Stop Scammers Cold Before They Steal From You cover
The full guide · 23 pages · PDF

Stop Scammers Cold Before They Steal From You

For everyday internet users who want to recognize, avoid, and report online scams before losing a single dollar.

Most scams work by creating urgency so you act before you think — stop, do not click or pay, and contact the real organisation directly using a number you find yourself. Common red flags include unexpected contact, requests for gift cards or wire transfers, and pressure to keep it secret. If you already shared information or money, report it immediately to your bank and the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov. The faster you act, the better your chances of stopping or reversing the damage.

Get the guide — free

Who it's for

Someone who recently encountered a suspicious email, text, or phone call and wants to know if it is a scam and how to protect themselves before any money or data is lost. They may have just received a message claiming to be from their bank, the IRS, or a delivery company, or they know someone who was recently defrauded. They are worried about losing money, having their identity stolen, or accidentally clicking something that gives criminals access to their accounts. They feel uncertain about which red flags to trust and do not know the concrete steps to take right now.

Questions

Can I get my money back after a scam?
It depends on how the money moved. Wire transfers and gift cards are the hardest to recover — often impossible once funds clear. Credit card payments offer the best protection through dispute rights. If you paid by bank transfer, call immediately and ask about a recall request; success depends on speed and whether the receiving bank cooperates.
Is it safe to answer unknown calls at all?
You can answer, but do not offer any information — let the caller speak first. If they claim to represent an organisation, hang up and call that organisation back using a number from their official website. Caller ID spoofing makes the number on your screen meaningless.
What if I clicked a suspicious link but did not enter any information?
Some links can trigger a download just by loading. Run a malware scan using reputable software (Malwarebytes has a free version), change passwords for critical accounts as a precaution, and monitor your accounts for unusual activity over the next few weeks.
Should I use a fraud alert or a credit freeze?
A freeze is stronger. A fraud alert asks lenders to verify your identity before approving credit but does not block applications outright, while a freeze actively prevents new credit from being opened. If your Social Security number was exposed, go straight to a freeze at all three bureaus — it is free and you can lift it any time.