5 Classic Fraud Tactics (And How to Outsmart Them)

Avoid the most common traps with these investigator-backed tips.

Fraud doesn’t always come from strangers in dark corners of the internet. Sometimes, it comes wrapped in charm, urgency, or just the right amount of fake credibility.

At Maverick’s Detective Agency, we’ve seen it all. Here are five classic fraud tactics — and how to shut them down before they cost you money, peace of mind, or worse.

1. 🎯 The Too-Good-To-Be-True Pitch

Whether it’s an “investment opportunity” or a new romantic interest, fraudsters often use grand promises and fast timelines. If someone pressures you to act now and won’t let you think it over, step back.

🕵️ Investigator’s Tip:
Real opportunities can wait. Scams rely on speed.

2. 📱 The “Wrong Number” or Friendly Mistake Scam

A stranger texts or messages you by “accident,” then slowly builds rapport. Soon, they’re talking about investments, asking personal questions, or sending links.

🕵️ Investigator’s Tip:
Ignore unsolicited messages — even if they’re polite or interesting.

3. 👮 The Authority Play

Scammers impersonate government agents, bank fraud departments, or tech support. They’ll claim your account was compromised and ask you to verify information — or worse, “move money to keep it safe.”

🕵️ Investigator’s Tip:
No real agency will ask you to move money, give passwords, or act afraid.

4. 💔 The Love Bomb

Online romance scams start fast. Big declarations of love, big plans to meet — and then a sudden crisis that requires money. Military leave fees, medical bills, lost passports — you name it.

🕵️ Investigator’s Tip:
If they won’t video call, meet in person, or ever seem to have money — it’s not love, it’s a lie.

5. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 The Familiar Friend

Scammers often pretend to be someone you know — using hacked accounts or lookalike names. You get a message saying “Hey, I’m in trouble,” or “Can you help me with something?” Be cautious.

🕵️ Investigator’s Tip:
If it’s urgent, call them directly. Never send money or info over text or chat.

🚨 Think You’re Being Targeted?

You’re not alone — and you’re not stupid. Scammers are good at what they do. If you need help, our Fraud Risk & Scam Screening service is discreet, fast, and judgment-free.