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Staying Safe Online

The internet is a wonderful tool for staying connected, but it's important to know how to protect yourself. This guide will teach you how to recognize scams and keep your personal information safe.

The Golden Rule

If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers prey on trust and urgency. Always take a moment to think before clicking links or sharing information.

Common Scams to Watch For

Phishing Emails

Fake emails that look like they're from banks, Amazon, or other companies you trust.

Warning Signs:

  • Urgent language: "Your account will be closed!"
  • Requests for passwords or personal information
  • Misspellings or poor grammar
  • Email address doesn't match the company (e.g., "amazon.support@gmail.com")
What to Do: Don't click any links. Go directly to the company's website by typing the address yourself, or call the company's official phone number.

Tech Support Scams

Pop-ups or phone calls claiming your computer has a virus and they need to "fix" it.

Warning Signs:

  • Pop-up with loud alarm sounds
  • Claims to be from "Microsoft" or "Apple"
  • Asks for remote access to your computer
  • Demands payment via gift cards
What to Do: Close the pop-up (press the X or turn off your computer if needed). Real tech companies never call you unsolicited or demand payment via gift cards.

Grandparent Scams

Caller pretends to be a grandchild in trouble, urgently needing money.

Warning Signs:

  • "Don't tell Mom and Dad"
  • Urgency: needs money immediately
  • Asks for wire transfer or gift cards
  • Voice sounds different "because of a cold" or "bad connection"
What to Do: Hang up and call your grandchild directly at their real phone number. Ask a question only they would know the answer to.

Lottery and Prize Scams

"Congratulations! You've won millions!" But you have to pay fees to claim it.

Warning Signs:

  • You never entered a lottery or contest
  • Asked to pay fees, taxes, or shipping to receive prize
  • Pressure to keep it secret
  • Request for bank account information
What to Do: Delete the message. Real lotteries never ask for upfront payments, and you can't win something you didn't enter.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Never Share Passwords

No legitimate company will ever ask for your password via email, phone, or text. Your bank already has your account information - they don't need you to "verify" it.

2. Be Suspicious of Urgency

Scammers create panic so you act without thinking. Phrases like "act now" or "your account will be closed" are red flags. Real companies give you time.

3. Check the Source

Before clicking a link, hover over it (on a computer) or press and hold (on a phone) to see where it really goes. If it doesn't match the company, don't click.

4. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Use different passwords for different accounts. A good password is long (12+ characters) and mixes letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider a phrase you can remember, like "MyDogSpot2015!"

5. Keep Software Updated

When your phone or computer asks to update, say yes. Updates often fix security problems that scammers try to exploit.

6. Trust Your Instincts

If something feels wrong, it probably is. It's always okay to hang up, close a window, or ask a family member for a second opinion before proceeding.

If You Think You've Been Scammed

1

Don't Panic

Many scam attempts can be stopped or reversed if you act quickly.

2

Contact Your Bank

If you shared financial information or made a payment, call your bank immediately. They can freeze your account and may be able to recover funds.

3

Change Your Passwords

If you shared any passwords, change them immediately - especially for email and banking.

4

Report the Scam

Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. This helps protect others from the same scam.

5

Tell Someone

Don't be embarrassed - scammers are professionals at tricking people. Talking about it helps others learn and may provide emotional support.

Remember

  • Real companies don't ask for passwords via email or phone
  • Government agencies don't demand immediate payment or threaten arrest
  • Gift cards are for gifts, not payments - no legitimate business asks for them
  • When in doubt, hang up and call the company directly using a number from their official website
  • It's okay to say no or take time to think

Stay Safe, Stay Connected

Don't let fear of scams stop you from enjoying the benefits of technology. With a little awareness, you can safely explore the digital world.

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