Category Protection

As FTX begins to repay its creditors after its major cryptocurrency collapse, scammers are ramping up phishing attacks targeting those expecting refunds. These scams often come in the form of fake emails or messages pretending to be from FTX, tricking people into giving away personal information or clicking harmful links. Many of these phishing attempts use real details from previous data leaks, making them look more convincing. The people behind these scams are exploiting the confusion and stress that creditors are already feeling. In response, online communities and social media users are coming together to share warnings and protect each other from falling for these tricks.

On October 2, 2025, Wells Fargo revealed that a data breach had exposed the personal and financial information of around 200,000 customers. What makes this incident especially concerning is that it wasn’t caused by an outside hacker—it came from a former employee who misused their access to steal sensitive data like Social Security numbers, bank account info, and driver’s license numbers. This stolen information was quickly found for sale on dark web forums and was reportedly sold the next day. In response, Wells Fargo is offering free credit monitoring to the affected individuals. The breach has sparked serious concerns about how banks manage employee access and protect customer data in an age where threats can come from inside the company as much as outside it.

As inflation continues to squeeze family budgets and raise the cost of necessities like food and housing, the government has stepped in with financial relief payments to help people stay afloat. States like New York are sending checks of $150 to $400 to residents, while Alaska issued its annual Permanent Fund Dividend of $1,702. These payments offer critical support, especially in areas with high living costs. Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of the situation by pretending to be government agencies in texts, emails, or phone calls. They trick people into giving away personal and financial information by promising fake relief money. It’s a reminder to stay alert: real government programs never ask for sensitive data through these types of messages.

According to F-Secure’s 2025 Scam Intelligence & Impacts Report, scams have become a global crisis, with rates doubling in just the past year. The report warns that even people who think they can spot scams are still getting fooled — 43% of them were victims in the last year. Young adults are at the highest risk, facing more than twice the danger compared to older adults. Modern scams are becoming more convincing, using AI and emotional tricks to manipulate people. Many feel embarrassed and don’t speak up, with only 7% of scams being reported. F-Secure says we need to stop blaming victims and start focusing on long-term solutions, like better scam defenses and ongoing public education.

As New York State starts sending out one-time inflation refund checks to help families deal with rising prices, scammers are taking advantage of the situation. These checks, which range from $150 to $400, will go to about 8.2 million households automatically—people do not need to apply or share personal information to get them. But scammers are sending fake texts, emails, phone calls, and social media messages, pretending people must act quickly to claim their money. Officials warn that neither the state tax department nor the IRS will ever reach out this way to ask for bank details or Social Security numbers. Residents are urged to be cautious and avoid giving out any personal information.

As New York rolls out inflation rebate checks to help residents deal with rising living costs, scammers are taking advantage of the situation. These one-time payments—ranging from $150 to $400—are being sent based on income and tax filings, with no action needed from the public. However, fake messages pretending to be from the state are being sent through texts, emails, phone calls, and even letters. They ask people to "verify" their personal or banking info, which is a trick to steal identities or money. Officials are warning everyone to stay alert and remember that these payments are automatic—you don’t have to sign up, share your info, or click any links to get them.