Upfront fee scam
Quick answer
A scam that asks for an upfront payment to unlock a prize, job, loan, or larger sum that never arrives.
- Never pay a fee to receive money or a job. Legitimate offers do not work this way.
What it is
A scam that asks for an upfront payment to unlock a prize, job, loan, or larger sum that never arrives.
How it works
The scammer promises something valuable but requires a fee, deposit, or tax first, then disappears or asks for more.
Red flags to watch for
- A fee to receive a prize, job, or loan
- Promises of a much larger payout later
- Pressure to pay quickly
- Untraceable payment requests
What not to do
- Do not act under time pressure
- Do not share codes, passwords, or card details
- Do not click links or pay fees from the message
The safe next step
Never pay a fee to receive money or a job. Legitimate offers do not work this way.
Often seen on: SMS, Email, WhatsApp, Social media.
Commonly targets: Job seekers and prize 'winners', People seeking loans.
How to verify safely
- Do not use links, phone numbers, QR codes, or email addresses from the suspicious message.
- Open the official app or website yourself - type the address manually.
- Call a contact you have saved, or the number printed on your bank card.
- If you are threatened or in immediate danger, contact local emergency services or police.
How to report it
Report to your country's fraud or cybercrime authority; see the reporting directory for official links.
Find official links for your country in the scam reporting directory.
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Frequently asked questions
What is an upfront fee scam?
A scam that asks for an upfront payment to unlock a prize, job, loan, or larger sum that never arrives.
How can I avoid an upfront fee scam?
Never pay a fee to receive money or a job. Legitimate offers do not work this way.
What should I do if I have already been affected?
Contact your bank or the relevant provider through official channels, change any exposed passwords from a trusted device, and save evidence. See our recovery guides, and be wary of recovery scams that promise to get your money back for a fee.