You receive a call, text, email, or social media message from someone that appears to be legitimate because the scammer has some specific information about you, such as your name and details about your friends and family. Using this method, scammers can trick you into believing they are a friend or family member, claiming to need money for an emergency, such as posting bail, paying a hospital bill, or being detained at an airport. Scammers may pressure you to send money immediately through a gift card, wire transfer, by sending cash, or other payment service, such as Zelle®.
Tip: Contact your friend or family member directly to confirm the caller's story.