Almost every scam breaks if you stop for a minute and ask the same five questions. None needs tech skills. They only need a pause.
Ask these before you reply, click or pay
Who contacted me?Did you start this, or did they find you? Unexpected calls, texts and messages deserve extra care.
What do they want?Money, a code, a password or remote access? Real organisations do not ask for gift cards, crypto or wire transfers to strangers.
Why now?A deadline, a threat or a "today only" offer is how scammers stop you from thinking.
Can I check another way?Hang up and call the number on your card or statement. Open the official app. Type the website yourself.
Who can I ask?Say it out loud to someone you trust. Scammers want secrecy. A quick "does this look right?" breaks the spell.
If one answer worries you
Stop. Do not reply, tap or pay. Check another way. If you already did something, the recovery plan walks you through it.
Get a recovery planSources
- US Federal Trade Commission: How to avoid a government impersonation scam (Checked 18 Oct 2026)
- US Federal Trade Commission: What to know about romance scams (Updated Aug 2026)
- US Federal Trade Commission: Scammers use fake emergencies to steal your money (Checked 18 Oct 2026)