Scams can show up through Email, Text or Phone.
Simply put, a phishing scam is when a scammer poses as a legitimate organization - like a bank, government agency, or popular brand - to trick you into providing personal information. Their goal is to steal your login credentials, credit card numbers, or social security number to commit identity theft or drain your accounts.
You might receive a text saying you missed a delivery, and need to click on a link and provide payment to reschedule. You may receive a call saying your Amazon account has been locked, and you need to provide your social security number to unlock it.
These scams can be found in your email inbox, text messages, or arrive via a phone call. In all of these situations, keep in mind the following:
Scammers will cause a sense of urgency, saying immediate action is required.
Never click on links or download attachments to your phone or computer.
Always verify. Contact the company directly to check your account.
Never provide any information to anyone who contacts you out of the blue.
Do not share one-time passcodes that are sent to you.
You have the right to hang up!
For more information about current scams, visit http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alerts