1 in 3 Americans Has Been Hit by an Online Shopping Scam – Here’s How to Protect Yourself New Pew Research Center data shows the problem is widespread. Knowing what to look for can save you money and frustration. ...
How to Spot and Stop Social Media Scams: A Practical Guide Intro If you spend any time on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, you’ve likely seen posts offering unbelievable deals, romantic messages from strangers, or urgent pleas for help from a friend’s hacked account. These aren’t just annoyances — they’re part of a fast-growing wave of social media scams that cost Americans billions every year. According to the Federal Trade Commission, older Americans alone lost $2.4 billion to scams in 2024. And with scammers now using artificial intelligence to create fake voices, realistic profile pictures, and convincing messages, it’s getting harder to tell what’s real. ...
Gift Card Scams Are Still Thriving: What the Latest D.C. Alert Means for You Gift cards are a convenient way to give presents, but scammers have turned them into a preferred payment method for fraud. In December 2025, District of Columbia Attorney General Brian Schwalb issued a consumer alert warning residents about a surge in gift card scams. While the alert targets D.C. residents, the advice applies to anyone who receives an unexpected demand for payment via gift card. ...