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Urgency and threats
Scammers may claim your account is locked, your money is at risk, or you must act immediately.
Independent Consumer Education
Stay Informed.
Stay Protected.
Learn to recognize common scams, protect your personal information, and use trusted U.S. resources to avoid suspicious activities.
This is an independent educational website, not a U.S. government website or an official government app.
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Think. Verify. Protect.Pause before clicking links, sending money, or sharing personal details.
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Know the warning signs
Could it be a scam?
Fraud can arrive by phone, text, email, social media, dating services, and fake websites. Look out for these patterns before you respond.
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Unusual payment requests
Be skeptical of demands for gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or payment to release a prize or refund.
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Suspicious links
Unexpected messages may imitate banks, delivery companies, government agencies, or trusted contacts.
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Romance and friendship scams
Someone you have never met in person may build trust, then request money or confidential information.
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Guaranteed returns
Investment offers promising risk-free profits or pressuring you to deposit more money deserve extra scrutiny.
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Unexpected app installation
Be wary of instructions to install apps from unfamiliar websites, disable device protections, or grant excessive permissions.
Three layers of protection
Build safer digital habits
Simple habits can reduce your exposure to scams without installing unverified software.
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Verify the source
Contact organizations using a phone number or website you independently find, not the contact details in a suspicious message.
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Secure your accounts
Use unique passwords, enable multifactor authentication, keep software updated, and review account alerts.
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Report and document
Save relevant messages and transaction records, then report through official channels and contact your bank if money was sent.
Practical guide
Four steps when you suspect fraud
Stop
Do not click links, download files, share verification codes, or send additional payments.
Verify
Look up the organization independently and confirm whether the request is genuine.
Secure
Change exposed passwords, enable MFA, and contact your bank or payment provider immediately if needed.
Report
Use the FTC fraud portal or FBI IC3 for internet-enabled crime; keep a copy of your report.
If you installed an unfamiliar app, avoid granting more permissions. Consider disconnecting the device from the internet, reviewing installed apps, and seeking trusted technical support.
Verified U.S. resources
Where to report scams
These links go to official U.S. government websites. This page does not collect your report, personal data, or payment information.
Federal Trade Commission
Report consumer fraud, impersonation scams, and deceptive business practices.
ReportFraud.ftc.gov βFBI Internet Crime Complaint Center
Submit complaints involving internet-enabled crimes, including online financial fraud.
IC3.gov βIdentityTheft.gov
Find recovery guidance and reporting options if your identity information was misused.
IdentityTheft.gov βProtect yourself today
You don't need to install an APK to protect yourself from scams.
Use official educational resources to protect yourself from scams and always stay vigilant. Take simple steps to strengthen your personal security and start protecting yourself today.
Frequently asked questions
Questions people often ask
Is this an official government website?
No. Scam Awareness USA is an independent educational example and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the FTC, FBI, CISA, or any government agency.
Should I download an APK to protect my phone?
Do not install unfamiliar APK files simply because a website claims they are required for protection. Use your device's built-in security features and trusted app sources.
What should I do if I already sent money?
Contact your bank, card issuer, or payment provider immediately and ask whether the transaction can be stopped or reversed. Keep records and file a report.
Can a website guarantee it will stop every scam?
No. No website or app can guarantee complete protection. Awareness, account security, independent verification, and timely reporting are important.