Becoming Financially Confident

Scams Episodes

264
Sept. 24, 2026

Why TurboTax's Mistake Led to a $10,000 IRS Bill and 50% Penalty

Hosts: Ralph Estep Jr, a licensed public accountant of over 30 years + Juliet, a first-time entrepreneur. Here's what we got into today: A fake bank login scam that's cost people $262 million since January, and the bookmark trick I use to stay out of it Why card surcharges up to 3% are pushing more shoppers back to paying cash A new prison bail scam where inmates use smuggled phones to trick families, including one case where someone sent $12,000 over Cash App Juliet and I go back and forth...
258
Sept. 17, 2026

An Accountant Reacts to a $1.3 Million Love Scam and Our Own Timeshare Regrets

Hosts: Ralph Estep Jr, a licensed public accountant of over 30 years + Juliet, a first-time entrepreneur. Here's what we got into today: The Fed raised interest rates a quarter point. What does this mean for your variable credit cards & home equity lines? State Farm is returning $5 billion to drivers who had a 2025 policy. Do you qualify? A $120 million settlement covers MLS home buyers since 2006, with an October 27 deadline to file. Check if you qualify. Love scams, and a story from one of...
224
Aug. 12, 2026

I Got a Scam Text Saying My Bank Account Was Locked. How Do I Know What's Real?

Today we're tackling the wild world of financial scams and how to outsmart those sneaky tricksters. You know the drill—your phone buzzes with a message that sends your heart racing, claiming your bank account is locked. But hold up! Instead of panicking and clicking that link, we’re diving into some chill tips on spotting the fakes before they drain your wallet. I Got a Scam Text Saying My Bank Account Was Locked. How Do I Know What's Real? We’ll break down red flags, the importance of verifying...
268
Sept. 24, 2024

What are the top 7 debt collections scams to avoid?

Are you receiving calls from debt collectors and wondering if they’re legitimate? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Show with Ralph Estep Jr., where he exposes the top 7 debt collection scams and provides practical advice on how to avoid falling victim to them. What Are the Top 7 Debt Collections Scams to Avoid? With Ralph Estep Jr. In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, Ralph Estep Jr. delves into the most common debt collection scams targeting individuals today. He answers a listener’s ...