Scam Guides

Real answers to real questions

Plain-language explanations of the scams and tricks people are actually searching for right now.

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AI & Deepfakes 🎭

How Does an AI Voice Cloning Scam Actually Work?

A scammer only needs 3 seconds of your voice, here's how the scam plays out and the one habit that stops it.

Social Media 👥

How Do I Spot a Fake Profile on Social Media?

New account, stolen photos, fast emotional pressure, here's the pattern and the 30-second check that reveals it.

Online Shopping📦

What Is a Brushing Scam and Is It Dangerous?

A package you never ordered isn't harmless if there's a QR code inside. Here's what to actually do about it.

Why Does a CAPTCHA Ask Me to Press Windows+R?

A real CAPTCHA never asks that. Here's how the ClickFix scam works, and why it's bigger than phishing now.

Social Media🛍️

Is That 50% Off Ad in Your Feed a Scam?

Platforms don't thoroughly vet ads. Here's the 30-second check before you buy from a brand you've never seen.

Phone & Text🎓

Is That Scholarship Text or Call Real?

Real government agencies contact you by mail, not phone. Here's how to spot the back-to-school scam pattern.

Phone Calls📞

How Do I Know If a Bank Call Is Really My Bank?

Real banks never ask for your PIN. Here's how fake bank calls, government threats, and AI voice clones work.

Account Security🔒

What Does Two-Step Verification Actually Do?

A second lock that stops most account takeovers cold. Here's how it works and where to turn it on first.

Online Shopping🛒

How Do I Know If an Online Store Is Fake?

Three red flags catch almost every fake store: price, checkout, and payment method.

Is It Safe to Scan a QR Code in Public?

One rule stops almost every QR code scam: check if it's a sticker before you scan.

Subscriptions💳

Why Did I Get Charged After a Free Trial?

Free trials that require a card charge automatically. Here's the one question to ask before you sign up.

More guides added regularly, check back soon.