Scammers online, on the phone or otherwise are getting sneakier, smarter and faster. With new technology in their corner by the day, they’re cooking up convincing tricks to get your money, your personal info or both. If you’ve ever received a suspicious text, an unexpected refund notice or a strange call from someone claiming to be your “grandson,” you’re not alone.
The latest scams going around are more sophisticated and harder to pinpoint than ever, and they’re targeting just about everyone. But you don’t have to live in fear of being scammed. Armed with the right knowledge, you can protect yourself and navigate the digital world with confidence.
Let’s take a look at how the latest scams going around work and how to protect yourself and your loved ones from getting caught up in them.
How AI is Powering the New Wave of the Latest Scams Going Around
One of the most dangerous shifts we’re seeing in recent phone scams is the use of artificial intelligence. Scammers are now using AI to write better messages, mimic real voices and even generate fake images and videos that look alarmingly real.
Latest Scams Going Around: Voice Cloning Scams
With just a few seconds of audio—often taken from a social media video—scammers can create a convincing version of someone’s voice. You might get a call from your “daughter” or “brother” saying they’re in trouble and need money right away. It sounds just like them. But it’s not. It’s a voice cloning scam.
Latest Scams Going Around: AI-Generated Scam Texts
Forget the typo-ridden spam of the past. AI-generated scam texts are smooth, professional and tailored to trick even savvy cellphone users. These often appear as SunPass text scams (or similar toll scams), fake delivery alerts or condolences text message scams, preying on your emotions to get a quick response and make you slip up.
Latest Scams Going Around: Deepfake Videos
Still rare, but on an alarming rise, deepfake videos can be used to promote fake investment schemes or impersonate celebrities or officials. Always be cautious before acting on what you see in a video.
Common Mobile Scams to Watch for in 2025
1. Text Message Scams (Smishing)
Text message scams, often referred to as smishing, are texts that try to lure you into clicking a link or replying with personal info. Some smishing examples:
- “Your package is delayed. Confirm your delivery here: [weird link]”
- “Unpaid toll notice: You owe $2.10. Pay now to avoid penalties.”
- “You’ve received a condolences message. Click to view.”
These are among the new scams designed to catch you off-guard, especially if you’re expecting a delivery or traveling.
Bonus resource: Learn how to spot smishing and phishing messages
2. Phone Imposter Scams
Phone imposter scams are when you get a call from someone claiming to be:
- The IRS or other government entity
- A grandchild or loved one in trouble
- Your bank
- Your credit card provider
- Your phone carrier
- Someone from a legitimate organization you’re familiar with
The organization will vary, but the claim will be the same—they’ll ask for personal info, payment or gift card codes. Remember: no legitimate company will demand urgent payment over the phone or by gift card.
Bonus resource: Learn about a sneaky phone scam targeting our customers here
3. Refund Scams
A refund scam is when a message or call claims there’s been a charge you didn’t authorize. Typically it’s something like, “You’ve been charged $199.99 for antivirus software.” Then, the scammer offers to help you process a refund.
The catch? They’ll “accidentally” refund too much, then ask you to send the difference back—leaving you out the money if you do. Regardless of the claim, never fall for the over-refund scam.
4. SIM Swapping & Port-Out Scams
SIM swap scams and port-out scams, are fraud that involve stealing your phone number by transferring it to another SIM card. Once that happens, scammers can receive your text messages, reset your passwords and access your accounts.
If your phone suddenly stops working or you lose service unexpectedly, contact your carrier right away. These cellphone scam methods can be fast and hard to detect until it’s too late, so quick action is a must.
5. Malicious Apps
Malicious apps are scams that look like helpful tools—flashlights, games, fitness trackers—but are actually stealing your data or spying on your activity. Only download apps from your device’s official app store and always check reviews before installing anything new.
6. QR Code Scams
QR codes are everywhere now, and so are QR code scams. Whether menus, signs, parking meters or something else, scammers can easily print and place fake ones that look completely legitimate. When scanned, they might take you to a phony site that also looks real but is set up to steal your info.
7. Romance Scams & Investment Scams
Romance scams and investment scams are both typically long-term scams that operate on the premise of building trust first. Essentially they play out like this: you meet someone online who seems kind, charming and sincere. After weeks of chatting, they ask for help paying a bill, investing in crypto or handling an emergency.
These recent internet scams have cost Americans billions in recent years. If someone you’ve never met asks for money—especially over the phone or through an app—be cautious. In fact, don’t just be cautious. Be vigilant.
How to Spot a Scam Before it’s Too Late
The latest scams going around may be more convincing than ever, but the red flags are still there if you know what to look for.
Watch for these scam red flags:
- Unexpected messages asking you to click or respond
- Pressure or urgency (“Your account will be suspended in 24 hours!”)
- Requests for money, codes or gift cards
- Spelling or grammar mistakes
- Strange or overly long web links
- Emotional bait (sympathy, fear, excitement)
If something feels off, it probably is. Pause and double-check before you act. All the time. Every time.
How to Protect Yourself from the Latest Scams Going Around
Here are six quick tips on how to stay one step ahead of scammers in 2025:
1. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
Add an extra layer of protection to your email, banking and other important accounts. That way, even if your password gets stolen, scammers can’t get in without a second code.
2. Use Call Blocking or Filtering
Many smartphones and carriers offer features to block suspected spam calls. You can also check out devices that offer added call protection.
3. Don’t Share Personal Info Over Text or Call
Unless you placed the call or text to a known, trusted source, never give out your name, birthday, account numbers, passwords or any sensitive or personal information.
4. Download Apps Only From Official Sources
Stick to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Avoid “APK” files or apps from unknown websites.
5. Be Skeptical of Unusual QR Codes—and Usual QR Codes in Public Places
QR codes are an easy target for fraudsters. Always be wary before you scan and click—especially if the QR code is taped to a public sign or doesn’t match what you expected. It’s always better and safer to ask for a web link or do your own web search to find the link instead.
6. Stay Up to Date
Scam tactics evolve fast. Bookmark our blog for important scam alerts, like this sneaky phone scam.
What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted or Scammed
Even the most cautious folks can get caught off-guard. Here’s what to do if you think you’ve been targeted or scammed.
Secure Your Accounts
Immediately change passwords to any affected accounts. Set up MFA if you haven’t already.
Contact Your Carrier
If you suspect SIM swapping or account access issues with your cellphone, call your carrier right away. Consumer Cellular customers can contact our 100% U.S. based customer service here. Note, you may need to call from another line if scammers have taken control of your device.
Report the Scam
Report scams to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov or to your state’s consumer protection office. Reporting scams helps prevent others from falling for the same tricks. You may also need to report the scam to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at https://www.ic3.gov/PSA/2024/PSA241203.
Contact Your Bank or Credit Card Provider
If you shared payment info or sent money to a scammer, let your bank or provider know as soon as possible. They may be able to freeze or reverse the transaction.
FAQs: Latest Phone Scams in 2025
What are the latest scams going around in 2025?
Some of the newest scams include AI-generated text messages, cloned voice calls from loved ones, fake QR codes, SunPass toll text scams, and romance scams that often evolve into investment scams.
What is the most popular scam right now?
Text message scams (also called smishing) are some of the most common scams in 2025. These include fake package delivery notices, toll violations or refund alerts designed to get you to click a malicious link.
What are SunPass text scams and other toll scams?
Scammers send fake messages claiming you owe money for a toll, often something small like $2.10. The goal is to get you to click a fake payment link and enter your credit card info.
What are condolences text message scams?
These text scams claim someone sent you a condolences message, often with a link to “view the card” or message. The link may lead to malware or phishing sites trying to steal your information.
How can I tell if a phone call is a scam?
Watch for red flags like unexpected calls, pressure to act fast or requests for money, codes or personal info. If you didn’t initiate the call, it’s best to be overly skeptical.
What should I do if I receive a scam text or call?
Don’t click any links or respond. Block the number, report it to your carrier and report the scam to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov, and if needed, to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at https://www.ic3.gov/PSA/2024/PSA241203.
How can I protect myself from phone scams?
Use multifactor authentication, install call-blocking features, avoid clicking unknown links and only download apps from trusted sources like the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Final Thoughts on the Latest Scams Going Around
The truth is, scams are going around more than ever—but that doesn’t mean you have to fall for them or live in fear. With a little know-how, some good habits and a healthy dose of skepticism, you can stay safe and connected in 2025, and for years to come.
Consumer Cellular is here to help. Whether you’re looking for a simple, cost-friendly cellphone plan or want to learn more about protecting yourself online and on your phone from the latest scams going around, we’re just a call or click away.
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