Common scams to watch for
Lottery, prize, or sweepstakes "fees"+
Scammers claim you have won a prize but demand an upfront payment for taxes or fees before you can collect — legitimate lotteries never require you to pay to receive winnings.
Romance and online relationship requests+
Someone you have met online builds trust over time, then asks you to wire money for travel, medical bills, or an emergency they will never repay.
Fake emergencies impersonating family or officials+
A caller pretends to be a relative in trouble or a government agent demanding immediate payment, pressuring you to send money before you can verify the story.
Job offers requiring upfront payment+
A "job" asks you to pay for training, equipment, or processing fees, or to forward funds you receive — a sign the position is not real.
Overpayment and check-refund schemes+
A buyer "accidentally" overpays with a check and asks you to wire back the difference, leaving you liable when the original check bounces.