Most Popular and Common Email Scams

Email scams are everywhere, from phishing attempts to fake job offers and tech support fraud. Cybercriminals use deceptive tactics to steal money and sensitive information. Stay informed about the most common scams and how to spot red flags before it's too late.

1. Phishing Scams

• Fraudsters impersonate banks, social media, or other services to steal login credentials.
• Often uses fake urgent messages like “Your account has been compromised.”

2. Business Email Compromise (BEC)

• Scammers pose as executives or suppliers requesting urgent wire transfers or sensitive information.
• Often targets employees in finance or accounting.

3. Lottery & Prize Scams

• Claims you’ve won a lottery, sweepstake, or prize you never entered.
• Requires you to pay a fee or provide personal details to claim the winnings.

4. Tech Support Scams

• Fake emails from “Microsoft” or “Apple” claiming your computer is infected.
• Requests remote access or payment for fake software repairs.

5. Invoice & Payment Fraud

• Scammers pose as vendors and send fake invoices.
• Often tricks businesses into wiring money to fraudulent accounts.

6. Romance Scams

• Fraudsters build fake online relationships to emotionally manipulate victims into sending money.
• Often involves long-distance or military deployment stories.

7. Job Offer & Work-from-Home Scams

• Offers high-paying remote jobs with little work.
• May ask for upfront fees, personal information, or act as a money mule scheme.

8. Fake Charity & Disaster Relief Scams

• Uses emotional appeals to request donations for fake charities.
• Often seen after major disasters or global crises.

9. Extortion & Blackmail Emails

• Claims to have hacked your device and recorded sensitive data.
• Demands Bitcoin payments to prevent “leaking” personal files.

10. Subscription Renewal & Fake Service Charges

• Fake invoices for antivirus software, streaming services, or domain renewals.
• Scammers try to collect payment information by posing as legitimate companies.

The best way to stay safe is to verify senders, avoid clicking suspicious links, and never share sensitive information via email.