BBB Greater Maryland Foundation : Our Work In Focus

Fighting fraud, fueling trust, and educating communities across Maryland

BBB prevented $43M from being lost to fraud

2024 Scam Tracker Risk Report

The BBB Greater Maryland Foundation delivers vital scam prevention resources to empower vulnerable communities and support small businesses.

In 2024, $12.5 billion was lost to fraud (FTC). That's why each day, Marylanders—just like you—work to help their neighbors avoid scams and unethical business practices. Our network of supporters, volunteers, and business leaders shares one mission: to build a safer, more trustworthy marketplace for everyone.

We teach scam safety, emphasize truth in advertising and equip the public with the tools they need to make confident purchase decisions. We do this work to ensure Maryland shoppers are savvy, because a well-informed community is the best defense against fraud.

Identity Theft Prevention

Our free document destruction event is part of a national campaign aimed at reducing identity theft and increasing scam awareness in our communities. By safely disposing of sensitive documents, we help individuals protect their personal information and stay one step ahead of scammers.

Senior Center Presentations

Our senior center presentations focus on scams targeting older adults, fraud prevention tips, and how to confidently spot misleading offers—empowering attendees to protect themselves and others.

Upcoming Events:

Weds, July 9th - Truth in Advertising @ The Keswick Wise and Well Center

Free Workshops at Local Libraries

Our public library presentations cover truth in advertising and common scam tactics—helping communities make informed, confident purchase decisions.

Safe Shopping Tips at Trade Shows

At the Maryland Home & Garden Show, we connect shoppers with trusted businesses and arm them with quick, fraud-fighting tips—so they can shop smart and stress-free.

Our voice in the media: PSAs & public outreach

FOX45 Confident Consumer Segments: Valentines Day scams

Exposing romance scams and fake gift offers that target consumers during the holiday, urging viewers to protect their hearts—and their wallets.

On WBALTV: EZPass toll scams, beware of fake text messages

Breaking down how scammers impersonate EZPass with fake text messages, tricking drivers into clicking malicious links and sharing personal information.

12 scams of Christmas with WMAR & Mallory Sofastaii

Reviewing the most common holiday scams and how to avoid them—so you can shop, give, and celebrate safely.

Connecting trusted businesses: Networking events & presentations

Networking presentations: OGs of BD Live!

We bring business leaders together for real conversations, actionable strategies, and meaningful connections—all grounded in trust and ethical growth.

Business training sessions: Intro to active assailant training

We offer business-focused trainings that go beyond the everyday—equipping professionals with tools to stay prepared, aware, and resilient in any situation.

Business mixers & happy hours

Our business mixers connect local entrepreneurs, professionals, and BBB Accredited Businesses for casual networking, meaningful conversations, and new opportunities to grow and collaborate.

Business Ethics Awards Program

BBB's annual celebration of businesses that exemplify integrity, transparency, and trust. It’s our highest recognition for ethical leadership in the marketplace.

Strengthening businesses through shared knowledge: BBB webinars

Social engineering & cyber threats: Securing your business

Cyber threats are evolving, and small businesses are prime targets. Phishing scams, social engineering attacks, and data breaches can put your company’s reputation and finances at risk.

Presenting partner: Reliable Technology Services

Scale your success: BBB marketing tools that drive growth

Leverage the full power of your BBB Accreditation and discover high-impact partnership opportunities. Learn how to transform your trusted status into measurable business growth through our comprehensive suite of marketing opportunities and digital tools.

Top 5 controllables affecting your insurance premiums

In today’s hardened business insurance market, understanding these controllable risks is key to securing better coverage and keeping more money in your business.

Presenting partner: Heller Kowitz Insurance Providers

Crypto and investment scams top BBB Risk Report for 2024

Romance and friendship scams also surged, becoming the third riskiest scam category for the first time since the BBB began tracking this data.

What these scams have in common is financial grooming: scammers build trust and emotional connection before exploiting victims for money.

More than 80% of those targeted by crypto-related investment scams reported financial loss, with a median loss of $5,000, making it the second highest among all scam types. These scams often involve convincing individuals to trade or store digital currencies through fraudulent platforms or deceptive schemes.

The report also sheds light on scam tactics, victim demographics, and the behaviors that may increase someone’s vulnerability, offering deeper insight into today’s evolving fraud landscape.

Click here to download the report

How you can help

Not everyone can lead a workshop or teach fraud prevention. But everyone can make a difference.

Some scams make headlines—others quietly devastate lives. With your support, we can respond quickly, educate vulnerable communities, and expand our outreach to those who need it most. Your donation is 100% tax-deductible and fuels a safer, more trustworthy marketplace in Maryland.

Support our work

Your support helps Marylanders avoid scams, make informed decisions, and build trust in their communities. Thanks to you, more people stay safe, aware, and empowered.

Donate

Partner with BBB

As a BBB sponsor, you play a vital role in protecting the community from scams and supporting ethical business practices. Together, we can expand education and trust across the state.