Fraud & Scam Prevention Resources:
3-step safety check
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1️⃣ Scrutinize the Link First
Right-click any link, copy it, and paste into Word/Notepad. Check the base domain (the part between https:// and the next /). Does it match the real site? Typos, extra letters, or odd endings = red flag.
Domain endings: .gov/.mil (restricted), .edu (accredited schools), .org (often nonprofits but open), .com (open). A scammer can mimic a name, not a real .gov.
Example: In https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2025-01-05/pdf/2025-12345.pdf, the real domain is govinfo.gov.
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2️⃣ Check Your Antivirus Protection
Use up-to-date antivirus with real-time/phishing protection. Free is basic; paid catches more. Tip: A VPN and antivirus are two different tools. On a budget, antivirus comes first.
Tip: A VPN hides your location and encrypts your connection, but it does not block malware. Antivirus is the priority if you’re on a limited budget, because it directly protects your device from malicious files and links.
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3️⃣ Pause & Confirm - Avoid Social Engineering
Scammers push urgency, fear, or excitement to rush you into clicking or acting. They now call and text directly on your phone, pretending to be insurers, tech support, even family. If anything feels rushed or “too good,” don’t trust the caller ID - stop, verify through the official site or a number you find yourself, then proceed.
🛡️ Practice Zero Trust
Treat every unexpected call, text, or message as suspicious until you confirm it’s real. Always verify identities through official channels before giving information or taking action.
Bureau of Consumer Protection
The FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection stops unfair, deceptive and fraudulent business practices by collecting reports from consumers and conducting investigations, suing companies and people that break the law, developing rules to maintain a fair marketplace, and educating consumers and businesses about their rights and responsibilities.
National Anti-Scam Effort
The Task Force has developed a unified national strategy to deny transnational crime networks billions of dollars in illicit profits while strengthening U.S. national security and protecting American consumers. This strategy includes recommendations for ways private industry and government can:
Quote of the Millennium:
“No single tool is perfect. But stack a few together, and suddenly you’re a very annoying target.” -eBiz Market
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