As we wrap up National Internet Safety Month, this week’s focus is on recognizing and reporting online scams. These threats continue to grow. The Federal Trade Commission’s 2025 report found that $15.9 billion was lost to online scams. With an increase in fake accounts and ads posing as major brands, scammers have more ways than ever to target personal information.
Common Online Scams
- Spoofing is when someone disguises an email address, sender name, phone number or website URL with minor changes to appear legitimate.
- Phishing uses spoofing to trick individuals into sharing confidential information such as passwords or financial data. Variations—phone calls, text messages or fake websites—operate the same way.
Many phishing attempts begin as shopping scams on social media. Scammers will purchase ads disguised as well-known brands, offering big discounts on products. These ads lead to unfamiliar websites designed to collect banking information.
Investment scams caused the largest reported losses from social media fraud. Scammers may promote programs that promise investment success, pose as friendly advisors or create group chats with “successful investors” sharing fake testimonials. Each path will lead to fraudulent investment platforms.
Romance scams rely on building trust. Scammers study a person’s online presence, form a relationship, then introduce a financial crisis or investment “opportunity.” Some may also coerce individuals into sending explicit images and then use those to extort money.
Think Before Opening That Link
In 2025, North Carolina residents reported the most fraud losses from imposter scams and online shopping. While they may be posing as someone from an organization you know, scammers will pressure for immediate action. Before entering or giving away personal or financial information, check that a website is legitimate. Look for:
- A padlock symbol next to the URL
- HTTPS in the URL
- A posted privacy policy
- Accepted major payment methods
Report Suspicious Activity
If you suspect something is off, take a moment to verify. Remember:
- Legitimate companies will not ask for your username or password.
- Be mindful of what you share on social media.
- Check all email addresses, URLs and spelling carefully.
- Don’t open links or download attachments from unsolicited emails or texts.
To report cases of online fraud, visit https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/.
If someone has shared intimate images of you without consent and a platform has not removed them, visit: https://takeitdown.ftc.gov/.
This is the last week of the Secure Your Square BINGO—be sure to complete your card and share your progress with others!