Scams by Payment Method

Why scammers prefer certain payment methods, the scams that use them, and how to pay safely.

Gift cards

Why scammers love gift cards — and what to do if you've paid with one.

Why scammers pressure victims to use Zelle — and how to avoid being caught out.

Scams that target Cash App users — from fake giveaways to support fraud.

Scams that exploit Venmo's social payment features and how to avoid them.

Scams that exploit PayPal — from phishing emails to invoice fraud.

Why scammers insist on wire transfers — and why they are so difficult to recover.

How scammers use cryptocurrency payments — and why they are so hard to trace.

Authorised push payment fraud — when your own bank transfer becomes the scam.

Scams that exploit mobile payment apps — and how to protect your wallet.

Why money transfer services are a scammer favourite — and how to protect yourself.

Why scammers demand Bitcoin — and how to protect yourself.

Scams using Ethereum, USDT, and USDC — wallet drainers, fake DeFi, and more.

Scams involving Wise transfers — what fraudsters exploit and how to stay safe.

Scams involving Revolut — authorised push payment fraud and account takeovers.

BNPL scams — how buy-now-pay-later is exploited by fraudsters.

M-Pesa scams — SIM swap fraud, fake promotions, and overdraft exploitation.

GCash scams — phishing, fake QR codes, and SIM swap fraud in the Philippines.

bKash scams — impersonation calls, fake agent fraud, and PIN theft in Bangladesh.

UPI scams — collect requests, fake QR codes, and support impersonation in India.

Pix scams — instant-transfer fraud, fake QR codes, and support impersonation in Brazil.

Skrill scams — online gambling fraud, advance fees, and account takeovers.

Prepaid card scams — why scammers demand them and how to protect yourself.

Scams that exploit Canada's e-Transfer system — fake deposit notices, interception, and marketplace fraud.