UPDATE: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and FBI have issued urgent alerts about the top scams of 2025, designed to exploit vulnerable individuals in today’s uncertain job market. With technology evolving rapidly, these scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and can have devastating financial consequences.
As of now, job seekers, online users, and cryptocurrency investors are particularly at risk. Here are the top five scams you need to be aware of:
1. Employment Scams: Many individuals are receiving enticing job offers via text messages. Just weeks ago, one victim reported a scammer impersonating Tesla with a work-from-home offer that seemed too good to be true. If you receive such messages, be cautious—especially if they ask for payment or personal information like your social security number. Always verify job postings through official company websites.
2. Toll Fee Scams: This scam involves text messages claiming you owe toll fees, often with links to pay the fee. The FTC has confirmed that these texts are fraudulent attempts to access your personal information. If you receive one of these messages, do not click any links. Instead, contact your state’s tolling agency directly through a verified number.
3. Jury Duty Scams: Scammers are preying on citizens by posing as U.S. Marshals or police officers, claiming you missed jury duty and threatening arrest unless you pay a fine. This is a scam! Courts never request payments or sensitive information over the phone. If you receive such a communication, ignore it and report it as spam.
4. Cryptocurrency Scams: As cryptocurrency gains popularity, scams have surged. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center reported nearly 9,000 complaints from individuals aged 50-59, resulting in losses exceeding $900 million in 2023. These scams often promise outrageous returns with little risk. Always check if the business is registered with the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) before investing.
5. Tech Support Scams: A long-standing issue, tech support scams cost older Americans an alarming $175 million in 2023 alone. Scammers may contact you claiming your computer has a virus and offering remote support. Do not engage! Instead, restart your device or seek help from trusted professionals.
What to Watch For: The rapid evolution of these scams means they are likely to continue adapting and targeting more people. Be vigilant and report any suspicious communications. If something feels off, trust your instincts—avoid clicking links, providing personal information, or engaging with unsolicited messages.
Stay informed and protect yourself against these evolving threats. Share this information with friends and family to help keep them safe in 2025.
