CyberIdentityTheft.com
Active Threats

Scam Alerts

Scammers constantly update their tactics. This hub tracks the most active identity theft and fraud threats — with practical guidance on how to recognize and avoid each one.

Browse by Scam Type

Current Alerts

AI & Deepfake ScamsHigh Alert

AI Voice Cloning: 'Grandparent Emergency' Scam Surge

Scammers are using AI to clone the voices of family members — often grandchildren — to call elderly relatives claiming to be in an emergency and demanding immediate wire transfers or gift cards.

What to do

Establish a family code word. If you receive an unexpected call from a family member in distress, hang up and call them back on a known number before sending any money.

Report to: FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov

Phishing & SmishingHigh Alert

USPS and FedEx Package Delivery Text Scams

Fraudulent text messages claiming your package could not be delivered and asking you to click a link to reschedule. The link leads to a credential-harvesting site that mimics the carrier's website.

What to do

Never click links in unsolicited delivery texts. Go directly to the carrier's official website by typing the address in your browser and use your tracking number there.

Report to: USPS Inspection Service at postalinspectors.uspis.gov or FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov

CISA — Phishing GuidanceLast reviewed: 2026-08-16
Government ImpersonationHigh Alert

Social Security Number Suspension Calls

Callers claiming to be from the Social Security Administration say your SSN has been 'suspended' due to suspicious activity and demand you confirm your number or face arrest. The SSA does not suspend Social Security numbers.

What to do

Hang up immediately. The SSA will never call to threaten arrest or demand immediate payment. Report the call to the SSA Office of Inspector General at oig.ssa.gov.

Report to: SSA OIG at oig.ssa.gov/report

AI & Deepfake ScamsActive Threat

AI-Generated CEO Fraud in Business Email Compromise

Attackers are using AI to generate convincing emails — and in some cases audio or video — impersonating executives to authorize fraudulent wire transfers or request sensitive employee data.

What to do

Verify any unusual financial request through a separate, known communication channel. Never rely solely on email for wire transfer authorization.

Report to: FBI IC3 at ic3.gov

Financial & Investment FraudActive Threat

Cryptocurrency 'Pig Butchering' Investment Scams

Scammers build trust over weeks or months through social media or messaging apps, then introduce a fake cryptocurrency investment platform. Victims are encouraged to invest increasing amounts before the platform disappears.

What to do

Be extremely skeptical of any investment opportunity introduced through social media or messaging apps. Verify any investment platform through official regulatory databases before sending money.

Report to: FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and FBI IC3 at ic3.gov

Phishing & SmishingActive Threat

IRS Impersonation Emails During Tax Season

Fraudulent emails claiming to be from the IRS about a refund, audit notice, or account problem. The IRS initiates contact by mail — not email, text, or phone call.

What to do

Do not click any links or open attachments. The IRS does not initiate contact by email. Go directly to IRS.gov to check your account status.

Report to: IRS at phishing@irs.gov

IRS — Tax Scams and Consumer AlertsLast reviewed: 2026-08-16

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I think a call, text, or email is a scam?

Do not reply, click links, send money, or share personal information. End the conversation and verify the request through a phone number or website you find independently.

Where should I report a scam?

Report fraud to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Internet-facilitated crimes can also be reported to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center, and identity theft victims can begin recovery at IdentityTheft.gov.

Can I report a scam even if I did not lose money?

Yes. Reporting suspected fraud helps agencies identify patterns and warn other people. You do not need to have lost money to submit a report.

This page provides consumer education only. It is not legal advice. CyberIdentityTheft.com is an independent resource and is not affiliated with any government agency or law enforcement body.

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