**Ryan Haines / Android Authority**
Phone scams are becoming more prevalent, with scammers getting more sophisticated in their tactics. Imposter scammers alone have caused US consumers to lose $2.7 billion in 2023, and this number is only increasing each year. Many people who fall victim to these scams are too embarrassed to report it, making the actual losses much higher.
It’s easy to think that you wouldn’t fall for a phone scam, but many people who have been duped thought the same before it happened to them. Scammers have become very skilled at creating convincing and official-sounding schemes, especially with the aid of AI technology. When coupled with high-pressure situations, it only takes a few moments for someone to fall for a scam.
You’re likely to encounter phone scams at some point, so it’s best to be prepared. Here’s a summary of some of the most common phone scams in 2024 and how you can avoid them.
We’re only focusing on phone and text scams in this article, not covering other ways you could be targeted on your phone such as phishing, Venmo scams, SIM swapping, WhatsApp scams, and more.
Common Phone Scams
**1. Loved one in need**
This scam often preys on emotions by tricking recipients into thinking a loved one is in need of urgent financial help. Scammers may pose as a grandchild in immediate financial distress, asking for money to resolve the situation.
**2. Government agent**
Scammers may claim to be government agents investigating serious crimes and demand immediate payment to avoid legal action. They often use fear and urgency to pressure victims into making quick decisions, using unconventional methods like wire transfers or gift cards for payment.
**3. Bank or credit card company**
Scammers posing as bank or credit card representatives may contact you to verify suspicious account activity. They may request sensitive information like account numbers or PINs under the guise of protecting your account, leading to potential identity theft.
**4. Virtual kidnapping**
Scammers may pretend to have kidnapped a loved one and demand ransom for their release. They use tactics to induce panic, such as fake cries or screams in the background, and may try to prevent victims from contacting the police by using untraceable payment methods.
**5. Online accounts**
This scam involves scammers claiming issues with online accounts like Amazon, tricking victims into revealing personal information or making fraudulent purchases. They may use unsolicited phone calls, texts, or emails to create a sense of urgency and pressure victims into taking immediate action.