Scammers often create a sense of urgency so they can bypass your better instincts. Take your time and ask questions to avoid being rushed into a bad situation.

What a scammer might say:

You need to act fast. If you don’t make a payment now, we’ll be forced to take legal action against you.

Do your research to double check the details you’re getting. If you get an unexpected phone call, hang up. Then look up the bank, agency or organization that’s supposedly calling and get in touch directly.

What a scammer might say:

This is the IRS calling. We haven’t received your tax payments for four years. That’s a federal crime.

No reputable person or agency will ever demand payment on the spot. Often, scammers tell you to go buy gift cards – which are meant only to be given as a gift, not as payment under threat. So, if you think the payment feels fishy, it probably is.

What a scammer might say:

Please send us EnormoMart Gift Cards of $100 or $200 face value. I need 20 of each card.