Cybersecurity Reach Foundation
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Advance Fee Fraud scams

Scammers promise a large payout, inheritance, contract transfer, or released funds, then demand fees, bank details, or identity documents before the money can be received.

Warning signs

  • unexpected offer of millions
  • fees required to release funds
  • requests for secrecy or a percentage share

Where it shows up

EmailSMSPhoneSocial

How to protect yourself

  • Slow down. Urgency and pressure are the scammer's main tool — a real request survives a few minutes of checking.
  • Never pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or crypto at someone's instruction — those are chosen because they can't be reversed.
  • Don't click links or call numbers from an unexpected message. Reach the company using contact info from its official website.
  • Never share a verification code, password, or remote access to your device with someone who contacted you.

Think you've been targeted?

If you sent money or information, act quickly — our free recovery plan walks you through stopping the loss, reporting it, and protecting your identity, step by step.

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