How to Recognize the Red Flags

It is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and we are continuing our four-week series on the everyday ways families can protect themselves, their information, and their finances.

Last week, we talked about some of the basic ways to protect your digital life, from strong passwords and multifactor authentication to keeping your devices updated.

This week, we’re talking about something much more personal: scams.

Because sometimes the biggest cybersecurity threat isn’t a computer trying to break into your account.

It is a person trying to convince you to let them in.

The Scams That Start With a Phone Call

Your phone rings.
The person on the other end says there is a problem.
Maybe they say they are from your bank.
Maybe they say they are from the government.
Maybe they say they are from a technology company.
Maybe they claim to be your grandchild.
And suddenly, there is an emergency.
Your account has been compromised.
Someone has stolen your identity.
Your grandchild is in trouble.
Your computer has been hacked.
The person tells you that you need to act immediately.
This is where the scam often succeeds.
Not because the victim is careless.
Because the scammer has deliberately created fear and urgency.

The Red Flags to Watch For

Scammers use different stories, but many rely on familiar tactics. Recognizing these warning signs can help you pause before sharing information, sending money, or giving someone access to your devices.

1. They Create a Sense of Urgency
   Scammers want you to feel that you have no time to think. They may threaten to freeze your bank account, claim your identity has been stolen, or insist that a family member is in immediate danger.
   The more frightened you feel, the harder it can be to stop and question what you’re being told.
   Remember: You do not have to resolve an unexpected emergency during a phone call. Take a breath, end the call, and verify the situation independently.
2. They Tell You to Keep It a Secret
   A caller claiming to be your grandchild might beg you not to tell anyone. Someone pretending to be a government official might warn you that discussing the situation could make things worse.
   This isolation is intentional. Scammers know that a trusted friend or family member might recognize the warning signs.
   Remember: A legitimate request should withstand a second opinion. If someone insists that you cannot tell anyone what is happening, treat that as a red flag.
3. They Tell You to Move Your Money
   Someone might claim your bank account is compromised and instruct you to transfer your savings to a supposedly safe account. Others may demand payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or cash.
   These payment requests are major warning signs. Scammers often use payment methods that are difficult to reverse or trace.
   Remember: Never move money simply because an unexpected caller tells you to. Contact your financial institution using the official number on your bank card or website.
4. They Ask for Remote Access to Your Computer
   Not every scam begins with a phone call. You might see a pop-up warning that your computer has a virus, followed by a number to call for technical support. A caller might also offer to fix a supposed problem by asking you to install software or give them remote access to your device.
   Once they have access, they may be able to view sensitive information, access accounts, or persuade you to send money.
   Remember: Never give an unexpected caller access to your computer or phone. If you believe your device has a problem, contact the manufacturer or a trusted technology professional through a verified channel.
5. They Pretend to Be Someone You Trust
   Scammers may impersonate banks, government agencies, technology companies, or even people you know. They can use information found online to make their stories sound convincing.
   A caller might know your name, mention a relative, or provide details about your life. That does not prove they are who they claim to be.
   Remember: Do not rely on caller ID or personal details as proof of identity. Hang up and contact the person or organization directly using a phone number you find independently.

What Should You Do When Something Feels Wrong?

You don’t have to become an expert in every type of scam to protect yourself. A few simple habits can make a meaningful difference.

• Slow down. Be cautious whenever someone pressures you to act immediately.
• Verify independently. Hang up and contact the organization or person using a trusted phone number or official website.
• Never share security codes. Do not give unexpected callers your passwords, one-time verification codes, or other sensitive information.
• Ask someone you trust. A second opinion can help you recognize a situation that feels confusing or frightening.
• Don’t be embarrassed to ask for help. Scammers are skilled at manipulating people. Being targeted does not mean you did something wrong.

If you think you have already been scammed, contact your bank or card company immediately if money or financial information is involved. Save relevant messages and receipts, secure any affected accounts, and report the incident at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If your identity information has been misused, IdentityTheft.gov provides guidance on recovery.

The important thing is to act as soon as possible rather than letting embarrassment keep you from getting help.

Keep Following Along This October

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is about more than recognizing that scams exist. It is about learning how to recognize the tactics scammers use before those tactics work on us.

Next week, we’ll be talking about another part of the picture: your digital life and your Estate Plan.

Call us at 770-229-5729.

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