You receive an email, either on your computer, phone or on your watch. It’s not expected, but it’s not entirely unusual, you’ve seen similar messages before. This one looks normal. It requires you to act, to do something specific; to perhaps either call a number or click on a link provided by the sender.
Click on the link, call the number, engage in any way and your now in the scam. You are no longer hidden.
Panicking, rushing or simply feeling a strong need to do the right thing are exactly what the scammer hopes for. It’s a method the scammers follow. The use of coercion to make you abide by their requests. All so you lose and they win; again, and again and again.
But could the email have been ignored? Was there really a need for you to react? What would have happened if you had not seen the email for at least 1 week? Would there still be the same level of panic or would the moment have passed without a problem?
It’s that immediate reaction, that lack of consideration which typically makes this scam so successful. Phishing emails provide a direct means to steal your banking and private information; easily and quickly. They offer an opportunity for the scammer to access the private information on your computer or phone, with the added option to commit criminal activities; on your behalf and against you.
When you receive any email, just pause and think about what is happening and why. Is it normal, is it real, is it what would be expected? Then really think about how you could be putting yourself, your family, and your future at risk by following the ‘email instructions’ you’ve received. Decide only on what’s right for you, what will keep you safe and what will protect your private details.
Your reaction is all the scammers need, so react in the way that suit’s you – not them. You’re just one of many victims they’re targeting, so don’t react without first knowing where a link will take you or exactly who will answer your call or where your email is going.
The next time you are contacted by a stranger, without warning, without ever asking; listen to the voice inside your head. Is it saying something doesn’t feel right?
To help, always remember to Pause – Think – Decide every single time. You’re in control. So, always do all you can to stop the criminal from making you just another victim.
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After a scam, what next?
What we think you could consider … if you’re the victim of a scam or fraud.
