4 Online Scams to Watch Out for Right Now

Online scams change constantly, but the psychology behind them stays the same: urgency, fear, and pressure; designed to make you act before you verify.

The FTC has warned about multiple scam waves that start with text messages (including fake unpaid toll texts and fake job/recruiter texts), and FTC data shows consumers reported losing $470 million in 2024 to scams that began with a text.

Below are four of the most common “right now” scams we’re seeing (and how to protect yourself without panic).

1) “Unpaid Toll” Text Scams

What it looks like: You get a text saying you owe toll money and must pay immediately to avoid fees, collections, or license consequences. Often includes a link.

Why it works: It’s believable and time-sensitive. Scammers look for a fast click.

Protect yourself:

Don’t click the link.

Verify independently by going to the toll agency’s official website (typed manually) or calling a published number.

If you’re unsure, treat it as a scam first. The FTC has specifically flagged unpaid toll texts as a common scam.

2) Fake Job / Recruiter Texts

What it looks like: A “recruiter” texts you about a job you didn’t apply for, offers quick pay, remote work, or easy tasks…and pushes you to move fast.

Common red flags:

Immediate offer without a real interview

“Training pay” that requires you to send money back

Requests for sensitive info early (SSN, banking) before a legitimate offer process

Pressure to switch to WhatsApp/Telegram

The FTC has warned about job-offer scams that start by text.

Protect yourself:

Verify the recruiter and company via official websites and public phone numbers.

Never share SSN/banking info via text.

If they rush you, be hesitant.

3) Impersonation Scams (Bank/Government/Company “Emergency”)

What it looks like: A message claims your account is compromised or your identity is at risk…and you must act now. Often they ask you to:

“confirm” a login

click a link

move money to “protect it”

buy gift cards or crypto

Reality check: The FTC is blunt about this: the FTC will never threaten you or tell you to transfer money to “protect it” (that’s a scam pattern).

Protect yourself:

Hang up / stop responding.

Contact the company using the number on the back of your card or from the official website (not the text/call).

Turn on account alerts.

4) Fake Delivery or “Suspicious Account Activity” Texts

What it looks like: “Your package is delayed—confirm address” or “Suspicious activity detected—verify purchase.”

Why it works: It hits when you’re busy and expecting deliveries. 

Protect yourself:

Don’t click the link.

Check shipping only through the retailer’s site/app or the carrier’s official site.

If you did click, change passwords (starting with email) and enable 2FA.

Most modern scams share four triggers:

1. Urgency (“today,” “final notice,” “now”)
2. Fear (penalties, account shutdown, police, collections)
3. Secrecy (“don’t tell anyone,” “keep this private”)
4. Unusual payment methods (wire, gift cards, crypto)

If you feel pressure, that’s the cue to slow down.

If you already clicked (or entered info): do this now

Stop engaging with the message.

Change your email password first (email controls resets).

Change passwords for financial accounts and enable two-factor authentication.

Check your accounts for unfamiliar activity and turn on alerts.

If money was sent, contact your bank/payment platform immediately.

Report scams at the FTC’s reporting site ghttps://reportfraud.ftc.gov/ov/.

If there’s one takeaway, it’s this: scammers win when they rush you. The moment a text or email tries to create panic or push immediate payment, treat it as a warning sign and verify through a source you trust—not the link they provided. And if you already clicked, you’re not alone—act quickly, secure your accounts, and document what happened. The goal isn’t to live in fear online; it’s to stay one step ahead with simple, repeatable habits that protect your money, identity, and peace of mind.