scams

word · lemma: scam

Definition

Tricks or dishonest plans designed to cheat people and take their money or personal information. 'Scams' is the plural; each one is a separate trick or fraud.

Usage & Nuances

'Scams' is informal and commonly used for online, email, phone, or text fraud. You often see 'online scams,' 'phone scams,' or 'investment scams.' Never used for legal business methods, only for criminal or dishonest ones. Singular is 'scam.'

Example Sentences

Many people lose money because of online scams.

basic

Be careful of scams when you get strange emails.

basic

There are many different kinds of scams on social media.

basic

He almost fell for one of those phone scams, but realized it just in time.

natural

Some scams look so real, it's hard to tell they're fake.

natural

You should report scams you see online to protect others.

natural