Scam Prevention

FTC Spots New Scam Tactics: Here’s What to Watch For In early March, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) held a public webinar as part of National Consumer Protection Week. The session served as a clear-eyed briefing on the fraud landscape, detailing the specific tricks that are currently working on people and, more importantly, how to shut them down. For anyone who uses email, shops online, or answers their phone, the insights were a critical reminder that scammers are constantly refining their scripts and schemes. ...

Your Guide to National Consumer Protection Week 2026: Spotting Scams and Staying Safe As we approach another National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) in March 2026, it’s more than just an annual reminder—it’s a crucial call to action. Every year, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and other agencies use this week to amplify a vital message: fraud is pervasive, but you are not powerless against it. Scammers refine their tactics constantly, but the fundamental principles of protection remain steady. This guide draws on the ongoing work of the FTC to give you concrete, actionable steps to identify, avoid, and report the scams you’re likely to encounter. ...

Philadelphia Courts Warn of Rising Scams: What You Need to Know A recent statewide consumer fraud alert issued by the Philadelphia Courts serves as a critical reminder: scammers are constantly refining their tactics, and everyone is a potential target. While the specific details of every emerging scheme evolve, the core goal remains the same—to trick you out of your money or personal information. ...

A New Text Scam is Targeting Pennsylvanians: Here’s What to Look For Authorities are warning Pennsylvania residents about a surge in fraudulent text messages designed to steal personal information or money. In early March 2026, the Philadelphia Courts issued a statewide Consumer Fraud Alert regarding a sophisticated fake texting scam that is actively targeting mobile phone users. ...

What You Need to Know About the Latest Wave of Scams Every year, scammers refine their playbook. The methods may shift with technology and current events, but the goal remains the same: to trick you out of your money or personal information. During a recent National Consumer Protection Week webinar, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) highlighted the most concerning scam trends emerging right now. Their message was clear: awareness is your first and most powerful line of defense. ...

A Statewide Alert: How to Spot Fake Texts Pretending to Be from the Courts If you live in Pennsylvania, be extra cautious about texts claiming to be from a court. In early March 2026, the Philadelphia Courts issued a formal statewide consumer fraud alert warning residents of an active fake texting scam. Criminals are impersonating court officials to steal personal information and money. This alert is a serious reminder that these scams are not just annoying—they are sophisticated attempts at fraud. Understanding how they work is your first line of defense. ...

Pennsylvania Courts Sound Alarm on Consumer Fraud: How to Protect Yourself A warning issued by the Philadelphia Courts this month serves as a stark reminder: consumer fraud is a persistent and evolving threat. While the official alert, dated March 12, 2026, is directed statewide, its message is universal. Scammers are constantly refining their tactics to part you from your money and personal information. Understanding what prompted this official warning can help you recognize the red flags and take proactive steps to safeguard your finances. ...

A Statewide Warning on Fraud: What It Means for Your Wallet Earlier this month, the Philadelphia Courts issued a formal, statewide consumer fraud alert for Pennsylvania. While such official warnings are not everyday occurrences, this one signals a concerning trend that demands public attention. The alert aims to prevent financial losses by urging heightened awareness. For the average person, it serves as a critical reminder that scams are evolving and targeting people through countless daily interactions, both online and off. ...

A Statewide Alert on Fraud: What It Means for Your Wallet and Identity A recent alert from the Philadelphia Courts has put the spotlight back on consumer fraud, warning residents across Pennsylvania about active threats. While the specifics of the alert aren’t fully detailed in available reports, such notices typically signal a spike in sophisticated scams that separate people from their money and personal information. For anyone managing finances online or over the phone, it’s a timely reminder to review your defenses. ...

What a Statewide Fraud Alert Means for Your Wallet Earlier this month, the Philadelphia Courts issued a formal, statewide consumer fraud alert. While the specific details of the triggering incidents are often kept brief in such public notices, the intent is clear: to warn Pennsylvanians about a noticeable rise in fraudulent activity targeting their finances and personal information. These alerts don’t happen without cause; they are a signal that existing scam tactics are seeing a resurgence or that new, effective schemes are circulating. ...