What consequences did Americans face if they were guilty (or accused) of being comunist or associating with communists?

Americans accused of being communists or associating with communists during the Red Scare faced severe consequences, including job loss, social ostracism, and legal repercussions. Many were blacklisted, preventing them from finding work in their fields, particularly in entertainment and government. In some cases, individuals were subjected to investigations and hearings, such as those conducted by the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC), which could lead to imprisonment or fines. The climate of fear and suspicion often resulted in widespread violations of civil liberties.