Financial Scams

How to Recognize and Avoid ‘Pig Butchering’ Scams That Target Your Savings A new wave of sophisticated online scams is draining bank accounts under a disturbing name: “Pig Butchering.” Recently, the New York State Attorney General’s office issued a formal consumer alert warning residents about this specific fraud, which has led to devastating financial losses. Unlike a quick phishing attempt, this scam is a long con, meticulously designed to fatten up victims with false trust before slaughtering their savings. Understanding how it works is your first and best defense. ...

How to Recognize the Scams Targeting You Right Now Each year, scammers refine their tactics, exploiting new technologies and current events to catch people off guard. Recently, as part of National Consumer Protection Week, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) held a series of public webinars to shed light on these evolving threats. The sessions provided a clear look at the methods fraudsters are using in 2026 and, crucially, how you can defend yourself. ...

Staying Ahead of Scammers: Key Takeaways from the FTC’s Latest Advice Every year, National Consumer Protection Week serves as a crucial reminder to review our defenses against fraud. This past March, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) held a webinar to spotlight the latest scam trends, providing a timely update on the tactics criminals are using right now. For anyone who banks online, shops on the internet, or simply answers their phone, this information isn’t just helpful—it’s a necessary tool for protecting your finances and personal information. ...

The “Pig Butchering” Scam: A Disturbing New Twist on Financial Fraud You receive a friendly, seemingly accidental message on social media, WhatsApp, or a dating app. The person on the other end is charming, engaging, and over weeks or months, builds a genuine-seeming connection. They talk about life, family, and eventually, a fantastic investment opportunity that has made them significant wealth. They want to help you do the same. ...