What are some resources for learning more about financial fraud and scams?

Find valuable resources and references to expand your knowledge about financial fraud and scams.


Learning more about financial fraud and scams is essential for protecting yourself from potential threats. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to educate yourself about various types of scams, how to recognize them, and how to prevent falling victim. Here are some reputable sources of information on financial fraud and scams:

  1. Federal Trade Commission (FTC):

    • The FTC is a U.S. government agency that provides comprehensive information on various types of scams and fraud, including consumer alerts and educational resources.
    • Website: FTC Scam Alerts
  2. Better Business Bureau (BBB):

    • The BBB offers information on scams, reviews of businesses, and tips for consumers to avoid fraud.
    • Website: BBB Scam Tips
  3. FINRA Investor Education:

    • The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) provides resources and tools to help investors protect themselves from investment scams.
    • Website: FINRA Investor Education
  4. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB):

    • The CFPB offers guidance on financial scams and provides resources to help consumers recognize and report fraud.
    • Website: CFPB Fraud Prevention
  5. AARP Fraud Watch Network:

    • AARP provides information and resources to help seniors and others protect themselves from scams and fraud.
    • Website: AARP Fraud Watch Network
  6. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC):

    • The SEC offers investor education resources, including information on avoiding investment fraud.
    • Website: SEC Investor Education
  7. Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3):

    • IC3 is a partnership between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center. It accepts online complaints about various types of cybercrimes, including online scams.
    • Website: IC3
  8. OnGuardOnline.gov:

    • This U.S. government website provides practical tips for protecting your personal information and avoiding online scams.
    • Website: OnGuardOnline.gov
  9. Stop.Think.Connect.:

    • The Stop.Think.Connect. campaign offers resources to help individuals, families, and businesses stay safe online and avoid cyber threats.
    • Website: Stop.Think.Connect.
  10. Local Law Enforcement and Consumer Protection Agencies:

    • Contact your local law enforcement agencies and consumer protection offices for information on local scams and resources for reporting fraud.
  11. Financial Institutions and Credit Bureaus:

    • Your bank, credit union, and credit reporting agencies often provide educational resources on fraud prevention and identity theft protection.
  12. Educational Websites and Blogs:

    • Many financial experts and organizations maintain blogs and websites dedicated to educating the public about financial scams and fraud. Look for trusted sources in your area of interest.

By exploring these resources and staying informed about the latest scams and fraud tactics, you can better protect yourself and your finances from potential threats. Remember that being informed and cautious are your best defenses against financial fraud and scams.

Resources for Deeper Understanding: Exploring Financial Deception.

Here are some resources for deeper understanding of financial deception:

  • Federal Trade Commission (FTC): The FTC is the leading consumer protection agency in the United States. The FTC website has a wealth of information on financial deception, including articles, videos, and resources for victims. Visit FTC.gov to learn more.
  • Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC): The SEC is the federal agency responsible for protecting investors and maintaining fair, orderly, and efficient securities markets. The SEC website has a number of resources on financial deception, including articles, videos, and enforcement actions. Visit SEC.gov to learn more.
  • North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA): NASAA is an association of state, provincial, and territorial securities regulators in North America. The NASAA website has a number of resources on financial deception, including articles, videos, and investor alerts. Visit NASAA.org to learn more.
  • Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA): FINRA is a self-regulatory organization that oversees the securities industry in the United States. The FINRA website has a number of resources on financial deception, including articles, videos, and investor alerts. Visit FINRA.org to learn more.
  • Investor Fraud Magazine: Investor Fraud Magazine is a quarterly publication of the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA). The magazine covers a wide range of topics related to financial deception, including investment scams, identity theft, and elder fraud. Visit NASAA.org/Investor-Fraud-Magazine to learn more and subscribe.

In addition to these resources, there are a number of books and articles that have been written on financial deception. Here are a few recommendations:

  • The Ponzi Scheme Puzzle: A History and Analysis of Organized Crime's Greatest Swindle by Mitchel Zuckoff
  • Madoff: Why Bernie Madoff's Ponzi Scheme Succeeded by Harry Markopolos
  • The Psychopath Test: A Journey Through the Madness Industry by Jon Ronson
  • Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
  • The Confidence Game: Why We Believe What We're Told by Maria Konnikova

By exploring these resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of financial deception and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim.