Cybercriminals don’t take days off … and they don’t wait for a “good” time to strike. They prey on moments when people are busy, distracted, or rushing.
The tactics change, but the goal is the same: trick you into giving up money, data, or access. And they’ve gotten very, very good at it.
Here are 10 of the most common scams … and the quick moves that keep them from working on you.
1. Phishing Emails Disguised as Retailers
Fake emails that look like they’re from your favorite store. They push fake promotions, claim there’s a problem with your account, and link to malware or credential-stealing websites.
How to stop it:
- Check the sender’s email address carefully.
- Go to the retailer’s website directly instead of clicking email links.
- Use anti-phishing tools and security software.
2. Fake Charity Solicitations
Fraudsters set up realistic-looking charity websites and donation pages. They tug at your emotions to get you to give … and keep the money.
How to stop it:
- Research the charity through official sources before donating.
- Beware of urgency or pressure tactics.
- Pay through secure, trusted platforms.
3. Gift Card Scams
Offers for “discounted” gift cards, or demands for payment in gift cards, are almost always fraud.
How to stop it:
- Buy only from trusted retailers.
- Never pay invoices or debts with gift cards … real companies don’t ask for that.
- Inspect physical cards for tampering before buying.
4. Social Media Giveaway Frauds
Fake contests collect your personal details or get you to click malware links.
How to stop it:
- Verify the account is official.
- Never give out sensitive info for a giveaway.
- Don’t click links from unfamiliar profiles.
5. E-Commerce Site Impersonations
Scammers create fake shopping sites that look like the real thing, then steal your payment info.
How to stop it:
- Double-check the website URL and look for “https://”.
- Search for independent customer reviews.
- Use credit cards for better fraud protection.
6. Mobile Shopping App Scams
Fraudulent apps steal your data or install malware under the guise of being a legitimate store.
How to stop it:
- Download only from official app stores.
- Check the developer name and reviews.
- Keep apps and devices updated.
7. Travel Deal Scams
Fake travel agencies and “too-good-to-be-true” offers designed to grab your payment info.
How to stop it:
- Book through reputable sources.
- Ignore unsolicited offers.
- Verify all reservation details before paying.
8. Package Delivery Notifications
Phony texts or emails claiming your package is delayed or undeliverable, leading to phishing sites.
How to stop it:
- Track orders through the retailer or carrier directly.
- Don’t give personal info via email or text.
- Delete suspicious messages and contact the carrier through official channels.
9. Cryptocurrency Scams
Fraudsters promise massive returns or pose as legitimate crypto platforms to steal your funds.
How to stop it:
- Research every offer and platform before sending money.
- Use only reputable exchanges.
- Avoid anything promising “guaranteed” returns.
10. AI-Powered Personalized Scams
Cybercriminals now use AI to create hyper-realistic emails, voice messages, and even video calls that look and sound like people you know.
How to stop it:
- Verify unexpected requests through a second channel.
- Train employees to spot deepfake and AI-generated content.
- Be skeptical of anything involving urgency + payment.
The Bottom Line:
These scams work because they target people, not systems. A little skepticism, a few verification habits, and the right security tools can stop almost all of them.
If you’re a client, these protections are already baked into your security strategy. If you’re not, this list is a starting point … but it’s not enough on its own. Hackers are adapting every day. Your defenses should, too.