Avoiding scams and high-pressure sales

Stress attracts predatory actors. Protect yourself:

• Never pay upfront “guaranteed results” fees to strangers who cold-call.
• Verify licensing for mortgage assistance or legal services in your state.
• If someone tells you to stop talking to your servicer, get a second opinion.

HUD-approved housing counselors can provide no-cost triage in many situations—pair that with attorney advice for legal filings.