SCAM FIELD GUIDE
What happened?
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Choose the situation that resembles yours. Each field note explains the pressure tactic, recurring warning signs, the safest next move and what to do if you already acted.
reviewed 18 August 2026
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tactic or situation.
Scammers change brands and channels, but the pressure patterns repeat. Search for the detail you remember.
How we research and review these guides →Fake bank fraud department
A caller warns that your account is under attack, then asks for a code or tells you to move your money.
Verification-code theft
Someone who already has your password tries to persuade you to reveal the second code needed to enter your account.
Family emergency and voice clone
A caller or message claims a loved one is in trouble and needs money urgently—and may imitate their voice.
Government impersonation
A supposed official threatens arrest, fines, lost benefits, immigration trouble, or another urgent consequence.
Task or product-boosting job
An unexpected recruiter offers easy online work, shows fake earnings, then requires deposits to unlock tasks or withdrawals.
Fake recruiter or remote job
A fake employer collects personal information, sells equipment, sends a fake check, or asks you to move money or packages.
Fake crypto investment platform
A contact, coach or romantic interest guides you to a convincing platform that displays profits you cannot actually withdraw.
Refund or recovery scam
After a loss, someone claims they can recover your money—for an upfront fee or more personal information.
Marketplace overpayment
A buyer sends a check for too much and asks you to forward or refund the difference before the fake payment is discovered.
Delivery problem text
A text claims a parcel cannot be delivered and links to a fake tracking or fee page.
Unpaid toll text
A text claims you owe a small road toll and threatens late fees or vehicle-registration trouble unless you pay through a link.
QR-code phishing
A pasted-over or messaged QR code opens a lookalike login or payment page—or attempts to install malware.
Romance and investment grooming
A new online relationship develops steadily before money problems or a supposedly profitable investment enter the conversation.
Fake tech support
A pop-up, call or renewal notice claims your device or subscription has a serious problem and directs you to a fake technician.
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
Pause first. Verify elsewhere.
ScamIQ is educational, not a guarantee or a substitute for advice from your bank, platform or local authority. We use primary public-safety sources and link to them from every field note.