Scam Hunter guides
- The grandparent voice scam: how it works and how to stop it
How the "grandparent" or family emergency scam works, why AI voice cloning makes it more convincing, and the simple steps the FTC and FCC recommend.
- Got a call that sounds like a family member in trouble? What to do
Step-by-step: what to do during and after a suspected AI voice-clone call from someone claiming to be family, based on FTC and FBI guidance.
- How to set up a family safe word (code word) against voice scams
The FBI recommends a secret family word or phrase to verify callers. Here is how to pick one, share it, and use it on a real call.
- How to verify a call from a family member before you send money
A simple verification routine for any urgent call from “family”: pause, code word, hang up and call back, check with someone else.
- Wire transfer, gift cards, crypto: payment red flags in family emergency scams
Why scammers ask for wire transfers, gift cards, cryptocurrency, payment apps or cash pickup, and what to do if you’re asked.
- Sent money to a scammer who pretended to be family? Do this now
Immediate steps if you or a parent already paid a family emergency or voice-clone scammer: contact the payment company, report to FTC and FBI IC3, get help.
- How to protect your parents from AI voice-clone scams
A short plan adult children can set up with their parents: a code word, a call-back habit, private social accounts and a list of who to call.
- Fake lawyer or police officer calling about a family member? Here’s how to tell
Why scammers pose as lawyers, police, doctors or court officials in family emergency calls, and how to check whether the call is real.