Your phone rings and the screen flashes with the number of a friend or someone else you recognize. At least, that’s what scammers want you to think. Phone scams are on the rise as scammers see opportunity thanks to many Americans getting stimulus checks, an increase in concern about COVID vaccine distribution and soon, the annual tax season. And the methods of criminals are becoming more sophisticated and aggressive. Their goals? Steal your personal information and empty your wallet.

COVID-19 is limiting our in-person contact but expanding our need to connect over the phone. While families and friends call one another, celebrate virtual birthdays and catch up with children and grandchildren, there’s another group eager to join the conversation: scammers. Luckily, there are ways to fight back, including Scam Shield,  a set of free safeguards from T-Mobile, which can protect you and your family from getting scammed.