Let's Not Optimize This: A Human-Centered Marketing Podcast

Scam Whac-A-Mole: Swat Fake Fees Before They Bite – Part 2

Smack Happy Design Season 1 Episode 4

They’re back—and sneakier than ever. In Part 2 of Scam Whac-A-Mole, we’re diving even deeper into the digital dumpster fire of shady websites, sketchy emails, and suspicious snail mail.

Watch the episode for examples of:

  • How bad design choices instantly kill trust (and scream “scam”)
  • The tricks scammers use to get your money—without you realizing it
  • “Helpful” emails that are actually extortion in disguise
  • Why some official-looking bills, texts, or calls are anything but legit
  • Practical ways to sniff out red flags and protect yourself (and your clients)

If you’ve ever second-guessed a payment form, squinted at a weird invoice, or thought, “This feels…off,”—you’re not alone.