Retailers brace for return fraud in the holiday season

Dec 26, 2016
Fraudulent schemes include "wardrobing" and the return of shoplifted items.
jarmoluk/Visual hunt

Gift card fraud could ruin your holiday

Nov 23, 2016
Gift cards are a convenient gift, but they can also be targeted by scammers.
Gift cards are on display at a Wal-Mart store, in Panorama City, California, 23 November 2007.
ROBYN BECK/AFP/Getty Images

The dark side of online education

May 18, 2015
Pakistani company Axact is making millions by selling fake diplomas.
A screenshot from a promotional video for "Newford University," one of the fake school's identified in the New York Times' investigation.
Courtesy:Newford University on Vimeo

Scam artists target hopeful immigrants

Dec 25, 2013
While the possibility of immigration reform raises hope for undocumented immigrants, it has also created a business for scammers who tell clients they can help them get green cards, when they really can’t.

Google algorithm inadvertently takes down ring of Chinese car thieves

Jul 25, 2013
Machines are becoming alarmingly intelligent, smart enough to root out crime.

10 biggest frauds consumers fall for and your scam stories

Apr 26, 2013
Millions of Americans fall for the same common scams every day. Have you been a victim of one of these cons? Learn how to keep your cash safe by listening to the expert wisdom of those who have lost money to shifty schemers.

For public good, not for profit.

'Hi, this is Rachel' -- Avoiding robocall scams

Apr 26, 2013
Ever picked up the phone and heard a woman on the other end with information about your credit card who sounded totally legit? Here is some advice on how to avoid being conned by these calls.

Beware tribal payday loans

Apr 26, 2013
High interest payday loans are seen by critics as a fast track to endless cycles of debt for borrowers -- and there's a new breed of payday loan to watch out for.

Staying smart and safe in a world full of scams

Apr 26, 2013
Los Angeles Times consumer columnist offers sage advice on how to avoid fraud in all forms.