Scammers are getting smarter. They know how to trick people into handing over money, personal information, or even control of their devices. Some scams are as old as time, while others take advantage of new technology. Either way, they all have one goal—to take advantage of you.
Here are 10 of the most common consumer scams in the U.S. and how you can avoid them.
1. Phony IRS Calls
You get a call from someone claiming to be from the IRS. They say you owe back taxes and threaten legal action, arrest, or wage garnishment.
How to avoid it:
- The IRS never calls or emails demanding immediate payment.
- Hang up and report the call to the IRS or the FTC.
- If you really owe taxes, you’ll receive a letter in the mail—not a threatening phone call.
2. Online Shopping Scams
That too-good-to-be-true deal you found online? It might be a scam. Fake websites and fraudulent sellers lure people in with deep discounts, only to deliver nothing—or a cheap knockoff.
How to avoid it:
- Only shop from reputable websites.
- Check reviews and look for warning signs like bad grammar or missing contact information.
- Use credit cards, not debit cards, for extra fraud protection.
3. Fake Tech Support
A pop-up alert on your computer warns you that your device is infected with a virus. It provides a phone number to call for “help.” Once you call, the scammer asks for remote access or payment to fix the issue.
How to avoid it:
- Legitimate tech companies don’t send pop-up warnings like this.
- Never call a number from an unsolicited alert.
- If you think your computer has a problem, take it to a trusted repair shop.
4. Gift Card Scams
Scammers love gift cards because they’re untraceable. They might pose as a government agency, a utility company, or even a relative in trouble—then demand payment via gift cards.
How to avoid it:
- No legitimate company or agency will ever request payment in gift cards.
- If someone asks for a gift card code over the phone, it’s a scam.
- Report it to the FTC immediately.
5. Fake Job Offers
You apply for a job online and get an offer right away—no interview required. The catch? They ask for personal information, bank details, or even an upfront payment for training or supplies.
How to avoid it:
- Real employers don’t ask for money to hire you.
- Research the company before accepting any job offer.
- If they ask for your Social Security number before hiring you, that’s a red flag.
6. Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams
“You’ve won a prize!” But before you can claim it, you need to pay a processing fee or provide personal details. Spoiler alert: there’s no prize.
How to avoid it:
- If you didn’t enter a contest, you didn’t win.
- Never send money to claim a prize.
- Legitimate sweepstakes don’t ask winners to pay up front.
7. Romance Scams
Someone you met online seems perfect. They gain your trust, then ask for money—often for a fake emergency or a plane ticket to visit you.
How to avoid it:
- Be cautious of online relationships that move too fast.
- Never send money or share sensitive information with someone you haven’t met in person.
- Do a reverse image search of their profile photo to check for fakes.
8. Rental Scams
You find the perfect apartment or vacation rental at an unbelievable price. The landlord asks for a deposit upfront—often through wire transfer—before you can even see the place. Then they disappear.
How to avoid it:
- Never pay for a rental you haven’t seen in person.
- Be wary of listings that ask for immediate deposits before showing the unit.
- Use reputable rental websites and avoid Craigslist for housing.
9. Charity Scams
After a disaster or tragedy, scammers pose as charities and ask for donations. The money never reaches those in need.
How to avoid it:
- Research charities before donating. Legitimate organizations are registered with the IRS.
- Donate directly through official websites, not over the phone.
- Be wary of emotional pressure tactics.
10. Grandparent Scams
An elderly person gets a call from someone claiming to be their grandchild. The scammer says they’re in trouble—maybe in jail or stuck in a foreign country—and begs for money.
How to avoid it:
- Ask the caller questions only your real grandchild would know.
- Call family members to verify the situation.
- Never wire money or send gift cards based on a phone call.
Stay One Step Ahead
Scammers rely on fear, urgency, and deception to trick people. But now you know their tactics.
Take a moment before reacting. Question everything. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. And when in doubt, report the scam—it could save someone else from falling for the same trap.