confirmation call on a known number defeats it every time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from smishing (SMS phishing) attacks?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-against-smishing-sms-phishing", "summary": "Never click a link in an unexpected text about a bank account, delivery, or government benefit — go directly to the organisation's app or website instead to check any claimed issue.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I report a scam effectively to maximise the chance of action?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-report-a-scam-effectively", "summary": "File with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov as your primary report, then report to the specific relevant agency (FBI IC3 for cyber fraud, CFPB for financial institutions, state AG for consumer fraud), and report on the platform where the scam occurred.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from impersonation scams in general?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-impersonation-scams", "summary": "Hang up on any unexpected call creating urgency, call back on a number you find independently, and remember that no legitimate organisation will ever demand payment via gift card.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is social engineering and how do I protect myself from it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-social-engineering", "summary": "Social engineering manipulates human psychology rather than computer systems — scepticism of urgency, authority claims, and information requests you did not initiate are the main defences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I create a family anti-scam plan that actually works?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-create-family-anti-scam-plan", "summary": "Agree on a code word, a money-pause rule, and a designated person to call before any unusual financial request — these three elements cover most scam scenarios across all ages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I avoid being scammed when buying or selling on online marketplaces?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-avoid-fake-online-marketplace-scams", "summary": "Meet locally in a public place for cash transactions, use the platform's payment system rather than Venmo or Zelle, and never accept a cheque for more than the agreed price.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from tax scams and IRS impersonators?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-tax-scams", "summary": "The IRS contacts taxpayers by postal mail first, never demands immediate gift-card or wire-transfer payment, and never threatens immediate arrest — any call making these claims is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is account takeover fraud and how do I prevent it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-against-account-takeover-fraud", "summary": "Account takeover occurs when a fraudster gains access to an existing account using stolen credentials — prevent it with unique passwords, two-factor authentication, and immediate action on any breach notification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I tell if a message from my bank is real or a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-spot-fake-bank-communication", "summary": "Real banks send secure messages through their official app and never ask for your full password, PIN, or card CVV — contact your bank on the number on the back of your card if you have any doubt.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I avoid accidentally becoming a money mule?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-money-mule-recruitment", "summary": "Never transfer money received into your account onward to a third party at someone else's request — this is money-mule activity that carries serious criminal liability regardless of whether you knew it was fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I avoid buying counterfeit goods online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-counterfeit-product-scams", "summary": "Buy directly from brand authorised sellers or the manufacturer's own website, be suspicious of prices significantly below the brand's RRP, and check for authentication features or serial number verification before purchasing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect myself from cold-call financial advisers and unsolicited investment pitches?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-against-unsolicited-financial-advice-scams", "summary": "Legitimate financial advisers do not cold-call with unsolicited investment opportunities — hang up, verify the firm on your regulator's register, and never invest based on an unsolicited call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I stop scammers from harvesting my personal information online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-personal-information-harvesting", "summary": "Minimise what you share publicly on social media, opt out of data broker sites, use privacy-focused email settings, and treat every unsolicited contact asking for 'verification' information as a potential phishing attempt.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I handle unexpected prize or winning notifications sent by text or email?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-against-fake-prize-notification-by-text", "summary": "You cannot win a competition you did not enter, and any prize requiring a fee, taxes, or personal details upfront is a scam — delete unsolicited prize notifications without responding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What are the most important habits to protect myself from online scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-protect-yourself-from-online-scams-generally", "summary": "Pause before acting on anything urgent or too good to be true, verify before paying, use strong unique passwords with 2FA, and know that gift cards are never a legitimate payment method for any real organisation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target seniors?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-seniors", "summary": "Scammers target older adults through phone calls, mail, and online channels, exploiting trust, social isolation, and unfamiliarity with digital red flags to run grandparent, Medicare, and tech-support scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target college students?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-college-students", "summary": "College students are targeted with fake job postings, scholarship scams, rental fraud, and student-loan phishing because they are financially stressed, digitally active, and often making major financial decisions for the first time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target new immigrants?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-new-immigrants", "summary": "New immigrants face immigration-services fraud, fake government notices, employment scams, and notario fraud because language barriers, unfamiliarity with U.S. systems, and fear of authorities make them especially vulnerable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target job seekers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-job-seekers", "summary": "Job seekers face fake employment listings, reshipping and money-mule schemes, and upfront-fee traps because their urgency to find work and willingness to share personal information make them easy to exploit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target military families?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-military-families", "summary": "Military families are targeted with romance scams impersonating deployed soldiers, predatory lending, fake VA benefits services, and moving-and-relocation fraud because frequent moves, deployment separations, and financial pressures create specific vulnerabilities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target small-business owners?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-small-business-owners", "summary": "Small-business owners are targeted with fake invoices, directory and advertising scams, fraudulent government-compliance notices, and supplier fraud because they receive high volumes of financial requests and may lack dedicated fraud-detection staff.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target first-time cryptocurrency investors?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-first-time-crypto-investors", "summary": "First-time crypto investors are targeted with fake exchanges, pump-and-dump groups, romance investment scams (pig butchering), and rug pulls because enthusiasm for potential gains and limited technical knowledge make them easy to mislead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target people using online dating platforms?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-online-daters", "summary": "Online daters are targeted with romance scams that build emotional dependency over weeks before requesting money, gifts, or crypto investment, exploiting loneliness and the trust formed through sustained personal communication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target new parents?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-new-parents", "summary": "New parents are targeted with counterfeit baby product listings, fake childcare job postings, birth-certificate and savings-account scams, and social media giveaway fraud because their emotional vulnerability, time pressure, and large new spending make them attractive targets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target people who are recently bereaved?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-recently-bereaved", "summary": "The recently bereaved are targeted with estate and probate fraud, fake charity solicitations in the deceased's name, debt collection scams, and obituary-mining schemes because grief impairs judgment and creates urgent financial and administrative tasks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect a relative with dementia from scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/protecting-relative-with-dementia-from-scams", "summary": "Protecting a person with dementia requires a combination of legal safeguards, practical account controls, and social supports because cognitive decline removes the filters that help most people recognize manipulation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect a college student from scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/protecting-college-student-from-scams", "summary": "Protecting a college student means having frank conversations about common campus-targeted scams, setting up lightweight financial monitoring, and establishing a standing permission for them to call you before making any unexpected financial decision.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect a non-native-English-speaking parent from scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/protecting-non-native-english-speaking-parent-from-scams", "summary": "Protecting a parent who is not a fluent English speaker means bridging the information gap: ensuring they know how official agencies actually communicate, setting up simple verification habits, and being a trusted first call for anything that feels urgent or threatening.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why are seniors more at risk of financial scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-are-seniors-more-at-risk-of-scams", "summary": "Older adults are more at risk because of a combination of social isolation, accumulated savings, trust-based communication styles, cognitive changes, and the fact that scammers specifically study and target them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why are immigrants more at risk of scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-are-immigrants-more-at-risk-of-scams", "summary": "Immigrants face higher scam risk because unfamiliarity with the new country's legal and financial systems, language barriers, fear of authorities, and reliance on untrusted information sources combine to create multiple points of exploitation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why are job seekers more vulnerable to scams than people who are employed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/why-are-job-seekers-at-risk-of-scams", "summary": "Job seekers are more vulnerable because financial pressure, urgency to find work, willingness to respond quickly to opportunities, and the broad sharing of personal information during the job search all create conditions that scammers exploit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target online gamers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-online-gamers", "summary": "Gamers are targeted with fake item trading scams, account theft through phishing, game-currency fraud, and fake cheat-software that installs malware, exploiting both the financial value of in-game assets and the competitive desire to gain advantages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target seniors on social media?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-seniors-on-social-media", "summary": "Scammers on social media target older adults with fake grandchild emergencies, prize notifications, investment endorsements using stolen celebrity images, and fake friendship followed by financial requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target single parents?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-single-parents", "summary": "Single parents face romance scams, fake childcare and housing deals, work-from-home fraud, and government-benefit impersonation because financial pressure, time constraints, and the desire to provide for their children create multiple vulnerabilities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target people with disabilities?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-people-with-disabilities", "summary": "People with disabilities are targeted with benefits impersonation, medical-equipment fraud, fake charitable fundraisers, and exploitative caregiver arrangements because fixed incomes, reliance on external assistance, and limited access to consumer-protection information create multiple vulnerabilities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target people who have recently retired?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-recent-retirees", "summary": "Recent retirees are targeted with investment fraud, annuity scams, IRS impersonation, and reverse-mortgage exploitation because they typically have a lump sum from retirement accounts and are making complex financial decisions for the first time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target low-income consumers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-low-income-consumers", "summary": "Low-income consumers are targeted with rent-to-own traps, predatory loans, fake government-assistance programs, and lottery scams because financial stress narrows options and makes modest amounts of money or benefits feel life-changing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target healthcare workers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-healthcare-workers", "summary": "Healthcare workers are targeted with credential-renewal phishing, student-loan forgiveness fraud, PPE and supply scams, and investment pitches exploiting their high income and trust in professional communications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target people who have recently gone through a divorce?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-the-recently-divorced", "summary": "The recently divorced face romance scams, financial-advisor exploitation, moving and housing fraud, and asset-transfer schemes because emotional distress, changed financial circumstances, and the rebuilding of a social life create multiple simultaneous vulnerabilities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target gig and freelance workers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-gig-workers", "summary": "Gig and freelance workers face fake client projects, platform impersonation, overpayment check schemes, and false tax-debt threats because their income is variable, their client relationships are informal, and they often navigate complex tax situations independently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target people who are in debt?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-people-in-debt", "summary": "People in debt are targeted with fake debt-relief programs, credit-repair scams, advance-fee loan fraud, and debt-collection impersonation because financial desperation makes them receptive to any offer of relief.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target frequent online shoppers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-online-shoppers", "summary": "Online shoppers are targeted with fake storefronts, counterfeit product listings, non-delivery scams, and fake return portals because the frequency of purchases creates habits of quick action that scammers exploit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target first-time homebuyers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-people-buying-their-first-home", "summary": "First-time homebuyers face wire-fraud interception of closing funds, fake rental-to-own listings, title insurance scams, and mortgage-relief fraud because the transaction is large, unfamiliar, and involves extensive document exchange.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target communities after natural disasters?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-people-after-natural-disasters", "summary": "Disaster survivors face contractor fraud, fake charity solicitations, FEMA impersonation, and price gouging because urgent need, displacement, and information overload lower the defenses that normally filter out fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers specifically target LGBTQ+ communities?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-lgbtq-communities", "summary": "LGBTQ+ individuals face sextortion exploiting fear of outing, romance scams on LGBTQ+ dating apps, fake conversion therapy referrals, and discrimination-themed fraud because privacy concerns, community trust dynamics, and specific platform behaviors create targeted vulnerabilities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers specifically target elderly women who live alone?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-elderly-women-living-alone", "summary": "Older women living alone face intensified romance, grandparent, and caller-impersonation scams because loneliness, trust in social relationships, and the loss of a financial partner who might have provided a second opinion all combine to create heightened vulnerability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target people seeking medical treatment?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-people-seeking-medical-treatment", "summary": "People seeking medical care face fake treatment providers, unproven cure scams, medical-billing fraud, and pharmaceutical counterfeiting because health anxiety, financial pressure from medical costs, and urgency undermine the normal skepticism people would apply to other purchases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target people who have recently won a prize, lottery, or legal settlement?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-people-who-have-won-money", "summary": "People who receive large windfalls face investment fraud, tax impersonation, 'winner tax' scams, and predatory financial-services pitches because wealth in transition is more vulnerable than wealth that is already managed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target wealthy or high-net-worth individuals?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-high-net-worth-individuals", "summary": "High-net-worth individuals face sophisticated investment fraud, business-email compromise, art and collectible fraud, and charity-exploitation schemes because larger available assets justify the significant effort and personalization scammers invest in each approach.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target homeowners facing foreclosure?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-people-going-through-foreclosure", "summary": "Homeowners in foreclosure face loan-modification fraud, deed-theft schemes, and fake rescue companies because desperation to save a home creates willingness to trust anyone who offers a plausible solution.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target military veterans?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-veterans", "summary": "Veterans are targeted with VA benefits claim fraud, pension poaching, fraudulent educational institutions, and investment pitches because VA benefits represent a reliable income stream and veterans may trust institutional authority and uniformed appearances more than average.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I protect a teenager from online scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/protecting-teenager-from-online-scams", "summary": "Protecting teenagers means building scam literacy through specific examples, creating a trust relationship where they will report problems without shame, and establishing simple account-level controls that reduce financial exposure while preserving independence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target people with bad credit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-people-with-bad-credit", "summary": "People with poor credit face guaranteed-approval loan fraud, credit-repair scams, fake secured cards, and predatory rent-to-own arrangements because limited access to mainstream financial products creates demand that scammers exploit with too-good-to-be-true offers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target people who are learning to invest for the first time?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-people-learning-to-invest", "summary": "Beginning investors are targeted with pump-and-dump stock promotions, fake trading courses, copy-trading platforms, and MLM investment schemes because they are building knowledge in public channels where scammers are positioned to intercept them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target people in recovery from addiction?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-people-in-recovery-from-addiction", "summary": "People in recovery face fake rehabilitation center referrals, sober-living house fraud, insurance billing fraud, and exploitative 'patient brokering' because their vulnerability, limited support networks, and urgent need for treatment make them easy to manipulate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target international students studying abroad?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-international-students", "summary": "International students face visa-status threats, fake housing listings, banking and money-transfer fraud, and diploma mills because their immigration status is tied to their enrollment and unfamiliarity with local financial systems creates multiple entry points for exploitation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers target people looking to adopt or buy a pet?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-people-adopting-pets", "summary": "Pet seekers face fake online pet listings where a 'puppy' never exists, fraudulent shipping-fee escalations, and breed-specific scam websites because the emotional attachment formed before a purchase is complete makes buyers reluctant to abandon the transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers re-target people who have already been victimized?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-scammers-target-people-who-have-been-scammed-before", "summary": "Scam victims are actively re-targeted through recovery scams because their details circulate on criminal networks, and because the desire to recover losses creates a new form of exploitable desperation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a pig butchering scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-pig-butchering-scam", "summary": "A pig butchering scam is a long-con fraud where criminals build a fake romantic or friendly relationship with a victim over weeks or months, then lure them into a fraudulent cryptocurrency investment platform before draining all their money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is sextortion?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-sextortion", "summary": "Sextortion is a form of online blackmail where a criminal threatens to share intimate images or videos of a victim unless they pay money or provide more images. The images may be real, stolen, or AI-generated.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a grandparent scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-grandparent-scam", "summary": "A grandparent scam is a phone or messaging fraud targeting older adults, where a caller pretends to be a grandchild in urgent distress — arrested, hospitalised, or stranded abroad — and begs the target to send money secretly and quickly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is quishing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-quishing", "summary": "Quishing is phishing delivered through a QR code. Victims scan a malicious QR code that redirects them to a fake website designed to steal login credentials, financial details, or install malware on their device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is SIM swapping?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-sim-swapping", "summary": "SIM swapping is a type of account takeover where a fraudster convinces your mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to a SIM card they control, giving them access to all SMS-based two-factor authentication codes sent to your number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a brushing scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-brushing-scam", "summary": "A brushing scam occurs when an online marketplace seller ships you unsolicited packages and then uses your name and address to post fake verified-purchase reviews for their own products, boosting their ratings fraudulently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a refund scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-refund-scam", "summary": "A refund scam is a fraud where criminals impersonate customer service or a utility company and claim you are owed a refund, then trick you into transferring money to them or giving them remote access to your device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is an overpayment scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-an-overpayment-scam", "summary": "An overpayment scam is a fraud where a buyer sends you a cheque or payment for more than the agreed amount and asks you to return the difference, but the original payment later bounces or is reversed, leaving you out of pocket.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a man-in-the-middle attack?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-man-in-the-middle-attack", "summary": "A man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack is when a criminal secretly intercepts and potentially alters communications between two parties who believe they are talking directly to each other — for example, between you and your bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a recovery scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-recovery-scam", "summary": "A recovery scam targets people who have already lost money to fraud and promises to recover their funds for an upfront fee — but takes more money and delivers nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is an advance fee scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-an-advance-fee-scam", "summary": "An advance fee scam promises a large future reward — a lottery win, inheritance, business deal, or loan — but requires the victim to pay an upfront fee first. The promised reward never arrives and the fees keep escalating.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is the difference between a Ponzi scheme and a pyramid scheme?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-the-difference-between-a-ponzi-and-pyramid-scheme", "summary": "A Ponzi scheme pays early investors using money from new investors, with a central operator controlling everything and no real product. A pyramid scheme requires each participant to recruit others to earn, with recruitment itself forming the revenue model.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a money mule?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-money-mule", "summary": "A money mule is a person who transfers illegally obtained money through their own bank account on behalf of criminals, usually in exchange for a payment or under false pretences. Even if unwitting, a mule can face serious legal consequences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is business email compromise (BEC)?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-business-email-compromise", "summary": "Business email compromise (BEC) is a sophisticated fraud where criminals impersonate a company executive, trusted supplier, or employee via email to trick staff into transferring money or sensitive data to fraudulent accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a sweetheart scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-sweetheart-scam", "summary": "A sweetheart scam (also called a romance scam) is a long-term fraud where a criminal builds a fake romantic relationship with a victim to emotionally manipulate them into sending money, gifts, or personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is phishing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-phishing", "summary": "Phishing is a cyber-fraud technique where criminals send deceptive messages — usually by email — that impersonate trusted organisations to trick recipients into revealing passwords, financial details, or downloading malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is vishing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-vishing", "summary": "Vishing (voice phishing) is a phone-based fraud where criminals impersonate banks, government agencies, or tech companies to trick victims into revealing passwords, PINs, or sensitive account information over the phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is smishing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-smishing", "summary": "Smishing is phishing conducted via SMS text message. Fraudulent texts impersonate delivery services, banks, or government agencies and contain links designed to steal your credentials or personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a lottery scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-lottery-scam", "summary": "A lottery scam notifies victims that they have won a prize in a lottery they never entered, then requests fees, taxes, or personal information before the 'winnings' can be released — which never actually arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a charity scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-charity-scam", "summary": "A charity scam uses the name of a real or fictitious charity to solicit donations that go directly to fraudsters rather than any legitimate cause, often exploiting recent disasters or humanitarian crises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a job scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-job-scam", "summary": "A job scam advertises fake employment opportunities to steal money, personal information, or labour from victims under the guise of a legitimate recruitment process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a tech support scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-tech-support-scam", "summary": "A tech support scam tricks victims into believing their computer is infected or compromised, then charges them for unnecessary 'repairs' or gains remote access to steal data and money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is catfishing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-catfishing", "summary": "Catfishing is the practice of creating a fake online identity to deceive another person into a relationship, usually using stolen photos and a fabricated persona. When financial fraud is involved it overlaps with sweetheart and romance scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a rental scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-rental-scam", "summary": "A rental scam tricks prospective tenants into paying a deposit or rent for a property the fraudster does not own or that does not exist, leaving the victim without accommodation or money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is identity theft?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-identity-theft", "summary": "Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information — such as your name, national insurance number, or financial details — without your permission to commit fraud, open accounts, or make purchases in your name.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a deepfake scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-deepfake-scam", "summary": "A deepfake scam uses AI-generated audio or video to impersonate a real person — a family member, celebrity, CEO, or public official — to deceive victims into transferring money or sharing sensitive information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is investment fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-investment-fraud", "summary": "Investment fraud involves deceptive schemes that promise high financial returns but are designed to steal money from investors, covering everything from fake trading platforms and crypto scams to unregulated securities and Ponzi schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a subscription trap?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-subscription-trap", "summary": "A subscription trap lures consumers with a free trial or low-cost offer, then automatically enrolls them in a recurring subscription with difficult cancellation terms, often with the ongoing charges buried in fine print.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a utility scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-utility-scam", "summary": "A utility scam impersonates electricity, gas, water, or phone providers to threaten disconnection unless an immediate payment is made, often by gift card or wire transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a travel scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-travel-scam", "summary": "Travel scams deceive consumers into paying for non-existent or misrepresented holiday packages, flights, accommodation, or visa services, often resulting in people arriving at a destination with no valid booking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a crypto rug pull?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-crypto-rug-pull", "summary": "A rug pull is a cryptocurrency exit scam where developers create a new token or project, attract investment, then drain the liquidity pool or sell all their holdings at once, abandoning the project and leaving investors with worthless tokens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a government impersonation scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-government-impersonation-scam", "summary": "A government impersonation scam involves criminals posing as tax authorities, law enforcement, immigration officials, or other government agencies to frighten victims into making urgent payments or sharing personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a healthcare scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-healthcare-scam", "summary": "Healthcare scams sell fake, unproven, or dangerous medical products, exploit fear of illness to harvest personal information, or fraudulently bill insurance companies for services never provided.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a student loan scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-student-loan-scam", "summary": "Student loan scams target borrowers with fake offers to forgive, reduce, or consolidate their student debt in exchange for upfront fees or personal financial information, ultimately stealing money or enabling identity fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a pet scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-pet-scam", "summary": "A pet scam involves advertising puppies, kittens, or other animals for sale or adoption that do not exist, collecting deposits and delivery fees without ever providing an animal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a social media impersonation scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-social-media-impersonation-scam", "summary": "A social media impersonation scam creates a fake profile mimicking a real person — a celebrity, friend, or family member — to solicit money, extract personal information, or spread fraudulent promotions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is an NFT scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-an-nft-scam", "summary": "NFT scams exploit the non-fungible token market through fake marketplaces, counterfeit digital art, wash trading to inflate values, and rug pulls that abandon projects after collecting buyers' funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a prize notification scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-prize-notification-scam", "summary": "A prize notification scam informs victims they have won a prize and requests personal information or a payment to claim it. The prize does not exist and the purpose is either to steal money through advance fees or harvest personal details for fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is an insurance scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-an-insurance-scam", "summary": "Insurance scams can target policyholders directly (fake policies, ghost brokers) or involve fraud against insurers (staged accidents, inflated claims) that ultimately raises premiums for all honest customers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a gaming scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-gaming-scam", "summary": "Gaming scams target players through fake in-game item trades, phishing for game account credentials, fraudulent marketplaces for virtual goods, and social engineering within gaming communities to steal money or account access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a romance investment scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-romance-investment-scam", "summary": "A romance investment scam combines fake romantic relationship-building with fraudulent cryptocurrency or forex investment platforms, using emotional manipulation to persuade victims to invest growing sums before disappearing with all funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is account takeover fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-account-takeover-fraud", "summary": "Account takeover (ATO) fraud occurs when a criminal gains unauthorised access to one of your online accounts and uses it to steal money, make purchases, or harvest personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a fake invoice scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-fake-invoice-scam", "summary": "A fake invoice scam sends fraudulent payment requests to businesses or individuals, hoping that recipients will pay them without checking whether the goods or services billed were actually ordered or received.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a romance scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-romance-scam", "summary": "A romance scam involves a criminal building a fake online romantic relationship with a victim to manipulate them into sending money, gifts, or personal information. The romantic partner is entirely fictitious.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is ransomware?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-ransomware", "summary": "Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts the victim's files or locks their device and demands payment — typically in cryptocurrency — for the decryption key needed to restore access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a puppy mill scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-puppy-mill-scam", "summary": "A puppy mill scam involves breeders or sellers who misrepresent the health, breed purity, and conditions of puppies, selling sick or poorly-bred animals that quickly develop serious medical conditions at great emotional and financial cost.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a debt collection scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-debt-collection-scam", "summary": "A debt collection scam involves fraudsters impersonating debt collectors and threatening victims with arrest, lawsuits, or wage garnishment to coerce payment for debts that do not exist or have already been paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a courier parcel scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-courier-parcel-scam", "summary": "A courier parcel scam mimics delivery notifications from major logistics companies to trick recipients into paying fake customs fees, releasing personal information, or clicking malicious links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a bank impersonation scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-bank-impersonation-scam", "summary": "A bank impersonation scam involves criminals posing as your bank's fraud or security team to trick you into moving your money to a 'safe account' or revealing your credentials, leading to complete loss of the transferred funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a fake escrow scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-fake-escrow-scam", "summary": "A fake escrow scam in a buyer/seller transaction proposes using a fraudulent escrow service controlled by the scammer, giving the victim false confidence that funds are protected while the fraudster simply steals the payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a scholarship scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-scholarship-scam", "summary": "A scholarship scam charges students fees to apply for financial aid opportunities that either do not exist, are freely available without a middleman, or guarantee awards no legitimate scholarship could promise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get scammed through Apple Pay?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-scammed-through-apple-pay", "summary": "Apple Pay itself is technically secure, but you can absolutely be scammed if you use it to pay a fraudulent seller, because payments sent to individuals via Apple Cash are treated like cash and are not reversible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get scammed through Google Pay?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-scammed-through-google-pay", "summary": "Google Pay is secure for card-based purchases with buyer protection, but Google Wallet peer-to-peer transfers are treated as cash — once sent, they cannot be reversed by Google.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get scammed through a wire transfer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-scammed-through-a-wire-transfer", "summary": "Wire transfer fraud is one of the most damaging scam types because wires are nearly impossible to reverse once processed — they are the payment method of choice for high-value scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get scammed with a cashier's check?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-scammed-with-a-cashiers-check", "summary": "Fake cashier's check fraud is extremely common: your bank makes funds available before the check clears, and when it bounces days later you are liable for the full amount you withdrew.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get scammed with a money order?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-scammed-with-a-money-order", "summary": "Money orders can be counterfeited, altered, or used in overpayment scams the same way fake cashier's checks are — always verify with the issuer before spending the money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get scammed through buy-now-pay-later?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-scammed-through-buy-now-pay-later", "summary": "BNPL fraud happens in two ways: scammers use stolen identities to open BNPL accounts, and scam merchants accept BNPL then disappear — leaving you with a debt and no goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get scammed through a credit card?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-scammed-through-a-credit-card", "summary": "Credit cards offer the strongest buyer protection of any common payment method, but you can still be defrauded — the key difference is that you have a legal right to dispute fraudulent charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get scammed through a debit card?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-scammed-through-a-debit-card", "summary": "Debit cards carry more financial risk than credit cards in a scam because fraudulent charges come directly from your bank account — and while dispute rights exist, they are weaker and your cash is gone while the investigation proceeds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are gift cards traceable if I get scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/are-gift-cards-traceable", "summary": "Gift card transactions are very difficult to trace and almost never reversed — which is precisely why scammers demand them as payment above all other methods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is crypto traceable if I get scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-crypto-traceable-if-scammed", "summary": "Cryptocurrency transactions are recorded permanently on a public blockchain and are technically traceable, but converting that trace into a real-world identity and recovering funds is difficult and often unsuccessful.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are crypto ATM payments reversible if I get scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/are-crypto-atm-payments-reversible", "summary": "Crypto ATM transactions are essentially irreversible — the moment you feed cash into the machine and confirm the transaction, the funds leave on the blockchain and cannot be recalled.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are payment app transfers refundable if I get scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/are-payment-app-transfers-refundable", "summary": "Most payment apps — Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, PayPal Friends and Family — treat peer-to-peer transfers as final. Refunds are at the discretion of the recipient, not the platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is the safest way to pay a stranger?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/safest-way-to-pay-a-stranger", "summary": "A credit card through a platform with buyer protection is the safest way to pay an unknown person or seller — it gives you chargeback rights if the transaction goes wrong.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is the safest way to pay an online seller?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/safest-way-to-pay-online-seller", "summary": "Use a credit card through the platform's official checkout, or PayPal Goods and Services — both provide dispute rights if the item never arrives or is not as described.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is the safest way to pay a private car seller?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/safest-way-to-pay-private-car-seller", "summary": "A bank-issued cashier's check, cash in person at a bank or police station exchange zone, or an in-person wire transfer arranged at your bank are the safest methods for a private car purchase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is the safest way to pay a contractor?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/safest-way-to-pay-contractor", "summary": "Pay by cheque or credit card in milestone instalments tied to completed work — never pay the full amount upfront, and never pay in cash with no receipt.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is the safest way to pay a landlord?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/safest-way-to-pay-landlord", "summary": "Pay rent and deposits by cheque, bank transfer to a verified account, or through a reputable property management platform — always get a written receipt and verify the landlord's identity before sending any money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a credit card protected if I am scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-credit-card-protected-if-scammed", "summary": "Credit cards offer strong protection — the statutory right is the Fair Credit Billing Act (US) or Section 75 (UK), and chargeback is the card-scheme dispute process used to enforce it — but protection is not absolute, it applies to items not received or misrepresented, and you must dispute within 60 days of the statement date.", "lastReviewed": "2026-09-21" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Zelle protected if I get scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-zelle-protected-if-scammed", "summary": "Zelle does not provide buyer protection for payments you voluntarily authorised — but if someone made an unauthorised transfer from your account without your knowledge, you may have recourse under your bank's fraud policies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Venmo protected if I get scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-venmo-protected-if-scammed", "summary": "Venmo peer-to-peer payments are not protected if you voluntarily sent the money. Venmo's Purchase Protection applies only to transactions specifically marked as purchases from eligible sellers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is Cash App protected if I get scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-cash-app-protected-if-scammed", "summary": "Cash App peer-to-peer payments are not refundable if you authorised them. Cash App does not mediate disputes between senders and recipients the way a bank or credit card issuer would.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is PayPal protected if I get scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-paypal-protected-if-scammed", "summary": "PayPal Goods and Services purchases are protected by PayPal's buyer protection program. PayPal Friends and Family payments have no buyer protection — the choice of payment type is critical.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a wire transfer reversible after it is sent?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-wire-transfer-reversible", "summary": "Wire transfers are designed to be final — reversal is possible only in a narrow window before the receiving bank releases funds, and success is not guaranteed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What payment methods are refundable if I get scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-payment-methods-are-refundable", "summary": "Credit cards offer the strongest refund rights through chargebacks. Debit cards have weaker but present rights. Most peer-to-peer apps, wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto are not refundable after the fact.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can crypto payments be traced by police?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-crypto-payments-be-traced-by-police", "summary": "Law enforcement can trace cryptocurrency transactions on public blockchains using blockchain analytics tools, and major exchanges comply with lawful subpoenas — but tracing does not always lead to recovery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Does travel insurance cover scams?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/does-travel-insurance-cover-scams", "summary": "Most standard travel insurance policies do not cover financial fraud or scams — they cover trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and lost luggage, not being deceived by a scammer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Should I pay an online seller with a bank transfer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/should-i-pay-online-seller-with-bank-transfer", "summary": "Paying an unknown online seller by direct bank transfer is high risk — unlike credit cards, bank transfers offer minimal buyer protection and are difficult to reverse once processed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-09-21" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer access my bank account through a payment I made?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-access-my-account-through-payment", "summary": "A payment you make to a scammer does not give them access to your bank account — but some payment methods can expose account details that scammers may attempt to exploit further.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is escrow safe for online purchases?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-escrow-safe-for-online-purchases", "summary": "Legitimate escrow services provide strong protection for high-value transactions, but fake escrow is a common scam — always verify the escrow company is licensed and independent before trusting it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What happens if I send money to the wrong person?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-happens-if-i-send-money-to-wrong-person", "summary": "Sending money to the wrong person by mistake is different from being scammed — banks can attempt a recall if contacted quickly, but if the recipient refuses to return it, your recourse is through civil channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get scammed paying a rental deposit?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-scammed-paying-for-a-rental-deposit", "summary": "Rental deposit fraud is extremely common — fake landlords collect deposits for properties they do not own or control, then disappear. Always verify ownership and view the property in person before paying anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer take money from my account with just my account number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-scammer-take-money-with-just-my-account-number", "summary": "A bank account and routing number together can be used to initiate ACH withdrawals — so yes, this information can be misused, though most banks have protections against unauthorised transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do refund scams work and which payment methods do they use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-refund-scams-work-with-payments", "summary": "Refund scams claim to overpay you or process an erroneous refund, then ask you to return the 'excess' via a different method — allowing them to net a real payment from you while the original funding proves fake.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone steal money through contactless payment or NFC?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-steal-money-through-contactless-payment", "summary": "Contactless card skimming is technically possible but rare in practice — the far bigger risk is physical card theft, data breaches, and phishing rather than someone waving a reader near your wallet.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is PayPal Friends and Family safe to use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-paypal-friends-and-family-safe", "summary": "PayPal Friends and Family is safe to use with actual friends and family — but using it for purchases from strangers or businesses removes all buyer protection and is what scammers specifically request.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can gift card scams happen at any store?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-gift-card-scam-happen-at-any-store", "summary": "Gift card scams can use cards from any major retailer — Google Play, iTunes, Amazon, Steam, Walmart, and many others are all frequently demanded by scammers because they are universally available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is cryptocurrency safer than cash for large transactions?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-cryptocurrency-safer-than-cash", "summary": "Cryptocurrency is not safer than cash for most consumer transactions — it is irreversible, volatile, and lacks consumer protection. For some business use cases it has advantages, but those come with significant caveats.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What should I do immediately after sending money to a scammer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-to-do-after-sending-money-to-scammer", "summary": "Act within hours, not days: contact your bank or payment platform immediately, report to the FTC and relevant agencies, and document everything — early action maximises your chance of any recovery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Does Section 75 protect online purchases?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/does-section-75-protect-online-purchases", "summary": "Section 75 of the UK Consumer Credit Act gives you a joint liability claim against your credit card provider for purchases over £100 and up to £30,000 — it applies to online purchases if you paid by credit card.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I dispute a bank transfer in the UK if I get scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-dispute-a-bank-transfer-in-the-uk", "summary": "UK banks are now required to reimburse most victims of Authorised Push Payment fraud under Payment Systems Regulator rules in force since 7 October 2024 — but there are conditions and caps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-09-19" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a buy-now-pay-later purchase reversible if the item is not delivered?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-bnpl-reversible-if-item-not-delivered", "summary": "BNPL dispute rights vary by provider — some have good dispute processes, others are slow or difficult. Act quickly before instalments continue and document everything from the start.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I pay safely on Facebook Marketplace?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-pay-safely-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "For local pickup, pay cash at time of exchange. For shipped items, use Facebook's checkout with buyer protection or PayPal Goods and Services — never Zelle, Venmo, or wire transfer to a stranger.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a wire transfer traceable?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-wire-transfer-traceable", "summary": "Wire transfers leave a detailed paper trail through banking systems, but tracing the funds and actually recovering them from a scammer are two very different things.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is cryptocurrency refundable from an exchange if I was scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-crypto-refundable-from-exchange", "summary": "Centralised cryptocurrency exchanges can freeze accounts and cooperate with law enforcement, but they cannot reverse on-chain transactions — once crypto leaves the exchange, the exchange cannot retrieve it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is the difference between a chargeback and a refund?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/difference-between-chargeback-and-refund", "summary": "A refund is the merchant voluntarily returning your money. A chargeback is a forced reversal initiated through your bank when the merchant will not cooperate — they are very different processes with different implications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I get scammed buying concert tickets online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-get-scammed-buying-concert-tickets-online", "summary": "Ticket fraud is extremely common, particularly for sold-out events — fake or invalid tickets are sold through social media, classifieds, and lookalike websites. Pay by credit card through verified platforms only.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does a pig-butchering scam use cryptocurrency?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-does-pig-butchering-scam-use-crypto", "summary": "Pig-butchering scams build a fake romantic or friendship relationship over weeks, introduce a fraudulent crypto investment platform, and harvest increasingly large deposits — all via irreversible cryptocurrency transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I still be scammed even if I pay with PayPal Goods and Services?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-be-scammed-paying-with-paypal-goods-and-services", "summary": "PayPal Goods and Services significantly reduces your risk but does not eliminate it — scammers can still attempt to win disputes by providing fake tracking information or by violating policies in ways that take time to prove.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I pay safely for services online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-pay-safely-for-services-online", "summary": "For online services, pay by credit card with milestone billing tied to delivered work — never pay the full amount upfront to an unverified provider, and use contracts that specify deliverables.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer hack my phone through a text message?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-scammer-hack-my-phone-through-a-text", "summary": "Receiving a text alone is safe, but tapping a link in a malicious text can install malware or steal credentials if your phone is unpatched.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer drain my bank account with just my phone number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-drain-bank-account-with-just-my-phone-number", "summary": "Your phone number alone is not enough to access your bank, but scammers can use it to intercept SMS authentication codes or to impersonate you, which can lead to account takeover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer clone my SIM card?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-clone-my-sim-card", "summary": "SIM cloning is technically possible on older SIM cards but rare; SIM swapping — convincing your carrier to transfer your number to a new SIM — is far more common and effective.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer see my screen using a remote-access app?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-see-my-screen-via-remote-access-app", "summary": "Yes — if you installed a legitimate remote-access app at a scammer's request, they can see everything on your screen and control your device in real time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer steal money from my card using tap-to-pay?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-steal-money-via-tap-to-pay", "summary": "Contactless skimming is theoretically possible but extremely difficult in practice; the far greater risk is scammers obtaining your card details through other means and using them in online transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I clicked a suspicious link but didn't enter anything — am I safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/i-clicked-a-suspicious-link-but-didnt-enter-anything-am-i-safe", "summary": "In most cases you are fine, but some pages can attempt drive-by exploits or track your device; checking your device and changing passwords on any site that was open is a sensible precaution.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I know if my phone has been compromised?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-know-if-my-phone-is-compromised", "summary": "Warning signs include unexplained battery drain, high data usage, unfamiliar apps, overheating, and accounts showing logins you don't recognise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I know if my email account has been compromised?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-know-if-my-email-account-is-compromised", "summary": "Key signs include login alerts from unknown locations, sent messages you didn't write, password reset emails you didn't request, and missing messages that may have been deleted.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I know if my identity has been stolen?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-know-if-my-identity-has-been-stolen", "summary": "Common signs include unfamiliar accounts on your credit report, bills or collection notices for debts you didn't incur, tax filing rejections, and unexplained benefit or benefit-application activity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What do I do if my phone number was ported away without my permission?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-to-do-if-my-phone-number-was-ported-without-permission", "summary": "Contact your carrier immediately to reverse the port, then alert your bank and change passwords for accounts that use your number for authentication — acting within hours matters.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What should I do if I installed a suspicious app on my phone?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-to-do-if-i-installed-a-suspicious-app", "summary": "Uninstall the app immediately, revoke its permissions, change passwords for any accounts accessed on the device, and run a malware scan.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer access my accounts with just my email address?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-access-my-accounts-with-just-my-email-address", "summary": "Your email address alone is not enough to break in, but it gives scammers a starting point for phishing, credential stuffing, and account recovery attacks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I know if any of my online accounts have been compromised?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-know-if-my-accounts-have-been-compromised", "summary": "Check each account's recent activity log, look for unrecognised login locations, and use breach-checking tools to see if your credentials appeared in a known data breach.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer steal my identity with just my name and address?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-steal-my-identity-with-just-my-name-and-address", "summary": "Name and address alone are rarely enough for full identity theft, but combined with other data points they can be used to open accounts, file fraudulent claims, or pass basic verification checks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is my phone actually listening to my conversations?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-my-phone-listening-to-my-conversations", "summary": "There is no credible evidence that mainstream smartphone apps listen to ambient audio for advertising; the more likely explanation for eerily relevant ads is the large amount of behavioral data already collected about you.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone track my location without me knowing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-track-my-location-without-me-knowing", "summary": "Yes — stalkerware apps, hidden AirTags, shared account settings, and social media check-ins can all reveal your location to someone without your awareness.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer get into my accounts using old passwords from a data breach?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-get-into-my-accounts-using-my-old-passwords", "summary": "Yes — credential stuffing attacks automatically test leaked username-password pairs against hundreds of sites, so any account where you reused a breached password is at risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What can a scammer do if they have my Social Security Number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-happens-if-a-scammer-has-my-social-security-number", "summary": "With your SSN a fraudster can open credit accounts, file false tax returns, claim government benefits, and gain employment in your name — the damage can take years to undo.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone hack my Wi-Fi and see what I'm doing online?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-hack-my-wifi-and-see-what-im-doing", "summary": "If someone accesses your Wi-Fi network, they can potentially intercept unencrypted traffic, but HTTPS protects the content of most web browsing; the main practical risks are bandwidth theft and being on the same network as a malicious device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer open a bank account in my name?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-open-bank-account-in-my-name", "summary": "Yes — with enough personal data (name, SSN or national ID, date of birth, address) a fraudster can apply for accounts online, often passing identity checks at less rigorous institutions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer take over my social media account?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-take-over-my-social-media-account", "summary": "Yes — through phishing, password reuse from breaches, SIM swapping, or account recovery manipulation, social media accounts are taken over regularly and used to scam your contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is stalkerware and how do I find it on my device?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-stalkerware-and-how-do-i-find-it", "summary": "Stalkerware is software installed on a device without consent to secretly monitor calls, messages, location, and activity; it is often used in domestic abuse contexts and usually requires brief physical access to install.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer use my photo to steal my identity?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-use-my-photo-to-steal-my-identity", "summary": "A photo alone is unlikely to enable financial identity theft, but it can be used to create fake profiles for romance scams, impersonate you socially, or in some cases pass weak biometric verification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer access my iCloud or Google account?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-access-my-icloud-or-google-account", "summary": "Yes — and if they do, they potentially have access to your photos, messages, contacts, location, backups, and any services that sync through that account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What exactly is a phishing attack and how does it work against me?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-phishing-attack-and-how-does-it-work", "summary": "Phishing is a deceptive communication — usually an email, text, or fake website — designed to trick you into revealing credentials, financial details, or installing malware by impersonating a trusted entity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer hack me through public Wi-Fi?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-a-scammer-hack-me-through-public-wifi", "summary": "Public Wi-Fi carries real risks including rogue access points and traffic interception, but HTTPS encryption protects most browsing; the biggest risks are unencrypted apps and account access on network operator-controlled routers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What personal data do scammers buy on the dark web and what do they do with it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-personal-data-do-scammers-buy-on-the-dark-web", "summary": "Dark web markets sell full identity packages (name, SSN, DOB, address), banking credentials, credit card numbers, and email-password combos — each enabling a different type of fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer access my device via Bluetooth?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-access-my-device-via-bluetooth", "summary": "Bluetooth attacks are possible but require close physical proximity; keeping Bluetooth off or set to non-discoverable and applying OS updates closes the main attack windows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What should I do if I think my computer has been hacked?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-should-i-do-if-my-computer-was-hacked", "summary": "Disconnect from the internet immediately, run a malware scan, change all passwords from a separate device, and consider reinstalling the operating system if you cannot be certain the machine is clean.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone spy on me through my laptop camera without me knowing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-spy-on-me-through-my-laptop-camera", "summary": "It is technically possible if your device is infected with remote-access malware, but it requires deliberate compromise; the most practical prevention is keeping software updated, using a camera cover, and watching for the camera indicator light.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I secure all my accounts after falling victim to a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-secure-my-accounts-after-a-scam", "summary": "Work systematically through your most critical accounts first: change passwords, enable two-factor authentication, revoke unexpected access, and monitor for any changes made during the period of compromise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer hack my phone through a fake charging cable or USB charger?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-access-my-accounts-via-a-fake-charging-cable", "summary": "Weaponised charging cables exist and have been demonstrated by security researchers, but they require physical access to your cable or device; public USB charging ports carry a real but overstated 'juice jacking' risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is two-factor authentication and do I really need it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-two-factor-authentication-and-do-i-really-need-it", "summary": "Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a second verification step beyond your password, and yes — it is one of the single most effective steps you can take to protect your accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer commit fraud using just my debit card number and expiry date?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-commit-fraud-using-my-stolen-debit-card-number", "summary": "Yes — card-not-present fraud only requires the card number and expiry date, and often the CVV, all of which are obtainable through phishing, skimming, or data breaches.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer commit fraud if they know my bank account number and routing number?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-commit-fraud-if-they-know-my-bank-account-number", "summary": "Yes — account and routing numbers can be used to initiate ACH transfers or create fraudulent checks; however, receiving a direct deposit doesn't expose these numbers to your employer in a way that creates risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer misuse my passport or driver's license details?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-use-my-passport-or-drivers-license-details", "summary": "Passport and license details enable identity verification fraud — opening financial accounts, applying for loans, or verifying identities on platforms that accept government ID — making them among the most sensitive personal data you hold.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer intercept my text messages?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-intercept-my-text-messages", "summary": "In targeted scenarios, SS7 network vulnerabilities and SIM swapping allow interception of SMS; for most people the risk is lower-tech: malware on your device or access to linked accounts that sync messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a money mule and could I accidentally become one?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-money-mule-and-could-i-accidentally-become-one", "summary": "A money mule unknowingly or knowingly transfers stolen money through their own bank account; scammers recruit mules through fake job offers, romance relationships, or lottery wins — and being used as a mule can result in account freezes, credit damage, and criminal charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer take out loans or credit cards in my name?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-take-loans-or-credit-out-in-my-name", "summary": "Yes — with enough personal data (name, SSN, DOB, address) fraudsters apply for credit and loans in your name; a credit freeze is the most reliable prevention.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer gain access to my accounts through a fake browser extension?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-gain-access-through-a-fake-browser-extension", "summary": "Yes — malicious browser extensions can read everything you type in your browser, including passwords and payment details, and capture session cookies that allow account access without needing your password.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can someone spy on me through a smart speaker or smart TV?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-someone-spy-on-me-using-a-smart-speaker", "summary": "Smart speakers listen for wake words locally and may occasionally send clips to cloud servers; smart TVs can have microphones and cameras; both can be monitored if the associated account is compromised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I remove my personal information from the internet?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-do-i-remove-my-personal-information-from-the-internet", "summary": "You can reduce your online footprint by submitting opt-out requests to data brokers, requesting removal from Google search results, deleting unused accounts, and tightening social media privacy settings — full removal is impossible but meaningful reduction is achievable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer use AI to clone my voice and commit fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-use-ai-to-clone-my-voice", "summary": "Yes — AI voice cloning tools can produce convincing replicas of your voice from short recordings, and scammers use them in family emergency scams, business fraud, and audio deepfakes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is SIM swapping and how do I prevent it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-sim-swapping-and-how-do-i-prevent-it", "summary": "SIM swapping is when a fraudster convinces your mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to a SIM they control, giving them your calls and texts including banking OTPs; prevention centres on a carrier SIM-lock PIN and switching to authenticator-app 2FA.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer commit identity fraud with just my date of birth?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-commit-identity-fraud-with-my-date-of-birth", "summary": "Your date of birth alone is rarely enough, but combined with your name and other identifiers it significantly assists verification fraud, account recovery attacks, and social engineering of institutions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a keylogger and how would I know if one is on my device?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-keylogger-and-how-do-i-detect-one", "summary": "A keylogger records every keystroke you make, capturing passwords and personal data; most keyloggers arrive via malware and can be detected through security software and careful monitoring of unusual device behaviour.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Should I use a password manager and which type is safest after a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/should-i-use-a-password-manager-after-a-scam", "summary": "Yes — a reputable password manager is one of the most effective security tools available; after a scam it helps you replace all exposed credentials systematically with strong, unique passwords.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a scammer misuse my medical records or health insurance information?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-scammer-misuse-my-medical-records", "summary": "Yes — medical identity theft involves fraudsters using your insurance details to receive healthcare services or file false claims; it can corrupt your medical records and result in bills for treatment you never received.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What should I do if a scammer has my home address?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-to-do-if-a-scammer-has-my-home-address", "summary": "Knowing your address enables mail fraud, physical threats, and combined identity attacks; monitor your mail, alert your household, and take steps to reduce public display of your address.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I sue a scammer in civil court to recover my money?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-sue-a-scammer-in-civil-court", "summary": "Yes, you can file a civil lawsuit against a scammer, but collecting a judgment is often very difficult if they are anonymous, overseas, or have no assets — this is general information, not personalised legal advice.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How does small claims court work for scam victims?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/small-claims-court-scam-how-it-works", "summary": "Small claims court is a simplified, low-cost legal process where you can sue for a set maximum amount without needing a lawyer — it is often the most practical civil option for scam victims with traceable defendants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What are my rights if my bank refuses to refund an unauthorised transaction?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/bank-refuses-refund-unauthorised-transaction", "summary": "In most countries, banks are legally required to refund genuinely unauthorised transactions unless they can show you acted fraudulently or with gross negligence — if your bank refuses, you have escalation options including the financial ombudsman.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is the bank's liability under APP fraud reimbursement rules?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/app-fraud-bank-liability-reimbursement", "summary": "In the UK, new mandatory APP reimbursement rules require most banks and payment firms to reimburse victims of authorised push payment fraud up to £85,000 per claim, with limited exceptions — similar rules are developing in other countries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What are my chargeback rights when I have been scammed on a purchase?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/chargeback-rights-scam-purchase", "summary": "If you paid by debit or credit card, chargeback lets you dispute a transaction with your card provider and potentially recover the funds — credit card purchases may also carry additional Section 75 protection in the UK.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it illegal to send scam text messages?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-illegal-to-send-scam-texts", "summary": "Yes — sending fraudulent or deceptive text messages is illegal in virtually every jurisdiction, typically under fraud, computer misuse, and communications offences laws, carrying significant criminal penalties.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Could I be liable if I unknowingly acted as a money mule?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/am-i-liable-as-unwitting-money-mule", "summary": "Unknowingly receiving and forwarding money for a fraudster can still carry criminal or civil consequences, though genuine unawareness is a defence — if you suspect you have been used as a money mule, stop immediately and report it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I am embarrassed that I was scammed — is that a normal feeling?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/embarrassed-i-was-scammed-is-that-normal", "summary": "Yes, embarrassment and shame are among the most commonly reported emotional responses after being scammed, but they are based on a misunderstanding — scammers are highly trained professionals, and being targeted is not a reflection of your intelligence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I emotionally recover after being scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-emotionally-recover-after-being-scammed", "summary": "Emotional recovery from fraud involves acknowledging the grief, reducing self-blame, seeking social support, and taking practical steps that restore a sense of control — many people fully recover with time and the right help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is online fraud a criminal offence or just a civil matter?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-online-fraud-a-criminal-offence", "summary": "Online fraud is a criminal offence in virtually all jurisdictions, not merely a civil matter — criminals can face imprisonment and fines, though civil remedies and criminal prosecution are separate processes and both may be pursued.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What are my rights and recourse options if my identity is stolen?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/identity-theft-rights-and-recourse", "summary": "Identity theft victims have legal rights including the right to have fraudulent entries corrected on credit files, the right to dispute fraudulent debts, and access to specialist identity theft support services — acting quickly significantly limits the damage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are there legal options if I was defrauded in a romance scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/romance-scam-legal-options", "summary": "Romance scam victims have the same civil and criminal complaint options as other fraud victims, though recovery is often complicated by the scammer's overseas location and anonymity — emotional support should be prioritised alongside legal steps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can the police actually recover money lost to scammers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-police-recover-scam-money", "summary": "Police can recover scam proceeds in some cases — particularly where the scammer is domestic and identifiable — but recovery is far from guaranteed and is more likely through your bank than through a criminal investigation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is there any legal recourse if I lost money in a cryptocurrency scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/crypto-scam-legal-recourse", "summary": "Legal recourse exists for crypto scam victims, but recovery is challenging due to the pseudonymous nature of blockchain transactions — your options depend heavily on whether the platform was a regulated entity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I paid a scammer with gift cards — can I get my money back?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/gift-card-scam-can-i-get-money-back", "summary": "Recovering money paid via gift cards is very difficult, but you should still contact the gift card issuer immediately, as a small number of cards are stopped before they are drained if you act within hours.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I make a complaint to a financial regulator about an investment scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/investment-scam-financial-regulator-complaint", "summary": "You can report investment scams to your national financial regulator — in the UK the FCA, in the US the SEC and CFTC — but regulatory complaints pursue the firm on behalf of the public rather than recovering your individual funds, so bank and legal remedies should be pursued in parallel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an employer liable if an employee was scammed and the company lost money?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/employer-liable-if-employee-scammed-company", "summary": "Generally, liability depends on whether the employee followed established procedures and acted reasonably — if adequate controls were in place and the employee disregarded them, the employee may bear some responsibility; if controls were inadequate, the employer's exposure may be greater.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a Section 75 claim and when can I use it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-section-75-claim", "summary": "Section 75 of the UK Consumer Credit Act 1974 makes your credit card company jointly liable with the merchant for purchases between £100 and £30,000 — it is a powerful consumer right that applies even if only part of the price was on the credit card.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What legal protections and redress exist if I was victim of a pension scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/pension-scam-legal-protection-redress", "summary": "Pension scam victims may have redress through the Financial Ombudsman Service, the Pension Ombudsman, compensation schemes, and civil litigation — but transfers to unregulated vehicles typically have limited compensation cover, making reporting and acting quickly essential.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Do I have rights if a company's data breach led to me being scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/data-breach-rights-after-scam", "summary": "Yes — if a company failed to protect your personal data and that failure led to fraud against you, you may have a claim for damages under data protection law, depending on the nature of the breach and whether it caused you identifiable harm.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What consumer rights do I have against a fake online shop?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/consumer-rights-fake-online-shop", "summary": "Your most effective recourse against a fake online shop is through your payment method — card chargeback, Section 75, or APP fraud claims — rather than through the shop itself, which will typically vanish or ignore communications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can being scammed cause PTSD or serious psychological harm?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/ptsd-after-scam-is-it-real", "summary": "Yes — financial fraud can cause clinically significant psychological distress including symptoms consistent with PTSD, anxiety disorders, and depression, particularly when the loss was large, involved betrayal of trust, or compromised financial security.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What legal rights do I have if I lost a rental deposit to a housing scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/housing-deposit-scam-legal-rights", "summary": "If you paid a deposit for a rental that did not exist or was not the landlord's to rent, you have civil claim rights against the fraudster and payment method recourse options — acting quickly to dispute the payment gives the best chance of recovery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What can I do legally if I paid money in response to a fake job offer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/job-offer-scam-what-to-do-legally", "summary": "Fake job scams that require upfront payments for training, equipment, or DBS checks are fraud — you can pursue chargeback or APP fraud recovery through your bank and should report to the appropriate fraud and employment authorities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What does the Financial Ombudsman Service do and how do I use it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/financial-ombudsman-what-it-does", "summary": "The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) in the UK is a free, independent service that resolves disputes between consumers and financial businesses — it can order banks and other firms to reimburse victims in ways that court action cannot always achieve.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Should I tell my family and friends that I was scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/telling-family-friends-you-were-scammed", "summary": "Telling trusted people about a scam has significant practical and emotional benefits — it provides support, protects them from similar scams, and breaks the cycle of silence that allows scam stigma to persist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I report a scam anonymously without giving my personal details?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/can-i-report-scam-anonymously", "summary": "Yes — most national fraud authorities accept anonymous reports, though providing your details significantly increases the chance of an investigation and is required to pursue personal recovery claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I make an insurance claim for money lost to a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/insurance-claim-for-fraud-loss", "summary": "Some insurance policies cover fraud losses — particularly home contents insurance with financial fraud extensions, standalone identity theft policies, and some bank accounts with packaged fraud cover — but many standard policies do not, so check your policy terms carefully.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are there extra legal protections for elderly or vulnerable scam victims?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/scam-victim-rights-elderly-vulnerable", "summary": "Yes — banks, regulators, and financial ombudsman services recognise enhanced obligations when dealing with vulnerable consumers, and in serious cases involving abuse of a vulnerable person, criminal law provides additional protections.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "When a bank transfer was made to a scammer, can the money be recalled?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/bank-transfer-fraud-can-money-be-recalled", "summary": "Banks can attempt to recall a fraudulent transfer, and recalls sometimes succeed if the scammer's receiving account still holds the funds — speed is critical, as scammers typically move money within hours.", "lastReviewed": "2026-09-21" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What are my rights if I was scammed by someone impersonating HMRC or the IRS?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/scam-impersonating-hmrc-or-irs-rights", "summary": "Government impersonation scams are serious criminal offences — victims have the same bank recovery and reporting options as for other fraud, and reporting specifically to the impersonated agency is important as they track and publicise such operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What does 'gross negligence' mean when banks refuse scam refunds?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-gross-negligence-in-bank-fraud", "summary": "Gross negligence in the context of bank fraud refusals means conduct significantly below what a reasonable person would do — it is a high legal bar that simply being deceived does not meet, and banks must prove it rather than merely assert it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a social media platform be held liable if I was scammed through it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/scam-on-social-media-platform-liability", "summary": "Social media platforms currently have very limited direct legal liability for individual fraud in most jurisdictions, though online safety legislation in some countries is beginning to impose obligations on platforms to tackle fraud — reporting to the platform remains important.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What consumer rights do I have if I was scammed by a fake travel booking?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/travel-scam-consumer-rights-refund", "summary": "Fake travel bookings — whether hotels, flights, or package holidays — trigger the same payment recourse options as other purchase scams, and ATOL and ABTA protections may apply if a regulated travel provider was involved.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What can I do if someone used a power of attorney to steal from me or a relative?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/power-of-attorney-misused-financial-abuse", "summary": "Misuse of a power of attorney is a serious criminal and civil matter — victims can apply to the Court of Protection, report to the Office of the Public Guardian, and in serious cases have the power revoked and assets recovered through civil litigation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I rebuild trust in people and institutions after being scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/building-trust-again-after-scam", "summary": "Rebuilding trust after a scam is a gradual process that involves distinguishing healthy caution from excessive fear, re-engaging with social connections, and taking small positive steps that restore confidence in your own judgement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What legal options do I have after an advance fee fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/advance-fee-fraud-legal-options", "summary": "Advance fee fraud victims can pursue bank recovery (chargeback, APP fraud), report to fraud authorities, and in limited cases pursue civil action — but since perpetrators are typically overseas and anonymous, bank recovery is usually the most practical route.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What rights do I have if I was scammed by a fake health product or treatment?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/health-medical-scam-consumer-rights", "summary": "Health product scam victims have consumer rights including chargeback and Section 75, and can report to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA in the UK) or FDA (US) — misrepresentation of health products is both a consumer fraud and a regulatory offence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What evidence should I keep and how do I report an online dating fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/online-dating-fraud-evidence-reporting", "summary": "Keep all messages, photos, profile links, payment records, and email correspondence — then report to your national fraud authority, the dating platform, and your bank, providing as much identifying detail about the scammer as possible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I am in financial hardship after a scam and my mental health is suffering — what help is available?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/scam-financial-hardship-mental-health", "summary": "If a scam has caused both financial hardship and mental health difficulties, you can access practical financial help through debt charities and bank hardship programmes, and mental health support through your GP, NHS services, and specialist fraud victim support organisations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What are my rights when I was signed up to a subscription without proper consent?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/subscription-trap-refund-rights", "summary": "Being enrolled in a subscription without clear informed consent — or through a misleading free trial — may constitute an unfair commercial practice, and you are entitled to a refund of charges taken without genuine authorisation under consumer protection and payment law.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are there any tax implications when I lose money to a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/scam-loss-tax-implications", "summary": "In some countries and circumstances, scam losses may be deductible for tax purposes — particularly for business taxpayers or investors — but the rules are complex and jurisdiction-specific; always seek advice from a qualified tax professional.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is it okay to feel angry at the person who scammed me?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-it-ok-to-feel-angry-at-scammer", "summary": "Absolutely — anger is a natural, healthy response to being deliberately deceived and harmed, and it is a normal stage of recovery when channelled constructively rather than allowed to become consuming or harmful.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What do I do if a scammer took out debt in my name?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/debt-taken-out-by-scammer-in-my-name", "summary": "Fraudulent debts taken out in your name must be disputed with each lender, reported to the police and your credit reference agencies, and flagged to your national fraud prevention service — you are not liable for debts you did not take out.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What are my rights if my cryptocurrency wallet or exchange account was hacked?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/cryptocurrency-wallet-hacked-rights", "summary": "If a regulated exchange account was hacked due to the platform's security failure, you may have a claim against the platform — but most crypto held in unhosted wallets has no equivalent to deposit protection, making prevention the main line of defence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What UK organisations provide support to scam victims?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/scam-victim-support-organisations-uk", "summary": "Several UK organisations provide free support to scam victims — including Report Fraud for reporting, Victim Support and Citizens Advice for practical help, and specialist services like Mind and the Samaritans for emotional and mental health support.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is an MLM I joined a scam, and do I have legal options to recover my money?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/mlm-pyramid-scheme-legal-options", "summary": "Multi-level marketing schemes occupy a legal grey area, but pyramid schemes (where income comes primarily from recruitment rather than product sales) are illegal — if you joined one, you may have claims for misrepresentation and should report to your trading standards authority.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What can I do if I donated to a fake charity or was misled about how donations are used?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/charity-scam-rights-and-reporting", "summary": "Fake charity fraud and misrepresentation of how donations are used are criminal and regulatory offences — report to your national charity regulator, fraud authority, and consider payment recovery options for recent donations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What are my rights if I was scammed by a fake parcel or courier message?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/mail-courier-parcel-scam-rights", "summary": "Fake parcel notifications that trick you into entering card details or paying a fake redelivery fee are phishing fraud — if you entered financial details, contact your bank immediately; if you paid a fee, card chargeback may apply.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I claim compensation for emotional distress caused by being scammed?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/compensation-for-emotional-distress-fraud", "summary": "Compensation for emotional distress arising from fraud is possible in civil litigation if the distress is a recognisable psychiatric condition caused by the defendant's wrongful act — general upset without diagnosed impact is harder to pursue as a standalone claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "My bank warned me about a potential scam before I transferred money but I ignored it — can I still get a refund?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/bank-warned-me-of-scam-but-i-proceeded", "summary": "Ignoring a bank fraud warning is a factor that affects your claim but does not automatically disqualify you from reimbursement — the quality of the warning and the sophistication of the fraud are both relevant to whether you acted reasonably.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is a fraud alert on my credit file and how do I add one?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/what-is-a-fraud-alert-on-credit-file", "summary": "A fraud alert flags to lenders that your identity may have been compromised, prompting them to take extra steps to verify identity before extending credit in your name — in the UK, Cifas Protective Registration provides this function.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I feel stupid for falling for a scam — is something wrong with me?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/scam-victim-feel-stupid", "summary": "Nothing is wrong with you. Scammers are highly skilled psychological manipulators whose full-time profession is deception — research consistently shows that education and intelligence do not protect against sophisticated fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is this sports betting tipster service a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-this-betting-tipster-a-scam", "summary": "Most paid 'guaranteed winning tips' tipster services are scams. Genuine long-term profitable tipsters are extremely rare, and none can honestly guarantee results on every pick.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "An online casino won't pay out my winnings — what can I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-casino-refuses-to-pay-out-winnings", "summary": "Withheld winnings are one of the most common online casino complaints; check the casino's licence, review its wagering terms, and escalate to the licensing regulator or your bank if the casino won't cooperate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is matched betting actually safe, or is it a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/matched-betting-scheme-safe", "summary": "Legitimate matched betting is a real, low-risk technique that exploits bookmaker free bets, but many paid 'matched betting academy' courses and software oversell it and hide the real risks and effort involved.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I paid for 'fixed match' predictions and lost money — can I get it back?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/recover-losses-fixed-match-scam", "summary": "So-called 'fixed match' sellers are almost always running a pure scam with no real inside access; you're unlikely to recover money paid directly to them, but you can try a chargeback and should report the fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "My betting account got limited or closed right after I started winning — is that legal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/sportsbook-account-limited-after-winning", "summary": "Yes, in most jurisdictions bookmakers are legally allowed to limit stakes or restrict winning customers under their terms of service, even though it feels unfair; this is different from a scam but worth understanding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I know if an online casino is unlicensed or offshore and risky?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/unlicensed-offshore-casino-warning-signs", "summary": "Check for a licence number you can verify on a real regulator's official register; if the casino only shows a badge, logo, or vague claim with no verifiable number, treat it as unlicensed and high risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a crypto casino's 'provably fair' system actually fair?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/crypto-casino-provably-fair-really-fair", "summary": "Provably fair systems can be genuinely verifiable using cryptographic hashes, but many crypto casinos either implement it incorrectly, don't let you actually verify results, or run other games that aren't provably fair at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "My casino account got flagged for 'bonus abuse' — what does that mean?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/casino-bonus-abuse-flagged-account", "summary": "Bonus abuse flags usually mean the casino believes you violated wagering terms (like using multiple accounts, betting patterns designed to guarantee profit, or excluded games); some flags are legitimate, but some casinos abuse the term to avoid paying out.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are esports skin gambling and betting sites safe to use?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/esports-skin-gambling-site-safe", "summary": "Many skin gambling sites operate without gambling licences, are frequently unregulated in the jurisdictions their young user base is in, and have a long history of rigged odds and sudden shutdowns with user balances lost.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can lottery prediction software actually improve my odds?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/lottery-prediction-software-scam", "summary": "No legitimate software can predict truly random lottery draws; any product claiming to improve your odds through pattern analysis, 'hot and cold numbers,' or an algorithm is selling a false promise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I know if an online poker site is rigged or full of bots?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-poker-site-rigged-bots", "summary": "Look for a licensed, well-known poker platform with independent random number generator certification; unlicensed sites with unusually aggressive, fast, or statistically improbable play patterns are common signs of bots or collusion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a paid arbitrage betting (arbing) service worth the money?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/arbitrage-betting-service-legit", "summary": "Arbitrage betting is a real technique that exploits odds differences between bookmakers, but paid 'arb finder' subscriptions often oversell the profits, and the practice leads to fast account restrictions that limit how long it stays viable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "An online partner I've never met wants me to gamble on a site they recommend — is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/romance-scammer-asking-to-gamble-together", "summary": "Yes, this is a well-documented pattern often called 'pig butchering' or romance-investment fraud, where a scammer builds a relationship then directs you to a fake gambling or trading platform they control, which shows fake wins to get you to deposit more.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can I trust casino 'top 10' review and ranking websites?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/casino-affiliate-review-sites-trustworthy", "summary": "Many casino ranking sites are paid affiliates who earn commission for every player they refer, so their rankings often favor whichever casino pays the most rather than the safest or fairest option for players.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are 'social casino' apps that use fake coins a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/social-casino-app-real-money-trap", "summary": "Social casino apps using virtual coins aren't traditional gambling scams since you can't cash out winnings for real money, but they're built to mimic gambling psychology closely and can encourage real spending and problem gambling behaviors, especially when paired with 'sweepstakes' cash-out models.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone wants me to invest in their 'betting syndicate' for guaranteed returns — is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/betting-syndicate-investment-scam", "summary": "Yes, in nearly all cases 'invest in my betting syndicate' offers to strangers online are Ponzi-style scams; genuine professional betting syndicates don't recruit random outside investors with guaranteed return promises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Can a live dealer casino game be faked or rigged?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-live-dealer-casino-stream", "summary": "Licensed live dealer games from established studios are generally genuine, but some unlicensed casinos use pre-recorded loops, delayed or edited footage, or fake 'live' interfaces that aren't connected to a real dealer at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a message saying I won a lottery I never entered — is this always a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/advance-fee-fake-lottery-win-notification", "summary": "Yes. Genuine lotteries never contact winners out of the blue for a lottery you didn't enter, and any request to pay a fee, tax, or 'processing charge' before releasing your prize is a classic advance-fee scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Are betting exchanges safer from scams than traditional bookmakers?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/betting-exchange-vs-bookmaker-scam-risk", "summary": "Betting exchanges carry structurally different risks than bookmakers — they're less likely to restrict winning accounts, but you take on counterparty risk with other bettors and should still verify the exchange itself is properly licensed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I downloaded a casino app from an app store — could it still be a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/casino-app-store-clone-scam", "summary": "Yes. App store review processes don't fully verify gambling licensing, and clone apps impersonating well-known casino brands, or real-money apps disguised as free 'social' games, have both appeared on official app stores.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A company offered to help me 'recover' money I lost gambling — is that legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/gambling-recovery-scam-targeting-losers", "summary": "Be very cautious: while some legitimate consumer advocates and regulators help with genuine disputes, many 'gambling recovery' or 'fund recovery' services are themselves scams that charge upfront fees and never deliver any real recovery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "My casino loyalty points or VIP status suddenly became worthless — is this legal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/casino-loyalty-program-points-worthless", "summary": "Casinos generally can change loyalty program terms, but sudden, retroactive devaluation of points or VIP status you already earned — especially timed to avoid a payout — is a common complaint worth escalating to the regulator.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A sports betting influencer promotes a site with amazing bonuses — should I trust it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/sports-betting-influencer-paid-promotion-scam", "summary": "Treat betting influencer promotions with caution: many are paid sponsorships or affiliate deals that aren't always clearly disclosed, and the influencer's own results shown on screen are sometimes cherry-picked or entirely staged.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I signed up for a 'free' betting trial and now see unauthorized charges — what happened?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/unauthorized-charges-gambling-site-signup", "summary": "This is a common 'free trial' dark pattern: signing up requires card details, a small trial period ends silently, and recurring charges begin automatically unless you actively cancel, sometimes making cancellation deliberately difficult.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone offered to help me get around my gambling self-exclusion — is that a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/gambling-addiction-self-exclusion-scam-workaround", "summary": "Yes — services or individuals offering to bypass self-exclusion programs are not only likely to be untrustworthy or fraudulent themselves, but using them defeats a protective tool you set up for your own safety.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A casino is asking for extra ID documents I've never had to give before — is this a phishing attempt?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-verification-document-request-casino", "summary": "Legitimate casinos do require identity verification, but requests should go through the casino's own secure account portal; unexpected email attachments or links asking you to upload documents outside your account may be phishing rather than a real verification request.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why can't I withdraw my winnings even though the bonus terms seemed clear?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/betting-bonus-wagering-requirement-trap", "summary": "Wagering requirements are often written in complex, layered conditions — such as game weighting, maximum bet caps, and time limits — that can make a bonus far harder to clear than it first appears, even without any bad faith from the casino.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I'm borrowing money to keep gambling and try to win back my losses — is this a sign of a bigger problem?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/chasing-losses-borrowed-money-warning", "summary": "Yes — borrowing money specifically to gamble in an attempt to recover past losses ('chasing losses') is one of the clearest recognized warning signs of problem gambling, not a normal recovery strategy, and it's worth reaching out for support now.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is daily fantasy sports rigged against casual players?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/daily-fantasy-sports-rigged-lineups", "summary": "Major daily fantasy sports platforms aren't typically 'rigged' in the sense of fixed outcomes, but the format is dominated by a small number of high-volume, data-driven players using automated lineup tools, making it structurally very difficult for casual players to profit consistently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do gambling sites let underage users sign up, and what should parents watch for?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/underage-gambling-site-weak-age-checks", "summary": "Some unlicensed or poorly regulated gambling and skin-betting sites use weak or easily bypassed age verification, relying on a simple checkbox or self-declared birth date rather than real identity checks, making them accessible to minors despite legal age requirements.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone called saying I owe money on my dead relative's debt. Is this real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/someone-called-claiming-i-owe-money-on-dead-relatives-debt", "summary": "In most cases you are not personally responsible for a deceased relative's debts unless you co-signed the loan or held a joint account, so an urgent call demanding immediate payment is very likely a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A funeral home I found online is asking for full payment upfront before doing anything. Is that normal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-funeral-home-asking-for-upfront-payment-online", "summary": "Some deposit is normal, but a business that demands full payment upfront, has no verifiable physical address, and pressures you to pay by wire or crypto before any contract is signed shows classic signs of a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A lawyer emailed saying I've inherited money from a distant relative I've never heard of. Real or scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/lawyer-emailed-about-unexpected-inheritance-from-stranger", "summary": "Almost always a scam known as an inheritance or 'unclaimed estate' fraud, designed to extract upfront fees or personal banking details before any 'inheritance' is paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers use obituaries to target grieving families?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/obituary-scraper-scam-explained", "summary": "Scammers monitor published obituaries and death notices to gather names, dates, and family relationships they then use to impersonate debt collectors, charities, or the deceased person's bank while the family is distracted by grief.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a text saying a package for my deceased relative needs a customs fee to be released. Is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/text-message-claiming-package-for-deceased-needs-fee", "summary": "Yes, this is a common variation of the package delivery scam, adapted to target grieving families by referencing a deceased relative to seem more personal and urgent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone contacted me claiming to be the executor of a relative's will and is asking for fees before releasing my share. Is this legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/impersonator-claims-to-be-executor-asking-for-fees", "summary": "Genuine executors do not typically ask beneficiaries to pay fees upfront to receive an inheritance; any legitimate fees come out of the estate itself, so this pattern strongly suggests a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "My recently widowed mother is getting a lot of unsolicited calls and letters about 'financial help.' What's going on?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/grief-vulture-scammer-targets-recent-widow", "summary": "This is a known pattern sometimes called 'grief vulturing,' where scammers specifically target the recently bereaved, especially widows and widowers, because public death records and obituaries reveal exactly who has just lost a spouse and may be managing finances alone for the first time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "The life insurance company called saying I need to pay a fee before they release my late spouse's payout. Is that normal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/caller-claims-to-be-from-life-insurance-needs-fee-to-release-payout", "summary": "No, legitimate life insurance payouts do not require the beneficiary to pay a fee upfront; any taxes or administrative costs, where applicable, are typically deducted from the payout itself, not charged separately in advance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A company is pressuring me to buy an expensive headstone or cemetery plot right now. Should I be worried?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-cemetery-plot-or-headstone-company-scam", "summary": "High-pressure sales tactics around headstones, cemetery plots, or memorial products are a red flag, even if the company is technically real, since legitimate memorial providers understand grieving families need time and should never rush a major purchase decision.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A 'free grief counseling' service contacted me but now wants my card details to 'confirm my identity.' Is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-grief-counseling-service-asking-for-payment-details", "summary": "Yes, legitimate free or low-cost grief counseling services do not need your card details to confirm your identity, and this request is a strong sign of a data-harvesting or billing scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "My deceased father's social media account started posting strange links. What's happening?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/social-media-account-of-deceased-hacked-after-death", "summary": "This usually means the account has been hacked, either through a reused password exposed in a data breach or by someone exploiting the fact the account is now unmonitored, and it is being used to spread scam or malware links to his contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I know if a charity listed 'in lieu of flowers' in an obituary is legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-charity-donation-request-in-lieu-of-flowers", "summary": "Most charities named in genuine obituaries are legitimate, but scammers sometimes set up copycat donation pages using a real charity's name and logo, so always donate through the charity's own official website rather than a link shared in a social media post or email about the obituary.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I'm being told I have to pay a 'repatriation fee' to bring my relative's body home from abroad. Is this legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/asked-to-pay-repatriation-fee-for-body-abroad", "summary": "Genuine repatriation of remains does involve real costs and documentation, but scammers exploit this process by inventing extra fake fees, so always verify charges through your embassy or consulate and a recognized international funeral repatriation service before paying anyone directly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone claiming to be a long-lost relative has shown up asking for a share of the estate. How do I know if they're genuine?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/pretend-relative-shows-up-claiming-share-of-estate", "summary": "Legitimate claims to an estate require documented proof of relationship and legal standing verified through DNA testing, birth records, or court process, so anyone demanding money or access based only on their word should be treated with serious skepticism.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A probate official is asking me to pay estate-related fees using cryptocurrency. Is this ever legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/notary-or-probate-official-asks-for-payment-by-crypto", "summary": "No legitimate court, probate registry, or government tax authority accepts cryptocurrency for official estate fees, taxes, or court costs, so this request is a clear sign of fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I was invited to an online 'will reading' but have to pay a fee to attend. Is that a real thing?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/will-reading-scam-asks-to-attend-online-for-fee", "summary": "Legitimate will readings, where they happen at all, are typically arranged and communicated by the actual executor or family solicitor at no cost to attendees, so a paid invitation from an unfamiliar source is very likely a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone is messaging me pretending to be my deceased loved one on a dating or messaging app. What is this?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/someone-impersonating-deceased-online-continues-chatting", "summary": "This is a disturbing but real scam pattern where a fraudster takes over or recreates a deceased person's online profile and continues conversations to exploit the emotional confusion and grief of contacts, often leading toward a request for money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A website claims it can find unclaimed life insurance money owed to my deceased relative for a fee. Is it worth using?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/unclaimed-life-insurance-policy-finder-scam", "summary": "Be cautious: legitimate unclaimed life insurance searches can often be done for free through official state or national unclaimed property registries, so paying a private company a large upfront fee for the same search is usually unnecessary and sometimes outright fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A caller is asking for my deceased relative's full details to 'process a death benefit.' How much should I share?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/asked-for-social-security-number-to-process-death-benefit", "summary": "Be cautious about sharing sensitive identifiers over an unsolicited phone call; genuine government agencies and pension providers typically already have the deceased's records on file and communicate death benefit processes through written correspondence or verified official channels, not cold calls demanding full personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "An estate sale buyer paid with a check that bounced after taking valuable items. What can I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/estate-sale-buyer-scam-underpaying-or-not-paying", "summary": "This is a form of estate sale fraud where a buyer deliberately pays with a bad check, an overpayment scam, or a fraudulent payment method to walk away with valuable items before the payment fails, and recovery options depend on acting quickly and involving law enforcement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I received unexpected inheritance funds but was asked to forward part of it to someone else first. Why?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/asked-to-forward-inheritance-payment-to-third-party", "summary": "This is almost certainly a money mule or overpayment scam: the 'inheritance' funds are typically stolen or fraudulent, and once you forward part of the money elsewhere, you may be left responsible for repaying the original amount when the fraud is discovered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A company is asking me to upload the death certificate to an unfamiliar website to 'verify' a claim. Is this safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-death-certificate-requested-for-verification", "summary": "Be very cautious: a death certificate contains sensitive personal information that can enable identity theft, so only upload it to verified, official portals belonging to institutions you've independently confirmed are handling a genuine claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I received a bill from a hospice or care facility for services after my relative already passed away. Is this fraud?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/hospice-or-nursing-home-billing-scam-after-death", "summary": "It could be a billing error, but it could also be deliberate fraud; either way, request an itemized statement and verify each charge's date against the actual date of death before paying anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a link to watch a funeral livestream but it's asking for payment or personal details first. Is this legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/funeral-livestream-scam-fake-link", "summary": "Be cautious: while some funeral homes do charge a modest fee for livestream access through their own verified platform, scammers also create fake livestream links shared on social media to harvest payment details or personal information from grieving friends and family.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I received a sympathy card in the mail that includes a request for money or a suspicious link. What is this?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/sympathy-card-scam-with-hidden-payment-request", "summary": "This is an unusual but real scam variant where a physical sympathy card is used to build emotional trust before pivoting to a request for money, a suspicious QR code, or a link, and it should be treated with the same skepticism as any other unsolicited financial request.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A utility company says my deceased parent has an outstanding bill I need to pay immediately or service will be cut off. Is this real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/asked-to-pay-outstanding-utility-bill-of-deceased", "summary": "Genuine utility providers do have legitimate final bill processes, but scammers frequently impersonate them using threats of immediate disconnection to pressure grieving family members, so always verify independently before paying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone claiming to administer a trust fund set up by my late relative wants my bank details to release funds. Should I comply?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-trust-fund-administrator-contacts-beneficiary", "summary": "No, do not provide bank details based solely on an unsolicited contact; verify the trust's existence and the administrator's identity independently through a solicitor or the actual named trustee before sharing any financial information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone I met online claims to be recently widowed and needs help with funeral or estate costs. Could this be a romance scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/romance-scammer-pretends-to-be-widowed-to-gain-sympathy", "summary": "Yes, claiming recent widowhood is a very common tactic in romance scams specifically designed to generate sympathy and justify urgent requests for money, especially if the relationship developed quickly online and you've never met in person.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I'm told I must pay 'inheritance tax' myself before the funds can be released to me. Is this how inheritance tax actually works?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/asked-to-pay-inheritance-tax-before-receiving-funds", "summary": "In most jurisdictions, inheritance or estate tax is calculated and paid from the estate's own assets by the executor before distribution, not collected as a separate upfront payment demanded from individual beneficiaries before they receive their share.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What's the safest way to close my deceased relative's bank and financial accounts without falling for a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-to-safely-close-deceased-relatives-financial-accounts", "summary": "Contact each institution directly using their official verified phone number or website, provide a certified death certificate through their official process, and never rely on a third party contacting you claiming to help 'close accounts' for a fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A memorial fundraiser for someone who died is circulating on social media, but I can't verify it's genuine. What should I check?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/asked-for-donation-to-fake-memorial-fund-on-social-media", "summary": "Verify that the fundraiser is genuinely organized or endorsed by the deceased's immediate family before donating, since scammers commonly create fake memorial fundraisers using real photos and details scraped from social media or news coverage of a death.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A solicitor I've never dealt with called claiming they hold my late relative's will and need payment to release it. Is this normal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/solicitor-cold-calls-claiming-to-handle-your-relatives-will", "summary": "This is unusual and worth verifying carefully: if your relative genuinely used a solicitor, the family typically already knows or can find out through the deceased's paperwork, and a legitimate firm would not demand payment simply to disclose the existence or contents of a will.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do scammers find out about a death so quickly, sometimes within days?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/how-scammers-find-out-someone-has-died-so-quickly", "summary": "Scammers monitor public sources like published obituaries, funeral home websites, newspaper death notices, and sometimes social media tribute posts, often using automated tools that scan these sources continuously, allowing them to identify and target newly bereaved families within days of a death being publicly reported.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I'm told a lawsuit over my relative's estate has settled in my favor but I must pay legal fees first to get my share. Is this legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/asked-to-pay-legal-fees-before-inheritance-lawsuit-settlement", "summary": "Genuine legal settlements typically deduct attorney fees directly from the settlement amount before disbursing the remainder to you, so being asked to pay fees separately and upfront before receiving your share is a strong sign of fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a text saying my benefits are suspended until I confirm my details - is this real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/text-saying-my-benefits-are-suspended", "summary": "Almost certainly a scam. Government benefits agencies do not suspend payments via text message with a link to 'confirm' your bank details or ID.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone called claiming to be from the Social Security Administration threatening to suspend my number - what should I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/caller-claims-to-be-social-security-administration", "summary": "Hang up. Government agencies never suspend Social Security or National Insurance numbers, and they never threaten arrest over the phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got an email saying I qualify for a government grant I never applied for - is it legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/email-says-i-qualify-for-extra-government-grant", "summary": "Unsolicited emails announcing you've been awarded a government grant you never applied for are almost always scams designed to collect an upfront fee or personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I applied for unemployment benefits and now someone is asking for a fee to 'release' my payment - is this normal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/asked-to-pay-fee-to-release-unemployment-benefits", "summary": "No. Unemployment or jobseeker benefit agencies never charge a fee to release a payment you're entitled to - this is a scam layered onto a real application process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone offered to help me get more benefits or backdated payments in exchange for a cut - is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/friend-offered-to-help-me-get-more-benefits-for-cut", "summary": "Yes, this is typically a benefits fraud scheme that can leave you facing repayment demands, fraud investigations, or prosecution, even though someone else devised it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I received a letter demanding repayment of overpaid benefits, but I don't remember getting extra money - is this fake?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/letter-demands-repayment-of-overpaid-benefits-i-never-got", "summary": "It could be a genuine overpayment notice or a scam impersonating one - never pay or provide bank details from the letter alone; verify through your official benefits account first.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A Facebook ad promises guaranteed approval for disability benefits if I use their service - is this trustworthy?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/facebook-ad-promises-guaranteed-disability-approval", "summary": "Be very skeptical - no one can 'guarantee' approval for a disability or health-related benefit, since eligibility is decided by the agency's own medical and financial assessment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone claiming to be from the benefits office asked me to install remote access software to fix an account error - should I do it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/asked-for-remote-access-to-fix-benefits-account-error", "summary": "No. Never install remote access software at the request of an unsolicited caller claiming to be from a government benefits agency - this is a well-known scam to take control of your device and drain your bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A website asks for my Social Security number just to 'check my eligibility' for a stimulus payment - is that safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/online-form-asks-for-ssn-to-check-stimulus-eligibility", "summary": "No - legitimate eligibility checks for government stimulus or relief payments do not require you to submit your full Social Security number on an unofficial third-party website.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A 'job agency' wants me to let them manage my benefits account log-in while I look for work - is that okay?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/recruiter-wants-my-benefits-account-for-third-party-job", "summary": "No - never hand over your benefits account username and password to any third party, including a job agency, even one working alongside a genuine welfare-to-work program.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a voicemail saying I'm under investigation for benefits fraud and must call back immediately - is this real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/voicemail-claims-i-owe-money-for-fraud-investigation", "summary": "Treat it as a likely scam - genuine fraud investigations are conducted through formal written correspondence and scheduled interviews, not urgent voicemail threats demanding an immediate callback.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "An app charges a monthly subscription and promises to 'maximize' my government benefits automatically - worth it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/app-promises-to-maximize-my-benefits-for-subscription-fee", "summary": "Be cautious - legitimate benefits calculators and entitlement checks are typically free through government or accredited charity services; a paid subscription app claiming automatic maximization adds risk with little proven benefit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a text that my food assistance card (SNAP/EBT-style) was suspended and I need to click a link to reactivate it - is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/notice-my-food-assistance-card-was-suspended-click-link", "summary": "Yes, this is a very common phishing scam targeting food assistance recipients - the agency will not text you a link to 'reactivate' your card.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "An email asks me to 'verify' my child benefit payment details or my payments will stop - what should I check?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/email-asks-me-to-verify-child-benefit-payment-details", "summary": "Check the sender's actual email address and the link destination before doing anything - this is a common phishing template used against parents receiving child-related benefits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone offered to get my state pension backdated for a large lump sum, for an upfront fee - is this legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/person-claims-they-can-backdate-my-pension-for-fee", "summary": "Be very cautious - genuine pension backdating and underpayment corrections are handled directly by the pension agency at no cost, and anyone charging an upfront fee to 'unlock' a lump sum should be independently verified before you pay anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "My landlord wants me to sign a tenancy agreement showing higher rent than I actually pay so I get more housing benefit - is that risky?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/housing-benefit-landlord-asks-me-to-overstate-rent", "summary": "Yes, this is benefits fraud - you are legally responsible for the accuracy of your claim, and both you and the landlord could face repayment demands, penalties, or prosecution if discovered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A cold caller offered a 'free benefits entitlement review' and now wants my bank details to set up a direct debit - what's going on?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/cold-caller-offers-to-review-my-benefits-entitlement-free", "summary": "This is likely a fee-charging scheme disguised as a free service - the 'free review' is often a hook to sign you up for an ongoing paid subscription or to harvest your banking details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone posing as my benefits caseworker wants a video call where I show my ID and bank card - is this normal procedure?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/scammer-posing-as-caseworker-wants-video-call-with-id", "summary": "This is not standard procedure and is very likely an identity theft attempt - legitimate caseworkers do not need you to hold up your bank card on camera.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A social media post says I've 'won' a cost-of-living support payment and just need to click to claim it - what's the catch?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/post-says-ive-won-a-cost-of-living-payment-claim-now", "summary": "There's no catch to find because there's no prize - genuine cost-of-living or energy support payments are not distributed through social media 'claim now' posts or competitions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "My elderly parent keeps getting calls about 'unclaimed pension credit' - how do I help them tell if it's real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/elderly-parent-getting-repeated-calls-about-pension-credit", "summary": "Help them avoid discussing or confirming personal details on unsolicited calls, and instead check pension credit or similar top-up entitlement directly through the official government website or a trusted advisor together.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a text about a tax refund connected to a benefits overpayment correction - is this linked scam real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/text-from-tax-refund-linked-to-benefits-overpayment", "summary": "Treat any unsolicited text linking a tax refund to a benefits correction as a scam - these are typically combined phishing attempts designed to seem extra credible by referencing two systems at once.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone offered me money to let them use my benefits card or account to move funds through - is this dangerous?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/asked-to-use-my-benefits-card-to-help-someone-cash-out", "summary": "Yes, this is a form of money muling using a benefits account, and it can expose you to fraud charges, loss of your own benefits, and account closure, even though someone else is directing the scheme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a WhatsApp message claiming to be from the benefits office asking me to update my details there - is this legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/message-claims-i-need-to-update-benefits-details-on-whatsapp", "summary": "No - government benefits agencies do not conduct official account verification or updates through WhatsApp or other consumer messaging apps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone told me I could avoid a benefits fraud charge by paying a settlement in gift cards - should I do this?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/asked-to-pay-in-gift-cards-to-avoid-benefits-fraud-charge", "summary": "Never pay any government fine, settlement, or fraud charge using gift cards - no legitimate government agency accepts gift cards as payment, and this request alone confirms it's a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A caller claiming to fundraise for a disability charity is asking about my benefits and asking me to donate part of my payment - normal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/disability-charity-fundraiser-asks-for-my-benefits-details", "summary": "No - legitimate charity fundraisers do not need details of your personal benefits claim, and a request to donate directly from your benefit payment is a major red flag.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A letter looks exactly like it's from the benefits agency but the return address is a PO box in a different city - should I worry?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/letter-looks-like-benefits-agency-but-return-address-odd", "summary": "Yes, check carefully - a mismatched return address, especially an unrelated PO box, is a common sign of a scam letter designed to imitate official government correspondence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A caller says I need to pay a small fee to 'activate' direct deposit for my benefits payments - is this legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/asked-for-upfront-payment-to-set-up-direct-deposit", "summary": "No - setting up direct deposit for government benefits is free, and any request for payment to 'activate' it is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone claiming to be from benefits support asked me to read them a code that was just texted to my phone - is this safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/im-asked-to-forward-a-verification-code-to-benefits-support", "summary": "No - never read out a verification code to anyone who calls you, since this is almost always an attempt to break into your account, not a legitimate verification step.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A 'training program' ad says I'll get paid while claiming benefits at the same time - is that a genuine offer?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/job-ad-promises-to-train-me-then-put-me-on-benefits-scheme", "summary": "Approach with caution - some legitimate training-while-claiming schemes exist through official employment programs, but ads promising undisclosed extra income alongside benefits without informing the agency are usually fraud schemes that put your claim at risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a text saying to click a link to 'confirm' a bank account change on my benefits that I never made - what does this mean?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/text-says-click-to-confirm-bank-change-for-benefits", "summary": "This could indicate either a phishing attempt using a fake alert to get you to click, or in rarer cases a genuine warning that someone actually tried to change your bank details fraudulently - verify directly through your official account either way.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I'm told my new benefits payment card is stuck in customs and I need to pay a fee to release it - is this real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/asked-to-pay-customs-fee-for-benefits-card-delivery", "summary": "No - domestic government benefit payment cards do not go through customs, and any request to pay a fee to 'release' one is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Is a 'seed faith' offering where a preacher promises money back multiplied a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/is-seed-faith-offering-a-scam", "summary": "Any promise that donating a specific amount of money to a ministry will cause God to return it to you multiplied is a fundraising technique with no accountability, and versions of it are routinely used to extract money from people in financial distress.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Why is someone claiming to be my pastor texting me asking me to buy gift cards?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/online-pastor-asking-for-gift-cards", "summary": "This is almost certainly an impersonation scam, not your actual pastor; real clergy do not ask congregants to buy gift cards by text and read out the codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A faith healer wants payment upfront for a guaranteed miracle cure. Is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/faith-healer-charging-for-miracle-cure", "summary": "Yes, charging a fixed fee in advance for a guaranteed supernatural cure is a red flag of exploitation, especially when the healer discourages ongoing medical treatment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is affinity fraud, and how does it happen inside a church or religious community?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/affinity-fraud-in-my-congregation", "summary": "Affinity fraud is an investment scam run by someone who shares your faith, ethnicity, or community identity to build trust quickly, then uses that trust to sell a fake or unregistered investment to members of the same group.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I check if a charity claiming to help persecuted Christians overseas is legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-charity-persecuted-christians-abroad", "summary": "Search for the charity's official registration number with your country's charity regulator and look for independently audited financial statements before donating, since fake versions of well-known persecuted-faith charities are common in online ads and social media appeals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How can I avoid a fake Hajj or Umrah travel package scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-hajj-umrah-travel-package-scam", "summary": "Only book Hajj or Umrah packages through operators officially licensed by the relevant religious affairs authority, and be wary of deals priced well below the market rate advertised through social media or unsolicited messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A new religious group showered me with attention and now wants money and my time. Is this a cult tactic?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/cult-love-bombing-then-money-demands", "summary": "Intense early affection followed by escalating demands for money, time, and cutting off outside relationships is a well-documented recruitment and control pattern used by high-control groups, commonly called love bombing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A ministry is selling 'anointed' prayer oil, cloths, or water for a high price. Is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/blessed-oil-anointed-item-inflated-price", "summary": "Selling ordinary objects at a large markup by attaching a spiritual claim of special power is a manipulative sales tactic, not a legitimate religious practice, especially when the object is described as necessary for healing, protection, or financial breakthrough.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "My church has an informal investment club promising 'blessed' high returns. What should I check first?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/church-investment-club-blessed-returns", "summary": "Check whether the investment and whoever is running it are registered with your country's securities regulator, since informal investment clubs run through churches are a common vehicle for Ponzi schemes regardless of how they are described spiritually.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A website asks for detailed personal and financial information along with my prayer request. Is that normal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/online-prayer-request-collecting-personal-info", "summary": "No, a legitimate prayer request only needs the concern itself; requests for detailed financial information, account numbers, or payment tied to having your prayer 'prioritized' are a data harvesting or payment scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I matched with someone on a faith-based dating app who shares all my beliefs perfectly. Could this be a romance scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/religious-dating-profile-too-perfect", "summary": "Yes, romance scammers frequently target faith-based dating apps precisely because shared religious identity builds trust quickly, so a profile that mirrors your beliefs unusually closely deserves the same scrutiny as any other online match.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I know if a church giving or tithing app is a real link to my church or a cloned scam site?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-tithing-app-clone-site", "summary": "Only give through a link or app confirmed directly by your church's official staff or printed materials, since cloned giving pages that closely copy a real church's branding are increasingly used to redirect donations to a scammer's account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone claiming to be a missionary I know is stranded abroad and needs a wire transfer urgently. What should I do?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/stranded-missionary-wire-transfer-request", "summary": "Treat this as a likely account takeover or impersonation scam and verify independently by contacting the missionary or their sending organization through previously known contact details before sending any money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A fellow member of my small group keeps pitching a business opportunity as a way to 'bless our family finances.' Is this an MLM scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/mlm-pitched-inside-church-small-group", "summary": "Framing a multi-level marketing pitch as a faith-aligned way to bless your family's finances is a common recruitment tactic, and it deserves the same scrutiny as any other MLM opportunity regardless of the spiritual language used.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I verify a mission trip crowdfunding campaign is real before I donate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/mission-trip-crowdfunding-fake-campaign", "summary": "Confirm the campaign is linked to an established sending organization or church that you can independently verify, since fake mission trip crowdfunding pages copying real photos and stories are used to collect donations that never fund any actual trip.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A television evangelist is running an urgent appeal to 'sow' money before a deadline. What should I know before responding?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/tv-evangelist-urgent-sowing-appeal", "summary": "Urgent, deadline-driven appeals to send money for a spiritual benefit are a fundraising pressure tactic designed to bypass careful consideration, and the appearance of a deadline for a spiritual blessing has no basis in most religious teaching.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I found a rare religious relic or artifact for sale online with a story about its origin. How do I avoid a fake?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-religious-relic-artifact-sale", "summary": "Treat online sales of supposed religious relics or ancient artifacts with strong skepticism, since the market is heavily populated with fabricated items and fabricated provenance stories, and legitimate antiquities require documented, verifiable provenance and often export licensing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I received an email claiming a dying stranger wants to leave their fortune to charity through me because of my faith. Is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/deathbed-inheritance-charity-scam-email", "summary": "Yes, this is a well-known variation of the advance-fee inheritance scam, adapted with religious framing to make the story feel more credible and to appeal to the recipient's charitable instincts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I was offered a paid 'papal blessing' certificate for a special occasion. Is that legitimate or a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-papal-blessing-certificate-scam", "summary": "Genuine papal blessing certificates can be requested through official Vatican channels, usually at a modest or no cost, so a third-party seller charging a large fee, especially with urgency or vague sourcing, should be verified carefully before paying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "An investment is marketed as fully halal or kosher with guaranteed returns. Is that a red flag?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/halal-kosher-labeled-investment-fraud", "summary": "Yes, a guaranteed return is inconsistent with genuine profit-and-loss-sharing principles used in real faith-compliant finance, so an investment labeled halal or kosher while promising a fixed guaranteed return should be treated as a likely fraud regardless of its religious certification claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A group I joined now requires members to hand over their wages or paychecks to the leadership. Is this normal or a warning sign?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/cult-requires-handing-over-wages", "summary": "Requiring members to surrender their income or paychecks to group leadership is a strong indicator of a high-control group exerting financial control over members, and it is not a normal practice in mainstream religious communities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A deliverance or exorcism ministry is charging escalating fees for multiple sessions. Is this legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/paid-exorcism-deliverance-ministry-fees", "summary": "Charging significant, escalating fees for repeated deliverance or exorcism sessions, especially without a clear endpoint, is a common pattern used to extract ongoing payments from vulnerable people and is not how established religious institutions typically handle these requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A respected church elder is asking members to lend him money personally, promising to repay with interest. Is this risky?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/church-elder-informal-loan-network", "summary": "Personal loans from individual members to a respected leader, especially informal ones promising interest with no written agreement, carry real risk and should be treated with the same caution as lending to any acquaintance, regardless of their standing in the community.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone is collecting cash donations door-to-door claiming it's for disaster relief through our church. How do I verify this?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-disaster-relief-collection-using-church-name", "summary": "Confirm directly with church leadership, through a number you already have, whether an official relief collection is actually underway before giving any cash to a door-to-door or unsolicited collector claiming to represent the church.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "How do I verify that someone collecting zakat on behalf of a mosque or charity is legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/zakat-collector-verification-scam", "summary": "Confirm zakat collection is authorized directly with the mosque or charity's official office before giving, since fraudulent collectors impersonating authorized representatives around Ramadan and other high-giving periods are a recurring problem.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a WhatsApp message that looks like it's from my bishop or church leader asking for urgent financial help. How do I check if it's real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/whatsapp-bishop-imposter-money-request", "summary": "Call the leader directly using a phone number you already had, not the one that messaged you, since WhatsApp impersonation of clergy asking for urgent money is a widespread and low-cost scam that relies on the recipient not pausing to verify.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone claiming to be a nun or religious sister contacted me on social media asking for help. Is this likely a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-nun-romance-scam-profile", "summary": "Yes, profiles claiming to be a nun, sister, or other consecrated religious figure and reaching out to strangers online asking for money or personal help are commonly used in romance and advance-fee scams because the identity suggests trustworthiness and discourages skepticism.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone claiming to collect tzedakah for a synagogue or Jewish charity approached me unexpectedly. How do I check if it's legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-synagogue-charity-collector-scam", "summary": "Verify directly with the synagogue or charity's own office before giving, especially if the collector approached you unexpectedly in public or online, since impersonation of tzedakah collectors is a known scam pattern that exploits the strong cultural value placed on charitable giving.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A website offers instant online ordination or a ministry license for a fee, with claims it unlocks tax benefits. Is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-online-ordination-ministry-license-scam", "summary": "Instant online ordination services are generally legitimate as a novelty or personal credential, but claims that ordination alone unlocks significant tax benefits or the ability to run a tax-exempt organization without following proper legal steps are misleading and can expose you to legal and tax risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A person dressed as a monk asked me for money or alms in a tourist area. Is this a genuine request or a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-monk-buddhist-alms-collector-scam", "summary": "In many tourist areas, people dressed as monks soliciting cash directly from tourists, especially with a scripted pitch or a donation book, are impersonators rather than genuine monastics, since authentic alms practices in most Buddhist traditions do not involve direct cash solicitation of strangers on the street.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I bought concert tickets from a resale site or a stranger online — how do I know they're not fake?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/concert-resale-fake-tickets", "summary": "Fake tickets are common on unofficial resale sites, social media marketplaces, and classified ads, especially for sold-out shows. Only trust tickets bought through the venue, the official ticketing partner, or a resale platform that guarantees replacement or a refund if a ticket doesn't scan.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A ticket seller asked me to pay via a payment app's 'friends and family' option — is that a red flag?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/festival-payment-app-friends-family", "summary": "Yes. 'Friends and family' payments have no buyer protection, so if the ticket never arrives or turns out to be fake, you have almost no way to get your money back.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone in a fan group is offering tickets to a sold-out show — is this likely a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/sold-out-show-social-media-ticket-scam", "summary": "It's a common setup for fraud. Scammers watch fan groups and comment sections for sold-out events and pose as generous sellers with 'extra' tickets, often disappearing after payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a text or email asking me to scan a QR code to 'verify' my event ticket — is this safe?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/qr-code-ticket-scan-scam", "summary": "Treat it with suspicion. Legitimate ticketing platforms don't ask you to scan a QR code from an unsolicited message to 'verify' a ticket you already hold — this pattern is commonly used to steal login credentials or payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got an email about renewing my season tickets that asks me to update my card details — is this legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/season-ticket-renewal-phishing", "summary": "Be cautious. Season-ticket renewal emails are a known phishing target because they arrive at a predictable time each year and fans expect to enter payment details, making it easy for a fake version to blend in.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "An event I bought tickets for was cancelled and I got a message about claiming my refund — could this be fake?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/event-cancellation-refund-scam", "summary": "Yes, cancellation refund scams are common. Scammers watch for cancelled events and send fake refund forms asking for bank details or card numbers, when the real refund would be processed automatically to your original payment method.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a phone call claiming to be the box office saying there's a problem with my ticket order — is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-box-office-callback-scam", "summary": "It can be. Scammers sometimes call claiming to represent the venue or ticketing company, saying there's a payment issue, to extract card details or push you toward a fraudulent 'corrected' payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I found a 'VIP package' bundling event tickets with hotel and travel — how do I know it's a real deal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/bundled-travel-ticket-package-scam", "summary": "Bundled travel-and-ticket packages are a common scam vector because they combine multiple industries, making it easier to hide a fake element among real-looking components. Verify each part — tickets, hotel, and travel — independently before paying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A website claims to have a surprise 'last-minute ticket drop' for a sold-out event — is this a scam tactic?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/last-minute-ticket-drop-scam", "summary": "Often, yes. Fake 'surprise ticket drop' announcements are used to drive urgency and traffic to fraudulent sites that either take payment for tickets that don't exist or harvest card details through a fake checkout.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I downloaded a ticket exchange app to buy tickets peer-to-peer — how do I know it's legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-ticket-exchange-app-scam", "summary": "Check that the app is officially listed by a known ticketing company and has a long, credible review history — scammers publish lookalike apps with similar names and icons designed to catch buyers searching for a genuine exchange platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got an email offering a paid brand sponsorship deal out of nowhere — could this be a scam targeting creators?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-brand-sponsorship-email-scam", "summary": "It could be. A common creator-targeted scam poses as a brand offering a lucrative sponsorship, then asks the creator to pay an upfront 'processing' or 'shipping' fee, or sends a fraudulent check that later bounces after the creator has already spent the funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got an email claiming my video received a copyright strike and I need to log in to appeal — is this a phishing attempt?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/youtube-copyright-strike-phishing", "summary": "It's very likely phishing. Copyright strike emails are one of the most common creator-targeted phishing themes because the threat of a channel being taken down creates panic that leads people to click without checking the sender carefully.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a message saying my creator payout is on hold until I 'verify' my bank details — is this legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/creator-payout-bank-verification-scam", "summary": "Treat it as suspicious. Payout verification scams send fake messages claiming a hold on earnings, directing creators to a fake page that captures full bank account or card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "A service is offering to quickly grow my followers or subscribers — is this actually a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-follower-growth-service-scam", "summary": "Most 'guaranteed fast growth' services are either fraudulent, delivering fake or bot accounts that get purged and hurt your reach, or a front to steal your account login and password.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I saw a livestream that looked like a well-known creator promoting a crypto giveaway — could it be fake?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/deepfake-livestream-crypto-scam", "summary": "Very likely fake. Scammers use deepfake video and voice cloning, or hijacked genuine channels, to run fake livestreams where a familiar face appears to endorse a crypto 'giveaway' that actually steals whatever funds viewers send in.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a message saying my creator account will be deleted unless I confirm my details — is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/platform-account-deletion-impersonation", "summary": "Almost certainly. Fake account deletion warnings are a widely used phishing tactic designed to create panic so you click a link and enter your login credentials on a fraudulent page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone reached out offering to be my manager or agent and grow my career — how do I know they're legitimate?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-talent-manager-scam-new-creators", "summary": "Be cautious with anyone who approaches you unsolicited, especially if they ask for an upfront fee before securing any work. Legitimate agents and managers typically earn commission from deals they land for you, not a fee just to sign you.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I found a merch store claiming to sell official products from a creator I follow — how do I know it's real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/creator-merch-store-clone-scam", "summary": "Check that the store is linked directly from the creator's own official channels. Clone merch stores use a creator's name and likeness without permission, taking payment for products that are low quality, counterfeit, or never shipped at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Another creator messaged me asking to collaborate and sent a link to 'discuss details' — could this be a phishing attempt?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-collab-duet-phishing-link", "summary": "It can be. Scammers impersonate other creators or claim to represent them, sending collaboration proposals with a link that leads to a credential-stealing page or malware download disguised as a shared document or media kit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got an email saying I need to 'verify' my account to keep or unlock monetization — is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/monetization-verification-scam-email", "summary": "Likely a phishing attempt. Monetization verification scams mimic official platform emails, directing creators to a fake page that captures login credentials or tax and payment information under the guise of maintaining eligibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "My phone suddenly lost signal and I can't call or text — could someone have taken over my number with an eSIM swap?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/esim-swap-scam", "summary": "Yes, this is a known attack. A scammer who gathers enough of your personal information can convince your mobile carrier to transfer your number onto an eSIM they control, cutting off your service and letting them intercept calls and texts, including one-time login codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a text with a verification code I didn't request, then lost phone service shortly after — what happened?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/esim-porting-otp-theft-scam", "summary": "This sequence often indicates an eSIM or number-porting attack in progress. A scammer requested the code as part of transferring your number, and once they succeed, your service drops while they gain control of calls and texts, including future one-time passcodes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "Someone claiming to be police contacted me by video call saying I'm under 'digital arrest' and must pay a fine — is this real?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/digital-arrest-video-call-scam", "summary": "No, 'digital arrest' is not a real legal process anywhere. This is a scam that uses a video call with people posing as police or government officials to frighten victims into transferring money to avoid a fabricated arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a call about a package held by customs containing illegal items, then it turned into threats of arrest — what's going on?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/fake-courier-customs-digital-arrest-scam", "summary": "This is a combined courier and 'digital arrest' scam. It typically starts with a fake customs or courier call claiming your identity is linked to a suspicious package, then escalates to threats of arrest to pressure you into paying a fee or transferring money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "What is 'quishing' and why is it suddenly showing up everywhere from parking signs to restaurant tables?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/quishing-qr-code-phishing", "summary": "Quishing is phishing carried out through QR codes instead of clickable links. Scammers place fake QR codes in public places or send them in messages because phones often can't preview the destination, making it easy to redirect people to fraudulent sites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I scanned a QR code on a parking meter to pay and now I'm worried it was fake — what should I check?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/qr-code-parking-meter-scam", "summary": "Check your bank statement for an unfamiliar charge and compare the payment page you used against the parking authority's official app or website. Scammers place fake QR stickers directly over legitimate parking meter codes to redirect payments to themselves.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a text about a missed delivery with a QR code to reschedule — should I scan it?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/quishing-fake-delivery-notice", "summary": "Be cautious. Fake delivery notices using QR codes are a common quishing tactic, leading to phishing pages that ask for a small 'redelivery fee' along with your full card details, or to fake login pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I got a call that sounded exactly like a family member in distress asking for emergency money — could it be AI generated?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/ai-voice-clone-family-emergency-scam", "summary": "Yes, this is possible with current voice cloning technology. Scammers can generate a convincing imitation of a loved one's voice from short audio clips found online, then use it in a panicked emergency call demanding urgent payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I received a text saying I have an unpaid toll and need to pay immediately to avoid a fine — is this a scam?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/toll-road-text-smishing-scam", "summary": "This is a widely reported smishing (text-message phishing) scam. Scammers send fake toll payment texts claiming an outstanding balance, linking to a fraudulent payment page that captures card details, regardless of whether you've actually driven on a toll road recently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "question", "title": "I scanned a QR code menu at a restaurant table and it asked me to enter payment details before showing the menu — is that normal?", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/questions/qr-code-restaurant-menu-scam", "summary": "No, this is not standard practice and is a red flag. Legitimate QR code menus display the menu directly without requiring payment information first; a request for card details before showing food items suggests a fake code has replaced or been placed over the genuine one.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect Your Parents From Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-parents-from-scams", "summary": "Practical steps to help protect older parents from scams — without taking away their independence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect Your Grandparents From Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-grandparents-from-scams", "summary": "Help grandparents stay safe from grandparent, impersonation, and romance scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Talk to Family About Scams Without Shaming Them", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/talk-to-family-about-scams-without-shaming-them", "summary": "Have supportive conversations about scams that build trust instead of defensiveness.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "Scam Warning Signs in Older Adults", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/scam-warning-signs-in-older-adults", "summary": "Recognise the behavioural and financial signs that an older relative may be targeted by a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Help Someone Who Is Being Scammed", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/help-someone-who-is-being-scammed", "summary": "Support a loved one who is currently being scammed — including when they don't believe you.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect Teenagers From Online Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-teenagers-from-online-scams", "summary": "Help teens avoid gaming, social media, sextortion, and money-mule scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "Family Scam Safety Checklist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/family-scam-safety-checklist", "summary": "A printable checklist to set up scam protections across your whole family.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "Emergency Family Scam Plan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/emergency-family-scam-plan", "summary": "A simple plan your family can follow the moment a scam is suspected.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect Your Small Business From Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-your-small-business-from-scams", "summary": "Practical steps to protect your small business from invoice fraud, impersonation, and cyber scams that target smaller organisations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect Students Studying Abroad From Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-students-studying-abroad-from-scams", "summary": "Help students living overseas stay safe from accommodation, visa, and money-transfer scams that target people far from home.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect New Immigrants From Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-new-immigrants-from-scams", "summary": "Help people who have recently moved to a new country avoid scams that specifically target those unfamiliar with local systems.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "Scam Safety for People With Dementia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/scam-safety-for-people-with-dementia", "summary": "Supportive guidance for families and carers helping protect someone with dementia from scams — while preserving dignity and independence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "Protecting Your Family From Scams After a Bereavement", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-your-family-after-a-bereavement", "summary": "How to protect grieving family members from scams that target people after the death of a loved one.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Set Up a Family Safe Word for Scam Emergencies", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/set-up-a-family-safe-word", "summary": "A family safe word verifies identity in an emergency and stops impersonation scams in their tracks — here's how to set one up.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect Children From Gaming Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-children-from-gaming-scams", "summary": "Help children stay safe from in-game currency scams, account theft, fake tournaments, and predatory in-game purchases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Help a Loved One Leave a Romance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/help-a-loved-one-leave-a-romance-scam", "summary": "Supportive, practical guidance for helping someone you care about recognise and safely exit a romance scam — without shame or confrontation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "Scam Safety for People Living Alone", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/scam-safety-for-people-living-alone", "summary": "Practical scam protections tailored to people who live alone — including doorstep fraud, phone scams, and staying connected to support.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "Neighbourhood Scam Watch Guide", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/neighbourhood-scam-watch-guide", "summary": "How to set up informal scam awareness in your street or community to protect vulnerable neighbours and share intelligence quickly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect Yourself From Scams on Social Media", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-yourself-on-social-media", "summary": "Practical steps to reduce your exposure to scams on social media — including fake shops, giveaway fraud, and account impersonation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Teach Children About Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/teach-children-about-scams", "summary": "Age-appropriate ways to teach children to recognise scams, protect their information, and come to you when something feels wrong.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "Scam Safety for Carers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/scam-safety-for-carers", "summary": "Guidance for carers helping the people they support stay safe from scams — balancing protection with dignity and autonomy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect Yourself Against Someone Impersonating You", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-against-someone-impersonating-you", "summary": "Steps to take if someone is using your identity or impersonating you online — and how to reduce the risk before it happens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "Scam Safety When Job Hunting", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/scam-safety-when-job-hunting", "summary": "How to spot fake job listings, recruitment scams, and work-from-home fraud — and protect your personal information during your search.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "Protecting Your Finances After a Serious Diagnosis", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-your-finances-after-a-diagnosis", "summary": "How to protect yourself and your family from financial scams during and after a serious illness diagnosis — with warmth and without alarm.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Secure Your Family's Devices Against Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/secure-your-familys-devices", "summary": "Practical device security steps the whole family can put in place to reduce the risk of falling for phishing, malware, and account takeover scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "Scam Safety for People With a Disability", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/scam-safety-for-people-with-a-disability", "summary": "Practical scam safety guidance for people with a disability — and for those who support them — with a focus on independence and dignity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "What To Do When a Relative Won't Accept They Are Being Scammed", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/what-to-do-when-a-relative-wont-accept-they-are-scammed", "summary": "Supportive guidance for when a loved one refuses to believe they are being scammed — and what you can do to protect them without destroying the relationship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect a Recently Widowed Relative From Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-a-recently-widowed-relative", "summary": "Gentle, practical guidance for protecting a recently widowed family member from scams — with care for their grief and independence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect Teenagers and Young Adults at University From Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protecting-young-adults-at-university-from-scams", "summary": "Practical ways to help a teenager or young adult starting university or independent life to recognise and avoid the scams most likely to target them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect Non-Native-English-Speaking Family Members From Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-non-native-english-speaking-family-members", "summary": "Practical ways to help a family member who uses English as a second language to recognise scams that exploit language barriers and unfamiliarity with local systems.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "What To Say When a Relative Is Being Scammed Right Now", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/what-to-say-when-a-relative-is-being-scammed-right-now", "summary": "Immediate, calm guidance for talking to a family member who appears to be actively engaged with a scammer at this moment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Set Up a Family Scam Response Plan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/family-scam-response-plan", "summary": "A step-by-step guide to creating a simple family plan so everyone knows exactly what to do if a scam happens — before it does.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect a Partner or Spouse From Investment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-a-partner-from-investment-scams", "summary": "Supportive guidance for protecting a partner or spouse from investment scams — including crypto, forex, and high-return scheme fraud — without damaging trust.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Run a Neighbourhood or Community Scam-Awareness Session", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/community-scam-awareness-kit", "summary": "A practical kit for running a community scam-awareness session in a neighbourhood, community centre, place of worship, or local group.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect Sole Traders and Small-Business Owners From Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-sole-traders-from-scams", "summary": "Targeted guidance for protecting a self-employed person or small-business owner from the scams most likely to affect them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Support Someone With Dementia If They Have Been Scammed", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/supporting-someone-with-dementia-if-they-are-scammed", "summary": "Compassionate guidance for responding if a person living with dementia has been scammed — covering immediate steps, recovery, and longer-term financial protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect Family From Inheritance and Probate Scams After a Death", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/inheritance-and-probate-scams-after-a-death", "summary": "Practical guidance for identifying and avoiding inheritance, estate, and probate scams that target families during the bereavement period.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Support a Disabled Family Member in Staying Safe From Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/supporting-a-disabled-family-member-against-scams", "summary": "Practical, respectful guidance for helping a disabled family member or friend reduce scam risk without compromising their independence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Help a Parent Set Up Scam-Call Blocking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/help-a-parent-set-up-scam-call-blocking", "summary": "Step-by-step guidance for setting up call-blocking tools on a parent's phone or landline to reduce unwanted scam calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect a Family Member Who Is Lonely or Grieving From Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-a-family-member-who-is-lonely-or-grieving", "summary": "Sensitive guidance for protecting a loved one going through loneliness or bereavement from scammers who deliberately target emotional vulnerability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Teach Kids About Gaming and In-App Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/teach-kids-about-gaming-and-in-app-scams", "summary": "Age-appropriate ways to talk to children about fake gaming items, free V-Bucks scams, and in-app purchase manipulation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect a Relative With Limited Tech Literacy From Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-a-relative-with-limited-tech-literacy", "summary": "Practical ways to help a family member who is less comfortable with technology spot and avoid online and phone scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Set Up Bank Transaction Alerts for a Vulnerable Relative", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/set-up-bank-transaction-alerts-for-a-vulnerable-relative", "summary": "A guide to setting up bank transaction alerts that protect a vulnerable family member without compromising their financial independence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "What To Do If a Family Member Gave Remote Access to Their Computer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/what-to-do-if-a-family-member-gave-remote-access-to-their-computer", "summary": "Immediate steps to take if a relative was tricked into allowing remote access — securing the device, accounts, and finances quickly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect a Family Member From Scams During a House Move", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-a-family-member-during-a-house-move", "summary": "House moves create a busy, distracted window that scammers exploit — practical steps to keep a relative safe from conveyancing and moving-day fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Help a Relative Recognise Investment and Crypto Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/help-a-relative-recognise-investment-and-crypto-scams", "summary": "Practical guidance for helping a family member identify and avoid fake investment platforms, crypto fraud, and high-return scam schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect a Family Caregiver From Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-a-family-caregiver-from-scams", "summary": "Guidance for the caregivers in your family — the people who are often so busy protecting others that their own scam vulnerability goes unnoticed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Run a Family 'Pause and Verify' Rule for Money Requests", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/family-pause-and-verify-rule-for-money-requests", "summary": "How to establish a simple family agreement that creates a protective pause before anyone acts on an unexpected money request.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Help a Relative Freeze Their Credit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/help-a-relative-freeze-their-credit", "summary": "A step-by-step guide to placing a credit freeze on behalf of a family member to block fraudulent new accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect a Family Member from Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-family-member-from-identity-theft", "summary": "Practical steps to reduce the risk that a relative's personal details will be used to commit fraud in their name.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Help a Relative After a Data Breach", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/help-after-a-data-breach", "summary": "What to do in the days and weeks after a relative's personal data has been exposed in a breach.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect a Relative from Courier and Mail Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-relative-from-courier-mail-fraud", "summary": "How to recognise and prevent scams that use fake deliveries, parcel notifications, and in-person couriers to steal money or goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Help an Immigrant Relative Avoid Visa and Legal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/help-immigrant-relative-avoid-visa-legal-scams", "summary": "How to support a family member navigating immigration processes and protect them from scammers who exploit fear and unfamiliarity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Help a Relative Cancel a Subscription Trap", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/help-a-relative-cancel-a-subscription-trap", "summary": "How to identify subscription traps and support a family member in stopping unwanted recurring charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect a Teen from Pet and Puppy Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-a-teen-from-pet-puppy-scams", "summary": "How to help a young person safely research a pet purchase and spot fake breeders and rehoming listings before any money changes hands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Talk to a Relative Who Has Been Drawn into an MLM", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/talk-to-a-relative-drawn-into-an-mlm", "summary": "How to have a supportive, non-confrontational conversation with a family member involved in a multi-level marketing scheme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Help a Relative Recover a Hacked Social Media Account", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/help-a-relative-recover-a-hacked-social-account", "summary": "Step-by-step support for a family member whose social media account has been taken over by a fraudster.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect a Relative's Mobile Money Account", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-a-relatives-mobile-money-account", "summary": "Practical steps to secure a family member's mobile money or mobile banking account against fraud and unauthorised access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Set Up Scam Alert Sharing in a Family Group Chat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/set-up-scam-alert-sharing-in-a-family-group-chat", "summary": "How to use a family group chat to share scam warnings quickly and create a culture of mutual protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect a Relative Buying Their First Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-a-relative-buying-their-first-crypto", "summary": "How to support a family member exploring cryptocurrency for the first time while reducing their exposure to scams and avoidable losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Help a Grieving Relative Avoid Exploitation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/help-a-grieving-relative-avoid-exploitation", "summary": "How to gently protect a family member who is bereaved from the scammers and opportunists who target people in grief.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Protect a Relative with a New Smartphone", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/protect-a-relative-with-a-new-smartphone", "summary": "A practical setup guide for helping a family member configure a new smartphone safely from day one.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "family_safety", "title": "How To Run an Annual Family Scam Check-In", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/family-safety/run-an-annual-family-scam-check-in", "summary": "A simple annual conversation to review and refresh your family's scam protections, habits, and emergency plans.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/phishing", "summary": "A fraudulent message — usually email — designed to trick you into handing over passwords, card numbers, or other sensitive data by impersonating a trusted organisation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Smishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/smishing", "summary": "A phishing attack delivered by SMS text message, often impersonating delivery companies, banks, or government services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Vishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/vishing", "summary": "Voice-call phishing where fraudsters phone you pretending to be banks, police, tech companies, or government agencies to extract money or sensitive information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Spear phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/spear-phishing", "summary": "A highly targeted phishing attack that uses personal details about the victim — name, employer, colleagues — to appear more credible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Whaling", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/whaling", "summary": "Spear phishing that specifically targets senior executives — CEOs, CFOs, or board members — to authorise large fraudulent payments or expose company secrets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Social engineering", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/social-engineering", "summary": "Manipulating people psychologically — rather than hacking systems technically — to make them reveal information, grant access, or take actions that benefit a fraudster.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Spoofing (caller-ID / email)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/spoofing", "summary": "Faking the display name, phone number, or email address on a message so it appears to come from a trusted source.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pharming", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pharming", "summary": "Redirecting your browser to a fake website even when you type the correct web address, by poisoning DNS records or manipulating router settings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Typosquatting", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/typosquatting", "summary": "Registering domain names that are common misspellings of popular websites to intercept mistyped traffic and serve phishing pages or malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Catfishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/catfishing", "summary": "Creating a fake online persona — typically using stolen photos and a fabricated backstory — to deceive someone into an emotional or romantic relationship, usually for money, information, or emotional manipulation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Romance scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-scam", "summary": "A fraud in which a scammer builds a fake romantic relationship online to gain the victim's trust, then asks for money under fabricated pretexts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Advance-fee fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/advance-fee-fraud", "summary": "A scam that promises a large reward — inheritance, lottery win, business deal — in exchange for an upfront payment or series of fees that grow until the victim stops paying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SIM swap", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sim-swap", "summary": "Fraudulently transferring your mobile number to a SIM card the attacker controls, so they can intercept your calls, texts, and one-time passcodes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "OTP (one-time passcode)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/otp", "summary": "A single-use numeric or alphanumeric code, usually sent by SMS or generated by an authenticator app, used to verify your identity during login or transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Two-factor authentication (2FA / MFA)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/two-factor-authentication", "summary": "A security method requiring two separate proofs of identity — typically a password plus a code from your phone — before granting access to an account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Account takeover (ATO)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/account-takeover", "summary": "When a fraudster gains unauthorised access to someone's online account and uses it to steal money, data, or identity — or to conduct further fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Credential stuffing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/credential-stuffing", "summary": "Automatically trying username-and-password combinations leaked from one data breach across many other websites, exploiting people's habit of reusing passwords.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Data breach", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/data-breach", "summary": "An incident in which unauthorised parties gain access to confidential data — typically including email addresses, passwords, payment details, or personal information — held by a company or organisation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Identity theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/identity-theft", "summary": "Using another person's personal information — name, date of birth, address, ID numbers — without their consent, typically to open accounts, take out loans, or commit fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Dark web", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/dark-web", "summary": "Parts of the internet accessible only through specialised software like Tor, commonly associated with the trade of stolen data, fraud tools, and criminal services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "APP fraud (authorised push payment)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/app-fraud", "summary": "A scam in which you are tricked into voluntarily sending money by bank transfer to an account controlled by a fraudster, making recovery difficult because the payment was technically authorised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Money mule", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/money-mule", "summary": "Someone who receives and transfers money on behalf of criminals — sometimes wittingly, often unknowingly — helping fraudsters launder the proceeds of crime.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Invoice fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/invoice-fraud", "summary": "A scam in which fraudsters impersonate a genuine supplier and trick a business or individual into paying an invoice into a fraudulent bank account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Business email compromise (BEC)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/business-email-compromise", "summary": "A sophisticated email-based fraud targeting businesses, usually to divert large payments by impersonating executives or trusted suppliers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "CEO fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ceo-fraud", "summary": "A BEC variant in which attackers impersonate a company's CEO or senior executive in emails to pressure employees — typically in finance — into making urgent, unauthorised wire transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Chargeback", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/chargeback", "summary": "A forced reversal of a credit or debit card payment, initiated by the cardholder through their bank, when a transaction is disputed as fraudulent or a seller has not fulfilled their obligations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Card-not-present fraud (CNP)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/card-not-present-fraud", "summary": "Fraudulent use of stolen card details to make purchases online or by phone, where the physical card doesn't need to be presented.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Skimming", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/skimming", "summary": "Covertly copying card data from the magnetic stripe or chip using a concealed device attached to ATMs, payment terminals, or fuel pumps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Malware", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/malware", "summary": "Software specifically designed to damage, disrupt, or gain unauthorised access to a computer system — an umbrella term covering viruses, ransomware, spyware, trojans, and more.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Ransomware", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ransomware", "summary": "Malware that encrypts your files and demands payment — usually in cryptocurrency — in exchange for the decryption key.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Spyware", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/spyware", "summary": "Software that covertly monitors device activity — browsing, keystrokes, messages, or location — and transmits the data to a third party without the user's knowledge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Keylogger", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/keylogger", "summary": "Software (or hardware) that secretly records every keystroke you make, capturing passwords, messages, and card numbers without your knowledge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "RAT (remote access trojan)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/rat", "summary": "Malware that gives an attacker complete remote control of an infected device — allowing them to view the screen, operate the camera, steal files, and more.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Botnet", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/botnet", "summary": "A network of malware-infected computers ('bots') controlled remotely by a criminal to carry out coordinated attacks such as spam campaigns, DDoS attacks, or credential stuffing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Scareware", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/scareware", "summary": "Fake security alerts — pop-ups, browser warnings, or audio alarms — designed to panic users into calling a fraudulent number or buying bogus software.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Rug pull", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/rug-pull", "summary": "A crypto scam in which developers build apparent momentum behind a new token or project, then suddenly withdraw all liquidity and disappear with investors' funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pump and dump", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pump-and-dump", "summary": "A scheme in which coordinated buyers artificially inflate an asset's price through hype and false statements, then sell their holdings at the peak — leaving latecomers with worthless assets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Ponzi scheme", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ponzi-scheme", "summary": "A fraudulent investment operation that pays returns to earlier investors using money from newer investors, rather than genuine profits — collapsing when new money stops arriving.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pyramid scheme", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pyramid-scheme", "summary": "A business model that rewards participants primarily for recruiting new members rather than selling genuine products or services, making it mathematically unsustainable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Seed phrase", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/seed-phrase", "summary": "A sequence of 12 or 24 common words that is the master key to a cryptocurrency wallet — anyone who has it can access and drain every asset in that wallet.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Private key", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/private-key", "summary": "A cryptographic secret that proves ownership of a cryptocurrency address and authorises transactions — analogous to the password and signature on your wallet combined.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Wallet drainer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/wallet-drainer", "summary": "A malicious smart contract or script that tricks cryptocurrency users into approving transactions that empty their wallet in one action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Airdrop scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/airdrop-scam", "summary": "A fake free cryptocurrency distribution that requires victims to connect their wallet or pay a small fee, enabling theft of wallet contents or funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Boiler room", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/boiler-room", "summary": "An operation in which high-pressure sales people cold-call victims to sell worthless, non-existent, or wildly overpriced investments — often shares, bonds, or commodities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "MLM (multi-level marketing)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mlm", "summary": "A sales structure in which participants earn from their own sales and a portion of sales made by people they recruit — legitimate when product-driven, potentially fraudulent when recruitment-driven.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Deepfake", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/deepfake", "summary": "AI-generated video, audio, or images that convincingly depict real people saying or doing things they never said or did, increasingly used to enable fraud and disinformation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Voice cloning", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/voice-cloning", "summary": "Using AI to replicate someone's voice from a small audio sample, enabling fraudsters to impersonate family members, executives, or public figures in phone calls or audio messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Synthetic identity fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/synthetic-identity", "summary": "Creating a fictitious identity by combining real stolen data (such as a Social Security Number) with invented personal details, to open accounts and accumulate credit with no intention of repaying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "KYC (Know Your Customer)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/kyc", "summary": "Regulatory requirements that oblige financial institutions and exchanges to verify their customers' identity before providing services, to prevent fraud and money laundering.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "AML (anti-money laundering)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/aml", "summary": "Laws, regulations, and procedures designed to detect and prevent the disguising of illegally obtained funds as legitimate income.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Tech-support scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/tech-support-scam", "summary": "A fraud in which criminals pose as Microsoft, Apple, or another tech company to convince victims their device has a serious problem, then extract money or install malware under the guise of fixing it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Gift-card scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/gift-card-scam", "summary": "Any scam in which the victim is instructed to pay using retail gift cards — iTunes, Google Play, Amazon, Steam — a payment method favoured by fraudsters because it's effectively untraceable and non-reversible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Recovery scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/recovery-scam", "summary": "A secondary fraud targeting previous scam victims, promising to recover lost funds for an upfront fee — but taking the fee and disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Sextortion", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sextortion", "summary": "Blackmail using intimate images or recordings — real, staged, or fabricated — to extort money or further material from the victim under threat of exposure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "419 scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/419-scam", "summary": "A classic advance-fee fraud originating in mass-email campaigns, named after the section of the Nigerian Criminal Code that criminalises such schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Account verification scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/account-verification-scam", "summary": "A message claiming your account will be suspended unless you verify your details immediately — designed to harvest login credentials or personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake invoice scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-invoice-scam", "summary": "Sending businesses or individuals a fraudulent invoice for goods or services never ordered or delivered, hoping it will be paid without thorough checking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Impersonation scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/impersonation-scam", "summary": "Any fraud in which an attacker poses as a trusted person or institution — a bank, government body, family member, or celebrity — to extract money or information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Investment fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/investment-fraud", "summary": "Any scheme that deceives victims into putting money into fake, worthless, or manipulated investment opportunities, resulting in financial loss.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Safe account scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/safe-account-scam", "summary": "A vishing fraud in which callers impersonating your bank or police convince you to move your savings to a 'safe account' they control — the account is the scammer's.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Lottery scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/lottery-scam", "summary": "A fraud claiming the victim has won a lottery or prize they never entered, requiring fees or personal details to 'claim' the winnings — which do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Job scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/job-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent job offer designed to extract money, personal data, or labour from applicants — including fake listings, reshipping schemes, and task-based crypto scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Rental scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/rental-scam", "summary": "A fraud in which a fake landlord or property agent advertises a property that doesn't exist or isn't available, collecting a deposit or advance rent before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Courier scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/courier-scam", "summary": "A sophisticated fraud in which a caller impersonating a bank or police officer sends a 'courier' to physically collect cash, cards, or valuables from the victim at their home.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Property fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/deed-of-assignment-fraud", "summary": "Fraudulent attempts to steal equity from a property or prevent the legitimate owner selling or remortgaging, including identity fraud, forged deeds, and conveyancing scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Charity scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/charity-scam", "summary": "Fake charitable appeals — especially following disasters, conflicts, or high-profile causes — that collect donations for fraudsters rather than genuine beneficiaries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Romance investment fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-investment-fraud", "summary": "A scam that combines a fabricated romantic relationship with encouragement to invest in a fraudulent platform — a broad category that includes pig-butchering.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Malvertising", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/malvertising", "summary": "Malicious advertising — legitimate-looking online ads that, when clicked, redirect users to malware downloads or phishing pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Man-in-the-middle attack (MitM)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/man-in-the-middle", "summary": "An attack in which a fraudster secretly intercepts and potentially alters communications between two parties who believe they are communicating directly with each other.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Social media scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/social-media-scam", "summary": "Fraud conducted through social media platforms — including fake giveaways, investment adverts, impersonation accounts, and romance or friendship deceptions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Tech renewal scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/geek-squad-scam", "summary": "A fake subscription renewal notice — commonly impersonating well-known tech or security brands — that tricks victims into calling a number and giving remote access to their device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Quishing (QR code phishing)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/quishing", "summary": "Phishing attacks that use malicious QR codes in place of links, directing victims to fake websites when scanned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pig butchering (sha zhu pan)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pig-butchering", "summary": "A long-con scam that blends romance or friendship with a fake investment platform, 'fattening up' the victim with attention before taking everything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Caller-ID Spoofing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/caller-id-spoofing", "summary": "Manipulating the telephone number displayed on a recipient's caller-ID so that a call appears to come from a trusted or official source.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Romance Baiting", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-baiting", "summary": "An online fraud that uses a fabricated romantic or friendship persona to build emotional trust before manipulating the victim financially.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Love Bombing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/love-bombing", "summary": "An overwhelming flood of affection, attention, and flattery used early in a relationship to fast-track emotional dependency, often as a precursor to fraud or coercive control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/refund-scam", "summary": "A fraud in which a scammer pretends to issue a refund but tricks the victim into sending money themselves — often by manipulating a banking screen or exploiting remote access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Escrow Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/escrow-fraud", "summary": "A scam in which a fake or hijacked escrow service is used to steal funds from a buyer or seller during a high-value transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Wire Transfer Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraud that tricks an individual or business into sending an irrevocable bank wire to a criminal-controlled account, typically through impersonation or fake payment instructions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Gift-Card Draining", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/gift-card-draining", "summary": "A fraud method in which criminals copy gift-card codes in-store before activation, then drain the balance after an unsuspecting customer loads funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Crypto Drainer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/crypto-drainer", "summary": "Malicious smart-contract code or a deceptive wallet-connection prompt that sweeps all tokens from a victim's cryptocurrency wallet in a single transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Address Poisoning", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/address-poisoning", "summary": "A crypto scam that sends tiny transactions from a wallet address visually similar to one in the victim's transaction history, hoping the victim accidentally copies the wrong address.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Remote-Access Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/remote-access-scam", "summary": "A fraud in which a scammer convinces the victim to install legitimate remote-desktop software, then uses that access to steal funds, data, or to set up further fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Payroll Diversion", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/payroll-diversion", "summary": "A fraud in which criminals hijack or impersonate an employee's identity to redirect salary payments to an account they control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Formjacking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/formjacking", "summary": "A cyberattack in which malicious JavaScript is injected into a website's payment or checkout form to silently copy card details as they are entered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Phishing Kit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/phishing-kit", "summary": "A pre-packaged set of files and scripts that lets criminals quickly deploy convincing fake websites to harvest credentials, often bundled with harvested brand assets and admin panels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SIM Farm (Smishing Kit)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sim-farm", "summary": "A bank of SIM cards and mobile devices used to send mass fraudulent SMS messages at scale before numbers are blocked by carriers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Brushing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/brushing-scam", "summary": "A scheme in which sellers send unrequested packages to real people using their address, then post fake five-star reviews in those people's names to boost product rankings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Triangulation Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/triangulation-fraud", "summary": "An e-commerce fraud where a criminal acts as a middleman — taking real orders with stolen card details, then purchasing the goods legitimately and shipping them to the buyer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake-Review Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-review-fraud", "summary": "The practice of generating, purchasing, or incentivising fabricated product or service reviews to mislead consumers and manipulate platform rankings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Dropshipping Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/dropshipping-fraud", "summary": "A fraud model that exploits legitimate dropshipping arrangements — selling items the seller never stocks — to deceive customers, misuse supplier credit, or launder funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Money Laundering", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/money-laundering", "summary": "The process of disguising the criminal origin of illegally obtained funds by passing them through a series of transactions to make them appear legitimate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Invoice Takeover Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/invoice-takeover-fraud", "summary": "A fraud in which criminals intercept legitimate invoice communications and alter payment details so money is sent to a fraudster's account instead of the real supplier.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Money-Mule Recruitment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mule-recruitment", "summary": "The process by which criminal networks enlist individuals — often unwitting — to receive and forward stolen funds through their bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Advance-Fee Variant Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/advance-fee-variant", "summary": "Any scam that promises a large reward contingent on the victim first paying a series of escalating fees — regardless of the specific cover story used.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Synthetic Identity Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/synthetic-fraud", "summary": "A fraud in which criminals create fictitious identities by combining real and fabricated personal data — often a real Social Security or National Insurance number with invented other details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pig-Butchering Operation (Scam Centre)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pig-butchering-operation", "summary": "Industrial-scale fraud facilities — often operating in South-East Asia — that employ coerced or trafficked workers to run pig-butchering, romance, and investment scams at volume.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Social-Proof Manipulation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/social-proof-manipulation", "summary": "The use of fabricated or misleading endorsements, follower counts, reviews, or testimonials to make a fraudulent offer appear credible and popular.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Malware Delivery", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/malware-delivery", "summary": "The methods and techniques criminals use to install malicious software on a victim's device — including phishing attachments, drive-by downloads, and trojanised software.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Account Hijacking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/account-hijacking", "summary": "Unauthorised takeover of an online account — email, social media, banking, or e-commerce — typically as a stepping stone to financial theft, fraud, or further attacks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Dark-Web Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/dark-web-marketplace", "summary": "An illicit online market accessible only via anonymising software such as Tor, where stolen data, fraud tools, drugs, and cybercrime services are bought and sold.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Insider Threat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/insider-threat", "summary": "A security risk posed by current or former employees, contractors, or partners who misuse their legitimate access to cause financial harm or data theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Impersonation of Authority", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/impersonation-of-authority", "summary": "A fraud tactic in which criminals pose as police officers, government officials, regulators, or court officers to intimidate victims into paying money or surrendering assets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Two-Step Verification Bypass", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/two-step-verification-bypass", "summary": "Techniques that circumvent two-factor or multi-factor authentication to gain unauthorised account access, most commonly real-time phishing and SIM-swap attacks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Honey Trap", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/honey-trap", "summary": "A social-engineering lure that exploits romantic or sexual attraction to extract sensitive information, money, or compromising material from a target.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Deepfake Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/deepfake-fraud", "summary": "The use of AI-generated synthetic video or audio that realistically imitates a real person, deployed to deceive victims into authorising payments, sharing secrets, or trusting fake content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Social-Media Investment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/social-media-investment-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent investment opportunities promoted through social-media platforms using fake profiles, paid ads, or hijacked accounts to lure victims with promises of high returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Auction Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/auction-fraud", "summary": "Fraud occurring on online auction platforms where sellers misrepresent items, fail to deliver goods after payment, or use fake bidding to inflate prices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Subscription Trap", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/subscription-trap", "summary": "A deceptive sign-up flow that hides ongoing recurring charges in fine print, making it easy to start a subscription and very difficult to cancel it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "HMRC / Tax-Office Impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/impersonation-of-hmrc", "summary": "Fraud in which criminals pose as tax authorities — HMRC, IRS, or equivalent — to threaten victims with arrest or fines unless they pay an invented debt immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Courier Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/courier-fraud", "summary": "A scam where a fraudster posing as a bank or police officer sends a courier to collect cash, bank cards, or jewellery from a victim under a false pretence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Sweetheart Scam (Online Dating Fraud)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sweetheart-scam", "summary": "A fraud in which criminals build a false romantic relationship online to manipulate victims into sending money, gifts, or personal financial access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Number Spoofing (Telephone Spoofing)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/number-spoofing", "summary": "Deliberately falsifying the telephone number displayed to a call or SMS recipient to impersonate a trusted contact, bank, or government body.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Chargeback Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/chargeback-fraud", "summary": "Abusing the bank chargeback process to reclaim payment for goods or services that were genuinely received, effectively stealing from merchants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Friendly Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/friendly-fraud", "summary": "A chargeback or dispute filed by a legitimate cardholder who did authorise the transaction but later claims they did not, often to obtain a refund without returning goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Shimming", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/shimming", "summary": "Inserting a thin fraudulent device inside a card reader's chip slot to intercept and copy EMV chip data during a legitimate transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Juice Jacking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/juice-jacking", "summary": "A cyberattack using public USB charging ports to transfer malware to, or steal data from, devices while they charge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Evil Twin (Wi-Fi Attack)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/evil-twin", "summary": "A rogue wireless access point that mimics a legitimate public Wi-Fi network to intercept traffic from unsuspecting users who connect to it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Session Hijacking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/session-hijacking", "summary": "Stealing an active authenticated session token to gain unauthorised access to a victim's account without needing their password.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cookie Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cookie-theft", "summary": "Stealing browser cookies that contain session tokens or saved credentials, enabling attackers to access accounts or track browsing without needing passwords.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Clickjacking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/clickjacking", "summary": "A web attack that tricks users into clicking something different from what they see, by overlaying a hidden malicious element on top of a legitimate page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Watering Hole Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/watering-hole-attack", "summary": "A targeted attack where criminals compromise a website frequented by the intended victims, infecting them when they visit the site during normal activity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Drive-By Download", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/drive-by-download", "summary": "Malware automatically downloaded and executed on a visitor's device simply by loading a malicious or compromised web page, requiring no clicks or deliberate action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Zero-Day Vulnerability", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/zero-day", "summary": "A software flaw unknown to the vendor — and therefore unpatched — that attackers can exploit before any fix is available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Vishing Callback / TOAD Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/vishing-callback", "summary": "A two-stage attack combining a phishing email with a fraudulent phone number, prompting the victim to call the attacker rather than the attacker calling them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SIM Jacking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sim-jacking", "summary": "A broad term for attacks that seize control of a victim's mobile phone number, including SIM swap fraud and port-out fraud, to intercept SMS codes and calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Port-Out Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/port-out-fraud", "summary": "Fraudulently transferring a victim's mobile phone number to a different network without their consent, redirecting calls and texts to the attacker.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "OTP Bot", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/otp-bot", "summary": "Automated software that calls or texts victims in real time to trick them into reading out their one-time passcodes, which are then relayed to attackers logging into the victim's account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Callback Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/callback-phishing", "summary": "A phishing technique where a fraudulent message instructs the recipient to call a phone number, directing them to scammers rather than a legitimate organisation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Business Opportunity Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/business-opportunity-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent offer presenting a fake or grossly exaggerated business venture — often promising high returns for minimal effort — that exists primarily to extract upfront fees or sell worthless materials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Matrix Scheme", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/matrix-scheme", "summary": "A type of pyramid scheme where participants must recruit others to advance up a waiting list to receive a prize or payout, with the scheme collapsing when recruitment slows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Affinity Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/affinity-fraud", "summary": "Investment fraud targeting members of a close-knit community — religious groups, ethnic communities, professional associations — by exploiting the trust that exists within the group.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Wash Trading", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/wash-trading", "summary": "Artificially inflating an asset's trading volume by repeatedly buying and selling it between controlled accounts to create a false impression of market activity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Exit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/exit-scam", "summary": "When a cryptocurrency project, exchange, or marketplace abruptly shuts down and disappears with investors' or customers' funds after building sufficient trust to attract deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Honeypot Token", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/honeypot-token", "summary": "A fraudulent cryptocurrency token designed with smart contract code that allows buyers to purchase but prevents them from ever selling, trapping their funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Approval Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/approval-phishing", "summary": "A crypto scam that tricks victims into signing a token-approval transaction granting unlimited access to their wallet's assets, allowing the scammer to drain funds at will.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Seed Phrase Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/seed-phrase-theft", "summary": "Stealing a crypto wallet's seed phrase (recovery phrase) by deception, malware, or physical means, giving the thief complete and irreversible control of all assets in the wallet.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Dusting Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/dusting-attack", "summary": "Sending tiny amounts of cryptocurrency ('dust') to many wallet addresses to de-anonymise the owners by tracking how the dust is subsequently spent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Reshipping Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/reshipping-scam", "summary": "A fraud where recruited 'package handlers' unknowingly receive stolen goods and reship them overseas, laundering physical merchandise purchased with stolen payment cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Check Overpayment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-check-overpayment", "summary": "A fraud where a victim receives a counterfeit cheque for more than an agreed amount, is asked to wire back the difference, and is left liable when the fake cheque bounces.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Mandate Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mandate-fraud", "summary": "Convincing an organisation to change a supplier's or employee's bank account details so that future payments are redirected to the fraudster's account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Tech Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/tech-refund-scam", "summary": "A fraud where scammers impersonate tech companies offering refunds for discontinued services, then trick victims into 'accidentally' sending more than the refund amount using banking manipulation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Grandparent Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/grandparent-scam", "summary": "A fraud targeting older adults with an urgent call claiming a grandchild or family member is in legal or medical trouble and needs immediate financial help, often asking for cash, gift cards, or wire transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Lottery Advance-Fee Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/advance-fee-lottery", "summary": "A scam informing victims they have won a lottery or prize draw they never entered, then requesting upfront fees to release the winnings — which do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Disaster Relief Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/disaster-relief-fraud", "summary": "Fraudulent charities or individuals exploiting a major disaster, emergency, or crisis to solicit donations that never reach victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Ghost Broking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ghost-broking", "summary": "Selling fraudulent motor insurance policies — either entirely fake or taken out using false details — to victims who believe they have valid cover but are unknowingly uninsured.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Debt Collection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/debt-collection-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as debt collectors demand payment for debts that are fake, already paid, legally unenforceable, or belong to someone else, using threats and intimidation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pretexting", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pretexting", "summary": "Creating a fabricated scenario or false identity to manipulate a target into revealing sensitive information or performing an action they otherwise would not.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Credential Harvesting", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/credential-harvesting", "summary": "The systematic collection of usernames, passwords, and authentication data through phishing, fake login pages, malware, or data breaches for later use in account takeovers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Bank Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/bank-impersonation-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as a victim's bank — by phone, email, or text — to steal credentials, authorisation codes, or money under the guise of protecting the account from fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Landlord Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-landlord-scam", "summary": "Advertising a rental property the fraudster does not own or control to collect deposits and advance rent from multiple victims who never gain access to the property.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Identity Document Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/identity-document-fraud", "summary": "Using forged, altered, or fraudulently obtained identity documents — passports, driving licences, utility bills — to pass verification checks for financial services, tenancy, or employment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Insider Trading Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/insider-trading-fraud", "summary": "Trading financial securities based on material non-public information obtained from a position of trust or access, giving an unfair advantage over other market participants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Typosquatting Domain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/typosquatting-domain", "summary": "A domain name deliberately registered with a common misspelling of a well-known brand to intercept mistyped web traffic.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Homograph Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/homograph-attack", "summary": "A spoofing technique that uses visually identical or near-identical Unicode characters to create deceptive domain names that appear legitimate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Lookalike Domain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/lookalike-domain", "summary": "A domain crafted to closely resemble a trusted brand's real domain, used to deceive recipients into trusting fraudulent emails or websites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "URL Shortener Abuse", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/url-shortener-abuse", "summary": "The misuse of legitimate URL-shortening services to disguise malicious links, bypassing security filters that check destination URLs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Open Redirect", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/open-redirect", "summary": "A vulnerability in a legitimate website that allows an attacker to craft a link pointing to that site which then silently redirects the visitor to a malicious destination.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Email Spoofing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/email-spoofing", "summary": "Forging the 'From' field in an email header to make a message appear to come from a trusted sender it did not actually originate from.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Display-Name Spoofing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/display-name-spoofing", "summary": "A technique where an attacker sets a legitimate-looking name in the email 'From' field while using a completely different, often fraudulent, email address.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Thread Hijacking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/thread-hijacking", "summary": "An attack where a fraudster inserts themselves into an existing legitimate email conversation to lend credibility to a fraudulent request.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "BEC (Business Email Compromise)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/bec", "summary": "A sophisticated scam targeting organisations where criminals impersonate executives, suppliers, or partners via email to authorise fraudulent payments or data transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Conversation Hijacking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/conversation-hijacking", "summary": "A fraud technique where attackers infiltrate existing legitimate communications — online or by phone — to steer victims toward a fraudulent outcome.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Callback Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/callback-fraud", "summary": "A scheme where fraudsters trick victims into calling a premium-rate or international number by creating a false reason to call back, generating revenue for the attacker.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Premium-Rate Number Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/premium-rate-number-scam", "summary": "A fraud that tricks victims into calling or staying connected to phone numbers that charge significantly above standard rates, generating profit for the scammer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Wangiri (One-Ring) Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/wangiri", "summary": "A scam where a fraudster calls your phone and hangs up after one ring, hoping curiosity will prompt you to call back an expensive international number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Missed-Call Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/missed-call-scam", "summary": "A broad category of telephone fraud that uses a missed call as the hook to entice the victim to make a costly or fraudulent return call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Robocall", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/robocall", "summary": "An automated telephone call that delivers a pre-recorded message, frequently used to conduct mass fraud campaigns at minimal cost.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Autodialer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/autodialer", "summary": "Software or hardware that automatically dials large volumes of telephone numbers, used legitimately for reminders but extensively abused for scam campaigns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Neighbor Spoofing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/neighbor-spoofing", "summary": "A caller-ID manipulation technique where scammers display a number with the same area code and prefix as the victim to increase call answer rates.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Voicemail Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/voicemail-phishing", "summary": "A fraud technique that leaves a pre-recorded urgent message in a victim's voicemail, prompting them to call back a fraudulent number or visit a phishing site.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Invoice", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-invoice", "summary": "A fraudulent billing document sent to a business or individual claiming payment is owed for goods or services that were never ordered or delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Purchase-Order Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/purchase-order-fraud", "summary": "A scheme where a fraudster creates or manipulates purchase orders to authorise the delivery of goods or payment for services that benefit the attacker.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Overpayment Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/overpayment-fraud", "summary": "A scam where a victim receives a fraudulent payment larger than expected and is asked to refund the difference, before the original payment bounces.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Escrow Impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/escrow-impersonation", "summary": "A fraud where a scammer creates a fake escrow service or impersonates a legitimate one to intercept funds during a high-value transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Title Fraud (Property)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/title-fraud", "summary": "A crime where a fraudster forges ownership documents to falsely transfer or mortgage a property, stealing equity from the real owner.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Deed Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/deed-fraud", "summary": "The fraudulent creation or alteration of a property deed to transfer ownership or secure loans without the knowledge of the legitimate owner.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Rental Application Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/rental-application-fraud", "summary": "The submission of falsified documents or information on a rental application to secure tenancy for which the applicant would not legitimately qualify.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Landlord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-landlord", "summary": "A scammer who poses as a property owner to collect deposits and rent payments for properties they do not own or have no right to let.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Moving-Company Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/moving-company-scam", "summary": "A fraud where a rogue removals firm gives a low quote, then holds a customer's belongings hostage until inflated charges are paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Timeshare-Exit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/timeshare-exit-scam", "summary": "A fraud that targets existing timeshare owners, promising to cancel or sell their timeshare in exchange for large upfront fees that are never earned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Debt-Settlement Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/debt-settlement-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent service that promises to negotiate down a consumer's debts in exchange for fees, often leaving the victim in worse financial position.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Payday-Loan Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/payday-loan-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent operation that impersonates or mimics a payday loan provider to steal personal and banking information or collect advance fees from financially vulnerable applicants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Advance-Fee Loan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/advance-fee-loan", "summary": "A loan scam that demands an upfront fee — framed as insurance, a deposit, or processing charges — before any funds are released, which never materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Guarantor Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/guarantor-scam", "summary": "A fraud where a victim is persuaded to act as a loan or rental guarantor for someone who does not intend to repay, leaving the guarantor liable for the full debt.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Charity Lottery", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-charity-lottery", "summary": "A fraudulent raffle or lottery that falsely claims proceeds benefit a charity, using charitable branding to increase participation while keeping all funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Crowdfunding Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/crowdfunding-fraud", "summary": "The use of crowdfunding platforms to solicit donations or investment under false or exaggerated pretences, with funds misappropriated rather than applied to the stated purpose.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Dispute Resolution", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/dispute-resolution", "summary": "The formal process by which a consumer challenges a transaction with their bank or card issuer, seeking a reversal or refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "First-Party Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/first-party-fraud", "summary": "Fraud committed by a real customer using their own identity to deceive a financial institution or merchant for financial gain.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Account-Opening Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/account-opening-fraud", "summary": "The use of false, stolen, or synthetic identity information to open a new financial account with fraudulent intent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Bust-Out Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/bust-out-fraud", "summary": "A scheme in which a fraudster builds credit over time by behaving as a legitimate borrower, then suddenly maxes out all available credit and disappears.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Card Cracking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/card-cracking", "summary": "A fraud scheme in which a criminal recruits account holders to share their debit card details in exchange for a promised share of fraudulently deposited funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fullz", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fullz", "summary": "Dark-web slang for a complete package of a victim's personal and financial information sufficient to commit identity theft or open fraudulent accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Card Dump", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/card-dump", "summary": "Stolen payment card data copied from a card's magnetic stripe, sold and used to produce counterfeit physical cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Carding", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/carding", "summary": "The fraudulent use of stolen payment card details to make unauthorised purchases or test card validity, typically conducted online.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "BIN Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/bin-attack", "summary": "A large-scale automated attack in which criminals systematically generate and test card numbers based on a known Bank Identification Number to find valid cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Enumeration Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/enumeration-attack", "summary": "An automated attack that systematically tests large numbers of possible values — such as card numbers, usernames, or account IDs — to discover valid ones.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Credential Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/credential-phishing", "summary": "A phishing attack specifically designed to steal usernames and passwords by directing victims to fake login pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "OAuth Consent Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/oauth-consent-phishing", "summary": "An attack that tricks users into granting a malicious third-party application access to their accounts via a legitimate OAuth authorisation flow.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Token Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/token-theft", "summary": "The theft of authentication or session tokens to gain unauthorised access to accounts without needing the victim's password or MFA code.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Adversary-in-the-Middle (AiTM)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/adversary-in-the-middle", "summary": "An attack in which a malicious proxy sits between the victim and a legitimate service, capturing credentials and session tokens in real time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Reverse-Proxy Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/reverse-proxy-phishing", "summary": "A phishing technique that uses a server acting as a transparent proxy between victim and target site, enabling real-time credential and token interception.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "MFA Fatigue", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mfa-fatigue", "summary": "An attack that floods a victim with repeated MFA push notification requests until they approve one out of frustration or confusion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Push Notification Spam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/push-notification-spam", "summary": "The mass delivery of unsolicited browser or app push notifications to trick users into clicking malicious links or approving fraudulent actions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Helpdesk Social Engineering", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/helpdesk-social-engineering", "summary": "Manipulation of an organisation's IT helpdesk or customer service staff into resetting credentials or granting access on behalf of an attacker posing as a legitimate user.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pretext Call", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pretext-call", "summary": "A fraudulent phone call in which the caller uses a fabricated scenario (pretext) to manipulate the recipient into divulging information or taking an action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Deepfake Voice", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/deepfake-voice", "summary": "AI-generated audio that mimics a specific person's voice, used to impersonate them in fraud calls or authorise fraudulent transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Liveness Detection Bypass", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/liveness-detection-bypass", "summary": "Techniques used to fool biometric identity verification systems into accepting a fraudulent submission — such as a photo, video, or mask — as a live person.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Document Forgery", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/document-forgery", "summary": "The creation or alteration of official documents — passports, driving licences, bank statements — to facilitate identity fraud or meet verification requirements under false pretences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Proof-of-Funds Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/proof-of-funds-fraud", "summary": "The use of forged, borrowed, or temporarily inflated account statements to deceive a counterparty into believing the fraudster has greater financial resources than they actually possess.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Lien Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/lien-fraud", "summary": "The filing of false or fraudulent liens against a property or individual's assets, typically to obstruct sale, extort payment, or cloud title.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Equity Skimming", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/equity-skimming", "summary": "A real estate fraud in which a criminal takes over a property, collects rent, but fails to make mortgage payments — eventually leaving the original owner facing foreclosure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Foreclosure Rescue Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/foreclosure-rescue", "summary": "A predatory scheme targeting homeowners facing foreclosure with false promises of saving their home in exchange for fees or property transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Loan Flipping", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/loan-flipping", "summary": "A predatory lending practice in which a lender repeatedly refinances a borrower's loan, generating fees each time while providing minimal financial benefit to the borrower.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Loan Packing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/loan-packing", "summary": "A predatory lending practice in which unnecessary or undisclosed products are bundled into a loan, inflating the total cost without the borrower's informed consent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Upselling Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/upselling-fraud", "summary": "Deceptive sales practices in which customers are pressured or misled into purchasing more expensive or unnecessary products or services under false pretences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Bait-and-Switch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/bait-and-switch", "summary": "A deceptive sales tactic in which a seller advertises a product at an attractive price or terms, then substitutes an inferior or more expensive option when the customer attempts to purchase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Drip Pricing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/drip-pricing", "summary": "A pricing tactic in which a low headline price is advertised but mandatory fees are progressively revealed during the checkout process, inflating the final cost.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Subscription Dark Pattern", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/subscription-dark-pattern", "summary": "A deceptive user interface design that tricks users into subscribing, continuing, or upgrading against their interests or without their informed consent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Negative-Option Billing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/negative-option-billing", "summary": "A billing model in which a customer's silence or inaction is treated as consent to be charged, rather than requiring affirmative agreement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Free-Trial Trap", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/free-trial-trap", "summary": "A marketing scheme offering a free trial that automatically converts to a paid subscription, often without adequate disclosure of the conversion terms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cancellation Friction", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cancellation-friction", "summary": "Deliberate obstacles placed in the cancellation process to deter customers from ending a subscription or service, trapping them in unwanted ongoing charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Zero Trust", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/zero-trust", "summary": "A security model that requires every user, device, and connection to be continuously verified, regardless of whether they are inside or outside the corporate network.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Attack Surface", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/attack-surface", "summary": "The total set of points in a system, network, or organisation that an attacker could exploit to gain unauthorised access or cause harm.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Threat Actor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/threat-actor", "summary": "Any individual, group, or organisation that carries out or orchestrates a cyberattack, scam, or fraud campaign against a target.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Indicator of Compromise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/indicator-of-compromise", "summary": "A piece of forensic evidence — such as a suspicious IP address, file hash, or domain — that suggests a system has been breached or is under attack.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Sandbox Evasion", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sandbox-evasion", "summary": "Techniques used by malware to detect when it is being analysed in a controlled security environment and to alter or suspend its behaviour to avoid detection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Living Off the Land", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/living-off-the-land", "summary": "An attack technique where adversaries use legitimate, pre-installed system tools rather than custom malware to carry out malicious activities, making detection harder.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Supply Chain Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/supply-chain-attack", "summary": "An attack that targets a less-secure element in a software or hardware supply chain to compromise the many organisations that rely on that supplier.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Typo-Squat Redirect", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/typo-squat-redirect", "summary": "A scam where a domain with a common misspelling of a popular website automatically redirects visitors to a phishing page, malware download, or fraudulent storefront.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Punycode Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/punycode-attack", "summary": "A phishing technique that uses internationalised domain names encoded in Punycode to display a convincing lookalike URL in a browser's address bar.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SSL Stripping", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ssl-stripping", "summary": "An attack that downgrades an encrypted HTTPS connection to unencrypted HTTP, allowing an attacker positioned between the user and server to intercept communications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Rogue Access Point", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/rogue-access-point", "summary": "An unauthorised Wi-Fi access point set up to mimic a legitimate network, tricking users into connecting and exposing their traffic to interception.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Bluejacking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/bluejacking", "summary": "The practice of sending unsolicited messages to nearby Bluetooth-enabled devices, typically used for spam or social engineering rather than data theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Bluesnarfing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/bluesnarfing", "summary": "An attack that exploits Bluetooth vulnerabilities to steal data — contacts, messages, photos, or calendar entries — from a device without the owner's knowledge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "NFC Relay Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/nfc-relay-attack", "summary": "An attack that extends the range of a near-field communication transaction by relaying signals between a victim's contactless card and a payment terminal, enabling fraudulent transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Contactless Skimming", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/contactless-skimming", "summary": "Reading contactless payment card data wirelessly without the cardholder's knowledge, using a concealed RFID or NFC reader in close proximity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "ATM Skimmer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/atm-skimmer", "summary": "A physical device secretly attached to an ATM that captures magnetic stripe data and sometimes PIN entry from victims' bank cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cash Trapping", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cash-trapping", "summary": "A physical ATM fraud where a device is fitted over the cash dispenser to trap banknotes inside the machine, allowing the fraudster to collect them after the victim leaves.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Card Trapping", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/card-trapping", "summary": "A physical ATM fraud where a device retains the victim's bank card inside the machine, allowing the criminal to retrieve it after the customer leaves.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Shoulder Surfing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/shoulder-surfing", "summary": "Observing a person's screen, keypad, or document over their shoulder to steal PINs, passwords, account numbers, or other sensitive information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Dumpster Diving", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/dumpster-diving", "summary": "Searching through discarded rubbish or recycling to find documents, devices, or information that can be used to commit identity theft or fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Mail Theft Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mail-theft-fraud", "summary": "The theft of physical mail to steal cheques, cards, financial statements, or identity documents for use in fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Change-of-Address Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/change-of-address-fraud", "summary": "A fraud in which criminals redirect a victim's mail or official correspondence to an address they control, intercepting financial documents, cards, and communications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Tax Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/tax-identity-theft", "summary": "A fraud in which a criminal uses a victim's personal information to file a false tax return or claim a refund, typically before the legitimate taxpayer does so.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Medical Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/medical-identity-theft", "summary": "A fraud in which a criminal uses a victim's identity to obtain medical services, prescriptions, or insurance benefits, potentially corrupting the victim's medical records.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Child Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/child-identity-theft", "summary": "The use of a child's personal information — often their Social Security or National Insurance number — to fraudulently open credit accounts, obtain loans, or commit other financial crimes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Elder Financial Abuse", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/elder-financial-abuse", "summary": "The illegal or improper use of an older person's money, assets, or property by someone in a position of trust or by an external fraudster.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Power of Attorney Abuse", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/power-of-attorney-abuse", "summary": "Misuse of a legal power of attorney document to steal, transfer, or mismanage a vulnerable person's finances or property for personal gain.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Guardianship Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/guardianship-fraud", "summary": "The misuse of legal guardianship or conservatorship over a vulnerable adult to control and exploit their assets, often by limiting the person's contact with family and friends.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Debt Collector", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-debt-collector", "summary": "A scammer who impersonates a legitimate debt collection agency to pressure victims into paying debts they do not owe, have already paid, or that are legally unenforceable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Zombie Debt", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/zombie-debt", "summary": "Old, often statute-barred debt that has been purchased and reactivated by collectors attempting to collect payment, sometimes using aggressive tactics on legally unenforceable claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Statute-Barred Debt", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/statute-barred-debt", "summary": "A debt that is too old to be legally enforced through the courts because the statutory limitation period has expired, though the debt itself still technically exists.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Phantom Debt", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/phantom-debt", "summary": "A debt that does not legally exist — either entirely fabricated by a fraudster or based on a claim the consumer has never incurred — used to extract payments through intimidation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Mule Account", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mule-account", "summary": "A bank or payment account used to receive and forward stolen funds on behalf of criminals, often controlled by an unwitting victim recruited as a money mule.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Drop Account", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/drop-account", "summary": "A sacrificial bank or payment account set up or acquired by fraudsters specifically to receive illicit funds for a short period before the account is abandoned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cash-Out", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cash-out-fraud", "summary": "The final step in many fraud schemes where criminals convert stolen funds or compromised payment credentials into physical cash or untraceable value before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Layering", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/layering", "summary": "The second stage of money laundering in which illicit funds are moved through multiple transactions and accounts to disguise their criminal origin.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Smurfing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/smurfing", "summary": "A money laundering technique that breaks large sums of illicit cash into many smaller deposits made by multiple individuals to avoid triggering bank reporting thresholds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Structuring", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/structuring", "summary": "The deliberate division of financial transactions into smaller amounts specifically to evade mandatory currency reporting requirements, regardless of whether the funds are from illegal sources.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Beneficiary Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/beneficiary-fraud", "summary": "Fraud that targets the designated recipient of insurance policies, pension funds, estates, or other financial arrangements — typically by impersonating or diverting payments away from the true beneficiary.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Third-Party Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/third-party-fraud", "summary": "Fraud committed against a financial institution or business by an external criminal using a victim's identity or account details, without the account holder's knowledge or consent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Callback Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/callback-scam", "summary": "A fraud where the victim is induced to call back a premium-rate or fraudster-controlled number, racking up charges or being subjected to a social-engineering attack.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Spoofed Domain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/spoofed-domain", "summary": "A fraudulent website domain designed to closely mimic a legitimate organisation's domain in order to deceive users into thinking they are on the genuine site.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Lookalike App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/lookalike-app", "summary": "A fraudulent mobile application that imitates a legitimate app's name, icon, and interface to steal credentials, inject malware, or subscribe victims to unwanted paid services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fleeceware", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fleeceware", "summary": "Mobile apps that offer a brief free trial and then charge exorbitant recurring subscription fees that persist even after the app is deleted.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Stalkerware", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/stalkerware", "summary": "Software secretly installed on a victim's device — typically by an intimate partner or abuser — that covertly monitors calls, messages, location, and other activity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Evil Maid Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/evil-maid-attack", "summary": "A physical security attack where an adversary gains brief unsupervised access to a target's unattended device and tampers with it to enable later compromise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Card Skimmer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/card-skimmer", "summary": "A physical device illegally attached to an ATM, fuel pump, or payment terminal that secretly reads and records card magnetic stripe data as the card is swiped or inserted.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Relay Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/relay-attack", "summary": "An attack on contactless or keyless systems where two criminals use radio equipment to extend the effective range of the card or key fob, tricking the reader into authorising a transaction or entry without the owner's knowledge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "OTP Interception", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/otp-interception", "summary": "The theft or real-time capture of a one-time password sent to a victim by SMS or authenticator app, used by fraudsters to bypass two-factor authentication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Push Provisioning Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/push-provisioning-fraud", "summary": "Fraud where criminals use stolen card details to add a victim's payment card to a digital wallet on a device they control, enabling contactless or online purchases without the physical card.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Blind Signing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/blind-signing", "summary": "Approving a blockchain transaction without being able to read or fully understand its contents, exposing the signer to wallet-draining smart contracts or unexpected fund transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Gas Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/gas-fee-scam", "summary": "A cryptocurrency fraud where victims are asked to pay 'gas fees' upfront to release or receive funds that do not exist, or where manipulated fees drain wallets unexpectedly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pump Group", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pump-group", "summary": "A coordinated private group — typically on Telegram or Discord — that secretly accumulates a low-value cryptocurrency then simultaneously promotes it to inflate the price before selling at a profit, leaving later buyers at a loss.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Spoofed Sender ID", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/spoofed-sender-id", "summary": "A technique where a fraudster falsifies the name or number that appears as the sender on an SMS or email, making a message appear to come from a trusted brand or individual.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Smishing Kit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/smishing-kit", "summary": "A packaged toolkit sold on criminal markets that enables low-skill fraudsters to launch SMS phishing campaigns, including message templates, fake landing pages, and victim data collection tools.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Elicitation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/elicitation", "summary": "A social engineering technique that extracts sensitive information through seemingly innocent conversation, without the target realising they are being pumped for intelligence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Baiting", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/baiting", "summary": "A social engineering attack that lures victims into compromising themselves by offering something enticing — such as a free USB drive, download, or prize — that contains or leads to malware or data theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Tailgating", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/tailgating", "summary": "A physical security breach where an unauthorised person gains access to a restricted area by following closely behind an authorised person as they use their access credential.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Homoglyph", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/homoglyph", "summary": "A character that looks visually identical or nearly identical to another character from a different script or encoding, used in domain names and text to deceive users.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Punycode", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/punycode", "summary": "An encoding standard that converts Unicode domain names into ASCII-compatible form, which fraudsters exploit to create domain names that visually impersonate legitimate sites when displayed in browsers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Email Account Compromise (EAC)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/email-account-compromise", "summary": "The takeover of a legitimate email account — often a personal or vendor account — to conduct fraud by sending convincing requests for payment or information to the account's contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Invoice Redirection", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/invoice-redirection", "summary": "A fraud where criminals intercept or impersonate a supplier's communications to substitute fraudulent bank details on invoices, diverting payment to a criminal account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Authorised Push Payment (APP) Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/authorised-push-payment", "summary": "Fraud where the victim is deceived into voluntarily instructing their bank to transfer money to a criminal's account, making recovery difficult as the payment was technically authorised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Money Mule Herder", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/money-mule-herder", "summary": "A criminal intermediary who recruits, manages, and directs a network of money mules, coordinating the movement of illicit funds through their accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Affiliate Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/affiliate-fraud", "summary": "Manipulation of an online affiliate marketing programme to generate fake referrals, leads, or sales in order to earn illegitimate commissions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Click Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/click-fraud", "summary": "The fraudulent generation of clicks on pay-per-click online advertisements with the intent to drain an advertiser's budget or inflate revenue on a publisher's site.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Ad Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ad-fraud", "summary": "The systematic deception of digital advertisers through fake impressions, clicks, conversions, or audiences to misappropriate advertising spend.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Vishing Kit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/vishing-kit", "summary": "A pre-packaged toolkit that enables fraudsters to run voice phishing operations, including scripts, spoofed caller ID tools, and automated dialling infrastructure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Deepfake Voice Clone", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/deepfake-voice-clone", "summary": "An AI-generated audio impersonation of a real person's voice, used in fraud to authorise transactions, deceive employees, or manipulate family members into sending money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Voice Synthesis Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/voice-synthesis-fraud", "summary": "AI-synthesised audio that convincingly replicates a target person's voice characteristics, used for impersonation in fraud, disinformation, and identity-based attacks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Wash Trade", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/wash-trade", "summary": "A form of market manipulation where the same asset is bought and sold simultaneously by coordinated parties to create the illusion of trading volume and price activity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Triangulation Fraud (Seller Side)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/triangulation-fraud-seller", "summary": "A fraud scheme in which a criminal storefront accepts genuine customer orders and payments, then buys the goods with stolen card details from a legitimate retailer and ships directly to the customer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Recovery Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/recovery-fraud", "summary": "A secondary scam that targets people who have already lost money to fraud, falsely offering to recover their losses in exchange for upfront fees or personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Advance Fee Scheme", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/advance-fee-scheme", "summary": "Any fraud where the victim is promised a large benefit — money, goods, a loan, a prize — but must first pay a series of escalating fees before the promised benefit, which never materialises, is delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Clone Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/clone-phishing", "summary": "An attack where a legitimate email previously delivered to the victim is duplicated with malicious links or attachments substituted for the originals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Angler Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/angler-phishing", "summary": "A social-media attack where scammers impersonate customer-support accounts to steal credentials or redirect victims to fake websites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Invoice Redirection Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/invoice-redirection-fraud", "summary": "A scam in which fraudsters impersonate a supplier or business contact to change payment details on an invoice, diverting funds to the attacker's account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Combosquatting", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/combosquatting", "summary": "Registering domains that combine a legitimate brand name with an extra word to create convincing but fraudulent web addresses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Homograph / IDN Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/homograph-idn-attack", "summary": "An attack that uses Unicode characters visually identical to standard Latin letters to register domain names that look exactly like legitimate ones.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Man-in-the-Middle Attack (MitM)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/man-in-the-middle-attack", "summary": "An attack in which the attacker secretly intercepts and potentially alters communications between two parties who each believe they are talking directly to the other.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SIM Swapping", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sim-swapping", "summary": "A fraud in which an attacker convinces a mobile carrier to transfer the victim's phone number to a SIM card the attacker controls, enabling them to intercept SMS messages and calls including authentication codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "OSINT Reconnaissance", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/osint-reconnaissance", "summary": "The collection of publicly available information about a target — from social media, company records, and other open sources — to plan and personalise an attack.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Reply-Chain Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/reply-chain-attack", "summary": "An attack in which criminals insert malicious content into an ongoing legitimate email thread to lend their message credibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Password Spraying", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/password-spraying", "summary": "An attack that tries a small number of commonly used passwords against a large number of accounts to avoid triggering account-lockout controls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Evil Twin Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/evil-twin-attack", "summary": "A rogue Wi-Fi access point that mimics a legitimate network, tricking users into connecting so their traffic can be intercepted.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "DNS Spoofing (DNS Cache Poisoning)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/dns-spoofing", "summary": "An attack that corrupts a DNS resolver's cache to redirect users to a malicious IP address even when they type the correct website address.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "ARP Spoofing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/arp-spoofing", "summary": "A local-network attack that sends falsified ARP messages to link the attacker's MAC address to a legitimate device's IP, enabling traffic interception.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Deepfake Voice / AI Voice Cloning Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/vishing-deepfake", "summary": "A fraud that uses AI-generated voice audio to impersonate a known person — such as a family member, executive, or public official — in a phone call to extract money or data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Smishing Lure Types", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/smishing-lure", "summary": "The specific pretexts used in SMS-based phishing attacks — including fake parcel notifications, bank fraud alerts, toll notices, and government messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Keylogger Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/keylogger-attack", "summary": "The use of software or hardware that records every keystroke on a device to harvest passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive input.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Screen Scraping / Remote Desktop Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/screen-scraping-attack", "summary": "Fraud in which an attacker gains remote access to a victim's screen — often by tricking them into installing remote-access software — to view and control their device in real time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Search Engine Poisoning (SEO Poisoning)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/search-engine-poisoning", "summary": "The manipulation of search engine rankings to place fraudulent or malware-hosting sites prominently in search results for terms victims are likely to search.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Smishing-to-Sideload Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/smishing-to-app-sideload", "summary": "A technique that uses SMS phishing to direct victims to install a malicious app outside of the official app store, bypassing standard security reviews.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pig Butchering Setup Phase", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pig-butchering-setup", "summary": "The initial long-term social engineering phase of a pig-butchering investment scam, in which criminals build a deep, trusting relationship with the victim before introducing the fraudulent investment platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Vishing Impersonation Types", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/vishing-impersonation", "summary": "The specific personas used in voice phishing calls — including bank fraud teams, government agencies, tech support, police officers, and utility companies — each designed to trigger compliance through authority or fear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cross-site-scripting", "summary": "A web vulnerability in which attackers inject malicious scripts into trusted websites, which then execute in visitors' browsers to steal data or perform actions on their behalf.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Money Mule Recruitment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/money-mule-recruitment", "summary": "The process by which scammers recruit individuals to transfer or launder criminal proceeds through their bank accounts in exchange for a commission.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Deepfake Video Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/deepfake-video-fraud", "summary": "The use of AI-generated video to impersonate real people in real-time video calls or pre-recorded clips to authorise transactions, extract information, or spread disinformation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Brand Impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/brand-impersonation", "summary": "The unauthorised use of a company's name, logo, and visual identity in fraudulent communications to lend them credibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Social Media Account Takeover", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/social-media-account-takeover", "summary": "The compromise of a victim's social media account to post scam content, impersonate the victim, or extract money from their followers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Gift Card Draining", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/gift-card-drain", "summary": "A retail fraud in which criminals access gift cards in stores, record the card numbers and PINs, replace them, and drain the balance once a consumer activates and loads them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Card Skimming", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/card-skimming", "summary": "The installation of a covert device on an ATM, payment terminal, or fuel pump to capture the magnetic stripe data and PIN from victims' payment cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Porting Authorisation Code (PAC) Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sim-swap-prevention", "summary": "Fraud in which an attacker obtains the Porting Authorisation Code needed to move a victim's phone number to a new carrier without the victim's consent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Public Key / Crypto Address", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/public-key-crypto-address", "summary": "The shareable identifier that others use to send cryptocurrency to you. It does not grant any ability to move funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Hot Wallet", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/hot-wallet", "summary": "A cryptocurrency wallet that is connected to the internet. Convenient for frequent use but permanently exposed to online attacks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cold Wallet", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cold-wallet", "summary": "A cryptocurrency wallet that stores private keys entirely offline, away from internet-connected devices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Hardware Wallet", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/hardware-wallet", "summary": "A physical USB-like device that stores private keys offline and requires physical confirmation to sign transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Approval / Allowance Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/approval-allowance-phishing", "summary": "A scam where a victim is tricked into granting a malicious smart contract unlimited permission to spend their tokens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Ice Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ice-phishing", "summary": "A crypto attack where the victim is tricked into signing a transaction that transfers asset ownership to an attacker without any malware being involved.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "EIP-712 Signature", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/eip-712-signature", "summary": "A structured off-chain signing standard that lets users authorise complex on-chain actions with a single readable signature request.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Soft Rug", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/soft-rug", "summary": "A slow, gradual crypto exit scam where project insiders quietly sell their holdings and reduce activity until the project dies, rather than making one dramatic exit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Liquidity Pool", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/liquidity-pool", "summary": "A smart-contract vault of token pairs that powers decentralised exchange trading. Understanding it is essential to recognising DeFi rug pulls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Liquidity Locking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/liquidity-locking", "summary": "A mechanism where a token project's liquidity pool funds are locked in a smart contract for a set period so developers cannot drain them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Gas Fees", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/gas-fees", "summary": "Small amounts of cryptocurrency paid to blockchain validators to process transactions. Scammers exploit gas mechanics to create confusing traps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cross-Chain Bridge", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cross-chain-bridge", "summary": "A protocol that moves cryptocurrency between different blockchains. Bridges have been among the most heavily exploited targets in DeFi history.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Mixer / Tumbler", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mixer-tumbler", "summary": "A service that pools and redistributes cryptocurrency to obscure the transaction trail, making it difficult to trace the origin of funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "MEV (Maximal Extractable Value)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mev-maximal-extractable-value", "summary": "Profit that validators or searchers can extract by reordering, inserting, or censoring transactions within a block, often at the expense of ordinary users.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Sandwich Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sandwich-attack", "summary": "A form of MEV where a bot places one trade just before and one just after a victim's pending swap, profiting from the price impact the victim causes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Front-Running (Crypto)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/front-running-crypto", "summary": "Placing a transaction ahead of a known pending trade to profit from the price impact that trade will cause, at the expense of the original trader.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Airdrop Farming / Fake Airdrop Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/airdrop-farming-scam", "summary": "A deceptive scheme where scammers promise free token distributions to lure users into connecting their wallets or paying fees, resulting in theft or financial loss.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Token Presale Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/token-presale-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent fundraise where scammers collect cryptocurrency in exchange for tokens at a discounted rate, then disappear before any product or token is delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pig-Butchering Crypto Wallet", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pig-butchering-wallet", "summary": "The fraudulent trading platform or crypto wallet used in pig-butchering scams to display fake profits and process victims' deposits before a final exit theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Staking Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-staking-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent scheme promising high yields for locking up cryptocurrency, when in reality the platform steals the deposited funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Yield Farming", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/yield-farming", "summary": "The practice of deploying cryptocurrency across DeFi protocols to maximise returns; heavily targeted by scams due to high promised yields and complex mechanics.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Impermanent Loss (Used in Scams)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/impermanent-loss-scam", "summary": "A real DeFi concept misused by scammers to explain away stolen funds or to justify additional deposits to 'recover losses' that do not actually exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "NFT Mint Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/nft-mint-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent NFT project that collects mint fees from buyers but delivers worthless, non-existent, or stolen artwork before developers vanish.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Blockchain Explorer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/blockchain-explorer", "summary": "A publicly accessible tool that lets anyone read every transaction, wallet balance, and smart contract on a blockchain. An essential consumer-protection resource.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Custodial vs Non-Custodial Wallet", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/custodial-vs-non-custodial", "summary": "Custodial wallets are held by a third party (like an exchange) while non-custodial wallets give the user direct control of their private keys.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pump and Dump (Crypto)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pump-and-dump-crypto", "summary": "A coordinated scheme where organisers accumulate a low-cap token, artificially inflate the price through hype, then sell while latecomers buy, crashing the price.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Crypto Romance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/crypto-romance-scam", "summary": "A long-running fraud where scammers build fake romantic relationships to manipulate victims into sending large amounts of cryptocurrency.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Flash Loan Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/flash-loan-attack", "summary": "An exploit where an attacker borrows a huge amount of cryptocurrency without collateral in one transaction and uses it to manipulate prices or drain a protocol before repaying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Smart Contract Audit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/smart-contract-audit", "summary": "An independent security review of a blockchain smart contract's code to identify vulnerabilities before deployment or investment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Crypto Recovery Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/crypto-recovery-scam", "summary": "A secondary fraud targeting people who have already lost cryptocurrency, offering to recover their funds in exchange for upfront fees, then stealing those too.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SIM Swap (Crypto Context)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sim-swap-crypto", "summary": "An attack where a fraudster convinces a mobile carrier to transfer a victim's phone number to a SIM they control, enabling bypass of SMS two-factor authentication to access crypto accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Crypto Exchange", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-crypto-exchange", "summary": "A fraudulent website designed to look like a legitimate cryptocurrency exchange that steals deposited funds and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "DeFi Protocol", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/defi-protocol", "summary": "A decentralised financial application built on a blockchain that offers services like lending, trading, or yield generation without a central company controlling it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "NFT Wash Trading", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/nft-wash-trading", "summary": "Artificially inflating the apparent trading volume and price history of an NFT by buying and selling it between wallets the same person controls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Crypto Influencer Shill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/crypto-influencer-shill", "summary": "Paid promotion of a cryptocurrency or NFT project by an influencer who does not disclose their financial relationship with the project.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Crypto Ponzi Scheme", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/crypto-ponzi-scheme", "summary": "A fraudulent investment scheme that uses funds from new crypto investors to pay 'returns' to earlier ones, collapsing when recruitment slows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Clipboard Hijacker", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/clipboard-hijacker", "summary": "Malware that monitors the system clipboard and silently replaces any copied cryptocurrency address with the attacker's address at the moment of pasting.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Exchange Hack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/exchange-hack", "summary": "A security breach in which attackers exploit vulnerabilities in a centralised cryptocurrency exchange to steal customer funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Wallet App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/phishing-fake-wallet-app", "summary": "A malicious mobile or desktop app disguised as a legitimate crypto wallet that steals seed phrases or private keys when a user enters or imports them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Crypto Giveaway Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/crypto-giveaway-scam", "summary": "A fraud claiming that a celebrity or company is doubling cryptocurrency sent to an address, when in reality any funds sent are stolen with nothing returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Wrapped Token", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/wrapped-token", "summary": "A tokenised version of a cryptocurrency issued on a different blockchain, backed by the original asset held in custody by a bridge or issuer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "DAO (Decentralised Autonomous Organisation)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/decentralised-autonomous-organisation", "summary": "An organisation governed by token-holder votes through smart contracts rather than a traditional board or management structure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Oracle Manipulation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/oracle-manipulation", "summary": "An attack that corrupts the external price data a smart contract relies on, tricking it into executing transactions at false valuations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "NFT Royalty Bypass", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/nft-royalty-bypass", "summary": "A technique used by marketplaces or traders to circumvent the on-chain royalty fees that NFT creators expect to receive on secondary sales.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Crypto Tax Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/crypto-tax-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent scheme claiming that a victim owes taxes on crypto gains that must be paid in cryptocurrency before they can access their funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "MetaMask Support Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/metamask-support-scam", "summary": "A scam where fraudsters impersonate MetaMask or other wallet support staff, ultimately requesting seed phrases or remote access under the guise of resolving a wallet issue.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "DeFi Lending Protocol", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/defi-lending-protocol-risk", "summary": "A smart-contract platform that allows crypto holders to earn interest by lending assets or to borrow against crypto collateral, with specific fraud and exploit risks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Ghost Token", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ghost-token", "summary": "A worthless token sent unsolicited to many wallets to create the illusion of value and entice victims to interact with a malicious contract to 'sell' it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Crypto Money Mule", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/crypto-money-mule", "summary": "A person, often recruited under false pretences, who moves stolen cryptocurrency on behalf of criminals, typically through their own wallet, and bears legal risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Reentrancy Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/reentrancy-attack", "summary": "A smart contract exploit where a malicious contract calls back into the victim contract before it finishes executing, draining funds in a loop.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Stablecoin Depeg", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/stablecoin-depeg", "summary": "A breakdown in the mechanism maintaining a stablecoin's price peg to a fiat currency, resulting in sudden and potentially permanent loss of value.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Token Lockup / Vesting", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/token-lockup-vesting", "summary": "A schedule that restricts when project insiders can sell their token allocations, used to signal commitment but often manipulated to deceive investors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Account Abstraction Wallet", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/account-abstraction-wallet", "summary": "A next-generation smart-contract wallet that replaces the standard private-key model with programmable security rules, introducing new user-experience and security trade-offs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "NFT Intellectual Property Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/nft-intellectual-property-scam", "summary": "A scheme where NFT sellers mint and sell tokens based on art, music, or other content they do not own, deceiving buyers about what rights they are actually purchasing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Authorised Push Payment (APP) Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/authorised-push-payment-fraud", "summary": "A scam where a victim is manipulated into voluntarily sending money to a fraudster's account, making the payment appear legitimate to the bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Push Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/push-payment", "summary": "A payment initiated by the sender, who actively instructs their bank to transfer funds to a recipient.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pull Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pull-payment", "summary": "A payment where the recipient requests and collects funds from the payer's account, such as a direct debit or card charge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "ACH Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ach-transfer", "summary": "An electronic funds transfer processed through the US Automated Clearing House network, used for direct deposits, bill payments, and business-to-business payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "ACH Reversal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ach-reversal", "summary": "A request to reverse an ACH transaction that was sent in error or contained incorrect account information, subject to strict time limits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SWIFT Network", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/swift-network", "summary": "The global messaging network used by banks to securely send payment instructions for international wire transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Faster Payments", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/faster-payments", "summary": "The UK near-instant payment system that allows bank transfers to arrive within seconds, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SEPA Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sepa-transfer", "summary": "A standardised euro payment scheme allowing individuals and businesses across 36 European countries to make low-cost, consistent bank transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Confirmation of Payee (CoP)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/confirmation-of-payee", "summary": "A name-checking service that verifies whether the account holder name entered by a sender matches the bank's records before a payment is processed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Escrow", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/escrow", "summary": "A neutral third party holds funds or assets on behalf of two parties and releases them only when agreed conditions are met.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Mule Herding", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mule-herding", "summary": "The criminal practice of recruiting and managing a network of money mules to layer and move stolen funds through multiple bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Placement (Money Laundering)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/money-laundering-placement", "summary": "The first stage of money laundering, where illegally obtained cash is introduced into the legitimate financial system.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Smurfing / Structuring", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/smurfing-structuring", "summary": "Breaking large amounts of cash into smaller transactions to avoid triggering mandatory bank reporting thresholds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "IBAN (International Bank Account Number)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/iban", "summary": "A standardised international format for identifying a bank account, used across Europe and many other countries to route international payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Routing Number / Sort Code", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/routing-number", "summary": "A numeric code that identifies a specific bank or branch within a national payment network, used to direct domestic transfers to the correct institution.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "BIN (Bank Identification Number)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/bank-identification-number", "summary": "The first six to eight digits of a payment card number that identify the issuing bank and card type.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "3-D Secure (3DS)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/3d-secure", "summary": "An additional authentication layer for online card payments that requires the cardholder to verify their identity with the issuing bank before a transaction is authorised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Interchange Fee", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/interchange-fee", "summary": "A fee paid by a merchant's bank to the cardholder's bank each time a card payment is processed, which ultimately affects consumer pricing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Payment Reversal / Payment Recall", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/payment-reversal", "summary": "A request to cancel or return a payment after it has been sent, either because of an error or fraud, subject to the cooperation of the receiving bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Real-Time Payments (RTP)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/real-time-payments", "summary": "Payment systems that process and settle transactions within seconds, any time of day, including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "E-Money (Electronic Money)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/e-money", "summary": "Electronically stored monetary value held by a regulated institution, used to make payments without needing a traditional bank account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Payment Processor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/payment-processor", "summary": "A company that handles the technical transmission of card and payment data between a merchant, card networks, and banks during a transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Acquiring Bank", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/acquiring-bank", "summary": "The bank or financial institution that processes card payments on behalf of a merchant and accepts the risk of those transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Settlement (Payments)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/settlement", "summary": "The process by which funds from card or bank transactions are actually transferred between financial institutions and credited to the merchant or recipient.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Remittance", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/remittance", "summary": "A transfer of money by a person working abroad to family or contacts in their home country, often via specialist money transfer services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Overpayment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/overpayment-scam", "summary": "A fraud where a buyer sends more than the agreed amount and asks the seller to refund the difference, before the original payment is reversed or revealed as fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Bounced / Forged Cheque Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/bounced-cheque-fraud", "summary": "Using a counterfeit or stolen cheque to obtain goods, services, or cash, knowing the cheque will be returned unpaid by the bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cheque Washing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cheque-washing", "summary": "A method of cheque fraud in which criminals chemically remove the ink from a written cheque and rewrite it with a different payee name or higher amount.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Integration (Money Laundering)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/money-laundering-integration", "summary": "The final stage of money laundering, where cleaned funds re-enter the legitimate economy appearing to be from a lawful source.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Hawala", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/hawala", "summary": "An informal value-transfer system used across South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, based on trust and a network of brokers rather than physical movement of money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Prepaid Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/prepaid-card", "summary": "A payment card loaded with a fixed amount of money in advance, not linked to a bank account, and often used by fraudsters to receive payments anonymously.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cryptocurrency Payment Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cryptocurrency-payment-fraud", "summary": "Scams that demand or manipulate victims into sending cryptocurrency, exploiting the irreversibility and pseudonymity of blockchain transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Synthetic Identity Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/synthetic-identity-fraud", "summary": "A fraud where criminals create a fictitious identity by combining real and fabricated personal data to open accounts and obtain credit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pension Liberation / Pension Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pension-liberation-fraud", "summary": "A fraud that promises early access to pension savings before retirement age in exchange for fees, resulting in large tax penalties and the loss of pension funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Romance Scam (Payment Stage)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-scam-payment", "summary": "The financial element of a romance scam in which the fraudster requests money transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency after establishing an emotional relationship online.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "PSD2 / Open Banking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/payment-services-directive", "summary": "European legislation that requires banks to share customer account data with authorised third parties and mandates strong customer authentication for online payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "KYC / AML (Know Your Customer / Anti-Money Laundering)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/kyc-aml", "summary": "Regulatory requirements for financial institutions to verify customer identities and monitor transactions to detect and prevent money laundering and fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Currency Exchange Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/currency-exchange-fraud", "summary": "Scams involving fake or unregistered currency exchange services that offer unrealistically good rates or simply steal deposited funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cloned Firm Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cloned-firm-fraud", "summary": "A scam in which criminals impersonate a legitimate, regulated financial firm to sell fake investments or collect fraudulent payments, using the real firm's name and registration details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Direct Debit Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/direct-debit-fraud", "summary": "Unauthorised or misleading use of direct debit instructions to take recurring payments from a bank account without the account holder's genuine informed consent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Financial Grooming", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/financial-grooming", "summary": "A gradual process by which a fraudster builds trust and emotional dependency with a target before introducing financial requests or manipulation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Loan Fee Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/loan-fee-fraud", "summary": "A scam where criminals offer guaranteed loans and demand upfront fees before the loan is disbursed, then disappear without providing any funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cash App and Peer-to-Peer Payment Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cash-app-fraud", "summary": "Scams exploiting peer-to-peer payment apps to extract irreversible payments through fake offers, impersonation, and social engineering.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Elder Financial Abuse", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/financial-abuse-elder", "summary": "The illegal or improper use of an older person's finances or assets, by strangers, carers, or family members, through theft, fraud, or undue influence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/multi-factor-authentication", "summary": "A security method requiring two or more independent forms of verification before granting account access, making stolen passwords alone insufficient for attackers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Phishing-Resistant MFA", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/phishing-resistant-mfa", "summary": "A category of multi-factor authentication that cannot be stolen or relayed by a fake website, because verification is cryptographically bound to the real domain.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Passkey (FIDO2/WebAuthn)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/passkey-fido2", "summary": "A password replacement that uses cryptographic key pairs stored on your device, making sign-in both phishing-proof and password-breach-proof.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "MFA Fatigue (Push Bombing)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mfa-fatigue-push-bombing", "summary": "An attack where criminals flood a victim's phone with push-notification approval requests, hoping frustration causes the victim to accidentally approve one.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "One-Time Passcode (OTP) Interception", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/one-time-passcode-interception", "summary": "A technique scammers use to steal the temporary login code sent to your phone before you can use it yourself, often via social engineering or SS7 network exploitation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Authenticator App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/authenticator-app", "summary": "A mobile app that generates time-limited login codes (TOTP) tied to your account, offering stronger MFA than SMS because codes never travel over the phone network.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Hardware Security Key", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/hardware-security-key", "summary": "A physical USB or NFC device that provides the strongest form of two-factor authentication, cryptographically bound to each website so it cannot be phished.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "KYC (Know Your Customer)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/kyc-know-your-customer", "summary": "Regulatory requirements obliging financial institutions to verify the real identity of customers before opening accounts or processing transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "AML (Anti-Money Laundering)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/aml-anti-money-laundering", "summary": "Laws and compliance programmes that require financial institutions to detect, report, and prevent the processing of funds derived from criminal activity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Personally Identifiable Information (PII)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/personally-identifiable-information", "summary": "Any data that can identify a specific individual — such as name, address, Social Security number, or biometrics — whose exposure enables identity theft and targeted scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Identity Theft vs Identity Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/identity-theft-vs-identity-fraud", "summary": "Identity theft is the unauthorised acquisition of someone's personal data; identity fraud is the criminal use of that stolen data. The two often occur together but are legally distinct.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Data Broker", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/data-broker", "summary": "A company that collects, aggregates, and sells personal data — including home addresses, phone numbers, financial history, and social media activity — often without the subject's knowledge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Credential (Login Credential)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/credential", "summary": "The combination of identifying information — typically a username and password — used to authenticate access to an account or system.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Dark Web Monitoring", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/dark-web-monitoring", "summary": "A service that scans dark-web forums, markets, and dumps for your personal information or credentials, alerting you when your data appears in criminal environments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "End-to-End Encryption (E2EE)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/end-to-end-encryption", "summary": "A communication method where only the sender and intended recipient can read the message content — the service provider, network operators, and interceptors cannot decrypt it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "VPN (Virtual Private Network)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/vpn-virtual-private-network", "summary": "A service that encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server in a chosen location, masking your real IP address from websites and your ISP.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Email Spoofing (SPF / DKIM / DMARC)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/email-spoofing-spf-dkim-dmarc", "summary": "The forging of an email's sender address to impersonate a trusted organisation, and the three DNS-based standards designed to detect and block such forgeries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Liveness Detection", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/liveness-detection", "summary": "A biometric security technique that verifies whether a submitted face or fingerprint is from a live person rather than a photo, video replay, or mask, used in identity verification and login.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Device Fingerprinting", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/device-fingerprinting", "summary": "A technique that identifies a specific device by collecting a unique combination of browser, hardware, and network attributes, used in both fraud detection and privacy-invasive tracking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Credit Freeze (Security Freeze)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/credit-freeze", "summary": "A free consumer right to lock your credit report so no new creditor can access it, preventing fraudsters from opening accounts in your name even if they have your personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fraud Alert (Credit)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fraud-alert-credit", "summary": "A notice placed on your credit file that instructs lenders to take extra verification steps before extending credit, signalling that you may be at risk of identity theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Password Manager", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/password-manager", "summary": "Software that generates, stores, and autofills unique passwords for every account, enabling you to use strong credentials without the cognitive burden of memorising them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Zero-Knowledge Proof", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/zero-knowledge-proof", "summary": "A cryptographic method that lets one party prove they know something — such as a password — without revealing the information itself, used in privacy-preserving authentication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Social Security Number (SSN) Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/social-security-number-fraud", "summary": "Criminal misuse of a Social Security number to steal identity, file fraudulent tax returns, obtain government benefits, or open credit accounts in the victim's name.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Account Recovery Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/account-recovery-fraud", "summary": "An attack that exploits a service's account-recovery mechanisms — such as security questions, backup email, or customer-support calls — to gain access without the real credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "QR Code Phishing (Quishing)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/qr-code-phishing", "summary": "A phishing technique that embeds malicious URLs in QR codes to bypass email security filters, which typically scan text links but not image content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Adversarial AI in Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/adversarial-ai-fraud", "summary": "The use of artificial intelligence tools by fraudsters to automate, scale, and personalise attacks — including generating convincing phishing text, deepfakes, and synthetic voices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Biometric Authentication", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/biometric-authentication", "summary": "Using physical or behavioural characteristics — such as fingerprints, face geometry, iris patterns, or voice — to verify identity instead of or in addition to passwords.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Identity Proofing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/identity-proofing", "summary": "The process by which an organisation verifies that a person is who they claim to be before granting access or opening an account, typically involving document verification and liveness checks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SIM Lock / Number Lock", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sim-lock-number-lock", "summary": "A carrier security feature that prevents your phone number from being ported to another carrier or SIM card without additional in-person verification, protecting against SIM-swap fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Secure Enclave", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/secure-enclave", "summary": "A hardware-isolated chip inside modern smartphones and computers that stores cryptographic keys and biometric data, isolated from the main processor so malware cannot extract them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Digital Certificate (TLS/SSL)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/digital-certificate-ssl-tls", "summary": "An electronic document issued by a Certificate Authority that binds a cryptographic key to a domain name, enabling browsers to verify a website's identity and establish an encrypted connection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/open-source-intelligence", "summary": "The collection and analysis of publicly available information — from social media, websites, public records, and data brokers — used by both security researchers and criminals to build target profiles.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Digital Identity Wallet", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/digital-identity-wallet", "summary": "A secure app or device that stores government-issued digital credentials — such as a mobile driving licence or digital ID — and presents them selectively without revealing more data than necessary.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Port-Out Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/port-out-scam", "summary": "The fraudulent transfer of a victim's mobile number to a different carrier under the attacker's control, a variant of SIM swapping that exploits number-porting procedures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Zero Trust Security", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/zero-trust-security", "summary": "A security model that eliminates implicit trust based on network location, requiring continuous verification of every user, device, and access request regardless of where it originates.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SSL/TLS Version Security", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/secure-socket-layer-deprecation", "summary": "Older SSL and early TLS protocol versions have known vulnerabilities and should not be used; only TLS 1.2 and 1.3 are considered secure for protecting sensitive connections today.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Replay Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/replay-attack", "summary": "An attack where a valid authentication or transaction message is captured and retransmitted to trick a system into accepting it as a new legitimate request.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Account Enumeration", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/account-enumeration", "summary": "A technique that determines whether an account exists at a service by observing differences in the system's response to valid versus invalid usernames, used to build target lists for attacks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Dark Patterns (Privacy)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/dark-patterns-privacy", "summary": "Deceptive user-interface designs that trick people into sharing more data, accepting wider terms, or agreeing to tracking they did not intend to consent to.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cyber Insurance", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cyber-insurance", "summary": "Insurance policies that cover financial losses arising from cyber incidents — including data breaches, ransomware payments, fraud, and notification costs — for businesses and increasingly for consumers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Threat Intelligence", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/threat-intelligence", "summary": "Curated, contextualised information about current and emerging cyber threats — including attack methods, malicious infrastructure, and threat-actor behaviour — used to anticipate and prevent incidents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Principle of Least Privilege", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/principle-of-least-privilege", "summary": "A security principle holding that any user, system, or process should have only the minimum permissions necessary to perform its function, limiting the blast radius of any compromise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/action-fraud", "summary": "The UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, operated by the City of London Police.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Federal Trade Commission (FTC)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ftc-federal-trade-commission", "summary": "The primary US consumer-protection and antitrust regulator, which also operates the national fraud reporting database at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fbi-ic3", "summary": "The FBI's online portal for reporting internet-facilitated crime in the United States, producing an annual Internet Crime Report.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cfpb", "summary": "A US federal agency that supervises financial institutions and takes consumer complaints about banks, lenders, and financial products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fca-financial-conduct-authority", "summary": "The UK's regulator for financial services firms and markets, responsible for authorising firms and investigating financial misconduct and fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/financial-ombudsman-service", "summary": "The UK's free, independent dispute-resolution service for complaints about FCA-authorised financial businesses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Regulation E", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/regulation-e", "summary": "The US federal rule implementing the Electronic Fund Transfer Act, which limits consumer liability for unauthorised electronic transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fair-credit-billing-act", "summary": "A US federal law that gives consumers the right to dispute billing errors and fraudulent charges on credit card accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fcra-fair-credit-reporting-act", "summary": "A US federal law governing credit bureaus and consumers' rights to access, dispute, and correct their credit reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "APP Fraud Reimbursement", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/app-reimbursement", "summary": "The obligation on UK payment service providers to reimburse customers who are victims of authorised push payment scams under mandatory rules effective October 2024.", "lastReviewed": "2026-09-19" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Recovery Room Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/recovery-room-scam", "summary": "A secondary fraud in which criminals pose as investigators or recovery services and charge upfront fees to victims who have already lost money to a prior scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Statute of Limitations", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/statute-of-limitations", "summary": "The legal deadline by which a civil claim or criminal prosecution must be filed, after which the right to legal action may be permanently lost.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fraud Alert", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fraud-alert", "summary": "A notice placed on a consumer credit file that tells lenders to take additional steps to verify identity before opening new credit — free and legally required to be spread to all three bureaus.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Do Not Call Registry", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/do-not-call-registry", "summary": "A US database maintained by the FTC that lets consumers opt out of most commercial telemarketing calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cooling-Off Period", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cooling-off-period", "summary": "A legally mandated window — usually 14 days — during which a consumer can cancel a contract and receive a full refund without giving a reason.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Liability Shift", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/liability-shift", "summary": "A card-network rule that transfers financial responsibility for fraudulent transactions from the card issuer to the merchant when the merchant has not adopted EMV chip or 3-D Secure authentication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Spam/Scam Text Reporting (7726)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/spam-reporting-7726", "summary": "The free shortcode used in the UK (and US) to forward suspicious SMS messages to mobile operators for investigation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Due Diligence", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/due-diligence", "summary": "The reasonable investigation a prudent person conducts before entering a financial transaction or business relationship, to verify claims and identify risks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Beneficial Owner", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/beneficial-owner", "summary": "The natural person who ultimately owns or controls a legal entity, even if their name does not appear on public documents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Ombudsman", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ombudsman", "summary": "An independent official or body that investigates complaints against organisations on behalf of consumers, typically at no cost to the complainant.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Class Action", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/class-action", "summary": "A lawsuit in which a large group of plaintiffs with similar claims sues a defendant collectively, sharing legal costs and any recovery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Restitution", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/restitution", "summary": "A court-ordered payment by an offender to compensate victims for financial losses caused by criminal conduct.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Asset Recovery", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/asset-recovery", "summary": "The legal and investigative process of tracing, freezing, and reclaiming funds or property that have been stolen or fraudulently obtained.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Disclosure", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/disclosure", "summary": "The legal or regulatory obligation to provide complete and accurate information to a counterparty or regulator before or during a transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Identity Theft Report", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/identity-theft-report", "summary": "A formal declaration filed with the FTC (or equivalent authority) that a consumer's personal information has been used fraudulently, unlocking extended legal protections.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Section 75 Claim", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/section-75-claim", "summary": "A UK statutory right that makes credit card providers jointly and severally liable alongside a merchant for misrepresentation or breach of contract on purchases between £100 and £30,000.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "CIFAS Protective Registration", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cifas-protective-registration", "summary": "A UK fraud-prevention service that flags a consumer's address on shared databases, prompting extra identity checks before credit is granted at that address.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Contingent Reimbursement Model (CRM) Code", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/scam-reimbursement-voluntary-code", "summary": "The voluntary UK bank code under which subscribing firms agreed to reimburse APP fraud victims who were not negligent — superseded by mandatory PSR rules in October 2024.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/financial-services-compensation-scheme", "summary": "The UK's statutory fund of last resort that compensates consumers when authorised financial firms fail, covering deposits up to £120,000 and investment claims up to £85,000.", "lastReviewed": "2026-09-19" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Anti-Money Laundering (AML)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/anti-money-laundering", "summary": "The legal framework and institutional procedures designed to detect, prevent, and report the processing of criminally derived funds through the financial system.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "159 Stop Scams UK Helpline", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/scam-warning-159", "summary": "A UK shortcode number that connects callers directly to their bank's genuine fraud team if they suspect they are being targeted by an impersonation scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Scam Baiting", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/scam-baiting", "summary": "The practice of engaging with scammers — typically by an informed volunteer — to waste their time, gather intelligence, and reduce their capacity to victimise others.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Data Breach Notification", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/data-breach-notification", "summary": "The legal obligation to inform individuals and regulators when their personal data has been exposed through a security incident.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Telemarketing Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/telemarketing-fraud", "summary": "Fraudulent sales or solicitation conducted by phone, typically involving false representations, high-pressure tactics, and no intention to deliver the promised product or prize.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/australian-financial-complaints-authority", "summary": "Australia's free, independent external dispute-resolution scheme for complaints about financial firms, replacing the FOS and two other schemes in 2018.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Scamwatch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/scamwatch", "summary": "Australia's national scam reporting and consumer education service, operated by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/national-cyber-security-centre", "summary": "The UK government body that provides cyber security guidance, incident response, and threat intelligence, operating the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS).", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Payment Systems Regulator (PSR)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/payment-systems-regulator", "summary": "The UK regulator for payment systems — including Faster Payments, CHAPS, and Bacs — that introduced mandatory APP fraud reimbursement rules in October 2024.", "lastReviewed": "2026-09-19" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pig-butchering-scam", "summary": "A long-con investment fraud in which fraudsters build a relationship over weeks or months before introducing a fake investment platform and ultimately stealing all deposited funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Elder Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/elder-fraud", "summary": "Financial exploitation of older adults through scams, abuse of trust, or manipulation — a priority enforcement area for the FTC, FBI, and equivalent bodies in the UK and Australia.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Clone Firm", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/clone-firm", "summary": "A fraudulent firm that copies the identity, registration details, and branding of a legitimate authorised company to appear credible to investors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Wire Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/wire-fraud", "summary": "A US federal crime involving any scheme to defraud using electronic communications — including email, phone, and internet — with a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Financial Fraud Kill Chain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/financial-fraud-kill-chain", "summary": "An FBI-coordinated rapid-response process to intercept fraudulent domestic wire transfers before funds are withdrawn or moved offshore.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Right to Erasure", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/right-to-erasure", "summary": "A data subject's right under GDPR and UK GDPR to request that an organisation delete their personal data in certain circumstances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Suspicious Activity Report (SAR)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/suspicious-activity-report", "summary": "A confidential report filed by a financial institution or other regulated business when it suspects a customer or transaction involves money laundering or fraud proceeds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Unfair Contract Terms", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/unfair-contract-terms", "summary": "Contract clauses that create a significant imbalance between the parties' rights and obligations to the detriment of the consumer — often unenforceable under UK and EU consumer law.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Consumer Duty", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/consumer-duty", "summary": "The UK FCA principle requiring authorised firms to deliver good outcomes for retail customers, including clear communications and products designed to meet genuine needs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Trading Standards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/trade-standards-trading-standards", "summary": "UK local authority departments that enforce consumer protection law — including weights and measures, product safety, counterfeit goods, and doorstep-selling fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Know Your Customer (KYC)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/know-your-customer", "summary": "The mandatory process by which financial institutions verify the identity of their customers to prevent money laundering, fraud, and terrorist financing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Negative Option Marketing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/negative-option-marketing", "summary": "A billing practice where consumers are automatically charged on a recurring basis unless they actively cancel, often used in subscription traps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Subject Access Request (SAR)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/subject-access-request", "summary": "A formal request by an individual for a copy of all personal data held about them by an organisation, as a right under UK GDPR and EU GDPR.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Consumer Sentinel Network", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/consumer-sentinel-network", "summary": "The FTC's secure, multi-contributor fraud report database, shared with law enforcement agencies in the US and partner countries to identify fraud patterns and investigations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Sha Zhu Pan (Pig Butchering)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sha-zhu-pan", "summary": "A long-con scam originating from Chinese criminal networks in which a victim is 'fattened' with emotional investment before being slaughtered financially.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Grooming (Scam Context)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/grooming-scam", "summary": "A sustained process in which a scammer builds trust, emotional closeness, and a sense of obligation over time to make a target compliant with future requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Future Faking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/future-faking", "summary": "A manipulation tactic in which a scammer makes elaborate, convincing promises about a shared future to keep the victim emotionally invested.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Military Romance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/military-romance-scam", "summary": "A fraud in which the scammer poses as an active-duty military service member to exploit respect for the military and explain their inability to meet in person.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Benefactor Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/benefactor-scam", "summary": "A scam in which a wealthy stranger offers to share their fortune with the victim, often framed as an act of romantic generosity or philanthropic connection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Inheritance Romance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/inheritance-romance-scam", "summary": "A fraud combining a manufactured romantic relationship with a fake unclaimed inheritance, pressuring victims to pay fees to access non-existent funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "CryptoRom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cryptorom", "summary": "A large-scale fraud combining dating-app romance with fake cryptocurrency trading apps, typically distributed outside official app stores.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Sexting Blackmail", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sexting-blackmail", "summary": "A fraud in which a scammer persuades a victim to exchange explicit messages or images and then immediately uses the material as leverage for payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Catfish Persona", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/catfish-persona", "summary": "A fabricated online identity using stolen photographs and invented life details to deceive targets into a false relationship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Breadcrumbing as Bait", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/breadcrumbing-as-bait", "summary": "A manipulation technique in which a scammer gives just enough attention and affection to sustain the victim's hope and engagement without ever fully committing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Trust-Building Phase", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/trust-building-phase", "summary": "The deliberate early stage of a romance scam in which the fraudster establishes credibility and emotional closeness before any financial request is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "The Test Ask (The Tell)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/test-ask", "summary": "A small, low-stakes first financial request used by scammers to gauge a victim's willingness to send money before escalating to larger demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Reverse Romance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/reverse-romance-scam", "summary": "A fraud in which the victim believes they are running a scam themselves but is actually the one being manipulated and defrauded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Romance Recovery Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-recovery-scam", "summary": "A follow-up fraud targeting people who have already been victimised by a romance scam, posing as recovery agents who can retrieve lost funds for a fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Emotional Manipulation Tactics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/emotional-manipulation-tactics", "summary": "A set of psychological techniques used by romance scammers to override rational judgement and keep victims compliant and giving.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Hostage and Ransom Romance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/hostage-romance-scam", "summary": "A variant in which the scammer claims to be imprisoned, kidnapped, or held against their will and urgently needs ransom or bail money from the victim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Isolation Tactic", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/online-romance-isolation-tactic", "summary": "A deliberate strategy used by romance scammers to separate victims from friends and family who might challenge the relationship or identify warning signs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Romance Mule Recruitment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-mule-recruitment", "summary": "The use of a romantic relationship to persuade a victim to receive and forward money on behalf of the scammer, making the victim an unwitting money mule.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Sob Story Escalation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sob-story-escalation", "summary": "A pattern in which a scammer introduces increasingly dramatic personal crises to justify repeated and growing requests for money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Gift Card Payment Demand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-gift-card-demand", "summary": "A pressure tactic in which a romance scammer insists on gift cards as the payment method, using them because they are difficult to trace and non-refundable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Video Call Avoidance", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-video-call-avoidance", "summary": "A behavioural pattern in which a fraudster consistently refuses or finds excuses to avoid live video contact, protecting the false identity they have constructed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Offshore Business Romance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/offshore-business-romance", "summary": "A fraud in which the scammer poses as a successful entrepreneur or executive with international operations to add credibility and justify financial requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Romance Cryptocurrency Wallet Drain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-cryptocurrency-wallet-drain", "summary": "A scam in which a victim is given apparent access to a cryptocurrency account that can only be unlocked by depositing their own funds, which are then stolen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pig-Butchering Fake Trading Platform", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pig-butchering-fake-platform", "summary": "A fraudulent investment website or app operated entirely by scammers to display fabricated returns and prevent victim withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Overseas Customs Scam (Romance Variant)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/overseas-customs-scam-romance", "summary": "A fraud in which the scammer claims a valuable package, gift, or inheritance is held at customs and requires fees to be released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Romance Loan Trap", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-loan-trap", "summary": "A manipulation in which a scammer persuades a victim to take out loans or drain retirement savings to fund what turns out to be a fraudulent relationship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Manufactured Coincidence (Wrong Number Contact)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/manufactured-coincidence", "summary": "A scam initiation technique in which the fraudster contacts a target under the pretence of a misdirected message or wrong number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Reverse Image Search (Romance Fraud Check)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-image-reversal-check", "summary": "A free consumer tool that can reveal whether a romantic contact's profile photographs have been taken from another person's online presence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Profile Consistency Tells", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-profile-consistency-tells", "summary": "Observable inconsistencies in a scammer's online persona that betray its fabricated nature, such as mismatched details, timeline gaps, or conflicting information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Deepfake Romance Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/deepfake-romance-fraud", "summary": "The use of AI-generated or manipulated video to simulate the appearance of a romantic persona during video calls, bypassing visual verification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Sugar Daddy / Sugar Mommy Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sugar-daddy-sugar-mommy-scam", "summary": "A fraud in which the scammer poses as a wealthy sponsor offering financial support in exchange for companionship, but extracts money from the victim before any payment arrives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Digital Pen Pal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/digital-pen-pal-scam", "summary": "A fraud conducted entirely through letters or messages with a person met through a pen pal service or prison correspondence programme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Romance Tax and Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-tax-scam", "summary": "A series of fabricated government, legal, or financial fees demanded before a promised sum from an online romantic contact can be released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Romance Scam Psychological Aftermath", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-scam-psychological-aftermath", "summary": "The complex emotional and psychological harm — shame, grief, self-blame, and trust damage — that victims experience after a romance fraud is revealed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Social Media Romance Recruitment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/social-media-romance-recruitment", "summary": "The practice of mining social media platforms for potential romance scam targets based on profile indicators of loneliness, bereavement, or financial means.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "WhatsApp Romance Pivot", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/whatsapp-romance-pivot", "summary": "A tactic in which a scammer moves a target from a dating or social platform to WhatsApp or another encrypted messaging app to avoid platform moderation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Romance Scam Accomplice Networks", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-scam-accomplice-gang", "summary": "Organised criminal groups — sometimes using trafficked workers — that run romance fraud at scale, with operators assigned to manage dozens of simultaneous targets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Romance Scam Reporting Barriers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-scam-reporting-barriers", "summary": "The psychological, social, and practical obstacles that prevent romance fraud victims from reporting losses to authorities or seeking help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Affinity Romance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/affinity-romance-scam", "summary": "A variant in which scammers target members of a specific community, religious group, or demographic by presenting as a fellow member.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Wire Transfer in Romance Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-fraud-money-transfer-method", "summary": "The use of international wire transfers as a payment method in romance scams, chosen for their speed, irreversibility, and difficulty in tracing funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Reporting Romance Fraud on Dating Platforms", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/online-dating-platform-fraud-report", "summary": "The in-platform mechanisms available on dating and social apps for flagging suspected fraudulent profiles, and the limitations of those systems.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cryptocurrency Exit in Romance Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-scam-cryptocurrency-exit", "summary": "The final stage in which a scammer converts all collected funds to cryptocurrency and disappears, making recovery virtually impossible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Task Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/task-scam", "summary": "A fraud where victims are recruited for a fake remote job that involves completing simple online tasks, then lured into paying fees to unlock earnings they never receive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Gamified Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/gamified-job-scam", "summary": "A task-scam variant that wraps fake work inside an app or dashboard with progress bars, levels, and rewards to make the fraud feel more legitimate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Recruitment Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/recruitment-fraud", "summary": "The impersonation of legitimate employers or recruiters to deceive job-seekers into paying fees, surrendering personal data, or becoming unwitting mules.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Reshipping / Repackaging Mule", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/reshipping-mule", "summary": "A person recruited — usually through a fake job ad — to receive stolen goods or fraudulently purchased merchandise at home and forward them to another address, often abroad.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Unwitting Money Mule", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/unwitting-money-mule", "summary": "A money mule who genuinely believes they are doing legitimate work and has no knowledge that the funds they are handling are stolen or fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Complicit Money Mule", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/complicit-money-mule", "summary": "A money mule who knowingly assists fraudsters in laundering funds, often for a cut of the proceeds and with full awareness that the activity is illegal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Money Flipping", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/money-flipping", "summary": "A scam in which fraudsters promise to multiply a victim's cash by exploiting a fake system hack, glitch, or insider trick, then disappear with the funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Advance-Fee Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/advance-fee-job-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent job offer that requires the applicant to pay an upfront fee — for training, equipment, visas, or certification — before they can begin work that does not actually exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Gifting Circle / Blessing Loom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/gifting-circle", "summary": "A cash-transfer scheme framed as mutual gifting among community members, typically displayed as a mandala or loom diagram, where only early participants receive money at the expense of those who join later.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Chain Letter", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/chain-letter", "summary": "A message — physical or digital — instructing recipients to send money or items to a list of names, add their own name, and forward the letter to others, promising large returns if the chain is maintained.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Escrow Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-escrow-scam", "summary": "A fraud in which a scammer directs a transaction through a counterfeit escrow website they control, causing the victim to deposit funds that are immediately stolen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Binary Compensation Plan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/binary-compensation-plan", "summary": "An MLM pay structure in which each distributor has exactly two 'legs' in their downline, with earnings calculated on the weaker leg's volume, creating structural incentives to recruit rather than sell.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Downline / Upline", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/downline-upline", "summary": "MLM terminology for the network below a distributor (downline) whose purchases generate commission, and those above them (upline) who earn commission from the distributor's activity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Product-Based Pyramid", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/product-based-pyramid", "summary": "A pyramid scheme disguised as a legitimate direct-sales company by attaching a real or nominal product to the recruitment fee, making the structure superficially resemble lawful multi-level marketing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Income Claim", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/income-claim", "summary": "A statement made by a recruiter or MLM company asserting specific earnings potential, which may be misleading if not accompanied by accurate statistics about typical participant outcomes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pay-to-Play Job", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pay-to-play-job", "summary": "Any 'employment' arrangement requiring the worker to pay upfront to access the job, equipment, training, or earning platform — a red flag that often signals a scam or predatory scheme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Recruitment Chain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/recruitment-chain", "summary": "A sequence of recruits where each person's primary financial incentive is to bring in the next recruit, creating a chain structure whose growth is mathematically unsustainable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Squaring / Cash Flipping", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/squaring-cash-flipping", "summary": "Street or social-media slang for money-flipping scams where an operator claims to 'square' or double cash through insider access to payment platforms, targeting financially vulnerable individuals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Witting Money Mule", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/witting-money-mule", "summary": "A money mule who suspects or has reason to believe that the funds they are handling are illegitimate but proceeds anyway, often rationalising the activity or ignoring clear warning signs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "MLM Income Disclosure Statement (IDS)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mlm-income-disclosure-statement", "summary": "A document required by regulators in many jurisdictions that shows the actual distribution of earnings across all active MLM participants, revealing what typical distributors earn.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Gifting Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/gifting-scam", "summary": "Any scheme in which participants are invited to 'gift' cash to current members under the pretence of a community support network, when in fact the structure is a pyramid that benefits only early entrants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Sou-Sou Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sou-sou-fraud", "summary": "The exploitation of the legitimate Caribbean/African rotating savings circle (sou-sou or susu) by scammers who mimic the format but have no intention of distributing funds fairly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pig Butchering Job Lure", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pig-butchering-job-lure", "summary": "The initial fake job offer used to recruit victims into a pig-butchering (sha zhu pan) investment scam, typically framed as a remote data-entry, translation, or social-media assistant role.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Crypto Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/crypto-job-scam", "summary": "A fake remote job that pays in cryptocurrency, uses a crypto platform as a work tool, or requires a crypto deposit to 'start' — frequently a vehicle for task scams or pig-butchering lures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Home Assembly Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/home-assembly-scam", "summary": "A fake work-at-home job offering payment to assemble crafts or products at home, which requires an upfront kit purchase and never pays out for completed work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Mystery Shopper Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mystery-shopper-scam", "summary": "A fraud that offers a fake secret-shopper job, sends a counterfeit cheque for 'expenses', and instructs the victim to wire back most of the funds before the cheque bounces.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Data Entry Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/data-entry-job-scam", "summary": "A fake remote work posting advertising simple typing or data-entry tasks that requires an upfront software fee or training purchase before work can begin, which never materialises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "MLM Market Saturation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mlm-saturation", "summary": "The point at which an MLM downline territory has been so thoroughly recruited that existing distributors cannot find new participants, making further income growth impossible for most members.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "False Income Promise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/false-income-promise", "summary": "A recruiting tactic in which an MLM, job scam, or investment promoter represents specific earnings as typical or achievable when evidence shows most participants earn far less.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Autoship Requirement", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/autoship-requirement", "summary": "A mandatory monthly product purchase that MLM distributors must maintain to remain commission-eligible, functioning as a recurring fee that often exceeds typical earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Inventory Loading", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/inventory-loading", "summary": "The practice of pressuring MLM distributors to purchase more product than they can realistically sell, typically to meet volume targets or qualify for bonuses, resulting in garages full of unsold goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Downline Manipulation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/downline-manipulation", "summary": "Tactics used by MLM upline members to psychologically pressure, mislead, or financially coerce their recruits into spending more money or recruiting harder to benefit the upline's commissions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Franchise Opportunity", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-franchise-opportunity", "summary": "A fraudulent business investment sold as a turnkey franchise that takes an upfront fee but delivers no viable business system, territory, or ongoing support.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "High-Yield Investment Programme (HYIP)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/high-yield-investment-programme", "summary": "An online investment scheme promising abnormally high daily or weekly returns — commonly 1-10% per day — that is almost always a Ponzi scheme paying early investors from later deposits until it collapses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fraudulent Work-at-Home Kit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fraudulent-work-at-home-kit", "summary": "A paid package sold on the premise that it contains everything needed to make money from home, which turns out to be generic information freely available online or instructions for selling the same kit to others.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Forced Matrix Scheme", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/forced-matrix-scheme", "summary": "A matrix pyramid in which the system automatically places new recruits into available slots in the tree rather than under the sponsor who recruited them, designed to accelerate matrix completion and disguise the pyramid structure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Social Media Mule Recruitment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/social-media-mule-recruitment", "summary": "The use of social media platforms to recruit money mules — typically through lifestyle posts, direct messages, or fake job ads — targeting young or financially stressed individuals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Upfront Training Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/upfront-training-fee-scam", "summary": "A fake job or business opportunity that requires payment for mandatory training, certification, or onboarding before work begins — training that is worthless or that the legitimate employer would never charge for.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Ponzi vs Pyramid: Key Differences", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ponzi-vs-pyramid-distinction", "summary": "The critical distinction between a Ponzi scheme (one central operator fakes returns for passive investors) and a pyramid scheme (participants must recruit to earn, with no central fabricated return).", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Romance-Job Hybrid Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/romance-job-hybrid-scam", "summary": "A fraud that combines romantic or friendship grooming with a fake job or investment opportunity, using manufactured emotional intimacy to lower the victim's financial guard.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Visa / Work Permit Job Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/visa-job-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent overseas job offer that requires the victim to pay visa-sponsorship or work-permit fees which are pocketed by the scammer, with no genuine job existing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Dropshipping Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/dropshipping-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent storefront that takes consumer payments but either never ships the product or ships a low-quality counterfeit while hiding the true supplier identity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Counterfeit / Knockoff Goods Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/counterfeit-goods-scam", "summary": "Selling fake products that copy the branding, packaging, or appearance of legitimate items, often misrepresenting them as genuine.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Grey-Market Goods", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/grey-market-goods", "summary": "Genuine branded products sold through unauthorized distribution channels, often voiding warranties and consumer protections.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Non-Delivery Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/non-delivery-fraud", "summary": "An online seller collects payment for goods or services that are never shipped or delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Partial-Delivery Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/partial-delivery-scam", "summary": "A seller ships only part of a multi-item order or a lower-value substitute, making it harder to dispute the full charge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Friendly Fraud (Commerce)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/friendly-fraud-commerce", "summary": "A buyer makes a legitimate purchase, receives the goods, then falsely disputes the charge claiming non-delivery or unauthorized use to obtain a refund while keeping the item.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Card Testing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/card-testing", "summary": "Fraudsters run small test transactions on stolen card numbers to verify which are still active before using them for larger purchases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Account Farming", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/account-farming", "summary": "Systematically creating or aging large numbers of fake platform accounts to later use for fraud, manipulation, or sale.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Review / Astroturfing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-review-astroturfing", "summary": "Paying for or posting fabricated positive reviews to deceive consumers about a product or service's true quality.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Review Brushing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/review-brushing", "summary": "A variant of brushing in which sellers ship packages to real people specifically to post verified-purchase reviews under those recipients' identities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Listing Hijacking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/listing-hijacking", "summary": "Unauthorized sellers attach themselves to an established marketplace listing to piggyback on its reviews and ranking, then ship counterfeit or inferior products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Storefront", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-storefront", "summary": "A fraudulent website or marketplace profile designed to look like a legitimate retailer, built solely to collect payments without delivering goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Social-Commerce Livestream Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/social-commerce-livestream-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent sellers use live-streaming platforms to create urgency and social proof for products that are fake, never shipped, or misrepresented.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Group-Buy Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/group-buy-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent bulk-buying scheme where organizers collect pooled payments from multiple participants and then disappear without purchasing or delivering the promised goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Overpayment / Refund-Excess Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/overpayment-refund-scam", "summary": "A fraudster sends an overpayment (often via a fake or reversible instrument) and asks the seller to refund the difference, leaving the seller out of pocket when the original payment is reversed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Item-Not-As-Described Abuse", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/item-not-as-described-abuse", "summary": "Buyers falsely claim a received item does not match its description to obtain a full refund while keeping or returning a different item.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Drop-Surfing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/drop-surfing", "summary": "A practice—sometimes deceptive—of dynamically switching suppliers for the same product listing to exploit price fluctuations, often without informing customers of changes in quality or origin.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Second-Chance Offer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/second-chance-offer-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate auction sellers to contact losing bidders with a private 'second chance' deal, collecting payment without delivering anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Marketplace Seller Impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/marketplace-seller-impersonation", "summary": "Fraudsters create fake listings or accounts that mimic legitimate, well-reviewed marketplace sellers to intercept buyers and payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Reshipping Mule Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/reshipping-mule-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters recruit unwitting individuals to receive goods bought with stolen cards and reship them overseas, making the recruits complicit in receiving stolen property.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Return Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/return-fraud", "summary": "Abusing a retailer's return policy to obtain refunds or exchanges for items not genuinely eligible, including used goods, stolen items, or empty boxes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Price Manipulation / Flash Pricing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/price-manipulation-scam", "summary": "Artificially inflating a 'regular' price so that a discount appears larger than it actually is, deceiving consumers about the true saving.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Phishing Checkout Page", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/phishing-checkout-page", "summary": "A fake payment page injected into or mimicking a legitimate checkout flow to steal payment card details at the moment of purchase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Advance-Fee Purchase Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/advance-fee-purchase-scam", "summary": "A seller or broker demands upfront fees, taxes, or deposits before releasing goods or services that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Seller Account Takeover", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/seller-account-takeover", "summary": "Criminals gain unauthorized access to a legitimate marketplace seller account to divert payments, list fraudulent products, or conduct fraud under an established identity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Shipping Notification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-shipping-notification", "summary": "Fraudulent delivery alerts impersonate couriers or retailers to harvest personal and payment information or deliver malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Marketplace Fee Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/marketplace-fee-fraud", "summary": "Fraudulent operators charge sellers illegitimate listing, processing, or success fees, often through fake platforms or impersonation of real ones.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Retail Arbitrage Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/drop-surfing-arbitrage-fraud", "summary": "Reselling goods purchased at retail under misleading descriptions that overstate value, authenticity, or provenance to extract higher prices from buyers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Seller Rating Manipulation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/seller-rating-manipulation", "summary": "Artificially inflating or sabotaging marketplace seller ratings through coordinated fake reviews, threats, or incentivized feedback.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Wangiri (One-Ring Scam)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/wangiri-one-ring-scam", "summary": "A fraud where your phone rings once from an international number; calling back connects you to a premium-rate line that racks up charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "IRSF (International Revenue Share Fraud)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/irsf-international-revenue-share-fraud", "summary": "A telecom fraud where criminals generate artificially inflated call traffic to premium international numbers they control, earning a cut of the termination fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Premium-Rate Number Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/premium-rate-number-fraud", "summary": "Deceptive use of high-charge phone numbers — typically 09xx or international equivalents — to extract money from callers who are unaware of the elevated cost.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "eSIM Swap Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/esim-swap-attack", "summary": "A variant of SIM swapping that exploits the eSIM provisioning process to transfer a victim's number to an attacker-controlled device without a physical SIM card.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SMS Sender-ID Spoofing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sms-sender-id-spoofing", "summary": "A technique that replaces the numeric originator of an SMS with a fake name or number, making messages appear to come from a trusted brand or government body.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Short-Code Spoofing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/short-code-spoofing", "summary": "A fraud where attackers mimic messages from legitimate five- or six-digit short codes used by businesses and governments, embedding malicious links or requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "RCS Abuse", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/rcs-abuse", "summary": "Misuse of Rich Communication Services — the next-generation SMS standard — to send highly convincing phishing messages with interactive buttons, images, and verified branding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Robocall Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/robocall-fraud", "summary": "Automated mass phone calls that deliver pre-recorded fraudulent messages impersonating government agencies, banks, or utilities to trick recipients into taking urgent action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Autodialer / War Dialing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/autodialer-war-dialing", "summary": "Software that dials phone numbers sequentially or from a list to find live lines, often used by scammers to build call lists or probe systems for vulnerabilities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "STIR/SHAKEN Caller-ID Authentication", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/stir-shaken-caller-id-authentication", "summary": "A US and Canadian framework that cryptographically signs outgoing calls so receiving carriers can verify whether the displayed caller-ID number is legitimate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "IMSI Catcher (Stingray)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/imsi-catcher-stingray", "summary": "A device that impersonates a mobile cell tower, forcing nearby phones to connect to it so the operator can intercept calls, texts, and location data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SS7 Attack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ss7-attack", "summary": "An exploitation of decades-old telephone network signalling protocols to redirect calls and SMS messages, enabling location tracking and two-factor code interception.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Call-Forwarding Hijack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/call-forwarding-hijack", "summary": "A scam where attackers enable unconditional call forwarding on a victim's line — often by tricking carrier staff — to intercept incoming calls including one-time authentication codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Voicemail Hacking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/voicemail-hacking", "summary": "Unauthorised access to a voicemail inbox, often by exploiting default or weak PINs, used to retrieve two-factor codes, private messages, and personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "FluBot Malware", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/flubot-malware", "summary": "A powerful Android banking trojan that spread via smishing, hijacked contacts to self-propagate, and stole banking credentials and payment card data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SIM Box Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sim-box-fraud", "summary": "A device loaded with many local SIM cards that intercepts international calls and re-terminates them as local calls, defrauding carriers of international termination fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Number Recycling Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/number-recycling-fraud", "summary": "Fraud that exploits the practice of reassigning disconnected phone numbers to new subscribers, allowing the new holder to receive calls, texts, and account-reset codes intended for the previous owner.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Vishing (Voice Phishing)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/vishing-voice-phishing", "summary": "Phone-based social engineering where scammers impersonate banks, government agencies, or tech companies to verbally extract credentials, money, or personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SIM Swap Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sim-swap-fraud", "summary": "A scam where criminals convince your mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to a SIM card they control, then use it to bypass SMS-based two-factor authentication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Toll-Free Number Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/toll-free-number-fraud", "summary": "Misuse of 0800 or 1-800-style numbers to add false legitimacy to scam operations, or deliberate confusion between genuine and fake toll-free numbers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "PBX Hacking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pbx-hacking", "summary": "Unauthorised access to a business phone system (Private Branch Exchange) to make large volumes of fraudulent calls at the company's expense, often generating IRSF revenue.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "VoIP Credential Stuffing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/voip-credential-stuffing", "summary": "Automated attacks that test vast lists of stolen username-password combinations against VoIP service portals to gain access for fraud or free call abuse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Grey-Route SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/grey-route-sms", "summary": "SMS messages sent through unofficial, unmonitored carrier connections that bypass standard routing agreements, used by fraudsters to avoid spam filters and regulatory oversight.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Do-Not-Call Registry Bypass", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/do-not-call-registry-bypass", "summary": "Techniques used by fraudulent callers to continue reaching consumers on national Do Not Call registries, exploiting legal loopholes or simply ignoring enforcement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "DISA Toll Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/disa-toll-fraud", "summary": "Exploitation of Direct Inward System Access features in business phone systems to place external calls through the company's lines at its expense.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Mobile Banking Trojan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mobile-banking-trojan", "summary": "Malicious Android apps that overlay fake login screens on top of legitimate banking apps to steal credentials and one-time codes in real time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Silent SMS (Stealth Ping)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/silent-sms-stealth-ping", "summary": "An invisible text message that produces no notification on the recipient's phone but forces the device to register with a cell tower, revealing its approximate location.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "SIM Cloning", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sim-cloning", "summary": "Creating a duplicate SIM card that shares a legitimate subscriber's identity, allowing the cloner to make calls and receive messages billed to the victim's account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Call Pumping (Traffic Pumping)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/call-pumping", "summary": "A telecom fraud where a local carrier generates artificially high call volumes to its own numbers to earn inflated access fees from long-distance carriers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Mobile Number Harvesting", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mobile-number-harvesting", "summary": "The automated collection of active mobile phone numbers from websites, data breaches, or dialing probes for use in smishing and robocall campaigns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Account Takeover via Carrier Chat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/account-takeover-carrier-chat", "summary": "Social-engineering attacks targeting carrier customer-service agents to change account settings, SIM cards, or call-forwarding without proper identity verification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Number Spoofing Scam Bait", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/number-spoofing-scam-bait", "summary": "Fraudulent ads or online listings that display a spoofed business phone number to divert customers to scammers posing as the legitimate company.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Phone Number Lookup Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/phone-number-lookup-fraud", "summary": "Scam websites that charge fees or harvest personal data under the guise of providing reverse-phone-number or people-search lookups.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Telecom Insider Threat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/telecom-insider-threat", "summary": "Fraudulent or corrupt conduct by carrier employees who misuse privileged system access to facilitate SIM swaps, sell customer data, or enable surveillance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "OTT Messaging Spoofing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ott-messaging-spoofing", "summary": "Fraud conducted through over-the-top messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, or Signal where attackers impersonate known contacts or official accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Network Slicing Security Risk", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/network-slicing-security-risk", "summary": "Emerging security concerns around 5G network slicing, where misconfiguration or exploitation could allow attackers to cross slice boundaries and access other users' traffic.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "CAFC (Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cafc-canadian-anti-fraud-centre", "summary": "Canada's national tip-line for reporting fraud, scams, and cybercrime, operated jointly by the RCMP, OPP, and Competition Bureau.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "ACCC Scamwatch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/accc-scamwatch", "summary": "Australia's official scam-reporting and awareness platform run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "NASC (National Anti-Scam Centre)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/nasc-australia", "summary": "Australia's dedicated scam disruption unit housed within the ACCC, launched in 2023 to coordinate multi-agency scam prevention and take-down actions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "MAS (Monetary Authority of Singapore) – Scam Prevention", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mas-singapore-scam-prevention", "summary": "Singapore's central bank and financial regulator, which sets anti-scam rules for financial institutions and coordinates consumer protection measures against payment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "ScamShield", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/scamshield-singapore", "summary": "Singapore's government-developed mobile app that automatically filters scam calls and SMSes using AI and a centralised scam database maintained by the Singapore Police Force.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "HKMA (Hong Kong Monetary Authority) – Anti-Scam Measures", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/hkma-anti-scam", "summary": "Hong Kong's central banking institution, which mandates anti-fraud controls for banks including the Faster Payment System kill switch and real-name account verification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "ADCC (Anti-Deception Coordination Centre)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/adcc-hong-kong", "summary": "A 24-hour Hong Kong Police Force unit that intercepts fraud in progress, freezes scam-linked accounts, and operates the 18222 anti-scam helpline.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Scameter", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/scameter-hong-kong", "summary": "Hong Kong's free public tool for checking whether a phone number, email, URL, or bank account has been linked to fraud reports in police records.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "CIFAS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cifas-uk", "summary": "The UK's leading fraud-prevention membership organisation, which operates a shared database of confirmed fraud cases to help member organisations protect customers from identity fraud and account takeover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Take Five to Stop Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/take-five-to-stop-fraud", "summary": "A UK national campaign led by UK Finance that urges consumers to pause and question unexpected financial requests before acting, using the slogan Stop. Challenge. Protect.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "PSR (Payment Systems Regulator)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/psr-uk-payment-systems-regulator", "summary": "The UK regulator for payment systems, which sets binding rules on banks and payment firms to reimburse victims of authorised push payment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-09-19" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "APP Fraud Reimbursement Scheme (UK)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/app-fraud-reimbursement-scheme-uk", "summary": "The mandatory UK scheme, effective October 2024, requiring payment service providers to reimburse most victims of authorised push payment fraud up to GBP 85,000.", "lastReviewed": "2026-09-19" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/action-fraud-uk", "summary": "The UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, operated by the City of London Police, where victims can report incidents online or by phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Citizens Advice Scams Action", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/citizens-advice-scams-action", "summary": "A free UK service from Citizens Advice that provides one-to-one guidance for scam victims and operates the 0808 250 5050 scams helpline funded by Trading Standards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "AARP Fraud Watch Network", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/aarp-fraud-watch-network", "summary": "A free US resource from AARP that provides scam alerts, a fraud helpline, and peer support programmes targeted at older adults and their families.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ic3-internet-crime-complaint-center", "summary": "The FBI's online portal for reporting internet-facilitated crimes including wire fraud, ransomware, romance scams, and business email compromise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "BBB Scam Tracker", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/bbb-scam-tracker", "summary": "Better Business Bureau's free public database of consumer-reported scams in North America, searchable by type, location, and dollar amount.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "eConsumer.gov", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/econsumer-gov", "summary": "An international fraud reporting portal operated by ICPEN that allows consumers worldwide to report cross-border scams, with data shared among consumer protection agencies in over 35 countries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Europol EC3 (European Cybercrime Centre)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/europol-ec3", "summary": "Europol's specialised unit for combating cybercrime and online fraud in the EU, providing operational support and intelligence to member states' police forces.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "INTERPOL Financial Crime Division", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/interpol-financial-crime", "summary": "INTERPOL's operational unit that coordinates cross-border financial crime investigations and runs global operations against money laundering, BEC, and investment fraud networks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Jamtara Scam Hub Phenomenon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/jamtara-scam-hub-phenomenon", "summary": "A term describing the emergence of geographically concentrated organised fraud operations, named after a district in Jharkhand, India, that became notorious as a training ground for OTP and impersonation phone fraudsters.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "FTC ReportFraud (US)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ftc-report-fraud", "summary": "The US Federal Trade Commission's primary consumer fraud reporting portal at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, which feeds the Consumer Sentinel Network used by law enforcement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) – UK", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/financial-ombudsman-service-uk", "summary": "The UK's free independent service for resolving disputes between consumers and financial firms, including complaints about banks' handling of fraud and scam reimbursement claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "National Trading Standards Scams Team (UK)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/national-trading-standards-scams-team", "summary": "A UK unit within National Trading Standards that coordinates local authority trading standards services to disrupt mass-marketing fraud targeting consumers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "FCA Consumer Duty (UK)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fca-consumer-duty-uk", "summary": "The UK Financial Conduct Authority's overarching conduct standard requiring firms to deliver good outcomes for retail customers, including protecting them from foreseeable harms such as fraud facilitation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "AUSTRAC (Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/austrac-australia", "summary": "Australia's financial intelligence agency and anti-money laundering regulator, which analyses financial transaction data to identify money laundering, terrorism financing, and fraud proceeds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "FINTRAC (Canada)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fintrac-canada", "summary": "Canada's financial intelligence unit that collects and analyses financial transaction reports from banks and businesses to identify money laundering and terrorist financing, including fraud proceeds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "MAS FIDO (Financial Industry Disputes Resolution Centre)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mas-fido-singapore", "summary": "Singapore's independent financial dispute resolution scheme, where consumers can bring unresolved complaints against banks and financial institutions including fraud reimbursement disputes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Singapore Police Force Anti-Scam Hotline", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/singapore-police-anti-scam-hotline", "summary": "The Singapore Police Force's dedicated 24-hour hotline (1800-722-6688) for reporting scams and getting immediate advice when you suspect you are being defrauded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Netsafe (New Zealand)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/netsafe-new-zealand", "summary": "New Zealand's independent non-profit online safety organisation, which provides free advice for online scam victims and operates the Netsafe helpline for digital harm.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ceop-uk", "summary": "A UK National Crime Agency command that handles online child exploitation, including cases where children are targeted by sextortion scams and financially motivated online grooming.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "FMA (Financial Markets Authority – New Zealand)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fma-new-zealand", "summary": "New Zealand's financial markets regulator, which takes enforcement action against unlicensed investment schemes, Ponzi frauds, and false-return investment advertising.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "AFCA (Australian Financial Complaints Authority)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/financial-ombudsman-australia", "summary": "Australia's free external dispute resolution scheme for financial services complaints, including disputes about banks' decisions on fraud reimbursement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "ASIC (Australian Securities and Investments Commission)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/asic-australia", "summary": "Australia's corporate, financial markets, and financial services regulator, which takes action against investment scams, unlicensed financial advisers, and misleading financial promotions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Singapore Police Force Anti-Scam Centre (ASC)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/spf-anti-scam-centre-singapore", "summary": "A specialised unit of the Singapore Police Force that works with banks to freeze scam-linked accounts and recover funds transferred by fraud victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "RCMP Cybercrime and Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/royal-canadian-mounted-police-fraud", "summary": "The Royal Canadian Mounted Police's role in investigating large-scale financial fraud and cybercrime, often working through the CAFC to triage and investigate cross-border cases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Serious Fraud Office (SFO) – UK", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/serious-fraud-office-uk", "summary": "The UK's specialist agency for investigating and prosecuting serious or complex fraud, bribery, and corruption cases, using combined investigation and prosecution powers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Frauds to Finnish Police / KRP Cybercrime Unit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/finpol-finland", "summary": "Finland's National Bureau of Investigation Cybercrime Unit (KRP) that handles complex online fraud, cybercrime, and international financial crime targeting Finnish residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "No More Ransom Project", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/no-more-ransom-project", "summary": "A public-private partnership led by Europol and the Dutch National Police that provides free ransomware decryption tools and helps victims recover files without paying criminals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/garda-fraud-ireland", "summary": "Ireland's specialised police unit investigating major economic crime, fraud, cybercrime, and money laundering, operating as part of An Garda Siochana.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "BaFin (Germany) – Consumer Fraud Warnings", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/bafin-germany-fraud", "summary": "Germany's Federal Financial Supervisory Authority, which publishes a public warning database of unauthorised financial service providers and clone firms targeting German consumers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "IOSCO Investor Alerts Portal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/iosco-investor-alert", "summary": "An international resource maintained by IOSCO where securities regulators from around the world post warnings about entities offering unregistered or fraudulent investment products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "NCSC (National Cyber Security Centre) – UK", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ncsc-uk-cyber-reporting", "summary": "The UK's technical authority for cybersecurity, which provides consumer guidance on cyber threats and operates services including Suspicious Email Reporting and Active Cyber Defence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) – US", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cisa-usa", "summary": "The US federal agency that leads national cybersecurity defence, publishes advisories on active cyber threats, and provides resources for critical infrastructure protection and individual cyber hygiene.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-10" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Rigged Slot Algorithm Claim", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/rigged-slot-algorithm-claim", "summary": "A marketing or scam claim that an online slot machine's random number generator has been secretly manipulated to control wins and losses, often used to sell 'hack' software or justify a casino's refusal to pay out.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Casino Bonus Abuse", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/casino-bonus-abuse", "summary": "Exploiting sign-up bonuses, free spins, or deposit matches through multiple accounts, collusion, or loopholes, prompting operators to freeze funds or ban players — sometimes used unfairly against legitimate winners too.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Wagering Requirement Trap", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/wagering-requirement-trap", "summary": "Deliberately confusing or near-impossible playthrough conditions attached to a bonus, designed so players can rarely withdraw the bonus or their own winnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Unlicensed Offshore Casino", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/unlicensed-offshore-casino", "summary": "A betting or casino website operating without a legitimate gambling license, often based in a jurisdiction with weak enforcement, leaving players with no regulator to appeal to when disputes arise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Matched Betting Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/matched-betting-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent courses, software, or 'mentors' that charge fees to teach a legitimate low-risk betting technique, then exaggerate profits, hide account-closure risks, or upsell fake tools that never deliver.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Sports Tipster Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sports-tipster-scam", "summary": "A paid tip-selling service that fabricates or cherry-picks a winning track record to sell subscriptions, then delivers picks that lose money for subscribers on average.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fixed Match Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fixed-match-scam", "summary": "A fraud in which sellers claim to have insider knowledge that a sporting event's outcome has been pre-arranged, charging for 'guaranteed' picks on matches that are not actually fixed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Arbitrage Betting Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/arbitrage-betting-scam", "summary": "Paid software or services claiming to find risk-free 'arbitrage' opportunities across bookmakers, which either don't exist as advertised, close before bets can be placed, or trigger account restrictions that erase the promised profit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Crypto Casino Rug Pull", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/crypto-casino-rug-pull", "summary": "An online casino that accepts cryptocurrency deposits, builds a user base with fast early payouts, then abruptly disables withdrawals, deletes the site, or vanishes with all deposited funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Sweepstakes Casino Loophole", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sweepstakes-casino-loophole", "summary": "Online 'social' or 'sweepstakes' casinos that operate real-money-style gambling under sweepstakes law by using dual virtual currencies, sometimes with unclear odds, opaque redemption rules, or misleading claims about being 'legal everywhere.'", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Payout Withholding Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/payout-withholding-scam", "summary": "A casino or sportsbook deliberately delays, partially pays, or refuses a legitimate withdrawal using shifting excuses, hoping the player gives up or keeps gambling the balance away.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "KYC Payout Stall", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/kyc-payout-stall", "summary": "Abuse of legitimate identity-verification (Know Your Customer) requirements as a delaying tactic, where an operator repeatedly requests new or duplicate documents specifically to postpone paying out a win.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Gambling Affiliate Shill Review", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/gambling-affiliate-shill-review", "summary": "A casino or sportsbook 'review' or comparison site that ranks operators by affiliate commission rather than honest quality, steering players toward the worst-paying operators.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Rakeback Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/rakeback-scam", "summary": "Fraudulent or misleading 'rakeback' offers that promise a cash-back percentage of poker rake or casino house edge but never pay it, calculate it dishonestly, or require impossible conditions to redeem.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Poker Bot Collusion", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/poker-bot-collusion", "summary": "Automated poker-playing software, or teams of human players sharing hidden information, used to gain an unfair edge at online poker tables, often undetected until a room's security team investigates patterns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Chip Dumping Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/chip-dumping-scam", "summary": "A form of collusion where one player deliberately loses chips to another player at the same table, used to launder money, manipulate tournament payouts, or funnel funds between accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Loot Box Gambling Mechanic", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/loot-box-gambling-mechanic", "summary": "Randomized paid in-game reward mechanics that function like slot machines, marketed to avoid gambling regulation despite sharing its core psychological structure, and disproportionately targeted at minors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Skin Gambling Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/skin-gambling-scam", "summary": "Unregulated third-party sites that let users bet virtual in-game items ('skins') on games of chance or esports outcomes, frequently rigged, unlicensed, and easily accessible to minors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Betting Syndicate Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/betting-syndicate-scam", "summary": "A fake or exaggerated 'professional betting syndicate' that solicits investment or membership fees by claiming access to a sophisticated, consistently profitable betting model, without verifiable independent results.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Touting Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/touting-scam", "summary": "Selling betting picks under a claimed win-rate or reputation while quietly changing the definition of a 'win,' the odds referenced, or the sport covered to protect the seller's advertised record.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Verified Bettor Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/verified-bettor-scam", "summary": "A scheme in which a seller displays a betting platform's own 'verified' badge or transaction history as proof of a real winning track record, while the underlying bets or account are staged, faked, or unrepresentative.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pyramid Betting System", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pyramid-betting-system", "summary": "A recruitment-based scheme disguised as a betting club or tipster network, where income depends on recruiting new paying members rather than actual betting profit, collapsing once recruitment slows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Guaranteed Betting System Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/guaranteed-betting-system-scam", "summary": "Books, courses, or software sold on the promise of a mathematically 'guaranteed' way to beat the odds using staking progressions like the Martingale system, which cannot overcome negative-expectation games and carry ruinous bankroll risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Dormant Account Fee (Casino)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/dormant-account-fee-casino", "summary": "A recurring 'inactivity' or 'maintenance' fee that an operator deducts from a player's balance after a period without login or play, sometimes applied aggressively enough to drain a forgotten balance entirely.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Self-Exclusion Bypass", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/self-exclusion-bypass", "summary": "Operators, affiliated sites, or third parties that help a self-excluded problem gambler circumvent a voluntary gambling ban, exploiting the addiction the exclusion was meant to protect against.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake RNG Certificate", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-rng-certificate", "summary": "A forged or misleading fairness certification displayed by an online casino, falsely claiming its random number generator has been independently tested when no such audit occurred or the certificate has expired or been revoked.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Phantom Jackpot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/phantom-jackpot-scam", "summary": "A displayed progressive jackpot value that is inflated, frozen, or not actually payable as advertised, luring players into a game whose real top prize is far smaller than shown.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Deposit Match Clawback", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/deposit-match-clawback", "summary": "A casino that reverses, cancels, or heavily reduces a previously credited deposit-match bonus after a player has already begun wagering, often citing a retroactively applied or newly discovered term.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Live Dealer Deepfake Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/live-dealer-deepfake-scam", "summary": "An unlicensed operator that fakes a 'live dealer' game experience using pre-recorded loops, manipulated video, or entirely synthetic footage instead of a genuine live human dealer and real-time shuffled cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Lay Betting Exchange Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/lay-betting-exchange-scam", "summary": "Schemes that exploit betting exchanges, where users bet against each other rather than against a bookmaker, through fake liquidity, price manipulation, or 'lay betting' courses that overstate achievable returns and understate liability risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Obituary Mining", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/obituary-mining", "summary": "The practice of scammers reading published obituaries to gather details used to impersonate family members, target the surviving spouse, or time a burglary.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Funeral Bill Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-funeral-bill-scam", "summary": "A scam in which a bereaved family receives a fraudulent invoice claiming to be from the funeral home, crematorium, or a related service, demanding urgent payment to a different account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Grandson-in-Jail Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/grandson-in-jail-scam", "summary": "An impersonation scam in which a caller poses as a grandchild in urgent trouble, often claiming arrest or a car accident, and pressures the grandparent to wire bail or legal fees immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Estate Recovery Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/estate-recovery-scam", "summary": "A scam in which a fraudster contacts heirs claiming the estate owes a debt, tax, or fee that must be paid before assets can be released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Unclaimed Inheritance Letter", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/unclaimed-inheritance-letter", "summary": "An unsolicited letter or email claiming the recipient is entitled to a large inheritance from a distant or unknown relative, used to extract upfront fees or personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fraudulent Heir Hunter Firm", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/heir-hunter-firm-scam", "summary": "A fake or predatory genealogy research firm that contacts people about a supposed unclaimed estate and charges excessive fees or demands payment before locating any real assets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Executor Impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-executor-impersonation", "summary": "A scam in which a fraudster falsely claims to be the executor or administrator of a deceased person's estate in order to redirect assets, close accounts, or collect debts owed to the family.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Sympathy Donation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sympathy-donation-scam", "summary": "A fake fundraising campaign set up in the name of a recently deceased person, often claiming to cover funeral costs, that diverts donations to the scammer instead of the family.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pre-Need Funeral Plan Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pre-need-funeral-plan-fraud", "summary": "Fraud involving prepaid funeral or burial plans, where funds paid in advance are misused, never placed in trust, or the provider disappears before the plan is needed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cemetery Plot Resale Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cemetery-plot-resale-scam", "summary": "A scam involving the sale of cemetery burial plots that do not exist, are already occupied, or are sold without legal right to transfer ownership.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Death Certificate Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/death-certificate-identity-theft", "summary": "The use of a deceased person's personal details, sometimes taken from an official death certificate or public death index, to open accounts, file tax refunds, or claim benefits fraudulently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Life Insurance Payout Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/life-insurance-payout-scam", "summary": "A scam in which a fraudster contacts a beneficiary claiming to help process a life insurance payout, then charges fake fees or redirects the payment to their own account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pension Death Benefit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pension-death-benefit-scam", "summary": "A scam targeting the death benefit or survivor's pension owed after a pension holder dies, typically involving fake administrators demanding fees or personal details to release the payout.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Widow/Widower Romance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/widow-romance-scam", "summary": "A romance scam that specifically targets recently bereaved widows and widowers, exploiting their loneliness and grief to build trust before requesting money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Will Forgery", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/will-forgery-scam", "summary": "The creation of a fake or altered will, or a fraudulent later codicil, intended to redirect a deceased person's estate away from the rightful heirs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Undue Influence in Estate Planning", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/undue-influence-estate-planning", "summary": "A form of elder financial abuse in which a caregiver, new friend, or family member manipulates a vulnerable or declining person into changing their will or beneficiaries in the influencer's favor.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Power of Attorney Abuse in Late-Life Planning", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/power-of-attorney-abuse-after-death-planning", "summary": "The misuse of a power of attorney granted near the end of a person's life to drain accounts, transfer property, or make estate-altering decisions before death for the abuser's benefit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Condolence Email Malware", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/condolence-email-malware", "summary": "A phishing email disguised as a condolence message or funeral notification, containing a malicious link or attachment designed to install malware or steal credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Online Memorial Page", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-online-memorial-page", "summary": "A fraudulent memorial or tribute website set up for a deceased person, used to solicit fake donations, harvest visitor data, or spread malware to grieving visitors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Grief Counseling Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/grief-counseling-scam", "summary": "A scam in which an unlicensed or fraudulent 'grief counselor' or coach targets recently bereaved people, charging for ineffective or nonexistent support services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Funeral Home Price Gouging", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/funeral-home-price-gouging", "summary": "The practice of overcharging grieving families for funeral goods and services, or failing to disclose required price information, exploiting the emotional pressure to arrange a dignified funeral quickly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Repatriation of Remains Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/repatriation-of-remains-scam", "summary": "A scam targeting families of a person who died abroad, in which a fraudster demands large upfront fees to arrange transport of the body or ashes back to the home country.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Death Notification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-death-notification-scam", "summary": "A scam in which a caller falsely informs someone that a relative has died, often abroad, in order to trigger panic and extract money before the truth can be verified.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Sale of Deceased's Belongings Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/sale-of-deceased-belongings-scam", "summary": "A scam involving online marketplace listings for a deceased person's belongings, such as vehicles or valuables, where the listing is fake or used to lure buyers into an advance-payment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Trust Fund Release Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/trust-fund-release-scam", "summary": "A scam claiming that a trust set up by a deceased relative or benefactor requires a release fee, tax payment, or legal charge before the beneficiary can access the funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Casket Swap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/coffin-casket-swap-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent practice in which a funeral home charges for a premium casket but secretly substitutes a cheaper one, or resells a returned casket as new.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cremation Ashes Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cremation-ashes-scam", "summary": "Fraud involving cremated remains, including returning the wrong or incomplete ashes, commingling remains from multiple people, or charging for services never performed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Bereavement Leave Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/bereavement-leave-fraud", "summary": "The use of a false claim of bereavement, sometimes supported by a fabricated death notice, to obtain paid leave, sympathy, or exemption from obligations from an employer or institution.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Final Expense Insurance Mis-Selling", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/final-expense-insurance-mis-selling", "summary": "The aggressive or misleading sale of small whole-life 'final expense' insurance policies to elderly buyers, often overstating benefits or hiding waiting periods and exclusions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Solicitor Probate Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-solicitor-probate-scam", "summary": "A scam in which a fraudster poses as a solicitor or probate lawyer handling a deceased person's estate, charging fees for legal work that is never performed or does not need to be done.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Free Government Grant Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/free-government-grant-scam", "summary": "A scam promising a large, no-strings-attached government grant to cover bills, housing, or business costs, in exchange for an upfront 'processing' or 'insurance' fee that is never refunded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Grant Processing Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/grant-processing-fee-scam", "summary": "A scam variant where a fraudster claims a genuine-sounding grant or benefit award requires payment of a 'processing', 'clearance', or 'insurance' fee before funds can be released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Benefits Advance Fee Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/benefits-advance-fee-fraud", "summary": "A broad category of fraud in which a scammer demands payment before releasing a welfare payment, back-payment, or benefit increase that was falsely promised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Universal Credit Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/universal-credit-phishing-scam", "summary": "A phishing scam that impersonates a benefits agency's Universal Credit or equivalent means-tested benefit system to steal login credentials, bank details, or personal identifying information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Social Security Suspension Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/social-security-suspension-scam", "summary": "A phone or robocall scam claiming a person's Social Security number has been 'suspended' due to suspicious activity, pressuring them to pay a fee or reveal personal data to reactivate it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Benefits Eligibility Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-benefits-eligibility-text", "summary": "A mass-sent text message falsely claiming the recipient is eligible for a benefit, rebate, or payment, designed to lure them into clicking a phishing link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cost of Living Payment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cost-of-living-payment-scam", "summary": "A scam that piggybacks on genuine government cost-of-living support payments, using fake texts, emails, or calls to trick recipients into handing over bank details for a payment that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Disability Benefit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/disability-benefit-scam", "summary": "A scam that targets people with disabilities or chronic conditions with promises of guaranteed disability benefit approval, back pay, or increased awards in exchange for a fee or personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Unemployment Benefits Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/unemployment-benefits-identity-theft", "summary": "A fraud where a criminal uses a victim's stolen personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment benefits claim and redirect the payments to themselves.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pandemic Relief Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pandemic-relief-fraud", "summary": "Fraud involving emergency relief funds created during a public health or economic crisis, including fake applications, phishing scams targeting recipients, and impersonation of relief agencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Benefits Portal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-benefits-portal", "summary": "A convincing but fraudulent website designed to look like an official government benefits sign-in page, built to steal login credentials and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Benefits Overpayment Scam Call", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/benefits-overpayment-scam-call", "summary": "A scam phone call falsely claiming the recipient was overpaid a government benefit and must repay the amount immediately, often via an untraceable payment method, to avoid legal action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Council Tax Rebate Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/council-tax-rebate-scam", "summary": "A scam impersonating a local government authority offering a council tax rebate, discount, or refund, used to steal bank details or an upfront fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Winter Fuel Payment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/winter-fuel-payment-scam", "summary": "A seasonal scam that impersonates a government winter heating or fuel support payment scheme to phish for bank details or an advance fee, usually targeting older adults.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Child Benefit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/child-benefit-scam", "summary": "A scam impersonating a government child benefit or family payment scheme, aimed at parents, to steal personal and banking information or extract a processing fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pension Credit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pension-credit-scam", "summary": "A scam targeting retirees, offering to help them claim a means-tested pension top-up or credit in exchange for a fee, or impersonating the pension agency to steal personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Housing Benefit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/housing-benefit-scam", "summary": "A scam exploiting housing benefit, rental assistance, or subsidized housing programs, ranging from fake landlord schemes to phishing calls impersonating the housing benefits office.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Food Assistance (SNAP) Card Skimming Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/food-stamp-snap-scam", "summary": "A fraud where criminals skim or clone food assistance benefit cards, or phish for card and PIN details, to drain a recipient's monthly food benefit balance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Stimulus Check Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/stimulus-check-scam", "summary": "A scam that impersonates a government economic stimulus or relief payment program, using fake texts, calls, or websites to steal bank details or personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Grant Writer Advance Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/grant-writer-advance-fee-scam", "summary": "A scam in which someone posing as a professional grant writer or consultant charges an upfront fee to secure a grant for a small business, nonprofit, or individual, then delivers nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Benefits Claim Farming", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/benefits-claim-farming", "summary": "An organized fraud where recruiters help or pressure people into filing false or exaggerated benefit claims in exchange for a cut of the resulting payments, exposing recruits to legal risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Charity Grant Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-charity-grant-scam", "summary": "A scam in which a fraudster poses as a charitable foundation offering a grant to individuals or small organizations, demanding a fee or personal data before funds can be disbursed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Small Business Grant Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/small-business-grant-scam", "summary": "A scam targeting small business owners with a fake government or corporate grant offer, used to collect an application fee or harvest sensitive business and banking data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Student Loan Forgiveness Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/student-loan-forgiveness-scam", "summary": "A scam offering to enroll a borrower in a student loan forgiveness, consolidation, or repayment program for an upfront fee, when the real program is free and handled directly by the loan servicer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Energy Rebate Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/energy-rebate-scam", "summary": "A scam impersonating a government energy bill support or rebate scheme to phish for bank details, often through unsolicited calls, texts, or door-to-door visits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Benefits Data Harvesting Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/benefits-data-harvesting-text", "summary": "A text message scam that offers a fake benefits check or entitlement calculator purely to collect personal data for resale or later identity fraud, without directly asking for money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Benefits Office Impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/benefits-office-impersonation", "summary": "A scam where a fraudster directly impersonates a staff member, case officer, or investigator from a government benefits agency, over the phone or in person, to extract money or data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Benefits Eligibility Checker", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-benefits-eligibility-checker", "summary": "A fraudulent website or app posing as a free tool to check eligibility for government benefits, built to collect personal and financial data or push a paid 'application service'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Benefit Fraud Report Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/benefit-fraud-report-phishing", "summary": "A phishing scam disguised as a notice that someone has reported the recipient for benefit fraud, designed to frighten them into clicking a link or calling a fake number to 'clear their name'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Universal Basic Income Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/universal-basic-income-scam", "summary": "A scam claiming a recipient has been enrolled in a universal basic income or guaranteed income pilot program, used to collect an enrollment fee or personal banking details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Tax Credit Renewal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/tax-credit-renewal-scam", "summary": "A phishing scam timed around the annual renewal deadline for a means-tested tax credit, threatening that the credit will be stopped unless the recipient clicks a link to 'renew' immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Carer's Allowance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/carers-allowance-scam", "summary": "A scam targeting unpaid family caregivers with fake offers to help claim a carer's allowance or benefit for a fee, or impersonating the benefits office to threaten suspension of an existing claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Prosperity Gospel Investment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/prosperity-gospel-investment-scam", "summary": "A scheme that dresses up a fraudulent investment or business opportunity in the language of prosperity theology, framing financial 'seeding' as an act of faith that God will multiply.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Charity Solicitation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-charity-solicitation", "summary": "The creation of a charity — real-sounding or entirely invented — to collect donations that are pocketed by organizers instead of reaching any cause.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Clergy Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/clergy-impersonation-scam", "summary": "A scam in which a fraudster poses as a pastor, priest, imam, rabbi, or other faith leader — often by hacking or spoofing their real communication accounts — to request urgent money from congregants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Religious Relic Authenticity Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/religious-relic-authenticity-scam", "summary": "The sale of fabricated or misattributed religious artifacts — relics, ancient texts, holy soil, or blessed objects — marketed with false claims of authenticity, provenance, or miraculous properties.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Faith Healing Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/faith-healing-fee-scam", "summary": "A scam in which a self-proclaimed healer charges money for a 'miracle cure,' laying-on-of-hands session, or remote prayer service, often targeting seriously ill people who have exhausted conventional options.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Pilgrimage Tour Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/pilgrimage-tour-scam", "summary": "A fraudulent or grossly misrepresented religious pilgrimage package that takes payment for travel to a holy site but delivers substandard, altered, or nonexistent services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Tithing Diversion Scheme", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/tithing-diversion-scheme", "summary": "The misappropriation of regular tithes and offerings by church leadership or administrative staff for personal enrichment rather than the ministry purposes donors intended.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Spiritual Debt Release Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/spiritual-debt-release-scam", "summary": "A scheme claiming that a fee, ritual, or donation can spiritually 'break the curse' of debt or bring supernatural financial deliverance, sold in place of real debt relief services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Mission Trip Fundraising Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/mission-trip-fundraising-scam", "summary": "A scam in which someone raises money from a congregation or online supporters for a mission trip or overseas ministry project that is exaggerated, misused, or never actually takes place.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Faith-Based MLM Recruitment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/faith-based-mlm-recruitment", "summary": "The use of church networks and religious language to recruit members into a multi-level-marketing scheme, framing recruitment and product sales as ministry or an act of faith.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "End-Times Preparedness Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/end-times-preparedness-scam", "summary": "A scam that uses apocalyptic or end-times religious urgency to sell overpriced survival goods, gold, or 'protected' investment products to fearful believers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Ordination Certification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-ordination-certification-scam", "summary": "The sale of instant or diploma-mill religious ordination, credentials, or degrees with no genuine theological training, often used to lend false authority to other scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Religious Romance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/religious-romance-scam", "summary": "A romance scam variant in which the fraudster poses as a devout believer, missionary, or widowed churchgoer to build spiritual rapport before requesting money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Faith-Based Crowdfunding Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/faith-based-crowdfunding-fraud", "summary": "A fraudulent online fundraising campaign — for a medical crisis, ministry need, or ostensibly persecuted believer overseas — that is fabricated or diverts most funds to the organizer personally.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Cult Financial Exploitation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/cult-financial-exploitation", "summary": "The systematic extraction of money, assets, or unpaid labor from members of a high-control religious group through manufactured spiritual obligation and isolation from outside financial advice.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Religious NFT / Token Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/religious-nft-token-scam", "summary": "A cryptocurrency or NFT project marketed to religious communities with faith-based branding and promises that buying in supports or fulfills a spiritual mission, while functioning as an ordinary speculative token scheme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Vulnerable Elder Congregant Targeting", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/vulnerable-elder-congregant-targeting", "summary": "The deliberate targeting of elderly or cognitively vulnerable members of a faith community for financial exploitation, often by someone who gained access through congregational trust.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "False Prophecy Guru Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/false-prophecy-guru-scam", "summary": "A scheme built around a self-proclaimed prophet or guru who monetizes claimed supernatural revelation — personalized prophecies, predictions, or spiritual guidance — for a recurring fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Temple/Donation Box Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/temple-donation-box-fraud", "summary": "The theft or diversion of cash collected in physical donation boxes, poor boxes, or offering plates at a place of worship, sometimes by staff or volunteers with legitimate access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Faith-Based Loan Forgiveness Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/faith-based-loan-forgiveness-scam", "summary": "A scam claiming that a religious organization, ministry, or divinely connected benefactor can arrange forgiveness or payoff of a victim's debts in exchange for an upfront fee or act of faith.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Religious Visa Sponsorship Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/religious-visa-sponsorship-scam", "summary": "A scam in which a fraudulent religious organization offers fake missionary, clergy, or religious-worker visa sponsorship in exchange for large upfront fees, leaving applicants without status or recourse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Holy Water / Blessed Oil MLM", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/holy-water-blessed-oil-mlm", "summary": "A multi-level-marketing scheme selling 'blessed' or 'anointed' consumer products — oils, water, supplements — at steep markups, recruiting distributors within religious networks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fraudulent Adoption Ministry Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fraudulent-adoption-ministry-scam", "summary": "A scam in which a supposed faith-based adoption or orphan-sponsorship ministry collects fees or donations for adoptions or child sponsorships that are fabricated, mishandled, or never completed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Counterfeit Religious Charity Registration", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/counterfeit-religious-charity-registration", "summary": "The use of forged, expired, or misrepresented nonprofit registration and tax-exempt status to make a fraudulent religious fundraising operation appear legally legitimate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Spiritual Inheritance Blessing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/spiritual-inheritance-blessing-scam", "summary": "A scam in which a fraudster claims a stranger's deceased relative left a religious blessing, spiritual inheritance, or sacred obligation that requires the victim to pay fees to receive or fulfill it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Exorcism / Deliverance Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/exorcism-deliverance-fee-scam", "summary": "A scam in which a self-proclaimed exorcist or deliverance minister charges escalating fees to remove a supposed curse, demon, or evil spirit, often targeting people already in psychological distress.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Faith-Based Timeshare / Retreat Property Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/faith-based-timeshare-property-scam", "summary": "A scam selling shares in a religious retreat center, faith-based retirement community, or holy-land property investment that is misrepresented, oversold, or never actually developed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Religious Identity Theft Solicitation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/religious-identity-theft-solicitation", "summary": "A scam in which fraudsters pose as a religious relief organization or church registry requesting personal and financial information under the guise of membership verification, tax receipts, or aid distribution.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Faith Healer Medical Device Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/faith-healer-medical-device-scam", "summary": "The sale of pseudoscientific 'blessed' or 'spiritually charged' medical devices — bracelets, machines, or wearables — claimed to cure or manage illness through religious or spiritual energy rather than any verified mechanism.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Speculative Ticket Listing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/speculative-ticket-listing", "summary": "A resale listing for tickets the seller does not yet own, posted in the hope of buying them later if the listing sells.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Bot Ticket Scalping", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/bot-ticket-scalping", "summary": "Automated software that buys large blocks of tickets within seconds of on-sale, letting operators resell them at inflated prices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Ticket Resale Site", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-ticket-resale-site", "summary": "A lookalike website mimicking an official ticket marketplace that takes payment for tickets it never delivers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Duplicate Ticket Barcode Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/duplicate-ticket-barcode-fraud", "summary": "Selling multiple copies of the same ticket, so only whoever scans first gets in and later arrivals are turned away.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Presale Code Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-presale-code-scam", "summary": "Selling or sharing a bogus artist or venue presale code that does not work, often bundled with a paid \"membership\" or fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Phantom Event Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/phantom-event-scam", "summary": "An entire concert, festival, or conference is advertised and ticketed even though it was never booked and will never happen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "VIP Package Upsell Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/vip-package-upsell-scam", "summary": "A premium ticket add-on promising perks like meet-and-greets or exclusive merchandise that are never delivered or are far less than advertised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Ticket Transfer Link Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ticket-transfer-link-scam", "summary": "A phishing link disguised as an official ticket-transfer notification, designed to steal marketplace account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Season Ticket Account Takeover", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/season-ticket-account-takeover", "summary": "Criminals gain access to a season ticket holder's online account and resell or transfer the season's remaining tickets before the owner notices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Ticket Insurance Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-ticket-insurance-scam", "summary": "A paid add-on sold at checkout that claims to insure a ticket purchase against cancellation, but is either worthless or issued by a nonexistent insurer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Brand Sponsorship Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-brand-sponsorship-scam", "summary": "Scammers pose as a brand offering a paid sponsorship to a content creator, then either send a fraudulent payment or demand upfront fees before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Creator Fund Payout Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/creator-fund-payout-phishing", "summary": "A phishing message impersonating a platform's creator monetization program, asking creators to \"verify\" account or bank details to release a payout.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Copyright Strike Extortion", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/copyright-strike-extortion", "summary": "A fraudulent copyright complaint or takedown threat sent to a creator, demanding payment to withdraw the claim and avoid losing their channel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Verification Badge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-verification-badge-scam", "summary": "An offer to buy or fast-track a platform's official verification checkmark, which is either never delivered or achieved through account-compromising methods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Follower Count Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/follower-count-fraud", "summary": "Purchasing fake followers, subscribers, likes, or views to inflate a creator's apparent popularity for sponsorship or credibility purposes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Deepfake Livestream Giveaway Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/deepfake-livestream-giveaway-scam", "summary": "AI-generated video or audio of a real public figure is streamed live, urging viewers to send cryptocurrency to a fake \"giveaway\" address that instantly steals the funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Fake Talent Management Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/fake-talent-management-scam", "summary": "A supposed talent agent or manager approaches a creator with promises of bigger deals, then charges upfront fees or takes a cut without doing any real work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Content ID Claim Jacking", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/content-id-claim-jacking", "summary": "A third party fraudulently registers someone else's original content with a platform's automated rights-detection system, redirecting the ad revenue to themselves.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Playlist Placement Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/playlist-placement-scam", "summary": "Musicians pay for a promised placement on a popular streaming playlist that either doesn't happen, uses bot streams, or gets the track removed for manipulation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Platform Impersonation Giveaway Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/platform-impersonation-giveaway-scam", "summary": "A fake account posing as an official platform or well-known creator announces a giveaway that requires an upfront payment or personal information to \"claim\" a prize.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "eSIM Swap Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/esim-swap-fraud", "summary": "A criminal tricks a mobile carrier into transferring a victim's phone number onto an attacker-controlled eSIM, hijacking calls and texts used for account security.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Digital Arrest Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/digital-arrest-scam", "summary": "Scammers impersonating police or government agents claim a victim is under investigation and must stay on a video call and transfer money to avoid immediate arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Deepfake KYC Bypass", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/deepfake-kyc-bypass", "summary": "Using AI-generated synthetic faces or manipulated video to fool a bank or exchange's remote identity verification (Know Your Customer) check.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Wangiri Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/wangiri-fraud", "summary": "A scam call that rings once and hangs up, hoping the recipient calls back a premium-rate number that generates charges for the scammer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Jugging", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/jugging", "summary": "Criminals surveil a bank or ATM and follow a customer who just withdrew a large amount of cash, robbing them once they are away from the bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Authorized Push Payment (APP) Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/authorized-push-payment-fraud", "summary": "A scam in which the victim is deceived into personally authorizing a bank transfer to a fraudster's account, rather than the fraudster stealing card or login details directly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Call Forwarding Diversion Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/call-forwarding-diversion-scam", "summary": "A scammer tricks a victim into activating a call-forwarding code on their own phone, silently redirecting incoming calls (including security verification calls) to the attacker.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Synthetic Voice Vishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/synthetic-voice-vishing", "summary": "Voice phishing calls that use AI-cloned audio of a real person's voice, such as a family member or executive, to make an urgent fraudulent request sound authentic.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Money Mule Recruitment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/money-mule-recruitment-scam", "summary": "Fraudsters recruit people, often through fake job offers, to receive stolen funds into their own bank account and forward them onward, making the recruit a criminal conduit and often a suspect.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Phantom Hacker Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/phantom-hacker", "summary": "An FBI-named, multi-phase impersonation scam that moves a victim through fake 'tech support', then a fake 'bank fraud department', then a fake 'government official' to convince them to move their savings to a 'safe' account the scammers control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Prompt Injection", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/prompt-injection", "summary": "A technique where hidden instructions planted in content an AI reads (a web page, email, document, or image) hijack the AI's behaviour, tricking it into leaking data, taking unwanted actions, or ignoring its safety rules.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Drainer-as-a-Service (DaaS)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/drainer-as-a-service", "summary": "A criminal business model where developers rent out ready-made crypto 'wallet drainer' kits — the malicious code and phishing sites that empty a victim's wallet the moment they connect and approve — to less-skilled scammers for a cut of the proceeds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Restaking (and Restaking Scams)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/restaking", "summary": "A crypto mechanism that reuses already-staked assets to help secure additional protocols for extra yield — legitimate in itself, but heavily impersonated by fake 'restaking' and 'points-farming' sites that drain wallets on connect.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Black Money (Wash-Wash) Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/black-money-cleaning", "summary": "A classic advance-fee con in which a scammer displays a stash of banknotes supposedly dyed black to evade customs and 'demonstrates' cleaning one with a special chemical — then sells the victim the expensive chemical or a share to clean the rest. The notes are blank paper.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Ghost Tap (NFC Relay Fraud)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/ghost-tap", "summary": "A contactless-payment fraud in which malware relays a victim's phished or wallet-provisioned card over NFC in real time to a mule standing at a payment terminal anywhere in the world, letting the mule tap-to-pay without the physical card.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "ROSCA Fraud (Tontine / Paluwagan / Stokvel)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/rosca-fraud", "summary": "Fraud within rotating savings and credit associations — community money-pooling groups known regionally as tontines, paluwagan, stokvels, sou-sou, chit funds, or committees — where an organiser absconds with the pooled fund or runs the group as a disguised pyramid scheme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-27" }, { "type": "glossary", "title": "Infostealer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/glossary/infostealer", "summary": "Malware that silently harvests saved passwords, browser cookies and session tokens, autofill data, and crypto-wallet files from an infected device, packaging the loot into 'logs' that are sold on criminal markets and used for account takeovers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/whatsapp", "summary": "Scams that target WhatsApp users — and how to stay safe.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/facebook", "summary": "How scammers exploit Facebook's reach — and how to protect yourself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/instagram", "summary": "Scams that run through Instagram — from fake influencers to investment traps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/telegram", "summary": "Why Telegram is a top channel for fraud — and how to stay protected.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/tiktok", "summary": "Scams spreading through TikTok videos, live streams, and DMs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/snapchat", "summary": "Scams that use Snapchat's disappearing messages to exploit users.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/linkedin", "summary": "Professional-seeming scams on LinkedIn — and how to spot them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/x-twitter", "summary": "Scams that spread through X — from crypto giveaways to impersonation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/youtube", "summary": "Scams running through YouTube videos, livestreams, and comments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Amazon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/amazon", "summary": "Scams that impersonate Amazon or exploit its marketplace.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "eBay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/ebay", "summary": "Common scams on eBay — protecting buyers and sellers alike.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Dating apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/dating-apps", "summary": "Fraud that starts on dating apps — from romance scams to crypto grooming.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Craigslist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/craigslist", "summary": "Scams on Craigslist — protecting buyers, sellers, and renters.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/discord", "summary": "Scams targeting Discord users — from fake NFTs to phishing links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/wechat", "summary": "Scams run through WeChat — investment fraud, fake stores, and more.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/signal", "summary": "Why Signal's privacy features are exploited by scammers — and how to protect yourself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/viber", "summary": "Scams on Viber — unsolicited messages, fake prizes, and investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/reddit", "summary": "Scams on Reddit — fake giveaways, impersonators, and investment pumps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/nextdoor", "summary": "Scams on Nextdoor — exploiting neighbourhood trust for fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/pinterest", "summary": "Scams on Pinterest — fake shops, phishing pins, and counterfeit goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/twitch", "summary": "Scams on Twitch — fake giveaways, phishing overlays, and fraudulent bits donations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/email", "summary": "Email scams — phishing, impersonation, and fraud delivered to your inbox.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/phone-calls", "summary": "Voice scams (vishing) — how fraudsters use phone calls to steal money and data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Job Boards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/job-boards", "summary": "Scams on job boards — fake recruiters, advance-fee fraud, and identity theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "platform", "title": "Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/platforms/google-search-ads", "summary": "Scams in Google search results and paid ads — fake support, cloned sites, and more.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Gift cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/gift-cards", "summary": "Why scammers love gift cards — and what to do if you've paid with one.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/zelle", "summary": "Why scammers pressure victims to use Zelle — and how to avoid being caught out.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/cash-app", "summary": "Scams that target Cash App users — from fake giveaways to support fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/venmo", "summary": "Scams that exploit Venmo's social payment features and how to avoid them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/paypal", "summary": "Scams that exploit PayPal — from phishing emails to invoice fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Wire transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/wire-transfer", "summary": "Why scammers insist on wire transfers — and why they are so difficult to recover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/cryptocurrency", "summary": "How scammers use cryptocurrency payments — and why they are so hard to trace.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Bank transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/bank-transfer", "summary": "Authorised push payment fraud — when your own bank transfer becomes the scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Apple Pay & Google Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/apple-google-pay", "summary": "Scams that exploit mobile payment apps — and how to protect your wallet.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Western Union & MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/western-union-moneygram", "summary": "Why money transfer services are a scammer favourite — and how to protect yourself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/bitcoin", "summary": "Why scammers demand Bitcoin — and how to protect yourself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Ethereum & Stablecoins", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/ethereum-stablecoins", "summary": "Scams using Ethereum, USDT, and USDC — wallet drainers, fake DeFi, and more.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/wise", "summary": "Scams involving Wise transfers — what fraudsters exploit and how to stay safe.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/revolut", "summary": "Scams involving Revolut — authorised push payment fraud and account takeovers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Klarna & Buy-Now-Pay-Later", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/klarna-bnpl", "summary": "BNPL scams — how buy-now-pay-later is exploited by fraudsters.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "M-Pesa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/mpesa", "summary": "M-Pesa scams — SIM swap fraud, fake promotions, and overdraft exploitation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/gcash", "summary": "GCash scams — phishing, fake QR codes, and SIM swap fraud in the Philippines.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "bKash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/bkash", "summary": "bKash scams — impersonation calls, fake agent fraud, and PIN theft in Bangladesh.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "UPI (India)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/upi-india", "summary": "UPI scams — collect requests, fake QR codes, and support impersonation in India.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Pix (Brazil)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/pix-brazil", "summary": "Pix scams — instant-transfer fraud, fake QR codes, and support impersonation in Brazil.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/skrill", "summary": "Skrill scams — online gambling fraud, advance fees, and account takeovers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Prepaid Debit Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/prepaid-debit-cards", "summary": "Prepaid card scams — why scammers demand them and how to protect yourself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "payment", "title": "Interac e-Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/payments/interac-e-transfer", "summary": "Scams that exploit Canada's e-Transfer system — fake deposit notices, interception, and marketplace fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Global Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/global-scam-statistics", "summary": "Headline figures on the scale of scams and fraud worldwide, drawn from official agency reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "US Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/us-scam-statistics", "summary": "Reported scam and fraud losses in the United States, drawn from FTC Consumer Sentinel Network and FBI IC3 annual reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "UK Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/uk-scam-statistics", "summary": "Reported fraud losses and case volumes in the United Kingdom, drawn from UK Finance and Action Fraud annual reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Australia Scam Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/australia-scam-statistics", "summary": "Reported scam losses in Australia, drawn from the ACCC National Anti-Scam Centre's Targeting Scams annual report.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Romance Scam Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/romance-scam-statistics", "summary": "Reported losses and complaint volumes for romance and confidence scams, drawn from FBI IC3 and FTC official reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Investment & Crypto Scam Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/investment-and-crypto-scam-statistics", "summary": "Reported losses to fraudulent investment schemes and cryptocurrency scams, from FBI IC3, FTC, and ACCC official reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Elder Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/elder-fraud-statistics", "summary": "Reported fraud losses affecting adults aged 60 and over in the United States, drawn from FBI IC3 annual reports and FTC data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Business Email Compromise (BEC) Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/business-email-compromise-statistics", "summary": "Reported losses and complaint volumes for business email compromise fraud, drawn from FBI IC3 annual reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Phishing Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/phishing-statistics", "summary": "Phishing complaint volumes and attack trends from FBI IC3 and the Anti-Phishing Working Group (APWG) official reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Online Shopping Scam Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/online-shopping-scam-statistics", "summary": "Reported losses and complaint volumes for online shopping and non-delivery fraud, drawn from FTC Consumer Sentinel Network and Action Fraud data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Mexico Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/mexico-scam-statistics", "summary": "CONDUSEF received 8,093 complaints over unrecognised internet charges in 2025, resolving 49.3% in the consumer's favour, while card chargebacks totalled 3,100 million pesos.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-20" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Spain Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/spain-scam-statistics", "summary": "INCIBE handled 122.223 cybersecurity incidents in Spain in 2025, 26% more than in 2024, and 45.445 of them — around four in ten — were online fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-20" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Netherlands Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/netherlands-scam-statistics", "summary": "Fraudehelpdesk logged 101.734 reports in 2025, up more than 60% on 2024, with € 68.492.848 in reported losses across 15.116 people who lost money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-20" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Sweden Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/sweden-scam-statistics", "summary": "Swedish police recorded 232 862 fraud offences in 2025, while 6.6 per cent of adults told Brå's national survey they had been hit by sales fraud during 2024.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-20" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Brazil Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/brazil-scam-statistics", "summary": "38 per cent of Brazilians said they had faced a scam or an attempted scam by March 2025, up from 33 per cent in September 2024, according to FEBRABAN's Radar Febraban survey.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-20" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Hong Kong Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/hong-kong-scam-statistics", "summary": "Hong Kong police recorded 43 212 deception cases in 2025 with monetary losses of about $8.1 billion, the first annual fall after consecutive rises since 2019.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-20" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Sextortion Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/sextortion-statistics", "summary": "The FBI's IC3 received more than 75,000 sextortion submissions in 2025, while NCMEC logged over 50,000 financially motivated sextortion reports — an average of 137 a day.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-20" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Ransomware Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/ransomware-statistics", "summary": "US victims filed 3,611 ransomware complaints with the FBI's IC3 in 2025, reporting $32,320,105 in losses — a total the FBI itself describes as artificially low.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-20" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Toll & Delivery Text Scam (Smishing) Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/toll-text-scam-statistics", "summary": "The FBI's IC3 logged 191,561 phishing and spoofing complaints in 2025 — the category that toll and delivery texts fall into — with $215,843,126 in reported losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-20" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Canada Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/canada-scam-statistics", "summary": "Canadians reported more than $704 million in fraud losses to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre in 2025, though the CAFC estimates only 5–10% of incidents are ever reported.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Singapore Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/singapore-scam-statistics", "summary": "Singapore recorded 37,308 scam cases and about $913.1 million in losses in 2025, down 17.9% on the previous year, according to the Singapore Police Force.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Ireland Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/ireland-scam-statistics", "summary": "Ireland's payment fraud rose sharply in 2024, with investment fraud now the highest-grossing crime type, according to the Banking & Payments Federation Ireland and Central Bank of Ireland data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "New Zealand Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/new-zealand-scam-statistics", "summary": "New Zealand's CERT NZ recorded approximately NZD $25.7 million in direct cybercrime losses in 2024 — the highest annual total since records began in 2017, and still the latest full-year figure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "India Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/india-scam-statistics", "summary": "India's I4C recorded approximately INR 11,333 crore in cyber fraud losses in the first nine months of 2024 — and about 85% of national portal complaints involve online financial fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Germany Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/germany-scam-statistics", "summary": "Germany's Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) recorded 131,391 domestic cybercrime cases in 2024, with cyber attacks causing an estimated EUR 178.6 billion in economic damage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "France Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/france-scam-statistics", "summary": "French authorities estimate victims lose at least EUR 500 million per year to financial fraud, while Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr received over 420,000 cyber-assistance requests in 2024.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Nigeria Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/nigeria-scam-statistics", "summary": "Nigeria's EFCC secured a record 4,111 convictions and recovered NGN 364.6 billion in 2024, its strongest published year of enforcement against financial crime.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "South Africa Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/south-africa-scam-statistics", "summary": "South Africa's SABRIC recorded a 86% surge in digital banking fraud incidents in 2024, with associated losses reaching ZAR 1.888 billion even as overall banking-sector fraud losses fell.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Philippines Scam & Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/philippines-scam-statistics", "summary": "The Philippines' CICC received 10,004 cybercrime complaints in 2024 — more than triple the prior year — with reported victim losses of nearly PHP 198 million.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Cryptocurrency Scam Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/cryptocurrency-scam-statistics", "summary": "Cryptocurrency-related fraud losses reported to the FBI IC3 reached $11.366 billion across 181,565 complaints in 2025, a 22% increase in losses over 2024.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scam Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/pig-butchering-scam-statistics", "summary": "Reported losses and complaint volumes for pig-butchering (sha zhu pan) crypto investment fraud, drawn from FBI IC3 and DOJ sources.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Impersonation & Government Scam Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/impersonation-scam-statistics", "summary": "Reported losses and complaint volumes for imposter and government-impersonation scams, drawn from FTC Consumer Sentinel and FBI IC3 official reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Job & Employment Scam Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/job-scam-statistics", "summary": "The FBI IC3 recorded $362,934,762 in employment fraud losses across 24,688 complaints in 2025, while FTC-reported job scam losses reached $501 million in 2024.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Tech Support Scam Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/tech-support-scam-statistics", "summary": "Reported losses and complaint volumes for tech-support fraud, drawn from FBI IC3 and FTC Consumer Sentinel official reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Gift Card Payment Scam Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/gift-card-scam-statistics", "summary": "Reported losses and complaint volumes for scams using gift cards as the payment method, drawn from FTC Consumer Sentinel official reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Identity Theft Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/identity-theft-statistics", "summary": "Reported incidents and financial losses from identity theft, drawn from FTC IdentityTheft.gov reports and Javelin Strategy annual studies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Investment Scam Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/investment-scam-statistics", "summary": "Reported losses and complaint volumes for investment fraud — including fake trading platforms, Ponzi schemes, and advance-fee investment fraud — drawn from FTC Consumer Sentinel and FBI IC3 official reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Fraud Losses by Age Group", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/fraud-losses-by-age-group", "summary": "How reported fraud losses and report rates vary across age groups, based on FTC Consumer Sentinel and FBI IC3 data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Fraud Losses by Payment Method", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/fraud-losses-by-payment-method", "summary": "How reported fraud losses break down by payment method — bank transfer, cryptocurrency, gift card, and others — based on FTC and FBI IC3 data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Scams by Contact Method: Phone, Email, Text & Social Media", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/scams-by-contact-method", "summary": "How scammers reach victims — by phone, email, text message, or social media — and how reported losses differ by contact channel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Year-Over-Year Fraud Loss Trend (2021–2024)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/year-over-year-fraud-trend", "summary": "The multi-year trend in reported consumer fraud losses in the United States, based on FTC Consumer Sentinel Network annual reports.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Social Media as a Scam Origin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/social-media-as-scam-origin", "summary": "Reported scam losses linked to social media as the point of first contact, and how that figure has grown since 2020.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Cryptocurrency as a Payment Method in Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/cryptocurrency-as-payment-in-scams", "summary": "Reported fraud losses where victims paid using cryptocurrency, drawing on FTC Consumer Sentinel and FBI IC3 data for 2024.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Gift Cards as a Payment Method in Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/gift-cards-as-payment-in-scams", "summary": "How gift cards are used as a fraud payment method, which scam types rely on them most, and why the FTC flags them as a persistent risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Bank Transfer & Wire Fraud Losses", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/bank-transfer-wire-fraud-losses", "summary": "Reported fraud losses where victims paid via bank transfer, wire transfer, or ACH — consistently among the highest-loss payment categories.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Imposter Scam Loss Trend", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/imposter-scam-trend", "summary": "How reported losses to impersonation scams — government, business, and family imposters — have grown in the United States since 2020.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Romance & Relationship Scam Loss Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/romance-relationship-scam-losses", "summary": "Reported financial losses to romance scams and confidence fraud, based on FTC Consumer Sentinel Network and FBI IC3 annual data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Elder Fraud Loss Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/elder-fraud-losses", "summary": "Reported fraud losses for victims aged 60 and over, drawn from FTC and FBI IC3 annual reports and the FTC's Protecting Older Consumers series.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "AI and Deepfake-Enabled Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/ai-deepfake-enabled-fraud", "summary": "Verified statistics on fraud complaints and losses where artificial intelligence tools were identified as a factor, based on FBI IC3 data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Authorised Push Payment (APP) Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/authorised-push-payment-fraud-statistics", "summary": "Verified figures on authorised push payment (APP) fraud — where victims are tricked into sending money themselves — drawn from the UK Finance Annual Fraud Report 2025 (2024 data).", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Payment Card Fraud Statistics", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/payment-card-fraud-statistics", "summary": "Verified statistics on payment-card fraud losses — unauthorised use of debit and credit card details — from the UK Finance Annual Fraud Report 2025 (2024 data).", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "statistics", "title": "Internet Crime Complaint Statistics (FBI IC3)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/statistics/internet-crime-complaint-statistics", "summary": "Verified figures on internet crime reported to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) in 2024 — total losses, complaint volume, and the disproportionate impact on older adults.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-07" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Your Bank impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/your-bank", "summary": "How scammers impersonate banks — and the things a real bank will never ask you to do.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "DHL impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/dhl", "summary": "Scammers send fake DHL delivery notifications to steal personal and payment details. The real DHL will never ask you to pay a surprise customs fee via a link in an unsolicited text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "FedEx impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/fedex", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate FedEx with fake delivery alerts and fee demands designed to harvest payment or personal details. Real FedEx never asks for surprise fees via unsolicited links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "USPS impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/usps", "summary": "Scammers send fake USPS delivery texts and emails to steal personal information and payment details. The real USPS will never ask you to pay a fee through a link in an unsolicited message.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Royal Mail impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/royal-mail", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake Royal Mail texts and emails to harvest card details under the guise of a missed delivery or unpaid customs charge. The real Royal Mail will not ask you to pay fees through links in unsolicited messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Microsoft impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/microsoft", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Microsoft with fake security alerts, pop-up warnings, and tech-support calls designed to gain remote access to your device or charge you for unnecessary 'fixes'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Apple impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/apple", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Apple through fake security alerts, phishing emails about Apple ID, and bogus support calls. The real Apple will never call you unsolicited or ask you to share a verification code.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Google impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/google", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Google through fake account-suspension warnings, phishing emails, and bogus Google support calls to steal credentials or payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Amazon impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/amazon", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Amazon with fake order confirmations, account-suspension warnings, and call-centre scams to steal payment details or gain remote access to devices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "eBay impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/ebay", "summary": "Scammers impersonate eBay to harvest account credentials, intercept payments, and trick buyers and sellers into transacting outside the platform's protections.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Netflix impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/netflix", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake Netflix billing and account-suspension emails to harvest payment details. The real Netflix will never threaten immediate suspension via an unsolicited message with a payment link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "PayPal impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/paypal", "summary": "Scammers impersonate PayPal with fake payment alerts, account-limitation emails, and invoice scams to steal credentials and money. The real PayPal will never ask you to call a number from an email to dispute a charge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "IRS impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/irs", "summary": "Scammers impersonate the IRS with threatening calls and emails claiming you owe back taxes, face arrest, or must act immediately to avoid penalties. The real IRS always contacts you by post first and will never demand gift-card payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "HMRC impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/hmrc", "summary": "Scammers impersonate HMRC with threatening calls, fake tax-refund texts, and phishing emails demanding payment or personal details. The real HMRC will never demand gift-card payment or threaten immediate arrest on a cold call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Social Security Administration impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/social-security", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the Social Security Administration with calls threatening to suspend your Social Security number or benefits unless you pay or provide personal information immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Your Mobile Carrier impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/your-mobile-carrier", "summary": "Scammers impersonate mobile carriers to steal account credentials, perform SIM-swap fraud, and harvest personal details under the guise of account alerts or prize offers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Instagram impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/instagram", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Instagram with fake account-verification alerts, copyright violation warnings, and blue-badge offers to steal account credentials and personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Coinbase impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/coinbase", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Coinbase with fake account-suspension alerts and spoofed support calls. The real Coinbase will never call you unsolicited or ask you to send crypto to verify your identity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Binance impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/binance", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Binance through fake KYC verification emails and phishing sites. Binance will never ask you to confirm your identity by sending cryptocurrency to an external address.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Kraken impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/kraken", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Kraken with fake account-verification emails and phishing pages. Kraken will never ask for your password or request a crypto transfer to verify your identity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "MetaMask impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/metamask", "summary": "Scammers impersonate MetaMask to steal seed phrases by claiming wallet sync or update is required. MetaMask will never ask for your 12-word Secret Recovery Phrase anywhere outside the app setup screen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Ledger impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/ledger", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Ledger — particularly after the 2020 data breach — to trick hardware wallet owners into revealing seed phrases. Ledger will never contact you to verify your recovery phrase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Trezor impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/trezor", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Trezor with fake firmware update emails and phishing versions of Trezor Suite. Trezor will never send an unsolicited email asking you to enter your recovery seed on a website.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "OpenSea impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/opensea", "summary": "Scammers impersonate OpenSea with fake NFT offers and phishing emails that trigger malicious wallet approval transactions. OpenSea will never ask you to sign a transaction to 'verify' your account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Cash App impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/cash-app", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Cash App with fake 'Cash App Friday' giveaways and phishing messages claiming account verification is needed. Cash App will never ask you to send money to receive a prize.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Wise impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/wise", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Wise with fake international transfer alerts and phishing pages designed to steal login credentials and redirect payments. Wise will never ask you to confirm a transfer by clicking a link in an unsolicited email.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Stripe impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/stripe", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Stripe to target business owners with fake payout-hold notices and phishing pages. Stripe will never ask for your API keys via email or threaten to close your account unless you verify through a link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Revolut impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/revolut", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Revolut with fake suspicious-activity alerts and spoofed support calls. The real Revolut will never ask you to move money to a 'safe account' or share a one-time passcode.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Zelle impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/zelle", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Zelle — and the banks that offer it — to trick users into authorising transfers under the guise of fraud prevention. Because Zelle transfers are instant and typically irreversible, victims rarely recover their money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Walmart impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/walmart", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Walmart with fake order confirmation emails and gift card payment demands. Walmart will never ask you to pay a fee in Walmart gift cards to claim a prize or resolve an order issue.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Target impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/target", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Target with fake order cancellation calls and gift card payment demands. Target will never instruct you to buy Target gift cards over the phone to resolve any account or order issue.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Best Buy / Geek Squad impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/best-buy", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Best Buy's Geek Squad support service with fake subscription renewal emails. Best Buy and Geek Squad will never call you to process a refund that requires installing remote-access software.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Home Depot impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/home-depot", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Home Depot with fake sweepstakes, fraudulent order emails, and gift card demands. Home Depot will never require gift card payments to collect a prize or resolve an order dispute.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Airbnb impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/airbnb", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Airbnb with fake booking confirmation emails and off-platform payment requests. Airbnb will never ask guests to pay a host directly outside the platform to secure a listing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Booking.com impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/booking-com", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Booking.com — and sometimes compromise real hotel accounts on the platform — to redirect guest payments. Booking.com will never ask you to pay again for a booking already confirmed through the platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Marriott impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/marriott", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Marriott with fake loyalty point expiry notices and phishing reservation emails. Marriott Bonvoy will never ask you to verify account points by clicking a link and entering your password.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Hilton impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/hilton", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Hilton Honors with fake point expiry emails and fraudulent booking confirmations. Hilton will never ask you to pay an additional fee via email to confirm an existing reservation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Delta Air Lines impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/delta-air-lines", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Delta Air Lines with fake flight cancellation alerts and SkyMiles phishing emails. Delta will never ask you to re-enter payment details via an unsolicited email link to keep a confirmed booking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "United Airlines impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/united-airlines", "summary": "Scammers impersonate United Airlines with fake itinerary-change emails and MileagePlus phishing. United will never ask you to pay a rebooking fee via gift card or re-verify account details through an email link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Uber impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/uber", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Uber with fake account-suspension emails and spoofed driver income alerts. Uber will never ask you to re-verify your account by sending crypto or gift cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Lyft impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/lyft", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Lyft with fake account deactivation notices and fraudulent driver income messages. Lyft will never ask you to pay a reactivation fee or submit bank details via an unsolicited email link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Tinder impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/tinder", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Tinder with fake safety verification links and phishing emails claiming account violations. Tinder will never ask you to verify your identity through an off-platform website to continue matching.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Bumble impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/bumble", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Bumble with fake account suspension emails and fraudulent match profiles that push external verification links. Bumble does not direct users to third-party verification sites outside the app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "AT&T impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/att", "summary": "Scammers impersonate AT&T with fake billing alerts and SIM swap attempts. AT&T will never ask you to confirm a SIM change or bill payment via a link in an unsolicited text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "T-Mobile impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/t-mobile", "summary": "Scammers impersonate T-Mobile with smishing texts and fake prize notifications. T-Mobile will never ask you to click a text link to claim a reward or re-verify your account details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Verizon impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/verizon", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Verizon with fake smishing texts and fraudulent account verification emails. Verizon will never ask you to confirm account changes or pay outstanding balances via a link in an unsolicited text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Vodafone impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/vodafone", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Vodafone with fake account suspension texts and fraudulent prize notifications. Vodafone will never ask you to verify your account or claim a reward by clicking a link in an unsolicited text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "DWP (UK Department for Work and Pensions) impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/dwp-uk", "summary": "Scammers impersonate the DWP to steal personal and banking details from benefits claimants. The real DWP will never ask you to confirm bank details or National Insurance number via a text message link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "DVLA (UK Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/dvla-uk", "summary": "Scammers impersonate the DVLA with fake vehicle tax or driving licence renewal texts. The DVLA will never ask you to update payment details or renew a licence via a link in an unsolicited text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Centrelink (Services Australia) impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/centrelink", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Centrelink with fake payment delay texts and myGov phishing pages. Centrelink will never ask you to provide bank details or confirm a tax file number via a link in an unsolicited text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Service Canada impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/service-canada", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Service Canada with fraudulent SIN theft calls and fake EI payment text alerts. Service Canada will never call to say your Social Insurance Number has been suspended.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Disney+ impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/disney-plus", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Disney+ with fake subscription renewal emails and account verification pages. Disney+ will never ask you to re-enter payment details via a link in an unsolicited email.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Spotify impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/spotify", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Spotify with fake Premium renewal emails and account-suspended texts. Spotify will never ask you to update payment details or verify your account via a link in an unsolicited email or text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Robinhood impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/robinhood", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Robinhood with fake account restriction emails and fraudulent customer service calls. Robinhood will never call you to resolve a restriction and ask you to move funds to an external account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "WhatsApp impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers impersonate WhatsApp with fake account verification code requests and hijacking attacks. WhatsApp will never contact you to ask you to forward a six-digit code to another person.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Meta / Facebook impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/meta-facebook", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Meta and Facebook with fake copyright violation warnings and account suspension threats. Meta will never demand payment to restore a disabled account or ask you to click a Messenger link to avoid a policy strike.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "TikTok impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/tiktok", "summary": "Scammers impersonate TikTok with fake creator fund payment emails and account verification warnings. TikTok will never ask you to verify your account or claim earnings by clicking an unsolicited email link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Telegram impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/telegram", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Telegram with fake account verification messages and fraudulent premium subscription offers. Telegram will never message you from an official account asking for your phone number or verification code.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Hinge impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/hinge", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Hinge with fake account verification links and off-platform investment pitches. Hinge will never ask you to verify your identity on a third-party website before connecting with a match.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Chase impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/chase", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Chase with spoofed fraud-team calls and texts that pressure customers into moving money or reading out one-time codes. The real Chase will never ask you to send funds to a 'safe account' or share a one-time passcode.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Bank of America impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/bank-of-america", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Bank of America with spoofed fraud-alert calls and phishing texts designed to trick customers into moving money or revealing login credentials. The real bank will never ask you to transfer funds to a 'safe account' or read out a one-time code.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Wells Fargo impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/wells-fargo", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Wells Fargo with spoofed fraud-department calls and fake login pages to steal money and credentials. The real Wells Fargo will never ask you to move money to a 'safe account' or share a one-time passcode.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Citibank impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/citibank", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Citibank with fake SMS fraud alerts and spoofed customer service calls to steal one-time codes and login credentials. The real Citibank will never ask you to share a one-time passcode or move money to a 'safe account'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "HSBC impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/hsbc", "summary": "Scammers impersonate HSBC with fake fraud-alert texts and spoofed banking login pages to steal credentials and one-time codes. The real HSBC will never ask you to move money to a 'safe account' or read out a security code.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Barclays impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/barclays", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Barclays with spoofed fraud-team calls and phishing texts that pressure customers into moving money to a 'safe account'. The real Barclays will never ask you to do this or to share a one-time passcode.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Lloyds Bank impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/lloyds-bank", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Lloyds Bank with spoofed fraud-team calls and phishing texts urging customers to move money to a 'safe account'. The real Lloyds Bank will never ask you to do this or to share a one-time passcode.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "NatWest impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/natwest", "summary": "Scammers impersonate NatWest with spoofed fraud-team calls and phishing texts pressuring customers to move money to a 'safe account'. The real NatWest will never ask you to do this or to share a one-time passcode.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "LinkedIn impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/linkedin", "summary": "Scammers impersonate LinkedIn with fake recruiter messages, phishing 'profile view' emails, and account-restriction alerts. The real LinkedIn will never ask you to pay a fee to apply for a job or to move a conversation to buy equipment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Venmo impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/venmo", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Venmo with fake 'payment received' alerts and spoofed customer support numbers found through search engines. The real Venmo will never call you unprompted or ask you to send a payment to 'reverse' or 'unlock' funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Western Union impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/western-union", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Western Union with fake 'held transfer' texts and use its money-transfer service to collect payments in lottery, romance, and family-emergency scams. The real Western Union will never ask you to pay a fee to release money that is already yours.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "UPS impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/ups", "summary": "Scammers send fake UPS delivery texts and emails to steal personal and payment details. The real UPS will never ask you to pay a surprise customs or redelivery fee via a link in an unsolicited text.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Medicare impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/medicare", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Medicare with fake 'new card' calls, benefit-cancellation threats, and bogus enrollment offers to steal Medicare and Social Security numbers. The real Medicare will never call to ask for your number or demand a fee to keep your benefits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "impersonation", "title": "Steam impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/impersonation/steam", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Steam support and other players with fake trade holds, ban threats, and free-skin lures to steal Steam logins, Steam Guard codes, and wallet funds. The real Steam will never ask for your password or Steam Guard code, and no genuine admin will contact you in chat.", "lastReviewed": "2026-08-01" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "This week in scams: the tactics circulating right now", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/this-week-in-scams-roundup", "summary": "A regularly-updated digest of the scam tactics fraud agencies and our own monitoring are seeing most right now — toll and delivery smishing, AI voice-clone and deepfake fraud, “safe account” bank-impersonation calls, and second-wave recovery scams — with links to what each looks like and how to shut it down.", "date": "2026-09-21", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Scammers impersonate property owners to sell homes and vacant land", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/parcel-owner-impersonation-property-sale-fraud", "summary": "Fraudsters are posing as the owners of vacant land or unoccupied homes, listing the property for sale or rent using stolen identity details, and pocketing a buyer's or renter's deposit for property they don't own.", "date": "2026-07-09", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Spoofed FIFA and World Cup 2026 ticket and merchandise sites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/fifa-world-cup-2026-spoofed-ticket-website-scams", "summary": "Fake websites imitating FIFA's official pages are selling counterfeit World Cup 2026 tickets, hotel packages, and merchandise, and phishing for payment details from eager fans.", "date": "2026-07-09", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Phishing kits hijacking Microsoft 365 login sessions to bypass MFA", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/kali365-phishing-kit-microsoft-365-token-theft", "summary": "A phishing-as-a-service kit is being used to steal active Microsoft 365 login sessions, letting attackers bypass multi-factor authentication entirely and take over business email accounts.", "date": "2026-07-09", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Scammers send couriers to collect cash in person for \"crypto investment\"", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/courier-cash-pickup-crypto-investment-scam", "summary": "Instead of asking for a wire or gift cards, some investment scammers now send a courier to a victim's home to physically collect cash, framing it as funding a crypto investment account.", "date": "2026-07-08", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Fraudulent hospice enrollment schemes targeting Medicare recipients", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/hospice-fraud-targeting-medicare-recipients", "summary": "Fraudsters are enrolling Medicare beneficiaries who are not terminally ill into hospice care without their knowledge, using stolen identity and provider information to bill Medicare for services never needed or received.", "date": "2026-07-08", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: \"Subscription trap\" schemes make free trials nearly impossible to cancel", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/unlawful-subscription-trap-schemes", "summary": "Regulators are cracking down on networks of websites that lure people in with a free trial or one-time purchase, then enroll them in recurring charges that are deliberately difficult to cancel.", "date": "2026-07-08", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Fraudsters impersonating the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre itself", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/cafc-impersonation-fraud-recovery-scam", "summary": "Scammers are posing as Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre representatives, claiming to be investigating a past fraud or offering to help recover lost money, then asking for personal and financial information.", "date": "2026-07-07", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Fake recruiters impersonating real companies to run job scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/fake-recruiter-job-offer-impersonation-scam", "summary": "Scammers are posing as recruiters for well-known, real companies to offer fake job interviews and positions, aiming to extract personal information, upfront fees, or banking details from job seekers.", "date": "2026-07-07", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Fake “missed jury duty” arrest-threat calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/jury-duty-arrest-threat-calls", "summary": "Calls claiming you missed jury duty and face arrest unless you pay a fine immediately are circulating, often followed by official-looking “warrant” texts or emails.", "date": "2026-07-06", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Fake-check scams targeting childcare providers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/fake-check-overpayment-childcare-scam", "summary": "A message from a stranger urgently needing childcare sends a check for more than the agreed amount and asks the provider to wire back the difference before the check bounces.", "date": "2026-07-03", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Fraudulent personal loan websites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/personal-loan-website-scam", "summary": "Fake lending websites advertise fast, low-documentation personal loans, then demand upfront “fees” or sensitive ID documents before any funds are released — which never arrive.", "date": "2026-06-30", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Fake crypto trading platforms pushed in “stock tip” chat groups", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/fake-crypto-trading-platform-tip-groups", "summary": "People added to “share trading” or “stock tips” messaging groups are being steered toward fake crypto trading platforms that show fabricated profits but block withdrawals.", "date": "2026-06-27", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: “You're invited” party e-vite phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/party-invite-email-password-phishing", "summary": "Unexpected “You're invited” texts and emails around graduation and summer party season ask you to enter your email address and password to view the invitation — it's a phishing page.", "date": "2026-06-24", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Food delivery platform impersonation scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/food-delivery-platform-impersonation-scam", "summary": "Scammers are impersonating food delivery apps, restaurants, customers and delivery drivers to trick people out of money, orders, or account access on multiple sides of the transaction.", "date": "2026-06-20", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Seasonal warning: Summer travel-booking scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/summer-travel-booking-scam-season", "summary": "As summer travel bookings pick up, fake deals on flights, hotels and rentals are circulating on social media and search ads, taking payment for trips that don't exist.", "date": "2026-06-17", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: AI-manipulated pet and puppy sale scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/pet-puppy-sale-deepfake-scam", "summary": "Sellers of pets and puppies that don't exist are using stolen and AI-manipulated photos and videos, including deepfakes, to convince buyers to send a deposit before the animal ever arrives.", "date": "2026-06-13", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Business-coaching and trading “training” scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/business-coaching-investment-training-scam", "summary": "Ads promising that a paid coaching or training program will teach you to build a thriving business or trade crypto, forex, or precious metals for big profits often lead to high-pressure upsells and little real training.", "date": "2026-06-09", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Account takeover scams via SIM swap and mobile fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/account-identity-takeover-sim-swap-scam", "summary": "Scammers are hijacking mobile phone numbers through SIM swaps and porting fraud to intercept one-time codes, then taking over banking, email and social media accounts.", "date": "2026-06-05", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: “Unpaid toll” text smishing is surging", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/unpaid-toll-text-smishing-surge", "summary": "Texts claiming you owe a small unpaid road toll and must pay via a link are circulating widely. The link leads to a card-harvesting phishing page.", "date": "2026-05-28", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: AI voice-clone “family emergency” calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/ai-voice-clone-family-emergency-calls", "summary": "Scammers are cloning relatives' voices from short clips to make urgent “I'm in trouble, send money” calls sound real.", "date": "2026-05-15", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: “Easy task” job scams via WhatsApp and Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/task-job-scams-via-messaging-apps", "summary": "Unsolicited messages offering well-paid online “tasks” lead to a deposit trap where a fake dashboard shows earnings you can never withdraw.", "date": "2026-05-06", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: “Crypto recovery” services targeting scam victims", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/crypto-recovery-scams-targeting-victims", "summary": "People who have lost money to scams are being approached by “recovery experts” who promise to get it back for an upfront fee. It's a second scam.", "date": "2026-04-24", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: “Wrong number” texts that lead to investment scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/pig-butchering-wrong-number-texts", "summary": "A friendly “wrong number” text can be the opening move of a pig-butchering scam that grooms you toward a fake crypto platform.", "date": "2026-04-10", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Seasonal warning: Tax-authority impersonation scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/tax-season-impersonation-scams", "summary": "Around tax deadlines, calls, texts and emails impersonating the tax office spike — demanding urgent payment or “refund” bank details.", "date": "2026-03-20", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Seasonal warning: Fake delivery texts rise around the holidays", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/fake-delivery-texts-ahead-of-holidays", "summary": "When more parcels are moving, courier-impersonation “missed delivery / pay a fee” texts spike, linking to card-harvesting pages.", "date": "2026-02-12", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Any request to pay by gift card is a scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/gift-card-payment-demands", "summary": "Across tax, tech-support, romance and prize scams, scammers keep demanding payment in gift cards because the codes are untraceable and irreversible.", "date": "2026-01-30", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: “Move your money to a safe account” bank-impersonation calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/safe-account-bank-impersonation-calls", "summary": "Callers posing as your bank or the police claim your account is compromised and pressure you to move money to a “safe account” they control.", "date": "2026-01-15", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Fake 'verify you are human' pages spreading malware", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/fake-captcha-clickfix-malware-warning", "summary": "Websites and pop-ups are displaying fake CAPTCHA-style 'verify you are human' prompts that trick users into pasting a command that silently installs malware.", "date": "2026-05-30", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Malicious QR codes ('quishing') in emails and on stickers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/qr-code-quishing-warning", "summary": "Scammers are placing fake QR codes in emails, on posters, and over legitimate stickers in public places to redirect people to phishing or payment-harvesting sites.", "date": "2026-05-20", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Seasonal warning: Fake holiday rental listings spike before summer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/summer-holiday-rental-scam-season", "summary": "As summer approaches, fraudulent holiday rental listings appear on booking platforms, social media, and copycat sites, collecting deposits for properties that do not exist or are not for rent.", "date": "2026-05-12", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Seasonal warning: Student loan, scholarship and accommodation scams at term start", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/back-to-school-student-scam-season", "summary": "As a new academic year approaches, scams targeting students rise — including fake scholarships requiring fees, phishing for student loan credentials, and fraudulent accommodation listings.", "date": "2026-04-30", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Fake 'bank refund' smishing texts harvesting account details", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/fake-bank-refund-text-wave", "summary": "Texts claiming you are owed a bank refund or overpayment are circulating widely, directing recipients to fake banking pages designed to steal credentials and card details.", "date": "2026-04-15", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Deepfake CEO and executive video calls authorising fraudulent transfers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/deepfake-ceo-video-call-warning", "summary": "Finance staff are being targeted by video calls featuring convincing deepfake impersonations of their CEO or CFO, instructing them to authorise urgent fund transfers.", "date": "2026-03-28", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Fake charity appeals surge after disasters and crises", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/charity-disaster-appeal-warning", "summary": "After any high-profile disaster, emergency, or humanitarian crisis, fraudulent donation appeals appear rapidly online and by text, diverting funds away from genuine relief efforts.", "date": "2026-02-25", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Marketplace 'overpayment' cheque scam targeting sellers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/marketplace-overpayment-cheque-wave", "summary": "Sellers on online marketplaces receive a cheque or bank transfer for more than the asking price; the buyer asks for the difference back before the payment bounces.", "date": "2025-12-05", "severity": "medium" }, { "type": "alert", "title": "Warning: Deepfake celebrity “investment” ads on social media", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/alerts/deepfake-celebrity-investment-ads", "summary": "AI-generated videos of public figures “endorsing” investment platforms or crypto giveaways are being used to lure people into fraud.", "date": "2025-12-18", "severity": "high" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How romance scammers operate specifically on Instagram — from DM openers to steering you off-platform — and how to stay safe.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How pig-butchering investment scams use WhatsApp's private messaging, group features, and end-to-end encryption to groom victims over weeks before introducing a fraudulent trading platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "How fraudulent 'like and earn' or 'app review' task scams use Telegram channels, bots, and anonymous accounts to recruit workers, collect small deposits, and then vanish.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers exploit Facebook Marketplace's local listings, Messenger integration, and Facebook Pay to take payment and disappear — or ship nothing at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Giveaway Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-giveaway-scams-on-x", "summary": "How crypto giveaway fraud exploits X's reply threads, impersonation of verified accounts, and fast-moving tweet culture to trick users into sending cryptocurrency they will never recover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiters on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-on-linkedin", "summary": "How fraudulent recruiters exploit LinkedIn's professional credibility, job search culture, and InMail system to phish credentials, collect personal data, or advance investment and advance-fee scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Takeover Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How attackers phish Instagram login credentials, hijack accounts, and then use those accounts to scam the victim's own followers — and how to recover access and prevent it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams Paid by Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-paid-by-crypto", "summary": "Why scammers specifically demand cryptocurrency for fraudulent investments, how the irreversibility of blockchain transactions works against victims, and what limited options exist after funds are sent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers steer marketplace buyers toward Zelle, why its bank-to-bank speed means payments are nearly irreversible, and how to protect yourself when buying online.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How task scams collect 'deposit' payments through Cash App, why the platform's peer-to-peer model offers limited fraud recourse, and what to do if you've sent money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams Demanding Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Why fake tech support scammers demand payment in gift card codes, the specific retailers they target, and why any legitimate support call that mentions gift cards is a scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How fraudulent landlords use wire transfer requests to take security deposits and first month's rent for properties they do not own or that do not exist, and why wire transfers are particularly hard to recover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Business Email Compromise via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/business-email-compromise-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How BEC fraud intercepts or impersonates business email to redirect legitimate bank transfers to scammer-controlled accounts, and the verification steps that prevent it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How pig-butchering investment scams target US residents — from initial contact through fake trading platforms — with US-specific reporting routes and consumer protections.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Toll Violation Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-toll-violation-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How smishing campaigns impersonate US toll authorities — E-ZPass, SunPass, FasTrak, and others — to steal payment card details and personal information from drivers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How smishing messages impersonating Royal Mail, Evri, DPD, and other UK carriers are used to harvest card details and personal data — with UK-specific reporting routes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-australia", "summary": "How investment fraud targets Australians — from crypto romance scams to fake managed funds — and the specific Australian reporting routes through Scamwatch and ASIC.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in the Philippines", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-the-philippines", "summary": "How online task fraud targets workers in the Philippines — particularly through fake part-time job offers on Facebook and Telegram — and the Philippine-specific reporting routes through the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Canada", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-canada", "summary": "How cryptocurrency fraud targets Canadians — from fake exchanges to romance-linked investment schemes — and how to report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and FINTRAC.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-tiktok", "summary": "How fraudulent shops exploit TikTok's viral product videos, LIVE shopping events, and seamless checkout links to sell counterfeit or non-existent goods to unsuspecting viewers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "How romance scammers use Snapchat's disappearing messages, Snap Map, and streaks culture to build false intimacy with victims before steering conversations toward financial requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Trading Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-trading-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "How fraudulent AI trading platforms use YouTube livestreams, monetised ads, and deepfake celebrity endorsements to funnel viewers into fake crypto investment schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Goods on eBay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-goods-on-ebay", "summary": "How counterfeit products are sold through eBay listings, the signals that separate genuine items from fakes, and how to use eBay's Money Back Guarantee and external routes to seek redress.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Game Account Takeover Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/game-account-takeover-on-discord", "summary": "How attackers use Discord DMs, fake bot invitations, and phishing links disguised as game rewards to steal gaming account credentials and in-game assets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Customer Support Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customer-support-on-facebook", "summary": "How scammers pose as brand or Facebook support agents in comments and Messenger to harvest account credentials, card details, and remote access from people seeking legitimate help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Job Task Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/job-task-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudulent part-time job offers use WhatsApp groups, fake HR managers, and staged 'commission' payments to collect deposits from people seeking flexible work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sextortion on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sextortion-on-snapchat", "summary": "How sextortion scammers use Snapchat's disappearing content to build false confidence before threatening to distribute intimate images — and why paying never stops the demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Emergency Money Requests via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/emergency-money-requests-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How scammers exploit family crisis scenarios — impersonating grandchildren, friends, or officials — to pressure victims into buying gift cards and reading codes over the phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams Paid via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How pig-butchering investment fraud uses bank transfers as the payment entry point, the window for recovery that exists with bank-to-bank payments, and the protections that differ from crypto.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How fraudulent lottery notifications demand gift card payment for 'release fees' and 'taxes' before winnings that don't exist can be 'claimed' — and why no real lottery works this way.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams That Demand Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-via-crypto", "summary": "How fraudulent asset-recovery services target people who have already lost money to scams, demanding upfront cryptocurrency fees to 'trace and recover' funds that they will never retrieve.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Invoice Redirection Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/invoice-redirection-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How attackers intercept or impersonate supplier invoices to redirect legitimate wire transfers to fraudulent accounts — and the verification step that stops it every time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vehicle Escrow Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vehicle-escrow-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How fake vehicle listings use fraudulent escrow services to collect wire transfer deposits for cars, motorcycles, and boats that don't exist or aren't for sale.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams That Request Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-crypto", "summary": "How fraudulent appeals exploit disasters, conflicts, and causes to collect crypto donations that never reach any charitable purpose — and how to verify before donating.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams That Use PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-paypal", "summary": "How task scams exploit PayPal's familiarity and Friends and Family feature to collect deposits — and why the payment method choice matters for your ability to dispute a charge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How romance fraud affects US residents — from dating app contact through cryptocurrency demands — with US-specific reporting routes through the FTC and FBI IC3.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How investment fraud targets UK residents — from clone firm scams to crypto romance schemes — with UK-specific tools including the FCA ScamSmart checker and Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) reporting.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Singapore", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-singapore", "summary": "How pig-butchering investment fraud targets Singapore residents, the ScamShield app available to Singaporeans, and how to report to the Singapore Police Force and MAS.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams in Canada", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tech-support-scams-in-canada", "summary": "How fake tech support fraud targets Canadians — from Microsoft pop-up scams to CRA impersonation — and how to report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in India", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-india", "summary": "How online task fraud targets workers in India through WhatsApp and Telegram, the Indian reporting routes through cybercrime.gov.in and the 1930 helpline, and why part-time job deposits are always a scam signal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-australia", "summary": "How cryptocurrency fraud targets Australians — from social media investment pitches to superannuation crypto schemes — with reporting routes through Scamwatch, ASIC, and ReportCyber.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How smishing messages impersonating USPS, FedEx, UPS, and Amazon steal card details and personal information from US residents — with reporting routes through the FTC and FBI IC3.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Bank Impersonation and Safe-Account Scams in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/bank-impersonation-scams-in-australia", "summary": "How callers posing as Australian bank fraud teams and police convince victims to move funds to a 'safe account' — with reporting routes through Scamwatch, ReportCyber, and AFCA.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-on-email", "summary": "How phishing emails mimic banks, couriers, and government agencies to harvest login credentials and card details — the header signals, link tricks, and habits that protect you.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-on-sms", "summary": "How smishing messages impersonating parcel carriers reach millions of phones and harvest card details through lookalike payment pages — why SMS makes these harder to verify, and how to protect yourself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Giveaway Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-giveaway-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "How fraudulent crypto giveaway channels use Telegram's anonymous groups, pinned messages, and bot-driven fake engagement to steal cryptocurrency from users seeking free tokens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores via Google Search Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-via-google-search", "summary": "How fraudulent online retailers buy Google Ads to appear above legitimate search results, collect payment for goods that never arrive, and how to verify before you buy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How romance scammers use Facebook's profile system, friend suggestions, and Messenger to build false relationships — and the profile signals that reveal a scammer before emotional investment deepens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Mentor Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-mentor-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudulent investment mentors use WhatsApp groups to simulate a community of successful traders, build credibility through staged wins, and collect fees for courses and platforms that deliver nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "How fake tech support operators use YouTube comment sections, pinned links under tech help videos, and fake tutorial channels to direct viewers to fraudulent phone numbers and remote-access sessions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Scams on Craigslist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-scams-on-craigslist", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers and buyers exploit Craigslist's anonymous classifieds, unverified listings, and cash-or-transfer payment culture to defraud both sides of transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams Paid via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How fraudulent investment platforms collect bank transfers by mimicking legitimate financial intermediaries — the narrow recall window that makes early reporting critical, and the verification checks that stop payment before it leaves your account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams That Demand Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "How romance fraud pivots from emotional grooming to cryptocurrency payment requests — why crypto is chosen over bank transfer, and what the irreversibility of blockchain transactions means for recovery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tech Support Scams Demanding Wire Transfers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tech-support-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How fake tech support callers escalate from gift card demands to wire transfers for larger amounts — the bank verification step that sometimes intercepts these payments, and what to do if a transfer has been sent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams Paid via Stablecoins (USDT)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-via-stablecoins", "summary": "Why pig-butchering scammers increasingly demand payment in USDT and other stablecoins, how stablecoin transfers differ from volatile crypto for the scammer's operational needs, and what victims should know about tracing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cheque Overpayment Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cheque-overpayment-scams", "summary": "How fraudulent buyers send overpayment cheques to sellers, exploit the gap between apparent clearance and actual verification, and collect a refund before the cheque bounces — leaving the seller out of pocket.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How fake landlords collect security deposits and first month's rent through Cash App — why the peer-to-peer platform offers no renter protection, and what to do if a payment has been sent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/lottery-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How lottery advance-fee fraud escalates to wire transfer demands for larger 'release fees' — why the payment method shift from gift cards to wire signals the scammer believes significant funds are available, and what to do.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Grandparent Scams via Cash Courier", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/grandparent-scams-via-cash-courier", "summary": "How emergency money request scammers send couriers to collect cash directly from victims' homes — why the in-person cash pickup is the highest-pressure variant of this fraud, and why no real emergency works this way.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-australia", "summary": "How romance fraud targets Australians across dating apps and social media — with Australian-specific reporting routes through Scamwatch, IDCARE, and the Australian Cyber Security Centre.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Canada", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-canada", "summary": "How investment fraud targets Canadians — from clone-firm pitches to pig-butchering — with provincial securities commission checks and reporting routes through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How pig-butchering investment fraud targets UK residents — from clone firm tactics to bank transfer grooming — with the FCA ScamSmart checker, Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud), and APP fraud reimbursement options.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How online task fraud targets US workers through fake part-time job offers on social media and messaging apps — with reporting routes through the FTC, FBI IC3, and state attorneys general.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Singapore", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-singapore", "summary": "How cryptocurrency fraud targets Singapore residents — from fake MAS-licensed platforms to social media investment pitches — with MAS verification tools, ScamShield, and SPF reporting routes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Bank and Police Impersonation Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/bank-impersonation-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How callers posing as UK bank fraud teams and police officers manipulate victims into authorising transfers — with the 159 hotline, APP fraud reimbursement rules, and Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) reporting.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How fake tech support fraud targets US residents — from Microsoft pop-up alerts to IRS impersonation — with FTC and FBI IC3 reporting routes and the payment methods most commonly demanded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-australia", "summary": "How smishing texts impersonating Australia Post, DHL, and Toll Group steal card details and personal information from Australians — with reporting routes through Scamwatch, ReportCyber, and the ACCC.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gift Card Scams Delivered via Phone Call", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gift-card-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How fraudulent phone callers — posing as government agencies, utility companies, or tech support — use the voice channel's authority and urgency to steer victims toward buying gift cards and reading the codes aloud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Job Scams on Job Boards (Indeed, LinkedIn Jobs, ZipRecruiter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-job-scams-on-job-boards", "summary": "How fraudulent job listings on major job boards harvest personal data, charge upfront fees, or pivot to task and investment scams — and how to vet a job posting before applying or sharing any information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Wallet Drainer Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-wallet-drainer-scams-on-discord", "summary": "How wallet drainer malware and phishing links are distributed through Discord servers, compromised bots, and fake NFT or token mint announcements — and how to protect your crypto wallet from on-chain theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Store Scams via Instagram Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-store-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How fraudulent online shops use Instagram's paid advertising to reach targeted audiences with stolen product photos, collect payment, and deliver nothing — or ship poor-quality counterfeits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams on Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-dating-apps", "summary": "How romance scammers exploit dating app matching systems, profile verification gaps, and in-app messaging to build trust before steering victims off-platform and into financial requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Investment Ads on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-investment-ads-on-facebook", "summary": "How AI-generated celebrity endorsement videos are used in Facebook paid ads to promote fraudulent investment platforms — how to identify synthetic media, and why the celebrity's apparent involvement is always fabricated.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams via SMS (Smishing)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-on-sms", "summary": "How smishing campaigns exploit SMS's lack of a sender-domain check, alphanumeric sender ID spoofing, and mobile-browser URL truncation to harvest credentials and card details at scale.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How romance scammers use WhatsApp's voice notes, profile photos, and status updates to manufacture intimacy — and why the platform's end-to-end encryption leaves less evidence for victims to show authorities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "How task scam operators use TikTok's algorithm, DMs, and creator culture to recruit workers into fake 'app rating' and 'boosting' jobs that collect deposits and deliver nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "How fraudulent store-fronts use Facebook Marketplace's category listings, Messenger checkout flows, and profile recycling to sell goods that never arrive — distinct from individual seller fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Giveaway Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-giveaway-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "How fraudulent crypto giveaway streams hijack YouTube channels, impersonate celebrities using pre-recorded footage, and run continuous 'send to double' scams — and why this format has no legitimate version.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Takeover Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "How attackers use phishing snaps, verification code requests, and third-party app lures to hijack Snapchat accounts — then use those accounts to scam the victim's friends through trusted-sender messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams Collected via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How fraudulent investment platforms persuade victims to send initial deposits via Zelle — exploiting its bank-to-bank speed and near-zero dispute options — before transitioning to crypto for larger amounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams Paid via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How pig-butchering investment fraud uses international wire transfers to move large sums — the narrower recovery window compared to domestic bank transfer, and the timed steps that matter.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Scams Demanding Apple and Google Play Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-apple-google-gift-cards", "summary": "Why fake tech support callers specifically name Apple iTunes and Google Play gift cards — how the digital redemption chain works, and the card-specific steps that can stop funds from being spent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How fraudulent marketplace sellers steer buyers toward Venmo, why the platform's social feed and peer-to-peer design create false confidence, and what the distinction between Venmo's payment types means for fraud recovery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams That Collect via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How romance scammers steer victims toward Cash App for financial transfers — using its instant peer-to-peer mechanics and limited dispute options — before escalating to cryptocurrency.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Antivirus Scams That Demand Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-antivirus-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How fake security software pop-ups and cold calls create virus panic before demanding gift card codes as payment for 'removal' — and why genuine antivirus software never requests gift card payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Singapore", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-singapore", "summary": "How smishing texts impersonating SingPost, DHL, and Ninja Van steal card details and personal information from Singapore residents — with ScamShield, SPF reporting, and the official carrier domains.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in India", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-india", "summary": "How fraudulent investment platforms target Indian investors through WhatsApp groups and Telegram channels — with SEBI verification, the 1930 Cyber Crime Helpline, and cybercrime.gov.in reporting routes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams in Canada", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-canada", "summary": "How romance fraud targets Canadians — from dating app contact through crypto ATM and wire transfer demands — with reporting routes through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and provincial support.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-in-australia", "summary": "How fake tech support fraud targets Australians — from NBN and Telstra impersonation to Microsoft pop-ups — with Scamwatch and ReportCyber reporting routes and the Australian-specific variants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in the Philippines", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-the-philippines", "summary": "How pig-butchering investment fraud targets Filipinos via dating apps and Facebook — with GCash deposit mechanics, PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group reporting, and SEC Philippines verification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How online task fraud targets UK workers through WhatsApp job offers and Telegram groups — with Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) and the 159 hotline as reporting routes, and the UK-specific payment patterns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "How fraudulent investment promoters exploit Reddit's upvote system, community trust, and pseudonymous accounts to pump penny stocks, fake crypto projects, and fraudulent trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-pinterest", "summary": "How fraudulent retailers use Pinterest's shoppable pins, board curation, and aspirational aesthetics to funnel users to fake storefronts that collect payment for goods that never arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams on Indeed", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-indeed", "summary": "How fraudulent task and micro-job listings exploit Indeed's job board credibility to recruit workers into deposit-based scams — and why a listing on a major job board is not a guarantee of employer legitimacy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams on Tinder", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-tinder", "summary": "How romance scammers exploit Tinder's swiping mechanic, profile photo norms, and conversational immediacy to manufacture emotional closeness before steering victims toward financial requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Found via Google Search Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-google-search", "summary": "How fraudulent tech support operators buy Google Search ads to appear above legitimate company support pages — intercepting users seeking real help and redirecting them to scam phone numbers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Investment Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-investment-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "How fraudulent crypto investment accounts, fake trading signal groups, and impersonation of finance influencers on X recruit victims into fraudulent platforms — distinct from giveaway scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams Collected via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-paypal", "summary": "How fraudulent investment platforms collect initial deposits through PayPal — exploiting the platform's familiarity while steering victims toward the Friends and Family option that removes all buyer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How fraudulent marketplace sellers steer buyers toward bank transfer — exploiting its apparent formality while removing the chargeback rights that card payment would provide — and the narrow window for bank-level intervention.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams That Collect Deposits via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How task scam operators collect 'upgrade deposits' and 'performance bonds' through gift card codes — and why the gift card demand is the clearest possible signal that a job offer is fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams via PayPal Friends and Family", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-via-paypal-ff", "summary": "How fake landlords collect security deposits and first month's rent through PayPal Friends and Family — the one PayPal option with no buyer protection — and why legitimate landlords never use it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams That Demand Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "How fake tech support callers escalate from gift card requests to cryptocurrency demands for larger amounts — why crypto represents the highest-loss variant of this fraud, and what the irreversibility means for victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams That Use PayPal Goods and Services", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-via-paypal-goods", "summary": "How some pig-butchering operators use PayPal Goods and Services for initial deposits — exploiting the apparent legitimacy of buyer-protected payments — and why the PayPal dispute window is narrow and often unsuccessful for investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Singapore", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-singapore", "summary": "How fraudulent investment platforms target Singapore residents with fake MAS-licensed credentials — with ScamShield protection, the MAS Investor Alert List, and SPF reporting routes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams in the Philippines", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-the-philippines", "summary": "How romance fraud targets Filipinos through Facebook and dating apps — with GCash and Maya payment mechanics, PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group reporting, and NBI Cybercrime Division as the primary reporting routes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Canada", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-canada", "summary": "How online task fraud targets Canadian workers through WhatsApp and Telegram — with Interac e-Transfer and crypto ATM payment mechanics, and reporting routes through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How cryptocurrency fraud targets UK residents — from clone firm crypto platforms to social media investment pitches — with the FCA ScamSmart checker, Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud), and the 159 hotline.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in India", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-india", "summary": "How smishing texts impersonating India Post, Amazon India, and courier services steal card details and personal data from Indian consumers — with cybercrime.gov.in and the 1930 Cyber Crime Helpline as reporting routes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Bank Impersonation and Safe-Account Scams in Canada", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/bank-impersonation-scams-in-canada", "summary": "How callers posing as Canadian bank fraud teams and RCMP officers convince victims to move funds to 'safe accounts' — with CAFC reporting, the Canadian banking industry's anti-scam messaging, and what to do after a transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How pig-butchering fraudsters use Instagram's follow, DM, and Reels features to build fake romantic trust before pitching a fraudulent crypto trading platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudsters use fake Facebook pages, Messenger links, and lookalike login prompts to steal account credentials and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "How fraudsters exploit Telegram channels, bots, and group chats to promote fake investment schemes and steal funds from victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams Paid by Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How romance scammers steer victims toward wire transfers — and why these payments are nearly impossible to recover once sent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in India", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-india", "summary": "How cryptocurrency fraud targets Indian investors — from UPI-linked fake exchanges to WhatsApp investment groups — and the reporting routes available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "How fraudsters use LinkedIn's professional context — fake job offers, connection requests, and InMail — to harvest credentials, deliver malware, and commit financial fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams in Nigeria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-nigeria", "summary": "How romance fraud affects Nigerian victims — from dating-app grooming to blackmail — and the local reporting routes available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams Paid by Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "How task scams — fake app-rating or product-reviewing jobs — use crypto payments to complicate tracing and make fund recovery nearly impossible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Canada", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-canada", "summary": "How SMS smishing campaigns impersonating Canada Post and major couriers deceive Canadian recipients into handing over card details and personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams Paid by Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How investment fraudsters exploit Venmo's social feed, instant transfers, and peer-to-peer reputation to collect funds that cannot be charged back.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Calls in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How tech-support fraudsters target UK residents by impersonating HMRC, BT, Sky, and major banks — and the Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) reporting process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How pig-butchering investment scams use Facebook groups, friend requests, and Marketplace to build relationships before pitching fraudulent trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams Paid by Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "How romance scammers leverage Apple Pay's speed and familiarity to collect funds from victims before the payment can be questioned or reversed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in the Philippines", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-the-philippines", "summary": "How crypto fraud targets Filipino residents — from fake play-to-earn schemes to pig-butchering operations — and where to report to the BSP and NBI.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Promoted on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-on-discord", "summary": "How fraudulent crypto and forex trading platforms are promoted through Discord servers, bots, and DMs to recruit victims who lose deposited funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams Paid by Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How fake job offers distributed on WhatsApp use gift-card payment requests to extract money from victims who believe they are completing legitimate employment tasks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SMSF and Superannuation Investment Scams in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-australia-via-smsf", "summary": "How fraudsters specifically target Australian self-managed super fund holders and retirement savers with fake investment schemes and unlicensed advisers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams That Demand Wire Transfers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How recovery scammers — posing as fraud investigators or lawyers — use wire transfer requests to defraud people who have already lost money to a previous scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Nigeria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-nigeria", "summary": "How SMS fraud impersonating DHL, FedEx, and local couriers targets Nigerian phone users with parcel fee demands and credential-harvesting links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tech-Support Scams Paid by Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-western-union", "summary": "How tech-support fraudsters direct victims to Western Union branches to send cash as payment for fabricated repairs, tax debts, or ransom fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "How scammers use LinkedIn's professional networking context to build fake romantic relationships that lead to financial fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-on-twitter-x", "summary": "How cryptocurrency fraudsters exploit X's reply threads, impersonation of verified accounts, and paid promotion to lure victims into fake giveaways and fraudulent platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-australia", "summary": "How fake app-rating and product-review jobs targeting Australian workers via WhatsApp and Telegram use OSKO transfers and crypto to extract money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "How fraudulent investment schemes use YouTube ads, livestream impersonation, and fake tutorial channels to recruit victims into fraudulent platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams in India", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-india", "summary": "How romance fraud targets Indian users on matrimonial sites, Facebook, and Instagram — from dowry-related advance-fee requests to pig-butchering grooming.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Calls That Demand Zelle Payments", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-zelle", "summary": "How tech-support and bank-impersonation scammers use Zelle's instant, bank-integrated transfers to extract funds that are nearly impossible to recover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms That Demand Bank Transfers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How fraudulent trading platforms use bank transfers — often to mule accounts — to collect deposits that are then laundered and impossible to trace.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Canada", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-canada", "summary": "How long-term investment romance fraud targets Canadian residents via WhatsApp and dating apps, and the CAFC and RCMP reporting pathways.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores and Seller Scams on Amazon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-amazon", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers abuse Amazon's marketplace model to collect payment for goods they never deliver or to sell counterfeit products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams Paid by Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How crypto fraudsters exploit Cash App's built-in Bitcoin feature and peer-to-peer transfers to collect non-recoverable payments for fake investments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in the Philippines", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-the-philippines", "summary": "How investment fraud — from pyramids to fake forex platforms — targets Filipino investors and OFWs, and the SEC Philippines and NBI reporting routes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-via-email", "summary": "How email phishing impersonates banks, retailers, and government agencies to harvest credentials, install malware, and commit financial fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How fake app-rating and product-review jobs are distributed through WhatsApp bulk messaging and then steal money from victims via deposit demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams Paid by Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How romance scammers request Zelle payments for fabricated emergencies — and why the instant, bank-integrated transfer is nearly impossible to reverse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Amazon Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-scams-on-amazon", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonate Amazon customer service to harvest account credentials, trick victims into gift card purchases, or install remote-access software.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent investment schemes use Facebook ads, groups, and fake celebrity endorsements to recruit victims into platforms that steal their money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How cryptocurrency fraud targets US residents — from pig-butchering to Bitcoin ATM scams — and the FTC, IC3, and SEC reporting routes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonate bank support, WhatsApp itself, and tech companies on WhatsApp to steal account credentials and financial information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-australia", "summary": "How long-term romance investment fraud targets Australians via dating apps and WhatsApp, and the Scamwatch and AFCA reporting pathways.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "How fraudsters use TikTok's video format, creator impersonation, and DM links to deliver phishing attacks and recruit victims into investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams Paid by PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-via-paypal", "summary": "How romance scammers exploit PayPal's Friends and Family feature to collect payments with no buyer protection, and what victims can do.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudulent parcel-delivery notifications arrive via WhatsApp — impersonating couriers to harvest personal details or collect small fraudulent fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How fake asset-recovery firms and impersonators targeting US fraud victims extract additional fees — and the FTC reporting process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores and Scams on Etsy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-etsy", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers abuse Etsy's handmade marketplace trust to collect payment for items that do not arrive or are misrepresented.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Nigeria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-nigeria", "summary": "How pyramid schemes, fake forex platforms, and ponzi operations target Nigerian investors and savers — and the SEC Nigeria and EFCC reporting routes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "How romance scammers use TikTok's comment section, DMs, and LIVE feature to build fake relationships that lead to financial fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams Starting on Tinder", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-tinder", "summary": "How pig-butchering investment fraud uses Tinder match patterns, fast-burn emotional investment, and off-platform migration to groom victims for fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "FCA Clone Firm Crypto Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-clone-firm-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How fraudsters clone FCA-registered firm details to operate fake UK crypto trading platforms — and how to use the FCA register and Warning List to verify.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech-Support Numbers Found on Google", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-on-google-search", "summary": "How fraudsters place fake customer-service phone numbers in Google search results and paid ads to intercept people seeking genuine support.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "How investment fraudsters exploit Snapchat's disappearing messages, Stories, and young user base to promote fake money-flipping and crypto investment schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Scams on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Scammers post fake rental listings on Facebook Marketplace, collecting deposits or first-month rent before disappearing. The platform's open listing system makes it easy to impersonate legitimate landlords.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Attackers send DMs and comment-links on Instagram that lead to fake login pages designed to steal account credentials. Stolen accounts are then monetised through follow-for-pay schemes, crypto promotion, or extortion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores on TikTok Shop: Counterfeit and Non-Delivery Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-tiktok-shop", "summary": "Fraudulent sellers on TikTok Shop use viral-style product videos to sell counterfeit or non-existent goods, exploiting the platform's impulse-purchase environment. Victims receive fakes, empty parcels, or nothing at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams via Venmo: Peer-to-Peer Payment Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "Romance scammers frequently steer victims toward Venmo for money transfers because the social payment app offers no buyer protection and transfers are near-instant. Victims lose funds they cannot reverse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in New Zealand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-new-zealand", "summary": "New Zealand residents face a rising tide of investment fraud, including pig-butchering schemes and fake managed funds that impersonate FMA-registered entities. Victims have collectively lost tens of millions of New Zealand dollars.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in South Africa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-south-africa", "summary": "South Africa has seen several large-scale crypto fraud schemes, including Ponzi operations that collectively defrauded tens of thousands of South Africans. Scammers exploit currency volatility and limited formal crypto regulation to lure victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Job Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-job-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "Fraudsters create convincing company profiles and recruiter personas on LinkedIn to lure job seekers into paying upfront fees, surrendering personal data, or performing unwitting money-mule tasks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams via Western Union: Pay-to-Work Traps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "Task scam operators demand 'activation fees' or 'recharge deposits' be sent via Western Union before victims can access supposed earnings. Because Western Union transfers are near-impossible to reverse once collected, victims lose their money permanently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Ireland: An Post and Courier Impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-ireland", "summary": "Fraudsters send SMS and WhatsApp messages impersonating An Post and private couriers, directing Irish recipients to pay fake customs or redelivery fees on phishing websites that harvest card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams on Discord: Crypto Investment Grooming", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Pig-butchering operators have expanded onto Discord, infiltrating crypto and gaming servers to build trust with users before steering them to fraudulent trading platforms. The platform's pseudonymous culture aids their deception.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Scams on Gumtree: Overpayment and Non-Delivery Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-scams-on-gumtree", "summary": "Gumtree attracts a range of marketplace scams, from overpayment cheque fraud targeting sellers to phantom buyers who send fake payment confirmations. Both sellers and buyers face distinct risks on the platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "After suffering investment or crypto fraud, UK victims are often re-targeted by 'asset recovery' firms that charge large upfront fees but have no legitimate ability to retrieve lost funds. These firms frequently impersonate the FCA or Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud).", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Calls in India: Bank and KYC Impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-in-india", "summary": "Indian consumers are frequently targeted by fraudsters impersonating bank representatives and demanding KYC (Know Your Customer) updates over phone. Victims who comply hand over OTPs and credentials that drain their accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams via Google Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-via-google-pay", "summary": "Romance scammers in the United States increasingly request money via Google Pay, exploiting its ease of use and lack of a dispute mechanism for peer-to-peer personal transfers. Victims lose funds they cannot retrieve through the platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Promoted on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram's large group capacity and end-to-end encryption make it a primary channel for promoting fraudulent crypto and forex trading platforms. Signal-provider groups funnel members to fake exchanges that steal deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on X/Twitter: Fake Verification and Crypto Drainers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Phishing attacks on X/Twitter target users with fake account verification requests, impersonated customer support accounts, and malicious links disguised as airdrop claims that drain connected crypto wallets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Customer Support Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Fraudsters monitor Reddit for posts about banking, crypto exchanges, and tech problems, then respond via DM posing as official support staff. Victims who engage hand over credentials, remote access, or payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams via MoneyGram: Advance-Fee and Profit-Release Traps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "Investment scammers instruct victims to send 'regulatory fees,' 'profit tax,' or seed capital via MoneyGram because transfers are nearly impossible to reverse once collected and can be picked up globally with minimal identification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in New Zealand: NZ Post and Customs Impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-new-zealand", "summary": "New Zealand consumers receive fraudulent SMS messages impersonating NZ Post and NZ Customs demanding small fees to release parcels. The links lead to card-skimming sites that capture full payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams Targeting Nigerians", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-nigeria", "summary": "Nigerian citizens and diaspora members are increasingly targeted by pig-butchering investment fraud originating from Southeast Asian scam compounds, using the promise of overseas income and crypto returns to lure victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores on Google Shopping: Ad-Driven Counterfeit Sites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-google-shopping", "summary": "Fraudulent retailers pay for Google Shopping placements to appear alongside legitimate products, tricking consumers into ordering from sites that deliver counterfeits, inferior substitutes, or nothing at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams via Apple Pay: Peer Transfer Exploitation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "Crypto scammers exploit Apple Pay's frictionless peer-payment feature to collect initial 'seed' deposits from victims on iPhones, blending the familiar banking interface with fraudulent crypto investment schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams in Singapore: SPF-Reported Love and Investment Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-singapore", "summary": "Singapore's well-educated, high-income population makes it a prime target for romance scams that blend emotional manipulation with investment fraud. The Singapore Police Force (SPF) consistently ranks romance scams among the top fraud categories by financial loss.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams on Instagram: Follower Boost and Like-Farm Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram-based task scams recruit victims to like posts, follow accounts, and boost content in exchange for promised earnings, then demand account balances or activation fees that are never repaid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Scams via PayPal Friends and Family", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-scams-via-paypal-ff", "summary": "Fraudulent marketplace sellers pressure buyers into using PayPal Friends and Family — which carries no buyer protection — instead of Goods and Services, leaving victims unable to dispute non-delivery or counterfeit items.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Ireland: CBI Warning List and Clone Firm Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-ireland", "summary": "Irish consumers are targeted by investment firms that clone the identity of CBI-authorised companies or create convincing new brands. Victims are lured by social media ads and cold calls promising returns that legitimate funds cannot match.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams on Signal: End-to-End Encryption Exploited", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-signal", "summary": "Scammers migrate romance fraud onto Signal after initial contact elsewhere, using the app's encryption and disappearing messages to make evidence collection nearly impossible. Investment requests follow.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Nigeria: App-Rating and Recharge Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-nigeria", "summary": "Task scams targeting Nigerians promise daily income for rating apps, reviewing products, or boosting social media accounts, then demand escalating recharge deposits that are never refunded. Victims lose savings chasing promised withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams via WhatsApp Investment Groups", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-whatsapp-group", "summary": "Scammers add victims to WhatsApp investment groups populated with fake members, then use staged trading tips and group 'wins' to convince targets to invest in fraudulent crypto platforms through the group's recommendation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Australia Post Impersonation Parcel Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-australia-parcel", "summary": "Fraudsters send bulk SMS and email messages impersonating Australia Post, AusPost Express, and private couriers to harvest card details from Australians through fake redelivery and customs-fee pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams on YouTube: Deepfake Livestreams and Fake Channels", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Scammers run fake YouTube livestreams and channels using deepfake footage of Elon Musk, Vitalik Buterin, and other figures to promote crypto giveaways and fraudulent platforms. Victims who send crypto to participate lose their funds permanently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Calls in Canada: CRA and Bank Impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-in-canada", "summary": "Canadians are frequently targeted by fraudsters impersonating the Canada Revenue Agency and major Canadian banks, using arrest threats and account-freeze stories to pressure immediate payments via gift cards or Interac e-Transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Romance Scams on Facebook: Profile and Messenger Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-facebook-2", "summary": "Facebook's large adult user base and Messenger's familiarity make it a prime channel for pig-butchering operators who build romantic relationships through friend requests and daily Messenger chat before introducing crypto investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "US rental fraud costs Americans millions of dollars annually, with fraudulent listings appearing on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Zillow. Scammers clone legitimate listings and collect deposits from multiple victims for properties they have no right to rent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Nigeria: Ponzi, Fake Exchange, and P2P Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-nigeria", "summary": "Nigeria's vibrant crypto community has been repeatedly targeted by Ponzi schemes, fake exchanges, and P2P marketplace fraud. The SEC Nigeria has issued multiple warnings and enforcement actions, but new operations emerge faster than regulation can respond.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams on WhatsApp: Broadcast and Group Channel Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Investment fraudsters use WhatsApp broadcast lists and channels to distribute fake trading signals and promote fraudulent investment platforms, exploiting the app's trusted contacts framework to lend credibility to their approach.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Australia: ASIC and AFCA Impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-australia", "summary": "Australian fraud victims are re-targeted by fake asset recovery firms that impersonate ASIC, the AFCA, or law enforcement to collect upfront fees. ScamWatch data shows Australians lose significant sums to this secondary layer of fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on Telegram: Account Takeover and Crypto Seed Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Phishing on Telegram targets users with fake bot notifications, admin impersonation messages, and malicious mini-apps that harvest account login codes and crypto wallet seed phrases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores on Snapchat: Counterfeit Drops and Non-Delivery Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-snapchat", "summary": "Fraudulent sellers use Snapchat Stories and DMs to promote fake limited-edition clothing drops, trainers, and electronics. The ephemeral nature of Snapchat makes complaints harder to document and enables rapid reselling of the same victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "The United States sees more reported investment fraud losses than almost any other country, with billions lost annually to crypto investment scams, pig-butchering, and unregistered securities offerings. The SEC and FTC actively pursue perpetrators but prevention requires consumer vigilance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams Paid via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "WhatsApp job scams that demand earnings unlocked by cryptocurrency deposits exploit the irreversible, pseudonymous nature of crypto payments to prevent victims from recovering funds after repeated recharge demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "Fraudulent rental listings on Rightmove, Zoopla, Facebook Marketplace, and SpareRoom target UK renters facing a competitive housing market, collecting deposits via bank transfer for properties the scammer has no right to let.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "Romance fraud is one of the highest-value scam categories in the United Kingdom by total losses, with victims losing millions collectively each year. Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) reports significant under-reporting due to shame, meaning real losses are likely far higher.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Ireland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-ireland", "summary": "Irish consumers have lost significant sums to cryptocurrency fraud, including fake exchange platforms, celebrity-endorsed deepfake investment ads, and pig-butchering schemes that target the country's growing crypto-curious population.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Introduced via Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-via-dating-apps", "summary": "Pig-butchering operators systematically use dating apps as recruitment channels, establishing romantic connections before introducing fraudulent crypto trading platforms. Dating app matches are the most common initial contact point for this category of fraud globally.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in India", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-india", "summary": "India's rapidly growing crypto and stock market investor base has been targeted by pig-butchering operations that blend romance and investment fraud. SEBI and CERT-In have both issued alerts as Indian losses from these schemes accumulate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams Targeting Filipinos", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-the-philippines-2", "summary": "Filipino workers and OFWs are targeted by pig-butchering operations that exploit the remittance-sending culture and aspiration for passive income. Some Filipinos are also trafficked into scam compounds to operate these schemes against other victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Calls in Singapore: SPF and MAS Impersonation", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-in-singapore", "summary": "Singapore residents receive impersonation calls from people claiming to be Singapore Police Force officers, MAS representatives, or CPF Board staff, using authority and arrest threats to coerce immediate payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Canada: FINTRAC Gaps and Social Media Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-investment-scams-in-canada", "summary": "Canadians lose hundreds of millions of dollars annually to cryptocurrency fraud, with investment scams topping the list. Scammers exploit gaps in FINTRAC's real-time visibility and the lack of a central crypto investor protection fund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Romance Scams in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-australia-2", "summary": "Australia's ACCC ScamWatch data consistently shows romance-based investment fraud as one of the highest-loss categories. Pig-butchering operations specifically target Australian seniors and middle-aged adults via dating sites and social media.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Off-Platform Payment Scams on eBay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-scams-on-ebay-2", "summary": "eBay scammers contact potential buyers or sellers outside eBay's checkout system, claiming payment or shipping is easier through alternative channels. Buyers who comply lose eBay Money Back Guarantee protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in South Africa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-south-africa", "summary": "South Africans face a persistent threat from binary options fraud, Ponzi schemes, and fake property investment platforms. The FSCA's warning register is updated regularly but cannot keep pace with new fraudulent entities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Discord's server-based communities and direct-message system are exploited by phishers who clone official bots, send fake nitro giveaways, and hijack high-value accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-on-wechat", "summary": "WeChat's ecosystem of mini-programs, QR codes, and Official Accounts gives phishers multiple entry points to steal credentials and WeChat Pay balances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Promoted on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook's advertising system and Groups are routinely exploited to promote fraudulent investment and trading platforms using celebrity deepfakes and community trust.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Promoted on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram's aspirational culture and influencer economy make it a prime channel for fake trading platforms that use lifestyle imagery, fake profit screenshots, and paid promoters to recruit victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Distributed via WhatsApp Groups", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-on-whatsapp", "summary": "WhatsApp's encrypted group chats are used to run fake 'VIP investment clubs' that funnel members toward fraudulent trading platforms through a mix of social proof, fake profits, and controlled group dynamics.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "LinkedIn's professional credibility makes it a high-value hunting ground for pig butchering scammers who pose as successful executives, fund managers, or wealthy entrepreneurs to build investment-focused relationships.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram's large group capacity, bot ecosystem, and absence of content moderation make it the primary off-platform destination for pig butchering scammers and the source of fake trading group invitations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Reddit's investment and crypto subreddits attract pig butchering scammers who post helpful advice to build credibility, then DM interested users with personalised platform recommendations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Discord servers posing as legitimate task platforms recruit users with offers of cryptocurrency rewards for simple jobs, then demand 'activation deposits' before any earnings can be released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-signal", "summary": "Signal's reputation for privacy and security is exploited by task scammers who frame the app as proof of their operation's legitimacy, recruiting victims via WhatsApp before migrating them to Signal for tighter control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Discord's gaming and interest-based servers create a context where deep personal connections develop quickly, making it a growing venue for romance scammers targeting emotionally invested community members.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-wechat", "summary": "WeChat's Moments feature and group chat invitations enable romance scammers to cultivate relationships within Chinese-speaking diaspora communities before steering victims to fraudulent investment platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Discord's crypto and NFT communities are targeted by wallet drainers, fake token launches, and compromised announcement channels that direct users to malicious sites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Reddit's crypto subreddits are targeted by recovery scammers, fake project shills, and seed phrase fishing attempts through posts, comments, and DMs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Notification Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Messenger and Facebook ads are used to send fake parcel delivery notifications that harvest personal and payment details through convincing courier-branded pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok's viral short-video format amplifies fake investment advice, fraudulent trading platform promotions, and crypto giveaway scams to vast audiences through a powerful recommendation algorithm.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels and groups posing as cryptocurrency recovery agencies, fraud investigation firms, and legal services target previous scam victims with false promises of fund retrieval for an upfront fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Scams on Gumtree", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-on-gumtree", "summary": "Gumtree's classifieds format attracts fake rental listings — often copied from legitimate sites — where landlords demand advance payments before any property viewing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Scams on Amazon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-scams-on-amazon", "summary": "Amazon's third-party marketplace is exploited by scammers who create fake seller accounts, ship empty boxes or counterfeit goods, and manipulate the review system to appear trustworthy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Scams on Etsy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-scams-on-etsy", "summary": "Etsy's handmade and vintage marketplace is exploited by scammers who list dropshipped factory goods as handmade, sell non-existent digital downloads, and run off-platform payment diversion schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams That Demand Gift Card Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Phishing campaigns that successfully harvest credentials or create fear often pivot to demanding gift card payment — a method scammers prefer because it is anonymous, instant, and almost impossible to reverse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams That Demand Wire Transfers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Phishing attacks targeting businesses and high-value individuals often culminate in fraudulent wire transfer instructions — exploiting the appearance of legitimacy that international bank transfers carry.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams Paid via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "Pig butchering scammers targeting US victims frequently request Zelle transfers in early investment stages because Zelle's bank-to-bank transfers are fast, frictionless, and lack the buyer protection of credit cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams Paid via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "Pig butchering scammers use Venmo's social payment app to collect initial investment deposits from US victims, exploiting the app's trusted, casual payment context to reduce suspicion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams Demanding Gift Card Payments", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Some pig butchering scams — especially those targeting less technically confident victims — use gift card demands before transitioning to cryptocurrency, exploiting the same anonymity that makes gift cards attractive to all fraud types.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams That Collect Payments via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "Task scammers targeting US victims request Zelle payments for the 'activation deposits' and 'upgrade fees' that characterise task fraud, exploiting the instant, non-reversible nature of Zelle transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams That Collect Payments via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "Task scammers use Venmo's familiar peer-to-peer payment interface to collect 'unlock fees' and 'upgrade deposits' from US victims, where the casual app context reduces suspicion compared to a wire transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams That Demand Wire Transfer Payments", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "High-value task scam victims are often asked to make domestic or international wire transfers as deposit amounts escalate, mimicking legitimate business payment processes to extract large sums.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms That Accept Zelle Deposits", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-via-zelle", "summary": "Fraudulent trading platforms targeting US users accept Zelle deposits framed as brokerage account funding, exploiting the bank-integrated transfer interface to make the payment feel like a legitimate investment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Scams That Demand Zelle Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "Rental scammers increasingly request deposits and first month's rent via Zelle because transfers are instant, cannot be charged back by the sender, and arrive in the scammer's account before the victim can stop them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Scams That Demand Venmo Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "Rental scammers target US renters with Venmo deposit requests, leveraging the app's casual familiarity to make fraudulent payments feel like a normal peer-to-peer transaction with a real landlord.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams That Demand Gift Card Payments", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Romance scammers use gift card demands when a victim resists wire transfers or cryptocurrency, framing the untraceable payment as an emergency solution that will be 'paid back' once the crisis is resolved.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams That Demand Gift Card Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Fake recovery services target scam victims with promises to retrieve lost funds, then demand gift card payment as an 'administrative' or 'processing' fee before any recovery begins.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams That Demand Zelle Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "Recovery fraud operators targeting US victims collect upfront fees via Zelle, presenting the bank-integrated transfer as proof of their legitimate business status while exploiting its irreversibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Scams That Demand Gift Card Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Marketplace scammers — especially fake buyers and overseas seller scams — frequently demand gift cards as a payment alternative, knowing that codes are anonymous, instant, and untraceable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Scams That Demand Cryptocurrency Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-scams-via-crypto", "summary": "Marketplace scammers use cryptocurrency payment requests to eliminate all buyer and seller protections, making transactions irreversible before the fraud is discovered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams That Demand Gift Card Payments", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Some investment fraudsters — particularly those targeting less financially experienced victims — request gift cards as an initial investment method, framing the untraceable payment as a simple entry point into a lucrative opportunity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams Paid via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Large-scale investment fraud almost always involves wire transfers — domestic or international — because the amounts involved exceed peer-to-peer app limits and wires carry the veneer of formal business transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams Paid via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Cash App's peer-to-peer instant transfers and Bitcoin functionality make it a dual-purpose payment tool for pig butchering scammers who first collect deposits as Cash App payments before transitioning to crypto.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Funded via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-via-crypto", "summary": "Fraudulent trading platforms almost universally require cryptocurrency deposits because blockchain transactions are irreversible, cross-border, and cannot be charged back — making them ideal for fraud operators.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-in-australia", "summary": "Australians face high volumes of phishing attacks impersonating myGov, the ATO, major banks, and Australia Post, with SMS and email phishing among the most reported scam types to Scamwatch.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "UK phishing campaigns impersonate HMRC, Royal Mail, NHS, and high-street banks with sophisticated SMS and email attacks that exploit PAYE tax deadlines, parcel delivery seasons, and NHS appointment confirmations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "US phishing attacks impersonate the IRS, USPS, Social Security Administration, major banks, and popular tech brands — with spear-phishing and business email compromise among the highest-cost variants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams in India", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-in-india", "summary": "India's rapid digital financial adoption — driven by UPI, NEFT, and digital banking — has created a large attack surface for phishers impersonating NPCI, major banks, and government tax and pension portals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams in Canada", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-in-canada", "summary": "Canadian phishing attacks target CRA, Service Canada, Canada Post, and major banks — with tax season and CERB-related campaigns among the highest-volume attacks reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Targeting Australians", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-australia", "summary": "Australians lose hundreds of millions of dollars annually to fake trading platforms promoted via social media, celebrity deepfake ads, and WhatsApp groups — ASIC maintains a warning list of unlicensed platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Targeting People in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "The UK's FCA maintains an active warning list of fraudulent trading platforms and has run sustained ScamSmart campaigns, yet UK investors lose hundreds of millions of pounds annually to clone firms and fake brokers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams Targeting People in Germany", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-germany", "summary": "Task scams operating in German-speaking markets recruit via WhatsApp and Telegram, targeting job-seekers and part-time workers with offers of remote task work paid in cryptocurrency or bank transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Malaysia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-malaysia", "summary": "Malaysia is a primary source and target market for task scams, with organised crime groups operating from Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru running operations that exploit high youth unemployment and familiarity with digital payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in South Africa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-south-africa", "summary": "Task scams targeting South Africans exploit high unemployment by offering credible-sounding remote income through WhatsApp-based 'digital marketing' or 'social media' work, with cryptocurrency payment introduced once trust is established.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Germany", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-germany", "summary": "Germany's strong tech adoption and large crypto-curious population make it a target for fake exchange scams, deepfake celebrity investment promotions, and BaFin-impersonation fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Malaysia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-malaysia", "summary": "Malaysia's growing crypto adoption is targeted by unlicensed exchanges, pig butchering scams, and fake mining platforms promoted through Malaysian social media and messaging apps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams in Germany", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-germany", "summary": "Germany's large online dating user base and cultural openness to international relationships make it a significant target for romance fraud, with losses increasingly involving cryptocurrency and bank wire transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams in Malaysia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-malaysia", "summary": "Malaysia is both a major target and a significant source country for romance fraud, with pig butchering operations actively recruiting Malaysian operators and targeting Malaysian victims through dating apps and social media.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Scams That Demand Zelle Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "Marketplace scammers request Zelle payment to bypass platform buyer protections, taking advantage of the instant, bank-integrated transfer that cannot be charged back once the seller or buyer disappears.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams That Demand Western Union Transfers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "Romance scammers frequently demand Western Union as a payment method because transfers are instant, cash-based, and nearly impossible to reverse, making it a preferred tool for extracting money from victims after a period of emotional grooming.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams Targeting Internet Users in Nigeria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-in-nigeria", "summary": "Nigerian internet users face a high volume of phishing attacks targeting bank account credentials, BVN numbers, and mobile money wallets, with criminals using cloned banking portals and SMS spoofing to harvest financial access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams Spread Through Nextdoor Communities", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Scammers infiltrate Nextdoor neighbourhood groups to promote fake investment schemes, exploiting the platform's community trust and the assumption that neighbours would not deceive one another.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Targeting US Investors", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-the-united-states", "summary": "American investors are targeted by fraudulent online trading platforms that mimic legitimate brokerages, display fabricated profits, and block all withdrawals — often discovered only after victims have invested tens of thousands of dollars.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams That Pay Out Via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "Task scammers occasionally use MoneyGram as a payout mechanism to appear more 'legitimate' than crypto — but victims must first send a deposit or fee before any MoneyGram payout materialises, making the payment method irrelevant to the fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores Operating Through WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-wechat", "summary": "Fraudulent retailers use WeChat's Moments feature and private mini-program shops to sell counterfeit or non-existent goods, exploiting the platform's closed ecosystem where buyer protection is minimal and disputes are difficult to escalate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams Targeting South Africans", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-south-africa", "summary": "Pig butchering investment fraud is growing rapidly in South Africa, where scammers recruit victims via social media and dating apps before steering them toward fake crypto trading platforms denominated in ZAR or USD, often operating out of Southeast Asian scam centres.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams Spreading Through Twitch Streams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-on-twitch", "summary": "Fraudsters hijack popular Twitch channels or create lookalike streams to broadcast fake celebrity crypto giveaways, using live-stream legitimacy and real-time countdown timers to pressure viewers into sending cryptocurrency to a 'doubling' address.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Scams Targeting Property Seekers in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-in-australia", "summary": "Australian rental seekers — particularly in tight metropolitan markets like Sydney and Melbourne — are targeted by fake listings on Domain, Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, and Flatmates.com.au, losing bond deposits and first-month rent to scammers who never owned the property.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams That Demand MoneyGram Transfers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-moneygram", "summary": "Tech support scammers instruct victims to purchase MoneyGram money orders or initiate transfers to pay for fictional virus removal services, computer protection plans, or account reinstatement fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams Targeting New Zealanders", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-new-zealand", "summary": "New Zealanders are disproportionately targeted by romance and investment hybrid scams — particularly pig butchering — given the country's high internet usage, affluent demographics, and relatively small, trusting online communities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams Targeting Bank Customers in South Africa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-in-south-africa", "summary": "South African banking customers face targeted phishing attacks impersonating FNB, Standard Bank, Absa, Nedbank, and Capitec, with criminals harvesting internet banking credentials, OTPs, and card PINs through fake SMS alerts and cloned login portals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Scams on Nextdoor: Neighbourhood Trust Exploited", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Scammers create or hijack Nextdoor profiles to post fake buy-sell-trade listings, exploiting the platform's neighbourhood verification model to make fraudulent sellers appear more trustworthy than anonymous marketplace contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams Targeting Retail Investors in Germany", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-germany", "summary": "German investors are targeted by boiler-room operations, fake crypto trading platforms, and clone firms that impersonate BaFin-regulated brokers, often recruiting victims through social media investment groups and cold calls in German and English.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams That Use Venmo as a Funding Step", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "Crypto scammers instruct victims to send funds via Venmo as an intermediate step — either to purchase cryptocurrency on their behalf or as a direct payment for a 'crypto investment account' — exploiting Venmo's social features to create false legitimacy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Parcel Delivery SMS Scams Targeting German Recipients", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-germany", "summary": "German consumers receive fraudulent SMS messages impersonating DHL, DPD, Hermes, and Deutsche Post, directing them to phishing pages that harvest payment card details or install malware under the guise of rescheduling a delivery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams Targeting Fraud Victims on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Fake recovery agents monitor Reddit communities focused on fraud, scam victims, and cryptocurrency losses, offering to retrieve lost funds in exchange for upfront fees — a secondary scam that victimises people who have already been defrauded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Job Offers Spread Through Instagram DMs and Stories", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-job-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudulent employment offers proliferate on Instagram through Stories ads, Reels, and direct messages, promoting flexible remote work, brand ambassador roles, and social media manager positions that require upfront payments for training kits or certifications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Targeting Indian Investors", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-india", "summary": "India's retail trading boom has attracted fraudulent platforms that mimic SEBI-registered brokers, recruit through WhatsApp investment groups and Telegram channels, and promise guaranteed returns through fraudulent stock tips, options trading, and crypto schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams Operating Through Bumble", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-bumble", "summary": "Scammers create convincing Bumble profiles to establish romantic connections before steering victims toward financial requests, fake investment platforms, or emergency money transfers — exploiting Bumble's women-first messaging model to appear non-threatening.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams That Collect Payments via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "Investment scammers increasingly direct victims to fund trading accounts via Apple Pay transfers to individual contacts or merchant accounts, exploiting the payment method's trusted branding to make fraudulent requests appear more credible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams Affecting Chinese Nationals Domestically and Abroad", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-china", "summary": "Despite mainland China's ban on cryptocurrency trading, crypto scams remain prevalent among Chinese nationals through underground OTC markets, pig butchering operations, and fake mining or staking platforms — with overseas Chinese communities facing particularly high targeting rates.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Scams Targeting Property Seekers in Ireland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-in-ireland", "summary": "Ireland's severe housing shortage and high rental prices create a target-rich environment for scammers who post fake listings on Daft.ie, Rent.ie, and Facebook Marketplace, collecting deposits from multiple victims for properties they do not own or control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams Recruiting Through Pinterest Pins and Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest's aspirational content ecosystem is exploited by task scam recruiters who post Pins advertising flexible home income opportunities, directing users to WhatsApp or Telegram groups where advance-fee task fraud is operated.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Investment Scams Targeting German Residents", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-germany", "summary": "German residents are targeted by pig butchering operations that present as crypto or forex investment opportunities through social media contacts and dating apps, with platforms mimicking BaFin-regulated brokers to bypass initial suspicion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams That Exploit QR Codes for Payment Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-via-qr-code", "summary": "Quishing (QR code phishing) tricks victims into scanning malicious QR codes that redirect to fake payment portals or login pages, harvesting bank credentials or directing crypto transfers to scammer wallets — appearing in physical spaces, emails, and social media.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams Targeting Malaysian Investors", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-malaysia", "summary": "Malaysian investors are targeted by Macau scam variants, fake forex and crypto platforms, and pig butchering operations that exploit strong social media usage and high financial aspirations among working-age Malaysians.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partners Operating on Hinge", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-hinge", "summary": "Scammers create detailed Hinge profiles using AI-generated or stolen photos to establish convincing romantic connections, before steering matches into financial scams including crypto investment, emergency money requests, or advance-fee schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams Targeting Irish Consumers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-in-ireland", "summary": "Irish consumers receive fake Microsoft, Apple, and bank support calls claiming their devices or accounts have been compromised, and are directed to pay for non-existent fixes via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams That Route Payments Through Google Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-via-google-pay", "summary": "Cryptocurrency scammers direct victims to send Google Pay transfers as an intermediate step in fake investment funding, exploiting the payment method's familiarity and trusted brand to make fraudulent requests appear routine.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Parcel Delivery SMS Scams in Malaysia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-malaysia", "summary": "Malaysian mobile users receive fraudulent delivery notifications impersonating Pos Malaysia, DHL Malaysia, and J&T Express, directing them to phishing sites that harvest banking credentials or install malicious APKs under the guise of parcel tracking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Scams Targeting Property Seekers in Canada", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-in-canada", "summary": "Canadian rental seekers — particularly in Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary — face a surge of fake listings on Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist, where fraudsters collect deposits and first-month rent before the victim discovers the property was never theirs to rent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams Targeting Fraud Victims in Canada", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-canada", "summary": "Canadian fraud victims who have lost money to investment, crypto, or romance scams are re-targeted by fake recovery services claiming affiliation with the RCMP, CAFC, or legal firms, charging upfront fees for fund recovery that never occurs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Targeting Investors in Singapore", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-singapore", "summary": "Singaporean investors are targeted by fraudulent trading platforms that falsely claim MAS licensing, recruit through Telegram investment groups and social media, and typically form part of larger pig butchering or romance scam operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Scams That Demand Apple Pay Cash Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "Marketplace fraudsters request Apple Pay Cash transfers instead of platform-native payment, bypassing buyer protection and exploiting Apple Pay's trusted brand to make an unsafe payment method feel secure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams Targeting South Africans", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-south-africa", "summary": "South African consumers face romance fraud through Facebook, Instagram, and dating apps, with scammers posing as overseas professionals and quickly steering relationships toward financial requests or fake investment platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams Targeting Bank and MyInfo Accounts in Singapore", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-in-singapore", "summary": "Singapore residents are targeted by phishing attacks impersonating DBS, OCBC, UOB, Singpass, and CPF, using SMS spoofing and fake login portals to harvest banking credentials and MyInfo personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams That Require Cryptocurrency Deposits", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-crypto", "summary": "Investment scam platforms that mandate cryptocurrency as the only deposit method use the irreversibility and pseudonymity of crypto transfers to eliminate any practical path to recovery once funds are sent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Sellers and Stores Operating Through Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-reddit", "summary": "Scammers operate within Reddit's buy-sell-trade subreddits (r/Knife_Swap, r/GunAccessoriesForSale, r/photomarket, r/Flipping) using aged accounts with fabricated trade histories to sell counterfeit, non-existent, or misrepresented goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Investment Scams Targeting People in Ireland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-ireland", "summary": "Irish consumers are targeted by pig butchering operations through social media and dating apps, with scammers posing as overseas Irish or European professionals before steering victims toward fake investment platforms using EUR-denominated dashboards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams That Demand Bank Transfer Deposits", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Some WhatsApp task job operations request advance deposits via bank transfer — framed as security bonds or training fees — exploiting bank transfer familiarity to appear more legitimate than crypto while still providing no recovery path for victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Parcel Delivery Scams Targeting Philippine Mobile Users", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-the-philippines", "summary": "Philippine mobile users receive fraudulent delivery notifications impersonating LBC Express, J&T Philippines, Lazada, and Shopee logistics, directing them to phishing sites that harvest GCash, Maya, and bank login credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams Operating Through Signal Channels", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-signal", "summary": "Scammers exploit Signal's privacy reputation to create a false sense of exclusivity and security around fake investment groups, using the encrypted platform to evade detection while recruiting victims into advance-fee and pig butchering schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams Targeting New Zealanders", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-in-new-zealand", "summary": "New Zealand consumers receive fake Microsoft, Apple, and bank fraud department calls, as well as pop-up computer scares, that trick victims into paying for non-existent fixes or granting remote access to their devices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams Spread Through Facebook Pages and Groups", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook's advertising system, Groups, and Pages are exploited by crypto scammers running fake celebrity endorsement ads, fraudulent giveaway campaigns, and pig butchering recruitment operations targeting users across age groups.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams Affecting Chinese Nationals at Home and Abroad", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-china", "summary": "Romance scams targeting Chinese nationals operate through WeChat, Tantan, Momo, and international dating apps, with pig butchering operations based in Southeast Asian compounds specifically recruiting Chinese-speaking operators to target Chinese-speaking victims globally.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Property Scams Targeting Tenants in India", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-in-india", "summary": "Rental scams in India's major cities — Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune — target relocating professionals and students with fake listings on NoBroker, Housing.com, and Facebook, collecting advance deposits and brokerage fees for properties the scammer does not own or control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams Targeting GCash, Maya, and Bank Users in the Philippines", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-in-the-philippines", "summary": "Philippine mobile users face high-volume phishing targeting GCash, Maya (PayMaya), BDO, BPI, and Metrobank, using SMS spoofing, Facebook Messenger links, and cloned e-wallet portals to harvest account credentials and OTPs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams Targeting New Zealand Investors", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-new-zealand", "summary": "New Zealand investors face a growing volume of cryptocurrency fraud through fake trading platforms, celebrity endorsement scams on social media, and pig butchering schemes that the FMA has specifically flagged as high-risk for the New Zealand market.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams Targeting Fraud Victims in Nigeria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-nigeria", "summary": "Nigerian fraud victims — particularly those who lost money to advance-fee, investment, or romance scams — are re-targeted by fake recovery services posing as EFCC investigators, international law firms, or specialised cyber forensics companies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams That Demand Prepaid Card Deposits", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "Some task scam operations request prepaid Visa or Mastercard numbers as the deposit or payment mechanism, exploiting the cards' anonymity and the victim's assumption that a widely used card type implies legitimacy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Targeting New Zealand Investors", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-new-zealand", "summary": "Fraudulent trading platforms targeting New Zealanders impersonate FMA-regulated brokers or claim to be FMA-licensed to solicit cryptocurrency and forex investments, with the FMA's investor alert list growing consistently as new operations are identified.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams That Collect Payments via Interac E-Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-via-e-transfer", "summary": "Romance scammers targeting Canadian victims frequently request Interac e-transfer payments for fabricated emergencies, exploiting the payment method's dominance in Canadian peer-to-peer transactions and its lack of chargeback protection once funds are accepted.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Customer Support Scams Operating Through Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers impersonate the official support channels of crypto exchanges, software platforms, and financial services on Telegram, harvesting login credentials, seed phrases, and personal data from users seeking genuine help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Parcel Delivery SMS Scams in South Africa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-south-africa", "summary": "South African mobile users receive fraudulent delivery notifications impersonating Postnet, Aramex, DHL South Africa, and The Courier Guy, directing them to phishing pages that harvest banking credentials and card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams Originating From Meetup Group Interactions", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-meetup", "summary": "Scammers infiltrate Meetup groups to establish in-community trust before transitioning contact to private messaging, where they build romantic relationships and eventually present financial crises or investment opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams Targeting Irish Bank and Revenue Customers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-in-ireland", "summary": "Irish consumers are targeted by phishing attacks impersonating AIB, Bank of Ireland, Revolut, Revenue Commissioners, and An Post, using SMS spoofing and cloned login portals to capture banking credentials and Revenue MyAccount access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams That Require Wire Transfer Funding", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Crypto investment scammers instruct victims to wire large sums to overseas accounts as a 'crypto purchase' step, using the international wire transfer's irreversibility and the procedural legitimacy of bank transactions to extract substantial funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams Targeting South African Consumers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-in-south-africa", "summary": "South African consumers receive fake Microsoft, Apple, and bank fraud department calls that harvest remote access credentials, OTPs, and banking PINs, sometimes overlapping with 'vishing' operations specifically designed for the South African banking environment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Investment Scams Targeting Malaysians", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-malaysia", "summary": "Malaysia has become a high-frequency target for pig butchering operations, with Chinese-speaking networks specifically crafting culturally resonant approaches for Malaysian-Chinese victims through WhatsApp, WeChat, and dating apps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Scams That Insist on Western Union Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "Sellers on online marketplaces who demand Western Union payment are almost universally fraudulent — the payment method's irreversibility and cash-collection model make it a definitive red flag for any consumer goods transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Property Scams Targeting Tenants in Singapore", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-in-singapore", "summary": "Singapore's high property costs and competitive rental market attract scammers who post fake HDB and condominium listings on PropertyGuru, 99.co, and Facebook Marketplace, collecting deposits from victims who cannot afford to lose their housing search funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Parcel Delivery Scams Targeting Chinese Mobile Users", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-china", "summary": "Chinese mobile users receive fraudulent SMS and WeChat messages impersonating SF Express, JD Logistics, Cainiao, and other carriers, directing them to phishing pages that harvest Alipay, WeChat Pay, and bank credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams Targeting Fraud Victims in the Philippines", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-the-philippines", "summary": "Filipino fraud victims — particularly those who lost money to task scams, pig butchering, or GCash fraud — are re-targeted by fake recovery services impersonating NBI investigators, BSP officials, or international cybercrime units.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "How romance scammers exploit Nextdoor's neighbourhood-trust model to build credibility before pivoting to financial requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-twitch", "summary": "How investment fraudsters use Twitch livestreams, chat raids, and fake influencer accounts to promote fraudulent trading platforms and crypto schemes to a young audience.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Store Scams on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-signal", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers use Signal groups and direct messages to sell non-existent goods, exploiting the app's privacy reputation to evade accountability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Seed Phrase Phishing on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/seed-phrase-phishing-on-discord", "summary": "How crypto scammers use Discord support impersonation, fake bot prompts, and compromised server announcements to steal wallet seed phrases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Goods on Etsy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-goods-on-etsy", "summary": "How counterfeit and misleadingly described goods circulate on Etsy, exploiting the platform's handmade brand to pass off mass-produced or fake items as authentic artisan products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-deposit-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How fraudulent landlords pressure renters into paying deposits and first-month rent via Venmo, then disappear — leaving victims with no buyer protection and no property access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How fake fund-recovery services target prior fraud victims by demanding Western Union wire fees to 'release' frozen assets or process a refund that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-on-wechat-2", "summary": "How phishing attacks exploit WeChat's mini-programs, QR code sharing, and group chats to steal credentials and payment details from users.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams via Google Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-google-pay", "summary": "How task scammers use Google Pay's instant transfers to collect commission deposits and fake upgrade fees from remote workers, then vanish.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "How romance scammers steer victims toward MoneyGram wire transfers for financial requests, exploiting its global reach and limited consumer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How advance fee fraud operators collect escalating bank transfer payments by promising a large sum that never arrives, leaving victims with irreversible losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms: Wire Transfer Deposits", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-via-wire-transfer-2", "summary": "How fraudulent trading platforms accept initial deposits via wire transfer to appear regulated, before transitioning victims to irreversible crypto funding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams in Ireland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-ireland", "summary": "How romance scammers target people in Ireland across dating apps, social media, and messaging platforms, with specific patterns reflecting Irish digital habits and financial systems.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in New Zealand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-new-zealand-2", "summary": "How investment fraud targets New Zealanders through social media ads, cold-call boiler rooms, and crypto platforms, with reporting routes to FMA and Netsafe.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams in Malaysia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-scams-in-malaysia", "summary": "How phishing attacks in Malaysia target Maybank, CIMB, and e-wallet users through fake banking SMS, Macau scam phone calls, and social media impersonation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams in Germany", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-in-germany", "summary": "How fake tech support scammers target German residents through browser lockscreen alerts, phone calls impersonating Microsoft and Telekom, and remote access schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in South Africa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-south-africa-2", "summary": "How cryptocurrency fraud targets South Africans through high-profile investment schemes, WhatsApp investment groups, and fake exchange platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in New Zealand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-new-zealand", "summary": "How task-based job scams recruit New Zealanders via WhatsApp and Telegram, then demand cryptocurrency deposits to unlock commission payouts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How romance scammers move victims from emotional grooming to requesting direct bank transfers, and why this payment method is specifically chosen for larger financial requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How SIM swap fraud operates in the US, targeting crypto holders and high-value account owners by socially engineering mobile carriers to transfer phone numbers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airdrop Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airdrop-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "How fake cryptocurrency airdrop scams spread through X using compromised verified accounts, reply spam, and promoted posts to drain wallets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-scams-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers on Facebook Marketplace use fake listings, Zelle and Venmo payment scams, and fake buyer overpayment schemes to defraud both buyers and sellers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in New Zealand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-new-zealand", "summary": "How pig-butchering investment fraud has emerged as a major threat in New Zealand, with the FMA issuing specific warnings about crypto trading platforms targeting Kiwi investors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-on-telegram", "summary": "How parcel delivery phishing scams spread via Telegram messages, using channel forwarding and bot-generated links to harvest card details from recipients.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Germany", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-scams-in-germany", "summary": "How fraudulent rental listings on German platforms like Immoscout24 and WG-Gesucht target apartment hunters with advance payment requests and fake landlord profiles.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-via-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails claim the recipient has won a prize from a draw, promotion, or loyalty programme they never entered, then use the claim process to harvest personal data or extract an upfront fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-09-19" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Takeover Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-scams-via-phishing", "summary": "How fraudsters use account takeover to initiate unauthorised bank transfers, and how push payment fraud via stolen credentials differs from card fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How WhatsApp task and job scams target UK residents with commission work offers that escalate into cryptocurrency deposit demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Arrest Warrant Scams in India", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-arrest-warrant-scams-in-india", "summary": "How scammers in India impersonate CBI, ED, TRAI, and courier companies to threaten victims with fake arrest warrants, extorting payments to avoid non-existent legal proceedings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Shop Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-shop-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers use TikTok Shop, TikTok LIVE commerce, and influencer-linked storefronts to sell counterfeit or non-existent goods to viewers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Scams in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/qr-code-scams-in-australia", "summary": "How fraudulent QR codes are used in Australia to redirect payments, steal myGov credentials, and enable fake parking and dining payment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "How cryptocurrency scammers use MoneyGram transfers to fund crypto purchases that are then sent to scammer wallets, bypassing exchange fraud controls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-on-linkedin-2", "summary": "How fraudulent recruiters on LinkedIn use convincing profiles, phantom job listings, and interview processes to harvest personal data or extract fees from job seekers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Scams in South Africa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-scams-in-south-africa-2", "summary": "How romance scammers target South Africans through dating apps, Facebook, and Instagram, exploiting EFT payment infrastructure and the country's large unbanked population dynamics.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How task scam operators use bank transfer payments to establish legitimacy before pivoting to cryptocurrency deposit demands from remote workers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Singapore", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-singapore-2", "summary": "How investment fraud targets Singaporeans through social media ads, messaging app investment groups, and clone firm scams, with SPF and MAS reporting routes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-paypal", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonate PayPal customer support to redirect refunds, steal account credentials, and install remote access tools during fake billing disputes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How fraudulent organisations exploit US natural disasters and emergencies to divert charitable donations and impersonate FEMA assistance programmes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Singapore", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-singapore", "summary": "How scammers impersonate Singapore Police Force officers and government officials to extort payments from residents under threat of arrest or legal proceedings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Giveaway Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-giveaway-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How fake cryptocurrency giveaways spread on Instagram through impersonated celebrity accounts, sponsored posts, and Stories that require sending crypto first to receive more.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Mystery Shopper Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mystery-shopper-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How fake mystery shopper assignments use Cash App to receive fake overpayment cheques and instruct workers to send funds back via Cash App before discovering the cheque was fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonate HMRC through phone calls, SMS, and emails to extort tax debt payments or harvest self-assessment login credentials from UK taxpayers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Remote Access Scams Targeting Google Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/remote-access-scams-via-google-pay", "summary": "How remote access scammers gain control of Android devices to initiate Google Pay transfers, enrol new payment methods, and drain linked bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams on Bumble", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-bumble", "summary": "How romance scammers exploit Bumble's women-first messaging model to establish credibility before pivoting to financial requests or investment pitches.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Canada", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-canada-2", "summary": "How investment fraud targets Canadians through exempt market offerings, social media crypto ads, and affinity group scams, with IIROC and CSA reporting routes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Giveaway Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-giveaway-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Fake crypto giveaways flood Discord servers and DMs, promising to double or multiply any cryptocurrency you send to a given wallet. No legitimate project ever requires you to send crypto first to receive more.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Wallet Drainer Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wallet-drainer-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Attackers distribute malicious links through Discord DMs and compromised servers that, when clicked and connected to a crypto wallet, instantly drain all assets. These attacks take seconds and are irreversible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Marketplace Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-marketplace-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Scammers impersonate buyers and sellers in gaming-focused Discord servers to steal in-game items, accounts, or real money through fake escrow arrangements and fraudulent item trades.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Free In-Game Currency Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/free-in-game-currency-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Bots and users in gaming Discord servers promise free in-game currency or premium items in exchange for account credentials, survey completions, or payments — all of which deliver nothing while stealing data or money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-discord", "summary": "Phishing attacks on Discord harvest login credentials, Nitro gift codes, or wallet keys through malicious links sent via DMs, compromised servers, or bots impersonating Discord's own notifications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Takeover Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Attackers hijack Discord accounts through phishing, credential stuffing, and social engineering, then use the compromised accounts to scam the victim's friends and server communities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Fraudulent charity solicitations spread through Reddit posts and DMs, particularly following disasters or viral causes, directing donations to personal wallets or sham organisations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-reddit", "summary": "Phishing attacks on Reddit harvest account credentials through fake login pages, malicious links in posts or DMs, and impersonation of Reddit admins or moderators requesting account verification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Calls on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-on-reddit", "summary": "Scammers pose as tech support agents in Reddit help subreddits or via DM, convincing victims to call fraudulent phone numbers or grant remote access to their devices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Giveaway Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-giveaway-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Fake cryptocurrency giveaways appear in Reddit posts and DMs, impersonating well-known figures or projects and requiring victims to send crypto first to receive a larger promised return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-on-reddit", "summary": "Fraudulent trading platforms are promoted through Reddit posts, subreddit takeovers, and DM campaigns, collecting deposits that appear to grow in fabricated dashboards but can never be withdrawn.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-wechat", "summary": "WeChat is a primary operating environment for pig-butchering fraud, with scammers using the platform's contact-discovery features and group-chat infrastructure to build trust before introducing fraudulent trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-on-wechat", "summary": "WeChat romance connections can escalate into blackmail when scammers solicit intimate images then threaten to share them with the victim's contacts unless payments are made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-wechat", "summary": "Task scam recruiters use WeChat groups and direct messages to offer paid micro-tasks, then extract cryptocurrency deposits from victims under the guise of unlocking earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-on-wechat", "summary": "Fraudulent trading apps are distributed through WeChat contacts and mini-programs, mimicking legitimate brokers with convincing interfaces while blocking all attempts to withdraw deposited funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-on-wechat", "summary": "Fraudulent recruiters use WeChat to lure job seekers into paying upfront fees, providing personal documents, or joining task scam operations under the cover of legitimate employment offers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Dating and Crypto Grooming on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dating-app-crypto-grooming-on-wechat", "summary": "Scammers use WeChat's personal social features to establish romantic or friendly connections and then groom victims into cryptocurrency investments on fraudulent platforms, combining emotional manipulation with financial fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-wechat", "summary": "Phishing attacks on WeChat steal account credentials, WeChat Pay details, and linked bank information through malicious mini-programs, fake login pages, and impersonation of official service accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-wechat", "summary": "Scammers maintain long-term fake romantic personas on WeChat, extracting repeated financial transfers through fabricated emergencies, investment requests, or business 'opportunities'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-wechat", "summary": "WeChat group chats and personal contacts are used to promote fraudulent investment opportunities ranging from fake funds to unregulated forex schemes, often backed by staged testimonials from coordinated group members.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-signal", "summary": "Pig-butchering operators route victims to Signal after initial contact elsewhere, exploiting the app's privacy-first reputation to discourage external scrutiny and create a closed communication environment for the fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-on-signal", "summary": "Fraudulent recruiters conduct fake hiring processes on Signal, collecting upfront fees, identity documents, and personal information under the cover of a legitimate job offer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-on-signal", "summary": "Cryptocurrency scams operate through Signal groups and private messages, promoting fake tokens, fraudulent exchanges, and wallet-draining schemes in a privacy-protected environment that limits platform moderation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-signal", "summary": "Phishing attacks on Signal distribute malicious links through group messages and individual chats, targeting cryptocurrency wallet credentials and account logins with links that appear to be from trusted contacts or official services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-on-signal", "summary": "Signal's disappearing-message feature is exploited by romance blackmailers who cultivate intimate conversations then delete their own messages, retaining evidence of the victim's disclosures while eliminating any proof of provocation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Takeover Scams on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-scams-on-signal", "summary": "Signal accounts are taken over through SIM-swap attacks and registration code theft, giving attackers access to the victim's contacts and the ability to impersonate them in ongoing conversations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-on-signal", "summary": "Fake fund-recovery services operate on Signal, targeting victims of other scams with promises of retrieving lost cryptocurrency or funds — then collecting additional fees while delivering nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-viber", "summary": "Pig-butchering scammers exploit Viber's large user base in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East, using the app's community and direct-message features to cultivate investment fraud relationships.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-on-viber", "summary": "Fraudulent trading apps are promoted through Viber groups and direct messages, particularly targeting communities in regions where Viber is a primary communication platform, with convincing interfaces that ultimately block all withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-viber", "summary": "Task scam operators use Viber groups and direct messages to recruit workers for fake micro-task platforms, extracting cryptocurrency deposits under the guise of unlocking earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-viber", "summary": "Phishing campaigns on Viber distribute malicious links through mass messages and group posts, targeting banking credentials, parcel-delivery data, and government-service logins with convincing impersonation pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-on-viber", "summary": "Romance blackmailers use Viber to cultivate intimate connections and then extort victims by threatening to share sensitive content with Viber contacts or public platforms unless payments are made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-on-viber", "summary": "Fake recruiters use Viber to deliver fraudulent job offers, collect processing fees, and harvest personal documents from job seekers under the guise of legitimate hiring processes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Calls on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-on-viber", "summary": "Scammers use Viber calls and messages to impersonate bank or tech support agents, convincing victims to share one-time passwords, install remote-access tools, or transfer funds to 'secure' accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Takeover Scams on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-scams-on-viber", "summary": "Viber accounts are taken over through SIM-swap attacks, OTP theft, and device compromise, with hijacked accounts then used to send scam messages to the victim's contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-viber", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes use Viber groups and direct messages to promote fake forex, crypto, and real estate opportunities, exploiting the platform's regional reach to target specific communities with localised narratives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Fraudulent charity and neighbourhood-collection posts on Nextdoor exploit hyper-local trust to solicit donations for fabricated causes, disaster relief efforts, or personal hardship stories.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Fraudulent sellers on Nextdoor's For Sale section take payment for items that are never delivered, are misrepresented, or switch items on delivery, exploiting the implied trust of a neighbourhood-verified community.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Buyers on Nextdoor pay for items listed in the For Sale section that are never delivered, with sellers disappearing after receiving payment and providing false or non-existent tracking information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Calls on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Fraudsters post as service providers, tradespeople, or tech support contacts in Nextdoor neighbourhood threads, leading to fake support interactions that collect fees, access credentials, or remote device access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Phishing attacks on Nextdoor harvest account credentials and personal information through fake neighbourhood alerts, suspicious external links in posts, and emails impersonating Nextdoor notifications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Remote Access Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/remote-access-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Tech-support fraudsters posted as local IT helpers on Nextdoor convince residents to install remote-access software, gaining direct control of computers to access financial accounts and steal money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Fraudulent 'local business' listings on Nextdoor promote fake stores and services that collect payments and never deliver, exploiting the community trust that genuine small businesses earn on the platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Fake recovery services post in Nextdoor neighbourhood feeds targeting residents who have publicly mentioned losing money in a scam, offering to retrieve funds in exchange for upfront fees that are never refunded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Fraudulent job listings and recruiter posts on Nextdoor target residents seeking local employment, collecting application fees, personal documents, or directing victims into task scam operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest pins drive buyers to websites that accept orders and payment but never ship products, exploiting the platform's high-intent discovery traffic and the trust generated by professional product imagery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-pinterest", "summary": "Phishing attacks on Pinterest harvest account credentials through fake login pages linked from pins, email impersonation of Pinterest notifications, and boards designed to funnel users toward credential-stealing sites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest boards on financial independence, passive income, and wealth building are exploited by fraudulent investment promoters who pin attractive infographics linking to fraudulent platforms and crypto schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Scammers use Pinterest profiles as part of elaborate fake romantic identity construction, building trust before transitioning to direct-message platforms where blackmail or financial fraud is executed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-pinterest", "summary": "Fraudulent romantic personas use Pinterest as a cross-platform credibility anchor, directing victims to elaborate fake profiles before extracting repeated financial transfers through fabricated personal emergencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest boards on cryptocurrency and blockchain investing promote fraudulent tokens, fake exchanges, and giveaway scams through professionally designed infographic pins that drive users toward fraud sites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Fraudulent charity campaigns use Pinterest's visually compelling format to share emotive cause-related content that directs users to fraudulent donation pages rather than legitimate organisations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Giveaway Scams on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-giveaway-scams-on-twitch", "summary": "Fake crypto giveaway streams impersonate well-known streamers and crypto figures on Twitch, promising to double or multiply sent cryptocurrency in exchange for an initial transfer that is never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Free In-Game Currency Scams on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/free-in-game-currency-scams-on-twitch", "summary": "Twitch chat bots and fake streams promote free in-game currency generators, directing gamers to credential-stealing sites or survey traps that deliver nothing while stealing account access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Marketplace Scams on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-marketplace-scams-on-twitch", "summary": "Fraudulent game item traders use Twitch streams and chat to find buyers for non-existent or misrepresented in-game items, collecting payment through non-reversible methods before delivering nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-twitch", "summary": "Phishing attacks on Twitch steal streamer and viewer credentials through fake affiliate program emails, malicious chat links, and third-party tool sites that harvest Twitch OAuth tokens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Takeover Scams on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-scams-on-twitch", "summary": "Twitch accounts are hijacked through phishing, credential stuffing, and OAuth token theft, enabling attackers to broadcast scam content to the original streamer's audience and access linked payment information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-twitch", "summary": "Task scam operators promote paid micro-work opportunities in Twitch chat and through Twitch-affiliated Discord communities, directing viewers toward task platforms that ultimately extract cryptocurrency deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Wallet Drainer Scams on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wallet-drainer-scams-on-twitch", "summary": "Malicious links distributed through Twitch chat and compromised streamer accounts connect to wallet-draining contracts that empty all cryptocurrency from connected wallets in a single transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Calls on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-on-twitch", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Twitch support in DMs and emails, and pose as game or platform support agents in Twitch chat, convincing streamers and viewers to provide credentials, install remote-access tools, or pay fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails impersonate banks, retailers, and government agencies to steal login credentials, financial data, and personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-email", "summary": "Scammers send promotional emails advertising non-existent shops or counterfeit goods, then take payment and vanish.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudsters send emotional fundraising appeals by email after disasters or during campaigns, diverting donations to personal accounts instead of genuine causes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Notification Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-on-email", "summary": "Criminals send fake parcel-delivery emails claiming a package could not be delivered, asking for a small fee or personal details to rearrange delivery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Takeover Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-scams-on-email", "summary": "Scammers use phishing emails to steal credentials and gain unauthorised access to bank, shopping, and social accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Antivirus Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-antivirus-scams-on-email", "summary": "Criminals send alarming emails claiming your device is infected, pushing fake security software that charges fees or installs real malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate tax authorities by email, threatening penalties or offering false refunds to extract personal details or payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-on-email", "summary": "Con artists email previous fraud victims posing as recovery specialists, government agencies, or law firms, charging upfront fees and delivering nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Malware and Fake Pop-up Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/malware-popups-on-email", "summary": "Malicious emails deliver links or attachments that trigger fake browser alerts or install malware designed to steal data or extort victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers impersonate software or hardware companies, claiming your device has critical errors, then charge for fake repairs or install remote-access tools.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Authority Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers impersonate tax offices, threatening arrest or fines to extract immediate payment or personal information over the phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Scammers impersonate police officers by phone, threatening victims with arrest unless they transfer money or assist in a 'sting operation'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Remote Access Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/remote-access-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers convince victims to install remote-access software, then use the connection to steal banking credentials and drain accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Fraudsters call mobile carriers impersonating the account holder to transfer the victim's phone number to a SIM they control, intercepting SMS authentication codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Cold callers pitch high-return, low-risk investment opportunities that turn out to be entirely fraudulent, disappearing with victims' funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Fraudsters call pretending to be recruiters offering jobs, then extract fees, personal data, or banking details from hopeful applicants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams Initiated via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Scammers make wrong-number or chance calls to start a relationship that transitions into a fraudulent investment scheme, eventually draining large sums.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers posing as fraud investigators or lawyers contact previous victims and charge upfront fees to recover lost funds — then disappear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams on Job Boards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-on-job-boards", "summary": "Fraudulent job postings on employment platforms harvest personal data or fees from applicants by posing as legitimate employers or staffing agencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams on Job Boards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-job-boards", "summary": "Fake gig-style job listings on employment sites promise pay for simple online tasks, but require victims to invest money to 'unlock' earnings that never materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams Originating on Job Boards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-on-job-boards", "summary": "Job listings redirect applicants to WhatsApp for 'screening', where scammers conduct the fraud away from the job board's moderation tools.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scam Recruitment on Job Boards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-job-boards", "summary": "Fraudulent listings recruit 'investment advisors' or 'trading assistants', drawing applicants into fake investment operations that steal their money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Takeover via Job Board Applications", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-scams-on-job-boards", "summary": "Fraudulent applications or fake listings on job boards harvest login credentials and personal data, enabling attackers to take over accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams Routed Through Job Boards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-job-boards", "summary": "Criminals post fake jobs to establish contact with victims, then build trust relationships that transition into fraudulent investment platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on Job Boards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-job-boards", "summary": "Fake job listings and recruiter messages on employment platforms direct users to credential-harvesting pages designed to steal account logins.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Job Scams on Job Boards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-job-boards", "summary": "Fraudulent e-commerce businesses recruit staff on job boards, then use new hires as unwitting front-men for counterfeit or non-existent goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fraud Recovery Job Scams on Job Boards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-on-job-boards", "summary": "Fake job listings recruit victims under the guise of fraud-investigation or asset-recovery roles, ultimately charging fees or collecting sensitive data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent retailers pay for top Google placements to intercept shoppers with counterfeit or non-existent goods, exploiting the trust placed in search results.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Antivirus Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-antivirus-scams-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Sponsored search results promote bogus security software, directing worried users to fake product pages that charge for useless or harmful tools.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Criminals purchase sponsored Google listings to position cloned login pages above legitimate results, capturing credentials when users search for their bank or service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent investment platforms buy Google ad placements to attract investors searching for trading, crypto, or savings opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams via Google Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent tech-support numbers appear in Google ads for queries about device problems, software help, or router issues — connecting users to scammers instead of legitimate support.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Cryptocurrency Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent crypto exchanges and wallet services appear in Google-sponsored results, stealing deposits or private keys from users searching for cryptocurrency platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fraud Recovery Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent recovery services purchase Google ads targeting victims searching 'how to recover scam money', charging upfront fees and delivering nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent trading platforms advertise through Google to attract investors, showing fabricated profits before blocking all withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Malware and Fake Pop-up Scams via Google Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/malware-popups-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Malicious Google ads redirect users to pages that trigger fake browser alerts or silently download malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Cryptocurrency Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "X is a major vector for crypto fraud, from fake giveaway accounts to phishing links embedded in replies to popular posts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity Romance Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Scammers create fake celebrity accounts on X to cultivate romantic connections with fans, ultimately asking for money or gifts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Fake investment promoters use X to build credibility with trading content before pushing victims toward fraudulent platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Takeover Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "X accounts are targeted and hijacked through phishing DMs and third-party app abuse, then used to post scams to the victim's followers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Fraudulent DMs and posts on X direct users to fake login pages and malicious sites disguised as legitimate resources.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Scammers initiate contact through X replies or DMs, build trust over time, then introduce fraudulent investment platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Fraudulent charity accounts post urgent donation appeals on X, exploiting trending news and hashtags to divert donations from genuine causes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platform Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Fraudulent trading platforms are promoted through sponsored posts, influencer accounts, and viral content on X, directing investors to sites that steal deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fraud Recovery Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Fake fund-recovery services target fraud victims on X through reply threads, DMs, and promoted content, charging upfront fees for services that never materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platform Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube videos promote fraudulent trading platforms through testimonials and tutorials, directing viewers to deposit on sites that will never return funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Fraudsters use YouTube channels, ads, and comment sections to impersonate celebrities and direct fans toward romance fraud or financial schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams Sourced from YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Scammers use YouTube comment sections and community posts to initiate the long-term trust-building relationships that characterise pig-butchering investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fraud Recovery Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube videos and channels claiming to show fund-recovery success stories are used to recruit new victims into upfront-fee recovery fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Antivirus Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-antivirus-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube ads and fraudulent tutorial channels promote bogus security software, directing users to purchase products that provide no protection or cause harm.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube comment sections, community posts, and creator impersonators are used to deliver phishing links that steal Google account credentials and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "LinkedIn messages offer remote 'micro-task' or rating-review jobs that secretly require deposit payments, targeting professionals seeking flexible income.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "Financial fraud operators use LinkedIn's professional environment to pitch investment opportunities to business professionals, presenting fake credentials and fabricated track records.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-linkedin", "summary": "Fraudulent messages and fake login pages target LinkedIn users to steal credentials, corporate data, and personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Takeover Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "LinkedIn accounts are compromised through phishing and credential stuffing, then used to conduct fraud against the victim's professional network.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-linkedin", "summary": "Scammers build romantic connections through LinkedIn's professional messaging, exploiting the platform's credibility to defraud victims emotionally and financially.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams Originating on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "Fake recruiters on LinkedIn redirect professionals to WhatsApp for job discussions, where scams are conducted outside LinkedIn's safety monitoring.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fraud Recovery Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "Fake fund-recovery consultants use LinkedIn's professional environment to approach fraud victims and charge upfront fees for services that do not materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-snapchat", "summary": "Romance scammers use Snapchat's ephemeral messaging to build fake romantic relationships with younger users, then request money or gifts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity Romance Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Impostor celebrity accounts on Snapchat target fans with fake personal connections and prize offers, ultimately requesting money or sensitive images.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Snapchat stories and direct messages are used to recruit younger users into task-scam operations that require escalating deposits to unlock fabricated earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Cryptocurrency Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Crypto fraud operates on Snapchat through fake giveaways, wallet-draining links, and peer-pressure referral schemes promoted via stories and direct messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-on-snapchat", "summary": "Snapchat users receive fake login links and prize notifications through snaps and DMs designed to capture account credentials and personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How organised criminal networks exploit Bitcoin's irreversibility to drain victims in long-con investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How sextortion and romance-based blackmailers demand untraceable Bitcoin payments to suppress intimate material.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams via Ethereum & Stablecoins", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-ethereum-stablecoins", "summary": "Why fraudulent investment platforms favour USDT and USDC on Ethereum to obscure losses and impersonate legitimacy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Wallet-Drainer Scams via Ethereum & Stablecoins", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wallet-drainer-scams-via-ethereum-stablecoins", "summary": "How malicious smart-contract approvals drain Ethereum wallets of all stablecoin and token holdings in seconds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams via M-Pesa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-mpesa", "summary": "How fraudulent 'micro-task' employers use M-Pesa to collect deposits and withhold commissions from workers in Kenya and East Africa.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams via M-Pesa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-via-mpesa", "summary": "How sextortion fraudsters in East Africa use M-Pesa to collect untraceable extortion payments from victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams via M-Pesa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-via-mpesa", "summary": "How fraudulent employment agencies collect M-Pesa fees for non-existent jobs abroad or in major Kenyan cities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams via M-Pesa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-via-mpesa", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers on Facebook Marketplace and OLX Kenya collect M-Pesa payments for goods that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-gcash", "summary": "How 'part-time online job' fraudsters in the Philippines use GCash to collect deposits and block withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-via-gcash", "summary": "How long-con investment fraudsters in the Philippines use GCash as an on-ramp to funnel victims into sham crypto platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-via-gcash", "summary": "How fraudulent Facebook and Instagram shops in the Philippines collect GCash payments for goods that never ship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams via bKash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-via-bkash", "summary": "How fraudulent micro-task platforms in Bangladesh exploit bKash to collect deposits from workers seeking online income.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams via bKash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-via-bkash", "summary": "How inheritance, lottery, and aid-fund fraudsters in Bangladesh and the diaspora use bKash to collect processing fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Call Scams via UPI", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-upi", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonating bank and telecom support agents trick Indian consumers into sending UPI payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams via UPI", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-upi", "summary": "How fraudulent stock-market and crypto 'advisors' in India use UPI to collect deposits into unregistered platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams via UPI", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-deposit-scams-via-upi", "summary": "How fraudulent property listings on Indian portals collect UPI security deposits for properties the scammer does not own.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams via Pix", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-via-pix", "summary": "How long-con investment fraudsters in Brazil use Pix's instant transfers to move victim funds before any alarm is raised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams via Pix", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-via-pix", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers on OLX and Facebook Marketplace Brazil use Pix to collect payment for goods that never arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Overpayment Scams via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/overpayment-scams-via-wise", "summary": "How fraudulent buyers exploit Wise transfers and fake payment confirmations to defraud international sellers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-via-wise", "summary": "How international sextortion fraudsters use Wise to collect cross-border extortion payments while evading domestic banking scrutiny.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-wise", "summary": "How fraudulent investment platforms route victim deposits through Wise accounts to obscure the trail and add perceived legitimacy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams via Klarna / BNPL", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-via-klarna-bnpl", "summary": "How fraudulent online shops exploit Klarna and buy-now-pay-later options to appear credible while leaving victims with debt for goods never received.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams via Klarna / BNPL", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-via-klarna-bnpl", "summary": "Why buy-now-pay-later services are increasingly exploited for high-value non-delivery fraud and how to raise an effective dispute.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-via-revolut", "summary": "How sextortion fraudsters targeting European victims demand Revolut payments to exploit the app's instant transfer speed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-revolut", "summary": "How fraudulent investment advisors route victims through Revolut to feed unregistered crypto and trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Call Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-revolut", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonating Revolut support engineers socially engineer victims into authorising large outbound transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How fake crypto-recovery and refund services collect Skrill fees from prior fraud victims and vanish with the payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How unregistered trading platforms accept Skrill deposits to exploit consumer familiarity with the regulated payment brand.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "Why advance-fee and government-impersonation fraudsters demand prepaid card payments — and how to recognise this universal red flag.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "How sextortion fraudsters targeting North American victims demand iTunes, Google Play, or Visa prepaid card codes to avoid detection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Call Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "How tech-support and government-impersonation callers walk victims to retail stores to buy prepaid cards as 'payment'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Recovery Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How fraudulent 'blockchain recovery' services collect Bitcoin upfront fees from prior scam victims and disappear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonating disaster-relief and humanitarian charities exploit Bitcoin donations to siphon funds anonymously.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How foreign lottery fraudsters have modernised their fee-collection method from wire transfers to Bitcoin.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How criminals posing as romantic partners slowly migrate victims to Bitcoin transfers as a trust-exploitation payment rail.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams via Pix", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-via-pix", "summary": "How fraudulent Brazilian online sellers exploit Pix's instant settlement to collect payment for goods that are never dispatched.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-via-gcash", "summary": "How romance fraudsters in the Philippines use GCash to collect emergency loans and hardship funds from victims of fabricated relationships.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-via-gcash", "summary": "How fraudulent overseas employment agencies in the Philippines collect GCash processing fees for jobs that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-deposit-scams-via-wise", "summary": "How fraudulent international property listings exploit Wise transfers to collect deposits from remote renters who never see the property.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via M-Pesa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-mpesa", "summary": "How fraudulent fundraising campaigns in East Africa exploit M-Pesa to collect donations for fabricated disaster-relief and community causes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams via Pix", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-via-pix", "summary": "How romance fraudsters in Brazil exploit Pix's 24/7 instant transfers to collect emergency loans and investment deposits from victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams via bKash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-via-bkash", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers on Bangladeshi online platforms use bKash to collect payment for electronics and goods that never arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams via UPI", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-via-upi", "summary": "How lottery, prize, and government-scheme fraudsters in India exploit UPI's simplicity to collect processing fees from victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How international sextortion operations use Skrill to collect extortion payments from European and Middle Eastern victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams via Ethereum & Stablecoins", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-via-ethereum-stablecoins", "summary": "How pump-and-dump operators, rug-pull projects, and NFT scams exploit Ethereum and stablecoin liquidity pools to exit with victim funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platform Scams via Ethereum & Stablecoins", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-via-ethereum-stablecoins", "summary": "How fraudulent crypto trading platforms accept USDT and ETH deposits while showing fictional profits on manufactured dashboards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams via bKash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-via-bkash", "summary": "How fraudulent overseas employment offers in Bangladesh collect bKash fees at every stage of a fabricated hiring process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams via Pix", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-deposit-scams-via-pix", "summary": "How fraudulent property listings in Brazil exploit Pix's speed to collect rental deposits for properties the scammer does not own.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Call Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-skrill", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonating Skrill support agents socially engineer online-gaming and digital-wallet users into transferring funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams via M-Pesa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-via-mpesa", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers on East African online platforms collect M-Pesa before shipping goods that never arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams via Pix", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-via-pix", "summary": "How unregistered investment advisors and pyramid scheme operators in Brazil use Pix to collect deposits for fabricated financial products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-via-revolut", "summary": "How inheritance and prize fraudsters target Revolut users in the UK and Europe with processing-fee demands via app-to-app transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-revolut", "summary": "How fraudulent fundraising campaigns exploit Revolut's payment links to collect donations from UK and European users for fabricated causes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "How fraudulent online shops ask customers to pay with prepaid Visa or Mastercard codes to prevent any chargeback or recovery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platform Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How fraudulent Bitcoin trading platforms display fictional profits while blocking all withdrawals with escalating fee demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Call Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-gcash", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonating GCash agents trick Filipino users into sharing OTPs or approving transfers under the guise of account security.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-via-wise", "summary": "How pig-butchering operators use Wise as an initial trust-building deposit method before migrating victims to larger crypto transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-via-gcash", "summary": "How government-impersonation and prize fraudsters in the Philippines exploit GCash to collect processing fees for benefits that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-via-wise", "summary": "How inheritance and business-partnership fraudsters target Wise users with multi-stage fee demands for non-existent windfalls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "How disaster-relief fraudsters demand prepaid card codes instead of direct charity donations to pocket funds anonymously.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams via Pix", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-via-pix", "summary": "How prize, inheritance, and government-benefit fraudsters in Brazil use Pix to collect processing fees from victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via UPI", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-upi", "summary": "How fraudulent disaster-relief and temple-donation campaigns in India collect UPI payments for fabricated causes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-via-revolut", "summary": "How fraudulent UK and European marketplace sellers use Revolut transfers to collect payment for goods that never ship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-deposit-scams-via-gcash", "summary": "How fraudulent property listings in the Philippines collect GCash deposits for apartments the scammer does not own.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "How fraudulent employment agencies in North America demand prepaid card codes for background checks, training, and equipment fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Call Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How tech-support and government impersonators demand Bitcoin ATM deposits as the 'only safe' resolution to a fabricated computer or legal emergency.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-via-revolut", "summary": "How fraudulent UK and European online shops direct customers to pay via Revolut peer-to-peer transfers to circumvent platform buyer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams via bKash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-deposit-scams-via-bkash", "summary": "How fraudulent landlords in Dhaka and other Bangladeshi cities collect bKash security deposits for apartments they do not own.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How inheritance and prize fraudsters targeting European and Middle Eastern Skrill users collect sequential fees for a payout that never arrives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in Jamaica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-jamaica", "summary": "How cryptocurrency investment fraud targeting Jamaicans operates through social media, WhatsApp, and fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams in Jamaica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-jamaica", "summary": "Understanding how advance fee fraud operates in Jamaica, including lottery fraud, inheritance schemes, and employment-related variants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams in Jamaica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-in-jamaica", "summary": "How fake foreign lottery notifications target Jamaican residents and how to recognise and avoid them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Jamaica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-jamaica", "summary": "Romance scams in Jamaica — how fraudsters use fake romantic relationships on social media to extract money from victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Jamaica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-jamaica", "summary": "How criminals target previous fraud victims in Jamaica by posing as recovery specialists and charging fees to retrieve lost funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Jamaica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-jamaica", "summary": "How fake online job platforms defraud Jamaicans by asking them to complete paid tasks that require cryptocurrency deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Jamaica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-jamaica", "summary": "How sextortion and romance blackmail scams target Jamaicans on social media and dating platforms, and what to do if targeted.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in Moldova", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-moldova", "summary": "How long-con cryptocurrency investment fraud targets Moldovan residents through social media and fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Moldova", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-moldova", "summary": "How fraudulent job recruiters exploit Moldova's high emigration rates to defraud jobseekers with fake overseas employment offers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Moldova", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-moldova", "summary": "How sextortion and romance blackmail scams operate in Moldova, targeting individuals on dating platforms and social media.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Moldova", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-moldova", "summary": "How fraudulent investment schemes target Moldovans with promises of high returns through Ponzi structures and fake brokers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams in Moldova", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-moldova", "summary": "How advance fee fraud targets Moldovans with fake inheritance, grant, and prize notifications demanding upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Moldova", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-moldova", "summary": "Romance scams in Moldova — how fraudsters use fake relationships to extract money from victims on dating platforms and social media.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Moldova", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-moldova", "summary": "How fake micro-task platforms target Moldovans seeking online income by requiring cryptocurrency deposits to access earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in Laos", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-laos", "summary": "Why Laos has become both a source country for pig butchering scam operations and a country where Lao residents are targeted.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platform Scams in Laos", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-laos", "summary": "How fraudulent cryptocurrency and forex trading platforms target Lao residents with fabricated returns and blocked withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Laos", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-laos", "summary": "How micro-task fraud targeting Lao residents extracts cryptocurrency deposits through fake online job platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Laos", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-laos", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers in Laos lead to financial fraud and in the most serious cases to labour trafficking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Laos", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-laos", "summary": "How cryptocurrency fraud operates in Laos, from fake wallets and exchanges to social-media-driven investment schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Laos", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-laos", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers sent via WhatsApp target Lao workers with fake income opportunities requiring upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Laos", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-laos", "summary": "How romance scams targeting Lao residents use fabricated relationships to extract money through investment pitches and emergency requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams in Honduras", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-honduras", "summary": "How advance fee fraud targeting Hondurans operates through fake government grants, inheritance notices, and business offers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Honduras", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-honduras", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers exploit Honduras's high unemployment and emigration pressures to defraud jobseekers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Honduras", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-honduras", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers spread via WhatsApp target Hondurans with fake income opportunities requiring upfront fees or deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Honduras", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-honduras", "summary": "How fake parcel delivery SMS messages trick Hondurans into paying fees or providing personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Honduras", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-honduras", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonating police officers in Honduras extort money from residents under threat of arrest or prosecution.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Honduras", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-honduras", "summary": "How fraudulent investment schemes operate in Honduras, targeting residents with promises of high returns through unregulated platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Honduras", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-honduras", "summary": "How fraudulent charity appeals exploit humanitarian needs in Honduras to solicit donations that never reach genuine beneficiaries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in El Salvador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-el-salvador", "summary": "How cryptocurrency fraud targets Salvadorans in the context of Bitcoin's legal tender status, exploiting public familiarity with digital currency.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in El Salvador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-el-salvador", "summary": "How fraudulent investment schemes target Salvadorans, often exploiting remittance income and Bitcoin familiarity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platform Scams in El Salvador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-el-salvador", "summary": "How fraudulent forex and crypto trading platforms defraud Salvadorans with fabricated returns and blocked withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in El Salvador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-el-salvador", "summary": "How long-con crypto investment fraud targets Salvadorans through manufactured relationships and fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in El Salvador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-el-salvador", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers targeting Salvadorans exploit emigration pressures and high unemployment with promises of overseas work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams in El Salvador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-el-salvador", "summary": "How advance fee fraud operates in El Salvador through fake government benefits, inheritance offers, and business-deal notifications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in El Salvador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-el-salvador", "summary": "How fake online task platforms defraud Salvadorans by requiring cryptocurrency deposits to unlock earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams in Botswana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-botswana", "summary": "How advance fee fraud targets Batswana with fake business deals, inheritance notifications, and government grant schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Botswana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-botswana", "summary": "How fraudulent charity appeals exploit community generosity in Botswana to collect donations that never reach intended beneficiaries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams in Botswana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-in-botswana", "summary": "How fake foreign lottery notifications target Batswana with prize claims requiring upfront fees to release winnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Botswana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-botswana", "summary": "How romance scams target Batswana on social media and dating platforms with fabricated relationships designed to extract money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Botswana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-botswana", "summary": "How fraudulent investment schemes target Batswana with high-return promises through unregulated online platforms and pyramid schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Botswana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-botswana", "summary": "How scammers impersonating the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) extract payments from residents through fake tax demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Botswana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-botswana", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers distributed via WhatsApp target Batswana with fake income schemes requiring deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Zimbabwe", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-zimbabwe", "summary": "How fraudulent investment schemes target Zimbabweans with promises of high returns amid a challenging economic environment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platform Scams in Zimbabwe", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-zimbabwe", "summary": "How fraudulent forex and cryptocurrency trading platforms defraud Zimbabweans with fabricated account balances and blocked withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams in Zimbabwe", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-zimbabwe", "summary": "How advance fee fraud targets Zimbabweans with inheritance claims, government benefit notifications, and business deal offers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams in Zimbabwe", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-in-zimbabwe", "summary": "How fake foreign lottery notifications target Zimbabweans with prize claims that require fees to release.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Zimbabwe", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-zimbabwe", "summary": "How fraudulent charity appeals exploit Zimbabwe's humanitarian challenges to collect donations that never reach genuine beneficiaries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Zimbabwe", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-zimbabwe", "summary": "How cryptocurrency fraud targets Zimbabweans seeking dollar-stable assets and inflation protection through digital currency.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Zimbabwe", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-zimbabwe", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers exploit Zimbabwe's high unemployment with fake overseas employment opportunities requiring upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams in Zambia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-zambia", "summary": "How advance fee fraud targets Zambians through fake mining contracts, inheritance notices, and government grant schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Zambia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-zambia", "summary": "How fraudulent charity appeals exploit Zambia's genuine humanitarian needs to collect donations that never reach beneficiaries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Zambia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-zambia", "summary": "How fraudulent investment schemes target Zambians with pyramid structures, fake forex platforms, and high-return crypto promises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams in Zambia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-in-zambia", "summary": "How fake foreign lottery notifications target Zambians with prize claims conditional on paying upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Zambia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-zambia", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers distributed via WhatsApp target Zambians seeking flexible income with fake task-based platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Zambia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-zambia", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers targeting Zambians exploit high unemployment with fake overseas and domestic employment opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Zambia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-zambia", "summary": "How scammers impersonating the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) extort payments from individuals and businesses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Rwanda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-rwanda", "summary": "How fraudulent investment schemes target Rwandans amid the country's rapid economic growth and digital transformation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in Rwanda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-rwanda", "summary": "How long-con cryptocurrency investment fraud targets Rwandans through fabricated relationships and fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Rwanda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-rwanda", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers targeting Rwandans exploit employment aspirations with fake overseas and domestic work opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams in Rwanda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-rwanda", "summary": "How advance fee fraud targets Rwandans through fake government grants, business-deal notifications, and inheritance claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Rwanda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-rwanda", "summary": "How fraudulent charity appeals exploit Rwanda's post-genocide recovery context to collect donations that never reach genuine beneficiaries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Rwanda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-rwanda", "summary": "How fake online task income schemes reach Rwandans via WhatsApp and extract deposits under the guise of digital employment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Rwanda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-rwanda", "summary": "How cryptocurrency fraud targets Rwandans through fake exchanges, investment groups, and wallet-draining schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams in Ethiopia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-ethiopia", "summary": "How advance fee fraud targets Ethiopians through fake government grants, business-deal invitations, and inheritance notifications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Ethiopia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-ethiopia", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers targeting Ethiopians exploit high unemployment and migration aspirations with fake overseas work opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Ethiopia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-ethiopia", "summary": "How fake online task income schemes reach Ethiopians via WhatsApp and Telegram with promises of flexible digital income.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Ethiopia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-ethiopia", "summary": "How fraudulent charity appeals exploit Ethiopia's humanitarian profile to collect donations that never reach genuine beneficiaries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Ethiopia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-ethiopia", "summary": "How fraudulent investment schemes target Ethiopians and the diaspora with fake forex, crypto, and property investment opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams in Ethiopia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-in-ethiopia", "summary": "How fake foreign lottery notifications target Ethiopians and the diaspora with prize claims requiring upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Ethiopia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-ethiopia", "summary": "How romance scams targeting Ethiopians use fabricated relationships to extract money through emergency requests and investment pitches.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Mozambique", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-mozambique", "summary": "How advance-fee fraud targets Mozambique residents and diaspora with promises of large windfalls in exchange for upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Mozambique", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-mozambique", "summary": "Fraudulent recruitment agencies in Mozambique charge upfront fees for overseas jobs that do not exist, leaving workers out of pocket and stranded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Mozambique", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-mozambique", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers spread through WhatsApp in Mozambique promise easy income for simple online tasks but ultimately drain victims' mobile-money wallets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Mozambique", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-mozambique", "summary": "Romance scammers create false relationships with people in Mozambique over weeks or months before manufacturing crises that require money transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Mozambique", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-mozambique", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in Mozambique promise outsized returns from forex, mining, or natural-gas ventures and target savers with limited access to regulated financial products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Mozambique", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-mozambique", "summary": "After cyclones and other disasters, fraudulent charity appeals target both international donors and local Mozambicans, siphoning relief money meant for genuine victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Mozambique", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-mozambique", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud is growing in Mozambique as scammers exploit limited regulatory oversight and rising interest in digital assets among urban youth.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Tunisia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-tunisia", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud targets Tunisians and the diaspora with promises of European visa assistance, unclaimed funds, or business contracts requiring upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platform Scams in Tunisia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-tunisia", "summary": "Fraudulent forex and cryptocurrency trading platforms target Tunisian savers by showing fabricated profits before blocking all withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Tunisia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-tunisia", "summary": "Sextortion scammers target Tunisian men and women through fake online relationships, threatening to share intimate content with family and employers unless money is paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Tunisia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-tunisia", "summary": "Fraudulent recruiters in Tunisia charge young job-seekers upfront fees for non-existent European jobs, exploiting demand for legal emigration opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Tunisia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-tunisia", "summary": "Fraudulent holiday-rental and hotel-booking sites target tourists visiting Tunisia's coastal resorts, collecting payments for accommodation that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Tunisia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-tunisia", "summary": "Online task scams recruit Tunisian freelancers and job-seekers to complete simple paid tasks, then demand deposits to unlock earnings that are never paid out.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Tunisia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-tunisia", "summary": "Scammers impersonating Tunisian tax authorities contact taxpayers and businesses demanding immediate payment of fabricated arrears under threat of legal action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platform Scams in Algeria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-algeria", "summary": "Fraudulent online trading platforms exploit Algeria's foreign-exchange restrictions to lure savers with promises of offshore investment returns that never materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Algeria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-algeria", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud in Algeria targets citizens with fake inheritance claims, government contract opportunities, and emigration assistance requiring upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Algeria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-algeria", "summary": "Fraudulent employment agencies in Algeria collect fees from job-seekers for non-existent European and Gulf-state positions, exploiting high demand for legal emigration.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Algeria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-algeria", "summary": "Cryptocurrency scams in Algeria thrive in a legal grey area where the official prohibition on digital assets increases the appeal of 'secret' investment opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Algeria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-algeria", "summary": "Sextortion scammers target Algerians through fabricated online relationships, threatening to share intimate content with family and contacts unless payments are made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Algeria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-algeria", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Algerian police or customs officers to extort payments from citizens by threatening arrest, fines, or asset seizure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Algeria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-algeria", "summary": "Pig-butchering scams combine romance and fake investment to systematically extract large sums from Algerians, often over months of carefully cultivated deception.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Fiji", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-fiji", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud targets Fijians with fake lottery wins, overseas inheritance claims, and business contracts requiring upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Fiji", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-fiji", "summary": "Fraudulent accommodation and tour-booking sites steal deposits from tourists planning Fiji trips, leaving them without reservations on arrival.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Fiji", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-fiji", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in Fiji promise high returns from agriculture, property, or digital trading, targeting savers in a market with limited regulated investment options.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Fiji", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-fiji", "summary": "Romance scammers target Fijians and tourists via social media, building emotional relationships over weeks before engineering financial crises that require money transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Fiji", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-fiji", "summary": "Fake job offers circulate through Fiji's WhatsApp networks, promising easy income for simple online tasks before demanding deposits that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Fiji", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-fiji", "summary": "After cyclones and floods, fake charitable appeals exploit Fiji's disaster vulnerability and donors' generosity to collect funds that never reach affected communities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Fiji", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-fiji", "summary": "Smishing messages impersonating courier and postal services trick Fiji residents into paying fake clearance fees or entering payment details on phishing sites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Maldives", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-maldives", "summary": "Fraudulent resort and liveaboard booking sites steal substantial deposits from travellers planning Maldives trips, leaving them without accommodation on arrival.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Maldives", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-maldives", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in the Maldives target hospitality workers and diaspora savers with fake resort development projects and high-yield trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Maldives", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-maldives", "summary": "Sextortion and romance blackmail affect residents of the Maldives, where social conservatism amplifies the coercive power of threats to expose intimate content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Maldives", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-maldives", "summary": "Fraudulent recruitment agencies target Maldivian workers and incoming expatriates with fake hospitality and construction jobs requiring upfront placement fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Maldives", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-maldives", "summary": "Pig-butchering fraud combines cultivated online relationships with fake investment platforms to drain Maldivian savers over months of carefully staged deception.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Maldives", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-maldives", "summary": "Romance scammers target Maldivian residents and hospitality workers through social media, building false emotional bonds before engineering financial requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Maldives", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-maldives", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud targets Maldivian residents and diaspora with fake lottery wins, business contract offers, and unclaimed estate claims requiring upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Uzbekistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-uzbekistan", "summary": "Fraudulent employment agencies in Uzbekistan charge workers seeking jobs in Russia, South Korea, and the Gulf states upfront fees for positions that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Uzbekistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-uzbekistan", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in Uzbekistan exploit economic liberalisation and growing investor interest to sell fake forex, crypto, and business venture opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Uzbekistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-uzbekistan", "summary": "Online task scams spread through Uzbekistan's Telegram ecosystem, promising easy supplementary income before extracting deposits that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Uzbekistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-uzbekistan", "summary": "Romance scammers target Uzbekistani residents through social media, building false relationships before requesting money for manufactured emergencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Uzbekistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-uzbekistan", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud targets Uzbekistani residents with fake government grant schemes, business contracts, and overseas inheritance claims requiring upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Uzbekistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-uzbekistan", "summary": "Pig-butchering fraud combines cultivated online relationships with fake trading platforms to drain Uzbekistani savers over weeks or months.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Uzbekistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-uzbekistan", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud is growing rapidly in Uzbekistan as official crypto regulation develops and scammers exploit early adopter enthusiasm and knowledge gaps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Uzbekistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-uzbekistan", "summary": "Fake online job offers in Uzbekistan spread through WhatsApp and Telegram, promising easy income for digital tasks before extracting deposits from willing participants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Trinidad and Tobago", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-trinidad-and-tobago", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud targets residents of Trinidad and Tobago with fake lottery wins, overseas business deals, and inheritance claims requiring upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Trinidad and Tobago", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-trinidad-and-tobago", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in Trinidad and Tobago exploit enthusiasm for forex trading and passive income, targeting savers through social media and community networks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Trinidad and Tobago", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-trinidad-and-tobago", "summary": "Sextortion scammers target residents of Trinidad and Tobago through fake online relationships, threatening to share intimate content with family and contacts unless paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Trinidad and Tobago", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-trinidad-and-tobago", "summary": "Romance scammers target residents of Trinidad and Tobago through social media, building false relationships over weeks before manufacturing crises that require money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Trinidad and Tobago", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-trinidad-and-tobago", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud is rising in Trinidad and Tobago as scammers exploit growing digital asset interest and a developing regulatory environment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Trinidad and Tobago", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-trinidad-and-tobago", "summary": "Fraudulent recruitment agencies in Trinidad and Tobago charge job-seekers upfront fees for non-existent positions, particularly in oil and gas, healthcare, and hospitality.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams in Trinidad and Tobago", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-trinidad-and-tobago", "summary": "Fraudulent online shops targeting Trinidadian and Tobagonian shoppers collect payment for electronics, clothing, and household goods that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Belize", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-belize", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud targets Belizeans with fake lottery notifications, inheritance claims, and business contract offers that demand upfront payments before any benefit is delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Belize", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-belize", "summary": "Fraudulent booking sites steal deposits from travellers planning Belize trips by impersonating genuine eco-lodges, dive operators, and tour companies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Belize", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-belize", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes target Belizean savers with fake real-estate, forex, and cryptocurrency opportunities, exploiting limited regulated investment options.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Belize", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-belize", "summary": "Romance scammers target Belizeans and diaspora members through social media, cultivating emotional bonds before engineering financial crises that require money transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Belize", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-belize", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud in Belize exploits limited regulated investment options and growing digital-asset interest, with fake trading platforms and token schemes circulating on social media.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Belize", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-belize", "summary": "Fraudulent recruitment agencies in Belize collect fees from job-seekers for non-existent tourism, agriculture, and overseas positions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Belize", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-belize", "summary": "Fake job offers circulating through Belize's WhatsApp networks promise easy online income before extracting deposits that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Montenegro", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-montenegro", "summary": "Fraudulent holiday accommodation sites steal deposits from tourists planning Montenegro trips by impersonating real coastal villas and apartment rentals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Montenegro", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-montenegro", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in Montenegro target locals and foreign residents with fake real-estate, forex, and crypto opportunities in a market experiencing significant property interest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Montenegro", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-montenegro", "summary": "Pig-butchering fraud combines cultivated online relationships with fake investment platforms to drain Montenegrin residents and expatriates over extended periods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Montenegro", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-montenegro", "summary": "Fraudulent recruitment agencies in Montenegro charge job-seekers fees for non-existent positions in Western Europe and the Gulf states.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Montenegro", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-montenegro", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud targets Montenegrin residents with fake business contracts, property-sale proceeds, and EU grant schemes requiring upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Montenegro", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-montenegro", "summary": "Romance scammers target Montenegrin residents and tourists through social media, building emotional bonds before manufacturing financial crises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Albania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-albania", "summary": "Albania has historical experience of devastating Ponzi scheme collapses and continues to see investment fraud targeting savers through forex, crypto, and fake business ventures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Albania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-albania", "summary": "Fraudulent accommodation booking sites steal deposits from tourists planning trips to Albania's Riviera and historic cities by impersonating real guesthouses and hotels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Albania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-albania", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud targets Albanian residents and diaspora with fake business grants, EU funding opportunities, and inheritance claims requiring upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Albania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-albania", "summary": "Fraudulent recruitment agencies in Albania charge job-seekers fees for non-existent positions in Western Europe and the Gulf, exploiting high demand for legal emigration.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Albania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-albania", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud is growing in Albania as scammers exploit limited regulatory oversight and the appeal of digital assets among younger, digitally connected Albanians.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Albania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-albania", "summary": "Pig-butchering fraud combines cultivated online relationships with fake investment platforms to drain Albanian residents and diaspora members over extended periods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Albania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-albania", "summary": "Romance scammers target Albanian residents and diaspora through social media, cultivating emotional bonds before engineering financial crises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Synthetic Identity Fraud on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/synthetic-identity-fraud-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters assemble fabricated profiles on Facebook by blending real and invented personal details, then use those profiles to gain trust, solicit money, or harvest credentials from unsuspecting users.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Synthetic Identity Fraud on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/synthetic-identity-fraud-on-instagram", "summary": "Fabricated Instagram personas built from real and invented data deceive followers into handing over money, personal information, or account credentials through influencer mimicry and manufactured credibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Synthetic Identity Fraud on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/synthetic-identity-fraud-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters use fabricated WhatsApp identities — often impersonating banks, government agencies, or known contacts — to harvest personal data and extract money from victims who believe they are communicating with a trusted source.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Opening Fraud on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-opening-fraud-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers use personal information gathered from Facebook profiles and Marketplace interactions to open fraudulent financial accounts in victims' names, leaving targets with debt and damaged credit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Opening Fraud on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-opening-fraud-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels and bots are used to recruit money mules and collect stolen identity documents needed to open fraudulent bank and cryptocurrency accounts at scale.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Child Identity Theft on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/child-identity-theft-on-facebook", "summary": "Parents who share children's names, birthdates, schools, and photos on Facebook inadvertently supply fraudsters with the personal data needed to open fraudulent accounts in minors' names — fraud that may go undetected for years.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tax Identity Theft via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tax-identity-theft-on-email", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating tax authorities trick recipients into surrendering their national identification numbers and financial details, which fraudsters then use to file bogus tax returns and collect refunds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tax Identity Theft Schemes on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tax-identity-theft-on-reddit", "summary": "Reddit's personal finance and tax communities are targeted by operators who pose as helpful advisers to extract sensitive tax information, and by posts advertising fraudulent tax-filing services that commit refund fraud on behalf of their 'clients'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential Stuffing Account Fraud via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-account-fraud-on-email", "summary": "Attackers use stolen username and password combinations to break into email accounts, then exploit the access to reset passwords across linked financial services, committing account fraud that is difficult to detect and reverse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New Account Takeover on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-on-instagram", "summary": "Attackers hijack newly created or recently active Instagram accounts through phishing, SIM swapping, and fake support portals, then use them to defraud the account holder's followers before the original owner can regain access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New Account Takeover on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-on-discord", "summary": "Discord accounts are taken over through phishing links, malicious bots, and token-stealing malware, then used to spread further phishing or to defraud the victim's server communities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Data Broker Exposure Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/data-broker-exposure-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Reddit posts and DMs are used to frighten users about their personal data appearing on broker sites, then funnel them toward fake removal services that charge fees and deliver nothing, while potentially harvesting even more data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Verification Badge Phishing Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/verification-badge-phishing-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers pose as Instagram support staff offering to apply the coveted blue verification checkmark, tricking creators and businesses into handing over their login credentials or paying fraudulent fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Verification Badge Phishing Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/verification-badge-phishing-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Aspiring TikTok creators are targeted by fake TikTok support accounts and phishing emails that offer badge verification in exchange for login credentials or upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Copyright Strike Takedown Phishing via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/copyright-strike-takedown-phishing-on-email", "summary": "Fake copyright infringement notices sent by email pressure content creators and website owners into clicking malicious links or paying fraudulent settlement fees by mimicking legitimate DMCA takedown processes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hacked Friend Impersonation Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hacked-friend-impersonation-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters who take over or clone Facebook accounts use the victim's identity to message their contacts with fake emergency requests for money, gift card codes, or personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hacked Friend Impersonation Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hacked-friend-impersonation-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters who take over a WhatsApp account send urgent money or verification requests to every contact, exploiting the trusted phone-number identity system to maximise the chance that recipients comply.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hacked Friend Impersonation Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hacked-friend-impersonation-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Attackers who take over Instagram accounts DM every follower with requests for money, gift cards, or account verification codes while impersonating the legitimate owner.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Recovery Help Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-recovery-help-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as Facebook account recovery specialists in groups and marketplace listings, charging fees or collecting credentials from users desperate to regain access to locked or hacked accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Recovery Help Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-recovery-help-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudsters advertise Instagram account recovery services on Instagram itself and across the web, collecting advance fees and credentials from users who have lost access to their profiles.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Recovery Help Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-recovery-help-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels and bots advertise hacked account recovery services targeting victims who have lost access to social media or financial accounts, collecting fees and credentials that enable further fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Content Monetization Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-content-monetization-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Scammers impersonate TikTok creator programme managers or third-party monetization partners, promising creators accelerated earnings access in exchange for fees, credential sharing, or survey completion that harvests personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Content Monetization Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-content-monetization-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent Facebook pages and DMs impersonate Meta's creator monetization teams, directing page owners to phishing sites or demanding fees to unlock video monetization, stars, or fan subscription features.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Content Monetization Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-content-monetization-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Scammers in Discord communities targeting streamers and content creators offer fraudulent sponsorship and monetization deals that require advance payments or the submission of banking details to operators who then disappear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Influencer Brand Collab Phishing on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/influencer-brand-collab-phishing-on-instagram", "summary": "Fake brand collaboration offers sent via Instagram DM harvest creator credentials, personal banking information, and advance payments from influencers eager to land paid partnerships.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Influencer Brand Collab Phishing via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/influencer-brand-collab-phishing-on-email", "summary": "Phishing emails posing as brand partnership inquiries target content creators with fake collaboration offers, leading to credential harvesting, advance payment fraud, or malicious attachment delivery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Influencer Brand Collab Phishing on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/influencer-brand-collab-phishing-on-tiktok", "summary": "Fake brand partnership DMs on TikTok target creators with fraudulent sponsorship offers that lead to credential theft, upfront payment demands, or personal data collection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Profile Cloning Impersonation Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/profile-cloning-impersonation-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters copy a real person's profile photo, name, and public information to create a duplicate Facebook account, then use it to contact the victim's friends and family with scam messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Profile Cloning Impersonation Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/profile-cloning-impersonation-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudsters copy public Instagram profiles — photos, bios, and follower lists — to create convincing clones that contact followers with scam offers while the real account owner remains unaware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Profile Cloning Impersonation Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/profile-cloning-impersonation-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters copy someone's WhatsApp profile name and photo to create an account on a different number, then contact the victim's friends and family as if they are the real person.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Suspended Account Appeal Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suspended-account-appeal-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent notifications claiming a Facebook account or page has been suspended for policy violations trick users into submitting credentials or paying fees through fake appeal portals to avoid permanent deletion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Suspended Account Appeal Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suspended-account-appeal-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Phishing emails and DMs impersonating Instagram support claim accounts are disabled for policy violations, directing users to fake appeal portals that capture login credentials or charge fraudulent fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Suspended Account Appeal Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suspended-account-appeal-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Fraudulent TikTok account suspension notices trick creators into surrendering credentials or paying appeal fees through phishing sites that imitate TikTok's support communications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Giveaway DM Takeover Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/giveaway-dm-takeover-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fake giveaway DMs on Instagram trick users into submitting login credentials to claim a prize, leading directly to account takeover that the attacker then uses to perpetuate the scam further.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Giveaway DM Takeover Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/giveaway-dm-takeover-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Fake prize notifications sent via TikTok DM trick creators and viewers into entering credentials on phishing sites, leading to account hijacking that spreads the scam to the victim's followers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Giveaway DM Takeover Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/giveaway-dm-takeover-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Fake Discord giveaway bots and DMs lure users into clicking phishing links or authorising malicious OAuth applications that seize control of their accounts and spread the scam automatically.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Session Cookie Theft Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/session-cookie-theft-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Malware distributed through Discord channels and DMs extracts stored session tokens from the victim's browser and Discord app, giving attackers persistent account access that bypasses two-factor authentication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Session Cookie Theft Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/session-cookie-theft-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels distribute infostealer malware and phishing links that harvest browser session cookies and account tokens, enabling attackers to access financial and social accounts without credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Session Cookie Theft Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/session-cookie-theft-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Reddit posts in software and gaming communities share links to infostealer malware disguised as useful tools, harvesting browser session cookies that grant access to financial and social accounts without passwords.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential Stuffing Account Fraud on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-account-fraud-on-facebook", "summary": "Automated bots test billions of leaked username and password combinations against Facebook's login system, breaking into accounts whose owners reuse passwords from breached services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Child Identity Theft Risks on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/child-identity-theft-on-reddit", "summary": "Parenting subreddits and public discussions where parents share children's details create data points that, combined with other sources, can be aggregated for child identity fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Data Broker Exposure Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/data-broker-exposure-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "WhatsApp messages claim to have found personal data about the recipient on broker sites and offer paid removal services or use the manufactured fear to harvest further personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Copyright Strike Takedown Phishing on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/copyright-strike-takedown-phishing-on-tiktok", "summary": "Fake copyright strike notifications targeting TikTok creators claim their content infringes intellectual property rights, directing them to phishing portals that harvest credentials or charge settlement fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential Stuffing Account Fraud on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-account-fraud-on-instagram", "summary": "Automated bots attack Instagram accounts using leaked email and password combinations from other data breaches, gaining access to accounts whose owners have recycled the same password across multiple services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Opening Fraud on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-opening-fraud-on-reddit", "summary": "Reddit communities focused on personal finance, benefits, and credit are targeted by operators who harvest personal details shared in public posts to commit account opening fraud, or who advertise fraudulent 'credit repair' services that collect identity data for the same purpose.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Copyright Strike Takedown Phishing on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/copyright-strike-takedown-phishing-on-facebook", "summary": "Phishing messages impersonating Facebook's rights management team or rights holders' representatives threaten page administrators with removal for copyright infringement, directing them to fake appeal portals that capture credentials or payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Synthetic Identity Fraud on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/synthetic-identity-fraud-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels and bots are used to assemble, trade, and deploy synthetic identities built from real and fabricated personal data for financial fraud, account creation, and money mule recruitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Synthetic Identity Fraud on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/synthetic-identity-fraud-on-tiktok", "summary": "Fabricated TikTok personas built from AI-generated faces and real data fragments are used to run financial scams, recruit money mules, and harvest personal details from a young audience less familiar with social engineering.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tax Identity Theft via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tax-identity-theft-on-whatsapp", "summary": "WhatsApp messages impersonating tax authorities claim refunds are pending or accounts are under review, directing recipients to external sites that harvest the personal data needed for fraudulent tax filings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New Account Takeover on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters use social engineering, SIM swapping, and intercepted verification codes to take over WhatsApp accounts, then exploit the trusted contact list to run impersonation scams against the victim's connections.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New Account Takeover on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram accounts are taken over through phishing login links, intercepted SMS codes, and malicious bots that harvest session data, then used to scam the victim's contacts or access premium channel subscriptions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Giveaway DM Takeover Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/giveaway-dm-takeover-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "WhatsApp messages claiming the recipient has won a prize require a verification step that either harvests personal data or tricks the victim into forwarding a code that surrenders account access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Data Broker Exposure Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/data-broker-exposure-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and pages promote fraudulent data removal services by alarming users with targeted warnings about their personal information appearing on data broker sites, then harvesting even more data in the removal process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Data Broker Exposure Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/data-broker-exposure-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram DMs and ads falsely alert creators and users to the presence of their personal data on broker sites, directing them to fraudulent removal services that collect payment and additional personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Session Cookie Theft Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/session-cookie-theft-scams-on-email", "summary": "Phishing emails and malicious attachments delivered via email harvest browser session cookies, enabling attackers to access online accounts without the victim's credentials by replaying the stolen session tokens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential Stuffing Account Fraud on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-account-fraud-on-telegram", "summary": "Automated bots test leaked credential pairs against Telegram accounts, and compromised Telegram accounts are used to access private channels, paid subscriptions, and contact lists that enable further scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential Stuffing and Linked Account Fraud on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-account-fraud-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Attackers use credentials stuffed from other breaches to access the email or phone accounts linked to WhatsApp, then use those accounts to hijack WhatsApp access through password reset flows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential Stuffing Account Fraud on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-account-fraud-on-tiktok", "summary": "Automated attacks test leaked email and password pairs against TikTok's login system, taking over creator accounts to exploit their audiences for investment promotions, giveaway phishing, and fraudulent brand deals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New Account Takeover on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook accounts are taken over through phishing, credential stuffing, and malicious app permissions, then used to run scam ads, make fraudulent Marketplace listings, and impersonate the owner to their network.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Data Broker Exposure Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/data-broker-exposure-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram bots and channels offer fraudulent personal data removal services, using fear about broker site exposure to collect fees and harvest additional sensitive information from users worried about their privacy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Giveaway DM Takeover Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/giveaway-dm-takeover-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fake prize notifications sent via Facebook Messenger direct recipients to phishing portals that capture login credentials, leading to immediate account takeover that spreads the same scam to the victim's entire contact network.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tax Identity Theft Schemes on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tax-identity-theft-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook pages and ads posing as tax assistance services harvest national ID numbers and financial data needed for fraudulent tax filings, while fake refund posts lure users into submitting personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Child Identity Theft Risks on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/child-identity-theft-on-instagram", "summary": "Parents who publicly share children's names, birthdates, and photos on Instagram inadvertently provide fraudsters with data usable for child identity fraud, particularly when personal details appear in captions and tagged locations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Child Identity Theft via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/child-identity-theft-on-whatsapp", "summary": "WhatsApp group conversations and school community chats can expose children's personal details to fraudsters when parents share too much identifying information in semi-private group settings that are not as secure as they appear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Recovery Help Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-recovery-help-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "WhatsApp messages from strangers claiming to be recovery specialists offer to restore hacked accounts in exchange for fees or credentials, often harvesting the victim's remaining access in the process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New Account Takeover on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-on-reddit", "summary": "Reddit accounts with significant karma or established reputations in valuable communities are targeted for credential stuffing and phishing takeovers, then used to spread scam links, manipulate votes, or harvest community trust.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Copyright Strike Takedown Phishing on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/copyright-strike-takedown-phishing-on-discord", "summary": "Fake copyright infringement claims sent via Discord DM threaten server owners and creators with bot removal or account suspension unless they click external links or pay settlement fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Content Monetization Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-content-monetization-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudulent Instagram accounts impersonate Meta's creator monetization team or third-party platforms, offering creators bogus badge-activated monetization, subscription income, or reels bonus programmes in exchange for credentials or fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tax Identity Theft Schemes on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tax-identity-theft-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok videos and DMs promote fraudulent tax refund maximisation services and file-on-your-behalf schemes that harvest taxpayer ID numbers and banking details for use in fraudulent return filing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Copyright Strike Takedown Phishing via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/copyright-strike-takedown-phishing-on-whatsapp", "summary": "WhatsApp messages impersonating music labels, photo agencies, or platform legal teams threaten content creators and businesses with immediate legal action unless they click settlement links or pay fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Negative-Option Billing Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/negative-option-billing-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "Fraudulent business services promoted on LinkedIn enroll professionals in recurring billing plans through negative-option consent buried in fine print, then make cancellation nearly impossible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Negative-Option Billing Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/negative-option-billing-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Creators and sponsored ads on YouTube funnel viewers into subscription products where billing consent is buried in checkout flows, resulting in recurring charges that are hard to identify and harder to stop.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Negative-Option Billing Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/negative-option-billing-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok's short-video format and impulse-driven browsing make it fertile ground for subscription products that capture payment details on fast-loading landing pages where negative-option billing consent is easily missed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Negative-Option Billing Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/negative-option-billing-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and Marketplace listings funnel users into subscription plans with auto-renewing charges where cancellation rights are buried or ignored, costing victims months of unwanted fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Negative-Option Billing Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/negative-option-billing-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram's visual-first format and influencer culture are exploited by subscription products that enroll followers through polished aesthetics and sponsored posts hiding auto-renewal traps in checkout fine print.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Free-Trial Credit Card Trap Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/free-trial-credit-card-trap-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "Professional tools advertised on LinkedIn collect card details under a free-trial offer, then charge full subscription fees immediately or after a very short window — leaving professionals with unexpected bills.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Free-Trial Credit Card Trap Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/free-trial-credit-card-trap-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube creators and ads promote free-trial offers for tools or courses that silently capture card details and begin charging within days, often for products that do not deliver on their promises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Free-Trial Credit Card Trap Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/free-trial-credit-card-trap-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok's viral content loops amplify free-trial offers that capture card data through fast mobile checkouts, with billing terms that most viewers scroll past before charges begin.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Free-Trial Credit Card Trap Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/free-trial-credit-card-trap-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook's targeted advertising enables free-trial trap operators to reach demographically matched audiences with offers that collect card details and begin billing before most users realise they signed up for a subscription.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Free-Trial Credit Card Trap Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/free-trial-credit-card-trap-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Snapchat's young user base and disappearing-content format create ideal conditions for free-trial operators who know that impulsive checkout decisions and ephemeral ads leave little evidence for dispute.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Subscription Renewal Phishing on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-subscription-renewal-phishing-on-linkedin", "summary": "Phishing messages impersonating LinkedIn Premium or third-party tools used by professionals tell recipients their subscription has lapsed and urge them to click a link to restore access — stealing card details or credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Subscription Renewal Phishing on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-subscription-renewal-phishing-on-x", "summary": "Phishing DMs and emails impersonating X Premium billing warn users that their verified status or subscription will be revoked, directing them to fraudulent pages that steal login credentials or payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Subscription Renewal Phishing on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-subscription-renewal-phishing-on-youtube", "summary": "Phishing emails and messages impersonating YouTube Premium billing or channel membership renewals direct users to credential-harvesting sites designed to look exactly like Google account login pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Subscription Renewal Phishing on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-subscription-renewal-phishing-on-facebook", "summary": "Phishing messages impersonating Facebook or Meta billing warn users that their account or Page subscription is at risk, directing them to credential-harvesting sites disguised as Meta login pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Subscription Renewal Phishing on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-subscription-renewal-phishing-on-instagram", "summary": "Phishing messages impersonating Instagram or Meta Verified billing target creators and business accounts with fake account-suspension warnings, directing victims to credential-stealing login pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "App Store Subscription Trap Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/app-store-subscription-trap-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Fraudulent apps promoted through TikTok videos enroll users in expensive App Store subscriptions within seconds of installation, exploiting Face ID or Touch ID to confirm charges before users understand what they are agreeing to.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "App Store Subscription Trap Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/app-store-subscription-trap-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Apps advertised through Snapchat ads and Stories use impulsive download behaviour to enroll young users in costly App Store subscriptions that are difficult to cancel and expensive to maintain.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "App Store Subscription Trap Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/app-store-subscription-trap-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram Shopping tags and influencer partnerships promote subscription-trap apps that convert impulsive installs into high-cost App Store or Google Play subscriptions within moments of first launch.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "App Store Subscription Trap Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/app-store-subscription-trap-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest's inspiration-driven browsing leads users to promoted pins for lifestyle and creativity apps that funnel downloads into unexpected App Store subscriptions through misleading trial prompts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recruitment-Only Pyramid Schemes on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recruitment-only-pyramid-schemes-on-linkedin", "summary": "Schemes with no genuine product or service target LinkedIn professionals with 'business opportunity' connection requests, recruiting them to pay entry fees and recruit others — generating income only through chain recruitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recruitment-Only Pyramid Schemes on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recruitment-only-pyramid-schemes-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Groups and personal profiles are used to run recruitment-only schemes that collect entry fees and perpetuate through chain recruitment, with no genuine product or service generating income.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recruitment-Only Pyramid Schemes on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recruitment-only-pyramid-schemes-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram's aspirational lifestyle aesthetic is weaponised by recruitment-only pyramid schemes that use luxury imagery and income screenshots to recruit followers into entry-fee schemes with no viable product.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recruitment-Only Pyramid Schemes on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recruitment-only-pyramid-schemes-on-x", "summary": "X accounts posing as financial educators and community builders use threads and DMs to recruit followers into pyramid schemes disguised as 'investment groups' or 'money circles'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recruitment-Only Pyramid Schemes on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recruitment-only-pyramid-schemes-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Nextdoor's local community trust is exploited by neighbours running pyramid recruitment schemes, using the platform's geographic familiarity to lower guard and drive in-person or local digital recruitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Product-Based Pyramid MLM Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/product-based-pyramid-mlm-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Groups and personal profiles host MLM-style schemes that use product sales as legal cover but generate most participant income through recruitment and inventory loading — leaving most members at a net financial loss.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Product-Based Pyramid MLM Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/product-based-pyramid-mlm-on-instagram", "summary": "MLM operators use Instagram's aspirational lifestyle imagery to recruit downlines into product-based schemes where most income derives from recruitment and starter kit sales rather than genuine retail activity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Product-Based Pyramid MLM Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/product-based-pyramid-mlm-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest boards and promoted pins showcase MLM products in aspirational contexts, funnelling interested pinners into downline recruitment through 'work from home' and 'be your own boss' content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Product-Based Pyramid MLM Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/product-based-pyramid-mlm-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Nextdoor's local trust is exploited by MLM participants posting product sales and business opportunity content, using neighbourhood credibility to lower the scrutiny usually applied to income scheme pitches.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Product-Based Pyramid MLM Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/product-based-pyramid-mlm-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube channels dedicated to MLM 'success stories' and product demonstrations recruit viewers into downline structures by presenting income highlights while omitting the statistical reality revealed in income disclosure statements.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto MLM and Matrix Schemes on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-mlm-matrix-schemes-on-x", "summary": "X's crypto-friendly culture and influencer network enable crypto MLM and matrix schemes to spread rapidly, with recruitment threads and DMs promising passive income from blockchain referral networks that pay only through chain recruitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto MLM and Matrix Schemes on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-mlm-matrix-schemes-on-linkedin", "summary": "LinkedIn professionals are targeted by crypto income schemes dressed in business language — 'blockchain investment networks' and 'digital asset communities' that operate as matrix or MLM structures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto MLM and Matrix Schemes on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-mlm-matrix-schemes-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube channels dedicated to 'passive crypto income' recruit viewers into matrix or MLM structures through detailed tutorials on how to earn by building referral networks — schemes that pay only while recruitment continues.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto MLM and Matrix Schemes on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-mlm-matrix-schemes-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok's viral loops spread crypto matrix and MLM scheme content rapidly, with short earnings-reveal videos and referral incentives driving young users toward deposit-based recruitment structures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto MLM and Matrix Schemes on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-mlm-matrix-schemes-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram's lifestyle imagery and influencer referral culture make it a natural home for crypto MLM and matrix schemes that present recruitment income as financial independence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course Guru Schemes on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-guru-schemes-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube's creator economy provides the ideal stage for fake course gurus who use free tutorial content to establish credibility before selling expensive courses that deliver recycled, low-value information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course Guru Schemes on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-guru-schemes-on-linkedin", "summary": "LinkedIn's professional credibility signals are exploited by fake course gurus who present fabricated expertise and inflated credentials to sell overpriced digital courses to professionals seeking career advancement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course Guru Schemes on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-guru-schemes-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram's aspirational content format enables fake gurus to build course-buying audiences through lifestyle imagery and vague income demonstrations before selling high-ticket programs that deliver little real value.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course Guru Schemes on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-guru-schemes-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok's viral discovery engine surfaces fake guru content to millions of viewers who may never have sought it out, driving course sales through algorithmic exposure and short-form income revelation videos.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course Guru Schemes on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-guru-schemes-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Groups and targeted ads funnel professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs into fake online courses sold through webinar funnels and high-pressure group coaching pitches.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Hustle Recruitment Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-hustle-recruitment-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram's hustle culture normalises job offers that are actually recruitment traps — fake remote income roles that require upfront payments, personal data, or recruiting others to earn any income at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Hustle Recruitment Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-hustle-recruitment-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok's side-hustle content ecosystem is saturated with fake income opportunities that collect upfront fees or personal data from users looking for flexible earning options.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Hustle Recruitment Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-hustle-recruitment-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook jobs listings and Groups host fake remote income opportunities that funnel applicants into upfront fee traps or pyramid recruitment structures under the guise of legitimate employment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Hustle Recruitment Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-hustle-recruitment-scams-on-x", "summary": "X's financial independence and side-hustle communities are targeted by recruitment scams that use trending hashtags and influencer-style accounts to lure users into fee traps and pyramid structures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Hustle Recruitment Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-hustle-recruitment-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Snapchat's young user base and direct messaging format make it a vector for peer-to-peer hustle recruitment scams where peers enroll friends into fee-based income schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Passive Income System Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-passive-income-system-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube is the primary distribution channel for fake passive income system promoters, who use tutorial and lifestyle content to sell courses and tools that promise automated earnings but deliver minimal real returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Passive Income System Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-passive-income-system-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram's financial independence aesthetic makes it the primary social surface for passive income system sellers who use lifestyle imagery and income milestone posts to sell courses and systems that generate results only for the sellers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Passive Income System Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-passive-income-system-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Groups and targeted ads promote passive income systems and automated business packages that promise hands-off earnings but deliver low-value content and require ongoing costs that exceed realistic returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Passive Income System Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-passive-income-system-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest's planning and aspirational browsing context makes it effective for passive income course funnels that route pinners through a discovery journey before landing on high-ticket course checkouts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Passive Income System Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-passive-income-system-scams-on-x", "summary": "X's finance and FIRE communities are targeted by passive income system sellers who use threads and engagement farming to build audiences before selling courses and newsletters that claim to teach automated wealth building.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Puppy Deposit Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/puppy-deposit-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Marketplace and Groups host a high volume of fraudulent puppy listings where buyers are asked to pay deposits for puppies that do not exist, then face escalating fee demands before the puppy 'arrives'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Puppy Deposit Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/puppy-deposit-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Nextdoor's local verified community is exploited by puppy deposit scammers who use neighbourhood trust to make fraudulent listings appear credible, collecting deposits from neighbours for puppies that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Puppy Deposit Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/puppy-deposit-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram's visual format and follow-based trust enable fake 'breeder' accounts to collect deposits from buyers for puppies that do not exist, using professionally photographed dogs stolen from real breeders.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Puppy Deposit Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/puppy-deposit-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest pins promoting puppy breeders route buyers to external sites or contact information where fraudulent breeders collect deposits for puppies that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Breeder Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-breeder-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fake pet breeder accounts on Facebook Marketplace and Groups collect payments for non-existent animals using stolen photos, false breeding credentials, and emotionally compelling backstories.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Breeder Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-breeder-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram accounts impersonating legitimate breeders collect purchase payments and deposits using stolen photos, fabricated litter announcements, and follow-up fee escalation tactics.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Breeder Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-breeder-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Nextdoor's local trust is exploited by pet breeder scammers who post neighbourhood-targeted listings using the platform's verification to lower buyer defences before collecting remote payments for animals that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Breeder Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-breeder-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest pins linking to fraudulent breeder websites collect payments from pet buyers who discover the listings through breed-specific searches and assume the polished presentation indicates legitimacy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Adoption Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-adoption-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook rescue Groups and Marketplace listings host fraudulent pet adoption posts that charge fees for animals that do not exist, exploiting the goodwill of people seeking to adopt rather than buy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Adoption Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-adoption-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram accounts impersonating animal rescue organisations collect rehoming fees and transport donations for non-existent animals using sympathetic content and urgent appeal language.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Adoption Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-adoption-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Nextdoor's neighbourhood trust context makes fake pet adoption posts especially convincing, with scammers using local framing to collect rehoming fees for animals that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Redelivery Card Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-redelivery-card-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Scammers use Nextdoor posts and messages to warn neighbours about fake parcel redelivery card schemes circulating in the area, sometimes as a pretext to distribute phishing links or as warnings that inadvertently increase the reach of the original scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Redelivery Card Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-redelivery-card-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook posts and Messenger messages warning about parcel redelivery card scams are weaponised to distribute phishing links, while Facebook Groups about local deliveries are targeted by fake carrier messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Redelivery Card Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-redelivery-card-scams-on-x", "summary": "Scam accounts on X impersonate courier companies and send fake redelivery notifications via mentions and DMs, directing users to phishing sites that collect card details under the guise of a small redelivery fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Parcel Locker Phishing on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/parcel-locker-phishing-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Scammers post fake parcel locker access and fee notifications in neighbourhood Nextdoor Groups, routing users through phishing sites that harvest payment card details under the guise of small parcel release fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Parcel Locker Phishing on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/parcel-locker-phishing-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Groups and Messenger messages distribute fake parcel locker notifications that direct users to phishing sites collecting card details to pay fabricated locker access or customs fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Parcel Locker Phishing on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/parcel-locker-phishing-on-x", "summary": "X is used to distribute fake parcel locker notifications and impersonate carrier support accounts, directing users who post about delivery problems toward phishing sites that collect payment card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Visa and Green Card Services on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-visa-green-card-services-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and Pages promote fraudulent immigration assistance services that collect large fees for visa applications or green card processing they have no authority or ability to complete.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Visa and Green Card Services on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-visa-green-card-services-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube channels providing immigration guidance build audiences of people navigating visa and residency processes, then monetise with links to fraudulent paid services that overcharge or deliver nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Visa and Green Card Services on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-visa-green-card-services-on-linkedin", "summary": "LinkedIn professionals seeking work visas or skilled migrant pathways are targeted by fraudulent immigration consultants who use the platform's professional credibility to charge large fees for services they cannot legally provide.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Visa Lottery Fee Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/visa-lottery-fee-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube channels targeting potential visa lottery participants collect application fees or processing charges for programmes that are either entirely free to enter or do not exist, exploiting viewers unfamiliar with official processes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Visa Lottery Fee Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/visa-lottery-fee-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and Pages targeting diaspora communities promote paid services for visa lottery programmes that are officially free, collecting fees and personal data from applicants who believe they are using an authorised agent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Visa Lottery Fee Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/visa-lottery-fee-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "LinkedIn professionals are targeted by services claiming to offer advantaged or assisted visa lottery entries, collecting fees for official processes that require no third-party intermediary.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Seed Phrase Phishing Targeting Ethereum & Stablecoin Wallets", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/seed-phrase-phishing-via-ethereum-stablecoins", "summary": "Scammers impersonate wallet support teams or DeFi protocols to trick holders of ETH and stablecoins into revealing their 12- or 24-word seed phrase, granting complete wallet access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airdrop Scams Using Ethereum & Stablecoins", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airdrop-scams-via-ethereum-stablecoins", "summary": "Fraudsters advertise fake ETH or stablecoin airdrops to lure victims into connecting wallets and signing malicious approvals, resulting in asset theft rather than any payout.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Giveaway Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-giveaway-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "Scammers impersonate celebrities or exchanges to promise doubled Bitcoin returns, collecting BTC sent by victims while delivering nothing in return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Exchange Support Scams Targeting Bitcoin Users", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-exchange-support-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "Criminals pose as customer support agents for major Bitcoin exchanges to steal login credentials, 2FA codes, and direct Bitcoin transfers from victims seeking help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rug Pull Scams via Ethereum & Stablecoins", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rug-pull-scams-via-ethereum-stablecoins", "summary": "Project founders drain liquidity pools funded by investors' ETH and stablecoins after a coordinated hype campaign, leaving token holders with worthless assets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Staking Yield Scams via Ethereum & Stablecoins", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-yield-scams-via-ethereum-stablecoins", "summary": "Fraudulent staking platforms promise high annual yields on ETH or stablecoins but either steal deposited funds outright or operate Ponzi structures that collapse when withdrawals exceed new deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent online pharmacies request wire transfers for prescription medication orders, then deliver counterfeit or no products at all while keeping the funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Medicine Supply Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-medicine-supply-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent wholesale suppliers solicit wire transfers from businesses or individuals for bulk pharmaceutical orders, then deliver counterfeits or nothing at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Puppy & Pet Seller Scams via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-puppy-pet-seller-scam-via-paypal", "summary": "Scammers list non-existent puppies or pets online, collect PayPal payments, and then demand additional payments for fake shipping, insurance, or vet fees before vanishing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Puppy Deposit Scams via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/puppy-deposit-scams-via-paypal", "summary": "Fraudulent breeders collect non-refundable PayPal deposits to 'hold' puppies that do not exist, then disappear or manufacture excuses to avoid delivery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate well-known charities or create convincing fake ones and pressure donors to contribute via gift cards — a payment method that is untraceable and non-refundable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Fraudsters exploit public generosity after natural disasters or humanitarian crises by soliciting gift card donations for fake relief funds that pocket all proceeds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Victims receive unsolicited notifications that they have won a foreign lottery and must wire transfer fees and taxes to claim a prize that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Scammers tell victims they have won a car, holiday, or cash prize and must pay taxes or release fees via gift cards before the prize can be delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Criminals impersonate tax authorities and threaten arrest or penalties unless the victim immediately pays an alleged outstanding tax debt using gift cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-via-wise", "summary": "Ghost brokers sell fraudulent auto insurance policies at below-market prices, collect Wise payments, and leave drivers uninsured and exposed to legal liability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Scammers post convincing listings for vehicles that do not exist or are not for sale, collect wire transfers from buyers, and disappear with the funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "Fraudulent vehicle sellers on US classified platforms pressure buyers to pay via Zelle — which transfers funds instantly and without buyer protection — then disappear before delivering the car.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "Fraudulent charitable solicitors in the US push donors toward Zelle payments, which settle instantly and cannot be reversed, for causes that benefit no one but the scammer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bitcoin Yield & Staking Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-yield-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "Fraudulent platforms promise high returns on deposited Bitcoin through fake staking, lending, or yield-farming products, stealing BTC deposits when victims attempt to withdraw.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-via-paypal", "summary": "Fraudulent online pharmacies accept PayPal payments for medications that arrive as counterfeits, are not delivered at all, or contain hazardous substitutes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bitcoin Airdrop Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airdrop-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "Fraudulent Bitcoin airdrop promotions trick holders into sending BTC to claim a 'reward,' or into revealing wallet credentials through a fake claim portal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rug Pull Scams Funded via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rug-pull-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "Project founders collect Bitcoin from investors for new crypto ventures or NFT projects, then disappear with the raised BTC once sufficient funds are accumulated.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Puppy & Pet Seller Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-puppy-pet-seller-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "Scammers list non-existent pets on classified platforms and demand Zelle payment, knowing funds will settle instantly with no buyer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Ghost brokers collect Cash App payments for fraudulent auto insurance policies that leave drivers uninsured and potentially facing serious legal consequences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Victims are told they have won a large cash prize or vehicle and must wire transfer processing fees, taxes, or insurance costs before the prize can be released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating tax authorities instruct victims to wire transfer large sums to settle fabricated tax debts, using threats of arrest or asset seizure to prevent the victim from pausing to verify.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Giveaway Scams via Ethereum & Stablecoins", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-giveaway-scams-via-ethereum-stablecoins", "summary": "Fraudsters promise to send double the ETH or stablecoins sent to a giveaway address, collecting participants' crypto while delivering nothing in return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Exchange Support Scams Targeting ETH & Stablecoin Users", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-exchange-support-scams-via-ethereum-stablecoins", "summary": "Impersonators posing as exchange support staff steal Ethereum wallets or on-exchange balances of ETH and stablecoins through fake account recovery processes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Wallet Drainer Tactics Targeting Bitcoin Wallets", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wallet-drainer-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "Attackers use phishing sites, malicious browser extensions, and clipboard hijackers to redirect Bitcoin transactions or steal private keys, draining BTC wallets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-paypal", "summary": "Fraudulent charitable solicitations collect PayPal donations for fake causes, exploiting the platform's reach and perceived legitimacy to steal from well-intentioned donors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Investment Yield Scams Collecting Funds via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-yield-scams-via-wise", "summary": "Fraudulent investment platforms instruct victims to send funds via Wise as part of a high-yield investment scheme, collecting deposits they will never return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-via-bitcoin", "summary": "Illegal online pharmacies targeting prescription drugs or controlled substances accept Bitcoin to avoid regulated payment networks, delivering counterfeit products or nothing at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-via-paypal", "summary": "Fake disaster relief campaigns collect PayPal donations for crises that either do not need the funds or do not exist, pocketing contributions meant for genuine victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Lottery scammers targeting US victims direct them to send Cash App payments for 'processing fees' or 'tax deposits' to claim non-existent foreign lottery prizes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Scammers list non-existent vehicles on US classified platforms and request Cash App payments, knowing the transfers are instant, non-refundable, and carry no buyer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-via-revolut", "summary": "Unregulated online pharmacies across Europe and globally collect Revolut bank transfers for medication orders that arrive as counterfeits or do not arrive at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-via-revolut", "summary": "Ghost brokers operating across European markets collect Revolut payments for fraudulent motor insurance policies, leaving drivers unknowingly uninsured.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Puppy & Pet Seller Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-puppy-pet-seller-scam-via-apple-pay", "summary": "Fraudulent pet sellers request Apple Pay payments for animals that do not exist, exploiting the payment method's speed and the absence of buyer protection for peer-to-peer transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via Pix (Brazil)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-pix", "summary": "Fraudulent charity campaigns in Brazil collect Pix instant payments for fake causes, exploiting the payment system's speed and familiarity to prevent donors from pausing to verify.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Investment Yield Scams Collecting Deposits via Pix (Brazil)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-yield-scams-via-pix", "summary": "Fraudulent investment platforms targeting Brazilian users direct victims to send Pix deposits for high-yield crypto or forex schemes that steal the funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams via UPI (India)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-via-upi", "summary": "Scammers send fake KBC or lottery winner notifications to Indians and request UPI fee payments to release non-existent cash prizes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Crypto Exchange Support Scams Collecting Funds via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-exchange-support-scams-via-wise", "summary": "Criminals impersonating exchange support staff instruct victims to transfer funds via Wise as part of a fake 'account protection' process, stealing the transferred amount.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Puppy Deposit Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/puppy-deposit-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "Fake breeders pressure buyers to send Zelle deposits to hold a puppy, then manufacture delays and demands until they disappear with the funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Seed Phrase Phishing Targeting Bitcoin Wallets", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/seed-phrase-phishing-via-bitcoin", "summary": "Scammers create fake Bitcoin wallet restore portals and support sites to harvest the seed phrases of BTC holders, gaining instant access to their entire wallet balance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-via-revolut", "summary": "Fraudulent vehicle sellers across European markets request Revolut transfers to secure cars that do not exist or will not be delivered, exploiting the platform's instant settlement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "Cryptocurrency-accepting ghost brokers collect Bitcoin for fraudulent auto insurance policies, leaving drivers uninsured with no payment recourse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Medicine Supply Scams via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-medicine-supply-scam-via-paypal", "summary": "Fraudulent pharmaceutical suppliers accept PayPal for bulk medication orders, delivering counterfeits or nothing while buyers believe PayPal's presence means the transaction is safe.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Investment Yield Scams Collecting Deposits via UPI (India)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-yield-scams-via-upi", "summary": "Fraudulent high-yield investment platforms targeting Indians request UPI deposits for crypto or forex schemes promising returns far above market rates.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-via-paypal", "summary": "Scammers selling non-existent vehicles collect PayPal payments, then exploit Friends and Family requests or policy edge cases to prevent buyers from recovering funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vehicle Escrow Scams via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vehicle-escrow-scams-via-paypal", "summary": "Fraudsters direct vehicle buyers to fake PayPal escrow portals that collect full vehicle payment but have no actual connection to PayPal, disappearing with the funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as IRS or other tax authority agents demand immediate Cash App payments to settle fabricated tax debts, threatening arrest to override the victim's rational thinking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Rug Pulls Collecting Capital via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rug-pull-scams-via-wise", "summary": "Fraudulent investment projects collect startup capital from investors via Wise before disappearing with the funds, leaving investors with worthless assets or nothing at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Crypto Airdrop Scams Requiring Wise Fee Payments", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airdrop-scams-via-wise", "summary": "Fraudulent airdrop claims instruct victims to pay 'verification' or 'processing' fees via Wise before receiving tokens that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vehicle Escrow Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vehicle-escrow-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "Fraudulent vehicle sellers direct US buyers to fake escrow sites and then request Zelle payment to fund the escrow, disappearing with the instant transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent relief organisations collect international wire transfers from donors shortly after disasters, routing funds to criminal accounts while providing no aid to victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Crypto Exchange Support Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-exchange-support-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as crypto exchange support staff instruct US victims to send Cash App payments as part of a fake 'account verification' or 'reversal fee' process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Investment Yield Scams Collecting Cash App Payments", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-yield-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Fraudulent investment platforms promise high weekly returns and request Cash App deposits from US victims, providing no returns and eventually blocking all withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Puppy Deposit Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/puppy-deposit-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "Fake breeders collect Apple Pay deposits to reserve puppies that do not exist, then manufacture endless delays and additional charges before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Scammers claim victims have won cash prizes and demand immediate Cash App payments for taxes or processing fees before the non-existent prize can be released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "Scammers in the US list vehicles that do not exist and request Apple Pay deposits, relying on the payment method's instant settlement and lack of buyer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "Lottery scammers targeting US iPhone users request Apple Pay fee payments to release non-existent prizes, exploiting the payment method's instant settlement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent charities soliciting corporate or high-value personal donations request wire transfers to accounts the donor cannot subsequently recover funds from.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "Callers impersonating the IRS or other tax authorities demand immediate Apple Pay settlements for fabricated debts, threatening arrest to prevent victims from verifying the claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Medicine Supply Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-medicine-supply-scam-via-bitcoin", "summary": "Illegal pharmaceutical suppliers accept Bitcoin for bulk medication orders, exploiting the irreversibility and pseudonymity of BTC to collect payment while delivering counterfeits or nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Investment Yield Scams Collecting Deposits via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-yield-scams-via-revolut", "summary": "Fraudulent high-yield investment platforms targeting European users instruct victims to deposit via Revolut, collecting funds with no intention of providing returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Brazil", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-brazil", "summary": "Long-con romance-plus-investment fraud targeting Brazilian users through WhatsApp and Instagram, ending in devastating crypto losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Brazil", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-brazil", "summary": "Fraudulent investment platforms mimicking regulated Brazilian fintechs or foreign exchanges that fabricate profits then vanish with deposited funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Brazil", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-brazil", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers sent via WhatsApp promising remote work or quick earnings that funnel victims into task-based money-laundering or upfront fee traps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Brazil", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-brazil", "summary": "SMS and WhatsApp phishing messages impersonating Brazilian couriers such as Correios, Mercado Livre, or Shopee to harvest credentials and banking data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Brazil", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-brazil", "summary": "Sextortion schemes that begin as romantic connections on dating apps or social media, then threaten to share intimate images unless payments are made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Brazil", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-brazil", "summary": "Classic prepayment fraud adapted for Brazilian audiences, promising lottery prizes, inheritance windfalls, or business contracts that require upfront fees to release.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Brazil", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-brazil", "summary": "Criminals hijack Brazilian mobile numbers by fraudulently porting them to a new SIM, then drain bank accounts and crypto wallets that rely on SMS authentication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Brazil", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-brazil", "summary": "Fraudulent e-commerce sites that mimic legitimate Brazilian retailers, collect payment via boleto or PIX, and never deliver the ordered goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Mexico", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-mexico", "summary": "Long-con romance-investment fraud targeting Mexican users through WhatsApp and Facebook, ending in large cryptocurrency losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Mexico", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-mexico", "summary": "Fraudulent online task schemes promising easy peso earnings for liking videos or rating apps that require escalating deposits to unlock accumulated balances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Mexico", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-mexico", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating Mexican federal police, FGR prosecutors, or INTERPOL demand immediate payments to resolve fabricated legal violations or arrest warrants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Sites in Mexico", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-mexico", "summary": "Fraudulent travel and accommodation booking sites targeting tourists visiting Mexico with non-existent rentals, tours, or hotel reservations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Mexico", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-mexico", "summary": "Unlicensed investment schemes promising above-market returns in pesos or dollars that collapse and vanish with investor funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SAT Tax Office Scams in Mexico", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-mexico", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating Mexico's SAT (Servicio de Administración Tributaria) demand immediate tax payments or threaten criminal prosecution for fabricated tax debts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Mexico", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-mexico", "summary": "Sextortion schemes targeting Mexican users through dating apps and social media by building romantic trust and then threatening to expose intimate images.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Mexico", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-mexico", "summary": "Fake apartment and house rental listings targeting domestic movers and expats in Mexico with non-existent or misrepresented properties requiring upfront deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Indonesia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-indonesia", "summary": "Long-con romance-investment fraud spreading through WhatsApp and Telegram in Indonesia, exploiting crypto enthusiasm and online dating culture to steal large sums.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Indonesia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-indonesia", "summary": "Fake online task platforms in Indonesia luring workers with rupiah earnings for liking videos or writing reviews, then demanding escalating deposits to withdraw accumulated balances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Indonesia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-indonesia", "summary": "Fraudulent job recruiters targeting Indonesian workers with fabricated overseas job offers — some leading to trafficking situations in Southeast Asian scam compounds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Indonesia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-indonesia", "summary": "Fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes targeting Indonesian investors through Telegram pump-and-dump groups, unregistered exchanges, and fake token launches.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Indonesia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-indonesia", "summary": "Fraudulent Indonesian e-commerce stores and social commerce sellers collecting payment via bank transfer or QRIS then failing to deliver goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Indonesia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-indonesia", "summary": "Criminals hijacking Indonesian mobile numbers to intercept OTP codes and drain mobile banking and e-wallet accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Vietnam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-vietnam", "summary": "Long-con romance-investment fraud targeting Vietnamese users through Zalo, Facebook, and Telegram with fake crypto trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Vietnam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-vietnam", "summary": "Fake Vietnamese online task platforms promising VND earnings for simple online work that require escalating deposits to unlock accumulated balances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Vietnam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-vietnam", "summary": "Fraudulent overseas job recruiters targeting Vietnamese workers with illegal employment offers — some leading to forced labor in Southeast Asian scam compounds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Vietnam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-vietnam", "summary": "Sextortion schemes targeting Vietnamese users through Facebook and Zalo with fabricated romantic relationships ending in threats to share intimate content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Vietnam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-vietnam", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating Vietnam's General Department of Taxation (TCT) or Ministry of Finance to demand immediate tax payments under threat of legal action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Vietnam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-vietnam", "summary": "Unlicensed securities, forex, and virtual asset investment schemes targeting Vietnamese investors with high promised returns and no regulatory oversight.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in South Korea", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-south-korea", "summary": "Long-con romance-investment fraud targeting Korean users through KakaoTalk and investment-themed SNS communities with fake crypto and stock trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in South Korea", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-south-korea", "summary": "Fraudulent stock and crypto trading platforms mimicking FSC-licensed Korean brokerages that fabricate gains then refuse withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police and Prosecutor Scams in South Korea", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-south-korea", "summary": "Voice phishing (boice phishing) fraudsters impersonating Korean prosecutors, police, or FSS officials demand urgent fund transfers to fabricated 'safe accounts'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in South Korea", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-south-korea", "summary": "Sextortion schemes targeting Korean users through social media and dating apps, rapidly escalating to threats to share intimate recordings with contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in South Korea", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-south-korea", "summary": "Fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes targeting Korean investors through Telegram trading groups, unregistered VASPs, and pump-and-dump operations on low-cap tokens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in South Korea", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-south-korea", "summary": "Prepayment fraud targeting Korean victims with lottery wins, government subsidies, or inheritance claims requiring upfront fees before funds can be released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Japan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-japan", "summary": "Long-con romance-investment fraud targeting Japanese users through Line, Instagram, and matchmaking apps with fake crypto and FX trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Japan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-japan", "summary": "Fraudulent FX and crypto trading platforms targeting Japanese investors by mimicking FSA-licensed brokerages and fabricating yen-denominated returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police and Official Scams in Japan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-japan", "summary": "Ore ore sagi (it's me fraud) and kanreisha sagi (related-person fraud) calls impersonating police, prosecutors, or family members to steal cash or bank transfers from Japanese victims, especially the elderly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Japan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-japan", "summary": "Sextortion targeting Japanese users through social media and dating apps, with threats to distribute intimate content to contacts or employers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Sites in Japan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-japan", "summary": "Fraudulent travel and accommodation booking sites targeting inbound visitors to Japan with non-existent ryokan, hotels, and tour bookings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Japan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-japan", "summary": "Prepayment fraud targeting Japanese victims with lottery prizes, foreign inheritance, and government subsidy claims that require successive upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Thailand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-thailand", "summary": "Long-con romance-investment fraud targeting Thai users through Line and Facebook, often operated from scam compounds near Thailand's borders.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Thailand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-thailand", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers targeting Thai workers with overseas positions — some leading to trafficking into scam compounds in Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Thailand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-thailand", "summary": "Sextortion schemes targeting Thai users and foreign visitors through dating apps and social media with threats to share intimate content unless payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Thailand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-thailand", "summary": "Unlicensed investment and cryptocurrency schemes targeting Thai investors with high promised returns in baht, exploiting growing retail investor appetite.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Thailand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-thailand", "summary": "SMS and Line phishing messages impersonating Thai couriers like Kerry Express, Flash Express, or Thailand Post to harvest banking credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Thailand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-thailand", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating Thai police or DSI agents via call center operations, claiming victims are implicated in crimes and demanding immediate baht payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Egypt", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-egypt", "summary": "Long-con romance-investment fraud targeting Egyptian users through WhatsApp and Facebook with fake crypto and forex trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Egypt", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-egypt", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating Egyptian police, prosecutors, or tax officials to extort payments from citizens by threatening fabricated criminal investigations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Egypt", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-egypt", "summary": "Unlicensed forex, gold, and pyramid investment schemes targeting Egyptian investors seeking EGP-inflation hedges with promises of high guaranteed returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Egypt", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-egypt", "summary": "Prepayment fraud targeting Egyptians and diaspora members with foreign lottery prizes, Gulf inheritance claims, or government grant notifications requiring upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Egypt", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-egypt", "summary": "Fraudulent fundraising campaigns impersonating Egyptian charities, Islamic giving platforms, or regional humanitarian causes to divert zakat and sadaqah donations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Egypt", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-egypt", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers circulated via WhatsApp targeting Egyptian job-seekers with Gulf work promises or domestic remote positions requiring upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in South Korea", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-south-korea", "summary": "Criminals hijacking Korean mobile numbers to intercept OTP codes and drain online banking and crypto exchange accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "KakaoTalk Job Scams in South Korea", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-south-korea", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers and part-time work scams distributed through KakaoTalk in South Korea, including task-deposit schemes and fake corporate recruiters.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in South Korea", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-south-korea", "summary": "Fraudulent Korean e-commerce sites and social commerce sellers collecting payment then failing to deliver goods or sending counterfeits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Vietnam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-vietnam", "summary": "Fraudulent Vietnamese e-commerce stores on Shopee, TikTok Shop, and standalone sites collecting payment via bank transfer then delivering nothing or counterfeits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Thailand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-thailand", "summary": "Criminals hijacking Thai mobile numbers to intercept OTP codes and drain PromptPay and mobile banking accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Egypt", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-egypt", "summary": "Fraudulent Egyptian e-commerce shops on Facebook and Instagram collecting payment via Vodafone Cash or bank transfer for goods never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Egypt", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-egypt", "summary": "Fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes targeting Egyptian investors through Telegram and WhatsApp groups with unlicensed platforms and pump-and-dump operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Egypt", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-egypt", "summary": "SMS phishing messages impersonating Egyptian couriers or Aramex to harvest banking credentials or collect fake customs fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Indonesia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-indonesia", "summary": "Sextortion schemes targeting Indonesian users through dating apps and social media with threats to distribute intimate content unless payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Indonesia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-indonesia", "summary": "Prepayment fraud targeting Indonesians with lottery wins, foreign inheritance, and government subsidy notifications requiring upfront fees to release promised funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Vietnam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-vietnam", "summary": "SMS and Zalo phishing messages impersonating Vietnamese couriers such as Giao Hang Nhanh, Vietnam Post, or J&T Express to harvest banking credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Indonesia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-indonesia", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers distributed via WhatsApp targeting Indonesian job-seekers with remote work or overseas positions requiring advance fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Sites in Indonesia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-indonesia", "summary": "Fraudulent travel and accommodation booking sites targeting Indonesian domestic tourists and foreign visitors with fake hotel and villa reservations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Japan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-japan", "summary": "Criminals hijacking Japanese mobile numbers to intercept OTP codes and drain mobile banking and investment accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Sites in Thailand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-thailand", "summary": "Fraudulent travel and accommodation booking sites targeting tourists and domestic travelers in Thailand with non-existent hotel, resort, and tour reservations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Thailand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-thailand", "summary": "Prepayment fraud targeting Thai victims with lottery wins, government welfare notifications, and inheritance claims that require upfront fees before funds are released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Indonesia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-indonesia", "summary": "SMS and WhatsApp phishing messages impersonating Indonesian couriers JNE, J&T, or SiCepat to harvest mobile banking credentials or collect fake delivery fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Brazil", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-brazil", "summary": "Fraudulent fund recovery services targeting Brazilian victims of prior investment and crypto scams, charging fees to 'recover' lost funds that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in Turkey", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-turkey", "summary": "How long-con cryptocurrency investment fraud operates in Turkey, targeting victims through social media and fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Turkey", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-turkey", "summary": "How fraudulent investment schemes exploit Turkey's high-inflation economy to steal savings from individuals seeking better returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Turkey", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-turkey", "summary": "The landscape of cryptocurrency fraud in Turkey, from fake exchanges to pump-and-dump schemes targeting retail investors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Turkey", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-turkey", "summary": "How fraudulent forex and crypto trading websites deceive Turkish investors with fabricated dashboards and impossible returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Turkey", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-turkey", "summary": "How sextortion and romance-based blackmail schemes target Turkish individuals online, exploiting social stigma to extract money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Turkey", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-turkey", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonating Turkish police officers and prosecutors frighten victims into transferring money to 'secure accounts'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Turkey", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-turkey", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers targeting Turkish jobseekers lead to financial loss, data theft, or trafficking into forced scam operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams in Turkey", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-turkey", "summary": "How advance fee fraud — including fake inheritance and prize schemes — targets Turkish residents and expatriates.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Turkey", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-turkey", "summary": "How criminals in Turkey hijack mobile numbers to bypass SMS two-factor authentication and drain bank and crypto accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in Saudi Arabia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-saudi-arabia", "summary": "How long-con crypto investment fraud targets Saudi residents and expatriate workers through WhatsApp and Telegram.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Saudi Arabia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-saudi-arabia", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes targeting Saudi residents, from unlicensed forex platforms to fake real-estate investment opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Saudi Arabia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-saudi-arabia", "summary": "How sextortion schemes exploit Saudi social norms and digital platforms to extort money from individuals through threats of exposure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Saudi Arabia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-saudi-arabia", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonating Saudi authorities intimidate residents into transferring money or revealing account details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Saudi Arabia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-saudi-arabia", "summary": "How fake job offers via WhatsApp target Saudi residents and expatriates, leading to fee theft and data harvesting.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Saudi Arabia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-saudi-arabia", "summary": "How fake micro-task job platforms in Saudi Arabia defraud participants by requiring deposits to unlock promised earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Saudi Arabia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-saudi-arabia", "summary": "How fraudulent e-commerce sites targeting Saudi shoppers take payment for goods that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Saudi Arabia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-saudi-arabia", "summary": "How fraudsters targeting Saudi fraud victims offer fake fund recovery services to steal a second time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in Kenya", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-kenya", "summary": "How long-con cryptocurrency investment fraud targets Kenyans through social media and fake trading apps, often linked to M-Pesa payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Kenya", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-kenya", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes targeting Kenyans, from Ponzi structures using M-Pesa to fake savings and loan platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Kenya", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-kenya", "summary": "How fake micro-task platforms defraud Kenyan participants by requiring M-Pesa deposits to unlock promised earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Kenya", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-kenya", "summary": "How fake job offers via WhatsApp exploit Kenyan jobseekers with fee demands, data theft, and false overseas employment promises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Kenya", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-kenya", "summary": "How romance fraudsters build fake relationships with Kenyans on Facebook and dating apps to solicit money and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Kenya", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-kenya", "summary": "How fraudulent SMS and WhatsApp delivery notifications phish Kenyan recipients for M-Pesa payments and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams in Kenya", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-kenya", "summary": "How advance fee fraud — from fake inheritance offers to government grant scams — targets Kenyan individuals via phone and email.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in Pakistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-pakistan", "summary": "How long-con cryptocurrency investment fraud targets Pakistani residents and overseas Pakistanis through WhatsApp and Telegram.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Pakistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-pakistan", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in Pakistan, from unlicensed forex brokers to pyramid schemes spreading through WhatsApp networks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Pakistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-pakistan", "summary": "How fake job offers circulating on WhatsApp target Pakistani jobseekers with fee demands and false overseas employment promises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Pakistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-pakistan", "summary": "How fraudulent recruiters in Pakistan extract fees from jobseekers and, in the most serious cases, traffic individuals abroad.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Pakistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-pakistan", "summary": "How criminals in Pakistan use SIM hijacking to take over mobile banking and accounts, exploiting weak SIM replacement controls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Pakistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-pakistan", "summary": "How sextortion scams target Pakistani individuals using fake romantic personas and exploit social stigma to extort money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Pakistan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-pakistan", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonating Pakistani law enforcement frighten residents into paying false fines or revealing banking credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in Bangladesh", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-bangladesh", "summary": "How long-con crypto investment fraud targets Bangladeshis through Facebook and WhatsApp, often tied to bKash payment flows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Bangladesh", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-bangladesh", "summary": "How fake micro-task platforms target Bangladeshi workers with bKash deposit demands disguised as unlocking earned commissions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Bangladesh", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-bangladesh", "summary": "How fraudulent WhatsApp job offers exploit Bangladeshi jobseekers with fee demands and false overseas employment promises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Bangladesh", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-bangladesh", "summary": "How fraudulent recruitment operators in Bangladesh exploit overseas employment aspirations, including trafficking into forced labour.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Bangladesh", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-bangladesh", "summary": "How sextortion schemes exploit Bangladeshi victims through fake online relationships and social stigma to demand bKash payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in Colombia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-colombia", "summary": "How long-con crypto investment fraud targets Colombians through WhatsApp and Instagram using fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Colombia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-colombia", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in Colombia, from pyramid operations to fake real estate and commodity trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Colombia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-colombia", "summary": "How sextortion operations target Colombian victims through fake online relationships and threats of content exposure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Colombia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-colombia", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonating Colombian police or DIAN officials intimidate residents into paying fabricated fines or taxes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Colombia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-colombia", "summary": "How fraudulent e-commerce sites targeting Colombian shoppers collect payment for goods that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams in Colombia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-colombia", "summary": "How advance fee fraud targets Colombians through fake inheritance claims, prize notifications, and government grant impersonation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in Argentina", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-argentina", "summary": "How long-con cryptocurrency investment fraud exploits Argentina's inflation crisis and dollar appetite to trap Argentine investors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Argentina", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-argentina", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes targeting Argentines with promises of dollar returns, from fake brokers to pyramid structures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Argentina", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-argentina", "summary": "How fraudulent e-commerce sites targeting Argentine shoppers collect payment for goods that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Argentina", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-argentina", "summary": "How sextortion schemes target Argentine victims through fake online relationships on social media and dating apps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Argentina", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-argentina", "summary": "How SIM hijacking enables criminals in Argentina to take over WhatsApp accounts, mobile banking, and crypto wallets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig Butchering Scams in Hong Kong", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-hong-kong", "summary": "How long-con cryptocurrency investment fraud targets Hong Kong residents through WhatsApp and dating apps, with high average losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Hong Kong", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-hong-kong", "summary": "How fraudulent investment schemes targeting Hong Kong residents range from fake licensed brokers to sophisticated Ponzi structures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Hong Kong", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-hong-kong", "summary": "How sextortion schemes target Hong Kong residents on dating apps and social media, with high financial and reputational stakes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Hong Kong", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-hong-kong", "summary": "How fraudulent crypto and forex trading websites deceive Hong Kong investors by cloning real SFC-licensed exchange branding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Hong Kong", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-hong-kong", "summary": "How SIM hijacking in Hong Kong enables attackers to bypass banking OTPs and drain HKD accounts via faster payment systems.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Hong Kong", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-hong-kong", "summary": "How fraudsters target Hong Kong scam victims with fake fund recovery services to steal a second and larger time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Hong Kong", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-hong-kong", "summary": "How fraudulent hotel and travel booking websites target Hong Kong travellers with payments for non-existent reservations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Italy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-italy", "summary": "How long-term crypto investment fraud targets Italian residents through WhatsApp, Telegram and fake piattaforme di trading.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Italy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-italy", "summary": "Fraudulent investment portals impersonating CONSOB-regulated Italian brokers rob victims of savings through high-pressure online trading schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Italy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-italy", "summary": "Fraudulent apartment and holiday rental listings on Italian portals extract deposits from tenants who never receive keys or access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Italy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-italy", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating the Agenzia delle Entrate demand urgent tax payments or personal data from Italian residents by phone, email and SMS.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Italy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-italy", "summary": "Sextortion and romance blackmail operations target Italian men and women on dating apps and social platforms, threatening to expose intimate content to family and colleagues.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Italy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-italy", "summary": "Smishing messages posing as BRT, SDA, GLS or Poste Italiane trick Italian shoppers into surrendering card data or installing malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Italy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-italy", "summary": "Classic 419-style advance-fee fraud reaches Italian residents through email, WhatsApp and social media, promising inheritances, lottery prizes or business deals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Italy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-italy", "summary": "Bogus job offers on LinkedIn and local Italian platforms extract personal data and fees from job-seekers under the guise of employment screening.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Italy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-italy", "summary": "Criminals convince Italian mobile operators to transfer a victim's number to a new SIM card, bypassing SMS-based two-factor authentication to drain bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Spain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-spain", "summary": "Crypto investment fraud targeting Spanish residents via WhatsApp and Telegram, using fake CNMV-branded platforms to steal retirement savings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Spain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-spain", "summary": "Fraudulent holiday and long-term rental listings on Spanish portals extract deposits from tenants who never receive keys or access to properties.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Spain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-spain", "summary": "Criminals impersonating the Agencia Tributaria (AEAT) demand immediate payments or personal data from Spanish taxpayers via email, SMS and phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Spain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-spain", "summary": "Sextortion operations use dating apps and social media to blackmail Spanish victims with intimate content, demanding crypto or bank transfer payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Spain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-spain", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes targeting Spanish savers promise high returns on Forex, crypto and real estate while stealing capital through unregulated platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Spain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-spain", "summary": "Smishing messages impersonating Correos, MRW and DHL steal card data from Spanish shoppers with fake parcel-release payment demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Spain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-spain", "summary": "Cloned hotel and holiday booking platforms steal payments from tourists planning trips to Spain by intercepting bookings outside legitimate platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Spain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-spain", "summary": "Work-from-home task fraud recruits Spanish workers through WhatsApp and Telegram with simple microtask promises that require upfront crypto deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Spain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-spain", "summary": "Criminals impersonating Policía Nacional or Guardia Civil officers coerce Spanish residents into paying fabricated fines or surrendering banking details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Spain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-spain", "summary": "Classic 419-style fraud reaches Spanish residents through email and WhatsApp, promising inheritances, lottery winnings or business commissions to solicit advance fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in France", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-france", "summary": "Long-term crypto romance investment fraud targets French residents through LinkedIn, WhatsApp and Telegram with platforms mimicking AMF-regulated brokers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in France", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-france", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating the Direction Générale des Finances Publiques (DGFiP) steal payments and personal data from French taxpayers via phishing emails and fake tax portals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in France", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-france", "summary": "Fraudulent apartment listings on Le Bon Coin and PAP extract caution deposits from French renters and students seeking accommodation in tight urban markets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in France", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-france", "summary": "Smishing campaigns impersonating La Poste, Colissimo and DPD steal card details from French online shoppers with fake parcel-release fee demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in France", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-france", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes targeting French savers through social media ads, cold calls and clone brokers steal retirement savings under the guise of regulated financial products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in France", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-france", "summary": "Sextortion operations target French men and women through dating apps and social media, threatening intimate content disclosure to solicit crypto and bank-transfer payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in France", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-france", "summary": "Criminals impersonating Police Nationale or Gendarmerie officers coerce French residents into paying fabricated fines or transferring funds to fake 'secure accounts'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in the Netherlands", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-netherlands", "summary": "Long-term crypto investment romance fraud targets Dutch residents via WhatsApp and LinkedIn, using fake AFM-branded platforms to steal retirement savings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in the Netherlands", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-netherlands", "summary": "Smishing campaigns impersonating PostNL and DHL steal banking credentials from Dutch online shoppers with fake parcel tracking links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in the Netherlands", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-netherlands", "summary": "Fraudulent housing listings on Funda and Kamernet steal deposits from Dutch renters in one of Europe's most competitive rental markets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in the Netherlands", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-netherlands", "summary": "Fraudulent investment firms target Dutch savers with high-yield crypto and Forex promises, exploiting the Netherlands' high financial literacy with credible professional facades.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Poland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-poland", "summary": "Crypto investment romance fraud targets Polish residents through Facebook, WhatsApp and fake KNF-regulated platforms, with losses concentrated among mid-career professionals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Poland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-poland", "summary": "Smishing campaigns impersonating InPost, DHL and Poczta Polska steal BLIK codes and banking credentials from Polish online shoppers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Poland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-poland", "summary": "Bogus job offers on Polish portals and LinkedIn extract PESEL numbers, identity documents and fees from job-seekers under the guise of international employment screening.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Poland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-poland", "summary": "Classic 419-style fraud reaches Polish residents through email and social media with fabricated inheritance, lottery and business deal offers requiring advance fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Romania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-romania", "summary": "Crypto investment romance fraud targets Romanian residents and diaspora through Facebook and WhatsApp, with fake ASF-regulated trading platforms stealing savings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Romania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-romania", "summary": "Classic and evolved 419-style fraud reaches Romanian residents through email, Facebook and OLX with fake prizes, inheritances and business opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Romania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-romania", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers in Romania and abroad extract identity data and fees from Romanian job-seekers through fake HR processes and illegal employment agencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Ukraine", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-ukraine", "summary": "Crypto investment romance fraud targets Ukrainian residents and refugees through Telegram and Viber with fake NSSMC-branded platforms and promises of financial stability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Ukraine", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-ukraine", "summary": "Fraudulent overseas employment offers target Ukrainian job-seekers and displaced persons with upfront fees and identity data collection that leads to exploitation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Ukraine", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-ukraine", "summary": "Online micro-task fraud on Telegram recruits Ukrainians with simple paid tasks before demanding crypto deposits that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Ukraine", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-ukraine", "summary": "Criminals hijack Ukrainian mobile numbers from Kyivstar, Vodafone Ukraine and lifecell to intercept banking OTPs and drain Monobank and PrivatBank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Greece", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-greece", "summary": "Crypto investment romance fraud targets Greek residents via Facebook and WhatsApp, using fake HCMC-licensed platforms to steal retirement savings and property equity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Greece", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-greece", "summary": "Fraudulent holiday and long-term rental listings on Greek portals and Airbnb target tourists and residents in Athens, Thessaloniki and the Greek islands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Greece", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-greece", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (ΑΑΔΕ) target Greek taxpayers with fake refund notifications and urgent payment demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Greece", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-greece", "summary": "Sextortion operations target Greek men on social media and dating apps, threatening to share intimate content with family and employers unless crypto payments are made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Greece", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-greece", "summary": "Classic 419-style fraud reaches Greek residents through email and social media with fake inheritances, EU grants and lottery prizes requiring advance fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Greece", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-greece", "summary": "Clone travel-booking platforms targeting tourists to Greece's islands steal holiday payments with fake hotel and villa confirmations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Greece", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-greece", "summary": "Fraudulent Forex, crypto and real-estate investment schemes steal Greek savings through social media advertising and cold-call brokers using fake HCMC credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Greece", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-greece", "summary": "Smishing campaigns impersonating ΕΛΤΑ and DHL steal card details from Greek online shoppers with fake parcel customs-fee demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Italy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-italy", "summary": "Unsolicited WhatsApp messages offer Italian residents paid micro-tasks and part-time remote work before steering them into crypto-deposit task-scam schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in France", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-france", "summary": "Fraudulent remote-work offers in French reach victims through WhatsApp and Telegram, converting initial micro-task participation into crypto-deposit schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in the Netherlands", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-netherlands", "summary": "Fraudulent crypto investment schemes and fake token sales target Dutch investors through Telegram, Discord and Instagram with promises of rapid wealth.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Italy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-italy", "summary": "Fraudulent asset-recovery services target Italian victims of prior investment fraud with false promises of fund retrieval in exchange for upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Ukraine", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-ukraine", "summary": "Fraudulent humanitarian-aid and military-support collection schemes exploit donors both inside Ukraine and internationally, diverting funds intended for genuine relief.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Dubai & UAE", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-dubai-uae", "summary": "How long-con cryptocurrency investment fraud targets residents and visitors in the UAE, exploiting its status as a global finance hub.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Dubai & UAE", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-dubai-uae", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes exploiting Dubai's reputation as a global financial centre and high-net-worth expatriate community.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Dubai & UAE", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-dubai-uae", "summary": "Sextortion and romance fraud targeting expatriates in the UAE, where cultural and legal sensitivities amplify victims' fear of exposure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Dubai & UAE", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-dubai-uae", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers exploiting demand for UAE employment, targeting workers from South Asia, the Philippines, and Africa.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Dubai & UAE", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-dubai-uae", "summary": "Fraudulent hotel and holiday booking platforms targeting tourists visiting Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and Abu Dhabi.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Dubai & UAE", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-dubai-uae", "summary": "How fraudsters hijack UAE phone numbers to bypass two-factor authentication and drain bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Dubai & UAE", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-dubai-uae", "summary": "Classic advance-fee fraud dressed in Gulf wealth narratives, targeting victims with promises of inheritance transfers, oil revenues, or frozen assets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Dubai & UAE", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-dubai-uae", "summary": "Fraudulent micro-task and app-rating schemes targeting unemployed residents and new arrivals in the UAE.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Dubai & UAE", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-dubai-uae", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud targeting UAE residents and investors, from fake VARA-licensed exchanges to NFT rug pulls promoted at Dubai events.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Sri Lanka", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-sri-lanka", "summary": "Long-con crypto investment fraud targeting Sri Lankans through WhatsApp and Viber, exploiting economic hardship and aspirations for overseas income.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Sri Lanka", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-sri-lanka", "summary": "Fraudulent overseas employment offers exploiting Sri Lankans' high rates of labour migration to the Middle East and Southeast Asia.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Sri Lanka", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-sri-lanka", "summary": "Sextortion and online romance fraud in Sri Lanka, targeting men on social media with cultural shame amplifying compliance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Sri Lanka", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-sri-lanka", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating the Inland Revenue Department of Sri Lanka to extort money from businesses and individuals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Sri Lanka", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-sri-lanka", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes exploiting Sri Lanka's post-crisis desire for dollar-denominated returns and passive income.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Sri Lanka", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-sri-lanka", "summary": "Fake part-time job offers spread via WhatsApp targeting Sri Lankan smartphone users with small upfront fees and escalating deposit demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Nepal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-nepal", "summary": "Fraudulent overseas employment agencies in Nepal defrauding migrant workers seeking jobs in the Gulf and Malaysia.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Nepal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-nepal", "summary": "Long-con crypto investment fraud in Nepal, with a disturbing overlap with human trafficking as scam compounds recruit Nepali workers under false pretences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Nepal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-nepal", "summary": "Fake micro-task and app-rating fraud targeting Nepali users via Telegram and WhatsApp, draining savings through escalating deposit demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Nepal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-nepal", "summary": "Classic advance-fee fraud and lottery scams targeting Nepalis with promises of large remittances or foreign prize winnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Nepal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-nepal", "summary": "Sextortion and online romance fraud targeting Nepali men via Facebook and Instagram, exploiting cultural shame and limited cyber-crime awareness.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Cambodia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-cambodia", "summary": "Cambodia has become a global epicentre for pig-butchering operations, with compounds in Sihanoukville, Bavet, and Poipet running industrial-scale crypto investment fraud worldwide.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Cambodia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-cambodia", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers in Cambodia that lead to trafficking into scam compounds, targeting workers from Vietnam, Myanmar, China, and elsewhere in Southeast Asia.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Cambodia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-cambodia", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud in Cambodia targeting expats and tourists, from fake USDT trading platforms to NFT rug pulls promoted in Phnom Penh circles.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Cambodia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-cambodia", "summary": "Romance fraud in Cambodia targeting expats and tourists on dating apps, often as a precursor to investment or blackmail scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Taiwan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-taiwan", "summary": "Long-con crypto investment fraud targeting Taiwan residents through LINE, Facebook, and dating apps, with Chinese-language platforms mimicking global exchanges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Taiwan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-taiwan", "summary": "Phone scams impersonating Taiwan police, prosecutors, or government officials to extort money from victims under threats of arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Taiwan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-taiwan", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes targeting Taiwan's active retail investor community through LINE groups, social media, and fake financial advisers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Taiwan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-taiwan", "summary": "Sextortion and online romance fraud targeting Taiwanese users on social media and dating apps, often linked to regional organised crime networks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Qatar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-qatar", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers targeting workers from South Asia and Africa seeking employment in Qatar, often linked to kafala-system exploitation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Qatar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-qatar", "summary": "Long-con cryptocurrency investment fraud targeting Qatar's wealthy expatriate and high-net-worth resident community through WhatsApp and LinkedIn.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Qatar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-qatar", "summary": "Fraudulent accommodation and event booking platforms targeting visitors to Qatar, particularly during major sporting and cultural events.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Qatar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-qatar", "summary": "SIM swap fraud targeting Qatar residents by hijacking Ooredoo or Vodafone Qatar numbers to bypass two-factor authentication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Israel", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-israel", "summary": "Israel has a documented history of binary-options and boiler-room investment fraud exported globally and targeting Israeli residents domestically.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Israel", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-israel", "summary": "Long-con crypto investment fraud targeting Israeli residents and diaspora through WhatsApp, Telegram, and Hebrew-language social media.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Israel", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-israel", "summary": "Sextortion and romantic fraud targeting Israeli users on dating apps and social media, with scammers exploiting professional and family reputation concerns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Israel", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-israel", "summary": "Fake asset-recovery services in Israel targeting previous investment fraud victims with false promises of retrieving lost funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Qatar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-qatar", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud targeting Qatar residents with fabricated Gulf wealth, government contract, and oil-payment narratives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Qatar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-qatar", "summary": "Fake part-time and remote work offers targeting Qatar's large migrant worker population through WhatsApp, promising supplementary income.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Nepal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-nepal", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in Nepal targeting remittance savings and growing domestic investor interest in stocks and real estate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Taiwan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-taiwan", "summary": "Smishing scams impersonating Chunghwa Post and major courier services to steal banking credentials from Taiwan smartphone users.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Taiwan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-taiwan", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating the Ministry of Finance and National Taxation Bureau of Taiwan to extort immediate payments from residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platform Scams in Israel", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-israel", "summary": "Fraudulent forex and crypto trading platforms targeting Israeli investors with fabricated ISA licences and AI-trading claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Israel", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-israel", "summary": "SIM swap fraud in Israel targeting bank and crypto accounts by hijacking Cellcom, Partner, or Hot Mobile numbers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Morocco", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-morocco", "summary": "Counterfeit riad, hotel, and tour booking platforms targeting tourists visiting Marrakech, Fes, and other Moroccan destinations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Morocco", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-morocco", "summary": "Sextortion and romantic fraud targeting tourists and foreign visitors in Morocco, often with an in-person element in tourist areas.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Morocco", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-morocco", "summary": "Classic advance-fee fraud originating from or targeting Morocco, exploiting diaspora transfer narratives and business opportunity stories.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Morocco", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-morocco", "summary": "Fraudulent overseas employment offers targeting Moroccans seeking work in Europe, the Gulf, and Canada, collecting fees for non-existent positions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Morocco", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-morocco", "summary": "Long-con cryptocurrency investment fraud targeting Moroccan residents and diaspora via Facebook, WhatsApp, and Arabic-language platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Morocco", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-morocco", "summary": "Fraudulent charity appeals exploiting Moroccan earthquake, poverty, and orphan narratives to solicit donations from diaspora and international donors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Morocco", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-morocco", "summary": "SIM swap fraud in Morocco targeting Maroc Telecom and Inwi users to hijack mobile banking and CIH/Attijariwafa accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Morocco", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-morocco", "summary": "Fake rental listings in Marrakech, Casablanca, and Agadir targeting foreign renters and returning diaspora with non-existent properties.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Cambodia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-cambodia", "summary": "Fake online micro-task schemes targeting Cambodian workers and expats through Telegram and WhatsApp with deposit-cycle fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Nepal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-nepal", "summary": "Scammers impersonating Nepal's Inland Revenue Department to demand immediate payment from individuals and small businesses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Sri Lanka", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-sri-lanka", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud in Sri Lanka, where limited regulation and economic hardship combine to make fake crypto exchanges and yield schemes damaging.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Sri Lanka", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-sri-lanka", "summary": "Smishing scams in Sri Lanka impersonating courier and postal services to steal banking credentials from smartphone users.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams in Nepal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-in-nepal", "summary": "Fake international lottery and prize notifications targeting Nepalis with demands for advance processing fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Nepal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-nepal", "summary": "Fraudulent charity appeals exploiting Nepal earthquake and poverty narratives to steal donations from diaspora and international donors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Morocco", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-morocco", "summary": "Scammers impersonating Moroccan police and customs officers to extort money from tourists and residents under threat of arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams in Morocco", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-morocco", "summary": "Fraudulent e-commerce platforms selling Moroccan handicrafts, argan products, and fashion to international buyers who receive nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Cambodia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-cambodia", "summary": "Fraudulent real-estate, cryptocurrency, and business investment schemes targeting expatriates and diaspora investors in Cambodia.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Qatar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-qatar", "summary": "Scammers impersonating the Qatar General Tax Authority (GTA) to extort payments from businesses and expatriates under threat of penalties.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams in Taiwan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-taiwan", "summary": "Fraudulent e-commerce websites and social media shops targeting Taiwan buyers with discounted goods that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Nepal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-nepal", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud targeting Nepalis through Facebook and Telegram, exploiting limited regulation and diaspora remittance narratives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Israel", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-israel", "summary": "Phone and online scams impersonating Israeli Police or the Anti-Money Laundering Authority to extort residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Cambodia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-cambodia", "summary": "Classic advance-fee fraud using Cambodian government contract and NGO fund narratives to extract fees from international victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Cambodia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-cambodia", "summary": "Fraudulent charity and orphanage appeals exploiting Cambodia's development sector reputation to steal donations from well-meaning foreigners.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Cambodia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-cambodia", "summary": "Fake apartment and villa rental listings targeting expatriates in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, collecting deposits for non-existent properties.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Israel", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-israel", "summary": "Scammers impersonating the Israeli Tax Authority (ITA) to demand immediate payments or harvest personal tax credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Nepal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-nepal", "summary": "Fake remote job offers targeting Nepali smartphone users via WhatsApp and Facebook with escalating deposit demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Israel", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-israel", "summary": "Smishing campaigns in Israel impersonating Israel Post and courier services to steal banking credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams on Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-on-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Rogue pharmacies buy Google ads and manipulate search rankings to appear at the top of results for prescription drug queries, luring buyers with steep discounts on medications that arrive counterfeit, contaminated, or never at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent pharmacy pages and sponsored Facebook posts target users who discuss health conditions in groups, offering discounted prescription drugs that are counterfeit, mislabelled, or never shipped.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers use Instagram accounts styled as wellness brands or licensed pharmacies to sell counterfeit prescription drugs through DMs and shoppable posts, targeting users who engage with health and fitness content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-on-email", "summary": "Spam emails promoting unlicensed online pharmacies flood inboxes with offers for discounted or prescription-free medications, directing recipients to rogue sites that deliver counterfeit products or nothing at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Miracle Cure Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/miracle-cure-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent health product pages and sponsored ads on Facebook promise impossible recoveries from chronic illnesses, exploiting personal data visible in health-related groups to target vulnerable users.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Miracle Cure Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/miracle-cure-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram influencers and fake wellness accounts promote unproven treatments and supplements with dramatic before-and-after imagery, leveraging the platform's visual credibility to sell products that cannot deliver their promised results.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Miracle Cure Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/miracle-cure-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Long-form YouTube videos structured as documentaries or personal testimonials are used to build credibility for fraudulent health products, with affiliate links and product placements monetising viewers who believe they have found a genuine medical breakthrough.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Miracle Cure Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/miracle-cure-scams-on-email", "summary": "Unsolicited emails promoting unproven treatments for serious illnesses use long-form persuasion copy, personal testimonials, and countdown timers to pressure recipients into purchasing fraudulent health products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Health Insurance Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-health-insurance-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers impersonating health insurance brokers or government health programme representatives pressure consumers into enrolling in worthless discount plans or fraudulent policies that provide no real coverage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Health Insurance Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-health-insurance-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and pages targeting people who discuss healthcare costs promote non-insurance discount schemes and sham policies that collect premiums but fail to pay medical claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Health Insurance Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-health-insurance-on-email", "summary": "Unsolicited emails posing as government health programme notifications or independent broker offers enrol recipients in fake or inadequate health coverage that fails to pay medical bills.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Health Insurance Scams on Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-health-insurance-on-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent health insurance brokers and sham plan providers buy Google ads targeting health coverage keywords to intercept consumers shopping for legitimate insurance and enrol them in plans that provide no real protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram is a primary channel for ghost brokers who advertise cheap car insurance deals, collect payments for fraudulent policies, and leave drivers unknowingly uninsured and exposed to legal penalties.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Ghost brokers use Facebook Marketplace, sponsored ads, and community groups to sell fraudulent or falsified car insurance policies at below-market prices, leaving drivers uninsured and at risk of prosecution.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-on-email", "summary": "Ghost brokers send targeted emails offering cheap car insurance renewals, collecting personal and vehicle data to submit fraudulent applications to real insurers — leaving policyholders unknowingly uninsured.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers posing as insurance brokers or comparison service representatives offer fraudulent car insurance deals over the phone, collecting personal details and payment for policies that are falsified or entirely fictitious.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams on Craigslist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-on-craigslist", "summary": "Craigslist's unmoderated classifieds make it a prime venue for fake car listings that collect deposits from buyers who discover the vehicle does not exist or belongs to someone else.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Marketplace car listings are exploited by scammers who use cloned photos, fabricated ownership documents, and urgency tactics to extract deposits from buyers for vehicles that do not exist or are not theirs to sell.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram accounts posing as private sellers or car dealers post attractive vehicle photos to solicit direct inquiries, then manipulate interested buyers into paying deposits for cars that are fraudulent or non-existent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Extended Warranty Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Robocalls and live callers falsely claim a vehicle warranty is expiring and pressure owners into purchasing worthless extended warranty plans that cover nothing when a breakdown occurs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Extended Warranty Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-scams-on-email", "summary": "Emails warning that a vehicle warranty is expiring pressure owners into purchasing inadequate or entirely fictitious extended warranty contracts via deceptive online checkout pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Extended Warranty Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and pages impersonating dealerships or manufacturer warranty programmes sell fictitious or inadequate vehicle service contracts to targeted car owners.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Solar Panel Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/solar-panel-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and community pages promote fictitious government solar rebate programmes or substandard installations, collecting large deposits from homeowners who receive no panels or shoddy workmanship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Solar Panel Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/solar-panel-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Fraudulent solar installers post in Nextdoor neighbourhood feeds as satisfied local customers or community recommendations, leveraging the platform's trusted local reputation to solicit deposits for substandard or non-existent installations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Solar Panel Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/solar-panel-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Unsolicited callers claiming to represent government solar programmes or certified installers pressure homeowners into booking surveys and paying deposits for solar installations that are substandard or fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Solar Panel Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/solar-panel-scams-on-email", "summary": "Email campaigns mimicking government energy agencies or certified solar programmes direct homeowners to fraudulent quote pages or phishing forms that collect personal data and deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Utility Shutoff Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/utility-shutoff-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers impersonating electricity, gas, or water companies threaten immediate service disconnection unless a past-due balance is paid within minutes using a non-reversible payment method.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Utility Shutoff Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/utility-shutoff-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fake disconnection notice emails impersonating utility providers create urgency around an invented past-due balance, directing recipients to phishing payment pages that capture card details or demand gift card payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Utility Shutoff Scams on Craigslist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/utility-shutoff-scams-on-craigslist", "summary": "Craigslist listings offering to pay overdue utility bills or restore service for a fee target consumers in financial hardship, collecting upfront payments without providing any genuine utility relief.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams on Craigslist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-on-craigslist", "summary": "Craigslist rental ads cloned from legitimate listings offer below-market rents to attract tenants, then collect application fees and security deposits from multiple victims for properties the fraudster does not own or control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Marketplace and housing groups host fraudulent rental listings that use stolen photos and compelling backstories to extract security deposits and application fees from housing-seekers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Fraudulent rental listings on Nextdoor exploit the platform's neighbourhood-verified reputation to collect deposits from local housing-seekers for properties that are cloned, unavailable, or never shown.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Landlord Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-landlord-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as legitimate landlords on Facebook collect multiple tenants' deposits for the same property — one they do not own — then disappear before move-in day.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Landlord Scams on Craigslist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-landlord-scams-on-craigslist", "summary": "Craigslist's anonymous listing format enables fake landlords to collect deposits from multiple tenants simultaneously for properties they have no right to rent, exploiting the urgency of the housing search.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Landlord Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-landlord-scams-on-email", "summary": "Email correspondence from fake landlords follows up on housing inquiries or responds to rental-search forum posts, guiding applicants through a convincing tenancy process that ends with a stolen deposit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Moving Company Scams on Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/moving-company-scams-on-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Rogue moving companies use Google Ads and SEO to appear prominently for relocation search queries, providing artificially low estimates that balloon on moving day when possessions are held hostage for inflated payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Moving Company Scams on Craigslist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/moving-company-scams-on-craigslist", "summary": "Craigslist moving service ads from unregistered operators offer extremely low hourly rates, then add hidden charges on moving day, damage goods, or simply take deposits and fail to appear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Moving Company Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/moving-company-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Marketplace and local groups host moving company ads from operators who collect deposits and fail to appear, deliver substandard service, or present inflated invoices after goods are loaded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams on Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-on-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Counterfeit hotel and travel booking websites appear prominently in Google search results and ads, collecting full payment for reservations that do not exist or are never confirmed by the genuine property.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent travel and accommodation booking pages on Facebook collect payments for hotel stays, tours, or event tickets that are never confirmed, leaving buyers with unrecoverable losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-on-email", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating major booking platforms notify recipients of a reservation problem or exclusive deal, directing them to fraudulent checkout pages that harvest payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tour Guide Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tour-guides-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram accounts presenting as local travel experts and licensed guides collect advance payments for tours that are substandard, overpriced, or never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tour Guide Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tour-guides-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook groups for travellers and destination communities are used by fraudulent tour operators and fake guides to solicit advance bookings from holidaymakers who discover the service does not exist or is substandard.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tour Guide Scams on Craigslist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tour-guides-on-craigslist", "summary": "Craigslist travel services listings offer guided tours and local experiences at low prices, using advance-payment requirements to extract money from tourists who find the service substandard or entirely absent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airline Support Scams on Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airline-support-on-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent customer service websites and Google Ads display fake airline phone numbers that connect travellers to scammers who charge fees for basic services and harvest credit card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airline Support Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airline-support-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers posing as airline customer service agents contact travellers whose booking details have been compromised, offering to 'fix' problems with reservations in exchange for fees and card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airline Support Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airline-support-on-email", "summary": "Phishing emails styled as airline booking confirmations, cancellation notices, or refund offers direct travellers to fraudulent portals that harvest account credentials and payment information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Timeshare Resale Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/timeshare-resale-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers targeting existing timeshare owners claim to have a buyer ready for their unit, requesting upfront fees for legal, transfer, or marketing costs that are collected and provide no genuine resale service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Timeshare Resale Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/timeshare-resale-scams-on-email", "summary": "Emails targeting timeshare owners claim a buyer has been found or a legal exit pathway is available, using official-looking documents and upfront fee requests to perpetuate a long-running fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Timeshare Resale Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/timeshare-resale-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook groups for timeshare owners and vacation property communities host fraudulent resale and exit service operators who collect upfront fees for services that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Clinical Trial Scams on Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-clinical-trials-on-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent clinical trial recruitment ads appear in Google search results targeting people with specific health conditions, collecting personal and medical information or charging registration fees for trials that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Clinical Trial Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-clinical-trials-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook health condition groups and targeted ads are used to recruit people with specific diagnoses into fraudulent clinical trials that harvest medical data, collect fees, or expose participants to unregulated substances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Clinical Trial Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-clinical-trials-on-email", "summary": "Unsolicited emails targeting people with specific health conditions invite them to enrol in fraudulent research studies, collecting medical data and participation fees for trials that have no institutional affiliation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Weight Loss Product Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-weight-loss-products-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram influencers and sponsored accounts promote fraudulent weight loss supplements and detox programmes using misleading before-and-after photos, undisclosed paid partnerships, and auto-ship schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Weight Loss Product Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-weight-loss-products-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and health groups promote fraudulent weight loss supplements through fabricated testimonials, celebrity endorsement imagery, and hidden subscription billing that traps buyers in recurring charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Weight Loss Product Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-weight-loss-products-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube videos styled as honest reviews or personal weight loss journeys are used to promote fraudulent supplements and programmes, driving viewers to purchase through affiliate links on product pages that obscure subscription terms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Health Insurance Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-health-insurance-on-nextdoor", "summary": "Fraudulent health plan promoters post in Nextdoor neighbourhood feeds posing as community members who found affordable coverage, directing neighbours toward sham discount plans or unlicensed insurance products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram accounts posting attractive property photography attract inquiries from housing-seekers and then collect deposits for rentals that are cloned from legitimate listings or unavailable for let.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Utility Shutoff Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/utility-shutoff-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook posts and Messenger messages impersonating utility providers warn of imminent disconnection and direct account holders to fraudulent payment pages that harvest card details or demand gift card payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Moving Company Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/moving-company-scams-on-email", "summary": "Email campaigns from rogue moving companies solicit enquiries with low quotes, then dramatically inflate the final bill on moving day or fail to appear after collecting a deposit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram accounts posing as boutique hotels, vacation rentals, or activity booking services collect advance payments through DMs or external links for stays and experiences that are never honoured.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airline Support Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airline-support-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram accounts impersonating airline customer service accounts respond to travellers who post complaints or inquiries publicly, directing them to fraudulent support channels that collect personal and payment information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Timeshare Resale Scams on Craigslist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/timeshare-resale-scams-on-craigslist", "summary": "Craigslist listings for timeshare resale services or direct timeshare sales collect upfront fees from owners seeking to exit their commitment, providing no genuine market access or resale outcome.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Clinical Trial Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-clinical-trials-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers claiming to represent research institutions or pharmaceutical companies recruit people with specific conditions into fraudulent paid trials, collecting screening fees or harvesting personal medical details over the phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Weight Loss Product Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-weight-loss-products-on-email", "summary": "Email campaigns promoting fraudulent weight loss supplements and programmes use long-form persuasion copy, celebrity name-drops, and auto-ship billing to extract payments from recipients who receive ineffective or unsafe products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams on Craigslist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-on-craigslist", "summary": "Craigslist services listings offer cheap car insurance through unlicensed brokers who either produce fraudulent policies with falsified details or collect payment without purchasing any policy at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-on-email", "summary": "Email responses to car-search inquiries or alerts offer fictitious vehicles at below-market prices, directing buyers toward a deposit payment before any in-person inspection is possible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Landlord Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-landlord-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram accounts presenting as property managers or individual landlords post rental property photos to attract tenants, then collect security deposits for properties they have no authority to rent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Extended Warranty Scams on Craigslist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-scams-on-craigslist", "summary": "Craigslist services listings offer vehicle or appliance extended warranties at low prices through unregistered providers, collecting premiums for coverage that pays nothing when a claim is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams Using Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officers and demand immediate payment via gift cards, threatening arrest or legal consequences to pressure victims into compliance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams Demanding Wire Transfers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Scammers posing as police officers or federal agents demand wire transfers as bail or fine payments, using threats of immediate arrest to override the victim's judgment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams Using Zelle Payments", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating police officers exploit Zelle's speed and bank integration to pressure victims into immediate payments to avoid fabricated arrest warrants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as tax officials instruct victims to send cash via Western Union as supposed tax arrears, exploiting the service's wide reach and near-instant cash availability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Court Scams Using Gift Cards as Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-court-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Scammers impersonating court clerks or judges demand gift card payments as court fees or fines, threatening contempt proceedings or immediate detention to ensure compliance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Court Scams Demanding Wire Transfers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-court-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Criminals posing as court officials or legal representatives demand wire transfers for fabricated bail, civil penalties, or case settlement fees, targeting victims with larger financial assets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Scams Using Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating immigration officials demand gift card payments to resolve fabricated visa issues or deportation threats, exploiting victims' fear of immigration consequences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "Criminals posing as immigration agents instruct victims to send MoneyGram transfers to pay for fabricated visa fees, bond releases, or penalty waivers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "Scammers inform victims they have won a prize and demand Western Union transfers as mandatory fees before the winnings can be released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "Fraudsters use prize winner notifications — often fake social media giveaways — to solicit Venmo payments as processing fees, exploiting the platform's informal social feel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sweepstakes Advance Fee Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sweepstakes-advance-fee-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "Scammers running fake sweepstakes demand MoneyGram transfers as advance fees before delivering fictional prizes, targeting victims across multiple rounds of payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sweepstakes Advance Fee Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sweepstakes-advance-fee-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "Fraudsters running fake sweepstakes direct winners to purchase prepaid debit cards and share the card numbers as payment of fictitious processing and tax fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Inheritance and Lottery Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/inheritance-lottery-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Scammers promise large inheritances or lottery winnings that can only be released after the victim wires advance fees covering legal, tax, or banking costs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Inheritance and Lottery Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/inheritance-lottery-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudsters fabricate inheritance or lottery windfalls and demand domestic bank transfers as advance fees, framing the payment as a routine banking formality.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams Demanding Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-apple-pay", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as Apple or tech support agents pressure victims into sending Apple Pay payments as 'security deposits' or 'verification fees' to resolve fabricated device issues.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-cash-app", "summary": "Scammers impersonating tech support agents direct victims to send Cash App payments as fees or security deposits to resolve fabricated software, account, or device problems.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Remote Access Scams Collecting Payment via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/remote-access-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Scammers who gain remote access to victims' computers instruct the victim to purchase gift cards as payment for fabricated repair services or to 'protect' funds during a fake security incident.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Remote Access Scams Draining Accounts via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/remote-access-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudsters with remote desktop access to victims' computers initiate wire transfers directly from banking portals, bypassing the need to convince the victim to pay manually.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Antivirus Scams Paid via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-antivirus-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "Fraudsters selling non-existent or malicious antivirus software demand prepaid card payment, directing victims to share card numbers under the guise of subscription activation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Antivirus Scams Collecting Payment via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-antivirus-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "Scammers posing as antivirus vendors or tech support agents instruct victims to send Zelle payments to activate fake security software or receive fabricated refunds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-relief-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent debt relief companies collect large upfront wire transfer fees promising to eliminate or negotiate debts, then disappear or deliver nothing of value.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-relief-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent debt settlement operators collect programme fees by bank transfer, presenting a professional billing appearance while delivering no genuine debt relief services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Loan Scams That Demand Gift Card 'Fees'", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/loan-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Fraudulent lenders approve victims for loans they will never receive, then collect upfront gift card payments framed as insurance, collateral, or processing fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Loan Scams Collecting Advance Fees by Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/loan-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent lenders demand wire transfer fees as collateral or insurance before disbursing loans that never materialise, targeting victims with urgent borrowing needs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pension Scams Using Wire Transfers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pension-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudsters persuade pension holders to wire transfer funds out of their pensions into fraudulent investment schemes, resulting in loss of retirement savings and significant tax penalties.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pension Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pension-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent pension advisers use domestic bank transfers to move retirement funds into worthless or fictitious schemes, exploiting authorised push payment systems to collect retirement savings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms Collecting Deposits via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent trading platforms accept deposits by wire transfer, showing fabricated portfolio growth before refusing withdrawals and disappearing with investor funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Broker Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-broker-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent brokers collect client funds via domestic bank transfer, issuing professional-looking statements before denying withdrawals and disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Broker Scams Using Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-broker-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "Fraudulent brokers direct victims to send funds via Western Union, exploiting the service's global reach to collect investment funds beyond the reach of most regulators.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Fraudulent pharmacy websites accept gift card payments for medications that are never delivered, counterfeit, or dangerous, exploiting victims seeking cheaper drug access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-via-moneygram", "summary": "Fraudulent overseas pharmacy websites direct victims to MoneyGram cash transfers as the only payment method for medications that are counterfeit, unsafe, or non-existent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-deposit-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "Scammers listing fake rental properties demand Zelle security deposits and first-month rent, then vanish before handing over keys to properties they do not own.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-deposit-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Fraudulent landlords collect Cash App payments for deposits and first-month rent on properties they do not own or control, leaving victims locked out on move-in day.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as recruiters collect advance fees by wire transfer for training materials, background checks, or visa sponsorship that are never provided.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams Demanding Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Fraudulent recruiters invent equipment fees, onboarding costs, or registration charges payable via gift cards before a fabricated employment offer can be processed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Court Scams Demanding Venmo Payments", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-court-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "Scammers impersonating court officers demand Venmo payments for fabricated fines or bail, targeting younger adults comfortable with app-based payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as immigration attorneys or agents demand Western Union transfers for fabricated visa fees, fines, or deportation avoidance payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sweepstakes Advance Fee Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sweepstakes-advance-fee-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Scammers notify victims of large sweepstakes wins and demand wire transfers covering taxes and fees before the prize can be released, collecting substantial sums across multiple payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Loan Scams Collecting Fees via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/loan-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "Fraudulent lenders approve victims for loans they will never receive, then demand prepaid debit card numbers as a supposed fee or collateral payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Inheritance and Lottery Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/inheritance-lottery-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "Scammers running fake inheritance or lottery notifications collect release fees by Western Union, exploiting the service's cash pickup accessibility for rapid fund collection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Scammers impersonating police officers demand Cash App payments to resolve fabricated warrants or fines, targeting victims comfortable with mobile payment apps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Court Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-court-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Scammers impersonating court clerks demand Cash App payments for fabricated fines or bench warrant fees, targeting victims who are comfortable with mobile payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Remote Access Scams Collecting Cash App Payments", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/remote-access-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Scammers who gain remote access to victims' devices guide them to send Cash App payments for fabricated repair services or staged 'banking errors.'", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Scammers posing as immigration lawyers or agents collect bank transfer fees for fabricated visa applications, status adjustments, or deportation bonds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating tax authorities instruct victims to make bank transfers to resolve fabricated tax debts, exploiting the apparent formality of bank-to-bank payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "Scammers notify victims of prize wins and demand prepaid card payments as processing or insurance fees before the prize will be released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tech Support Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-via-venmo", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as tech support agents demand Venmo payments for fabricated device fixes, exploiting the app's casual social payment feel to lower victim suspicion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Antivirus Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-antivirus-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "Fraudulent antivirus vendors demand Western Union transfers as payment for non-existent security software, targeting victims who lack access to online payment methods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-relief-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Fraudulent debt relief operators collect Cash App fees for credit repair or settlement services they never deliver, targeting financially stressed consumers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-deposit-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Scammers listing fake rental properties demand wire transfer deposits, presenting elaborate lease documentation that is convincing enough to justify the larger sums typical of wire transfer fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pension Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pension-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as pension liberation specialists or HMRC officials instruct victims to send Western Union transfers representing fees required to release pension funds early.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-via-cash-app", "summary": "Fraudulent trading platforms accept Cash App deposits from US victims, displaying fabricated returns before blocking withdrawals and disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Broker Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-broker-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent investment brokers collect wire transfer deposits from investors, providing fictitious account statements before blocking withdrawals and disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiting-via-apple-pay", "summary": "Fraudulent recruiters demand Apple Pay fees for onboarding, licensing, or background screening before a fabricated job offer can be processed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "Scammers impersonating police or federal agents demand Western Union transfers as bail or fine payments, often targeting immigrants or elderly victims who associate Western Union with official transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "Scammers posing as immigration paralegals or community advisers collect Venmo fees for fabricated visa services, targeting immigrant communities through trusted networks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-relief-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "Fraudulent credit repair operators collect prepaid card fees from financially stressed victims, promising debt elimination results they never deliver.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Loan Scams Collecting Advance Fees by Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/loan-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent lenders collect advance fees by bank transfer for loans that never materialise, presenting professional-looking agreements and credible business banking details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Broker Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-broker-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "Fraudulent investment brokers accept Zelle transfers as initial deposits from US investors, leveraging the bank-integrated payment system to appear as a credible financial service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "Scammers impersonating police officers demand Venmo payments to resolve fabricated warrants, targeting younger adults who are accustomed to settling payments informally via the app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Inheritance and Lottery Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/inheritance-lottery-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "Scammers notify victims of large inheritance or lottery wins and demand Cash App fee payments before the fictional windfall can be released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Court Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-court-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating court officers direct victims to send MoneyGram transfers to pay fabricated fines, bail, or settlement fees, targeting communities with lower formal banking engagement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sweepstakes Advance Fee Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sweepstakes-advance-fee-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "Fraudulent sweepstakes operators notify victims of wins and demand Venmo fee payments as the quickest way to process prize release, targeting social media users.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Courier Fraud & Bank Card Collection on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/courier-fraud-bank-card-collection-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate police officers or bank officials on WhatsApp to convince victims their bank card has been compromised, then send a fake courier to collect the card and PIN in person.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Courier Fraud & Bank Card Collection on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/courier-fraud-bank-card-collection-on-telegram", "summary": "Criminals use Telegram accounts styled as bank fraud teams or law enforcement to convince victims their card is compromised, then dispatch a fake courier to collect the card and PIN at home.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Parcel Locker Phishing on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/parcel-locker-phishing-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters send WhatsApp messages posing as parcel locker services, claiming a package is held at a collection point and requesting payment or login credentials via a phishing link to release it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Parcel Locker Phishing on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/parcel-locker-phishing-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers run automated Telegram bots that send fake parcel locker alerts, directing victims to phishing sites to pay fictitious fees or surrender login credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Parcel Locker Phishing on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/parcel-locker-phishing-on-discord", "summary": "Discord users receive DMs or server messages mimicking parcel locker services, prompting them to visit phishing links under the guise of releasing a held package.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Courier Job & Reshipping Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-courier-job-reshipping-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters use WhatsApp to recruit unwitting workers as reshipping mules, presenting the role as a legitimate parcel-handling job while using victims to move stolen goods or launder fraud proceeds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Courier Job & Reshipping Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-courier-job-reshipping-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels and bots advertise fake logistics jobs that turn recipients into reshipping mules, forwarding stolen goods or laundering fraud money through their home address.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Courier Job & Reshipping Scams on Gumtree", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-courier-job-reshipping-on-gumtree", "summary": "Fraudulent job listings on Gumtree for home-based parcel handlers recruit victims as reshipping mules, using their addresses to receive and forward stolen goods while paying small amounts to maintain the deception.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deportation Threat Extortion on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deportation-threat-extortion-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers impersonate immigration officials on WhatsApp, threatening deportation or arrest unless victims pay an immediate fee to resolve a supposed visa or status violation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deportation Threat Extortion on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deportation-threat-extortion-on-telegram", "summary": "Criminal operators use Telegram to send mass deportation-threat messages to migrant communities, demanding urgent fee payments to prevent fabricated immigration enforcement actions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deportation Threat Extortion on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deportation-threat-extortion-on-snapchat", "summary": "Scammers send Snapchat messages posing as immigration enforcement, threatening young migrants or international students with deportation unless they pay a fee before evidence disappears.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Visa & Green Card Services on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-visa-green-card-services-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers pose as immigration consultants on WhatsApp, charging fees for visa or residency applications they never file, leaving victims out of pocket and no closer to legal status.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Visa & Green Card Services on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-visa-green-card-services-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels operated by fake immigration advisers advertise guaranteed visa and residency services, collecting fees and documents from migrants who receive nothing in return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Visa & Green Card Services on Gumtree", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-visa-green-card-services-on-gumtree", "summary": "Fraudulent immigration consultants advertise cheap visa processing services on Gumtree, take payment and documents upfront, and then deliver nothing while disappearing from the platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Negative-Option Billing Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/negative-option-billing-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters use WhatsApp to promote 'free trial' offers that secretly enrol victims in recurring subscriptions, with cancellation terms buried in fine print or entirely inaccessible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Negative-Option Billing Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/negative-option-billing-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Sponsored and DM-based Snapchat promotions lure younger users into free trials that auto-enrol them in monthly subscriptions, exploiting the platform's transient content to obscure terms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Negative-Option Billing Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/negative-option-billing-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Promoted posts and DMs on X advertise free trials that auto-enrol users in recurring subscriptions, using fast-scrolling ad formats to obscure billing terms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "App Store Subscription Trap Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/app-store-subscription-trap-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram bots and channels direct users to download apps that immediately charge high-value subscriptions through Apple or Google billing, often before the user has meaningfully engaged with the app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "App Store Subscription Trap Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/app-store-subscription-trap-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Discord servers promote apps and digital tools that enrol users in expensive recurring subscriptions the moment they are downloaded, exploiting community trust to drive installs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "App Store Subscription Trap Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/app-store-subscription-trap-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Promoted posts and organic X content drive downloads of apps that immediately charge high-value subscriptions, using social proof and urgency to prevent users from reading the terms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters send WhatsApp messages claiming the recipient has won a foreign lottery prize, then extract fees for taxes, insurance, or processing before any money is paid — and none ever is.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Automated Telegram bots and direct messages announce fabricated lottery wins to mass lists of users, then drain victims through escalating release-fee demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "X accounts impersonating international lottery organisations post fake winner announcements and DM targets to extract advance fees under the guise of prize release charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters send WhatsApp messages claiming the recipient has been randomly selected to win a smartphone, gift card, or cash prize, then demand fees or personal data to process the award.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fake prize channels and bots on Telegram announce brand-sponsored giveaways to lure victims into handing over personal data and payment details to claim non-existent awards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Scammers use Snapchat Stories and DMs to announce fake prize wins from brands or celebrity accounts, directing victims to phishing links to claim their award.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters send WhatsApp messages impersonating government departments to claim the recipient is eligible for a grant, then demand application fees, bank details, or ID documents before the grant is never paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels and mass-DM campaigns impersonate government agencies to harvest personal data and fees from victims who believe they have been selected for a legitimate grant programme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Snapchat stories and DMs promote fabricated government assistance programmes targeting younger users, collecting personal data and small fees under the guise of a grant application.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Jury Duty Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-jury-duty-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters send WhatsApp messages impersonating court officials, claiming the recipient has missed jury service and must pay an immediate fine or face arrest — all designed to extract money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Jury Duty Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-jury-duty-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers impersonate court systems on Telegram to claim victims have outstanding jury-duty warrants, demanding immediate fine payments to cancel fabricated arrest orders.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Jury Duty Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-jury-duty-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "X accounts and DMs impersonate court systems to threaten users with arrest warrants for alleged missed jury service, directing them to payment pages to resolve fabricated legal issues.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Remote Access Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/remote-access-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters use WhatsApp to impersonate tech support agents or bank fraud teams, convincing victims to install remote-access apps that give the scammer full control of the victim's device and accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Remote Access Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/remote-access-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Criminals use Telegram to pose as IT support or bank security teams, sending links and instructions that lead victims to install remote-access software and surrender device control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Remote Access Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/remote-access-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Scammers monitor X for public complaints about technical problems, then DM the poster offering help and steering them toward installing remote-access software to resolve the issue.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake IT Helpdesk Credential Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-it-helpdesk-credential-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate corporate IT helpdesks on WhatsApp to harvest employee login credentials, multi-factor authentication codes, and VPN access details under the guise of urgent account maintenance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake IT Helpdesk Credential Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-it-helpdesk-credential-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers create Telegram accounts impersonating corporate IT support, targeting employees with urgent credential-reset requests that deliver access tokens directly to the attacker.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake IT Helpdesk Credential Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-it-helpdesk-credential-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Attackers use Discord to contact employees of tech companies and gaming studios, impersonating internal IT or security teams to harvest work credentials under the guise of urgent account actions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Malware Popups on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/malware-popups-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels and bots distribute links that trigger malware-style popup alerts in browsers, convincing victims to download malicious software or call fraudulent support numbers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Malware Popups on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/malware-popups-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Links shared via WhatsApp — often from compromised contacts — lead to browser pages displaying fake virus alerts designed to panic users into calling fraudulent support lines or downloading malicious files.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Malware Popups on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/malware-popups-on-discord", "summary": "Discord users are targeted with malicious links in DMs and server messages that open browser popups mimicking antivirus alerts, directing them to download malware disguised as security tools.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/qr-code-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudsters distribute malicious QR codes through Telegram channels and DMs, redirecting victims to phishing pages, credential-harvesting login screens, or cryptocurrency payment requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/qr-code-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters send WhatsApp QR codes disguised as payment confirmations, parcel barcodes, or loyalty reward vouchers that redirect victims to phishing pages when scanned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Scams on eBay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/qr-code-scams-on-ebay", "summary": "eBay sellers and buyers are targeted with QR codes in messages and listings that redirect to phishing pages or off-platform payment systems designed to bypass eBay's buyer and seller protections.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudulent online shops operate through Telegram channels and bots, accepting payment for goods they never dispatch and disappearing once sufficient funds have been collected.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudulent shops operating within Discord servers sell digital goods, gaming items, or physical merchandise that either do not exist or are counterfeit, taking payment and disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Sellers advertising goods through Telegram channels and groups collect payment and never dispatch items, exploiting the platform's lack of formal buyer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Snapchat-based sellers promote appealing products at steep discounts, take payment through unprotected channels, and never deliver the purchased items.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams on Gumtree", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-on-gumtree", "summary": "Gumtree sellers advertise in-demand items at attractive prices, request postal payment, and never dispatch — a long-running fraud on one of the UK's most-used classified sites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams on Gumtree", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-on-gumtree", "summary": "Fraudulent Gumtree sellers use fake listings, switched items, and payment manipulation to defraud buyers, while fraudulent buyers use chargeback abuse and overpayment tricks to defraud sellers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams on Amazon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-on-amazon", "summary": "Third-party Amazon marketplace sellers use fake reviews, counterfeit goods, and off-platform payment requests to defraud buyers while exploiting the trust Amazon's brand lends to all listings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams on eBay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-on-ebay", "summary": "eBay marketplace fraud spans fake listings, shill bidding, counterfeit goods, and off-platform payment requests, exploiting the platform's auction format and buyer expectations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Discord marketplace channels are plagued by fraudulent sellers offering digital items, in-game goods, and physical merchandise without buyer protection, exploiting community trust to take payment and disappear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Discord bots and DMs announce fabricated international lottery wins to users, then extract advance fees through escalating release-charge demands before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams on Amazon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-on-amazon", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Amazon via emails, SMS, and fake pages claiming buyers have won a prize or reward, then extract payment card details or personal data through the claim process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams on Amazon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-on-amazon", "summary": "Fraudulent third-party Amazon sellers collect payment for products that are never dispatched, or ship empty boxes and items that do not match the listing, exploiting the volume of Amazon orders to delay detection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams on eBay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-on-ebay", "summary": "eBay sellers take payment for items they never ship, using fake tracking, off-platform communication, and feedback manipulation to delay dispute resolution long enough to complete multiple fraud cycles.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Scams on Gumtree", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/qr-code-scams-on-gumtree", "summary": "Gumtree buyers and sellers are targeted with QR codes in messages and listing images that redirect to phishing sites or initiate unauthorised payments when scanned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Discord servers and bots impersonate government assistance programmes, collecting personal data and fees from users who believe they are applying for a legitimate grant.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Remote Access Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/remote-access-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as technical support volunteers in Discord servers, offering to fix account or device problems by walking victims through installing remote-access software that gives the scammer full device control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Fraudulent online shops promoted through X posts and paid ads collect payment for goods they never deliver, exploiting X's ad targeting to reach high-intent buyers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Discord bots and accounts announce fake brand-sponsored prize wins to community members, directing them to phishing links to claim awards that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers use WhatsApp to conduct off-platform marketplace transactions with no buyer protection, posing as private sellers or diverting buyers away from protected platforms to collect unrecoverable payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram groups and channels host fraudulent peer-to-peer marketplaces where sellers take payment via unprotected methods and disappear without dispatching goods or delivering digital items.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores on eBay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-ebay", "summary": "Fraudulent eBay seller accounts create professional-looking storefronts to sell non-existent or counterfeit goods, exploiting eBay's brand trust before the account is suspended.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Courier Fraud & Bank Card Collection on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/courier-fraud-bank-card-collection-on-discord", "summary": "Scammers on Discord impersonate bank support servers or direct-message users with false fraud alerts, persuading them to hand their bank card and PIN to a fake courier.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "X accounts impersonating brands and celebrities send DMs or reply to users claiming they have won a prize, directing them to phishing pages to claim awards that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Scammers send Snapchat DMs claiming the recipient has won a foreign lottery, then use the platform's ephemeral messaging to apply urgent pressure for advance fee payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Denmark", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-denmark", "summary": "Criminals port Danish mobile numbers to intercept MitID authentication and drain Danish bank accounts or access government services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Denmark", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-denmark", "summary": "Fraudulent charity appeals targeting Danish donors with fake MobilePay or card donation pages that divert DKK from legitimate causes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Denmark", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-denmark", "summary": "Unlicensed brokers and fake trading platforms targeting Danish savers via social-media celebrity ads and cold calls, draining DKK from bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Denmark", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-denmark", "summary": "Fraudulent rental listings on BoligPortal and Facebook Marketplace targeting Danish house-hunters with below-market apartments that collect deposits for inaccessible properties.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Switzerland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-switzerland", "summary": "Romance fraudsters build false relationships with Swiss residents on dating apps to extract CHF through fabricated emergencies or investment funnels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Switzerland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-switzerland", "summary": "Fraudulent crypto schemes targeting Swiss residents, exploiting the 'Crypto Valley' brand to lend false credibility to fake exchanges and token offerings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Switzerland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-switzerland", "summary": "Fraudulent charity appeals impersonating Swiss humanitarian organisations to collect CHF donations that fund scammers rather than legitimate causes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Switzerland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-switzerland", "summary": "Classic advance-fee fraud targeting Swiss residents through email and WhatsApp, promising large CHF inheritances or business windfalls in exchange for upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Norway", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-norway", "summary": "Fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes targeting Norwegian residents through social media and fake exchanges, exploiting Norway's high crypto-awareness.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Sweden", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-sweden", "summary": "Fake micro-task job offers targeting Swedish residents on WhatsApp and Telegram, requiring upfront deposits that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Portugal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-portugal", "summary": "Fraudulent accommodation and experience booking platforms targeting tourists and expats in Portugal, collecting EUR payments for stays or activities that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Czechia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-czechia", "summary": "Classic advance-fee fraud targeting Czech residents via email and social media, promising large CZK windfalls contingent on upfront fee payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Czechia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-czechia", "summary": "Fraudulent rental ads on Sreality.cz and Facebook targeting Czech house-hunters, collecting CZK deposits for properties that are not available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Czechia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-czechia", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Policie ČR or Europol officers to extort CZK payments from Czech residents under threat of arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Sweden", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-sweden", "summary": "Criminals port Swedish mobile numbers to their own SIMs to intercept BankID authentication and drain Swedish bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Belgium", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-belgium", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers targeting Belgian jobseekers on LinkedIn and Indeed, collecting personal data or advance fees under the guise of EU-sector or multinational recruitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Austria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-austria", "summary": "Fake work-from-home job offers targeting Austrian residents on WhatsApp, requiring upfront deposits disguised as equipment fees or training costs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Czechia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-czechia", "summary": "Unlicensed investment platforms and boiler-room operations targeting Czech savers with fraudulent CZK and EUR trading products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Czechia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-czechia", "summary": "Fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes targeting Czech investors through fake exchanges and pump-and-dump token projects denominated in CZK.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Czechia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-czechia", "summary": "Romance-investment fraud targeting Czech residents via WhatsApp and dating apps, steering CZK and EUR into fraudulent crypto platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Czechia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-czechia", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the Czech Finanční správa (Financial Administration) to steal online banking credentials or extort CZK payments from Czech residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Czechia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-czechia", "summary": "Fraudulent e-commerce sites targeting Czech shoppers with deep discounts on goods that never arrive, using Czech-language interfaces and CZK pricing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Portugal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-portugal", "summary": "Criminals port Portuguese mobile numbers to intercept SMS banking OTPs and drain EUR from Multibanco and online banking accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Portugal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-portugal", "summary": "Fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes targeting Portuguese investors and expats, exploiting Portugal's growing fintech profile and NHR crypto tax treatment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Portugal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-portugal", "summary": "Unlicensed investment platforms and boiler-room operations targeting Portuguese savers and expats through social-media ads and cold calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Portugal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-portugal", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate PSP, GNR, or PJ officers to extort EUR payments or steal banking credentials from Portuguese residents under threat of arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Portugal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-portugal", "summary": "Romance-investment fraud targeting Portuguese residents and expats on WhatsApp and Instagram, steering EUR into fake crypto platforms with Portuguese-language interfaces.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Portugal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-portugal", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira (AT) to steal Portal das Finanças credentials or extort EUR from Portuguese residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Portugal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-portugal", "summary": "Fraudulent rental ads on OLX and Idealista targeting Portuguese house-hunters and expats, collecting deposits for properties that are not available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Austria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-austria", "summary": "Criminals port Austrian mobile numbers to intercept SMS banking OTPs and drain EUR from Austrian e-banking accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Austria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-austria", "summary": "Fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes targeting Austrian investors through fake exchanges and celebrity-endorsed token projects, exploiting growing crypto interest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Austria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-austria", "summary": "Fraudulent SMS impersonating Österreichische Post and DHL Austria, directing Austrian residents to phishing pages that steal card data or banking credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Austria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-austria", "summary": "Fraudulent rental ads on willhaben.at and Immobilienscout24 targeting Austrian house-hunters with below-market listings that collect deposits for inaccessible properties.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Switzerland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-switzerland", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate cantonal police or federal authorities in Switzerland to extort CHF payments or steal e-banking credentials from Swiss residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Austria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-austria", "summary": "Romance-investment fraud targeting Austrian residents through dating apps and WhatsApp, funnelling EUR into fraudulent crypto platforms via EPS and bank transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Austria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-austria", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Austrian Bundespolizei or Europol officers over the phone, pressuring victims into handing over cash or bank credentials under threat of arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Austria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-austria", "summary": "Unlicensed brokers and fake trading platforms targeting Austrian savers via social-media ads and cold calls, exploiting trust in German-language financial branding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Belgium", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-belgium", "summary": "Fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes targeting Belgian investors through fake exchanges and celebrity-endorsed token projects, exploiting Belgium's fintech growth.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Belgium", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-belgium", "summary": "Criminals port Belgian mobile numbers to intercept itsme authentication and drain EUR from Belgian bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Belgium", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-belgium", "summary": "Fraudulent SMS impersonating bpost and DHL Belgium, directing Belgian residents to phishing pages that steal itsme credentials or card data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Belgium", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-belgium", "summary": "Fake rental ads on Immoweb and Facebook Marketplace targeting Belgian house-hunters, collecting deposits for properties that do not exist or are not available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Belgium", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-belgium", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Belgian Federal Police or local police zones to extort EUR payments or steal itsme credentials under threat of arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Belgium", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-belgium", "summary": "Long-con romance-investment fraud targeting Belgian residents in French and Dutch, funnelling EUR into fake crypto platforms via Bancontact and bank transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Belgium", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-belgium", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the SPF Finances / FOD Financiën to extort EUR payments or steal itsme credentials from Belgian residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Belgium", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-belgium", "summary": "Unlicensed investment firms targeting Belgian savers with fraudulent trading platforms and boiler-room calls, exploiting trust in EU financial branding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Denmark", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-denmark", "summary": "Romance-investment fraud targeting Danish residents on social apps, steering DKK into fake crypto platforms under the guise of professional investment mentorship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Denmark", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-denmark", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate SKAT (Danish Tax Agency) to steal MitID credentials or extort DKK payments from Danish residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Denmark", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-denmark", "summary": "Fraudulent e-commerce sites targeting Danish shoppers with steep discounts on goods that never arrive, using Danish-language interfaces and DKK pricing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Norway", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-norway", "summary": "Fraudsters construct false romantic relationships with Norwegian residents on dating apps to extract NOK and personal data before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Norway", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-norway", "summary": "Classic advance-fee fraud targeting Norwegian residents with fabricated oil-sector contract windfalls or lottery prizes requiring NOK fees to release.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Norway", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-norway", "summary": "Unlicensed brokers and fake trading platforms targeting Norwegian savers via social-media celebrity ads and cold calls, draining NOK from bank and pension accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Norway", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-norway", "summary": "Fraudulent SMS impersonating Posten Norge and private couriers in Norway, directing recipients to phishing sites that steal Vipps credentials or card data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Norway", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-norway", "summary": "Romance-investment fraud targeting Norwegian residents through social apps, exploiting Vipps payment familiarity to drain NOK into fake crypto platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Norway", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-norway", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Skatteetaten (Norwegian Tax Administration) to extort payments or steal BankID credentials from Norwegian residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Norway", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-norway", "summary": "Fake rental ads on Finn.no and Facebook Marketplace swindling Norwegian house-hunters out of deposits for properties that do not exist or are not available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Sweden", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-sweden", "summary": "Romance fraudsters build false relationships with Swedish residents on dating apps to extract SEK through fabricated emergencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Sweden", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-sweden", "summary": "Classic advance-fee fraud targeting Swedish residents with fake lottery prizes, EU grants, or business windfalls requiring SEK upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Sweden", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-sweden", "summary": "Fraudulent charity campaigns targeting Swedish donors with fake appeals for humanitarian causes, diverting SEK donations to scammers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Sweden", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-sweden", "summary": "Fraudulent SMS impersonating PostNord and private couriers in Sweden, directing recipients to phishing sites that steal card details or Swish credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Sweden", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-sweden", "summary": "Fake rental listings on Blocket and Facebook Marketplace targeting Swedish house-hunters, collecting deposits for properties that are unavailable or non-existent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Sweden", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-sweden", "summary": "Long-horizon romance-investment fraud hitting Swedish residents via Messenger, WhatsApp, and Bumble, funnelling SEK into fake crypto portals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Sweden", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-sweden", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Skatteverket (Swedish Tax Agency) demanding urgent payments or stealing BankID credentials from Swedish residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Sweden", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-sweden", "summary": "Unlicensed brokers and fake trading platforms targeting Swedish savers through social media ads and boiler-room calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Switzerland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-switzerland", "summary": "Fraudulent e-commerce sites targeting Swiss shoppers with heavily discounted goods that never arrive, using Swiss-looking domains and payment pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Switzerland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-switzerland", "summary": "Criminals port Swiss mobile numbers to their own SIMs to intercept SMS authentication codes and drain e-banking accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Switzerland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-switzerland", "summary": "Fraudulent SMS messages impersonating Swiss Post and private couriers, directing recipients to phishing sites that steal card data or install malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Switzerland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-switzerland", "summary": "Long-con romance-investment fraud targeting Swiss residents through WhatsApp and LinkedIn, funnelling CHF into fake crypto platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Switzerland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-switzerland", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes exploiting Switzerland's reputation for financial privacy and stability to defraud residents and expatriates.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Switzerland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-switzerland", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the Swiss Federal Tax Administration (ESTV) to extort payments or steal bank credentials from Swiss residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Switzerland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-switzerland", "summary": "Sextortion schemes targeting Swiss users on dating apps and social platforms, threatening to expose intimate images unless CHF payments are made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Ghana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-ghana", "summary": "Ghana has long been associated with advance-fee fraud, where victims are promised large sums in exchange for upfront payments that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Ghana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-ghana", "summary": "Ghanaian romance-blackmail operations use fake online relationships to obtain intimate images, then threaten exposure unless victims pay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Ghana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-ghana", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers targeting Ghanaian jobseekers promise overseas or high-paying local roles in exchange for upfront fees, leaving victims out of pocket and unemployed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Ghana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-ghana", "summary": "Ponzi schemes and fraudulent investment platforms have caused catastrophic losses in Ghana, targeting savers with promises of extraordinary returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Ghana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-ghana", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud is growing rapidly in Ghana as low regulatory oversight and rising smartphone penetration create fertile ground for fake exchanges and coin promotions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Ghana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-ghana", "summary": "Task scams targeting Ghanaian workers offer easy online micro-jobs but ultimately trick participants into making deposits they can never recover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Ghana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-ghana", "summary": "SIM swap fraud allows criminals to take over a victim's mobile number in Ghana and drain linked mobile money wallets and bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Ghana", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-ghana", "summary": "Fraudulent charity appeals exploit Ghanaian generosity and communal values, diverting donations meant for flood victims, orphans, and disaster relief.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Tanzania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-tanzania", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud in Tanzania preys on the aspiration for sudden wealth, using inheritance stories, contract windfalls, and lottery notices to extract repeated upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Tanzania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-tanzania", "summary": "Pig-butchering scams reach Tanzanian victims through WhatsApp and Facebook, combining fake romantic relationships with fraudulent crypto investment platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Tanzania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-tanzania", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers circulate widely in Tanzania, promising positions in the Gulf, Europe, and South Africa while collecting fees from desperate jobseekers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Tanzania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-tanzania", "summary": "SIM swap fraud in Tanzania exploits M-Pesa and other mobile money wallets, allowing criminals to drain victims' savings after taking over their phone number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Tanzania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-tanzania", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in Tanzania promise extraordinary returns via forex, crypto, and savings clubs, then collapse and disappear with participants' money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Tanzania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-tanzania", "summary": "Romance scams in Tanzania exploit emotional vulnerability on Facebook and dating apps, eventually leading to fabricated emergencies that require the victim to send money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Tanzania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-tanzania", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers spread through Tanzanian WhatsApp groups, promising flexible online income that ultimately extracts registration fees or deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Tanzania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-tanzania", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the Tanzania Revenue Authority to threaten businesses and individuals with penalties unless immediate payments are made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Tanzania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-tanzania", "summary": "Fake parcel-delivery SMS messages trick Tanzanian recipients into paying customs or redelivery fees for packages that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Uganda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-uganda", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud in Uganda exploits mobile money infrastructure, luring victims with promises of business contracts, inheritances, and cash prizes that require upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Uganda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-uganda", "summary": "Ugandan savers lose millions of shillings annually to Ponzi schemes, fake forex platforms, and fraudulent savings clubs promising returns that legitimate markets cannot deliver.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Uganda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-uganda", "summary": "Fraudulent job agencies in Uganda promise lucrative overseas positions while collecting processing fees from applicants who never receive employment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Uganda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-uganda", "summary": "Sextortion operations in Uganda use fake romantic relationships to obtain intimate images and then threaten victims with exposure unless they pay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Uganda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-uganda", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud is growing in Uganda as social media promotions for fake tokens and unregulated trading platforms target first-time investors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Uganda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-uganda", "summary": "Fake online task jobs spread through Ugandan WhatsApp and Telegram groups, promising income for simple clicks before extracting deposits that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams in Uganda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-uganda", "summary": "Fraudulent online shops on social media target Ugandan consumers with deep discounts on electronics, clothes, and appliances, then fail to deliver anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Uganda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-uganda", "summary": "Pig-butchering fraud reaches Ugandan victims through Facebook and WhatsApp, combining fabricated romantic interest with fake crypto investment platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams in Uganda", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-in-uganda", "summary": "Fake foreign lottery notifications target Ugandans with implausible prize claims, requiring a series of fees before a prize that does not exist can be collected.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Senegal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-senegal", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud in Senegal exploits Orange Money and Wave mobile payment networks to collect fees from victims promised inheritances, contracts, and lottery prizes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Senegal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-senegal", "summary": "Fraudulent investment platforms and Ponzi schemes targeting Senegalese savers promise extraordinary returns via forex, crypto, and community savings networks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Senegal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-senegal", "summary": "Fraudulent job agencies in Senegal promise positions in Europe and the Gulf while collecting processing fees, leaving applicants out of pocket and unemployed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Senegal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-senegal", "summary": "Sextortion networks in Senegal use fabricated online relationships to obtain intimate material and extort victims via Orange Money and Wave.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Senegal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-senegal", "summary": "Pig-butchering scams reach Senegalese victims via Facebook and WhatsApp with romantic overtures that lead to fraudulent crypto investment platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Senegal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-senegal", "summary": "Romance fraud in Senegal targets emotionally vulnerable people on Facebook and dating apps, building fake relationships before soliciting money for fabricated emergencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Senegal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-senegal", "summary": "SIM swap fraud in Senegal hijacks Orange Money and Wave accounts by taking over victims' mobile numbers, enabling instant drainage of their mobile wallets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Senegal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-senegal", "summary": "Fake online task jobs circulate on Senegalese WhatsApp and Telegram networks, promising easy income for clicks and reviews before demanding deposits that vanish.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Senegal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-senegal", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud is increasing in Senegal as fake exchanges and influencer-promoted tokens target savers with promises of rapid wealth.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Bahrain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-bahrain", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in Bahrain target both local residents and the large expat community with unlicensed forex platforms, Ponzi products, and unregistered funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Bahrain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-bahrain", "summary": "Pig-butchering operations target Bahrain's well-educated expat and local professional community through social media, combining romance and crypto investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Bahrain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-bahrain", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers targeting people seeking Gulf employment promise positions in Bahrain while collecting visa and processing fees that lead nowhere.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Bahrain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-bahrain", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud in Bahrain targets residents with fabricated inheritance and contract stories, exploiting the country's financial hub status to add credibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Bahrain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-bahrain", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud targets Bahrain's affluent professional community through fake exchanges, unregulated token sales, and social media promotions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Bahrain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-bahrain", "summary": "Criminals impersonating Bahraini police officers and government officials pressure residents into making immediate payments to avoid fabricated legal consequences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Bahrain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-bahrain", "summary": "Sextortion networks target Bahrain's residents and expats through social media, exploiting intimate images to extort payments using Gulf social stigma as leverage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams in Bahrain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-bahrain", "summary": "Fraudulent e-commerce stores and social media shops in Bahrain collect payments for electronics, luxury goods, and clothing that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Bahrain", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-bahrain", "summary": "Fraudulent property rental listings in Bahrain advertise appealing apartments at below-market rates, collecting deposits from victims who discover the property was never available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Oman", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-oman", "summary": "Unlicensed investment platforms and Ponzi schemes target Oman's residents and expats, exploiting the country's conservative financial culture with promises of Sharia-compliant returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Oman", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-oman", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers targeting people seeking employment in Oman collect visa fees and processing charges while providing no genuine positions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Oman", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-oman", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud targeting Oman's residents uses fabricated inheritance stories, government contract windfalls, and charitable donations to extract repeated upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Oman", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-oman", "summary": "Pig-butchering scams target Oman's professional community on WhatsApp and Instagram with fabricated romantic relationships leading to fake crypto investment platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Oman", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-oman", "summary": "Criminals impersonating Royal Oman Police officers and government officials pressure residents into immediate payments to avoid fabricated legal consequences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams in Oman", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-oman", "summary": "Fraudulent social media shops and cloned websites target Oman's consumers with discounted electronics and luxury goods that are never delivered after payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Oman", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-oman", "summary": "Sextortion networks target Oman's residents by building fake online relationships then threatening to share intimate images unless victims pay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Oman", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-oman", "summary": "Criminals impersonate the Oman Tax Authority to threaten residents with penalties unless immediate payments are made via phone or online transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Oman", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-oman", "summary": "Fake job offers spread via WhatsApp in Oman targeting both locals and expats with promises of easy flexible income that end in deposit traps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Kuwait", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-kuwait", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes target Kuwait's high-income population and large expat community with unlicensed forex platforms, fake funds, and crypto Ponzi products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Kuwait", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-kuwait", "summary": "Pig-butchering operations target Kuwait's affluent population through Instagram and WhatsApp, building fake romantic or professional relationships before directing victims to fraudulent crypto platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Kuwait", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-kuwait", "summary": "Fraudulent job agencies target people seeking employment in Kuwait with lucrative-sounding positions, then collect processing fees before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Kuwait", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-kuwait", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud in Kuwait uses fabricated inheritance and government contract stories to extract repeated payments from residents and their overseas contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Kuwait", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-kuwait", "summary": "Criminals impersonating Kuwait police and government officials pressure residents and expats into immediate payments to avoid fabricated legal consequences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Kuwait", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-kuwait", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud targets Kuwait's affluent residents through social media promotions for fake exchanges and unregistered token offerings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Kuwait", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-kuwait", "summary": "Sextortion networks exploit Kuwait's conservative social values to extort residents by threatening to share intimate images with family and employers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams in Kuwait", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-kuwait", "summary": "Fraudulent Snapchat and Instagram shops in Kuwait offer discounted electronics, luxury goods, and branded items that are never delivered after payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Kuwait", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-kuwait", "summary": "Fake apartment and villa rental listings in Kuwait collect deposits from newcomers seeking accommodation, with properties that are unavailable or non-existent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Kazakhstan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-kazakhstan", "summary": "Kazakhstan's growing digital economy and active retail investor community are targeted by Ponzi schemes, fake forex brokers, and unregistered investment platforms promising extraordinary returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Kazakhstan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-kazakhstan", "summary": "Kazakhstan is a significant crypto mining and trading hub, and its high crypto adoption rate is exploited by fake exchanges, fraudulent token sales, and mining investment scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Kazakhstan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-kazakhstan", "summary": "Pig-butchering fraud targets Kazakhstan's professional class via Telegram and Instagram, combining fake romantic or professional relationships with fraudulent crypto investment platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Kazakhstan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-kazakhstan", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud targets Kazakhstani residents with inheritance stories, government grant notices, and international business deals that all require upfront fee payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Kazakhstan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-kazakhstan", "summary": "Fraudulent job advertisements targeting Kazakhstanis promise overseas or high-paying domestic positions while collecting processing fees from applicants who receive nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Kazakhstan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-kazakhstan", "summary": "SIM swap fraud in Kazakhstan hijacks Kaspi Bank and mobile banking accounts by taking control of the victim's phone number to bypass SMS authentication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Store Scams in Kazakhstan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-kazakhstan", "summary": "Fraudulent online shops and Instagram accounts in Kazakhstan collect Kaspi payments for electronics and clothing that are never shipped.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Kazakhstan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-kazakhstan", "summary": "Criminals impersonate the State Revenue Committee of Kazakhstan to threaten residents and businesses with penalties unless immediate payments are made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Kazakhstan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-kazakhstan", "summary": "Fake online task jobs spread via WhatsApp and Telegram in Kazakhstan with promises of easy income that end in Kaspi deposit traps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Free In-Game Currency Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/free-in-game-currency-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Fake tutorial and giveaway videos on YouTube promise viewers unlimited in-game currency through generator tools or 'secret methods', leading to credential theft, survey traps, or malware downloads.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Game Account Takeover Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/game-account-takeover-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Attackers use Discord DMs, phishing bots, and fake support servers to steal game account credentials or authentication tokens, locking legitimate owners out and reselling or draining the accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Marketplace Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-marketplace-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Fraudulent sellers use Reddit trading subreddits to list high-value in-game items or accounts at attractive prices, collecting payment via untraceable methods before disappearing without delivering anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Key Reseller Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-key-reseller-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudsters sell invalid, already-redeemed, or stolen game activation keys through Discord servers and DMs at below-market prices, leaving buyers with codes that do not work and no way to recover their money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Giveaway Scams on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/twitch-discord-giveaway-scams-on-twitch", "summary": "Fraudsters clone popular streamer channels or flood live chats with bot messages to advertise fake giveaways, directing viewers to phishing sites that steal credentials or payment details under the guise of prize fulfilment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Giveaway Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/twitch-discord-giveaway-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Impostor accounts and hacked verified profiles run fake giveaways on Instagram promising gaming gear, gift cards, or cash prizes, collecting personal information and small fees from followers who believe they have won.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Giveaway Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/twitch-discord-giveaway-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudsters use Telegram channels and group chats to run fake gaming and prize giveaways, using bots to automate winner selection and directing victims to phishing pages or wallet-draining links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Student Loan Forgiveness Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/student-loan-forgiveness-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers use Facebook ads and targeted posts to exploit borrowers searching for relief from student debt, charging upfront fees for 'services' that are free through official channels or simply do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Student Loan Forgiveness Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/student-loan-forgiveness-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Short-form TikTok videos promote fake student loan relief methods and fraudulent third-party services, directing financially stressed borrowers to phishing sites or paid programmes that deliver nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Scholarship and Grant Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/scholarship-grant-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fake scholarship accounts on Instagram target students with promises of easy grants and awards that require an application fee, personal data submission, or bank details to claim a prize that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Fraudulent course creators use YouTube channels to build credibility with free content before funnelling viewers into expensive courses that contain recycled, outdated, or entirely valueless material.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent educators use Facebook groups and targeted ads to sell overpriced or worthless online courses, leveraging community trust and peer pressure to drive enrolment in programmes that fail to deliver.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Study Abroad Agent Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/study-abroad-agent-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudulent education agents on Instagram promise guaranteed university placements abroad and collect large upfront fees for visa support and application services before disappearing or delivering counterfeit documentation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Study Abroad Agent Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/study-abroad-agent-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scam education agents operate through Telegram groups and channels to target students seeking overseas university placements, collecting advance fees for fabricated admission letters and non-existent visa services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Fraudsters use Reddit to harvest personal details that enable SIM swap attacks — collecting phone numbers, carrier names, and account clues from public posts to impersonate victims to their mobile carrier.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels and groups are used to coordinate SIM swap attacks and advertise SIM swap services, targeting cryptocurrency holders and high-value account owners by offering to hijack phone numbers on demand.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phone Upgrade Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phone-upgrade-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters advertise fake carrier upgrade deals and unlocked phone sales on Facebook Marketplace and via sponsored posts, collecting payment for devices that never arrive or collecting contract details used for identity theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Carrier Support Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-support-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Fraudulent YouTube videos impersonating mobile carrier support channels provide fake phone numbers and remote-access instructions to viewers experiencing technical issues, enabling account takeover and financial theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Carrier Support Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-support-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Scam accounts pose as carrier representatives in subreddits dedicated to customer support, directing users with billing or service problems to fraudulent numbers or external sites that harvest account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent charity pages and fundraisers on Facebook exploit donors' generosity by impersonating real organisations or inventing fake causes, routing donations to personal accounts rather than any legitimate charitable purpose.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers create fake charity accounts or hijack real ones on Instagram to solicit donations for fabricated causes, routing payments to personal accounts through unverified links and DM requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Scammers exploit breaking disaster events on TikTok by posting emotionally compelling videos that collect donations through unverified external links or solicit cryptocurrency before any accountability infrastructure exists.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Fraudulent YouTube channels monetise disaster events by creating donation-appeal videos with links to unverified payment pages, exploiting viewers who search for ways to help after breaking news events.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Crowdfunding Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crowdfunding-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Fraudsters post fabricated personal hardship stories in subreddits that support community donations, collecting money under false pretences for medical bills, emergencies, or projects that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Crowdfunding Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crowdfunding-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent fundraising campaigns on Facebook use fabricated personal stories and emotional imagery to solicit donations through Facebook's fundraiser tool or third-party links, with funds going to scammers rather than those in need.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent Facebook pages and messages claim that recipients have won a foreign national lottery, extracting advance fees, tax payments, and personal identification under the guise of releasing the supposed winnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fake brand and influencer accounts on Instagram send congratulatory DMs claiming the recipient has won a prize, then extract personal information and shipping fees from those who respond.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Scammers on TikTok use comment bots and fake brand accounts to target users with fabricated prize notifications, directing them to external sites to claim non-existent rewards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Giveaway Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-giveaway-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Fake giveaway videos and cloned creator channels on YouTube promise viewers expensive prizes in exchange for actions that harvest personal data or redirect to phishing sites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Giveaway Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-giveaway-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudulent Discord bots and fake server promotions announce giveaways for premium game items, subscriptions, or cash prizes, directing participants to credential-harvesting sites or collecting entry fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Giveaway Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-giveaway-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Fake giveaway posts on Reddit promise high-value prizes to users who comment or upvote, with apparent winners contacted through DMs and directed to fee-collection or credential-harvesting sites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Marketplace Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-marketplace-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent game item and account listings on Facebook Marketplace and in gaming groups collect payments for digital goods that are never delivered, exploiting the platform's perceived peer accountability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Key Reseller Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-key-reseller-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Fraudulent game key sellers exploit Reddit trading communities with below-market listings, collecting payment before delivering invalid, already-redeemed, or stolen activation keys.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Key Reseller Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-key-reseller-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Fraudulent YouTube channels and video descriptions promote fake game key reseller sites and code-generator tools that steal credentials, install malware, or sell invalid codes for games that were never legitimately purchased.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Scholarship and Grant Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/scholarship-grant-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent scholarship pages and targeted Facebook ads deceive students and families by advertising non-existent awards, collecting application fees and personal data under the guise of legitimate financial aid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Scholarship and Grant Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/scholarship-grant-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Fraudulent YouTube videos promote fake scholarship databases, paid application services, and non-existent grant programmes, luring students into paying for access to opportunities that are either free or entirely fabricated.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Student Loan Forgiveness Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/student-loan-forgiveness-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudulent loan relief operators use Telegram groups and bots to impersonate financial advisers, charging upfront fees for forgiveness services that either do not exist or are freely available through official government channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phone Upgrade Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phone-upgrade-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Fake carrier and phone deal videos on TikTok direct viewers to fraudulent upgrade sites that collect personal details and upfront payments for contracts or devices that are never fulfilled.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook profiles are mined by SIM swap attackers for personal details that answer carrier security questions, while Facebook Messenger is also used to impersonate contacts and gather phone numbers for targeted attacks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phone Upgrade Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phone-upgrade-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudulent Instagram accounts impersonating carriers or phone resellers advertise upgrade deals requiring upfront payment or sensitive personal data for devices and contracts that are never fulfilled.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scam operators use Telegram channels and groups to solicit charitable donations for fabricated causes, routing payments to unregulated wallets while impersonating legitimate relief organisations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Fraudulent YouTube channels run fundraising videos and donation drives under false charitable pretences, routing viewer donations to personal accounts rather than any legitimate cause.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent Facebook fundraisers and pages exploit breaking disaster events to collect donations that never reach victims, leveraging the platform's rapid content sharing and built-in donation tools.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Scam accounts exploit Reddit's community goodwill by posting fabricated disaster relief requests in regional subreddits, collecting donations through unverifiable links and personal payment accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Fraudulent YouTube videos impersonate official lottery bodies to announce winners or explain claim processes, directing viewers to phishing sites that collect personal details and advance fee payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fake lottery organisation accounts on Instagram notify followers of alleged wins and direct them to advance-fee collection pages through DMs and story links, harvesting personal data and payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Messenger and post notifications are used to tell users they have won prizes in draws they never entered, leading to fee collection and personal data harvesting through a series of convincing follow-up messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Free In-Game Currency Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/free-in-game-currency-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Short TikTok videos demonstrate fake currency generators and 'unlimited coin' methods, directing viewers to survey and download sites that harvest data or install malware without providing any in-game benefit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Game Account Takeover Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/game-account-takeover-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudsters use Telegram bots and channels to trade in stolen game credentials and sell account-hijacking services, targeting players whose account details have been exposed through other breaches.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Carrier Support Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-support-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fake mobile carrier accounts on Instagram respond to public complaint posts with fraudulent contact numbers and phishing links, intercepting customers who are already frustrated and seeking help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Scholarship and Grant Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/scholarship-grant-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Fraudulent scholarship posts in college and financial aid subreddits advertise non-existent awards with low requirements, collecting student data and fees from users who believe they have found a legitimate opportunity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Student Loan Forgiveness Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/student-loan-forgiveness-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube channels pose as financial education resources to promote paid loan relief services and fabricated forgiveness programmes, misleading borrowers into paying for access to free government resources.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Attackers harvest personal details from public Instagram profiles and Stories to assemble the information needed to impersonate account holders to their mobile carrier, enabling SIM swap fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Giveaway Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-giveaway-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fake brand pages and shared giveaway posts on Facebook collect personal details and fees from users who believe they have won a legitimate prize draw, exploiting the platform's sharing mechanics to maximise reach.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Free In-Game Currency Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/free-in-game-currency-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram accounts impersonating game developers or popular gaming influencers advertise free in-game currency giveaways, directing followers to credential-harvesting sites via bio links and story swipe-ups.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Giveaway Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-giveaway-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Fraudulent TikTok accounts run fake giveaway campaigns using duets and stitches of popular creators, directing entrants to external sites that harvest personal data or require payment to claim non-existent prizes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scam Telegram channels launch cryptocurrency donation appeals within hours of disaster events, impersonating relief organisations to collect funds that never reach affected communities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Game Account Takeover Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/game-account-takeover-scams-on-youtube", "summary": "Fraudulent YouTube videos teach viewers how to 'recover' locked game accounts using third-party tools that actually install malware or capture credentials, enabling attackers to take over the very accounts they claim to help secure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Fraudulent course promoters use Reddit communities to build credibility and drive enrolment in overpriced or worthless educational programmes, exploiting the platform's culture of peer recommendation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram influencers and fake education accounts promote overpriced or fraudulent courses using lifestyle-aspirational content, targeting followers who want to replicate a creator's apparent success.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Carrier Support Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-support-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fake mobile carrier pages on Facebook respond to customer complaints in public posts and groups, redirecting users with service issues to fraudulent support numbers or phishing links that harvest account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Scam accounts seed lottery winning stories in popular subreddits to build apparent authenticity and then direct readers to fee-collection sites, or contact commenters privately to solicit participation in advance-fee fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Game Account Takeover Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/game-account-takeover-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook gaming groups and Marketplace listings are used to execute game account takeover fraud, with fake support accounts and account sale scams targeting players who share login details or follow fraudulent links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudsters use Discord servers and direct messages to solicit disaster relief donations, impersonating community fundraising efforts or known charities to collect funds that are not forwarded to any relief operation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Notification Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-notification-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Scam accounts contact Reddit users via DM claiming they have won prizes in subreddit giveaways, directing them to fee-collection or credential-harvesting sites through convincing but fraudulent winner notifications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-via-gcash", "summary": "How blackmailers exploit GCash instant transfers to collect coerced payments from victims of intimate-image extortion in the Philippines and beyond.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams via bKash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-via-bkash", "summary": "How extortionists targeting Bangladeshi victims leverage bKash mobile money to collect coerced payments quickly and with limited traceability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams via UPI", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-via-upi", "summary": "How romance blackmailers exploit India's UPI instant payment network to collect extortion demands and why the speed of UPI makes it particularly dangerous in these cases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams via Pix", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-via-pix", "summary": "How romance extortionists in Brazil and abroad use Pix instant transfers to rapidly collect coerced payments from victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gift-Card Romance Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gift-card-romance-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Why romance fraudsters specifically request gift-card numbers as payment and how the combination of emotional manipulation and untraceable redemption codes drains victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gift-Card Romance Scams Pivoting to Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gift-card-romance-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How romance scammers who start with gift-card demands pivot to Zelle bank transfers once trust is established, combining the emotional leverage of a long con with the irreversibility of instant US bank payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gift-Card Romance Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gift-card-romance-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How romance fraudsters blend gift-card manipulation with Western Union wire transfers to drain victims, and why Western Union's global cash-pickup network is central to the scheme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gift-Card Romance Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gift-card-romance-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How romance scammers persuade victims to convert gift-card codes to Bitcoin or send Bitcoin directly, exploiting irreversibility and limited regulatory oversight.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sextortion-Style Romance Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sextortion-style-romance-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How organised sextortion operations demand Bitcoin as their payment of choice and why the cryptocurrency's irreversibility makes it ideal for large-scale extortion campaigns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sextortion-Style Romance Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sextortion-style-romance-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How sextortion scammers targeting victims without crypto access demand retail gift-card codes and why the untraceable nature of card codes suits their operational needs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sextortion-Style Romance Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sextortion-style-romance-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How sextortion operators in the US exploit Zelle's bank-integrated instant payments to collect extortion money from victims before they can seek help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sextortion-Style Romance Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sextortion-style-romance-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How sextortion operators use Western Union's global cash-pickup network to collect extortion payments across borders without needing a local bank account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams via bKash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-via-bkash", "summary": "How fraudsters posing as romantic partners drain Bangladeshi victims through bKash mobile money requests, exploiting trust built over social media.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams via UPI", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-via-upi", "summary": "How fake romantic partners in India request UPI transfers for fabricated emergencies and how the payment method's frictionless nature accelerates financial harm.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sugar Daddy Allowance Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sugar-daddy-allowance-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How fake 'sugar daddies' use Zelle's bank-to-bank immediacy to execute overpayment and advance-fee traps that leave victims out of pocket.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sugar Daddy Allowance Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sugar-daddy-allowance-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How fake wealthy benefactors use Western Union wire requests to advance-fee trap victims seeking online financial arrangements.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sugar Daddy Allowance Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sugar-daddy-allowance-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How fake benefactors in sugar-daddy allowance scams use gift-card advance fees to extract money from victims while promising allowances that never arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sugar Daddy Allowance Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sugar-daddy-allowance-scams-via-gcash", "summary": "How fraudsters posing as generous benefactors target Filipino users through GCash advance-fee and overpayment traps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-gcash", "summary": "How fraudulent charity campaigns solicit GCash donations in the Philippines and how to verify a charity before sending any mobile-money donation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via bKash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-bkash", "summary": "How fraudulent charity appeals target Bangladeshi donors through bKash mobile money and what steps verify a charitable cause before sending.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How fake international charity appeals direct donors to Western Union wire transfers and what verification steps prevent losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-via-gcash", "summary": "How fraudsters exploit Philippine disasters to launch fake relief campaigns collecting donations through GCash personal numbers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams via bKash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-via-bkash", "summary": "How fraudsters exploit Bangladeshi flood and cyclone disasters to solicit bKash donations for fake relief operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams via UPI", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-via-upi", "summary": "How fraudulent disaster relief collections in India exploit UPI's wide reach and how donors can verify campaigns before giving.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Relief Scams via M-Pesa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-relief-scams-via-mpesa", "summary": "How fraudsters in East Africa exploit disaster news to launch fake M-Pesa relief collections, and how to donate safely via mobile money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Crowdfunding Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crowdfunding-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How fraudsters bypass crowdfunding platform safeguards by collecting donations directly via Zelle, removing any consumer protection layer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Crowdfunding Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crowdfunding-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How fake international crowdfunding appeals direct overseas donors to Western Union wire transfers and what red flags identify fraudulent campaigns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Crowdfunding Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crowdfunding-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How fraudulent fundraising campaigns leverage Bitcoin's irreversibility and pseudonymity to collect donations with zero accountability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Crowdfunding Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crowdfunding-scams-via-revolut", "summary": "How fraudulent fundraising campaigns in Europe and globally direct donations to Revolut personal accounts to avoid crowdfunding platform scrutiny.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Student Loan Forgiveness Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/student-loan-forgiveness-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonating student loan relief programmes collect advance fees via Zelle from borrowers seeking debt cancellation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Student Loan Forgiveness Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/student-loan-forgiveness-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How fraudulent student loan relief operators request Western Union wire fees from borrowers and why wiring money for loan services is always fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Student Loan Forgiveness Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/student-loan-forgiveness-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How student loan relief fraudsters request gift-card codes as advance fees from financially stressed borrowers and why this demand is always a scam signal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Student Loan Forgiveness Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/student-loan-forgiveness-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How student loan relief fraudsters request Bitcoin payments for fake processing fees and why cryptocurrency demands for government services are always fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How fraudulent online course sellers collect payment via Zelle, bypassing platform dispute protections and leaving buyers without recourse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-scams-via-gcash", "summary": "How fraudulent online course sellers in the Philippines collect GCash payments for courses that deliver no value or never materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-scams-via-revolut", "summary": "How fraudulent course sellers in Europe use Revolut payment links to collect fees for worthless or non-existent digital education products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How fraudulent trading and crypto courses request Bitcoin payment to eliminate any chargeback risk, leaving buyers with no recourse for worthless content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How ghost broker car insurance fraudsters collect premiums via Zelle, leaving drivers with invalid policies they discover only when making a claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How ghost broker fraudsters in the UK, US, and internationally collect insurance premium payments via Western Union while delivering no valid coverage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How ghost brokers targeting low-income or unbanked drivers collect fraudulent insurance premiums using retail gift-card codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Health Insurance Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-health-insurance-via-zelle", "summary": "How fraudulent health insurance plans collect premiums via Zelle, leaving policyholders uninsured when they need care.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Health Insurance Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-health-insurance-via-western-union", "summary": "How fraudulent health coverage schemes targeting unbanked or international consumers collect premiums via Western Union.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Health Insurance Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-health-insurance-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How fraudsters collecting fake health insurance premiums use gift-card codes and why this payment demand exposes the scam immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Timeshare Resale Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/timeshare-resale-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How timeshare resale fraudsters collect advance fees via Western Union from owners desperate to exit their contracts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Timeshare Resale Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/timeshare-resale-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How timeshare exit fraudsters have begun requesting Bitcoin advance fees, adding crypto irreversibility to an already well-established fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Timeshare Resale Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/timeshare-resale-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How timeshare exit fraudsters operating within the US collect advance fees via Zelle, exploiting the payment method's familiarity and irreversibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-via-gcash", "summary": "How fake online car and motorcycle listings in the Philippines direct buyers to GCash deposits before vehicle inspection, resulting in lost funds and no vehicle.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How fake online vehicle listings request Bitcoin payment to eliminate any chargeback route for defrauded buyers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via M-Pesa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-via-mpesa", "summary": "How fraudulent second-hand vehicle listings in East Africa request M-Pesa reservation deposits, leaving buyers without vehicles or refunds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vehicle Escrow Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vehicle-escrow-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How fake vehicle escrow services require buyers to wire Western Union funds before vehicle delivery, resulting in total financial loss.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vehicle Escrow Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vehicle-escrow-scams-via-revolut", "summary": "How fake vehicle escrow services in Europe direct buyers to Revolut transfers as the payment rail for fraudulent purchase-protection schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vehicle Escrow Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vehicle-escrow-scams-via-gcash", "summary": "How fake vehicle escrow arrangements in the Philippines misuse GCash to collect full purchase prices from buyers who believe their funds are protected.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Extended Warranty Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How fraudulent vehicle warranty sellers collect premiums via Zelle, bypassing chargeback rights that would expose the worthless policy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Extended Warranty Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How fraudulent warranty schemes targeting older adults request Western Union wire payments for coverage that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Extended Warranty Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How fake vehicle warranty callers request gift-card codes and why this demand immediately identifies the caller as a fraudster.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Extended Warranty Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How a newer wave of extended warranty fraudsters request Bitcoin payment to target crypto-owning victims and eliminate any chargeback risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-relief-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How fraudulent debt settlement companies collect Zelle fees upfront while doing nothing to reduce client debts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-relief-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How fraudulent debt settlement callers request gift-card codes as payment for services that never reduce any debt.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-relief-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How fraudulent debt relief operators collect Western Union advance fees from financially distressed victims who never see any debt reduction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams via M-Pesa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-relief-scams-via-mpesa", "summary": "How fake loan and debt relief operators in East Africa collect M-Pesa advance fees from borrowers under financial pressure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Loan Scams via M-Pesa", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/loan-scams-via-mpesa", "summary": "How fake lenders in East Africa collect M-Pesa advance fees from borrowers who receive no loan funds in return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Loan Scams via GCash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/loan-scams-via-gcash", "summary": "How fake online lenders in the Philippines collect GCash advance fees from applicants while never disbursing any loan proceeds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Loan Scams via bKash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/loan-scams-via-bkash", "summary": "How fraudulent lenders in Bangladesh collect bKash advance fees from applicants seeking personal or business loans that never materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Loan Scams via UPI", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/loan-scams-via-upi", "summary": "How fake instant loan operators in India collect UPI advance fees and how UPI collect requests are weaponised against loan applicants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sextortion-Style Romance Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sextortion-style-romance-scams-via-revolut", "summary": "How sextortion operators targeting European victims request Revolut payments as the collection vehicle for intimate-image extortion demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sugar Daddy Allowance Scams via Revolut", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sugar-daddy-allowance-scams-via-revolut", "summary": "How fake wealthy benefactors in Europe exploit Revolut's payment features to execute advance-fee and overpayment traps against victims seeking online financial arrangements.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partners on Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-dating-apps", "summary": "Fraudsters build fake romantic profiles on dating apps to manipulate victims emotionally and eventually extract money or personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Long-Distance Romance Scams on Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/long-distance-romance-scams-on-dating-apps", "summary": "Scammers pose as long-distance partners on dating apps, using the distance narrative to justify why they can never meet and to eventually solicit money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Military Romance Scams on Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-military-romance-scams-on-dating-apps", "summary": "Criminals impersonate military personnel on dating apps to exploit trust and sympathy before requesting money under the guise of military-related emergencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Catfishing Scams on Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/catfishing-scams-on-dating-apps", "summary": "Catfishers on dating apps construct entirely false identities to lure victims into emotional relationships for financial gain, blackmail, or personal exploitation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Dating App Crypto Grooming Scams on Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dating-app-crypto-grooming-on-dating-apps", "summary": "Scammers use dating apps to build romantic relationships and then guide victims onto fraudulent crypto trading platforms, resulting in devastating financial losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Inheritance Romance Scams on Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/inheritance-romance-scams-on-dating-apps", "summary": "Fraudsters on dating apps pose as wealthy individuals with inheritance complications, weaving romance into a narrative designed to get victims to pay fees for a share of a fictional fortune.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Long-Distance Romance Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/long-distance-romance-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudsters exploit Instagram's visual culture to create aspirational fake personas, initiating long-distance romantic relationships that ultimately lead to financial exploitation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Military Romance Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-military-romance-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers build Instagram profiles using stolen military photos to cultivate romantic trust before requesting money under false military-related pretexts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Catfishing Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/catfishing-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram's image-driven culture enables catfishers to build highly convincing fake identities using stolen photos and fabricated lifestyles.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Inheritance Romance Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/inheritance-romance-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers on Instagram present as wealthy individuals with frozen assets, using romantic manipulation to convince victims to pay fees for a share of a nonexistent inheritance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partners on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers exploit Facebook's large user base and relationship features to create convincing fake personas, building romantic relationships that lead to financial exploitation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Long-Distance Romance Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/long-distance-romance-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters use Facebook to cultivate long-distance romantic relationships with fabricated personas, eventually extracting money through manufactured emergencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Military Romance Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-military-romance-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters create Facebook profiles using stolen military images to build romantic relationships and request money through fictitious military-related emergencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Catfishing Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/catfishing-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters build detailed fake Facebook identities to deceive victims into romantic or personal relationships, exploiting the platform's social features to appear genuine.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity Romance Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate celebrities on TikTok to build romantic connections with fans, ultimately requesting money or personal information from star-struck victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Catfishing Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/catfishing-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Catfishers exploit TikTok's video content and DM features to create convincing fake personas, targeting young users for financial, romantic, or blackmail purposes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Long-Distance Romance Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/long-distance-romance-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers use Telegram's encrypted messaging to sustain fake long-distance romantic relationships and extract money without leaving a recoverable evidence trail.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Military Romance Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-military-romance-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers impersonate military personnel on Telegram, exploiting the platform's encrypted messaging to maintain a romantic deception and request money without oversight.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Catfishing Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/catfishing-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Catfishers use Telegram's encrypted, unverified messaging environment to maintain false personas in romantic or personal relationships without accountability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Goods on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-goods-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok videos and livestreams are used to promote and sell counterfeit branded goods to viewers who believe they are getting genuine discounted products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Discount Codes on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-discount-codes-on-tiktok", "summary": "Fraudsters post TikTok videos promoting fake discount codes that either direct users to phishing sites, capture personal data, or fund fake referral schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Brand Outlet Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-brand-outlet-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Scammers create TikTok accounts impersonating well-known brands, advertising deep clearance sales that funnel buyers to fraudulent checkout pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Dropshipping Markup Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dropshipping-markup-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok influencers and shop sellers sell inexpensive dropshipped products at massive markups, concealing the true origin and value of the goods from buyers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Review Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-review-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "Fraudulent TikTok creators produce paid or incentivised product reviews that misrepresent goods, manipulating buying decisions for financial gain.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudulent Instagram shops use attractive imagery and influencer aesthetics to sell goods that never arrive or are significantly different from advertised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Goods on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-goods-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram accounts and Stories are used to sell counterfeit branded goods, exploiting the platform's visual appeal and DM-based purchasing to reach buyers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Shop Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-shop-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram's native shopping features are exploited by fraudulent sellers whose polished accounts deceive buyers into purchasing goods that are never delivered or misrepresented.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Brand Outlet Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-brand-outlet-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Scam accounts impersonate official brand outlet pages on Instagram, advertising fake clearance sales to harvest payment details from brand-loyal consumers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Dropshipping Markup Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dropshipping-markup-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram influencers and shop accounts promote cheaply sourced dropshipped products at inflated prices, concealing the true origin and value of goods from buyers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Discount Codes on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-discount-codes-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudulent Instagram accounts and influencers promote fake discount codes that direct followers to phishing pages or earn commissions from fraudulent purchases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Goods on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-goods-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest pins are used to drive buyers to external sites selling counterfeit branded goods, exploiting the platform's product-discovery format to reach brand-focused shoppers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Shop Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-shop-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest's product discovery ecosystem is exploited by fraudulent shops that pin deceptive product imagery linking to stores that fail to deliver goods as advertised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Brand Outlet Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-brand-outlet-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Scammers create Pinterest boards impersonating brand outlet sales, directing brand-conscious shoppers to fraudulent websites that harvest payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Dropshipping Markup Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dropshipping-markup-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Deceptive dropshippers use Pinterest's inspiration-driven format to present cheap wholesale products as premium items, charging large markups to aspiration-motivated buyers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Advance fee fraud is operated through X DMs and posts, promising victims large financial returns in exchange for small upfront payments that are never refunded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airdrop Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airdrop-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fake cryptocurrency airdrop announcements flood Telegram crypto communities, directing members to wallet-draining links or harvesting private keys through phishing sites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers exploit Telegram's private groups and encrypted messaging to run advance fee fraud operations, promising financial returns in exchange for upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airdrop Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airdrop-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudulent crypto project accounts on Instagram announce fake airdrops, directing followers to phishing sites designed to drain wallets or steal private keys.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook is used to run advance fee fraud operations through Messenger DMs, Groups, and fake profiles that promise large financial returns in exchange for upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Giveaway Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-giveaway-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fake cryptocurrency giveaways on Facebook target users through ads, Groups, and celebrity impersonation pages, using send-first mechanics to steal funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partners on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers cultivate fake romantic relationships through Telegram's encrypted messaging, exploiting the platform's privacy to isolate victims and extract money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Review Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-review-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Paid and fabricated product reviews on Instagram deceive followers into purchasing goods that do not match the claims made, generating affiliate income for dishonest creators.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Review Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-review-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Pages, Groups, and Marketplace use fake reviews and testimonials to build false credibility for products, services, and businesses that do not deliver on their promises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Discount Codes on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-discount-codes-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent discount code promotions on Facebook direct users to phishing sites or generate illegitimate affiliate income while providing no genuine saving.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Shop Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-shop-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Shops and Marketplace listings are exploited by fraudulent sellers whose polished storefronts and ads lure buyers into purchases that are never fulfilled.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Discount Codes on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-discount-codes-on-snapchat", "summary": "Fraudulent discount codes shared through Snapchat Stories and DMs direct young users to phishing checkouts or generate affiliate commission from purchases under false pretences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Brand Outlet Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-brand-outlet-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Scam accounts on Snapchat impersonate brand outlet sales, using the platform's ephemeral Stories to reach young audiences with fake clearance promotions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity Romance Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers impersonate celebrities on Facebook to build romantic connections with fans, exploiting the platform's large older demographic to extract money through fabricated emergencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Advance fee fraudsters use Instagram's aspirational lifestyle content and DMs to present convincing financial opportunities that require upfront payment before a promised payout.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Review Scams on TikTok Shop", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-review-scams-on-tiktok-shop", "summary": "Coordinated fake reviews on TikTok Shop manipulate product rankings and buyer decisions, driving purchases of low-quality or fraudulent goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Review Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-review-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Fraudulent product promotions on Snapchat use staged reviews and testimonials to drive purchases of goods that do not match the claims made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity Romance Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers create Instagram accounts impersonating celebrities to build romantic connections with fans, exploiting parasocial bonds to extract money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Shop Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-shop-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Fraudulent sellers use Snapchat Stories and DMs to drive purchases of goods that are never delivered, exploiting the platform's disappearing content to evade accountability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Military Romance Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-military-romance-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "Scammers pose as military personnel on Snapchat to build romantic connections with young users, using the platform's disappearing messages to obscure the manipulation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Dropshipping Markup Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dropshipping-markup-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Shops and targeted ads are used to promote cheaply sourced dropshipped products at large markups, with misleading quality and origin claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Discount Codes on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-discount-codes-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest boards and pins are used to distribute fake discount codes that direct purchase-ready users to phishing sites or generate fraudulent affiliate commissions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Review Scams on Pinterest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-review-scams-on-pinterest", "summary": "Pinterest boards full of staged or incentivised product reviews manipulate purchase decisions for products that do not match the claims made in the pinned content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partners on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers build convincing romantic personas on Instagram using curated profiles and direct messaging, gradually cultivating emotional dependency before extracting money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airdrop Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airdrop-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent cryptocurrency airdrop announcements spread through Facebook Pages and Groups, directing users to wallet-draining sites or collecting advance fees under the pretence of distributing free tokens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity Romance Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers impersonate celebrities in Telegram DMs and group chats, building romantic connections with fans before making financial requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Finland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-finland", "summary": "Long-con crypto investment fraud targeting Finnish residents through dating apps and messaging platforms, fattening victims with fake profits before draining their savings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Finland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-finland", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Verohallinto (the Finnish Tax Administration) by text, email, and phone, demanding payments or harvesting bank credentials through fake refund notices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Finland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-finland", "summary": "Smishing texts impersonating Posti and parcel couriers tell Finnish recipients a package is held pending a small fee, leading to card theft and recurring charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Finland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-finland", "summary": "Bogus recruiters approach Finnish jobseekers on LinkedIn and messaging apps with remote roles that exist only to harvest personal data or extract upfront equipment fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Finland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-finland", "summary": "Sextortion rings befriend Finnish users on dating apps and social media, obtain intimate images, then threaten to expose them to family and colleagues unless paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Finland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-finland", "summary": "Fraudsters re-target Finnish scam victims by posing as recovery agents, lawyers, or regulators who promise to retrieve lost funds in exchange for upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Finland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-finland", "summary": "Fake apartment listings in Helsinki, Tampere, and other cities lure renters and students into paying deposits for homes that are not available or do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Finland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-finland", "summary": "Counterfeit webshops advertised to Finnish shoppers on social media take payment for discounted goods that never arrive or are worthless imitations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Finland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-finland", "summary": "Unlicensed brokers and fake funds pitch Finnish investors guaranteed returns through cold calls and online ads, then block withdrawals once money is deposited.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Hungary", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-hungary", "summary": "Callers impersonating Hungarian police or prosecutors tell victims their bank account is compromised and pressure them to move savings to a 'safe account' or hand cash to a courier.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Hungary", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-hungary", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Hungary's NAV tax authority with fake refund and arrears messages designed to steal banking logins or extract immediate payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Hungary", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-hungary", "summary": "Long-con crypto investment fraud reaches Hungarian victims through dating apps and messaging platforms, building trust before steering them into fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Hungary", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-hungary", "summary": "Unsolicited WhatsApp messages offer Hungarian jobseekers easy part-time online work, then trap them in task schemes that demand deposits to unlock fake earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Hungary", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-hungary", "summary": "Smishing texts impersonating Magyar Posta and couriers tell Hungarian recipients a parcel is held pending a fee, capturing card details and enrolling victims in hidden charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Hungary", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-hungary", "summary": "Sextortion operations befriend Hungarian users on dating apps and social media, obtain intimate images, then threaten exposure to contacts unless payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Hungary", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-hungary", "summary": "Unlicensed brokers and fake funds pitch Hungarian investors guaranteed returns through ads and cold calls, then block withdrawals behind invented fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Hungary", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-hungary", "summary": "Counterfeit webshops advertised to Hungarian shoppers on social media take payment for discounted goods that never arrive or are worthless imitations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Hungary", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-hungary", "summary": "Victims in Hungary are promised inheritances, lottery prizes, or business windfalls that require upfront fees, taxes, or 'clearance' payments that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Croatia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-croatia", "summary": "Fraudulent accommodation listings and cloned booking pages target tourists heading to the Croatian coast, taking payment for apartments and villas that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Croatia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-croatia", "summary": "Fake long-term rental adverts in Zagreb, Split, and coastal cities lure tenants and seasonal workers into paying deposits for apartments that are not available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Croatia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-croatia", "summary": "Long-con crypto investment fraud targets Croatian victims through dating apps and messaging, building trust before steering them into fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Croatia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-croatia", "summary": "Smishing texts impersonating Hrvatska posta and couriers tell Croatian recipients a parcel is held pending a fee, capturing card details and triggering hidden charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Croatia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-croatia", "summary": "Unsolicited WhatsApp messages offer Croatian jobseekers easy online work, then trap them in task schemes demanding deposits to unlock fake earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Croatia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-croatia", "summary": "Sextortion operations befriend Croatian users on dating apps and social media, obtain intimate images, then threaten exposure to contacts unless payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Croatia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-croatia", "summary": "Unlicensed brokers and fake funds pitch Croatian investors guaranteed returns through ads and cold calls, then block withdrawals behind invented fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Croatia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-croatia", "summary": "Counterfeit webshops advertised to Croatian shoppers on social media take payment for discounted goods that never arrive or are worthless imitations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Croatia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-croatia", "summary": "Callers impersonating Croatian police or prosecutors warn victims their account is compromised and pressure them to move savings to a 'safe account' or hand over cash.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Slovenia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-slovenia", "summary": "Long-con crypto investment fraud targets Slovenian victims through dating apps and messaging, building trust before steering them into fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Slovenia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-slovenia", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Slovenia's FURS tax authority with fake refund and arrears messages designed to steal banking logins or extract immediate payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Slovenia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-slovenia", "summary": "Smishing texts impersonating Posta Slovenije and couriers tell Slovenian recipients a parcel is held pending a fee, capturing card details and hidden charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Slovenia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-slovenia", "summary": "Bogus recruiters approach Slovenian jobseekers on LinkedIn and messaging apps with remote roles that exist only to harvest data or recruit money mules.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Slovenia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-slovenia", "summary": "Sextortion operations befriend Slovenian users on dating apps and social media, obtain intimate images, then threaten exposure to contacts unless payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Slovenia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-slovenia", "summary": "Unlicensed brokers and fake funds pitch Slovenian investors guaranteed returns through ads and cold calls, then block withdrawals behind invented fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Slovenia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-slovenia", "summary": "Fake apartment listings in Ljubljana, Maribor, and coastal towns lure tenants and students into paying deposits for homes that are not available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Slovenia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-slovenia", "summary": "Counterfeit webshops advertised to Slovenian shoppers on social media take payment for discounted goods that never arrive or are worthless imitations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Slovenia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-slovenia", "summary": "Victims in Slovenia are promised inheritances, lottery prizes, or business windfalls that require upfront fees, taxes, or 'clearance' payments that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Slovakia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-slovakia", "summary": "Callers impersonating Slovak police or prosecutors warn victims their account is compromised and pressure them to move savings to a 'safe account' or hand cash to a courier.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Slovakia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-slovakia", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Slovakia's Financial Administration with fake refund and arrears messages designed to steal banking logins or extract immediate payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Slovakia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-slovakia", "summary": "Long-con crypto investment fraud targets Slovak victims through dating apps and messaging, building trust before steering them into fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Slovakia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-slovakia", "summary": "Unsolicited WhatsApp messages offer Slovak jobseekers easy online work, then trap them in task schemes demanding deposits to unlock fake earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Slovakia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-slovakia", "summary": "Smishing texts impersonating Slovenska posta and couriers tell Slovak recipients a parcel is held pending a fee, capturing card details and hidden charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Slovakia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-slovakia", "summary": "Sextortion operations befriend Slovak users on dating apps and social media, obtain intimate images, then threaten exposure to contacts unless payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Slovakia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-slovakia", "summary": "Unlicensed brokers and fake funds pitch Slovak investors guaranteed returns through ads and cold calls, then block withdrawals behind invented fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Slovakia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-slovakia", "summary": "Counterfeit webshops advertised to Slovak shoppers on social media take payment for discounted goods that never arrive or are worthless imitations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Slovakia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-slovakia", "summary": "Bogus recruiters approach Slovak jobseekers on LinkedIn and messaging apps with remote roles that exist only to harvest data or recruit money mules.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Latvia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-latvia", "summary": "Long-con crypto investment fraud targets Latvian victims through dating apps and messaging, building trust before steering them into fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Latvia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-latvia", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Latvia's VID tax authority with fake refund and arrears messages designed to steal banking logins or extract immediate payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Latvia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-latvia", "summary": "Smishing texts impersonating Latvijas Pasts and couriers tell Latvian recipients a parcel is held pending a fee, capturing card details and hidden charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Latvia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-latvia", "summary": "Unlicensed brokers and fake funds pitch Latvian investors guaranteed returns through ads and cold calls, then block withdrawals behind invented fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Latvia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-latvia", "summary": "Sextortion operations befriend Latvian users on dating apps and social media, obtain intimate images, then threaten exposure to contacts unless payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Latvia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-latvia", "summary": "Unsolicited WhatsApp messages offer Latvian jobseekers easy online work, then trap them in task schemes demanding deposits to unlock fake earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Latvia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-latvia", "summary": "Counterfeit webshops advertised to Latvian shoppers on social media take payment for discounted goods that never arrive or are worthless imitations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Latvia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-latvia", "summary": "Victims in Latvia are promised inheritances, lottery prizes, or business windfalls that require upfront fees, taxes, or 'clearance' payments that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Latvia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-latvia", "summary": "Fraudsters re-target Latvian scam victims by posing as recovery agents, lawyers, or regulators who promise to retrieve lost funds in exchange for upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Lithuania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-lithuania", "summary": "Long-con crypto investment fraud targets Lithuanian victims through dating apps and messaging, building trust before steering them into fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Lithuania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-lithuania", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Lithuania's VMI tax authority with fake refund and arrears messages designed to steal banking logins or extract immediate payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Lithuania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-lithuania", "summary": "Smishing texts impersonating Lietuvos Pastas and couriers tell Lithuanian recipients a parcel is held pending a fee, capturing card details and hidden charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Lithuania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-lithuania", "summary": "Unlicensed brokers and fake funds pitch Lithuanian investors guaranteed returns through ads and cold calls, then block withdrawals behind invented fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Lithuania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-lithuania", "summary": "Sextortion operations befriend Lithuanian users on dating apps and social media, obtain intimate images, then threaten exposure to contacts unless payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Lithuania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-lithuania", "summary": "Unsolicited WhatsApp messages offer Lithuanian jobseekers easy online work, then trap them in task schemes demanding deposits to unlock fake earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Lithuania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-lithuania", "summary": "Counterfeit webshops advertised to Lithuanian shoppers on social media take payment for discounted goods that never arrive or are worthless imitations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Lithuania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-lithuania", "summary": "Callers impersonating Lithuanian police or prosecutors warn victims their account is compromised and pressure them to move savings to a 'safe account' or hand over cash.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Lithuania", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-lithuania", "summary": "Victims in Lithuania are promised inheritances, lottery prizes, or business windfalls that require upfront fees, taxes, or 'clearance' payments that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Estonia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-estonia", "summary": "Long-con crypto investment fraud targets Estonian victims through dating apps and messaging, building trust before steering them into fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Estonia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-estonia", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Estonia's Tax and Customs Board with fake refund and arrears messages designed to steal banking logins or extract immediate payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Estonia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-estonia", "summary": "Smishing texts impersonating Omniva and couriers tell Estonian recipients a parcel is held pending a fee, capturing card details and hidden charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Estonia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-estonia", "summary": "Unlicensed brokers and fake funds pitch Estonian investors guaranteed returns through ads and cold calls, then block withdrawals behind invented fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Estonia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-estonia", "summary": "Sextortion operations befriend Estonian users on dating apps and social media, obtain intimate images, then threaten exposure to contacts unless payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Estonia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-estonia", "summary": "Unsolicited WhatsApp messages offer Estonian jobseekers easy online work, then trap them in task schemes demanding deposits to unlock fake earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Estonia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-estonia", "summary": "Counterfeit webshops advertised to Estonian shoppers on social media take payment for discounted goods that never arrive or are worthless imitations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Estonia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-estonia", "summary": "Callers impersonating Estonian police or prosecutors warn victims their account is compromised and pressure them to move savings to a 'safe account' or hand over cash.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Estonia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-estonia", "summary": "Fraudsters re-target Estonian scam victims by posing as recovery agents, lawyers, or regulators who promise to retrieve lost funds in exchange for upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Bolivia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-bolivia", "summary": "Long-con investment-romance scams are reaching Bolivian victims through social media and messaging apps, fattening trust before draining savings into fake crypto platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Bolivia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-bolivia", "summary": "Fraudulent high-yield schemes and unlicensed investment 'clubs' target Bolivian savers with promises of fixed returns that no legitimate product can sustain.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Bolivia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-bolivia", "summary": "As crypto adoption grows in Bolivia, fraudsters exploit newcomers with fake exchanges, bogus mining and staking offers, and impersonation of well-known platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Bolivia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-bolivia", "summary": "Unsolicited WhatsApp messages offering easy part-time work lure Bolivian jobseekers into task-based schemes that ultimately demand deposits and vanish.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Bolivia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-bolivia", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Bolivian police, prosecutors, or judges to frighten victims into paying fictitious fines or transferring money to avoid arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Bolivia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-bolivia", "summary": "Sextortion schemes target Bolivians on dating apps and social media, coaxing intimate images and then threatening to share them unless victims pay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Bolivia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-bolivia", "summary": "Fraudulent shops on social media and standalone websites advertise discounted goods to Bolivian shoppers, then deliver nothing or send counterfeit items.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Bolivia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-bolivia", "summary": "Victims in Bolivia are promised large sums — inheritances, prizes, or grants — that require upfront 'fees' which only multiply and never release any money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Bolivia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-bolivia", "summary": "Smishing messages posing as couriers or customs ask Bolivians to pay a small fee or log in on a fake page, harvesting card details and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Paraguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-paraguay", "summary": "Unlicensed high-yield schemes and bogus investment funds target Paraguayan savers with promises of fixed returns that collapse once new money slows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Paraguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-paraguay", "summary": "With Paraguay known for crypto mining and growing digital-asset interest, scammers push fake exchanges, mining contracts, and giveaway frauds at newcomers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Paraguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-paraguay", "summary": "Slick but fraudulent forex and crypto 'trading' platforms target Paraguayans with fake dashboards, manipulated wins, and withdrawals blocked behind endless fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Paraguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-paraguay", "summary": "Paraguayans are recruited for simple online 'tasks' that pay small at first, then demand deposits to unlock higher earnings that can never be withdrawn.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Paraguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-paraguay", "summary": "Fraudulent recruiters offer Paraguayan jobseekers attractive local or overseas roles, then extract fees for visas, training, or processing before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Paraguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-paraguay", "summary": "Sextortion schemes in Paraguay use fake online romances to obtain intimate images, then threaten to expose victims unless they pay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Paraguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-paraguay", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Paraguay's tax authority to claim unpaid taxes, refunds, or penalties, pressuring victims into paying or revealing financial details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Paraguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-paraguay", "summary": "Fraudulent shops on social media and standalone sites advertise cheap goods to Paraguayan shoppers, then deliver nothing or send counterfeits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Paraguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-paraguay", "summary": "Fraudulent rental ads in Paraguay lure tenants with attractive apartments, then demand deposits to 'reserve' a property the scammer does not control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Venezuela", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-venezuela", "summary": "With cryptocurrency widely used in Venezuela to preserve value, scammers exploit reliance on digital assets through fake exchanges, P2P fraud, and giveaway schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Venezuela", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-venezuela", "summary": "Long-con investment-romance scams target Venezuelans at home and in the diaspora, building trust before steering them into fake crypto platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Venezuela", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-venezuela", "summary": "Romance scammers build fake relationships with Venezuelans online, then invent emergencies to extract money over weeks or months.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Venezuela", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-venezuela", "summary": "Recovery scams target Venezuelans who already lost money to fraud, posing as recovery agents or officials who promise to retrieve funds for an upfront fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Venezuela", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-venezuela", "summary": "Sextortion schemes target Venezuelans on dating apps and social media, coaxing intimate images and then threatening exposure unless victims pay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Venezuela", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-venezuela", "summary": "Unsolicited WhatsApp messages offering easy remote work lure Venezuelan jobseekers into task schemes that ultimately demand deposits and vanish.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Venezuela", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-venezuela", "summary": "Victims in Venezuela are promised large sums — prizes, grants, or aid — that require upfront fees which only multiply and never release any money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Venezuela", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-venezuela", "summary": "Fraudsters exploit humanitarian need and the diaspora's goodwill with fake charity appeals that pocket donations meant for Venezuelans in hardship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Scams in Venezuela", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-venezuela", "summary": "Attackers hijack Venezuelan phone numbers via SIM-swap fraud to intercept verification codes and seize bank, wallet, and messaging accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Ecuador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-ecuador", "summary": "Unlicensed high-yield schemes and bogus funds target Ecuadorian savers with fixed-return promises that collapse once new money slows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Ecuador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-ecuador", "summary": "As crypto interest grows in Ecuador, scammers exploit newcomers with fake exchanges, bogus investment apps, and giveaway and impersonation schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Ecuador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-ecuador", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Ecuadorian police, prosecutors, or judges to frighten victims into paying fictitious fines or transferring money to avoid arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Ecuador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-ecuador", "summary": "Ecuadorians are recruited for simple online 'tasks' that pay small at first, then demand deposits to unlock higher earnings that can never be withdrawn.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Ecuador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-ecuador", "summary": "Smishing messages posing as couriers or customs ask Ecuadorians to pay a small fee or log in on a fake page, harvesting card details and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Ecuador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-ecuador", "summary": "Sextortion schemes target Ecuadorians on dating apps and social media, coaxing intimate images and then threatening exposure unless victims pay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Ecuador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-ecuador", "summary": "Fraudulent shops on social media and standalone sites advertise cheap goods to Ecuadorian shoppers, then deliver nothing or send counterfeits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Ecuador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-ecuador", "summary": "Fraudulent travel and accommodation sites target visitors to Ecuador, taking payment for hotels, tours, or Galapagos trips that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Scams in Ecuador", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-ecuador", "summary": "Attackers hijack Ecuadorian phone numbers via SIM-swap fraud to intercept verification codes and seize bank, wallet, and messaging accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Panama", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-panama", "summary": "As a regional financial hub, Panama draws both genuine investors and fraudsters running unlicensed high-yield schemes that promise fixed returns and collapse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Panama", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-panama", "summary": "As crypto adoption grows in Panama, scammers exploit newcomers and investors with fake exchanges, bogus funds, and giveaway and impersonation schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Panama", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-panama", "summary": "Long-con investment-romance scams reach Panamanian victims through social media and messaging apps, building trust before draining savings into fake platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Panama", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-panama", "summary": "Slick but fraudulent forex and crypto 'trading' platforms target Panamanians with fake dashboards, manipulated wins, and withdrawals blocked behind endless fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Panama", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-panama", "summary": "Recovery scams target Panamanians who already lost money to fraud, posing as recovery agents or officials who promise to retrieve funds for an upfront fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Panama", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-panama", "summary": "Fraudulent recruiters offer Panamanian jobseekers attractive local or overseas roles, then extract fees for visas, training, or processing before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Panama", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-panama", "summary": "Fraudulent rental ads in Panama lure tenants and relocating expatriates with attractive apartments, then demand deposits for properties the scammer does not control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Panama", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-panama", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Panama's tax authority to claim unpaid taxes, refunds, or penalties, pressuring victims into paying or revealing financial details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Panama", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-panama", "summary": "Fraudsters in Panama exploit goodwill with fake charity and disaster-relief appeals that pocket donations meant for people in genuine need.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Guatemala", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-guatemala", "summary": "Unlicensed high-yield schemes and bogus funds target Guatemalan savers with fixed-return promises that collapse once new money slows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Guatemala", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-guatemala", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Guatemalan police, prosecutors, or judges to frighten victims into paying fictitious fines or transferring money to avoid arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Guatemala", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-guatemala", "summary": "Unsolicited WhatsApp messages offering easy remote work lure Guatemalan jobseekers into task schemes that ultimately demand deposits and vanish.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Guatemala", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-guatemala", "summary": "Sextortion schemes target Guatemalans on dating apps and social media, coaxing intimate images and then threatening exposure unless victims pay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Guatemala", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-guatemala", "summary": "Fraudulent shops on social media and standalone sites advertise cheap goods to Guatemalan shoppers, then deliver nothing or send counterfeits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Guatemala", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-guatemala", "summary": "Smishing messages posing as couriers or customs ask Guatemalans to pay a small fee or log in on a fake page, harvesting card details and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Guatemala", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-guatemala", "summary": "Victims in Guatemala are promised large sums — prizes, inheritances, or grants — that require upfront fees which only multiply and never release any money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Guatemala", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-guatemala", "summary": "As crypto interest and remittance use grow in Guatemala, scammers exploit newcomers with fake exchanges, bogus investment apps, and giveaway schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams in the Dominican Republic", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-in-dominican-republic", "summary": "Lottery and prize scams tell Dominicans they have won a draw they never entered, then demand fees and taxes before a prize that never arrives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in the Dominican Republic", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-dominican-republic", "summary": "Fraudulent travel and accommodation sites target visitors to the Dominican Republic, taking payment for resorts, villas, or tours that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in the Dominican Republic", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-dominican-republic", "summary": "Sextortion schemes target people in the Dominican Republic on dating apps and social media, coaxing intimate images and then threatening exposure unless victims pay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in the Dominican Republic", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-dominican-republic", "summary": "Romance scammers build fake relationships with people connected to the Dominican Republic, then invent emergencies to extract money over weeks or months.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in the Dominican Republic", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-dominican-republic", "summary": "Unlicensed high-yield schemes and bogus funds target Dominican savers with fixed-return promises that collapse once new money slows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in the Dominican Republic", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-dominican-republic", "summary": "Fraudulent shops on social media and standalone sites advertise cheap goods to Dominican shoppers, then deliver nothing or send counterfeits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Scams in the Dominican Republic", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-dominican-republic", "summary": "Attackers hijack Dominican phone numbers via SIM-swap fraud to intercept verification codes and seize bank, wallet, and messaging accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in the Dominican Republic", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-dominican-republic", "summary": "Victims connected to the Dominican Republic are promised large sums that require upfront fees which only multiply and never release any money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Uruguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-uruguay", "summary": "Unlicensed high-yield schemes and bogus funds target Uruguayan savers with fixed-return promises that collapse once new money slows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Uruguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-uruguay", "summary": "As crypto interest grows in Uruguay, scammers exploit investors with fake exchanges, bogus investment apps, and giveaway and impersonation schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Uruguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-uruguay", "summary": "Slick but fraudulent forex and crypto 'trading' platforms target Uruguayans with fake dashboards, manipulated wins, and withdrawals blocked behind endless fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Uruguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-uruguay", "summary": "Uruguayans are recruited for simple online 'tasks' that pay small at first, then demand deposits to unlock higher earnings that can never be withdrawn.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Uruguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-uruguay", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Uruguay's tax authority to claim unpaid taxes, refunds, or penalties, pressuring victims into paying or revealing financial details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Uruguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-uruguay", "summary": "Smishing messages posing as couriers or customs ask Uruguayans to pay a small fee or log in on a fake page, harvesting card details and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Uruguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-uruguay", "summary": "Fraudulent shops on social media and standalone sites advertise cheap goods to Uruguayan shoppers, then deliver nothing or send counterfeits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Uruguay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-uruguay", "summary": "Recovery scams target Uruguayans who already lost money to fraud, posing as recovery agents or officials who promise to retrieve funds for an upfront fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Business Email Compromise on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/business-email-compromise-on-email", "summary": "Criminals hijack or spoof corporate email accounts to impersonate executives, suppliers, or finance staff and trick a company into making fraudulent payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Business Email Compromise on Microsoft Teams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/business-email-compromise-on-microsoft-teams", "summary": "Once attackers gain access to a corporate account, they extend business email compromise into Microsoft Teams chats to issue urgent payment instructions that feel internal and trusted.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Business Email Compromise on Slack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/business-email-compromise-on-slack", "summary": "Attackers who breach a workspace account use Slack direct messages to impersonate leaders or finance staff and authorise fraudulent transfers under the guise of internal chat.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Business Email Compromise via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/business-email-compromise-via-phone-calls", "summary": "Fraudsters combine spoofed emails with follow-up phone calls, impersonating executives or banks by voice to pressure finance staff into authorising fraudulent transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "CEO Fraud on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ceo-fraud-on-email", "summary": "Scammers impersonate a senior executive by email to instruct finance or junior staff to make an urgent, confidential payment outside normal procedures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "CEO Fraud on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ceo-fraud-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters message employees on WhatsApp pretending to be the chief executive, using a new number and an urgent personal tone to demand a discreet payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "CEO Fraud on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ceo-fraud-on-telegram", "summary": "Impersonators contact staff on Telegram posing as a company leader, exploiting the app's username-based identities to demand confidential, urgent payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "CEO Fraud on Microsoft Teams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ceo-fraud-on-microsoft-teams", "summary": "Attackers impersonate a senior leader within Microsoft Teams, using the platform's trusted internal feel to pressure staff into urgent, confidential payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "CEO Fraud on Slack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ceo-fraud-on-slack", "summary": "Impersonators use Slack direct messages to pose as a company leader, exploiting the workspace's trusted atmosphere to demand urgent, confidential transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Invoice Redirection on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/invoice-redirection-on-email", "summary": "Criminals send emails impersonating a genuine supplier to announce a change of bank details, diverting legitimate invoice payments to an account they control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Invoice Redirection via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/invoice-redirection-via-phone-calls", "summary": "Fraudsters phone a company's finance team posing as a supplier to announce new bank details, redirecting genuine invoice payments to a criminal account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Invoice Redirection on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/invoice-redirection-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers message finance staff on WhatsApp posing as a supplier contact to announce new banking details and divert genuine invoice payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vendor Email Compromise on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vendor-bec-invoice-compromise-scams-on-email", "summary": "Attackers take over a genuine vendor mailbox and use it to send authentic-looking invoices and bank-change requests from the real supplier address.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vendor Email Compromise on Microsoft Teams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vendor-bec-invoice-compromise-scams-on-microsoft-teams", "summary": "After breaching a vendor account, attackers extend invoice fraud into shared Microsoft Teams channels, sending manipulated invoices and payment-change requests that look internal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vendor Email Compromise on Slack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vendor-bec-invoice-compromise-scams-on-slack", "summary": "When companies collaborate with suppliers in shared Slack channels, a compromised vendor account can deliver fraudulent invoices and bank-change requests that appear genuine.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Suppliers on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suppliers-on-email", "summary": "Fraudsters pose by email as legitimate-looking suppliers offering goods or services, take payment or deposits, and then fail to deliver anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Suppliers on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suppliers-on-linkedin", "summary": "Scammers build professional LinkedIn profiles and company pages to pose as suppliers, win the trust of buyers, and take payment for goods that never arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Suppliers on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suppliers-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Bogus suppliers conduct deals over WhatsApp to appear responsive and informal, securing deposits for goods that are never shipped.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Suppliers on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suppliers-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudsters advertise as suppliers in Telegram channels and chats, leveraging the app's anonymity to collect deposits for goods that never materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Suppliers via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suppliers-via-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Fraudsters use search results and paid ads to surface fake supplier websites that look established, collecting payments for goods that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake B2B Leads on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-b2b-leads-on-linkedin", "summary": "Scammers pose as prospective business clients or lead-generation partners on LinkedIn, extracting fees, data, or deposits in exchange for opportunities that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake B2B Leads on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-b2b-leads-on-email", "summary": "Fraudsters email businesses posing as buyers or lead vendors, charging fees or harvesting data for sales opportunities that never materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake B2B Leads on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-b2b-leads-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers use WhatsApp to pose as eager business buyers or lead sellers, applying personal pressure to extract fees or data for opportunities that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake B2B Leads on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-b2b-leads-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudsters advertise B2B leads and buyer opportunities in Telegram channels and chats, taking fees or data for prospects that never convert.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Domain Renewal Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/domain-renewal-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudsters email businesses with urgent domain-renewal or listing notices designed to look official, tricking them into paying inflated fees to the wrong party.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Domain Renewal Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/domain-renewal-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers claim a business's domain or web listing is about to expire and pressure staff into paying renewal or reinstatement fees over the phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Domain Renewal Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/domain-renewal-scams-via-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent renewal or registrar lookalike sites surface in search results and ads, leading businesses to pay the wrong party or hand over domain control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Procurement Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-procurement-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudsters email businesses with fake purchase orders, often impersonating a known organisation, to obtain goods on credit or trick suppliers into upfront costs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Procurement Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-procurement-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "Scammers pose as procurement officers of reputable organisations on LinkedIn to issue fake orders, obtaining goods on credit or steering suppliers into upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Procurement Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-procurement-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters coordinate fake purchase orders over WhatsApp, impersonating buyers from known organisations to obtain goods on credit or extract upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Procurement Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-procurement-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers issue fake purchase orders through Telegram, posing as buyers from known organisations to obtain goods on credit or extract upfront provider fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Investor Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-investor-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as investors or venture funds on LinkedIn, dangling funding to extract due-diligence fees, sensitive data, or upfront costs from businesses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Investor Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-investor-scams-on-email", "summary": "Scammers email businesses posing as investors or funds, using professional proposals to extract due-diligence fees, sensitive data, or upfront costs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Investor Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-investor-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as investors on WhatsApp, building personal rapport before introducing fees, data requests, or upfront costs in place of real funding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Investor Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-investor-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers operate as investors in Telegram chats and channels, using anonymity to extract due-diligence fees, data, or upfront costs in place of funding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Investor Scams on Microsoft Teams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-investor-scams-on-microsoft-teams", "summary": "Fraudsters arrange investor meetings on Microsoft Teams to appear legitimate, then extract due-diligence fees, sensitive data, or upfront costs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trademark Invoices on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trademark-invoices-on-email", "summary": "Fraudsters email businesses official-looking trademark renewal or registration invoices, charging inflated fees for services that are unnecessary or never provided.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trademark Invoices via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trademark-invoices-via-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers claim a business must renew or protect its trademark urgently, pressuring staff to pay inflated fees for unnecessary or non-existent services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trademark Invoices via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trademark-invoices-via-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Lookalike trademark service sites appear in search results and ads, charging inflated fees or duplicating official services businesses could obtain directly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Unpaid Invoice Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-unpaid-invoice-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudsters email businesses invoices for goods or services never ordered, relying on busy finance teams to pay them as routine obligations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Unpaid Invoice Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-unpaid-invoice-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers chase payment for invoices a business never agreed to, using pressure and false familiarity to extract money for goods or services never ordered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Unpaid Invoice Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-unpaid-invoice-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers send invoices and overdue-payment demands over WhatsApp for goods never ordered, using informal pressure to extract payment from businesses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Payroll Update Emails on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-payroll-update-email-on-email", "summary": "Fraudsters email payroll or HR staff impersonating employees to change direct-deposit details, diverting wages to an account they control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Payroll Update Requests on Microsoft Teams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-payroll-update-email-on-microsoft-teams", "summary": "Attackers impersonate employees in Microsoft Teams chats to request direct-deposit changes, diverting wages by exploiting the platform's internal trust.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Payroll Update Requests on Slack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-payroll-update-email-on-slack", "summary": "Fraudsters use Slack direct messages to impersonate employees and request direct-deposit changes, diverting wages by exploiting workspace trust.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Payroll Update Requests via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-payroll-update-email-via-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers impersonate employees to phone payroll or HR and request direct-deposit changes, diverting wages by adding a confident human voice to the deception.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Business Email Compromise on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/business-email-compromise-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Attackers extend business email compromise onto WhatsApp, impersonating colleagues or suppliers to push urgent payment instructions through personal messaging.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Business Email Compromise on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/business-email-compromise-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudsters use Telegram to impersonate colleagues or suppliers and push fraudulent payment instructions, exploiting the app's anonymity to pressure finance staff.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "CEO Fraud via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ceo-fraud-via-phone-calls", "summary": "Fraudsters phone employees impersonating a senior executive, using a confident voice and spoofed caller ID to demand an urgent, confidential payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Invoice Redirection on Microsoft Teams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/invoice-redirection-on-microsoft-teams", "summary": "Attackers use Microsoft Teams chats to impersonate a supplier contact and announce new bank details, diverting genuine invoice payments to a criminal account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Invoice Redirection on Slack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/invoice-redirection-on-slack", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate a supplier in Slack to announce new banking details, diverting genuine invoice payments to an account they control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vendor Email Compromise via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vendor-bec-invoice-compromise-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "After compromising a vendor account, attackers reinforce fraudulent invoices with phone calls posing as the supplier to confirm new bank details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Suppliers via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suppliers-via-phone-calls", "summary": "Bogus suppliers cold-call businesses with attractive offers, securing deposits or orders by phone for goods and services that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Procurement Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-procurement-scams-via-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Fraudsters use fake tender portals and procurement sites promoted through search and ads to collect registration fees or deposits for contracts that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Investor Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-investor-scams-via-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Fraudsters promote fake funding and grant sites through search and ads, charging application or processing fees for investment that never arrives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake B2B Leads via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-b2b-leads-via-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Fraudsters promote lead-generation and buyer-list sites through search and ads, charging for prospects or buyers that are fabricated or worthless.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Procurement Scams on Microsoft Teams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-procurement-scams-on-microsoft-teams", "summary": "Attackers use Microsoft Teams to pose as procurement staff of known organisations, issuing fake orders to obtain goods on credit or extract provider fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Investor Scams on Slack", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-investor-scams-on-slack", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as investors in shared Slack communities and direct messages, building rapport before extracting fees, data, or upfront costs for funding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Domain Renewal Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/domain-renewal-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters message businesses on WhatsApp claiming a domain or listing is expiring, pressuring them to pay renewal fees to the wrong party.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trademark Invoices on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trademark-invoices-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers message businesses on WhatsApp with urgent trademark renewal or protection demands, charging inflated fees for unnecessary or non-existent services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Unpaid Invoice Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-unpaid-invoice-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudsters send invoices and overdue-payment demands via Telegram for goods never ordered, using anonymity to pressure businesses into paying.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake B2B Leads on Microsoft Teams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-b2b-leads-on-microsoft-teams", "summary": "Fraudsters use Microsoft Teams to pose as buyers or lead partners, extracting fees or data for business opportunities that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "CEO Fraud via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ceo-fraud-via-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Fraudsters seed fake executive-contact details through search results and ads so staff reach an impersonator who then issues urgent payment instructions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vendor Email Compromise on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vendor-bec-invoice-compromise-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Attackers shift compromised-vendor invoice fraud onto Telegram, posing as a supplier contact to confirm fake invoices and bank-detail changes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vendor Email Compromise on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vendor-bec-invoice-compromise-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Attackers move compromised-vendor invoice fraud onto WhatsApp, posing as a supplier contact to confirm fake invoices and bank-detail changes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Procurement Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-procurement-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers impersonate procurement staff of known organisations to place fake orders by phone, obtaining goods on credit or steering suppliers into upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Investor Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-investor-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "Fraudsters phone businesses posing as investors or fund representatives, using a confident voice to extract due-diligence fees, data, or upfront costs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Domain Renewal Scams on Microsoft Teams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/domain-renewal-scams-on-microsoft-teams", "summary": "Attackers use Microsoft Teams chats to impersonate IT or a registrar and warn that a domain is expiring, pressuring staff to pay or share login details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Unpaid Invoice Scams on Microsoft Teams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-unpaid-invoice-scams-on-microsoft-teams", "summary": "Fraudsters use Microsoft Teams chats to chase payment for invoices a business never agreed to, exploiting the platform's internal trust to extract money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Payroll Update Requests on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-payroll-update-email-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudsters use Telegram to impersonate employees and request direct-deposit changes, diverting wages by exploiting the app's anonymity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How fraudsters posing as grant agencies demand gift-card 'processing fees' to release a non-existent government award.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How grant impostors push victims to send 'release fees' through Cash App for an award that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How fraudsters dress up a fake grant as official by demanding a bank wire transfer for taxes and clearance fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "How grant impostors steer victims toward reloadable prepaid debit cards to collect untraceable processing fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Jury Duty Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-jury-duty-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How callers impersonating court officers threaten arrest for 'missed jury duty' unless a fine is paid in gift cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Jury Duty Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-jury-duty-scams-via-money-gram", "summary": "How impostors posing as court officials direct victims to send 'jury duty fines' through MoneyGram money transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Jury Duty Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-jury-duty-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How fraudsters posing as court officers pressure victims into paying fake jury fines through instant Zelle transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Social Security Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-social-security-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How callers claiming your Social Security number is 'suspended' demand gift cards to clear a fabricated legal problem.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Social Security Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-social-security-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How impostors posing as Social Security officials direct victims to 'secure' their money in Bitcoin via crypto ATMs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Social Security Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-social-security-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How fraudsters posing as SSA officials direct victims to wire 'clearance fees' through Western Union money transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How fraudsters posing as immigration agencies request bank wire transfers for fake visa and processing fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Court Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-court-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How impostors posing as court officials pressure victims into bank transfers to pay fabricated fines and bonds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Court Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-court-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "How fraudsters posing as court officers push victims to send fines through Apple Pay to a personal contact.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pension Scams via Faster Payments", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pension-scams-via-faster-payments", "summary": "How pension fraudsters exploit instant Faster Payments to sweep retirement savings before victims can reconsider.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Broker Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-broker-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How bogus trading platforms collect deposits in Bitcoin and block withdrawals behind endless fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Broker Scams via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-broker-scams-via-wise", "summary": "How bogus trading platforms ask victims to fund accounts through Wise transfers to collect deposits across borders.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Binary Options Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/binary-options-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How fraudulent binary options platforms collect deposits in Bitcoin and rig outcomes so traders always lose.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Binary Options Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/binary-options-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How fraudulent binary options sites take bank-transfer deposits and then refuse withdrawals behind invented fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Binary Options Scams via Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/binary-options-scams-via-credit-card", "summary": "How fraudulent binary options platforms take credit-card deposits and obstruct chargebacks to keep traders' funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-relief-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How bogus debt-settlement operators collect 'enrollment fees' through Venmo and then provide no real service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credit Repair Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credit-repair-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How bogus credit-repair operators demand upfront gift-card fees to 'fix' credit scores they cannot change.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credit Repair Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credit-repair-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How bogus credit-repair hustlers collect upfront fees through Cash App and deliver nothing of value.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credit Repair Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credit-repair-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How fraudulent credit-repair operators collect upfront fees through Zelle and disappear without results.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Inheritance Fee Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-inheritance-fee-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How fraudsters claiming a distant relative left you a fortune demand wired 'legal fees' to release it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Inheritance Fee Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-inheritance-fee-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How inheritance fraudsters direct victims to send 'clearance fees' through Western Union to claim a fake bequest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Inheritance Fee Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-inheritance-fee-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How modern inheritance scams demand Bitcoin 'release fees' for a non-existent estate that never pays out.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Mortgage Application Fraud via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mortgage-application-fraud-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How fraudsters intercept home purchases by sending fake closing wire instructions to redirect down payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Mortgage Application Fraud via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mortgage-application-fraud-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How impostors posing as lenders collect bogus 'application' or 'lock-in' fees by bank transfer from hopeful borrowers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Mortgage Application Fraud via Cashier's Check", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mortgage-application-fraud-via-cashiers-check", "summary": "How fraudsters exploit cashier's checks in mortgage and closing scams, leaving victims liable when the checks bounce.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Breeder Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-breeder-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How fake breeders advertise adorable animals that do not exist and collect payment in untraceable gift cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Breeder Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-breeder-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How fake breeders push instant Zelle payments to take money for pets that will never be delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Breeder Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-breeder-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How fake breeders collect deposits through Cash App for pets that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Puppy Deposit Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/puppy-deposit-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How fraudsters collect Venmo 'reservation deposits' for puppies and then stack endless fees before vanishing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Puppy Deposit Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/puppy-deposit-scams-via-money-gram", "summary": "How fraudsters posing as breeders or shippers collect puppy deposits via MoneyGram for animals that never arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy via Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-via-credit-card", "summary": "How rogue online pharmacies harvest credit-card details and ship counterfeit or no medication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-via-wise", "summary": "How rogue overseas pharmacies request Wise transfers for medication that is counterfeit or never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Miracle Cure Scams via Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/miracle-cure-scams-via-credit-card", "summary": "How miracle-cure sellers use credit-card checkouts and hidden subscriptions to bill victims for worthless products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Miracle Cure Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/miracle-cure-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How miracle-cure sellers push bank transfers for 'exclusive' treatments to avoid refunds and disputes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Miracle Cure Scams via PayPal Friends and Family", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/miracle-cure-scams-via-paypal-friends-and-family", "summary": "How miracle-cure sellers insist on PayPal Friends and Family to strip away buyer protection on worthless products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Goods via PayPal Friends and Family", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-goods-via-paypal-friends-and-family", "summary": "How counterfeit sellers push PayPal Friends and Family to remove buyer protection on fake branded products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Goods via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-goods-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How counterfeit and bulk-goods scammers demand wire transfers for fake products that arrive substandard or never.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Goods via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-goods-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How counterfeit sellers require Bitcoin to take payment for fake goods with no chargeback or refund path.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Empty Box Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/empty-box-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How empty-box scammers take instant Zelle payments for high-value electronics, then ship an empty or weighted box.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Empty Box Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/empty-box-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How empty-box sellers collect Cash App payments for pricey gadgets, then deliver an empty or filler-stuffed box.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Empty Box Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/empty-box-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How empty-box sellers demand bank transfers for high-value goods, then ship an empty box and vanish.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "How grant impostors push instant Zelle 'processing fees' for an award that will never be paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Jury Duty Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-jury-duty-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How impostors posing as court officers direct victims to pay 'jury duty fines' at Bitcoin ATMs to avoid arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Social Security Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-social-security-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How impostors claiming your number is compromised pressure victims into instant Cash App payments to 'protect' it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Broker Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-broker-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "How bogus trading coaches collect 'starter deposits' via Apple Pay and then block withdrawals behind fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credit Repair Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credit-repair-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How bogus credit-repair hustlers collect upfront fees through Venmo and deliver no lasting results.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Binary Options Scams via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/binary-options-scams-via-wise", "summary": "How fraudulent binary options platforms ask victims to fund accounts via Wise transfers across borders.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Breeder Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-breeder-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How fake breeders, often posing as overseas sellers, demand wire transfers for animals that never arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Goods via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-goods-via-cash-app", "summary": "How counterfeit sellers collect instant Cash App payments for fake branded items with no buyer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Miracle Cure Scams via Wise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/miracle-cure-scams-via-wise", "summary": "How overseas miracle-cure sellers request Wise transfers for unproven treatments to avoid refunds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the tax authority over WhatsApp, claiming you owe an urgent debt or are due a refund, to pressure you into paying or sharing personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers use Telegram channels and direct messages to pose as tax officials, offering bogus refunds or threatening penalties to extract money and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters run fake tax-authority pages, ads, and Messenger chats on Facebook to lure people with phoney refunds or scare them with invented debts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scam texts impersonate the tax authority, claiming a refund is waiting or a debt is overdue, to drive recipients to fake payment or data-harvesting pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Scammers buy search ads and build lookalike sites that appear when people search for tax help, steering them to fake refund portals or premium-rate phone lines.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate police officers over WhatsApp, claiming your identity is linked to a crime, to frighten you into paying 'fines' or transferring funds to 'safe' accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers pose as police or 'cybercrime units' on Telegram, accusing victims of offences to extract payments, fines, or control of their bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails impersonate police or law-enforcement agencies, alleging offences or warrants, to coerce payments or harvest personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers create fake police pages and Messenger personas on Facebook to accuse users of offences and pressure them into payments or sharing personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scam texts impersonate police, alleging warrants or fines, to push recipients toward fake payment pages or a scripted phone line that demands money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate immigration authorities over WhatsApp, threatening visa cancellation or deportation, to extract fees and personal documents from victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers run fake 'visa help' channels and impersonate immigration officers on Telegram to charge bogus fees and collect identity documents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails impersonate immigration departments, claiming visa problems or pending removal, to extract fees and identity documents from recipients.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Scams on Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Scammers call posing as immigration officers, alleging status problems or imminent deportation, to pressure victims into immediate payments over the phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers use fake immigration-help pages and Messenger personas on Facebook to advertise bogus visa services, charge fees, and collect identity documents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Scams on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-scams-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scam texts impersonate immigration authorities, warning of visa problems or removal, to drive recipients to fake portals or a scripted phone line that demands fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Jury Duty Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-jury-duty-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails claim you missed jury duty and face a fine or arrest, pressuring you to pay or share personal details to 'clear' the supposed offence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Jury Duty Scams on Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-jury-duty-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Scammers call posing as court officers or sheriffs, claiming you missed jury duty and face arrest, to pressure victims into paying a 'fine' immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Jury Duty Scams on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-jury-duty-scams-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scam texts claim you missed jury duty and a warrant is pending, pushing recipients to pay a 'fine' through a link or to call a scripted phone line.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails promise free government grants you have supposedly been awarded, then demand processing fees or personal details to 'release' the money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers use fake pages, hacked accounts, and Messenger chats on Facebook to promote bogus government grants, then charge fees and harvest personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers use Instagram posts, DMs, and fake 'grant agent' accounts to advertise bogus government grants, then charge fees and collect personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Scams on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-scams-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scam texts announce you have qualified for a government grant, then push you to a link or number to pay a 'release fee' and hand over personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Social Security Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-social-security-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the social security agency over WhatsApp, claiming your number is suspended or linked to crime, to extract payments and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Social Security Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-social-security-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers impersonate social security officials on Telegram, using bots and 'case' channels to claim your number is compromised and to extract payments and data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Social Security Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-social-security-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails impersonate the social security agency, claiming your number is suspended or misused, to harvest personal data and extract payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Social Security Scams on Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-social-security-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Scammers call posing as social security officials, claiming your number is suspended or tied to crime, to pressure victims into payments and disclosing data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Social Security Scams on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-social-security-scams-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scam texts claim your social security number is suspended or compromised, driving recipients to fake portals or a scripted phone line to extract data and payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Remote Access Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/remote-access-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails pose as support, security, or billing alerts to lure victims into installing remote-access software that hands control of their device to scammers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Remote Access Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/remote-access-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers use fake support pages and Messenger chats on Facebook to convince users to install remote-access tools, handing control of their devices to fraudsters.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Remote Access Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/remote-access-scams-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Scammers buy search ads and build fake support sites that appear when people look for help numbers, then talk callers into installing remote-access software.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Antivirus Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-antivirus-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters send WhatsApp messages warning your device is infected, pushing you to install bogus 'antivirus' apps or pay for fake protection that delivers malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Antivirus Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-antivirus-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers use Telegram channels, bots, and DMs to warn of device infections and push fake 'antivirus' downloads or paid protection that installs malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Antivirus Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-antivirus-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers run fake security ads and pages on Facebook warning of infections, pushing users to download bogus 'antivirus' tools or pay for fake protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Antivirus Scams on Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-antivirus-scams-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Scammers call claiming your antivirus has expired or your device is infected, pressuring victims to pay for fake protection or grant remote access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Malware Pop-Ups on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/malware-popups-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers use malicious Facebook ads and links that trigger fake virus pop-ups, scaring users into calling fake support or downloading harmful software.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Malware Pop-Ups on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/malware-popups-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers use malicious Instagram ads and bio links that redirect to fake virus pop-ups, pressuring users to call fake support or download harmful apps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Malware Pop-Ups on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/malware-popups-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scam texts contain links that open fake virus pop-ups in the phone's browser, pressuring recipients to call fake support or install harmful apps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/qr-code-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails embed QR codes that lead to phishing pages or malware, exploiting the fact that codes hide their destination and bypass link filters.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/qr-code-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers post QR codes in Facebook ads, posts, and Messenger that lead to phishing pages or malware, hiding the destination behind a scannable image.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/qr-code-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers share QR codes in Instagram posts, stories, and DMs that lead to phishing pages or malware, concealing the destination behind a scannable image.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Scams on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/qr-code-scams-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scam texts contain QR codes or links to coded images that lead to phishing pages or malware, hiding the destination and exploiting quick scanning habits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Software Update Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-software-update-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails pose as urgent software or security updates, tricking recipients into downloading malware disguised as a patch or driver.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Software Update Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-software-update-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers use Facebook ads, posts, and Messenger to push fake app or browser updates that install malware instead of genuine patches.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Software Update Scams on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-software-update-scams-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scam texts claim your phone or an app needs an urgent update, linking to malicious downloads or phishing pages disguised as official patches.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Software Update Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-software-update-scams-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Scammers buy search ads and build lookalike sites that appear when people search for software downloads, serving malware disguised as official updates.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Software Update Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-software-update-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters send WhatsApp messages urging you to install an app or 'update' via a link, delivering malware or hijacking your account under the guise of a patch.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cloud Storage Alerts on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cloud-storage-alerts-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails claim your cloud storage is full, expiring, or compromised, to harvest login credentials or push payment for fake 'extra space'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cloud Storage Alerts on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cloud-storage-alerts-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters send WhatsApp messages claiming your cloud storage or backup is full or at risk, pushing links that steal credentials or payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cloud Storage Alerts on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cloud-storage-alerts-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scam texts claim your cloud storage is full or your account is at risk, linking to phishing pages that steal logins or payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cloud Storage Alerts on Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cloud-storage-alerts-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Scammers call claiming your cloud storage or account is full, compromised, or expiring, to extract payments, logins, or remote access to your device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails impersonate mobile carriers to harvest the personal data scammers need to take over your phone number through a SIM swap.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers use WhatsApp to phish carrier details or trick victims into sharing codes, enabling a SIM swap that hijacks the number and linked accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scam texts impersonate carriers to phish account details, while a sudden loss of signal can be the first sign a SIM swap has hijacked your number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hacked Friend Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hacked-friend-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers take over or spoof a friend's WhatsApp account to request urgent money or verification codes, exploiting the trust between contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hacked Friend Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hacked-friend-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers hijack or clone Facebook profiles to message friends with urgent money requests, fake grants, or links, exploiting established trust.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hacked Friend Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hacked-friend-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers take over Instagram accounts to message followers with fake investment tips, 'vote for me' links, or urgent requests that steal logins or money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hacked Friend Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hacked-friend-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers hijack or impersonate contacts on Telegram to request money, codes, or investment buy-ins, exploiting trust and the app's anonymity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hacked Friend Scams on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hacked-friend-scams-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scammers text from spoofed or hijacked numbers posing as a friend or relative in trouble, urging an urgent money transfer before you can verify.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scam texts impersonate couriers, claiming a parcel is held or needs a fee or redelivery, to lure recipients to phishing pages that steal card and login details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tracking Number Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tracking-number-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails provide bogus tracking numbers and links that lead to phishing pages or malware, posing as shipment updates from couriers or retailers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tracking Number Scams on SMS / Text", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tracking-number-scams-on-sms-text", "summary": "Scam texts supply fake tracking numbers and links posing as shipment updates, leading to phishing pages that steal card and login details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tracking Number Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tracking-number-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers send WhatsApp messages with bogus tracking numbers and links posing as shipment updates, steering victims to phishing pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tracking Number Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tracking-number-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers use Telegram messages and bots with bogus tracking numbers and links posing as shipment updates, leading to phishing pages or malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers advertise products on Facebook Marketplace, pages, and ads, take payment, then never ship the goods, exploiting buyer trust in social commerce.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers run fake shop accounts and ads on Instagram, take payment for products, then never ship them, exploiting the platform's visual commerce.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers move buyers to WhatsApp to close sales for goods they never ship, using the private chat to take insecure payments with no buyer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Customer Support Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customer-support-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers pose as official support on Facebook pages and Messenger, intercepting users seeking help to steal logins, payments, or remote device access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Customer Support Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customer-support-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers impersonate brand or platform support on Instagram, often offering 'account recovery', to steal logins, payments, or two-factor codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Customer Support Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customer-support-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails pose as company support about an account, order, or charge, to harvest logins, push payments, or lure victims into remote-access sessions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Customer Support Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customer-support-scams-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Scammers buy search ads and build fake support sites that appear when people look for help numbers, then steal payments, logins, or remote device access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Chile", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-chile", "summary": "Crypto romance-investment scams targeting Chileans via WhatsApp and Instagram, funnelling victims to fake platforms denominated in USD or USDT.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Chile", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-chile", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in Chile exploit the country's AFP pension debate and growing retail-investor appetite, promising guaranteed returns through unlicensed operators.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Chile", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-chile", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud in Chile ranges from fake exchange apps to celebrity-endorsed token launches, exploiting the absence of specific crypto regulation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Chile", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-chile", "summary": "Counterfeit forex and crypto trading platforms target Chilean investors with polished Spanish-language interfaces and fabricated profit dashboards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Chile", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-chile", "summary": "Sextortion and romance blackmail schemes target Chilean men and women via Instagram and Tinder, threatening to share intimate images with family contacts unless payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Chile", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-chile", "summary": "Fake micro-task job schemes recruit Chileans via WhatsApp with promises of easy income for simple online tasks, then trap them in a deposit loop.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Chile", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-chile", "summary": "Fraudulent e-commerce sites impersonate popular Chilean retailers or offer deep discounts, collecting payment then delivering nothing or counterfeit goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Chile", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-chile", "summary": "Classic advance-fee fraud reaches Chilean victims through email, WhatsApp, and social media, promising inheritances, prizes, or business deals contingent on an upfront payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Chile", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-chile", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating Carabineros or PDI officers threaten Chileans with arrest unless they pay fines immediately via bank transfer or crypto.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Jordan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-jordan", "summary": "Crypto romance-investment scams reach Jordanians via WhatsApp and Instagram, with scammers posing as Gulf-based investors or overseas Jordanians to build trust.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Jordan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-jordan", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in Jordan exploit limited financial literacy and a desire for dollar-denominated returns, often channelled through unregulated entities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Jordan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-jordan", "summary": "Fraudulent forex and crypto trading platforms targeting Jordanians use Arabic-language interfaces and Gulf broker branding to appear legitimate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Jordan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-jordan", "summary": "Sextortion scams in Jordan exploit social stigma around intimate content, making victims particularly reluctant to report and more likely to pay repeated demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Jordan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-jordan", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers targeting unemployed Jordanians promise Gulf employment or remote work, collecting visa fees and recruitment deposits then disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Jordan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-jordan", "summary": "Fraudulent work-from-home offers reach Jordanians via WhatsApp, promising easy income for simple tasks before trapping victims in a deposit cycle.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Jordan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-jordan", "summary": "SIM swap fraud in Jordan targets mobile banking users by porting victim numbers to scammer-controlled SIMs, bypassing SMS-based two-factor authentication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Jordan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-jordan", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating the Income and Sales Tax Department (ISTD) of Jordan threaten individuals and businesses with audits or penalties unless immediate payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Jordan", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-jordan", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud in Jordan exploits the absence of a regulatory framework, targeting Jordanians through fake exchanges, pump-and-dump Telegram groups, and phishing attacks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in China", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-china", "summary": "China is simultaneously a major origin country and a victim country for pig-butchering scams, with Chinese nationals targeted on WeChat and domestic platforms by criminal groups operating from Myanmar and Cambodia.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in China", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-china", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes in China exploit retail investor enthusiasm for stock markets and wealth management products, operating through unlicensed apps and social media.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in China", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-china", "summary": "Brush-order scams (shua dan) defraud Chinese workers by promising pay for fake e-commerce reviews before trapping them in a deposit cycle.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in China", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-china", "summary": "Fraudulent forex and crypto trading platforms target Chinese investors by mimicking regulated brokers and exploiting the lack of domestic crypto trading infrastructure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in China", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-china", "summary": "Sextortion and 'honey trap' schemes target Chinese men via dating apps and WeChat, threatening to share intimate content with family and employers unless payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in China", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-china", "summary": "Fraudulent fundraising in China exploits WeChat Moments and short-video platforms to collect donations for fabricated medical emergencies or disaster relief causes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in China", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-china", "summary": "Fraudulent overseas job offers target Chinese job-seekers via WeChat and Zhaopin, promising high-paying positions in Southeast Asia that are often forced labour operations or pig-butchering scam compounds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in China", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-china", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud targeting Chinese consumers appears as prize notifications, government refunds, or overseas business opportunities delivered via WeChat and email.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Peru", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-peru", "summary": "Romance-investment crypto scams target Peruvians via WhatsApp and Facebook, posing as overseas Peruvians or Asian investors to build trust before introducing fake trading platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Peru", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-peru", "summary": "Ponzi schemes and high-yield investment fraud target Peruvians through social networks and church communities, promising above-market returns in soles or dollars.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Peru", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-peru", "summary": "Fraudulent e-commerce sites impersonating Peruvian retailers or Mercado Libre defraud Peruvian buyers who transfer soles via Yape or Plin and receive nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Peru", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-peru", "summary": "Classic advance-fee fraud targets Peruvians via WhatsApp and email with promises of prize winnings, government benefit payments, or business contracts requiring an upfront fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Peru", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-peru", "summary": "Scammers impersonating PNP officers or judges contact Peruvians demanding immediate payments to avoid arrest warrants, often targeting the elderly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Peru", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-peru", "summary": "Sextortion targeting Peruvians via Facebook and WhatsApp exploits social shame and family reputation concerns, with payment collected through Yape or Western Union.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Peru", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-peru", "summary": "SIM swap fraud in Peru exploits weaknesses in Claro, Movistar, and Entel carrier verification to seize Yape and BCP mobile banking accounts via stolen OTPs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Peru", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-peru", "summary": "Fraudulent SMS and WhatsApp messages impersonating Olva Courier, DHL Peru, or Mercado Libre deliveries trick Peruvians into phishing pages collecting card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SUNAT Scams in Peru", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-peru", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating SUNAT (Peru's tax authority) demand immediate payment via Yape or threaten businesses with account freezes and legal proceedings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Iceland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-iceland", "summary": "Romance-crypto investment scams reach Icelanders via Instagram and Tinder, exploiting high incomes and limited awareness of crypto fraud to extract large amounts in ISK converted to USDT.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Iceland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-iceland", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes target Iceland's financially confident population with fake high-yield products and unlicensed operators impersonating EEA-regulated brokers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Iceland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-iceland", "summary": "Fraudulent forex and crypto platforms target Icelanders via paid search advertising, using English or Icelandic interfaces and fabricated FME or FCA licence numbers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Iceland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-iceland", "summary": "Counterfeit e-commerce sites targeting Icelandic consumers impersonate local retailers or operate as fictitious stores, collecting ISK via card or bank transfer then delivering nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Iceland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-iceland", "summary": "Classic advance-fee fraud reaches Icelanders via email and social media in English, with promises of lottery winnings or inheritance proceeds requiring upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Iceland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-iceland", "summary": "Sextortion targeting Icelanders operates via Tinder and Instagram, with payment demands in EUR or crypto exploiting privacy concerns in a small, close-knit community.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Iceland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-iceland", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers targeting Icelanders or foreign workers in Iceland promise high-paying positions but collect visa fees or equipment deposits then disappear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Iceland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-iceland", "summary": "SIM swap attacks targeting Icelanders exploit weaknesses in Síminn and Nova carrier authentication to seize online banking and payment accounts via stolen OTPs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Iceland", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-iceland", "summary": "Fraudulent travel booking sites targeting Iceland's booming tourism sector collect prepayments from tourists via card or bank transfer for accommodation and tours that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Bulgaria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-bulgaria", "summary": "Romance-crypto investment scams target Bulgarians via Viber and Facebook, with victims channelling leva or euro to fake platforms through Bulgarian banks or local crypto exchanges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Bulgaria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-bulgaria", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes exploit Bulgarian retail investors with unlicensed platforms, fake EU regulatory labels, and celebrity endorsements on Bulgarian news and social media.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Bulgaria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-bulgaria", "summary": "Fraudulent Bulgarian-language trading platforms target local investors while Bulgarian-operated platforms simultaneously victimise EU citizens across Europe.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Bulgaria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-bulgaria", "summary": "Sextortion operations target Bulgarian men and women via dating sites and Facebook, with payment collected through wire transfer or crypto to avoid tracing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Bulgaria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-bulgaria", "summary": "Fraudulent Bulgarian-language e-commerce sites collect leva via bank transfer or nalichni (cash on delivery) then deliver nothing or counterfeit goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Bulgaria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-bulgaria", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud reaches Bulgarians through email and Viber, exploiting promises of prize winnings, EU grant funding, or inheritance proceeds requiring a processing fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Bulgaria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-bulgaria", "summary": "Fake online task jobs target Bulgarians via Viber and Telegram with promises of easy leva income before entrapping them in a deposit cycle.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Bulgaria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-bulgaria", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating Bulgarian National Police (МВР) or prosecutors threaten Bulgarians with arrest unless they immediately pay fines via bank transfer or Bitcoin ATM.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Bulgaria", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-bulgaria", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating Bulgaria's National Revenue Agency (NRA/НАП) threaten businesses and individuals with immediate penalties unless payment is made via bank transfer or Bitcoin ATM.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Costa Rica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-costa-rica", "summary": "Romance-crypto investment scams target Costa Ricans via WhatsApp and Instagram, exploiting the country's growing crypto adoption and limited regulatory oversight.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Costa Rica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-costa-rica", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes exploit Costa Rica's growing investor class with pyramid-structure clubs, fake real estate crowdfunding, and unlicensed forex operators.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Costa Rica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-costa-rica", "summary": "Fake micro-task jobs reaching Costa Ricans via WhatsApp promise easy colone income for online tasks before trapping victims in a SINPE Móvil deposit cycle.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Costa Rica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-costa-rica", "summary": "Fraudulent e-commerce operations target Costa Rican shoppers on Facebook Marketplace and Instagram, collecting SINPE Móvil payments then delivering nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Costa Rica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-costa-rica", "summary": "Fraudulent vacation and long-term rental listings target both tourists and Costa Rican residents, collecting deposits via SINPE Móvil or wire transfer for properties that are unavailable or non-existent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Costa Rica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-costa-rica", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud targeting Costa Ricans arrives via WhatsApp and email with fake government benefit notifications, lottery winnings, and business partnership offers requiring upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Costa Rica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-costa-rica", "summary": "Sextortion scams target Costa Ricans on Tinder and Instagram, using SINPE Móvil payment demands to exploit the speed and irreversibility of instant transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Site Scams in Costa Rica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-costa-rica", "summary": "Fraudulent travel booking sites impersonating Booking.com or creating entirely fictitious Costa Rica tourism portals collect advance payments for tours and accommodation that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Costa Rica", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-costa-rica", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating OIJ investigators or Fuerza Pública officers call Costa Ricans demanding immediate payments to avoid arrest warrants or resolve alleged family emergencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Lebanon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-lebanon", "summary": "Pig-butchering romance-investment scams target Lebanese via WhatsApp by posing as Lebanese diaspora in the Gulf or Europe, exploiting economic desperation and crypto's popularity as a dollar substitute.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Lebanon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-lebanon", "summary": "Fraudulent investment schemes exploit Lebanon's financial crisis, targeting citizens desperate to access frozen savings or rebuild wealth through foreign or crypto investment promises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Lebanon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-lebanon", "summary": "Fraudulent trading platforms target Lebanese investors by offering dollar-denominated accounts outside Lebanon's banking system, exploiting the country's financial crisis.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Lebanon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-lebanon", "summary": "Sextortion in Lebanon carries heightened social and reputational risk given conservative community norms, with fraudsters targeting both Lebanese residents and diaspora members via WhatsApp and Instagram.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Lebanon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-lebanon", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud in Lebanon preys on residents seeking financial relief, with scammers posing as NGO representatives, diaspora benefactors, or foreign business partners offering funds that require advance payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiter Scams in Lebanon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-lebanon", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers targeting Lebanon's high-unemployment population promise Gulf or European positions, collecting visa fees and documentation charges that are never refunded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Lebanon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-lebanon", "summary": "Fake micro-task jobs target Lebanese job-seekers via WhatsApp with promises of dollar income for simple online tasks, before trapping victims in a USDT deposit cycle.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM Swap Scams in Lebanon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-lebanon", "summary": "SIM swap fraud targets Lebanese WhatsApp accounts and any remaining mobile banking functionality, exploiting weaknesses in Alfa and touch carrier authentication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Text Scams in Lebanon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-lebanon", "summary": "Fraudulent WhatsApp and SMS messages impersonating Lebanese courier services or international carriers collect cash or USDT to release parcels that never exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Myanmar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-myanmar", "summary": "Myanmar hosts large scam-compound complexes where trafficked workers are forced to run pig-butchering operations targeting victims worldwide.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiters Targeting People in Myanmar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-myanmar", "summary": "Fraudulent job offers lure people in Myanmar into scam-compound compounds under the guise of lucrative overseas employment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Myanmar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-myanmar", "summary": "Task-based fraud originating from Myanmar compounds targets online workers globally with fake micro-job platforms that trap victims in endless deposit cycles.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams Linked to Myanmar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-myanmar", "summary": "Myanmar-based compound operators run romance blackmail operations that coerce victims into paying to suppress intimate images or compromising information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Luxembourg", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-luxembourg", "summary": "Fraudsters exploit Luxembourg's reputation as a leading EU financial centre to lend false credibility to bogus investment schemes targeting residents and international clients.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Luxembourg", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-luxembourg", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud in Luxembourg ranges from fake exchange platforms invoking the country's financial prestige to social-media pump-and-dump schemes targeting tech-savvy residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Luxembourg", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-luxembourg", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Luxembourg's Administration des contributions directes and TVA offices to extract payments or personal data from residents and cross-border workers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Luxembourg", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-luxembourg", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud in Luxembourg often masquerades as EU grant disbursements, inheritance windfalls, or investment-fund payouts to exploit the country's financial cachet.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms in Cyprus", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-in-cyprus", "summary": "Cyprus has historically been a registration hub for unregulated or minimally regulated online brokers that defraud retail investors across Europe and beyond.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Cyprus", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-cyprus", "summary": "Fraudulent rental advertisements on popular property portals target international buyers and short-term tenants seeking property in Cyprus's competitive real-estate market.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Cyprus", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-cyprus", "summary": "Bogus fund-recovery firms exploit Cyprus's broker-fraud reputation, charging victims upfront fees to 'recover' losses that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Malta", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-malta", "summary": "Malta marketed itself as 'Blockchain Island' attracting both legitimate crypto firms and fraudulent operators that exploited the regulatory brand to defraud global investors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Sites Targeting Malta Tourists", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-malta", "summary": "Fraudulent accommodation and ferry booking websites target travellers planning holidays in Malta, collecting payments for reservations that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams Targeting Malta Residents", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-malta", "summary": "Malta's affluent, internationally connected population is targeted by pig-butchering crypto-romance scams promoted through social media and dating apps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Scams in Malta", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-malta", "summary": "SIM-swap attacks in Malta target mobile banking customers and crypto holders by porting phone numbers to fraudster-controlled SIMs to bypass two-factor authentication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Serbia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-serbia", "summary": "Investment fraud in Serbia exploits a growing retail investor class with fake forex brokers, unlicensed fund schemes, and pyramid structures promoted on social media.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partner Scams in Serbia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-in-serbia", "summary": "Romance fraud in Serbia targets both residents seeking relationships and Serbian nationals abroad who are approached by scammers posing as compatible partners.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Serbia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-serbia", "summary": "Fake remote-work offers circulate on WhatsApp in Serbia, targeting job seekers with promises of easy online income that turn into task-scam deposit traps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Georgia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-georgia", "summary": "Georgia's growing digital economy and international connectivity make residents and the country's large expat population targets for pig-butchering crypto investment fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiters Targeting People in Georgia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-georgia", "summary": "Fraudulent overseas job offers target Georgian nationals with promises of high-paying roles that turn out to be trafficking or forced-labour situations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Georgia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-georgia", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud in Georgia exploits the country's business-friendly reputation with fake investment windfalls, inheritance claims, and government-contract bribes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Georgia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-georgia", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Georgian police officers or prosecutors to extort payments from residents under the threat of fabricated criminal investigations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Mongolia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-mongolia", "summary": "Mongolia's mining boom and growing middle class have made it a target for fake investment schemes promising high returns on mining stocks, crypto, and real estate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Mongolia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-mongolia", "summary": "Mongolia's proximity to China and its growing digital economy make residents targets for Chinese-language and English-language pig-butchering crypto romance fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Mongolia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-mongolia", "summary": "Fake parcel-delivery SMS scams target Mongolian online shoppers with links to phishing pages that harvest payment card and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Mongolia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-mongolia", "summary": "Fraudulent Mongolian e-commerce pages and social-media shops take payment for goods — especially electronics and imported items — and never deliver.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Myanmar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-myanmar", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud circulates in Myanmar via Facebook and SMS, exploiting limited financial literacy in rural areas with fake prize and government-grant narratives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Myanmar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-myanmar", "summary": "Fraudsters exploit ongoing humanitarian crises in Myanmar to solicit donations for fake charities that divert money away from genuine relief efforts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Luxembourg", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-luxembourg", "summary": "Parcel-delivery phishing SMS campaigns target Luxembourg residents by impersonating Post Luxembourg, DHL, and UPS with fake customs-fee links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Luxembourg", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-luxembourg", "summary": "Luxembourg's extremely competitive rental market creates ideal conditions for fake landlord scams targeting new arrivals and cross-border workers seeking accommodation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Cyprus", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-cyprus", "summary": "Cyprus's large expatriate and international business community makes residents vulnerable to pig-butchering crypto romance scams promoted through social media and dating apps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Cyprus", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-cyprus", "summary": "Callers impersonating Cyprus Police or EUROPOL officers demand payments from residents to avoid fabricated criminal investigations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Malta", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-malta", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud in Malta targets residents with fake EU grant windfalls, lottery prizes, and inheritance claims exploiting the island's EU institutional identity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Malta", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-malta", "summary": "Sextortion targeting Malta residents exploits the island's dense social networks — threats to share intimate images with small, interconnected communities cause acute distress.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Serbia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-serbia", "summary": "Phishing SMS campaigns in Serbia impersonate Post Serbia and DHL to harvest payment card details from online shoppers with fake parcel-fee requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Serbia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-serbia", "summary": "Fake rental advertisements in Serbia — particularly for Belgrade apartments — target domestic movers and international professionals with phantom deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Georgia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-georgia", "summary": "Georgia's crypto-friendly regulatory environment and significant Bitcoin mining sector attract both legitimate operators and fraudsters running fake exchanges and investment pools.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Scams in Georgia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-georgia", "summary": "SIM-swap attacks in Georgia target mobile banking and crypto users by porting phone numbers to fraudster-controlled SIMs to intercept two-factor authentication codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Mongolia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-mongolia", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud in Mongolia circulates on Facebook with fake business opportunities and government-tender bribes targeting Mongolia's entrepreneurial community.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams in Mongolia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-in-mongolia", "summary": "Sextortion targeting Mongolian residents uses social media and messaging apps to gather intimate images before issuing extortion demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Serbia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-serbia", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Serbia's Tax Administration (Poreska uprava) and other government agencies to extract payments from residents and businesses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Serbia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-serbia", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud in Serbia targets retail investors with fake exchange platforms, influencer-promoted pump-and-dump tokens, and phishing attacks on crypto wallets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Georgia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-georgia", "summary": "Fraudulent Facebook and Instagram shops in Georgia take payment for electronics, clothing, and imported goods that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Georgia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-georgia", "summary": "Fake remote-work offers reach Georgian job seekers via WhatsApp and Telegram, promising easy online income that turns into a task-scam deposit trap.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams in Myanmar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-in-myanmar", "summary": "Cryptocurrency fraud in Myanmar operates on two levels: compound-run pig-butchering platforms targeting overseas victims, and domestic crypto scams targeting Myanmar residents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Scams in Myanmar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-scams-in-myanmar", "summary": "Fraudsters in Myanmar impersonate police and government officials to extort payments from residents under the threat of fabricated investigations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Myanmar", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-myanmar", "summary": "Fake remote-work offers circulate in Myanmar via WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, targeting young people with promises of easy online income from task-based work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Scams in Luxembourg", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-luxembourg", "summary": "SIM-swap attacks in Luxembourg target private banking clients and crypto investors by porting mobile numbers to intercept high-value authentication codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Luxembourg", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-luxembourg", "summary": "Fraudulent e-commerce websites and social media shops target Luxembourg's affluent online shoppers with designer goods, electronics, and collectibles that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Scams in Malta", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-scams-in-malta", "summary": "Malta's gaming and fintech sector attracts sophisticated investment fraud targeting the island's professional community with fake fund-management schemes and unregulated CFD brokers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pig-Butchering Scams in Serbia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pig-butchering-scams-in-serbia", "summary": "Serbia's growing online-investment culture makes residents targets for pig-butchering scams delivered via Instagram, Viber, and dating apps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance-Fee Scams in Serbia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-in-serbia", "summary": "Advance-fee fraud in Serbia combines classic inheritance and lottery narratives with business-opportunity schemes targeting Serbia's entrepreneurial community.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Task Scams in Mongolia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/task-scams-in-mongolia", "summary": "Task-based fraud targeting Mongolia's young urban population offers easy online income for simple micro-jobs before trapping victims in escalating deposit cycles.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiters Targeting People in Mongolia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-in-mongolia", "summary": "Fraudulent overseas job advertisements target Mongolian workers with fake offers in South Korea, Japan, and China that conceal trafficking or scam-compound recruitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Cyprus", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-cyprus", "summary": "Fake remote-work and part-time job offers target Cyprus's large unemployed youth population and migrant workers through WhatsApp and Telegram.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams in Cyprus", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-in-cyprus", "summary": "Fake foreign lottery prize notifications target Cyprus residents and the island's large expatriate community with fabricated windfalls requiring upfront fee payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Job Scams in Malta", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/whatsapp-job-scams-in-malta", "summary": "Fake online job offers circulate in Malta via WhatsApp and Telegram, targeting the island's service-sector workers and migrant population with task-scam deposit traps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Office Scams in Malta", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-office-scams-in-malta", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Malta's Commissioner for Revenue to demand urgent tax payments from residents and businesses under threat of legal action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Listing Scams in Georgia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-listing-scams-in-georgia", "summary": "Fake rental listings in Tbilisi target the city's growing expat and digital-nomad community with below-market apartments requiring deposits for properties that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams in Georgia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-in-georgia", "summary": "Fake international lottery prize notifications target Georgian residents with fabricated windfalls requiring upfront fee payments to release.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams in Serbia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-in-serbia", "summary": "Fake European and American lottery prize notifications target Serbian residents with fabricated windfalls requiring upfront fee payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams in Luxembourg", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-in-luxembourg", "summary": "Fraudsters target Luxembourg residents with fabricated EuroMillions and EU fund lottery prizes that require upfront fee payments to release.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Sites Targeting Georgia Tourists", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-georgia", "summary": "Fraudulent accommodation and tour booking websites target travellers to Georgia with fake reservations for guesthouses, tours, and transport.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Georgia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-georgia", "summary": "Fraudulent charity appeals in Georgia exploit regional displacement crises and natural disasters to divert donations from genuine relief organisations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts in Georgia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-in-georgia", "summary": "Phishing SMS messages impersonate Georgian Post and international couriers to harvest payment card details from online shoppers with fake parcel-fee requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Stores in Serbia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-in-serbia", "summary": "Fraudulent Serbian-language e-commerce websites and Facebook shops collect payment for electronics and clothing without delivering anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Scams in Serbia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-scams-in-serbia", "summary": "SIM-swap attacks in Serbia target mobile banking users by porting phone numbers to intercept SMS authentication codes for bank and crypto accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking Sites Targeting Mongolia Tourists", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-in-mongolia", "summary": "Fraudulent tour and ger camp booking sites target Mongolia visitors with fake reservations for Gobi Desert, Naadam festival, and steppe wilderness packages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams in Malta", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-in-malta", "summary": "Fraudulent charity appeals exploit Malta's generous community culture with fake campaigns mimicking real Maltese charities and international disaster appeals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams in Mongolia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-in-mongolia", "summary": "Bogus fund-recovery services target Mongolian victims of investment and crypto fraud with upfront fees to retrieve losses that are never recovered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partners on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-signal", "summary": "How fraudsters use Signal's end-to-end encryption and disappearing messages to conduct fake romantic relationship scams with reduced evidence trails.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "How sextortion and romance blackmail operations exploit Snapchat's ephemeral media features while secretly saving victims' intimate content for extortion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Non-Delivery Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/non-delivery-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "How Reddit's buy-sell-trade subreddits are exploited by fraudulent sellers who collect payment but never ship goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-on-wechat", "summary": "How scammers impersonate delivery couriers on WeChat to trick recipients into clicking phishing links or paying fake customs fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Wallet Drainer Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wallet-drainer-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "How malicious smart-contract links spread through Reddit posts and comments to drain connected cryptocurrency wallets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-on-viber", "summary": "How advance-fee fraudsters use Viber's free international messaging to target victims across borders with inheritance, lottery, and business-opportunity pretexts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-on-wechat", "summary": "How fraudulent prize notifications delivered via WeChat convince victims they have won a foreign lottery and extract fees under the guise of releasing winnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recovery Scams on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recovery-scams-on-viber", "summary": "How secondary fraudsters contact previous scam victims on Viber with fake fund-recovery offers, charging upfront fees and delivering nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Recruiters on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-recruiters-on-snapchat", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers sent via Snapchat target young users with part-time, brand-ambassador, and social-media-manager roles that lead to identity theft or money mule recruitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partners on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-nextdoor", "summary": "How romance fraudsters leverage Nextdoor's perceived local credibility to build fake relationships with neighbourhood residents before making financial requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Calls on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-on-signal", "summary": "How scammers impersonate tech support, bank security teams, and platform representatives on Signal to extract remote access or personal data from privacy-conscious users.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Seller Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-seller-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers in Reddit buy-sell-trade communities exploit the platform's reputation system to conduct payment fraud for high-value goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-on-viber", "summary": "How parcel-delivery phishing messages distributed through Viber steal payment card details and personal information from online shoppers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "How advance-fee fraud is operated through Reddit subreddits and DMs using loan offers, government-grant claims, and business-deal pretexts to extract upfront payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Blackmail Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "How sextortion scammers use Reddit profiles and DMs to identify and target victims, then move the interaction to other platforms to capture intimate content for extortion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-on-snapchat", "summary": "How phishing delivery notifications reach Snapchat users through fake courier Snaps and story ads, stealing card details under the pretence of releasing a parcel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-on-viber", "summary": "How fraudulent charity appeals spread through Viber Communities and group chats to collect donations that never reach genuine causes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partners on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-viber", "summary": "How romance scammers build fake long-distance relationships on Viber before introducing financial requests or investment schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Support Calls on WeChat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-calls-on-wechat", "summary": "How scammers impersonate WeChat, bank, and e-commerce platform support teams via WeChat messages and calls to steal account credentials and authorise fraudulent transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-on-signal", "summary": "How advance-fee fraud exploits Signal's privacy reputation to conduct inheritance, business-deal, and government-grant fraud with minimal evidence trails.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Scams on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-scams-on-snapchat", "summary": "How fraudulent charity appeals exploit Snapchat's Story format and young audience to collect donations for fabricated causes before the content disappears.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreign Lottery Scams on Viber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreign-lottery-scams-on-viber", "summary": "How fake prize win notifications distributed through Viber direct messages and Communities lure recipients into paying advance fees for non-existent foreign lottery winnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partners on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-reddit", "summary": "How romance fraudsters use Reddit communities to identify and approach lonely or emotionally vulnerable users for financial exploitation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Scams on Nextdoor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-scams-on-nextdoor", "summary": "How cryptocurrency investment fraud spreads through Nextdoor neighbourhood feeds by exploiting local trust and peer-to-peer recommendation culture.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trading Platforms on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-trading-platforms-on-signal", "summary": "How fraudulent investment brokerages and crypto exchanges are promoted through Signal groups and private messages as exclusive, insider-only opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Texts on Signal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-texts-on-signal", "summary": "How phishing delivery notifications are distributed via Signal to steal personal data and payment card details from recipients convinced their parcel requires action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stores on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stores-on-twitch", "summary": "How fraudulent merchandise and gaming-goods storefronts are promoted through Twitch streamer deals, chat links, and panel buttons to viewers who trust the content creator.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Advance Fee Scams on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/advance-fee-scams-on-twitch", "summary": "How advance-fee fraud targeting streamers and viewers uses Twitch DMs and chat to solicit upfront payments for sponsorships, partnership deals, and prize claims that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Partners on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-partners-on-twitch", "summary": "How romance scammers use Twitch chat and community DMs to build fake relationships with viewers and streamers before making financial requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Catfishing Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/catfishing-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How fraudsters posing as romantic interests use Skrill to extract money from victims who believe they are in a genuine relationship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Catfishing Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/catfishing-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How fake online personas exploit Venmo's social payment features to extract money from romantically deceived victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Catfishing Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/catfishing-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "How scammers using fake identities steer victims to MoneyGram for cash pick-up transfers that are near-impossible to recover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Catfishing Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/catfishing-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "How fake online personas convince victims to buy prepaid cards and share the codes to fund an imagined relationship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sextortion-Style Romance Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sextortion-style-romance-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How scammers who obtain intimate images exploit Skrill to collect ongoing blackmail payments while remaining hard to trace.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sextortion-Style Romance Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sextortion-style-romance-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How sextortion operators use Cash App's instant peer-to-peer transfers to demand blackmail payments from victims holding intimate material hostage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sextortion-Style Romance Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sextortion-style-romance-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "How sextortion scammers demand prepaid card codes from victims to avoid traceable payments while leveraging intimate content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sextortion-Style Romance Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sextortion-style-romance-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How sextortion operators exploit Venmo's instant transfers and social features to collect blackmail payments from victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gift Card Romance Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gift-card-romance-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How romance scammers pivot from demanding gift cards to requesting Skrill transfers when victims grow suspicious of card requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gift Card Romance Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gift-card-romance-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How romance scammers use Venmo's familiar interface to collect money alongside or instead of gift-card requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gift Card Romance Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gift-card-romance-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How romance scammers use Cash App transfers to collect money from victims who have been primed through weeks of false emotional intimacy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gift Card Romance Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gift-card-romance-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "How romance scammers targeting victims abroad use MoneyGram cash pick-ups to collect funds framed as emergency help for a loved one.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sugar Daddy Allowance Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sugar-daddy-allowance-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How fake sugar daddy or sugar mama accounts use Skrill to collect upfront fees from victims promised a recurring allowance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sugar Daddy Allowance Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sugar-daddy-allowance-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How fake affluent patrons use Cash App to extract verification fees from victims chasing a promised weekly allowance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sugar Daddy Allowance Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sugar-daddy-allowance-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How fraudulent patron accounts exploit Venmo's social payment features to collect fees from victims expecting a weekly allowance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sugar Daddy Allowance Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sugar-daddy-allowance-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "How romance-based allowance scammers direct victims to send MoneyGram transfers for fees before a promised allowance arrives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Inheritance Romance Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/inheritance-romance-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How romance fraudsters weave inheritance stories into their scripts and use Western Union to collect release fees from victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Inheritance Romance Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/inheritance-romance-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How scammers fuse romance with inheritance stories and use bank transfers to collect 'release fees' that make losses appear legitimate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Inheritance Romance Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/inheritance-romance-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "How romance scammers use MoneyGram cash remittances to collect inheritance release fees that can never be recovered once collected.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Inheritance Romance Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/inheritance-romance-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How romance scammers use Bitcoin to collect inheritance release fees from victims, making tracing and recovery nearly impossible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity Romance Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How impersonators of famous people use Cash App to collect money from fans who believe they are in a private relationship with a celebrity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity Romance Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How celebrity impersonators exploit Venmo's familiarity to collect payments from fans led to believe they are in a private relationship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity Romance Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How celebrity impersonators use Western Union's global reach to collect cash from fans who believe they are in a secret relationship with a star.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity Romance Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How celebrity impersonators exploit fans' interest in crypto by requesting Bitcoin payments under the guise of a private romantic relationship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-relief-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How fraudulent debt settlement companies use Skrill to collect upfront fees from people struggling with debt who never receive any relief.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-relief-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "How fraudulent debt settlement operators use MoneyGram cash remittances to collect fees that produce no debt relief for victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-relief-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "How fraudulent debt settlement companies use Apple Pay's speed and mobile convenience to collect advance fees that produce no results.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Relief Scams via Neteller", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-relief-scams-via-neteller", "summary": "How fraudulent debt settlement operators use Neteller to collect advance fees from victims who receive no debt relief in return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credit Repair Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credit-repair-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "How fraudulent credit repair companies collect upfront fees in prepaid card codes from consumers hoping to improve their credit scores.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credit Repair Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credit-repair-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "How credit repair fraudsters use MoneyGram cash remittances to collect advance fees from consumers with damaged credit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credit Repair Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credit-repair-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How fraudulent credit repair operations use Western Union's brand recognition to make advance-fee collection seem routine.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credit Repair Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credit-repair-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How fraudulent credit score improvement services use Skrill to collect advance fees from consumers, then deliver nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Loan Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/loan-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How fraudulent lenders use Skrill to collect advance fees from borrowers who are approved for loans that never materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Loan Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/loan-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "How fraudulent lenders use MoneyGram cash transfers to collect advance fees from loan applicants who never receive funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Loan Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/loan-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How fraudulent lenders use Venmo's peer-to-peer simplicity to collect advance fees from borrowers seeking personal loans.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Loan Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/loan-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How fraudulent lenders exploit Western Union's global cash network to collect advance fees from borrowers who receive nothing in return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pension Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pension-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How pension liberation fraudsters use Skrill to collect upfront fees from savers persuaded to access their retirement funds early.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pension Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pension-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How pension fraudsters target younger workers with Cash App requests to unlock early pension access that is never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pension Scams via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pension-scams-via-bitcoin", "summary": "How pension fraudsters persuade savers to transfer pension funds into Bitcoin investments that are then stolen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pension Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pension-scams-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "How pension fraudsters collect advance fees in prepaid card codes from savers before delivering no actual pension access or investment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Broker Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-broker-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How unregulated fake brokers use Skrill to funnel investor deposits into accounts the broker controls and victims can never withdraw from.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Broker Scams via Neteller", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-broker-scams-via-neteller", "summary": "How fraudulent trading platforms use Neteller to accept investor deposits while circumventing the oversight of regulated banking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Broker Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-broker-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How fake trading platforms recruit US investors and collect deposits via Cash App before showing growing balances they can never withdraw.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Broker Scams via Google Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-broker-scams-via-google-pay", "summary": "How fraudulent trading platforms use Google Pay's speed and consumer trust to collect investment deposits that victims can never withdraw.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Binary Options Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/binary-options-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How unregulated binary options platforms use Skrill to accept deposits from traders who can never withdraw their supposed winnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Binary Options Scams via Neteller", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/binary-options-scams-via-neteller", "summary": "How fraudulent binary options platforms use Neteller's trading associations to accept deposits they will never return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Binary Options Scams via Google Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/binary-options-scams-via-google-pay", "summary": "How unregulated binary options platforms list Google Pay to attract mobile-first traders before locking in their deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Binary Options Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/binary-options-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "How fraudulent binary options platforms exploit Apple Pay's trusted brand to collect mobile investment deposits with no intention of allowing withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams via Klarna / BNPL", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-via-klarna-bnpl", "summary": "How fraudulent online pharmacies exploit Klarna and buy-now-pay-later financing to sell counterfeit or non-existent medications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-via-apple-pay", "summary": "How fraudulent pharmacy websites use Apple Pay's one-tap convenience to collect payments for medications that never arrive or are counterfeit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams via Google Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-via-google-pay", "summary": "How counterfeit pharmacy websites use Google Pay to collect payments for medications that are fake, dangerous, or never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Pharmacy Scams via Prepaid Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-pharmacy-via-prepaid-cards", "summary": "How fraudulent pharmacies request prepaid card payments to avoid chargebacks on sales of counterfeit or non-existent medications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Goods Scams via Klarna / BNPL", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-goods-via-klarna-bnpl", "summary": "How fake retailers offer buy-now-pay-later financing to sell counterfeit branded products, complicating consumer dispute rights.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Goods Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-goods-via-apple-pay", "summary": "How fake storefronts use Apple Pay's mobile convenience to complete purchases of counterfeit branded products before buyers examine them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Goods Scams via Google Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-goods-via-google-pay", "summary": "How fake online retailers integrate Google Pay to speed up purchases of counterfeit branded merchandise on Android devices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Goods Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-goods-via-venmo", "summary": "How peer-to-peer sellers on social platforms use Venmo to collect payment for counterfeit branded goods with no chargeback protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Empty Box Scams via Klarna / BNPL", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/empty-box-scams-via-klarna-bnpl", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers use BNPL financing to sell goods that arrive as empty packages, turning a theft into an instalment dispute.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Empty Box Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/empty-box-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How peer-to-peer sellers collect Venmo payments for items that arrive as empty packages, with no platform buyer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Empty Box Scams via Google Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/empty-box-scams-via-google-pay", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers accept Google Pay for goods that arrive as empty or nearly empty packages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Empty Box Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/empty-box-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "How fraudulent sellers use Apple Pay's trusted brand and one-tap convenience to collect payment for items delivered as empty boxes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Event Ticket Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-event-ticket-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How fake ticket sellers use Venmo's no-buyer-protection personal payments to collect money for tickets that are invalid or never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Event Ticket Scams via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-event-ticket-scams-via-cash-app", "summary": "How ticket fraudsters use Cash App to collect payments for sold-out event tickets that are fake, duplicated, or already used.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Event Ticket Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-event-ticket-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "How fake ticket sellers exploit Apple Pay's convenience to collect payments for invalid concert and event tickets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Event Ticket Scams via Google Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-event-ticket-scams-via-google-pay", "summary": "How fraudulent ticket sellers use Google Pay on mobile to speed up sales of invalid or duplicate event tickets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How fake car sellers use Venmo deposits to steal money from buyers who never take delivery of a vehicle.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How cross-border vehicle scammers use Skrill to collect deposits for cars that do not exist or are not for sale.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "How vehicle listing scammers exploit MoneyGram's international cash network to collect deposits for non-existent cars.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Listing Scams via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-listing-scams-via-western-union", "summary": "How car listing fraudsters use Western Union's global cash network to collect vehicle deposits that victims can never recover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-via-venmo", "summary": "How ghost brokers use Venmo to collect premiums for auto insurance policies that are fake, cancelled, or have fraudulent details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-via-moneygram", "summary": "How ghost insurance brokers use MoneyGram cash remittances to collect premiums for voided or falsified motor policies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams via Skrill", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-via-skrill", "summary": "How ghost brokers use Skrill to collect motor insurance premiums while bypassing regulated insurer payment systems.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Auto Insurance Scams via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ghost-broker-auto-insurance-scams-via-apple-pay", "summary": "How ghost insurance brokers target mobile users with Apple Pay premium requests for car insurance that is void from the start.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Diploma & Degree Mills on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-diploma-degree-mills-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters use Facebook pages, groups, and paid ads to sell counterfeit university degrees and professional certificates to job seekers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tuition Payment Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tuition-payment-scams-on-email", "summary": "Criminals send spoofed emails posing as universities or payment portals, diverting student tuition payments to fraudulent bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Study Abroad Agent Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/study-abroad-agent-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudulent education consultants use WhatsApp groups and direct messages to recruit students for overseas programmes that do not exist or are not as advertised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Number Porting Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/number-porting-scams-on-email", "summary": "Fraudsters send phishing emails impersonating mobile carriers to harvest account credentials and port victims' phone numbers to attacker-controlled SIMs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Carrier Support Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-support-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Criminals pose as mobile carrier support agents on WhatsApp, tricking subscribers into sharing account credentials, one-time codes, or payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Number Porting Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/number-porting-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers use Telegram bots and fake carrier channels to harvest the account PINs and OTPs needed to port victims' mobile numbers without their consent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "In-Game Item Trading Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/in-game-item-trading-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Discord trading servers are rife with scammers who impersonate legitimate traders, use fake middlemen, and switch trade windows at the last moment to steal high-value virtual items.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Child Gaming Purchase Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/child-gaming-purchase-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Scam accounts on Instagram target young gamers with fake free-currency and skin offers that require entering payment details or completing tasks that bill parents without consent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "In-Game Item Trading Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/in-game-item-trading-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram groups and bots posing as game trading hubs facilitate item-swap scams where victims send valuable in-game assets and receive nothing in return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-deposit-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudsters advertise rental properties and holiday lets on Instagram, taking deposits via direct message before the tenant discovers the property is unavailable or non-existent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Landlord Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-landlord-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Rental scammers use Telegram channels and bots to advertise stolen property listings and process deposit payments, exploiting the platform's anonymity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airport Transfer Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airport-transfer-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers posing as airport transfer operators on WhatsApp collect pre-paid fares for pickups that never arrive, leaving travellers stranded on arrival.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Timeshare & Vacation Club Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/timeshare-vacation-club-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers use Facebook to promote fake vacation club memberships and fraudulent timeshare resale services, collecting large upfront fees for holidays or exit agreements that never materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airport Transfer Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airport-transfer-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudulent transfer operators use Instagram profiles and stories to advertise airport pickups, then collect pre-payments for drivers who never arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Carrier Support Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-support-scams-on-email", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating mobile carriers deceive subscribers into revealing account credentials or paying fraudulent invoices through convincing carrier-branded messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Diploma & Degree Mills on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-diploma-degree-mills-on-linkedin", "summary": "Degree-mill operators use LinkedIn to target professionals seeking career advancement, advertising accredited qualifications that are unrecognised or fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Invoice Redirection Scams via LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/invoice-redirection-on-linkedin", "summary": "Fraudsters use LinkedIn to research payment decision-makers and craft targeted invoice-diversion attacks, often combining LinkedIn intelligence with email-based execution.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tuition Payment Scams via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tuition-payment-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Criminals pose as university finance offices on WhatsApp, alerting students or parents to supposed outstanding balances and directing them to fraudulent payment links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Diploma & Degree Mills via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-diploma-degree-mills-on-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Degree-mill institutions buy Google Ads and manipulate search results to appear legitimate when users search for accredited online courses and professional certifications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Child Gaming Purchase Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/child-gaming-purchase-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Scammers in Discord gaming servers target young players with fake free-currency and item offers, tricking them into revealing account credentials or completing paid offers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Key Reseller Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-key-reseller-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram game key channels and bots sell invalid or already-redeemed keys while exploiting the platform's anonymity to avoid accountability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-deposit-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers advertise rental rooms and flats on Facebook groups and Marketplace, collecting holding deposits before disappearing or denying any rental agreement exists.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Timeshare & Vacation Club Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/timeshare-vacation-club-scams-on-email", "summary": "Email campaigns target timeshare owners with fake resale and exit offers, demanding advance fees to process a sale or cancellation that never materialises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Number Porting Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/number-porting-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers use WhatsApp messages to trick subscribers into revealing the account authorisation codes needed to port their number to an attacker-controlled SIM.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Study Abroad Agent Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/study-abroad-agent-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "Fraudulent education consultants on LinkedIn target professionals and recent graduates with fabricated overseas university placement services, collecting fees for placements that never happen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airport Transfer Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airport-transfer-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram transport channels and bots take advance payments for airport pickups that never materialise, exploiting the platform's popularity in travel-heavy regions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "CEO Fraud via LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ceo-fraud-on-linkedin", "summary": "Scammers impersonate executives on LinkedIn to instruct finance staff or vendors to redirect payments, or to extract confidential business information ahead of an email-based attack.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Timeshare & Vacation Club Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/timeshare-vacation-club-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers send WhatsApp messages to timeshare owners offering to resell their unit or cancel their contract, requesting advance fees that are never applied to any genuine service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-deposit-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers operating in Telegram rental groups collect holding deposits for properties they do not own or cannot let, disappearing with the payment before move-in.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "In-Game Item Trading Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/in-game-item-trading-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers use Facebook gaming groups and Marketplace to sell non-existent in-game items or accounts, or to execute trade-and-run fraud with virtual game assets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Key Reseller Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-key-reseller-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent game key sellers on Facebook Marketplace and gaming groups offer discounted keys that are invalid, already redeemed, or obtained fraudulently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phone Upgrade Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phone-upgrade-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudulent phone sellers on Telegram channels and groups advertise flagship handsets at steep discounts, collect payment, and send nothing or a counterfeit device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Moving Company Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/moving-company-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudulent removal operators on Telegram collect deposits for moves that are cancelled at the last minute or never fulfilled, leaving customers stranded on moving day.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tour Guide Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tour-guides-on-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent tour operators buy Google Ads and optimise websites to appear at the top of search results for destination tour queries, collecting pre-payments for experiences they misrepresent or cannot deliver.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tuition Payment Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tuition-payment-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate university payment services or scholarship programmes on Instagram, redirecting students to fake portals that capture tuition payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phone Upgrade Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phone-upgrade-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers use WhatsApp messages and groups to advertise discounted phones to unsuspecting buyers, collecting payment for handsets that are never sent or are counterfeit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Landlord Scams via Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-landlord-scams-on-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent property listings appear at the top of Google results through paid ads or SEO manipulation, driving renters to websites that collect deposits for properties the operator does not own.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Timeshare & Vacation Club Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/timeshare-vacation-club-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudulent vacation club memberships and luxury travel packages are promoted on Instagram, collecting large enrolment fees for benefits that are illusory or grossly misrepresented.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Carrier Support Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-support-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudulent carrier support bots and channels on Telegram extract subscriber credentials and one-time codes under the pretence of resolving billing or account problems.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Diploma & Degree Mills on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-diploma-degree-mills-on-telegram", "summary": "Degree-mill operators use Telegram channels and bots to sell forged academic certificates and professional licences to people seeking employment or credential recognition.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "In-Game Item Trading Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/in-game-item-trading-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers move in-game trade negotiations to WhatsApp to conduct fake item exchanges and payment fraud outside the protections of the game platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Key Reseller Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-key-reseller-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Scam game key stores on Instagram advertise deep discounts on game codes, delivering invalid or stolen keys that fail to redeem.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Number Porting Scams via LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/number-porting-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "Attackers use LinkedIn to research and target high-value individuals for SIM-swap attacks, harvesting the personal details needed to pass carrier identity verification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tour Guide Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tour-guides-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudulent guides solicit tour bookings directly via WhatsApp, collecting pre-payments for experiences that are cancelled, drastically inferior, or never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Child Gaming Purchase Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/child-gaming-purchase-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent Facebook pages and groups target young gamers with fake currency giveaways and paid 'boosting' services that charge parents without delivering any benefit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Moving Company Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/moving-company-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudulent removal operators promote services via WhatsApp groups and messages, collecting deposits from people relocating who then find no movers arrive on moving day.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Deposit Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-deposit-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudulent landlords advertise rental properties and request holding deposits via WhatsApp before disappearing or denying any rental agreement was made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Timeshare & Vacation Club Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/timeshare-vacation-club-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels and bots offer timeshare exit services and vacation club memberships, collecting advance fees for services that are never performed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tour Guide Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tour-guides-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudulent tour guides and travel operators on Telegram collect deposits for customised travel experiences that are misrepresented, cancelled, or never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Invoice Redirection Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/invoice-redirection-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudsters use Telegram to impersonate supplier contacts and announce banking detail changes, diverting business payments to criminal accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airport Transfer Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airport-transfer-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent transport pages and groups on Facebook collect pre-paid fares for airport pickups that fail to materialise, stranding passengers on arrival.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-01" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apple ID Suspension Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-id-suspension-phishing-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Scammers send emails or texts claiming your Apple ID has been locked or suspended, directing you to a convincing fake Apple sign-in page that steals your credentials and two-factor authentication codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apple Support Phone Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-support-call-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Callers or pop-up alerts claim to be Apple Support, warning of a security breach or virus, and pressure victims into handing over their Apple ID credentials or remote device access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Microsoft 365 Password-Reset Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-365-password-reset-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Phishing emails mimicking Microsoft 365 account alerts direct users to a replica sign-in page that harvests their work or personal Microsoft credentials, often with the aim of penetrating corporate networks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Microsoft Tech Support Pop-Up Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-tech-support-popup-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Malicious browser alerts display Windows error screens and Microsoft branding alongside a phone number, tricking users into calling fake 'Microsoft Certified Technicians' who install remote-access software and steal money or credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Account Security Alert Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-account-security-alert-impersonating-google", "summary": "Phishing emails styled as Google security alerts claim your account has been accessed from an unknown device and drive you to a fake Google sign-in page that captures your Google credentials and backup codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Workspace Admin Credential Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-workspace-admin-phishing-impersonating-google", "summary": "Targeted phishing emails impersonating Google Workspace alerts aim to steal administrator credentials, giving attackers control over an entire organisation's Google environment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Meta/Facebook Account-Disabled Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-meta-facebook-account-disabled-phishing-impersonating-meta-facebook", "summary": "Scammers send messages that mimic Meta's account-policy notifications to claim your Facebook or Meta account has been disabled, directing you to a fake appeal form that harvests your login credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Facebook Verification Badge Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-facebook-verification-badge-phishing-impersonating-meta-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters send messages offering a coveted blue verification tick on Facebook or Instagram in exchange for account credentials, payment, or sensitive personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Instagram Account Recovery Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-instagram-account-hacked-recovery-impersonating-instagram", "summary": "Criminals pose as Instagram support to 'help' users recover a hacked account, but the process hands attackers the victim's login credentials and two-factor authentication codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Instagram Copyright Strike Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-instagram-copyright-strike-phishing-impersonating-instagram", "summary": "Fraudulent messages claim your Instagram account has received a copyright strike or DMCA notice and will be deleted unless you verify your identity through a link — which leads to a credential-harvesting page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake WhatsApp Two-Factor Reset Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-whatsapp-two-factor-reset-impersonating-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters use social engineering to obtain the SMS verification code sent when registering a WhatsApp number, then hijack the victim's account and use it to scam their contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Hacked-Friend Money Request Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-whatsapp-hacked-friend-money-request-impersonating-whatsapp", "summary": "After hijacking a victim's WhatsApp account, fraudsters message their contacts posing as the account owner and invent urgent scenarios — a lost wallet, a hospital bill, being stranded abroad — to solicit quick money transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake TikTok Account Verification Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-account-verification-phishing-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Scammers send TikTok creators and businesses messages claiming they qualify for official verification and instruct them to 'complete the process' on a phishing page that steals their TikTok login credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake TikTok Copyright Strike Takedown Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-copyright-strike-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Fraudulent emails or messages claim a TikTok account has violated copyright policy and will be deleted, directing creators to a phishing page disguised as a TikTok appeals centre.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Telegram Verification Code Theft Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-telegram-account-verification-phishing-impersonating-telegram", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Telegram or send messages through compromised accounts to trick users into sharing their Telegram login code, enabling a full account takeover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Telegram Crypto Giveaway Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-telegram-crypto-giveaway-impersonating-telegram", "summary": "Scammers create fake Telegram channels or bots impersonating cryptocurrency projects, influencers, or Telegram itself, claiming to run a 'verified' giveaway that requires an initial deposit to receive a larger payout.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Spotify Subscription Renewal Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-spotify-subscription-renewal-phishing-impersonating-spotify", "summary": "Phishing emails mimicking Spotify payment alerts claim a subscription renewal has failed and direct users to a fake payment page that harvests credit card details and Spotify credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Spotify Account Suspended Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-spotify-account-suspended-phishing-impersonating-spotify", "summary": "Scammers send emails claiming a Spotify account has been suspended for suspicious activity and direct users to a fake login page that captures credentials and payment information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Netflix Payment Failure Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-netflix-payment-failure-phishing-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Phishing emails claiming a Netflix subscription payment failed direct users to a convincing fake Netflix login and billing page that steals their account credentials and credit card information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Netflix Account-Sharing Policy Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-netflix-account-sharing-policy-phishing-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Scammers exploit publicity around Netflix's account-sharing restrictions to send fake compliance notices that lure users into a phishing page, harvesting Netflix credentials and payment information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disney+ Subscription Renewal Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disney-plus-subscription-renewal-phishing-impersonating-disney-plus", "summary": "Phishing campaigns mimicking Disney+ payment alerts direct subscribers to fake billing pages that harvest credit card details and login credentials under the pretence of a failed renewal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disney+ OAuth Login Phishing via Social Sign-In", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disney-plus-account-sharing-oauth-phishing-impersonating-disney-plus", "summary": "Scammers create fake Disney+ login prompts that mimic OAuth social-sign-in flows, tricking users into granting access to their Google or Apple account via a fraudulent authorisation page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apple macOS or iOS Software Update Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-software-update-malware-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Malicious websites or pop-ups claim a critical Apple software update is required and prompt users to download a file that installs malware, credential-stealing software, or a fake antivirus on their Mac or iPhone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Microsoft Defender Antivirus Renewal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-antivirus-renewal-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Scammers send fake emails claiming a Microsoft Defender or Windows security subscription is about to auto-renew at an inflated price, tricking victims into calling a fraudulent refund number that leads to account takeover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Storage Full Alert Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-cloud-storage-full-alert-impersonating-google", "summary": "Phishing emails claiming a Google account's 15 GB of free storage is full direct users to a fake upgrade page that harvests Google credentials and payment card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Meta Business Suite OAuth Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-meta-business-suite-oauth-phishing-impersonating-meta-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake Meta Business Suite notifications to page managers and advertisers, directing them to a phishing OAuth flow that steals their Facebook business account access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Instagram Profile Cloning and Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-instagram-profile-cloning-impersonating-instagram", "summary": "Criminals copy a real Instagram user's profile picture, username, and public posts to create a duplicate account, then use it to deceive the original user's followers into sending money or sharing personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apple Two-Factor Authentication Prompt Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-two-factor-authentication-scam-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Scammers abuse Apple's trusted-device two-factor system by flooding a victim's Apple devices with repeated authentication requests, then calling them pretending to be Apple Support to extract the six-digit code.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Microsoft OAuth Social-Login Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-oauth-social-login-phishing-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Phishing sites present fraudulent 'Sign in with Microsoft' OAuth consent screens that harvest Microsoft work or personal credentials from users who believe they are completing a standard authentication flow.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Two-Factor SMS Bypass Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-two-factor-sms-bypass-impersonating-google", "summary": "Scammers who have already obtained a victim's Google password pose as Google Support and social-engineer the victim into sharing the SMS two-factor code, completing an account takeover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake WhatsApp Subscription Renewal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-whatsapp-subscription-renewal-scam-impersonating-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudulent messages claim a WhatsApp subscription or premium service is about to expire and instruct users to pay via a link or provide payment details to continue using the app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake TikTok Account Suspension Appeal Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-account-suspended-appeal-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Fraudulent emails or messages claim a TikTok account has been suspended for community guideline violations and invite creators to appeal through a link that leads to a credential-harvesting page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Telegram Support Account Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-telegram-support-account-phishing-impersonating-telegram", "summary": "Scammers create fake Telegram support accounts with official-looking names and badges to solicit account information, phone numbers, and verification codes from users seeking help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Spotify Customer Support Account Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-spotify-account-hacked-recovery-impersonating-spotify", "summary": "Scammers pose as Spotify customer support agents through social media or email and offer to help users recover access to their Spotify account, but the 'recovery' process hands over credentials to the attacker.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Netflix Account Suspended Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-netflix-account-suspended-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Scammers send emails claiming a Netflix account has been suspended for suspicious activity or unpaid fees, directing users to a fake reinstatement page that harvests credentials and payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disney+ Account Suspension Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disney-plus-account-suspended-impersonating-disney-plus", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating Disney+ claim an account has been suspended due to unusual activity or billing issues and direct subscribers to a fake page that collects credentials and payment information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apple iCloud Password-Reset Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-icloud-password-reset-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating Apple claim an iCloud password reset was requested and direct recipients to a fake Apple sign-in page that harvests their Apple ID credentials and two-factor codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Microsoft Teams Notification Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-teams-phishing-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Fraudulent emails styled as Microsoft Teams message alerts direct recipients to a fake Teams sign-in page that captures Microsoft 365 credentials, often as the first step in a targeted business email compromise attack.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Ads Account Suspension Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-ads-account-suspended-impersonating-google", "summary": "Targeted phishing emails claim a Google Ads account has been suspended for policy violations and direct advertisers to a fake Google sign-in that steals credentials and billing information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Instagram Two-Factor Reset Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-instagram-two-factor-phishing-impersonating-instagram", "summary": "Attackers who have obtained an Instagram password use social engineering to trick users into sharing their two-factor authentication code, completing a full Instagram account takeover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Meta/Facebook Copyright Strike Takedown Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-meta-facebook-copyright-strike-impersonating-meta-facebook", "summary": "Phishing messages claim a Facebook Page or business account has received a copyright strike and will be deleted unless the owner appeals through a link that leads to a credential-harvesting page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "TikTok Hacked Account Follower Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-hacked-friend-scam-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "After taking over a TikTok account, fraudsters use it to DM the victim's followers with investment pitches, emergency money requests, or fake giveaways, exploiting the trust built up by the original creator.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Telegram Phishing Bot Credential Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-telegram-phishing-bot-credential-scam-impersonating-telegram", "summary": "Scammers deploy automated Telegram bots that impersonate official services or Telegram itself to collect usernames, phone numbers, and login codes under the pretence of verification or support.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Netflix Customer Support Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-netflix-customer-support-phishing-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Scammers set up fake Netflix support phone lines or social media accounts and direct distressed subscribers to them, then harvest account credentials, payment card details, or install remote access software.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disney+ Password-Reset Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disney-plus-password-reset-impersonating-disney-plus", "summary": "Phishing emails styled as Disney+ password-reset confirmations direct subscribers to a fake sign-in page that captures their Disney+ and linked email credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apple Gift Card Balance-Draining Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-gift-card-balance-scam-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Scammers instruct victims to purchase Apple Gift Cards and share the redemption codes under various pretexts, then immediately drain the balance by redeeming the codes on their own Apple IDs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Microsoft Windows License Expiry Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-windows-license-expired-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Pop-up alerts or emails claim a Windows license has expired or is invalid and direct users to call a number or pay through a fraudulent site, ultimately leading to credential theft or fraudulent payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Spotify Free Trial Cancellation and Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-spotify-free-trial-cancellation-phishing-impersonating-spotify", "summary": "Scammers send emails claiming a Spotify trial has converted to a paid subscription and offer an easy cancellation or refund through a link that leads to a credential-harvesting page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "WhatsApp Profile Cloning and Contact Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-whatsapp-profile-cloning-impersonating-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters copy a WhatsApp user's profile picture and display name to create a near-identical account, then message the victim's contacts from a different phone number to solicit money or personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Instagram Sponsored Ad OAuth Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-instagram-sponsored-ad-oauth-phishing-impersonating-instagram", "summary": "Fraudulent Instagram-branded ads or embedded links on third-party sites present a fake 'Login with Instagram' OAuth consent screen, capturing credentials and granting attackers persistent access to accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google OAuth App Consent Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-phishing-oauth-app-consent-impersonating-google", "summary": "Attackers send phishing emails with links to legitimate-looking Google OAuth consent screens for malicious applications, tricking users into granting the app persistent access to their Gmail, Drive, or Google account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake TikTok LIVE Subscription Renewal Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-subscription-renewal-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Scammers send emails claiming a TikTok LIVE subscription or creator programme fee is due for renewal, directing users to a fake payment page that harvests card details and TikTok credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Netflix Cancellation Refund Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-netflix-cancellation-refund-phishing-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Scammers send fake Netflix cancellation confirmation emails that offer a refund through a link, capturing card details and credentials from users who believe they are claiming money back from an unwanted charge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disney+ Order Confirmation and Account Upgrade Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disney-plus-order-confirmation-scam-impersonating-disney-plus", "summary": "Scammers send fake Disney+ order confirmations for a bundle upgrade the recipient did not authorise, using the surprise charge as a pretext to direct victims to a phishing page for cancellation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Microsoft Unusual Sign-In Alert Account Takeover", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-account-unusual-signin-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Scammers replicate Microsoft's genuine unusual-sign-in alert emails to direct recipients to a fake login page that captures credentials and live MFA codes for immediate account takeover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Account Recovery Support Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-account-recovery-support-scam-impersonating-google", "summary": "Scammers pose as Google support agents on social media or forums to help people 'recover' locked Google accounts, extracting backup codes and recovery details that enable a genuine takeover instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Spotify Password-Reset Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-spotify-password-reset-phishing-impersonating-spotify", "summary": "Scammers send emails mimicking Spotify's password-reset notification to trick users into clicking a link that leads to a fake Spotify sign-in page harvesting account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "TikTok Profile Cloning and Creator Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-profile-cloning-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Fraudsters copy a TikTok creator's username, profile photo, and bio to build a duplicate account, then use it to solicit money from followers, promote fake investment links, or run fake merchandise stores.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Account-Suspension Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-account-suspension-phishing-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Criminals send emails or texts that mimic PayPal's transaction alerts, claiming your account has been suspended and demanding you click a link to restore access. The goal is to harvest your PayPal login credentials and payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App Customer Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customer-support-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as Cash App support agents — often found through fake social-media posts and search-engine ads — and trick users into sharing their sign-in codes or sending money to 'verify' their accounts. Cash App has no public support phone number, making impersonation especially effective.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Zelle 'Safe Account' Move-Your-Money Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/safe-account-move-your-money-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Scammers impersonating Zelle or the victim's own bank instruct people to send themselves money via Zelle to a 'safe account' they control, claiming the funds need to be moved to prevent fraud. Zelle itself warns: a real bank will never ask you to send yourself money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stripe Invoice Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stripe-invoice-phishing-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Criminals send convincing fake payment-request emails styled as Stripe invoices, targeting small-business owners and freelancers who regularly receive legitimate Stripe payment links. Clicking the embedded 'Pay Now' button leads to a credential-harvesting or payment-capture page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wise Transfer-Verification Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-wise-transfer-verification-phishing-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Scammers send emails mimicking Wise's transfer-alert format, claiming a large international payment is pending verification and demanding recipients log in via a fraudulent link. Victims who comply hand over their Wise credentials and may lose funds held in their Wise multi-currency accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut OTP Interception Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-revolut-otp-interception-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating Revolut call or text victims to claim there is suspicious activity on their account, then talk them into revealing the one-time passcode Revolut just sent — allowing attackers to authorise transfers or log in to the victim's account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Account-Restriction Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-robinhood-account-restriction-phishing-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Criminals send fake Robinhood emails or texts claiming your brokerage account has been restricted due to a compliance review or suspicious login, directing you to a phishing site that captures your login credentials and may trigger a 2FA-bypass in real time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Unauthorised-Payment Alert Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-bank-unauthorized-payment-alert-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Scammers send text messages or emails mimicking your own bank's fraud-alert system, claiming an unauthorised payment has been initiated and you must act immediately to stop it. The link or callback number leads to a phishing page or fraudster posing as a bank fraud specialist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Refund and Chargeback Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paypal-refund-chargeback-scam-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake PayPal refund-confirmation or overpayment emails and call sellers to claim an 'accidental' overpayment was made, pressuring them to return the excess via gift cards or bank transfer before the bogus payment is discovered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App Friday Giveaway Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cash-app-friday-giveaway-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Criminals create fake social-media accounts mimicking Cash App's well-known '#CashAppFriday' promotions, telling users they have won a cash prize that requires a small 'verification fee' or their Cash App login details to claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Zelle Enrollment Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-zelle-enrollment-phishing-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Criminals send texts or emails claiming someone is trying to enroll the victim's email address or phone number in Zelle, and that the victim must click a link to block the enrollment. The link leads to a phishing page that harvests banking credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stripe Support — Account Suspended Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stripe-support-account-suspended-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Fraudsters contact merchants via phone or email posing as Stripe's risk or compliance team, claiming their Stripe account has been suspended due to a policy violation and demanding login credentials or payment to restore service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wise Business Payment Redirect Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-wise-business-payment-redirect-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Criminals intercept or impersonate business email communications and instruct suppliers or clients to update their payment destination to a fraudulent Wise account, diverting legitimate B2B payments to the attacker while appearing to come from the legitimate business.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut Subscription Renewal Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-revolut-subscription-renewal-phishing-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Scammers send fake renewal notices for Revolut Premium or Metal plans, claiming the victim's card will be charged and offering a cancellation link — which leads to a phishing page that harvests Revolut login credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Crypto Withdrawal Alert Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-robinhood-crypto-withdrawal-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Criminals send fake Robinhood alerts claiming an unauthorised cryptocurrency withdrawal has been initiated from the victim's account and instruct them to call a support number or click a link to cancel it — leading to credential theft or remote-access fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Debt-Collection Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-bank-debt-collection-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals impersonate bank collections departments, claiming the victim has an outstanding debt, unpaid overdraft, or fraudulent charge on their account and demanding immediate payment via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency to avoid legal consequences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Two-Factor Authentication Reset Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paypal-2fa-reset-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Fraudsters contact PayPal users by phone or text claiming their two-factor authentication needs to be reset or verified due to a security incident, tricking them into sharing the OTP that PayPal just sent — which the attacker immediately uses to access the account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App Tax Refund Deposit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cash-app-tax-refund-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Criminals pose as tax authorities or Cash App representatives, claiming a tax refund has been deposited to the victim's Cash App account and that a verification payment or sign-in code is required to release it — a classic advance-fee twist on the tax-refund scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Zelle Small-Business Payment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-zelle-small-business-payment-scam-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Scammers posing as customers contact small businesses, send fake Zelle payment screenshots, and pressure the business to ship goods or provide services before the payment actually clears — relying on the fact that a screenshot proves nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Gift Card Balance Drain Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paypal-gift-card-drain-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Scammers impersonating PayPal instruct victims to purchase gift cards and read out the codes to 'pay' a fabricated fee, debt, or security hold on their PayPal account — a demand that the real PayPal would never make.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wise Identity Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-wise-identity-verification-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Criminals send emails impersonating Wise's compliance team, claiming the victim's account has been suspended pending identity re-verification, and directing them to an external site that harvests passport details, selfies, and banking credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut 'Safe Account' Transfer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-revolut-safe-account-transfer-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating Revolut's fraud team instruct account holders to transfer their balance to a 'Revolut-secured holding account' to protect it during an alleged security investigation — a classic safe-account scam using Revolut's own transfer infrastructure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Free Stock Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-robinhood-free-stock-phishing-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Criminals create fake Robinhood referral pages or social-media posts claiming users can receive free shares of a popular company by signing up or verifying their existing account — leading to a phishing page or a cryptocurrency scam tied to a fake 'Robinhood token'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Password Reset Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-bank-password-reset-phishing-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals send emails or texts mimicking bank password-reset notifications, claiming the victim's online banking password was just changed by an unknown device and instructing them to click a link to 'undo the change' — delivering them to a credential-harvesting page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Unauthorised Transaction Alert Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paypal-unauthorized-transaction-alert-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake PayPal order-confirmation or payment-sent notifications for transactions the victim never made, then provide a 'cancel this payment' link that leads to a credential-harvesting page or a fake PayPal customer-service number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App Account Suspension Appeal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cash-app-account-suspended-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Criminals send emails or texts claiming a Cash App account has been suspended for suspicious activity and direct users to a phishing site or fake support number to restore access — harvesting sign-in codes and payment details in the process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Stimulus Payment Notification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-bank-stimulus-payment-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Fraudsters send texts or emails mimicking a victim's own bank, claiming a government stimulus or relief payment has been deposited and can be accessed by clicking a link — a phishing attack that harvests banking credentials under the cover of a benefit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal 'Safe Account' Wire Transfer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/paypal-safe-account-wire-transfer-scam-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Criminals impersonating PayPal's fraud team instruct account holders to withdraw their PayPal balance and wire it to a 'PayPal-secured holding account' to protect funds during a fabricated security investigation — a safe-account scam using PayPal's trusted name.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Support Call Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paypal-support-call-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Fraudsters place outbound calls claiming to be PayPal's customer service team, referencing supposed disputes, high-risk transactions, or account holds, then collect login credentials or OTPs to take over the account while the victim believes they are receiving help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App 'Safe Account' Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/cash-app-safe-account-scam-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Scammers impersonating Cash App's fraud team tell users their account is at risk and that sending their balance to a 'Cash App safety wallet' or 'verified secure $Cashtag' will protect their funds — a safe-account scam dressed in Cash App branding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App OTP Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/cash-app-otp-account-takeover-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Criminals who possess a victim's linked phone number or email address attempt a Cash App login, which triggers a real sign-in code, then contact the victim under a pretext to get them to read out that code — instantly unlocking full account access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Zelle Customer Support Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/zelle-fake-customer-support-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Because Zelle has no standalone consumer app support channel separate from users' banks, scammers exploit the gap by advertising fake Zelle helpline numbers online — catching users who search for help and tricking them into handing over banking credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Zelle-Themed Bank Portal Phishing and Account Takeover", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/zelle-account-takeover-bank-portal-phishing-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Criminals create fake bank-login pages branded with Zelle's logo and claim the victim must verify their Zelle account to prevent it being taken over — a credential-harvesting attack that provides full online banking access, not just Zelle access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stripe Payout Hold — Account Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stripe-payout-hold-account-takeover-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Fraudsters send emails claiming Stripe has placed a hold on the merchant's next payout due to a compliance review and direct them to a fake Stripe dashboard to resolve it — harvesting login credentials and 2FA codes to take over the Stripe account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Stripe API Key Harvest Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/stripe-phishing-api-key-harvest-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Criminals send developer-targeted emails mimicking Stripe's security alerts or API documentation updates, directing technical staff to a fake Stripe developer portal that collects live API secret keys — giving immediate programmatic access to the merchant's Stripe account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wise 'Safe Account' International Transfer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wise-safe-account-international-transfer-scam-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating Wise's fraud team tell account holders that their multi-currency balance is at risk and must be transferred to a 'Wise-secured account' before it is frozen — exploiting Wise's cross-border transfer capability to move funds internationally and out of reach.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wise Support Chat Credential Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-wise-support-chat-credential-scam-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Criminals set up fake Wise support chat widgets on lookalike websites or social media, posing as Wise agents to collect login credentials and OTPs from users who believe they are receiving official in-app support.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut Device-Pairing Account Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/revolut-account-takeover-device-pairing-scam-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Criminals contact Revolut users claiming a new device needs to be removed from the account for security, then walk them through steps that actually authorise the attacker's device — granting persistent access to the Revolut account without any further OTPs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut Password Reset Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-revolut-password-reset-phishing-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Criminals send emails mimicking Revolut's password-reset notification format, claiming the victim's PIN or passcode was just changed and providing a link to 'undo the change' that leads to a credential-harvesting page masquerading as the Revolut app login.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Support Chat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-robinhood-support-chat-scam-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Fraudsters create fake Robinhood support websites and social-media accounts, posing as customer-service agents to collect brokerage account credentials and 2FA codes from investors seeking help with trading or account issues.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Password Reset Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-robinhood-password-reset-phishing-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Criminals send fake Robinhood password-reset emails claiming the victim's brokerage account password was just changed and directing them to a phishing page to 'undo' the change — capturing login credentials and potentially 2FA codes in a real-time takeover attempt.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Bank 'Safe Account' Wire Transfer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/bank-safe-account-wire-transfer-scam-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals posing as a bank's fraud team call customers and instruct them to wire their savings to a 'safe account' to protect them from a fabricated ongoing fraud — a scam that has cost bank customers significant financial losses across many countries.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Customer Support Helpline Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-bank-support-helpline-scam-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals create fraudulent bank-support phone numbers that appear in search results or are shared on social media, waiting for customers seeking help with online banking issues to call — then harvesting credentials and initiating fraudulent transfers during the 'support' call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Bank OTP Bypass Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/bank-otp-bypass-scam-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals who have obtained a victim's banking login credentials call posing as the bank's fraud department and, citing a 'security check', trick the victim into reading back the one-time passcode the bank just sent — completing an account takeover or fraudulent transfer in real time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Online Portal Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/bank-online-portal-phishing-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals build pixel-perfect replicas of popular bank online-banking portals and drive victims to them via SMS, email, or search-engine ads — harvesting full login credentials, security answers, and OTPs to take over accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Subscription Renewal Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paypal-subscription-renewal-phishing-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Scammers send fake PayPal billing notices claiming that a subscription or service fee will be automatically charged and inviting recipients to cancel via a link — leading to a credential-harvesting page that captures PayPal login details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "PayPal Account Takeover via Credential Stuffing and Fake Verification", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/paypal-account-takeover-credential-stuffing-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Attackers use email and password combinations from previous data breaches to attempt automated PayPal logins, then phone victims claiming to be PayPal security to harvest the OTP needed to complete the takeover — blending technical and social-engineering techniques.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App Payment Link Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/cash-app-phishing-fake-payment-link-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Criminals send fake Cash App payment-request links via SMS, email, or social media that lead to a phishing page styled as the Cash App login — collecting sign-in codes to take over accounts under the pretence of processing a legitimate payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App Gift Card Drain Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/cash-app-gift-card-drain-scam-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Scammers impersonating Cash App claim users owe a fee, tax, or verification payment that must be paid by purchasing gift cards and sharing the codes — mirroring the classic gift-card demand scam but using Cash App's name to add apparent urgency and legitimacy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stripe Chargeback Reserve Safe-Account Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stripe-chargebacks-safe-account-scam-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Criminals posing as Stripe's risk team tell merchants that a large wave of chargebacks requires immediate funds to be deposited into a 'Stripe reserve account' — a safe-account variant targeting small businesses whose revenue depends on Stripe payouts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stripe Password Reset Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stripe-password-reset-api-access-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Criminals send fake Stripe dashboard-password reset emails to merchants, directing them to a phishing page that captures the new password and 2FA code — giving attackers authenticated access to the live Stripe dashboard and its customer data and payout settings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Wise Account Takeover via Email-Change Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wise-account-takeover-email-change-scam-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Attackers send phishing emails that capture Wise login credentials, then immediately use them to change the registered email address — locking the real account holder out and taking full control before any OTP challenge can be received.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wise Two-Factor Authentication Reset Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wise-fake-2fa-reset-otp-interception-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Fraudsters who hold a victim's Wise login credentials call or text claiming Wise's 2FA system needs to be re-verified, talking the victim into sharing the OTP that Wise just sent — completing the account takeover the attacker was blocked from finishing alone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut Payment Alert Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/revolut-phishing-fake-payment-alert-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Criminals send SMS or email alerts mimicking Revolut's payment-notification format, claiming a large outgoing payment was just made from the account, with a link to dispute it — leading to a credential-harvesting page that replicates Revolut's app login screen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut Customer Service on Social Media", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-revolut-customer-service-social-media-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Fraudsters create convincing fake Revolut support accounts on Twitter/X, Instagram, and Facebook that respond to customers who post about problems publicly, gathering credentials and OTPs from users who believe they are receiving genuine Revolut help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood 'Safe Account' Brokerage Transfer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/robinhood-safe-account-brokerage-scam-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as Robinhood's security team tell investors that their brokerage account has been compromised and that all holdings must be liquidated and transferred to a 'Robinhood-secured custodial account' — a safe-account scam targeting retail investors' entire portfolios.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Subscription Charge Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-bank-subscription-charge-phishing-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals send SMS or email alerts mimicking bank transaction notifications, claiming a large subscription payment was just deducted, and directing victims to a phishing page to dispute or cancel it — harvesting banking credentials under the guise of consumer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Zelle OTP Interception Bank Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/zelle-otp-interception-bank-scam-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Scammers impersonating a victim's bank over the phone trigger a Zelle-related OTP to the victim's device and, posing as a fraud specialist, persuade the victim to share that code — instantly authorising a fraudulent Zelle transfer before the victim realises what happened.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Zelle Refund and Overpayment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/zelle-fake-refund-overpayment-scam-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Criminals pose as a bank's Zelle support team, claiming to process a refund from a cancelled service or fraudulent charge via Zelle — then manipulate the victim into sending money rather than receiving it through a bank-app navigation trick.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wise Gift Card Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wise-gift-card-demand-scam-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Scammers impersonating Wise's compliance or verification team instruct international users to purchase gift cards and share the codes to clear a supposed verification fee or account restriction — a gift-card demand scam that exploits Wise's cross-border reputation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Cash App Account Takeover via SIM-Swap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/cash-app-account-takeover-sim-swap-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Criminals who cannot intercept a Cash App sign-in code by social engineering instead perform a SIM swap — transferring the victim's phone number to a SIM they control — so that Cash App's SMS-based sign-in codes arrive to the attacker's device rather than the victim's.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Order Confirmation Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/your-bank-fake-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals send emails mimicking bank purchase-confirmation notifications for large orders victims never made, with a bank-branded 'cancel this order' link that harvests online banking credentials — using the bank's authority to lend credibility to a fake e-commerce notification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Zelle Invoice Redirection Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/zelle-invoice-redirection-b2b-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Criminals intercept or spoof B2B payment communications and substitute fraudulent Zelle account details for the legitimate payee's, diverting invoice payments to an attacker-controlled bank account before the substitution is discovered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Gold Subscription Renewal Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/robinhood-subscription-renewal-phishing-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Criminals send fake Robinhood Gold renewal notices to brokerage account holders claiming an annual fee will be automatically charged, and provide a 'cancel subscription' link leading to a phishing page that harvests Robinhood account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Gift Card Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/your-bank-gift-card-demand-scam-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals impersonating a victim's own bank call to claim an account has been flagged for fraud or money laundering and demand that the victim purchase gift cards as an 'asset freeze' or 'security deposit' — a gift-card drain scam using the bank's authority to add pressure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wise Transfer Cancellation Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wise-fake-cancellation-refund-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Scammers impersonating Wise contact account holders claiming a recently sent transfer can be cancelled and refunded, then guide them through steps that actually initiate a new outgoing transfer rather than receiving a refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Binance Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-exchange-support-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Criminals pose as Binance customer support agents to gain account access or extract funds. Binance will never DM you first on Telegram or ask for your login credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Binance Giveaway and Airdrop Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-giveaway-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Fraudsters clone the Binance brand to promote fake crypto giveaways, promising to double coins sent to a wallet address. Binance has never run a 'send us crypto and get double back' promotion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Binance Seed-Phrase Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/seed-phrase-phishing-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Attackers pose as Binance to trick users into revealing their wallet seed phrases under the guise of account verification or wallet linking. No exchange — including Binance — will ever need your seed phrase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Coinbase Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-exchange-support-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Criminals impersonate Coinbase support to take over accounts or steal funds. Coinbase's real support is ticket-based; the company will never call you unsolicited and ask for your password or 2FA code.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Coinbase Giveaway and Airdrop Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-giveaway-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Scammers use the Coinbase name and logo to promote fake crypto giveaways on social media and via email. Coinbase has never offered a promotion where sending crypto results in double the amount being returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "MetaMask Wallet-Drainer Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wallet-drainer-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Fraudsters create fake MetaMask sites and pop-ups that trick users into signing malicious transactions, instantly emptying their wallet. MetaMask never asks you to re-enter your seed phrase to fix an error.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "MetaMask Seed-Phrase Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/seed-phrase-phishing-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Attackers build near-identical MetaMask interfaces to harvest users' 12-word secret recovery phrases. Once obtained, the phrase gives permanent, irreversible access to every asset in the wallet.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "MetaMask Ice-Phishing and EIP-712 Signature Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ice-phishing-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Ice-phishing attacks trick MetaMask users into signing transactions that grant attackers permission to drain their tokens — without ever stealing the seed phrase. The wallet key remains intact while assets are lost.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Ledger 'Device Compromised' Mailer Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hardware-wallet-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Scammers send physical mailers and emails to known Ledger customers claiming their device has been compromised, directing them to a fake 'Ledger Live' download that steals their seed phrase. Ledger will never mail you asking to validate your device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ledger Seed-Phrase Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/seed-phrase-phishing-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Criminals send fake Ledger security alerts directing users to enter their 24-word recovery phrase on lookalike sites. No Ledger process — including genuine firmware updates — ever requires entering the recovery phrase online.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Ledger Recovery Service Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crypto-recovery-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Fraudulent 'recovery services' impersonate Ledger support to charge fees for recovering supposedly lost crypto, then steal whatever remains in the wallet. No legitimate recovery service needs your seed phrase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trezor 'Security Alert' Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hardware-wallet-impersonating-trezor", "summary": "Criminals send emails and messages claiming Trezor accounts require urgent revalidation, directing victims to fake Trezor Suite pages designed to capture their recovery seed. Trezor Suite never asks for the recovery seed in-app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Trezor Seed-Phrase Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/seed-phrase-phishing-impersonating-trezor", "summary": "Scammers mimic Trezor's interface and communications to trick users into typing their recovery seed into a fraudulent form. The recovery seed should only ever be entered on the Trezor physical device itself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake OpenSea Wallet-Drainer Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wallet-drainer-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Attackers build convincing OpenSea clones or inject malicious signature requests into NFT listings to drain connected wallets. OpenSea will never ask you to sign a transaction unrelated to a specific sale or purchase you initiated.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake OpenSea NFT Airdrop and Claim Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airdrop-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Criminals fake OpenSea airdrop announcements to lure NFT holders into connecting wallets on drainer sites. OpenSea does not run token airdrops requiring wallet connections to third-party claim pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Kraken Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-exchange-support-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Kraken customer support via phone, email, and social media to steal account credentials or authorize fund transfers. Kraken's real support operates through kraken.com's help system — not through unsolicited calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Kraken Staking Yield Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Scammers create fake Kraken staking promotions promising extraordinary yields, directing victims to deposit crypto in exchange for returns that never arrive. Kraken's real staking yields are displayed transparently in the official app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Coinbase Account Takeover Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Criminals combine phishing, SIM swapping, and social engineering to take over Coinbase accounts and liquidate holdings. Understanding Coinbase's security layers helps identify when something unusual is happening.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Binance Password Reset Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-password-reset-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Attackers send fake Binance password-reset emails to capture login credentials or 2FA codes. Genuine Binance password-reset emails always include your personal anti-phishing code and never embed a button asking you to confirm a reset you did not request.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Coinbase Account Suspension Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suspended-account-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake Coinbase account-suspension emails to panic users into submitting credentials on phishing pages. Coinbase suspensions are communicated through in-app notices and official email — never via links demanding immediate re-verification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "MetaMask Clipboard Hijacker Malware Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/clipboard-hijacker-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Clipboard-hijacking malware targets MetaMask users by silently replacing copied wallet addresses with attacker-controlled ones at the moment of pasting. Installing MetaMask from any source other than the official browser store is a primary infection vector.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity NFT Drop Scams Impersonating OpenSea", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-nft-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Scammers announce fake celebrity NFT collections using OpenSea's branding to draw buyers to drainer sites. OpenSea's actual listing and verification process does not guarantee a collection is from the person it claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Coinbase Subscription Renewal Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-subscription-renewal-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Scammers send fake Coinbase 'subscription' or 'fee' renewal emails to trick users into clicking phishing links or calling fake support numbers. Coinbase does not charge a subscription fee for standard accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Kraken Token Airdrop Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airdrop-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Fraudsters invent fake Kraken token distributions to lure users into depositing crypto or connecting wallets to drainer sites. Kraken does not distribute free tokens requiring wallet connections to external claim pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trezor Customer Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-impersonating-trezor", "summary": "Criminals pose as Trezor support agents on Reddit, Twitter, Discord, and Telegram to guide users through 'troubleshooting steps' that lead to seed-phrase disclosure. Trezor's official support operates only through trezor.io/support.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "OpenSea Ice-Phishing and Malicious Signature Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ice-phishing-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Criminals construct fake OpenSea listing flows that trick NFT owners into signing EIP-712 orders transferring their assets at zero price. Understanding what OpenSea's genuine listing signature looks like is the key defense.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Binance Account Takeover Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Attackers chain phishing, OTP interception, and API key theft to seize Binance accounts and drain holdings in minutes. Enabling Binance's withdrawal whitelist and authenticator-app 2FA makes takeover far harder.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Binance Staking and Earn Yield Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Fraudsters clone Binance's Earn and staking products to lure users into sending crypto to external addresses with promises of extraordinary yields. Binance Earn and staking are managed entirely within the Binance platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Coinbase Customer Service Chatbot and Chat Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Scammers embed fake Coinbase live-chat widgets on phishing sites and intercept users searching for help. Coinbase's real support is at coinbase.com/help — any chat window on a third-party site is fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Coinbase Crypto Recovery Service Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crypto-recovery-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Fraudulent 'Coinbase recovery specialists' charge upfront fees to recover lost funds, then steal whatever remains. Coinbase's genuine recovery options are limited and handled only through coinbase.com/help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake MetaMask Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-exchange-support-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "There is no MetaMask phone support line or live chat agent. Anyone claiming to be MetaMask support in a DM, by phone, or on social media is attempting to steal your seed phrase or wallet access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake MetaMask Token Airdrop Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airdrop-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Scammers fabricate MetaMask token airdrops requiring users to connect wallets on drainer sites. MetaMask does not distribute tokens requiring wallet connections to external claim pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Coinbase Staking Yield Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Criminals clone Coinbase's staking interface to redirect deposits to their own wallets. Coinbase's real staking is available only through the official Coinbase app or website — never via emailed links to external platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Kraken Crypto Giveaway Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/giveaway-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Scammers use Kraken's logo and name to run fake crypto doubling giveaways on YouTube and social media. Kraken has never run a promotion where sending cryptocurrency results in a larger return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Ledger Customer Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Scammers intercept Ledger users seeking help by posing as official support agents on social media and through fake phone lines. Ledger's real support is at support.ledger.com — no agent there will ever ask for your recovery phrase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Ledger Staking and Earn Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as Ledger to promote fake staking programs requiring users to send crypto or share their recovery phrase. Ledger Live integrates with real staking protocols, but never requires sending funds to Ledger-controlled addresses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Binance IT Helpdesk and Remote Access Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Scammers posing as Binance technical support convince users to install remote-desktop software and then take control to drain accounts. No genuine Binance support process involves remote access to your device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trezor Recovery Service Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crypto-recovery-impersonating-trezor", "summary": "Fake 'Trezor recovery specialists' charge fees to supposedly restore wallets or retrieve lost funds, then steal any remaining assets. Trezor does not have recovery partners — wallet recovery uses only the physical device and the recovery seed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Kraken Account Takeover Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Attackers use phishing, SIM swapping, and social engineering to hijack Kraken accounts and liquidate holdings. Kraken's Global Settings Lock and authenticator-app 2FA are the most effective defenses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Coinbase Wallet Seed-Phrase Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/seed-phrase-phishing-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Criminals pose as Coinbase to steal users' Coinbase Wallet seed phrases, giving permanent access to all assets in the self-custody wallet. Coinbase's exchange service does not use seed phrases — but Coinbase Wallet does, and it should never be shared.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake OpenSea Royalty or Creator Payment Signature Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ice-phishing-impersonating-opensea-royalties", "summary": "Scammers target NFT creators with fake OpenSea creator-payment or royalty-update requests that contain malicious EIP-712 parameters. Legitimate OpenSea royalty settings are managed through the creator dashboard at opensea.io — no signature is needed via email or DM.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Kraken Password Reset Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-password-reset-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Attackers send fake Kraken password-reset emails to capture login credentials and 2FA codes. Genuine Kraken password-reset emails direct you to kraken.com directly — they do not embed action buttons linking to external domains.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Kraken Account Suspension Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suspended-account-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake Kraken account-suspension emails to panic users into submitting credentials on phishing pages. Genuine Kraken account restrictions are communicated through the platform and resolved at kraken.com.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Ledger Live Software Update Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-software-update-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Criminals distribute fake Ledger Live updates through phishing emails and lookalike download sites. The fake software captures the recovery phrase during a fake 'restore' step. Ledger Live updates are delivered only through the official app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Binance Token Airdrop Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airdrop-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Scammers fabricate Binance token distribution events requiring wallet connections or seed phrases to 'claim' free tokens. Legitimate Binance token distributions are announced on binance.com and never require external wallet-connect flows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake MetaMask DeFi and Flash-Loan Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/defi-phishing-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Attackers build fake DeFi protocol front-ends that impersonate MetaMask's approval interface to trick users into signing transactions enabling flash-loan-style fund drains. MetaMask only executes what the user explicitly approves — reading every transaction detail is the key defense.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake OpenSea Customer Support Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Criminals pose as OpenSea support agents on Discord, Twitter, and Telegram to trick NFT holders into connecting wallets or sharing information on drainer sites. OpenSea support operates only through support.opensea.io.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Trezor Device Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hardware-wallet-impersonating-trezor-counterfeit", "summary": "Fake Trezor hardware wallets sold on third-party marketplaces may be pre-seeded with known recovery phrases controlled by the seller. Always buy Trezor devices directly from trezor.io or an authorized reseller.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Binance Two-Factor Authentication Reset Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-two-factor-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Attackers use fake Binance security alerts to trick users into resetting their 2FA to an attacker-controlled method. Any unexpected 2FA change request should be verified directly at binance.com — never through an email link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake OpenSea NFT Offer Email Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-nft-offer-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Criminals send fake OpenSea offer-received emails designed to rush NFT owners into clicking phishing links or signing malicious transactions. Genuine OpenSea offers are reviewed by logging into opensea.io directly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Ledger Token Airdrop and Reward Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airdrop-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Scammers announce fake Ledger token airdrops or hardware wallet holder rewards requiring recovery phrase entry or wallet connection. Ledger does not distribute tokens through external claim pages and has no native cryptocurrency token.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake OpenSea NFT Staking Yield Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Criminals promote fake NFT staking programs using OpenSea's brand, promising passive ETH income for staking NFTs on third-party sites. OpenSea does not operate an NFT staking yield product requiring wallet approvals on external sites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Kraken Wallet Seed-Phrase Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/seed-phrase-phishing-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Scammers fake Kraken communications to extract wallet seed phrases by conflating the custodial exchange with self-custody wallets. The Kraken exchange itself does not use seed phrases — and no process ever legitimately requires sharing one.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Ledger Device Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hardware-wallet-impersonating-ledger-counterfeit", "summary": "Counterfeit Ledger hardware wallets sold through unofficial channels may have modified firmware that transmits seed phrases to scammers. Only buy from ledger.com or the official Ledger authorized reseller network.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DHL Delivery Text Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-text-impersonating-dhl", "summary": "Scammers send SMS messages pretending to be DHL, claiming a parcel is held and demanding a customs or redelivery fee via a phishing link. The real DHL proactively sends tracking updates only after you register for them and never demands payment through an unsolicited text link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FedEx Customs-Fee Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customs-fee-impersonating-fedex", "summary": "Criminals send emails and texts impersonating FedEx, claiming an incoming shipment is held in customs and a fee must be paid before delivery. FedEx's real brokerage and customs processes work through documented channels and verified account portals — not one-off payment links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS Tracking-Link Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tracking-link-impersonating-usps", "summary": "Scammers send SMS messages impersonating USPS with fabricated tracking numbers and links to phishing sites. A crucial real-world norm: USPS only sends tracking texts if you specifically requested them — an unsolicited USPS tracking text is a near-certain scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Royal Mail Redelivery Card Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-redelivery-card-impersonating-royal-mail", "summary": "Fraudsters drop fake 'While You Were Out' cards or send texts impersonating Royal Mail, directing recipients to phishing sites that steal card details under the guise of paying a redelivery or storage fee. Real Royal Mail redelivery is free and booked at royalmail.com.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake IRS Tax-Refund Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-refund-impersonating-irs", "summary": "Scammers send emails and texts impersonating the IRS, claiming the recipient is owed a tax refund and must verify personal and banking details to receive it. The real IRS initiates all contact by mail, never by email or text, and issues refunds through the process you set up when you filed — not via unsolicited messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake IRS Arrest-Warrant Phone Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-arrest-threat-impersonating-irs", "summary": "Criminals call victims posing as IRS agents, claiming outstanding tax debt has led to a warrant for their arrest and demanding immediate payment by wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards to avoid jail. The real IRS never demands immediate payment by phone, never accepts gift cards, and never threatens arrest without first sending multiple formal notices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC Tax-Debt Threat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-debt-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Criminals impersonate HMRC through phone calls, texts, and emails, threatening immediate arrest or legal action unless an outstanding tax debt is paid at once. HMRC never threatens immediate arrest in an unsolicited call, never demands gift-card payment, and does not initiate serious collection action without prior written communication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC Tax-Refund Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-refund-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Scammers send emails and texts impersonating HMRC, telling recipients they are owed a tax rebate and must click a link to claim it. HMRC never sends unsolicited refund links by email or text; genuine refunds are applied to your account or sent by post after you or your employer triggers a recalculation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DWP Benefit Reverification Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-benefit-reverification-impersonating-dwp", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the Department for Work and Pensions, sending messages claiming benefit claimants must re-verify their identity online to avoid payment suspension. The real DWP conducts reviews through formal letters and documented face-to-face or phone appointments — not via unsolicited links requesting login credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DVLA Vehicle-Registration Renewal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-registration-impersonating-dvla", "summary": "Scammers send texts and emails impersonating the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, claiming the recipient's vehicle tax or driving licence is about to expire and a fee must be paid immediately via a link. The real DVLA sends official renewal reminders by post and processes payments only through gov.uk — not through links in unsolicited messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Social Security Administration Overpayment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-social-security-overpayment-impersonating-ssa", "summary": "Criminals impersonate the Social Security Administration, calling to claim the recipient's SSN has been suspended or they have an outstanding overpayment, and demanding immediate wire transfer or gift-card payment. The real SSA communicates primarily by mail and never demands immediate payment by phone under threat of arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Canada Benefit Reverification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-benefits-reverification-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Service Canada by phone, text, and email, claiming CPP, EI, or OAS recipients must re-verify their identity to continue receiving payments. The real Service Canada initiates benefit reviews through registered mail and secure My Service Canada Account messages — not through unsolicited links or urgent phone demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Centrelink Debt and Payment-Suspension Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-centrelink-debt-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Centrelink (Services Australia) by phone and text, claiming recipients have an overpayment debt or that their myGov account needs re-verification to avoid payment suspension. Real Centrelink debt notices are sent through your myGov inbox or by post, and Centrelink never demands immediate payment by phone under threat of legal action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "USPS-Branded Fake Toll Violation Text Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-toll-violation-impersonating-usps", "summary": "A wave of smishing campaigns misuses USPS branding (and other government-adjacent brand signals) to distribute fake toll-violation payment demands. While USPS does not administer toll roads, scammers borrow its trusted name to add legitimacy to fake E-ZPass or state toll-agency demands sent via SMS.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake IRS Stimulus-Payment Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stimulus-payment-impersonating-irs", "summary": "Scammers send phishing messages impersonating the IRS and claiming recipients are entitled to unclaimed stimulus payments or Economic Impact Payments, directing them to fake IRS portals to enter banking and identity information. The real IRS distributes economic impact payments automatically based on filed tax returns and never solicits bank details through unsolicited digital messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DHL Parcel-Locker Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-parcel-locker-impersonating-dhl", "summary": "Criminals send texts claiming a DHL parcel is waiting in a locker and a PIN code or small fee is needed to release it, linking to a phishing site that steals card details. Real DHL Packstations and parcel lockers send access codes through the official DHL app or email — not through payment links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FedEx SMS Phishing Campaign", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-sms-impersonating-fedex", "summary": "Criminals send mass SMS campaigns impersonating FedEx, with messages about undelivered parcels, address confirmation requests, or account security alerts that link to credential-harvesting sites. FedEx's legitimate text notifications are tied to shipments you track and never ask for login credentials or payment via a link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DVLA Driving-Licence Renewal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dmv-license-renewal-impersonating-dvla", "summary": "Scammers send emails and texts impersonating the DVLA, claiming a driving licence is due for renewal and directing recipients to fake GOV.UK pages that charge inflated fees and harvest identity documents. The real DVLA sends renewal reminders by post, and the official fee is significantly lower than what scam sites charge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SSA Deportation-Threat Phone Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-deportation-threat-impersonating-ssa", "summary": "Criminals call immigrants and non-citizens impersonating the SSA and claim their Social Security Number has been linked to criminal activity, threatening deportation unless an immediate payment is made. The SSA has no immigration enforcement role and never calls individuals to threaten deportation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DWP PIP Disability-Benefit Review Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disability-benefit-impersonating-dwp", "summary": "Scammers impersonate DWP assessors or Universal Credit coaches, contacting PIP and disability benefit claimants claiming an urgent review will result in payment suspension unless personal medical information and bank details are provided. Real DWP benefit reviews follow a formal, written process with significant advance notice.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC Student Tax-Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-student-tax-scam-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Scammers target students with HMRC-branded emails and texts claiming they are owed a tax refund on part-time or summer employment income. Students who have never filed a tax return are particularly vulnerable because they may not know how tax refunds genuinely work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Centrelink Cost-of-Living Stimulus Payment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-centrelink-stimulus-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Centrelink by sending texts and emails about government cost-of-living payments or economic support bonuses, directing recipients to fake myGov pages to 'register' their banking details. Real one-off government payments in Australia are deposited automatically to the account on file — no registration via a link is needed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "IRS-Branded Tax Identity Theft Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-identity-theft-impersonating-irs", "summary": "Criminals use phishing to collect enough personal data to file fraudulent federal tax returns in victims' names, claiming refunds before the legitimate taxpayer files. The IRS has specific procedures to deal with tax identity theft, including the Identity Protection PIN programme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DHL Account Security Takeover Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dhl-account-security-phishing", "summary": "Scammers send emails impersonating DHL's security team, claiming the recipient's DHL account has been flagged for unusual activity and their login must be verified. The phishing page steals DHL account credentials that criminals then use to reroute expected deliveries or harvest saved personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS Informed Delivery Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-usps-informed-delivery-phishing", "summary": "Scammers clone the USPS Informed Delivery enrolment flow to steal Government credentials and personal data. Victims who sign up for the fake service instead hand over their details to criminals who may then hijack the real Informed Delivery account to monitor incoming mail.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Royal Mail Customs-Hold Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-royal-mail-customs-impersonating-royal-mail", "summary": "Fraudsters send emails and texts impersonating Royal Mail, claiming an inbound parcel is held in customs and a fee must be paid to release it. While genuine UK customs and import VAT charges do exist for overseas parcels, they are communicated through official HMRC customs notices or the Royal Mail customs charges page — not through a link in an unsolicited SMS.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Canada SIN Suspension Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-service-canada-sin-scam", "summary": "Criminals call Canadians posing as Service Canada agents, claiming their Social Insurance Number has been compromised or suspended due to criminal activity, and demanding immediate payment or information sharing to resolve the situation. Service Canada cannot suspend SINs and never demands payment by phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DHL Redelivery Card Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-redelivery-card-impersonating-dhl", "summary": "Criminals leave counterfeit DHL missed-delivery cards or send fake SMS notifications directing recipients to phishing sites that demand a redelivery fee. Real DHL missed-delivery notices are either left as paper slips with collection instructions or sent through the DHL app — they never demand payment to rebook delivery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DHL SMS Phishing Campaign", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-sms-impersonating-dhl", "summary": "Mass SMS campaigns impersonate DHL with fabricated shipment alerts, address-confirmation requests, and account security messages to harvest credentials and card details. Genuine DHL shipment notifications are tied to specific tracked parcels in your DHL account and never solicit passwords or payments through embedded links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DHL Tracking Number Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tracking-number-impersonating-dhl", "summary": "Scammers send emails and texts containing fabricated DHL tracking numbers that link to phishing sites rather than the real DHL tracking system, used to harvest card details or credentials under the guise of resolving a delivery issue. Real DHL tracking numbers always resolve at dhl.com.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FedEx Delivery Text Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-text-impersonating-fedex", "summary": "Criminals send unsolicited texts impersonating FedEx, claiming a parcel could not be delivered and asking recipients to click a link to reschedule or pay a small fee. Real FedEx delivery text notifications are tied to shipments you track and never require payment via an unsolicited link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FedEx Redelivery Card Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-redelivery-card-impersonating-fedex", "summary": "Fraudsters leave counterfeit FedEx door tags or send fake missed-delivery messages directing recipients to phishing sites that charge redelivery fees. Real FedEx door tags are left at the delivery address with a tracking number and free rescheduling instructions — they never demand a fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FedEx Tracking Number Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tracking-number-impersonating-fedex", "summary": "Fraudsters send emails with fabricated FedEx tracking numbers to create the appearance of a legitimate shipment notification, then direct recipients to phishing sites through embedded links. Any tracking number can be verified instantly at fedex.com before taking any action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS Customs-Hold Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customs-impersonating-usps", "summary": "Scammers send texts and emails impersonating USPS, claiming an inbound international parcel is being held by US Customs and that a release fee must be paid via a link. USPS does not collect customs duties through text message links — legitimate import fees are handled through US Customs and Border Protection processes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS Redelivery Card and SMS Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-redelivery-impersonating-usps", "summary": "Criminals send fake USPS missed-delivery notices — either physical cards or text messages — directing recipients to phishing sites that charge a redelivery fee. Real USPS redelivery scheduling is always free at usps.com/redelivery and requires no payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Royal Mail Delivery Text Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-text-impersonating-royal-mail", "summary": "Scammers send SMS messages impersonating Royal Mail, claiming a parcel awaits delivery and a small fee must be paid to release it. Royal Mail does not demand fees via unsolicited SMS links — its primary missed-delivery process involves a physical card and a free reboarding process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Royal Mail Tracking Number Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tracking-number-impersonating-royal-mail", "summary": "Criminals send emails and texts containing fabricated Royal Mail tracking numbers linking to phishing sites that harvest card details under the guise of resolving a delivery issue. Any Royal Mail tracking number can be verified free at royalmail.com/track-your-item.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake IRS Debt-Collection Agency Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-irs-debt-collection-impersonating-irs", "summary": "Scammers impersonate IRS-contracted private debt collectors, calling to demand immediate tax-debt repayment and threatening legal action. While the IRS does use a small number of private collection agencies, it follows a strict notification process before any agency contacts a taxpayer — and legitimate collectors never demand gift cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC Arrest-Warrant Phone Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hmrc-arrest-threat-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Criminals call victims posing as HMRC compliance officers, claiming that a warrant for their arrest has been issued for tax fraud and that immediate payment is required to avoid police attendance. HMRC never threatens immediate arrest in an unsolicited phone call and does not demand payment by gift card or wire transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC Child Benefit Reverification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hmrc-benefit-reverification-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Scammers send texts and emails impersonating HMRC, claiming recipients must re-verify their Child Benefit claim online to prevent suspension. HMRC reviews Child Benefit eligibility through formal written correspondence — not through unsolicited links requiring credential entry.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DVLA Toll-Charge or Penalty Notice Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dvla-toll-impersonating-dvla", "summary": "Scammers send texts and emails impersonating the DVLA, claiming the recipient's vehicle was captured on a toll road or in a congestion zone without paying, and demanding an immediate penalty fee via a link. The DVLA does not administer toll roads or congestion charges — those are managed by separate authorities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SSA Tax-Refund or SSA Rebate Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ssa-tax-refund-impersonating-ssa", "summary": "Criminals send messages impersonating the Social Security Administration, claiming recipients are owed a Social Security tax rebate or overpayment refund and must provide banking details to receive it. The SSA does not issue unsolicited tax-refund or rebate notices by email or text — any such payment would be communicated by mail.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SSA Stimulus or Emergency Benefit Payment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ssa-stimulus-impersonating-ssa", "summary": "Scammers send messages impersonating the SSA and claiming that an emergency benefit payment or government stimulus supplement has been allocated to the recipient's Social Security account, directing them to a fake portal to claim it. The SSA does not distribute stimulus payments and never solicits banking details via unsolicited texts or emails.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SSA Benefit Reverification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ssa-benefit-reverification-impersonating-ssa", "summary": "Scammers contact Social Security recipients claiming their benefits are under review and that identity reverification must be completed online or by phone to prevent suspension. The SSA communicates benefit reviews through official letters delivered by mail — not through unsolicited texts or calls demanding immediate credential confirmation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Canada Stimulus or Cost-of-Living Payment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-service-canada-stimulus-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Scammers send texts and emails impersonating Service Canada, claiming a one-time cost-of-living or inflation relief payment has been approved for the recipient and that banking details must be submitted via a link to receive it. Real Canadian government one-off payments are deposited automatically or claimed through official portals — not through unsolicited SMS links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Canada Tax-Refund Notification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-service-canada-tax-refund-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Criminals send emails and texts mixing Service Canada and Canada Revenue Agency branding to claim tax refunds are waiting, directing recipients to fake portals that harvest SIN and banking details. Tax refunds in Canada are administered by the CRA — not Service Canada — and are never claimed through unsolicited SMS links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Centrelink myGov Reverification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-centrelink-benefit-reverification-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "Scammers send texts and emails impersonating Centrelink, claiming recipients must reverify their identity through myGov to prevent payment suspension. Real Centrelink identity reviews involve formal written communication — not unsolicited links to credential-harvesting fake myGov pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Centrelink Disability Support Pension Review Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-centrelink-disability-reverification-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Centrelink assessors or Services Australia officers, contacting DSP recipients with claims that their disability classification is under review and that medical and personal details must be resubmitted urgently to prevent payment cancellation. Real DSP reviews follow a formal documented process with advance written notice.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Centrelink Account Suspension Threat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-centrelink-social-security-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "Criminals call Australians impersonating Centrelink, claiming their government welfare account or tax file number has been linked to suspicious activity and will be suspended unless they verify their identity and pay a 'security deposit.' Centrelink does not suspend TFNs and never demands immediate payment by phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DWP Cost-of-Living Payment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dwp-stimulus-impersonating-dwp", "summary": "Scammers send texts and emails impersonating the DWP, claiming that a cost-of-living payment or energy support payment has been approved for the recipient but must be claimed via a link within a deadline. Real UK government cost-of-living payments are paid automatically to eligible recipients — no separate registration or link-based claim is ever required.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DWP Benefits Suspension and Account Fraud Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dwp-social-security-impersonating-dwp", "summary": "Criminals call or text people impersonating DWP officials, claiming their benefit account has been flagged for fraud or their National Insurance number has been linked to criminal activity, and demanding payment or credential sharing to resolve the situation. The DWP cannot suspend National Insurance numbers and never demands immediate payment by phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Royal Mail Account Takeover Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-royal-mail-account-takeover-impersonating-royal-mail", "summary": "Scammers send emails impersonating Royal Mail's security team, claiming suspicious login activity was detected and the recipient must verify their credentials immediately. A compromised Royal Mail Click and Drop or business account can be used to redirect parcels, harvest addresses, and commit shipping fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS Carrier SMS Phishing Campaign", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-usps-carrier-sms-impersonating-usps", "summary": "Mass SMS campaigns impersonate USPS with fabricated delivery alerts and address-confirmation requests, linking to phishing sites. USPS only sends text updates for tracking numbers you have specifically enrolled to receive notifications for — unsolicited USPS texts are a near-certain indicator of smishing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FedEx Account Takeover Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-fedex-account-takeover-impersonating-fedex", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonate FedEx's security team to harvest FedEx account credentials. A compromised FedEx account exposes saved addresses, payment methods, and business shipping data, and can be used to redirect in-transit shipments or commit billing fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DHL Shipment Confirmation Phishing Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dhl-order-confirmation-phishing", "summary": "Criminals send fake DHL shipment confirmation emails — ostensibly for orders the recipient did not place — to trick them into clicking a 'cancel shipment' link that leads to a phishing or malware site. The panic of seeing an unfamiliar order confirmation lowers rational scrutiny.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS Shipment Confirmation Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-usps-order-confirmation-phishing", "summary": "Criminals send fake USPS package confirmation or hold notification emails for shipments the recipient never ordered, prompting them to click a 'manage package' link that leads to a phishing page or malware site. The real USPS only sends confirmation emails for shipments linked to your existing account or enrolled tracking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake IRS Social Security Benefit Tax Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-irs-social-security-impersonating-irs", "summary": "Scammers send IRS-branded messages claiming that Social Security benefits are subject to a special tax assessment and that recipients must pay immediately to avoid a lien or criminal referral. While Social Security benefits can be taxable, the IRS communicates this through the regular tax-return process — not through unsolicited phone demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Royal Mail Carrier SMS Phishing Campaign", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-royal-mail-carrier-sms-impersonating-royal-mail", "summary": "Mass SMS campaigns impersonate Royal Mail to send delivery alerts, address-verification requests, and parcel-fee notices that link to credential-harvesting phishing sites. Royal Mail's legitimate SMS notifications are tied to tracked services you have registered — unsolicited payment-request texts are not part of Royal Mail's standard communication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC National Insurance Suspension Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hmrc-social-security-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Criminals call UK residents impersonating HMRC officers, claiming their National Insurance number has been suspended due to suspicious activity and that immediate payment is required to reinstate it. HMRC cannot suspend National Insurance numbers and never demands payment by phone to resolve such issues.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FedEx Order Confirmation Phishing Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-fedex-order-confirmation-impersonating-fedex", "summary": "Scammers send fake FedEx shipment confirmation emails for orders the recipient never placed, prompting panic clicks on 'cancel shipment' links that lead to phishing pages or malware downloads. Any FedEx tracking number in the email can be verified instantly at fedex.com.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS Account Takeover Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-usps-account-takeover-impersonating-usps", "summary": "Phishing emails and texts impersonating USPS claim the recipient's USPS.com account has unusual activity and must be verified, harvesting login credentials. A compromised USPS.com account gives access to Informed Delivery mail scans, saved addresses, and package redirect settings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC Deportation-Threat Scam Targeting Immigrants", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hmrc-deportation-threat-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Scammers call immigrants and foreign nationals in the UK impersonating HMRC, claiming their National Insurance number was used in financial crimes and that deportation proceedings will begin unless an immediate payment is made. HMRC has no immigration enforcement powers and never initiates deportation threats.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DVLA Arrest-Warrant or Court-Summons Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dvla-fake-arrest-impersonating-dvla", "summary": "Criminals call or send letters impersonating the DVLA, claiming the recipient faces an arrest warrant or court summons for outstanding vehicle tax or licence violations. The DVLA has no arrest powers and does not issue court summonses directly — enforcement involving unpaid vehicle excise duty goes through DVLA civil processes and HMRC, not direct arrest threats.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake IRS Deportation Threat Targeting Immigrants", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-irs-deportation-impersonating-irs", "summary": "Scammers call immigrants and foreign workers impersonating the IRS, claiming their ITIN or SSN was used in financial crimes and that deportation or visa revocation will follow unless an immediate payment is made. The IRS has no immigration enforcement role and never arranges deportation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS Loyalty or Reward Programme Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-usps-fake-lottery-phishing", "summary": "Scammers send letters, emails, or texts impersonating USPS and claiming the recipient has won a USPS customer reward, loyalty points redemption, or a prize in a postal survey — requiring a small processing fee or personal details to claim. USPS does not run consumer lottery or reward redemption programmes of this kind.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Centrelink Arrest-Warrant or Police-Referral Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-centrelink-fake-arrest-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "Criminals call Australians impersonating Centrelink or Services Australia officers, claiming an alleged welfare overpayment or fraud investigation has resulted in a police referral or arrest warrant, and demanding immediate payment to cancel it. Services Australia does not arrange arrest warrants via cold calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Canada Arrest-Warrant Phone Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-service-canada-fake-arrest-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Criminals call Canadians impersonating Service Canada agents, claiming an RCMP warrant for their arrest has been issued due to SIN-linked criminal activity, and demanding immediate payment to cancel it. Service Canada has no arrest powers and never demands gift card payment to resolve investigations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Amazon Order-Confirmation Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-amazon", "summary": "Criminals send fake Amazon order-confirmation emails designed to panic recipients into clicking a cancellation link, harvesting their Amazon login and payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Amazon Brushing Scam — Unsolicited Parcels and Fake Reviews", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/brushing-scam-impersonating-amazon", "summary": "You receive an unexpected Amazon parcel you never ordered; third-party sellers are using your address to generate fake verified-purchase reviews, and your account or data may have been compromised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Amazon Rewards and Loyalty-Points Redemption Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-loyalty-points-redemption-impersonating-amazon", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake emails or text messages claiming you have expiring Amazon reward points or a prize to claim, leading to a phishing page or a fee-based redemption trap.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake eBay Order-Confirmation and Payment Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-ebay", "summary": "Scammers send fake eBay purchase or payment notifications to lure both buyers and sellers into handing over login credentials or banking details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake eBay Extended Warranty and Buyer-Protection Upgrade Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-impersonating-ebay", "summary": "Fraudsters contact eBay buyers claiming their purchased item qualifies for an extended warranty or enhanced buyer protection, then collect fees for coverage that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake eBay Account-Suspension Phishing and Account Takeover", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-impersonating-ebay", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating eBay warn that your account has been suspended or limited, directing you to a fake sign-in page where your credentials are stolen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Walmart Order-Confirmation Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-walmart", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake Walmart purchase-confirmation emails and texts to panic recipients into clicking a link that steals their Walmart account credentials or payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Walmart Product-Recall Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-product-recall-refund-impersonating-walmart", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Walmart to claim a product the victim purchased has been recalled, then collect personal and payment details under the guise of processing a refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Target Gift-Card Promotion and Balance-Draining Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-gift-card-offer-impersonating-target", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Target to promote fake gift-card giveaways, or tamper with physical Target gift cards to drain balances before victims can use them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Target.com Order-Confirmation Phishing Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-target", "summary": "Criminals send fake Target purchase-confirmation emails referencing large electronics or gift-card orders, then direct alarmed recipients to a phishing page to 'cancel' and harvest credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Target Circle Rewards Redemption Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-loyalty-points-redemption-impersonating-target", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake Target Circle reward notifications claiming the recipient has earned significant points or a bonus that must be redeemed immediately, leading to a phishing or fee-charging trap.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Home Depot Extended Warranty and Protection-Plan Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-impersonating-home-depot", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Home Depot to sell fake extended warranties or protection plans for appliances and tools, collecting fees for coverage that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Home Depot Order-Confirmation Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-home-depot", "summary": "Fraudulent emails mimicking Home Depot order confirmations for tools, appliances, or large purchases alarm recipients into clicking a phishing link to cancel the supposed transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Geek Squad Antivirus Auto-Renewal Overcharge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/antivirus-auto-renewal-overcharge-impersonating-geek-squad", "summary": "Scammers send fake Geek Squad renewal invoices for antivirus subscriptions, then trick alarmed recipients into calling a number where they are convinced to hand over remote access and banking credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Geek Squad Customer-Support Tech-Scam Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customer-support-impersonating-geek-squad", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as Geek Squad technicians to offer fake computer-repair or virus-removal services, gaining remote access to steal data or charge for worthless work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking.com Hotel Payment-Verification Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hotel-payment-verification-impersonating-booking-com", "summary": "Scammers hack hotel accounts on Booking.com or send spoofed messages asking guests to re-enter payment details through a fake verification link, redirecting card payments to the fraudster.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking.com Look-Alike Sites and Third-Party Hotel-Booking Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-impersonating-booking-com", "summary": "Fraudulent websites mimic Booking.com's design to take payment for hotel reservations that are never made, leaving travellers without accommodation on arrival.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airbnb Off-Platform Payment and Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hotel-payment-verification-impersonating-airbnb", "summary": "Fraudulent hosts or impersonators ask Airbnb guests to complete payment or identity verification outside the Airbnb platform, stealing money or credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Marriott Bonvoy Points Transfer and Redemption Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-loyalty-points-impersonating-marriott", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Marriott Bonvoy to offer fake points transfers, redemption opportunities, or account-upgrade promotions, harvesting member credentials and draining loyalty balances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Hilton Honors Points Theft and Account-Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airline-refund-compensation-impersonating-hilton", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Hilton to send fake Hilton Honors account-verification requests, stealing credentials and draining member points for fraudulent reward redemptions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delta Air Lines Refund and Flight-Compensation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airline-refund-compensation-impersonating-delta", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Delta Air Lines to offer fake flight refunds or EU261-style compensation, harvesting personal details and charging processing fees that disappear with the fraudster.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delta Air Lines Customer-Support Phone Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airline-support-impersonating-delta", "summary": "Fraudulent websites and search ads list fake Delta customer-service numbers, connecting callers to scammers who charge fees for booking changes or steal payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake United Airlines Refund, Compensation, and MileagePlus Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airline-refund-compensation-impersonating-united", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate United Airlines to offer fake refunds, delayed-flight compensation, or MileagePlus bonus miles, harvesting personal data and charging fictitious processing fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Uber Account-Takeover and Unauthorised Rides Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-impersonating-uber", "summary": "Scammers phish Uber credentials to take over accounts, then use stored payment methods to book rides or Uber Eats orders, leaving real account holders with fraudulent charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Lyft Customer-Support and Overcharge-Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customer-support-impersonating-lyft", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Lyft support to process fake overcharge refunds or account security actions, ultimately harvesting credentials or payment details from drivers and riders.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake AT&T eSIM Transfer and Roaming-Plan Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-esim-roaming-scam-impersonating-att", "summary": "Criminals impersonate AT&T to trick customers into approving an eSIM swap or signing up for a fake roaming plan, hijacking phone numbers for account takeovers or charging for nonexistent services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Third-Party Cramming Charges Disguised as AT&T Fees", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/telecom-cramming-impersonating-att", "summary": "Unauthorised third-party subscription charges — often for ringtones, horoscopes, or premium content — appear on AT&T phone bills, disguised as legitimate AT&T service fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Verizon Customer-Support and Account-Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-support-impersonating-verizon", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Verizon support agents to obtain account PINs, billing details, or remote device access under the pretext of resolving service issues or security alerts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Verizon Device Trade-In Rebate and Bill-Credit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-telecom-rebate-impersonating-verizon", "summary": "Scammers send fake Verizon rebate or trade-in credit notifications that direct customers to enter payment details on a fraudulent site to 'receive' a credit that never arrives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake T-Mobile eSIM Migration and International Roaming Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-esim-roaming-scam-impersonating-t-mobile", "summary": "Criminals send fake T-Mobile notifications about mandatory eSIM upgrades or attractive international roaming bundles, using them to hijack phone numbers or collect fraudulent payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake T-Mobile Premium SMS Subscription Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mobile-premium-sms-impersonating-t-mobile", "summary": "Scammers use third-party billing to add unauthorised premium SMS subscription charges to T-Mobile bills, or send fake T-Mobile messages luring customers into inadvertently subscribing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vodafone Support Call and Account-Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-support-impersonating-vodafone", "summary": "Criminals impersonate Vodafone customer service agents to harvest account credentials, authorise SIM swaps, or sell fake plan upgrades to Vodafone customers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vodafone eSIM Upgrade and Roaming-Cost Warning Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-esim-roaming-scam-impersonating-vodafone", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake Vodafone notifications about mandatory eSIM upgrades or unexpected roaming charges, directing customers to phishing pages or charging for bogus plan add-ons.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Generic Mobile Carrier Impersonation — Fake Support, eSIM, and Billing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-support-impersonating-your-mobile-carrier", "summary": "Criminals send fake messages appearing to come from 'your carrier' — without specifying which one — exploiting the fact that most people have a mobile plan and will assume the message applies to them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tinder ID Verification Badge Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/verification-badge-phishing-impersonating-tinder", "summary": "Scammers pose as Tinder matches asking potential dates to complete a fake 'Tinder safety verification' before meeting, harvesting personal details or credit card information on fraudulent sites.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tinder Romance Sextortion and Blackmail Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-impersonating-tinder", "summary": "A scammer builds a fake Tinder relationship, manipulates the victim into sharing intimate images or video, then threatens to publish the content unless a payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tinder Sugar Mummy/Daddy Advance-Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-sugar-momma-impersonating-tinder", "summary": "A Tinder profile claiming to be a wealthy benefactor offers financial support in exchange for companionship, then extracts fees or gift cards from victims under various pretexts before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bumble Safety Verification Badge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/verification-badge-phishing-impersonating-bumble", "summary": "Scammers ask Bumble users to complete a fake 'Bumble safety check' through an external website, capturing personal data or enrolling victims in fraudulent paid subscriptions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Bumble Romance Sextortion and Blackmail Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-impersonating-bumble", "summary": "Fraudulent profiles on Bumble manipulate victims into sharing intimate content, then use that material to extort money with threats to distribute it to the victim's contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Hinge Video Verification and Badge Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/verification-badge-phishing-impersonating-hinge", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Hinge by sending fake video or identity verification requests to matches, leading them to third-party sites that capture personal data or enrol them in fraudulent subscriptions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity or Wealthy Professional Romance Scam on Hinge", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-impersonating-hinge", "summary": "Fraudulent Hinge profiles impersonating celebrities, successful professionals, or military personnel build fake romantic relationships and eventually extract money through a series of increasingly convincing financial pretexts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Uber Ride-Cancellation Fee and Overcharge Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cancellation-refund-impersonating-uber", "summary": "Scammers pose as Uber support to process fake cancellation-fee refunds or disputed surge charges, collecting card details under the pretence of reversing the charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Lyft Account-Security Alert and Credential-Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-impersonating-lyft", "summary": "Phishing emails and texts impersonating Lyft claim the recipient's account has been accessed from an unknown device, directing them to a fake login page to steal credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airbnb Cancellation Refund and Resolution-Centre Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cancellation-refund-impersonating-airbnb", "summary": "Scammers send fake Airbnb cancellation notifications or Resolution Centre emails to guests or hosts, directing them to phishing pages under the pretence of processing a refund or dispute.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Marriott Hotel Pre-Arrival Payment Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hotel-payment-verification-impersonating-marriott", "summary": "Criminals send fake pre-arrival messages impersonating Marriott hotels asking guests to re-confirm payment card details through an external link before check-in.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake United Airlines Customer-Support Phone Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airline-support-impersonating-united", "summary": "Fraudulent search results and websites list fake United Airlines support numbers, connecting travellers to scammers who charge fees for booking changes or steal payment and MileagePlus credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Walmart Cash Back and Savings Catcher Reward Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-loyalty-points-redemption-impersonating-walmart", "summary": "Scammers send fake Walmart reward and cash-back notifications claiming accumulated store credits are about to expire, directing recipients to phishing pages to 'redeem' them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Hilton Honors Points Transfer and Status-Match Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-loyalty-points-impersonating-hilton", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Hilton to offer fake Hilton Honors points transfers, status matches, or exclusive member upgrades, harvesting credentials and draining accumulated rewards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Best Buy Order-Confirmation Phishing Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-best-buy", "summary": "Criminals send fake Best Buy purchase-confirmation emails for expensive electronics, panicking recipients into calling a fake support number or clicking a phishing link to cancel the supposed order.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delta SkyMiles Transfer and Status-Upgrade Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airline-refund-compensation-impersonating-delta-skymiles", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Delta to offer fake SkyMiles bonus transfers, Medallion status matches, or points redemption opportunities, harvesting SkyMiles credentials and draining members' mile balances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Geek Squad Total Tech Subscription Renewal Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-subscription-renewal-impersonating-geek-squad", "summary": "Scammers send fake Geek Squad Total Tech or Best Buy membership renewal invoices by email or letter, tricking recipients into calling a fraudulent refund line.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Walmart Brushing Scam — Unsolicited Packages and Fake Marketplace Reviews", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/brushing-scam-impersonating-walmart", "summary": "Third-party Walmart Marketplace sellers send unsolicited packages to real addresses to post fake verified-purchase reviews, sometimes indicating personal data exposure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking.com Account-Security Alert and Login Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-impersonating-booking-com", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating Booking.com warn of suspicious activity or a required account review, directing travellers to a fake login page to steal credentials and stored payment data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delta Flight-Cancellation Refund Claim Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cancellation-refund-impersonating-delta", "summary": "Scammers send fake Delta flight-cancellation notifications and claim the passenger must use an external portal to claim their refund, harvesting card details or charging processing fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "eBay Brushing Scam — Unexpected Packages and Seller Fake Reviews", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-ebay-brushing", "summary": "Third-party eBay sellers create ghost purchases using real addresses to generate fake verified-purchase reviews, and victims receive unsolicited items with no return address.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Uber Two-Factor Authentication Code Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-two-factor-authentication-impersonating-uber", "summary": "Scammers posing as Uber drivers or support agents ask riders to read aloud a one-time SMS code, using it to bypass Uber's two-factor authentication and take over the account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airbnb Look-Alike Booking Sites and Ghost Listings", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airbnb-booking-impersonating-airbnb", "summary": "Fraudulent websites impersonating Airbnb list non-existent or unavailable properties, collecting payment for accommodations that do not materialise, leaving travellers stranded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Verizon SMS Phishing — Smishing Texts Impersonating Verizon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-sms-phishing-impersonating-verizon", "summary": "Mass-distributed fake text messages impersonating Verizon claim unpaid bills, account issues, or delivery notifications, directing recipients to phishing pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Geek Squad Pop-Up Virus Alert and Support-Call Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-subscription-renewal-impersonating-geek-squad-popup", "summary": "Malicious or deceptive websites display fake Geek Squad antivirus alerts in the browser, claiming the computer is infected and urging victims to call a bogus Geek Squad helpline.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Amazon Delivery Notification Smishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-impersonating-amazon", "summary": "Scammers send fake Amazon package-delivery text messages claiming a parcel is held or delayed, directing recipients to a phishing page to 'confirm' address or payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake AT&T Customer Service Chatbot and Live-Chat Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-att", "summary": "Fraudulent websites and search ads present fake AT&T customer service chatbots that harvest account credentials, billing details, or personal information under the guise of resolving service issues.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bumble Account-Security Email and Login Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-impersonating-bumble", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating Bumble warn of account suspension or security issues, directing users to fake login pages that capture credentials for account takeover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-07" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apple Customer Service Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Scammers deploy counterfeit live-chat widgets and bot pop-ups that mimic Apple Support, tricking users into surrendering Apple ID credentials or paying bogus fees to resolve invented device problems.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake iCloud Storage Full Alert Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-icloud-storage-full-alert-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Phishing emails and push notifications mimicking Apple warn victims that their iCloud storage is nearly full, steering them to fake upgrade pages that steal payment details or Apple ID credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake App Store Subscription Trap Scam (Apple)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-store-subscription-trap-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Rogue apps distributed through the App Store or advertised via lookalike pages enroll victims in expensive recurring subscriptions after a deceptive free-trial flow, exploiting Apple's In-App Purchase system.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Microsoft Defender Antivirus Alert Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-defender-antivirus-alert-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Scammers display browser pop-ups styled as Microsoft Defender security alerts, claiming a virus has been detected on the victim's PC, and pressure them into calling a fake helpline or installing remote-access software.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Microsoft OneDrive Storage Full Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-onedrive-storage-full-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Phishing emails styled as Microsoft OneDrive notifications claim the victim's cloud storage is full or a file has been shared, directing them to a fake Microsoft sign-in page to harvest their Microsoft account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Microsoft IT Helpdesk Credential Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-it-helpdesk-credential-scam-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Scammers pose as corporate IT helpdesks running on Microsoft 365, sending phishing emails or Teams messages that instruct employees to 're-verify' their credentials through a fake portal before a supposed account migration or security audit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Gift Card Payment Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-gift-card-payment-demand-impersonating-google", "summary": "Scammers impersonating Google Support or Google Play claim a fee, fine, or overdue subscription balance must be settled immediately using Google Play gift cards — a payment method the real Google never requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Verification Badge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-verification-badge-phishing-impersonating-google", "summary": "Scammers send emails or messages impersonating Google, claiming recipients can obtain a 'Google Verified Business' or 'Google My Business verification badge' by paying a fee or providing credentials — neither of which Google requires.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Meta/Facebook Profile Cloning Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-meta-facebook-profile-cloning-impersonating-meta-facebook", "summary": "Scammers clone real Facebook users' profiles by copying their name, photo, and public information to create a duplicate account, then impersonate the victim to defraud their friends — often using the Meta brand in messages to add false credibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Meta/Facebook Customer Service Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-meta-facebook-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-meta-facebook", "summary": "Criminals operate fake Meta or Facebook support chat pages and Messenger bots that mimic official Meta helpdesk communications, steering users into surrendering account passwords, two-factor codes, or payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Instagram Verification Badge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-instagram-verification-badge-scam-impersonating-instagram", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as Instagram staff or third-party 'badge services' promise to apply the blue verified checkmark to accounts in exchange for a fee, login credentials, or completion of a phishing form — none of which Instagram requires.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake WhatsApp Customer Service Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-whatsapp-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers operate fake 'WhatsApp Support' accounts within WhatsApp itself or on the web, impersonating the platform's help team to steal account registration codes, enabling complete account hijacking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake TikTok Gift Card Payment Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-gift-card-payment-demand-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Scammers impersonating TikTok support or TikTok Shop demand victims pay alleged account fees, advertising balances, or dispute penalties using TikTok gift cards or other gift cards — a payment method TikTok never requires.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Telegram Profile Cloning and Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-telegram-profile-cloning-impersonating-telegram", "summary": "Criminals clone Telegram accounts by copying a real user's name and profile photo to create an identical-looking account, then contact the victim's known contacts to solicit money, investments, or sensitive information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Spotify Gift Card Balance Draining Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-spotify-gift-card-balance-draining-impersonating-spotify", "summary": "Scammers send phishing emails claiming a Spotify Premium payment has failed and that victims must settle the balance using Spotify or other gift cards — exploiting the fact that Spotify does sell gift cards in retail stores.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Netflix App Subscription Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-netflix-app-subscription-trap-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Rogue apps in mobile app stores mimic the Netflix name and interface to enroll users in expensive recurring subscriptions, while fake Netflix websites outside the official app stores harvest credit card details under the guise of a discounted plan.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disney+ Gift Card Payment Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disney-plus-gift-card-payment-impersonating-disney-plus", "summary": "Scammers posing as Disney+ billing support claim a subscription payment has failed and pressure victims into purchasing gift cards to settle the balance — a method Disney+ never uses for billing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apple Verified Developer Badge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-verification-badge-iphone-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Fraudsters target iOS developers and app publishers by offering fake 'Apple Verified Developer' certificates or App Store badges in exchange for fees or Apple Developer account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Microsoft 365 Subscription Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-365-subscription-trap-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Scammers create lookalike Microsoft 365 sign-up pages and mobile apps that enroll victims in expensive recurring charges while providing no real Microsoft 365 access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake 'Sign in with Google' OAuth Consent Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-oauth-social-login-phishing-impersonating-google", "summary": "Scammers create malicious OAuth apps that abuse the legitimate 'Sign in with Google' flow, tricking users into granting third-party apps broad access to their Google account, email, and contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Instagram Gift Card Payment Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-instagram-gift-card-payment-impersonating-instagram", "summary": "Scammers posing as Instagram support claim an account violation penalty or boosted-post advertising balance must be paid via gift cards — a payment method Instagram and Meta never use for account compliance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake WhatsApp Business Verification Badge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-whatsapp-verification-badge-impersonating-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers offer paid 'WhatsApp Verified Business' green-tick badge services to small businesses, either harvesting payment details or the business's WhatsApp account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake TikTok Customer Service Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Scammers operate fake TikTok support accounts and web chat widgets, impersonating TikTok's Creator Support team to extract account credentials, two-factor codes, or banking information from creators seeking help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Telegram Premium Subscription Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-telegram-subscription-trap-impersonating-telegram", "summary": "Fraudulent websites and app store listings mimic Telegram's own subscription offering to enroll victims in costly recurring charges that do not provide real Telegram Premium access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Netflix Creator Verification Badge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-netflix-verification-badge-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Scammers target Netflix content creators and indie filmmakers with offers of a paid 'Netflix Verified Creator' credential or listing — a product Netflix does not sell — to harvest payment details or account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disney+ Customer Service Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disney-plus-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-disney-plus", "summary": "Fraudulent Disney+ support websites deploy chat widgets that appear to be official Disney+ Help, guiding victims through account 'verification' that harvests login credentials or payment card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Spotify Artist Profile Cloning Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-spotify-profile-cloning-impersonating-spotify", "summary": "Scammers create duplicate Spotify artist profiles or impersonate Spotify's official artist team on social media to contact musicians with fabricated royalty claims or fake streaming promotions that harvest personal and banking details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake 'Sign in with Apple' OAuth Consent Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-social-login-oauth-phishing-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Fraudsters create lookalike 'Sign in with Apple' pages embedded in fake app flows or phishing sites to harvest Apple IDs and passwords, bypassing Apple's privacy relay and accessing the victim's wider Apple ecosystem.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Microsoft Teams Profile Cloning Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-profile-cloning-teams-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Scammers create Microsoft Teams accounts that clone the display name and profile photo of a company executive or IT contact to send fraudulent internal messages requesting urgent payments, data, or credential changes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Netflix IT Helpdesk Credential Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-netflix-it-helpdesk-credential-scam-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Scammers target Netflix employees or users by impersonating Netflix's internal IT team, sending phishing messages claiming a mandatory security re-verification is required before account access is restored.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake WhatsApp Service Fee Gift Card Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-whatsapp-gift-card-payment-impersonating-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers send WhatsApp messages impersonating WhatsApp support, claiming users must pay a service continuation fee using gift cards or else their account will be deactivated — WhatsApp has no such fee and does not accept gift card payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake TikTok OAuth 'Sign in with TikTok' Consent Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-oauth-social-login-phishing-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Malicious third-party apps and websites abuse TikTok's OAuth login integration to request excessive permissions — or replicate the TikTok login flow on fake pages — to steal creators' account access tokens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disney+ 'Sign in with Disney' OAuth Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disney-plus-oauth-social-login-impersonating-disney-plus", "summary": "Phishing pages mimic Disney+'s sign-in experience to harvest Disney account credentials that also unlock Disney Parks reservations, ShopDisney purchases, and linked payment methods stored in the Disney ecosystem.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Customer Service Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-google", "summary": "Fraudulent websites deploy chat widgets claiming to be 'Google Support,' steering users who search for help with Google accounts, Workspace, or Play billing into surrendering credentials or making payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Meta/Facebook Gift Card Payment Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-meta-facebook-gift-card-payment-impersonating-meta-facebook", "summary": "Scammers impersonating Meta's advertising or trust and safety teams demand that Facebook advertisers pay fake policy violation fees or overdue ad balances using gift cards — a payment method Meta never uses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Instagram Follower Growth App Subscription Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-instagram-app-subscription-trap-impersonating-instagram", "summary": "Rogue apps in mobile app stores claim to boost Instagram followers and engagement, but instead enroll users in costly recurring subscriptions while harvesting Instagram credentials through a fake 'Sign in with Instagram' flow.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Telegram Premium Gift Card Payment Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-telegram-gift-card-payment-impersonating-telegram", "summary": "Scammers message Telegram users claiming their Telegram Premium subscription has expired and must be renewed by purchasing gift cards — a method Telegram never uses for any subscription or fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Spotify Customer Service Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-spotify-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-spotify", "summary": "Fraudulent Spotify support websites use live chat widgets to convince subscribers that billing or account problems require credential verification, ultimately stealing Spotify login details and linked payment information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Netflix Account Sharing Clone Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-netflix-profile-cloning-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Scammers exploit Netflix's genuine account-sharing restrictions by cloning friends' or family members' Netflix-linked social profiles to send fake 'invite to household' messages that lead to credential phishing pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apple Executive Profile Cloning Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-profile-cloning-developer-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Scammers clone the LinkedIn or email identity of Apple executives or the Apple brand itself to contact suppliers, partners, and employees with fraudulent purchase orders, wire transfer requests, or credential demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Play App Subscription Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-app-store-subscription-trap-impersonating-google", "summary": "Fraudulent apps listed on Google Play or advertised via lookalike Google Play pages enroll users in expensive recurring subscriptions while impersonating Google's brand to appear trustworthy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disney+ Content Creator Verification Badge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disney-plus-verification-badge-impersonating-disney-plus", "summary": "Scammers offer fake Disney+ Creator Network verification badges or official Disney Creator partnerships to fan content creators in exchange for fees or personal information — no such paid badge service exists.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Meta/Facebook IT Helpdesk Credential Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-meta-facebook-it-helpdesk-credential-impersonating-meta-facebook", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Meta's internal IT or security operations team to contact Facebook employees or Business Suite users with phishing requests for 'mandatory security re-verification' that harvests corporate or personal credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Drive Document Sharing Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-drive-sharing-phishing-impersonating-google", "summary": "Scammers send fake Google Drive document-sharing notifications to harvest Google account credentials, exploiting the fact that genuine Google Drive sharing emails look almost identical to the phishing version.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake WhatsApp IT Security Helpdesk Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-whatsapp-it-helpdesk-credential-scam-impersonating-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers impersonate WhatsApp's security operations team to contact users — often via email or a fake WhatsApp business account — with urgent requests to verify account details or install a 'security patch,' leading to credential or device compromise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake TikTok Verified Badge Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-verification-badge-scam-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Scammers offer paid TikTok verification badge services through DMs, fake websites, and social media ads — charging creators fees or harvesting credentials in exchange for a blue tick that cannot be obtained this way.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Spotify Premium App Subscription Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-spotify-subscription-app-trap-impersonating-spotify", "summary": "Lookalike Spotify apps in mobile app stores enroll users in expensive recurring subscriptions using Spotify's branding, while the official Spotify app is free to download and manages its own subscription in-app.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Netflix Gift Card Payment Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-netflix-gift-card-payment-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Scammers send phishing calls or emails impersonating Netflix billing support, claiming an account balance must be paid via Netflix Gift Cards or other gift cards — Netflix does not accept gift cards for billing resolution.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Invoice Redirection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paypal-invoice-redirection-scam-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Criminals send convincing PayPal-branded invoices or payment requests to redirect legitimate business payments into accounts they control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Debt Collection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paypal-debt-collection-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as PayPal debt-recovery agents, claiming your account has a past-due balance and threatening legal action unless you pay immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Chargeback Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paypal-chargeback-trap-scam-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Scammers buy goods from sellers using PayPal, then fraudulently file chargebacks while using PayPal impersonation emails to confuse and stall the seller.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Product Recall Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paypal-product-recall-refund-scam-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Criminals send fake product-recall notices claiming a PayPal refund is waiting, then harvest account credentials or card details through a spoofed PayPal portal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Customer Service Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paypal-customer-service-chatbot-scam-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Criminals embed fake 'PayPal Support' chatbots in phishing sites and search-ad landing pages to harvest credentials and one-time codes under the guise of helping customers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App Chargeback Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cash-app-chargeback-trap-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake Cash App payment confirmations to sellers, then dispute the charge — or never paid at all — while mimicking Cash App notifications to delay the seller.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App Debt Collection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cash-app-debt-collection-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Cash App collections agents, threatening account closure or legal action over fabricated unpaid balances to coerce immediate payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App Unpaid Invoice Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cash-app-invoice-scam-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Scammers send fake invoices branded with Cash App styling, claiming recipients owe money for a service and must pay via Cash App immediately to avoid account suspension.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App Order Confirmation Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cash-app-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Scammers send fake 'you were charged' notifications mimicking Cash App payment receipts to panic recipients into clicking a phishing link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Zelle Chargeback Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-zelle-chargeback-trap-scam-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Scammers exploit Zelle's irreversible payment model and mimic Zelle bank alerts to trap sellers into shipping goods before payment is confirmed, then trigger bank reversals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Zelle Debt Collection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-zelle-debt-collection-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Criminals impersonate Zelle's bank partners and claim recipients owe outstanding Zelle transaction fees or disputed-payment balances, demanding immediate payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Zelle Product Recall Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-zelle-product-recall-refund-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Criminals send fake recall-refund notices claiming a Zelle transfer is waiting, then use the verification process to harvest bank credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Zelle Gift Card Balance Draining Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-zelle-gift-card-drain-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Zelle or a bank's Zelle team and instruct victims to buy gift cards to 'protect' their account or receive a bonus, then drain the card balances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stripe Debt Collection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stripe-debt-collection-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Stripe's compliance or finance team and contact businesses claiming unpaid processing fees or negative balances must be resolved immediately or the merchant account will be closed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stripe Gift Card Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stripe-gift-card-demand-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Stripe support and demand that merchants purchase gift cards to pay for a fabricated compliance fee or to 'hold funds' during an alleged account review.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stripe Order Confirmation Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stripe-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Scammers send fake 'Stripe payment received' or 'you were charged via Stripe' emails to merchants and consumers to harvest Stripe account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wise Chargeback Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-wise-chargeback-trap-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Criminals exploit Wise's international payment infrastructure and mimic Wise dispute emails to confuse sellers into giving refunds outside the official process, enabling double recovery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wise Order Confirmation Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-wise-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Criminals send fake Wise payment receipts claiming the recipient was charged for a transfer they did not authorise, using alarm to prompt a login on a phishing page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wise Debt Collection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-wise-debt-collection-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as Wise compliance contact users claiming unpaid transfer fees or disputed-balance amounts must be settled immediately to avoid account closure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut Chargeback Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-revolut-chargeback-trap-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Criminals use Revolut's card-linked dispute mechanism to buy goods, trigger chargebacks through Revolut's banking licence, and send fake Revolut dispute emails to delay sellers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut Debt Collection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-revolut-debt-collection-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Revolut's compliance department and claim users owe outstanding fees or negative balances, threatening account closure and legal action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut Gift Card Balance Draining Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-revolut-gift-card-drain-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Revolut and instruct users to purchase gift cards to 'protect' their account balance from a supposed breach, then drain the card values once codes are shared.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut Invoice Redirection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-revolut-invoice-redirection-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Scammers intercept or forge business payment instructions and ask recipients to redirect invoice payments to a new Revolut account number, claiming a banking change.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Chargeback Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-robinhood-chargeback-trap-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Criminals deposit funds into Robinhood accounts via ACH, execute trades, then reverse the bank transfer — leaving the brokerage to recover the shortfall from the account holder.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Debt Collection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-robinhood-debt-collection-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Robinhood's finance team and claim users owe margin loan balances or regulatory fees, threatening account closure and legal action to coerce immediate payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Invoice Redirection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-robinhood-invoice-redirection-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Scammers send fake Robinhood fee or account-funding invoices to redirect users' investment deposits into attacker-controlled bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Trade Confirmation Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-robinhood-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Scammers send fake Robinhood trade confirmation emails claiming the user's account was just used to buy or sell securities, using alarm to drive clicks on a credential-harvesting login page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Refund Claim Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-robinhood-product-recall-refund-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Scammers send fake notices claiming Robinhood is issuing refunds for overcharged fees or a past class-action settlement and ask users to verify identity to collect their payout.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Invoice Redirection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-your-bank-invoice-redirection-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals impersonate a victim's bank and send fraudulent payment-instruction updates, redirecting business or personal wire transfers to attacker-controlled accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Chargeback Trap Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-your-bank-chargeback-trap-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate a victim's bank to manipulate them into initiating or blocking chargebacks in ways that benefit the scammer rather than the victim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Product Recall Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-your-bank-product-recall-refund-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals send fake notices claiming the victim's bank is processing a product recall refund to their account and needs account verification, then harvest banking credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Debt Collection Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-your-bank-debt-collection-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals impersonate bank collections departments and threaten legal action or credit damage over fabricated loan or overdraft balances to coerce immediate payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Unpaid Invoice Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-your-bank-unpaid-invoice-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals send fake invoices appearing to originate from a victim's bank, claiming fees, loan renewals, or regulatory charges are overdue and must be paid to an external account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Customer Service Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-your-bank-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals deploy fake bank chatbot pages in paid search results and phishing emails to harvest online banking credentials and one-time SMS codes in real time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Live Chat Password-Reset Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paypal-password-reset-chatbot-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Scammers run fake PayPal chat-support pages that walk victims through a 'password reset' process designed to capture new credentials as they are set and immediately change them on the real account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stripe Merchant Recall Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stripe-product-recall-refund-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Criminals send fake notices to merchants claiming Stripe has initiated a batch recall refund to buyers and that merchants must verify their account to approve the refund disbursement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stripe Customer Support Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stripe-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Criminals operate fake Stripe merchant-support chatbots on lookalike sites, harvesting API keys, bank account details, and Dashboard credentials from merchants seeking help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wise Customer Service Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-wise-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Criminals deploy fake Wise support chatbots on lookalike domains to steal login credentials and verification codes from users seeking help with transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut Order Confirmation Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-revolut-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Scammers send fake Revolut payment receipts claiming the user's card was just charged for a purchase they did not make, prompting a panicked login on a credential-harvesting page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut Customer Support Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-revolut-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Criminals run fake Revolut support chatbots on lookalike domains to steal phone-based login credentials and in-app verification codes from users in real time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Customer Support Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-robinhood-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Criminals operate fake Robinhood chat-support pages in search ads to harvest brokerage account credentials and two-factor codes from investors seeking account help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App Product Recall Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cash-app-product-recall-refund-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Criminals send fake recall-refund notices claiming a Cash App credit is waiting, then harvest account credentials or redirect victims to send money to 'confirm their $cashtag.'", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PayPal Two-Factor Reset Social-Engineering Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paypal-fake-2fa-account-takeover-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Criminals call PayPal users pretending to be PayPal's account-security team and socially engineer them into disabling or bypassing their own two-factor authentication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Zelle Order Confirmation Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-zelle-order-confirmation-phishing-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Scammers send fake Zelle payment receipt emails claiming the user's bank sent or received an unexpected transfer, prompting a bank login on a credential-harvesting page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wise Gift Card Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-wise-gift-card-demand-business-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Wise compliance and claim business or personal accounts must deposit gift-card funds to cover a compliance reserve or avoid regulatory action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stripe Chargeback Coaching Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stripe-chargeback-trap-customer-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Criminals pose as Stripe customer advocates and coach cardholders to file fraudulent chargebacks against legitimate merchants, with the scammer taking a cut of the recovered funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Zelle Customer Service Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-zelle-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Criminals operate fake Zelle support chatbot pages to harvest banking credentials from users who believe they are resolving a Zelle payment issue.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Two-Factor Reset Social-Engineering Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-your-bank-two-factor-reset-social-engineering-impersonating-your-bank", "summary": "Criminals call bank customers impersonating the fraud team and persuade them to disable or hand over two-factor authentication codes, enabling full account takeover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cash App Customer Service Chatbot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cash-app-customer-service-chatbot-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Criminals run fake Cash App support chatbots in search results and social media to collect account credentials and linked-card details from users seeking help.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Gift Card Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-robinhood-gift-card-demand-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Criminals impersonate Robinhood's compliance team and demand gift cards to 'cover' regulatory fees, margin maintenance, or a tax withholding requirement on claimed investment gains.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Binance Token Airdrop Claim Sites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-token-airdrop-claim-site-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Fraudulent websites mimicking Binance's interface trick users into connecting their wallets and signing malicious transactions to claim a fabricated token airdrop.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Binance DeFi Flash-Loan Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/defi-flash-loan-phishing-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Scammers posing as Binance Smart Chain support staff lure users into fake DeFi 'flash-loan arbitrage' dashboards that steal wallet credentials and drain connected accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Binance Account Suspension Appeal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suspended-account-appeal-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Criminals send urgent emails or SMS messages claiming a user's Binance account has been suspended and directing them to a phishing page to 'restore access' — capturing login credentials and 2FA codes in the process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Coinbase Staking Yield Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-yield-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating Coinbase advertise inflated staking returns — sometimes 30 to 50 percent annually — to lure victims into depositing cryptocurrency that is immediately stolen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Clipboard-Hijacking Malware Disguised as Coinbase Software", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/clipboard-hijacker-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Criminals distribute malware posing as a Coinbase desktop app or Coinbase Wallet extension update; once installed, it silently replaces copied crypto wallet addresses with the attacker's address at the moment of pasting.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Coinbase Token Airdrop Claim Sites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-token-airdrop-claim-site-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Fraudulent websites cloning Coinbase's brand promise early access to a new 'Coinbase token' airdrop, tricking users into connecting wallets and granting malicious approval transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ice Phishing EIP-712 Signature Scams Impersonating Coinbase", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ice-phishing-eip712-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Attackers build fake 'Coinbase Wallet Connect' pages that present an EIP-712 off-chain signature request; signing it authorizes the scammer's contract to transfer all of the victim's tokens without further interaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Kraken Crypto Recovery Service Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crypto-recovery-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Criminals impersonating Kraken's customer support offer to recover lost or frozen cryptocurrency assets, then charge advance fees and request wallet access — stealing more from people who have already been defrauded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Kraken DeFi Flash-Loan Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/defi-flash-loan-phishing-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Fraudsters use Kraken's trusted brand to promote fake DeFi flash-loan yield portals, convincing users to deposit funds or connect wallets to contracts that immediately drain their holdings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Kraken Token Airdrop Claim Sites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-token-airdrop-claim-site-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Lookalike websites claiming Kraken is distributing a new KRK or exchange token lure users into connecting wallets and signing malicious approval transactions to 'claim' a fabricated reward.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ice Phishing EIP-712 Signature Scams Impersonating MetaMask", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ice-phishing-eip712-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Fake 'MetaMask Security Update' pages and counterfeit dApps trick users into signing EIP-712 messages that grant attackers unlimited token spending rights without requiring a seed phrase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake MetaMask Portfolio Staking Yield Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-yield-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Scammers build clones of MetaMask Portfolio's staking interface and promise exaggerated yields, luring users into depositing crypto into attacker-controlled contracts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake MetaMask Wallet Suspension and Appeal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suspended-account-appeal-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Criminals send emails or pop-up notifications claiming a user's MetaMask wallet has been 'suspended' and directing them to a fake appeal page that harvests their Secret Recovery Phrase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Takeover Scams Impersonating MetaMask Support", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as MetaMask support agents use social engineering, remote access requests, and fake synchronization screens to gain control of victims' wallets and drain funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Ledger Live Staking Yield Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-yield-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Criminals build counterfeit 'Ledger Live Earn' portals advertising inflated staking returns to trick hardware wallet users into sending crypto to attacker-controlled contracts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ice Phishing EIP-712 Signature Scams Impersonating Ledger", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ice-phishing-eip712-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Fake 'Ledger Connect Kit' pages and counterfeit dApps display EIP-712 signature requests styled to look like Ledger hardware wallet confirmations, tricking users into approving malicious token permissions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Clipboard-Hijacking Malware Disguised as Ledger Live Software", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/clipboard-hijacker-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Criminals distribute malware packaged as counterfeit Ledger Live installers; once installed, the malware monitors the clipboard and swaps wallet addresses at the moment of pasting, redirecting transfers to attacker addresses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Ledger DeFi Flash-Loan Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/defi-flash-loan-phishing-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Scammers impersonating Ledger promote 'Ledger DeFi Vault' investment portals offering guaranteed flash-loan arbitrage profits, then steal deposits and demand advance fees to release fabricated earnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trezor Token Airdrop Claim Sites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-token-airdrop-claim-site-impersonating-trezor", "summary": "Fraudulent sites claiming Trezor is distributing a new TRZR token airdrop to hardware wallet users prompt victims to connect their software wallets and sign malicious approval transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Trezor DeFi Yield Portal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/defi-flash-loan-phishing-impersonating-trezor", "summary": "Scammers impersonating Trezor recruit hardware wallet owners into fake 'Trezor Secured Yield' DeFi portals that steal deposits through fraudulent smart contracts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ice Phishing EIP-712 Signature Scams Impersonating Trezor", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ice-phishing-eip712-impersonating-trezor", "summary": "Fake Trezor Suite 'security verification' pages present EIP-712 structured-data signing requests that grant attackers sweeping token approval rights, exploiting trust in Trezor's hardware-verified signing model.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake OpenSea NFT Staking Yield Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-yield-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Fraudsters create fake 'OpenSea NFT Staking' portals that promise passive income from staking NFTs, then steal the staked assets through malicious setApprovalForAll transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake OpenSea DeFi Flash-Loan Phishing Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/defi-flash-loan-phishing-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Scammers use OpenSea's name to promote fake DeFi flash-loan 'NFT arbitrage' portals that promise profits from automated cross-marketplace trading, then steal deposited funds and NFTs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Takeover Scams Impersonating OpenSea Support", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-takeover-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating OpenSea's support team trick NFT sellers into 'verifying' their accounts through phishing pages that capture wallet signatures, enabling thieves to drain NFT collections.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake OpenSea SEA Token Airdrop Claim Sites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-token-airdrop-claim-site-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Fraudulent sites announce a fabricated 'OpenSea SEA token' airdrop for active traders and collectors, directing users to connect wallets and sign malicious approval transactions to claim their share.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake OpenSea NFT Recovery Service Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crypto-recovery-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Criminals posing as OpenSea staff or 'OpenSea-affiliated recovery specialists' offer to recover stolen or wrongly transferred NFTs for an upfront fee — stealing further from people who have already been victimized.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake OpenSea Account Suspension Appeal Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-suspended-account-appeal-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating OpenSea warn collectors that their accounts have been suspended for policy violations and direct them to fake appeal pages that harvest credentials and wallet approvals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Clipboard-Hijacking Malware Disguised as Trezor Suite Software", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/clipboard-hijacker-impersonating-trezor", "summary": "Fraudulent Trezor Suite installers contain hidden clipboard-monitoring malware that swaps destination wallet addresses at the moment of pasting, causing unknowing victims to send funds to attackers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Kraken Staking Yield Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-staking-yield-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Fraudulent portals impersonating Kraken's staking feature promise amplified yields far above Kraken's published rates, then steal deposited assets through fake 'Kraken Pro Staking' contracts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Kraken Two-Factor Reset Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-two-factor-reset-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonating Kraken support engineers social-engineer victims into disabling two-factor authentication under the guise of resolving an account access problem, enabling full account takeover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Coinbase Two-Factor Reset Social Engineering Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-two-factor-reset-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Criminals posing as Coinbase support agents use social engineering to trick users into revealing or bypassing their 2FA, then use the access to drain account balances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Binance Two-Factor Authentication Reset Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-two-factor-reset-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Scammers impersonating Binance security staff use urgent messaging to trick users into completing fake 2FA reset flows that hand over active authentication codes, enabling account takeovers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake MetaMask Customer Service Chatbot Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-chatbot-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Fraudulent chatbots embedded on fake MetaMask support sites or injected into search results guide distressed wallet users into sharing their Secret Recovery Phrase under the guise of technical troubleshooting.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Coinbase Customer Service Chatbot Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-chatbot-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Criminals operate fake Coinbase support chatbots through sponsored search results and lookalike websites, guiding victims through credential-harvesting flows or directing them to send test transactions to scammer addresses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Binance Customer Service Chatbot Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-support-chatbot-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Lookalike Binance support chat sites capture user credentials and 2FA codes through convincing chatbot flows, enabling real-time account takeovers and unauthorized withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DHL Toll-Violation SMS Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-toll-violation-impersonating-dhl", "summary": "Fraudsters send SMS messages falsely branded as DHL, claiming a vehicle or delivery truck associated with a shipment has incurred a toll violation requiring immediate payment. DHL never contacts private recipients about toll charges on its fleet vehicles.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DHL Gift-Card Payment Demand Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-gift-card-demand-impersonating-dhl", "summary": "Callers or texters posing as DHL demand that recipients pay customs clearance, import duties, or warehouse storage fees using gift-card codes. DHL never accepts gift cards as payment for any service or charge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FedEx Parcel-Locker Access Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/parcel-locker-phishing-impersonating-fedex", "summary": "Scammers send texts or emails posing as FedEx, claiming a parcel is waiting in a nearby locker and that recipients must verify identity or pay a fee through a link to retrieve it. FedEx's legitimate locker service (FedEx OnSite) sends PIN codes through your registered account, never through unsolicited messages requiring payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FedEx Toll-Violation Delivery Fee Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-toll-violation-impersonating-fedex", "summary": "Scammers send SMS messages pretending to be FedEx, claiming a toll charge on a delivery vehicle is blocking the release of a recipient's parcel. FedEx manages its own fleet toll accounts and never passes road-toll costs to parcel recipients.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FedEx Debt-Collection Threat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-collection-impersonating-fedex", "summary": "Scammers impersonate FedEx collections agents by phone or email, claiming the recipient owes unpaid shipping invoices or warehouse storage fees and threatening legal action or credit damage unless immediate payment is made. FedEx's genuine billing process never threatens legal action via unsolicited calls from unverified agents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS Parcel-Locker Collection Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/parcel-locker-phishing-impersonating-usps", "summary": "Criminals send messages pretending to be USPS, claiming a parcel has been redirected to a package locker and that recipients must pay a fee or verify identity through a link to collect it. USPS's legitimate locker notifications, including those for Informed Delivery and Parcel Select lockers, never require a separate payment link to access a waiting package.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS Student Tax or Education-Refund Delivery Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-student-tax-scam-impersonating-usps", "summary": "Fraudsters combine USPS impersonation with a student-tax-refund pretext, sending messages claiming USPS is holding a cheque or government voucher related to a student tax refund that requires identity verification or a release fee. USPS does not hold, issue, or distribute tax refunds or education benefit payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "USPS-Branded Tax Identity Theft Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tax-identity-theft-impersonating-usps", "summary": "Criminals impersonate USPS in messages claiming a tax-related document or identity verification letter is awaiting collection, with the goal of harvesting Social Security numbers, birthdates, and financial information to file fraudulent tax returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Royal Mail Parcel-Locker Collection Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/parcel-locker-phishing-impersonating-royal-mail", "summary": "Scammers send text messages or emails impersonating Royal Mail, claiming a parcel has been placed in a local parcel locker and that a fee or account verification is needed to retrieve it. Royal Mail's real parcel-locker service, Royal Mail Parcel Collect, and its Safeplace system never charge recipients a fee to access a waiting parcel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Royal Mail Toll-Road or Congestion-Charge Delivery Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-toll-violation-impersonating-royal-mail", "summary": "Fraudsters send texts or emails pretending to be Royal Mail and claiming a congestion or toll charge incurred by a delivery vehicle is blocking the release of a recipient's parcel. Royal Mail manages road and congestion charges internally and never passes these costs to parcel recipients.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "HMRC-Branded Tax Identity Theft Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tax-identity-theft-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate HMRC to harvest National Insurance numbers, UTR codes, and personal details needed to file fraudulent tax returns, claim fraudulent refunds, or take over existing HMRC online accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC Redelivery-Card or Document-Collection Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-redelivery-card-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Scammers leave fake physical cards or send texts pretending to be HMRC, claiming a tax document or HMRC letter requires collection or a redelivery fee before it can be forwarded. HMRC does not use redelivery cards, collection fees, or payment links to deliver official correspondence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC Disability Benefit Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disability-benefit-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Scammers impersonate HMRC to target disabled benefit claimants, claiming a tax-related health or disability payment requires re-verification through a link, threatening suspension of disability-linked tax credits or benefit top-ups unless identity is confirmed online.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DVLA Deportation or Visa-Revocation Threat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deportation-threat-impersonating-dvla", "summary": "Scammers call or message people — particularly non-UK nationals — posing as DVLA officials, claiming that a driving licence irregularity has triggered a visa or immigration review that could lead to deportation unless a fine is paid immediately. The DVLA has no immigration enforcement powers and does not make such calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SSA Driving Licence or ID Renewal Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dmv-license-renewal-impersonating-ssa", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the Social Security Administration by claiming that a driver's licence renewal or state ID card application has triggered a Social Security number discrepancy that must be resolved online before the DMV can process the request. The SSA does not participate in routine DMV renewal verification and never asks people to confirm SSNs via a link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SSA Vehicle Registration Identity Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-registration-impersonating-ssa", "summary": "Scammers impersonate the Social Security Administration by claiming that a vehicle registration renewal has flagged a Social Security number mismatch that must be resolved to avoid licence suspension or civil penalties. The SSA has no role in vehicle registration and never contacts people about registration discrepancies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SSA Tax Identity Theft Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tax-identity-theft-impersonating-ssa", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the SSA to trick victims into submitting Social Security numbers, dates of birth, and bank account details under the pretence of resolving a tax-related Social Security record discrepancy, enabling fraudulent tax return filing in the victim's name.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SSA Toll-Violation or Traffic-Fine Social Security Suspension Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-toll-violation-impersonating-ssa", "summary": "Criminals combine toll-violation threats with SSA impersonation, claiming that unpaid toll violations are linked to the victim's Social Security number and that the account will be suspended unless a fine and a Social Security reverification are completed immediately. The SSA has no connection to toll enforcement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SSA Student Tax or Education Exemption Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-student-tax-scam-impersonating-ssa", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the SSA by contacting students and young workers, claiming that their Social Security account shows an unresolved student tax-exemption or education-credit discrepancy that must be verified to avoid benefit impacts or tax penalties.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Canada Toll-Violation or Traffic-Fine CRA Penalty Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-toll-violation-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Service Canada by claiming that unpaid toll violations or highway fines are linked to the recipient's Social Insurance Number and that failure to resolve them will trigger Canada Revenue Agency penalties or benefit suspension. Service Canada and the CRA have no role in toll enforcement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Canada Deportation or Status-Revocation Threat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deportation-threat-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Service Canada by phone or message, claiming that a SIN or benefit application irregularity has been referred to the Canada Border Services Agency for immigration review, and that the recipient must pay immediately to avoid deportation or status revocation. Service Canada has no immigration enforcement powers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Canada SIN-Based Tax Identity Theft Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tax-identity-theft-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Service Canada to harvest Social Insurance Numbers, dates of birth, and banking details under the pretence of resolving a CRA or employment record discrepancy, enabling fraudulent tax returns and benefit applications in the victim's name.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Centrelink Youth Allowance or Student Tax Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-student-tax-scam-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Centrelink to target students and young Australians, claiming that a Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY payment requires tax file number re-verification or that a student tax credit overpayment debt must be repaid immediately through a link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Centrelink-Branded Tax Identity Theft and myGov Credential Theft Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tax-identity-theft-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "Criminals impersonate Centrelink to harvest myGov credentials, Tax File Numbers, and banking details for Australian tax identity theft — redirecting ATO refunds and making fraudulent benefit claims in victims' names.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Centrelink Toll-Fine Benefit-Withholding Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-toll-violation-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Centrelink by claiming unpaid toll fines have been flagged on the recipient's Centrelink file and that benefit payments will be withheld until the fines are paid through a provided link. Centrelink has no role in toll enforcement and cannot withhold payments because of traffic fines.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Centrelink Driving Licence or ID Verification Benefit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dmv-license-renewal-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Centrelink by claiming that a driving licence or proof-of-identity renewal linked to a recipient's Centrelink account requires urgent online verification or a payment, threatening suspension of benefit payments. State licensing authorities — not Centrelink — handle driving licence renewals in Australia.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DWP Arrest Warrant for Benefit Overpayment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-arrest-warrant-impersonating-dwp", "summary": "Criminals impersonate DWP officers by phone or letter, claiming that an arrest warrant has been issued for benefit overpayment fraud and that the recipient must pay an immediate settlement or face police arrest. The DWP does not issue arrest warrants and does not demand immediate cash settlement by phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake IRS Student Tax Refund or Education Credit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-student-tax-scam-impersonating-irs", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the IRS by email or text claiming that students or recent graduates are owed a student education credit refund or a FAFSA-related tax adjustment that can be claimed through a link. The IRS processes education credits through filed tax returns and never directs taxpayers to claim refunds via a text message link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake IRS Vehicle-Tax or Registration-Fee Deduction Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-registration-impersonating-irs", "summary": "Criminals impersonate the IRS by claiming that a vehicle registration or excise tax payment qualifies for a federal deduction or refund that must be claimed through a portal before a deadline. The IRS never solicits vehicle registration refund claims via unsolicited messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SSA Disability Benefit Fraud Investigation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disability-benefit-impersonating-ssa", "summary": "Criminals impersonate the SSA by claiming that an anonymous disability-fraud report has been filed against a Social Security Disability Insurance or SSI recipient, and that benefits will be suspended unless the claimant verifies their condition and bank details immediately. The SSA conducts reviews through formal written notices — not urgent phone calls or texts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Canada Emergency Benefit or Stimulus Payment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stimulus-payment-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Service Canada by sending messages claiming a special emergency benefit, cost-of-living payment, or stimulus cheque is available but must be claimed through a portal before a deadline. Service Canada does not issue unclaimed stimulus payments via unsolicited text links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Canada CPP Disability Fraud Investigation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disability-benefit-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Criminals impersonate Service Canada to target Canada Pension Plan Disability and Employment Insurance Sickness benefit recipients, claiming an anonymous fraud complaint has been filed and that benefits will be cancelled unless the claimant verifies medical and financial details immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Canada Driving Licence or Photo ID Renewal Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dmv-license-renewal-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Service Canada by claiming a driving licence or provincial photo-ID renewal is linked to an SIN discrepancy that must be resolved before benefits or the SIN can be reissued. Provincial licensing bodies — not Service Canada — are responsible for driving licences in Canada.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DHL Order-Confirmation Phishing Email Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-order-confirmation-impersonating-dhl", "summary": "Scammers send fake DHL shipment-confirmation emails claiming a large or unfamiliar order has been dispatched using the recipient's account, including a link to cancel the shipment that leads to a credential-harvesting page. DHL never sends order-confirmation emails on behalf of retailers, and its shipping labels are created by senders, not recipients.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Royal Mail Parcel Protection or Redirection Subscription Renewal Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-subscription-renewal-impersonating-royal-mail", "summary": "Criminals send renewal notices impersonating Royal Mail, claiming that a Royal Mail Parcel Protection or address-redirection subscription is about to auto-renew at an inflated price and that the recipient must log in to cancel it. Royal Mail's genuine redirection service is one-off or fixed-term, not an auto-renewing subscription billed through a text link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS International Customs Fee Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customs-scam-impersonating-usps", "summary": "Scammers send texts or emails impersonating USPS and claiming that an incoming international parcel is held in US Customs and requires a payment before it can be released. USPS's process for customs-cleared international mail does not involve unsolicited payment links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC Tax Debt Arrest Warrant Threat Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-arrest-warrant-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Criminals impersonate HMRC enforcement officers by phone or letter, claiming an arrest warrant has been issued for unpaid tax debt and that the recipient must pay an immediate settlement to prevent police attendance at their address. HMRC does not issue arrest warrants for civil tax debt and does not demand emergency telephone payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Canada Vehicle Ownership and SIN Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-registration-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Service Canada by claiming that a vehicle registration or ownership transfer has flagged an SIN discrepancy requiring immediate online verification. Provincial registries — not Service Canada — are responsible for vehicle registration in Canada.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS Product Recall Return-Postage or Refund Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-product-recall-impersonating-usps", "summary": "Scammers impersonate USPS by claiming a product recall requires the recipient to mail back an item using a prepaid USPS label obtained through a verification portal, or that a recall refund cheque from USPS is awaiting collection. USPS provides postal infrastructure for recalls but does not administer recall programmes or issue recall refunds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SSA New Benefit Eligibility or Payment Increase Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-benefits-impersonating-ssa", "summary": "Scammers impersonate the SSA by informing recipients they are eligible for a new benefit, a cost-of-living increase, or a retroactive benefit payment that requires application through an online link. The SSA communicates genuine benefit changes through postal mail and the my Social Security online portal — not unsolicited text links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Canada Student Grant or Bursary Tax Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-student-tax-scam-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Service Canada to target Canadian post-secondary students, claiming that a Canada Student Grant or bursary payment has triggered a CRA tax record that must be verified online before the funds are released or the SIN is cleared.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC Driving Licence Tax Disc or Vehicle Excise Duty Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dmv-license-renewal-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate HMRC to claim that a driving licence renewal or vehicle excise duty payment has not been processed correctly and that an outstanding HMRC tax liability must be settled through a link. Vehicle excise duty is managed by the DVLA, not HMRC, and HMRC does not send licence-related payment demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC Congestion or Road-Use Tax Penalty Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-toll-violation-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Criminals impersonate HMRC by claiming that a road-use, congestion, or ULEZ charge has generated a tax penalty that must be paid to HMRC directly. HMRC does not collect congestion, ULEZ, or road-user charges — these are collected by Transport for London or local authorities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Centrelink Cost-of-Living Stimulus Payment Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stimulus-payment-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Centrelink to inform Australians they are eligible for a cost-of-living or energy supplement payment that must be claimed through a link before a deadline. Legitimate Centrelink supplement payments are deposited automatically to payment recipients or require application through myGov — never through an unsolicited text link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Amazon Product Recall Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-product-recall-refund-impersonating-amazon", "summary": "Criminals send official-looking Amazon emails or texts claiming a purchased item has been recalled and offering a refund — but the real goal is to harvest payment details or account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Amazon Extended Warranty Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-impersonating-amazon", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Amazon to cold-call or email customers with offers to purchase or renew an 'Amazon Extended Warranty' for electronics — collecting upfront fees and card numbers for protection that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "eBay Brushing / Unsolicited Parcel Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/brushing-scam-impersonating-ebay", "summary": "You receive unexpected packages that appear to have been purchased through eBay. The real sender is a third-party seller manipulating the review system — and your personal data may have been compromised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake eBay Product Recall Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-product-recall-refund-impersonating-ebay", "summary": "Scammers send phishing emails pretending to be eBay, claiming a seller's product has been recalled and that you are owed a refund — but the link harvests your login and payment credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Target Product Recall Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-product-recall-refund-impersonating-target", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Target with texts or emails claiming a recent purchase has been recalled, directing victims to a fake Target site where login and payment credentials are stolen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Home Depot Warranty Claim Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-warranty-claims-impersonating-home-depot", "summary": "Criminals pose as Home Depot Protection Plan representatives and contact homeowners offering to process warranty claims on appliances or installations, ultimately charging processing fees or stealing account details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Best Buy Product Recall Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-product-recall-refund-impersonating-best-buy", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Best Buy with urgent emails or texts about a recalled appliance or electronic device, directing victims to phishing pages where login credentials and payment details are stolen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking.com Loyalty Points Redemption Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-loyalty-points-redemption-impersonating-booking-com", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Booking.com with messages claiming your Genius loyalty points or wallet credit are about to expire, luring you to a phishing page that steals your account credentials and saved payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airbnb Travel Credit Transfer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-loyalty-points-impersonating-airbnb", "summary": "Criminals impersonate Airbnb to send fake travel-credit or referral-reward notifications, directing victims to phishing pages designed to capture their Airbnb account credentials and saved payment methods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delta SkyMiles Points Transfer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-loyalty-points-impersonating-delta", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Delta Air Lines to send fake SkyMiles expiry notices or partner-transfer offers, stealing account credentials and draining miles balances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake United Airlines MileagePlus Transfer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-loyalty-points-impersonating-united", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate United Airlines MileagePlus to send fake mile-expiry warnings or partner-transfer offers, stealing login credentials and draining accumulated miles balances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Lyft Ride Credits Expiry Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-loyalty-points-redemption-impersonating-lyft", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Lyft to send fake ride-credit expiry warnings, directing victims to phishing pages that steal Lyft account credentials and saved payment information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake AT&T Telecom Rebate Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-telecom-rebate-impersonating-att", "summary": "Scammers impersonate AT&T to send fake rebate or bill-credit notifications, directing victims to phishing sites that steal account credentials and payment information under the guise of processing a refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Verizon Premium SMS Subscription Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mobile-premium-sms-subscription-impersonating-verizon", "summary": "Scammers exploit Verizon's billing infrastructure to enrol customers in premium SMS services they never requested, and separately send fake Verizon messages prompting victims to 'activate' services that trigger subscription charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "T-Mobile Bill Cramming Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/telecom-cramming-billing-impersonating-t-mobile", "summary": "Fraudsters add unauthorised third-party charges to T-Mobile customers' bills by exploiting carrier billing loopholes or by impersonating T-Mobile support to 'confirm' add-ons customers never requested.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake T-Mobile Telecom Rebate Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-telecom-rebate-impersonating-t-mobile", "summary": "Scammers send fake T-Mobile rebate notifications claiming the customer is owed a bill credit or loyalty reward, directing them to phishing pages to harvest credentials and banking details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vodafone eSIM Roaming Upgrade Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-esim-roaming-impersonating-vodafone", "summary": "Criminals impersonate Vodafone to send urgent eSIM activation or roaming-upgrade requests, tricking customers into scanning malicious QR codes that transfer their phone number to the scammer's device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vodafone Bill Cramming Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/telecom-cramming-impersonating-vodafone", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Vodafone customer support to activate unauthorised premium-rate services on customers' accounts, resulting in unexpected charges on monthly bills.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Mobile Carrier eSIM Roaming Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-esim-roaming-impersonating-your-mobile-carrier", "summary": "Criminals send fake messages impersonating any mobile carrier offering a free roaming eSIM upgrade, tricking customers into scanning malicious QR codes that hand over control of their phone number.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Sugar Momma Scam on Bumble", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-sugar-momma-impersonating-bumble", "summary": "On Bumble, scammers create fake profiles of wealthy women who offer to financially support the victim in a 'sugar momma' arrangement, ultimately extracting money through various pretexts before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity Romance Scam on Tinder", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-impersonating-tinder", "summary": "Scammers create fake Tinder profiles using celebrity names and photos to lure victims into romance scams, eventually requesting money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency under various pretexts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Sugar Momma Scam on Hinge", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-sugar-momma-impersonating-hinge", "summary": "Scammers exploit Hinge's conversational matching format to build trust with victims before proposing a 'sugar momma' financial arrangement that ends in money extraction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hinge Romance Blackmail (Sextortion) Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-blackmail-impersonating-hinge", "summary": "Scammers build a romantic connection on Hinge, persuade the victim to share intimate images or video, then blackmail them with threats to distribute the content unless a payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Celebrity Romance Scam on Bumble", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-celebrity-romance-impersonating-bumble", "summary": "Scammers create fake Bumble profiles impersonating celebrities and use the platform's female-first messaging dynamic to initiate convincing romantic conversations that end in financial fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Hilton Honors Points Redemption Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-loyalty-points-redemption-impersonating-hilton", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Hilton Honors to send fake points-redemption offers or expiry warnings, directing members to phishing pages that steal their account login and drain their points balance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Home Depot Pro Xtra Points Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-loyalty-points-redemption-impersonating-home-depot", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Home Depot to send fake Pro Xtra loyalty points expiry notices or special redemption offers, leading victims to phishing pages that harvest account login and payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Geek Squad Extended Warranty Scam (Unsolicited Email)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-impersonating-geek-squad", "summary": "Scammers send fake Geek Squad invoices for an extended protection plan the recipient never purchased, then manipulate them into calling a fraudulent support number that leads to payment card theft or remote computer access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airbnb Booking Site Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-booking-sites-impersonating-airbnb", "summary": "Scammers build convincing lookalike websites mimicking Airbnb to collect upfront rental payments for properties that do not exist or that the scammer has no right to rent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Booking.com Cancellation Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cancellation-refund-impersonating-booking-com", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Booking.com with fake cancellation confirmation and refund notices, directing victims to phishing pages where login credentials and payment details are harvested.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Walmart Extended Warranty Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-impersonating-walmart", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Walmart to cold-call or email customers offering an extended warranty or protection plan for electronics or appliances, collecting upfront fees for coverage that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Uber Customer Support Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airline-support-impersonating-uber", "summary": "Scammers create fake Uber customer support numbers and social media accounts to intercept frustrated riders and drivers, extracting account credentials, payment details, or remote access to devices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake AT&T Premium SMS Content Subscription Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mobile-premium-sms-subscription-impersonating-att", "summary": "Scammers enrol AT&T customers in premium-rate SMS content subscriptions without genuine consent, or impersonate AT&T to push customers into activating paid services that appear on their monthly bill.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake AT&T Carrier Support Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-support-impersonating-att", "summary": "Scammers impersonate AT&T customer support by phone, text, or fake websites, manipulating customers into sharing account credentials, two-factor codes, or payment details to 'resolve' account issues.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Verizon eSIM Roaming Activation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-esim-roaming-impersonating-verizon", "summary": "Criminals impersonate Verizon to send fake eSIM roaming upgrade notifications containing malicious QR codes designed to redirect calls and SMS messages — including two-factor authentication codes — to the scammer's device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Target Brushing / Unsolicited Parcel Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/brushing-scam-impersonating-target", "summary": "You receive unexpected packages with Target-branded packing materials you never ordered — a sign that a third-party seller is using your personal details in a brushing scheme to generate fake verified reviews.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Hilton Hotel Payment Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hotel-payment-verification-impersonating-hilton", "summary": "Scammers send messages impersonating Hilton Hotels claiming a payment on an upcoming reservation needs to be re-verified, directing victims to phishing pages that capture payment card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delta SkyMiles Redemption Offer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-loyalty-points-redemption-impersonating-delta", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Delta Air Lines to send fake SkyMiles limited-time redemption offers, leading victims to phishing pages designed to steal their SkyMiles login and credit card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake United MileagePlus Redemption Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-loyalty-points-redemption-impersonating-united", "summary": "Scammers impersonate United Airlines MileagePlus with fake limited-time redemption offers, phishing for account login credentials and then draining the victim's miles balance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Marriott Bonvoy Points Redemption Flash Offer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-loyalty-points-redemption-impersonating-marriott-bonvoy", "summary": "Criminals impersonate Marriott Bonvoy with fake flash-redemption offers — claiming limited free-night awards are available — to harvest account credentials and drain points balances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Best Buy / Geek Squad Brushing Parcel Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/brushing-scam-impersonating-best-buy", "summary": "You receive an unexpected parcel with Best Buy packaging containing a small electronic item you never ordered — a sign a third-party marketplace seller is running a brushing scheme using your personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake T-Mobile Carrier Support Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-support-impersonating-t-mobile", "summary": "Scammers impersonate T-Mobile customer support to trick customers into sharing account credentials, PIN codes, or one-time verification codes, enabling account takeover or fraudulent plan changes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Marriott Hotel Cancellation Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cancellation-refund-impersonating-marriott", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Marriott with fake cancellation notices for upcoming reservations, directing victims to phishing pages that steal account credentials and payment details under the guise of processing a refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Home Depot Product Recall Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-product-recall-refund-impersonating-home-depot", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Home Depot with fake product-recall messages about power tools, appliances, or building materials, directing victims to phishing pages to steal their login and payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Lyft Safety Recall / Refund Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-product-recall-refund-impersonating-lyft", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Lyft to notify riders of a fabricated 'safety concern' with a recent ride or driver, offering a refund or compensation that requires account login and payment re-verification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Best Buy Geek Squad Warranty Claim Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-warranty-claims-impersonating-best-buy", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Best Buy's Geek Squad to contact customers about an open warranty claim on a purchased device, collecting personal details and service fees for a repair or replacement that never occurs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake eBay Bucks / eBay Partner Rewards Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-loyalty-points-redemption-impersonating-ebay", "summary": "Scammers impersonate eBay with fake eBay Bucks or partner-reward expiry notifications, directing victims to phishing pages that steal their eBay login and stored PayPal payment credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Walmart Protection Plan Claim Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-warranty-claims-impersonating-walmart", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Walmart by cold-calling customers claiming their Walmart Protection Plan claim has been approved, then extracting a processing fee or remote access to the victim's device to 'complete the repair'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Voice Apple Support Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-voice-support-scam-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Scammers use AI-cloned voices that mimic Apple's automated phone system or a human support agent to convince victims to reveal their Apple ID credentials, passcodes, or one-time verification codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Microsoft Teams Executive Video Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-video-call-teams-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Criminals use AI-generated video to impersonate Microsoft executives or IT administrators in Teams meetings, instructing employees to transfer funds, share credentials, or install remote-access software.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Google Account Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-hyper-personalised-phishing-impersonating-google", "summary": "Attackers use large-language-model tools to craft phishing emails that reference your real Google account activity, recent searches, or Gmail data, making fake Google Security messages feel frighteningly specific and credible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google reCAPTCHA Malware Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-captcha-malware-scam-impersonating-google", "summary": "Fraudulent websites display a lookalike Google reCAPTCHA challenge and instruct visitors to paste a malicious command into their clipboard to 'verify they are human', silently installing malware on their device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap WhatsApp Account Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-whatsapp-account-takeover-impersonating-whatsapp", "summary": "Criminals convince a mobile carrier to transfer a victim's phone number to a SIM card they control, then use that number to receive WhatsApp's SMS verification code and hijack the account, often to scam the victim's contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Chrome Update Malware Popup", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-browser-update-malware-impersonating-google", "summary": "Malicious websites display convincing popups that mimic Chrome's genuine software-update notifications, tricking users into downloading malware disguised as a 'Critical Chrome Update'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Meta Business Suite Credential Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-meta-business-deepfake-ad-account-impersonating-meta-facebook", "summary": "Scammers use AI-generated video of Meta or Facebook representatives to impersonate partner managers on fake calls, convincing ad account managers to hand over Business Suite credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Instagram Giveaway DM Account Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-instagram-giveaway-dm-account-takeover-impersonating-instagram", "summary": "Fraudsters send Instagram DMs claiming the recipient has won a brand giveaway, then use a phishing link to steal login credentials and take over the account, which is then used to defraud the victim's followers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake TikTok Creator Brand Deal Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-creator-brand-deal-phishing-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Scammers impersonate TikTok's creator partnerships team or well-known brands to send fake brand-deal proposals to creators, then harvest login credentials or bank details through fraudulent 'onboarding' portals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Instagram Copyright Strike Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/copyright-strike-phishing-impersonating-instagram", "summary": "Scammers send emails or DMs posing as Instagram's rights team, claiming a post has been flagged for a copyright violation and threatening account suspension unless the creator provides credentials or pays a fee to appeal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Netflix Account Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-netflix-account-fraud-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Attackers use automated tools to test billions of username and password combinations from previous data breaches against Netflix accounts, hijacking those where victims reuse passwords and then selling or exploiting the stolen access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Spotify Beta Access Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-spotify-beta-access-scam-impersonating-spotify", "summary": "Scammers send fake invitations to an exclusive 'Spotify HiFi Beta' or 'Spotify Premium Plus' test programme, harvesting Spotify credentials and sometimes payment details under the guise of signing up for early access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Telegram Official Crypto Giveaway Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-telegram-crypto-giveaway-impersonation-impersonating-telegram", "summary": "Scammers create Telegram channels and accounts that impersonate Telegram's official team, announcing large cryptocurrency giveaways that require victims to send a small amount to 'verify their wallet' before receiving a larger return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disney+ App Download Malware Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disney-plus-app-download-malware-impersonating-disney-plus", "summary": "Criminals distribute malware-laced applications disguised as the Disney+ streaming app, typically through unofficial app stores, piracy sites, or phishing emails, stealing login credentials or financial data from victims who install them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake TikTok Follower and Engagement Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-follower-engagement-scam-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Services claiming to boost TikTok follower counts, likes, or views either deliver bot accounts that harm creator analytics and violate TikTok's terms, or steal the creator's TikTok credentials in exchange for a fake growth promise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Romance Bot Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-romance-bot-scam-impersonating-instagram", "summary": "Scammers deploy AI-powered chatbot profiles on Instagram that initiate and sustain romantic conversations over weeks, building emotional bonds before asking for money, cryptocurrency, or personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Xbox and Microsoft Game Account Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/game-account-takeover-scam-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Scammers target Microsoft and Xbox gaming accounts through phishing, credential stuffing, and fake prize notifications, hijacking accounts to steal in-game currency, game libraries, and stored payment methods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Voice Google Workspace Support Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-meet-deepfake-voice-support-impersonating-google", "summary": "Criminals use AI-synthesised voices to impersonate Google Workspace support advisors on unexpected calls, pressuring IT administrators into resetting admin credentials, approving OAuth applications, or downloading 'diagnostic tools'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake WhatsApp QR Code Account Hijack Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-whatsapp-qr-code-account-hijack-impersonating-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers share malicious QR codes in emails, printed materials, or WhatsApp messages that mimic WhatsApp's legitimate 'Linked Devices' QR code process to silently hijack a victim's WhatsApp account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Telegram New Account Takeover via Forwarded Code Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-scam-impersonating-telegram", "summary": "Scammers contact Telegram users on behalf of a fake 'friend' or 'support team', convincing them to forward a Telegram login verification code that immediately transfers account control to the attacker.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake TikTok Copyright Strike Account Threat Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-copyright-strike-phishing-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating TikTok's rights team warn creators that multiple copyright strikes have been filed against their account, with a 48-hour window to appeal via a link that harvests TikTok credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Sextortion Scam Using Facebook Profile Photos", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-sextortion-scam-impersonating-meta-facebook", "summary": "Scammers harvest publicly available Facebook profile photos to generate AI deepfake intimate images of real people, then threaten to share the fabricated images with the victim's Facebook friends unless a payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake WhatsApp App Download Malware Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-malware-impersonating-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers distribute counterfeit WhatsApp APK files through websites, social media, and phishing messages, claiming to offer early access to new features, installing spyware or credential-stealing malware instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Netflix Content Creator Monetisation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-netflix-content-monetization-scam-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Scammers pose as Netflix talent scouts or content acquisition managers, offering independent creators or filmmakers lucrative content licensing deals that require upfront payments or credential submission through a fraudulent Netflix portal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Microsoft Xbox or PC Game Beta Invitation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-game-beta-invite-scam-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Scammers send fake beta invitations for unreleased Microsoft or Xbox games, directing victims to phishing pages that steal Microsoft account credentials or install malware disguised as a beta client installer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "TikTok Influencer Brand Collaboration Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/influencer-collab-phishing-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Scammers pose as brand managers reaching out via TikTok DM or email with attractive collaboration proposals, directing creators to fake TikTok 'business verification' portals that harvest login credentials and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apple ID Verification CAPTCHA Malware Scam on macOS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-captcha-malware-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Scam websites display fake Apple ID verification CAPTCHA prompts that instruct macOS users to open Terminal and paste a command to 'prove they are human', silently installing malware under the guise of Apple account verification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Microsoft 365 Business Account Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-microsoft-365-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Attackers run automated credential-stuffing tools against Microsoft 365 business tenants, using email-password pairs from previous breaches to silently take over accounts, forward emails, and launch internal phishing campaigns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New Google Account Takeover via Session Cookie Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/google-account-session-cookie-takeover-impersonating-google", "summary": "Scammers use malware or malicious browser extensions to steal Google session cookies, bypassing two-factor authentication entirely and giving attackers persistent access to Gmail, Drive, and YouTube accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Spotify Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-personalised-phishing-impersonating-spotify", "summary": "Scammers use AI language models to craft Spotify phishing emails referencing specific songs in your listening history, your playlist names, or your Wrapped data to make fraudulent account-security messages feel unnervingly genuine.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disney+ Beta Feature Access Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disney-plus-beta-access-scam-impersonating-disney-plus", "summary": "Scammers send fake invitations to exclusive Disney+ feature betas — such as early access to a new interactive experience or 4K upgrade — collecting subscribers' login credentials or payment details through fraudulent onboarding portals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Instagram Content Monetisation Programme Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-instagram-content-monetization-scam-impersonating-instagram", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Instagram's creator team, sending messages about a lucrative new monetisation programme that requires creators to pay an activation fee or submit credentials via a fake 'Instagram Creator Hub' portal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Voice Google Account Security Alert Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-voice-google-impersonating-google", "summary": "Criminals use AI-synthesised voices to impersonate Google's automated security system or Google account specialists, calling victims to warn of a breach and extracting Google account credentials or backup codes during the call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Hijacking Netflix Account Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-netflix-account-takeover-sim-swap-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Criminals hijack a victim's mobile phone number via SIM swapping to intercept Netflix password-reset SMS codes, taking over the Netflix account and the linked payment card.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Facebook Official Giveaway Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-meta-facebook-giveaway-impersonation-impersonating-meta-facebook", "summary": "Scammers create Facebook accounts and ads mimicking official Meta or Facebook giveaway announcements, directing users to credential-harvesting pages or requesting advance payments to 'claim their prize'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake WhatsApp Two-Factor Reset Social Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-whatsapp-two-factor-reset-sim-impersonating-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers trick WhatsApp users into disabling their two-step verification PIN by sending convincing social messages, then take over the account using the now-unprotected SMS registration flow.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake TikTok Official Giveaway Impersonation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tiktok-social-giveaway-impersonation-impersonating-tiktok", "summary": "Scam TikTok accounts and videos impersonate TikTok's official channels to run fake giveaways, directing users to credential-harvesting forms or advance-fee payment pages under the guise of prize claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Voice Microsoft IT Helpdesk Credential Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-microsoft-deepfake-voice-helpdesk-impersonating-microsoft", "summary": "Criminals use AI-synthesised voices to impersonate Microsoft IT helpdesk staff, calling employees to resolve a fabricated account or security issue and extracting Microsoft 365 credentials or multi-factor authentication codes during the call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI-Powered Fake Telegram Support Bot Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-telegram-phishing-bot-ai-impersonating-telegram", "summary": "Criminals deploy AI-powered bots on Telegram that impersonate Telegram's official support, engaging users in natural conversation before stealing account credentials, two-step verification codes, or cryptocurrency under the guise of account assistance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apple VPN App Scam on iPhone and Mac", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-vpn-app-download-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Scam VPN applications in the App Store or distributed via fake Apple security alerts abuse Apple's trusted brand to collect subscription fees, steal network traffic data, or harvest credentials from iPhone and Mac users.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Disney+ Account Fraud", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-disney-plus-impersonating-disney-plus", "summary": "Attackers test billions of email-password combinations from unrelated data breaches against Disney+ accounts, hijacking those where passwords are reused to access subscriptions, payment details, and linked Disney services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Sextortion Scam Targeting Instagram Users", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-instagram-deepfake-sextortion-impersonating-instagram", "summary": "Criminals use AI to generate fabricated intimate images from publicly visible Instagram photos, then send extortion messages threatening to post them to the victim's Instagram followers unless a payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Hijacking Spotify Account Takeover Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-spotify-account-takeover-sim-swap-impersonating-spotify", "summary": "Criminals hijack a victim's mobile phone number through a SIM swap to intercept Spotify's SMS password-reset code, taking over the account and potentially accessing linked payment details or Spotify for Artists data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apple iCloud QR Code Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apple-icloud-quishing-scam-impersonating-apple", "summary": "Scammers embed malicious QR codes in printed materials, fake receipts, or emails that mimic Apple iCloud storage or billing notifications, directing victims who scan them to credential-harvesting Apple ID login pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Voice Netflix Support Call Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-netflix-deepfake-voice-support-impersonating-netflix", "summary": "Scammers use AI-synthesised voices to impersonate Netflix customer service representatives on unsolicited calls, warning of billing problems or account suspensions to extract payment card details or Netflix account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Account Takeover Impersonating PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-account-takeover-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Criminals convince your mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to a SIM they control, then use PayPal's SMS-based account recovery to lock you out and drain your balance. The attack exploits PayPal's reliance on phone-number verification as a fallback authentication route.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Voice 'Support' Calls Impersonating Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-voice-support-call-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "AI-generated voice technology is being used to mimic convincing phone support lines and fake human agents, pressuring Cash App users into sharing sign-in codes. Because Cash App has no official phone number, any inbound support call is already suspicious — but AI voices make the deception harder to dismiss.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR-Code Quishing Scam Impersonating Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-fake-payment-qr-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Fraudsters place fake QR codes — on stickers, fake invoices, or in community groups — that appear to link to Zelle payment requests but instead lead to phishing pages or fraudulent payment flows that drain money or harvest banking credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Phishing Attacks Impersonating Stripe", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-personalised-phishing-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Attackers use AI tools to craft individually tailored phishing emails that reference real business names, transaction amounts, and recent Stripe activity scraped from public sources — making the fake payout-hold or policy-violation notices far more convincing than generic templates.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Hijacking to Intercept Wise OTPs and Drain International Transfers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-hijacking-otp-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Criminals hijack victims' phone numbers by fraudulently porting them to a new SIM, then use Wise's SMS-based one-time passcodes to bypass login security, change the account email address, and initiate international transfers before the victim can react.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Revolut App Downloads Stealing Banking Credentials", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Fraudulent apps mimicking Revolut's design and branding appear in unofficial app stores, phishing sites, and search-engine ads. Once installed, they capture login credentials, harvest two-factor codes, and can access the device's SMS messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Account Fraud Targeting Robinhood", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Automated tools use email-password combinations leaked in unrelated data breaches to break into Robinhood brokerage accounts where users have reused passwords, allowing attackers to liquidate investments and initiate fraudulent withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake-Enhanced Crypto Giveaway Scam Impersonating Binance", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-giveaway-deepfake-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Criminals use AI-generated deepfake videos of Binance executives to promote fake cryptocurrency giveaways on YouTube and social media, directing victims to deposit crypto to 'double their funds' — a straightforward theft dressed as an official Binance promotion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Account Takeover Targeting Coinbase Users", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-account-takeover-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Criminals port Coinbase users' phone numbers to a SIM they control, intercept Coinbase's SMS verification codes, and rapidly drain cryptocurrency holdings. Coinbase's large retail user base and the irreversibility of crypto transactions make SIM-swap attacks especially lucrative.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake CAPTCHA Pages Delivering MetaMask Wallet-Drainer Malware", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-captcha-malware-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Criminals embed fake CAPTCHA challenges on sites mimicking MetaMask's download page or support portal. Completing the CAPTCHA triggers a clipboard-injection command that, when pasted into a system prompt, installs malware designed to steal seed phrases and drain connected wallets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Browser-Update Pop-ups Delivering Ledger Malware", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-browser-update-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Compromised or malicious websites display fake 'Ledger Live requires a browser update' pop-ups that prompt users to download a malicious executable. The malware targets Ledger Live configuration files, recovery-phrase data, and browser-stored passwords.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social-Media Giveaway Scam Impersonating Coinbase", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-giveaway-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Fake Coinbase accounts on X/Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook run giveaway campaigns that require victims to 'verify' their wallet address by connecting it to a malicious site or sending a small amount of crypto to 'confirm eligibility' — both of which result in fund theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Giveaway DM Takeover Scams Impersonating Kraken", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/giveaway-dm-takeover-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Criminals use compromised social-media accounts or fake Kraken profiles to send direct messages advertising exclusive cryptocurrency giveaways that require victims to visit a phishing site, share credentials, or connect a wallet — leading to account compromise or fund theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Discord Wallet-Drainer Scam Impersonating OpenSea", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wallet-drainer-discord-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Criminals compromise or clone OpenSea Discord servers and post fake mint announcements with wallet-connect links. Victims who connect their wallet and approve the contract interaction have tokens transferred out by a drainer script — often within seconds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Video-Call 'Security Verification' Scam Impersonating Binance", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-video-security-call-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Criminals use AI-powered video deepfakes to impersonate Binance compliance or security officers on video calls, convincing users that their accounts face suspension unless they transfer cryptocurrency to a 'verified holding address' controlled by the attackers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake CAPTCHA Scam Delivering Coinbase Account-Stealing Malware", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-captcha-malware-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Malicious websites branded to look like Coinbase login or verification pages present fake CAPTCHA challenges that, when 'completed,' inject a system command into the clipboard. Running the command installs malware that steals Coinbase session cookies and browser-stored credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New-Account Takeover Scam Impersonating PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Criminals create fresh PayPal accounts using stolen identity data and rapidly exploit the brief window before fraud controls engage — using the new accounts to make purchases, receive fraudulent payments, or move stolen funds while impersonating PayPal's platform legitimacy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Coinbase QR-Code Quishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-qr-code-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Fraudsters print or send fake QR codes styled with Coinbase branding that link to phishing pages mimicking Coinbase's login portal or a fake 'crypto ATM deposit' interface, harvesting exchange credentials or directing victims to send funds to attacker-controlled wallets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Voice Calls Impersonating Revolut Security Teams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-voice-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "AI-generated voice calls impersonate Revolut fraud-prevention agents, claiming suspicious transactions are in progress and pressuring victims into confirming a one-time code or approving a 'reversal transfer' — actions that in reality hand over account access or authorise a fraudulent payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Browser-Update Pop-up Delivering PayPal Credential-Stealing Malware", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-browser-update-malware-impersonating-paypal", "summary": "Malicious websites targeting PayPal users display convincing browser-update overlays that, when clicked, install keyloggers or form-hijacking malware that captures PayPal login credentials and card details the next time the victim visits paypal.com.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Attack Targeting Kraken Exchange Accounts", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-crypto-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Criminals port Kraken users' phone numbers to SIMs they control, intercept SMS-based two-factor authentication codes, and use password-reset flows to gain full account access before draining cryptocurrency balances and withdrawing fiat funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Phishing Targeting MetaMask Users", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-phishing-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "AI-powered tools allow criminals to craft highly personalised phishing emails or DMs targeting MetaMask users, referencing their known wallet activity, NFT holdings, or DeFi positions to create convincing 'security alerts' that lead to seed-phrase harvesting sites or wallet-drainer contracts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Ledger Live App Harvesting Recovery Phrases", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Counterfeit versions of the Ledger Live application distributed via phishing sites, app-store lookalikes, and search-engine ads present a fake 'wallet restore' flow that requests the victim's 24-word recovery phrase and immediately transmits it to attackers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social-Media NFT Giveaway Scam Impersonating OpenSea", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/giveaway-impersonating-opensea-social-media", "summary": "Fake OpenSea accounts on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok run NFT 'giveaway' campaigns that funnel followers to wallet-connect phishing sites, where approving a transaction drains existing NFTs and tokens from connected wallets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake CAPTCHA on Trezor-Branded Sites Leading to Seed-Phrase Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-captcha-seed-phrase-impersonating-trezor", "summary": "Phishing sites mimicking Trezor's wallet-restoration interface embed fake CAPTCHA challenges that, once 'completed,' either request the seed phrase directly as the 'verification step' or deliver malware that scans the device for cryptocurrency-related files.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Robinhood Trading App Stealing Login Credentials", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Counterfeit Robinhood mobile apps distributed via phishing sites and search-engine ads capture login credentials and two-factor codes the moment a user signs in, potentially exposing brokerage accounts containing investment portfolios and linked bank accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Voice Calls Impersonating Wise International Transfer Support", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-voice-impersonating-wise", "summary": "AI-generated voice calls impersonate Wise customer-support agents claiming a large international transfer is pending approval, pressuring victims into sharing their OTP or authorising a payment reversal — actions that result in account compromise or fraudulent outbound transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New-Account Fraud Exploiting Cash App's Open Registration", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-impersonating-cash-app", "summary": "Criminals register new Cash App accounts using stolen identity details, then use these accounts to receive stolen funds, process fraudulent payments, or pose as trusted Cash App users to scam marketplace sellers and peer-to-peer payment recipients.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social-Media Giveaway Impersonating Kraken Cryptocurrency Exchange", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-giveaway-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "Fake Kraken accounts on X/Twitter and Telegram run 'deposit and double' or 'wallet-verify' giveaway campaigns, harvesting cryptocurrency from victims who believe they are participating in an official Kraken promotion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Attacks Targeting Binance Exchange Accounts", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Automated scripts use email-password pairs from unrelated data breaches to log into Binance accounts where users have reused passwords, giving attackers access to cryptocurrency balances, trading history, and API keys before victims know they have been compromised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Video 'KYC Verification' Calls Impersonating Coinbase", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-video-verification-impersonating-coinbase", "summary": "Scammers use deepfake video technology to impersonate Coinbase compliance officers in video calls, claiming a new KYC requirement must be satisfied immediately or the account will be locked — pressuring victims into sharing identity documents or account credentials during the call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake MetaMask QR-Code Quishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-qr-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Fraudulent QR codes distributed at cryptocurrency events, online forums, and social media claim to link to MetaMask's wallet-connect or setup flow but instead direct users to phishing pages that harvest seed phrases or execute wallet-drainer approval transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Phishing Emails Targeting Ledger Customers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-phishing-impersonating-ledger", "summary": "Criminals use AI tools to craft individualised phishing emails referencing Ledger customers' names, order numbers, and shipping addresses from the 2020 data breach, making fake 'Ledger Live update' or 'wallet recovery' emails appear shockingly legitimate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Phishing Targeting Kraken Pro Traders", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-personalised-phishing-impersonating-kraken", "summary": "AI-powered phishing campaigns target Kraken users — particularly professional and high-volume traders — with tailored emails that reference real trading volume, account tiers, or recent market activity to make fake 'compliance review' or 'account verification' requests appear credible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Binance Mobile App Stealing Exchange Credentials and 2FA Codes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-impersonating-binance", "summary": "Counterfeit Binance applications distributed via phishing sites, third-party APK sources, and search ads capture login credentials and intercept two-factor codes in real time, handing attackers instant access to exchange accounts and cryptocurrency balances.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake MetaMask Mobile App That Captures Seed Phrases on Setup", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-impersonating-metamask", "summary": "Counterfeit MetaMask apps on unofficial stores and phishing sites simulate the wallet creation and recovery flow but transmit newly created or imported seed phrases to attackers, draining any funds transferred to the newly set-up wallet.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Attacks Targeting Wise Multi-Currency Accounts", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-impersonating-wise", "summary": "Automated tools test breached email-password combinations against Wise's login, exploiting password reuse to access multi-currency accounts that may hold balances in several currencies, enabling attackers to initiate international transfers before the victim notices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Standalone Zelle App Harvesting Banking Credentials", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "Counterfeit standalone Zelle apps distributed through phishing sites and search ads mimic the official Zelle experience to capture users' banking login credentials — exploiting the fact that many users are unfamiliar with whether Zelle operates as a standalone or bank-embedded service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Video Calls Impersonating Revolut Business Account Managers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-video-call-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "Criminals use AI-generated video to impersonate Revolut Business account managers in video calls with small-business owners, convincing them to share account credentials, approve large transfers, or submit identity documents under the guise of routine account reviews.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Giveaway DM Takeover Scam Impersonating OpenSea", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/giveaway-dm-takeover-impersonating-opensea", "summary": "Criminals use compromised or cloned social accounts to send direct messages to NFT collectors claiming an exclusive OpenSea giveaway has been reserved for them, linking to wallet-drainer sites that drain high-value NFTs on connection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Attack Targeting Stripe Dashboard Accounts", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-impersonating-stripe", "summary": "Criminals SIM-swap the mobile number registered on a Stripe account to intercept 2FA codes, change the account email, and redirect future payouts to attacker-controlled bank accounts — causing both immediate financial loss and disruption to the merchant's payment operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New-Account Fraud Exploiting Robinhood's Frictionless Sign-Up", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-impersonating-robinhood", "summary": "Criminals open new Robinhood accounts using stolen or fabricated identity details, exploit new-account bonuses, and use the accounts as fraud infrastructure — including receiving fraudulent ACH transfers or processing stolen debit card transactions — while Robinhood's platform lends apparent legitimacy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Voice Calls Impersonating Zelle Bank-Fraud Alerts", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-voice-impersonating-zelle", "summary": "AI-generated voices impersonate Zelle's bank-fraud notification system in automated calls, claiming an urgent transfer is in progress and that the victim must confirm their banking credentials or approve a 'reversal' to stop it — actions that instead authorise new fraudulent payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Phishing Targeting Revolut Users", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-phishing-impersonating-revolut", "summary": "AI tools craft personalised phishing emails referencing a Revolut user's real transaction history, travel spending, or subscription details to make fake 'account review' or 'unusual activity' alerts appear shockingly specific and credible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "DHL QR-Code Fake Missed-Delivery Card Scam (Quishing)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-missed-delivery-card-impersonating-dhl", "summary": "Fraudsters place or post physical cards printed with DHL branding and a QR code, claiming a parcel missed delivery and asking the recipient to scan the code to rearrange it. The QR code leads to a phishing page that steals card details or login credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake-Voice IRS Officer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-voice-scam-impersonating-irs", "summary": "AI-generated voice calls impersonate IRS agents or inspectors, delivering scripted threats about unpaid taxes, warrants, or identity theft with a realism that traditional robocalls cannot achieve. The IRS initiates contact by postal mail, not by phone calls demanding immediate payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI-Hyper-Personalised HMRC Tax Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-personalised-phishing-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Criminals use AI tools to craft HMRC phishing emails or texts that include the recipient's correct name, National Insurance number, employer, and recent filing details, making the message far harder to dismiss than traditional mass-phishing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS Informed Delivery App Malware Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-impersonating-usps", "summary": "Scammers create convincing lookalike apps branded as the official USPS Informed Delivery app, distributed through unofficial download links or third-party stores. Once installed, the malicious app harvests credentials, banking data, and SMS two-factor codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Video-Call DVLA Enforcement Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-video-call-impersonating-dvla", "summary": "Victims receive a video call featuring a deepfake avatar dressed as a DVLA enforcement officer on a professional-looking background, demanding payment for alleged vehicle registration offences or threatening immediate vehicle seizure. The DVLA never conducts enforcement via unsolicited video call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FedEx CAPTCHA Malware Delivery Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-captcha-malware-impersonating-fedex", "summary": "A phishing email styled as a FedEx shipment notification redirects victims to a CAPTCHA page that secretly pastes a PowerShell command into the clipboard and instructs the user to run it, installing malware under the guise of verifying a delivery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Attack Using Royal Mail Phishing as a Data Harvest", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-attack-impersonating-royal-mail", "summary": "Criminals use a Royal Mail-branded phishing campaign to harvest mobile numbers and personal details, then use that information to perform a SIM-swap that transfers the victim's phone number to an attacker-controlled SIM, enabling interception of banking two-factor codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake SSA Portal Email Hijacks Your my Social Security Account", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-impersonating-ssa", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating the Social Security Administration trick victims into surrendering my Social Security account credentials, or help attackers register a fraudulent account in the victim's name before the real person does, redirecting benefit payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Attack on DHL MyAccount", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-fraud-impersonating-dhl", "summary": "Criminals use billions of username-password pairs leaked from other breaches to try to break into DHL MyAccount portals at scale. Once inside, they change delivery addresses, intercept high-value parcels, and harvest stored payment cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS Parcel-Locker QR-Code Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/parcel-locker-quishing-impersonating-usps", "summary": "Criminals affix fake stickers bearing a QR code and USPS branding over or near real parcel lockers, telling recipients to scan the code to retrieve their package. The QR destination is a phishing site that captures login credentials or payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake-Voice DWP Benefits Verification Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-voice-scam-impersonating-dwp", "summary": "AI-synthesised voices impersonate DWP staff in calls that threaten suspension of Universal Credit or other benefits unless the recipient immediately verifies their identity or pays an alleged overpayment. The DWP never demands same-day payment by phone and always communicates formally through your online journal or post.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC Tax App Malware Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Scammers distribute fake lookalike HMRC apps outside the official app stores, claiming to offer tax rebate tracking or self-assessment help. Once installed, these apps steal Government Gateway credentials, banking logins, and SMS two-factor codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Royal Mail QR-Code Fake Surcharge Payment Scam (Quishing)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-payment-point-impersonating-royal-mail", "summary": "Fraudsters attach QR-code stickers to Royal Mail drop-boxes, post offices, and missed-delivery slips, claiming recipients must scan and pay a surcharge before their parcel can be released. Royal Mail never takes payment via QR codes on physical signage or cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Video-Call HMRC Compliance Officer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-video-call-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Fraudsters use AI video-call technology to present a deepfake avatar dressed as an HMRC compliance officer on a professional background, demanding immediate payment of alleged unpaid tax or threatening criminal prosecution. HMRC never conducts enforcement through unsolicited video calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI-Personalised Service Canada Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-personalised-phishing-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Criminals craft Service Canada phishing emails using AI to include the recipient's correct SIN fragment, employment details, and current benefit amounts, making the message appear to come from a genuine government source rather than a mass-phishing campaign.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Centrelink myGov App Malware Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "Scammers distribute fake apps branded as the Centrelink or myGov app outside the official app stores, targeting Australians who receive government payments. These apps harvest myGov credentials, Tax File Numbers, and banking details linked to benefit accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Hijacking Scam Using FedEx Phishing as a Data Entry Point", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-hijacking-impersonating-fedex", "summary": "A FedEx-branded phishing campaign collects mobile phone numbers and personal data that fraudsters then use to perform a SIM hijack, taking over the victim's number to bypass two-factor authentication on banking accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake-Voice Centrelink Payment Review Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-voice-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "AI-synthesised voices impersonate Centrelink staff in calls that threaten to suspend welfare payments unless the recipient immediately confirms their banking details or myGov credentials. Services Australia never demands account details over an unsolicited phone call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Attack on My Service Canada Account", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-fraud-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Automated attacks use email-password pairs from unrelated data breaches to break into My Service Canada Account (MSCA) portals. A successful login allows attackers to redirect Employment Insurance and Old Age Security direct deposits to their own accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake HMRC QR-Code Tax Payment Scam (Quishing)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-payment-impersonating-hmrc", "summary": "Fraudsters send physical letters or printed cards bearing HMRC branding and a QR code, claiming the recipient owes tax and must scan the code to avoid a penalty. HMRC never directs taxpayers to pay through QR codes on unsolicited physical correspondence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fraudulent myGov Account Registration Impersonating Centrelink", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-impersonating-centrelink", "summary": "Scammers use stolen identity details to register a myGov account in a victim's name before the victim does, granting access to Centrelink services and enabling benefit claims or payment redirections in the victim's name.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USPS CAPTCHA Clipboard Malware Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-captcha-malware-impersonating-usps", "summary": "A phishing email mimicking a USPS delivery alert routes victims to a fake verification page that secretly loads malware instructions into their clipboard and prompts them to paste and run the command, handing the attacker full access to the device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Video-Call Service Canada Case Officer Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-video-call-impersonating-service-canada", "summary": "Victims receive an unsolicited video call from a convincing deepfake avatar posing as a Service Canada case officer, claiming their EI claim is under investigation or their SIN is at risk and demanding immediate verification or payment to prevent account suspension.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DHL Tracking App Android Malware Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-impersonating-dhl", "summary": "Criminals distribute a fake DHL tracking app through phishing SMS links. The app mimics the real DHL app but secretly steals login credentials, intercepts SMS two-factor codes, and can capture banking details from overlay attacks on financial apps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI-Hyper-Personalised USPS Delivery Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-personalised-phishing-impersonating-usps", "summary": "AI tools combine the recipient's name, address, recent purchase history from breach data, and neighbourhood delivery patterns to craft USPS phishing messages that appear to reference a real, expected parcel — making them far more convincing than generic delivery scam texts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fraudulent Universal Credit Account Takeover Impersonating DWP", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-impersonating-dwp", "summary": "Criminals use DWP-branded phishing to harvest Government Gateway credentials and then either take over existing Universal Credit accounts to change bank details, or create fraudulent new claims in the victim's name using stolen identity data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DHL Parcel-Locker Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/parcel-locker-phishing-impersonating-dhl", "summary": "Fraudsters send fake DHL notifications about parcel-locker assignments, directing recipients to a phishing site to retrieve an access code or pay a locker-release fee. DHL Packstation access codes are sent only through the verified DHL Parcel app or SMS to the registered number — never through an unsolicited external link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake-Voice DVLA Licence Suspension Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-voice-impersonating-dvla", "summary": "AI-generated voice calls impersonate DVLA officials threatening immediate suspension of a driving licence or vehicle registration unless a fine is paid by phone. The DVLA does not make unsolicited calls demanding immediate licence-suspension fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FedEx Browser-Update Malware Popup Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-browser-update-impersonating-fedex", "summary": "Malicious websites triggered by FedEx-branded phishing links display a convincing browser-update popup that, when clicked, downloads malware instead of a legitimate update. The real FedEx website never prompts a browser update as a condition of viewing tracking information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Video-Call IRS Audit Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-video-call-impersonating-irs", "summary": "Criminals deploy deepfake-video technology to stage a convincing IRS audit interview over a video call, demanding document uploads and immediate payment of alleged tax liabilities. The IRS does not initiate audits through unsolicited video calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "IRS Phishing Used to Enable SIM-Swap Identity Theft", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-impersonating-irs", "summary": "IRS-branded phishing pages harvest the personal details fraudsters need — name, SSN fragment, date of birth, and mobile number — to perform a SIM-swap attack that intercepts two-factor codes for banking and irs.gov accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Royal Mail Tracking App Malware Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-impersonating-royal-mail", "summary": "Criminals distribute a fake Royal Mail tracking and redelivery app via SMS links, targeting UK consumers. The app steals Royal Mail and banking credentials, intercepts authentication SMS codes, and can lock victims out of their accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI-Hyper-Personalised DHL Delivery Phishing Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-personalised-phishing-impersonating-dhl", "summary": "AI tools combine the target's name, home address, known e-commerce habits, and mobile number from data-breach sources to craft DHL delivery phishing messages that appear to reference a real, specific incoming parcel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake IRS CAPTCHA Clipboard Malware Tax Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-captcha-malware-impersonating-irs", "summary": "A phishing email mimicking an IRS notice routes victims to a fake identity-verification page that uses a fraudulent CAPTCHA to deliver malware via the clipboard, instructing victims to paste and run a hidden command in a system dialog.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Account Takeover Impersonating AT&T", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-account-takeover-impersonating-att", "summary": "Criminals impersonate AT&T customers at stores or by phone, persuading representatives to transfer the victim's phone number to a SIM the criminal controls, then use that number to intercept OTPs and drain financial accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Fraud Targeting Verizon Customers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-account-takeover-impersonating-verizon", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate Verizon customers to port their mobile number to a new SIM, intercepting two-factor authentication codes to seize financial and email accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Account Takeover Targeting T-Mobile Customers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-account-takeover-impersonating-t-mobile", "summary": "Criminals use stolen personal data to convince T-Mobile to transfer a victim's phone number to an attacker-controlled SIM, giving them access to SMS one-time codes and enabling rapid takeover of financial accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Swap Fraud Targeting Vodafone Customers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-swap-account-takeover-impersonating-vodafone", "summary": "Criminals impersonate Vodafone customers at stores or through customer service to transfer a victim's number to their SIM, intercepting SMS-based security codes to seize bank and email accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Sextortion Scam on Tinder", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-sextortion-impersonating-tinder", "summary": "Criminals use AI-generated deepfake imagery or manipulated photos to fabricate intimate images of victims they met on Tinder, then threaten to share the images with the victim's contacts unless they pay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Romance Bot Scam on Bumble", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-romance-bot-impersonating-bumble", "summary": "Automated AI chatbots posing as genuine Bumble matches sustain long romantic conversations designed to build emotional attachment, then pivot to fraudulent investment or emergency money requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Video-Call Scam Targeting Hinge Users", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-video-call-impersonating-hinge", "summary": "Scammers use real-time deepfake face-swap technology during video calls with Hinge matches to appear as the attractive person in stolen profile photos, sustaining romance fraud or sextortion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Quishing at Walmart Self-Checkout and Returns", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-qr-payment-impersonating-walmart", "summary": "Criminals place counterfeit QR code stickers on Walmart self-checkout kiosks, returns desks, or in-store signage, redirecting customers to phishing pages that harvest payment card data under the guise of a Walmart payment portal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Phishing Impersonating Amazon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-hyper-personalised-phishing-impersonating-amazon", "summary": "AI tools allow criminals to craft highly personalised Amazon phishing emails referencing your real recent purchases, your first name, and details scraped from social media, making fake messages nearly indistinguishable from genuine Amazon communications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Account Fraud on eBay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-account-fraud-impersonating-ebay", "summary": "Criminals feed username-password combinations from unrelated data breaches into eBay's login page, seizing accounts where the victim reused passwords, then listing fraudulent items, redirecting payouts, or committing purchase fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Uber App Download Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-impersonating-uber", "summary": "Criminals distribute counterfeit Uber apps through third-party stores, phishing links, or sideloading instructions that steal rider or driver credentials, harvest payment data, and may install persistent spyware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Quishing Impersonating Target In-Store", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-qr-payment-impersonating-target", "summary": "Fraudsters attach fake QR code stickers to Target self-checkout kiosks, gift-card displays, and Circle loyalty signage, redirecting customers to phishing pages that capture card numbers or Target account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New Account Takeover and Fraudulent Purchases Impersonating Best Buy", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-impersonating-best-buy", "summary": "Criminals use stolen personal data to create new Best Buy accounts or take over existing ones, making large purchases on store credit or with saved payment methods and having goods shipped to reshipping addresses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Phishing Impersonating Delta Air Lines", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-hyper-personalised-phishing-impersonating-delta", "summary": "Attackers use AI to craft phishing emails containing your real SkyMiles number, flight route history, and tier status, making fraudulent Delta account security alerts or mileage expiry notices extremely convincing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Account Fraud on Airbnb", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-impersonating-airbnb", "summary": "Attackers use leaked email and password combinations to log in to Airbnb accounts, divert host payouts, book stays at victims' expense, or conduct rental fraud using the established trust of a legitimate account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Voice Scam Impersonating Lyft Support", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-voice-scam-impersonating-lyft", "summary": "Criminals use AI voice synthesis to impersonate Lyft customer support, calling drivers or riders with fabricated account alerts and persuading them to surrender their login credentials or banking details under the guise of resolving an urgent account issue.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Quishing at Marriott Hotels", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-qr-payment-impersonating-marriott", "summary": "Criminals place counterfeit QR codes on Marriott hotel room key packets, lobby signage, and restaurant bill folders, redirecting guests to fake Marriott Bonvoy login pages or fraudulent payment portals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Lyft App Download Targeting Riders and Drivers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-impersonating-lyft", "summary": "Criminals distribute counterfeit Lyft apps through phishing links and third-party stores that mimic the genuine interface to capture credentials, harvest payment data, and track user locations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New Account Fraud and Property-Listing Takeover on Booking.com", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-impersonating-booking-com", "summary": "Criminals use stolen identity data to create new fraudulent Booking.com property listings or take over existing host accounts, collecting advance payments from genuine travellers for accommodation that does not exist or is not under the criminal's control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Romance Bot Scam on Hinge", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-romance-bot-impersonating-hinge", "summary": "Sophisticated AI chatbots posing as genuine Hinge profiles engage users in extended relationship-building conversations before pivoting to investment fraud, gift-card requests, or sextortion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Fraud Targeting Hilton Honors Accounts", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-impersonating-hilton", "summary": "Attackers use leaked email-and-password pairs from unrelated breaches to log in to Hilton Honors accounts, redeeming accumulated points for free nights, gift cards, or airline miles before the legitimate member notices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Phishing Impersonating United Airlines", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-hyper-personalised-phishing-impersonating-united-airlines", "summary": "Attackers use AI to craft highly personalised phishing emails referencing the victim's real MileagePlus number, elite status, and home hub airport, making fraudulent United account alerts indistinguishable from genuine communications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Quishing Targeting Home Depot Shoppers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-qr-payment-impersonating-home-depot", "summary": "Fraudsters place counterfeit QR stickers on Home Depot in-store signage, paint-mixing stations, and pro-desk literature to redirect tradespeople and DIYers to phishing pages that harvest card numbers or Pro Xtra account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Sextortion Targeting Bumble Users", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-sextortion-impersonating-bumble", "summary": "Criminals use AI image tools to fabricate intimate images of Bumble users from freely shared dating photos, then threaten to distribute the synthetic images to the victim's contacts unless payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Fraud Targeting United MileagePlus Accounts", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-impersonating-united-airlines", "summary": "Automated tools test leaked email-and-password combinations against United MileagePlus accounts, allowing attackers to redeem miles for flights or gift cards and access stored payment details before the legitimate member realises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Amazon Shopping App Download Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-impersonating-amazon", "summary": "Criminals distribute counterfeit Amazon shopping apps through phishing SMS links and unofficial app stores that look identical to the genuine app but harvest Amazon login credentials, payment card data, and device permissions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New SkyMiles Account Fraud and Account Takeover Targeting Delta Customers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-impersonating-delta", "summary": "Criminals create new Delta SkyMiles accounts using stolen identity details to accumulate fraudulent miles, or take over existing accounts to redeem earned miles for flights and gift cards before the real member notices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Voice Scam Impersonating AT&T Customer Support", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-voice-scam-impersonating-att-support", "summary": "Criminals use AI voice synthesis to impersonate AT&T customer service agents, calling subscribers with fabricated account alerts and persuading them to surrender login credentials or authorise SIM changes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Account Fraud on Uber", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-impersonating-uber", "summary": "Automated tools test leaked email-and-password combinations against Uber's login page, allowing attackers to book rides at the victim's expense, harvest saved payment details, or redirect driver earnings to mule accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake QR Code Payment Scam Impersonating Geek Squad", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-qr-payment-impersonating-geek-squad", "summary": "Criminals distribute fake Geek Squad invoices and repair-confirmation documents containing fraudulent QR codes that redirect customers to phishing pages collecting payment card details or Geek Squad account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Account Fraud on T-Mobile", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-impersonating-t-mobile", "summary": "Attackers use email-and-password combinations from unrelated data breaches to log in to My T-Mobile accounts, enabling SIM swaps, fraudulent device upgrades, or line additions charged to the victim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Phishing Impersonating Booking.com", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-hyper-personalised-phishing-impersonating-booking-com", "summary": "Criminals use AI to generate personalised Booking.com phishing emails that reference the victim's real upcoming reservation details, luring them into entering payment or login credentials on a convincing fake portal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake T-Mobile App Download Stealing Account Credentials", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-app-download-impersonating-t-mobile", "summary": "Criminals distribute counterfeit T-Mobile apps via phishing SMS links that mimic the genuine My T-Mobile app, capturing login credentials and enabling SIM swaps or fraudulent account changes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Phishing Impersonating eBay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-hyper-personalised-phishing-impersonating-ebay", "summary": "Criminals use AI to craft eBay phishing messages that reference real items a victim is watching or has recently bid on, making fake payment requests or account alerts feel entirely legitimate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Voice Scam Impersonating Amazon Customer Service", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-voice-scam-impersonating-amazon-support", "summary": "Criminals use AI voice synthesis to impersonate Amazon customer service agents, calling victims about fraudulent orders or account security issues and extracting credentials, payment details, or remote device access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Quishing at Hilton Hotels", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-qr-payment-impersonating-hilton", "summary": "Criminals place fake QR code stickers on Hilton hotel room-key envelopes, lobby signage, and restaurant bill holders, directing guests to fraudulent Hilton Honors login or payment pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Romance Bot Scam on Tinder", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-romance-bot-impersonating-tinder", "summary": "AI-powered chatbots pose as genuine Tinder matches, sustaining long conversations that build emotional attachment before pivoting to investment fraud, emergency money requests, or sextortion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New Account Fraud and Bonvoy Account Takeover Targeting Marriott Customers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-impersonating-marriott", "summary": "Criminals create new Marriott Bonvoy accounts using stolen identity data or take over existing accounts to drain points, book stays fraudulently, or apply for the Marriott Bonvoy credit card in the victim's name.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Quishing Impersonating Booking.com at Hotels", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-qr-payment-impersonating-booking-com", "summary": "Criminals email or print fraudulent Booking.com confirmation documents containing fake QR codes that redirect guests to phishing pages harvesting account credentials or payment card details before or during their stay.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Account Fraud on Target Circle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-impersonating-target", "summary": "Automated tools use leaked email-and-password pairs to access Target Circle accounts, allowing attackers to redeem earnings for gift cards, place online orders with saved payment methods, or harvest stored personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Quishing Impersonating Airbnb at Properties", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/quishing-qr-payment-impersonating-airbnb", "summary": "Criminals place fake Airbnb QR codes at short-term rental properties or in pre-arrival communications, redirecting guests to phishing pages that harvest Airbnb login credentials or attempt off-platform payment collection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Sextortion Targeting Hinge Users", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-sextortion-impersonating-hinge", "summary": "Criminals collect photos from Hinge profiles and conversations, use AI deepfake tools to fabricate intimate images, and then demand payment threatening to send the synthetic images to the victim's contacts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential-Stuffing Account Fraud on Home Depot Pro Xtra", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-impersonating-home-depot", "summary": "Attackers use leaked email-and-password combinations to access Home Depot Pro Xtra accounts, draining reward balances, placing orders with stored payment methods, or redirecting professional contractor spending accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Hyper-Personalised Phishing Impersonating Your Mobile Carrier", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-hyper-personalised-phishing-impersonating-your-mobile-carrier", "summary": "AI tools generate personalised phishing texts and emails that reference your actual phone plan details, data usage, or loyalty points to make fake account alerts, upgrade offers, or SIM verification requests extremely convincing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "New Account Fraud and Seller Account Takeover on eBay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/new-account-takeover-impersonating-ebay", "summary": "Criminals create new fraudulent eBay seller accounts using stolen identities, or take over existing seller accounts, to run advance-fee purchase fraud or redirect legitimate seller payouts to mule accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "VIN Cloning Scams on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vin-cloning-scams-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "How fraudsters list stolen vehicles with cloned VINs on Facebook Marketplace to deceive buyers into purchasing cars with hidden criminal histories.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Title Washing Scams via Online Classifieds", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/title-washing-scams-via-online-classifieds", "summary": "How sellers exploit online classified platforms to sell vehicles with washed titles that hide flood damage, salvage status, or total-loss history from unsuspecting buyers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Car Buyer Scams on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-car-buyer-scams-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "How fraudulent buyers on Facebook Marketplace use fake payment confirmations, overpayment cheques, and fake escrow services to defraud private car sellers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Curbstoning Scams on Online Classifieds", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/curbstoning-scams-on-online-classifieds", "summary": "How unlicensed dealers disguise themselves as private sellers on online classifieds to avoid dealer regulations, disclosures, and warranty obligations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Shipping Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-shipping-scams-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How fraudsters use fake vehicle shipping companies and wire-transfer requests to steal money from buyers who pay to transport cars that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Online Vehicle Deposit and Escrow Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/online-vehicle-deposit-escrow-scam-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How fraudsters use fake escrow accounts and bank-transfer deposit requests to steal money from car buyers before the vehicle is ever delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "VIN Cloning and Title Washing Vehicle Fraud in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vin-cloning-title-washing-vehicle-fraud-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How VIN cloning and title washing combine in the US market to create vehicles with falsified histories, exploiting gaps between state motor-vehicle databases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Mechanic and Repair Overcharge Scams via Online Classifieds", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-mechanic-repair-overcharge-scam-via-online-classifieds", "summary": "How fraudulent mechanics use online classifieds to find customers, then fabricate repairs or overcharge for services never performed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Car Shipping Fee Extraction Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-car-shipping-fee-extraction-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How fraudsters repeatedly demand wire-transfer payments for fabricated shipping fees, customs charges, and insurance costs for vehicles that will never be delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vehicle Service Contract Robocall Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vehicle-service-contract-robocall-scam-via-robocalls", "summary": "How automated robocall campaigns deceive vehicle owners into purchasing worthless or non-existent extended warranties and service contracts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle History Report Scams on Online Classifieds", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-history-report-scam-on-online-classifieds", "summary": "How sellers on online classifieds platforms provide counterfeit or manipulated vehicle history reports to conceal accidents, salvage titles, and odometer fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deposit to View Car Scams on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deposit-to-view-car-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "How fraudsters on Facebook Marketplace demand upfront deposits to 'reserve' a viewing slot for a car that does not exist or will never be shown.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Breakdown Cover and Roadside Assistance Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-breakdown-cover-roadside-scam-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How fraudulent callers impersonate roadside assistance providers to collect premiums for policies that do not exist or services that will never be rendered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Odometer Rollback and Clocking Scams via Online Classifieds", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/odometer-rollback-clocking-scams-via-online-classifieds", "summary": "How sellers on online classifieds disguise high-mileage vehicles by manipulating odometer readings, and how buyers can detect clocking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Salvage and Rebuild Title Fraud in the UK", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/salvage-rebuild-title-fraud-in-the-uk", "summary": "How salvage and Category S or N vehicles are sold in the UK without proper disclosure, leaving buyers with unsafe cars and difficult insurance situations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Yo-Yo Financing and Spot Delivery Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/yo-yo-financing-spot-delivery-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How some US car dealers use spot delivery and conditional financing practices to pressure buyers into less favourable loan terms after taking the vehicle home.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Car Insurance Scams via Online Classifieds", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-car-insurance-ghost-broker-scam-via-online-classifieds", "summary": "How ghost brokers advertise heavily discounted car insurance on online classifieds, selling fake or manipulated policies that leave drivers uninsured.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crash for Cash Staged Accident Scams in the UK", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crash-for-cash-staged-accident-scams-in-the-uk", "summary": "How staged collision fraud operates in the UK, the common tactics used against innocent drivers, and how to protect yourself and report suspicious incidents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Veteran Charity Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-veteran-charity-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent veteran charity pages on Facebook solicit donations that never reach service members, exploiting public goodwill toward military communities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Animal Rescue Scams via Crowdfunding Pages", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-animal-rescue-scams-via-crowdfunding-pages", "summary": "How fraudulent animal rescue fundraisers on crowdfunding platforms collect donations for animals in distress whose stories are fabricated, stolen, or grossly misrepresented.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Religious Cause Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/religious-cause-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent religious appeals sent by email solicit donations for fabricated missions, humanitarian projects, or faith-based causes that exist only to enrich the sender.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Children's Charity Scams via Crowdfunding Pages", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-childrens-charity-scams-via-crowdfunding-pages", "summary": "How fraudulent children's welfare campaigns on crowdfunding platforms raise money for fictitious or grossly misrepresented child-welfare causes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Doorstep Charity Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/doorstep-charity-scams-via-doorstep", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonate charity collectors at the door to pocket cash donations that never reach any charitable cause.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medical Crowdfunding Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crowdfunding-medical-scams-via-crowdfunding-pages", "summary": "How fraudulent medical fundraising campaigns on crowdfunding platforms fabricate or exaggerate health conditions to raise money for treatment costs that are non-existent or heavily overstated.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Religious Tithe and Donation Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/religious-tithe-donation-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How fraudulent callers impersonate religious leaders or church administrators to solicit tithes, emergency donations, and special collections by phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disaster Appeal Scams via Text and Phone", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disaster-text-appeal-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How scammers exploit major disasters and emergencies through unsolicited text messages and calls to collect donations that never reach affected communities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Volunteer Fee Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/volunteer-fee-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent volunteer programme emails charge applicants upfront fees for placements, visas, and training that are never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Foundation Grant Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-foundation-grant-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent grant award emails impersonate foundations and government programmes to charge processing fees for grants that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Lottery Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-lottery-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent charity lottery emails claim recipients have won prizes, then charge fees to release winnings that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disaster Relief Crowdfunding Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disaster-crowdfunding-appeal-scam-via-crowdfunding-pages", "summary": "How fraudulent crowdfunding campaigns exploit disaster events to raise money that never reaches affected communities or relief efforts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Religious Collection Scams at the Doorstep", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-religious-collection-scam-via-doorstep", "summary": "How fraudsters impersonate religious representatives at the door to collect donations for fabricated faith-based causes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Working Dog Charity Scams via Crowdfunding Pages", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-working-dog-charity-scam-via-crowdfunding-pages", "summary": "How fraudulent crowdfunding campaigns exploit public affection for service dogs, guide dogs, and working dogs to raise money for training programmes that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medical Treatment Appeal Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-medical-treatment-appeal-scam-via-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent Facebook appeals for individual medical treatment funding use fabricated or misrepresented health conditions to solicit donations from compassionate followers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Veterans and Military Charity Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-veterans-military-charity-scam-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How fraudulent phone callers exploit public support for the military community to solicit donations for veteran causes that direct no money to service members.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Environmental and Wildlife Appeal Scams via Crowdfunding Pages", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-environmental-wildlife-appeal-scam-via-crowdfunding-pages", "summary": "How fraudulent environmental and wildlife crowdfunding campaigns exploit concern for endangered species and habitat conservation to raise money for causes that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "NFT Mint Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/nft-mint-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudsters create fake NFT project servers on Discord, pressure users into minting worthless tokens, and vanish after collecting funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Address Poisoning Scams via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/address-poisoning-scams-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Attackers send tiny crypto transactions to poison a victim's wallet history with a lookalike address, hoping the victim will copy it for a future transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Liquidity Mining Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/liquidity-mining-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers use Telegram groups and bots to promote fake liquidity-mining schemes that harvest wallet credentials or drain approved funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Token Presale Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-token-presale-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudulent token presales are promoted through Discord servers, collecting ETH or stablecoins before the project vanishes without delivering any real token.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Memecoin Pump Scams on X/Twitter", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/memecoin-pump-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Coordinated groups use X/Twitter to artificially hype new memecoins, inflate prices, then dump their holdings, leaving late buyers with near-worthless tokens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Crypto Tax Software Scams via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crypto-tax-software-scams-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Fraudulent tax-calculation tools ask users to pay with cryptocurrency, then harvest wallet credentials or deploy malware rather than delivering working software.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Crypto Job Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crypto-job-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudulent cryptocurrency job offers circulate on Telegram, requiring applicants to deposit crypto as a training fee or task stake before any payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Mining Rig Scams via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-mining-rig-scams-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Sellers advertise non-existent or counterfeit cryptocurrency mining hardware, accept crypto payment to prevent chargebacks, then deliver nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Copy-Trading Crypto Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/copy-trading-crypto-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fake copy-trading services on Telegram promise hands-free crypto profits, collect subscription fees or deposits, then produce fabricated performance reports while pocketing funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Yield-Farming APY Trap Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/yield-farming-apy-trap-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Fake DeFi yield-farming protocols are promoted through Discord communities, luring users with inflated APY rates before rug-pulling or draining depositor funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bridge Scams via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-bridge-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Fraudulent cross-chain bridge interfaces accept cryptocurrency deposits for supposed asset transfers between blockchains but never send tokens to the destination chain.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Crypto Mining Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-crypto-mining-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters build romantic relationships with victims on WhatsApp, then introduce a fake crypto mining platform that gradually extracts large deposits before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "MEV Sandwich Attack Scams via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mev-sandwich-attack-scams-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Malicious bots front-run and back-run on-chain swap transactions, extracting value from traders by sandwiching their transactions between manipulated orders.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Oracle Price Manipulation Scams via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/oracle-price-manipulation-scams-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Attackers exploit DeFi protocols that rely on manipulable price oracles, artificially distorting asset prices within a transaction to drain protocol liquidity or trigger fraudulent liquidations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Dusting and De-anonymization Attacks via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dusting-deanonymization-attacks-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Attackers send tiny cryptocurrency amounts to many wallets to track fund flows and link wallet addresses to real-world identities, enabling targeted fraud or extortion.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "DAO Governance Takeover Scams via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dao-governance-takeover-scams-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Attackers accumulate governance tokens or exploit flash-loan voting power to pass malicious proposals that drain a DAO's treasury or modify protocol parameters in their favor.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Forex Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/forex-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fake forex trading operations recruit via Telegram, promise guaranteed currency-exchange profits, collect deposits, then steal funds through fake brokers or vanishing signal services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ponzi Schemes via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ponzi-schemes-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Investment fraud operations collect funds through bank transfers, paying early investors with later investors' money to maintain the illusion of legitimate returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pump-and-Dump Scams on X/Twitter", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pump-and-dump-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Fraudsters use X/Twitter to artificially inflate the price of thinly traded stocks or tokens, then sell their positions at peak prices, leaving other investors with losses.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Bank Transfer App Fraud via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/bank-transfer-app-fraud-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudsters trick victims into authorizing bank transfers through impersonation, urgency, and social engineering, exploiting the instant and often irreversible nature of electronic bank payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Boiler Room Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/boiler-room-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "High-pressure sales callers push worthless or non-existent investments over the phone, using professional scripts and urgency to extract payments before victims can research the opportunity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Precious Metal Investment Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/precious-metal-investment-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent bullion dealers or storage programs collect bank transfers for gold, silver, or platinum investments that do not exist or cannot be delivered or redeemed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Carbon Credit Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/carbon-credit-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent carbon credit brokers collect bank transfers for worthless or non-existent emission certificates, exploiting interest in ESG and climate investing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fractional Property Investment Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fractional-property-investment-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent fractional real estate schemes collect bank transfers for shares in properties that do not exist, are already sold, or are controlled by dishonest operators who pocket investor funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Money Flipping Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/money-flipping-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudsters post lifestyle images on Instagram claiming they can multiply cash deposits through secret banking exploits, collecting payments from followers who never receive a return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Finfluencer Unlicensed Investment Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/finfluencer-unlicensed-investment-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "Unlicensed social media personalities on Instagram promote high-risk or fraudulent investment products to their followers without regulatory authorization or adequate risk disclosures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake AI Investment Bots on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ai-investment-bots-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudulent Telegram bots claim to use artificial intelligence to generate consistent investment returns, collecting deposits that are never returned while showing fabricated profit dashboards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Trading Signal Subscription Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-trading-signal-subscription-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels sell AI-generated trading signals at premium prices, claiming machine-learning accuracy, but deliver generic or fabricated calls that produce consistent losses for subscribers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake AI Trading Platform Scams via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ai-trading-platform-scams-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Fraudulent trading platforms claiming to use AI automation accept cryptocurrency deposits, display fabricated profits, then block all withdrawals and disappear with investor funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "In-Game Skins and Currency Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/in-game-skins-currency-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudsters use Discord to trade fake, stolen, or non-existent in-game skins and virtual currency, collecting real money or items before disappearing without delivering what was promised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Recovery and Boosting Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-recovery-boosting-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudsters on Discord offer to recover banned accounts, boost rankings, or unlock achievements for a fee, delivering nothing or compromising the victim's account in the process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Free Robux and V-Bucks Generator Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/free-robux-vbucks-generator-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Fake generator sites and Discord bots promise free in-game currency for popular games but steal account credentials, install malware, or funnel players through endless surveys that never deliver.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Grey Market Game Key Chargeback Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/grey-market-game-key-chargeback-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Sellers on Discord offer deeply discounted game keys that were purchased with stolen payment methods, and when the fraudulent purchase is charged back the key is revoked, leaving the buyer without the game.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Mod Loader Malware Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-mod-loader-malware-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudulent mod loaders and cheats distributed through Discord contain malware that steals account credentials, cryptocurrency wallet data, and personal files from the victim's computer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Esports Betting and Tournament Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-esports-betting-tournament-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudulent esports tournament organizers and unregulated betting operators on Discord collect entry fees or wagers but never pay out winnings or fabricate match results to ensure the house always wins.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "In-Game Marketplace Fee Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/in-game-marketplace-fee-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as item buyers or marketplace administrators on Discord charge upfront fees before completing a purchase or trade, then disappear with the fee and the victim's items.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Visa Enforcement Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-visa-enforcement-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How callers posing as immigration or visa enforcement officers use phone calls to pressure victims into making payments to avoid fake deportation or arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Census Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-census-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails impersonating a national census bureau harvest personal and financial information from recipients under the guise of a mandatory population survey.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Child Support Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-child-support-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How callers impersonating child support enforcement agencies use threatening phone calls to coerce parents into making fraudulent payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Passport Renewal Fee Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-passport-renewal-fee-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails impersonating passport agencies collect application fees and personal documents from people who believe they are renewing their passports through official channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Healthcare Enrollment Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-healthcare-enrollment-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How callers impersonating health insurance marketplaces or government healthcare programs enroll victims in worthless plans or steal personal data during open enrollment periods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Electoral Registration Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-electoral-registration-scam-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails impersonating electoral registration authorities steal personal information by directing voters to fake registration portals ahead of elections.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Court Fine Emails: How They Work", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-court-fine-email-via-email", "summary": "How emails impersonating courts and traffic enforcement bodies pressure recipients into paying fraudulent fines through official-looking portals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FEMA and Disaster Aid Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disaster-fema-aid-scam-via-phone", "summary": "How callers impersonating FEMA and disaster relief agencies target disaster survivors with fraudulent aid applications that steal personal information and application fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Court e-Summons Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-court-e-summons-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails mimicking official court e-summons notifications pressure recipients into clicking malicious links or paying to 'reschedule' hearings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government App Download Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-app-download-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How text messages impersonating government agencies trick citizens into installing malicious apps that steal credentials, banking details, and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Medical Identity Theft via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/medical-identity-theft-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails targeting healthcare portals and insurance accounts enable fraudsters to steal medical identities, obtain prescriptions, and submit fraudulent insurance claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medical Equipment Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-medical-equipment-on-facebook", "summary": "How Facebook Marketplace and Facebook Groups are used to sell counterfeit, non-functional, or simply non-existent medical equipment to patients and caregivers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Addiction Treatment Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-addiction-treatment-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How fraudulent callers posing as addiction treatment placement services steer vulnerable individuals and families toward fake or unqualified treatment facilities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Dental and Vision Plan Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dental-vision-plans-via-phone", "summary": "How callers sell worthless dental and vision discount plans that deliver far less coverage than promised, targeting people who lack adequate dental or vision insurance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Supplement Subscription Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-supplement-subscription-scam-via-email", "summary": "How health supplement emails use free trial offers to lock consumers into expensive recurring subscriptions hidden in hard-to-find terms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medical Crowdfunding Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-medical-crowdfunding-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent medical fundraising posts on Facebook exploit compassion by fabricating or exaggerating illnesses to collect donations that never reach a real patient.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Weight Loss Program Subscription Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-weight-loss-program-subscription-scam-via-email", "summary": "How weight loss program emails use dramatic before-and-after testimonials and trial offers to enroll consumers in expensive subscriptions that deliver little or nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Therapy and Counselling Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-therapy-counselling-scam-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent online therapy emails attract people seeking mental health support and either collect fees for non-existent sessions or connect them with unlicensed practitioners.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Clinical Trial Recruitment Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-clinical-trial-recruitment-scam-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent clinical trial invitation emails collect participation fees or personal data from people hoping to access cutting-edge treatments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Telemedicine Platform Fraud via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/telemedicine-platform-fraud-via-phone", "summary": "How fraudulent telemedicine callers exploit the growth of legitimate telehealth to collect insurance information, bill for services not rendered, and sell unneeded prescriptions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Healthcare Billing Fraud via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/healthcare-billing-fraud-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent healthcare billing emails collect personal and insurance information that enables fraudsters to submit claims for services never provided.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prescription Discount Card Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prescription-discount-card-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How callers promote prescription discount cards that claim to save significantly on medication costs but turn out to deliver negligible or no savings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medical Alert Device Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-medical-alert-device-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How callers target seniors and caregivers with free or subsidised medical alert devices that come with expensive hidden monthly monitoring contracts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreclosure Relief Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreclosure-relief-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How callers posing as mortgage relief specialists prey on homeowners facing foreclosure, collecting upfront fees for help that never materialises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Mortgage Modification Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mortgage-modification-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails offer loan modification services to struggling homeowners, collecting fees and sensitive financial documents before vanishing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rent-to-Own Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rent-to-own-scams-via-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent rent-to-own property offers on Facebook collect option fees and deposits from people who never gain any legal interest in the property.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Real Estate Wire Fraud via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/real-estate-wire-fraud-via-email", "summary": "How fraudsters intercept real estate transactions by compromising email accounts and redirecting closing funds to bank accounts they control.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Property Listing Deposit Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-property-listing-deposit-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent property listings on Facebook collect holding deposits or first-month rent for properties the lister does not own or that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Equity Stripping Foreclosure Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/equity-stripping-foreclosure-scam-via-phone", "summary": "How callers persuade homeowners in financial distress to sign over property equity through deceptive sale-leaseback or loan arrangements that leave them with nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rogue Mover Quote Inflation Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rogue-mover-quote-inflation-scam-via-phone", "summary": "How rogue moving companies provide low initial quotes by phone and then dramatically inflate charges on moving day, holding belongings hostage until the inflated fee is paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rent-to-Own Property Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rent-to-own-property-scam-via-phone", "summary": "How callers market fraudulent rent-to-own property programmes by phone, collecting option fees and monthly rent premiums without providing any valid ownership pathway.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Estate Agent Holding Deposit Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-estate-agent-holding-deposit-scam-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails impersonating estate agents collect holding deposits from property buyers or renters for properties they have no authority to let or sell.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Shared House and Roommate Deposit Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/shared-house-roommate-deposit-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent room listings and fake roommate searches on Facebook collect deposits and advance rent from people seeking shared housing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Synthetic Identity Fraud: How Email Is Used to Build It", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/synthetic-identity-fraud-scams-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails collect fragments of real consumer data that are combined with fabricated details to create synthetic identities used for large-scale financial fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Elder Identity Theft via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/elder-identity-theft-via-phone", "summary": "How fraudulent callers specifically target older adults to steal personal and financial information that enables identity theft, fraudulent account opening, and benefits fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Medical Identity Theft Through Data Theft via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/medical-identity-theft-data-via-email", "summary": "How email-based data breaches and phishing campaigns targeting healthcare organisations expose detailed medical identity records used for prescription fraud and benefit claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Change of Address Redirect Fraud via Postal Mail", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/change-of-address-redirect-fraud-via-postal-mail", "summary": "How fraudsters submit change of address forms on behalf of victims to redirect financial mail, intercept statements, and enable identity theft and account takeover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Mail Rerouting Identity Theft via Postal Mail", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mail-rerouting-identity-theft-via-postal-mail", "summary": "How thieves intercept physical mail from letterboxes, shared mail areas, and postal redirects to harvest financial documents and enable identity theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deceased Identity Theft via Postal Mail", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deceased-identity-theft-via-postal-mail", "summary": "How fraudsters obtain the personal details of recently deceased individuals through obituaries and estate mail to open credit accounts and submit fraudulent claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Employment Identity Theft via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/employment-identity-theft-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent job offer emails and fake employer onboarding processes harvest tax and banking details used to commit employment tax fraud and benefits theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Work-From-Home Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/work-from-home-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent work-from-home job offers land in inboxes, promising easy remote income while harvesting personal data or extracting upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pay-to-Get-Paid Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pay-to-get-paid-scams-via-email", "summary": "How email-delivered job offers require victims to pay registration, training, or membership fees with the false promise of earning it back through work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Reshipping Mule Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/reshipping-mule-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent 'parcel manager' or 'quality control inspector' job offers delivered by email turn victims into unwitting accomplices in stolen-goods trafficking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Interview Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-interview-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "How fraudulent recruiters on LinkedIn use convincing job interview processes to harvest personal data, extract fees, or deliver malware to job seekers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Employment Contract Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-employment-contract-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "How fraudulent LinkedIn job offers progress to forged employment contracts designed to extract personal data, upfront fees, or bank account access from victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Telegram Job Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/telegram-job-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers spread through Telegram channels and group chats, leading victims through fake work tasks before demanding cryptocurrency payments or trapping them in pig-butchering schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Data Entry Job Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/data-entry-job-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fake data entry job offers delivered by email extract upfront fees, harvest personal data, or deliver no work in exchange for registration payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "App Review Job Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/app-review-job-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "How Telegram-based fake app and product review jobs entrap victims in escalating cryptocurrency deposit schemes disguised as task-completion work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "MLM Recruitment Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mlm-recruitment-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How multi-level marketing recruitment fraud spreads through Facebook groups, personal profiles, and Messenger to sign victims up for money-losing product distribution schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Job Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-job-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent government job offers delivered by email use official-looking branding and application processes to extract fees and personal data from job seekers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Modeling and Acting Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/modeling-acting-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How fake talent scouts and model agencies use Instagram to recruit victims into paying for unnecessary photoshoots, portfolio fees, and training that lead nowhere.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Envelope Stuffing Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/envelope-stuffing-scams-via-email", "summary": "How a decades-old postal job fraud has migrated to email, still promising easy home-based earnings for stuffing envelopes while extracting starter kit fees and revealing the 'secret' is to recruit others.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Caregiver and Nanny Job Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-caregiver-nanny-job-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent nanny, caregiver, and elderly care job postings on Facebook extract fees, deliver fraudulent cheques, or expose victims to personal safety risks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Remote Assistant Jobs on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-remote-assistant-jobs-on-linkedin", "summary": "How fraudulent virtual and personal assistant job listings on LinkedIn extract personal data, fees, and access credentials from applicants under the guise of professional remote roles.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Internship Fee Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-internship-fee-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent internship offers delivered by email require students and recent graduates to pay placement fees, insurance bonds, or administrative charges for non-existent positions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Certification and Training Job Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-certification-training-job-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent job offers delivered by email require victims to purchase bogus certifications or training courses as a condition of employment that never materialises.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Data Annotation Jobs on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-data-annotation-job-on-telegram", "summary": "How Telegram-based fake AI data labelling and annotation jobs use small initial payments and task dashboards to trap victims in cryptocurrency deposit cycles.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Package Reshipping Jobs via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-package-reshipping-job-via-email", "summary": "How email-based fake logistics coordinator jobs recruit victims to receive and forward packages purchased with stolen payment cards, exposing them to criminal liability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Commission-Only Bait Jobs on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/commission-only-bait-job-on-linkedin", "summary": "How misleading commission-only job listings on LinkedIn lure victims with implied salary promises before revealing the role has no base pay, while extracting personal data and sometimes upfront costs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI CV Applicant Fraud on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-cv-applicant-fraud-on-linkedin", "summary": "How AI-generated fake candidate profiles on LinkedIn deceive employers and how fraudulent AI CV creation services scam job seekers with false promises of guaranteed interviews.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Notario Immigration Consultant Fraud via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/notario-immigration-consultant-fraud-via-email", "summary": "How unlicensed notarios and fake immigration consultants use email to deceive immigrants with false legal authority, filing fraudulent documents and collecting fees for services they cannot legally provide.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Lawyer Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-lawyer-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent attorneys and fake law firm emails deceive immigrants with fabricated legal credentials, collecting large fees for immigration applications they never file or file fraudulently.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Citizenship Test Services via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-citizenship-test-services-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent online citizenship test preparation services use email to charge immigrants for unofficial study materials, fake practice exams, or guaranteed-pass schemes that provide no real benefit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Work Permit Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-work-permit-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How phone-based fraudsters impersonate government immigration authorities to demand fees for fake work permits, visa extensions, or expedited processing that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Legal Settlement Payout Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-legal-settlement-payout-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails claim recipients are entitled to compensation from a legal settlement, then extract processing fees or personal data before any payout is released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Class Action Claim Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-class-action-claim-scams-via-email", "summary": "How bogus class action claim emails persuade recipients to submit personal data or pay processing fees for non-existent litigation payouts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Lawsuit Threat Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-lawsuit-threat-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How fraudulent callers impersonate process servers, debt collection attorneys, or law enforcement to coerce immediate payment for supposed outstanding debts under threat of lawsuit or arrest.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Notarization and Apostille Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-notarization-apostille-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent online notarisation and apostille services collect fees for falsified or worthless document authentications that can cause serious legal and immigration consequences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Asylum Application Fee Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-asylum-application-fee-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How phone-based fraudsters impersonate immigration officials or consultants to demand fees from asylum seekers for application processing, case acceleration, or status protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Competition Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-competition-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent giveaway and competition posts on Facebook harvest personal data, charge claim fees, or steal account credentials from users who believe they have won a prize.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Mystery Shopper Prize Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-mystery-shopper-prize-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent mystery shopper and prize-linked job offers arrive by email, combining a work opportunity with a prize notification to extract fees and deliver fraudulent cheques.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Raffle Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/raffle-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent online raffle and charity draw posts on Facebook collect ticket payments for prizes that are never awarded, while often impersonating legitimate charities or fundraisers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Publishers Sweepstakes-Style Scams via Postal Mail", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/publishers-sweepstakes-style-scams-via-postal-mail", "summary": "How mailers designed to look like official prize notification packages pressure recipients into purchasing magazine subscriptions or products to claim prizes they have not won.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Lottery Winner Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-lottery-winner-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent Facebook messages claim recipients have been selected as lottery winners, requiring them to pay release fees or provide financial details to claim a non-existent prize.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Premium Bond Prize Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/premium-bond-prize-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails impersonate National Savings and Investments (NS&I) to claim recipients have won a Premium Bond prize, then extract fees or banking details to release the funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Second-Chance Lottery Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/second-chance-lottery-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails mimic legitimate second-chance lottery promotions to extract ticket submission fees, personal data, or banking details from lottery players.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Winner Notification Call Scams via Robocalls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/winner-notification-call-scams-via-robocalls", "summary": "How automated robocalls deliver fake prize winner notifications to millions of numbers simultaneously, directing recipients to claim processes that extract fees and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Raffle Text Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-raffle-text-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How fraudulent SMS messages claim recipients have won a raffle or prize draw, directing them to click links or call numbers that lead to data harvesting or fee extraction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "International Sweepstakes Advance Fee Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/international-sweepstakes-advance-fee-scam-via-email", "summary": "How emails claiming recipients have won a foreign lottery or sweepstakes extract escalating advance fees for taxes, customs, legal clearance, and currency conversion before the promised prize.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Claim Processing Fee Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-claim-processing-fee-scam-via-phone", "summary": "How phone-based fraudsters posing as prize claim agents demand processing fees, taxes, or insurance payments from apparent winners before releasing prizes that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Mail Theft Identity Fraud via Postal Mail", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mail-theft-identity-via-postal-mail", "summary": "How thieves steal physical mail to harvest identity documents, financial statements, and pre-approved credit offers used to commit identity fraud and open fraudulent accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Check Washing Fraud via Postal Mail", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/check-washing-fraud-via-postal-mail", "summary": "How thieves intercept cheques from outgoing mail and chemically alter the payee name or amount, depositing the modified cheque fraudulently while the original sender remains unaware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Check Interception and Diversion via Postal Mail", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/check-interception-diversion-via-postal-mail", "summary": "How fraudsters intercept cheques in transit through the postal network or at the delivery point, diverting them for deposit into fraudulent accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Package Redirection Fraud via Postal Mail", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/package-redirection-fraud-via-postal-mail", "summary": "How fraudsters redirect in-transit parcels to their own addresses by exploiting delivery update systems, customer service channels, or compromised account access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Mail Forwarding Abuse Scams via Postal Mail", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mail-forwarding-abuse-scams-via-postal-mail", "summary": "How fraudsters submit unauthorised change-of-address requests to redirect victims' mail, enabling identity theft and financial fraud while cutting off the victim's receipt of important correspondence.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Postage Scams via Postal Mail", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/counterfeit-postage-scams-via-postal-mail", "summary": "How fraudulent online sellers and schemes sell fake postage stamps and labels, costing recipients unexpected postage fees and exposing buyers to legal risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake PO Box Rental Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-po-box-rental-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent email-marketed PO box and virtual mailbox services collect rental fees for mail addresses that do not exist or forward mail to unsecured or criminal operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gifting Circle and Cash Gifting Schemes on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gifting-circle-cash-gifting-schemes-on-facebook", "summary": "How Facebook groups promote cash gifting circles — presented as mutual support networks or women's empowerment schemes — that are mathematically unsustainable pyramid structures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Forex MLM Recruitment Schemes on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/forex-mlm-recruitment-schemes-on-instagram", "summary": "How multi-level forex trading recruitment schemes use Instagram lifestyle content to recruit victims into paying for trading signals, mentorship packages, and downline recruitment structures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Travel Club MLM Schemes on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/travel-club-mlm-schemes-on-facebook", "summary": "How Facebook-promoted travel club memberships disguise multi-level recruitment structures as discounted holiday packages, generating income primarily from new member recruitment rather than genuine travel savings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Inventory Loading MLM Traps on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/inventory-loading-mlm-traps-on-facebook", "summary": "How Facebook-based MLM recruitment encourages distributors to purchase large quantities of product inventory — far beyond retail demand — to achieve rank or bonus thresholds that benefit upline members.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Chain Letter Money Schemes via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/chain-letter-money-schemes-via-email", "summary": "How email-based chain letter schemes disguise pyramid structures as investment opportunities or mutual support networks, requiring participants to forward money and the letter to recruit new victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Affiliate Network Pyramid Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-affiliate-network-pyramid-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How Facebook-promoted fake affiliate marketing networks use affiliate business framing to disguise pyramid recruitment structures that charge membership fees and pay primarily for recruiting rather than genuine product sales.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Subscription Trap Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/subscription-trap-scams-via-email", "summary": "How scammers use email to enrol you in unwanted recurring charges, from fake free-trial confirmations to deceptive unsubscribe links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Browser Coupon Extension Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-browser-coupon-extension-scams-on-browser", "summary": "Malicious browser extensions that pose as coupon or cashback tools to steal credentials, inject ads, and harvest payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Flash Sale Countdown Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-flash-sale-countdown-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How scammers use Instagram Stories and posts with artificial countdown timers to pressure shoppers into impulse purchases from non-existent stores.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wholesale Liquidation Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-wholesale-liquidation-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How scammers use Facebook Groups and Marketplace to sell non-existent wholesale or liquidation pallets, targeting resellers and small business owners.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pre-Order Scams on Social Media", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pre-order-scams-on-social-media", "summary": "How scammers create hype for upcoming products on social media, collect pre-order payments, and then vanish before delivering anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Warranty Registration Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-warranty-registration-scams-via-email", "summary": "How scammers send fraudulent warranty registration emails after real purchases to harvest personal details and push unnecessary extended-warranty products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Commerce Livestream Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-commerce-livestream-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "How scammers exploit TikTok Shop livestreams to sell counterfeit goods, pocket payments for items never shipped, and manipulate viewers with fake auction pressure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Counterfeit Luxury Goods Scams on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-counterfeit-luxury-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "How counterfeit designer handbags, watches, and accessories are sold on Facebook Marketplace using convincing photos and authentication theater.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Product Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-product-scam-via-email", "summary": "How scammers use email campaigns promoting charity-branded merchandise to collect donations or product payments that never reach any genuine cause.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Instagram Boutique Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-instagram-boutique-on-instagram", "summary": "How scammers create polished Instagram shop accounts to sell clothing, accessories, or homewares that are never delivered or are cheap counterfeits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Concert Merchandise Store Scams on Social Media", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-concert-merch-store-on-social-media", "summary": "How scammers create fake official merchandise stores promoted through social media around major tours and events, selling counterfeits or nothing at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Group Buy Social Commerce Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/group-buy-social-commerce-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How scammers organise group-buy schemes in Facebook Groups to collect pooled payments from multiple buyers, then disappear before delivering any goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Triangulation Fraud on Online Marketplaces", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/triangulation-fraud-on-online-marketplaces", "summary": "How scammers use stolen credit card data to fulfil your legitimate marketplace order while leaving the true cardholder defrauded and you at risk of chargeback.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Shipping Fee Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-shipping-fee-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How scammers advertise pets for free or at low cost on Facebook, then extort escalating shipping, insurance, and customs fees from victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Lost Pet Reward Scams on Social Media", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/lost-pet-reward-scams-on-social-media", "summary": "How scammers respond to lost-pet posts on social media to falsely claim they have found the animal and extract reward money before it becomes clear they do not.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Exotic Pet Sale Scams on Classifieds Sites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/exotic-pet-sale-scams-on-classifieds", "summary": "How scammers list rare or exotic animals on classifieds platforms to collect payment for creatures that do not exist or cannot legally be sold.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stud Service Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stud-service-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How scammers advertise fraudulent dog or cat stud services in Facebook Groups, taking fees from breeders for non-existent or unregistered animals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Veterinary Crowdfunding Scams on Social Media", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-veterinary-crowdfunding-scams-on-social-media", "summary": "How scammers fabricate or exaggerate pet medical emergencies on social media to raise money for non-existent veterinary bills.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Emotional Support Animal Registration Scams Online", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-emotional-support-animal-registration-scams-online", "summary": "How scammers sell worthless ESA certificates and registration documents through official-looking websites, misleading tenants and travellers about their legal standing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Microchip Registry Scams Online", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-microchip-registry-scams-online", "summary": "How scammers operate unofficial microchip databases that accept registration fees but are not linked to any veterinary or rescue lookup network.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Travel-to-Meet-You Scams on Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-to-meet-you-scams-on-dating-apps", "summary": "How romance scammers on dating apps create elaborate travel stories and crises to solicit money for flights or travel expenses to visit a victim they have no intention of meeting.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Recovery Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-recovery-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How scammers cold-call romance fraud victims pretending to be investigators or recovery specialists, extracting further payments in exchange for fake fund-recovery services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Widow and Widower Romance Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/widow-widower-romance-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How scammers pose as recently bereaved widows or widowers on Facebook to build sympathetic romantic relationships and extract money from lonely adults.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Online Matchmaking Agency Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/online-matchmaking-agency-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fake or deceptive matchmaking agencies use email to sell expensive membership packages with fabricated profiles and no genuine matching service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Visa Sponsorship Romance Scams on Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/visa-sponsorship-romance-scams-on-dating-apps", "summary": "How scammers on dating apps build romantic relationships and then request financial help to cover visa or immigration sponsorship fees that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Psychic Romance Guidance Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/psychic-romance-guidance-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent psychics use personalised email sequences to convince lonely adults they can predict or restore romantic love, extracting ongoing payments for useless readings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Military Deployment Leave Fee Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/military-deployment-leave-fee-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "How scammers pose as deployed military personnel on Facebook to build romance and then request fees to fund emergency leave travel to visit their partner.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Online Marriage Visa Fee Scams on Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/online-marriage-visa-fee-scam-on-dating-apps", "summary": "How scammers on dating apps propose marriage quickly and then request payment for fabricated marriage visa, legal, or registration fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medical Emergency Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-medical-emergency-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How scammers fabricate sudden medical crises on Facebook — through direct messages or crowdfunding posts — to extract urgent money from friends, family connections, and strangers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hard-to-Cancel Subscription Scams via App Stores", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hard-to-cancel-subscription-scams-via-app-stores", "summary": "How deceptive apps use confusing app store subscription flows to lock users into recurring charges that are difficult to identify and cancel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Grey Charge Recurring Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/grey-charge-recurring-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How small, obscurely labelled recurring bank debits accumulate unnoticed, originating from deceptive authorisations that victims signed without understanding they were agreeing to ongoing charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Auto-Renewal Surprise Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/auto-renewal-surprise-scams-via-email", "summary": "How deceptive auto-renewal schemes send late or misleading renewal notices by email, ensuring the charge is processed before the customer can cancel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Unsubscribe Link Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-unsubscribe-link-scams-via-email", "summary": "How scammers embed fraudulent unsubscribe links in spam emails that confirm your address is active, harvest credentials, or silently enrol you in additional marketing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Membership Club Billing Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/membership-club-billing-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fake or deceptive membership clubs enrol consumers via email offers and bill them repeatedly for access to benefits that are worthless, inaccessible, or non-existent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Juice Jacking Scams at Public Charging Points", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/juice-jacking-scams-via-public-wifi", "summary": "How tampered public USB charging stations can install malware or extract data from connected devices while appearing to simply charge them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Evil Twin Wi-Fi Scams on Public Networks", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/evil-twin-wifi-scams-via-public-wifi", "summary": "How attackers set up fake Wi-Fi hotspots with names identical to legitimate public networks to intercept traffic and steal credentials from connected devices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Malicious Browser Extension Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/malicious-browser-extension-scams-in-browser-extensions", "summary": "How attackers distribute harmful browser extensions through stores and third-party sites to steal data, hijack sessions, and inject advertising into every page you visit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "USB Baiting Scams in Public Spaces and Workplaces", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/usb-baiting-scams-in-workplaces", "summary": "How attackers leave infected USB drives in car parks, offices, and public areas hoping someone will plug them in and inadvertently launch malware.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "MFA Push Bombing Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mfa-push-bombing-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How attackers flood a victim's authentication app with approval requests then call them posing as tech support to convince them to approve access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Data Removal Service Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-data-removal-service-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent data broker removal services charge ongoing fees for automated opt-out processes that consumers can perform themselves for free.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wi-Fi Captive Portal Scams on Public Networks", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-wifi-captive-portal-scams-via-public-wifi", "summary": "How attackers create fraudulent captive portal login pages on rogue Wi-Fi hotspots to harvest email addresses, passwords, and payment card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential Stuffing Attacks Delivered via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-attacks-via-email", "summary": "How attackers use leaked email-password combinations from data breaches to access accounts at scale, often announcing their success through extortion emails.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Banking Trojan and Infostealer Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/banking-trojan-infostealer-scams-via-email", "summary": "How malware delivered through email attachments and links harvests banking credentials, card details, and session cookies from infected devices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Malicious APK Sideloading Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/malicious-apk-sideload-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How scammers use phone calls to convince Android users to install malicious APK files outside the Play Store, granting attackers remote control of the device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Adversary-in-the-Middle Session Theft Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/adversary-in-the-middle-session-theft-scams-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails direct victims to attacker-controlled proxy sites that capture live authentication sessions and bypass multi-factor authentication in real time.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Data Breach Extortion Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/data-breach-extortion-scams-via-email", "summary": "How scammers send threatening emails claiming to have obtained your personal data from a breach and demanding payment to prevent its publication or misuse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phone Upgrade Contract Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phone-upgrade-contract-scam-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How scammers impersonate telecom providers over the phone to lock consumers into fraudulent upgrade contracts, port their numbers, or obtain device insurance payouts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Roaming Data Top-Up Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/roaming-data-topup-scam-via-sms", "summary": "How scammers send fake carrier SMS alerts about roaming data exhaustion to collect payment for top-ups that are never applied to the real account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Lost Phone Insurance Claim Fraud via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/lost-phone-insurance-claim-fraud-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How scammers pose as phone insurance or carrier representatives to collect excess payments for fraudulent insurance claims or block legitimate claims to harvest sensitive details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Telecom Cramming Charges on Phone Bills", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/telecom-cramming-charges-scams-via-phone-bills", "summary": "How unauthorised third-party charges for subscriptions and services are added to phone bills without the customer's genuine consent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "eSIM Swap Fraud via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/esim-swap-fraud-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How fraudsters use social engineering calls to convince carrier staff to transfer a victim's number to an eSIM they control, then intercept all calls and SMS including two-factor authentication codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "One-Ring Wangiri Callback Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/one-ring-wangiri-callback-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How scammers make single-ring calls from international premium-rate numbers, hoping the recipient will call back and incur high per-minute charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hotel Phishing Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hotel-phishing-via-email", "summary": "How scammers send fake hotel booking confirmation and payment-update emails to harvest card details from travellers who believe they are managing a real reservation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Visa Services Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-visa-services-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent visa application services use email to intercept travellers researching visas, charge unnecessary fees, and process applications that are never submitted.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Travel Insurance Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-insurance-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent travel insurance emails sell worthless policies that provide no real cover, leaving travellers unprotected when they most need it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Ticket Scams on Social Media", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ticket-scams-on-social-media", "summary": "How scammers sell fake, invalid, or non-existent event tickets through social media, targeting buyers for sold-out events at elevated prices.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Travel Points and Miles Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-points-miles-scams-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails impersonate airline and hotel loyalty programmes to harvest account credentials and steal accumulated points or miles.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Passport Renewal Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-passport-renewal-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent passport renewal services use email to intercept applicants with official-looking forms, charging unnecessary fees and risking the loss of sensitive identity documents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cruise Deal Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cruise-deal-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent cruise deal emails offer deep-discount packages that either do not exist or come with hidden conditions that make the headline price unachievable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Travel Agency Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-agency-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent travel agencies use email marketing to sell package holidays, flights, or hotel bookings that are never confirmed with the actual suppliers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vacation Rental Host Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vacation-rental-host-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How scammers advertise non-existent or unavailable vacation rental properties on Facebook and direct-pay platforms to collect deposits from holidaymakers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Global Entry and TSA PreCheck Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-global-entry-tsa-precheck-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent websites and emails charge unnecessary fees for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or equivalent trusted traveller programme applications that applicants can submit for the official government fee alone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Lost Luggage Compensation Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-lost-luggage-compensation-scams-via-email", "summary": "How scammers target travellers with delayed or lost baggage by sending fake airline compensation emails that collect personal details and bank information under the guise of processing a claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Car Rental Deposit Scams on Booking Sites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-car-rental-deposit-scams-on-booking-sites", "summary": "How fraudulent car rental operators and misleading deposit practices leave travellers without vehicles or facing unexpected deductions from deposit holds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Event Travel Package Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-event-travel-package-scams-via-email", "summary": "How scammers sell non-existent travel packages bundling accommodation, transport, and tickets to major events, collecting full payment before delivering nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Holiday Club and Timeshare Presentation Scams in the UK", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/holiday-club-timeshare-presentation-scam-in-the-uk", "summary": "How high-pressure holiday club and timeshare presentations in the UK trap consumers into expensive long-term contracts for memberships with minimal real-world value.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airbnb Host Deposit Scams on Booking Sites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airbnb-host-deposit-on-booking-sites", "summary": "How scammers impersonate Airbnb or other short-let platform hosts to collect security deposits outside the platform's payment system, then disappear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Flight Upgrade Offer Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/flight-upgrade-offer-scams-via-email", "summary": "How scammers send fake airline upgrade offer emails to collect payment card details or loyalty programme credentials under the cover of a legitimate-seeming seat improvement.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Energy Broker Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-energy-broker-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How scammers posing as energy brokers or comparison service agents over the phone switch households to higher-cost tariffs or charge commission fees without providing a genuine service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Utility Rebate Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-utility-rebate-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How scammers pose as utility companies or government agencies over the phone to collect banking details under the cover of processing a refund or rebate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Smart Meter Scams at the Doorstep", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/smart-meter-scams-via-doorstep", "summary": "How scammers pose as smart meter installation engineers to gain entry to homes, charge for unnecessary or non-existent work, or steal from properties.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Water Quality Scams at the Doorstep", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-water-quality-scams-via-doorstep", "summary": "How doorstep scammers exploit anxiety about tap water quality to sell expensive and unnecessary filtration equipment or service contracts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Green Grant Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/green-grant-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How scammers impersonate government green energy schemes over the phone to charge upfront fees for grants that do not exist or to gather personal data for identity fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Broadband ISP Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-broadband-isp-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How scammers impersonate broadband providers over the phone to switch customers to inferior contracts, collect router deposit fees, or install remote access malware under the guise of technical support.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Boiler Cover Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-boiler-cover-scams-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How scammers sell worthless boiler cover policies over the phone that collect premiums but deny or ignore all claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Meter Reading Scams at the Doorstep", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-meter-reading-scams-via-doorstep", "summary": "How doorstep callers pose as meter readers to gain access to homes, charge for non-existent services, or carry out distraction theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tree Removal Doorstep Scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tree-removal-doorstep-scams-via-doorstep", "summary": "How rogue traders arrive at the door claiming a tree poses an urgent safety risk, collect large upfront payments for removal, and perform inadequate work or disappear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Insulation Grant Scams at the Doorstep", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-insulation-grant-scams-via-doorstep", "summary": "How doorstep callers pose as government-funded insulation scheme representatives, collecting upfront fees or fitting substandard insulation for grants that do not apply.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Utility Disconnection Threat Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/utility-disconnection-threat-scam-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How scammers impersonate utility companies over the phone, threatening imminent disconnection to panic victims into immediate payment by gift card or wire transfer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Solar Panel and Green Energy Scheme Scams at the Doorstep", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-solar-green-energy-scheme-scam-via-doorstep", "summary": "How doorstep callers sell overpriced, substandard, or non-existent solar panels and green energy systems under the cover of government schemes or guaranteed savings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-08" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "VIN Cloning Scams Paid via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vin-cloning-scams-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "How fraudsters selling VIN-cloned stolen vehicles increasingly demand cryptocurrency payment, making stolen-car transactions nearly impossible to trace or reverse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Title Washing Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/title-washing-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How sellers use WhatsApp's private messaging environment to market washed-title vehicles, exploiting the platform's informality and end-to-end encryption to avoid accountability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Car Buyer Scams via Gift Card Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-car-buyer-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How fraudulent car buyers trick private sellers into accepting gift card payments for vehicles, a method that provides no buyer-side recourse and is almost always associated with fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Curbstoning Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/curbstoning-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How unlicensed vehicle dealers use Instagram profiles and Stories to sell cars as private individuals, bypassing dealer licensing, disclosure, and warranty obligations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle Shipping Scams via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-shipping-scams-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "How fraudsters running fake vehicle shipping operations insist on cryptocurrency payment to eliminate any possibility of fund recovery after collecting fees for vehicles that will never be delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Online Vehicle Deposit and Escrow Scams via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/online-vehicle-deposit-escrow-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "How fraudulent vehicle escrow services exploit cryptocurrency's irreversibility to steal deposits from car buyers with no possibility of fund recovery.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "VIN Cloning and Title Washing Vehicle Fraud in the UK", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vin-cloning-title-washing-vehicle-fraud-in-the-uk", "summary": "How VIN cloning and the concealment of write-off status operate within the UK's V5C and MOT framework, and how buyers can use free government tools to protect themselves.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Mechanic and Repair Overcharge Scams via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-mechanic-repair-overcharge-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudulent mobile mechanics use WhatsApp to approach vehicle owners, conduct informal assessments, and overcharge for fabricated repairs in untraceable cash transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Car Shipping Fee Extraction Scams via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-car-shipping-fee-extraction-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How fee-extraction shipping scammers pivot to gift card demands when initial wire-transfer attempts fail, using the same multi-payment playbook with an even harder-to-trace payment method.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vehicle Service Contract Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vehicle-service-contract-robocall-scam-via-email", "summary": "How unsolicited emails mimic official warranty expiry notices to pressure vehicle owners into purchasing worthless extended service contracts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vehicle History Report Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vehicle-history-report-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How sellers using WhatsApp to market vehicles share counterfeit or manipulated history reports in private conversations, exploiting the channel's informality to bypass buyer verification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deposit to View Car Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deposit-to-view-car-scam-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How fraudsters requesting viewing-slot deposits by bank transfer exploit the faster payments infrastructure to receive and immediately withdraw funds before the buyer can raise an alarm.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Breakdown Cover Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-breakdown-cover-roadside-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "How Instagram accounts advertising heavily discounted breakdown cover sell fake or worthless policies to drivers who discover the fraud only when they need assistance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Odometer Rollback and Clocking Scams via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/odometer-rollback-clocking-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How vehicle sellers using WhatsApp to market clocked cars exploit the private conversational format to prevent buyers from conducting proper mileage verification before purchase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Salvage and Rebuild Title Fraud in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/salvage-rebuild-title-fraud-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How salvage and rebuilt-title vehicles are sold across US state lines without disclosure, exploiting database gaps and differing state title-branding requirements.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ghost Broker Car Insurance Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-car-insurance-ghost-broker-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How ghost brokers use WhatsApp networks to sell fake or manipulated motor insurance policies at inflated or discounted prices to drivers who end up unknowingly uninsured.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Veteran Charity Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-veteran-charity-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent veteran charity emails solicit donations and recurring pledges by impersonating registered military welfare organisations in official-looking communications.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Animal Rescue Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-animal-rescue-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent animal welfare pages and posts on Facebook solicit urgent donations for animals in distress whose situations are fabricated, misrepresented, or permanently recycled.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Religious Cause Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/religious-cause-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudulent religious appeals circulated through WhatsApp groups and broadcast lists exploit community trust and shared faith identity to collect donations for causes that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Children's Charity Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-childrens-charity-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent children's welfare pages and posts on Facebook exploit parental empathy and community sharing dynamics to raise money for fabricated or misrepresented child welfare causes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medical Fundraising Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crowdfunding-medical-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fabricated or exaggerated medical situations are presented on Facebook to solicit donations through the platform's native fundraising tools and linked payment pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Religious Tithe and Donation Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/religious-tithe-donation-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudsters use WhatsApp to impersonate religious leaders and church treasurers, soliciting tithes and special collections from congregation members through trusted-seeming messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disaster Appeal Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disaster-text-appeal-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent disaster relief emails impersonate major aid organisations to collect donations in the days following a major emergency, before donors have identified verified giving channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Volunteer Fee Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/volunteer-fee-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How fraudulent volunteer programme operators use Instagram to recruit fee-paying applicants for overseas placements that do not exist or are dramatically misrepresented.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Foundation Grant Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-foundation-grant-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudulent grant award messages circulated through WhatsApp target individuals and community organisations with advance-fee fraud dressed as charitable funding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Lottery Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-lottery-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudulent charity lottery win notifications are circulated through WhatsApp to collect release fees for prizes that were never entered and do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Disaster Relief Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disaster-crowdfunding-appeal-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent disaster relief posts and pages on Facebook collect donations in the wake of major emergencies, exploiting the platform's sharing dynamics before donors can identify verified channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Religious Collection Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-religious-collection-scam-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails impersonating religious organisations solicit special collections, building fund contributions, and emergency donations for causes that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Working Dog Charity Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-working-dog-charity-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent service and guide dog charity pages on Facebook use compelling canine content to build engaged followings before launching donation appeals for training programmes that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Individual Medical Treatment Appeal Scams via Crowdfunding Pages", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-medical-treatment-appeal-scam-via-crowdfunding-pages", "summary": "How fraudulent personal medical treatment campaigns on crowdfunding platforms use fabricated diagnoses and borrowed identities to raise funds for treatment costs that are non-existent or heavily overstated.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Veterans and Military Charity Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-veterans-military-charity-scam-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent military charity emails impersonate established veteran welfare organisations to collect donations and set up recurring charges for programmes that direct little or nothing to service members.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Environmental and Wildlife Appeal Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-environmental-wildlife-appeal-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent conservation and environmental pages on Facebook build engaged audiences through compelling wildlife content before launching donation appeals for projects that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "NFT Mint Scams on X/Twitter", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/nft-mint-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Fraudsters use X/Twitter hype campaigns, fake celebrity endorsements, and coordinated bot activity to drive retail buyers into fraudulent NFT mints before rugging the project.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Address Poisoning Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/address-poisoning-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Attackers use Telegram to distribute lookalike wallet addresses, impersonate project admins, and trick users into sending funds to attacker-controlled addresses disguised as official deposit destinations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Liquidity Mining Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/liquidity-mining-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Fake DeFi liquidity pools are promoted through Discord DeFi communities, using community trust and server authority to drive wallet approvals that drain victim funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Token Presale Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-token-presale-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudulent token presales are marketed through Telegram channels and bots, collecting cryptocurrency from investors with a promise of early-access allocation that is never fulfilled.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Memecoin Pump Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/memecoin-pump-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Coordinated Telegram pump groups organize simultaneous buying of obscure memecoins to drive price spikes, then organizers dump their holdings into the retail buying wave they created.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Crypto Tax Software Scams on Reddit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crypto-tax-software-scams-on-reddit", "summary": "Scammers promote fake or malware-laced crypto tax tools through Reddit posts and comments in tax and crypto communities, exploiting the platform's perceived peer trust to drive downloads and subscriptions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Crypto Job Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-crypto-job-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent cryptocurrency employment opportunities circulate through Facebook groups and ads, targeting job seekers with convincing remote work offers that lead to upfront deposit demands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Mining Rig Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-mining-rig-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent mining hardware listings on Facebook Marketplace and crypto groups use stolen photographs and compelling backstories to collect payments for equipment that never ships.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Copy-Trading Crypto Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/copy-trading-crypto-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Fake copy-trading operations on Discord build community credibility through staged performance results before routing deposits to unregulated platforms that block all withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Yield-Farming APY Trap Scams via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/yield-farming-apy-trap-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Fraudulent yield-farming contracts accept cryptocurrency deposits with promises of extreme APY returns, then exploit admin key privileges or malicious token mechanics to drain deposited funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bridge Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-bridge-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudulent cross-chain bridge links are distributed through Discord communities via compromised accounts, impersonated admins, and fake support bots, directing users to phishing sites that steal bridged assets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Crypto Mining Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-crypto-mining-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters construct romantic connections through Facebook profiles and groups before introducing fake crypto mining platforms, exploiting Facebook's identity cues to build deeper trust than anonymous apps allow.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "MEV Sandwich Attack Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mev-sandwich-attack-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Fake MEV protection tools and bots are promoted through Discord DeFi communities, collecting deposits or wallet approvals under the guise of shielding users from front-running attacks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Oracle Price Manipulation Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/oracle-price-manipulation-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Fraudsters promote fake DeFi protocols with deliberately vulnerable price oracles on Discord, accumulating user deposits before triggering a self-inflicted oracle exploit to drain the treasury.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Dusting and De-anonymization Attacks via Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dusting-deanonymization-attacks-on-telegram", "summary": "Attackers use Telegram to execute the social-engineering phase of dusting attacks, contacting victims whose wallet identities have been linked to their Telegram presence through on-chain analysis.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "DAO Governance Takeover Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dao-governance-takeover-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Attackers manipulate DAO governance outcomes by using Discord to suppress community opposition, create false consensus, and shepherd malicious proposals through voting with minimal scrutiny.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Forex Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/forex-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent forex trading schemes use Facebook ads, groups, and personal profiles to recruit victims with lifestyle imagery and fabricated returns before collecting deposits on unregulated platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ponzi Schemes via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ponzi-schemes-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Cryptocurrency-denominated Ponzi schemes use the technical complexity of DeFi or staking mechanics to disguise the classic structure of paying early investors with later investors' funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pump-and-Dump Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pump-and-dump-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram pump-and-dump groups coordinate simultaneous buying of thinly traded securities or tokens, creating artificial price spikes that organizers exploit to sell pre-held positions at the expense of group members.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Bank Transfer App Fraud on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/bank-transfer-app-fraud-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate family members, bank officials, or trusted contacts on WhatsApp to create urgent payment scenarios that pressure victims into authorizing bank transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Boiler Room Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/boiler-room-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Boiler room-style investment fraud has migrated to Facebook, using targeted ads, fake financial expert profiles, and investment groups to apply the same high-pressure tactics in a digital social context.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Precious Metal Investment Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/precious-metal-investment-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudulent bullion investment opportunities are promoted through Telegram channels, combining safe-haven investment appeal with crypto payment mechanics and group social proof to extract deposits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Carbon Credit Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/carbon-credit-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fraudulent carbon credit investment programs use Telegram channels to recruit environmentally motivated investors with promises of regulatory tailwinds and green portfolio returns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fractional Property Investment Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fractional-property-investment-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent fractional real estate schemes use Facebook ads and investment groups to recruit deposits for properties that do not exist, are misrepresented, or are controlled by operators who divert funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Money Flipping Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/money-flipping-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Money flipping fraud spreads through WhatsApp chain messages and direct appeals, using the platform's trusted personal network context to make cash multiplication promises seem more credible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Finfluencer Unlicensed Investment Scams on X/Twitter", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/finfluencer-unlicensed-investment-scams-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Unlicensed financial influencers on X/Twitter use large followings, coordinated engagement, and undisclosed paid promotions to drive followers into high-risk or fraudulent investment products without required disclosures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake AI Investment Bots on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ai-investment-bots-on-discord", "summary": "Fake AI trading bots are distributed through Discord servers as community tools or premium services, collecting deposits through an interface that simulates real trading while routing all funds to the operator.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Trading Signal Subscription Scams on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-trading-signal-subscription-scams-on-discord", "summary": "Discord servers sell access to AI-generated trading signal channels that showcase cherry-picked wins while delivering inconsistent or fabricated signals that produce losses for subscribers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake AI Trading Platform Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ai-trading-platform-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Fake AI trading platforms are promoted through Telegram with referral-driven recruitment mechanics, collecting deposits from an expanding network of victims before blocking withdrawals and disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "In-Game Skins and Currency Scams in In-Game Marketplaces", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/in-game-skins-currency-scam-in-game-marketplaces", "summary": "Scammers exploit mechanics within official and third-party in-game marketplaces to defraud players through item bait-and-switch, chargeback abuse, and counterfeit listings that bypass platform safeguards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Account Recovery and Boosting Scams on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/account-recovery-boosting-scam-on-twitch", "summary": "Streamers and chat participants on Twitch promote fraudulent boosting and account recovery services, using live gaming demonstrations and chat-based social proof to recruit paying victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Free Robux and V-Bucks Generator Scams on X/Twitter", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/free-robux-vbucks-generator-scam-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Fake in-game currency generator links spread rapidly on X/Twitter through bot networks and viral post mechanics, targeting young players with promises of free Robux, V-Bucks, or equivalent currencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Grey Market Game Key Chargeback Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/grey-market-game-key-chargeback-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels sell game activation codes purchased with stolen payment methods, and when chargebacks occur the keys are revoked, leaving buyers with cancelled games and potential account suspensions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Mod Loader Malware Scams on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-mod-loader-malware-scam-on-twitch", "summary": "Streamers on Twitch are either compromised or paid to endorse fake mod tools and cheat programs, lending live-stream credibility to malware downloads that steal credentials and cryptocurrency.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Esports Betting and Tournament Scams on Twitch", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-esports-betting-tournament-scam-on-twitch", "summary": "Fraudulent esports betting sites and fake tournament operators use Twitch streams as a promotional and credibility channel, collecting viewer wagers and entry fees through live broadcast social proof.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "In-Game Marketplace Fee Scams in In-Game Marketplaces", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/in-game-marketplace-fee-scam-in-game-marketplaces", "summary": "Fraudulent fee structures embedded within or adjacent to official in-game trading systems deceive players into paying escalating charges that are never authorized by the game publisher.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Visa Enforcement Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-visa-enforcement-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How text messages impersonating immigration authorities create panic about fake visa violations and direct recipients to call back numbers or pay through unsafe links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Census Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-census-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How callers impersonating census or statistical agency workers conduct fake surveys to harvest personal and financial information under the guise of an official population count.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Child Support Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-child-support-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How text messages impersonating child support enforcement agencies pressure parents with fake enforcement notices and urgent payment links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Passport Renewal Fee Scams in the UK", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-passport-renewal-fee-scams-in-the-uk", "summary": "How fraudulent websites and emails impersonating His Majesty's Passport Office collect renewal fees and identity documents from UK applicants seeking a new or renewed passport.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Healthcare Enrollment Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-healthcare-enrollment-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails impersonating health insurance marketplaces and government health programs enroll recipients in worthless plans or harvest Social Security numbers during open enrollment windows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Electoral Registration Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-electoral-registration-scam-via-sms", "summary": "How text messages impersonating voter registration authorities warn of lapsed registrations and direct recipients to fake portals that collect personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Court Fine Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-court-fine-email-via-sms", "summary": "How text messages impersonating courts, traffic enforcement agencies, and toll authorities create urgent fine payment demands and direct recipients to fake portals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FEMA and Disaster Aid Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-disaster-fema-aid-scam-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails impersonating FEMA and disaster relief organisations collect personal information and application fees from disaster survivors seeking legitimate assistance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Court e-Summons Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-court-e-summons-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How callers impersonating court clerks and officers pressure recipients into paying fees to reschedule or resolve a supposed pending summons, exploiting the fear of missing a court date.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government App Download Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-app-download-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails direct citizens to install malicious apps disguised as official government tax, benefit, or identity apps, enabling credential theft and device compromise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Medical Identity Theft via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/medical-identity-theft-via-phone", "summary": "How callers impersonating healthcare providers, insurers, and government health programs extract insurance member IDs and patient credentials that enable medical identity theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medical Equipment Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-medical-equipment-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent medical equipment emails promote deeply discounted or free devices that turn out to be counterfeit, non-functional, or never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Addiction Treatment Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-addiction-treatment-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails targeting people seeking addiction treatment steer recipients toward unqualified or non-existent treatment facilities through compelling recovery narratives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Dental and Vision Plan Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dental-vision-plans-via-email", "summary": "How email offers for dental and vision discount plans use persuasive plan summaries and low monthly costs to enroll consumers in memberships that deliver little or no real benefit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Supplement Subscription Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-supplement-subscription-scam-via-phone", "summary": "How callers promoting health supplement offers enroll consumers in expensive recurring subscriptions without clearly disclosing the ongoing billing terms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medical Crowdfunding Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-medical-crowdfunding-scam-via-email", "summary": "How email-based medical fundraising appeals exploit compassion and personal networks to solicit donations for fabricated or exaggerated medical emergencies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Weight Loss Program Subscription Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-weight-loss-program-subscription-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "How Facebook advertisements for weight loss programs use dramatic testimonials and celebrity-adjacent imagery to funnel users into expensive hidden subscription traps.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Therapy and Counselling Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-therapy-counselling-scam-via-phone", "summary": "How callers posing as therapy intake coordinators enroll vulnerable people in counselling subscriptions backed by unlicensed practitioners or no genuine service at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Clinical Trial Recruitment Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-clinical-trial-recruitment-scam-via-phone", "summary": "How callers posing as clinical trial recruiters exploit patients' hope for new treatments to collect personal data, insurance details, and enrolment fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Telemedicine Platform Fraud via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/telemedicine-platform-fraud-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent telehealth emails attract new patients with low-cost consultation offers, then collect insurance data and prescribe unnecessary products through the fake platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Healthcare Billing Fraud via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/healthcare-billing-fraud-via-phone", "summary": "How callers impersonating healthcare billing departments collect card payments for manufactured debts and harvest insurance details to enable fraudulent claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prescription Discount Card Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prescription-discount-card-scams-via-email", "summary": "How emails promoting prescription savings cards enroll consumers in paid memberships that deliver negligible savings compared to free alternatives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medical Alert Device Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-medical-alert-device-scams-via-email", "summary": "How emails promoting free or subsidised medical alert devices for seniors collect Medicare numbers and personal information while hiding expensive monitoring contracts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Foreclosure Relief Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/foreclosure-relief-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails targeting homeowners in foreclosure offer loan modification and relief services that collect upfront fees and sensitive financial documents but deliver nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Mortgage Modification Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mortgage-modification-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How callers posing as mortgage relief specialists pressure financially stressed homeowners into paying upfront fees for loan modifications that are never pursued.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Real Estate Wire Fraud via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/real-estate-wire-fraud-via-phone", "summary": "How fraudsters telephone real estate transaction parties to provide false wire instructions verbally, exploiting the trust placed in a familiar-sounding professional.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Equity Stripping Foreclosure Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/equity-stripping-foreclosure-scam-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails targeting homeowners with equity and financial distress propose deceptive sale-leaseback or refinance arrangements that strip home equity without delivering promised benefits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rogue Mover Quote Inflation Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rogue-mover-quote-inflation-scam-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent moving company emails provide attractively low quotes, then dramatically inflate the final bill on moving day by manufacturing additional charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Estate Agent Holding Deposit Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-estate-agent-holding-deposit-scam-via-phone", "summary": "How fraudulent callers posing as estate agents or their representatives pressure buyers and renters into transferring holding deposits by phone under the threat of losing a desired property.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Synthetic Identity Fraud: How Phone Calls Harvest the Data", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/synthetic-identity-fraud-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How fraudulent phone callers pose as government agencies, banks, and healthcare providers to collect Social Security numbers and personal details used to construct synthetic identities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Elder Identity Theft via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/elder-identity-theft-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails targeting older adults exploit Medicare, Social Security, and banking credentials to commit identity theft and benefits fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Change of Address Redirect Fraud via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/change-of-address-redirect-fraud-via-email", "summary": "How fraudsters use email-based account takeover and online address change forms to redirect digital financial correspondence and enable account fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Employment Identity Theft via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/employment-identity-theft-via-phone", "summary": "How fraudulent callers posing as employers and HR representatives harvest Social Security numbers and banking details for employment tax fraud and unemployment benefit theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Work-From-Home Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/work-from-home-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudulent work-from-home job offers spread through WhatsApp groups and direct messages, using personal messaging context to lower victim scepticism before extracting fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pay-to-Get-Paid Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pay-to-get-paid-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How fraudulent callers pose as recruiters to pressure job seekers into paying registration or training fees over the phone with the false promise of immediate employment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Reshipping Mule Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/reshipping-mule-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How Facebook job postings and Marketplace listings recruit victims as package reshippers, turning them into unknowing participants in stolen-goods trafficking operations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Interview Scams via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-interview-scams-via-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudulent job interviews conducted entirely over WhatsApp use the personal messaging format to build trust before extracting fees, harvesting data, or delivering malicious links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Employment Contract Scams via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-employment-contract-scams-via-whatsapp", "summary": "How fake job contracts shared over WhatsApp create a false sense of official commitment used to justify requests for personal data, upfront fees, or banking details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Data Entry Job Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/data-entry-job-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fake data entry job advertisements on Facebook and in community groups target job seekers with portal access fees and personal data collection under the guise of genuine remote work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "App Review Job Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/app-review-job-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How SMS-delivered fake app and product review job offers use short urgent text messages to recruit victims into cryptocurrency deposit schemes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "MLM Recruitment Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mlm-recruitment-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How multi-level marketing schemes use Instagram lifestyle content and direct message outreach to recruit followers into buying starter kits and building recruitment downlines.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Job Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-job-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How fraudulent government job notifications delivered by text message impersonate official recruitment agencies to extract fees and identity documents from applicants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Modeling and Acting Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/modeling-acting-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fake talent scouts post casting calls and agency notices in Facebook community groups to recruit victims into paying for portfolio shoots and registration fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Caregiver and Nanny Job Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-caregiver-nanny-job-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent nanny and caregiver job offers delivered by email use formal employment correspondence and cheque overpayment fraud to steal from caregiving job seekers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Internship Fee Scams on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-internship-fee-scams-on-linkedin", "summary": "How fraudulent internship listings on LinkedIn target students and graduates with placement fees and professional development charges for non-existent positions at credible companies.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Data Annotation Jobs via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-data-annotation-job-via-whatsapp", "summary": "How WhatsApp-based fake AI data labelling job offers use group chats and personal messaging to draw victims into cryptocurrency deposit schemes with fake earnings dashboards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Package Reshipping Jobs on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-package-reshipping-job-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent logistics coordinator job postings on Facebook Marketplace and in community groups recruit victims to handle stolen goods at their home address.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Commission-Only Bait Jobs on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/commission-only-bait-job-on-facebook", "summary": "How misleading commission-only job advertisements on Facebook attract applicants with implied salaries before revealing no base pay while extracting starter kit costs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Notario Immigration Consultant Fraud on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/notario-immigration-consultant-fraud-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How unlicensed notarios and fake immigration consultants use WhatsApp to reach Spanish-speaking immigrants with unofficial immigration help, collecting fees for services they cannot legally provide.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Lawyer Scams in the US", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-lawyer-scams-in-the-us", "summary": "How fraudulent immigration attorneys operating in the United States exploit the complexity of US immigration law to collect large retainers for applications they never file or file incorrectly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Citizenship Test Services via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-citizenship-test-services-via-sms", "summary": "How fraudulent citizenship test preparation services reach immigrants through text messages impersonating official government notifications about naturalisation requirements.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Work Permit Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-work-permit-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails impersonating immigration authorities demand fees for fake work permit approvals, renewals, or expedited processing that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Legal Settlement Payout Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-legal-settlement-payout-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How fraudulent text messages claim recipients are owed a settlement payment, directing them to links that harvest personal data or charge processing fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Class Action Claim Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-class-action-claim-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How fraudulent callers impersonate settlement administrators to walk consumers through fake class action claim processes, extracting personal data and processing fees over the phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Lawsuit Threat Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-lawsuit-threat-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent emails impersonating law firms or debt collectors threaten recipients with imminent legal action to coerce payment for fabricated debts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Notarization and Apostille Scams in the UK", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-notarization-apostille-scams-in-the-uk", "summary": "How fraudulent UK notarisation and apostille services target individuals and businesses needing documents authenticated for international legal, immigration, and commercial purposes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Asylum Application Fee Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-asylum-application-fee-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How WhatsApp-based fraudsters target asylum seekers through community networks, demanding fees for case processing, legal representation, or application acceleration.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Competition Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-competition-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How fraudulent brand giveaway posts and fake competition accounts on Instagram collect follows, data, and fees from users who believe they have won prizes from impersonated brands.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Mystery Shopper Prize Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-mystery-shopper-prize-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How text messages offer recipients a mystery shopper assignment delivered as a prize notification, leading to cheque fraud and gift card extraction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Raffle Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/raffle-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudulent raffle and charity draw tickets are sold through WhatsApp community groups and personal messages, collecting payments for prizes that are never drawn.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Publishers Sweepstakes-Style Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/publishers-sweepstakes-style-scams-via-email", "summary": "How email versions of deceptive sweepstakes notifications use prominent prize announcements and urgency to pressure recipients into purchasing products or subscriptions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Lottery Winner Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-lottery-winner-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How fraudulent Instagram direct messages claim recipients have won celebrity giveaways or social media lotteries, then extract fees and personal data to release non-existent prizes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Premium Bond Prize Scams in the UK", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/premium-bond-prize-scams-in-the-uk", "summary": "How Premium Bond prize fraud specifically targets UK savers, exploiting the wide public familiarity with NS&I bonds to impersonate official prize notifications across multiple channels.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Second-Chance Lottery Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/second-chance-lottery-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How fraudulent text messages impersonate state lottery second-chance programmes to harvest player credentials and charge entry fees for draws that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Winner Notification Call Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/winner-notification-call-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How fake prize winner notifications delivered by text message direct recipients to call-back numbers where fees are extracted by live operators or automated systems.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Raffle Text Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-raffle-text-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudulent raffle prize winner notifications sent via WhatsApp use personal messaging context to lower victim scepticism before collecting fees and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "International Sweepstakes Advance Fee Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/international-sweepstakes-advance-fee-scam-via-phone", "summary": "How phone calls impersonating foreign lottery commissions and international prize authorities extract escalating advance fees from targets told they have won international sweepstakes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prize Claim Processing Fee Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prize-claim-processing-fee-scam-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent prize claim emails use official-looking correspondence and escalating fee sequences to extract payments from recipients who believe they are processing genuine prize claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Mail Theft Identity Fraud in the US", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mail-theft-identity-in-the-us", "summary": "How mail theft in the United States enables identity fraud through stolen bank statements, tax correspondence, and pre-approved credit offers, and what US-specific protections apply.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Check Washing Fraud in the UK", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/check-washing-fraud-in-the-uk", "summary": "How cheque washing fraud operates in the United Kingdom, where cheque usage is declining but high-value cheques for legal, property, and business transactions remain a target.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gifting Circle and Cash Gifting Schemes on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gifting-circle-cash-gifting-schemes-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How WhatsApp group-based cash gifting circles exploit community trust and private messaging to spread pyramid structures among friends, families, and colleagues.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Forex MLM Recruitment Schemes on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/forex-mlm-recruitment-schemes-on-telegram", "summary": "How Telegram channels and groups promote multi-level forex trading recruitment schemes using signal subscriptions and group membership to disguise pyramid income structures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Travel Club MLM Schemes via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/travel-club-mlm-schemes-via-email", "summary": "How email-based travel club membership offers disguise pyramid recruitment structures as discounted holiday packages, using professional correspondence to reach a broad audience.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Inventory Loading MLM Traps on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/inventory-loading-mlm-traps-on-instagram", "summary": "How Instagram-based MLM distributors use product lifestyle content and income posts to pressure downline members into purchasing more inventory than they can sell.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Chain Letter Money Schemes on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/chain-letter-money-schemes-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How WhatsApp-based chain letter money schemes spread rapidly through personal and community networks, using group forwarding to recruit new victims from trusted social circles.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Affiliate Network Pyramid Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-affiliate-network-pyramid-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How Instagram-promoted fake affiliate marketing programmes use income screenshot content and lifestyle posts to recruit followers into pyramid schemes disguised as digital business opportunities.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Subscription Trap Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/subscription-trap-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How scammers use text messages to enrol victims in unwanted recurring charges through fake prize claims, missed-delivery notices, and short-code billing fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Browser Coupon Extension Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-browser-coupon-extension-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How Facebook ads and posts are used to push malicious coupon extensions that steal credentials and inject fraudulent checkout pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Flash Sale Countdown Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-flash-sale-countdown-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "How TikTok videos and live streams use manufactured urgency through countdown timers and limited-stock warnings to push fraudulent purchases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wholesale Liquidation Scams via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-wholesale-liquidation-scams-via-whatsapp", "summary": "How WhatsApp groups and direct messages are used to pitch fraudulent wholesale or liquidation deals that result in lost payments and undelivered goods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pre-Order Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pre-order-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent pre-order confirmation emails collect upfront payments for products that will never be manufactured, shipped, or refunded.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Warranty Registration Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-warranty-registration-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How cold calls impersonate warranty registration services to extract payment card details and personal information under the guise of completing a product warranty.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Commerce Livestream Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-commerce-livestream-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How Instagram Live shopping sessions are used to sell counterfeit, misrepresented, or non-existent products to viewers who pay through DMs or external links.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace Counterfeit Luxury Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-counterfeit-luxury-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "How Instagram accounts sell counterfeit designer goods using aspirational content, influencer aesthetics, and DM-based sales that bypass buyer protections.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Product Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-product-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "How Facebook pages and sponsored posts sell merchandise under a charitable banner, keeping almost all proceeds while donating little or nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Instagram Boutique Scams Migrating to TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-instagram-boutique-on-tiktok", "summary": "How fraudulent boutique sellers who built credibility on Instagram now replicate the same tactics on TikTok to reach new victims through short-form video.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Concert Merch Store Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-concert-merch-store-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent artist merchandise stores use email campaigns to sell fake or non-existent concert merchandise to fans, timed around tour announcements.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Group Buy Social Commerce Scams via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/group-buy-social-commerce-scams-via-whatsapp", "summary": "How WhatsApp groups are used to organise fake group purchasing schemes that collect upfront payments from multiple participants before the organiser disappears.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Triangulation Fraud via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/triangulation-fraud-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails and fake order confirmations are used in triangulation fraud schemes where stolen card details fund legitimate purchases shipped to unknowing buyers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Shipping Fee Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-shipping-fee-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent pet sellers use email to request repeated shipping fees, insurance costs, and customs charges for pets that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Lost Pet Reward Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/lost-pet-reward-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How scammers text pet owners who have posted lost-pet notices to extract money under the pretence of having found or being able to return the animal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Exotic Pet Sale Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/exotic-pet-sale-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "How Instagram profiles post curated content of rare and exotic animals to attract buyers, collect deposits, and disappear without delivering any animal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Stud Service Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-stud-service-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudulent breeding service operators use email correspondence to collect deposits for stud services, then provide excuses, delay indefinitely, and disappear with the money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Veterinary Crowdfunding Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-veterinary-crowdfunding-scams-via-email", "summary": "How email campaigns solicit donations for fabricated pet medical emergencies, using compelling stories and fake invoices to extract charitable donations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Emotional Support Animal Registration Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-emotional-support-animal-registration-scams-via-email", "summary": "How email marketing promotes fraudulent ESA registration services that issue meaningless certificates, charge annual fees, and leave consumers without legitimate accommodation rights.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Microchip Registry Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-microchip-registry-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How cold callers claiming to represent official microchip registries charge pet owners renewal or transfer fees for services that have no official standing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Travel-to-Meet-You Scams via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-to-meet-you-scams-via-whatsapp", "summary": "How romance fraudsters migrate from dating apps to WhatsApp to request travel funds for meetings that will never take place.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance Recovery Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-recovery-scams-via-email", "summary": "How fraudsters target recent romance scam victims by email, posing as investigators, law firms, or recovery specialists who charge fees to retrieve lost funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Widow and Widower Romance Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/widow-widower-romance-scams-via-email", "summary": "How scammers use email to sustain long-running romantic relationships with recently bereaved individuals, building emotional dependency before making financial requests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Online Matchmaking Agency Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/online-matchmaking-agency-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How phone-based matchmaking services charge high upfront fees for premium introductions that are either fabricated profiles or matches who were never informed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Visa Sponsorship Romance Scams via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/visa-sponsorship-romance-scams-via-whatsapp", "summary": "How romance scammers use WhatsApp to sustain a relationship before requesting sponsorship funds, visa application fees, or immigration costs from overseas partners.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Psychic Romance Guidance Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/psychic-romance-guidance-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How telephone psychic lines exploit loneliness and romantic hopes to charge premium rates for romantic guidance, soulmate identification, and spell-casting services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Military Deployment Leave Fee Scam via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/military-deployment-leave-fee-scam-via-whatsapp", "summary": "How scammers posing as deployed military personnel use WhatsApp to request fees for leave passes, communications access, or equipment deposits before asking to meet.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Online Marriage Visa Fee Scam via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/online-marriage-visa-fee-scam-via-whatsapp", "summary": "How scammers maintain WhatsApp-based romantic relationships and request successive marriage visa fees that are never applied toward any genuine immigration process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medical Emergency Scams via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-medical-emergency-scams-via-whatsapp", "summary": "How WhatsApp contacts — impersonating romantic partners, family members, or stranded acquaintances — fabricate medical emergencies to solicit urgent fund transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hard-to-Cancel Subscription Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hard-to-cancel-subscription-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How SMS-based subscriptions enrolled through text messages are deliberately made impossible to cancel, cycling through looping cancellation processes that extend billing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Grey Charge Recurring Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/grey-charge-recurring-scams-via-email", "summary": "How confirmation and renewal emails obscure the true nature of recurring charges, using deceptive framing to maintain billing that consumers did not intend to authorise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Auto-Renewal Surprise Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/auto-renewal-surprise-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How text message notifications are used to give the appearance of renewal notice while ensuring most consumers cannot act in time to cancel before the charge is taken.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Unsubscribe Link Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-unsubscribe-link-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How phone-based cancellation lines claim to process unsubscribe requests while instead enrolling callers in new subscriptions or harvesting payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Membership Club Billing Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/membership-club-billing-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How cold callers enrol consumers in fictitious membership clubs or loyalty programmes with recurring billing, using verbal consent scripts that obscure the financial commitment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Malicious Browser Extension Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/malicious-browser-extension-scams-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails push malicious browser extensions under the guise of security updates, productivity tools, or essential plugin upgrades.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "MFA Push Bombing via Email Phishing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mfa-push-bombing-scams-via-email", "summary": "How email phishing campaigns are used to harvest credentials that then trigger MFA push bombardments, combining email and push-notification attacks to bypass two-factor authentication.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Data Removal Service Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-data-removal-service-via-phone", "summary": "How cold callers claim to have found your personal data on the dark web or data broker sites and charge for removal services they cannot or do not perform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Credential Stuffing Attacks Signalled via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/credential-stuffing-attacks-via-sms", "summary": "How SMS notifications — both legitimate and fraudulent — are exploited during credential stuffing campaigns to either assist attackers or misdirect victims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Banking Trojan Distribution via Fake Support Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/banking-trojan-infostealer-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How vishing calls impersonating banks or tech support trick victims into installing banking trojan software under the guise of resolving a fraudulent transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Malicious APK Sideload Scams via Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/malicious-apk-sideload-scams-via-telegram", "summary": "How Telegram groups and direct messages are used to distribute malicious Android APK files disguised as exclusive apps, games, or investment tools.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Adversary-in-the-Middle Session Theft via Vishing Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/adversary-in-the-middle-session-theft-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How vishing calls are used to extract session cookies or one-time codes that allow attackers to hijack authenticated web sessions without ever knowing the victim's password.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Data Breach Extortion Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/data-breach-extortion-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How text messages deliver sextortion, password extortion, or data exposure threats to mobile numbers, exploiting the personal nature of SMS to extract payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phone Upgrade Contract Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phone-upgrade-contract-scam-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails impersonating mobile carriers offer irresistible upgrade deals that harvest personal and payment details or enrol victims in fraudulent contracts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Lost Phone Insurance Claim Fraud via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/lost-phone-insurance-claim-fraud-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails impersonate phone insurance providers to harvest claim details, or how fraudulent claims are coached through email to extract false compensation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Telecom Cramming Charges via Email Sign-Ups", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/telecom-cramming-charges-scams-via-email", "summary": "How email-based sign-up flows and account portals are used to enrol consumers in third-party telecom add-ons that result in cramming charges on their phone bills.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "eSIM Swap Fraud Signalled via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/esim-swap-fraud-via-sms", "summary": "How SMS messages — both fraudulent phishing texts and legitimate carrier notifications — intersect with eSIM swap fraud, and what to do when you receive a SIM change notification.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "One-Ring Wangiri Scams Extended via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/one-ring-wangiri-callback-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How one-ring missed calls are increasingly supplemented with SMS follow-ups that increase callback rates by adding urgency or a plausible context for the missed call.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hotel Phishing Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hotel-phishing-via-sms", "summary": "How SMS messages impersonating hotels or booking platforms redirect travellers to fraudulent payment pages or request card details for 'pre-authorisation' charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Visa Services Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-visa-services-via-phone", "summary": "How phone-based visa consultants charge high fees for assistance that is either unnecessary, incomplete, or fraudulent, leaving applicants with rejected applications and lost money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Travel Insurance Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-insurance-via-phone", "summary": "How cold callers sell fraudulent travel insurance policies that have no real coverage, leaving travellers unprotected and out of pocket when they need to claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Ticket Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ticket-scams-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails and fraudulent ticket confirmation messages deliver fake event tickets, leaving buyers locked out of events and unable to recover their money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Travel Points and Miles Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-points-miles-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How cold callers impersonating loyalty programme representatives trick frequent travellers into paying fees to unlock, protect, or transfer reward points.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Passport Renewal Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-passport-renewal-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How callers impersonating passport agencies or official government renewal services charge processing fees and collect personal data for identity theft or worthless assistance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cruise Deal Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cruise-deal-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How cold callers offer exclusive cruise deals with high-pressure tactics that result in worthless bookings, hidden fees, or cabin categories dramatically different from what was described.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Travel Agency Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-agency-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How fraudulent travel agencies operate telephone booking services that collect full holiday payments for trips that are never arranged or that collapse before departure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Vacation Rental Host Scams on Booking Sites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vacation-rental-host-scams-on-booking-sites", "summary": "How fraudulent listings on mainstream booking platforms harvest guest payments for properties that do not exist or are not available to let.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Global Entry and TSA PreCheck Scams via Phone", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-global-entry-tsa-precheck-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How callers impersonating US Customs and Border Protection or TSA charge fees for Global Entry or PreCheck enrolment assistance that provides no genuine value or service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Lost Luggage Compensation Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-lost-luggage-compensation-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How callers impersonating airlines or compensation claims services charge fees to process lost luggage compensation claims that they do not file.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Car Rental Deposit Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-car-rental-deposit-scams-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails impersonating car rental companies generate fraudulent deposit requests or capture card details during the booking confirmation process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Event Travel Package Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-event-travel-package-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How callers sell sports, concert, or festival travel packages over the phone, collecting full payment for flights, hotels, and event tickets that are fraudulent or do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Holiday Club and Timeshare Presentation Scams via Phone", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/holiday-club-timeshare-presentation-scam-via-phone", "summary": "How phone calls offer free holidays or holiday club trials to lure consumers into high-pressure timeshare or holiday membership sales presentations.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airbnb Host Deposit Scams via WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airbnb-host-deposit-via-whatsapp", "summary": "How fraudulent hosts move Airbnb or vacation rental communication to WhatsApp to solicit additional deposits or off-platform payments outside of any buyer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Flight Upgrade Offer Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/flight-upgrade-offer-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How callers impersonating airlines offer upgrades or seat changes that never materialise, charging premium fees for nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Energy Broker Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-energy-broker-scams-via-email", "summary": "How email campaigns impersonating energy suppliers or brokers mislead businesses and households into switching to contracts with hidden terms, high exit fees, or no actual supply.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Utility Rebate Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-utility-rebate-scams-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails impersonating energy, water, or telecoms providers claim an overpayment is available, directing consumers to fraudulent refund pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Smart Meter Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/smart-meter-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How cold callers impersonating energy suppliers or government programmes charge fees for smart meter installations that are offered free of charge by law.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Green Grant Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/green-grant-scams-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails impersonating government energy efficiency schemes solicit application fees, surveys, or personal details under the guise of qualifying for insulation, heat pump, or renewable energy grants.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Broadband ISP Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-broadband-isp-scams-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails impersonating broadband providers mislead consumers into paying fraudulent bills, switching contracts under false pretences, or providing account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Boiler Cover Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-boiler-cover-scams-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails impersonating boiler cover providers collect renewal payments or policy details for cover that does not exist or will not pay out.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Meter Reading Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-meter-reading-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How cold callers impersonating energy suppliers collect meter readings, personal details, or payments under the pretence of a routine meter check or billing update.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tree Removal Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tree-removal-doorstep-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How cold callers impersonate council tree departments or arborist services to charge upfront fees for tree inspections or removal work that is never performed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Utility Disconnection Threat Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/utility-disconnection-threat-scam-via-sms", "summary": "How text messages impersonating energy, water, or telecoms providers threaten immediate service disconnection unless a payment is made within hours.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Solar and Green Energy Scheme Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-solar-green-energy-scheme-scam-via-phone", "summary": "How cold callers sell solar panel installations, heat pumps, or green energy investments under the pretence of government grants or exceptional returns that do not materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Insulation Grant Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-insulation-grant-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How cold callers impersonating government insulation grant schemes charge homeowners for surveys or deposits on insulation work that qualifies for free government funding.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Water Quality Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-water-quality-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How cold callers impersonating water authorities or health agencies claim local water supply problems and charge for filtration systems or water quality tests.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Juice Jacking Scam Awareness via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/juice-jacking-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How vishing calls warn of fake juice jacking incidents to harvest banking credentials or push victims to download fake security tools.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Wi-Fi Captive Portal Fraud Enabled by Phone Social Engineering", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-wifi-captive-portal-scams-via-phone", "summary": "How vishing calls impersonating hotel or venue IT support direct victims to connect to rogue Wi-Fi networks and accept malicious captive portal terms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-06-09" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Food & Supplement Store Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-food-supplement-store-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers use boosted Instagram ads and shoppable posts to sell counterfeit or nonexistent 'premium' pet food and supplements, then vanish after taking payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Food & Supplement Store Scam via Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-food-supplement-store-scam-via-credit-card", "summary": "Fake pet supplement and food storefronts are built to accept only credit cards, using hidden subscription traps and processor tricks to keep charging victims after the first sale.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pet Cloning Service Scam on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pet-cloning-service-scam-on-tiktok", "summary": "Viral TikTok videos promise to clone a deceased or aging pet, collecting a deposit for a DNA preservation kit and a cloning package that is never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pet Cloning Service Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pet-cloning-service-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fake pet cloning operations push grieving owners toward international wire transfers for 'preservation' and 'processing' fees, a payment method that is nearly impossible to reverse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Lost Pet Recovery Service Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-lost-pet-recovery-service-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers monitor local Facebook lost-and-found pet groups and pose as professional pet trackers or finders who claim they've spotted or captured the animal, demanding payment before 'releasing' it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Lost Pet Recovery Service Scam via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-lost-pet-recovery-service-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "Fake pet finders push distressed owners to send 'finder's fees' or 'transport costs' through Zelle, exploiting its instant, largely irreversible transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Dog Training Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-service-dog-training-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers use polished Instagram pages showing 'trained' service dogs to sell overpriced, incomplete, or entirely fictional training programs and certification packages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Service Dog Training Scam via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-service-dog-training-scam-via-venmo", "summary": "Fake service dog trainers request Venmo payments framed as informal deposits between individuals, sidestepping any business-level purchase protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Horse & Livestock Sale Deposit Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/horse-livestock-sale-deposit-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Fraudulent listings for horses, cattle, and other livestock on Facebook Marketplace collect a 'hold' deposit for an animal that doesn't exist or was never for sale by the lister.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Horse & Livestock Sale Deposit Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/horse-livestock-sale-deposit-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Livestock sale scammers insist on wire transfers for deposits, exploiting the fact that agricultural sales often legitimately involve larger sums moved by wire, which makes the request feel normal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Rehoming & Transport Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-rehoming-transport-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers post free or low-cost 'rehoming' pet ads on Facebook and then charge escalating transport, crate, or health certificate fees for an animal that is never actually shipped.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Rehoming & Transport Scam via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-rehoming-transport-scam-via-cash-app", "summary": "Pet rehoming and transport scammers request Cash App payments for fees and 'transport costs,' relying on its instant, hard-to-reverse transfers to lock in each new charge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pet Sitting & Boarding Prepayment Scam Impersonating the Rover Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pet-sitting-boarding-prepayment-scam-rover-brand", "summary": "Scammers impersonate the Rover pet-sitting brand or its sitters, directing owners to pay boarding or sitting fees outside the platform where none of its protections apply.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pet Sitting & Boarding Prepayment Scam via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pet-sitting-boarding-prepayment-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "Fake or no-show pet sitters ask owners to prepay boarding or sitting fees through Zelle, an instant transfer method with no purchase protection if the sitter never shows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Refugee Resettlement Fee Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-refugee-resettlement-fee-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "Scammers pose as resettlement agency staff or federal officials demanding fees from refugees and asylum seekers in the US to 'process' or 'expedite' resettlement paperwork that is actually free.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Court Interpreter Certification Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-court-interpreter-certification-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers use Facebook groups and ads targeting bilingual professionals and immigrant communities to sell bogus 'court certified interpreter' credentials that courts do not recognize.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Power of Attorney Document Scam via Wire Transfer and Notary Fees", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-power-of-attorney-document-scam-via-notary-fee", "summary": "Scammers draft fraudulent power of attorney documents for elderly or vulnerable victims and collect 'notary,' 'filing,' or 'legal processing' fees by wire transfer, gaining control of the victim's finances or property.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Inheritance Probate Lawyer Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-inheritance-probate-lawyer-scam-via-email", "summary": "Scammers email targets claiming to be a probate attorney handling the estate of a distant or unknown relative, requesting fees to release a fabricated inheritance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DNA Immigration Test Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dna-immigration-test-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers advertise DNA testing kits on Facebook claiming results will prove family relationships needed for immigration or family reunification petitions, but the tests are unaccredited or the results are never usable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Streaming Service Renewal Phishing Scam via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/streaming-service-renewal-phishing-scam-via-sms", "summary": "Fraudulent text messages claim your streaming subscription has failed to renew or been suspended, directing you to a fake login page that steals your account and payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Subscription Refund Callback Scam via Remote Access and Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-subscription-refund-callback-scam-via-phone-call", "summary": "Scammers call claiming a subscription refund was issued in error, then use remote-access software and manipulated bank screens to trick victims into 'returning' far more money than any refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gym Membership Cancellation Scam via Phone Call", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gym-membership-cancellation-scam-via-phone-call", "summary": "Callers posing as gym billing or retention staff offer to 'process' a membership cancellation for a fee, or use the call to harvest payment details under the guise of confirming an account closure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Meal Kit Box Subscription Trap Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/meal-kit-box-subscription-trap-scam-via-instagram", "summary": "Instagram ads offer a heavily discounted 'free trial' meal kit box that quietly enrolls buyers into an expensive recurring subscription that is deliberately difficult to cancel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Loyalty Rewards Renewal Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-loyalty-rewards-renewal-scam-via-email", "summary": "Emails impersonating airline, hotel, or retail loyalty programs claim reward points are expiring or a paid membership tier needs renewal, directing victims to a phishing page that steals login and payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Subscription Bundle Hidden Fee Scam via Credit Card Billing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/subscription-bundle-hidden-fee-scam-via-credit-card", "summary": "Bundled subscription offers combine several services into one checkout, quietly attaching add-on fees and recurring charges to a credit card that are never clearly disclosed at the point of sale.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cloud Storage Billing Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cloud-storage-billing-scam-via-email", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonate major cloud storage providers, warning that storage is full or a payment failed, to trick victims into entering card details or login credentials on a fake billing page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Charity Recurring Donation Trap Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/charity-recurring-donation-trap-scam-via-facebook", "summary": "Facebook fundraiser posts and ads solicit a one-time emotional donation but quietly enroll donors into a recurring monthly charge to an unregistered or fake charity that is difficult to cancel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Domain Hosting Renewal Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-domain-hosting-renewal-scam-via-email", "summary": "Scammers email website and domain owners official-looking renewal notices for domains or hosting they don't actually manage, at inflated prices, hoping owners renew through the scammer instead of their real registrar.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Dating App Premium Auto-Renew Scam via App Store Billing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dating-app-premium-auto-renew-scam-via-app-store-billing", "summary": "Dating apps use app store in-app purchase systems to enroll users in premium tiers with auto-renewal terms buried in fine print, then make cancellation deliberately confusing across two separate settings menus.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Health and Wellness Supplement MLM Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/health-wellness-supplement-mlm-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram influencer-style posts recruit followers into supplement multi-level marketing schemes using exaggerated health transformation claims and pressure to buy inventory and recruit downlines.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Essential Oils MLM Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/essential-oils-mlm-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook groups and personal pages recruit members into essential oil multi-level marketing under the guise of wellness communities, encouraging inventory purchases and downline recruitment over genuine retail sales.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Beauty and Cosmetics MLM Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/beauty-cosmetics-mlm-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram beauty influencer accounts recruit followers into cosmetics MLM opportunities by mixing genuine-looking makeup content with 'boss babe' business pitches and inventory-heavy starter kits.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Real Estate Investment Club Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-real-estate-investment-club-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook groups branded as real estate investment 'clubs' recruit members into paying for coaching, mentorship tiers, and recruitment bonuses rather than any genuine property investment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "NFT and Web3 Referral Pyramid Scam on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/nft-web3-referral-pyramid-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Discord servers built around an NFT or Web3 project use tiered referral bonuses and mandatory buy-ins to create a pyramid structure disguised as community-driven token or NFT growth.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Passport Identity Cloning Scam on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/passport-identity-cloning-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "Criminals use Telegram's encrypted channels and bots to trade cloned passport scans, synthetic identity kits, and document-editing services built from stolen photos.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Passport Identity Cloning Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/passport-identity-cloning-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Cryptocurrency is the near-universal settlement method for cloned passport and identity-document sales because it is fast, cross-border, and hard to reverse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Based Identity Verification Bypass Scam on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-based-identity-verification-bypass-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "After hijacking a phone number through a SIM swap, criminals immediately re-register the number on WhatsApp to hijack the victim's account, contacts, and linked verification codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "SIM-Based Identity Verification Bypass Scam Impersonating Mobile Carrier Support", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sim-based-identity-verification-bypass-scam-mobile-carrier-brand", "summary": "Scammers pose as mobile carrier support staff to trick victims into approving a SIM swap themselves, or to social-engineer store employees into approving a fraudulent port.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Identity Monitoring Service Scam via Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-identity-monitoring-service-scam-via-credit-card", "summary": "Fraudulent identity-monitoring services lure victims into a recurring credit card subscription that delivers little or no real monitoring while harvesting the very personal data it claims to protect.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Identity Monitoring Service Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-identity-monitoring-service-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Fake identity-monitoring companies buy Facebook ad space with alarming 'your data was leaked' messaging to drive signups for a subscription that delivers little real protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Loan Stacking Identity Fraud Scam on Online Lending Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/loan-stacking-identity-fraud-scam-on-online-lending-apps", "summary": "Fraudsters use stolen identities to apply for multiple instant online loans within hours, across many different lending apps at once, before any single lender's fraud checks catch up.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Application Identity Theft Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-application-identity-theft-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Fake landlords on Facebook Marketplace collect full rental applications, including Social Security numbers and pay stubs, from multiple applicants for a property they don't own or that doesn't exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rental Application Identity Theft Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rental-application-identity-theft-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "After harvesting a renter's identity through a fake application, scammers also push for a wired deposit or first month's rent, doubling the loss beyond the stolen data itself.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Benefits and Unemployment Identity Fraud Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/benefits-unemployment-identity-fraud-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "Fraudsters use stolen Social Security numbers to file unemployment claims in states where the victim never lived or worked, exploiting decentralized, state-run benefits systems.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Benefits and Unemployment Identity Fraud Scam via Prepaid Debit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/benefits-unemployment-identity-fraud-scam-via-prepaid-debit-card", "summary": "Fraudulent unemployment claims often direct payouts to a prepaid debit card the scammer controls, since many benefits agencies default to card disbursement and cards are easier to cash out anonymously than bank transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Biometric Face and Voice Spoofing Fraud Scam on Video Conferencing Platforms", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/biometric-face-voice-spoofing-fraud-scam-on-video-conferencing", "summary": "Criminals use AI-generated deepfake video and voice cloning on video calls to impersonate executives, colleagues, or family members and authorize fraudulent transfers or disclosures.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Biometric Face and Voice Spoofing Fraud Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/biometric-face-voice-spoofing-fraud-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "The end goal of most deepfake biometric spoofing schemes is an urgent, one-time wire transfer, chosen because wires are fast, cross-border, and virtually impossible to reverse once sent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Background Check Service Scam on Facebook Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-background-check-service-scam-on-facebook-ads", "summary": "Facebook ads promising instant, cheap background checks lure people searching for a landlord, date, or babysitter check into paying for a report that is fabricated, generic, or never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Meta Business Suite Alert Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-meta-business-suite-alert-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers send fake Meta Business Suite policy violation alerts to Facebook Page admins, pushing them to a phishing page that steals login credentials and hijacks the business account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "LinkedIn Recruiter Phishing Scam on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/linkedin-recruiter-phishing-scam-on-linkedin", "summary": "Fake recruiters build convincing LinkedIn profiles to message job seekers directly, moving the conversation off-platform to phish credentials or personal data under the guise of a hiring process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "LinkedIn Recruiter Phishing Scam via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/linkedin-recruiter-phishing-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "After a fake LinkedIn recruiter 'hires' a target, they often ask the new hire to purchase gift cards to cover onboarding costs or software licenses, a request no real employer would ever make.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "TikTok Creator Fund Phishing Scam on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tiktok-creator-fund-phishing-scam-on-tiktok", "summary": "Scammers impersonate TikTok's Creator Fund team, messaging creators about 'unclaimed earnings' or 'fund upgrades' to phish login credentials and payout account details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "YouTube Channel Strike Phishing Scam on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/youtube-channel-strike-phishing-scam-on-youtube", "summary": "Scammers send fake copyright or community guideline strike notices to YouTube creators, using the fear of losing a channel to phish login credentials or extort a payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apartment Tour & Application Fee Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apartment-tour-application-fee-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Scammers post attractive rental listings on Facebook Marketplace, then collect 'application' or 'tour scheduling' fees for units they don't own or that don't exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Apartment Tour & Application Fee Scam via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-apartment-tour-application-fee-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "Fake landlords steer rental applicants toward Zelle for application and tour-scheduling fees because the transfers are instant and essentially irreversible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vacation Rental Booking Scam Impersonating the Airbnb Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vacation-rental-booking-scam-airbnb-brand", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Airbnb's look, emails, and support chat to convince travelers to pay for bookings or 'verification' outside the real platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vacation Rental Booking Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vacation-rental-booking-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Fraudsters list vacation properties on Facebook Marketplace and vacation-rental groups, collecting deposits for beach houses or cabins that aren't theirs to rent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Mortgage Preapproval Lender Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-mortgage-preapproval-lender-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent 'lenders' issue quick preapproval letters, then request an upfront wire transfer for fees, points, or an 'insurance deposit' before any real loan exists.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Mortgage Preapproval Lender Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-mortgage-preapproval-lender-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "In the competitive US housing market, fake lenders exploit buyer urgency and confusion around NMLS licensing to sell worthless preapproval letters and collect upfront fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Property Management Fee Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/property-management-fee-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Scammers pose as third-party property managers on Facebook Marketplace, collecting move-in fees or deposits for units they don't actually manage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Property Management Fee Scam via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/property-management-fee-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "Fake property managers request move-in fees and deposits through Zelle specifically because the transfers are instant and offer renters no dispute path.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Home Inspection & Appraisal Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-home-inspection-appraisal-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Scammers posing as inspectors or appraisers request wire transfers for services never performed, often timed around real estate closings when wiring money feels routine.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Squatter Fake Lease Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/squatter-fake-lease-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Scammers list vacant or empty-looking homes on Facebook Marketplace, produce a forged lease, and use it to move in as a squatter or to defraud a renter.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Squatter Fake Lease Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/squatter-fake-lease-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "In the US, forged leases are used to exploit slow, state-specific eviction procedures, turning a fraudulent tenancy claim into a months-long legal battle for property owners.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Business Verification Scam Impersonating the Google Business Profile Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-business-verification-scam-google-business-profile-brand", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Google Business Profile's official verification and support communications to trick owners into paying fees or handing over account access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Google Business Verification Scam via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-google-business-verification-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Scammers cold-call business owners claiming to be from Google, using urgency about listing suspension to extract verification codes or payment over the phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Merchant Payment Processor Scam via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/merchant-payment-processor-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Cold callers posing as payment processing representatives pressure small business owners into switching processors or paying fees based on fabricated rate comparisons.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Merchant Payment Processor Scam via ACH Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/merchant-payment-processor-scam-via-ach-transfer", "summary": "Scammers posing as payment processors obtain business bank account and routing numbers, then initiate unauthorized ACH withdrawals framed as fees or equipment charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Business Loan & Grant Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-business-loan-grant-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and groups promise guaranteed small business loans or 'free' government grants, then charge upfront fees for financing that never materializes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Business Loan & Grant Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-business-loan-grant-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent lenders demand wire transfers for 'insurance,' 'collateral,' or 'tax' fees before releasing a promised business loan or grant that never exists.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Directory Listing Subscription Scam via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/directory-listing-subscription-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Cold callers convince business owners to 'confirm' or 'renew' a business directory listing, quietly enrolling them in an expensive recurring subscription.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Directory Listing Subscription Scam via Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/directory-listing-subscription-scam-via-credit-card", "summary": "Directory scammers rely on recurring credit card charges that continue quietly for months because small monthly fees often go unnoticed on business statements.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Registration & Compliance Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-registration-compliance-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "Scammers exploit US business owners' unfamiliarity with EIN registration, state annual reports, and IRS correspondence to charge fake compliance fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Business Overpayment Refund Scam via Cashier's Check", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/business-overpayment-refund-scam-via-cashiers-check", "summary": "A 'customer' sends a small business a cashier's check for more than the agreed amount, then asks for the difference back before the bank discovers the check is fake.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cell Tower Lease Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cell-tower-lease-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Scammers use Facebook Marketplace and local buy-sell groups to pose as telecom site-acquisition agents offering to lease rural or roadside land for a cell tower that will never be built.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cell Tower Lease Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cell-tower-lease-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent tower-lease brokers ask landowners to wire an upfront 'application' or 'survey' fee, then disappear with the money once the transfer clears.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Number Neighbor Spoofing Scam via Robocalls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/number-neighbor-spoofing-scam-on-robocalls", "summary": "Automated dialing systems spoof caller ID to show a number that shares your area code and first three digits, exploiting the instinct to answer calls that look local.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Number Neighbor Spoofing Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/number-neighbor-spoofing-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "US phone numbers' predictable area-code-plus-prefix structure makes neighbor spoofing especially effective at getting recipients to answer unknown calls.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Do Not Call Registry Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-do-not-call-registry-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "Scammers impersonate the US National Do Not Call Registry, calling consumers to charge a fake 'registration fee' or threaten fines for a free government service.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Do Not Call Registry Scam via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-do-not-call-registry-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Scammers impersonating the Do Not Call Registry pressure victims into buying gift cards to pay a fake registration fee or avoid a fabricated non-compliance fine.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rigged Online Casino Scam on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rigged-online-casino-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels promote unlicensed online casinos with manipulated game outcomes, using fake win screenshots and paid group admins to lure depositing players.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rigged Online Casino Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rigged-online-casino-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Unlicensed crypto casinos accept irreversible cryptocurrency deposits, then manipulate odds or freeze withdrawals once a player's balance grows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Sports Betting Site Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-sports-betting-site-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and fan-page posts promote fake sports betting sites with inflated odds and welcome bonuses, luring bettors into depositing on unlicensed platforms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Sports Betting Site Scam via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-sports-betting-site-scam-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fake betting sites push bettors toward direct bank transfers instead of card payments, avoiding chargeback protections while collecting deposits into accounts that quickly disappear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Betting Tipster Guaranteed Wins Scam on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/betting-tipster-guaranteed-wins-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "Paid Telegram tipster channels promise 'guaranteed' or 'VIP' betting tips with fabricated track records, charging subscription fees for picks that perform no better than chance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Matched Betting Course Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/matched-betting-course-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram influencers sell overpriced 'matched betting' courses promising risk-free profit from bookmaker bonuses, often reselling free public information or oversimplifying real risks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fixed Match Tip Scam on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fixed-match-tip-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers use WhatsApp groups to sell supposedly 'fixed' sports match outcomes, collecting payment for insider information that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Casino Bonus Clawback Scam via E-wallet", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/casino-bonus-clawback-scam-via-e-wallet", "summary": "Online casinos process winnings into e-wallets, then invoke obscure bonus terms to reverse or seize the balance right before a player can withdraw to their bank.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Casino Rug Pull Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-casino-rug-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "New crypto casinos collect deposits in a native or partner token, build up a deposit pool, then vanish with the funds in a coordinated rug pull.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crypto Casino Rug Pull Scam on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crypto-casino-rug-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Discord servers built around a new crypto casino use fake hype, giveaways, and role-based trust signals to drive deposits before the operators vanish.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fantasy Sports Entry Fee Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fantasy-sports-entry-fee-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook groups and ads promote unofficial fantasy sports leagues with cash entry fees and inflated prize pools, then vanish once entries have been collected.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Betting Arbitrage Software Scam on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/betting-arbitrage-software-scam-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube ads and 'case study' videos promote betting arbitrage software claiming automated, risk-free profit, charging for tools that underperform or don't work as advertised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Obituary and Death Notice Phishing Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/obituary-death-notice-phishing-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers monitor Facebook condolence posts and shared obituaries to identify grieving families, then send phishing messages posing as funeral homes, charities, or 'memorial page' verification services.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Grief Medium and Psychic Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/grief-medium-psychic-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Fraudulent 'mediums' use Instagram ads and DMs targeting recently bereaved users with promises of messages from deceased loved ones, escalating to paid readings and ongoing subscription charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Grief Medium and Psychic Scam Paid via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/grief-medium-psychic-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "Fraudulent mediums push grieving clients toward Zelle for reading fees and 'spiritual clearing' payments because it settles instantly with no buyer protection or chargeback option.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deceased Debt Collection Scam Paid via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deceased-debt-collection-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "Fake debt collectors contact grieving relatives claiming the deceased owed money and pressure them to 'settle the estate debt' immediately using Zelle, which offers no chargeback once sent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Memorial Crowdfunding Scam Impersonating the GoFundMe Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/memorial-crowdfunding-scam-gofundme-brand", "summary": "Scammers create fraudulent fundraisers that mimic the look of GoFundMe or clone its branding entirely on lookalike sites, soliciting donations for a funeral that either doesn't exist or that they have no connection to.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Memorial Crowdfunding Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/memorial-crowdfunding-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers share fabricated or hijacked memorial fundraiser links across Facebook groups and pages, relying on the platform's rapid sharing to outrun any fact-checking before donations start rolling in.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tombstone and Headstone Deposit Scam Paid via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tombstone-headstone-deposit-scam-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fake monument dealers collect a large upfront bank transfer deposit for a custom headstone that is never engraved or delivered, then disappear or stop responding once payment clears.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Repatriation and Body Transport Scam Targeting Families in Thailand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/repatriation-body-transport-scam-in-thailand", "summary": "Scammers exploit the confusion families face when a relative dies while traveling or living in Thailand, posing as repatriation agents or embassy-linked fixers who demand large upfront fees to 'release' and fly the body home.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Repatriation and Body Transport Scam Paid via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/repatriation-body-transport-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Scammers demand international wire transfers to 'release' or fly home a deceased relative's remains, exploiting the payment method's speed and irreversibility across borders.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Estate Account Unlock Fee Scam Paid via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/estate-account-unlock-fee-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Scammers posing as bank or estate administration staff claim a deceased relative's frozen account can only be 'unlocked' after a wire transfer fee is paid, a step no legitimate bank ever requires.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "In-Memory Charity Donation Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/in-memory-charity-donation-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers create fake 'in memory of' charity fundraiser posts on Facebook, using a real death notice as the emotional hook while routing donations to accounts unconnected to any actual charity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "In-Memory Charity Donation Scam Impersonating the Red Cross Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/in-memory-charity-donation-scam-red-cross-brand", "summary": "Scammers name a widely trusted organization like the Red Cross as the requested memorial charity, then route donations through an unaffiliated link that has nothing to do with the real organization.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Next of Kin Banking Inheritance Scam Targeting the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/next-of-kin-banking-inheritance-scam-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "Scammers contact UK residents claiming to represent a bank or solicitor handling a deceased relative's dormant account or unclaimed estate, demanding fees before releasing supposed inheritance funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Next of Kin Banking Inheritance Scam Paid via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/next-of-kin-banking-inheritance-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Scammers demand international wire transfers to release a fabricated inheritance from a distant or unknown relative, using the payment method's cross-border speed to collect fees before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Probate Advance Loan Scam Paid via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/probate-advance-loan-scam-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent lenders offer heirs a fast cash advance against a pending inheritance, then demand upfront bank transfer fees or extract hidden repayment terms far worse than the estate's actual value.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Carer Allowance Application Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/carer-allowance-application-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook groups for carers and disability support are targeted with posts and ads offering to 'fast-track' carer allowance applications for an upfront fee, often taking payment and personal data without ever filing anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Winter Fuel Payment Scam via SMS Links", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/winter-fuel-payment-scam-via-sms", "summary": "Text messages claiming a winter fuel payment is 'pending' or requires 'confirmation' direct recipients to a fake portal that harvests banking details under the pretense of releasing the payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Stimulus Relief Payment Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/stimulus-relief-payment-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook posts and ads announce 'new' stimulus or relief payments and direct users to fake claim forms designed to steal personal and banking information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Benefit Reactivation SMS Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/benefit-reactivation-sms-scam-on-sms", "summary": "Text messages warn that a recipient's benefits have been 'suspended' or 'deactivated' and must be reactivated by clicking a link and entering personal or banking details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Council Tax Refund Phishing Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/council-tax-refund-phishing-scam-via-email", "summary": "Emails claiming a council tax overpayment refund is due direct recipients to a fake council portal that captures banking details rather than issuing any refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prosperity Gospel Seed Money Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prosperity-gospel-seed-money-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook pages and livestreams run by self-styled preachers urge followers to send 'seed money' offerings, promising that God will multiply the gift into financial breakthroughs — money that instead funds the operator's lifestyle.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tithing Donation Portal Scam via Payment Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tithing-donation-portal-scam-via-payment-apps", "summary": "Fraudulent donation portals mimicking a church's real online giving page route tithes to peer-to-peer payment app accounts controlled by scammers instead of the congregation's actual bank account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Missionary Support Fraud Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/missionary-support-fraud-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Fake missionary profiles and pages on Facebook solicit ongoing financial support for overseas ministry work that does not exist, using stolen photos and fabricated updates to sustain the deception.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pilgrimage Travel Package Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pilgrimage-travel-package-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and group posts advertise discounted pilgrimage travel packages to religious sites that are never delivered, taking deposits or full payment before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Church Building Fund Scam via Crowdfunding Sites", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/church-building-fund-scam-via-crowdfunding-sites", "summary": "Fake or exaggerated church building or renovation campaigns on crowdfunding platforms collect donations for construction projects that are never completed — or never begun.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Faith Healing Donation Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/faith-healing-donation-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook livestreams and pages run by self-proclaimed healers solicit donations in exchange for remote prayer or 'healing' for viewers' medical conditions, exploiting desperation around illness.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Clergy Emergency Gift Card Scam via Text Message", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/clergy-emergency-gift-card-scam-via-text-message", "summary": "Scammers impersonate a pastor or priest by text message, claiming an urgent personal emergency and asking a congregant to urgently buy gift cards on their behalf, then send the codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Religious Affinity Investment Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/religious-affinity-investment-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudsters use shared faith identity in Facebook groups to promote investment schemes marketed as 'faith-based' or 'Christian' opportunities, exploiting trust within the religious community to bypass normal skepticism.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Zakat Collection Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-zakat-collection-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Fraudulent pages and profiles solicit Zakat donations on Facebook during Ramadan and other giving periods, claiming to distribute funds to the needy while diverting the money to personal accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Blessing Money Swap Scam via In-Person Cash Exchange", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/blessing-money-swap-scam-via-cash-in-person", "summary": "A con artist approaches a target in person claiming a religious ritual requires swapping 'blessed' money for the victim's real savings, then switches the bag or envelope to walk away with the cash.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Holy Relic Sale Scam on Online Marketplaces", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/holy-relic-sale-scam-on-online-marketplaces", "summary": "Sellers on online marketplaces list fabricated or mundane objects as authentic holy relics — pieces of scripture, saints' artifacts, or blessed items — charging high prices for items with no genuine provenance.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Televangelist Donation Phishing Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/televangelist-donation-phishing-scam-via-email", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating well-known televangelist ministries ask viewers to 'update' donation payment details or claim a special prayer request requires an urgent gift, harvesting card details instead.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Religious Scholarship Fee Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/religious-scholarship-fee-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook posts and pages advertise scholarships for religious education or seminary study that require an upfront 'processing' or 'registration' fee before any funds are supposedly released — funds that never arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake VIP Meet-and-Greet Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vip-meet-greet-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers use Instagram DMs and comment sections around tour announcements to sell VIP meet-and-greet packages that were never allocated to them and do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake VIP Meet-and-Greet Scam via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-vip-meet-greet-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "Sellers of fake VIP meet-and-greet packages often insist on Zelle because the transfer is instant, hard to reverse, and carries no purchase-protection guarantee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sporting Event Ticket Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sporting-event-ticket-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Facebook Marketplace's local, informal listing format makes it a favorite spot for sellers to list sporting event tickets they don't have, or the same ticket to multiple buyers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sporting Event Ticket Scam via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sporting-event-ticket-scam-via-venmo", "summary": "Ticket scammers ask buyers to pay by Venmo's 'friends and family' option specifically because it strips away the purchase protection that Venmo's goods-and-services option would provide.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Ticket Transfer Scam via SMS Text Messages", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/qr-code-ticket-transfer-scam-on-sms", "summary": "Scammers send text messages with a QR code or transfer link claiming to hand over a purchased ticket, but the code is fake, expired, or leads to a credential-harvesting page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "QR Code Ticket Transfer Scam Impersonating the Ticketmaster Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/qr-code-ticket-transfer-scam-ticketmaster-brand", "summary": "Scammers spoof Ticketmaster's real transfer emails and app design to trick buyers into scanning fake QR codes or logging into cloned pages, impersonating the well-known brand to look legitimate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fan-to-Fan Resale Fraud Scam on Craigslist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fan-to-fan-resale-fraud-scam-on-craigslist", "summary": "Craigslist's anonymous, no-account-needed listing format makes it a common ground for fan-to-fan ticket resale posts where the seller collects payment and disappears without ever transferring a real ticket.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Ticket Marketplace Scam on Google Search Results", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ticket-marketplace-scam-on-google-search", "summary": "Fraudulent ticket resale websites buy paid search ads and optimize for common event-name searches so they rank above or alongside legitimate marketplaces, tricking buyers who assume a top search result must be trustworthy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Ticket Marketplace Scam Impersonating the StubHub Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ticket-marketplace-scam-stubhub-brand", "summary": "Fraudulent sites copy StubHub's logo, layout, and buyer-guarantee language to look like the real resale marketplace, impersonating the well-known brand to sell tickets that don't exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Season Ticket Transfer Scam on Facebook Groups", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/season-ticket-transfer-scam-on-facebook-groups", "summary": "Team and stadium fan Facebook Groups are a common venue for season-ticket-holder scams, where a poster claims to be transferring unused seats but disappears once payment is sent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Theatre Show Ticket Scam in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/theatre-show-ticket-scam-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "West End and touring UK theatre tickets are a frequent target for resale fraud, with fake sellers exploiting popular sold-out shows and international tourists unfamiliar with the local ticketing landscape.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Gala Ticket Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-gala-ticket-scam-on-email", "summary": "Scammers send email invitations for charity galas that borrow the name and cause of a real or plausible-sounding organization, selling tickets to an event that either doesn't exist or never sees a cent go to charity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Conference Registration Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/conference-registration-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fake conference organizers request registration fees by wire transfer specifically because it's difficult to reverse and doesn't require the kind of verifiable business account a real event would typically hold.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Theme Park Discount Ticket Scam on Facebook Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/theme-park-discount-ticket-scam-on-facebook-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent theme park ticket sellers run paid Facebook ads offering steep discounts on admission, collecting payment for passes that are invalid, duplicated, or simply never delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Wristband Upgrade Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wristband-upgrade-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Around festivals and multi-day events, scammers use Instagram DMs and event hashtags to sell fake wristband upgrades — VIP access, extra-day passes, or backstage areas — that don't correspond to any real allocation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Last-Minute Ticket Pressure Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/last-minute-ticket-pressure-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Scammers list 'day-of' or last-minute tickets on Facebook Marketplace and deliberately compress the buying window so victims skip normal verification steps out of fear of missing the event entirely.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Agency Content Recruitment Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-agency-content-recruitment-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers pose as talent or modeling agencies in Instagram DMs, offering creators fake representation deals that lead to upfront fees or stolen content instead of real work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Agency Content Recruitment Scam on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-agency-content-recruitment-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "After an initial contact elsewhere, scammers herd creators into Telegram groups run by fake agencies, where the lack of identity verification lets them run the same recruitment script on dozens of targets at once.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Creator Chargeback Blackmail Scam on OnlyFans", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/creator-chargeback-blackmail-scam-on-onlyfans", "summary": "A buyer purchases content on OnlyFans, then threatens the creator with a fraudulent chargeback dispute unless given a refund or extra free content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Creator Chargeback Blackmail Scam via Credit Card Chargebacks", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/creator-chargeback-blackmail-scam-via-credit-card-chargebacks", "summary": "Scammers weaponize the credit card dispute system itself, using the 60-to-120-day chargeback window as a threat to extort content creators after a purchase.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tip Menu Overpayment Scam via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tip-menu-overpayment-scam-via-cash-app", "summary": "A buyer sends a faked or reversible Cash App payment that looks larger than the tip menu price, then asks the creator to refund the 'overpayment' before the original payment fails or is reversed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Tip Menu Overpayment Scam on OnlyFans", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/tip-menu-overpayment-scam-on-onlyfans", "summary": "A buyer claims to have overpaid a creator's tip menu using an external payment app, then pressures the creator to send back the difference before OnlyFans's payout delay lets them verify anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Brand Sponsorship Creator Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-brand-sponsorship-creator-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "A DM from a supposed brand offers a creator a paid sponsorship deal, then asks for a small upfront fee for 'shipping' or 'contract processing' before vanishing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Impersonated Creator Account Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/impersonated-creator-account-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "A cloned Instagram account using a creator's stolen photos follows their real fans and offers fake 'exclusive' content or discounted subscriptions to collect payment for nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Impersonated Creator Account Scam Using the OnlyFans Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/impersonated-creator-account-scam-onlyfans-brand", "summary": "Scammers build fake sites or checkout pages that copy OnlyFans's own branding, tricking fans into entering payment details on a phishing page disguised as the platform itself, not just as a single creator.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Verification Payout Hold Scam on OnlyFans", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-verification-payout-hold-scam-on-onlyfans", "summary": "A message posing as OnlyFans support claims a creator's payout is on hold pending a 'verification fee' or ID re-upload through a phishing link, mimicking the platform's real onboarding checks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Verification Payout Hold Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-verification-payout-hold-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "A fee to 'unlock' a supposedly held creator payout is demanded via wire transfer, exploiting the irreversibility of wires and fake bank details presented as the platform's payment processor.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Adult Webcam Studio Recruitment Scam in the Philippines", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/adult-webcam-studio-recruitment-scam-in-philippines", "summary": "Recruitment ads targeting jobseekers in the Philippines promise webcam modeling income, but some in-person 'studios' confiscate documents and trap workers in manufactured debt.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Adult Webcam Studio Recruitment Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/adult-webcam-studio-recruitment-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Fake modeling agency pages and groups on Facebook recruit jobseekers with staged success stories and stolen photos, funneling them toward in-person studios with exploitative terms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Hacked Webcam Bluff Scam via Bitcoin", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hacked-webcam-bluff-scam-via-bitcoin", "summary": "A sextortion email demands Bitcoin payment to a specific wallet, using an old leaked password as fake proof of a webcam hack that never actually happened.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Gadget & Device Insurance Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-gadget-device-insurance-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers run Instagram ads and DM pitches for phone, laptop, and gadget insurance plans that collect a premium then vanish, leaving buyers with no real cover when a device breaks or is stolen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Gadget Insurance Scam Impersonating the AppleCare Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-gadget-device-insurance-scam-warranty-brand", "summary": "Fraudulent sellers copy the look and language of AppleCare and similar manufacturer warranty programs to sell fake extended coverage that pays out nothing when a device is damaged or lost.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Insurance Reinstatement Fee Scam Paid via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/insurance-reinstatement-fee-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Callers claiming a lapsed insurance policy can be reinstated pressure victims into paying an urgent 'reinstatement fee' with retail gift cards, a payment method no legitimate insurer ever accepts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Insurance Reinstatement Fee Scam via SMS Text Messages", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/insurance-reinstatement-fee-scam-on-sms-text-messages", "summary": "Text messages warning that an insurance policy has lapsed push recipients toward a phishing link or callback number to pay a fake reinstatement fee before coverage is supposedly canceled.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medicare Supplement Plan Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-medicare-supplement-plan-scam-in-the-united-states", "summary": "During Medicare enrollment periods, scammers across the United States pitch fake Medigap or supplement plans by phone, mail, and door-to-door visits, collecting premiums for coverage that doesn't exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medicare Supplement Plan Scam via Direct Debit", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-medicare-supplement-plan-scam-via-direct-debit", "summary": "Fake Medicare supplement sellers push victims to set up a recurring bank draft for 'premiums' that quietly continues even after the buyer realizes the plan is fake and tries to cancel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Deepfake Job Candidate Scam on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-deepfake-job-candidate-scam-on-linkedin", "summary": "Fabricated LinkedIn profiles built with AI-generated photos and resumes apply for remote roles, using deepfake video and stolen credentials to pass recruiting screens for jobs that give access to sensitive systems.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Deepfake Job Candidate Scam on Zoom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-deepfake-job-candidate-scam-on-zoom", "summary": "During live Zoom interviews, a real-time deepfake filter swaps a different person's face and voice onto the candidate's video feed, letting someone other than the actual applicant pass the screening.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI-Generated Product Review Scam on Amazon", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-generated-product-review-scam-on-amazon", "summary": "Sellers use AI text generators to flood Amazon listings with hundreds of fake five-star reviews written in varied styles, making low-quality or unsafe products look trustworthy to shoppers relying on star ratings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Face-Swap KYC Bypass Scam on Crypto Exchange Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-face-swap-kyc-bypass-scam-on-crypto-exchange-apps", "summary": "Fraudsters use AI face-swap tools over live selfie verification on cryptocurrency exchange apps to open accounts under stolen or synthetic identities, bypassing know-your-customer checks meant to block them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Chatbot Phishing Assistant Scam on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-chatbot-phishing-assistant-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "A fake AI 'customer support assistant' on WhatsApp Business chats naturally with users, answering questions convincingly before steering them toward a phishing link or a direct request for payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Chatbot Phishing Scam Impersonating a Bank's Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-chatbot-phishing-assistant-scam-bank-brand", "summary": "A convincing AI chatbot dressed up in a bank's colors, logo, and tone answers questions like a real support assistant, then guides customers into a fake 'secure verification' flow that steals login credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI-Generated Fake Invoice Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-generated-fake-invoice-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "AI tools generate realistic invoices matching a company's actual formatting and vendor history, then push finance staff to wire payment to a fraudulent account before the fake document is caught.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI-Generated Fake Invoice Scam Impersonating a Trusted Vendor Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-generated-fake-invoice-scam-vendor-brand", "summary": "Scammers use AI tools to recreate a familiar supplier's exact invoice branding and tone, exploiting the trust built up with that vendor to slip a fraudulent bill past a company's normal review process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Gas Safety Inspection Scam in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-gas-safety-inspection-scam-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as Gas Safe registered engineers cold-call UK households claiming an urgent legally required gas safety inspection is overdue, then charge for unnecessary work or fabricated certificates.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Purebred Registration Papers Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-purebred-registration-papers-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Sellers on Facebook Marketplace advertise 'papered' purebred puppies with registration documents that are forged, recycled from a different litter, or simply invented.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Purebred Registration Papers Scam via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-purebred-registration-papers-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "Puppy sellers who promise registration papers frequently insist on Zelle deposits, exploiting the fact that Zelle payments settle instantly and offer no buyer dispute process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Rare Bird & Reptile Import Permit Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/rare-bird-reptile-import-permit-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram accounts showcasing exotic parrots, tortoises, or snakes offer to 'handle the import permit' for buyers, collecting fees for paperwork that is fabricated or never filed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Rescue Charity Donation Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-rescue-charity-donation-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook pages and groups posing as animal rescues post emotional photos of injured or abandoned animals to solicit donations for care that is never provided.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Rescue Charity Donation Scam via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-rescue-charity-donation-scam-via-paypal", "summary": "Fake rescue appeals often direct donors to send money via PayPal's 'friends and family' option, which strips away the buyer protection a genuine charity donation would not need but a scam relies on.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pet DNA Health Test Kit Scam on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pet-dna-health-test-kit-scam-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok ads and sponsored videos push cheap 'pet DNA health test kits' that promise breed and disease-risk results but deliver inaccurate reports, spam subscriptions, or nothing at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Customs Duty Parcel Release Scam on SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customs-duty-parcel-release-scam-on-sms", "summary": "Text messages claiming a parcel is stuck at customs pending a small duty payment lead recipients to fake payment pages that harvest card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Customs Duty Parcel Release Scam Impersonating the DHL Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-customs-duty-parcel-release-scam-dhl-brand", "summary": "Scammers frequently impersonate the DHL brand in fake customs release messages because DHL's international shipping role makes customs duty stories especially believable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Shipping Label Generator Scam on Facebook Groups", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-shipping-label-generator-scam-on-facebook-groups", "summary": "Reseller and small-business Facebook groups are used to advertise heavily discounted shipping labels generated through compromised or fraudulent courier accounts, which later get voided or clawed back.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Undelivered Package Fee Smishing Scam on SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/undelivered-package-fee-smishing-scam-on-sms", "summary": "Bulk text blasts claiming a package could not be delivered due to an unpaid fee direct recipients to phishing pages designed purely to harvest card data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Undelivered Package Fee Smishing Scam Impersonating the USPS Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/undelivered-package-fee-smishing-scam-usps-brand", "summary": "The USPS brand is one of the most frequently impersonated in undelivered package fee smishing texts because nearly every US household regularly expects mail or parcels from it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Package Tracking Update Scam on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-package-tracking-update-scam-on-email", "summary": "Emails mimicking courier tracking notifications lure recipients into clicking malicious links or attachments disguised as shipment status updates.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Package Tracking Update Scam Impersonating the FedEx Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-package-tracking-update-scam-fedex-brand", "summary": "FedEx's brand is regularly impersonated in fake tracking update messages because its purple-and-orange logo and delivery notification format are widely recognized and easy to imitate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Freight Forwarding Invoice Scam via Business Email Compromise", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/freight-forwarding-invoice-scam-on-email", "summary": "Scammers compromise or spoof a freight forwarder's email thread to insert a fraudulent invoice with altered payment details into an ongoing shipping transaction.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Freight Forwarding Invoice Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/freight-forwarding-invoice-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Wire transfer is the payment method fraudulent freight forwarding invoices always demand, since it moves large sums quickly across borders with almost no way to reverse it once sent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Courier Insurance Claim Scam Impersonating the UPS Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-courier-insurance-claim-scam-ups-brand", "summary": "Scammers impersonate the UPS brand to contact people about a supposed shipment insurance claim, using the promise of a payout to extract fees or banking details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Certified Mail Legal Notice Scam on Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/certified-mail-legal-notice-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers claim a certified legal notice or court document is waiting for pickup or delivery and pressure the recipient to pay a fee or share personal details over the phone to 'release' it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Driver Tip Scam on Delivery Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-driver-tip-scam-on-delivery-apps", "summary": "Messages posing as a delivery app or driver ask customers to send an additional cash tip directly outside the app after the order is already complete, bypassing the platform's real tipping system.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Delivery Driver Tip Scam via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-delivery-driver-tip-scam-via-venmo", "summary": "Scammers posing as delivery drivers ask customers to send a follow-up tip through Venmo, using its easy, casual person-to-person transfer style to make an out-of-app request feel normal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Overpayment Shipping Refund Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/overpayment-shipping-refund-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "A Facebook Marketplace buyer sends a payment for more than the agreed price, claiming it covers 'extra shipping,' then asks the seller to refund the difference before the original payment is discovered to be fake or reversible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Mailbox Relocation Scam Impersonating the USPS Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-mailbox-relocation-usps-scam-usps-brand", "summary": "Messages impersonating the USPS brand claim a resident's mailbox or mail delivery point must be 'relocated' or 'verified' for a fee, exploiting trust in USPS's role as the default mail carrier.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USCIS Case Status Fee Scam Impersonating the USCIS Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-uscis-case-status-fee-scam-uscis-brand", "summary": "Scammers impersonate the USCIS brand to contact applicants about a pending case status, demanding an unexpected fee to 'unlock' or 'expedite' the outcome.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake USCIS Case Status Fee Scam on Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-uscis-case-status-fee-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers posing as USCIS officers tell applicants their case has a problem requiring an immediate fee, using live pressure and spoofed caller ID to push a quick payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake ETA/eVisa Travel Authorization Scam Targeting Travelers to the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-eta-evisa-travel-authorization-scam-in-united-kingdom", "summary": "Third-party websites impersonate the UK's official Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, charging inflated fees for a service travelers could get directly from the government at the real price.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake ETA/eVisa Travel Authorization Scam on Google Search Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-eta-evisa-travel-authorization-scam-on-google-ads", "summary": "Paid Google search ads place unofficial travel authorization websites above official government results, capturing travelers before they find the real, cheaper application page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Immigration Bond Payment Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-immigration-bond-payment-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Scammers posing as immigration officials or bond agents demand a detained individual's family wire money quickly to secure release, exploiting the panic of a detention situation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Job Sponsorship Visa Scam on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-job-sponsorship-visa-scam-on-linkedin", "summary": "Fake recruiters on LinkedIn offer jobs with visa sponsorship attached, then request upfront fees for 'sponsorship processing' or 'visa filing' that a real employer would never charge a candidate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Marriage Green Card Broker Scam on Facebook Groups", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-marriage-green-card-broker-scam-on-facebook-groups", "summary": "Private Facebook groups marketed as immigration support communities are used by brokers to arrange fraudulent marriages for green card purposes, collecting large fees while exposing participants to serious legal risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Trading Bot Referral Scheme Scam on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-trading-bot-referral-scheme-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram groups promote an 'AI trading bot' that supposedly generates guaranteed returns, structured as a referral scheme where existing members earn commissions for recruiting new depositors.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Trading Bot Referral Scheme Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-trading-bot-referral-scheme-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "AI trading bot schemes require deposits in cryptocurrency, exploiting its irreversibility and the difficulty of tracing funds once they move through multiple wallets.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Stock Tip Signal Group MLM Scam on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/stock-tip-signal-group-mlm-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "WhatsApp groups offering 'exclusive' stock or crypto trading signals charge subscription fees and push a recruitment-based commission structure disguised as investment education.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Dropshipping Mentorship Scam on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dropshipping-mentorship-scam-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok influencers showcase extravagant lifestyles supposedly funded by dropshipping success, selling expensive mentorship courses that deliver generic, outdated, or plagiarized content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Dropshipping Mentorship Scam via Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dropshipping-mentorship-scam-via-credit-card", "summary": "Dropshipping mentorship sellers process payment by credit card, often structuring checkout to include hidden recurring charges or upsells that are difficult to notice or cancel.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ticket Reselling MLM Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ticket-reselling-mlm-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook groups built around concert and sports ticket flipping are a common recruiting ground for ticket reselling MLM schemes that push paid 'reseller tiers' rather than real inventory.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ticket Reselling MLM Scam via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ticket-reselling-mlm-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "Ticket reselling MLM recruiters favor Zelle for enrollment fees because its instant, hard-to-reverse transfers mimic a casual favor between acquaintances rather than a business payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Energy Utility MLM Recruitment Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/energy-utility-mlm-recruitment-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Energy and utility MLM recruiters use Facebook posts and community groups to frame a deregulated-energy sales pitch as a low-effort income opportunity for friends and family.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Energy Utility MLM Recruitment Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/energy-utility-mlm-recruitment-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "Energy utility MLM recruitment schemes concentrate in U.S. states with deregulated retail electricity markets, where the existence of legitimate competing suppliers gives the pitch a veneer of plausibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Driver's License Identity Theft Scam via SMS/Text Message", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/driver-license-identity-theft-scam-on-sms", "summary": "Fraudsters send text messages impersonating a state motor vehicle department to trick recipients into photographing and submitting their driver's license for identity theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Driver's License Identity Theft Scam Impersonating the DMV Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/driver-license-identity-theft-scam-dmv-brand", "summary": "Scammers impersonate the recognizable DMV brand and logo to lend false authority to fake portals that harvest driver's license images and personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Paid Verification Badge Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paid-verification-badge-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Instagram's Meta Verified program through DMs and ads, tricking users into paying fake fees or handing over login credentials for a badge that never arrives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Paid Verification Badge Scam on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-paid-verification-badge-scam-on-x", "summary": "Scammers exploit confusion around X's paid checkmark system to sell fake 'verification services' or phish account credentials from users trying to get verified.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Reels Monetization Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/reels-shorts-monetization-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers pose as Instagram partnership or bonus program representatives, promising Reels creators inflated payouts in exchange for an upfront 'activation' fee or account login.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Shorts Monetization Scam on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/reels-shorts-monetization-scam-on-youtube", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate YouTube's Partner Program or Shorts fund to lure creators into fake 'early payout' schemes that require a fee or channel login before any money is released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "DM Crypto Giveaway Hijack Scam on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dm-crypto-giveaway-hijack-scam-on-x", "summary": "Scammers hijack or impersonate X accounts, including verified ones, to DM followers with fake crypto giveaways that require sending funds first to 'unlock' a larger return.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "DM Crypto Giveaway Hijack Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dm-crypto-giveaway-hijack-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Compromised or cloned Instagram accounts DM followers and comment on posts claiming a crypto giveaway, using the appearance of a trusted friend or public figure's account to lower guard.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Brand Ambassador Application Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-brand-ambassador-application-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers pose as brand marketing teams DMing Instagram users with 'ambassador' offers that require an upfront product purchase, kit fee, or personal financial details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Brand Ambassador Application Scam on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-brand-ambassador-application-scam-on-tiktok", "summary": "Scammers target TikTok creators through comments and DMs with fake brand ambassador offers tied to viral trends, requiring an upfront fee before any real partnership exists.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Comment Tag Malware Link Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/comment-tag-malware-link-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Compromised Facebook accounts mass-tag friends in comments containing malware links disguised as shocking photos, videos, or 'is this you?' messages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FAFSA Financial Aid Fee Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-fafsa-financial-aid-fee-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "Scammers target U.S. students and families with fake sites and services charging a fee to 'process' or 'guarantee' FAFSA federal financial aid that is actually free to apply for.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake FAFSA Financial Aid Fee Scam via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-fafsa-financial-aid-fee-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Some fake FAFSA processing schemes escalate from a card-based 'fee' to demanding gift cards for supposed penalties or expedited processing, exploiting the untraceable nature of gift card codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake University Acceptance Deposit Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-university-acceptance-deposit-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "Scammers target prospective students, especially international applicants to U.S. universities, with fake acceptance letters demanding an enrollment deposit before any real admission occurs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake University Acceptance Deposit Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-university-acceptance-deposit-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fake acceptance letter scammers favor international wire transfers for deposit payments because wires are fast, largely irreversible, and plausible for genuinely overseas university payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Textbook Rental Marketplace Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-textbook-rental-marketplace-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Scammers list textbook rentals on Facebook Marketplace and campus buy-sell groups at prices below every real rental service, collecting payment for books they never ship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Textbook Rental Marketplace Scam via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-textbook-rental-marketplace-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "Textbook rental scammers push students toward Zelle payments because the instant, hard-to-reverse transfers close off any recourse once a listed book fails to arrive.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tutoring Subscription Scam on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tutoring-subscription-scam-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok ads and creator promotions push fake tutoring or study-help subscriptions that auto-renew at high rates and make cancellation deliberately difficult.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tutoring Subscription Scam via Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tutoring-subscription-scam-via-credit-card", "summary": "Fake tutoring subscriptions rely on stored credit card details to auto-renew at inflated rates long after the advertised trial period, betting that most users won't notice or dispute the charge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Education Government Grant Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-education-government-grant-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "Scammers impersonate U.S. federal and state education grant programs, claiming students or families qualify for free money that requires an upfront processing fee to release.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Education Government Grant Scam via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-education-government-grant-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Fake education grant scammers demand gift cards as the 'processing fee' to release supposed government aid, exploiting the untraceable and non-refundable nature of gift card codes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Student Housing Abroad Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-student-housing-abroad-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Scammers list nonexistent apartments and student rooms near popular study-abroad universities on Facebook Marketplace, collecting deposits from students who can't view the property in person.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Student Housing Abroad Scam in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-student-housing-abroad-scam-in-united-kingdom", "summary": "The UK's large international student population and competitive university-town rental markets make it a frequent target for fake student housing listings demanding deposits sight unseen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Internship Placement Fee Scam on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-internship-placement-fee-scam-on-linkedin", "summary": "Scammers post fake internship listings and recruiter messages on LinkedIn demanding a placement or processing fee before an offer is finalized, exploiting the platform's professional credibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Internship Placement Fee Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-internship-placement-fee-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fake internship scammers request wire transfers for placement fees because wires are fast and largely irreversible, especially appealing when targeting students relocating for a program.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Professional Certification Renewal Scam via Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-professional-certification-renewal-scam-via-credit-card", "summary": "Scammers send renewal notices for professional certifications demanding immediate credit card payment, exploiting professionals' fear of letting a real credential lapse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Professional Certification Renewal Scam Impersonating a Certification Board Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-professional-certification-renewal-scam-certification-body-brand", "summary": "Scammers closely copy the branding and official language of professional certification boards to make fraudulent renewal notices indistinguishable at a glance from the real thing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Housing Voucher Assistance Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/housing-voucher-assistance-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "Scammers exploit long waitlists for U.S. federal housing voucher programs like Section 8 by charging fees for fake expedited applications or nonexistent voucher availability.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Housing Voucher Assistance Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/housing-voucher-assistance-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers use Facebook groups and ads targeting low-income renters to promise fast-tracked housing vouchers or guaranteed landlord matches in exchange for an upfront fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Gift Card Code Scam on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-gift-card-code-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Scammers in gaming Discord servers offer discounted or 'free' game platform gift card codes, either delivering invalid codes after payment or stealing funds through a fake generator tool.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Gift Card Code Scam via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-gift-card-code-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Scammers ask victims to pay for discounted game gift card codes using a different retailer's gift card, creating a layered scam where the payment method itself is also untraceable.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Steam Trade Link Hijack Scam on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/steam-trade-link-hijack-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Scammers in gaming Discord servers trick users into sharing Steam trade links or session tokens through fake trading bots and 'skin checker' tools, hijacking real trades to steal inventory items.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Steam Trade Link Hijack Scam Impersonating the Steam Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/steam-trade-link-hijack-scam-steam-brand", "summary": "Scammers replicate Steam's login pages and trade interface closely to trick users into handing over credentials or session access under the guise of official Steam trading tools.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Refund Support Scam Impersonating the Steam Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-refund-support-scam-steam-brand", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Steam Support to process fake refunds, tricking users into remote access sessions or overpayment schemes disguised as legitimate refund processing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Refund Support Scam on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-refund-support-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Scammers pose as game publisher or platform support staff in Discord DMs, offering to process a refund in exchange for remote access or account details that lead to further theft.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gacha Top-Up Discount Scam on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gacha-top-up-discount-scam-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok videos and comment sections promote fake discounted in-game currency top-ups for gacha games, collecting payment through third-party sites that never deliver the promised currency.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gacha Top-Up Discount Scam via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gacha-top-up-discount-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Gacha top-up scammers demand payment in the form of unrelated retail gift cards for discounted in-game currency, exploiting how normal it feels for players to already use gift cards for game purchases.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Tester Paid Job Scam on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-tester-paid-job-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Scammers recruit game testers through Discord DMs and server postings, requiring an upfront equipment or verification fee before any paid testing work materializes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Game Tester Paid Job Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-game-tester-paid-job-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fake game tester job scammers ask new hires to wire an upfront 'equipment' or 'software license' fee before any real testing work or pay begins, relying on the irreversibility of wire transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Console Pre-order Marketplace Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/console-preorder-marketplace-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Scammers list hard-to-find gaming console pre-orders or bundles on Facebook Marketplace at below-retail prices, collect payment, and never ship anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Console Pre-order Marketplace Scam via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/console-preorder-marketplace-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "Sellers of fake console pre-orders push buyers toward Zelle because its bank-to-bank transfers settle instantly and carry no buyer protection or chargeback option.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Appliance Repair Technician Scam on Google Search Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-appliance-repair-technician-scam-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Fraudulent repair operations buy Google Search ads for terms like 'fridge repair near me' to intercept panicked homeowners before legitimate local businesses appear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Solar Panel Installation Deposit Scam on Facebook Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/solar-panel-installation-deposit-scam-on-facebook-ads", "summary": "Fake solar companies run Facebook and Instagram ad campaigns promising government rebates and free installations to collect large upfront deposits before vanishing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Solar Panel Installation Deposit Scam via Certified Check", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/solar-panel-installation-deposit-scam-via-certified-check", "summary": "Some solar sales reps insist on a certified check or cashier's check for the deposit, presenting it as 'safer' when it actually removes the homeowner's ability to stop payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Leftover Asphalt Material Doorstep Scam via Cash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/leftover-asphalt-material-doorstep-scam-via-cash", "summary": "Doorstep paving crews claiming to have 'leftover asphalt' from a nearby job insist on immediate cash payment before driving off, leaving homeowners with no receipt or recourse.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Bait Scam on Facebook Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/carpet-upholstery-cleaning-bait-scam-on-facebook-ads", "summary": "Cleaning companies run Facebook ads advertising a flat 'whole house' cleaning price to get technicians in the door, then upsell aggressively once on site.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Window Replacement Grant Scam in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-window-replacement-grant-scam-in-united-kingdom", "summary": "In the UK, this scam exploits public awareness of real government-backed energy efficiency schemes, using their names to convince homeowners that free or subsidized window replacement is available.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Window Replacement Grant Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-window-replacement-grant-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook posts and ads claiming homeowners qualify for a government-funded window replacement program collect personal details through lead forms before a sales call pushes a full-price contract.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Plumbing Emergency Overcharge Scam on Google Search Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-plumbing-emergency-overcharge-scam-on-google-search-ads", "summary": "Predatory plumbing operations buy Google Search ads targeting urgent searches like 'emergency plumber near me' to intercept panicked homeowners and charge inflated after-hours rates.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Carrier Bill Overdue Disconnect Scam on SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-bill-overdue-disconnect-scam-on-sms", "summary": "Scammers send text messages impersonating a mobile carrier, claiming an overdue bill will cause service disconnection within hours unless the recipient pays immediately through a link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Carrier Bill Overdue Disconnect Scam via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-carrier-bill-overdue-disconnect-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "In phone call variations of this scam, callers claiming to be from a carrier's billing department demand overdue payment through gift cards, since gift card codes function like untraceable cash once shared.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phone Unlocking Service Scam on eBay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phone-unlocking-service-scam-on-ebay", "summary": "Sellers on eBay list carrier phone unlocking services for a flat fee, collect payment through the listing, and either deliver nothing or a code that doesn't actually unlock the device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phone Unlocking Service Scam Impersonating Carrier Brands", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phone-unlocking-service-scam-carrier-brand", "summary": "Scammers build fake websites and ads that impersonate the branding of major mobile carriers, claiming to be an 'official partner' unlocking service to appear more trustworthy.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gambling Loss Recovery Scam on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gambling-loss-recovery-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "Recovery scammers operate through Telegram channels and direct messages, targeting people who have posted about gambling losses elsewhere online with promises to recover their money for an upfront fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gambling Loss Recovery Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gambling-loss-recovery-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Fake fund recovery services insist gambling loss recovery fees must be paid in cryptocurrency, exploiting its irreversibility to guarantee the fee is never seen again.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Poker App Bot Scam on Mobile App Stores", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-poker-app-bot-scam-on-app-stores", "summary": "Apps listed on mobile app stores claim to offer an automated 'bot' that plays poker for the user and guarantees winnings, but instead collect a subscription fee or in-app purchase for software that doesn't work as advertised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Bookmaker Account Verification Phishing Scam on SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/bookmaker-account-verification-phishing-scam-on-sms", "summary": "Text messages impersonating a betting platform claim the recipient's account needs urgent re-verification, directing them to a fake login page that steals credentials and payment details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Esports Skin Betting Scam on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/esports-skin-betting-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Discord servers built around esports betting communities host fake skin betting sites and 'guaranteed win' tipsters that trick members into depositing tradeable in-game items that are never returned.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Esports Skin Betting Scam Impersonating the Steam Marketplace Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/esports-skin-betting-scam-steam-brand", "summary": "Skin betting scams present themselves as integrated with or endorsed by the Steam marketplace, using its trading system's branding and terminology to appear as an official extension of a trusted platform.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Horse Racing Tipster Syndicate Scam on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/horse-racing-tipster-syndicate-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Tipster syndicates recruit members into WhatsApp groups promising insider horse racing information and guaranteed winning bets in exchange for a subscription fee or profit share.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Casino Withdrawal Tax Fee Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/casino-withdrawal-tax-fee-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "In the US, this scam exploits real IRS gambling winnings tax rules, convincing victims that a 'tax clearance' payment must be sent before a casino withdrawal can be released.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Betting Affiliate Signup Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-betting-affiliate-signup-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram influencers and fake accounts promote betting site sign-up links promising guaranteed bonuses or profit-sharing, but the links lead to unlicensed sites or the promised bonuses never materialize.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "In-Play Betting Bot Scam on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/in-play-betting-bot-scam-on-youtube", "summary": "YouTube videos and livestreams promote automated in-play betting bots that supposedly exploit live odds fluctuations for guaranteed profit, selling access to software that doesn't perform as demonstrated.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Responsible Gambling Refund Scam in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/responsible-gambling-refund-scam-in-united-kingdom", "summary": "In the UK, this scam exploits genuine 'affordability' and vulnerable customer redress schemes run by real gambling operators and the Gambling Commission, tricking past bettors into paying a fee to access a fake refund.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Inheritance Notification Scam on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-inheritance-notification-scam-on-email", "summary": "Unsolicited emails claiming the recipient is due a large inheritance from a distant or unknown relative ask for personal details and upfront fees to release funds that don't actually exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Inheritance Notification Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-inheritance-notification-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fake inheritance schemes rely on international wire transfers for upfront fees because wires are difficult to trace across borders and nearly impossible to reverse once completed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Unclaimed Estate Heir Scam in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/unclaimed-estate-heir-scam-in-united-kingdom", "summary": "In the UK, this scam exploits the real Bona Vacantia list of unclaimed estates published by the Treasury Solicitor, using genuine public records to make fake heir tracing claims appear credible.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Will Executor Fee Scam via Money Order", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-will-executor-fee-scam-via-money-order", "summary": "Scammers posing as will executors demand payment via money order for fake probate or administration fees, exploiting the fact that money orders are hard to trace and offer no dispute process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Funeral Home Overcharge Scam via Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/funeral-home-overcharge-scam-via-credit-card", "summary": "Some funeral homes exploit grieving families' emotional state and time pressure to push unnecessary add-on charges onto a credit card bill before the family has had time to compare costs or read the itemized price list.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prepaid Funeral Plan Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prepaid-funeral-plan-scam-in-united-kingdom", "summary": "In the UK, unregulated or fake prepaid funeral plan providers took payments for future funerals that were never delivered, a problem that grew before regulation tightened in 2022.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prepaid Funeral Plan Scams Paid by Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prepaid-funeral-plan-scam-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent funeral plan sellers push customers toward direct bank transfers into company accounts instead of protected trust or insurance arrangements, making the money unrecoverable once spent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Digital Legacy Account Access Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/digital-legacy-account-access-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers exploit Facebook's memorialisation and legacy contact features, contacting grieving families and offering to 'unlock' or 'transfer' a deceased relative's account for a fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Digital Legacy Account Scams Impersonating the Apple Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/digital-legacy-account-access-scam-apple-brand", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Apple support to target families trying to access a deceased relative's iPhone, iCloud photos, or Apple ID through the company's real Digital Legacy program.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Genealogy Heir Hunter Scams Sent by Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/genealogy-heir-hunter-scam-via-email", "summary": "Fraudsters email people out of the blue claiming they are due an unclaimed inheritance from a distant relative, then charge upfront fees for genealogy research or legal work that never delivers anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Life Policy Payout Release Fee Scams Paid by Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/life-policy-payout-release-fee-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as insurers or claims agents tell beneficiaries a life insurance payout is ready but requires a wire transfer of 'release fees' or 'taxes' first, then vanish once paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Life Policy Payout Release Fee Scams Run by Phone", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/life-policy-payout-release-fee-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Cold callers posing as insurance claims staff use scripted, high-pressure phone calls to convince beneficiaries a payout is ready and a fee must be paid immediately over the phone to release it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Benefit Application Fee Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-benefit-application-fee-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and groups promote fake 'benefit application assistance' pages that charge a fee to submit a government benefits application that is free through the real agency.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Benefit Application Fee Scams Paid With Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-benefit-application-fee-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Scammers demanding a fee to process a government benefits application often insist on payment by gift card, a method no real agency accepts and one that makes the payment untraceable and final.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Unemployment Benefit Identity Fraud in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/unemployment-benefit-identity-fraud-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "Fraudsters in the US used stolen personal information to file unemployment claims in victims' names with state agencies, a scheme that surged dramatically during periods of high claim volume.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Unemployment Benefit Identity Fraud Phishing Emails", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/unemployment-benefit-identity-fraud-scam-via-email", "summary": "Phishing emails impersonating unemployment agencies trick recipients into confirming personal details that are then used to file or redirect fraudulent unemployment claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disability Benefit Grant Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disability-benefit-grant-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook groups and ads targeting disabled people and their carers promote fake 'disability grants' or paid application help that either steals personal details or charges for a free process.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "EBT Food Assistance Phishing Scams by SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ebt-food-assistance-phishing-scam-on-sms", "summary": "Text messages impersonating state EBT or SNAP food assistance programs claim a card is suspended or funds are pending, tricking recipients into entering their card number and PIN on a fake site.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Child Benefit Update Phishing Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/child-benefit-update-phishing-scam-in-united-kingdom", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate HMRC in texts and emails claiming a Child Benefit account needs updating, tricking UK parents into handing over banking and personal details on fake gov.uk lookalike pages.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Energy Bill Rebate Phishing Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/energy-bill-rebate-phishing-scam-in-united-kingdom", "summary": "Fake texts and emails impersonating Ofgem, energy suppliers, or the government promise UK households an energy rebate in exchange for bank details that are then used for fraud.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Cost of Living Payment Phishing Scams by SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/cost-of-living-payment-phishing-scam-on-sms", "summary": "Text messages impersonating government departments tell recipients they are eligible for a cost of living payment and must click a link to confirm bank details, which are then stolen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pension Credit Reactivation Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pension-credit-reactivation-scam-in-united-kingdom", "summary": "Fraudsters contact UK pensioners claiming their Pension Credit has lapsed and needs 'reactivating' through a fee or bank detail confirmation, targeting a benefit tied to Winter Fuel Payment eligibility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Veterans Benefit Fee Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/veterans-benefit-fee-scam-in-united-states", "summary": "Unaccredited 'consultants' charge US veterans illegal upfront fees to help file VA disability or pension claims, a practice federal law specifically restricts to protect veterans from exploitation.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Universal Credit Advance Loan Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/universal-credit-advance-loan-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and messages targeting Universal Credit claimants offer to fast-track an advance payment for a fee, exploiting people waiting on the standard five-week initial payment gap.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Benefit Overpayment Threat Scams by Phone", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/benefit-overpayment-threat-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers posing as government benefits investigators threaten claimants with fines or prosecution over a fabricated overpayment, demanding immediate payment by phone to avoid legal action.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Approval Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-approval-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and messages tell targets they have been 'approved' for a government grant they never applied for, requiring a fee or personal details to release funds that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Government Grant Approval Scams Paid With Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-government-grant-approval-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Scammers claiming a government grant is ready for release demand a 'processing' or 'tax' payment in gift cards, a method that instantly and irreversibly transfers value to the fraudster.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Housing Benefit Verification Phishing Emails", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/housing-benefit-verification-scam-via-email", "summary": "Emails impersonating a local council or housing benefits office claim a claimant's details need re-verification, harvesting personal and banking information through a fake portal login.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Congregation Benevolence Fund Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/congregation-benevolence-fund-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers impersonate a church's clergy or benevolence committee on Facebook, messaging congregation members to request emergency 'fund' donations that go straight to the fraudster.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Spiritual Curse Removal Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/spiritual-curse-removal-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Self-proclaimed psychics and spiritual healers on Instagram use dramatic reels and DMs to convince followers they are cursed, then charge escalating fees for 'removal' rituals that never end.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Spiritual Curse Removal Scams Paid by Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/spiritual-curse-removal-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "Some curse removal scammers demand payment by international wire transfer, a method that moves money quickly across borders and is nearly impossible to trace or reverse once received.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Temple and Mosque Donation Phishing Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/temple-mosque-donation-phishing-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers use WhatsApp broadcast messages and cloned community group chats to solicit fake donations for temple or mosque projects, often timed around religious holidays or building appeals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Temple and Mosque Donation Scams Using Fake QR Codes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/temple-mosque-donation-phishing-scam-via-qr-code-payment", "summary": "Scammers swap or overlay fake QR codes at places of worship or in printed donation flyers, redirecting scanned payments intended for the temple or mosque straight into their own account.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Online Ministry Subscription Scams on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/online-ministry-subscription-scam-on-youtube", "summary": "Fake or exaggerated online ministries use YouTube sermons and livestreams to build an audience, then push viewers toward paid 'membership' tiers promising blessings, prophecy, or exclusive teaching that never materializes as promised.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Online Ministry Subscription Scams Using Recurring Credit Card Billing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/online-ministry-subscription-scam-via-recurring-credit-card-billing", "summary": "Some online ministries set up recurring credit card subscriptions with unclear terms or deliberately difficult cancellation processes, quietly continuing to charge members long after genuine interest fades.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Interfaith Relief Fund Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/interfaith-relief-fund-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Fake interfaith relief campaigns spread on Facebook after disasters or humanitarian crises, using shared imagery and urgent appeals across religious communities to collect donations that never reach any real cause.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Concert Ticket Resale Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-concert-ticket-resale-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Scammers post counterfeit or nonexistent concert tickets on Facebook Marketplace and pressure buyers to pay outside the platform's protections before vanishing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Concert Ticket Resale Scam via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-concert-ticket-resale-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "Ticket scammers push buyers toward Zelle because its instant, irreversible bank-to-bank transfers leave victims with almost no way to recover the money once a fake ticket fails to materialize.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sold-Out Event Ticket Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sold-out-event-ticket-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers exploit desperate searches for sold-out event tickets by running Instagram accounts and comment replies offering tickets that do not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sold-Out Event Ticket Scam Impersonating the Ticketmaster Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sold-out-event-ticket-scam-ticketmaster-brand", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the Ticketmaster brand with lookalike sites and fake 'verified resale' badges to sell tickets to sold-out shows that they do not actually possess.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Festival Ticket & Camping Scam on Facebook Groups", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/festival-ticket-camping-scam-on-facebook-groups", "summary": "Scammers use official-sounding festival fan and 'buy/sell/trade' Facebook Groups to sell bundled ticket-and-camping packages that never materialize.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Duplicate Barcode Ticket Scam via Email Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/duplicate-barcode-ticket-scam-on-email-transfer", "summary": "Sellers forward the same emailed PDF ticket or barcode to multiple buyers, so only whoever scans first gets in while everyone else is turned away at the gate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Duplicate Barcode Ticket Scam via Venmo", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/duplicate-barcode-ticket-scam-via-venmo", "summary": "Scammers collect Venmo payments from several buyers for what is really a single ticket, relying on the app's casual, friends-and-family feel to avoid scrutiny.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Presale Code Phishing Scam via Text Message", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/presale-code-phishing-scam-on-sms", "summary": "Scammers text fans a fake 'exclusive presale code' link designed to harvest login credentials and payment details before tickets even go on sale.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Presale Code Phishing Scam Impersonating the Ticketmaster Brand", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/presale-code-phishing-scam-ticketmaster-brand", "summary": "Phishing emails and pages dressed up in Ticketmaster's branding trick fans into entering account and payment details to 'unlock' a presale code that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Refunded/Cancelled Event Scam on X (Twitter)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/refunded-cancelled-event-scam-on-x-twitter", "summary": "Scammers watch X for news of postponed or cancelled events and swoop into replies pretending to be refund agents or original ticket sellers offering money back.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Refunded/Cancelled Event Scam via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/refunded-cancelled-event-scam-via-paypal", "summary": "Scammers pose as refund processors for a cancelled event and abuse PayPal's 'Friends and Family' or invoice features to trick fans into sending money instead of receiving it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Creator Subscription Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-creator-subscription-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers run Instagram accounts impersonating adult content creators, luring followers to pay for a 'subscription' that is hosted nowhere and delivers nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Creator Subscription Scam via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-creator-subscription-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Fake subscription sellers demand payment in retail gift card codes because they are untraceable and impossible to reverse once the codes are handed over.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Cam Site Tip-Bait Scam on Live-Cam Platforms", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/cam-site-tip-bait-scam-on-live-cam-platforms", "summary": "Performers or accounts on live-cam platforms promise a specific act or private show once a tip or token goal is reached, then stall, change the goal, or vanish after payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Adult Content Verification Fee Scam on Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/adult-content-verification-fee-scam-on-dating-apps", "summary": "Matches on dating apps direct conversations to a fake 'safety verification' site that charges a fee before any promised private content is ever shared.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Adult Content Verification Fee Scam via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/adult-content-verification-fee-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "When a card payment for a fake 'verification fee' feels too traceable, scammers pivot to gift cards instead, framing the switch as a privacy-friendly option.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Creator Manager Scam on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-creator-manager-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers pose as talent managers or agency reps on Telegram, promising to grow a creator's subscriber base or brokering fake brand deals in exchange for upfront fees or account access.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sugar Daddy Allowance Advance Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sugar-daddy-allowance-advance-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Fake 'sugar daddy' accounts on Instagram promise a generous weekly allowance but ask for an upfront fee or gift card before the first payment ever arrives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sugar Daddy Allowance Advance Scam via Cash App", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sugar-daddy-allowance-advance-scam-via-cash-app", "summary": "Scammers route the fake 'allowance verification' step through Cash App because its instant transfers and casual, informal feel make an upfront payment request seem routine.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Modeling/Content Deal Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-modeling-content-deal-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers pose as talent scouts or brand representatives on Instagram, offering a modeling or content deal that requires an upfront fee for 'portfolio processing' or shipping sample products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Creator Collab Phishing Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/creator-collab-phishing-scam-via-email", "summary": "Fake brand collaboration emails sent to creators contain malicious attachments or credential-harvesting links disguised as contracts, media kits, or payment forms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Adult Dating Site Token Scam on Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/adult-dating-site-token-scam-on-dating-apps", "summary": "Adult dating platforms push users toward buying internal 'tokens' or 'coins' to unlock messaging or profiles, with fake or bot-operated profiles designed to burn through a user's token balance without ever leading to a real connection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Adult Dating Site Token Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/adult-dating-site-token-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Some adult dating platforms sell their internal token packages exclusively through cryptocurrency, using the added anonymity and lack of chargebacks to make disputing a deceptive engagement scheme even harder.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Fan Club Membership Scam on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-fan-club-membership-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "Scammers advertise paid 'exclusive fan club' Telegram channels claiming affiliation with a popular creator, collecting membership fees for access that either doesn't exist or is a low-value copy of publicly available content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Content Payout Verification Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/content-payout-verification-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Scammers tell creators their content earnings are ready for payout but require a small cryptocurrency 'verification' or 'gas fee' transfer first, which the creator never gets back and no payout ever follows.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Premium Messaging Access Scam on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/premium-messaging-access-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Scammers offer 'premium' or 'VIP' direct messaging access to a creator on WhatsApp for a fee, then deliver a generic, unresponsive, or entirely absent chat experience once payment is made.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Personal Device Ransomware Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/personal-device-ransomware-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Ransomware operators lock a victim's personal files or device and demand payment in cryptocurrency, exploiting its pseudonymity to collect payment with minimal risk of being traced or caught.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Personal Device Ransomware Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/personal-device-ransomware-scam-via-email", "summary": "Ransomware most commonly reaches personal devices through email attachments and links disguised as invoices, shipping notices, or urgent account alerts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Business Negative SEO Extortion Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/business-negative-seo-extortion-scam-via-email", "summary": "Extortionists email small business owners threatening to bury their search rankings with spammy backlinks or fake negative reviews unless a payment is made, sometimes after already launching a real or fabricated attack.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake OSINT Exposure Threat Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-osint-exposure-threat-scam-via-email", "summary": "Scammers email targets claiming to have compiled a damaging open-source intelligence dossier — home address, workplace, family details — and demand payment to prevent its release, when in reality the 'dossier' is often bluffed or built from already-public information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance/Affair Blackmail Scam on Dating Apps", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-affair-blackmail-scam-on-dating-apps", "summary": "Scammers use dating apps to build an intimate connection, sometimes with a married or committed target, then threaten to expose the conversation or shared images to a partner, employer, or family unless paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Romance/Affair Blackmail Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/romance-affair-blackmail-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Affair-exposure blackmailers demand payment in cryptocurrency specifically because it offers the untraceable, irreversible transfer needed to collect repeated payments without being identified.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gamer SWAT Threat Extortion Scam on Discord", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gamer-swat-threat-extortion-scam-on-discord", "summary": "Scammers use Discord DMs and voice channels to threaten a false emergency police call to a gamer's home address unless a payment is made, exploiting gaming community disputes and doxxing information shared in servers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Subscription Leak Threat Scam on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/subscription-leak-threat-scam-on-email", "summary": "Fraudsters email people claiming a 'leaked database' proves they signed up for an adult site or gambling account, then demand payment to keep it quiet.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Warrant Payment Threat Scam via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-warrant-payment-threat-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Callers claiming to be law enforcement threaten an arrest warrant unless the victim buys gift cards to 'settle' the matter, a payment method real courts never use.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Collector Doorstep Scam in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-collector-doorstep-scam-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "Bogus door-to-door charity collectors exploit the UK's long tradition of household giving, often timing visits around real disaster appeals or seasonal campaigns.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Courier Card Collection Scam via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-bank-courier-card-collection-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "A phone call from someone posing as a bank fraud investigator convinces the victim their card is compromised, then arranges a courier to collect the physical card from their home.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Police Doorstep ID Check Scam via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-police-doorstep-id-check-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "A follow-up or precursor phone call reinforces a fake officer's doorstep visit, using spoofed police numbers to make the impersonation and 'ID check' feel verified.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Council Officer Doorstep Scam in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-council-officer-doorstep-scam-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as local council employees exploit the UK's frequent, genuine council contact around bins, benefits, and home improvement grants to gain entry to homes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Hospital Relative Admitted Scam via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-hospital-relative-admitted-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "A caller claims a loved one has been admitted to hospital after an accident and needs money wired urgently for treatment, deposits, or transfer to another facility.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Social Worker Child Scam via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-social-worker-child-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "A caller posing as a social worker or child welfare officer claims a child is at risk or has been removed, pressuring a parent or relative into payment or disclosing personal details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Collector Doorstep Scam via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-collector-doorstep-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "A phone call warning of an imminent doorstep debt collection visit is used to frighten victims into paying an invented debt before anyone actually needs to show up.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Census Official Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-census-official-scam-on-email", "summary": "Emails impersonating a national statistics office claim recipients must complete a census or survey online and submit personal or financial details to avoid a fine.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Renters Insurance Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-renters-insurance-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Scammers exploit rental listing sites and marketplace groups to push a fake renters insurance requirement on new tenants before they ever see the apartment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Business Liability Insurance Scam via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-business-liability-insurance-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Cold callers pressure small business owners into buying or renewing a liability insurance policy that does not exist or provides no real coverage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Dental Vision Plan Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dental-vision-plan-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Ads and group posts on Facebook promote discount dental and vision 'insurance' plans that collect a monthly fee while providing little or no real coverage.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Meter Tampering Fine Scam via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/meter-tampering-fine-scam-on-phone-calls", "summary": "Callers posing as utility company investigators accuse a household of meter tampering or energy theft and demand immediate payment of a fine to avoid disconnection or prosecution.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Heat Pump Grant Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-heat-pump-grant-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads and community group posts advertise government heat pump grants that require an upfront 'processing fee' or personal financial details to claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Utility Autopay Enrollment Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/utility-autopay-enrollment-scam-on-email", "summary": "Phishing emails disguised as utility company notices push recipients to 'update' or 'enroll in' autopay, harvesting bank and card details on a fake billing portal.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake EV Home Charger Grant Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ev-home-charger-grant-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook ads target new electric vehicle owners with fake government or utility grants for home chargers, collecting fees or financial details for installations that never happen.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Parking Fine QR Scam via QR Codes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-parking-fine-qr-scam-via-qr-codes", "summary": "Fraudulent QR code stickers placed on parking fine notices or meters redirect drivers to a fake payment page designed to steal card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "EV Charging App Phishing Scam via QR Codes", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ev-charging-app-phishing-scam-on-qr-codes", "summary": "Fake QR codes stuck onto public EV charging stations redirect drivers to a lookalike charging app or payment page that harvests card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Car Auction Deposit Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-car-auction-deposit-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "Listings on Facebook Marketplace advertise vehicles supposedly available through a government or repossession auction, demanding a deposit to 'secure' a bid on a car that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Number Plate Cloning Fine Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/number-plate-cloning-fine-scam-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails claiming to be from a toll authority or parking enforcement bill drivers for offenses committed by a vehicle with a cloned copy of their number plate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake DVLA Vehicle Tax Refund Scam via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-dvla-vehicle-tax-refund-scam-on-sms", "summary": "Text messages impersonating the DVLA tell UK vehicle owners they are due a road tax refund and must follow a link to enter bank details to claim it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-05" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Cloned Company Website Scams Sent by Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/cloned-company-websites-via-email", "summary": "How phishing emails drive victims to pixel-perfect clones of real company websites built to steal payment details, login credentials, or fake support fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI-Generated Fake News Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-generated-fake-news-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How AI-fabricated 'breaking news' articles and deepfake video clips spread through Facebook posts and ads to lend false credibility to investment and health scams.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake AI Legal or Tax Advice Scams Paid by Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ai-legal-or-tax-advice-scams-via-credit-card", "summary": "Bogus 'AI advisor' services charge a credit card for legal or tax guidance that is wrong, harmful, or a front for harvesting sensitive financial data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Virtual Kidnapping Scams Paid With Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-virtual-kidnapping-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Scammers use AI voice cloning to fake a loved one's panicked call, then keep the victim on the phone while pressuring them to buy gift cards as a fast, untraceable ransom.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI-Generated Fake Store Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-generated-fake-store-scams-on-instagram", "summary": "AI tools let scammers spin up entire fake online stores, complete with product photos, glowing reviews, and policy pages, then promote them through Instagram ads and posts to collect payment for goods that never ship.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI Companion and Grief Bot Scams Paid by Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-companion-grief-bot-scams-via-credit-card", "summary": "Fraudulent AI 'companion' or grief-bot services simulate a deceased loved one or a devoted long-term partner to keep vulnerable users paying recurring credit card subscriptions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "AI-Generated Fake Charity Appeal Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ai-fake-charity-appeal-scams-on-tiktok", "summary": "AI-fabricated disaster footage and cloned charity branding spread through TikTok videos to divert well-meaning donations to fraudulent accounts.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Childcare Subsidy Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-childcare-subsidy-scam-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "In the UK, scammers posing as Tax-Free Childcare or local authority childcare subsidy administrators tell parents a release or registration fee must be paid before approved funding is paid out.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disability Parking Permit Fee Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disability-parking-permit-fee-scam-in-the-united-states", "summary": "Fake websites and callers charge inflated processing or expedite fees for a disability parking placard that state DMVs issue for free or a small regulated fee.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Cremation and Repatriation Fee Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cremation-repatriation-fee-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How scammers posing as an employer, recruitment agency, or 'cremation liaison' pressure grieving families to wire urgent fees before a loved one's remains can supposedly be cremated or sent home.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deceased Estate Account Takeover Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deceased-estate-account-takeover-scam-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How scammers exploit the gap between a death and a bank being notified to move money out of the deceased's real accounts by bank transfer before the family can secure them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Business Partnership Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-partnership-scams-via-email", "summary": "How scammers use unsolicited emails offering distribution deals or joint ventures to extract upfront fees, free stock, or sensitive business data from small business owners.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Legal Threat Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-legal-threat-scams-via-sms", "summary": "How scammers send text messages posing as lawyers, debt collectors, or court officials, threatening legal action to pressure businesses and individuals into paying or clicking a malicious link.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Business Listing Update Scams Impersonating Google Business Profile", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-business-listing-update-impersonating-google-business-profile", "summary": "Scammers pose as representatives of Google's business listing service, charging small business owners to 'update' or 'verify' a profile that is actually free to manage directly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Office Supplies Invoice Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-office-supplies-invoice-via-email", "summary": "How scammers email realistic-looking invoices for office supplies or services that were never ordered, hoping a busy accounts payable department pays without checking.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Brand Deal Platform Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-brand-deal-platform-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "How fraudulent creator-brand marketplaces recruit influencers through Instagram DMs and ads, charging an upfront fee for sponsorship access that never materializes.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Creator Payout Tax Form Phishing Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/creator-payout-tax-form-phishing-scam-via-email", "summary": "How fake emails styled as a platform's tax compliance notice pressure creators into submitting Social Security numbers and banking details on a phishing page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Education Debt Relief Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/education-debt-relief-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How fraudulent companies target US borrowers with private student debt, charging upfront fees to 'settle' or 'manage' balances using services that are often free or unnecessary.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Student Loan Forgiveness Advance-Fee Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/student-loan-forgiveness-advance-fee-scam-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How companies charge US federal student loan borrowers large upfront fees for 'guaranteed' loan cancellation that the government provides directly, free of charge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Scholarship Application Fee Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-scholarship-application-fee-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "How fake scholarship programs advertise through Facebook posts and groups, charging students an application or processing fee for awards that were never real.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Diploma and Certificate Mill Scams via Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-diploma-certificate-mill-scam-via-credit-card", "summary": "How diploma mills sell worthless academic or professional credentials for an instant credit card payment, delivering a certificate with no real coursework or accreditation behind it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Course and Bootcamp Scams on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-course-bootcamp-scam-on-tiktok", "summary": "How fraudulent coding bootcamps and skill courses use TikTok testimonials and ads to sell expensive tuition for training that is never properly delivered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Exam and Certification Bribery Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/exam-certification-bribery-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "How scammers use Telegram channels to pose as exam insiders offering guaranteed pass results for professional or academic tests, taking payment and delivering nothing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "International Student Tuition Deposit Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/international-student-tuition-deposit-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How scammers impersonating universities or education agents intercept large international tuition deposits sent by wire transfer, leaving students without a place or their money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Webcam Blackmail / Sextortion Email Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/webcam-blackmail-sextortion-email-scam-on-email", "summary": "How mass-spam sextortion emails falsely claim to have hacked your webcam and recorded you, then pressure you to pay before the fake footage is 'released'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Intimate Image Blackmail Scam on Snapchat", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/intimate-image-blackmail-scam-on-snapchat", "summary": "How genuine intimate photos or videos shared privately on Snapchat get saved outside the app and are then used to blackmail the victim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Ransom DDoS Extortion Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ransom-ddos-extortion-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "How criminals threaten businesses with a distributed denial-of-service attack unless a cryptocurrency ransom is paid, often without ever launching a real attack.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Doxxing Extortion Scam on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/doxxing-extortion-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "How extortionists use Telegram's anonymity and disappearing-message tools to threaten victims with the publication of private personal information unless a ransom is paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Review Removal Extortion Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-review-removal-extortion-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "How scammers flood a business's Facebook Page with fake negative reviews and recommendations, then demand payment to stop or remove them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Hitman Email Extortion Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hitman-email-extortion-scam-on-email", "summary": "How mass-mailed emails falsely claiming to be from a hired assassin threaten the recipient's life unless a cryptocurrency payment is made to call off the fabricated hit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Bomb Threat Extortion Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/bomb-threat-extortion-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "How mass-distributed bomb threat emails demand cryptocurrency payment within hours to prevent a fabricated explosion, forcing evacuations before anyone can verify the claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Data Breach Ransom Extortion Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/data-breach-ransom-extortion-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "How criminals claim to hold stolen organisational or personal data and demand a cryptocurrency ransom to prevent it from being published or sold.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Copyright Takedown Extortion Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-copyright-takedown-extortion-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "How scammers send fake copyright infringement notices threatening to have an Instagram account or content removed unless a settlement fee is paid to a fraudulent entity.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Deepfake Nude Extortion Scam on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/deepfake-nude-extortion-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How scammers use AI to generate fake intimate images from a victim's real photos and threaten to distribute them via WhatsApp unless money is paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Recorded Call Debt Extortion Scam via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/recorded-call-debt-extortion-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How fake debt collectors claim to have a recorded call proving a debt or contract exists and pressure victims to 'settle' immediately using gift cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Social Media Account Ransom Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-media-account-ransom-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "How scammers who compromise or convincingly claim to control a Facebook account or Page demand payment to return access, threatening deletion or exposure otherwise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gift Card Blackmail Scam via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gift-card-blackmail-scam-on-sms", "summary": "How scammers deliver blackmail and extortion threats by text message, then insist the victim pay specifically in gift cards and read the codes back over SMS.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Law Enforcement Leak Threat Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-law-enforcement-leak-threat-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How scammers impersonate police or federal agents, claim to have evidence of a crime, and pressure victims to wire money to a 'safe' or bail-related account to avoid arrest and exposure.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Online Sermon Donation Skim Scam on YouTube", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-online-sermon-donation-skim-scam-on-youtube", "summary": "How bot and impersonation accounts flood a church's live-streamed YouTube sermon chat with fake 'official' donation links, diverting giving away from the real broadcast.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Religious Artifact Authentication Fee Scam via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/religious-artifact-authentication-fee-scam-via-paypal", "summary": "How fraudulent appraisal services charge an upfront PayPal fee to authenticate a religious item, then deliver a fabricated verdict or never return the item at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Buy Now Pay Later Fraud in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/buy-now-pay-later-fraud-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How fraudsters exploit UK buy now pay later services to make purchases using stolen identity data, leaving victims liable for unfamiliar debt.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Debt Consolidation Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-debt-consolidation-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How fraudulent debt consolidation companies in the US charge large upfront fees, collect sensitive financial data, then disappear, leaving victims deeper in debt.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Reverse Mortgage Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/reverse-mortgage-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How fraudsters target older US homeowners with fake or misrepresented Home Equity Conversion Mortgage products, collecting fees or steering victims into terms that risk their home.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "HELOC and Home Equity Line Fraud in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/heloc-equity-line-fraud-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How criminals apply for home equity lines of credit using stolen US homeowner identities, or pose as lenders collecting fees for HELOC products that never materialise.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "MTIC VAT Carousel Fraud in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mtic-vat-carousel-fraud-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How organised criminal networks exploit the UK's VAT system by rapidly cycling goods through multiple businesses to claim VAT refunds that were never actually paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Affinity Fraud Scam on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/affinity-fraud-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How scammers infiltrate close-knit religious, ethnic, or professional WhatsApp groups and exploit the trust members share to sell fraudulent investments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "High-Yield Investment Program (HYIP) Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/high-yield-investment-program-hyip-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "How HYIPs promise extraordinary daily or weekly returns through vague trading strategies and collect deposits almost exclusively in cryptocurrency before collapsing as a Ponzi scheme.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Prime Bank Guarantee Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/prime-bank-guarantee-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How fraudsters claim access to secret 'prime bank' instruments traded by top banks and use wire transfers to collect large upfront fees for financial products that don't exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Investment Seminar / Free Lunch Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/investment-seminar-free-lunch-scam-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How free-lunch investment seminars advertised to U.S. retirees turn into high-pressure sales pitches for unsuitable annuities and financial products.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Sports Betting Tipster Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/sports-betting-tipster-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "How paid Telegram tipster channels sell fabricated 'insider' sports picks and doctored winning screenshots to collect ongoing subscription fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Matched Betting / Arbitrage Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/matched-betting-arbitrage-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "How Facebook groups and ads sell fake matched-betting software and arbitrage alert services that fail to deliver, steal credentials, or expose members to money-laundering risk.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Get-Rich-Quick Course Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/get-rich-quick-course-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "How Instagram influencers use curated lifestyle content and DM funnels to sell overpriced trading, dropshipping, or 'passive income' courses that deliver little of value.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gold IRA / Precious Metals Rollover Scams via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gold-ira-precious-metals-rollover-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How precious metals dealers use urgency around wire transfers to push retirement savers into overpriced gold and silver purchases with excessive fees and poor storage terms.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Promissory Note Fraud Scams via Cashier's Checks", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/promissory-note-fraud-scam-via-cashiers-checks", "summary": "How fraudsters selling fake short-term promissory notes ask victims to pay by cashier's check, lending an appearance of legitimacy to an investment that does not exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "KYC Update / Account Suspension Scams on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/kyc-update-account-suspension-scam-on-email", "summary": "How phishing emails impersonating banks or crypto exchanges use fake 'KYC verification required' warnings to steal login credentials and personal identification documents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Predatory Loan App Harassment Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/predatory-loan-app-harassment-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How unregulated loan apps harvest a borrower's phone contacts and use WhatsApp to send harassing, shaming messages to family and friends to pressure repayment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Dividend Recovery / Advance Fee Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/dividend-recovery-advance-fee-scam-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How fraudsters posing as fund recovery agents ask investors to send an upfront bank transfer to 'release' dividends or losses from a collapsed company — a fee that is itself the entire scam.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Spread Betting Margin Call Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/spread-betting-margin-call-scam-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How unregulated or dishonest leveraged spread betting platforms operating in the UK manufacture sudden margin calls and block withdrawals to extract extra 'top-up' payments from clients.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fixed Odds Terminal Rigging Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fixed-odds-terminal-rigging-scam-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How unlicensed gaming venues and tampered betting terminals in the UK manipulate outcomes or invoke fake 'malfunction' clauses to deny players legitimate winnings.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Digital Arrest Video Call Scams on Skype", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/digital-arrest-video-call-scam-on-skype", "summary": "How scammers impersonating police officers use staged Skype video calls, complete with fake uniforms and backdrops, to convince victims they are under a fictitious 'digital arrest' and must pay immediately.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake CBI Police Interrogation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-cbi-police-interrogation-scam-impersonating-the-cbi", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate the Central Bureau of Investigation and other elite law-enforcement agencies to stage fake 'interrogations' that pressure victims into paying bribes or handing over personal data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Social Security Administration Suspension Call Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/social-security-number-suspension-scam-impersonating-the-ssa", "summary": "Scammers impersonate the Social Security Administration, falsely claiming a victim's Social Security Number has been suspended over suspicious activity, to extract payment or personal information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Traffic Camera Fine Scams on SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-traffic-camera-fine-scam-on-sms", "summary": "How text messages claiming a speed or red-light camera caught your vehicle direct recipients to fraudulent payment portals that steal card details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Medicare Card Activation Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-medicare-card-activation-scam-impersonating-medicare", "summary": "Scammers impersonate Medicare, telling beneficiaries their new card or updated plan requires immediate activation, in order to steal Medicare numbers, personal data, and payment information.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Passport Seizure Threat Scams in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-passport-seizure-threat-scam-in-australia", "summary": "How scammers impersonating Australian immigration or customs officials threaten visa holders and international students with passport seizure and deportation to extort payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Tax Refund OTP Verification Scams in India", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-tax-refund-otp-verification-scam-in-india", "summary": "How scammers in India impersonate Income Tax Department staff, claiming an unclaimed refund is ready, then use a shared one-time password to authorize unauthorized bank transactions.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Interpol Red Notice Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-interpol-red-notice-scam-impersonating-interpol", "summary": "Criminals impersonate Interpol, claiming a victim is the subject of an international Red Notice for serious crimes, in order to extort payment or personal information to have it 'withdrawn'.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pension Reverification Scams in Canada", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pension-reverification-scam-in-canada", "summary": "How scammers impersonate Service Canada or CPP/OAS administrators, claiming pension recipients must reverify their identity, in order to steal Social Insurance Numbers and banking details.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Conscription / Military Call-Up Scams in Ukraine", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-conscription-military-call-up-scam-in-ukraine", "summary": "How scammers exploit wartime mobilization fears in Ukraine, sending fake military summons or draft-related notices demanding payment for exemption, medical assessment, or replacement fees.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Mental Health App Scams via Credit Card Billing", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-mental-health-apps-via-credit-card", "summary": "How apps claiming to offer professional therapy or mental health support use free-trial sign-ups to set up hidden, hard-to-cancel recurring credit card charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Driveway Paving & Sealcoating Scams via Cash Payment", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/driveway-paving-sealcoating-scam-via-cash-payment", "summary": "How traveling paving crews insist on cash payment upfront for driveway sealcoating or resurfacing, then use leftover or substandard materials and disappear without a written contract.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Storm Chaser Roofing Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/storm-chaser-roofing-scam-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How traveling roofing crews descend on U.S. hail-affected neighborhoods after severe storms, pressuring homeowners into deposits or inflated insurance claims before disappearing.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-14" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Locksmith Overcharge Scam on Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-locksmith-overcharge-scam-on-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "How rock-bottom locksmith listings and paid ads on Google lure locked-out homeowners into calling a dispatch center that sends a technician who drills the lock unnecessarily and demands a bill many times the advertised price.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Handyman Disappearing Deposit Scam via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/handyman-disappearing-deposit-scam-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How handymen and general contractors ask for a large upfront bank transfer to secure materials or a start date, then fail to appear, do minimal work, or vanish entirely with the funds.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Gutter Cleaning Doorstep Scam via Cash", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/gutter-cleaning-doorstep-scam-via-cash", "summary": "How door-to-door gutter cleaning crews demand an on-the-spot cash payment for work that takes only minutes and is often barely, or never, actually completed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pressure Washing Doorstep Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pressure-washing-doorstep-scam-via-doorstep", "summary": "How unsolicited door-to-door pressure washing offers use a low upfront price to secure quick payment, then deliver a rushed job with weak equipment that leaves surfaces dirty or damaged.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pest Control Scare Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pest-control-scare-scam-via-doorstep", "summary": "How door-to-door pest control salespeople fabricate or exaggerate an infestation and use alarming language to pressure homeowners into an expensive contract for minimal or useless treatment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "HVAC Scare & Overcharge Scam via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/hvac-scare-overcharge-scam-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How cold calls and robocalls offering a free or low-cost furnace or air conditioner inspection lead to a technician visit built around fabricated safety claims and pressure to buy expensive, unnecessary repairs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Chimney & Duct Cleaning Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/chimney-duct-cleaning-scam-via-doorstep", "summary": "How door-to-door and coupon-based chimney or duct cleaning offers use a low advertised fee to get in the door, then cite fabricated safety violations or buildup to demand a much higher price for little or no actual cleaning.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Arborist Tree Service Scam via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-arborist-tree-service-scam-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How workers posing as tree care professionals collect a large upfront bank transfer for urgent tree removal or trimming, then deliver poor work, damage the property, or disappear entirely.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Water Treatment Doorstep Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/water-treatment-doorstep-scam-via-doorstep", "summary": "How door-to-door sales agents run a dramatic tap water demonstration, exaggerate health risks, and pressure homeowners into an expensive water filtration system they may not actually need.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Home Security Alarm Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-home-security-alarm-scam-via-doorstep", "summary": "How aggressive door-to-door security sales agents misrepresent alarm products, forge or misuse credit checks, and use deceptive contract terms to lock homeowners into overpriced, multi-year agreements for a system that may not even work properly.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Energy Audit Upsell Scam in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-energy-audit-upsell-scam-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How salespeople posing as energy auditors exploit UK home energy efficiency grant schemes, fabricating assessment findings to pressure homeowners into expensive, sometimes unnecessary insulation or heating upgrades.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Garage Door Repair Overcharge Scam on Google Search & Ads", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/garage-door-repair-overcharge-scam-on-google-search-and-ads", "summary": "How search ads and listings advertising a low garage door service call fee lead to technicians who diagnose minor or nonexistent problems as requiring expensive part replacements.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Mold & Asbestos Remediation Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-mold-asbestos-remediation-scam-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How contractors in the US fabricate or greatly exaggerate mold or asbestos findings during a home inspection to sell expensive remediation services that are unnecessary, inadequate, or both.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Meter Upgrade Doorstep Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-meter-upgrade-doorstep-scam-via-doorstep", "summary": "How imposters posing as utility company representatives arrive to inspect or upgrade an electricity or gas meter, using the pretext to gain access to the home for theft, identity fraud, or a false electrical work charge.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Grandparent Scam via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/grandparent-scam-via-phone-calls", "summary": "How fraudsters call elderly victims pretending to be a grandchild in urgent trouble, using shame, urgency, and often a second caller posing as a lawyer or police officer to extract cash before the family can verify anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Family Emergency Money Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/family-emergency-money-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How fraudsters claiming a family member is in immediate danger or financial crisis push victims to send a wire transfer, relying on the speed and difficulty of reversing wired funds before the story can be checked.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Boss Gift Card Request Scam", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-boss-gift-card-request-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How an urgent message impersonating a manager or executive asks an employee to buy gift cards on the company's behalf and send back the redemption codes, which are then cashed out instantly and untraceably.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake CEO Text Employee Scam via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-ceo-text-employee-scam-on-sms", "summary": "How a text message impersonating a company's CEO pressures an employee into an urgent, confidential wire transfer or sensitive action, exploiting corporate authority and the informal, immediate feel of SMS.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Bank Fraud Department Call Scam via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-bank-fraud-department-call-scam-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How a caller impersonating your bank's fraud department convinces you your account is compromised and talks you through moving money by bank transfer into a so-called 'safe account' that actually belongs to the scammer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Bail Money Relative Scam via Western Union", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/bail-money-relative-scam-via-western-union", "summary": "How a caller falsely claims a family member has been arrested and directs the victim to send bail money through Western Union, exploiting the service's speed and cash-pickup design to collect funds anonymously.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Accident Emergency Relative Scam via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/accident-emergency-relative-scam-via-moneygram", "summary": "How a caller falsely claims a family member has been seriously injured and needs money sent immediately via MoneyGram to cover fabricated medical treatment or transport costs.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Virtual Kidnapping Ransom Hoax Scam via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/virtual-kidnapping-ransom-hoax-scam-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "How a caller falsely claims to have kidnapped a family member and demands an immediate cryptocurrency ransom, exploiting crypto's speed and irreversibility to collect payment before the hoax can be uncovered.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Lawyer Relative Arrest Scam via Cashier's Check", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-lawyer-relative-arrest-scam-via-cashiers-check", "summary": "How a caller posing as a lawyer claims a family member has been arrested and requests an urgent cashier's check for legal fees or bail assistance, exploiting the appearance of certified funds to seem legitimate.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Stranded Relative Abroad Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/stranded-relative-abroad-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How a message or call claims a traveling family member has been robbed or lost their documents overseas and needs emergency funds wired immediately, relying on the difficulty of quickly verifying details across borders.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Embassy Emergency Scam via Wire Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-embassy-emergency-scam-via-wire-transfer", "summary": "How scammers posing as embassy or consular staff push panicked relatives toward an urgent wire transfer to 'free' a detained family member.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Neighbor Spoofing Impersonation Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/neighbor-spoofing-impersonation-scam-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How US robocallers spoof local area codes and prefixes to make scam calls look like they're coming from a neighbor down the street.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Friend New Number Scam on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-friend-new-number-scam-on-whatsapp", "summary": "How scammers message on WhatsApp pretending to be a friend or family member texting from a 'new number,' then ask for urgent money.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Utility Emergency Caller Scam via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-utility-emergency-caller-scam-via-gift-cards", "summary": "How scammers posing as utility company representatives threaten disconnection unless a victim pays an 'overdue bill' with gift cards.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Health Insurance Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-health-insurance-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How fraudulent health insurance policies are marketed to US consumers during open enrollment, promising full coverage that never actually pays out.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Life Insurance Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-life-insurance-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How unregulated or fraudulent life insurance offers target UK consumers with premiums collected for policies that will never pay out.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Insurance Claims Settlement Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-claims-settlement-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How fraudsters posing as insurers or claims handlers demand upfront bank transfers to 'release' a fast settlement that never arrives.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Travel Medical Insurance Scams in Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-medical-insurance-scams-in-australia", "summary": "How bogus or unregulated travel medical insurance is sold to Australian travellers heading overseas, leaving them exposed to unpaid medical bills.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Warranty and Insurance Renewal Scams via Credit Card", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/warranty-insurance-renewal-scams-via-credit-card", "summary": "How unsolicited renewal calls pressure victims into reading out their credit card number for a warranty or policy they don't actually need.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Insurance Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-insurance-scams-on-facebook", "summary": "How fraudulent pet insurance offers spread through Facebook ads and groups, collecting premiums for cover that later denies every claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Disaster Insurance Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/disaster-insurance-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How scammers target US flood, fire, and storm victims posing as insurers, adjusters, or FEMA-linked contractors after a declared disaster.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Health Plan and Membership Scheme Scam on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-health-plan-membership-scam-on-email", "summary": "How unsolicited emails promote unregulated 'health benefit' memberships that look like insurance but carry no obligation to pay claims.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Extended Warranty and Product Insurance Scam on SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-extended-warranty-insurance-scam-on-sms", "summary": "How text messages warning that a warranty is about to expire trick recipients into paying for worthless extended cover.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Travel Insurance Policy Scam via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-insurance-policy-scam-via-paypal", "summary": "How fraudulent travel insurance sellers use PayPal payment links to collect premiums for policies with no real cover behind them.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Pet Insurance Policy Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-pet-insurance-policy-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "How fraudulent pet insurance policies are promoted through Instagram ads and influencer posts, collecting premiums that deny every claim.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Crop and Farm Insurance Fraud Scam in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/crop-farm-insurance-fraud-scam-in-the-united-states", "summary": "How fraudulent agents target US farmers with fake crop insurance policies or exclusion-riddled coverage that never pays out after a bad season.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Insurance Premium Diversion Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/insurance-premium-diversion-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "How rogue UK brokers collect insurance premiums from clients but never pass them to the insurer, leaving policyholders unknowingly uninsured.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Claim Reprocessing Fee Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/claim-reprocessing-fee-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "How fraudsters charge an upfront bank transfer to 'resubmit' or 'escalate' an insurance or benefits claim, then disappear.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Car Wrap Vehicle Advertising Scam via MoneyGram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/car-wrap-vehicle-advertising-scam-via-moneygram", "summary": "How scammers pose as advertising companies offering to pay drivers for car wraps, then have them forward MoneyGram funds to a fake 'installer.'", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Online Survey and Paid Panel Scam on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/online-survey-paid-panel-scam-on-tiktok", "summary": "How TikTok videos and ads promote survey and paid-panel sites promising easy income that never actually pays out.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Get-Paid-to-Click App Scam on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/get-paid-to-click-app-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "How Telegram groups and channels promote get-paid-to-click apps that harvest data and ad revenue but never actually pay users.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Freelance Client Overpayment Scam via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-freelance-client-overpayment-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "How fraudulent 'clients' overpay freelancers through Zelle, then request a refund of the surplus before the original payment reverses as fraudulent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Content Writing Upfront Fee Scam on LinkedIn", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/content-writing-upfront-fee-scam-on-linkedin", "summary": "How fake content agencies post writing jobs on LinkedIn, then charge applicants a registration or training fee before any work begins.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Proofreading Job Scam on Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-proofreading-job-scam-on-email", "summary": "How fraudulent proofreading employers recruit by email and charge new hires for certification or training that leads to no actual work.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Product Tester Scam on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-product-tester-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Instagram ads and DMs invite users to become 'paid product testers,' then collect a shipping fee or card details and either deliver nothing or enroll victims in unwanted charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Transcription Job Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-transcription-job-scam-on-email", "summary": "Unsolicited emails offering flexible, home-based transcription work lead applicants to pay for 'training' or 'certification' materials before any real job ever appears.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Social Media Evaluator Job Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-social-media-evaluator-job-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook groups and pages advertise 'search and social media quality evaluator' roles that impersonate legitimate rating programs, then charge fake fees or harvest identity documents.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Translation Job Scam via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-translation-job-scam-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent translation agencies recruit linguists with attractive per-word rates, then demand a bank transfer for 'certification' or 'software licensing' fees before any paid work is provided.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Raffle and Prize Draw Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-raffle-prize-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook posts and groups promote raffle tickets for supposedly charitable causes, collecting payments for a draw that never happens and a charity that never receives anything.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Charity Prize Draw Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-charity-prize-draw-scam-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "UK households, especially older residents, are targeted by mailed and phoned prize draw offers using charitable branding to sell tickets while keeping all proceeds for the organizer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Premium-Rate Competition Entry Scam via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/premium-rate-competition-entry-scam-on-sms", "summary": "Text-message competitions invite entrants to text a premium-rate number, charging far more per message than disclosed while offering little or no real chance of winning a prize.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Stolen Package (Porch Piracy) Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/stolen-package-porch-scams-in-the-united-states", "summary": "Package theft from doorsteps, commonly called porch piracy in the United States, spikes around the holiday season as delivery volumes rise and thieves follow delivery trucks through residential neighborhoods.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Pet Insurance Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pet-insurance-scams-pet-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudulent pet insurers collect monthly premiums by bank transfer or direct debit for policies that turn out to provide no real coverage when a claim is filed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Browser Lock Scams Paid via Gift Cards", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/browser-lock-scams-via-gift-cards", "summary": "Fake 'your computer is locked' browser pop-ups direct victims to call a bogus support line, where scammers demand payment in gift cards to 'unlock' a device that was never actually locked.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Parental Control App Scam on TikTok", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-parental-control-app-on-tiktok", "summary": "TikTok ads and videos promote parental monitoring apps that charge ongoing subscription fees, harvest a child's personal data, or install malware while providing little to no real monitoring.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Phishing-as-a-Service Kit Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/phishing-as-a-service-kit-scams-on-telegram", "summary": "Telegram channels and groups advertise ready-made phishing kits complete with real-time credential relay and anti-detection tools, letting low-skilled buyers run convincing phishing campaigns against everyday users.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Box Office Will-Call Scam via PayPal", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-box-office-will-call-scam-via-paypal", "summary": "Ticket sellers claim they've already reserved seats under a buyer's name at a venue's will-call window, collecting a PayPal 'friends and family' payment for a reservation that never actually exists.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Event Cancellation Refund Phishing Scam via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/event-cancellation-refund-phishing-scam-on-email", "summary": "Fraudulent emails falsely claim a still-happening event has been cancelled, prompting genuine ticket holders to enter their ticket or account login details on a fake refund page.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Travel Health Certificate Scams via Cryptocurrency", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-health-cert-scams-via-cryptocurrency", "summary": "Sites selling counterfeit vaccination records and travel health clearances often accept cryptocurrency, letting operators collect payment anonymously for documents that can carry legal and health risks.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Visa and ETA Application Site Scams Targeting Australia", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-visa-eta-application-site-in-australia", "summary": "Unofficial websites impersonate Australia's official Electronic Travel Authority application process, charging inflated fees to submit a form travellers could file directly with the Australian government for a fraction of the cost.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Travel Document Courier Scams on WhatsApp", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/travel-document-courier-scams-on-whatsapp", "summary": "Fraudsters posing as couriers or embassy agents contact travellers on WhatsApp demanding 'customs' or 'release' fees for travel documents supposedly being delivered, then vanish once paid.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Travel Review Extortion Scams via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-travel-review-extortion-scams-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Fraudsters threaten to post damaging fake reviews about a hospitality business or traveller unless a bank transfer is sent, or demand payment in exchange for removing already-posted negative content.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Airport Fast Track Service Scams in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-airport-fast-track-service-scams-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "Fraudulent websites and touts sell bogus fast-track security or immigration passes for major UK airports, charging for a service that is either free through official channels or doesn't exist at all.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Energy Rebate Text Scams via SMS", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-energy-rebate-text-scams-on-sms", "summary": "Unsolicited text messages claim the recipient is owed a government or energy supplier rebate, using a link to a fake page designed to steal banking details or account credentials.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Energy Switching and Broker Overcharge Scam via Bank Transfer", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/energy-switching-overcharge-scam-via-bank-transfer", "summary": "Unscrupulous energy brokers collect commissions and fees via bank transfer or direct debit while failing to secure genuinely competitive deals, or lock businesses into long contracts with hidden charges.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Water Company Refund Scam in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-water-company-refund-scam-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "Fraudsters impersonate UK regional water companies, offering a supposed overpayment refund that requires bank details or an 'administration fee' to release funds that don't actually exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Broadband Router Upgrade Scam in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/broadband-router-upgrade-scam-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "Fraudsters pose as UK broadband providers offering a free or discounted router upgrade, using the call or visit to install malware, harvest account credentials, or add hidden charges to a bill.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Energy Prepayment Meter Top-Up Scam on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/energy-prepayment-meter-topup-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Facebook Marketplace and community group listings offer discounted prepayment energy top-up codes that turn out to be stolen, duplicated, or fake, leaving buyers without credit and at risk of further consequences.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-13" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Zelle Payment Scams on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/zelle-payment-scams-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "On Facebook Marketplace, scammers pose as buyers or sellers and steer the deal onto Zelle, using fake \"business account upgrade\" refund tricks and hold deposits to take instant, near-irreversible payments.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Cash App Flip & Fake Giveaway Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/cash-app-flip-and-giveaway-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "On Instagram, fake money-flip and giveaway accounts use lookalike handles, comment replies, and DM funnels to promise multiplied Cash App payouts. You send first through an irreversible transfer, and the flip, prize, or circle never pays.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Cash App Fake Support Scams on Google Search", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/cash-app-fake-support-scam-on-google-search", "summary": "Scammers buy Google search ads and seed spam pages for \"Cash App support\" queries so a locked-out or missing-payment user finds a fake helpline number at the top of results, then phones straight into an impostor \"agent.\"", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Venmo Accidental Payment Reversal Scam on Facebook Marketplace", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/venmo-accidental-payment-reversal-scam-on-facebook-marketplace", "summary": "On Facebook Marketplace, a 'buyer' pays a seller by Venmo, then claims they accidentally overpaid or double-paid and begs for the difference back. The stolen-funded payment is later reversed, leaving the seller out the refund they sent.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "PayPal Friends & Family \"Goods\" Scam on eBay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/paypal-friends-and-family-goods-scam-on-ebay", "summary": "On eBay, a seller (or buyer) steers the deal off eBay's managed checkout into a PayPal Friends & Family payment, stripping away both eBay's Money Back Guarantee and PayPal's Purchase Protection at once.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Marketplace \"Business Account Upgrade\" Scam via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/marketplace-business-account-upgrade-scam-via-zelle", "summary": "On peer-to-peer marketplaces, a scammer claims your Zelle account must be \"upgraded to a business account\" before their payment can land, then uses spoofed Zelle emails and a refundable \"upgrade fee\" to steal instant, irreversible transfers.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Payment-App Notification Phishing via Text Message", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/payment-app-fake-notification-phishing-scam-via-text-message", "summary": "A text disguised as a Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App alert lands on the same phone that holds your money app, one tap from a spoofed login page or a fake fraud line that harvests your password and one-time code.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Bitcoin ATM & Crypto Kiosk Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/bitcoin-atm-kiosk-scam-in-the-united-states", "summary": "In the U.S., impersonation and tech-support scammers direct victims — often older adults — to withdraw cash and feed it into one of the country's tens of thousands of Bitcoin ATMs, scanning a QR code that sends an instant, irreversible payment to the fraudster.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Money-Mule Bank-Account Recruitment Scams on Telegram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/money-mule-bank-account-recruitment-scam-on-telegram", "summary": "On Telegram, \"payment agent\" job channels, bot-run onboarding, and unsolicited DMs recruit you to receive stolen money into your bank account and forward it, often converted to crypto, for a commission, making you the traceable launderer.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Mobile Wallet Push-Provisioning Scam via Apple Pay", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/mobile-wallet-push-provisioning-scam-via-apple-pay", "summary": "Scammers phish your card number, then start adding it to Apple Pay on their own iPhone. When your bank's Apple Pay verification code arrives, a fake \"fraud team\" call pressures you to read it back — enrolling your card on their device.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "ATM Card Trapping (Lebanese Loop) Scam in France", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/atm-card-trapping-lebanese-loop-scam-in-france", "summary": "In France the Lebanese loop is known as the \"collet marseillais\": a sleeve hidden in a distributeur's card slot traps your carte bancaire while a helpful bystander memorises your PIN, then extracts the card and withdraws cash once you leave.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "ATM Cash-Trapping Scam in the United Kingdom", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/atm-cash-trapping-scam-in-the-united-kingdom", "summary": "A device fitted over a UK cashpoint's dispenser traps your banknotes as they pay out. The slot looks empty, you assume a fault and leave, and the scammer returns to collect — while your account is still debited.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "NFC-Relay \"Ghost Tap\" Scams via Contactless Payments", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/nfc-relay-ghost-tap-scam-via-contactless-payments", "summary": "Criminals relay your contactless card or wallet signal live to a mule tapping at a real reader, exploiting no-PIN limits and tap-and-go speed to run many small purchases while your card stays in your pocket.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Card-Testing (Carding) Scams on Online Checkouts", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/card-testing-carding-scam-on-online-checkouts", "summary": "Fraudsters aim automated bots at online checkout and payment forms, pushing floods of stolen card numbers through as tiny charges or zero-value authorizations to sort the live cards from the dead ones.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "EBT & Benefits-Card Skimming and Cloning in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/ebt-card-skimming-cloning-scam-in-the-united-states", "summary": "In the US, SNAP and cash-assistance benefits load onto magnetic-stripe EBT cards with no chip, so skimmers on grocery and ATM readers clone them and drain a household's food and cash benefits, often within hours of the monthly deposit.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "POS Terminal Tampering Scams in the United States", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/pos-terminal-tampering-scam-in-the-united-states", "summary": "In the US, card-machine tampering centers on pay-at-the-pump fuel skimmers, magnetic-stripe fallback, and the American habit of servers carrying your card to a back station, all of which quietly copy your card and PIN.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "DocuSign & E-Signature Phishing Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/docusign-esignature-phishing-scam-via-email", "summary": "A phishing email dressed as a DocuSign or Adobe Sign \"review and sign\" notification uses a spoofed sender and a Review Document button that hides a lookalike login page, harvesting your email password and 2FA code.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Google Voice Verification Code Scam on Craigslist", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/google-voice-verification-code-scam-on-craigslist", "summary": "A Craigslist \"buyer\" or \"renter\" replies to your ad, says they've been burned before, and asks you to read back a code Google texts you — which quietly links a Google Voice number to your phone.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "OTP Bot One-Time-Code Scams via Phone Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/otp-bot-one-time-code-scam-via-phone-calls", "summary": "Automated OTP bots and live vishing agents place spoofed calls posing as your bank's fraud line, then walk you through reading out or keying in the one-time code that authorises the scammer's own login or payment.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "REAL ID Application-Fee Scams via Text Message", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/real-id-application-fee-scam-via-text-message", "summary": "Scammers send smishing texts posing as your state DMV, warning your license isn't REAL ID compliant and linking to a fake portal that charges a bogus fee and harvests your ID data.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fictitious-Regulator & Fake Authority Scams via Email", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fictitious-regulator-fake-authority-scam-via-email", "summary": "Scammers email official-looking letters from an invented financial authority — or a spoofed real regulator — to endorse a bogus platform or demand a \"release fee\" before you can withdraw funds that never existed.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Facebook Marketplace Scams Paid via Zelle", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/facebook-marketplace-scams-via-zelle", "summary": "On Facebook Marketplace, scammers steer buyers and sellers off-platform to Zelle, exploiting its instant, bank-to-bank, largely irreversible transfers and the false belief that Zelle carries buyer protection.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Wedding Vendor Scams on Instagram", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/wedding-vendor-scam-on-instagram", "summary": "Scammers build convincing wedding-vendor Instagram accounts from stolen portfolios and impersonated handles, take deposits over DM, then vanish before the wedding day.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Fake Adoption Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/fake-adoption-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Scammers on Facebook pose as expectant mothers or facilitators, contacting hopeful adoptive parents through profiles, groups, and Messenger to collect escalating \"expenses\" for a placement that never happens.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Surrogacy Agency Scams on Facebook", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/surrogacy-agency-scam-on-facebook", "summary": "Fake surrogacy agencies and 'surrogates' work Facebook groups, Pages, and Messenger to collect program fees, escrow deposits, and expenses from intended parents for matches, pregnancies, and journeys that never actually exist.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Vanity Publishing Scams via Cold Calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/vanity-publishing-scam-via-cold-calls", "summary": "Boiler-room callers phone self-published and hopeful authors claiming a studio, agent, or major publisher wants their book, then extract staged fees for treatments, republishing, and marketing that lead nowhere.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "guide", "title": "Scam PAC & Political Donation Fraud via Text Message", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/guides/scam-pac-political-donation-scam-via-text-message", "summary": "Scam PACs and fake campaign appeals blast urgent donation texts from rotating numbers, using shortened links to lookalike donation pages that pocket the money and quietly enroll donors in recurring withdrawals.", "lastReviewed": "2026-07-24" }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Report Fraud (UK)", "url": "https://www.reportfraud.police.uk/", "summary": "The UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "FCA ScamSmart (UK)", "url": "https://www.fca.org.uk/scamsmart", "summary": "Check if an investment firm is authorised and see the FCA warning list.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Report phishing — NCSC (UK)", "url": "https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/phishing-scams", "summary": "Forward scam emails to report@phishing.gov.uk; guidance from the National Cyber Security Centre.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Citizens Advice consumer help (UK)", "url": "https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/scams/", "summary": "Free advice on scams and consumer rights, including the Scams Action service.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Take Five to Stop Fraud (UK)", "url": "https://www.takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/", "summary": "National campaign with practical advice to pause and check before acting.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "FTC ReportFraud (US)", "url": "https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/", "summary": "Report fraud and scams to the US Federal Trade Commission.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "FBI IC3 (US)", "url": "https://www.ic3.gov/", "summary": "Report internet crime to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "IdentityTheft.gov (US)", "url": "https://www.identitytheft.gov/", "summary": "US government service for reporting and building a recovery plan for identity theft.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "CFPB complaint (US)", "url": "https://www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/", "summary": "Submit complaints about banks, lenders and financial products to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "SSA fraud reporting (US)", "url": "https://oig.ssa.gov/report/", "summary": "Report Social Security impostor scams to the SSA Office of the Inspector General.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "BBB Scam Tracker (US/Canada)", "url": "https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker", "summary": "Report and research scams via the Better Business Bureau.", "official": false, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "AARP Fraud Watch Network (US)", "url": "https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/", "summary": "Free helpline and resources, especially for older adults and their families.", "official": false, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre", "url": "https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/", "summary": "Canada's central agency for reporting fraud; call 1-888-495-8501.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Competition Bureau (Canada)", "url": "https://competition-bureau.canada.ca/", "summary": "Reports deceptive marketing and consumer fraud in Canada.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Scamwatch (Australia)", "url": "https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/", "summary": "Report scams and find guidance from the National Anti-Scam Centre.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "ReportCyber (Australia)", "url": "https://www.cyber.gov.au/report", "summary": "Report cybercrime to the Australian Signals Directorate's ACSC.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "ASIC Moneysmart (Australia)", "url": "https://moneysmart.gov.au/", "summary": "Check investment warnings and financial guidance from ASIC.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "IDCARE (Australia & NZ)", "url": "https://www.idcare.org/", "summary": "Free identity and cyber support service for Australia and New Zealand.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Netsafe (New Zealand)", "url": "https://www.netsafe.org.nz/", "summary": "Report online scams and harm; New Zealand's online safety organisation.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "CERT NZ", "url": "https://www.cert.govt.nz/", "summary": "Report cyber security issues and scams to New Zealand's CERT.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Consumer Protection (NZ)", "url": "https://www.consumerprotection.govt.nz/", "summary": "Government consumer protection guidance and scam reporting.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "An Garda Síochána (Ireland)", "url": "https://www.garda.ie/", "summary": "Report fraud to the Irish national police; contact your local Garda station.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "CCPC (Ireland)", "url": "https://www.ccpc.ie/", "summary": "Competition and Consumer Protection Commission scam and consumer guidance.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "FraudSMART (Ireland)", "url": "https://www.fraudsmart.ie/", "summary": "Fraud-awareness resource from the Banking & Payments Federation Ireland.", "official": false, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Cyber Crime Portal & 1930 (India)", "url": "https://cybercrime.gov.in/", "summary": "Report cybercrime online and call 1930 quickly to freeze fraudulent transfers.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "RBI Sachet (India)", "url": "https://sachet.rbi.org.in/", "summary": "Reserve Bank of India portal to check entities and report unauthorised schemes.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "ScamShield (Singapore)", "url": "https://www.scamshield.gov.sg/", "summary": "Report scams and check suspicious numbers/links; call the 1799 ScamShield hotline.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "MAS Investor Alert List (Singapore)", "url": "https://www.mas.gov.sg/investor-alert-list", "summary": "Check the Monetary Authority of Singapore's list of unregulated entities.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Semak Mule (Malaysia)", "url": "https://semakmule.rmp.gov.my/", "summary": "Royal Malaysia Police tool to check bank accounts and phone numbers linked to scams.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "MCMC complaints (Malaysia)", "url": "https://www.mcmc.gov.my/", "summary": "Report scam communications to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "SAFPS (South Africa)", "url": "https://www.safps.org.za/", "summary": "Southern African Fraud Prevention Service — protective registration and reporting.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "SAPS (South Africa)", "url": "https://www.saps.gov.za/", "summary": "Report fraud and cybercrime to the South African Police Service.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "EFCC (Nigeria)", "url": "https://www.efcc.gov.ng/", "summary": "Report financial fraud to Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "ngCERT (Nigeria)", "url": "https://www.cert.gov.ng/", "summary": "Report cyber incidents to Nigeria's Computer Emergency Response Team.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Polizei Onlinewache (Germany)", "url": "https://www.polizei.de/", "summary": "Report fraud online to the police in your German state.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "BaFin (Germany)", "url": "https://www.bafin.de/", "summary": "Check investment warnings from Germany's financial regulator.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Verbraucherzentrale (Germany)", "url": "https://www.verbraucherzentrale.de/", "summary": "German consumer advice centre with scam warnings and help.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr (France)", "url": "https://www.cybermalveillance.gouv.fr/", "summary": "French government platform for cybercrime victims — assistance and reporting.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "PHAROS — internet-signalement (France)", "url": "https://www.internet-signalement.gouv.fr/", "summary": "Report illegal online content and fraud to the French authorities.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "UAE eCrime", "url": "https://www.ecrime.ae/", "summary": "Report cybercrime and online fraud in the United Arab Emirates.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (Philippines)", "url": "https://www.pnpacg.ph/", "summary": "Report cybercrime to the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Thai Police Online", "url": "https://www.thaipoliceonline.go.th/", "summary": "Thailand's online police portal for reporting online crime.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "eConsumer.gov", "url": "https://www.econsumer.gov/", "summary": "Report international and cross-border scams; shared by 30+ countries.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "No More Ransom", "url": "https://www.nomoreransom.org/", "summary": "Free decryption tools and advice if you're hit by ransomware — never pay first.", "official": true, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Have I Been Pwned", "url": "https://haveibeenpwned.com/", "summary": "Check for free whether your email or password appeared in a known data breach.", "official": false, "external": true }, { "type": "resource", "title": "Get Safe Online", "url": "https://www.getsafeonline.org/", "summary": "Practical, free online-safety and scam-avoidance guidance.", "official": false, "external": true }, { "type": "warning_list", "title": "US SEC (PAUSE list) — flagged & unauthorised firms", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/warnings/sec-pause", "summary": "1,671 firms flagged by US SEC (PAUSE list) (United States).", "source": "https://www.sec.gov/enforcement-litigation/public-alerts-unregistered-soliciting-entities", "count": 1671 }, { "type": "warning_list", "title": "Swiss FINMA warning list — flagged & unauthorised firms", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/warnings/finma", "summary": "2,325 firms flagged by Swiss FINMA warning list (Switzerland).", "source": "https://www.finma.ch/en/finma-public/warnings/", "count": 2325 }, { "type": "warning_list", "title": "Securities Commission Malaysia (Investor Alert List) — flagged & unauthorised firms", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/warnings/malaysia-sc", "summary": "1,895 firms flagged by Securities Commission Malaysia (Investor Alert List) (Malaysia).", "source": "https://www.sc.com.my/investor-alert-list", "count": 1895 }, { "type": "warning_list", "title": "France AMF (unauthorised financial services) — flagged & unauthorised firms", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/warnings/france-amf", "summary": "3,453 firms flagged by France AMF (unauthorised financial services) (France).", "source": "https://www.amf-france.org/en/investors-and-savings-protection/scams/blacklists-and-alerts", "count": 3453 }, { "type": "warning_list", "title": "Philippines SEC advisories — flagged & unauthorised firms", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/warnings/philippines-sec", "summary": "913 firms flagged by Philippines SEC advisories (Philippines).", "source": "https://www.sec.gov.ph/advisories/", "count": 913 }, { "type": "warning_list", "title": "Malaysia Financial Consumer Alert List — flagged & unauthorised firms", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/warnings/malaysia-fca", "summary": "612 firms flagged by Malaysia Financial Consumer Alert List (Malaysia).", "source": "https://www.sc.com.my/regulation/enforcement/investor-alerts/financial-consumer-alert", "count": 612 }, { "type": "warning_list", "title": "Lithuania (illegal financial services) — flagged & unauthorised firms", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/warnings/lithuania", "summary": "80 firms flagged by Lithuania (illegal financial services) (Lithuania).", "source": "https://www.lb.lt/en/warnings-about-unlicensed-entities", "count": 80 }, { "type": "warning_list", "title": "Lithuania Gaming Control Authority (illegal gambling operators) — flagged & unauthorised firms", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/warnings/lithuania-gaming", "summary": "169 firms flagged by Lithuania Gaming Control Authority (illegal gambling operators) (Lithuania).", "source": "https://www.opensanctions.org/datasets/lt_illegal_gambling/", "count": 169 }, { "type": "target_facet", "title": "Scams targeting seniors & older adults", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/targets/seniors", "summary": "Scams that disproportionately target older adults, retirees, and elderly homeowners — often through impersonation, urgency, and isolation." }, { "type": "target_facet", "title": "Scams targeting job seekers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/targets/job-seekers", "summary": "Scams aimed at people looking for work or extra income — fake recruiters, task scams, and pay-to-get-paid traps." }, { "type": "target_facet", "title": "Scams targeting students", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/targets/students", "summary": "Scams aimed at students and recent graduates — fake scholarships, tuition fraud, and diploma mills." }, { "type": "target_facet", "title": "Scams targeting small businesses", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/targets/small-businesses", "summary": "Scams aimed at businesses and their staff — invoice fraud, CEO impersonation, fake suppliers, and procurement scams." }, { "type": "target_facet", "title": "Scams targeting online shoppers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/targets/online-shoppers", "summary": "Scams aimed at people buying online — fake stores, non-delivery, and too-good-to-be-true deals." }, { "type": "target_facet", "title": "Scams targeting investors & crypto holders", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/targets/investors", "summary": "Scams aimed at investors and crypto holders — fake platforms, pig-butchering, and recovery scams." }, { "type": "target_facet", "title": "Scams targeting online daters", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/targets/online-daters", "summary": "Scams aimed at people in online relationships — romance scams, sextortion, and crypto-romance grooming." }, { "type": "target_facet", "title": "Scams targeting parents & families", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/targets/parents-and-families", "summary": "Scams aimed at parents, grandparents, and families — family-emergency cons and child-focused scams." }, { "type": "target_facet", "title": "Scams targeting travellers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/targets/travellers", "summary": "Scams aimed at tourists and travellers — fake bookings, visa services, and airport/transfer scams." }, { "type": "target_facet", "title": "Scams targeting immigrants & newcomers", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/targets/immigrants", "summary": "Scams aimed at migrants, visa holders, and newcomers — fake immigration services and deportation threats." }, { "type": "target_facet", "title": "Scams targeting social-media users", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/targets/social-media-users", "summary": "Scams that spread through social media — account takeover, fake giveaways, and impersonation." }, { "type": "target_facet", "title": "Scams targeting homeowners", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/targets/homeowners", "summary": "Scams aimed at homeowners — contractor fraud, foreclosure-relief, and utility/energy cons." }, { "type": "risk_level", "title": "Critical-risk scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/risk/critical", "summary": "The highest-harm scams — large or irreversible losses, organised operations, or severe personal impact." }, { "type": "risk_level", "title": "High-risk scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/risk/high", "summary": "Common, costly scams that frequently cause significant financial loss." }, { "type": "risk_level", "title": "Medium-risk scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/risk/medium", "summary": "Widespread scams with meaningful but usually more limited losses." }, { "type": "risk_level", "title": "Lower-risk scams", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scams/risk/low", "summary": "Nuisance and lower-impact scams — still worth recognising and avoiding." }, { "type": "dataset", "title": "Scam message library — sanitized example scam texts, emails & calls", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/scam-messages", "data": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/api/scam-messages.json", "summary": "Searchable library of sanitized example scam messages (placeholders only, no private data).", "count": 4318 }, { "type": "dataset", "title": "Recent data breaches — what was exposed and what to do", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/data-breaches", "summary": "Recently disclosed data breaches (via Have I Been Pwned) and the steps to protect yourself.", "count": 60, "lastReviewed": "2026-09-22" }, { "type": "tool", "title": "Firm Check — check a name against regulator warning lists", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/tools/firm-check", "data": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/api/v1/firm-check", "summary": "Checks a firm or website name against the regulator warning lists in /warnings via the firm-check API." } ], "datasets": [ { "id": "regulator-warnings-csv", "name": "Regulator warnings (CSV)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/data/regulator-warnings.csv", "format": "csv", "license": "CC-BY-NC 4.0", "licenseUrl": "https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/", "updatedAt": "2026-09-21", "hub": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/data" }, { "id": "regulator-warnings-json", "name": "Regulator warnings (JSON)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/data/regulator-warnings.json", "format": "json", "license": "CC-BY-NC 4.0", "licenseUrl": "https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/", "updatedAt": "2026-09-21", "hub": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/data" }, { "id": "scam-taxonomy-csv", "name": "Scam taxonomy (CSV)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/data/scam-taxonomy.csv", "format": "csv", "license": "CC-BY 4.0", "licenseUrl": "https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/", "hub": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/data" }, { "id": "scam-statistics-csv", "name": "Scam statistics (CSV)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/data/scam-statistics.csv", "format": "csv", "license": "CC-BY 4.0", "licenseUrl": "https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/", "hub": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/data" }, { "id": "threat-aggregates-json", "name": "Threat aggregates (JSON)", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/data/threat-aggregates.json", "format": "json", "license": "CC-BY 4.0", "licenseUrl": "https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/", "updatedAt": "2026-09-22", "hub": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/data" } ], "api": [ { "name": "firm-check", "url": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/api/v1/firm-check", "method": "GET", "params": { "q": "firm or website name, 3–120 chars", "limit": "1–20, default 20" }, "cors": true, "rateLimit": "60 requests/min per IP", "docs": "https://scamencyclopedia.org/data#api", "note": "No match is not a clean bill of health." } ] }