November 2022

IRS impersonators have been around for a while. But as more people get to know their tricks, they’re switching it up. So instead of contacting you about a tax debt and making threats to get you to pay up, scammers may send you a text about a “tax rebate” or some other tax refund or benefit. Here’s what to know about the new twist.

Timeshare exit companies advertise a lot. Many "guarantee" they can get you out of your timeshare contract, but sometimes these companies are simply a scam. In a case announced today, the FTC said a company called Consumer Protection Law (one of its many names) didn’t deliver on all its promises. Read on to learn about staying ahead of the scammers.

Credit card debt can be stressful. Interest rates can be high, and if you miss or can’t make your full payments, that growing balance can be overwhelming. Enter a group of companies that promised to reduce or eliminate your credit card debt. (For a fee.) But did they?

Unwanted calls are annoying — but when a caller says they’re an FBI agent collecting on a legal judgment entered against you, it’s also scary. No matter how urgent and serious the call sounds, neither the judgment nor the agent are real. Like other impersonation scams, FBI imposters are after your money and personal information, and they might even threaten to arrest you unless you pay immediately. (Again: it’s not real.) Read on to learn to spot the scam.

As we continue to honor and celebrate veterans, scammers increase efforts around holidays — like Veteran’s Day — to try to take advantage. Right now, a banking scam is tricking veterans (and current servicemembers) into sharing sensitive personal or financial information. Find out how.

November is American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, and the FTC joins the country in honoring the cultures and many contributions of indigenous peoples across America. This year's theme is “Celebrating Respect, Culture, and Education,” which reminds us of the importance of sharing information to support both communities and the people in them.

If you or one of your loved ones are on Medicare, you’re probably aware that open enrollment ends on December 7. And you’re probably reviewing and comparing different options to select a plan that’s right for you. But as you shop around, know that scammers might take advantage of this period to impersonate Medicare agents.

The FTC joins the country in honoring veteran entrepreneurs and their families this National Veterans Small Business Week. We offer thanks as you continue to serve communities all over the nation through your businesses. Unfortunately, scammers are ready to take your hard-earned profits and steal your sensitive business data. So, this week, take time to talk to your employees about how scams happen.