BBB’s top scam-prevention resolutions for 2026

As consumers ring in the new year, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is urging them to add critical resolutions to protect themselves from scams and fraud in 2026.

With losses rising nationwide and scammers using increasingly sophisticated tactics, awareness and prevention will be powerful tools, officials say.

“Scammers don’t take holidays, and they don’t stop when the year ends,” said Steve Bernas, BBB president and CEO. “In 2026, resolving to pause, verify and report suspicious activity can save consumers thousands of dollars and countless hours of stress.”

Scammers will persist in attempts to steal money, bank account information and credit card details. “We must combat this with vigilance throughout the year,” Bernas said.

To help consumers avoid rip-offs in the months ahead, BBB recommends adding scam prevention to your New Year’s resolutions list.

BBB top scam-prevention resolutions for 2026

Resolve to slow down before you act.

Scammers rely on urgency, claims that your account is locked, a loved one is in trouble or an offer will expire immediately. Take time to think before clicking links, sending money or sharing personal information.

Resolve to verify every unexpected contact.

If you receive an unsolicited call, text, email or social media message, even one that appears to come from a trusted company or government agency, verify it independently. Use official phone numbers or websites, not contact information provided in the message.

Resolve to protect personal information.

Never share Social Security numbers, banking details, one-time passcodes or login credentials with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly. Legitimate businesses will not request this information via email, text or social media.

Resolve to be cautious with payments.

Scammers often demand payment by gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers or peer-to-peer payment apps. These methods are difficult to trace and nearly impossible to recover. Any request to pay this way is a major red flag.

Resolve to be social-media smart.

Use privacy settings and only connect with people you know. Avoid sharing personal details in profiles or online quizzes. Scammers may use this information to impersonate friends or relatives. Be cautious when purchasing products advertised on social media; BBB Scam Tracker continues to receive thousands of complaints about misleading ads on Facebook and Instagram.

Resolve to strengthen digital security.

Use strong, unique passwords for each account and enable multifactor authentication whenever possible. Keep devices and software updated to reduce vulnerabilities scammers can exploit.

Resolve to watch out for trending scams.

In 2026, consumers should remain alert for impostor scams, fake investment opportunities, job scams, romance scams and phishing attempts tied to tax season, natural disasters or breaking news events.

Resolve to talk about scams.

Discuss common scams with family members, friends and co-workers — especially older adults and young people, who may be targeted differently. Sharing experiences helps others recognize warning signs before it’s too late.

Resolve to report scams — even if no money was lost.

Reporting scams helps the BBB and authorities track trends, warn the public and disrupt criminal operations. Consumers are encouraged to report scams to BBB Scam Tracker, other consumer protection agencies and law enforcement.

Resolve to stay informed.

Educating yourself about emerging scams makes it easier to recognize and avoid new fraud tactics. The only way to put scammers out of business is not to give them your business.

What to do if you’re targeted or scammed.

• Stop all contact with the scammer immediately.

• Contact your bank or credit card company right away if money or information was shared.

• Monitor accounts and credit reports closely.

• Report the scam to BBB Scam Tracker and appropriate consumer protection and law enforcement agencies.

“Making scam awareness a New Year’s resolution is one of the smartest financial decisions consumers can make,” Bernas said. “An informed consumer is a protected consumer.”

For more information, visit BBB.org or follow @ChicagoBBB on social media. Look for the BBB seal, The Sign of a Better Business.