Family and romance scams
A grandchild called saying they're in trouble. Here's how to tell if it's real.
A grandchild calls in trouble and asks for money. How to tell if it is real, and the code word that protects your family.
The Editors3 min read
All guides
Latest guides
Plain answers about suspicious calls, texts and emails
Government scams
A caller says you owe the IRS. Real or fake?
A call, voicemail or text says you owe back taxes and must pay now. How IRS scams work, what the IRS does not do, and how to check your account safely.
The Editors4 min read
Payment scams
Someone told you to protect your money at a Bitcoin ATM. Stop.
If anyone tells you to put cash into a Bitcoin ATM to protect your money, it is a scam. How the pattern works and what to do.
The Editors4 min read
Family and romance scams
A stranger texts "wrong number" and keeps chatting. What is it?
A friendly text from a stranger, sent by mistake, is how some scams begin. Why not replying is the kind choice, and how to report and block the number.
The Editors3 min read
How to check
How to check a link before you click it
A link in a text or email can lead somewhere other than it claims. A short routine for checking the address, and what to do if you already tapped.
The Editors4 min read
Government scams
Your Social Security number has been suspended. Is that even possible?
Social Security numbers cannot be suspended. What the caller wants, why the call feels real, and how to end it.
The Editors3 min read
Tech support scams
A caller asks to connect to your computer. Say no.
Callers who ask you to install a remote access tool want control of your device and your bank. How the request works, and what to do if you agreed.
The Editors4 min read
Bank scams
A text says your bank saw fraud. What do you do?
A text from your bank about suspicious activity asks you to call or reply. How to tell if it is real, and why the next call matters more than the text.
The Editors3 min read
Tech support scams
A pop-up says your computer is infected. Should you call that number?
A pop-up says your computer is infected and gives a number to call. Why you should never call it, and what to do instead.
The Editors3 min read