AskFirstScam guide
The scams going around right now, in plain English — with the warning signs and exactly what to do. Share these with your parents.
The “grandchild in trouble” scam
Someone calls or texts pretending to be a grandchild (or a lawyer or police officer for them) who needs money right away for bail, a hospital bill or an accident — and begs you not to tell anyone.
Read the guide →Fake IRS, Social Security and Medicare calls
A caller or message claims to be from the IRS, Social Security, Medicare, the police or a court. They say there’s a problem — unpaid taxes, a suspended Social Security number, a warrant — and demand payment or personal details.
Read the guide →Unpaid toll texts
A text says you owe a small toll (often a few dollars) and must pay today through a link to avoid fines. It’s one of the most common scam texts in the U.S. right now.
Read the guide →Fake package delivery texts
A text or email claims to be from USPS, UPS, FedEx or Amazon saying a package can’t be delivered and you need to “update your address” or pay a small fee.
Read the guide →Tech support and “virus” scams
A pop-up, call or email says your computer or phone has a virus or has been hacked, and gives a number to call. The “technician” asks to connect to your device and charges you — or gets into your bank account.
Read the guide →Fake bank fraud alerts
A text, email or call pretends to be your bank’s fraud team. It says there’s a suspicious charge and asks you to confirm details, read back a code, or move money to keep it “safe”.
Read the guide →Romance and “new friend” scams
Someone you meet online — on Facebook, a dating site or even a wrong-number text — builds a warm relationship over weeks, then needs money for an emergency, a trip to see you, customs fees or an “investment”.
Read the guide →Anyone asking for gift cards
If anyone asks you to pay with gift cards — for a bill, a fine, a fee, a prize or to help someone — it’s a scam. Real businesses and agencies don’t take gift cards as payment.
Read the guide →