It is impossible to list all of the known scams in one place, but being aware of current scams, and well-known warning signs, can help keep you, your information, and your money safe. Here are a few of the most recent scams we are hearing about.
Recent Scams
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Toll Fees Scam – Scammers from coast to coast are pretending to be tolling agencies and sending texts demanding money.
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Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) – Scammers attempt to steal Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card benefits by tricking benefits recipients into sharing their EBT card number.
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Bank Jugging Scam – Criminals target people who have just withdrawn cash from a bank and follow them to steal their money.
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Employment Scams – Scammers post advertisements for fake jobs on common career sites to get the victim to send money, divulge personal information, or provide free labor.
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Fake Shredding Events – Scammers falsely report free shredding events at Fairfax County facilities.
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Jury Duty Scam – Scammers claim that an individual missed jury duty and threaten them with arrest if they do not pay a fee, click a link to ‘reschedule’ or respond immediately.
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Quishing (QR Code) Scams – Scammers use a misleading QR code which takes people to a site where they may download malware that compromises their personal information.
Know the Warning Signs of a Scam
The best way to defend yourself from scams is by being alert. Stay abreast of current scams, like the ones listed above, and know the common warning signs. Experts recommend you pause and verify the situation if you encounter any of the following:
1. “Too Good to Be True” Deals
Scammers love to promise “big paydays” by offering misleading deals on social media or through unsolicited calls and emails. Always remember: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
2. Threatening Calls or Texts
Scammers use scare tactics to force victims into compliance. They may impersonate government agencies or officials and make threats of arrest, deportation, or lawsuits if you don’t pay “right now.” Remember, legitimate government agencies never demand immediate payment or threaten arrest without the proper legal processes.
3. Suspicious Websites
Scammers frequently use fake websites to try to get your personal information. They may post flyers with QR codes or send emails or text messages with links to sites designed to capture your financial information.
Sometimes just taking an extra five minutes to verify the situation can save the day. When in doubt, disconnect and go to the source directly. You can always contact the police non-emergency number at 703-691-2131 if you suspect something may be a scam.
Report Suspected Financial Scams
Even though the police deal with thousands of fraud cases annually, many instances go unreported. You can help stop criminals and protect others by taking the time to report suspected scam or fraud case.
Report financial scams by calling the police non-emergency number at 703-691-2131, TTY 711. You can also file a report using the Financial Crimes Information and Online Reporting System (FiCOR).
Want To Know More?
Add these tools to your scam-prevention toolkit to stay one step ahead of the scammers:
- Scam Slam Audio Series – This podcast keeps you informed of the latest scams happening locally.
- Silver Shield Anti-Scam Campaign – The Silver Shield Campaign shares information about active scams targeting older adults.
- Fairfax County Consumer Affairs Branch – Consumer Affairs provides advice and support on illegal, fraudulent, deceptive, or dangerous consumer practices.
- Financial Crimes Information and Online Reporting System (FiCOR) – Go to FiCOR to file a report about scam attempts and look up information about previously filed reports.
- Common Frauds and Scams – This is the FBI's main page on frauds and scams.
Last Updated: 4/11/25