How Scams Reach You
The methods themselves — scam texts, calls, QR codes and mail.
Callback Phishing (TOAD): 'Call This Number'
Instead of a malicious link, a message gives you a phone number to call about a charge or problem — and the 'agent' who answers runs the scam by phone.
Read the guide →Email Phishing: How to Spot It
Email phishing tricks you into clicking a link, opening an attachment, or replying with information by impersonating people and companies you trust — an overview of the tells.
Read the guide →Fake App / Sideloaded-APK Scam
Scammers get you to install a fake or 'sideloaded' app (outside official stores) that steals your logins, intercepts codes, or drains crypto.
Read the guide →In-Person 'Jugging' & Doorstep Cons
Some scams happen in person: 'jugging' (following you from the bank/ATM to rob you) and doorstep distraction cons that steal cash, valuables, or trust.
Read the guide →Malvertising / Fake Search-Ad Support Numbers
Scammers buy search ads and place fake 'official' phone numbers so that when you search for support, you reach them instead of the real company.
Read the guide →Quishing: Malicious QR Codes
'Quishing' uses QR codes — on stickers, flyers, packages, or emails — to send you to fake sites that steal payment or login details, or to malware.
Read the guide →Robotext Blast / 'Wrong Number' Openers
Scammers blast out friendly 'wrong number' or vague texts to thousands of people; replying flags you as a target for romance/investment (pig-butchering) or other scams.
Read the guide →Smishing: How Scam Texts Work
'Smishing' is phishing by text message — an overview of how scam texts try to get you to click links, call numbers, or share codes, and how to spot any of them.
Read the guide →Social-Media DM Scams: The Friend-in-Need Pattern
Direct messages — from hacked friends, fake brands, or bogus 'support' — are a major scam channel; an overview of the patterns and how to verify.
Read the guide →Vishing: How Scam Calls & Robocalls Work
'Vishing' is phishing by phone — an overview of how scam calls and robocalls use authority, fear, and spoofed caller ID to pressure you into paying or sharing information.
Read the guide →
Not sure which one you’ve got?
Paste the message into ScamSplainand we’ll tell you what it looks like.