Don’t Get Played: How to Spot Scams and Stay Safe from Fraud

Let’s be real: scams today are way more than shady emails from a prince promising millions. Scammers are slick, convincing, and often targeting young adults and teens who are constantly connected online. Whether it's through social media, texts, emails, or sketchy links, the goal is the same — to trick you into giving up your personal info or money.

Here’s how to stay smart, spot the red flags, and protect yourself like a pro:

1. “You’ve Won!” Scams
You get a message saying you’ve won a giveaway, prize, or gift card — but you never entered anything. If they ask for your bank info to “deposit your prize,” it's a scam.

2. Impersonation Scams
A text from “your bank,” a DM from “your friend,” or a call from “the IRS”? Scammers pretend to be someone you trust to trick you into sharing private info or sending money.

3. Job Scams
Found a “too good to be true” job online? If they ask you to pay a fee upfront, send money, or deposit a check and return some of the cash — it’s a fake.

4. Fake Online Stores or Sellers
You see a sweet deal on a pair of sneakers or a gaming console, but once you pay, the item never ships — and the seller disappears. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.

5. Romance or Catfish Scams
Someone you met online showers you with compliments and quickly starts asking for money. Scammers often build fake emotional connections to take advantage of your trust.

1. Don’t Share Personal Info Online
Your birthday, address, or even your high school mascot can be clues to your passwords. Keep personal info private.

2. Double-Check Links and Emails
Before clicking a link or downloading anything, look closely. Is the email slightly off? Is the link suspiciously long or full of random letters? Hover before you click, and when in doubt — don’t.

3. Use Strong Passwords (and Change Them Often)
Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Better yet, use a password manager to keep things secure. And never reuse the same password across sites.

4. Don’t Pay in Gift Cards or Crypto
If someone asks to be paid in gift cards or cryptocurrency — especially if it’s urgent — it’s a scam. Real companies and legit jobs don’t ask for that.

5. Enable Alerts and Monitor Your Accounts
Set up alerts with your bank or credit union to get notified of account activity. That way, if something fishy happens, you’ll know right away.

Tell someone you trust. A parent, teacher, or your bank — don’t be embarrassed. Scammers count on you staying silent.

Report it. The FTC (ftc.gov/complaint), your local authorities, or your financial institution can help you take next steps.

Change passwords and monitor your accounts. If you gave out info, take action fast.

Scams are getting smarter, but so are you. Trust your instincts — if something feels off, it probably is. Stay alert, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to say no or hit “delete.” The more you know, the harder you are to fool.

Pro Tip from Prospera: Want help keeping your accounts safe? Prospera has your back with tools like alerts, card controls, and 24/7 digital access — so you’re always in control.