Learn

Choose one guide at a time and practice with someone you trust.

The 10-second pause checklist

Use this short checklist anytime a message or call demands urgent action.

Take a slow breath before responding.

Pause before clicking, sharing, or sending money.
Check whether the request creates fear, urgency, or secrecy.
Verify using a trusted number or official website you find yourself.
Ask one trusted person for a second opinion.
Keep proof (texts, receipts, screenshots) in case reporting is needed.

If a request feels rushed, your pause is protection.

Phone call script for verifying a caller

Use this script to politely end pressure and verify identity on your own terms.

Suggested script

“Thank you for calling. I do not make financial or account decisions on unexpected calls. I will hang up and call the official number listed on my statement or the organization’s website.”

If the caller pushes back:

“I understand. I still need to verify this independently. Goodbye.”

Follow-up steps

Hang up.
Look up the official number yourself.
Call back only through trusted channels.
Note date, time, and what was requested.

Payment methods ranked by risk

A qualitative guide to safer and riskier payment methods when scams are possible.

Lower risk for many purchases

Credit card with fraud protections
Reputable payment platform with buyer protection

Medium risk

Debit card (may have protections, but speed matters)
Bank transfer to a known verified payee

Higher risk

Gift cards
Wire transfers
Cryptocurrency transfers
Cash sent by mail

Rule of thumb: if payment is hard to reverse, treat requests with extra caution.

Quick reset when a message feels urgent

Pause and breathe before you answer.
Do not click links or call numbers from unexpected messages.
Contact the company or agency using a trusted number you look up yourself.
Tell a trusted person what happened before sending money.
Keep screenshots and receipts in case you need to report.