Scam guides: spot it before it costs you
Scammers reuse the same handful of playbooks. Once you can name the pattern, it loses its power. These plain-language guides cover the scams hitting families right now — what each one looks like, why it works, the red flags, and exactly what to do. Not sure about a message you received? You can always email it to us for a verdict.
“Wrong number” text scams
A stranger texts the wrong number, then keeps chatting. Why it is almost always the opening move of a scam.
“Cloud storage full” phishing emails
Emails warning your storage expired and your files will be deleted today. How to tell it is fake.
Fake IRS & tax-office voicemails
Recorded calls demanding you verify your tax filing — not how the real IRS works.
Inheritance & probate notice letters
A letter about a relative's estate may be genuine — or a setup. How to verify before you act.
Romance & investment scams
Scammers build trust over weeks before money is ever mentioned. The slow-burn red flags.
Protecting elderly parents from scams
Practical steps to shield older family members — without taking away their independence.
Toll road & E-ZPass texts
A text says you owe an unpaid toll and threatens fees or legal action. Why it is almost always fake.
Package “delivery fee” texts
A text says USPS or another carrier could not deliver your package over a tiny unpaid fee. What to check first.
Bank fraud-alert impersonation
A text or call claims to be your bank asking about a Zelle transfer. Why this one is especially dangerous.
Grandparent & family-emergency calls
A voice that sounds just like your grandchild says they are in trouble. How AI voice cloning changed this scam.
Tech-support popups & renewal invoices
A scary virus warning or a surprise Geek Squad-style invoice, both leading to the same fake support call.
Got a message and not sure? Email the message, or send a screenshot or photo, to Check@IsThisAScam.Email. Our AI checks it and emails you back a verdict with what to do.
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