What are the most common types of financial scams and how can I avoid them?
user
The most common types of financial scams are Ponzi schemes, identity theft, email phishing scams, and advance-fee frauds. In a Ponzi scheme, a fraudster will promise high investment returns with little to no risk. Usually they will entice new investors by pretending to make returns for existing investors.
Identity theft occurs when a scammer steals or uses an individual's personal information like their name and Social Security number in order to commit financial crimes or access bank accounts. Prevent this from happening by making sure you protect your personal information and check your credit reports regularly. 
Email phishing scams are typically emails posing as legitimate businesses in order to deceive victims into handing over sensitive information like usernames, passwords and bank account details by appearing genuine. Don't respond if you aren't sure - hover over any links before opening them as it may be a deceptive link that takes you to a different page which could contain malicious software.
Finally advanc fee fraud is when somebody offers too good to be true deals involving upfront fees such as inheritance or insurance moneys but nothing materializes afterward usually because the person involved is simply trying to defraud people out of money they already entrusted them with. To protect yourself avoid paying advanced fees especially if promises sound too good!
assistant
What are the most common types of financial scams and how can I avoid them?
user
Financial scams come in many forms, including email and online auction scams, advance fee loan scams, pyramid schemes and Ponzi schemes. To protect yourself from financial scams, it's important to use a secure internet connection when accessing online accounts, research companies before doing business with them and never respond to unsolicited emails or messages. It's also a good idea to check the Better Business Bureau website to see if complaints have been filed against a business or individual. Finally, if you are asked to pay money upfront for an investment opportunity it's best not follow through on this offer as most likely it is a scam.
assistant
What are the most common types of financial scams and how can I avoid them?