Red flags in suspicious messages
- A demand to act now, keep a secret, or avoid contacting anyone.
- A request for a verification code, password, bank detail, gift card, or crypto payment.
- A sender claiming to be a business but using unfamiliar wording or an unrelated number.
- An offer that sounds unusually generous or a threat that feels unexpectedly urgent.
How to check a scam message
- Read it again without using its links or reply options.
- Ask whether you expected this contact and whether the request is normal for that organization.
- Contact the organization using a number or website you already trust.
- Save a screenshot if you need help reviewing the wording later.
Fictional example“Hi, this is your manager. I need you to buy gift cards before the meeting. Do not call.” An unusual payment request plus secrecy is a strong reason to verify by calling your manager through a known number.
If you replied or shared information
Stop replying. If you shared a code or password, change the related password immediately and contact the account provider. If you sent money, call your payment provider promptly and ask what recovery or reporting steps are available.
Get a second opinion
Is This a Scam? is available on the App Store and Google Play. It can assess message text for risk signals, explain the reasons, and suggest next steps after you explicitly choose to analyze it. It does not guarantee an answer or automatically stop a scam.
Check Before You Trust. Treat any assessment as supporting information, then verify independently.