Glossary of Scam Terms
Know the language,
spot the scam.
It's important to be aware of the language associated with scams. Here are a few phrases from the scamming world to tuck away for reference.
scroll to begin ↓Callback Scams
A voicemail message from an unfamiliar number threatens legal action. Don't call unfamiliar numbers back.3
IRS Call Scam
Scammers can pose as IRS agents demanding money or personal information. These criminals may "spoof" an actual IRS number. (Remember: The IRS will never call you without sending you a letter beforehand.)3
Phishing
Phishing is an attempt to "hook" potential victims by throwing out emails at random that contain malicious software, links, or attachments. The "sender" may pose as a government agency or even a family member seeking emergency funds.3
"Pig-butchering"
This is a scam that exploits a person's romantic or financial vulnerability. A relationship is solicited online that builds slowly over time, eventually pressing the victim into fake investment opportunities.2
Recovery Scams
In a recovery scam, a person who has already fallen prey to a scam is targeted again with offers to help them recover the money they lost. In these cases, the original scammers are simply coming back for a second helping.3
Smishing
An abbreviation for "SMS Phishing," smishing is a scam that involves engaging a victim via text messages. The toll road scam is one example.1,3
Spoofing
This involves using false caller ID information to make a target more likely to answer when the scammer calls. Common spoofs include local numbers, businesses, and government agencies.3
Voicemail Hacking
Hackers guess simpler or default passwords and set up new voicemail greetings on your phone to accept collect calls. From there, they use the phone to make international calls.3
Now you know the language.
Scammers count on unfamiliar terms to catch people off guard. Recognizing the language is the first step to spotting the scam — and protecting yourself and the people you care about.
