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
Blog Category:
Scam Watch
Money for Resettled Refugees??
February 3rd, 2012 by Jennifer‘Gameover’ Scam Targets Bank Accounts
February 1st, 2012 by USA.govThe 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 JulieGetting 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 AmericaScammers 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 LauraJust 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 LisaAs 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, DHSWith 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 AmyIt’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 LesleyIf 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 AditiWe 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 LisaWhether 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 ColleenIf 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 CarolWhether 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 LisaCon 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 ProtectionCheck 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 AmyIf 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 NatIf 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 LisaAs 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 AmericaIn 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, FTCThese 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


