Scam News and Alerts
Five of the Biggest Scams to Watch for in 2025
Old frauds don’t disappear — they become more sophisticated. Here’s how to protect yourself this year
Scammers Use Financial Grooming, or ‘Pig Butchering,’ to Steal Savings
The terrible term describes a key tactic for criminals perpetrating investment scams
$12.5 Billion Reported Lost to Scams and Fraud in 2024
The FTC announces record losses as the scam epidemic shows no sign of abating
Victims Targeted in Stolen Cash Recovery Scams
Be aware of unscrupulous criminals who offer to help make you whole again
The Rise and Fall of a Ponzi Schemer
A charismatic scammer stole millions from dozens of “friends” until his ruse fell apart
Americans Flooded With Road Toll Scam Texts
Criminals pretend to be from electronic toll-collection services to steal data and money
New Laws Allow Banks to Pause Suspicious Transactions
State lawmakers hope that the legislation can protect customers who may be in the midst of a scam
Anyone Can Be a Target for Sextortion
Scammers solicit compromising photos online, then blackmail victims
Fraud Prevention
Follow This Advice Before Accepting a Stranger’s Check
Criminals take advantage of the delay before a payment clears
How to Manage Relationships With Chronic Scam Victims
Sometimes a loved one refuses to or can’t see that they’re the victim of a scam
What to Know About Credit Card Skimmers
7 tips to protect yourself from criminals who install skimmers on card readers to steal users’ cash
Another Darn Breach? How to Protect Your Personal Data
Your information is likely out on the dark web, but you can still take steps to minimize risk
How, Why and When to Check (or Freeze) Your Credit Score
Monitoring your creditworthiness is key for tracking your financial health and spotting fraud
AARP's Fight Against Fraud
AARP Backs Laws Targeting Criminals Who Use Crypto ATMs for Scams
New state legislation aims to protect older adults from this growing method of fraud
Broad Approach Needed to Combat Fraud, AARP Tells Congress
AARP addressed financial fraud's devastating impact on older adults
More on Fraud
Title Fraud Thiefs Steal Your Identity — Then Your Home
Criminals can use public information to victimize both buyers and owners in this real estate scam
Are You a Scam Victim? You Might Get Hit Again by Taxes
Advocates are working to change federal laws to separate fraud losses from taxable income
What to Know to Protect Yourself Against Bank Scams
It can be hard to tell whether you’re being contacted by your bank or a criminal
Do You Really Need an RFID-Blocking Wallet or Purse?
Experts say not to waste your money — but warn that thieves can swipe your data in other way
What to Do After You’ve Experienced a Scam
Take these steps to protect your bank accounts and personal information, and find the support you need
15 of the Worst Things to Keep in Your Wallet
With identity theft rampant, keep only the essentials in your pocket or purse (Members Edition)
How to Avoid ‘Wrong Number’ Text Scams
Crooks pretend to contact you accidentally to lure you into a crypto investment or other scheme
Keep Those With Cognitive Decline Safe From Scams
Key steps to protect vulnerable family members’ finances in an age of rampant fraud
‘Shark Tank’ Stars Fed Up as Scammers Use Their Images
Criminals manipulate their photos and videos in ads for weight-loss products, keto gummies
Glossary of Scam and Fraud Terminology
From A to Z, here’s a guide to the frequently used lingo of deception