Fake AI “Advisors” Offering Personalized Plans
AI-based tools are all over the financial space right now. Some are legitimate. Some just want your data. And in between, there’s a growing category of suspicious sites pretending to offer personalized financial advice powered by artificial intelligence. This isn’t a new scam. It’s just a rebranded version of the old “free retirement plan” pitch,…
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The Fake Bank Trap: When High-Yield Accounts Aren’t Real
High-yield savings accounts are great if you’re trying to build an emergency fund or keep savings separate from checking. They allow you to earn at least some growth while keeping that money accessible in a pinch. But as more people look to stash their money in online banks, scammers are moving fast to meet them…
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The Tariff Excuse
Any time prices start rising, explanations follow. Some are legitimate. Others? Not so much. And lately, one excuse has been popping up more and more: “Because of tariffs.” Retailers and manufacturers know that most consumers don’t fully understand how tariffs work—or whether they even apply to the products they’re buying. That gap in knowledge creates…
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Budgeting App Scams Why “Safe Enough” Isn’t Good Enough
Last summer, Creditnews Research released its findings on the data safety practices of popular financial apps. Their findings were eye-opening. Not only did the majority of apps share some form of user information with third parties, but many shared far more sensitive data than users would expect. This issue doesn’t just affect budgeting tools—it stretches…
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Day Trading Gurus: The Social Media Scam That Won’t Die
Social media has become the perfect stage for day trading scammers. They promise instant wealth, total freedom, and a life you can only get by joining their Discord group, paying for their signals, or copying their trades. TikTok and YouTube are packed with these stories. Some are polished. Some even look scrappy on purpose because…
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Fear-Based Scams: How Market Panics Create Easy Targets
When markets get shaky, emotions run high – and scammers know it. Fear, confusion, and a sense of urgency are exactly the conditions fraudsters look for. During volatile markets, scam activity often surges because people are more vulnerable. They’re scared about losing money and looking for quick solutions or safer alternatives. That’s when the predators…
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Too Good to Be True? The Rise of Fake ‘Passive Income’ Investments
In today’s pursuit of financial security, the promise of passive income is enticing. However, this appeal has been exploited by scammers through various fraudulent schemes. Here’s an overview of some prevalent scams targeting those seeking reliable income: The Fake Dividend Trap The “Guaranteed Monthly Income” Scam Social Media & AI-Powered Investment Scams Protective Measures By…
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Bargain or Bust? Beware of Fake Deals
In today’s digital landscape, scam artists have long exploited consumers’ search for savings. With evolving tactics and increasingly sophisticated online schemes, they continue to prey on anyone seeking a bargain. From fake online retailers to counterfeit goods and deceptive membership offers, here’s what you need to know – and how you can protect yourself. “Discount…
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Don’t Get Duped: How to Recognize and Avoid Tax Scams
Tax season is here, and while most of us are busy gathering W-2s and crunching numbers, scammers are hard at work too. Every year, thousands of people fall victim to tax scams that drain bank accounts, steal identities, and create a whirlwind of stress. Let’s break down the most common tax scams, how they work,…
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Scholarship and Student Loan Scams
With rising education costs, many students and families eagerly seek financial aid opportunities. Unfortunately, scammers often exploit this desperation through deceptive scholarship and loan schemes. Learning to identify these scams is crucial for protecting your financial future. Common Red Flags Application or Processing Fees Legitimate scholarships and federal student loans never require upfront fees. Be…
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