Phishing messages
Unexpected urgency, requests for codes, and threats to close an account are common pressure tactics. Pause and verify through a known channel.
Learn the patterns
Small details are worth a pause.
Scams often borrow the language of real services. These simple checks help you slow down and verify.
Suspicious links
Read a hostname from right to left. A brand name in a subdomain or path does not make the destination official. HTTPS only encrypts the connection.
Payment scams
Gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, and unexplained upfront fees are difficult to reverse. Never let a message rush a money decision.
Account theft
Never share a password, one-time code, or recovery code in response to an unexpected request. Use the service's official app or website instead.
When in doubt, change the channel.
Do not use the phone number, link, or reply address in the suspicious message. Find the organization independently through a trusted source.