Checklist: How to Avoid Call & Text Scams

If You Get an Unexpected Call From a Company

• Ask for the person’s name and job title.
• Do not answer any questions. If they are calling you then they do not need to verify your identity.
• Beware of any requests to update or confirm your personal information.
• Tell them you will hang up and call them back using the customer service number. You can even lie and say you have a bad connection or there’s a caller on the other line.

Things To Be Aware of When You Receive a Call, Email, Text, or Message on Social Media

• Caller ID, phone numbers, and email addresses can be faked
• Links can be faked (for example, a link that looks like Google.com can lead to a different website when clicked). Be very careful if you want to click on a link someone has sent via email, text, or Facebook message.
• Beware of emails or calls that say you’ve won something. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• If you use social networking sites such as Facebook, be sure to limit the amount of personal information you post online and use privacy settings to avoid sharing information widely.

If You Think You’ve Been the Victim of a Scam

• Do not blame yourself or be embarrassed. You are the victim and everything that happened is the attacker’s fault, not yours.
• Know that this happens to millions of people. Companies of all shapes and sizes fall victim to cyberattacks. People with years of experience in the technology industry still make mistakes and may accidentally give up information.
• Change your passwords on all devices and applications ASAP. Make sure to record those passwords in your password manager (app or notebook).
• Tell someone in your family who can help you through the following steps if needed.
• Check your bank statements and call the bank if the scam may have involved your bank account. Continue to keep an eye on your bank statements for a few months after the scam.