6 signs a call, text or email is a scam

Scammers are good at sounding real. But most scams share the same warning signs. If you spot even one of these, stop. Don't click, don't pay, and don't share anything.

The 6 warning signs

1. They say it's urgent

   "Your account will be closed today." "Your grandson is in jail." Scammers rush you so you don't have time to think. A real company will give you time.

2. They want an odd way to pay

   Gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or a payment app to a stranger. Real companies and government offices don't ask for these.

3. They ask you to keep it secret

   "Don't tell your kids." "Don't tell the bank." This is a big red flag. Anyone honest is happy for you to talk it over with family.

4. They ask for a password or code

   No real bank, doctor or tech company will ask for your password, PIN, or the code sent to your phone. Never read these out to anyone.

5. The message came out of the blue

   A surprise call "from Medicare", a text about a package you didn't order, or a pop-up saying your computer has a virus. The name on the screen can be faked, too.

6. It's too good, or too scary, to be true

   You've won a prize you never entered. Or you owe money you've never heard of. Big feelings make it harder to think clearly. That's the point.

What to do instead

1. Hang up, or don't reply. It's not rude. It's smart.
2. Don't click links or call numbers in the message.
3. Call back on a number you trust. Use the number on the back of your card, a real bill, or the company's official website.
4. Talk to someone. A family member, a friend, or me. Just saying it out loud often makes the scam obvious.

A handy thing to say:

"I don't do anything over the phone. I'll call you back on the number I have."

If you think you've been scammed

Don't feel embarrassed. It happens to smart, careful people every day.

• Call your bank right away on the number on the back of your card.
• Change the password on any account you shared.
• Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

I can come over and help you change passwords and make your phone and email safer. I won't touch your bank accounts, but I'll sit with you while you call the bank yourself.