Blog Category:

Scam Watch

Money for Resettled Refugees??

February 3rd, 2012 by Jennifer

Scammers work the phones, and so do scam-fighters. The FTC just heard from our friends in the Office of Refugee Resettlement about a new scam targeting refugees from Bhutan. We want to shine some light on this – and ask you to share this with anyone who might get a call like this. Continue reading

‘Gameover’ Scam Targets Bank Accounts

February 1st, 2012 by USA.gov

The FBI identified a new phishing scam online that targets your bank accounts. The scam is called “Gameover.” Once the virus is on your computer, it can steal all of your user names and passwords before you realize what has happened. Continue reading

FTC Warns Drivers about Ticket Scams

January 31st, 2012 by Julie

Getting a traffic ticket isn’t anyone’s favorite thing. Even worse? A fake ticket – a spam email that tricks you into downloading spyware onto your computer. Continue reading

Scams May Change, But Some Things Remain the Same

January 26th, 2012 by Susan Grant, Director of Consumer Protection, Consumer Federation of America

Scammers are constantly experimenting with new ways to get consumers’ hard-earned money. The stories vary, but two things remain consistent: 1) You’re asked to send money or provide your bank account information and 2) Rather than giving you money these crooks set their sights on stealing it from you. Continue reading

When Imitation is NOT the Sincerest Form of Flattery

January 24th, 2012 by Laura

Just today, the FTC announced a settlement in (The Immigration Center) case. According to the FTC, this company tricked people into paying fees for government forms, which are free, or “services” provided by unqualified employees. Continue reading

Resolve to be an Informed Consumer

December 30th, 2011 by Lisa

As you jot down your list of resolutions for 2012, why not consider a few to help you become more empowered in the marketplace? Continue reading

Traveling this Holiday Season? Beware of Identity Theft.

December 21st, 2011 by Kristina Dorville, National Cybersecurity Education Strategy, DHS

With the holiday season in full swing, the Department of Homeland Security’s Stop.Think.Connect.™ Campaign reminds travelers to be vigilant with their electronic devices. Continue reading

Is Losing Weight Really this Easy?

December 9th, 2011 by Amy

It’s some pitch — lose lots of weight quickly with products you can try for free. Even better — the products seem to be endorsed by trusted news sites, and satisfied “reporters” attest to all the unwanted pounds they’ve dropped. … Continue reading

Know the Facts About Debt Relief Companies

December 1st, 2011 by Lesley

If you’re thinking about doing business with a debt relief company but they’ve insisted on cash upfront and haven’t given the required disclosures, this could be the sign of a scam. Take time to investigate before committing yourself financially. Continue reading

Over the River and Through the Woods

November 22nd, 2011 by Aditi

We all know to wear loose pants to a holiday dinner, to avoid sitting next to that nosy aunt, and to make time for a nap after scarfing down that enormous meal. Here are some other helpful tips to keep in mind while visiting with your family during the holidays. Continue reading

Tell the Student in Your Life: “Don’t Get Scammed on Your Way to College”

November 2nd, 2011 by Lisa

Whether you are an educator, a parent, or just someone who knows and cares someone looking for a scholarship, keep them safe from scammers by giving them “Don’t Get Scammed on Your Way to College,” available for download at www.studentaid.ed.gov/pubs. Continue reading

Digging for Details Before Investing in Gold Bullion or Coins

October 28th, 2011 by Colleen

If you want to diversify your investment portfolio, you may think gold is the answer. It can help hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty. But before you buy any investment, it’s best to take some time, ask some questions, and get answers. Continue reading

Helping Military Families Be On Guard Online

October 25th, 2011 by Carol

Whether you’re an active duty service member, veteran or part of a military family, you can find great online security tips. Continue reading

Fake Government Grants: Your Money…for Absolutely Nothing

October 7th, 2011 by Lisa

Con artists hawking phony government grants use all sorts of tricks to bait you – from advertising “free grants” in the classifieds, to calling you and insisting that you’ve won government money for, say, filing your taxes on time. Continue reading

Staying On Top of Computer Security

September 21st, 2011 by David Vladeck Director, FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection

Check out the new and improved OnGuardOnline.gov – the U.S. government’s site to help people be safe, secure and responsible online. Continue reading

Saying Yes to Your Dress?

September 13th, 2011 by Amy

If you decide to sell a wedding dress online, the FTC wants you to know scammers are looking to rip off former brides in check overpayment scams. Continue reading

Scammers target businesses with fake emails

September 1st, 2011 by Nat

If you get an unexpected email that claims to be from the FTC and asks you to click on a link or attachment for information about consumer complaints, delete it. Continue reading

Watch Your Finances (and Watch Out for Scams) as Hurricane Irene Approaches

August 26th, 2011 by Lisa

As Hurricane Irene approaches the East Coast, the Federal Trade Commission reminds consumers that it’s important to be financially ready for a weather emergency. Continue reading

Getting Real Debt Help

August 25th, 2011 by Susan Grant, Director of Consumer Protection, Consumer Federation of America

In this tough economy, many people are struggling with their debts. Ads from companies offering to help may be tempting, but beware – this could be a trap that will leave you worse off than before. Continue reading

Kids and Online Safety

August 15th, 2011 by Mamie Kresses, Division of Advertising Practices, FTC

These days being online – often on a smartphone – is part of kids’ lives. But when it comes to sharing their personal information, parents are in the driver’s seat. Continue reading