Browse the archive

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 The goal is to steal money, credit card details, or encourage further gambling deposits that can never be withdrawn.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 send a text claiming to be from USPS or U.S. Customs saying your package can’t be delivered because of an “invalid ZIP code” or missing address. The message includes a link to “confirm” your information or asks you to reply with a single letter (like Y). The link leads to a fake website that steals your personal details and card numbers, or installs malware.

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.

You get a text saying it’s from the DMV or E‑ZPass about an unpaid toll that must be paid right away. The message threatens fines or even suspension of driving privileges and gives you a link to “pay now.” The link goes to a fake site that collects your card and personal details.

You receive a frightening email claiming a hacker took over your computer and recorded you through your webcam while you visited adult websites. They threaten to send the “video” to your family, friends, and coworkers unless you pay in Bitcoin within a short deadline. These are mass-produced blackmail emails. The sender usually does not have any video or access to your device—they are trying to scare you into paying. This scam is very common on Hotmail/Outlook/Live accounts, where scammers often make the message look like it came “from” your own address.

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 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 impersonate government tax or revenue departments and promise a refund or rebate. Victims are directed to click on a phishing link or provide personal/banking details, which are then stolen.

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.

Scammers send a fake PayPal invoice and push you to call a support number. From there, they escalate to remote control, fake refunds, and pressure to "return" money you never received.

Scammers send emails or texts that look like they’re from a subscription or streaming service, saying your payment failed or your card expired. They warn your account will be paused soon unless you “update billing.” The link or button takes you to a fake website that copies the real brand’s look to steal your login, credit card, and personal details. Common examples include messages pretending to be from Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+, Spotify, or Apple. Red flags include urgent deadlines (24–48 hours), generic greetings, small spelling mistakes, and links that don’t lead to the company’s official website.

Scammers pretend to be from your bank, payment app (Zelle, Cash App, PayPal), crypto exchange, or broker and claim a withdrawal or transfer is about to happen. The message pushes you to click a link or call a number “right now” to stop it. The goal is to get your password and one‑time codes, or to talk you into moving money to the scammer’s “safe” account.