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ESMA - European Securities and Markets Authority

12/15/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/15/2025 08:10

ESAs publish key tips to help consumers detect, prevent, and act on online frauds and scams

Fraud and scams are not new, but they have become much more sophisticated. Technologies like AI and blockchain make frauds and scams more convincing and harder to detect. For example, AI-generated voices or videos can impersonate friends or family members. The consequences for consumers can include financial loss, identity theft, and emotional distress.

The factsheets provide practical tips to help consumers recognise and avoid different types of frauds and scams. They explain common tricks scammers use - including phishing, impersonation, investment scams, and Ponzi schemes - and offer concrete real-world examples. Consumers will also find guidance on how to spot warning signs and recognise suspicious behaviours, messages, or offers.

Additionally, the factsheets advise consumers on steps to prevent fraud and scams, such as never sharing personal or banking information, always pausing to think before acting, and verifying the source of any messages received.

Further information:

Iris Hude

Communications Officer
[email protected]

ESMA - European Securities and Markets Authority published this content on December 15, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on December 15, 2025 at 14:10 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]