The scams landing in American inboxes right now
They change the story, but the tricks repeat. Pick one to see what to look for.
Toll Services: You have an unpaid toll balance of $6.99. Pay by today to avoid a $50 late fee: https://ezpass-tollpay.info
- Toll agencies don't collect by text linkUnpaid tolls come by mail or in your account on the agency's own website.
- A small amount with a big penaltyThe $6.99 is bait. The payment page collects your full card details.
- Check your balance on your toll agency's site.
Fraud Alert: Did you attempt a purchase of $1,249.00 at Best Buy? Reply YES or NO. A specialist will call you shortly.
- Replying starts the real scamA fake "fraud specialist" calls next and asks you to move money to a "safe account".
- Your bank will never ask you to move moneyNo real bank asks you to send money anywhere to protect it.
- Call the number on the back of your card.
Hi Mom, I dropped my phone, this is my new number. Can you help me pay a bill today? I'll pay you back tomorrow ❤️
- A "new number" from familyScammers send this to thousands of people and wait for a parent to reply.
- Urgent money by textThey'll ask for Zelle, a gift card or a wire, all hard to reverse.
- Call their old number before you send anything.
IRS: You are eligible for a tax refund of $1,384.60. Submit your details to claim: https://irs-refundclaim.com
- The IRS doesn't text about refundsThe IRS contacts people by mail first, never with a text link.
- The form wants your SSN and bank loginThat's everything needed to steal your refund or your identity.
- Check refunds only at irs.gov.
Hi! I'm Emily from a staffing agency. Earn $300–$800 a day rating apps from home. Message me on WhatsApp to get started.
- A job you never applied forReal recruiters don't send random texts offering easy daily pay.
- The deposit comes laterAfter small payouts, you're asked to deposit crypto to "unlock" your earnings.
- Never pay to get paid.