Recognize an FTC Impersonator

Identity theft is one of the most-reported problems to the FTC every year. So, chances are, it’s affected you or someone you know. That’s why the FTC and its partners dedicate a week to raising awareness and organizing events to help everyone protect and recover from identity theft.

Tax season is approaching, and if you’re getting a refund, scammers are looking to steal it before you’ve had a chance to claim it. So, before you respond to a text or email about a “tax refund” — especially one that asks you to click a link — know that this could be a scam designed to get your personal information and steal your tax refund.

You get a text message, supposedly following up on a $10,000 loan application. Only, you never applied for a loan. Is this pure luck or a scam? Before you use the callback number in the message to find out, or even reply “NO” to cancel the application, learn to spot a fake loan text scam.