Recognizing inheritance scams

Promises of guaranteed returns, secrecy, urgent wire requests, upfront fees to release an inheritance, and demands for gift cards or cryptocurrency are warning signs. Grief or uncertainty is not a reason to waive normal checks.

Contact the court, financial institution, or professional using a number you find independently, not the number in the message. Review an investment professional's registration and disciplinary information through Investor.gov. Registration is not a government endorsement.

Do not share account passwords, Social Security numbers, authentication codes, or financial documents with unsolicited contacts. If you suspect a scam, contact the institution promptly and use the FTC's reporting resources. No legitimate review request on this preview requires a payment or an upload.