Oklahoma woman stole $1.5 million in romance scams, officials say
One victim sold her house to send $600,000, according to an affidavit, while another sent $40,000 in gift cards.
Scam Alert
March Madness bettors face new threats online that target families
As fans wager an estimated $3.1 billion into March Madness bets, cybersecurity experts warn of a rise in online gambling scams targeting everyday users.
Why scammers are increasingly turning to bitcoin ATMs to carry out their cons
Consumer losses in bitcoin ATM scams skyrocketed nearly tenfold to $114 million annually between 2020 to 2023, according to data from the Federal Trade Commission.
Exclusive
Google finds 10,000 fake listings on Google Maps, sues alleged scammers
A small business owner flagged a possible impersonator on Google Maps. Google's investigation found it was just the tip of the iceberg.
How pop-up auctions scam people with phony goods
One auction attendee spent $6,000 on what was supposed to be an "authenticated" Picasso. It was actually a reproduction worth about $70.
How to spot pop-up auction scams
Signs luring customers to pop-up auctions with the possibility of getting fancy cars and fine jewelry at bargain prices have been showing up across the U.S., but the goods aren't always what they seem. Dorothy Tucker reports.
Las Vegas woman accused of defrauding older men in deadly romance scam
Aurora Phelps was indicted in Nevada over a series of romance scams that allegedly led to at least two deaths and one disappearance in Mexico.
Wildfires spark misinformation online
As wildfires continue in Southern California, false claims and scams are spreading online, including rumors about the Hollywood sign and looting. Melissa Mahtani joins to help separate fact from fiction.
Woman says she lost $850,000 to scammers posing as Brad Pitt
The woman said she had believed she was in a romantic relationship with the Hollywood star, leading her to divorce her husband and transfer $850,000.
FCC warns of 50-state scam by fraudsters posing as mortgage lenders
Callers spoof the caller ID number of the victim's actual lending institution, swindling money from those seeking financial relief.
Officials warn against price gouging, looting amid Los Angeles wildfires
California Attorney General Rob Bonta warned of bad actors who seek to use the trauma and chaos created by the wildfires in California for their own gain.
How to avoid falling victim to online ticket scams
Americans lost over $2.3 million to online ticket scams this year, according to the FBI. Lucas Gutterman from U.S. Public Interest Research Group shares tips to protect yourself.
AI grandma tool helps fend off phone scams
British phone company Virgin Media O2 has developed an AI-generated grandmother to talk to scammers all day and waste their time so you don't have to. CBS News Confirmed executive producer Melissa Mahtani has more on the "grandma" and how you can protect yourself from phone scams.
Deepfakes of Elon Musk contribute to billions in fraud losses
A study found that Elon Musk is the most common celebrity used in deepfake scams.
Report probes phone companies over robocalls
While scam phone calls have slightly decreased in the last three years, scam texts have tripled. A consumer report found that phone companies need to do more to prevent robocalls and texts for customers. CBS News correspondent Nancy Chen has more.
Scammers hire models to fool Americans
A group of romance scammers based in Ghana have been hiring models and escorts to fool Americans. Debora Patta was given an inside look at the operation.
Gov. Newsom vetoes bill to protect California seniors from scammers
Credit card companies are responsible for fraud loss, under federal law. But there's no penalty for big banks when victims wire thousands of dollars to scammers.
CBS News investigates online romance scams
A CBS News investigation looks into internet romance scams that are targeting Americans, tracking them to Ghana, where many of the scams begin. Debora Patta shows how men and women who are looking for love online are tricked into sending money.
Inside look at Ghana romance scam operations
Men and women in the U.S. looking for love online are being tricked by young men trained to scam them. CBS News foreign correspondent Debora Patta followed the money all the way to Ghana.
An inside look at an elaborate romance scam
Operating out of underground boiler rooms across Ghana, online criminal syndicates prey on older Americans, running sophisticated scams that break hearts and empty bank accounts. Ghanaian scammers told CBS News they prefer targeting men as they are easier to trap and less likely to report the scam because of their deep shame. Debora Patta reports.
Inside a romance scam targeting American men
Scammers overseas are targeting Americans' hearts and their wallets. Men, who believe they're speaking with women online, are lured into sending them money -- but that money often ends up in the hands of young men in the West African nation of Ghana. CBS News foreign correspondent Debora Patta reports on her yearlong investigation into these operations.
92-year-old loses life savings in online scam
Earlier in 2024, CBS News shared a story about the growing epidemic of overseas online scammers robbing vulnerable Americans. There is now an update on the billions of dollars being taken. CBS News' Jim Axelrod spoke with a woman whose elderly mother lost her life savings.
Elderly woman becomes target of overseas gold scam
A 92-year-old Los Angeles woman became the target of overseas scammers, who convinced her to put her life savings into gold and then hand the precious metal over. Now, her daughter is looking to hold the bank that allowed the transactions responsible. Jim Axelrod reports.
How to protect yourself against blackmail email scams
A blackmail email scam relies on public information, using a person's name, address and even a street view image of where they live.
How criminals are targeting job seekers
Employment scams surged by 118% last year, costing victims over $70 million, according to the FBI. Criminals are using tactics like fake job offers and AI-generated text messages to steal personal information and money. Senior consumer investigative correspondent Anna Werner shares tips on how to avoid falling victim to these scams.
Live
Tehran threatens to retaliate after U.S. attacks vital Iranian oil hub
President Trump alleged that Iran is "totally defeated and wants a deal," but not one he "would accept."
FCC chair threatens broadcast licenses as Trump criticizes Iran war coverage
Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr did not name specific networks, but his post included a reference to a Saturday morning Truth Social post from the president.
What to know about Kharg Island, the Iranian oil site struck by U.S.
Kharg Island is a small, heavily fortified, and strategically valuable island off Iran's northern coast.
White House proposes new underground visitor screening facility
The Trump administration has proposed the construction of an underground facility to screen visitors to the White House.
3 more members of Iran women's soccer team decline to accept asylum in Australia
Another three members of the Iran women's soccer team who accepted refugee visas to stay in Australia have decided to return to their homeland, an Australian government minister said.
Hamas calls on Iran to stop "targeting neighboring countries"
Hamas called on Iran to refrain from targeting neighboring countries, while affirming Tehran's right to defend itself.
U.S. offers $10 million, chance to relocate for info on Iran's leaders
The State Department is seeking information on Iran's new supreme leader and nine other "key leaders" in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Russian strike on Kyiv region kills 4 people and wounds at least 15
The attack hit four districts, damaging residential buildings, educational institutions and critical infrastructure, officials said.
Energy secretary directs Texas oil company to restore operations off California
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright invoked the Defense Production Act to restore the Sable Offshore Corp.'s Santa Ynez unit and pipeline off Santa Barbara's coastline.
U.S.
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White House proposes new underground visitor screening facility
The Trump administration has proposed the construction of an underground facility to screen visitors to the White House.
Energy secretary directs Texas oil company to restore operations off California
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright invoked the Defense Production Act to restore the Sable Offshore Corp.'s Santa Ynez unit and pipeline off Santa Barbara's coastline.
FCC chair threatens broadcast licenses as Trump criticizes Iran war coverage
Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr did not name specific networks, but his post included a reference to a Saturday morning Truth Social post from the president.
Sinema admits romance with security guard as she fights ex-wife's lawsuit
The attorney for former U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema says she shouldn't be subject to a lawsuit by the ex-wife of her former lover.
Trump thanks TSA agents working with no pay amid government shutdown
TSA officers faced their first full missed paycheck Friday.
MoneyWatch
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How would escorting oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz work?
With oil markets paralyzed by the U.S.-Iran war, the Trump administration says it could escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz — a massive undertaking that experts say could already be in the preparatory stages.
Chart shows what you're paying for when you buy a gallon of gas
U.S. gas prices are surging as the Iran war drives up the global cost of oil. But what exactly accounts for what you pay at the pump?
High oil prices are boosting airfares. These tips could save you money.
Planning a trip? Travel experts recommend booking your flight soon as the Iran war drives up airline and ticket costs.
These 2 bills would erase income taxes for millions of Americans
Two Democratic lawmakers are proposing tax reforms that would eliminate federal income taxes for millions of Americans.
Toyota recalls 550,000 Highlander SUVs because seats may fail to lock
Parts defect affecting Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles can increase the risk of injury, according to a safety notice. Here's what to know.
Politics
More Politics
3 more members of Iran women's soccer team decline to accept asylum in Australia
Another three members of the Iran women's soccer team who accepted refugee visas to stay in Australia have decided to return to their homeland, an Australian government minister said.
White House proposes new underground visitor screening facility
The Trump administration has proposed the construction of an underground facility to screen visitors to the White House.
FCC chair threatens broadcast licenses as Trump criticizes Iran war coverage
Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr did not name specific networks, but his post included a reference to a Saturday morning Truth Social post from the president.
Trump thanks TSA agents working with no pay amid government shutdown
TSA officers faced their first full missed paycheck Friday.
U.S. offers $10 million, chance to relocate for info on Iran's leaders
The State Department is seeking information on Iran's new supreme leader and nine other "key leaders" in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
HealthWatch
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A dad's colon cancer spread to lungs. He says what happened next was a miracle.
Spencer Laird was diagnosed with colon cancer at 26. At 30, he was told it had returned and spread to his lungs, with one tumor the size of a golf ball.
Dr. Oz pledges to tackle hospice fraud: "Do not steal from the American people"
The Trump administration's Medicare boss reacts to CBS News investigation into California's hospice fraud problems.
Millions of Americans skip meals, stretch medication to afford health care
Even people with six-figure incomes are making financial sacrifices to pay for medical care, a new study finds.
Disease once linked to mining hits workers in countertops industry
Crystalline silica, which is released into the air when workers cut and polish engineered stone for kitchen countertops, can scar human lungs beyond repair.
"I was fighting to survive": Patients still struggle with preauthorization hurdles
Last summer, the Trump administration announced a voluntary pledge by health insurers to reform prior authorization, but patient advocates and medical providers remain skeptical.
World
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3 more members of Iran women's soccer team decline to accept asylum in Australia
Another three members of the Iran women's soccer team who accepted refugee visas to stay in Australia have decided to return to their homeland, an Australian government minister said.
Pope Leo moves into papal residence eschewed by Pope Francis
His predecessor, Pope Francis, lived in a simple apartment in the Santa Marta guesthouse in the Vatican.
What to know about Kharg Island, the Iranian oil site struck by U.S.
Kharg Island is a small, heavily fortified, and strategically valuable island off Iran's northern coast.
Russian strike on Kyiv region kills at least 6 people and wounds dozens
The attack hit four districts, damaging residential buildings, educational institutions and critical infrastructure, officials said.
Police chase wild boar wandering in mall with blowgun, riot shields
The wild boar sparked a police response that drew in officers and veterinarians equipped with a tranquilizer gun, shields and even a blowgun.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Meet one of the last true paparazzi
Pascal Rostain, one of the last-standing "traditional" paparazzi photographers, talks to "CBS Saturday Morning" about how the industry has changed in a world of smartphones and social media.
Oscars 2026 predictions
Kat Rosenfield, a culture writer for the Free Press, joins "CBS Saturday Morning" to preview the 98th Academy Awards and discuss her new novel, "How to Survive in Woods." The Free Press is a Paramount publication.
Jay Buchanan performs "Deep Swimming"
Jay Buchanan is the frontman for the Grammy-nominated rock group Rival Sons. Outside of the band, he's collaborated with Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, and the Bee Gees' Barry Gibb. His debut solo album, Weapons of Beauty, is out now. Here's Jay Buchanan performing "Deep Swimming."
Jay Buchanan performs "Sway"
Jay Buchanan is the frontman for the Grammy-nominated rock group Rival Sons. Outside of the band, he's collaborated with Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, and the Bee Gees' Barry Gibb. His debut solo album, Weapons of Beauty, is out now. Here's Jay Buchanan performing "Sway."
Jay Buchanan performs "True Black"
Jay Buchanan is the frontman for the Grammy-nominated rock group Rival Sons. Outside of the band, he's collaborated with Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, and the Bee Gees' Barry Gibb. His debut solo album, Weapons of Beauty, is out now. Here's Jay Buchanan performing "True Black."
Technology
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Technology
Solar farm development faces pushback
A community in Alabama is pushing back against a solar farm that would power an artificial intelligence data center in the state. CBS News reporter Kati Weis has more.
Jury deliberates in social media trial
Jury deliberations are underway in a landmark social media trial about addiction claims. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans has the details.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
3 teens took part in a weeklong experiment to curb screen time. It worked.
For one week, three New Jersey high schoolers agreed not to take their phones to bed, and to try different tools to reduce screen time.
How Pentagon-Anthropic AI dispute escalated
The Trump administration has blacklisted AI giant Anthropic, labeling it a supply chain risk. The company has sued in response. New York Times tech reporter Sheera Frenkel joins CBS News to break down the feud.
Science
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Sea levels higher than thought due to "methodological blind spot," study says
A new study in the journal Nature says most sea level rise research may have underestimated coastal water heights by an average of 1 foot.
NASA announces major overhaul of Artemis moon program "to take down risk"
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced significant changes to the agency's Artemis program, which aims to land on the moon in 2028.
What scientists will be looking for when government UFO files are released
Documents might help scientists shed light on unexplained phenomena and government secrets, experts said.
In a first, shark seen on camera in Antarctica waters, surprising researchers
A large shark was caught on camera for the first time in Antarctica's waters, surprising researchers. "There's a general rule of thumb that you don't get sharks in Antarctica," one said.
How Washington's crossing of the Delaware presaged a changing world
On the evening of Christmas 1776, Gen. George Washington surprised the King's forces by leading the Continental Army in a surprise crossing of a near-frozen Delaware River - a watershed military maneuver that dramatized a changing America, and a changing climate.
Crime
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Players Championship start delayed amid manhunt for murder suspect
Suspect Christian Barrios, 32, shot two people multiple times Friday night, St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick said.
Judge in Charlie Kirk murder case makes ruling on media access
Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty for Tyler Robinson, 22, who is charged with aggravated murder in the Sept. 10 shooting of Charlie Kirk.
FBI: Synagogue attacker died by suicide
The suspect in the Michigan synagogue attack died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, the FBI said at a news conference on Friday. CBS News correspondent Ash-har Quraishi has the latest.
Officials give update on synagogue attack
Officials in Michigan gave an update about Thursday's synagogue car ramming attack that the FBI is investigating as a "targeted act of violence against the Jewish community." CBS News national security contributor Sam Vinograd has more.
New details from Virginia, Michigan attacks
The U.S. is on high alert after two separate domestic attacks on Thursday: A shooting at Old Dominion University, and a car ramming at a Michigan synagogue. CBS News justice correspondent Scott MacFarlane has the latest details on the incidents.
Space
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Space
Bill Nye on going from Boeing to science guy
Bill Nye the Science Guy sits down with CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett to talk about his life and career.
NASA targets April 1 for moon mission launch
NASA's huge Space Launch System rocket has been repaired and is ready for rollout back to the launch pad next week.
1,300-pound NASA satellite to crash on Earth
Nearly 14 years after it was launched in 2012, NASA says a 1,300-pound satellite is expected to come crashing back to Earth on Wednesday. Most of it will burn up as it reenters the atmosphere, but NASA warns some debris could survive reentry.
1,300-pound NASA satellite re-enters Earth's atmosphere after 14 years in space
The Van Allen probe's mission was meant to last two years, but ended up going for nearly seven.
Why NASA is overhauling Artemis program
NASA has announced a major overhaul of its Artemis moon program amid ongoing safety concerns. CBS News space consultant Bill Harwood has more details.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Breakdown of U.S. strikes on Kharg Island
President Trump's announcement about strikes on Kharg Island has sparked more questions about the potential of U.S. military boots on the ground.
Meet one of the last true paparazzi
Pascal Rostain, one of the last-standing "traditional" paparazzi photographers, talks to "CBS Saturday Morning" about how the industry has changed in a world of smartphones and social media.
The Dish: Raoul's
Since Raoul's landed on Prince Street in New York's SoHo neighborhood 50 years ago, it's become one of the city's most prized bistros. "CBS Saturday Morning" goes behind the scenes to learn more about the story behind the legendary family business.
Oscars 2026 predictions
Kat Rosenfield, a culture writer for the Free Press, joins "CBS Saturday Morning" to preview the 98th Academy Awards and discuss her new novel, "How to Survive in Woods." The Free Press is a Paramount publication.
Where to get the latest CBS Mornings Deals
On this edition of CBS Mornings Deals, we show you items that might just become essentials in your everyday life. Visit cbsdeals.com to take advantage of these exclusive deals today. CBS earns commissions on purchases made through cbsdeals.com.