10 Common Scams To Watch Out for in 2025

Scammers are getting smarter, and their schemes are more convincing than ever. As technology advances, so do the tricks they use to steal your money, identity, or sensitive information. Staying informed is your best defense. Here are 10 common scams you’ll need to watch out for in 2025.

Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are still going strong, but in 2025, they’re a lot trickier. Scammers now use AI to create personalized emails or messages that look identical to those from trusted sources. They might pose as your bank, an online shop, or even a coworker asking you to click a link or share personal details. Double-check email addresses and URLs, and don’t click anything unless you’re 100% sure it’s legit.

Impersonation Scams

Impersonation scams have always been a problem, but they’re even slicker now. Scammers pretend to be officials from government agencies or customer service reps from major companies. They call or text you, claiming you owe money, your account’s in trouble, or they need access to your device. These crooks often pressure you into acting fast, but take a breath and verify their claims independently before doing anything.

Crypto Investment Scams

The popularity of cryptocurrency has opened the door for new scams. Fake investment platforms and “too good to be true” offers lure you in with promises of massive returns. The catch? They take your money and vanish. Be extremely cautious with any crypto investment that isn’t from a well-known and trusted source. Stick with licensed brokers and avoid anything that sounds like a shortcut to riches.

Online Marketplace Scams

Online shopping is more convenient than ever, but it’s also a favorite playground for scammers. On sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, they’ll post fake listings for hard-to-find items, pocket your payment, and disappear. Worse, some even sell fake products that never work. Always use secure payment methods and meet in person when possible.

Romance Scams

Romance scams are evolving with the rise of dating apps and social media. Scammers create fake profiles to lure victims into emotional connections, then gradually ask for money. They often claim to need help with an emergency or funds to visit you. If someone you’ve never met in person starts asking for money, it’s a huge red flag.

Rental Scams

Rental scams are thriving, and scammers are targeting desperate renters looking for housing. They’ll advertise properties that don’t exist or aren’t theirs to rent. You may be asked to pay a deposit upfront, only to later find out the listing was fake. Always visit a rental property in person, and don’t send money until you’ve signed a legitimate lease.

Job Scams

Job scams are preying on those who are job hunting in a competitive market. Fake employers or recruiters offer positions that sound amazing but require you to pay upfront fees for “training” or “equipment.” Others try to steal your personal information through fake job applications. Research any company offering you a job, especially if they’re asking for payment or sensitive data.

Tech Support Scams

Tech support scams have grown more sophisticated. Scammers trick you into believing your computer has a virus or problem. Then they ask for remote access to fix it—or worse, demand payment to unlock your device. Legitimate tech companies will never call you out of the blue. If you get one of these calls, just hang up immediately.

Lottery and Prize Scams

The classic “you’ve won” scam is still around but with new twists. Scammers claim you’ve won a lottery, prize, or sweepstakes, but you must pay fees or taxes upfront to claim it. No legitimate contest asks for payment to give you what you’ve won. If you didn’t enter a contest, you can bet the prize isn’t real.

Charity Scams

Charity scams often pop up after natural disasters or during holiday seasons. Scammers exploit your generosity by creating fake charities or pretending to represent real ones. They might call, email, or set up websites to collect donations. Before donating, look up the charity independently to ensure they’re legitimate.

AI-Generated Scams

AI-generated scams are a new and unsettling development. Scammers use AI to mimic voices or texts from people you know, like friends, family, or coworkers. They’ll ask for money or sensitive info, and it can feel surprisingly real. Always verify through another method, like calling the person, before taking action.

Subscription Renewal Scams

Subscription scams are targeting popular services like streaming platforms or antivirus software. You’ll get an official-looking email saying your subscription is about to expire. They’ll include a link to renew it—one that steals your payment info. Instead of clicking, go directly to the service’s official site to check your subscription status.

Social Media Scams

Scammers love social media because it provides easy access to victims. Fake giveaways, phishing links, and fraudulent ads are common. They might even hijack accounts to trick your friends or followers. Be mindful of what you click, never share personal info through social media, and double-check anything that seems suspicious.

Pay Attention

Staying ahead of scams in 2025 means staying alert, cautious, and informed. Scammers are becoming more creative, but knowing their tricks is half the battle. Always verify information independently, trust your instincts, and take your time before making decisions. Protect yourself and your loved ones by staying one step ahead.

13 Normal Things Most People Accept That Could Be Scams

In our society, many things can be considered a scam. Most of the time, people don’t even realize what’s going on and play into the situation. Or they have no choice but to go along with it because they don’t have another option. Here are 13 things that have been normalized but many people consider to be a scam. 13 Normal Things Most People Accept That Could Be Scams

15 Outrageous Myths That Have Been Told Time and Time Again

Have you ever heard something through the grapevine that made you stop and ask, “Could this really be true?” Sometimes myths are told to keep you safe, sometimes they’re silly, and oftentimes they’re just downright stupid. A recent online poll asked users to share stupid myths that are still floating around. Here are some of the most popular answers. 15 Outrageous Myths That Have Been Told Time and Time Again