Top 5 Warning Signs of Online Scams and How to Avoid Them

Online scams are more sophisticated than ever. From phishing emails to fake job offers, fraudsters are constantly finding new ways to trick people into giving up sensitive information or money.

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Here are five common warning signs—and how to protect yourself.

1. Urgent or Threatening Language
Scammers often create panic by claiming your account will be closed or that legal action is imminent. Legitimate organizations don’t pressure you like this. Pause and verify before reacting.

2. Unfamiliar Sender or Domain
Emails from random or suspicious domains (e.g., @secure-payments-verify.com) should raise red flags. Even if the message looks official, always double-check the sender’s address.

3. Requests for Personal or Financial Information
No reputable company will ask for passwords, Social Security numbers, or banking info via email or text. Never share sensitive details unless you're sure the request is legitimate.

4. Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers
Whether it's a "guaranteed" job, a lottery win, or a huge discount, if it seems too good to be true—it probably is.

5. Suspicious Links or Attachments
Avoid clicking links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could install malware or redirect you to phishing sites.

Bonus Tip:
Always verify with the organization directly using a phone number or website you trust—not the contact info in the suspicious message. Use two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible.

With AARP as your partner, you can be better equipped to stay ahead of scammers. The AARP Fraud Watch Network offers help with:

Fraud Victim Support: Free, confidential discussion groups
Report a Scam: See scams in your area with the Scam-Tracking Map.
Watchdog Alerts: Get regular updates on the latest scams by email or text.