True Examples - Smart Like A Fox™

True Examples

Real stories from real people—because scams don't just happen to "other people"

Romance Scam

FBI Warns: Romance Scam Victim Shares Her Story

A woman shares her experience of losing money to a romance scammer, working with the FBI to warn others about the emotional manipulation and financial devastation these scams can cause. Her story highlights the sophisticated tactics scammers use to build trust before stealing money.

Local10 News June 2025
Read Full Article
Tech Support Scam

Woman Loses Money After Pop-Up Computer Security Scam

A Fox Valley woman describes how she lost money after responding to a fraudulent pop-up warning about computer security issues. She shares her story to help others recognize the warning signs of tech support scams that use fear and urgency to trick victims into sending money through cryptocurrency ATMs.

WBAY January 2026
Read Full Article
Elder Fraud

Canadian Man Sentenced for Targeting Elderly Victims

A Canadian man was sentenced in 2025 for serving as a "money mule" in a sophisticated scam operation that specifically targeted elderly Americans. The case, prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice, demonstrates how organized fraud networks recruit accomplices to launder stolen money and evade detection.

U.S. Department of Justice 2025
Read Full Article
Fraud Statistics

FTC Reports $12.5 Billion Lost to Fraud in 2024

New data from the Federal Trade Commission reveals a significant jump in reported fraud losses, with Americans losing $12.5 billion in 2024. The report breaks down the most common types of fraud, who's most affected, and how scammers are evolving their tactics to steal more money than ever before.

Federal Trade Commission March 2025
Read Full Article

Don't Let This Happen to You

Learn how to spot scams, verify information, and protect yourself and your loved ones.

Explore Workshops Get Free Monthly Tips