Verify on a second channel
A request is checked by contacting the person on a channel you already trust, or with a code word agreed in advance.
How to spot it
- The caller refuses to be called back
- The caller cannot give, or talks around, the agreed code word
What to do
Call back on the number you already have saved, or ask for the code word agreed in person. Never use contact details given in the request.
What the real thing looks like
- You call the vendor back on the number on file and the details match
- The owner gives the agreed code word on a call you placed to their saved number
Try an example
A practice example with fictional companies. Answer it, then see the tells.
Is this call a scam or legit?
Caller ID: Marcus T. (cell)Number: (555) 555-0121
- CallerIt's Marcus. I need you to pay the contractor invoice today by wire instead of check.
- YouSure. What's our code word?
- CallerCome on, you know my voice. I don't have time for that right now. Just send it.
Sure and right: +15. Sure and wrong: -5. Calling a legitimate item a scam counts as a miss.
Test yourself on eight more
The free quiz mixes scams with legitimate messages, like real life. No sign-up.