Scam Prevention

Heed the Warning: Practical Steps to Shield Yourself from Rising Consumer Fraud Recent warnings from court systems, like the statewide consumer fraud alert issued by the Philadelphia Courts, serve as a critical reminder: scams are pervasive, evolving, and targeting everyone. These alerts aren’t just bureaucratic notices; they are a direct signal that fraudsters are actively exploiting current events, new technologies, and our daily habits. While the specifics of any single alert are important locally, the underlying message is universal. It’s time to reinforce your personal defenses. ...

National Consumer Protection Week Is Here: Let’s Talk About Scams Every March, National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) rolls around, and in 2026 it runs from March 2nd to the 8th. For many, it might just be a note on the calendar. But for the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and other consumer watchdogs, this week is a crucial, focused effort to turn awareness into action. The theme is simple but powerful: talk about scams. ...

Statewide Alert: How to Protect Yourself From Fake Text Scams If you live in Pennsylvania, your phone might be the next target. In early March 2026, the Philadelphia Courts issued an official statewide consumer fraud alert, warning residents about a surge in sophisticated fake texting scams. These messages are designed to look legitimate, often spoofing real institutions, to trick people into revealing personal information or sending money. This alert isn’t just bureaucratic noise; it’s a critical heads-up about a fraud tactic that is actively targeting consumers across the state. Understanding how these scams work is your first line of defense. ...

Consumer Defense 2026: Sharpening Your Scam Radar for National Consumer Protection Week Every March, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) leads National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), a focused campaign to educate and empower people against fraud. As we enter NCPW 2026, the landscape of scams is not static; it evolves with technology and current events. This week serves as a crucial reminder to review your defenses, understand the latest tricks, and know exactly where to turn for help. ...