Living here in Texas has its perks, from delicious barbecue to an amazing music scene. However, it's not just the good stuff that's big in the Lone Star State; dangerous scams are also a threat.

600 ESPN El Paso logo
Get our free mobile app

The FBI has highlighted some of the most common scams Texans face today. I say it's important to stay informed so you can protect yourself and your family from falling victim to these tricks.

LOOK: FBI WARNS AGAINST THESE 5 DANGEROUS SCAMS SPREADING IN TEXAS

Canva
Canva
loading...

Phishing Emails

Ever got an email from what looks like your bank, asking you to click a link and verify your account details? Be cautious, it may be a scam. These emails look real but are designed to steal your personal information.


 

Canva
Canva
loading...

Romance Scams

Some people create fake profiles on dating sites or social media to build relationships, only to eventually ask for money for a supposed emergency or travel to meet you. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.


 

Canva
Canva
loading...

Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams

Who wouldn’t want to win a lot of money out of the blue? Scammers take advantage of this excitement telling you you've won a huge sum but need to pay a fee to claim it. Remember, legitimate lotteries never ask winners to pay fees upfront.


 

Canva
Canva
loading...

Tech Support Scams

Did you get a call or an email from someone claiming to be tech support saying there’s a problem with your computer? They might even ask for remote access to fix it. Be aware, real tech companies don’t operate this way.


 

Canva
Canva
loading...

IRS and Government Impersonation

Scammers even pretend to be from the IRS or other government agencies. They threaten legal action unless you pay them immediately. Just know that government agencies will never call you demanding immediate payment, especially over the phone.

Being aware of these common scams in Texas is the first step in protecting yourself. Look out for unexpected requests for money or personal information, whether they come via email, phone, or even someone you've met online. If something feels off, it probably is.

LOOK: The biggest scams today and how you can protect yourself from them

Using data from the BBB Scam Tracker Annual Risk Report, Stacker identified the most common and costly types of scams in 2022.