Search results for: Online Shopping Scams

Cash-For-Play Smartphone Games – Are They Scams? – 2025

Cash-For-Play Smartphone Games - Are They Scams? Exploring Cash-for-Play Smartphone Games: Scams, Legitimate Options, and How to Spot the Difference How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Cash-for-play smartphone games captivate users with the promise of earning real money through engaging gameplay, yet [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2025-09-07T20:10:30-04:00September 7th, 2025|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2025, Financial Fraud & Scams, Insights, Phone Scams, Scam Advertising, Spotting Scammers, • OTHER TRUSTED PARTY SCAM, ♦ ENCYCLOPEDIA OF SCAMS, ♦ SCAM BASICS, ♦ SCAM WARNINGS & ALERTS, ♦ SCAMPEDIA: CATALOG OF SCAMS, ♦ SPOTING SCAMS - ANTI-SCAM TIPS CLUES & RED FLAGS|Tags: Smartphone Games|

Commission-Based Task Job Scams – 2025

Commission-Based Task Job Scams Understanding the Hidden Mechanism of Commission-Based Task Job Scams Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Commission-based task job scams exploit the appeal of easy remote work by offering small payments for simple online actions before introducing “premium” tasks [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2025-08-12T17:55:13-04:00August 12th, 2025|Categories: ♦ SCAMPEDIA: CATALOG OF SCAMS, 2025, Insights, Job/Employment Scams, ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, ♦ SCAM BASICS, ♦ SCAM WARNINGS & ALERTS|Tags: Job Scams|

How Scams/Fraud/Con Schemes Worked In The 1800s – 2025

How Scams Worked In The 1800s A Historical Perspective History of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Based on an Article from NPR 2015 - Nonprofit use with permission Article Abstract Scams and Fraud in the 1800s reveal that deception has always been less [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2025-05-09T04:05:23-04:00May 9th, 2025|Categories: ♦ BRIEF HISTORY OF SCAMS, 2025, History of Scams, Insights, NORTH AMERICA SCAMS & SCAMMERS, Scammer Techniques & Methods, Victimology, ♦ CRIMINOLOGY / VICTIMOLOGY, ♦ HOW SCAMMERS OPERATE, ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK|Tags: Con Artists, Con Games, Con Men, Con Schemes, Confidence Tricks, Fraud, Historical Scams, History of Scams, Scams|

eBay Storytelling Scams – eCommerce Fakery – 2025

eBay Storytelling Scams - eCommerce Fakery Unraveling eBay and eCommerce Storytelling Scams: How eCommerce Fakery with Emotional Narratives Hooks You with Fake Product Stories Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • From a suggestion from Gabriel at Wizer-Traing.com Article Abstract As a savvy online shopper, you will [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2025-05-02T01:24:58-04:00May 2nd, 2025|Categories: ♦ SCAMPEDIA: CATALOG OF SCAMS, 2025, Financial Fraud & Scams, Influencer/Business Oppertunity Scams, Insights, Scam Advertising, ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, ♦ ONLINE SAFETY, ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, ♦ SCAM BASICS|Tags: Craigs List, eBay, eCommerce Fakery, Ecommerce Fraud, eCommerce Scams, Storytelling Scams|

Avoid Christmas Holiday Scams – 2024

Avoid Christmas Holiday Scams Typical Christmas Holiday Scams: What to Watch Out For and Avoid - Don't Become a Scam Victim This Year Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract During the Christmas holiday scams season, scammers exploit the festive spirit and increased online activity to [...]

Brazil – An Overview of Scams Scammers & Cybercrime – 2024

Brazil - An Overview of Scams Scammers & Cybercrime Brazil is a Rising Hub for Scams and Cybercrime Organized Crime - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Portions by Third-Party Sources Article Abstract Brazil has emerged as a significant global hub for cybercrime, with organized criminal [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-10-25T00:37:21-04:00October 25th, 2024|Categories: ♦ BRIEF HISTORY OF SCAMS, 2024, Culture Of Scamming, Cybercrime, Insights, LATIN AMERICA SCAMS & SCAMMERS, Organized Crime, ♦ CRIMINOLOGY / VICTIMOLOGY|Tags: Brazil, cybercrime, Organized Crime, scammers|

Casket Sales Scams and Other Funeral Expense Scams – 2024

Casket Sales Scams and Other Funeral Expense Scams Beware of Online Casket Sales Scams - Another New Low in Scams: What You Need to Know About Funeral Expense Scams How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Beware of online casket sales scams, which prey on grieving [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-10-07T20:19:38-04:00October 7th, 2024|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2024, Business / Institution / Government Impersonation & Fakes, Insights, NORTH AMERICA SCAMS & SCAMMERS, ♦ SCAMPEDIA: CATALOG OF SCAMS|Tags: Casket Scams, Cremation Scams, Email Scams, Funeral Expense scams, Funeral Home Scams, Phone Scams|

A Brief History of Ghana Scams & Scammers – 2024

A Brief History of Ghana Scams & Scammers History of Scams- A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The history of Ghanaian scams is rooted in economic challenges and the influx of discarded technology, which enabled young Ghanaians to connect to the internet and engage in online fraud. Beginning in [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-09-16T07:41:28-04:00September 15th, 2024|Categories: 2024, AFRICAN SCAMS & SCAMMERS, Insights, Organized Crime, ♦ BRIEF HISTORY OF SCAMS, ♦ HOW SCAMMERS OPERATE, ♦ SCAM BASICS|Tags: Ghana Scams, History of Scams, scammers, Scams|

Catalog of Scams: Fake Parking Ticket Scam – 2024

Fake Parking Ticket Scam A Government Impersonation Hybrid Local & Online Scam Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Resource Catalog of Scams: Fake Parking Ticket Scam? A fake parking ticket scam is a form of government impersonation fraud where scammers produce counterfeit parking tickets that closely resemble legitimate ones. These fake tickets are typically placed on cars parked in busy or high-traffic areas, such as shopping [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-09-13T22:33:42-04:00September 13th, 2024|Categories: ♦ SCAMPEDIA: CATALOG OF SCAMS, 2024, Government Impersonation, Hybrid Local & Online Scams, Resources, • GOVERNMENT IMPOSTER SCAM, ♦ ENCYCLOPEDIA OF SCAMS|Tags: Catalog of Scams, Fake Parking Tickets, Government Impersonation|

Scam Alert: SEO Poisoning & Typosquatting Scams – 2024

Scam Alert: SEO Poisoning & Typosquatting Scams Scammers Try to Lure You Into Their Fake Websites through Social Engineering in Search Results! How Scams Work - A SCARS Insight Author: • SCARS Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract SEO poisoning and typosquatting are tactics used by scammers to manipulate search engine results, making their malicious websites appear legitimate to unsuspecting users. Exploiting [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-05-09T00:35:52-04:00May 9th, 2024|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2024, Business / Institution / Government Impersonation & Fakes, Cybercrime, Fake Websites & Social Media Pages, Insights, Online Safety, Scammer Techniques & Methods, Technology Of Scamming, ♦ CYBERSECURITY, ♦ SCAM WARNINGS & ALERTS|Tags: Scam Alert, Search Results, SEO Poisoning, social engineering, Typo Squatting, Typosquatting, Website Scams|

Counterfeit Stamps – Fake Postage Stamps Scams 2024

Counterfeit Stamps - Fake Postage Stamps Scams Yet Another Scam To Steal Your Money How Scams Work - A SCARS Insight Article Abstract Avoiding Counterfeit Postage Stamp Discounts Online The surge in online shopping for postage stamps has opened a gateway for scammers, particularly in the realm of counterfeit stamps. Exploiting convenience, scammers deploy deceptive schemes, including fake sales websites, digital stamp counterfeiting, and local purchases of counterfeit stamps. With [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-01-17T12:30:47-05:00January 17th, 2024|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2024, Fake Products / eCommerce Fraud, Insights, YouTube Video|Tags: Counterfeit Stamps, Fake Postage Stamps, Fake Stamps, How scams work, Postage Stamps|

Plan For Scams – Plan To Become A Scam Victim – Scam Victims Need To Understand What To Do Next! 2024

Plan For Scams - Plan To Become A Scam Victim Scam Victims Need To Understand What To Do Next! How Scams Work - A SCARS Guide Article Abstract The article "Plan For Scams – Plan To Become A Scam Victim" is a comprehensive guide for scam victims who have fallen victim to scams. Emphasizing the inevitability of becoming a scam victim, it outlines immediate actions to minimize the aftermath's emotional [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-01-06T03:53:15-05:00January 6th, 2024|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2024, Guides, How To Report Scams & Scammers, ♦ SCAM VICTIM FINANCES & MONEY RECOVERY|Tags: Mitigation, scam, Scam Recovery, Scam Victim|

The New Job Scams & Scammers

The New Job Scams & Scammers Scammers Are Exploiting Job Seeking Victims Like Never Before! How Scams Work - A SCARS Insight Scammers Are Hijacking Job Ads. Here’s How To Spot The Fakes Scammers advertise jobs the same way honest employers do — online (in ads, on job sites, and on social media), in newspapers, and sometimes on TV and radio. They promise you a job, but what they want [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2023-07-03T01:23:19-04:00July 3rd, 2023|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2023, Insights, Job/Employment Scams, ♦ SCAM BASICS|Tags: Employment Scams, Job Scams, scam victims|

Package Delivery Scams – How to Identify and Avoid

Package Delivery Scams - How to Identify and Avoid How Scams Work A SCARS Insight Almost Everyone Is Receiving These Scam Messages Every Week! The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way many Americans shop, with online purchasing in the U.S. increasing steadily. More shopping online means more package deliveries for consumers. With the increase in deliveries, your government receives a constant flow of complaints about delivery notification scam calls and [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-05-02T23:22:13-04:00May 2nd, 2022|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2022, Insights, ♦ SPOTING SCAMS - ANTI-SCAM TIPS CLUES & RED FLAGS|Tags: Fake Delivery Emails, Fake Delivery Messages, Fake Delivery Texts, FedEx, Package Delivery Scams, Phishing Scams, Smishing Scam, UPS, USPS|

It Is The Season For Holiday Scams

It Is The Season For Holiday Scams A Holiday 2021 Advisory A SCARS Special Report Remain Vigilant Against Holiday Scamming Schemes As we approach the holiday season, we are warning everyone that scammers prefer to steal rather than give during this special time of year. Shoppers hunting for a good deal should be on the lookout for increasingly aggressive and innovative scams designed by criminals to steal money and personal [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-03-24T22:56:48-04:00November 25th, 2021|Categories: ♦ SCAM WARNINGS & ALERTS|Tags: Holiday 2021 Advisory, Holiday Scams, SCARS Special Report|

Holiday 2021 – Types Of Scams & Cyber Attacks To Be Alert For

Holiday 2021 - Types Of Scams & Cyber Attacks To Be Alert For What To Avoid & Watch Out For! A SCARS Special report Remember That Everyone Can Be Scammed! So Be Careful! Are you scam smart and cyber conscious? Scammers ramp things up during the Holiday Season and more than ever you will be targeted! Are you knowledgeable enough to AVOID • DISCOVER • RECOVER from scams? Pay attention [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2021-11-24T20:32:02-05:00November 24th, 2021|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2021, Special Reports|Tags: Attacks, CYBERATTACKS, cybercrime, Cybercriminals Cyber Victims, Fraud, Hackers, Malware, Scams|

Scams Targeting College and Graduate Students

Scams Targeting College and Graduate Students Students Are Losing Their Tuitions & Savings For Their Education A SCARS Insight Student-Targetted Scams Steal Billions From Young Adults And Their Family Watch Out For Any Social Media Advertising Or People That Want To Help Students Every year college students will be starting a new chapter in their lives. With this new chapter comes responsibility and the freedom to make choices on their [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-03-24T21:27:42-04:00September 7th, 2021|Categories: ♦ ABOUT SCAMMERS/FRAUDSTERS|Tags: College Student Scams, Housing Scams, Private School Scams, Scams Targeting College and Graduate Students, Student Scams, Tuition Scams, University Student Scams|

How To Detect Scams In Someone You Know – A Guide For Family & Friends

How To Detect Scams In Someone You Know A Guide For Family & Friends You Can't Help Them Unless You Are Fairly Certain They Are Being Scammed - This Guide Will Help You To Know! A SCARS Insight What If Someone You Know Is A Victim Of Fraud Or A Scam? Here Are Signs To Look Out For The list of clues: A big change in their availability A change [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-03-25T04:47:11-04:00September 5th, 2021|Categories: Scam Victim Recovery|Tags: Discovering a Scam, Families, Family, Friends, Identifying Scam Victims, scam victims, SCARS Guide, SCARS Support|

Coupon Scams – Yes, It Is A Thing!

Coupon Scams - Yes, It Is A Thing! A Guide To Using Coupons To Save Money Safety A SCARS Insight In Today's tough economy many are turning to Coupons again to save money! But scammers are right there to catch and steal your money! While couponing is indeed a great way to make sure you can get some really good deals, it is vital that [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-12-19T20:15:18-05:00July 17th, 2021|Categories: ♦ ABOUT SCAMS|Tags: Consumer Protection, Coupon Fraud, Coupon Scams, Fake Coupons|

Socially Engineered / Social Engineering Scams [Updated][VIDEOS]

Socially Engineered / Social Engineering Scams [Updated] A SCARS™ Guide Originally published: May 2018 You have probably heard the term "Social Engineering' before, but what is it? Social Engineering Is ... Social engineering, in the context of information security, refers to the psychological manipulation of people into performing actions or divulging confidential information. It is a type of confidence trick (scam) for the purpose of information gathering, fraud, [...]

Inside The FBI Podcast – Holiday Scams | Presented by SCARS

Inside The FBI Podcast - Holiday Scams | Presented by SCARS If you cannot play the podcast go to: Inside The FBI - Holiday Scams | Presented by SCARS on SoundCloud Podcast Transcript Monica Grover: ‘Twas the holiday season, when all through the land, online shoppers clicked quickly to get gifts in hand. But while they were adding treats and toys to their carts, a holiday scammer was practicing his art. “Free gift cards! Free presents! Just follow this link!” He hoped hurried shoppers would not stop and think. But one savvy shopper saw the [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-03-24T21:29:27-04:00December 15th, 2020|Categories: ♦ ABOUT SCAMMERS/FRAUDSTERS|Tags: Anti-Scam, Audio, Crybercriminals, cybercrime, FBI, FBI.gov, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Fraudsters, Holiday Scams, IC3.gov, Information About Scams, MP3, Podcast, Presented By SCARS, scam victims, scammers, Scams, SCARS, United States Government|

Here’s How To Outsmart Criminals Abusing The Online Shopping Experience This Holiday Season

Here’s How To Outsmart Criminals Abusing The Online Shopping Experience This Holiday Season The biggest retail season of the year is around the corner, and you do not even need to leave the comfort of your home to participate. But Neither Do The Criminals Easy website design, increased social media traffic, and convenience has made buying and selling online products a pillar of the modern shopping experience. The COVID-19 pandemic has driven even more consumers [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-03-24T22:57:13-04:00November 14th, 2020|Categories: ♦ SCAM WARNINGS & ALERTS|Tags: Anti-Scam, Crybercriminals, cybercrime, Fraudsters, Holiday Scams, Information About Scams, scam victims, scammers, Scams, SCARS|

Rationalizing Online Romance Fraud – Ghana Scammer Study [UPDATED 2024]

Rationalizing Online Romance Fraud Ghana Scammer Study - In the Eyes of the Offender Criminology - A SCARS Insight Article Abstract The study delves into the psyche of online romance fraudsters, exploring their motivations, opportunities, and abilities behind committing these crimes. By adopting a framework that examines motivation, opportunity, and ability, and leveraging the Fraud Triangle Theory, the research dives deep into the qualitative analysis of cyber fraudsters' strategies. Highlighted [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-01-05T02:12:42-05:00August 10th, 2020|Categories: ♦ CRIMINOLOGY / VICTIMOLOGY, 2024, AFRICAN SCAMS & SCAMMERS, Culture Of Scamming, Insights, ♦ HOW SCAMMERS OPERATE|Tags: Crybercriminals, cybercrime, Fraudsters, Ghana Fraudsters, Ghana scammers, Ghana Scams, Ghana Study, Rationalization., Romance Scams, Scammer Motivation, Scammer Rationalization|

SCARS™ Coronavirus Scam Warning: A Social Disease – How Fraudsters Adapt Old Scams To Exploit The Coronavirus Crisis

SCARS™ Coronavirus Scam Warning: A Social Disease - How Fraudsters Adapt Old Scams To Exploit The Coronavirus Crisis According to the Guardian: Criminals Who Formerly Tried to ‘Sextort’ People Online are Now Making Threats to Infect a Target’s Family and Friends You get an email that is immediately threatening. “I know every dirty little secret about your life,” it begins. “To prove my point, tell me, does [ONE OF YOUR PASSWORDS] ring any bell to yοu? [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-12-19T02:41:59-05:00April 3rd, 2020|Categories: ♦ SCAM WARNINGS & ALERTS|Tags: Anti-Scam, Coronavirus Scams, COVID-19 Scams, Crybercriminals, cybercrime, Email Scams, Emergency Scams, Fraudsters, Information About Scams, Online Fraud, Phone Scams, Reporting Scams & Fraud, Romance Scams, scam victims, scammers, Scams, SCARS, Virus Threat Emails|

SCARS™ Insight: Avoid Coronavirus Scams

SCARS™ Insight: Avoid Coronavirus Scams Here Are Some Tips To Help You Keep The Scammers At Bay: Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know. They could download viruses onto your computer or device. Watch for emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or experts saying that have information about the virus. For the most up-to-date information about the Coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-12-19T03:00:15-05:00March 13th, 2020|Categories: ♦ ABOUT SCAMS|Tags: Advertising and Marketing, Anti-Scam, Bureau of Consumer Protection, CARS, Consumer Protection, Crybercriminals, cybercrime, Disaster Scams, Fraudsters, Health Care, Health Claims, Important Article, Information About Scams, Over-the-Counter Drugs and Devices, scam victims, scammers, Scams|

SCARS™ Special Report: Help Wanted Scams [Updated]

Help Wanted & Job Scams A SCARS Special Report Don't Fall For Job Scams Criminals don’t like getting caught. So, when they want to send and receive stolen money, they get someone else to do the dirty work. Some scammers develop online relationships and ask their new sweetheart or friend to accept a deposit and transfer funds for them (a MULE). Other scammers recruit victims [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2021-04-15T07:57:54-04:00March 8th, 2020|Categories: Business / Institution / Government Impersonation & Fakes, Governmental Entities & Agencies, SCAMS FRAUD & CYBERCRIME TYPES, Special Reports, VIDEOS|Tags: Anti-Scam, Bank Account, Crybercriminals, cybercrime, Employment Scams, Fraudsters, Important Article, Imposter, Information About Scams, Job Scam, scam victims, scammers, Scams, SCARS|

SCARS™ Special Report: Work-at-Home Businesses Scams

SCARS™ Special Report: Work-at-Home Businesses Scams Want to be your own boss? Earn thousands of dollars a month from home? Ads promote many different work-at-home jobs and businesses, but often the message is the same: they promise you’ll earn a great living from home, even in your spare time. Don’t take their word for it — many of these “jobs” are scams, or don’t deliver on the claims they make. So do some research, and [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-03-25T03:57:07-04:00March 6th, 2020|Categories: ♦ ABOUT SCAMS|Tags: Anti-Scam, Crybercriminals, cybercrime, Fraudsters, Important Article, Information About Scams, scam victims, scammers, Scams, SCARS, Work-At-Home Scams|

SCARS™ Special Report: Fake Checks Scams

SCARS™ Special Report: Fake Checks Scams If Someone You Don’t Know Sends You A Check And Asks For Money Back, That’s A Scam Fake checks drive many types of scams — like those involving phony job and income opportunities, online classified ad sales, and others. In a fake check scam, a person you don’t know asks you to deposit a check – sometimes for several thousand dollars and usually for more than you are owed — [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-12-19T03:00:02-05:00February 13th, 2020|Categories: General Financial Scams|Tags: Anti-Scam, Fake Check scams, Fake Checks, FTC, Important Article, Information About Scams, SCARS|

SCARS™ Insight: U.S. Government Study Finds Millennials Are 25 Percent More Likely To Report Scams

SCARS™ Insight: U.S. Government Study Finds Millennials Are 25 Percent More Likely To Report Scams Even So, That Raises It From About 5% To 7% Of Them The Federal Trade Commission Says Millennials Are 25 Percent More Likely To Report That They Have Lost Money To Fraud Than Consumers Aged 40 And Over! However, that is not a glaring endorsement of Millenials since they fall for scams at a far higher rate than older adults. [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-03-25T03:57:20-04:00October 1st, 2019|Categories: ♦ ABOUT SCAMS|Tags: Anti-Scam, Federa; Trade Commission, FTC, Important Article, Information About Scams, Millennials Scammed, More Likely To Report Scams, Reported Scams, Scam Reporting, SCARS, U.S. Government Study|

RSN™ Guide: A to Z of Online Fraud

RSN™ Guide: A to Z of Online Fraud Most people now have access to the internet. We use our home computers, phones, and other devices to shop or bank online, keep in touch with friends and relatives, and lots of other everyday activities because we find it convenient and easy. But the same is also true of fraudsters. With all the convenience the internet brings, it is important to be aware of potential online risks. [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-03-24T12:02:21-04:00July 2nd, 2018|Categories: Guides|Tags: Fraudsters, Government Agency Scams, Holiday Fraud, Online Fraud, Online or Internet scams, Online Scams, Phishing scam, scam victims, scammers, Victims of Online Fraud|

Online Money Scams – Scam Basics

Online Money Scams - Scam Basics Money Scams Come In A Variety Of Types Here are some of the basic types Fraudsters Gain Your Trust - Then Steal Your Money Portions Reprinted from Western Union They use any means to contact victims—telephone, snail mail, email, and the Internet! They gain your trust and when they have you hooked, they ask you for money; then they take it and [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-03-24T21:30:18-04:00February 28th, 2016|Categories: ♦ ABOUT SCAMMERS/FRAUDSTERS|Tags: Anti-scam tip, Anti-Virus / Extortionware / Encryption Scam, Scam Types|

Chinese And Asian Dating Scams – Updated 2024

Chinese And Asian Dating Scams For Men: Understanding the Unique Risks of Dating Asian Women Online How Scams Work - A SCARS Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Originally Published: 2014 - Article Updated: 2024 Article Abstract Spotting Asian women scammers involves being vigilant about several key warning signs. These scammers often use real [...]

Is Online Dating Just An Experiment in Manipulation? 2014 [UPDATED 2023]

Is Online Dating Just An Experiment in Manipulation? An Essay On The Meaning Of It All

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2023-10-08T08:42:27-04:00September 8th, 2014|Categories: ♦ EDITORIALS & COMMENTARY, 2014, 2023, Insights, Psychology of Scams, Romance Scams & Relationship Scams, ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS|Tags: About Online Dating, Christian Rudder, Commentary, Editorial, Fake Dating Results, Guest Editorial, Manipulation, OKCupid.com, OKTrends, Online Dating|

SCARS INSTITUTE SCAM WARNINGS – 2025

SCARS Institute Scam Warnings - Top 20 Scams Fraud & Cybercrime Scam Warnings: The digital age has brought countless conveniences, but it has also created a playground for sophisticated and relentless fraud. From romance scams to cryptocurrency fraud, today’s scammers operate with advanced tools, global reach, and psychological precision. Their tactics continue to evolve, exploiting emotional, financial, and social vulnerabilities with alarming success. Victims span every demographic, but certain groups—such as older adults and [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2025-07-12T07:47:07-04:00July 12th, 2025|Categories: WARNINGS, 2025, • BANK IMPOSTER SCAM, • BUSINESS IMPOSTER SCAM, • GOVERNMENT IMPOSTER SCAM, • INVESTMENT SCAM, • MERCHANDISE SCAM, • OTHER TRUSTED PARTY SCAM, • PROPERTY SALES OR RENTAL SCAM, • RELATIVE/FAMILY/FRIEND SCAM, • ROMANCE IMPOSTER SCAM, ♦ SCAM WARNINGS & ALERTS|Tags: Scam Alerts, Scam Warnings|

Scammer Manipulation Tool Box – 102 Ways Scammers Manipulate Scam Victims – 2024

Scammer Manipulation Tool Box - 102 Ways Scammers Manipulate Scam Victims A Catalog of Manipulative and Control Techniques Used by Scammers How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Scammers use a wide array of manipulation and control techniques to exploit their victims [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-09-19T17:53:23-04:00September 19th, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Grooming & Manipulation, Insights, Psychology of Scams, Scammer Techniques & Methods, ♦ HOW SCAMMERS OPERATE, ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK|Tags: Control Techniques, Manipulation, Persuasion, Scam Psychology, scam victims, Scammer Techniques, social engineering|

Financial Fraud Terms – Scam Basics

Financial Fraud Terms Learning The Language of Fraud Terms Scam Basics - A SCARS Insight Understanding Financial Fraud Terms These Are The Financial Fraud Terms Used By Fraud Fighters Worldwide Please note: this is not a comprehensive list of all scam terms. The fraud-fighting community uses standardized terms to describe financial fraud for several reasons: Clarity and Consistency: Standardized terms help to ensure that everyone involved in fraud prevention and [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2023-04-02T10:32:16-04:00March 31st, 2023|Categories: ♦ SCAM BASICS, 2023, Financial Fraud & Scams, Insights|Tags: About-Fraud, Financial Fraud Terms, Scam Basics, Scam Terms|

RSN™ Guide: Simple Steps for Internet Safety

RSN™ Guide: Simple Steps for Internet Safety Updated: August 2018 In today’s digital world, online safety should be of paramount concern for all individuals and organizations because the threats posed by cybercriminals can’t be ignored. And to counteract these threats, there are steps you can take to minimize the risks associated with doing any kind of business online, surfing the Internet, and/or sharing information on social media sites. The first step to greater Internet safety [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2022-03-25T05:11:34-04:00August 24th, 2018|Categories: ♦ ABOUT SCAMS|Tags: cybercrime, Internet Safety Tips, Law Enforcement, Online Safety, Passwords, Simple Steps for Internet Safety, Stay Safe Online|

SPOT THE SCAMMERS GAME • AVOID GETTING SCAMMED AGAIN – 2026

[raw] Scam Spotter — SCARS Institute SCARS Scam Spotter Test Your Scam Awareness · 10 Rounds · Red Flag Challenge Round 1/10 Score 0 Scam Awareness Training SCAMSPOTTER Can you tell a scam from the real thing?Read the message. Make your call. Tag the red flags. 📧 10 Rounds Email, romance, investment & more — realistic scenarios 🚩 Spot Red Flags Identify the specific tactics scammers use 🧠 Learn as You Play Instant explanations after [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-04-19T01:48:38-04:00April 19th, 2026|Categories: ♦ CYBERSECURITY, 2026, Cyber Basics, Online Safety, Resources, SELF-ASSESSMENT TESTS, Spotting Scammers, ♦ ENCYCLOPEDIA OF SCAMS, ♦ ONLINE SAFETY, ♦ SCAM BASICS, ♦ SCAM WARNINGS & ALERTS, ♦ SCAMPEDIA: CATALOG OF SCAMS|

WARNING: AI-Enabled Browsers Pose a Cybersecurity Risk – 2025

WARNING: AI-Enabled Browsers Pose a Cybersecurity Risk - 2025 A Cybersecurity Risk: The Hidden Dangers of AI-Enabled Web Browsers Cybersecurity / AI-Artificial Intelligence - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. See Author Biographies Below Article Abstract AI-enabled browsers like ChatGPT Atlas, Comet, and Microsoft's [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2025-10-24T07:30:21-04:00October 24th, 2025|Categories: ♦ CYBERSECURITY, 2025, AI - Artificial Intelligence, Analytics & Information, Insights, Online Safety, WARNINGS, ♦ AI - ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, ♦ ENCYCLOPEDIA OF SCAMS, ♦ ONLINE SAFETY, ♦ SCARS TOOLBOX|

Protecting the People: The Role that Governments are or are not taking in Combating Cybercrime – 2025

Protecting the People: The Role that Governments are or are not taking in Combating Cybercrime Governments' Stance on Crime in General and How This Might Impact Cybercrime: A Critical Factor in Protecting Citizens and National Security Advocacy / Criminology - A SCARS Institute Special Report Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. See [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2025-10-19T05:26:55-04:00October 19th, 2025|Categories: ♦ ADVOCACY & ACTIVISM, 2025, Analytics & Information, Cybercrime, Cybercrime Analysis, Government Policies, Government Programs & Projects, SCARS Research, Special Reports, ♦ ANALYTICS & DATA, ♦ CRIMINOLOGY / VICTIMOLOGY, ♦ ENCYCLOPEDIA OF SCAMS, ♦ GOVERNMENT POLICY LAWS & REGULATION, ♦ LAW ENFORCEMENT - JUSTICE - INVESTIGATION|Tags: Crime Analysis, Governments|

Cybercrime Losses Pass US$9.5 Trillion Dollars in 2024 – Per Cybersecurity Ventures/MasterCard – 2025

Cybercrime Losses Pass US$9.5 Trillion Dollars in 2024 - Per Cybersecurity Ventures Striking New Data from Cybersecurity Ventures shows that Cybercrime has exceeded US$9.5 Trillion Dollars in 2024 Crime Analysis / Criminology - A SCARS Institute Insight Authors: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Portions by Cybersecurity Ventures and MasterCard Article Abstract [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2025-10-21T11:28:52-04:00October 18th, 2025|Categories: ♦ CRIMINOLOGY / VICTIMOLOGY, 2025, Analytics & Information, Cybercrime, Cybercrime Analysis, Insights, Special Reports, ♦ ENCYCLOPEDIA OF SCAMS|Tags: Analysis, cybercrime|

What Happens to Your Money when You Send It to a Scammer – 2025

What Happens to Your Money when You Send It to a Scammer Where Scam Victims’ Money Really Goes and Why Recovery Is So Rare Following the Money: How Scammers Move and Hide Stolen Funds Law Enforcement // Money Recovery - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. [...]

Bitcoin ATMs – A Scammers Favorite Tool & Public Menace – 2025

Bitcoin ATMs - A Scammers' Favorite Tool & Public Menace Are Bitcoin ATMs Doing More Harm Than Good? How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Bitcoin ATMs began as a tool for financial inclusion but now serve as a key instrument in a [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2025-07-23T20:54:22-04:00July 23rd, 2025|Categories: ♦ CRIMINOLOGY / VICTIMOLOGY, 2025, Crypto Investment Scams/Pig Butchering Scams, Cryptocurrency Scams, Cybercrime Analysis, How Victims Pay / Money Transfer, Insights, Scammer Techniques & Methods, Technology Of Scamming, ♦ HOW SCAMMERS OPERATE, ♦ SCAM BASICS, ♦ SCAMPEDIA: CATALOG OF SCAMS|Tags: Bitcoin ATMs|

Fraudster Glossary – 2025

Fraudster Glossary - 2025 How Scams Work - Presented by the SCARS Institute Authors: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Fraudster Glossary © 2023-2025 by Eric Huber is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 Fraudster Glossary - 2025 Understanding Fraudster/Scammer Terms Term/PhraseDescriptionActual Fraudster UsageCommentary3PTThree-peatJust Popped Again Off The Same September Grub 🚨🚨 3PTBasically, it's when a [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2025-06-10T04:29:40-04:00June 10th, 2025|Categories: ♦ CRIMINOLOGY / VICTIMOLOGY, 2025, Cybercrime, Cybersecurity Information & Training, Technology Of Scamming, ♦ ABOUT SCAMS, ♦ CYBERSECURITY, ♦ ENCYCLOPEDIA OF SCAMS, ♦ SCAM BASICS, ♦ SCAMPEDIA: CATALOG OF SCAMS, ♦ SCARS TOOLBOX|Tags: Cybercrime Terms, Fraudster Glossary, Fraudster Terms, Scammer Terms|

Take Control of Your Digital Life & Digital Footprint – If You Don’t the Criminals Will – 2025

Take Control of Your Digital Life & Footprint - If You Don't the Criminals Will Manage Your Digital Footprint - Tread Lightly Online and How to Control Your Digital Life Online Safety - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Your digital footprint includes everything you do online, from the accounts [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2025-05-21T08:48:23-04:00May 21st, 2025|Categories: ♦ ONLINE SAFETY, 2025, Cyber Basics, Online Safety, ♦ CYBERSECURITY, ♦ SCARS TOOLBOX|Tags: Digital Footprint, Digital Life, Online Safety|

Clone Phishing – Email Scam – 2025

Clone Phishing - Email Scam Unmasking Clone Phishing: A Deceptive Email Cyber Threat Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Clone phishing is a sophisticated form of cybercrime where attackers replicate legitimate emails—such as newsletters, invoices, or account notifications—to trick recipients into clicking malicious links or [...]

Seller Impersonation Fraud – A Business Impersonation Scam – 2025

Seller Impersonation Fraud - A Business Impersonation Scam When Scammers Pretend to Be Trusted Sellers to Exploit You Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Seller impersonation fraud is a rapidly growing threat in the digital marketplace, targeting both consumers and businesses by exploiting trust and [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2025-04-23T11:54:37-04:00April 9th, 2025|Categories: ♦ SCAMPEDIA: CATALOG OF SCAMS, 2025, Business / Institution / Government Impersonation & Fakes, Fake Products / eCommerce Fraud, ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, ♦ SPOTING SCAMS - ANTI-SCAM TIPS CLUES & RED FLAGS|Tags: Business Impersonation Scam, digital marketplace, e-commerce, Fake Websites, Online Merchants, Seller Impersonation Fraud|

What Do Nigerian Scammers Do After They Retire? – 2025

What Do Nigerian Scammers Do After They Retire? What Nigerian Scammers Do After They Quit and How They Use Their Stolen Money How Scammers Operate - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Nigerian scammers who leave active fraud do not simply vanish; instead, many use their stolen wealth to [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2025-03-11T07:32:48-04:00March 11th, 2025|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMMERS OPERATE, 2025, Culture Of Scamming, Insights, ♦ SCAM BASICS|Tags: How Scammers Operate, Nigeria Scams, Nigerian scammers, scammers, Scams|

SCARS Institute Christmas 2024 Scammer Elves Identification Guide

SCARS Institute Christmas 2024 Scammer Elves Identification Guide If You See Any Of These Elves This Holiday Season, RUN! Just For Fun - A SCARS Institute Insight These Are Not Scams [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-12-10T13:31:56-05:00December 9th, 2024|Categories: 2024, Guides, Spotting Scammers, ♦ JUST FOR FUN|Tags: Holiday Elves, Just For Fun, Scammer Elf, Scams, SCARS Guide|

Urban Legend: I Am Not Worth Scamming Or Hacking! 2024

Urban Legend: I Am Not Worth Scamming Or Hacking! People Believe Far Too Many Urban Legends & Myths Urban Legend - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The urban legend that individuals are too small to be hacked or scammed persists due to various misconceptions and [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-02-22T07:52:48-05:00February 22nd, 2024|Categories: 2024, Insights, URBAN LEGENDS, ♦ URBAN LEGENDS MYTHS & FALSE INFORMATION|Tags: cybercrime, cybercriminals, Hacking, Myth, Scamming, Scams, Urban Legend|

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