FAQ

1. How can I tell if a message, email, or call is from a scammer?

Scammers often use urgency, threats, or offers that sound too good to be true. Look for poor grammar, suspicious links, requests for personal details, or unexpected attachments.

2. What are the most common online scams I should watch out for?

Some common scams include phishing emails, fake tech support calls, romance scams, online shopping fraud, lottery/prize scams, and impersonation of trusted companies or government agencies.

3. What should I do if I receive a suspicious email or text?

Do not click links or download attachments. Delete the message or mark it as spam. If it appears to be from a legitimate company, contact them directly through their official website or phone number.

4. How can I avoid giving scammers access to my personal information?

Never share personal, financial, or login details via email, text, or phone unless you’re 100% sure of the recipient. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.

5. How do scammers trick people into giving them money?

They may pretend to be in trouble, claim you’ve won a prize, impersonate a bank or company, or create fake websites. Their goal is to pressure you into sending money quickly without thinking.

6. What are warning signs that an online shopping site might be fake?

Unbelievably low prices, no contact details, poor website design, lack of secure payment options (no HTTPS), and limited or fake customer reviews are red flags.

7. What should I do if I think I’ve been scammed?

Stop communication immediately, report the scam to the relevant platform or bank, change your passwords, and monitor your financial accounts for unusual activity.

8. How can I protect myself while using social media?

Be careful about oversharing personal details, verify friend requests, avoid clicking suspicious links, and watch for fake profiles pretending to be someone you know.

9. Are there tools or services that help detect scams?

Yes. Many email providers have spam filters, and browsers often warn against dangerous sites. You can also use antivirus software, password managers, and scam-reporting sites like the FTC (US) or Action Fraud (UK).

10. What’s the golden rule for staying safe online?

If something feels too good to be true, rushed, or suspicious  pause, verify, and don’t engage. Trust your instincts, and always double-check before sharing information or sending money.