Make protecting yourself from fraud one of your new year’s resolutions by being aware of the following scams and following these prevention tips.

Employment Scams

Fraudsters advertise career opportunities online and in print, the same way legitimate employers do, making them hard to detect. They often impersonate well-known companies or use tantalizing offers like work from home, be your own boss, or become a mystery shopper. Victims then apply online – providing the fraudsters with their personal information.

Tips

  • Search online using the name of the company and “scam” or “complaint” to see if anyone
    has reported being scammed by a similar offer.
  • Never pay for the promise of a job. Reputable employers will never ask you to pay for a job.
  • Use reputable sources to find a job such as USAjobs.gov, CareerOne Stop, and USA.gov.


Cryptocurrency Scams

In December 2024, the price of one Bitcoin hit $100,000 for the first time making cryptocurrency hotter than ever. As a result, novices are looking to invest, and scammers are hoping to take their money.

Tips

  • No legitimate business will ever demand that you pay in crypto.
  • Only scammers will promise big returns quickly on your investment with zero risks
  • Never take crypto advice from someone you don’t know well – especially someone you met on an online dating site
  • Confirm a company is legitimate by checking if it’s registered with the Commodities Futures Trading Commission.


Celebrity Imposter Scams

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making it easier for scammers to impersonate celebrities online to steal from fans. Using messaging apps or deep fake videos, scammers offer personal connections, VIP access, investment opportunities or invitations to support the celebrity’s favorite charity.

Tips

  • No celebrity will ever ask for your personal information online
  • Conduct an online search using the celebrity’s name and “scam” to see if anyone has reported being scammed by a celebrity imposter.


Tech Support Scams

Often scammers will send legitimately looking emails with a Microsoft or Apple logo stating that your computer has a virus. When you click on the link or call the number, the fraudster requests remote access to your computer – giving them access to your information and install malware. They may also try and sell you useless software or warranty programs.

Tips

  • Never click on a pop up. If it won’t go away, restart your computer.
  • If a tech support person contacts you randomly, hang up.
  • If you have given someone remote access to your computer, change your password immediately.


Card-Declined Scams

Online shoppers who receive an error or “card declined” message may become victims of a new twist on online shopping scams. Shoppers may choose to try another card which is also declined. Later they learn that not only did both charges go through, but the charges were larger than expected.

Tips

  • Verify that the site is legitimate by examining the URL (it may be spelled differently than the real site).
  • Shop only on secure websites with the prefix https://.
  • Do not trust and delete unsolicited emails or messages.
  • Use a credit card for extra protection.

If you’ve been a victim of fraud, contact the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud@ftc.gov. Still have questions, please call or visit your local Marine Bank banking center.