scam types · 9
Generic explainers for every scam family we track. Each one covers what it looks like, how it works, the red flags, and what to do if you're already in. Cases on the rest of the site reference these so you can read the background once and not have to re-learn it every investigation.
A stranger talks you into a flashy trading site. The numbers on the dashboard are made up. The money is gone the second you deposit it.
Long-con fake relationship that ends with a fake trading platform. The operators 'fatten the pig' for weeks before they take everything.
Someone you've never met in person needs money. There is always a reason. There is never a video call that proves they're real.
A 'remote job' that pays you to click buttons on a website. The website is a scam. They make you front money before they pay you anything.
A scary popup or invoice email convinces you your computer or account is compromised. The 'support' agent is the actual attacker, and they want remote access.
Someone claims to be from a bank, the IRS, a courier, the Social Security office, or a utility company. The pressure is the giveaway, real institutions don't operate like this.
An email, text, or DM that looks legit and links to a fake login page. The page steals your password, and if you reuse passwords, your other accounts too.
A text from USPS, UPS, FedEx, or DHL says your package is held and needs a small fee. The fee is bait, the real prize is your card data.
Scams that don't fit a documented pattern yet, or new variants we're still figuring out. The universal red flags still apply.