Understanding Scams and Fraud

Scammers sometimes pretend to be “tech support” to scare people into paying money or giving access to a phone or computer. Here’s how to spot them and stay safe.

Tech support scams (and how to stay safe)

Scammers sometimes pretend to be “tech support” to scare people into paying money or giving access to a phone or computer.

Common examples you might see

  • A pop-up that says you have a virus and tells you to call a number.
  • A phone call saying your device is infected.
  • A text message saying you must click a link to “fix” your device.

Red flags (warning signs)

  • They rush you or create panic.
  • They say only they can fix the problem.
  • They ask for payment right away.
  • They ask you to install an app for “remote help”.
  • They ask for passwords, bank details, or gift cards.

What to do instead (safe steps)

  1. Do not call the number on a pop-up, text, or email.
  2. Do not click links you were not expecting.
  3. If you cannot close a pop-up: close your browser. If needed, restart the device.
  4. Call someone you trust or contact your usual support.

Quick safety rules

  • Never pay with gift cards for tech support.
  • Never share one-time codes (codes sent by text or email).
  • If it feels urgent or scary, pause and ask a trusted person.

If you think you were scammed

  • Stop talking to the person.
  • Take a screenshot if you can.
  • Tell a family member or trusted friend.
  • Contact your bank or card company if you shared payment info.

How to spot a scam (email or phone)

If someone pressures you to act fast, send money, or share personal information, stop and check first. Real companies, banks, and government offices will not rush you or threaten you.

Watch: How to Spot a Scam — tips for email and phone.
How to Spot a Scam (Email or Phone) – A Simple Guide for Seniors: golden rule, warning signs, phone and email tricks, grandparent scam, what to do if unsure, quick safety checklist.
Infographic: How to Spot a Scam (Email or Phone) – A Simple Guide for Seniors
Save image

Is it real or is it a scam?(5 quick checks)

If you are not sure, look for these 5 clues.

1) Emotional language

  • It tries to scare you or rush you.
  • It says you must act “right now”.

2) Sender’s contact info

  • The email address looks strange.
  • The phone number is unfamiliar.
  • The caller will not let you hang up and call back.

3) Weird links or QR codes

  • It asks you to click a link, scan a QR code, or download something.
  • If you did not expect it, do not click.

4) Awkward language or typos

  • The writing feels unnatural.
  • The message has odd grammar or spelling.

Example to watch for: support@paypaI.com (the "l" can be a capital "i").

5) Brand details that feel “off”

  • The logo, colors, or formatting looks slightly wrong.
  • The message does not match what you usually receive from that company.

Common warning signs

  • Urgency or fear (“Act immediately”, “Your account will be closed today”).
  • Unusual payment requests (gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, payment apps).
  • Requests for personal information (Social Security number, Medicare number, bank details, passwords, one‑time codes).
  • Strange email or phone behavior (misspellings, weird addresses, refusing to let you hang up and call back).

Example to watch for: support@paypaI.com (the “l” can be a capital “i”).

Phone scam tricks

Scammers may pretend to be the IRS, Medicare, Social Security, your bank, a relative, or tech support.

What to do

  1. Hang up.
  2. Look up the official number yourself.
  3. Call back directly.

Email scam tricks

Watch for messages that push you to click a link, open an attachment, or “verify” something.

Safe practice

  • Do not click links in unexpected emails.
  • Open your browser and type the company website yourself.

The “grandparent” emergency scam

If someone claims a family member is in trouble and asks for secrecy or immediate money:

  • Call the family member directly.
  • Call another relative to confirm.

If you are unsure

Pause and ask someone you trust.

  • A family member or friend
  • Your bank
  • Local police non-emergency number

If you already sent money

Act quickly.

  1. Call your bank or credit card company.
  2. Report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
  3. Tell family so they can watch for more attempts.

Quick safety checklist

Before responding, ask:

  • Did they rush me?
  • Did they ask for secrecy?
  • Did they ask for unusual payment?
  • Did they ask for personal information?

If yes to any, it is very likely a scam.