Real examples, plainly explained. Search by scam, sender, domain, or phone number and learn the red flags before you click.
Fresh sightings with quick takeaways you can share.
You’re told that a loan, payout, or “approved payment” is ready and will be sent to your bank “immediately” — but first you must pay a smaller fee (often called a release, processing, clearance, or compliance fee). Once you pay, the scammers either ask for more money because of “new problems,” or they disappear. No money is ever released.
Victims receive an email or message claiming that their casino winnings or payout request has been confirmed. The message uses fake verification details and official-looking logos to appear legitimate, luring the victim into clicking a link to a fraudulent casino site or handing over sensitive information. The goal is to steal money, credit card details, or encourage further gambling deposits that can never be withdrawn.
Scammers impersonate Coinbase and send fake alerts claiming that your Coinbase account has been paired with an external service (such as Ledger Live) without your authorization. The message pressures you to call a fake support number where scammers attempt to steal your login details, 2FA codes, or crypto assets.
Scammers pretend to be a delivery company (for example UPS, USPS, FedEx, DHL, Amazon, Royal Mail, Canada Post) and say your package is “out for delivery” or “waiting for delivery.” The link takes you to a look‑alike page that offers a cash or gift “survey reward” and shows a countdown timer to rush you. After a few easy questions, the site asks for personal details and a small payment “to claim the reward” or “cover shipping.” Victims can be charged repeatedly, signed up for unwanted subscriptions, or have their information misused.
Scammers send emails pretending to be from Interpol or another police unit, claiming you committed an “administrative offense.” They attach a fake letter with logos and official language, threaten arrest within 48 hours, and tell you to reply to a specific email address to “justify” yourself. Once you engage, they pressure you to pay a “fine” or hand over personal details. This is meant to scare you into acting quickly.
Scammers pretend to be Meta/Facebook and claim your Facebook Page broke Community Standards. They warn your Page will be locked within 24 hours unless you “contact support” or “appeal” using a link they provide. The link goes to a fake login or “support chat” page designed to steal your Facebook password and 2FA codes. Once they get in, scammers can take over your Page, run ads on your card, or message your followers.
Scammers send a flashy investment pitch to a big iMessage or SMS group with people you don’t know. The message promises fast “retirement” gains, includes a short web link, and sometimes says to reply “YES” so they can “reopen” the link. The goal is to get you to click, talk to them privately, and eventually send money to a fake “investment” or trading account (often tied to crypto or forex). Once you deposit, your money becomes very hard to get back.
Unsolicited emails or letters claim you are due a large inheritance, “recovered funds,” or a prize. The message uses official‑looking logos and a reference number to appear real, then asks for your bank account details to “process the pay‑out.” After you reply, scammers often ask for upfront fees (tax, transfer, or clearance charges) or try to use your information for fraud.
A fraudulent internship scheme where scammers impersonate legitimate organizations or students, sending altered checks and demanding money back. Victims are tricked into revealing banking information and lose funds once the fake checks bounce.
Start with the most common patterns and their warning signs.
Attempts to trick victims into revealing credentials or sensitive info by impersonating trusted services.
Fake invoices or 'refund' notices that trick victims into calling scammers or installing remote-access tools.
Scammers claim there is a virus or issue and request remote access or payment for fake fixes.
Fraudulent investments or crypto scams promising guaranteed returns or exclusive offers.
Emotional manipulation via dating platforms leading to requests for money or gifts.
Targeted fraud against companies by spoofing executives, vendors, or partners.
Fake listings, rental scams, or overpayment schemes on marketplaces and classifieds.
Fake job offers requiring upfront fees, equipment purchases, or acting as a money mule.
Fraudulent prize claims requiring fees or sensitive info to claim winnings.
Fake charities exploiting disasters or tragedies to solicit fraudulent donations.
Fake delivery notifications tricking victims into clicking malicious links or paying fees.
Accounts or pages impersonating individuals or brands to defraud followers.
Phishing attempts delivered by text message linking to fake sites or requesting responses.
Phone-based scams impersonating banks, government, or companies.
Threats to expose sensitive or fake compromising information unless paid.
Emails or downloads containing malicious attachments or links to malware.
Fake websites or forms designed to steal login details, MFA codes, or personal data.
Victims recruited to move money or goods, often unknowingly laundering funds.
Fake crypto wallets, exchanges, or airdrops designed to steal private keys or funds.
Scams using doctored screenshots, payment proofs, or manipulated images.
Unexpected refunds, gift-card demands, and urgent invoices are classic pressure tactics. Verify using a trusted phone number or website—not the link you were sent.