Recognizing and Avoiding Scams

Scammers are becoming more sophisticated every day. Whether it’s a shady phishing email or a too-good-to-be-true investment offer, it can be tough to spot what’s real and what’s a scam. Recognizing the red flags and staying vigilant can help protect you from falling prey to scams.

What’s malware and how can you avoid It?

Malware is harmful software that can invade computer networks, steal sensitive information, and disrupt your device’s normal operations. Common examples include:

• Viruses: replicate themselves by modifying other computer programs and inserting their own code—much like that nasty winter bug you had last year.
• Ransomware: locks up your files and demands payment to get access to them back.
• Worms: replicate themselves to spread to other computers, often without you doing anything at all.
• Trojans: disguised as something harmless or useful like legitimate software. Once you run it, it can give hackers access to your system.

So how do you get malware? Usually by clicking on shady links or downloading stuff that looks fine but isn’t. These can show up in ads, social media posts, sketchy emails, pop-ups, or even messages from someone you know whose account got hacked.

Watch out for anything that seems too good to be true or sounds super urgent—those are red flags. If you do click something, don’t panic—run a virus scan ASAP using your antivirus software.

Phishing scams- don’t get hooked!

Some scammers send fake emails, messages, or set up fake websites that look like they’re from real companies or people. They often use fear, urgency, or curiosity to get you to click a link or hand over info. Want to avoid falling for it?

• Be suspicious of unexpected messages or emails
• Double-check who a message is really from
• Turn on multi-factor authentication wherever you can
• Keep up to date on the latest phishing tricks

Watch out for impersonation scams

Impersonation scams happen when someone pretends to be a trusted person or organization to trick you into giving them money or personal info.

A classic example: someone calls claiming to be from the IRS and demands payment. Don’t fall for it. The IRS never calls asking for money—they’ll reach out by mail or in person. If you’re contacted about a debt, look up the collector and ask for a Debt Validation Letter before doing anything.

Need help? This online Banzai coach can help you with the process.

“Pig butchering” scams steal your bacon

These scams often start with a message on social media or a dating app. The scammer builds a fake relationship, gains your trust, then pitches a “can’t-miss” crypto investment. Once they have you on the hook, they vanish—taking your money and leaving you emotionally drained. How to stay safe:

• Be suspicious of random messages or fast-developing online relationships—especially ones that quickly turn romantic or talk money.
• Don’t take investment advice from online strangers, no matter how convincing they seem.
• Do your own research and check with a trusted financial advisor before investing.
• Watch for pressure tactics. Real investment opportunities don’t come with urgency or emotional manipulation.

Tech support scams

Scammers pretending to be from well-known tech companies might call, email, or hit you with a pop-up saying that your computer’s infected. They’ll ask for remote access or try to sell you fake services. Once in, they can steal things like credit card numbers or personal info. Don’t let them trick you:

• Ignore unsolicited calls or messages for tech support— real providers don’t reach out that way.
• Don’t click on unexpected pop-ups or links.
• Never give remote access unless you contacted support first.
• If you’re worried, go to the company’s official website to check it out.

Government imposter scams

Some scammers pretend to be from the IRS, SSA, or local police. They’ll say you owe money, missed a court date, or face arrest. Then comes the demand: pay now or face serious consequences. How to protect yourself:

• Know that real government agencies usually send letters— not random calls or emails.
• Be suspicious of threats or urgent payment demands.
• Don’t give out personal info. Contact agencies through their websites or other official channels.

Employment scams

Scammers sometimes pose as recruiters offering remote jobs. They may ask for your info “for onboarding” or want you to pay for training or equipment. Spoiler: the job’s not real.

How to stay safe:

• Be skeptical of surprise job offers, especially if they sound too good to be true.
• Do your homework— check the company’s real website.
• Never pay for a job or give sensitive info to someone you haven’t verified.
• If the offer feels sketchy, trust your gut and move on.

Watch out for affinity fraud

Affinity fraud scams target tight-knit groups like religious, ethnic, or social communities by pretending to be part of the group to gain trust. They use that connection to pitch fake investments or other scams.

The scammer may be in the group or just pretending, but their goal is to get your money or personal info. Always double-check before giving anything away. If they claim to represent a cause you support, go through official channels.

Scams that target seniors

Unfortunately, seniors are common targets for scams. Scammers may pretend to be a grandchild or relative in trouble who needs emergency money. If you get a call or email like this, verify it’s real first.

How to handle a scammer

If you suspect you’ve been a victim of a scam, take action immediately. Block the scammer and report the incident— to your financial institution and/or the police. If you’ve already sent money or shared info, cancel cards and contact your financial institution ASAP.

Worried your Social Security number was exposed? Head to the Federal Trade Commission’s website for step-by-step help. Time is key, so act fast!

Stay informed

Scammers are always coming up with new tricks. For updates on common scams and tips to protect yourself, visit the FTC’s website.

Want to determine if something may be a scam? Use the Banzai Scam Checker coach to investigate!