Consumers are vulnerable to many kinds of fraud schemes. ‚ese fraud schemes range from small car repairs to large investment schemes. Statistics show that the elderly, women, and minorities are victimized the most. However, in recent years, practically everyone is vulnerable to fraud schemes. Even well-educated and knowledgeable people have become victims. ‚ere are con men out there who can almost literally “steal your shoes while you are standing in them.” ‚ese people are very personable and friendly. ‚is chapter describes the more common fraud schemes that consumers will face. It should be remembered that the “consumer should beware.” One advertiser said an “educated consumer is the best consumer”; however, it can also be said that “an educated consumer has the best defense against becoming a fraud victim.”