Scam Education Library
Learn to recognize common scam patterns and protect yourself and your family.
Common Scam Playbooks
Grandparent Scam
Caller impersonates a grandchild or family member in distress, claiming arrest or accident, demanding immediate money transfer.
Warning Signs
- --Claims to be a family member in trouble
- --Urgently needs money (bail, hospital, legal fees)
- --Asks you not to tell other family members
- --Pressures you to act immediately
- --Asks for wire transfer, gift cards, or crypto
Example Script
"Mom, it's me, I've been arrested. I need $5,000 for bail right now. Please don't tell dad."
How to Defend
Hang up and call the family member directly on their known number. Use a safe word that only real family would know.
IRS / Tax Authority Scam
Automated or live calls claiming unpaid taxes with threats of arrest, deportation, or legal action.
Warning Signs
- --Claims to be from IRS, CRA, HMRC, or tax authority
- --Threatens arrest or deportation
- --Demands payment via gift cards or wire transfer
- --Says you must pay immediately or face consequences
- --Caller ID may be spoofed to look official
Example Script
"This is the IRS. You owe $12,000 in back taxes. Officers will arrest you within 2 hours unless you pay now."
How to Defend
Tax agencies never call demanding immediate payment or threaten arrest. Hang up and contact the agency directly through their official website.
Bank Fraud Scam
Caller pretends to be from your bank's fraud department, claiming your account is compromised and asking you to "move money to safety."
Warning Signs
- --Claims suspicious activity on your account
- --Asks you to transfer money to a "safe account"
- --Requests your PIN, password, or OTP
- --Creates urgency around account security
- --May know some of your real account details
Example Script
"This is your bank's fraud department. Your account has been compromised. We need you to transfer your funds to this secure account immediately."
How to Defend
Banks never ask you to move money to another account. Hang up and call the number on the back of your bank card.
Tech Support Scam
Caller claims your computer has a virus or security breach, requests remote access or payment for fake fixes.
Warning Signs
- --Claims to be from Microsoft, Apple, or your ISP
- --Says they detected a virus or security breach
- --Asks for remote access to your computer
- --Requests payment for unnecessary repairs
- --Uses technical jargon to confuse you
Example Script
"We've detected a critical virus on your Windows computer. I need remote access right now to fix it before your files are encrypted."
How to Defend
Microsoft and Apple never make unsolicited calls. Never give remote access to unsolicited callers.
Romance / Emotional Scam
Scammer builds emotional relationship over time, then asks for money citing emergencies, travel, or investment opportunities.
Warning Signs
- --Online relationship that progresses quickly
- --Always has excuses for not meeting in person
- --Eventually asks for money (emergency, travel, medical)
- --Stories become increasingly dramatic
- --Isolates you from friends and family
Example Script
"I'm stuck at the airport and my wallet was stolen. I just need $2,000 for a ticket to come see you. I'll pay you back, I promise."
How to Defend
Never send money to someone you haven't met in person. Reverse image search their photos. Ask friends for a reality check.
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