Beware of these common scam types

 

"It looked like an easy way to make money"

Investment scam Scammers may reach out claiming to have a guaranteed, no-risk strategy to turn an investment into huge financial gains. These investment opportunities often operate through financial apps or websites that appear legitimate. However, once the victim has committed funds to their “investment”, it may turn out to be fake, allowing the scammer to escape with the money.

Helpful tips

Be cautious of offers requiring less secure payment types like cryptocurrency. Research the investment company or platform before committing any funds. Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.

“I needed a job and this opportunity seemed perfect.”

Employment scam When searching for work, people may come across fake job postings or be contacted by recruitment impersonators. These job offers typically advertise the ability to make money working from home with little time or effort needed. Common employment scams include package reshipping, mystery shopping and online assistant roles.

Helpful tips

Research the company or person who offered you the job before accepting. Watch out for companies that require you to pay an application or training fee. Be wary of jobs that hire you without a conversation or interview.

“The email looked like it was from a business I knew.”

Impersonation scam The scammer may pose as a business, government agency, Capital One employee or vendor you work with. They’d send you a spoofed email (appearing to be from a legit source) or use a fake caller ID, requesting a change in payment or creating a false sense of urgency to send funds due to fraud or a late payment. At times, they’ll ask you to transfer money or deposit a check for expenses and refund the balance.

Helpful tips

When in doubt, hang up the phone and call a verified phone number