Scammers are constantly adapting their tactics. While some classic scams persist, new variations emerge to exploit current events and technology. Here's what's trending in the world of email fraud this year.
1. Package Delivery Scams
With the explosion of online shopping, fake delivery notifications have become incredibly common. These emails claim to be from shipping companies like DHL, UPS, FedEx, or your local postal service.
How They Work
- "Your package couldn't be delivered" — asks you to reschedule by clicking a link
- "Customs fees required" — demands a small payment to release your package
- "Track your shipment" — link leads to malware or phishing site
Red Flags
- You're not expecting a package
- Sender email doesn't match the company (e.g., dhl-delivery@gmail.com)
- Links go to strange domains
- Asks for payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency
2. Invoice and Payment Scams
These target both individuals and businesses. Scammers send fake invoices hoping you'll pay without verifying.
Common Variants
- Fake subscriptions: "Your Norton/McAfee renewal for $399.99"
- Overdue invoices: "Payment overdue - legal action pending"
- Supplier fraud: Impersonating real vendors with changed bank details
3. CEO Fraud / Business Email Compromise
One of the most costly scams. Criminals impersonate executives to trick employees into transferring money or sharing sensitive data.
How It Works
- Scammer researches company structure on LinkedIn
- Creates email similar to CEO's (john.smith@company.co instead of .com)
- Contacts finance department with "urgent" wire transfer request
- Creates pressure by claiming it's confidential or time-sensitive
The FBI reports that BEC scams cost businesses over $2.7 billion annually.
4. Tech Support Scams
Emails claiming your computer is infected or your account has been compromised, urging you to call a "support" number.
Warning Signs
- "Your computer has been infected with a virus"
- "Unusual activity detected on your Microsoft account"
- "Your Apple ID has been locked"
- Includes a phone number to call "immediately"
Real tech companies don't send unsolicited emails about viruses and never ask you to call them.
5. Government Impersonation
Scammers pose as tax authorities, social security, or other government agencies.
Common Tactics
- "Tax refund available" — submit your bank details to receive
- "Outstanding tax debt" — pay immediately to avoid arrest
- "Verify your social security number" — or benefits will be suspended
6. Romance and Relationship Scams
These often start on dating sites but move to email. Scammers build emotional connections before asking for money.
Red Flags
- Quick professions of love
- Always has excuses why they can't video chat or meet
- Stories about emergencies requiring money
- Claims to be military, doctor, or engineer working abroad
7. Prize and Lottery Scams
The classic "you've won!" email is still going strong, just with new twists.
Modern Variants
- Fake giveaways from real brands
- "You've been selected" for a survey with prize
- Cryptocurrency giveaway scams
- Fake inheritance from unknown relatives
Remember: You can't win a lottery you didn't enter, and legitimate prizes never require upfront payment.
8. Credential Phishing
The most prevalent type of phishing. These emails try to steal your login credentials by mimicking login pages.
Common Targets
- Microsoft 365 / Outlook
- Google Workspace / Gmail
- Banking websites
- Social media platforms
How to Stay Protected
- Be skeptical — if it creates urgency or seems too good to be true, it probably is
- Verify independently — contact companies directly through official channels
- Check sender addresses — look for misspellings and unusual domains
- Don't click links — go to websites directly
- Use our service — forward suspicious emails for instant analysis