Scam Prevention in 2025
Scams are always evolving, but at their core, they all share some common features. Here’s five critical tips to help you identify a scam and stop it in its tracks.
1. Check the Caller ID
Phones have come a long way since the days of switchboards and landlines. Today, caller ID on smartphones shows you whether an incoming call is a friend, trusted organization, or a “Scam Likely.” Taking a brief moment to check a caller’s ID can save you the confusion and hassle of talking with a scammer.
If you’re caring for an older adult who receives many “Scam Likely” calls, check with your phone provider to automatically block scam calls.
2. Mind Strangers on Social Media
While social media is a great way to reconnect with old friends and meet new people, it can also attract scammers with fake identities. These accounts will attempt to quickly build a connection with their target, and may nurture the relationship for months before eventually asking for money.
A person online might be a scammer if they:
- Can’t meet in person
- Quickly ask for your phone number
- Are constantly trying to talk to you
- Need money urgently for an emergency
Stop these scammers in their tracks by only responding to direct messages from accounts and people you know.
3. Avoid Suspicious Links
Think twice before clicking on a link in that unexpected text or email about a missing USPS package or overdue toll fee. Messages like these are often phishing scams designed to steal your personal information. Clicking on an unknown link or attachment may put your device and data at risk.
If you’re ever asked to pay a fee, don’t click the link. Instead, visit the official website or app of the organization directly. If the charge is legitimate, it will be reflected in your account details.
4. Double-Check Jury Duty Fines
A popular scam making the rounds involves a false jury duty fine. Scammers may contact you by phone, email, or mail claiming you’ve missed jury duty and must pay a fine or face arrest. While there can be consequences for missing jury duty, rest assured that any legitimate notice will come with due process and clear instructions, not threats or demands for immediate payment.
When in doubt, hang up and contact the Massachusetts Office of Jury Commissioner at [email protected], or by phone at (800) 843-5879, to confirm the legitimacy of any jury summons.
5. Get a Second Opinion
Not sure if a phone call, email, or letter is legitimate or not? You don’t have to figure it out alone. Take a moment to ask a trusted friend or family member to double-check the message with you. Together, you can confirm the sender and the message before making an informed decision.
If you believe you or a loved one have been the victim of a scam or fraud, your local police department is there to help. Visit the City of Boston’s My Neighborhood search tool to find and contact your local police.