Technology has changed nearly everything about the way we live, work, and connect including how scammers operate.

Once upon a time, scams came in the form of clunky emails riddled with typos or too-good-to-be-true lottery wins. These days? The tactics are smoother, the impersonations more believable, and the emotional pressure far more calculated.

Why the shift?

Two letters: AI.

Artificial intelligence has supercharged scammers' abilities. Now they can use AI to copy voices with just seconds of audio, write messages pretending to be people you trust, and create fake websites that look exactly like real ones.¹

Even smart, cautious people can be fooled.

But here's the good news: understanding these tactics is your first line of defense. While scammers may have new tools, awareness and education are powerful countermeasures. With a few simple strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk and navigate the digital world with more confidence.

What Do These New Scams Look Like?

Here are a few examples that have become increasingly common:

Tax season might not spark joy, but a refund sure can.

In 2025, the IRS estimates the average federal income tax refund will top $3,170.¹ That means a lot of folks are suddenly asking the same question: What should I do with it?

Splurge? Save? Invest?

Market volatility can feel like a rollercoaster. Thrilling on the way up, stomach-churning on the way down. Even seasoned investors get a little uneasy when the market takes a dive.

But here’s the thing: While market fluctuations are inevitable, maintaining a disciplined investment approach has historically helped investors stay on track toward their financial goals.