This romance scam tricks victims into laundering federal funds
At first glance, this scam looks so helpful. It’s a call or text message wanting to help you resolve an overpayment on your credit card. However, this sneaky con is actually a phishing scheme. And it’s only likely to get more popular, as COVID-19 causes many shoppers to buy online and many businesses are only accepting credit cards.
How the Scam Works
You get a text message or a phone call from someone claiming to represent your credit card company. There’s a problem with a recent transaction, it says. You’ve been overcharged, and the company wants to help you get your reimbursement. This scam is especially convincing because scammers often have targets’ names.
Sounds harmless, right? The problem is that this is really a phishing con. You need to answer a few questions in order to get your money back. Of course, these questions are asking for Personally Identifiable Information (PII). Don’t fall for the trick.
Tips to Spot This Scam:
Consider how the company normally contacts you. If it’s by phone, be suspicious if you suddenly start receiving emails or texts. Banks and credit card issuers have secure communications channels that require you to log into your account before you can read the message. Be especially cautious of generic emails that include little or no specific information.
Check directly with your bank or credit card issuer. Use the customer service phone number on the back of your card, on your statement, or on the company’s website. Don’t click on any links in the message.
For More Information
Learn more about credit card scams at
For more about scams, go to BBB Scam Tips (BBB.org/ScamTips). To report a scam, go to BBB Scam Tracker (BBB.org/ScamTracker).