In the wake of advancing technology and the proliferation of reliable forms of communication, scammers have found new ways to target unsuspecting individuals and businesses. In response, governments across the world have implemented various resources to combat these scams and protect vulnerable citizens from harm.
One such resource is the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Scam Alerts page, which regularly publishes warnings about current scams and provides general advice on how to avoid them. FTC scam alerts are updated regularly with new developments in scamming strategies, including detailed descriptions of the new scams, tips on how to identify them, and advice on how to proceed if you have been targeted. In addition to its website, the FTC has also launched an app for the iPhone and Android that allows users to receive scam alerts directly to their phones.
In the United States, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) operates its own online reporting system for frauds and cybercrimes. Users can report these scams and other forms of cyber exploitation through the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) website. Each report is reviewed by IC3 staff and shared with the appropriate law enforcement agency.
The government also maintains the National Fraud Information Center (NFIC), a resource for individuals affected by fraudulent activity. The NFIC has a toll-free telephone hotline and a website where individuals can report a scam and get advice on dealing with it. The NFIC also works with the federal and local authorities to help victims recover their losses from fraudulent activities.