Stay One Step Ahead: Build Your Personal Scam-Defense Plan
Scammers thrive on surprise. They want to catch you off guard with fake texts about locked accounts, urgent calls claiming you owe money, or emails that look official but aren’t. One of their biggest weapons is pressure and confusion, forcing you to act fast before you think. The good news is you can outsmart them. All it takes is a simple, well-thought-out action plan.
Why an Action Plan Works
When you’re prepared, you’re in control. A clear plan gives you the confidence to pause, verify, and protect your information before making any decisions. Instead of reacting in panic, you’ll respond with purpose.
What to Include in Your Scam-Defense Plan
- Trusted Contacts: Identify a few people you can call for a second opinion — family, friends, or even your financial advisor. A quick conversation can help you spot red flags before it’s too late.
- Official Numbers: Keep the real phone numbers for your bank, credit card company, and service providers on file. If you get a suspicious message, you’ll know exactly who to call without relying on the number from the suspicious text or email.
- Quick Reminders: Write down simple truths that scammers can’t fake, like:
- “Banks never ask for my PIN by email or text.”
- “Government agencies don’t demand payment through gift cards.”
These reminders keep warning signs top of mind.
Where to Keep Your Plan
Keep your plan somewhere easy to find when you need it most. Post it on your fridge, keep a copy in your wallet, or save it securely on your phone or computer. The goal is quick access because scams happen fast.
Want a Head Start?
The Federal Trade Commission‘s offers a free, printable guide called “How I’ll Avoid a Scam: My Action Plan.” Download it today and customize it to fit your needs.