Stop, Check, Confirm: A 60-Second Habit
Updated: 2 days ago
Scammers want you to act before you think. Strong emotions make careful thinking harder, so they try to make you feel panic, excitement or fear first. This simple habit gives your thinking time to catch up.
The three steps
Stop. Take 60 seconds. Do nothing.
Check. What are they asking for? What emotion are they triggering?
Confirm. Verify through a phone number or contact you already trust.
The rule that makes it work
Never use the phone number, link or email address given in the suspicious message. Call the number on your statement or the back of your card, or call your family member at the number you already have.
Your signal to slow down
When you notice a strong feeling, such as panic, excitement or the urge to hurry, treat it as your signal to slow down. Feeling rushed is the red flag.
Want the full set of tools? The Smart, Safe & Secure™ large-print workbook covers the 5 Golden Rules, the 3P Rule, Stop – Check – Confirm, 14 common scams, and exactly what to do if something happens. Get the workbook.
If you think you've been scammed, call your bank right away, then report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311).
This post is for educational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice.
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