Scam guides: spot it before it costs you

Scammers reuse the same handful of playbooks. Once you can name the pattern, it loses its power. These plain-language guides cover the scams hitting families right now — what each one looks like, why it works, the red flags, and exactly what to do. Not sure about a message you received? You can always email it to us for a verdict.

“Wrong number” text scams

A stranger texts the wrong number, then keeps chatting. Why it is almost always the opening move of a scam.

“Cloud storage full” phishing emails

Emails warning your storage expired and your files will be deleted today. How to tell it is fake.

Fake IRS & tax-office voicemails

Recorded calls demanding you verify your tax filing — not how the real IRS works.

Inheritance & probate notice letters

A letter about a relative's estate may be genuine — or a setup. How to verify before you act.

Romance & investment scams

Scammers build trust over weeks before money is ever mentioned. The slow-burn red flags.

Protecting elderly parents from scams

Practical steps to shield older family members — without taking away their independence.

Got a message and not sure? Forward the email, or send a screenshot or photo, to [email protected]. Our AI checks it and emails you back a verdict with what to do.

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