Archives - Scam Alert


Watch out for the “fake refund” tech support scam

In this scam the criminal contacts the victim offering a refund for tech support services previously rendered. The scammer asks for access to the victim’s device and instructs the victim to login to their online bank account to process a refund. As a result, the criminal gains control of the victim’s device and bank account. […]

How to stay safe when applying for jobs

With the COVID-19 pandemic apparently nearing its end in the U.S., more people are returning to in-person work. That means more people are applying for jobs, submitting applications left and right, looking for the right fit. In most cases, job applications require a plethora of personal information when being filled out, including addresses, work history, […]

Be wary of offers for prepaid debit cards or gift cards

A scammer may reach out to you through a phone call or email and tell you they have a limited-time offer for a prepaid gift card or debit card. The offer might sound enticing — it could be a gift card worth more than they are asking you to pay. However, this is often a […]

Don’t fall for fake calls about your taxes

Sometimes scammers will call your cell phone instead of sending emails. This is called vishing. A scammer may pretend to be a government official and tell you that you have unpaid taxes. They’ll likely then tell you that you have to pay them immediately or you will go to jail. Hang up — this is […]

Report suspicious online activity to the FBI

If you receive a suspicious email and suspect that it is an attempted phishing attack, report it to the FBI by submitting an official tip. Tips are meant to help the FBI with ongoing investigations, which in turn makes you safer online. Tips are not meant to report cybercrimes that were successfully carried out — […]

Watch out for rental scams

When applying to rent a home, prospective renters often need to provide landlords with personal information like their Social Security number, rental history and employment information. Watch out for fake apartment listings that aim to steal that personal information. If an apartment has a price that is too good to be true, it likely is. […]