Scam Basics: How to Spot and Stop Common Scams
Learn what scams are, how scammers try to trick people, and simple steps you can use to stay safer online, by phone, and through text messages.
Simple, practical lessons to help you and your family avoid scams, use technology confidently, and know what to do when something feels wrong. No account required.
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Start here to learn the most common scam warning signs, simple safety habits, and what to do when something feels suspicious.
Learn what scams are, how scammers try to trick people, and simple steps you can use to stay safer online, by phone, and through text messages.
Learn what scams are, how scammers create urgency, common scam types, and the simple habits that help you pause, verify, and ask for help.
Learn how pig butchering scams build trust through friendship or romance, how fake investment sites show false profits, and what to do before sending money online.
Learn what a scam is, why scammers target people, and the simple habits that help you stay safe every day.
Learn how fake computer warnings, pop-ups, and support calls try to trick people into giving access or money.
Learn how to scan QR codes safely, spot warning signs, and avoid QR code scams that can lead to fake websites.
Learn what scams are, who scammers target, and the predictable patterns that make fraud easier to recognize — based on the Hawaii Fraud Prevention and Resource Guide.
Learn the four common ways scammers reach victims — internet, mail, phone, and in person — and how to recognize suspicious contact.
Learn the emotional tactics scammers use — phantom riches, authority, scarcity, intimidation, and more — and how to recognize when your feelings are being manipulated.
Learn which personal information scammers value most and the best practices for keeping your Social Security number, Medicare number, and financial details safe.
Learn the five steps to take when you suspect a scam — stop communicating, do not send money, verify, talk to someone you trust, and report it.
Go deeper into how scams unfold, how scammers create pressure, and how to recognize more complex multi-step scams.
Learn about newer scam tactics, including linkless messages, AI voice scams, fake QR codes, fake delivery notices, and account security tricks.
Learn how QR code scams work, where they appear, and how to check preview links before tapping.
Learn how AI voice cloning and deepfake scams work, why familiar voices are no longer enough proof, and how to verify urgent money requests safely.
Learn how romance scams, pig butchering, call center fraud, and AI tricks build trust over time — and how to verify before sending money.
Learn how fake tech support scams can turn into fake banking emergencies involving "safe accounts," cash, gold, couriers, and Bitcoin ATMs.
Learn what identity theft is, how criminals use stolen information, warning signs to watch for, and steps to prevent it.
Learn about harmful software like adware and ransomware, how hidden URLs work, and simple habits to stay safe online.
Learn about common Medicare fraud schemes — genetic testing scams, equipment billing fraud, upcoding, and medical identity theft — and how to protect yourself in Hawaii.
Learn how older adults are financially exploited — including the grandparent scam, caregiver theft, and property fraud — and the warning signs to watch for.
Learn the five steps to recover after identity theft — fraud alerts, credit freezes, FTC reporting, police reports, and ongoing monitoring.
Recognize fake emails and dangerous links.
Learn how to spot fake emails that try to steal your passwords, money, or personal information.
Protect your logins and online accounts.
Simple steps to create passwords that are hard to guess and easy for you to manage safely.
Understand everyday technology in plain language.
Understand what CAPTCHA checks are, why websites use them, and how to avoid fake CAPTCHA tricks used by scammers.
A calm, beginner-friendly lesson for learning the basic parts of your phone one step at a time.
Know what to do right away if something goes wrong.
Clear steps to take right away if you shared information, sent money, or clicked something suspicious.