Common Scams

• Beware of Disaster Scams (PDF) - Protect yourself from shady deals offered after natural disasters.
   
• "Credit Alert" Phishing E-mails (PDF) - SCDCA warns consumers about phishing emails that appear to be coming from credit bureaus. 
   
• ID Theft: Income Tax Fraud (PDF) - Take these steps to protect yourself from income tax fraud. 
   
• Nigerian E-mail Scam (PDF) - Get the facts on one of the oldest financial scams and learn how to protect yourself from it. 
   
• Scam Alert: Hotel Scammers Have Checked In (PDF) - SCDCA warns consumers about a common scam targeting hotel guests.

Tips to Avoid 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.

• Ditch the Pitch (PDF) - A guide to guarding against scams. Includes common scams "pitches," red flags and what to do if you gave your information to a scammer.

• Don’t Be Deceived By Telephone Scams (PDF) - Here are ways consumers can spot and recognize telephone scams and learn how not to be a victim. 

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

• 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.

• Protect Yourself from Tax Time Predators (PDF) - Filing taxes can be a daunting task and scam artist can make it even more difficult. No matter what method you choose, follow these tips and make filing less taxing.

• Scams Popping up on Twitter (YouTube Video)

• Secret Shopper Scams (YouTube Video)

• Tax Time Safety Tips (PDF)

• Tax Rebate Scams Aims to Steal your Money, Identity (YouTube Video)