PRIVACY AND VERIFICATION
Pause, Check, Ask
A simple guide for unexpected texts, emails, and calls. When a message makes you feel rushed or worried, give yourself time before responding.
- Pause. Don’t click, send money, share a security code, or allow access to your device.
- Check. Look for pressure, secrecy, threats, unusual payment requests, or instructions to move money “to protect it.”
- Ask. Contact the person or organization through a number you already know and trust. A familiar voice or caller ID is not enough to verify who is contacting you.
What AI can and cannot do here
AI may help explain warning signs, but it cannot confirm that a message or caller is legitimate. Remove personal details before asking it to review anything.
If something has already happened
If you have already sent money or shared account information, contact the relevant bank or provider promptly through a trusted channel.
Being careful is not being rude. Asking for help is a smart decision.
Keep this information private
Don’t put passwords, security codes, Social Security numbers, banking details, identification documents, or private medical and legal records into an AI conversation. Check important answers independently, and use qualified professionals for medical, legal, and financial decisions.
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