Crooks use clever schemes to defraud millions of people every year. They often combine sophisticated technology with age-old tricks to get people to send money or give out personal information. They add new twists to old schemes and pressure people to make important decisions on the spot. One thing that never changes: they follow Headlines—and the money. 

Download Ditch the Pitch (PDF) for free! It is a complete guide to guarding against scams. Includes common scams "pitches," red flags and what to do if you gave your information to a scammer.

Common Scams

Dating/Romance Scams

• Don't Get Hooked By Dating Scams (PDF) - Exercise caution when communicating with strangers on the internet. Consumers can be taken advantage of by faraway lovers that claim to be "strapped for cash."

Job Scams

• Work from Home Scams (PDF)
• Secret Shopper Scams (YouTube Video)

Tax Scams/Fraud

• ID Theft: Income Tax Fraud - Take these steps to protect yourself from income tax fraud. 
• Protect Yourself from Tax Time Predators (PDF) - Filing taxes can be a daunting task and scam artists can make it even more difficult. No matter what method you choose, follow these tips and make filing less taxing.
• Tax Time Safety Tips (PDF)
• Tax Rebate Scams Aims to Steal your Money, Identity (YouTube Video) 

Phishing

• Phishing Scams (PDF) - Don't take the bait! Learn how to recognize and avoid bogus emails designed to get you to give up personal information.
• "Credit Alert" Phishing E-mails (PDF) - SCDCA warns consumers about phishing emails that appear to be coming from credit bureaus. 
• Nigerian E-mail Scam (PDF) - Get the facts on one of the oldest financial scams and learn how to protect yourself from it. 

Phone Scams

• Telephone Scams (PDF) - Here are ways consumers can spot and recognize telephone scams and learn how not to be a victim. 
• Do Not Call Registry - What It Can and Cannot Do For You (Webinar) - Learn the rules of the Do Not Call Registry, what it CANNOT do, why you should still sign up and tips on how to stop more of those unwanted calls.

Repair Scams

• Beware of Disaster Scams (PDF) - Protect yourself from shady deals offered after natural disasters

Travel Scams

• Be on the Look Out for Fake Rental Listings (PDF) - Looking for the perfect vacation rental? Exercise caution in your search for a place to stay with these tips.